Neuroprotective effects of rutin against cuprizone-induced multiple sclerosis in mice.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that injures the myelin sheath, provoking progressive axonal degeneration and functional impairments. No efficient therapy is available at present to combat such insults, and hence, novel safe and effective alternatives for MS therapy are extremely required. Rutin (RUT) is a flavonoid that exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects in several brain injuries. The present study evaluated the potential beneficial effects of two doses of RUT in a model of pattern-III lesion of MS, in comparison to the conventional standard drug; dimethyl fumarate (DMF). Demyelination was induced in in male adult C57BL/6 mice by dietary 0.2% (w/w) cuprizone (CPZ) feeding for 6 consecutive weeks. Treated groups received either oral RUT (50 or 100 mg/kg) or DMF (15 mg/kg), along with CPZ feeding, for 6 consecutive weeks. Mice were then tested for behavioral changes, followed by biochemical analyses and histological examinations of the corpus callosum (CC). Results revealed that CPZ caused motor dysfunction, demyelination, and glial activation in demyelinated lesions, as well as significant oxidative stress, and proinflammatory cytokine elevation. Six weeks of RUT treatment significantly improved locomotor activity and motor coordination. Moreover, RUT considerably improved remyelination in the CC of CPZ + RUT-treated mice, as revealed by luxol fast blue staining and transmission electron microscopy. Rutin also significantly attenuated CPZ-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the CC of tested animals. The effect of RUT100 was obviously more marked than either that of DMF, regarding most of the tested parameters, or even its smaller tested dose. In silico docking revealed that RUT binds tightly within NF-κB at the binding site of the protein-DNA complex, with a good negative score of -6.79 kcal/mol. Also, RUT-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) model clarifies the possible inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction. Findings of the current study provide evidence for the protective effect of RUT in CPZ-induced demyelination and behavioral dysfunction in mice, possibly by modulating NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways. The present study may be one of the first to indicate a pro-remyelinating effect for RUT, which might represent a potential additive benefit in treating MS.

Medical Trainees' Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Electronic Cigarettes and Hookah: A Multinational Survey Study.

BACKGROUND: The rising prevalence of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) and hookah use among youth raises questions about medical trainees' views of these products. We aimed to investigate medical trainees' knowledge and attitudes toward e-cigarette and hookah use. METHODS: We used data from a large cross-sectional survey of medical trainees in Brazil, the United States, and India. We investigated demographic and mental health aspects, history of e-cigarettes and tobacco use, knowledge and attitudes toward e-cigarettes and hookah, and sources of information on e-cigarettes and hookah. Although all medical trainees were eligible for the original study, only senior students and physicians-in-training were included in the present analysis. RESULTS: Of 2,036 senior students and physicians-in-training, 27.4% believed e-cigarette use to be less harmful than tobacco smoking. As for hookah use, 14.9% believed it posed a lower risk than cigarettes. More than a third of trainees did not acknowledge the risks of passive e-cigarette use (42.9%) or hookah smoking (35.1%). Also, 32.4% endorsed e-cigarettes to quit smoking, whereas 22.5% felt ill equipped to discuss these tobacco products with patients. Fewer than half recalled attending lectures on these topics, and their most common sources of information were social media (54.5%), Google (40.8%), and friends and relatives (40.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Medical trainees often reported incorrect or biased perceptions of e-cigarettes and hookah, resorted to unreliable sources of information, and lacked the confidence to discuss the topic with patients. An expanded curriculum emphasis on e-cigarette and hookah use might be necessary because failing to address these educational gaps could risk years of efforts against smoking normalization.

Sex Differences in Outcomes of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Submitted to Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. / Diferenças entre os Sexos nos Desfechos de Pacientes com Infarto do Miocárdio com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST Submetidos à Intervenção Coronária Percutânea Primária.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that women are usually undertreated and have worse outcomes after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), hence the need to investigate questions related to sex in Brazil to better deal with the problem. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether female sex is still associated with adverse events in a contemporary cohort of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI in a tertiary university hospital between March 2011 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into groups based on their sex at birth. The primary clinical outcome was long-term MACCE. Patients were followed-up for up to five years. All hypothesis tests had a two-sided significance level of 0.05. RESULTS: Among 1457 patients admitted with STEMI in the study period, 1362 were included and 468 (34.4%) were women. Female patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension (73% vs. 60%, p <0.001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0.003) and Killip class 3-4 at hospital admission (17% vs. 12%, p=0.01); TIMI risk score was higher among women (4 [2, 6] vs. 3 [2, 5], p<0.001). In-hospital mortality was not different between groups (12.8% vs. 10.5%, p=0.20). In-hospital MACCE (16.0% vs. 12.6%, p=0.085) and long-term MACCE (28.7% vs. 24.4%, p=0.089) were numerically higher in women, with borderline significance. After multivariate analysis, female sex was not associated with MACCE (HR = 1.14; 95% CI 0.86 - 1.51; p = 0.36). CONCLUSION: In a prospective cohort of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI, female patients were older and had more comorbidities at baseline, but no significant differences were found in terms of long-term adverse outcomes.

FUNDAMENTO: Vários estudos têm mostrado que as mulheres não recebem tratamento adequado e apresentam piores desfechos após infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). Por isso, é necessário investigar questões relacionadas ao gênero para melhor lidar com esse problema no Brasil. OBJETIVO: Determinar se existe associação entre o sexo feminino e eventos adversos em uma coorte contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea primária (ICPp). MÉTODOS: Este foi um estudo prospectivo do tipo coorte de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp em um hospital universitário terciário entre março de 2011 e dezembro de 2021. Os pacientes foram categorizados em grupos de acordo com o sexo ao nascimento. O primeiro desfecho clínico foi ECAM em longo prazo. Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período máximo de cinco anos. Um nível de significância bilateral de 0,05 foi aplicado em todos os testes de hipóteses. RESULTADOS: Entre os 1457 pacientes internados por IAMCSST no período do estudo, 1362 foram incluídos e 468 (34,4%) eram do sexo feminino. As mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de hipertensão (73% vs. 60%, p<0,001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0,003) e classe Killip 3-4 na internação (17% vs. 12%, p=0,01); o escore de risco TIMI foi maior nas mulheres [4 (2, 6) vs. 3 (2, 5), p<0.001]. A mortalidade hospitalar não foi diferente entre os grupos (12,8% vs. 10,5%; p=0,20). Os ECAMs foram numericamente maiores nas mulheres que nos homens tanto durante a internação (16,0% vs. 12,6%, p=0,085) como em longo prazo (28,7% vs. 24,4%, p=0,089), com significância limítrofe. Após a análise multivariada, o sexo feminino não foi associado a ECAMs (HR = 1,14; IC95% 0,86 ­ 1,51; p = 0,36). CONCLUSÃO: Em uma coorte prospectiva contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp, pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram idade mais avançada e mais comorbidades no basal que os pacientes do sexo masculino, mas não houve diferenças significativas entre os sexos quanto aos desfechos adversos no hospital ou em longo prazo.

Vaping and Hookah Use Among Medical Trainees: A Multinational Survey Study.

The increased use of E-cigarettes and hookah among young consumers represents a public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the frequency and patterns of use of E-cigarettes and hookah among medical trainees. This cross-sectional multinational online survey included medical students, residents, and fellows in Brazil, the U.S., and India between October 2020 and November 2021. Information on sociodemographics; mental health; and E-cigarettes, hookah, tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use were collected. Generalized structural equation models were used in 2022 to explore the factors associated with current vaping and current hookah use (ongoing monthly/weekly/daily use). People reporting previous sporadic/frequent use or those who never used/only tried it once were the reference group. Overall, 7,526 participants were recruited (Brazil=3,093; U.S.=3,067; India=1,366). The frequency of current vaping was 20% (Brazil), 11% (U.S.), and <1% (India), and current hookah use was 10% (Brazil), 6% (U.S.), and 1% (India). Higher family income (OR=6.35, 95% CI=4.42, 9.12), smoking cigarettes (OR=5.88, 95% CI=4.88, 7.09) and marijuana (OR=2.8, 95% CI=2.35, 3.34), and binge drinking (OR=3.03, 95% CI=2.56, 3.59) were associated with current vaping. The same was true for hookah use: higher family income (OR=2.69, 95% CI=1.75, 4.14), smoking cigarettes (OR=3.20, 95% CI=2.53, 4.06), smoking marijuana (OR=4.17, 95% CI=3.35, 4.19), and binge drinking (OR=2.42, 95% CI=1.96, 2.99). In conclusion, E-cigarettes and hookah were frequently used by Brazilian and American trainees, sharply contrasting with data from India. Cultural aspects and public health policies may explain the differences among countries. Addressing the problems of hookah and E-cigarette smoking in this population is relevant to avoid the renormalization of smoking.

Diferenças entre os Sexos nos Desfechos de Pacientes com Infarto do Miocárdio com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST Submetidos à Intervenção Coronária Percutânea Primária / Sex Differences in Outcomes of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Submitted to Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Resumo Fundamento Vários estudos têm mostrado que as mulheres não recebem tratamento adequado e apresentam piores desfechos após infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). Por isso, é necessário investigar questões relacionadas ao gênero para melhor lidar com esse problema no Brasil. Objetivo Determinar se existe associação entre o sexo feminino e eventos adversos em uma coorte contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea primária (ICPp). Métodos Este foi um estudo prospectivo do tipo coorte de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp em um hospital universitário terciário entre março de 2011 e dezembro de 2021. Os pacientes foram categorizados em grupos de acordo com o sexo ao nascimento. O primeiro desfecho clínico foi ECAM em longo prazo. Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período máximo de cinco anos. Um nível de significância bilateral de 0,05 foi aplicado em todos os testes de hipóteses. Resultados Entre os 1457 pacientes internados por IAMCSST no período do estudo, 1362 foram incluídos e 468 (34,4%) eram do sexo feminino. As mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de hipertensão (73% vs. 60%, p<0,001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0,003) e classe Killip 3-4 na internação (17% vs. 12%, p=0,01); o escore de risco TIMI foi maior nas mulheres [4 (2, 6) vs. 3 (2, 5), p<0.001]. A mortalidade hospitalar não foi diferente entre os grupos (12,8% vs. 10,5%; p=0,20). Os ECAMs foram numericamente maiores nas mulheres que nos homens tanto durante a internação (16,0% vs. 12,6%, p=0,085) como em longo prazo (28,7% vs. 24,4%, p=0,089), com significância limítrofe. Após a análise multivariada, o sexo feminino não foi associado a ECAMs (HR = 1,14; IC95% 0,86 - 1,51; p = 0,36). Conclusão Em uma coorte prospectiva contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp, pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram idade mais avançada e mais comorbidades no basal que os pacientes do sexo masculino, mas não houve diferenças significativas entre os sexos quanto aos desfechos adversos no hospital ou em longo prazo.

Abstract Background Several studies have shown that women are usually undertreated and have worse outcomes after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), hence the need to investigate questions related to sex in Brazil to better deal with the problem. Objective To determine whether female sex is still associated with adverse events in a contemporary cohort of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Methods This was a prospective cohort study of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI in a tertiary university hospital between March 2011 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into groups based on their sex at birth. The primary clinical outcome was long-term MACCE. Patients were followed-up for up to five years. All hypothesis tests had a two-sided significance level of 0.05. Results Among 1457 patients admitted with STEMI in the study period, 1362 were included and 468 (34.4%) were women. Female patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension (73% vs. 60%, p <0.001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0.003) and Killip class 3-4 at hospital admission (17% vs. 12%, p=0.01); TIMI risk score was higher among women (4 [2, 6] vs. 3 [2, 5], p<0.001). In-hospital mortality was not different between groups (12.8% vs. 10.5%, p=0.20). In-hospital MACCE (16.0% vs. 12.6%, p=0.085) and long-term MACCE (28.7% vs. 24.4%, p=0.089) were numerically higher in women, with borderline significance. After multivariate analysis, female sex was not associated with MACCE (HR = 1.14; 95% CI 0.86 - 1.51; p = 0.36). Conclusion In a prospective cohort of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI, female patients were older and had more comorbidities at baseline, but no significant differences were found in terms of long-term adverse outcomes.

Activated Eosinophils Predict Longer Progression-Free Survival under Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Melanoma.

Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) has yielded remarkable results in prolonging survival of metastatic melanoma patients but only a subset of individuals treated respond to therapy. Success of ICI treatment appears to depend on the number of tumor-infiltrating effector T-cells, which are known to be influenced by activated eosinophils. To verify the co-occurrence of activated eosinophils and T-cells in melanoma, immunofluorescence was performed in 285 primary or metastatic tumor tissue specimens from 118 patients. Moreover, eosinophil counts and activity markers such as eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) were measured in the serum before therapy start and before the 4th infusion of ICI in 45 metastatic unresected melanoma patients. We observed a positive correlation between increased tumor-infiltrating eosinophils and T-cells associated with delayed melanoma progression. High baseline levels of eosinophil count, serum ECP and EPX were linked to prolonged progression-free survival in metastatic melanoma. Our data provide first indications that activated eosinophils are related to the T-cell-inflamed tumor microenvironment and could be considered as potential future prognostic biomarkers in melanoma.

Comparison of Outcomes From Delayed-Onset Bleb-Related Endophthalmitis Treated With Pars Plana Vitrectomy Versus Vitreous Biopsy.

PRCIS: Bleb-related endophthalmitis (BRE) is a serious complication of glaucoma filtration surgery. The current study reports similar visual and intraocular pressure (IOP) outcomes in eyes treated with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) compared with vitreous biopsy and injection of intravitreal antibiotics (TI). PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the isolated organisms, visual acuity (VA), and IOP outcomes associated with delayed-onset BRE in eyes treated with PPV versus TI. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (Miami, Florida) and the University of Florida (Gainesville, FL) identifying patients treated for BRE with at least 1 month of follow-up from the inception of an electronic health record (2014 and 2011, respectively) through 2021. All patients had undergone bleb-forming glaucoma surgery at least 1 month before endophthalmitis diagnosis. RESULTS: Thirty-nine eyes from 39 patients (33 from Bascom Palmer, 6 from University of Florida) were included. Trabeculectomy was performed in 34 of 39 eyes (87.2%). Streptococcus species (9 eyes, 23.1%) and Staphylococcus species (8 eyes, 20.5%) were the most common isolated organisms and were similar in both treatment groups ( P =0.49). Baseline VA was worse in the PPV group (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution: 2.51 vs. 2.16, P =0.04), but VA at last follow-up was similar ( P =0.48) in both groups. After recovery from BRE, the average IOP in the PPV group was 15.1 mm Hg on 0.9 IOP-lowering medications compared with 12.6 mm Hg on 1.2 medications in the TI group (IOP: P =0.56; medications: P =0.80). Additional glaucoma surgery was performed in 44.4% of the PPV eyes and 16.7% of the TI eyes ( P =0.09). CONCLUSION: In eyes with delayed-onset BRE, isolated organisms, visual outcomes, and IOP control were similar after initial PPV compared with TI.

Validação de um Algoritmo de Inteligência Artificial para a Predição Diagnóstica de Doença Coronariana: Comparação com um Modelo Estatístico Tradicional / Validation of an Artificial Intelligence Algorithm for Diagnostic Prediction of Coronary Disease: Comparison with a Traditional Statistical Model

Resumo Fundamento: A análise prognóstica multivariada tem sido realizada tradicionalmente por modelos de regressão. No entanto, muitos algoritmos surgiram, capazes de traduzir uma infinidade de padrões em probabilidades. A acurácia dos modelos de inteligência artificial em comparação à de modelos estatísticos tradicionais não foi estabelecida na área médica. Objetivo: Testar a inteligência artificial como um algoritmo preciso na predição de doença coronariana no cenário de dor torácica aguda, e avaliar se seu desempenho é superior a do modelo estatístico tradicional. Métodos: Foi analisada uma amostra consecutiva de 962 pacientes admitidos com dor torácica. Dois modelos probabilísticos de doença coronariana foram construídos com os primeiros 2/3 dos pacientes: um algoritmo machine learning e um modelo logístico tradicional. O desempenho dessas duas estratégias preditivas foi avaliado no último terço de pacientes. O modelo final de regressão logística foi construído somente com variáveis significativas a um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: A amostra de treinamento tinha idade média de 59 ± 15 anos, 58% do sexo masculino, e uma prevalência de doença coronariana de 52%. O modelo logístico foi composto de nove preditores independentes. O algoritmo machine learning foi composto por todos os candidatos a preditores. Na amostra teste, a área sob a curva ROC para predição de doença coronariana foi de 0,81 (IC95% = 0,77 - 0,86) para o algoritmo machine learning, similar à obtida no modelo logístico (0,82; IC95% = 0,77 - 0,87), p = 0,68. Conclusão: O presente estudo sugere que um modelo machine learning acurado não garante superioridade à um modelo estatístico tradicional

Abstract Background: Multivariate prognostic analysis has been traditionally performed by regression models. However, many algorithms capable of translating an infinity of patterns into probabilities have emerged. The comparative accuracy of artificial intelligence and traditional statistical models has not been established in the medical field. Objective: To test the artificial intelligence as an accurate algorithm for predicting coronary disease in the scenario of acute chest pain and evaluate whether its performance is superior to traditional statistical model. Methods: A consecutive sample of 962 patients admitted with chest pain was analyzed. Two probabilistic models of coronary disease were built using the first two-thirds of patients: a machine learning algorithm and a traditional logistic model. The performance of these two predictive strategies were evaluated in the remaining third of patients. The final logistic regression model had significant variables only, at the 5% significance level. Results: The training sample had an average age of 59 ± 15 years, 58% males, and a 52% prevalence of coronary disease. The logistic model was composed of nine independent predictors. The machine learning algorithm was composed of all candidates for predictors. In the test sample, the area under the ROC curve for prediction of coronary disease was 0.81 (95% CI = 0.77 - 0.86) for the machine learning algorithm, similar to that obtained in logistic model (0.82; 95% CI = 0.77 - 0.87), p = 0.68. Conclusion: The present study suggests that an accurate machine learning prediction tool did not prove to be superior to the statistical model of logistic regression.

Association of Helicobacter pylori and parasitic infections in childhood: impact on clinical manifestations and implications.

The association of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and parasitic infections including Giardia lamblia (G. lamblia), especially in childhood, is widely recognized to be high in developing communities. We aimed to study the impact of concomitant intestinal parasitic and H. pylori infections on the different clinical presentation of infected children and whether this coinfection could in turn cause any alteration in the clinical manifestations of each other. This cross-sectional study included 150 children of both sexes with their age ranging from 1 to 15 years, having gastrointestinal complaints, throughout 8 months duration. All cases were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination and stool analysis by direct wet smear and formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique, permanent staining with cold acid fast stain in addition to H. pylori coproantigen detection in stool. Parasitic infection was recorded in 58.6% of patients, with G. lamblia the most detected parasite (35.2%). Cases infected with H. pylori were 63 cases (42%) of which 61.9% of cases showed associated parasitic infection. Diarrhea was the most frequent complaint (63.2%) in cases infected with intestinal parasites, while it was less frequently recorded in co-infected cases (35.8%) and in cases with H. pylori infection only (29.1%) (P value 0.0008). On the other hand, vomiting was less recorded in coinfected cases than cases with H. pylori infection. Coinfection with intestinal parasites (including G. lamblia) and H. pylori could modulate the clinical manifestation of each other especially diarrhea in parasitic infections and vomiting in H. pylori infection.

Validation of an Artificial Intelligence Algorithm for Diagnostic Prediction of Coronary Disease: Comparison with a Traditional Statistical Model. / Validação de um Algoritmo de Inteligência Artificial para a Predição Diagnóstica de Doença Coronariana: Comparação com um Modelo Estatístico Tradicional.

BACKGROUND: Multivariate prognostic analysis has been traditionally performed by regression models. However, many algorithms capable of translating an infinity of patterns into probabilities have emerged. The comparative accuracy of artificial intelligence and traditional statistical models has not been established in the medical field. OBJECTIVE: To test the artificial intelligence as an accurate algorithm for predicting coronary disease in the scenario of acute chest pain and evaluate whether its performance is superior to traditional statistical model. METHODS: A consecutive sample of 962 patients admitted with chest pain was analyzed. Two probabilistic models of coronary disease were built using the first two-thirds of patients: a machine learning algorithm and a traditional logistic model. The performance of these two predictive strategies were evaluated in the remaining third of patients. The final logistic regression model had significant variables only, at the 5% significance level. RESULTS: The training sample had an average age of 59 ± 15 years, 58% males, and a 52% prevalence of coronary disease. The logistic model was composed of nine independent predictors. The machine learning algorithm was composed of all candidates for predictors. In the test sample, the area under the ROC curve for prediction of coronary disease was 0.81 (95% CI = 0.77 - 0.86) for the machine learning algorithm, similar to that obtained in logistic model (0.82; 95% CI = 0.77 - 0.87), p = 0.68. CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that an accurate machine learning prediction tool did not prove to be superior to the statistical model of logistic regression.

FUNDAMENTO: A análise prognóstica multivariada tem sido realizada tradicionalmente por modelos de regressão. No entanto, muitos algoritmos surgiram, capazes de traduzir uma infinidade de padrões em probabilidades. A acurácia dos modelos de inteligência artificial em comparação à de modelos estatísticos tradicionais não foi estabelecida na área médica. OBJETIVO: Testar a inteligência artificial como um algoritmo preciso na predição de doença coronariana no cenário de dor torácica aguda, e avaliar se seu desempenho é superior a do modelo estatístico tradicional. MÉTODOS: Foi analisada uma amostra consecutiva de 962 pacientes admitidos com dor torácica. Dois modelos probabilísticos de doença coronariana foram construídos com os primeiros 2/3 dos pacientes: um algoritmo machine learning e um modelo logístico tradicional. O desempenho dessas duas estratégias preditivas foi avaliado no último terço de pacientes. O modelo final de regressão logística foi construído somente com variáveis significativas a um nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A amostra de treinamento tinha idade média de 59 ± 15 anos, 58% do sexo masculino, e uma prevalência de doença coronariana de 52%. O modelo logístico foi composto de nove preditores independentes. O algoritmo machine learning foi composto por todos os candidatos a preditores. Na amostra teste, a área sob a curva ROC para predição de doença coronariana foi de 0,81 (IC95% = 0,77 ­ 0,86) para o algoritmo machine learning, similar à obtida no modelo logístico (0,82; IC95% = 0,77 ­ 0,87), p = 0,68. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo sugere que um modelo machine learning acurado não garante superioridade à um modelo estatístico tradicional.

Prognostic Contrast between Anatomical and Clinical Models Regarding Fatal and Non-Fatal Outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndromes. / Competência Prognóstica Distinta entre Modelo Clínico e Anatômico em Síndromes Coronarianas Agudas: Comparação por Tipo de Desfecho.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent ischemic events are mediated by atherosclerotic plaque instability, whereas death after an ischemic event results from gravity of insult and ability of the organism to adapt. The distinct nature of those types of events may respond for different prediction properties of clinical and anatomical information regarding type of outcome. OBJECTIVE: To identify prognostic properties of clinical and anatomical data in respect of fatal and non-fatal outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). METHODS: Patients consecutively admitted with ACS who underwent coronary angiography were recruited. The SYNTAX score was utilized as an anatomic model and the GRACE score as a clinical model. The predictive capacity of those scores was separately evaluated for prediction of non-fatal ischemic outcomes (infarction and refractory angina) and cardiovascular death during hospitalization. It was considered as significant a p-value <0,05. RESULTS: EAmong 365 people, cardiovascular death was observed in 4,4% and incidence of non-fatal ischemic outcomes in 11%. For cardiovascular death, SYNTAX and GRACE score presented similar C-statistic of 0,80 (95% IC: 0,70 - 0,92) and 0,89 (95% IC 0,81 - 0,96), respectively - p = 0,19. As for non-fatal ischemic outcomes, the SYNTAX score presented a moderate predictive value (C-statistic = 0,64; 95%IC 0,55 - 0,73), whereas the GRACE score did not presented association with this type of outcome (C-statistic = 0,50; 95%IC 0,40-0,61) - p = 0,027. CONCLUSION: Clinical and anatomic models similarly predict cardiovascular death in ACS. However, recurrence of coronary instability is better predicted by anatomic variables than clinical data. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0).

FUNDAMENTO: Eventos isquêmicos recorrentes decorrem de instabilidade de placa aterosclerótica, enquanto morte após um evento isquêmico decorre da gravidade do insulto. A natureza diversa desses tipos de eventos pode fazer com que dados clínicos e anatômicos tenham diferentes capacidades prognósticas a depender do tipo de desfecho. OBJETIVO: Identificar as predileções prognósticas de dados clínicos e dados anatômicos em relação a desfechos coronários fatais e não fatais durante hospitalização de pacientes com síndromes coronarianas agudas (SCA). MÉTODOS: Pacientes consecutivamente admitidos por SCA que realizaram coronariografia foram recrutados. O escore SYNTAX foi utilizado como modelo anatômico e o escore GRACE como modelo clínico. A capacidade preditora desses escores foi comparada quando à predição de desfechos isquêmicos não fatais (infarto ou angina refratária) e de morte cardiovascular durante hospitalização. Significância estatística foi definida por p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Entre 365 indivíduos, 4,4% foi a incidência de óbito hospitalar e 11% de desfechos isquêmicos não fatais. Para morte cardiovascular, ambos os escores ­ SYNTAX e GRACE ­ apresentaram capacidade discriminatória, com estatísticas-C similares: 0,80 (95%IC: 0,70­0,92) e 0,89 (95%IC 0,81­0,96), respectivamente ­ p=0,19. Quantos aos desfechos isquêmicos não fatais, o escore SYNTAX apresentou valor preditor (estatística-C = 0,64; 95%IC 0,55­0,73), porém o escore GRACE não mostrou associação com esse tipo de desfecho (estatística-C = 0,50; 95%IC: 0,40­0,61) ­ p=0,027. CONCLUSÃO: Os modelos clínico e anatômico predizem satisfatoriamente morte cardiovascular em SCA, enquanto a recorrência de instabilidade coronária é melhor prevista por características anatômicas do que por dados clínicos. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):219-225).

Competência Prognóstica Distinta entre Modelo Clínico e Anatômico em Síndromes Coronarianas Agudas: Comparação por Tipo de Desfecho / Prognostic Contrast between Anatomical and Clinical Models Regarding Fatal and Non-Fatal Outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndromes

Resumo Fundamento Eventos isquêmicos recorrentes decorrem de instabilidade de placa aterosclerótica, enquanto morte após um evento isquêmico decorre da gravidade do insulto. A natureza diversa desses tipos de eventos pode fazer com que dados clínicos e anatômicos tenham diferentes capacidades prognósticas a depender do tipo de desfecho. Objetivo Identificar as predileções prognósticas de dados clínicos e dados anatômicos em relação a desfechos coronários fatais e não fatais durante hospitalização de pacientes com síndromes coronarianas agudas (SCA). Métodos Pacientes consecutivamente admitidos por SCA que realizaram coronariografia foram recrutados. O escore SYNTAX foi utilizado como modelo anatômico e o escore GRACE como modelo clínico. A capacidade preditora desses escores foi comparada quando à predição de desfechos isquêmicos não fatais (infarto ou angina refratária) e de morte cardiovascular durante hospitalização. Significância estatística foi definida por p < 0,05. Resultados Entre 365 indivíduos, 4,4% foi a incidência de óbito hospitalar e 11% de desfechos isquêmicos não fatais. Para morte cardiovascular, ambos os escores — SYNTAX e GRACE — apresentaram capacidade discriminatória, com estatísticas-C similares: 0,80 (95%IC: 0,70-0,92) e 0,89 (95%IC 0,81-0,96), respectivamente — p=0,19. Quantos aos desfechos isquêmicos não fatais, o escore SYNTAX apresentou valor preditor (estatística-C = 0,64; 95%IC 0,55-0,73), porém o escore GRACE não mostrou associação com esse tipo de desfecho (estatística-C = 0,50; 95%IC: 0,40-0,61) — p=0,027. Conclusão Os modelos clínico e anatômico predizem satisfatoriamente morte cardiovascular em SCA, enquanto a recorrência de instabilidade coronária é melhor prevista por características anatômicas do que por dados clínicos. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):219-225)

Abstract Background Recurrent ischemic events are mediated by atherosclerotic plaque instability, whereas death after an ischemic event results from gravity of insult and ability of the organism to adapt. The distinct nature of those types of events may respond for different prediction properties of clinical and anatomical information regarding type of outcome. Objective To identify prognostic properties of clinical and anatomical data in respect of fatal and non-fatal outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Methods Patients consecutively admitted with ACS who underwent coronary angiography were recruited. The SYNTAX score was utilized as an anatomic model and the GRACE score as a clinical model. The predictive capacity of those scores was separately evaluated for prediction of non-fatal ischemic outcomes (infarction and refractory angina) and cardiovascular death during hospitalization. It was considered as significant a p-value <0,05. Results EAmong 365 people, cardiovascular death was observed in 4,4% and incidence of non-fatal ischemic outcomes in 11%. For cardiovascular death, SYNTAX and GRACE score presented similar C-statistic of 0,80 (95% IC: 0,70 - 0,92) and 0,89 (95% IC 0,81 - 0,96), respectively - p = 0,19. As for non-fatal ischemic outcomes, the SYNTAX score presented a moderate predictive value (C-statistic = 0,64; 95%IC 0,55 - 0,73), whereas the GRACE score did not presented association with this type of outcome (C-statistic = 0,50; 95%IC 0,40-0,61) - p = 0,027. Conclusion Clinical and anatomic models similarly predict cardiovascular death in ACS. However, recurrence of coronary instability is better predicted by anatomic variables than clinical data. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Prognostic Value of NT-proBNP versus Killip Classification in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes / Valor Prognóstico do NT-proBNP versus Classificação de Killip em Pacientes com Síndromes Coronarianas Agudas

Abstract Background: Plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptides have better diagnostic accuracy compared to clinical-radiologic judgment for acute heart failure. In acute coronary syndromes (ACS), the prognostic value of acute heart failure is incorporated into predictive models through Killip classification. It is not established whether NT-proBNP could increment prognostic prediction. Objective: To evaluate whether NT-proBNP, as a measure of left ventricular dysfunction, improves the in-hospital prognostic value of the GRACE score in ACS. Methods: Patients admitted due to acute chest pain, with electrocardiogram and/or troponin criteria for ACS were included in the study. The plasma level of NT-proBNP was measured at hospital admission and the primary endpoint was defined as cardiovascular death during hospitalization. P-value < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: Among 352 patients studied, cardiovascular mortality was 4.8%. The predictive value of NT-proBNP for cardiovascular death was shown by a C-statistic of 0.78 (95% CI = 0.65-0.90). After adjustment for the GRACE model subtracted by Killip variable, NT-proBNP remained independently associated with cardiovascular death (p = 0.015). However, discrimination by the GRACE-BNP logistic model (C-statistics = 0.83; 95%CI = 0.69-0.97) was not superior to the traditional GRACE Score with Killip (C-statistic = 0.82; 95%CI = 0.68-0.97). The GRACE-BNP model did not provide improvement in the classification of patients to high risk by the GRACE Score (net reclassification index = - 0.15; p = 0.14). Conclusion: Despite the statistical association with cardiovascular death, there was no evidence that NT-proBNP increments the prognostic value of GRACE score in ACS.

Resumo Fundamento: Os níveis plasmáticos de peptídeos natriuréticos cerebrais têm melhor precisão diagnóstica em comparação com a avaliação clínico-radiológica para insuficiência cardíaca aguda. Nas síndromes coronárias agudas (SCA), o valor prognóstico da insuficiência cardíaca aguda é incorporado nos modelos preditivos através da classificação de Killip. Não está estabelecido se o NT-proBNP poderia aumentar a previsão prognóstica. Objetivo: Avaliar se o NT-proBNP, como medida da disfunção ventricular esquerda, melhora o valor prognóstico intra-hospitalar do escore GRACE na SCA. Métodos: Foram incluídos no estudo pacientes admitidos por dor torácica aguda, com eletrocardiograma e/ou critérios de troponina para SCA. O nível plasmático de NT-proBNP foi medido no momento da admissão hospitalar e o desfecho primário foi definido como morte cardiovascular durante a hospitalização. Foi considerado significativo o valor de p < 0,05. Resultados: A mortalidade cardiovascular entre os 352 pacientes estudados foi de 4,8%. O valor preditivo do NT-proBNP para morte cardiovascular foi mostrado por uma estatística C de 0,78 (IC 95% = 0,65-0,90). Após o ajuste para o modelo GRACE subtraído pela variável Killip, o NT-proBNP permaneceu independentemente associado à morte cardiovascular (p = 0,015). No entanto, a discriminação pelo modelo logístico GRACE-BNP (estatística C = 0,83; IC 95% = 0,69-0,97) não foi superior ao escore GRACE tradicional com Killip (estatística C = 0,82; IC 95% = 0,68-0,97). O modelo GRACE-BNP não proporcionou melhora na classificação dos pacientes de alto risco pelo Escore GRACE (índice líquido de reclassificação = - 0,15; p = 0,14). Conclusão: Apesar da associação estatística com a morte cardiovascular, não houve evidências de que o NT-proBNP aumente o valor prognóstico do escore GRACE na SCA.

Prognostic Value of NT-proBNP versus Killip Classification in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes.

BACKGROUND: Plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptides have better diagnostic accuracy compared to clinical-radiologic judgment for acute heart failure. In acute coronary syndromes (ACS), the prognostic value of acute heart failure is incorporated into predictive models through Killip classification. It is not established whether NT-proBNP could increment prognostic prediction. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether NT-proBNP, as a measure of left ventricular dysfunction, improves the in-hospital prognostic value of the GRACE score in ACS. METHODS: Patients admitted due to acute chest pain, with electrocardiogram and/or troponin criteria for ACS were included in the study. The plasma level of NT-proBNP was measured at hospital admission and the primary endpoint was defined as cardiovascular death during hospitalization. P-value < 0.05 was considered as significant. RESULTS: Among 352 patients studied, cardiovascular mortality was 4.8%. The predictive value of NT-proBNP for cardiovascular death was shown by a C-statistic of 0.78 (95% CI = 0.65-0.90). After adjustment for the GRACE model subtracted by Killip variable, NT-proBNP remained independently associated with cardiovascular death (p = 0.015). However, discrimination by the GRACE-BNP logistic model (C-statistics = 0.83; 95%CI = 0.69-0.97) was not superior to the traditional GRACE Score with Killip (C-statistic = 0.82; 95%CI = 0.68-0.97). The GRACE-BNP model did not provide improvement in the classification of patients to high risk by the GRACE Score (net reclassification index = - 0.15; p = 0.14). CONCLUSION: Despite the statistical association with cardiovascular death, there was no evidence that NT-proBNP increments the prognostic value of GRACE score in ACS.

Office-based physical activity: mapping a social ecological model approach against COM-B.

BACKGROUND: There are growing concerns over the health impacts of occupational sedentary behaviour on office-based workers and increasing workplace recognition of the need to increase physical activity at work. Social ecological models provide a holistic framework for increasing opportunities for physical activity at work. In this paper we propose a social ecological model of office-based physical activity and map it against the Capability Motivation Opportunity (COM-B) framework to highlight the mechanisms of behaviour change that can increase levels of physical activity of office-based workers. DISCUSSION: The paper proposes a social ecological model of physical activity associated with office-based settings. The model considers opportunities for both incidental and discretionary activities, as well as macro and micro factors on both socio-cultural and physical dimensions. The COM-B framework for characterising behaviour change interventions is used to highlight the underlying mechanisms of behaviour change inherent in the model. The broad framework provided by social ecological models is important for understanding physical activity in office-based settings because of the non-discretionary nature of sedentary behaviour of office-based work. It is important for interventions not to rely on individual motivation for behaviour change alone but to incorporate changes to the broader social ecological and physical context to build capability and create opportunities for more sustainable change.

Understanding patients' experience living with diabetes type 2 and effective disease management: a qualitative study following a mobile health intervention in Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND: In 2017, 425 million adults worldwide had diabetes; 80% were living in low and middle-income countries. Bangladesh had 6.9 million adults with diabetes; death from diabetes comprised 3% of the country's total mortality. This study looked at different factors (personal, familial, social, and financial) affecting both the life of patients with diabetes type 2 and the management of the disease. It also explored patient's perception of the mobile health intervention in the context of disease management and helped to explain the findings obtained from the quantitative part of this study. METHOD: The study was a mixed-method, sequential explanatory design. A mobile health project (interactive voice call and call center) was implemented in Dhaka district, Bangladesh from January to December, 2014. Patients received treatment at the outpatient department of Bangladesh Institute of Health Science Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, were included in intervention and control groups of the main study following a Randomized Control Trial. Among them, a total of 18 patients (9 + 9) were selected purposefully for the qualitative study, which was conducted in July, 2015. The sample was selected purposefully considering the age, sex, socio-economic status and proximity of living due to the political instability of the country during the data collection period. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed applying investigator triangulation. RESULTS: Most patients stated that diabetes has affected their lives. In general, both groups´ evaluation of mobile health services were good and both regarded the recommendations for medication, diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle behaviors (use of tobacco and betel nuts) as helpful. The cost of overall treatment (medications, physician consultations, laboratory investigations), the lack of availability of safe public places for physical exercise and unfavorable weather conditions (heat, rainfall) were mentioned as barriers to the overall management of the disease. CONCLUSION: A patient-centered mobile health intervention supported by a collaborative patient-provider relationship, a strong family support system, available public spaces for exercise and the introduction of a functional public health insurance system could be beneficial for the better management of diabetes.

Role of Liver Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Neonatal Cholestasis due to Biliary Atresia.

Biliary atresia is the commonest cause of cholestatic jaundice. Early diagnosis & surgical correction helps long time survival & prevent development of cirrhosis. This study was conducted to find out the role of liver biopsy in the diagnosis of biliary atresia having positive hepatobiliary scintigraphy as there is chance of false positivity. This cross sectional study was carried out in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh at Paediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition Department from January 2014 to June 2015. All admitted patients with the diagnosis of neonatal cholestasis were evaluated clinically and by scintigraphy for biliary atresia. Having positive hepatobiliary scintigraphy but highly suggestive of biliary atresia were enrolled for this study. A total of 108 cases were initially selected. Among them 33 patients showed no excretion of tracer during hepatobiliary scintigraphy. Liver biopsy was done in these 33 cases. All cases (100%) had history of passage of pale or acholic stool. Fractionated serum bilirubin of >2mg/dl was found all of the cases. Histological scoring system reveals typical features of biliary atresia in 27(81.8%). Two had no conclusive histology of biliary atresia, four had features of neonatal hepatitis (12.1%). In this study, percutaneous liver biopsy with histological analysis by scoring system was found useful for the correct diagnosis of biliary atresia.

Quercetin protects against stress-induced anxiety- and depression-like behavior and improves memory in male mice.

The present study evaluates the protective role of Quercetin (Quer), against immobilization stress- induced anxiety, depression and cognition alteration in mice using behavioral and biochemical parameters. 24 adult Albino mice were distributed into 2 groups vehicle (n=12; 1 ml/kg) and Quer injected (n=12; 20 mg/kg/ml). The animals received their respective treatment for 14 days. On day 15, after the drug administration, animals were sub-divided into 4 groups (n=6); (i) unstressed + vehicle; (ii) stressed + vehicle; (iii) unstressed + Quer; (iv) stressed + Quer. On day 16, 24 h after the immobilization stress behavioral activities (light-dark activity, elevated plus maze, Morris water maze, and forced swim test) monitored and then animals were decapitated 1 h after the drug administration. Brain samples were collected for biochemical (antioxidant enzymes, AChE, ACh, 5-HT and its metabolite) analysis. The present study indicates the Quer reversed the stress-induced anxiety and depression, in addition, memory performance was more enhanced in stressed group. Following the treatment of Quer, stress-induced elevation of lipid peroxidation and suppression of antioxidant enzymes were also reversed. Administration of Quer decreased AChE in unstressed, while levels of acetylcholine were increased in vehicle and Quer treated stressed animals. The metabolism of 5-HT was increased in Quer treated stressed than unstressed animals. In conclusion, the present finding showed that Quer could prevent the impairment of antioxidant enzymes and also regulate the serotonergic and cholinergic neurotransmission and produce antianxiety, antidepressant effect and enhance memory following 2 h immobilization stress in mice.