Articles publicats en revistes (Cirurgia i Especialitats Medicoquirúrgiques)
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Increased lung [18F]-FDG uptake in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension with distal involvement(European Respiratory Society, 2025-12-04) Osorio, Jeisson; Tura Ceide, Olga; Pavía Segura, Javier; Vollmer, Ivan; Blanco Vich, Isabel; Niñerola Baizán, Aida; Paredes, Pilar; Lomeña, Francisco; Ruiz Cabello, Jesús; Castellà Pericàs, Manuel; Peinado Cabré, Víctor Ivo; Barberà i Mir, Joan AlbertPatients with distal chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) show greater FDG lung uptake on PET scans than those with proximal disease, suggesting a proliferative microvasculopathy. These findings support further investigation on the role of PET/CT in characterising CTEPH.Article
Quantitative analysis of the brachialis and triceps brachii insertion sites on the proximal epiphysis of the ulna in modern hominid primates and fossil hominins(Wiley, 2024-11-03) Ciurana, Neus; Casado, Aroa; Rodríguez Corbera, Patricia; García-Cuesta, Marcel; Pastor, Francisco; Potau Ginés, Josep MariaIn several species of hominid primates with different types of locomotor behavior, we quantitatively studied the insertion sites of the brachialis and triceps brachii on the proximal epiphysis of the ulna. Our main objective was to evaluate the possibility of using the anatomical features of these insertion sites to infer the locomotor behavior of different species of fossil hominins. We measured the area of these muscle insertion sites using 3D bone meshes and obtained the value of each insertion site relative to the total size of the two insertion sites for each of the species studied. We also compared these relative values of the osteological samples with the relative mass of the brachialis and triceps brachii, which we obtained by dissecting these muscles in the same primate species. The relative values for the brachialis insertion were highest in orangutans, followed by bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas, and humans. Fossil Australopithecus and Paranthropus had values similar to those of bonobos, while fossil Homo had values similar to those of Homo sapiens. The observed similarity in ulnar attachment sites between Australopithecus and Paranthropus and extant bonobos suggest that these hominins used arboreal locomotion to complement their bipedalism. These adaptations to arboreal locomotion were not observed in Homo.Article
The morphofunctional implications of the glenoid labrum of the glenohumeral joint in hominoids(Wiley, 2023-03-20) Raventós Izard, Georgina; Potau Ginés, Josep Maria; Casado, Aroa; Pastor, Juan Francisco; Arias Martorell, JúliaObjectives: A morphocline of the glenoid cavity has been used to infer differences in locomotor behaviors; however, the glenoid cavity is surrounded by the glenoid labrum, a fibrocartilaginous structure that could influence the functionality of the glenoid. The objectives of this study are to explore the effects of the glenoid labrum on the area, depth, and morphology of the glenoid cavity in primates. Materials and methods: Photogrammetry was used to build 3D models of the glenoid, with and without the labrum, and three- (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) geometric morphometrics (GM) was applied. 2D areas were collected from zenithal images for glenoids with and without labrum to evaluate the availability of articular surface area. Results: In the 2D GM the morphocline is present in the dry-bone sample but not with the presence of the glenoid labrum. In the 3D GM there are differences between species mainly concerning the depth of the glenoid cavity. 2D areas reveal that the amount of articular area of the glenoid cavity increases with the presence of the labrum, particularly in humans. Discussion: The glenoid labrum changes the shape, increases the depth and the surface area of the glenoid cavity, particularly in humans. Therefore, the glenoid labrum might hold a functional role, increasing the stability of the glenohumeral joint of primates in general, and especially in humans.Article
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: The Spanish Menopause Society (AEEM) and the European Society of Gynecology (ESG) position statement(ESG, 2025-05) Castelo-Branco Flores, Camil; Guinot Gasull, Misericordia; Baquedano Mainar, Laura; Cancelo Hidalgo, María J.; Cano, Antonio; Gil Arribas, Elisa; Lobo Martínez, Sonia; Llaneza Suárez, Cristina; Llaneza Coto, Plácido; Mendoza Ladrón de Guevara, Nicolás; Perelson del Pozo, Irene; Quereda, Francisco; Roca Comella, Beatriz; Romagosa, Carla; Romero Duarte, Pablo; Chabbert-Buffet, Nathalie; Serfaty, David; Genazzani AndreaPremature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an uncommon condition affecting 1–2% of women younger than 40, 1 in 1,000 in their thirties and 1 in 10,000 under 20 years of age. The multiple etiologies of this clinical condition can be classified as primary (chromosomal, genetic, endocrine, infectious, autoimmune) and secondary or iatrogenic (surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy). Despite important progress in genetics, most of the cases of primary POI are still classified as idiopathic. POI is defined by the association of one clinical and one biological criterion: primary or secondary amenorrhea or cycle irregularities of more than 4 months with onset before 40 years of age, and elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on 2 assays at different times. Commonly, estradiol levels are low, and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels are almost undetectable. Initial diagnostic procedures comprise hormonal and auto-immune assessment, karyotype, FMR1 premutation screening and gene-panel study. The term ovarian insufficiency suggests that the lack of function is not necessarily definitive; therefore, it is important not to use the term premature menopause when a young patient is reporting this condition, since in some cases ovarian function may be restored spontaneously, and pregnancy may occur in about 6% of cases. In confirmed POI, hormone replacement therapy is mandatory at least up to the physiological age of the menopause onset. Management in a tertiary center is suggested.Article
COVID-19 in Relation to Chronic Antihistamine Prescription(MDPI, 2024-12-13) Puigdellívol Sánchez, Anna; Juanes González, Marta; Calderón Valdiviezo, Ana ; Losa Puig, Helena ; Valls Foix, Roger; González Salvador, Marta ; Lozano Paz, Celia ; Vidal Alaball, JosepNo hospitalizations or deaths occurred in residents with the COVID-19 infection, treated with antihistamines and azithromycin, of two external nursing homes during the first wave. We assessed whether patients receiving chronic antihistamines in our institution showed better clinical evolution. COVID-19 admissions and related deaths in the public Hospital of Terrassa (n = 1461) during the pandemic period (11 March 2020–5 May 2023) and cases (n = 32,888) during the period of full suspicion diagnosis (1 June 2020–23 March 2022) were referred to as the number of chronic treatments (nT) including or not including antihistamines (AntiHm or NOAntiHm), and their vaccination status before the first infection (VAC or NoVAC) in our assigned population (n = 140,681 at March 2020) was recorded. No deaths occurred in patients treated with up to ≤6 nT in the AntiHm group in all ages. A significant reduction in hospital admission was observed in the 2–7 nT groups either below or over 60 years old [Odds Ratio (OR) NoAntiHm/AntiHm = 1.76–1.32, respectively, in NoVAC or VAC (OR = 2.10 overall] and in the older ≥8 nT group (OR = 2.08 in NoVac]. In conclusion, patients with chronic antihistamine prescriptions, alone or with polypharmacy, showed reduced hospital admission and mortality rates, suggesting the safety of antihistamine treatment and the need to confirm its effectiveness in a prospective trial.Article
Long COVID Syndrome Prevalence in 2025 in an IntegralHealthcare Consortium in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona:Persistent and Transient Symptoms(MDPI, 2025-08-26) Arévalo Genicio, Antonio; García Arqué, Mª Carmen; Gragea Nocete, Marta; Llistosella, Maria; Moro Casasola, Vanessa; Pérez Díaz, Cristina; Puigdellívol Sánchez, Anna; Roca Puig, RamonBackground: Long COVID can persist for years, but little is known about its prevalence in relation to the number of infections. This study examines the prevalence of long COVID in association with the number of infections and vaccination status. Methods: We analyzed anonymized data on long COVID cases, thrombotic events and polypharmacy from March 2020, provided by the Data Analysis Control Department for the population assigned to the CST (192,651 at March 2025). Additionally, we analyzed responses to a long COVID symptom-specific survey distributed in March 2024 to individuals aged 18 to 75 years from the CST population diagnosed with COVID-19 as of December 2023 (n = 43,398; 3227 respondents). Symptomatic patients suspected of having long COVID underwent blood tests to exclude alternative diagnoses. Results: The overall detected prevalence of long COVID was 2.4‰, with higher frequency among women aged 30–59 years (p < 0.001). The survey, combined with specific blood tests, improved detection rates by 26.3%. Long COVID prevalence was 3–10 times higher in individuals with three or more infections than in those with only one recorded infection (based on survey/CST data, respectively). The absolute number of thrombotic events among individuals aged >60 doubled from 2020 to 2024, occurring in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, as well as in those with or without prior documented COVID-19 infection, including in patients without chronic treatments. Conclusions: We found a link between SARS-CoV-2 reinfection and long COVID, and a post-pandemic rise in thrombotic events across all populations, regardless of vaccination or prior infection. Findings support continued COVID-19 diagnosis in suspected cases and mask use by healthcare workers treating respiratory patients.Article
COVID-19 Pandemic Waves and 2024-2025 Winter Season in Relation to Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers and Amantadine(MDPI, 2025-05-27) Puigdellívol Sánchez, Anna; Juanes González, Marta; Calderón Valdiviezo, Ana; Losa Puig, Helena; González Salvador, Marta; León Pérez, Marc; Pueyo Antón, Luís; Franco Romero, Maite; Lozano Paz, Celia; Cortés Borra, Albert; Valls Foix, RogerEarly pandemic reports suggested improved outcomes inhypertensive COVID-19 patients treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors(ACEI) or amantadine. This study evaluates their impact on disease progression.Methods: We analyzed 55,936 infected patients (March 2020–January 2025) and 2024hospital admissions within a free-access Barcelona metropolitan health consortium (n =192,651 as of March 2025). Hospitalizations, stratified by polypharmacy level (nT), werecompared via Chi-square tests. ICU admissions and length of stay in hospitalized patientswere assessed during the first month of key waves: initial A2a + B3a + B9 (n = 184, March2020), Delta (n = 158, July 2021), Omicron21K (n = 142, January 2022), and Omicron 24F (n= 8, January 2025). Results: Non-survivors were predominantly aged >60 years (96.3%) inthe first wave and >70 years (100%) in Delta/Omicron waves. Post-vaccination, mortalitydecreased in high-comorbidity groups, though hospitalizations/ICU admissions inyounger patients surpassed first-wave levels during Delta. Vaccinated ACEI/ARB-treatedpatients showed reduced hospitalizations across all polypharmacy groups: OR(noACEI/ACEI) = 1.21 (≥2 nT) to 4.26 (1 nT, p = 0.014); OR (noARB/ARB) = 1.24 (≥8 nT) to1.74 (2–7 nT, p = 0.01). No hospitalizations occurred in amantadine-treated patients aged<70. Conclusions: These findings suggest a potential protective effect of ACEI, ARBs, andamantadine against severe COVID-19 and support the safety and continuity of thesetreatments. Multicentric studies incorporating post-COVID syndrome data are needed tovalidate these observations if hospitalizations persist.Article
COVID-19 in Relation to Polypharmacy and Immunization (2020-2024)(MDPI, 2024-09-27) Puigdellívol Sánchez, Anna; Juanes González, Marta; Calderón Valdiviezo, Ana; Valls Foix, Roger; González Salvador, Marta; Lozano Paz, Celia; Vidal Alaball, JosepBackground: Observational studies reported worse COVID-19 evolution in relation to polypharmacy and reductions in COVID-19 hospital admissions and death in patients receiving chronic antihistamine treatment. The current profile of hospitalized patients with regard to different variants was analyzed to identify specific targets for future prospective trials. Methods: COVID-19 admissions to the Hospital of Terrassa (11 March 2020–28 August 2024 (n = 1457), from the integral Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa population (n = 167,386 people) were studied. Age, gender, the number of chronic treatments (nT), and immunization status were analyzed. Results: After 5 May 2023, 291 patients (54% females) required COVID hospitalization. Of these, 39% received >8 nT (23% receiving 5–7 nT), 70.2% were >70 years, and 93.4% survived. In total, 12% of patients admitted after 5 May 2024 were not vaccinated, while 59% received ≥4 vaccines (43% within the last 12 months). In total, 49% of admitted patients presented no previous infection (while 3% presented infection during the last year). Delta or Omicron variants would have accounted for ≥80% of admissions > 60 years compared to the first pandemic wave if no vaccines existed. Conclusions: Patients > 70 years who receive ≥5 nT, without prior COVID-19 infections, should be the priority for prevention, with updated vaccination and early treatments to reduce hospitalizations.Article
Expression of Myosin Heavy Chain Isoform mRNA Transcripts in the Masseter and Medial Pterygoid Muscles(Sociedad Chilena de Anatomía, 2021-10-01) Ciurana, Neus; Artells i Prats, Rosa; Casado, Aroa; Potau Ginés, Josep MariaBoth the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles elevate the mandible, raising the lower jaw by acting simultaneously on the lateral and medial surfaces of the mandibular ramus. Nevertheless, electromyographic studies indicate that these muscles, as well as the superficial and deep heads of the masseter, act in a different way during mastication. We have analyzed by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) the expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms in the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles in humans in order to identify possible differences in the expression patterns that may be related to functional differences identified with electromyography. Our findings indicate that the expression pattern of MHC isoforms in the two muscles is characteristic of fast and powerful phasic muscles. We have also observed a high percentage of expression of the MHC-IIx isoform and the expression of the MHC-M isoform at the mRNA level in both muscles, an isoform that does not translate into protein in the masticatory muscles of humans. The high percentage of expression of the MHC-IIx isoform in humans can be related to a high contractile speed of the masseter and medial pterygoid in humans. On the other hand, the low percentage of expression of the MHC-M isoform at the mRNA level in both muscles can be related to the complex evolutionary process that has reduced the size and force of the masticatory muscles in humans.Article
The Transverse Process as a Landmark for Estimating Dural SacDepth and Feasible Planes for Optimized ParamedianNeedle Insertions(MDPI, 2025-11-21) Puigdellívol Sánchez, Anna; Labandeyra, Hipólito; Prats Galino, Alberto; Sala-Blanch, XavierBackground: The skin-to-transverse process distance (st) correlates with the skin-to-dural sac depth (d) and may be used to estimate optimal angles for perpendicular needle insertion using the formula inverse cosine d/√(1 + d2), as outlined in free visual guides. Objective: We aimed to analyze the relationship between the transverse process and dural sac depth at lumbar levels relevant to spinal anesthesia and to determine the range of planes where perpendicular paramedian needle insertion is feasible when midline access is not viable. Methods: Ten ex vivo trunks were flexed using an abdominal support, and CT scans were performed. Correlations between the transverse process and dural sac depth were evaluated from L3 to S1. Perpendicular planes at the level of needle paths were examined at L3-L4 and L4-L5. Median path viability was assessed. Results: The transverse process aligned with the dorsal dural sac at L3, the posterior third at L4, and the middle zone at L5 or S1. Median needle insertion was not viable in 20-30% of L4-L5 and L3-L4 levels, respectively. However, paramedian access was possible. The vertical range of viable paramedian planes was 8.7 ± 2.9 mm (L4-L5) and 7.9 ± 1.9 mm (L3-L4). Coronal reconstructions showed that the upper level of the transverse process correlates with the skin-perpendicular planes where insertion is likely to succeed. Conclusion: Many elderly spines lack viable midline paths. The superior aspect of the transverse process serves as a useful landmark for estimating dural sac depth, calculating paramedian angles, and identifying the plane for successful perpendicular needle insertion.Article
The tongue in three species of lemurs: flower and nectar feeding adaptations.(MDPI, 2021-09-27) Pastor, Juan Francisco; Muchlinski, Magdalena Natali; Potau Ginés, Josep Maria; Casado, Aroa; García-Mesa, Yolanda; Vega, José Antonio; Cabo, RobertoThe mobility of the primate tongue allows for the manipulation of food, but, in addition, houses both general sensory afferents and special sensory end organs. Taste buds can be found across the tongue, but the ones found within the fungiform papillae on the anterior two thirds of the tongue are the first gustatory structures to come into contact with food, and are critical in making food ingestion decisions. Comparative studies of both the macro and micro anatomy in primates are sparse and incomplete, yet there is evidence that gustatory adaptation exists in several primate taxa. One is the distally feathered tongues observed in non-destructive nectar feeders, such as Eulemur rubriventer. We compare both the macro and micro anatomy of three lemurid species who died of natural causes in captivity. We included the following two non-destructive nectar feeders: Varecia variegata and Eulemur macaco, and the following destructive flower feeder: Lemur catta. Strepsirrhines and tarsiers are unique among primates, because they possess a sublingua, which is an anatomical structure that is located below the tongue. We include a microanatomical description of both the tongue and sublingua, which were accomplished using hematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome stains, and scanning electron microscopy. We found differences in the size, shape, and distribution of fungiform papillae, and differences in the morphology of conical papillae surrounding the circumvallate ones in all three species. Most notably, large distinct papillae were present at the tip of the tongue in nectar-feeding species. In addition, histological images of the ventro-apical portion of the tongue displayed that it houses an encapsulated structure, but only in Lemur catta case such structure presents cartilage inside. The presence of an encapsulated structure, coupled with the shared morphological traits associated with the sublingua and the tongue tip in Varecia variegata and Eulemur macaco, point to possible feeding adaptations that facilitate non-destructive flower feeding in these two lemurids.Article
Clinical characterization, transmissibility, and seroconversion of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children (before the start of vaccination) in the Barcelona Metropolitan Region (Spain)(Georg Thieme Verlag, 2024-07-22) Pons Tomàs, Gemma; Hernández-García, M.; Melé Casas, Maria; de Sevilla, Mariona F.; Launes Montaña, Cristian; Girona Alarcón, Mònica; Ríos Barnés, Maria; Bassat Orellana, Quique; Ajanovic, Sara; Cubells, Marta; Claverol, Joana; Penela Sánchez, Daniel; Jou, Cristina; Monsonís, Manuel; Esteva, Cristina; Fassanella, Assumpta; Cuadras, Daniel; Muñoz-Almagro, Carmen; Jordán García, Iolanda; Fortuny Guasch, Claudia; García García, Juan José; Fumadó, VictoriaObjective: Analyzing the clinical and microbiological characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in children seems essential to determine their role in the etiopathogenesis of the disease. Methods A prospective, longitudinal, and observational study, including children with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection, in the Barcelona Metropolitan Region (Spain), was performed. The recruitment pathways were: (1) children who attended a summer school and were included in an active surveillance study and (2) children who were visited in the Emergency Department of Hospital Sant Joan de Déu with symptoms. Close contacts with positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results were also included. The children recruited were followed up for 5 weeks. Evaluation of participants included a questionnaire for COVID-19 symptoms, nasopharyngeal swabbing for real-time PCR at 0, 7, and 14 days (weekly repeated up to week 5 if it resulted positive at 14 days), and serology testing at the recruitment and at the fifth week of follow-up. Results: A total of 90 children were recruited, of which 32% were asymptomatic. Transmission was studied in 70/90 children, and in 12 cases (17%), transmission to other children or adults was observed. No clinical or epidemiological differences were found between children who transmitted and those who did not. At the end of the follow-up, 11% of nasopharyngeal PCR remained positive. The serological response was studied in 73/90 children, and 80.82% of children seroconverted. Conclusion: No differences in epidemiological characteristics were found between children who transmitted and those who did not. PCR can be persistently positive for more than 5 weeks. The majority of patients who suffer from the disease produce antibodies against it.Article
Quantitative shape analysis of the deltoid tuberosity of modern humans (Homo sapiens) and common chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)(Elsevier, 2020-07-01) Gomez Martinez, Monica; Casado, Aroa; de Diego, Marina; Arias Martorell, Júlia; Pastor, Juan Francisco; Potau Ginés, Josep MariaPurpose To identify anatomical differences in the deltoid tuberosity of Homo sapiens and Pan troglodytes, potentially relating to the different uses of the forelimb in these two phylogenetically related species. Basic procedures We have used three-dimensional geometric morphometrics (3D GM) to analyze the deltoid tuberosity of scanned humeri from 30 H. sapiens and 27 P. troglodytes. We also used the 3D scans of the humeri to calculate the surface area of the deltoid tuberosity. Finally, we dissected the deltoid muscles of three H. sapiens and three P. troglodytes to determine the relative mass and the physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) of each part of the muscle. Main findings The 3D GM analysis of the deltoid tuberosity identified an anteroposterior enlargement of the P. troglodytes tuberosity, with a lateral displacement of the middle segment, whereas in H. sapiens, there was a distal displacement of the middle segment. Muscle architecture analysis indicated higher normalized values of the PCSA of the clavicular and acromial deltoid in P. troglodytes. Principal conclusions The anatomical features observed in our P. troglodytes specimens serve to strengthen the three parts of the deltoid muscle. This fact can be related to the use of the forelimb in locomotion, both arboreal and knuckle-walking, in this species. Humans use the forelimb mainly in manipulative tasks, so they do not develop – as do chimpanzees – the anatomical features that increase the deltoid force. Our findings have shown that the different uses of the forelimb in modern humans and common chimpanzees can affect both muscle architecture and bone morphology, either jointly or separately.Article
Structural and molecular analysis of elbow flexor muscles in modern humans and common chimpanzees(Springer Verlag, 2020-03-18) de Diego, Marina; Casado, Aroa; Gomez Martinez, Monica; Martín, Joshua; Pastor, Juan Francisco; Potau Ginés, Josep MariaIn the present study we calculated the muscle fascicle length (MFL) and the physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) in the elbow flexor muscles of five Homo sapiens and five Pan troglodytes. We also assessed the expression of the myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in the same muscles and, finally, we analyzed the muscle insertion sites in the proximal epiphyses of the ulna and the radius with 3D geometric morphometrics. Our main objective is to identify quantitative differences in the elbow flexor muscles of Homo sapiens and Pan troglodytes in terms of muscle architecture, expression of MyHC isoforms, and bone insertion sites and to explore the association of these differences with the types of locomotion developed by these two species of hominoid primates. We observed that the elbow flexor muscles had a greater PCSA and a higher expression of the fast MyHC-II isoforms in Pan troglodytes, while they had a greater MFL and a higher expression of the slow MyHC-I isoform in Homo sapiens. The insertion site of the brachialis was larger in Pan troglodytes, while that of the biceps brachii was larger in Homo sapiens. Our findings may be related to the greater capacity of force generation in the elbow flexor muscles of Pan troglodytes, as an adaptation to vertical climbing, and to the greater contraction speed and resistance to fatigue of the muscles in Homo sapiens, as an adaptation to the manipulative function of the upper extremities.Article
The sublingua of Lemur catta and Varecia variegata: only a cleaning function?(MDPI, 2025-01-20) Pastor, Juan Fancisco; Muchlinski, Magdalena Natalia; Potau Ginés, Josep Maria; Casado, Aroa; García-Mesa, Yolanda; Vega, José Antonio; Cabo, RobertoThe sublingua is an anatomical structure located under the tongue. This rare organ can be present in some animals as a rudimentary structure, but among prosimian primates, such as lemurs and lorises, it is fully developed. In addition to the sublingua, prosimians have modified lower incisors and canines called "dental comb". The anatomy of sublingua has been studied macro and microanatomically since the early 19th century. Most authors argue that the sublingua is an oral morphological adaptation to develop a toothbrush's role in cleaning the dental comb. However, others assert that the functional role has yet to be established. Comparative studies of macro and microanatomy are scarce or incomplete for primates; thus, the putative function remains unclear. To better understand the functional significance of the sublingua, we studied this structure in Lemur catta and Varecia variegata specimens using histochemical staining techniques and scanning electron microscopy with microanalysis. The new data obtained provide a fuller picture of the role assigned to sublingua so far, which could be more complex. In light of the morphological findings, we should consider additional roles/functions of the sublingua, including but not limited to food processing, grooming or social behavior.Article
Inferences about fossil hominin locomotion through 3D morphometric analysis of wrist ligament insertion sites(Nature Publishing Group, 2025-11-27) Casado, Aroa; Martínez-Liria, Xavier; San Millán Alonso, Marta; Menés, Laura; Ciurana, Neus; García-Cuesta, Marcel; Rodríguez Corbera, Paula; Pastor, Francisco; Cabo, Roberto; Potau Ginés, Josep MariaUnderstanding the evolution of wrist anatomy in fossil hominins is essential for reconstructing their locomotor behavior and manipulative capabilities. Traditionally, most studies have focused on bone morphology, overlooking the informative potential of soft tissue attachment sites. In this study, we introduce a novel approach based on the three-dimensional geometric morphometric analysis of ligament insertion sites on the distal radial epiphysis. We analyzed a comparative sample including fossil hominins-Australopithecus afarensis, Australopithecus anamensis, Australopithecus sediba, Paranthropus robustus, Homo neanderthalensis, and archaic Homo sapiens-as well as extant hominoids: Homo sapiens, Pan troglodytes, Gorilla gorilla and Pongo pygmaeus. The results show marked interspecies differences in the size, orientation, and position of specific ligament insertions, reflecting divergent functional adaptations. Notably, the morphology of these insertions aligns with known behavioral and locomotor patterns described for these species, highlighting the reliability of ligament morphology as a proxy for inferring habitual activity in extinct taxa. This research expands the methodological toolkit available for paleoanthropology and emphasizes the relevance of soft-tissue-related structures in understanding hominin evolution beyond bone morphology alone.Article
Non-Pharmacological Interventions During SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Effects on Pediatric Viral Respiratory Infections.(Elsevier, 2024-05-28) Armero, Georgina; Guitart, Carmina; Soler García, Aleix; Melé Casas, Maria; Esteva, Cristina; Brotons, Pedro; Muñoz Almagro, Carmen; Jordán García, Iolanda; Launes Montaña, CristianIntroduction Viral lower respiratory tract infections frequently cause morbidity and mortality in children. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic led to isolation and hygiene measures, resulting in decreased respiratory virus transmission and pediatric admissions. This study aimed to assess the impact of these measures and their uplifting on respiratory virus circulation in children before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (January 2017-December 2022). Methods We conducted a weekly time series analysis of multiple virus molecular assays in children. This included those admitted to a university reference hospital's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and those with risk pathologies exhibiting fever and/or respiratory symptoms. We included patients aged 0-18 years residing in Catalonia and adjusted the positive results to account for diagnostic effort. Results We performed a total of 2991 respiratory virus tests during the period. Confinement significantly decreased the detection of all viruses, especially Rhinovirus (RV). After the deconfinement of children, the viral detection trend remained stable for all viruses, with no short-term impact on virus transmission. The mandatory implementation of facemasks in those aged ≥6 years led to decreased viral circulation, but we observed an influenza virus rebound after facemask removal. At that time, we also noticed an interrupted drop in the detection rates of RV and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The reopening of schools led to a progressive increase in viral detections, especially of Rhinovirus. Conclusion Non-pharmacological interventions significantly impact the circulation of respiratory viruses among children. We observed these effects even when some measures did not specifically target preschool-aged children.Article
Attitudes toward uterus transplantation. An option for motherhood?(Munksgaard, 2024-05-22) Rius, Mariona; Camacho, Marta; Tomás, Nerea; Díaz Feijoo, Berta; Castelo-Branco Flores, Camil; Borrás Capó, Aina; Tort, Jaume; Carmona Herrera, FranciscoIntroduction: Uterus transplantation is a novel surgical procedure that allows women with absolute uterine factor infertility to carry a pregnancy and give birth. While previous studies have explored the attitudes of women with absolute uterine factor infertility toward uterus transplantation, none have surveyed and compare their views with other groups of interest (Morris syndrome women, relatives of Morris syndrome and Rokitansky syndrome women, infertile women and women of childbearing age) in the same sociocultural setting. The objective of this study was to evaluate attitudes and insights regarding uterus transplantation among women with Rokitansky syndrome and other groups of interest.Material and Methods: We designed a cross-sectional study including five groups of women: women with Rokitansky syndrome, women with Morris syndrome, relatives of women with Morris and Rokitansky syndrome, infertile women, and childbearing-agewomen. We conducted an online survey through the REDCap platform. The link was distributed by mail, telephone and in hospital outpatient visits. Baseline demographic information was assessed and information regarding motherhood preferences, attitude toward uterus transplantation, preferred uterus graft and perception of risk of the procedure was collected.Results: We obtained a total of 200 responses, with a mean participant age of 34.5 years (±9.8). Overall, 17.5% (n = 35) were women with Rokitansky syndrome, 5.5% (n = 11) Morris syndrome women, 21.5% (n = 43) infertile women, 26.5% (n = 53)relatives of Morris and Rokitansky syndrome women and 29% (n = 58) childbearing-age women. 71.5% of women with Rokitansky syndrome would undergo uterus transplantations ahead of adoption and surrogacy with no statistically significant differences found between groups. Overall, more than one-half (58%) would prefer deceased over living donor.Article
Mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention during pregnancy changes maternal brain(Nature Publishing Group, 2025-07-01) Gomez, Yvan; Nakaki, Ayako; Conti, Allegra; Castro-Barquero, Sara; Gambosi, Benedetta; Casas, Irene; Genero, Mariona; Youssef, Lina; Benítez, Leticia; Encabo, Noelia; Casas Rodríguez, Rosa M.; Martín Asuero, Andrés; Oller Guzmán, Teresa; Morilla, Ivette; Martínez-Arán, Anabel, 1971-; Bargalló Alabart, Núria; Toschi, Nicola; Estruch Riba, Ramon; Vieta i Pascual, Eduard, 1963-; Crispi Brillas, Fàtima; Gratacós Solsona, Eduard; Crovetto, FrancescaOur aim is to evaluate the effect of a structured stress reduction intervention based on mindfulness during pregnancy on the maternal brain. We report a secondary analysis of IMPACT BCN, a randomized clinical trial including pregnant women randomly allocated to 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (n = 41) or usual care (without any intervention, n = 35). Maternal magnetic resonance (MR) was performed in the third trimester, cluster-wise analysis was used to assess cortical morphometric differences, and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) to evaluate the metabolic characteristics. Mindfulness status was evaluated using the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Results showed that participants from Stress reduction group had significantly larger surface areas in the right superior frontal region as compared to the Usual care group (90%CI: 0.023-0.029, p = 0.03). The1H-MRS revealed that Stress reduction group participants, had higher concentrations of myo-inositol (adjusted mean difference D 0.37 mol/L, 95%CI 0.05-0.69) as compared to Usual care. Participants who had high mindfulness on FFMQ facets of non-judgmental (D 358.5 mm2, 95%CI 53.5-663.6) and non-reactivity (D 362.3 mm2, 95%CI 18.8-705.7) had larger right superior frontal area. In conclusion, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program during pregnancy has a significant effect on maternal brain structure and is associated with metabolite concentration changes.Article
Machine Learning Algorithms in Controlled Donation After Circulatory Death Under Normothermic Regional Perfusion: A Graft Survival Prediction Model(Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2025-07) Calleja Lozano, Rafael; Rivera Gavilán, Marcos; Guijo Rubio, David; Hessheimer, Amelia Judith; Rosa, Gloria de la; Gastaca, Mikel; Otero Ferreiro, Alejandra; Ramírez Romero, Pablo; Boscà Robledo, Andrea; Santoyo, Julio; Marín Gómez, Luís Miguel; Villar del Moral, Jesús; Fundora, Yilian; Lladó Garriga, Laura; Loinaz, Carmelo; Jiménez Garrido, Manuel; Rodríguez Laíz, Gonzalo; López Baena, José Ángel; Charco, Ramón; Varo, Evaristo; Rotellar Sastre, Fernando; Alonso, Ayaya; Rodríguez Sanjuan, Juan Carlos; Blanco-Fernández, Gerardo; Nuño, Javier; Pacheco Sánchez, David; Coll, Elisabeth; Domínguez Gil, Beatriz; Fondevila Campo, Constantino; Ayllón, María Dolors; Durán Martínez, Manuel; Ciria, Rubén; Gutiérrez, Pedro Antonio; Gómez Orellana, Antonio; Hervás Martínez, Cesar; Briceño, JavierBackground. Several scores have been developed to stratify the risk of graft loss in controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD). However, their performance is unsatisfactory in the Spanish population, where most cDCD livers are recovered using normothermic regional perfusion (NRP). Consequently, we explored the role of different machine learning-based classifiers as predictive models for graft survival. A risk stratification score integrated with the model of end-stage liver disease score in a donor-recipient (D-R) matching system was developed. Methods. This retrospective multicenter cohort study used 539 D-R pairs of cDCD livers recovered with NRP, including 20 donor, recipient, and NRP variables. The following machine learning-based classifiers were evaluated: logistic regression, ridge classifier, support vector classifier, multilayer perceptron, and random forest. The endpoints were the 3- and 12-mo graft survival rates. A 3- and 12-mo risk score was developed using the best model obtained. Results. Logistic regression yielded the best performance at 3 mo (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.82) and 12 mo (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.83). A D-R matching system was proposed on the basis of the current model of end-stage liver disease score and cDCD-NRP risk score. Conclusions. The satisfactory performance of the proposed score within the study population suggests a significant potential to support liver allocation in cDCD-NRP grafts. External validation is challenging, but this methodology may be explored in other regions.