Tips and tricks for a proper radiological assessment of abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes.

The assessment of lymph node dimensions is a commonly used criterion in analyzing lymphatic involvement related to inflammatory or neoplastic diseases. However, it is important to understand that the interpretation of lymph nodes goes beyond simply considering their size. A pathologic lymph node can present with enlarged dimensions, a heterogeneous appearance, increased cortex thickness, irregular contours, or a lobulated shape. In this context, it is essential to consider not only the dimensions but also the morphology, attenuation, and enhancement of lymph nodes on imaging exams. This article aims to demonstrate how characteristics of lymph nodes, beyond their size, can provide crucial insights that assist in diagnostic reasoning, focusing on computed tomography. By emphasizing different enhancement patterns, attenuation, and the potential contents related to these patterns, the study seeks to show how these features can indicate possible differential diagnoses and guide more accurate clinical assessments.

Evaluation of colon cancer prognostic factors by CT and MRI: an up-to-date review.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health concern. Prognostication of CRC traditionally relies on the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging classifications, yet clinical outcomes often vary independently of stage. Despite similarities, rectal and colon cancers are distinct in their diagnostic methodologies and treatments, with MRI and CT scans primarily used for staging rectal and colon cancers, respectively. This paper examines the challenges in accurately assessing prognostic factors of colon cancer such as primary tumor extramural extension, retroperitoneal surgical margin (RSM) involvement, extramural vessel invasion (EMVI), and lymph node metastases through preoperative CT and MRI. It highlights the importance of these factors in risk stratification, treatment decisions, and surgical planning for colon cancer patients. Advancements in imaging techniques are crucial for improving clinical management and optimizing patient outcomes, underscoring the necessity for ongoing research to refine diagnostic methods and incorporate novel findings into practice.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Cannabidiol on the Progression of Experimental Hepatic Cirrhosis in Rats.

Introduction: Liver cirrhosis is a condition characterized by the gradual replacement of normal liver tissue with scar tissue, ultimately leading to liver failure. This slow and progressive disease begins with a chronic inflammatory process induced by a noxious agent. In its advanced stages, the disease lacks effective therapies. Research has demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the pathogenesis of this disease. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of cannabidiol (CBD) in the progression of experimental hepatic cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) in rats. Methods: A randomized experimental design was employed using Holtzman rats. Hepatic cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal administration of TAA at a dose of 150 mg/kg for 6 weeks, with treatment initiated additionally. The groups were as follows: Group 1: TAA + vehicle; Group 2: TAA + CBD 2 mg/kg; Group 3: TAA + CBD 9 mg/kg; Group 4: TAA + CBD 18 mg/kg; Group 5: TAA + silymarin 50 mg/kg; and Group 6: Healthy control. Serum biochemical analysis (total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and albumin) and hepatic histopathological study were performed. The Knodell histological activity index (HAI) was determined, considering periportal necrosis, intralobular degeneration, portal inflammation, fibrosis, and focal necrosis. Results: All groups receiving TAA exhibited an elevation in AST levels; however, only those treated with CBD at doses of 2 mg/kg and 18 mg/kg did not experience significant changes compared to their baseline values (152.8 and 135.7 IU/L, respectively). Moreover, ALT levels in animals treated with CBD showed no significant variation compared to baseline. The HAI of hepatic tissue was notably lower in animals treated with CBD at doses of 9 and 18 mg/kg, scoring 3.0 and 3.25, respectively, in contrast to the TAA + vehicle group, which recorded a score of 7.00. Animals treated with CBD at 18 mg/kg showed a reduced degree of fibrosis and necrosis compared to those receiving TAA alone (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that cannabidiol exerts a hepatoprotective effect in the development of experimental hepatic cirrhosis induced in rats.

Prospective, randomized, controlled trial assessing the effects of a driving pressure-limiting strategy for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia (STAMINA trial): protocol and statistical analysis plan.

BACKGROUND: Driving pressure has been suggested to be the main driver of ventilator-induced lung injury and mortality in observational studies of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy can improve clinical outcomes is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To describe the protocol and statistical analysis plan that will be used to test whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy including positive end-expiratory pressure titration according to the best respiratory compliance and reduction in tidal volume is superior to a standard strategy involving the use of the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table in terms of increasing the number of ventilator-free days in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia. METHODS: The ventilator STrAtegy for coMmunIty acquired pNeumoniA (STAMINA) study is a randomized, multicenter, open-label trial that compares a driving pressure-limiting strategy to the ARDSnet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia admitted to intensive care units. We expect to recruit 500 patients from 20 Brazilian and 2 Colombian intensive care units. They will be randomized to a driving pressure-limiting strategy group or to a standard strategy using the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table. In the driving pressure-limiting strategy group, positive end-expiratory pressure will be titrated according to the best respiratory system compliance. OUTCOMES: The primary outcome is the number of ventilator-free days within 28 days. The secondary outcomes are in-hospital and intensive care unit mortality and the need for rescue therapies such as extracorporeal life support, recruitment maneuvers and inhaled nitric oxide. CONCLUSION: STAMINA is designed to provide evidence on whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy is superior to the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table strategy for increasing the number of ventilator-free days within 28 days in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Here, we describe the rationale, design and status of the trial.

Prospective, randomized, controlled trial assessing the effects of a driving pressure-limiting strategy for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia (STAMINA trial): protocol and statistical analysis plan / Estudo randomizado prospectivo e controlado de avaliação dos efeitos de uma estratégia de limitação da driving pressure em pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo devido à pneumonia adquirida na comunidade (estudo STAMINA): protocolo e plano de análise estatística

ABSTRACT Background: Driving pressure has been suggested to be the main driver of ventilator-induced lung injury and mortality in observational studies of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy can improve clinical outcomes is unclear. Objective: To describe the protocol and statistical analysis plan that will be used to test whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy including positive end-expiratory pressure titration according to the best respiratory compliance and reduction in tidal volume is superior to a standard strategy involving the use of the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table in terms of increasing the number of ventilator-free days in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia. Methods: The ventilator STrAtegy for coMmunIty acquired pNeumoniA (STAMINA) study is a randomized, multicenter, open-label trial that compares a driving pressure-limiting strategy to the ARDSnet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to community-acquired pneumonia admitted to intensive care units. We expect to recruit 500 patients from 20 Brazilian and 2 Colombian intensive care units. They will be randomized to a driving pressure-limiting strategy group or to a standard strategy using the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table. In the driving pressure-limiting strategy group, positive end-expiratory pressure will be titrated according to the best respiratory system compliance. Outcomes: The primary outcome is the number of ventilator-free days within 28 days. The secondary outcomes are in-hospital and intensive care unit mortality and the need for rescue therapies such as extracorporeal life support, recruitment maneuvers and inhaled nitric oxide. Conclusion: STAMINA is designed to provide evidence on whether a driving pressure-limiting strategy is superior to the ARDSNet low-positive end-expiratory pressure table strategy for increasing the number of ventilator-free days within 28 days in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Here, we describe the rationale, design and status of the trial.

RESUMO Contexto: Em estudos observacionais sobre a síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo, sugeriu-se que a driving pressure é o principal fator de lesão pulmonar induzida por ventilador e de mortalidade. Não está claro se uma estratégia de limitação da driving pressure pode melhorar os desfechos clínicos. Objetivo: Descrever o protocolo e o plano de análise estatística que serão usados para testar se uma estratégia de limitação da driving pressure envolvendo a titulação da pressão positiva expiratória final de acordo com a melhor complacência respiratória e a redução do volume corrente é superior a uma estratégia padrão envolvendo o uso da tabela de pressão positiva expiratória final baixa do protocolo ARDSNet, em termos de aumento do número de dias sem ventilador em pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo devido à pneumonia adquirida na comunidade. Métodos: O estudo STAMINA (ventilator STrAtegy for coMmunIty acquired pNeumoniA) é randomizado, multicêntrico e aberto e compara uma estratégia de limitação da driving pressure com a tabela de pressão positiva expiratória final baixa do protocolo ARDSnet em pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo moderada a grave devido à pneumonia adquirida na comunidade internados em unidades de terapia intensiva. Esperamos recrutar 500 pacientes de 20 unidades de terapia intensiva brasileiras e duas colombianas. Eles serão randomizados para um grupo da estratégia de limitação da driving pressure ou para um grupo de estratégia padrão usando a tabela de pressão positiva expiratória final baixa do protocolo ARDSnet. No grupo da estratégia de limitação da driving pressure, a pressão positiva expiratória final será titulada de acordo com a melhor complacência do sistema respiratório. Desfechos: O desfecho primário é o número de dias sem ventilador em 28 dias. Os desfechos secundários são a mortalidade hospitalar e na unidade de terapia intensiva e a necessidade de terapias de resgate, como suporte de vida extracorpóreo, manobras de recrutamento e óxido nítrico inalado. Conclusão: O STAMINA foi projetado para fornecer evidências sobre se uma estratégia de limitação da driving pressure é superior à estratégia da tabela de pressão positiva expiratória final baixa do protocolo ARDSnet para aumentar o número de dias sem ventilador em 28 dias em pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo moderada a grave. Aqui, descrevemos a justificativa, o desenho e o status do estudo.

Rectus abdominis muscle thickness as a predictor of peritoneal catheter dysfunction in emergency-start peritoneal dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous insertion of a peritoneal dialysis catheter (PDc) is an alternative to open surgical techniques, and the anatomical characteristics of the abdominal wall may predict PDc dysfunction. We evaluated the role of rectus abdominis muscle (RAM) thickness as a predictor of PDc dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective cohort of emergency-start PD patients (EmPD) who had their first percutaneous PDc insertion were included. PDc failure was defined as the removal of a PDc due to mechanical failure within the first 30 PD fluid exchanges. Clinical variables were recorded. The skin to parietal peritoneum depth and RAM thickness were determined by abdominal ultrasound. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were developed to test associations between clinical parameters and PDc dysfunction. RESULTS: Over 6 months, 119 patients underwent PDc insertion; 73 (61.3%) were males, with a mean age of 46.0 ± 17.8 years. The mean skin-to-peritoneum depth was 2.5 ± 1.0 cm, the RAM thickness was 0.91 ± 0.3 cm, and catheter implantation was successful in 116 (97.4%) patients. Insertion failed in 3 (2.5%) cases, and 30 (25.8%) patients presented with catheter dysfunction. Univariate analysis indicated that RAM thickness ≥ 1.0 cm, skin-to-peritoneum depth > 2.88 cm, abdominal waist > 92.5 cm, and skin-to-RAM fascia distance > 2.3 cm were associated with PDc dysfunction; in multivariate logistic regression analysis, only greater RAM thickness remained a significant predictor (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.38 - 1.88, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In EmPD patients, RAM thickness is associated with PDc dysfunction and could aid in identifying patients at risk for PDc dysfunction in emergency settings. Additional adequately powered studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Adamantinoma Presenting With Local Recurrence and Inguinal Lymph Node Metastasis: A Case Report.

Adamantinoma of long bones is a slow-growing, low-grade primary malignant bone tumor. It is a rare entity and accounts for less than 1% of all primary bone tumors, and in most cases, it occurs in the mid-axis of the tibia of adolescents and young adults. In this report, we describe the case of a 53-year-old woman with a diagnosis of adamantinoma of the left tibia who was initially treated surgically in 2004. Two years later, she presented with local relapse, for which she underwent new surgical management. The patient was referred to our practice 16 years after the initial diagnosis, and she presented with recurrence characterized by ipsilateral inguinal lymph node metastasis. The histological findings and immunohistochemistry were compatible with metastatic adamantinoma with high-grade differentiation, which ultimately required surgical salvage management.

Effect of Prolonged-Release Pirfenidone on Renal Function in Septic Acute Kidney Injury Patients: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: There is no treatment for septic acute kidney injury (sAKI). The anti-inflammatory activity of prolonged-release pirfenidone (PR-PFD) could be beneficial in this clinical setting. METHODS: This study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial in sAKI patients with nephrology consultation at the Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, in addition to the usual treatment of AKI associated with sepsis; patients were randomized to receive either PR-PFD at 1,200 mg/day (group A) or 600 mg/day (group B) or a matched placebo for 7 consecutive days. The primary objective was the decrease in serum creatinine (sCr) and increase in urinary volume (UV); the secondary objectives were changes in serum electrolytes, acid-base status, and mortality. RESULTS: Between August 2016 and August 2017, 88 patients were randomized. The mean age was 54 (17 ± SD) years, and 47% were male. The main site of infection was the lung (39.8%), septic shock was present in 39.1% of the cases, and the mean SOFA score was 8.8 points. 28 patients received PFD 1,200 mg, 30 patients received PFD 600 mg, and 30 patients received placebo. During the study, sCr did not differ among the groups. The reversion rate of sCr, UV, and mortality was not different among the groups (p=0.70, p=0.47, and p=0.38, respectively). Mild adverse events were not different among the groups. CONCLUSION: PR-PFD did not improve the clinical course of sAKI and seemed to be safe in terms of adverse events. This trial is registered with NCT02530359.

Effect of tocilizumab on clinical outcomes at 15 days in patients with severe or critical coronavirus disease 2019: randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether tocilizumab improves clinical outcomes for patients with severe or critical coronavirus disease 2019 (covid-19). DESIGN: Randomised, open label trial. SETTING: Nine hospitals in Brazil, 8 May to 17 July 2020. PARTICIPANTS: Adults with confirmed covid-19 who were receiving supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation and had abnormal levels of at least two serum biomarkers (C reactive protein, D dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, or ferritin). The data monitoring committee recommended stopping the trial early, after 129 patients had been enrolled, because of an increased number of deaths at 15 days in the tocilizumab group. INTERVENTIONS: Tocilizumab (single intravenous infusion of 8 mg/kg) plus standard care (n=65) versus standard care alone (n=64). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The primary outcome, clinical status measured at 15 days using a seven level ordinal scale, was analysed as a composite of death or mechanical ventilation because the assumption of odds proportionality was not met. RESULTS: A total of 129 patients were enrolled (mean age 57 (SD 14) years; 68% men) and all completed follow-up. All patients in the tocilizumab group and two in the standard care group received tocilizumab. 18 of 65 (28%) patients in the tocilizumab group and 13 of 64 (20%) in the standard care group were receiving mechanical ventilation or died at day 15 (odds ratio 1.54, 95% confidence interval 0.66 to 3.66; P=0.32). Death at 15 days occurred in 11 (17%) patients in the tocilizumab group compared with 2 (3%) in the standard care group (odds ratio 6.42, 95% confidence interval 1.59 to 43.2). Adverse events were reported in 29 of 67 (43%) patients who received tocilizumab and 21 of 62 (34%) who did not receive tocilizumab. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with severe or critical covid-19, tocilizumab plus standard care was not superior to standard care alone in improving clinical outcomes at 15 days, and it might increase mortality. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04403685.

Emergency CT of abdominal complications of ingested fish bones: what not to miss.

Fish bones are the most commonly ingested structures and the most common cause of foreign body perforation of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Clinical presentation of foreign body GIT perforation is nonspecific, in many cases with clinical signs of acute abdomen, which can mimic appendicitis, diverticulitis, ulcer peptic disease, and other common inflammatory conditions. Besides, patients commonly do not refer that a fish bone was swallowed. Since this condition is usually not suspected by referring physicians of the emergency department (ED), radiologists play a key role in this diagnosis; the spectrum of these imaging features must be known in order to be accurately reported in the ED.

Antitumor activity of vibrio sp. isolated biopolymers in induced breast cancer in rats. / Actividad antitumoral de biopolímeros aislados de Vibrio sp. en cáncer de mama inducido en ratas.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the antitumor activity of the raw extract from biopolymers isolated from the Vibrio sp. marine bacteria in breast cancer induced by N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Vibrio sp. marine bacteria was cultured for seven days, then the raw supernatant was filtered, precipitated and concentrated. MNU was administered in a single dose of 50 mg/kg to 39 Holtzman rats and were daily treated for 9 weeks orally: G1 (n = 13): 0.1 mL/100 g of saline solution; G2 (n = 13): 20 mg/kg of raw extract from Vibrio sp. biopolymers; G3 (n = 13): 100 mg/kg of tamoxifen; G4 (n = 11) received no MNU and only 0.1 mL/100 g of saline solution. Body weight and the appearance of breast tumors identified by palpation were assessed weekly, as well as histopathological examination at the end of treatment. RESULTS: Seventy-seven percent of the rats in the G1 group developed tumors from week 7 onwards in an average of 2.2 tumors per animal; in contrast to the group treated with the raw biopolymer extract and tamoxifen; where only one rat (8%) in each group developed tumors after week nine of induction (p = 0.001). The histopathological results support that all the removed tumors correspond to breast ductal adenocarcinoma with different patterns: solid, papillary and cystic. Likewise, necrotic foci were evidenced in 30% of the tumors of the G1 group. CONCLUSION: The raw extract of biopolymers isolated from Vibrio sp. present antitumor effect in breast cancer induced in rats.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la actividad antitumoral del extracto crudo de biopolímeros aislados de la bacteria marina Vibrio sp. en cáncer de mama inducido por N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) en ratas. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se cultivó la bacteria marina Vibrio sp. durante siete días, luego se filtró, precipitó y concentró el sobrenadante crudo. Se administró una dosis única de MNU 50 mg/kg a 39 ratas Holtzman y fueron tratadas diariamente durante nueve semanas por vía oral: G1 (n = 13): suero fisiológico 0,1 mL/100 g; G2 (n = 13): extracto crudo de biopolímeros de Vibrio sp. 20 mg/kg; G3 (n = 13): tamoxifeno 100 mg/kg. El G4 (n = 11) solo recibió suero fisiológico 0,1 mL/100 g. Se valoró semanalmente el peso corporal y la aparición de tumores mamarios identificados mediante palpación; así como el examen histopatológico al final del tratamiento. RESULTADOS: El 77% de las ratas del grupo G1 desarrollaron tumores a partir de la séptima semana en un promedio de 2,2 tumores por cada animal; en contraste al grupo tratado con el extracto crudo de biopolímeros y tamoxifeno; donde solo una rata (8%) en cada grupo desarrolló tumores y posterior a la semana nueve de la inducción (p = 0,001). Los resultados histopatológicos sostienen que todos los tumores extirpados corresponden a adenocarcinoma ductal de mama con distintos patrones: sólido, papilar y quístico. Asimismo, se evidenciaron focos necróticos en el 30% de los tumores del grupo G1. CONCLUSIÓN: El extracto crudo de biopolímeros aislados de Vibrio sp. presentan efecto antitumoral en cáncer de mama inducido en ratas.

Bosniak classification of cystic renal masses version 2019 does not increase the interobserver agreement or the proportion of masses categorized into lower Bosniak classes for non-subspecialized readers on CT or MR.

PURPOSE: In a condition so prevalent as renal cysts, classifications should display satisfactory reproducibility not only among subspecialized readers. We aimed to compare the interobserver agreement of the Bosniak classification version 2019 (BC19) and current Bosniak classification (CBC) for non-subspecialized readers on CT and MRI and to verify whether BC19 leads to a downgrade of renal cystic masses when compared to CBC. METHODS: We evaluated 50 renal cystic masses in 47 patients on MR and CT (25 per method). Eighteen readers (nine third-year radiology residents and nine abdominal imaging fellows) assessed the images using BC19 and CBC with an eight-week interval. Kappa statistic was used to assess agreement. An average score of Bosniak categories across all raters evaluated if there was downgrading of lesions on BC19. RESULTS: The highest values of Kappa were found for fellows on CBC-MR (κ = 0.51), and the lowest values were found for residents on CBC-MR and fellows on BC19-MR (both κ = 0.36). On CBC, interobserver agreement was moderate for MR and CT (κ = 0.42 and 0.43, respectively), whereas on BC19, it was fair (κ = 0.38 and 0.40, respectively). The best agreements were in categories I (κ = 0.49-0.69) and IV (κ = 0.45-0.51). The poorest agreements occurred at IIF (κ = 0.18 on BC19-CT). There was a moderate median increase from CBC to BC19 in terms of Bosniak categories for both methods (MR [Z=-2.058, p = 0.040] and CT [Z=-2.509, p = 0.012]). CONCLUSION: BC19, when compared to CBC, did not improve interobserver agreement nor diminished the proportion of masses categorized into lower Bosniak classes among non-subspecialized readers.

Actividad antitumoral de biopolímeros aislados de Vibrio sp. en cáncer de mama inducido en ratas / Antitumor activity of vibrio sp. isolated biopolymers in induced breast cancer in rats

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la actividad antitumoral del extracto crudo de biopolímeros aislados de la bacteria marina Vibrio sp. en cáncer de mama inducido por N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) en ratas. Materiales y métodos: Se cultivó la bacteria marina Vibrio sp. durante siete días, luego se filtró, precipitó y concentró el sobrenadante crudo. Se administró una dosis única de MNU 50 mg/kg a 39 ratas Holtzman y fueron tratadas diariamente durante nueve semanas por vía oral: G1 (n=13): suero fisiológico 0,1 mL/100g; G2 (n=13): extracto crudo de biopolímeros de Vibrio sp. 20 mg/kg; G3 (n=13): tamoxifeno 100 mg/kg. El G4 (n=11) solo recibió suero fisiológico 0,1 mL/100g. Se valoró semanalmente el peso corporal y la aparición de tumores mamarios identificados mediante palpación; así como el examen histopatológico al final del tratamiento. Resultados: El 77% de las ratas del grupo G1 desarrollaron tumores a partir de la séptima semana en un promedio de 2,2 tumores por cada animal; en contraste al grupo tratado con el extracto crudo de biopolímeros y tamoxifeno; donde solo una rata (8%) en cada grupo desarrolló tumores y posterior a la semana nueve de la inducción (p=0,001). Los resultados histopatológicos sostienen que todos los tumores extirpados corresponden a adenocarcinoma ductal de mama con distintos patrones: sólido, papilar y quístico. Asimismo, se evidenciaron focos necróticos en el 30% de los tumores del grupo G1. Conclusión: El extracto crudo de biopolímeros aislados de Vibrio sp. presentan efecto antitumoral en cáncer de mama inducido en ratas.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the antitumor activity of the raw extract from biopolymers isolated from the Vibrio sp. marine bacteria in breast cancer induced by N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) in rats. Materials and methods: The Vibrio sp. marine bacteria was cultured for seven days, then the raw supernatant was filtered, precipitated and concentrated. MNU was administered in a single dose of 50 mg/kg to 39 Holtzman rats and were daily treated for 9 weeks orally: G1 (n = 13): 0.1 mL/100 g of saline solution; G2 (n = 13): 20 mg/kg of raw extract from Vibrio sp. biopolymers; G3 (n = 13): 100 mg/kg of tamoxifen; G4 (n = 11) received no MNU and only 0.1 mL/100 g of saline solution. Body weight and the appearance of breast tumors identified by palpation were assessed weekly, as well as histopathological examination at the end of treatment. Results: Seventy-seven percent of the rats in the G1 group developed tumors from week 7 onwards in an average of 2.2 tumors per animal; in contrast to the group treated with the raw biopolymer extract and tamoxifen; where only one rat (8%) in each group developed tumors after week nine of induction (p = 0.001). The histopathological results support that all the removed tumors correspond to breast ductal adenocarcinoma with different patterns: solid, papillary and cystic. Likewise, necrotic foci were evidenced in 30% of the tumors of the G1 group. Conclusion: The raw extract of biopolymers isolated from Vibrio sp. present antitumor effect in breast cancer induced in rats.

Epidemiologia e desfecho dos pacientes de alto risco cirúrgico admitidos em unidades de terapia intensiva no Brasil / Epidemiology and outcome of high-surgical-risk patients admitted to an intensive care unit in Brazil

RESUMO Objetivo: Definir o perfil epidemiológico e os principais determinantes de morbimortalidade dos pacientes cirúrgicos não cardíacos de alto risco no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, observacional e multicêntrico. Todos os pacientes cirúrgicos não cardíacos admitidos nas unidades de terapia intensiva, ou seja, considerados de alto risco, no período de 1 mês, foram avaliados e acompanhados diariamente por, no máximo, 7 dias na unidade de terapia intensiva, para determinação de complicações. As taxas de mortalidade em 28 dias de pós-operatório, na unidade de terapia intensiva e hospitalar foram avaliadas. Resultados: Participaram 29 unidades de terapia intensiva onde foram realizadas cirurgias em 25.500 pacientes, dos quais 904 (3,5%) de alto risco (intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 3,3% - 3,8%), tendo sido incluídos no estudo. Dos pacientes envolvidos, 48,3% eram de unidades de terapia intensiva privadas e 51,7% de públicas. O tempo de internação na unidade de terapia intensiva foi de 2,0 (1,0 - 4,0) dias e hospitalar de 9,5 (5,4 - 18,6) dias. As taxas de complicações foram 29,9% (IC95% 26,4 - 33,7) e mortalidade em 28 dias pós-cirurgia 9,6% (IC95% 7,4 - 12,1). Os fatores independentes de risco para complicações foram Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3 (SAPS 3; razão de chance − RC = 1,02; IC95% 1,01 - 1,03) e Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA) da admissão na unidade de terapia intensiva (RC =1,17; IC95% 1,09 - 1,25), tempo de cirurgia (RC = 1,001; IC95% 1,000 - 1,002) e cirurgias de emergências (RC = 1,93; IC95% 1,10 - 3,38). Em adição, foram associados com mortalidade em 28 dias idade (RC = 1,032; IC95% 1,011 - 1,052) SAPS 3 (RC = 1,041; IC95% 1,107 - 1,279), SOFA (RC = 1,175; IC95% 1,069 - 1,292) e cirurgias emergenciais (RC = 2,509; IC95% 1,040 - 6,051). Conclusão: Pacientes com escores prognósticos mais elevados, idosos, tempo cirúrgico e cirurgias emergenciais estiveram fortemente associados a maior mortalidade em 28 dias e mais complicações durante permanência em unidade de terapia intensiva.

ABSTRACT Objective: To define the epidemiological profile and the main determinants of morbidity and mortality in noncardiac high surgical risk patients in Brazil. Methods: This was a prospective, observational and multicenter study. All noncardiac surgical patients admitted to intensive care units, i.e., those considered high risk, within a 1-month period were evaluated and monitored daily for a maximum of 7 days in the intensive care unit to determine complications. The 28-day postoperative, intensive care unit and hospital mortality rates were evaluated. Results: Twenty-nine intensive care units participated in the study. Surgeries were performed in 25,500 patients, of whom 904 (3.5%) were high-risk (95% confidence interval - 95%CI 3.3% - 3.8%) and were included in the study. Of the participating patients, 48.3% were from private intensive care units, and 51.7% were from public intensive care units. The length of stay in the intensive care unit was 2.0 (1.0 - 4.0) days, and the length of hospital stay was 9.5 (5.4 - 18.6) days. The complication rate was 29.9% (95%CI 26.4 - 33.7), and the 28-day postoperative mortality rate was 9.6% (95%CI 7.4 - 12.1). The independent risk factors for complications were the Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3 (SAPS 3; odds ratio - OR = 1.02; 95%CI 1.01 - 1.03) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA) on admission to the intensive care unit (OR = 1.17; 95%CI 1.09 - 1.25), surgical time (OR = 1.001, 95%CI 1.000 - 1.002) and emergency surgeries (OR = 1.93, 95%CI, 1.10 - 3.38). In addition, there were associations with 28-day mortality (OR = 1.032; 95%CI 1.011 - 1.052), SAPS 3 (OR = 1.041; 95%CI 1.107 - 1.279), SOFA (OR = 1.175, 95%CI 1.069 - 1.292) and emergency surgeries (OR = 2.509; 95%CI 1.040 - 6.051). Conclusion: Higher prognostic scores, elderly patients, longer surgical times and emergency surgeries were strongly associated with higher 28-day mortality and more complications during the intensive care unit stay.

Prostate Benign Diseases.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been increasingly used in the detection, localization, and staging of prostate cancer. Because of its excellent soft tissue contrast and multiplane imaging, it can be also very useful in the evaluation of benign prostate diseases. Prostatic benign disorders have a high prevalence, vastly represented by benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis. On the contrary, benign prostatic neoplasms are extremely rare, represented by multilocular cystadenoma, leiomyomas, hemangioma, and granular cell tumor, although these uncommon tumors have been most encountered due to widespread use of MRI. Congenital prostatic anomalies are associated with defects in the development of the prostate embryology, including hypoplasia, ectopia, and vascular malformations, abnormalities rarely seen on cross-sectional imaging. Prostatic cysts are the most common development abnormalities and occasionally are related to clinical symptoms, mainly due to infection and hemorrhage. As with prostate cancer, multiparametric MRI is a reliable tool for the diagnosis and management of benign prostatic diseases as well, providing additional information such morphological changes of the prostate, more accurate prostatic measurements, and functional characteristics of nonmalignant prostatic lesions. In this review, we discuss MRI findings of these benign prostatic diseases.

[Osteoarticular protection of Zea mays L. purple variety (purple corn) in experimental arthritis in rats]. / Protección osteoarticular de Zea mays L. variedad morada (maíz morado) en artritis experimental en ratas.

OBJECTIVES.: To evaluate the protective effect of Zea mays L., purple variety (purple corn) against inflammatory response and osteoarticular damage in rats with experimental arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Sixty-five Holtzman rats were used, assigned to seven groups: G1 (n=5): control; G2 (n=10): pristane (PIA) + distilled water; G3 (n=10): PIA + methotrexate 0.1 mg/kg; G4 (n=10): PIA + indomethacin 0.6 mg/kg; G5 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 100 mg/kg; G6 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg, and G7 (n=10): PIA + methotrexate 0.1 mg/kg + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg. Treatments were administered by orogastric cannula daily for 21 days; pristane was administered subdermal only on day 1. Volume of hind leg was recorded with a digital plethysmometer. The radiological analysis of the legs was evaluated according to the modified Clark criteria. RESULTS.: The percentage of inflammation at the end of the experiment was: (G1) 1.50 ± 0.5; (G2) 13.73 ± 8.4; (G3) 14.76 ± 8.8; (G4) 14.22 ± 9.0; (G5) 10.81 ± 9.1; (G6) 5.31 ± 1.4; (G7) 6.38 ± 0.5. The radiological scores of the affected areas were: (G1) 0.6; (G2) 3.5; (G3) 0.6; (G4) 1.7; (G5) 1.9; (G6) 1.4; (G7) 1.0. Only the groups Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg and methotrexate + Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg showed a significantly lower inflammatory response (p<0.05) and showed significantly lower joint scores in relation to PIA. CONCLUSIONS.: Zea mays L. (purple corn) reduces the inflammatory process and radiological modifications of PIA-induced arthritis in rats in a dose-dependent manner.

OBJETIVOS.: Evaluar el efecto protector de Zea mays L. variedad morada (maíz morado) frente a la respuesta inflamatoria y daño osteoarticular en ratas con artritis experimental. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Se emplearon 65 ratas Holtzman, asignadas en siete grupos: G1 (n=5): control, G2 (n=10): pristane (PIA) + agua destilada, G3 (n=10): PIA + metotrexate 0,1 mg/kg, G4 (n=10): PIA + indometacina 0,6 mg/kg, G5 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 100 mg/kg, G6 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg y G7 (n=10): PIA + metotrexate 0,1 mg/kg + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg. Los tratamientos fueron administrados mediante cánula orogástrica diariamente durante 21 días; el pristane se administró vía subdérmica solo el día 1. Se registró el volumen de pata trasera con un pletismometro digital. El análisis radiológico de las patas se evaluó según los criterios de Clark modificado. RESULTADOS.: El porcentaje de inflamación al final del experimento fue: (G1) 1,50 ± 0,5, (G2) 13,73 ± 8,4; (G3) 14,76 ± 8,8; (G4) 14.22 ± 9,0; (G5) 10,81 ± 9.1; (G6) 5,31 ± 1.4; (G7) 6,38 ± 0,5. Los puntajes radiológicos de las áreas afectadas fueron: (G1) 0,6; (G2) 3,5; (G3) 0,6; (G4) 1,7; (G5) 1,9; (G6) 1,4; (G7) 1,0. Solo los grupos Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg y metotrexate + Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg mostraron una respuesta inflamatoria significativamente menor (p<0,05) y mostraron puntajes articulares significativamente bajos en relación a PIA. CONCLUSIONES.: El Zea mays L. (maíz morado) reduce el proceso inflamatorio y las modificaciones radiológicas de la artritis inducida por PIA en ratas de modo dosis dependiente.

Protección osteoarticular de Zea mays L. variedad morada (maíz morado) en artritis experimental en ratas / Osteoarticular protection of Zea mays L. purple variety (purple corn) in experimental arthritis in rats

RESUMEN Objetivos. Evaluar el efecto protector de Zea mays L. variedad morada (maíz morado) frente a la respuesta inflamatoria y daño osteoarticular en ratas con artritis experimental. Materiales y métodos. Se emplearon 65 ratas Holtzman, asignadas en siete grupos: G1 (n=5): control, G2 (n=10): pristane (PIA) + agua destilada, G3 (n=10): PIA + metotrexate 0,1 mg/kg, G4 (n=10): PIA + indometacina 0,6 mg/kg, G5 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 100 mg/kg, G6 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg y G7 (n=10): PIA + metotrexate 0,1 mg/kg + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg. Los tratamientos fueron administrados mediante cánula orogástrica diariamente durante 21 días; el pristane se administró vía subdérmica solo el día 1. Se registró el volumen de pata trasera con un pletismometro digital. El análisis radiológico de las patas se evaluó según los criterios de Clark modificado. Resultados. El porcentaje de inflamación al final del experimento fue: (G1) 1,50 ± 0,5, (G2) 13,73 ± 8,4; (G3) 14,76 ± 8,8; (G4) 14.22 ± 9,0; (G5) 10,81 ± 9.1; (G6) 5,31 ± 1.4; (G7) 6,38 ± 0,5. Los puntajes radiológicos de las áreas afectadas fueron: (G1) 0,6; (G2) 3,5; (G3) 0,6; (G4) 1,7; (G5) 1,9; (G6) 1,4; (G7) 1,0. Solo los grupos Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg y metotrexate + Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg mostraron una respuesta inflamatoria significativamente menor (p<0,05) y mostraron puntajes articulares significativamente bajos en relación a PIA. Conclusiones. El Zea mays L. (maíz morado) reduce el proceso inflamatorio y las modificaciones radiológicas de la artritis inducida por PIA en ratas de modo dosis dependiente.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To evaluate the protective effect of Zea mays L., purple variety (purple corn) against inflammatory response and osteoarticular damage in rats with experimental arthritis. Materials and Methods. Sixty-five Holtzman rats were used, assigned to seven groups: G1 (n=5): control; G2 (n=10): pristane (PIA) + distilled water; G3 (n=10): PIA + methotrexate 0.1 mg/kg; G4 (n=10): PIA + indomethacin 0.6 mg/kg; G5 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 100 mg/kg; G6 (n=10): PIA + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg, and G7 (n=10): PIA + methotrexate 0.1 mg/kg + Zea mays 1000 mg/kg. Treatments were administered by orogastric cannula daily for 21 days; pristane was administered subdermal only on day 1. Volume of hind leg was recorded with a digital plethysmometer. The radiological analysis of the legs was evaluated according to the modified Clark criteria. Results. The percentage of inflammation at the end of the experiment was: (G1) 1.50 ± 0.5; (G2) 13.73 ± 8.4; (G3) 14.76 ± 8.8; (G4) 14.22 ± 9.0; (G5) 10.81 ± 9.1; (G6) 5.31 ± 1.4; (G7) 6.38 ± 0.5. The radiological scores of the affected areas were: (G1) 0.6; (G2) 3.5; (G3) 0.6; (G4) 1.7; (G5) 1.9; (G6) 1.4; (G7) 1.0. Only the groups Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg and methotrexate + Zea mays L. 1000 mg/kg showed a significantly lower inflammatory response (p<0.05) and showed significantly lower joint scores in relation to PIA. Conclusions. Zea mays L. (purple corn) reduces the inflammatory process and radiological modifications of PIA-induced arthritis in rats in a dose-dependent manner.