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Summary: Background: While a number of observational studies of enteral nutrition (EN) during mechanical circulatory support (MCS) have been conducted, fewer have looked into severe acute heart failure (AHF), specifically. Methods: This retrospective observational study investigated patients admitted to a single cardiac care unit from January 2014 to March 2020 for AHF and requiring invasive mechanical ventilation within 72 hours of admission. We investigated clinical outcomes and EN complications in the group of patients for whom EN was initiated during MCS (MCS group). The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Results: Forty-seven patients in the MCS group met the inclusion criteria. The 30-day mortality rate was 32% (15) in the MCS group. The number of patients with EN complications were 24 [51%] in the MCS group. Multivariate analysis revealed that no association found between EN initiation during MCS and the 30-day mortality rate and EN complications. (OR:0.94, 95% CI:0.27–3.23, P = 0.922, OR:1.29, 95% CI:0.31–5.29, P = 0.724, respectively). Conclusion: EN can be selected as the feeding route during MCS, because the adverse events and intolerance associated with EN initiation is not increased when the patients with severe AHF were made hemodynamically stable using MCS.

Summary: Background and Aims: Oesophagectomy is the primary curative treatment for oesophageal cancer but is associated with considerable postoperative morbidity and mortality. To better understand the aetiology of impaired health-related quality of life (HRQL) in oesophageal cancer survivors (OCS), this study sought to determine the longitudinal changes in nutritional status, nutrition-impact symptoms (NIS), and HRQL in this cohort, and to determine which variables have the greatest impact on postoperative HRQL decline. Methods: Data, derived from St. James' Hospital, Dublin, included patients who underwent oesophagectomy from October 2017 to May 2019 and attended clinic preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. A subset attended a further 12-month appointment. HRQL and symptom data were collected using validated questionnaires and anthropometric measures were completed by clinicians. Data were analysed using SPSS. Results: A total of 66 patients were studied preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively, of whom 37 were studied at 12 months postoperatively. Malnutrition remained prevalent at each time-point, although rates did not significantly change longitudinally. Conversely, the prevalence of malabsorption (7.6%–14.3%, P

Resumen: Introducción: El uso de determinadas pseudociencias en niños está documentado en España. El objetivo principal del estudio es estimar el grado de conocimiento, la recomendación y el uso de algunas pseudoterapias por parte de los pediatras españoles. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal, descriptivo y de ámbito nacional, mediante encuesta en línea, enviada por correo electrónico a pediatras socios de la Asociación Española de Pediatría (AEP), entre junio y julio de 2020. Resultados: Se recibieron 1.414 respuestas. El 31,8% considera que la acupuntura es una ciencia. El 28,1% ha recomendado alguna vez homeopatía a sus pacientes. Un 21,3% reconoce haber utilizado alguna medicina alternativa para mejorar su propia salud. El 3,8% reconoce haber sustituido un tratamiento convencional por una terapia alternativa. Las variables que se asociaron a una mayor predisposición para recomendar homeopatía fueron: sexo femenino, edad > 45 años, trabajo en atención primaria y en un sistema de salud privado. Conclusiones: El Comité de Medicamentos de la AEP aporta con esta encuesta nuevos datos que se consideran preocupantes y que merecen una seria reflexión sobre el uso de las pseudociencias en nuestro país. Un significativo porcentaje de pediatras están recomendando a los padres que administren a sus hijos tratamientos no avalados por la evidencia científica, con todas las consecuencias negativas y perjuicios que esto puede conllevar, sobre todo si se sustituye el tratamiento convencional. Abstract: Introduction: The use of certain Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) in children has been documented in Spain. The main aim of this study is to estimate the knowledge, recommendations, and use of CAM by Spanish paediatricians. Material and methods: A national study was conducted from June to July 2020 using an online questionnaire. Two e-mails were sent to paediatricians who were members of the Spanish Association of Paediatrics (AEP). Results: Out of 1,414 responses received, acupuncture was considered as a science by 31.8%. Homeopathy was recommended to parents by 28.1%. CAM was used by 21.3% of physicians, at least once, to improve their own health. Only 3.8% had ever replaced a conventional treatment with CAM. The following variables were associated with a greater disposition to prescribe homeopathy: female, age over 45 years old, paediatricians working in Primary Care, and paediatricians working in private healthcare. Conclusions: This AEP Committee on Medicines questionnaire provides new data that should be considered alarming and should ask for a serious thinking on the use of CAM in Spain. Some paediatricians are recommending parents to give treatments not supported by scientific evidence to their children. This practice could be potentially harmful, especially when conventional treatment is being replaced.

Resumen: Introducción: Una de las patologías más frecuentemente atendida en nuestro medio son las lesiones tendinosas que afectan al manguito rotador del hombro. Existen diferentes modalidades de tratamiento para las roturas masivas o irreparables. Desde hace unos años, se introdujo en el mercado una técnica poco invasiva basada en la colocación de un espaciador subacromial biodegradable. El objetivo del trabajo es analizar los resultados de nuestra experiencia con el uso de este dispositivo (InSpace®). Material y método: En el estudio se recogen los resultados obtenidos en 25 pacientes con roturas irreparables del manguito rotador definidas mediante resonancia magnética (RM), en los que se les implantó un balón subacromial en nuestro centro en el periodo comprendido entre enero de 2015 hasta diciembre de 2017. Todos los pacientes fueron evaluados preoperatoriamente y un año después de la cirugía incluyendo la escala visual analógica (EVA), el test de Constant (CS) y el QuickDASH (QD). Resultados: De los 25 pacientes, cinco pacientes (20%) fueron intervenidos mediante artroscopia y 20 (80%) mediante abordaje abierto (mini-open). Un total de 22 pacientes completaron el año de seguimiento. A los 12 meses, el 64% (14/22) de los pacientes obtuvo una mejoría de al menos 10 puntos en el CS. Los pacientes partían de un CS promedio inicial de 32 puntos que mejoró hasta los 54,9 puntos de media en la evaluación postoperatoria a los 12 meses (Promedio de mejoría 22,9 puntos; p < 0,05). En cuanto a la evaluación del dolor, en nuestro estudio, el 87% (19/22) de los pacientes obtuvo una mejoría de al menos 2 puntos en la EVA a los 12 meses de seguimiento (p < 0,05). Los pacientes partían de una EVA media inicial de 8,7 que mejoró hasta los 3,7 puntos de media a los 12 meses. Un 73% de los pacientes contestaron estar satisfechos con la intervención y volverían a someterse a la cirugía. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos en nuestra serie a un año de seguimiento hablan en favor de la utilización del balón subacromial de tipo InSpace®, como opción terapéutica disponible para pacientes con roturas irreparables del manguito rotador. Puede ser utilizado como procedimiento provisional, retrasando la necesidad de una cirugía más invasiva, o definitivo en los pacientes médicamente no candidatos a una artroplastia inversa. Es importante tener claras las indicaciones de este procedimiento para no cometer errores. Abstract: Introduction: One of the most frequently treated pathologies in our department are tendon lesions that affect the rotator cuff of the shoulder. There are different types of treatment for massive or irreparable tears. For a few years, a low-invasive technique was introduced based on the placement of a biodegradable subacromial spacer. The objective of the work is to analyse the results of our experience with the use of this device (InSpaceTM). Material and method: The study collects the results obtained in 25 patients with irreparable ruptures of rotator cuff defined by RM, in which they were implanted a balloon subacromial in our centre in the period from January 2015 – until December 2017. All patients were evaluated preoperatively and one year after surgery including the visual analogue scale (VAS), the Constant test (CS) and the QuickDASH (QD). Results: Of the 25 patients, 5 patients (20%) were operated by arthroscopy and 20 (80%) By open approach (mini-open). A total of 22 patients completed the follow-up year. At 12 months, 64% of the patients obtained an improvement of at least 10 points in the CS. Patients departed from an initial average CS of 32 points that improved to 54.9 points of average in the postoperative evaluation at 12 months (average improvement 22.9 points; Value-p < 0.05). In terms of pain assessment, in our study, 87% of patients obtained an improvement of at least 2 points in the EVA at 12 months of follow-up (P-value < 0.05). Patients departed from an initial average EVA of 8.7 that improved to 3.7 points average at 12 months. 73% of the patients responded to be satisfied with the intervention and would return to the surgery. Conclusión: The results obtained in our series to one year of follow-up speak in favour of the use of the Subacromial Balloon (InSpaceTM), as a therapeutic option available for patients with irreparable ruptures of the rotator cuff. It can be used as an interim procedure, delaying the need for more invasive surgery, or as a definitive procedure in patients medically non-candidates for reverse arthroplasty. It is important to have clear indications of this procedure in order not to make mistakes.

Resumen: Introducción: La lipoatrofia semicircular (LS) puede tener presentaciones clínicas variadas, sin criterios diagnósticos claros. Se han propuesto varios factores etiopatogénicos, incluyendo determinados ambientes laborales. En este manuscrito se pretende describir las características de un brote de casos sospechosos de LS que se inició en mayo de 2008 entre trabajadores del Ayuntamiento de Madrid. Con base en la experiencia acumulada, se describen las acciones realizadas por el Servicio de Salud Laboral y se proponen unos criterios clínicos con implicación pronóstica que permitan categorizar los casos. Material y método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo tipo serie de casos que incluye datos recogidos de forma prospectiva de los pacientes revisados en el Servicio de ITS/Dermatología del Ayuntamiento Madrid entre 2008 y 2021. Se lleva a cabo la descripción de las medidas realizadas desde Salud Laboral. A través del registro y análisis estadístico de las variables recogidas durante la evaluación clínica de los pacientes, se proponen unos patrones clínicos definidos. Resultados: Se estudiaron 75 mujeres y un hombre, seguidas en su mayoría durante un período con mediana de 37 meses. Los síntomas locales fueron poco frecuentes (14,5%). Se propone la clasificación de las pacientes en 4 grupos: LS típica, LS unilateral, lipoatrofia en banda en miembros inferiores y lipoatrofia inespecífica. Al comparar los 2 primeros grupos con los 2 últimos, pudo constatarse una evolución clínica más favorable (76 versus 25,8% de mejoría total o parcial de las lesiones), además de una asociación negativa con la presencia de hipertrofia del tejido subcutáneo (p

Resumen: El uso de catéter percutáneo para la implantación de dispositivo es una de las técnicas más eficaces en la actualidad para el cierre de comunicación interauricular. En ocasiones puede presentarse mal posicionamiento o causar lesiones a estructuras adyacentes. Por otro lado, se han descrito varias causas de estenosis de vena pulmonar, una de ellas la iatrogenia durante procedimientos quirúrgicos cardiacos. Presentamos el caso de una paciente mujer de 41 años con antecedente de cierre de comunicación interauricular, quien presento síntomas de dolor torácico tipo punzada, palpitaciones y deterioro de la clase funcional. Al examen físico estaba sin deterioro hemodinámico, con hallazgo de soplo sistólico en foco pulmonar. Por antecedente se realizó ecocardiograma, identificándose insuficiencia mitral severa, tricúspidea moderada y comunicación interauricular residual 11 años después del cierre del defecto. Se realizó cirugía para el cierre de la comunicación residual y plastia mitral y tricúspidea, sin embargo, durante el postoperatorio presentó estenosis de la vena pulmonar derecha, por lo cual fue nuevamente intervenida para la liberación de venas pulmonares con adecuada evolución clínica a un año del seguimiento. Abstract: The use of a percutaneous catheter for device implantation is currently one of the most effective techniques for atrial septal defect closure. Occasionally, it may be poorly positioned or cause lesions to adjacent structures. Furthermore, several causes of pulmonary vein stenosis have been described, one of which being iatrogenic during cardiac surgical procedures. We present the case of a 41-year-old female patient with a history of atrial septal defect closure who presented with symptoms of stabbing chest pain, palpitations and functional class impairment.Physical examination showed no haemodynamic deterioration with systolic murmur in the pulmonary focus. Echocardiogram was performed identifying severe mitral regurgitation, moderate tricuspid regurgitation and residual atrial septal defect 11 years after defect closure. Surgery was performed to close the residual communication and mitral and tricuspid plasty. However, during the postoperative period the patient presented stenosis of the right pulmonary vein and was operated again to free the pulmonary veins with adequate clinical evolution at one year of follow-up.

Resumen: Introducción: Las fracturas diafisarias de antebrazo (FDA) en pacientes esqueléticamente inmaduros son lesiones comunes que representan el 30% de las fracturas de la extremidad superior en este grupo etario. Existen casos con lesiones inestables o reducciones inaceptables, en los cuales está indicada la resolución quirúrgica mediante la reducción y estabilización con clavos endomedulares elásticos (CEE) por vía percutánea. Una de las ventajas que ofrece este sistema es evitar un abordaje del foco de fractura, pudiendo realizar la reducción de forma cerrada en la gran mayoría de estas. Sin embargo, no siempre es posible lograr una aceptable reducción cerrada y entonces es necesaria la apertura del foco de fractura. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar si existen factores preoperatorios para predecir la dificultad de efectuar una reducción cerrada en estos pacientes. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de pacientes esqueléticamente inmaduros con FDA agudas, tratados con CEE por el mismo cirujano pediátrico. La variable de resultado primaria se definió como la necesidad de llevar a cabo una reducción abierta; considerado como un abordaje quirúrgico directo en el sitio de fractura. Se analizaron las características demográficas de los pacientes incluidos y las radiográficas de la fractura. Resultados: Encontramos que la mediana del porcentaje del acortamiento del radio preoperatorio en los grupos de reducción cerrada y reducción abierta fue del 1 y 5%, respectivamente; resultando en una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,04). Conclusión: El acortamiento del radio en las radiografías preoperatorias permite predecir un aumento del riesgo de requerir una reducción abierta de la fractura (39% de asociación); por lo cual, esta variable debe ser considerada por el traumatólogo general como un factor pronóstico para definir la derivación de estos pacientes. Abstract: Introduction: Diaphyseal forearm fractures in skeletally immature patients are common injuries that account for 30% of upper extremity fractures in this age group. There are cases with unstable injuries or unacceptable reductions, in which surgical resolution by reduction and stabilisation with percutaneous elastic endomedullary nailing is indicated. One of the advantages of this system is that it avoids an approach to the fracture site, allowing closed reduction in the vast majority of fractures. However, it is not always possible to achieve an acceptable closed reduction and opening of the fracture site is necessary. The aim of this study was to determine whether there are preoperative factors to predict the difficulty of performing closed reduction in these patients. Methods: A retrospective study of skeletally immature patients with acute diaphyseal forearm fractures treated with elastic endomedullary nailing by the same paediatric surgeon was performed. The primary outcome variable was defined as the need for open reduction; considered as a direct surgical approach to the fracture site. Demographic characteristics of the included patients and radiographic characteristics of the fracture were analysed. Results: We found that the median percentage of preoperative radial shortening in the closed reduction and open reduction groups was 1 and 5%, respectively; resulting in a statistically significant difference (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Radial shortening on preoperative radiographs predicts an increased risk of requiring an open reduction of the fracture (39% association); thus we understand that this variable should be considered by the general traumatologist as a prognostic factor in defining the referral of these patients.

Introduction Evidence on physical and psychological well-being of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) survivors is scarce. The aim of this study is to describe long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional independence and psychological distress 3 and 12 months post-IHCA. Methods A multicenter prospective cohort study in 25 hospitals between January 2017 – May 2018. Adult IHCA survivors were included. HRQoL (EQ-5D-5L, SF-12), psychological distress (HADS, CSI) and functional independence (mRS) were assessed at 3 and 12 months post-IHCA. Results At 3-month follow-up 136 of 212 survivors responded to the questionnaire and at 12 months 110 of 198 responded. The median (IQR) EQ-utility Index score was 0.77 (0.65–0.87) at 3 months and 0.81 (0.70–0.91) at 12 months. At 3 months, patients reported a median SF-12 (IQR) physical component scale (PCS) of 38.9 (32.8–46.5) and mental component scale (MCS) of 43.5 (34.0–39.7) and at 12 months a PCS of 43.1 (34.6–52.3) and MCS 46.9 (38.5–54.5). Discussion Using various tools most IHCA survivors report an acceptable HRQoL and a substantial part experiences lower HRQoL compared to population norms. Our data suggest that younger (male) patients and those with poor functional status prior to admission are at highest risk of impaired HRQoL.

El estudio DIADERM fue promovido por la Fundacion Piel Sana de la AEDV, que recibio ayuda economica de Novartis. La compania farmaceutica no participo en la recogida de datos, ni en el analisis de los datos, ni en la interpretacion de los resultados., Introducción: Las infecciones e infestaciones de transmisión predominantemente sexual y otras dermatosis anogenitales forman parte de la formación específica de los médicos especialistas en Dermatología y Venereología en España. El presente estudio pretende analizar la carga que suponen dichas patologías en la actividad dermatológica pública y privada del sistema de salud español. Material y método: Estudio observacional de corte transversal de dos períodos de tiempo describiendo los diagnósticos realizados en consultas externas dermatológicas, obtenidos a través de la encuesta anónima DIADERM, realizada a una muestra aleatoria y representativa de dermatólogos. A partir de la codificación de diagnósticos CIE-10, se seleccionó toda la patología relacionada (36 diagnósticos codificados en los dos períodos), que se clasificó en 12 grupos. Resultados: Tan solo el 3,16% de los diagnósticos globales fueron de infecciones e infestaciones de transmisión predominantemente sexual y otras dermatosis anogenitales. Los 3 grupos diagnósticos más frecuentes fueron las lesiones por virus del papiloma humano anogenital, seguido de los molluscum contagiosum y las dermatosis anogenitales inflamatorias. Con significación estadística, y comparando con el global de diagnósticos, los seleccionados constituyeron más habitualmente el motivo de consulta primario y, en el ámbito privado, fue más frecuente que viniesen derivados de otros especialistas. Conclusión: Las infecciones e infestaciones de transmisión predominantemente sexual y otras dermatosis anogenitales tienen un peso muy limitado en la asistencia dermatológica en España, a pesar de que la inclusión del diagnóstico de molluscum contagiosum sobreestima estos diagnósticos. La ausencia de inclusión de centros y consultas monográficas de ITS en la muestra aleatoria contribuye a la infrarrepresentación de estas parcelas de la especialidad. Es importante hacer un esfuerzo decidido por potenciarlas con consultas y centros monográficos., Background and objective: Predominantly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and infestations and other anogenital dermatoses are covered in the training of specialists in dermatology and venereology in Spain. This study aimed to analyze the proportion of the dermatology caseload these diseases account for within the public and private dermatological activity of the Spanish health system. Material and methods: Observational cross-sectional study of time periods describing the diagnoses made in outpatient dermatology clinics, obtained through the anonymous DIADERM survey of a representative random sample of dermatologists. Based on diagnostic codes of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, 36 related diagnoses were selected, and classified into 12 groups. Results: Only 3.16% of diagnoses corresponded to STIs and other anogenital dermatoses. The most common diagnostic group was anogenital human papillomavirus infection, followed by molluscum contagiosum, and inflammatory anogenital dermatoses. Lesions with these diagnoses were usually the main reasons for first visits in the National Health Service. In private practice, the diagnoses usually came after referrals from other physicians. Conclusions: STIs and other anogenital dermatoses account for a very small proportion of the dermatology caseload in Spain, although the inclusion of molluscum contagiosum diagnoses overestimates these conditions. The fact that no STI centers or monographic STI consultations were included in the random sample of dermatology partly explains the under-representation of these areas of the specialty. A determined effort to support and promote monographic STI centres and clinics should be made., Fundacion Piel Sana de la AEDV

Resumen: Introducción: El aumento de esperanza de vida está produciendo un incremento de fracturas de cotilo en el paciente anciano. La artroplastia total con anillo de refuerzo es una opción técnicamente compleja, pero permite el control de la fractura, la movilización y la deambulación precoz. Nuestro objetivo es valorar si el uso del anillo de Burch-Schneider en las fracturas de cotilo del paciente anciano permite la estabilización sin poner en riesgo la supervivencia precoz de la artroplastia. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo sobre una serie de 14 pacientes con fracturas de cotilo tratados mediante anillo de refuerzo asociado a autoinjerto más implante acetabular cementado e inicio precoz de movilización y deambulación. Se analizaron los tipos de fractura según la clasificación de Judet Letournel, la demora quirúrgica y las complicaciones durante el ingreso. Al alta se valoró la incorporación de injertos según la clasificación de Gie, la presencia de calcificaciones según Brooker, la consolidación de la fractura, la movilización de implantes y los aspectos funcionales según la escala de HHS y Merlé D’Aubigné Postel. Resultados: La fractura más frecuente fue la de ambas columnas (6/14), la demora quirúrgica media de 11 días y la estancia media de 21,5 días. Un paciente falleció en el postoperatorio inmediato. El seguimiento medio fue de 34,4 meses. Todas las fracturas consolidaron e incorporaron el injerto. El HHS medio fue de 82 puntos y el Merle Score de 15/18. No hubo complicaciones relativas a la artroplastia. Conclusiones: La artroplastia primaria de cadera con anillo de BS sobre injerto sin osteosíntesis añadida es una buena opción en el tratamiento de todo tipo de fracturas de cotilo desplazadas en paciente frágil. Abstract: Introduction: Life expectancy has risen, leading to an increase in acetabular fractures in fragile patients. Total hip arthroplasty with a reinforcement cage is a technically complex option, but allows fracture control and early mobilization. Our aim is to assess whether the use of Burch-Schneider cage in fragile patients with acetabular fractures allows immediate load stabilization without threatening the early survival of the arthroplasty. Material and methods: Descriptive study of a series of 14 patients with acetabular fractures treated by a reinforcement cage associated with autologous bonegraft plus a cemented acetabular cup, and mobilization and bearing. Judet Letournel fracture types, surgical delay, and complications during admission were analyzed. Following hospital discharge we recorded the incorporation of grafts according to Gie's classification, presence of calcifications according to Brooker, consolidation of the fracture, loosening of implants and functional aspects according to the HHS and Merlé D’Aubigné Postel score. Results: The most common fracture was both columns (6/14), with a surgical delay being of 11 days mean and 21,5 days of length of stay. One patient died after surgery. The mean follow-up was 34.4 months. All fractures healed and the bonegraft was incorporated in all cases. The mean HHS was 82 points and the Merle Score was 15/18. There were no complications related to arthroplasty. Conclusions: Total hip arthroplasty with Burch-Schneider cage on bonegraft and no added osteosynthesis is a good option of treatment of all types of displaced acetabular fractures in a fragile patient.

Resumen: Introducción: El metilfenidato (MTF) es un psicoestimulante que aumenta frecuencia cardiaca (FC) y presión arterial (PA), lo cual a largo plazo podría modificar la geometría del ventrículo izquierdo (VI) y alterar sus propiedades funcionales, principalmente la diastólica. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo, longitudinal y comparativo tipo caso-caso en niños y adolescentes sanos diagnosticados de trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad (TDAH) tratados con MTF durante 3 años. Se valoró pre y postratamiento PAS/PAD, geometría ventricular, función sistólica y diastólica. Resultados: Incluimos a 112 pacientes, completando 73. El 75,3% varones, entre 4-15 años (9 ± 2,6), con índice de masa corporal de 18,27 ± 3,75 y una dosis media de MTF de 0,9 ± 0,17 mg/kg/día. Objetivamos aumento de PAS/PAD de 3,7 ± 9 mmHg (p = 0,004) y 2 ± 11,5 mmHg, respectivamente. No tuvimos ningún evento cardiovascular grave, cambios estructurales ni variación en los parámetros de función sistólica estudiados. Sin embargo, encontramos un aumento discreto, pero progresivo y significativo del tiempo de relajación isovolumétrica del VI (p = 0,046) y del tiempo de desaceleración (p = 0,016) indicativos de alteración en la relajación. No observamos variación en los parámetros relacionados con la distensibilidad ni con las presiones diastólicas tempranas y ningún paciente cumplió criterios de disfunción diastólica. Conclusiones: El incremento de PAS/PAD y las alteraciones de la relajación del VI objetivadas podrían ser un indicador precoz de una posible disfunción diastólica y riesgo cardiovascular a largo plazo. Abstract: Introduction: Although methylphenidate (MPH) used for treatment of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are considered safe in healthy children and adolescents in the short and medium term, there is a widespread concern about long-term cardiovascular safety. Material and methods: Interventional, prospective, longitudinal and comparative study with a crossover design to evaluate the cardiovascular impact of the treatment with MPH in healthy children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. A protocol for the cardiovascular evaluation was established at a basal point, after the first and the second year of the beginning with treatment based on the monitoring of Blood pressure (BP) and echocardiographic follow-up of the systolic and diastolic functions, and structural cardiac properties. Results: 73 patients completed the study, with an average age of 9 + /- 2.6 years, 75.3% were male and the majority were thin (64.4%). We found an increase in Systolic and Diastolic BP of 3.7 ± 9 mmHg (P).004) and 2 ± 11,5 mmHg respectively. There were no severe cardiovascular events. We didn’t find any echocardiographic alterations namely on the structural properties or parameters of systolic function. Regarding diastolic function, a significant increase in the isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) (P=.046) and deceleration time (P=.016) was observed. However, no significant alterations in the parameters related to distensibility of the LV neither in the early diastolic pressure were found. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of psychostimulants as a modifiable long-term Cardiovascular Risk Factor.

Very few studies today validate the use of various sensory tools among elderly subjects, although the population is ageing rapidly. This chapter deals with applied sensory assessment in the food sector. It first presents heterogeneity factors in this population: physical and psychological health and dependency, decrease of chemosensory capacities, changes in oral-motor skills and modifications of cognitive abilities. Then, a study aiming at comparing the capacity of young and more or less dependent elderly subjects to use a discrete scale (discriminatory power and repeatability) in a monadic sequential presentation is described. Finally, recommendations are given about the cases where a panel of elderly people should be necessary and the precautions to undertake during a sensory test among elderly subjects.

Steam is the most energy efficient, reliable and flexible way to transfer heat within most food processing operations. This chapter discusses the differences between plant, filtered and clean steam and the various issues that affect their quality and purity. It summarises the best practices in steam system design, operation and maintenance that will help prevent contamination problems affecting food quality in the future. Food manufacturers should take pains to identify and control potential steam system contamination.

Sleep debt can accumulate from periods of total or partial nights of sleep loss but is generally conceived of as a build-up of sleep pressure resulting from chronic, partial sleep restriction. Both laboratory and epidemiological studies have been used to characterize the neurobehavioral and physiological consequences of sleep debt. Sleep debt and sleep satiation are intertwined with concepts of sleep need, excess wakefulness, sleep extension, and core and optional sleep. The time course of recovery from sleep debt remains unclear; however, recent studies suggest it may have a relative long time constant.

We present a unique case of a ten-month-old boy with a protruding left globe and vitreous haemorrhaging, and later being diagnosed as a case of a dandy-walker syndrome (DWS) with buphthalmos and vitreous haemorrhage. Treatment is depending on the symptoms reported, thus close monitoring and a multidisciplinary approach are essential. We would like to recommend that even if there are no cardinal symptoms of DWS, paediatric patients with ocular signs should have Dandy walker Malformation (DWM) considered as a differential diagnosis.

Summary: Purpose: The goal of this study was to describe the current status of oncology nurses' behaviors toward end of life (EOL) care in China and to explore the factors associated with oncology nurses’ behaviors toward EOL care. Methods: A cross-sectional design was applied and a convenience sample of 1038 oncology nurses from 22 grade A hospitals were recruited into this study. A general social demographic data questionnaire was administered, and the Chinese version of Nurses’ Behaviors of Caring for Dying Patients Scale was used to assess nurse behavior toward EOL care. The total score ranges from 40 to 200 points. Data were analyzed with SPSS 26.0 software. Results: Chinese oncology nurses' average score of holistic EOL care behaviors was 2.97 ± 0.59. Oncology nurses provide physical care most (3.81 ± 0.76), followed by family care (3.02 ± 0.86), and spiritual care (2.37 ± 0.67). Multiple regression analysis showed that a higher frequency of sharing EOL care experience with colleagues, in-service palliative care education, higher level of head nurse support for EOL patient care, more cases of EOL care, higher working position, and nurse's perceived high level of support were positively associated with behavior toward EOL care. These six factors explained 16.2% of the total variance. Conclusions: The results may help provide a basis for converting behavior for EOL care among oncology nurses and design interventions to better improve quality of life for EOL patients with cancer in China.

Background Burnout syndrome (BOS) is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. This study aims to create the Korean version burnout syndrome scale (KBOSS) that conforms to WHO’s definition of BOS and present the cut-off points for screening. Methods We developed the KBOSS based on WHO’s definition of BOS. An online survey was conducted through a specialized online research company. We recruited 444 workers for this research. The validity of the KBOSS was assessed using factor analysis and Pearson’s correlation. The KBOSS reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The cut-off points for each of the three dimensions were derived using the upper quartile score. Results The validity and reliability of the KBOSS were good. Regarding reliability, the scale’s overall Cronbach’s alpha was 0.813. Cronbach’s alpha of each three-dimension was as follows: exhaustion, 0.916; cynicism, 0.865; and professional inefficacy, 0.819. The cut-off points of BOS three dimensions are exhaustion ≧ 21; cynicism ≧ 18; and inefficacy ≧ 15. Conclusion The developed questionnaire (KBOSS) can be a useful tool for screening of BOS.

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may cause airway symptoms and some airway diseases exacerbate GERD symptoms. Asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR) have been identified as united airway disease because of their similar epidemiology and pathophysiology. Asthma has been considered a risk factor to develop GERD. However, the association between AR and GERD is not clear. We tried to investigate whether AR could increase the development of GERD. Methods: Children diagnosed as AR without a prior history of GERD were conducted from the National Health Insurance Research Database between 2000 and 2005. After propensity score matching, we enrolled 36,588 children with AR and 36,588 non-AR children as the controls. Cox regression models were adopted to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) of GERD. Results: AR children had a significantly increased risk of GERD than non-AR children (adjusted HR 1.91, 95% CI = 1.73–2.11, p

The investigated manuscript is devoted to the study of the dengue epidemic model. Generally, the infection of dengue occurs in extremely hot and humid conditions where the transmission and control depend on many factors like information intervention, humid weather, etc. With the help of the deterministic dengue model, we have taken the stochastic perturbed dengue model along with the factor of information intervention. The qualitative analysis for the positive solution of the stochastic differential equation based model is built. The scheme for basic reproduction number introduced for sure exponential stability by constructing the Lyapunov function. For the validity of our obtained results, we have simulated the proposed scheme and compare the stochastic model with its corresponding deterministic version.

Objectives Due to limited hepatitis C virus (HCV) sequence availability from patients in Russia, the relationship between subtypes and baseline resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) to direct antiretroviral treatment outcome is not fully understood. Methods Deep sequencing of HCV NS3, NS5A, and NS5B sequences was performed on plasma HCV samples from 412 direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-naive patients from Russia. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to investigate sequence similarities between HCV strains from Russia, Asia, Europe, and North America. Pretreatment HCV RAS was assessed with a 15% cutoff. Results HCV genotype GT1b and GT3a sequences in Russia were related to strains in Europe and Asia. The prevalence of GT1a and GT2a was low in Russia. In GT1b, the prevalence of NS5A Y93H was lower in Russia (6%) compared with Asia (15%). The prevalence of NS5B L159F was similar between Russia and Europe (26–39%). GT3a RAS prevalence was similar between Russia and Asia, Europe, and North America. The 2k/1b recombinant strain in Russia was related to strains from Europe. A higher prevalence of the NS5A RAS L31M (10%) was observed in 2k/1b sequences compared to GT1b (1–6%). Conclusions The prevalence of RASs and the phylogenetic analysis showed similarities in HCV strains between Russia, Europe, and North America. This information may be useful for HCV regimens in Russia.

Introduction At the completion of treatment, the orthodontic practitioner’s goal is to effectively remove all traces of adhesive and return enamel to its initial state. With the advent of new polishing systems being released each year, there may be one product that is superior to others. Aim The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of new polishing systems (in the last 5–10 years) used in general dentistry on enamel surface roughness following debond utilizing profilometery and scanning electron microscopy and compare them to established orthodontic polishing systems results. Methods Fifty-two mandibular incisors were randomly assigned to one of five test groups (N = 10) and two incisors (untreated enamel) were used for profilometer and scanning electron microscopy analysis at the end of testing. After bracket removal, the teeth were polished using traditional polishing products (Komet H48L bur, Reliance ‘Renew’ point) and newer polishing products (Coltene Spiral Composite Plus Polisher, Ultradent Jiffy Composite Polishing Spiral or 3M Sof-Lex™ Diamond Polishing System). The results were evaluated using a profilometer and scanning electron microscopy images. Results The results of a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) determined that the mean change in enamel surface roughness was not statistically different both in the traditional and novel groups. Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test found that there was no statistically significant difference in the change in enamel surface roughness between instrument groups. Conclusions There was no statistically significant difference in enamel surface roughness after polishing between traditional orthodontic polishing systems and the selected novel polishing systems. SEM analysis revealed similar findings. This supports previous research suggesting that a wide variety of polishing systems or none at all, may be used to restore enamel smoothness after removal of orthodontic appliances.

Resumen: La oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ECMO) es un sistema extracorpóreo de asistencia cardiorrespiratoria cuya utilización se ha visto incrementada en la última década. La insuficiencia respiratoria, el shock postcardiotomía y el fallo primario del injerto cardíaco o pulmonar son complicaciones que pueden requerir la utilización de asistencia mecánica cardiorrespiratoria y, en este escenario, el conocimiento de las peculiaridades perioperatorias médicas y quirúrgicas es fundamental.A pesar de la evolución tecnológica en el área de la asistencia extracorpórea, la morbimortalidad de estos pacientes continúa siendo elevada, por lo tanto, la decisión del implante de la ECMO como la de su retirada debe establecerse dentro de un equipo multidisciplinar experto en el área.El presente documento de consenso pretende unificar conocimientos y aportar recomendaciones basadas tanto en la bibliografía reciente como en la experiencia de los principales centros nacionales implantadores de ECMO con el objetivo final de mejorar la atención integral al paciente. Abstract: ECMO is an extracorporeal cardiorespiratory support system whose use has been increased in the last decade. Respiratory failure, postcardiotomy shock, and lung or heart primary graft failure may require the use of cardiorespiratory mechanical assistance. In this scenario perioperative medical and surgical management is crucial.Despite the evolution of technology in the area of extracorporeal support, morbidity and mortality of these patients continues to be high, and therefore the indication as well as the ECMO removal should be established within a multidisciplinary team with expertise in the area.This consensus document aims to unify medical knowledge and provides recommendations based on both the recent bibliography and the main national ECMO implantation centers experience with the goal of improving comprehensive patient care.

For longwall top coal caving coalface characterized by strong rock burst tendency and high risk of spontaneous combustion, retreat speed is one of the key factors to induce the rock burst and spontaneous combustion of residual coal in goaf. A high retreat speed may lead to violent roof activity and impact dynamic load, which aggravates the tendency of rock burst. A low retreat speed may lead to spontaneous combustion of residual coal in goaf due to long time exposure to aerobic environment. In this study, the characteristics of overburden stress distributions, energy release laws, and the evolving laws of the oxidation and temperature rising zones in the goaf under different retreat speeds are analyzed. The spontaneous combustion coefficient of residual coal Q s is defined. What is more, the dual-hazard control mechanism of rock burst and spontaneous combustion of residual coal considering effect of retreat speed is put forward. The results show that the energy release of the stope with low retreat speed is stable, while that with high retreat speed appears obvious fluctuation phenomenon. With the increase of retreat speed, the relative stress concentration coefficient increases exponentially, while the spontaneous combustion coefficient of residual coal in goaf decreases exponentially. According to the curve of retreat speed and relative stress concentration coefficient and curve of retreat speed and spontaneous combustion coefficient, the reasonable operating interval and optimal operating point of retreat speed in strong rock burst tendency and easy spontaneous combustion coal seam can be determined.

Resumen: Las guías del 2021 de la ESC (European Society of Cardiology) y la EACTS (European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery) para el tratamiento de las valvulopatías cardiacas son una actualización de las guías del 2017. Entre las novedades más importantes cabe destacar la posición central que toma el paciente a la hora de la evaluación y el diagnóstico, y la importancia y relevancia de las decisiones del heart team. Se recalca que ciertas intervenciones valvulares deben llevarse a cabo exclusivamente en centros especializados en valvulopatías (heart valve centres) y que estos deben contar con servicio permanente de cirugía cardiaca y con equipos de consultas externos dedicados específicamente a las valvulopatías (heart valve clinics). Existen nuevas recomendaciones para el manejo de la orejuela izquierda en pacientes con fibrilación auricular, la indicación de tratamiento en la enfermedad valvular aórtica, mitral y tricuspídea, para el tipo de tratamiento en la estenosis aórtica y la insuficiencia mitral secundaria, y para el tratamiento anticoagulante en pacientes portadores de prótesis biológicas. Abstract: The 2021 ESC (European Society of Cardiology) and EACTS (European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery) guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease are an update of the 2017 guidelines. The most notable new features include placing the patient at the centre of the assessment and diagnosis, and the importance and relevance of decisions made by the heart team. They stress that certain valve interventions should only be performed in specialist heart valve centres, and that these should have permanent cardiac surgery services and dedicated outpatient teams in heart valve clinics. There are new recommendations on the management of the left atrial appendage in patients with atrial fibrillation, on the indication for the treatment of aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valve disease, on the type of treatment for aortic stenosis and secondary mitral regurgitation, and on the anticoagulation treatment in patients with biological prostheses.

Rationale & Objective: Assessing the optimal therapy for older patients (aged ≥65 years) with end-stage kidney disease requires knowledge of longevity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes. Kidney transplantation prolongs survival but its long-term impact on HRQoL in older recipients is not well defined. We aimed to prospectively evaluate HRQoL changes from enlisting until 3 years posttransplantation and examine pretransplantation predictors of posttransplantation outcomes. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting & Participants: Patients 65 years and older enlisted at the Norwegian National Transplant Center between January 2013 and November 2016. Predictors: Kidney transplantation, dialysis vintage, and pretransplantation comorbidity assessed using the Liu Comorbidity Index. Outcomes: HRQoL, assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form, version 1.3. Analytical Approach: HRQoL scores obtained at 3 years posttransplantation were compared with those obtained pretransplantation and after 1 year using a paired-sample t test. Multivariable linear mixed-effect models were used to identify possible predictors of HRQoL changes over time. Results: Among 289 patients included, 220 (mean age, 71.5 years) had undergone transplantation and 136 had completed the 3-year HRQoL follow-up by October 2020. Posttransplant HRQoL, both generic and kidney specific, substantially improved and the benefit persisted for 3 years. For wait-listed candidates remaining on dialysis, HRQoL gradually deteriorated, and recipients who died within 3 years posttransplantation experienced no improvement during the first year. Moderately elevated pretransplantation comorbidity scores and prolonged dialysis vintage independently predicted poor HRQoL outcomes posttransplantation. Recipients receiving dialysis for 1 year or longer with pretransplantation comorbidity scores ≥ 7 experienced a marked and sustained physical deterioration after transplantation. Limitations: Homogenous and highly selected population. Conclusions: Transplantation is associated with a sustained HRQoL improvement and should be the preferred treatment for selected older patients. The value of a pretransplant comorbidity score to predict posttransplantation outcomes warrants further evaluation and may improve the selection process.

Purpose The objective of this study was to explore the ambience of professionalism related to academic integrity among undergraduate dental students. Methodology “Dundee Polyprofessionalism Inventory I: Academic Integrity” was used to collect responses from first-year to fifth-year dental students of the College of Dentistry, King Saud University (Response rate = 78%). The participants’ responses (for 34 professionalism lapses) were recorded by using the Dundee Polyprofessionalism Inventory. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and T-tests (P Results The “Ignore” sanction was not opted for any of the 34 professionalism behaviors, and there was unanimous agreement between the participants in considering all 34 behavior statements to be “wrong”. Male and female participants were found to opt for a similar sanction as the median for 16 statements (47%), whereas, for 18 statements (53%), their responses differed with a range of levels 0.5 to 1.5. Preclinical- and clinical-year student responses also showed similarities in their 11 statements (32.3%), and they did differ for 20 statements (58.8%). Interestingly, clinical year respondents were overall on the stricter side of recommending sanctions. Conclusions For the majority of the dental students tested, there was a good understanding of the significance of some lapses of professionalism associated with academic integrity. Some of the disclosures in this study were substantially appreciable because none of the students selected “ignore” sanction for any of the survey statements. We found that using the Dundee Polyprofessionalism Inventory for learning and understanding academic professionalism among dental students is useful.

Resumen: Introducción y objetivos: La tasa de detección de adenomas (TDA) es el más importante indicador de calidad para la prevención del cáncer colorrectal. Sin embargo, los pólipos serratos también son lesiones precursoras de cáncer colorrectal. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar la tasa de detección de pólipos serratos proximales (PSP) y la tasa de detección de pólipos serratos clínicamente significativos (PSCS), entre endoscopistas, y analizar la relación entre estos parámetros y la TDA. Métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal y prospectivo. Se incluyeron a todos los pacientes que acudieron para colonoscopia al Policlínico Peruano Japonés entre julio del 2015 y agosto del 2016. Se utilizó regresión logística multivariada para comparar la TDA, la tasa detección de PSP y la tasa de detección de PSCS entre los endoscopistas. Se calculó la asociación entre estos parámetros mediante el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: Fueron incluidos 15 endoscopistas y 1,378 colonoscopias. La tasa de detección de PSP estuvo en el rango de 1.8-17% entre los endoscopistas. La tasa de detección de PSP tuvo una correlación casi perfecta con la tasa de detección de PSCS (ρ = 0.922). La tasa de detección de PSP tuvo una fuerte correlación con la TDA (ρ = 0.769). Conclusiones: La tasa de detección de PSP tiene gran variabilidad entre endoscopistas, y tiene una correlación casi perfecta con la tasa de detección de PSCS, así como una fuerte correlación con la TDA. Estos resultados sugieren una alta tasa de PSCS perdidos por los endoscopistas con una baja tasa de detección de PSP. Abstract: Introduction and aims: The adenoma detection rate (ADR) is the most important quality indicator for the prevention of colorectal cancer but serrated polyps are also precursor lesions of the disease. The aim of our study was to compare the detection rate of proximal serrated polyps (PSPs) and that of clinically significant serrated polyps (CSSPs) between endoscopists and analyze the relation of those parameters to the ADR. Methods: An observational, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted on all patients that underwent colonoscopy at the Policlínico Peruano Japonés within the time frame of July 2015 and August 2016. The ADR and PSP and CSSP detection rates between endoscopists were compared through multivariate logistic regression and the association between those parameters was calculated through the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The study included 15 endoscopists and 1,378 colonoscopies. The PSP detection rate ranged from 1.8-17% between endoscopists and had an almost perfect correlation with the CSSP detection rate (p = 0.922), as well as strongly correlating with the ADR (p = 0.769). Conclusions: There was great variability in the PSP detection rate between endoscopists. It also had an almost perfect correlation with the CSSP detection rate and strongly correlated with the ADR. Those results suggest a high CSSP miss rate at endoscopy and a low PSP detection rate.

Resumen: Las vacunas contra el SARS-CoV-2 son las primeras vacunas que han sido usadas en humanos contra coronavirus y su desarrollo se ha producido en un tiempo récord. En los análisis de seguridad de los ensayos clínicos previos a su aprobación y en la fase postautorización en la población, se han descrito efectos secundarios dermatológicos. La descripción y categorización de las manifestaciones cutáneas de la COVID-19 fueron importantes para el conocimiento de la enfermedad y de la misma forma pueden serlo las generadas por las vacunas. En este artículo hacemos un repaso a las características de los diferentes tipos de vacunas disponibles y en desarrollo, su modo de interacción con el sistema inmune, las consecuentes manifestaciones clínicas que pueden generar, con especial interés en los efectos secundarios dermatológicos hasta el momento descritos, y las actitudes terapéuticas recomendadas ante cada una de estas reacciones. Abstract: Vaccines against the severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2, which are the first to be used in humans against any coronavirus, were developed and produced in record time. Dermatologic adverse effects appeared during clinical trials and have also been described in the population since approval. Just as descriptions and categorization of skin manifestations of the coronavirus disease 2019 proved important for understanding the disease itself, characterizing the effects of vaccines may also further that goal. This paper reviews the properties of the different types of vaccines currently available and under development and describes how they interact with the immune system and the clinical signs they may cause. We focus on dermatologic adverse effects reported to date and recommendations for managing them.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: تبحث هذه الدراسة في نوعية الحياة لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي والمتغيرات التنبئية لجودة نوعية الحياة لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي أثناء جائحة كوفيد-١٩. كما تم أيضا تقييم ارتباطات نوعية الحياة الخاصة لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي مع الجنس والعمر والخبرة التمريضية السابقة والمعدل التراكمي من الفصل الدراسي السابق. طرق البحث: استخدمت هذه الدراسة تصميم المقطع العرضي الكمي من خلال نموذج المسح الإلكتروني لجمع البيانات المطلوبة. وتم اعتماد مقياس تقييم جودة الحياة المكون من ٢٢ عنصرا كأداة للمسح. أكمل المسح ٢٨٣ طالب امتياز تمريضي من خمس جامعات حكومية في المملكة العربية السعودية. النتائج: تبين أن العمر والجنس والخبرة المتعلقة بالتمريض قبل التدريب مرتبطة بشكل كبير بدرجة مقياس تقييم جودة الحياة الإجمالية. وكان تأثير المعدل التراكمي لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي بسيطا. كما كان هناك فرق كبير في النتيجة الإجمالية لمقياس تقييم جودة الحياة على أساس العمر، والجنس، والمعدل التراكمي. أخيرا، وفقا لتقديرات تحليل الانحدار، تم العثور على أن العمر فقط هو المؤشر المهم لجودة نوعية الحياة الخاصة بطلاب الامتياز التمريضي. الاستنتاجات: في هذه الدراسة، كان هناك ارتباط إيجابي بين نوعية الحياة لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي السعوديين وبين أعمارهم وجنسهم. يتمتع الذكور من طلاب الامتياز التمريضي بجودة نوعية حياة أكبر من الإناث، بينما لوحظ وجود نوعية حياة مرتفعة بين الطلاب الحاصلين على معدل تراكمي مرتفع قبل عام التدريب. وتم العثور على أن العمر فقط لطلاب الامتياز التمريضي ليكون مؤشرا موثوقا لجودة نوعية الحياة. Abstract: Objectives: This study investigated the quality of life (QoL) of nursing internship students (NISs) and the predictive variables for the QoL of NISs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The correlates of QoL of NISs with their gender, age, prior nursing experience, and grade point average (GPA) from the previous semester are also assessed. Methods: This study used a quantitative cross-sectional design through an electronic survey form for the collection of required data. The 22-item Quality of Life Evaluation Scale (QOLES) was adopted as the survey instrument. A total of 283 NISs from five public universities in KSA completed the survey. Results: The students' age, gender, and nursing-related experience prior to their internship were all found to be significantly associated with the overall QOLES score (p values of 0.001, 0.001, and 0.01, respectively). The NISs GPA was found to be marginally significant (p = 0.08). A significant difference was identified in the overall QOLES score based on age (p = 0.02), gender (p = 0.02), and GPA (p =

Objectives: To validate and recalibrate the CURB-65 and pneumonia severity index (PSI) in predicting 30-day mortality and critical care intervention (CCI) in a multiethnic population with COVID-19, along with evaluating both models in predicting CCI. Methods: Retrospective data was collected for 1181 patients admitted to the largest hospital in Qatar with COVID-19 pneumonia. The area under the curve (AUC), calibration curves, and other metrics were bootstrapped to examine the performance of the models. Variables constituting the CURB-65 and PSI scores underwent further analysis using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) along with logistic regression to develop a model predicting CCI. Complex machine learning models were built for comparative analysis. Results: The PSI performed better than CURB-65 in predicting 30-day mortality (AUC 0.83, 0.78 respectively), while CURB-65 outperformed PSI in predicting CCI (AUC 0.78, 0.70 respectively). The modified PSI/CURB-65 model (respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, hematocrit, age, sodium, and glucose) predicting CCI had excellent accuracy (AUC 0.823) and good calibration. Conclusions: Our study recalibrated, externally validated the PSI and CURB-65 for predicting 30-day mortality and CCI, and developed a model for predicting CCI. Our tool can potentially guide clinicians in Qatar to stratify patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Aim of the work To assess knowledge of Egyptian family physicians about the diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities of fibromyalgia. Subjects and methods A questionnaire and an informed consent were sent by email to family physicians working in primary health care centers in Egypt. The questionnaire assessed 3 areas: sociodemographic and professional data; knowledge about diagnosis; and knowledge about treatment modalities. Scoring system was used to categorize levels of knowledge into very low, low, moderate, high and very high. Results A total of 108 family physicians responded, with a response rate of 60%.The respondents were 27 consultants, 54 specialists and 27 residents, with a median age of 33 years and a median experience of 12 years. Very low, low and moderate levels of familiarity with fibromyalgia were perceived by 28.7%, 30.6% and 28% respectively. Close to half of participants (46.2%) gained their knowledge about fibromyalgia through self-study. According to the scoring system, 39.8% had low level of knowledge about clinical presentation and 37% had the same level of knowledge about treatment modalities. About three quarters (76%) of participants agreed that patients with fibromyalgia should be referred to rheumatologists. The most common selected clinical presentations were widespread pain (94.4%) and excessive fatigue (91.7%), while the most selected treatment modalities were non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (89.8%) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (47.2%). Conclusion Knowledge about clinical presentation and treatment modalities of fibromyalgia among Egyptian family physicians is low. Continuing medical education about fibromyalgia is needed to improve quality of health care.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder leading to significant disability and loss of Quality of Life (QoL). Yoga has become popular in recent times for its potential therapeutic benefits. Since there are no scientific reports on the use of Yoga for SSc, we present two female cases (aged 49 and 29 respectively) of limited SSc (duration of illness 4 and 3 years respectively) who underwent Yoga therapy as an adjunct to conventional management in a residential setting for a period of five and four weeks, respectively. During their stay, they underwent a specifically designed Yoga module. After their discharge, they were followed-up for four weeks, during which they were asked to continue practicing Yoga for 1 h every day. Both of them reported a reduction in pain, stiffness, symptom scores, and improved QoL on discharge and at the follow-up compared to the values on admission. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP), as biomarkers of inflammation, reduced on the discharge when compared to the baseline. No adverse events were noted during the stay and the follow-up. Thus, the present case series indicate a possible beneficial role of Yoga as an adjunct therapy to conventional management of SSc. Further studies in the area are warranted to ascertain the efficacy of Yoga for SSc.

Resumen: Las características anatómicas e histológicas excepcionales de la arteria mamaria interna (AMI) la convierten en el hemoducto ideal para la cirugía de revascularización miocárdica. La técnica para su disección esqueletizada solo con clips y tijeras, permite la construcción de un injerto con más flujo y la conservación de una mayor circulación colateral residual al esternón, con la consiguiente mejor protección ante futuros eventos isquémicos o infecciosos.Sin embargo, ese método de disección es el menos practicado por ser más lento y no estar exento de lesiones de ramas laterales de la arteria. En las últimas décadas se han introducido varios adelantos tecnológicos en el procedimiento de disección de la AMI, pero las técnicas actuales no aprovechan sus especiales características morfofisiológicas para potenciar la obtención de un hemoducto con más flujo y con menos riesgo de lesión vascular y sangrado.En esta revisión se comentan las particularidades de la anatomía quirúrgica de la AMI, y se proponen modificaciones a la técnica clásica de disección esqueletizada con clips y tijeras para obtener un hemoducto de mayor calidad. Abstract: The exceptional anatomical and histological characteristics of the internal mammary artery make it the ideal graft for myocardial revascularization surgery. The technique for its skeletonized harvesting with only clips and scissors, allows the construction of a graft with more flow and the conservation of a greater residual collateral circulation to the sternum, with the consequent better protection against future ischemic or infectious events.However, this harvesting method is the least practiced because it is slower and is not exempt from injuries to the lateral branches of the artery. In recent decades, several technological advances have been introduced in the internal mammary artery harvesting procedure, but current techniques do not take advantage of its special morphophysiological characteristics to enhance obtaining a hemoduct with more flow and with less risk of vascular injury and bleeding.In this review, the peculiarities of the internal mammary artery surgical anatomy are discussed, and modifications of the classic skeletonized harvesting technique with only clips and scissors are proposed to obtain a higher quality graft.

Resumen: Se describe la forma de presentación, el diagnóstico y la resolución quirúrgica de un caso poco frecuente de aneurisma de seno de Valsalva. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 64 años con antecedentes de dos cirugías, una por ductus arterioso a los 12 años y la otra por una ventana aortopulmonar a los 16 años. Se encontraba asintomática. En un control de ecocardiografía, se observa válvula aórtica trivalva, insuficiencia leve y dilatación aneurismática del seno de Valsalva izquierdo. Realizamos una angiotomografía, la cual informó de un gran aneurisma de 88,9 mm saliendo de la coronaria izquierda de dicho seno. El cateterismo mostró un aneurisma de seno de Valsalva izquierdo, sin lesiones angiográficas. Decidimos realizar una intervención quirúrgica con circulación extracorpórea (canulación aórtica, cava y seno coronario). La paciente presentaba un aneurisma de gran tamaño con hematoma en el seno de Valsalva sobre el ostium de la coronaria izquierda, se extrajo el hematoma y se observó tejido sanioso en vía de fistulizarse hacia la aurícula izquierda. Se realizó la técnica de Yacoub con preservación valvular y un reimplante coronario izquierdo, así como la exclusión del aneurisma. El ecocardiograma intraoperatorio mostró buena competencia valvular e insuficiencia leve. La mujer presentó buena evolución, por lo cual se le dio el alta al séptimo día. Fue un caso complejo debido a la patología en sí y por ser una reoperación cardiaca. Existen varias formas de resolución, todos los componentes del complejo de la raíz aórtica deben considerarse y la técnica debe adaptarse a cada paciente. Aunque el abordaje quirúrgico óptimo sigue siendo controvertido, la competencia a largo plazo de la válvula aórtica parece seguir siendo la principal preocupación de los aneurismas de seno de Valsalva. Abstract: We describe the diagnostic and surgical resolution of a rare case of Valsalva sinus aneurysm. Sixty four (64) year old female patient with history of two previous surgery, one due to ductus arteriosus at age of 12 and an aortopulmonary window at age 16. Echocardiography control shows a severe dilatation of the left Valsalva sinus in a trivalve aortic valve with trivial insufficiency. Angiotomography reported a large aneurysm of left Valsalva sinus (88.9 mm) with coronary left main involved. Coronariography showed the same as TC without angiographic coronary lesions. Heart team dessision was surgical resolution with extracorporeal circulation (aortic cannulation, cava and coronary sinus). Patient presented a large aneurysm with great amount of thrombus in the left Valsalva sinus. The hematoma and thrombus was removed. Yacoub technique was performed with valvular preservation and left coronary reimplantation and exclusion of aneurysm. The intraprocedure trans esofagic echocardiogram showed trivial aortic insufficiency. Patient was discharged at seven days after procedure. There are several techniques for this pathology resolution. All components of the aortic root complex must be considered, and the technique must be adapted to each specific case. Although the optimal surgical approach remains controversial, long-term competence of the aortic valve appears to remain the main concern of Valsalva sinus aneurysms surgical treatment.

Resumen: De acuerdo con los últimos estudios, la tasa de intervención quirúrgica de la válvula tricúspide es muy baja, pese al gran número de pacientes con insuficiencia tricuspídea severa con indicación de cirugía, según las guías de práctica clínica. Asimismo, datos recientes demuestran que la cirugía aislada de la válvula tricúspide se asocia de manera significativa e independiente con una elevada mortalidad. Las nuevas terapias transcatéter surgen para dar solución a estos problemas. En el presente trabajo, se realiza una revisión no sistemática del estado del arte de los diferentes dispositivos percutáneos existentes en el mercado, organizados en tres grupos: válvula con implante en posición ortotópica o heterotópica, sistemas de anuloplastia y sistemas de coaptación. Así, este documento pretende ofrecer una visión global sobre el panorama actual y las perspectivas futuras del tratamiento endovascular de la enfermedad valvular tricuspídea, un campo de gran interés en plena expansión. Abstract: According to the latest studies, the surgical intervention rate of the tricuspid valve is very low, despite the large number of patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation withindication for surgery according to clinical practice guidelines. Likewise, recent data demonstrate that isolated tricuspid valve surgery is significantly and independently associated withhigh mortality. New transcatheter therapies are emerging to solve these issues. In the present work, a non-systematic review of the state of the art of the different percutaneous devices currently on the market was carried out, organized into three groups: valve with implant in orthotopic or heterotopic position, annuloplasty systems and coaptation systems. Thus, this document aims to offer a global vision of the current landscape and future perspectives of endovascular treatments of tricuspid valve disease, a field of great interest in full expansion.

To modify the thermal properties of pitch by adding polyvinyl chloride (PVC), co-pyrolysis of PVC and coal tar pitch was performed. PVC decomposes into HCl and de-HCl PVC (polyene) above 200 °C, and these substances affect the synthesis behavior of coal tar pitch. It was confirmed that HCl induces cracking, promotes the radical reaction and lowers the polycondensation initiation temperature of coal tar pitch. Furthermore, aromatic components produced by the cyclization reaction of polyene participate in the polycondensation reaction, which increases the molecular weight of the pitch. This leads to an increase in softening point and coking value of pitch. The related mechanisms were assessed using thermal analysis (TGA, DTG, DSC) and molecular weight distribution analysis (MALDI-TOF).

Resumen: Objetivo: Analizar la prevalencia de soledad no deseada en nuestro contexto y su asociación con la salud desde una perspectiva del ciclo vital y las desigualdades sociales. Método: Estudio transversal a partir de los datos de la Encuesta de Salud del País Vasco (n = 7.228; tasa de respuesta 79%). Se analizaron la prevalencia de soledad no deseada, su asociación con la salud percibida y la salud mental, y las desigualdades sociales según clase social. Para analizar la asociación se calcularon razones de prevalencia (RP) ajustadas por edad calculadas a partir de modelos de Poisson de varianza robusta. Resultados: El sentimiento de soledad no deseada afecta al 23,3% de los hombres y al 29,7% de las mujeres, siendo mayor en las personas de edad avanzada y en adultos jóvenes, y en las clases sociales más desfavorecidas. Sentirse solo/a se asocia con una peor salud, tanto general (RPa hombres 2,11, intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%] 1,77-2,51; RPa mujeres 2,10, IC95% 1,83-2,41) como mental (RPa hombres 3,95, IC95% 3,15-4,95; RPa mujeres 3,50, IC95% 2,99-4,12). Las desigualdades sociales en la soledad, así como la asociación entre esta y la mala salud, fueron mayores entre las personas adultas jóvenes. Conclusiones: Los resultados del estudio tienen importantes implicaciones para la intervención en la reducción y la prevención de la soledad no deseada, destacando la importancia del ciclo vital y las desigualdades sociales. Abstract: Objective: To analyse the prevalence of unwanted loneliness in our context and its association with health from a life cycle and social inequalities perspective. Method: Cross-sectional study based on data from the Health Survey of the Basque Country (n = 7.228; response rate 79%). The prevalence of unwanted loneliness, its association with perceived health and mental health, and social inequalities according to social class were analysed. To analyse the association, age-adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) calculated from robust Poisson models were calculated. Results: The feeling of unwanted loneliness affects 23.3% of men and 29.7% of women, being higher in older people and young adults, and in the most disadvantaged social classes. Feeling alone is associated with worse health, both general (PRa men 2.11, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.77-2.51; PRa women 2.10, 95%CI 1.83-2.41) and mental (PRa men 3.95, 95%CI 3.15-4.95; RPa women 3.50, 95%CI 2.99-4.12). Social inequalities in loneliness, as well as the association between it and poor health, was greater among young adults. Conclusions: The results of the study have important implications for intervention in the reduction and prevention of unwanted loneliness, underlining the importance of the life cycle and social inequalities.