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To study whether there are age-related differences in the clinical effects of cannabis poisoning and whether any age differences found are also related to sex or coingestion of alcohol.Descriptive observational study of patients treated in 11 emergency departments for symptoms related to cannabis use. We collected data on 11 clinical manifestations and used a restricted cubic spline model to analyze their relative frequency according to age. We also looked for any interactions between the findings and patient sex or alcohol coingestion.A total of 949 patients were studied. The mean age was 29 years, 74% were males, and 39% had also consumed alcohol. We identified 3 symptom patterns related to age. One set of symptoms (vomiting, headache, convulsions, and hypotension) remained stable across all ages. Manifestations that increased in the middle of the age range studied were agitation and aggressivity, psychosis, palpitations and hallucinations. Chest pain and hypertension increased in older-aged patients. The frequencies of palpitations, vomiting, and headache differed according to sex. These manifestations held constant in males but were markedly higher in young-adult females. Coingestion of alcohol was associated with agitation and aggressivity (in 34.0% vs 23.4%, P .001), fewer reports of palpitations (in 9.8% vs 15.6%, P = .01), less anxiety (in 20.7% vs 27.8%, P = .01), less psychosis (in 10.3% vs 16.6%, P = .007), and less chest pain (in 3.8% vs 9.5%, P = .001). The only significant interaction between age and alcohol coingestion occurred with respect to vomiting and psychosis.There are age-related differences in the acute clinical manifestations of cannabis poisoning requiring emergency hospital care. Sex and coingestion of alcohol modify the relationship between age and frequency of some manifestations.Investigar si existen diferencias en las manifestaciones clínicas por consumo de cannabis según la edad, y si estas se modifican en función del sexo o el consumo de etanol.Estudio observacional descriptivo de pacientes atendidos en 11 servicios de urgencias con consumo de cannabis como motivo de consulta. Se recogieron 11 manifestaciones clínicas y se analizó su frecuencia relativa en función de la edad mediante curvas spline cúbicas restringidas. Se analizó si existía interacción en el comportamiento etario de cada uno de los síntomas en función del sexo y del consumo de etanol.Se analizaron 949 pacientes, edad media 29 años, 74% varones y 39% con coingesta de etanol. Se identificaron tres patrones de síntomas según la edad: estable (vómitos, cefalea, convulsiones, hipotensión), incrementada en edades medias (agresividad-agitación, ansiedad, psicosis, palpitaciones, alucinaciones) y con aumento progresivo con la edad (dolor torácico e hipertensión). En la relación síntoma-edad, la frecuencia de palpitaciones, vómitos y cefalea tuvo un comportamiento significativamente diferente según el sexo, más constante en hombres y con un incremento marcado en edades medias en mujeres. La coingesta de etanol se asoció con más agitación-agresividad (34,0%/23,4%, p 0,001) y menos palpitaciones (9,8%/15,6%, p = 0,01), ansiedad (20,7%/27,8%, p = 0,01), psicosis (10,3%/16,6%, p = 0,007) y dolor torácico (3,8%/9,5%, p = 0,001). En cuanto a la relación síntoma-edad, el etanol solo modificó significativamente la frecuencia de vómitos y de psicosis.La edad condiciona efectos clínicos diferenciales en algunas manifestaciones agudas de la intoxicación por cannabis que precisa asistencia hospitalaria, y el sexo y el consumo simultáneo de alcohol modifican esta relación entre edad y frecuencia de algunos síntomas.

To describe the sociodemographic characteristics, drug use patterns, and the severity of drug overdoses treated in hospital emergency departments according to the registry of the Spanish Research Network on Drugs in Hospital Emergency Departments (REDUrHE project), and to identify differences between patterns on weekdays and weekends/national holidays.Eleven hospitals participated in the REDUrHE project, studying consecutive patients with symptoms of drug overdose over a 24-month period. The drugs implicated were extracted from clinical records or toxicology reports. An overdose was considered severe if management required intubation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or admission to the intensive care unit, or if in-hospital death occurred (composite event). Each of these variables was also analyzed by itself.A total of 4526 patients were studied (2218 [49%] on weekends/holidays; 2308 [51%] on workdays). The mean (SD) age was 33 (11) years, and 75.5% were men. The most commonly used drugs were cocaine (47.8%), paciencannabis (44.4%), amphetamine derivatives (25.5%), benzodiazepines (8.8%), and opioids (7.3%). Patients treated on weekends/holidays were younger (32.1 vs 33.1 years on weekdays, P = .006), and they were more often taken to the hospital in an ambulance (60.5% vs 57.3%, P = .035). Hospitals in large cities (Barcelona and Madrid) saw more patients on weekends/holidays (55.8%). Major tourist destinations (the Balearic and Canary Islands) saw fewer patients on weekends/holidays (44.7%, P .001). Alcohol was ingested along with a drug by 58.2%; this combination was more common on weekends/holidays (in 63.3% vs 52.9% on weekdays, P .001), and 39.4% used more than 1 drug. Use of more than 1 drug was less common on weekends (in 37.6% vs 41.2%, P = .013). Opioid emergencies were also less frequent on weekends (6.0% vs 8.6%, P = .001), when gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) overdoses were more common (5.8% vs 3.6%, P .001). Severity indicators were present (the composite event) more often on weekends (in 3.6% vs 2.2%, P = .006). Likewise, weekends saw more intubations (in 2.3% vs 1.0%, P = .001) and intensive care unit admissions (2.4% vs 1.6%, P = .047). Twelve patients (0.3%) died; mortality was similar on weekends (0.2%) and weekdays (0.3%) (P = .826). After adjusting for age, sex, combined use of alcohol, and type of drug, the risk of the severe-event composite was greater on weekends (odds ratio, 1.569; 95% CI, 1.088-2.263).Weekend and holiday emergencies due to drug overdoses are more frequent in large city hospitals. Weekend emergencies share certain distinctive characteristics: patients are younger, alcohol more often is ingested with drugs but multiple-drug combinations are less common, and GHB is used more often while opioids are used less often. Severe poisonings occur more often on weekends and holidays.Conocer las características sociodemográficas, el patrón de consumo y la gravedad de los pacientes atendidos en servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH) españoles por intoxicación por drogas (Proyecto REDUrHE) e investigar si existen diferencias entre los días festivos y los días laborables.Once SUH integrantes del proyecto REDUrHE incluyeron durante 24 meses de forma consecutiva a los pacientes atendidos por sintomatología derivada del consumo de drogas ilegales. Estas se determinaron por la historia clínica o la determinación toxicológica. El indicador primario de gravedad fue el evento adverso combinado formado por intubación, parada cardiorrespiratoria, ingreso en cuidados intensivos o muerte intrahospitalaria y los indicadores secundarios cada uno de estos eventos adversos considerado individualmente.Se incluyeron 4.526 pacientes (festivo: 2.218, 49%; laborables: 2.308, 51%), con edad media de 33 años (DE 11) y 75,5% hombres. Las drogas más frecuentemente involucradas fueron cocaína (47,8%), cannabis (44,4%), derivados anfetamínicos (25,5%), benzodiacepinas (8,8%) y opiáceos (7,3%). Los pacientes atendidos en festivos eran más jóvenes (32,1 vs 33,1 años, p = 0,006) y más frecuentemente traídos al SUH en ambulancia (60,5% vs 57,3%, p = 0,035). Los SUH de grandes ciudades (Barcelona, Madrid) tuvieron la mayor afluencia en festivo (55,8%) y los de zonas de alto turismo lúdico (Baleares, Canarias) los de menor afluencia (44,7%; p 0,001). El 58,2% ingirió simultáneamente etanol (más en festivos, 63,3% vs 52,9%, p 0,001) y el 39,4% más de una droga (menos en festivos, 37,6% vs 41,2%, p = 0,013). En festivo, los opiáceos fueron menos frecuentes (6,0% vs 8,6%, p = 0,001) y el gamma- hidroxibutirato más (5,8% vs 3,6%, p 0,001). También en festivo, hubo más eventos combinados adversos (3,6% vs 2,2%; p = 0,006), más intubaciones (2,3% vs 1,0%, p = 0,001) y más ingresos en cuidados intensivos (2,4% vs 1,6%, p = 0,047). Fallecieron 12 pacientes (0,3%), sin diferencias entre grupos (0,2% vs 0,3%, p = 0,826). Al ajustar por edad, sexo, ingesta combinada de etanol y tipos de drogas implicadas, los pacientes atendidos en festivos tuvieron más riesgo de evento adverso combinado, con OR = 1,569 (IC 95% = 1,088-2,263).Las intoxicaciones por drogas atendidas en SUH en día festivo suceden con mayor frecuencia en grandes ciudades y presentan ciertas características distintivas (pacientes más jóvenes, más ingesta conjunta con etanol, menos combinación de drogas, más frecuente gamma-hidroxibutirato y menos frecuente piáceos). Durante los festivos, las intoxicaciones atendidas son de mayor gravedad.

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), biosynthesis from methionine and ATP, is markedly decreased in hepatocellularular carcinoma (HCC) for a diminution in ATP levels, and the down regulation of the liver specific MAT1a enzyme. Its metabolic activity is very important in the transmethylation reactions, the methionine cycle, the biosynthesis of glutathione (GSH) and the polyamine pathway, which are markedly affected in the HCC. The chemo-preventive effect of IFC305 in HCC induced by DEN, and the increase of ATP and SAM in CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis have been previously demonstrated. The aim of this work was to test whether this chemo-preventive effect is mediated by the induction of SAM biosynthesis and its metabolic flow. SAM hepatic levels and the methionine cycle were recovered with IFC305 treatment, restoring transmethylation and transsulfuration activities. IFC305 treatment, increased MAT1a levels and decrease MAT2a levels through modulation of their post-transcriptional regulation. This occurred through the binding of the AUF1 (binding factor 1 AU-rich sites) and HuR (human antigen R) ribonucleoproteins to Mat1a and Mat2a messenger RNAs, which maintained their nuclear localization. Finally, the compound inhibited the polyamine pathway favoring the recuperation of the normal methionine and one carbon cycle recuperating the metabolic flow of methionine, which probably facilitated its HCC chemo-preventive effect.

Introduction: The ingestion of a caustic agent is the most common cause of admission after being in contact with a domestic product. A group of patients could be considered low risk and not require aggressive procedures such a corticosteroid administration and endoscopy, especially in the paediatric population. Objective: To evaluate the safety and benefit of a less aggressive protocol for patients defined as low risk. Material and methods: An analytical–observational study conducted on patients who consulted for caustic ingestion between January 2011 and December 2015. Two periods were differentiated according to the current protocol. Period-1: usual protocol (which included admission and parenteral corticosteroid and antibiotic administration) and Period-2: less aggressive protocol for the low risk patients (oral intake test after 6 h and discharged if they remained asymptomatic). Low risk patients were considered as those who met the following criteria: unintentional intake, absence of symptoms and oral lesions. In the rest of the patients the usual protocol was performed. Re-admission with a diagnosis of digestive lesions was considered as a complication. Results: Forty-eight patients were included in period 1, and 35 in period 2. In period 2, thirteen patients met low risk criteria. The adherence to the less aggressive protocol was 100%. None of the low risk patients required admission or endoscopy after discharge. In period 1 the adherence to the usual protocol was 60.4%. Six patients would have benefited from the application of the less aggressive protocol. Conclusions: Adopting a more conservative attitude in low risk patients is safe. These patients benefit from clinical observation, without performing more aggressive measures with their possible iatrogenic adverse effects. Resumen: Introducción: La ingesta de cáusticos es la causa más frecuente de consulta tras el contacto con un producto doméstico. Un grupo de pacientes podría considerarse de bajo riesgo y no recibir corticoides parenterales ni realizársele endoscopia, procedimiento considerado terapéuticamente agresivo, sobre todo en la edad pediátrica. Objetivo: Evaluar la seguridad y el beneficio de un protocolo menos agresivo en los pacientes definidos de bajo riesgo. Material y métodos: Estudio analítico-observacional de los pacientes que consultaron por ingesta de cáustico entre enero de 2011 y diciembre de 2015. Se diferenciaron 2 periodos según el protocolo vigente. Periodo-1: protocolo habitual (incluido ingreso y administración de corticoide-antibiótico parenteral) y periodo-2: protocolo menos agresivo en los pacientes de bajo riesgo (prueba de tolerancia oral tras 6 h y alta hospitalaria si persistían asintomáticos). Se consideraron de bajo riesgo si se cumplían todos los criterios: ingesta involuntaria, ausencia de síntomas y lesiones orales. En el resto de pacientes se mantuvo el protocolo habitual. Se consideró como complicación el reingreso con diagnóstico de lesiones digestivas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 48 pacientes en el periodo 1 y 35 en el periodo 2. En el periodo 2 cumplían criterios de bajo riesgo 13 pacientes. La adherencia al protocolo menos agresivo fue del 100%. Ningún paciente de bajo riesgo precisó ingreso tras el alta ni realización de endoscopia. En el periodo 1 la adherencia al protocolo habitual fue del 60,4%. Seis pacientes se habrían beneficiado de la aplicación del protocolo menos agresivo. Conclusiones: Adoptar una actitud más conservadora en los pacientes de bajo riesgo es seguro. Estos pacientes se benefician de la realización de una observación clínica, obviando medidas más agresivas con posibles efectos iatrogénicos secundarios.

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Subclinical cardiac structural alterations have prognostic value in these patients. The aim was to analyse the prevalence of valvular calcification, the evolution and the relationship with different risk factors.Part of the sample of the NEFRONA study was randomly selected. Aortic and mitral valve calcification were analysed in echocardiograms performed at the baseline visit and at 24 months.We included 397 patients, the estimated basal glomerular filtrate (eGFR) was 33ml/min with significant decrease to 30.9ml/min. There was an increase in the area of carotid and femoral plaque, as well as an increase in patients with aortic and mitral calcification at 24 months. A positive association of mitral calcification at 24 months with age, ankle-brachial index (ABI) and calcium-phosphorus product (CaxP) at baseline visit was observed, without association with eGFR. Aortic calcification at 24 months was positively associated with age, phosphorous and total carotid plaque area at baseline, with no relationship to eGFR.A significant prevalence of valvular calcification was observed in patients with CKD without known cardiovascular disease.Two-year progression was observed independently of the eGFR. Patients with higher risk of mitral valve calcification were those with older age, higher ABI and CaxP product. Patients with a higher risk of aortic calcification were those with older age, higher phosphorous levels and larger area of carotid plaque. Identifying these higher risk patients would help to avoid future cardiovascular events intensifying follow-ups.

Objective: To describe the situations in which urine drug screening is used in a Paediatric Emergency Department (ED). An analysis is also made on its potential usefulness on whether it changes the patient management, and if the results are confirmed by using specific techniques. Methodology: A retrospective study was conducted on patients under the age of 18 attended in the ED during 2014 and in whom urine drug screening was requested. Depending on the potential capacity of the screening result to change patient management, two groups were defined (potentially useful and not potentially useful). Results: Urine drug screening was performed on a total of 161 patients. The screening was considered not to be potentially useful in 87 (54.0%). This was because the clinical history already explained the symptoms the patient had in 55 (34.1%) patients, in 29 (18.0%) because the patient was asymptomatic, and in 3 (1.9%) because the suspected drug was not detectable in the screening. The drug screening results changed the patient management in 5 (3.1%) cases. A toxic substance was detected in 44 (27.3%). Two out of the 44 that were positive (2.1%) were re-tested by specific techniques, and presence of the toxic substance was ruled out in both of them (false positives). Conclusions: Most of the drug screening tests are not justified, and it is very infrequent that they change patient management. It is very rare that the results are confirmed using more specific methods. Urine drug screening tests should be restricted to particular cases and if the result has legal implications, or if the patient denies using the drug, it should be followed by a specific toxicological study to provide a conclusive result. Resumen: Objetivo: Describir las situaciones en las que se solicita cribado toxicológico en orina desde un servicio de urgencias pediátricas. Determinar si la prueba es potencialmente útil, si conlleva un cambio en el manejo del paciente y si los resultados se comprueban mediante técnicas específicas. Metodología: Estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes menores de 18 años atendidos en urgencias durante el año 2014 a los que se solicitó cribado de tóxicos en orina. Se definieron 2 grupos en función de la potencial capacidad de modificar el manejo del paciente (potencial utilidad y ausencia de utilidad). Resultados: Se recogieron 161 pacientes. En 87 casos (54,0%) el cribado de tóxicos se consideró sin potencial utilidad. En 55 pacientes (34,1%) la falta de utilidad fue debida a que la anamnesis ya explicaba la sintomatología presente, en 29 (18,0%) a que el paciente se encontraba asintomático y en 3 (1,9%) a la sospecha de intoxicación por una sustancia no detectable mediante esta técnica. El resultado ocasionó un cambio de manejo en 5 casos (3,1%). Se detectó algún tóxico en 44 pacientes (27,3%). Se solicitó confirmación con técnicas específicas en 2 (1,2%). Ambos fueron falsos positivos. Conclusiones: La mayor parte de los cribados de tóxicos solicitados no están justificados y es infrecuente que condicionen un cambio en el manejo del paciente. La confirmación mediante técnicas específicas es inusual. Su uso debe restringirse a casos concretos y, siempre que pueda tener repercusiones legales o el paciente niegue el consumo, debe seguirse de un estudio toxicológico específico que aporte un resultado concluyente.

INTRODUCTION Our aim was to characterize a stepwise approach in cavotricuspid isthmus ablation for typical atrial flutter in a prospective, noncrossover randomized study. METHODS One hundred and fifty patients referred for cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter ablation were randomized to undergo an ablation with an 8-mm-tip catheter (group 1), a 3.5-mm open irrigation-tip catheter (group 2), and a 3.5-mm open irrigation porous-tip catheter (group 3). A stepwise approach was performed, changing the ablation site from medial to septal aspects of the CTI, in case it was not effective without crossover between catheters. RESULTS CTI block was achieved in all the patients using only one catheter. There was a 68% efficacy in group 1, 40% in group 2, and 28% in group 3 to achieve CTI block within 10 minutes (P = 0.001) and 96%, 70%, and 70% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, within 20 minutes (P = 0.002) of radiofrequency ablation. The 8-mm catheter was also faster in fluoroscopy time and CTI block time. There were no differences in efficiency in the both irrigated catheters. There were no significant differences in complications among three catheters. CONCLUSIONS With this stepwise approach, it is possible to achieve CTI block in all cases, using a single catheter without crossover, with good times of procedure and with a low complication rate. The 8-mm solid catheter is faster than the other irrigated-tip catheters. The 3.5-mm open irrigation porous-tip catheter is as effective and safe as the conventional irrigated-tip catheter.

The incidence of acute kidney injury in hospitalized elderly is a frequent event that makes them prone to complications and can even lead to death. Therefore, identifying risk factors for developing acute kidney injury becomes a priority in the process of care of the elderly.To identify the main risk factors for acute kidney injury in hospitalized elderly and, on the basis of those risk factors, calculate the probability of presentation.Case-control study nested in a cohort, which included patients of 60 years or older, admitted to the Internal Medicine service at an institution of social security in Querétaro, Mexico. Patients with acute kidney injury were identified as cases and patients without acute kidney injury were included in the control group. Acute kidney injury was diagnosed when there was an increased creatinine level ≥ 0.3 mg/dL (≥ 26.4 mmol/L) in a period48 hours.Hypovolemia and infection were identified as risk factors for acute kidney injury and they were included into the model of multiple logistic regression (y = 1,111 + 1,063 [infection] + 1.422 [hypovolemia]), (p = 0.002). The highest probability of having acute kidney injury was 80%.Two factors for acute kidney injury and a prediction model were identified.la lesión renal aguda en pacientes ancianos hospitalizados es un evento frecuente que los predispone a complicaciones e incluso a la muerte. Es así que al atender a un anciano es prioritario identificar los factores de riesgo para presentar tal evento.identificar los principales factores de riesgo para lesión renal aguda en el anciano hospitalizado y a partir de ellos, calcular la probabilidad de presentación.estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte que incluyó pacientes de 60 años o más, ingresados en el servicio de medicina interna de una institución de seguridad social en Querétaro, México. Se identificó como caso al paciente con lesión renal aguda y como control al paciente sin lesión renal aguda. La lesión renal aguda se diagnosticó cuando existió un incremento de la creatinina ≥ 0.3 mg/dL (≥ 26.4 mmol/L) en un tiempo48 horas.se identificaron como factores de riesgo para lesión renal aguda la hipovolemia y la infección, se integraron al modelo de regresión logística múltiple (y = −1.111 + 1.063 [infección] + 1.422 [hipovolemia]) p = 0.002. La probabilidad más alta de presentar lesión renal aguda fue de 80%.se identificaron dos factores para lesión renal aguda y un modelo de predicción.

The increased use of cannabis among adults and the general perception that cannabis is harmless has been accompanied by a rise in the number of acute poisoning cases among children. We present a retrospective, descriptive study of patients aged 3 years or younger who were treated for cannabis poisoning in a pediatric emergency department between 2012 and 2017. Epidemiologic and clinical data as well as toxicologic findings are reported. We found 10 cases of cannabis poisoning in our records. Nine of the patients had diminished consciousness. Only 2 families initially reported exposure to cannabis when interviewed. Repeated exposure was demonstrated by analysis of hair from 2 patients. We conclude that cannabis poisoning should be included in the differential diagnosis of young children with acute neurologic symptoms of unknown origin. When cannabis is detected in urine samples collected in the pediatric emergency department, more specific diagnostic techniques should be used to assess the possibility of repeated exposure.El aumento en el consumo de cannabis y su trivialización por la población adulta se han traducido en un aumento de los casos de intoxicaciones agudas en niños. Se presenta un estudio observacional retrospectivo de los pacientes menores de 3 años intoxicados por cannabis entre 2012 y 2017 en un servicio de urgencias pediátricas (SUP). Se recogieron datos epidemiológicos, clínicos y toxicológicos. Se detectaron 10 intoxicaciones por cannabis. Nueve pacientes presentaron alteración en el nivel de conciencia. Solo en 2 casos la familia refirió la exposición al tóxico en la anamnesis inicial. La detección en cabello demostró exposición repetida en 2 pacientes. En conclusión, es necesario incluir la intoxicación por cannabis dentro del diagnóstico diferencial de los niños con clínica neurológica aguda no filiada. Ante la detección de cannabis en orina en el SUP, se debe solicitar la confirmación mediante técnicas específicas y valorar la posibilidad de exposiciones repetidas.

Summary Background Paediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) is associated with high mortality in children, but until recently no paediatric-specific diagnostic criteria existed. The Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) definition was developed to overcome limitations of the Berlin definition, which was designed and validated for adults. We aimed to determine the incidence and outcomes of children who meet the PALICC definition of PARDS. Methods In this international, prospective, cross-sectional, observational study, 145 paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) from 27 countries were recruited, and over a continuous 5 day period across 10 weeks all patients were screened for enrolment. Patients were included if they had a new diagnosis of PARDS that met PALICC criteria during the study week. Exclusion criteria included meeting PARDS criteria more than 24 h before screening, cyanotic heart disease, active perinatal lung disease, and preparation or recovery from a cardiac intervention. Data were collected on the PICU characteristics, patient demographics, and elements of PARDS (ie, PARDS risk factors, hypoxaemia severity metrics, type of ventilation), comorbidities, chest imaging, arterial blood gas measurements, and pulse oximetry. The primary outcome was PICU mortality. Secondary outcomes included 90 day mortality, duration of invasive mechanical and non-invasive ventilation, and cause of death. Findings Between May 9, 2016, and June 16, 2017, during the 10 study weeks, 23 280 patients were admitted to participating PICUs, of whom 744 (3·2%) were identified as having PARDS. 95% (708 of 744) of patients had complete data for analysis, with 17% (121 of 708; 95% CI 14–20) mortality, whereas only 32% (230 of 708) of patients met Berlin criteria with 27% (61 of 230) mortality. Based on hypoxaemia severity at PARDS diagnosis, mortality was similar among those who were non-invasively ventilated and with mild or moderate PARDS (10–15%), but higher for those with severe PARDS (33% [54 of 165; 95% CI 26–41]). 50% (80 of 160) of non-invasively ventilated patients with PARDS were subsequently intubated, with 25% (20 of 80; 95% CI 16–36) mortality. By use of PALICC PARDS definition, severity of PARDS at 6 h after initial diagnosis (area under the curve [AUC] 0·69, 95% CI 0·62–0·76) discriminates PICU mortality better than severity at PARDS diagnosis (AUC 0·64, 0·58–0·71), and outperforms Berlin severity groups at 6 h (0·64, 0·58–0·70; p=0·01). Interpretation The PALICC definition identified more children as having PARDS than the Berlin definition, and PALICC PARDS severity groupings improved the stratification of mortality risk, particularly when applied 6 h after PARDS diagnosis. The PALICC PARDS framework should be considered for use in future epidemiological and therapeutic research among children with PARDS. Funding University of Southern California Clinical Translational Science Institute, Sainte Justine Children's Hospital, University of Montreal, Canada, Reseau en Sante Respiratoire du Fonds de Recherche Quebec-Sante, and Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine.

To determine the cost of medical care in patients with gonarthrosis.Cost study in patients over 40 years of age with gonarthrosis, diagnosed according to the radiological classification of Kellgren and Lawrence. The average annual cost (euros) was estimated taking the unit cost plus average use of services such as family medicine, imaging, laboratory, electrodiagnosis, orthopedics, hospitalization, physical therapy, surgery, nutrition, preoperative assessment and medication. Projections based on assumptions were made for three scenarios.Grade 2 gonarthrosis predominated at 39.7% (95% confidence interval, 33.8 - 45.6). The annual cost of care for a patient with gonarthrosis was €108.87 in the intermediate scenario, €86.73 in the lower cost scenario and €132.60 in the higher cost scenario. For a population of 119,530,753 inhabitants, with 10,937,064 gonarthrosis patients, the annual cost in the intermediate scenario was €1,190,685,273 and represented 4.48% of the health expenditure.The average annual cost of gonarthrosis is relatively low, but when related to prevalence and prevalence trends, it can become a serious problem for health services.

ResumenObjetivoDeterminar el estado de salud en el adulto mayor con 60 o más años de edad en atención primaria a partir de una valoración geriátrica integral.DiseñoEstudio transversal descriptivo.EmplazamientoCinco unidades de atención primaria, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social; México.ParticipantesAdultos mayores con 60 o más años que acuden a la consulta de atención primaria. Previo consentimiento informado, con criterios de eliminación, pacientes que no completaran la valoración geriátrica integral. Técnica muestral por conglomerados y cuota.Medidas principalesVariables de dimensión médica: visual, auditiva (Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly), incontinencia urinaria (Consultation on Incontinence Questionarie), estado nutricional (Mini Nutritional Assessment), antecedentes personales patológicos, polifarmacia; mental cognitivo (Mini Mental State Examination), depresión (Yesavaje); funcional: actividades básicas (Katz) e instrumentales de vida diaria (Lawton y Brody), marcha (Up and go) y social (Escala de recursos social). El análisis incluyó porcentajes e intervalos de confianza.ResultadosEn dimensión médica: 42,3% presentó disminución visual, 27,7% auditiva, 68,3% incontinencia urinaria, 37,0% desnutrición, 54,7% polifarmacia; dimensión mental: 4,0% deterioro cognitivo grave y 11% depresión; dimensión funcional: 2,0% dependencia total de actividades básicas de la vida diaria; 14,3% deterioro en actividades instrumentales; 29,0% alteración en la marcha; y 48,0% presentan recursos sociales medianamente deteriorados.ConclusiónEl estado de salud en el adulto mayor que acude a atención primaria se caracteriza por pacientes independientes con diferente grado de alteraciones en la dimensión médica, bajo grado de alteración mental y recursos sociales medianamente deteriorados.AbstractObjectiveTo determine the health status of patients 60 years of age or over in Primary Health Care practices using an integral geriatric assessment.DesignDescriptive cross-sectional study.LocationFive primary care units, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social; México.ParticipantsElderly patient aged 60 years of age or over, who were seen in primary health care practices. Previously signed informed consent was given, with exclusion criteria being non-completion of the integral geriatric assessment. A technical sample of conglomerates and quota was used.Main measurementsMedical dimension variables: visual, hearing (Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly), urinary incontinence (Consultation in Incontinence Questionnaire), nutritional condition (Mini Nutritional Assessment), personal clinical history, polypharmacy; mental impairment (Mini Mental State Examination), depression (Yesavaje); functional: basic (Katz) and instrumental (Lawton and Brody) activities of daily living, mobility (Up and go) and social (Social sources scale). The analysis included percentages and confidence intervals.ResultsIn the medical dimensions; 42.3% with visual impairment, 27.7% hearing, 68.3% urinary incontinence, 37.0% malnutrition, and 54.7% polypharmacy. In the mental dimension: 4.0% severe mental impairment, and 11% depression: functional dimension: 2.0% total dependence of activities of daily living; 14.3% instrumental activities impairment; 29.0% mobility impairment, and 48.0% had moderately deteriorated social resources.ConclusionThe health status of the elderly seen in primary health care practices is characterized by independent patients with different levels of alterations in the medical dimensions, low levels in mental alteration, and moderately deteriorated social resources.

Introduction: Prevention is an essential aspect in paediatric poisonings, especially when recurrent episodes are detected. The aims of this article are to detect the recurrence rate for suspected poisoning in emergency consultations, as well as to identify the cases in which specific preventive measures are indicated, and to determine whether the creation of a specific item for recurrent episodes in the computerised medical records system facilitates its detection. Material and methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients less than 18 years of age treated in the emergency room due to suspected poisoning during 2013 and 2014. Patients were divided according to the presence or absence of previous episodes. From January 2014, a specific item is present in the computerised medical records of the poisoned patient, where the history of previous episodes is registered. The preventive measures used between both groups were compared. Results: A total of 731 consultations were recorded for suspected poisoning. A history of previous episodes was detected in 9% of cases. Medical injury reports and follow-up in outpatient clinics were more often performed in patients with recurrent episodes than in patients without them (28.8% vs 18.0%, P = .034, and 65.2% vs. 18.8%, P

Dopamine transporter (DAT) is a membrane protein that it is a marker for dopaminergic neurons. In the present work, throught Western blot and autoradiographic studies with a selective ligand for DAT ([(3)H] WIN-35428) and noradrenaline transporter (NET) ([(3)H] Nisoxetine), we search the expression and distribution of DAT in comparison with NET, in cardiac tissue of guinea pig in order to support the presence of dopaminergic nerve cells into the heart. Expression of DAT, and NET were evidenced by a bands of 75 and 54 kDa, respectively in the heart. Binding for DAT and NET were found in the four cardiac chambers. However, DAT show heterogeneous distribution with binding in right atria and in both ventricles, whereas NET show homogenous distribution in the four cardiac chambers. The results show the expression of DAT in cardiac tissues with a different distribution compared with NET, being an evidence for the presence of dopaminergic nerve cells into the heart.

Cirrhosis is a complex process that involves a dynamic modification of liver cell phenotype associated to gene expression changes. This study investigates the reversing capacity of an adenosine derivative compound (IFC305) on a rat model of liver cirrhosis and gene expression changes associated with it. Rats were treated with IFC305 or saline for 5 or 10 weeks after cirrhosis induction (CCl(4) treatment for 10 weeks). Fibrosis score, collagenase activity and amount of hepatic stellate cells (HSC, activated and with a lipid-storing phenotype) were measured in livers. In addition, gene expression analysis was performed using 5K DNA microarrays and quantitative RT-PCR. Treatment of cirrhotic rats with IFC305 for 5 or 10 weeks compared to saline control, induced: (1) reduction of fibrosis (50-70%) and of collagen, of alpha-SMA and desmin proteins, as well as of activated HSCs in liver, (2) increased collagenase activity and cell number of lipid-storing HSC, (3) improved serum parameters of liver function, such as reduced activity of aminotransferases and bilirubin. Expression of 413 differential genes, deregulated in cirrhotic samples, tended to be normalized by IFC305 treatment. Some genes modulated at transcript level by IFC305 were Tgfb1, Fn1, Col1a1, C9, Apoa1, Ass1, Cps1, and Pparg. The present study shows that IFC305 reverses liver fibrosis through modulation of adipogenic and fibrosis-related genes and by ameliorating hepatic function. Thus, understanding of the anti-cirrhotic effect of IFC305 might have therapeutical potential in patients with cirrhosis.

ObjetivoDeterminar el coste de la atención en el primer nivel de atención del paciente diabético-hipertenso.DiseñoSe trata de un análisis de coste realizado en unidades de medicina familiar en México.EmplazamientoMedicina familiar en México.ParticipantesPacientes con diabetes-hipertensión.MediciónIncluye el perfil de uso de los servicios y el coste de la atención. El perfil se definió como el promedio anual de uso de los servicios de primer nivel, el coste unitario se calculó por motivo de uso en cada uno de los servicios utilizados, considerando los insumos fijos y variables; el coste promedio por motivo de atención se integró a partir de la relación uso-coste y el coste promedio anual de la suma de loscostes promedio por motivo de atención.ResultadosEl coste promedio anual en la consulta de medicina familiar fue de 180,65 € (intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95%,168,31-193), en el laboratorio de 48,99 € (IC del 95%, 44,85-53,18) y en el resto delos servicios de primer nivel de 41,33 € (IC del 95%, 30,19-52,46). El coste promedio anual por paciente en primer nivel de atención fue de 271 € (IC del 95%, 243,36-298,65).ConclusiónEl coste de la atención del paciente diabético-hipertenso en primer nivel se concentra en la medicina de familia y el laboratorio.ObjectiveTo determine the cost of caring for the diabetic-hypertensive patient in primary care.DesignA cost analysis carried out in family medicine units in Mexico.SettingFamily medicine units in Mexico.ParticipantsPatients with diabetes and hypertension.MeasurementsInclude the profile of use of the services and the cost of the care. The profile is defined as the average annual use of primary care services, the unit cost is calculated by reason for use in each of the services used, taking the fixed and variable consumables into account; the average cost by reason for care is calculated from use-cost ratio and the mean annual cost from the total average cost by reason for the care.ResultsThe mean annual cost in the family doctor clinic was €180.65 (95% confidence interval [CI], 168.31-193), in the laboratory, €48.99 (95% CI, 44.85-53.18), and in the rest of the primary care services, €41.33 (95% CI, 30.19-52.46). The mean annual primary care cost per patient was €271 (95% CI, 243.36- 298.65).ConclusionThe primary care costs of the diabetic-hypertensive patient are concentrated in the family doctor and laboratory services.

et al., The heart is a muscle with high energy demands. Hence, most patients with mitochondrial disease produced by defects in the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system are susceptible to cardiac involvement. The presentation of mitochondrial cardiomyopathy includes hypertrophic, dilated and left ventricular noncompaction, but the molecular mechanisms involved in cardiac impairment are unknown. One of the most frequent OXPHOS defects in humans frequently associated with cardiomyopathy is cytochrome c oxidase (COX) deficiency caused by mutations in COX assembly factors such as Sco1 and Sco2. To investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie the cardiomyopathy associated with Sco deficiency, we have heart specifically interfered scox expression, the single Drosophila Sco orthologue. Cardiac-specific knockdown of scox reduces fly lifespan, and it severely compromises heart function and structure, producing dilated cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyocytes with low levels of scox have a significant reduction in COX activity and they undergo a metabolic switch from OXPHOS to glycolysis, mimicking the clinical features found in patients harbouring Sco mutations. The major cardiac defects observed are produced by a significant increase in apoptosis, which is dp53-dependent. Genetic and molecular evidence strongly suggest that dp53 is directly involved in the development of the cardiomyopathy induced by scox deficiency. Remarkably, apoptosis is enhanced in the muscle and liver of Sco2 knock-out mice, clearly suggesting that cell death is a key feature of the COX deficiencies produced by mutations in Sco genes in humans., This work was supported by grants Direccion General de Investigacion Ciencia y Tecnologia (BFU2007-61711BMC and BFU2010-19551 to M.C.), American Heart Association (Grant in Aid #14GRNT20490239 to K.O.), NASA (NRA NNH12ZTT001N to K.O. and NRA NNH12ZTT001N to R.B.), National Institute of Health (R01 HL054732, P01 AG033461, P01 HL098053 to R.B.), Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI10/0703 and PI13/00556 to R.G.), Comunidad de Madrid (S2010/BMD-2402 to R.G.), Muscular Dystrophy Association to E.A.S., the U.S. Department of Defence (W911F-12-1-0159 to E.A.S.) and J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation to E.A.S.

Polypharmacy or the concomitant use of three or more medications, may increase the complexity of health care and its costs.To determine the costs of polypharmacy in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Mexican population sample.Analysis of health care costs in 257 patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus from two family care facilities, who had at least five consultations during one year. The cost of professional care by family physicians, pharmacological care and medications were considered to calculate the total expenses. The price of medications and the number of units consumed in one year were used to determine pharmacological expenses. Medications were grouped to determine costs derived from complications and concomitant diseases. Costs were calculated in US dollars (USD).The mean cost derived from family physician fees was USD 82.32 and from pharmacy fees USD 29.37. The mean cost of medications for diabetes treatment was USD 33.31, for the management of complications USD 13.9 and for management of concomitant diseases USD 23.7, rendering a total cost of USD 70.92. Thus, the total annual care cost of a diabetic patient was USD 182.61.Medications represent less than 50% of total expenses of diabetic patients with polypharmacy.

to determine the prevalence of the physical exploration and morbidity on pelvic members in the type 2 diabetic patient.cross-sectional study; 189 files of diabetic family medicine patients were analyzed. The sample was considered with the formula of proportions for a finite population. Sampling units were chosen by convenience and they were taken up again from each one of the family medicine physician's offices. Sociodemographic variables, pathologies, time of evolution of diabetes, glycemic control and consultations along a year were studied. Physical explorations were made and signs explored by the physicians. Descriptive statistic for the analysis of data was used.average age 58.89 years (CI 95 %, 57.1-60.7); women predominated with 61.9 % (CI 95 %, 55.0-68.8), mean time of evolution 10.60 years ± 7.29. In 74.1 % some sign in pelvic members was explored, and in 14.3 % some added problem was detected. Of these, 9 % suffered from onychomycosis.physical exploration of pelvic members it is not to be performed in all type 2 diabetic patients.Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de exploración física y morbilidad de miembros pélvicos en el paciente diabético tipo 2. Métodos: estudio transversal descriptivo. Se analizaron 189 expedientes de pacientes diabéticos de medicina familiar. La muestra se estimó con la fórmula de proporciones para población finita. Las unidades muestrales se eligieron por conveniencia y se retomaron de cada uno de los consultorios de medicina familiar. Se estudiaron variables sociodemográficas y de salud (patologías agregadas, tiempo de evolución de la diabetes, control glucémico y consultas al año). Del servicio se estudiaron exploraciones físicas realizadas y signos explorados por el médico en un año. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva para el análisis de datos. Resultados: edad promedio de 58.89 años (IC 95 %, 57.1-60.7), predominó el sexo femenino con 61.9 % (IC 95 %, 55.0-68.8), el promedio de tiempo de evolución fue de 10.60 ± 7.29 años. La mayoría tenía descontrol glucémico. En el 74.1 % se exploró algún signo en miembros pélvicos, al 14.3 % se le detectó algún problema agregado; de estos, 9.0 % padecía onicomicosis. Conclusión: la exploración física de los miembros pélvicos no se realiza en la totalidad de los pacientes diabéticos tipo 2.

to quantify the economic cost of polypharmacy in the elderly.cost study design, made in two first-level medical units. The study was conducted in 131 older adult patients with polypharmacy, chronic degenerative disease and at least one medical visit per year. The sample was calculated using the formula of finite population averages. The cost of polypharmacy was assessed in medical consultation, medicine and pharmacy services. The evaluation of the medical cost included the number of visits per year for the same unit cost, the cost of medicine considered the amount of drug per year for the same unit cost, and the cost of the service pharmacy took into account the number of times the pharmacy occupies the unit cost of the same. The statistical analysis included means, percentages and confidence intervals.in family practice the average annual cost is $1,263.26. In pharmacy the average annual cost is $229.91. The average time drug use is 4.37 months per year (95 % CI = 0.9-7.9), the annual average cost drugs is $708.00. Considering the three dimensions the annual cost of polypharmacy in the elderly is $2,201.17.the cost of polypharmacy is high and represents a significant economic impact.Objetivo: determinar el costo económico de la polifarmacia en el adulto mayor. Métodos: estudio de costos en dos unidades de medicina familiar. Se estudió una muestra de 131 adultos mayores con polifarmacia, enfermedades crónicas degenerativas y con al menos una consulta al año. La muestra se calculó con la fórmula de población finita para promedios. El costo de polifarmacia fue evaluado en tres dimensiones: consulta médica, medicamentos y servicio de farmacia. La evaluación de la consulta médica incluyó el número de atenciones al año por el costo unitario de la misma; el costo de medicamentos, la cantidad anual de este por el costo unitario del mismo y el costo del servicio de farmacia, el número de ocasiones que se ocupa la farmacia por el costo unitario de las mismas. Resultados: el costo anual de la consulta médica fue de $1263.26 y el de farmacia, de $229.91. El tiempo de uso de medicamentos fue de 4.37 meses al año y el costo anual en fármacos, de $708.00. El costo anual de la polifarmacia en el adulto mayor fue de $2201.17. Conclusiones: la polifarmacia representa un importante costo e impacto económico.

Objective: to determine the cost of institutional and familial care for patients with chronic kidney disease replacement therapy with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Methods: a study of the cost of care for patients with chronic kidney disease treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis was undertaken. The sample size (151) was calculated with the formula of the averages for an infinite population. The institutional cost included the cost of outpatient consultation, emergencies, hospitalization, ambulance, pharmacy, medication, laboratory, x-rays and application of erythropoietin. The family cost included transportation cost for services, cost of food during care, as well as the cost of medication and treatment materials acquired by the family for home care. The analysis included averages, percentages and confidence intervals. Results: the average annual institutional cost is US$ 11,004.3. The average annual family cost is US$ 2,831.04. The average annual cost of patient care in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis including institutional and family cost is US$ 13,835.35. Conclusion: the cost of chronic kidney disease requires a large amount of economic resources, and is becoming a serious problem for health services and families. It's also true that the form of patient management in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis is the most efficient in the use of institutional resources and family. Objetivo: determinar o custo da atenção institucional e familiar do paciente com doença renal crônica terminal em tratamento substitutivo com diálise peritoneal ambulatorial contínua. Métodos: foi desenvolvido um estudo de custo da atenção com pacientes com doença crônica renal em tratamento com diálise peritoneal ambulatorial contínua. A amostra foi de 151 pessoas, calculada com a fórmula das médias para população infinita. No custo institucional foi incluído o custo da consulta externa, urgências, internamento, ambulância, farmácia, medicamentos, laboratório, raios X e administração de eritropoetina. No custo da família foi considerado o custo do traslado para receber os serviços, o custo das refeições durante a atenção, além do custo dos medicamentos e do material para curativos comprados pela família no atendimento domiciliar. A análise foi com médias, porcentagens e intervalo de confiança. Resultados: o custo anual institucional é US$11.004,3. O custo anual da família foi em média de US$2.381,04. O custo anual, em média, da atenção do paciente com diálise peritoneal ambulatorial contínua, incluindo o custo institucional e familiar, é de US$13.835,35. Conclusão: o custo da doença renal crônica requer uma grande quantidade de recursos econômicos, convertendo-se em um sério problema para os serviços de saúde e a família.

Due to the progressive aging of our population, it is imperative to evaluate the life conditions and health limitations of older people.To report the results of an integral geriatric evaluation of Mexican older people.A cross-sectional assessment of 324 older subjects of a median age of 70 years (57% females) beneficiaries of the Mexican Institute of Social Security of the city of Querétaro. Social, demographic, medical, functional and cognitive variables were evaluated.Of the studied subjects, 37% were illiterate, 61% lived with a partner and 47% were dedicated to household activities. Thirty three percent had visual impairment, 54% had hearing impairment, 39% had urinary incontinence, 26% reported falls in the last six months, 34% had nutritional problems, 38% were functionally dependent, 49% had sleeping problems, 25% had cognitive impairment and 25% had depression.The general health outlook of this population is encouraging, considering that more than half are not functionally impaired.

Malnutrition is a serious public health problem that affects approximately one third of all children. Developing countries have the highest incidence of malnourished children, and approximately 60% of deaths that occur in children under five are directly related to malnutrition and associated diseases. The relationship between malnutrition and genetic damage has been widely studied in humans and animal models. The micronucleus (MN) assay is useful in detecting chromosome damage induced by several factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of infection and malnutrition on the frequency of MN in erythrocytes from the peripheral blood of well-nourished, uninfected (WN) and well-nourished, infected (WNI) children, and moderately malnourished (UNM) and severely malnourished (UNS) children, both with infection, using a flow cytometric analysis technique. The percentage of reticulocytes (RETs) was significantly higher (1.5-fold) in WNI children than well-nourished controls. In addition, the UNS group had a 2.2-fold increase in the percentage of RETs compared to the WNI group. The frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes (MN-RETs) was 2.5 times greater, in WNI group compared to the WN group. These frequencies were significantly higher (1.7- and 2.1-fold) in UNM and UNS, respectively, compared to the WNI group. The results suggest that infection and malnutrition induce DNA damage in children.

To determine SOHDi program cost-effectiveness (S = overweight, O = obesity, H = hypertension, Di = diabetes) in type 2 diabetes patients (DM2) without hypertension.Sample included 32 patients. The effectiveness was measured by the blood glucose values. The SOHDi intervention cost included physician medical attention cost (PMAC), laboratory cost (LC), education group cost and individual evaluation cost. The cost of the traditional alternative medical attention (TAMA) contemplated PMAC and LC. The analysis cost-effectiveness included different intervals measurements, equal or smaller than 140 mg/dL blood glucose levels.The percentage of population with equal or smaller than 140 mg/dL blood glucose (effectiveness) in SOHDi was 23.3%, in TAMA was 44.8%. The average cost in SOHDi was $2202.22; in TAMA $1930.79. In the cases with blood glucose equal or smaller to 140 mg/dL the cost of effectiveness of 50% was $4726 in SOHDi and $2155 in TAMA. In this same situation the effectiveness by $1000 was 10.58% in SOHDi and 23.20% in TAMA.The SOHDi group is not the best alternative, at least not in the present operational conditions.

The purpose of this study is to assess the potential relationships of circulating IGF-I, adrenal and gonadal steroids, and polymorphism ER22/23EK of the glucocorticoid receptor (GC-R) gene with nutritional, functional and cognitive deterioration in a group of elderly people living independently. This is a population-based prospective study with 313 individuals (160 women and 153 men, 76.7 ± 7 years) who participated. A physical exam, evaluation of functional capacity (Barthel scale), cognitive function (mini-mental state examination-MMSE), geriatric depression scale (GDS), mininutritional assessment (MNA-SF) and cardiometabolic status were performed at basal time point and at 2 years of follow-up. Biological measurements included cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulphate, testosterone, estradiol, IGF-I and polymorphism ER22/23EK of the GC-R gene. Estradiol was associated with MNA-SF decrease over time (p

Social representations are value systems. Social stereotypes are a social consensus of traits associated with a specific group. Stereotypes about older subjects, generally have negative connotations.To assess the prevalence of negative stereotypes towards older subjects among health care personnel.A questionnaire about stereotypes towards old age, with Likert type questions that included health, social motivations and personality-character domains, was applied to 52 doctors, 12 residents, 80 general nurses, 36 auxiliary nurses, four social workers and 10 medical assistants, working at a general hospital.The mean age of the professionals who answered the questionnaire was 38 years (95% confidence intervals (CI) 37-39 years) and 78% were women. The prevalence of a Global negative stereotype was 65.0%(95% CI: 59.5-70.5). The figure for the health domain was 64.5% (IC95%; 59.0-70.0), for the social motivation domain was 60%(5%CI: 54.3-65.7) and for the character personality domain was 64% (95%CI: 58.4-69.6).There is a high prevalence of a negative stereotype towards old age among health care personnel.

We have previously shown that adenosine and the aspartate salt of adenosine (IFC305) reverse pre-established CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis in rats. However, their molecular mechanism of action is not clearly understood. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play a pivotal role in liver fibrogenesis leading to cirrhosis, mainly through their activation, changing from a quiescent adipogenic state to a proliferative myofibrogenic condition. Therefore, we decided to investigate the effect of IFC305 on primary cultured rat HSC. Our results reveal that this compound suppressed the activation of HSC, as demonstrated by the maintenance of a quiescent cell morphology, including lipid droplets content, inhibition of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen α1(I) expression, and up-regulation of MMP-13, Smad7, and PPARγ expression, three key antifibrogenic genes. Furthermore, IFC305 was able to repress the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced proliferation of HSC. This inhibition was independent of adenosine receptors stimulation; instead, IFC305 was incorporated into cells by adenosine transporters and converted to AMP by adenosine kinase. On the other hand, addition of pyrimidine ribonucleoside as uridine reversed the suppressive effect of IFC305 on the proliferation and activation of HSC, suggesting that intracellular pyrimidine starvation would be involved in the molecular mechanism of action of IFC305. In conclusion, IFC305 inhibits HSC activation and maintains their quiescence in vitro; these results could explain in part the antifibrotic liver beneficial effect previously described for this compound on the animal model.

To determine the opportunity cost for men who seek care in the family medicine units (FMU) of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social) in the city of Querétaro.A sample was selected of 807 men, ages 20 to 59 years, who sought care through the family medicine, laboratory, and pharmacy services provided by the FMU at the IMSS in Querétaro. Patients referred for emergency services and those who left the facilities without receiving care were excluded. The sample (n = 807) was calculated using the averages for an infinite population formula, with a confidence interval of 95% (CI95%) and an average opportunity cost of US$5.5 for family medicine, US$3.1 for laboratory services, and US$2.3 for pharmacy services. Estimates included the amount of time spent on travel, waiting, and receiving care; the number of people accompanying the patient, and the cost per minute of paid and unpaid job activities. The opportunity cost was calculated using the estimated cost per minute for travel, waiting, and receiving care for patients and their companions.The opportunity cost for the patient travel was estimated at US$0.97 (CI95%: 0.81-1.15), while wait time was US$5.03 (CI95%: 4.08-6.09) for family medicine, US$0.06 (CI95%: 0.05-0.08) for pharmacy services, and US$1.89 (CI95%: 1.56-2.25) for laboratory services. The average opportunity cost for an unaccompanied patient visit varied between US$1.10 for pharmacy services alone and US$8.64 for family medicine, pharmacy, and laboratory services. The weighted opportunity cost for family medicine was US$6.24.Given that the opportunity cost for men who seek services in FMU corresponds to more than half of a minimum salary, it should be examined from an institutional perspective whether this is the best alternative for care.

To determine the relationship between functional social support and vital satisfaction of the elder retirement adult.Comparative cross-sectional study in retired adults aged 60 years and more. Two groups were integrated (high and low satisfaction) evaluated with Moral Scale of Satisfaction of the Geriatric Center of Philadelphia modified and validated by Montorio. The sample size was calculated with comparative cross-sectional studies formula, presence of the social support of 80 % in the group of high satisfaction and 50 % in the one of low satisfaction (n = 29). The selection was made at random using the payroll listing of retirees. Social demographic variables were studied. Relationship between the retirement and functional social support was evaluated with the scale of Functional Social Support of Duker-UNC-11.Sociodemographic characteristics and those related to the retirement did not present significant statistical differences (p0.05) in the groups of high and low satisfaction. There was an association between the functional social support and the vital satisfaction with odds ratio of 3.00 (95%CI = 1.08-8.32).Functional social support and vital satisfaction in the elderly were associated.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the cost-effectiveness of the previous appointment. DESIGN: Cost-effectiveness study. SETTING: Family Medicine Unit in the Mexican Public Health System, in March and April 2008. PARTICIPANTS: All Family Medicine outpatient clinic offices who use the appointment system were included (n=32). MEASUREMENTS: The productivity, doctor and user dimensions were analysed in the two shifts (morning and evening) operated by the Unit. Productivity included the percentage of appointments (appointment requested more than 12 h before the visit), spontaneous users, those seen and cancellations; the cost was adjusted for productivity. Effectiveness was measured using doctor and patient satisfaction, on a scale from 1 to 10. The cost-effectiveness analysis took into account the perspective of the patient and the doctor in the different scenarios that considered the percentage of previous appointments. The evaluation included an incremental analysis. RESULTS: For the doctor, the best cost-effectiveness is in the scenario of 60% previous appointments, and the worst with 50% previous appointments. The cost differences in the incremental analysis by scenarios is 15,019 € and 76,611 €. From the perspective of the patient (n=96), the best cost-effectiveness is in the 70% previous appointment scenario, while the worst is the one with 50%. The incremental analysis with differences by scenarios is 5,248 € and 330,293 €. CONCLUSIONS: The best cost-effectiveness of the previous appointment is achieved with appointment percentages between 60 and 70%.

To detect antibodies to six potentially blood-borne infections in blood donors at a social security institute in Querétaro, Mexico.A cross-sectional, retrospective, descriptive study was performed using data from the blood bank records of the General Regional Hospital No. 1, Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). From the 6 929 registered donors, those with any antibody to brucellosis, Chagas' disease, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, and HIV were identified. For the cases presenting any of these infections, the following demographics were analyzed: age, gender, marital status, education, home address, and number of donations made. To estimate overall prevalence, the number of donors with any of the antibodies was divided by the total donors, and then by each of the various infections.Of the 6 929 donors, 144 were detected with some type of circulating antibody of the six potentially blood-borne infections, with a total prevalence of 2.07% (0-4.4). The prevalence of blood donors with antibodies for hepatitis C was 0.721% (95%CI: 0.522-0.920) and Chagas' disease, 0.649% (95%CI: 0.460-0.838).Identifying the prevalence of blood donors with antibodies for any of these six, potentially blood-borne infections, allows the blood bank at the General Regional Hospital No. 1 to establish its own epidemiologic profiling. Chagas' disease proved to be emergent, calling for urgent control efforts.

Hepatic fibrosis underlies most types of chronic liver diseases and is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), altered liver architecture, and impaired hepatocyte proliferation; however, the fibrotic liver can still regenerate after partial hepatectomy (PH). Therefore, the present study was aimed at addressing whether a PH-induced regeneration normalizes ECM turnover and the possible involvement of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) during resolution of a pre-established fibrosis. Male Wistar rats were rendered fibrotic by intraperitoneal administration of swine serum for 9 weeks and subjected afterwards to 70% PH or sham-operation. Histological and morphometric analyses were performed, and parameters indicative of cell proliferation, collagen synthesis and degradation, and activation of HSC were determined. Liver collagen content was reduced to 75% after PH in cirrhotic rats when compared with sham-operated cirrhotic rats. The regenerating fibrotic liver oxidized actively free proline and had diminished transcripts for α-1 (I) collagen mRNA, resulting in decreased collagen synthesis. PH also increased collagenase activity, accounted for by higher amounts of pro-MMP-9, MMP-2, and MMP-13, which largely coincided with a lower expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. Therefore, an early decreased collagen synthesis, mild ECM degradation, and active liver regeneration were followed by higher collagenolysis and limited deposition of ECM, probably associated with increased mitochondrial activity. Activated HSC readily increased during liver fibrosis and remained activated after liver regeneration, even during fibrosis resolution. In conclusion, stimulation of liver regeneration through PH restores the balance in ECM synthesis/degradation, leading to ECM remodeling and to an almost complete resolution of liver fibrosis. As a response to the regenerative stimulus, activated HSC seem to play a controlling role on ECM remodeling during experimental cirrhosis in rats. Therefore, pharmacological approaches for the resolution of liver fibrosis by blocking HSC activation should also evaluate possible effects on liver cell proliferation.

The objective of this study is to identify the annual cost per capita by gender in first level of attention. It is a cost study in Family Physician Units in Mexico. The information corresponded to the year of 2004 and the study divided in the use profile and cost attention. USE PROFILE OF SERVICES: it was studied 1,585 clinical registries of patients, use profile defined by average and attention reasons by department, gender and age group. COST ATTENTION: considered in American dollars it included fixed unit cost (departmentalization adjusted by productivity), variable unit cost (micro cost technical), department unite cost by type attention, and department unit cost by age and gender. The life expectancy was of 73 years for men and 78 for women. Three scenes were identified. The annual cost per capita is superior among woman [US$73.24 (IC 95% $11.38 - $197.49)] than in man [$ 53.11 (IC 95% 2.51 - 207.71)]. The conclusion found that in the first level of attention the cost per capita is greater in woman than in man.

to predict the probability of blood glucose control in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus, exclusively treated with pharmacology therapy.secondary analysis of a database to evaluate the therapeutic attachment in type-2 diabetics older than 60 years old. We interviewed 123 patients in their home to get information about sociodemographic aspects and diabetes characteristics. The blood glucose control was measured through glycated hemoglobin and the attachment to the pharmacological treatment was measured by the Morisky-Green test. The analysis included simple logistic regression; the calculation of probability of control for different levels of therapeutic attachment was estimated using the result of the regression equation (y) and applying the formula 1/1 + e(-y).Monotherapy was present in 82.1%, glibenclamide was prescribed alone in 77.2%, glycated hemoglobin average was 11.5 +/- 3.5 %, 18% of the population was controlled and 58.1% showed some attachment to the pharmacological treatment. With a total attachment to the pharmacological prescription, the control probability is 27%, and without it, it corresponds to 10%.Almost three out of ten patients with a total attachment to the pharmacological treatment have chances of being controlled.

Myocardial Ca(2+) overload and oxidative stress are well documented effects associated to isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial necrosis, but information correlating these two issues is scarce. Using an ISO-induced myocardial infarction model, 3 stages of myocardial damage were defined: pre-infarction (0-12 h), infarction (12-24 h) and post-infarction (24-96 h). Alterations in Ca(2+) homeostasis and oxidative stress were studied in mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum and plasmalemma by measuring the Ca(2+) content, the activity of Ca(2+) handling proteins, and by quantifying TBARs, nitric oxide (NO) and oxidative protein damage (changes in carbonyl and thiol groups). Free radicals generated system, antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress (GSH/GSSG ratio) were also monitored at different times of ISO-induced cardiotoxicity. The Ca(2+) overload induced by ISO was counterbalanced by a diminution in the ryanodine receptor activity and the Na(+)-Ca(+2) exchanger as well as by the increase in both calcium ATPases activities (vanadate- and thapsigargine-sensitive) and mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake during pre-infarction and infarction stages. Pro-oxidative reactions and antioxidant defences during the 3 stages of cardiotoxicity were observed, with maximal oxidative stress during the infarction. Significant correlations were found among pro-oxidative reactions with plasmalemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPases, and ryanodine receptor activities at the onset and development of ISO-induced infarction. These findings could be helpful in the design of antioxidant therapies in this pathology.