First report of mixed Trypanosoma cruzi discrete typing units infection in Triatoma phyllosoma in the peri-urban environment of Oaxaca, Mexico

ABSTRACT Background: Chagas disease, a zoonosis transmitted mainly by hematophagous insects of the subfamily Triatominae, is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, classified into six discrete typing units (DTUs: TcI-TcVI and Tcbat). Methods: Insect vectors were collected from 84 human dwellings in the municipality of Santo Domingo Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico; 4.76% were infested. DTUs were determined using conventional and nested PCR. Results: The infection rate was 43.6%. All insects were infected with TcI while one specimen showed mixed infection with TcII. Conclusions: This is the first report of T. cruzi mixed infection in Triatoma phyllosoma, its main vector in the study region.

A new species of Characidium (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) from the rio Doce basin, Brazil

A new species of Characidium is described from the tributaries of the upper and middle rio Doce basin, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from most congeners, except C. cricarense, C. hasemani, C. helmeri, C. kalunga, C. pterostictum, C. schubarti, C. summus, and C. travassosi by lacking scales in the area between the anterior limit of the isthmus and the anterior margin of cleithrum. The new species differs from the aforementioned species by a series of characters, including the presence of the adipose fin, 2­-4 scales between the anus and anal fin, two rows of dentary teeth, presence of the parietal branch of the supraorbital canal, 4 scale rows above the lateral line, and absence of two conspicuous inclined dark bands on each caudal-fin lobe. The new species further differs from most congeners with an unscaled ventral surface of the isthmus by the presence of 33-34 pored scales on the lateral line and by the dark dashes on the caudal fin-rays not forming well-defined bands.(AU)

Uma nova espécie de Characidium é descrita de afluentes do alto e médio curso da bacia do rio Doce, Minas Gerais, Brasil. A nova espécie se distingue da maioria das congêneres, exceto C. cricarense, C. hasemani, C. helmeri, C. kalunga, C. pterostictum, C. schubarti, C. summus e C. travassosi pela falta de escamas na área entre o limite anterior do istmo e a margem anterior do cleitro. A nova espécie difere das espécies acima mencionadas por uma série de caracteres, incluindo a presença de nadadeira adiposa, 2-4 escamas entre o ânus e a nadadeira anal, duas séries de dentes no dentário, ramo parietal do canal supraorbital presente, 4 séries de escamas acima da linha lateral e ausência de duas bandas escuras inclinadas em cada lobo da nadadeira caudal. A nova espécie difere ainda mais da maioria das congêneres com superfície ventral sem escamas no istmo por ter 33-34 escamas perfuradas na linha lateral e traços escuros nos raios da nadadeira caudal não formando bandas bem definidas.(AU)

Capacidad de Penetración y Difusión de la Medicación, Intraconducto en Túbulos Dentinales, Conductos Laterales e Istmos. Una Revisión Sistemática

RESUMEN: El objetivo de la terapia endodóntica consiste en tratar o prevenir la periodontitis apical. La efectiva eliminación o disminución de microbiota es esencial para la reparación periapical. Debido a esto, se utiliza el empleo de medicamentos intraconductos para tratar químicamente el sistema de conductos radiculares, y cobra relevancia la capacidad de penetración y difusión de dicho medicamento para entrar en contacto directo con los microorganismos que penetren dentro de los túbulos dentinales, conductos laterales e itsmos. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura en bases de datos electrónicas con los buscadores "Pubmed, Scielo y Google Académico", utilizando palabras clave para identificar la literatura publicada relevante en inglés. El análisis y los criterios de elegibilidad se documentaron de acuerdo con los elementos de informe para revisiones sistemáticas y meta-análisis (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis, PRISMA). No se impusieron restricciones sobre la fecha de publicación. Se recogieron datos sobre capacidad de difusión de medicación intraconductos en túbulos dentinales, conductos laterales e itsmos radiculares y se sometieron a análisis descriptivo de datos. La búsqueda bibliográfica en bases de datos electrónicas según los criterios de inclusión arrojó 45 títulos y resúmenes. Entre ellos, 7 artículos fueron seleccionados. Se determinó un rango de penetración del medicamento muy variable, entre 27,7 - 2350 μm y rango de difusión de 200-500 μm. Hay pocos estudios publicados que reporten la capacidad de penetración y difusión de la medicación intraconductos. El vehículo empleado y diámetro de las partículas en la preparación del medicamento y la eliminación de la capa de desecho aumentaría la capacidad de penetración/difusión del medicamento intraconductos dentro del túbulo dentinal, conductos laterales e itsmo.

ABSTRACT: The objective of endodontic therapy is to treat or prevent apical periodontitis. The effective elimination or reduction of the microbiota is essential for periapical repair. Due to this, the use of intracanal drugs is used to chemically treat the root canal system, and the penetration and diffusion capacity of said drug becomes relevant to come into direct contact with the microorganisms that penetrate inside the dentinal tubules, lateral canals and isthmus. A literature review was carried out in electronic databases with the search engines "Pubmed, Scielo and Google Academic", using keywords to identify the relevant published literature in English. The analysis and eligibility criteria were documented according to the reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyzes (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis, PRISMA). No restrictions were placed on the date of publication. Data on intracanal drug diffusion capacity in dentinal tubules, lateral canals and root isthmus were collected and subjected to descriptive data analysis. The bibliographic search in electronic databases according to the inclusion criteria yielded 45 titles and abstracts. Among them, 7 articles were selected. A highly variable drug penetration range was determined, between 27.7 - 2350 μm and a diffusion range of 200-500 μm. There are few published studies that report the penetration and diffusion capacity of intracanal medication. The vehicle used and the diameter of the particles in the preparation of the drug and the elimination of the waste layer would increase the penetration / diffusion capacity of the drug within the dentinal tubule, lateral canals and isthmus.

Risco de Fibrilação Atrial após Ablação de Flutter Dependente de Istmo Cavo-Tricuspídeo: Vale a Pena Fazer a Ablação da FA Simultaneamente? / Risk of Atrial Fibrillation after Ablation of Cavotricuspid Isthmus-Dependent Atrial Flutter: Is Combined Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation Worthwhile?

Resumo Fundamento A ablação da fibrilação atrial (FA) e do flutter atrial dependente de istmo cavo-tricuspídeo (FLA-ICT) pode ser realizada simultaneamente quando as duas arritmias tenham sido registradas antes do procedimento. Entretanto, a melhor abordagem não é clara quando pacientes com FLA-ICT são encaminhados para ablação sem o registro prévio de FA. Objetivos Avaliar a prevalência e identificar os preditores de ocorrência do primeiro episódio de FA após ablação de FLA-ICT em pacientes sem o registro prévio de FA. Métodos Coorte retrospectiva de pacientes submetidos exclusivamente a ablação por cateter para FLA-ICT, sem registro prévio de FA. As características clínicas foram comparadas entre os grupos em que houve ocorrência de FA pós-ablação de FLA-ICT vs. sem ocorrência de FA. O nível de significância estatística adotado foi de 5%. Na análise de preditores, o desfecho primário avaliado foi ocorrência de FA após ablação de FLA-ICT. Resultados De um total de 227 pacientes submetidos a ablação de FLA-ICT (110 com registro de FA e 33 sem seguimento adequado), 84 pacientes foram incluídos, dos quais 45 (53,6%) apresentaram FA pós-ablação. Não houve variáveis preditoras de ocorrência de FA. Os escores HATCH e CHA2DS2-VASC foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. As taxas de recorrência de FLA-ICT e complicações após a ablação foram de 11,5% e 1,2%, respectivamente. Conclusões A ablação de FLA-ICT é eficaz e segura, mas 50% dos pacientes desenvolvem FA após ablação. Entretanto, ainda é incerto o papel da ablação combinada (FLA-ICT e FA) visando prevenção da ocorrência de FA. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Simultaneous ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) and cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter can be performed when both arrythmias had been recorded before the procedure. However, the best approach has not been defined in case of patients referred for ablation with CTI-dependent atrial flutter, without history of AF. Objectives To assess the prevalence and to identify predictors of the first episode of AF after ablation of CTI-dependent atrial flutter in patients without history of AF. Methods Retrospective cohort of patients with CTI-dependent atrial flutter without history of AF undergoing catheter ablation. Clinical characteristics were compared between patients who developed AF and those who did not have AF after the procedure. Significance level was set at 5%. In the analysis of predicting factors, the primary outcome was occurrence of AF after CTI-dependent atrial flutter ablation. Results Of a total of 227 patients undergoing ablation of CTI-dependent atrial flutter (110 with history of AF and 33 without adequate follow-up), 84 were included, and 45 (53.6%) developed post-ablation AF. The HATCH and CHA2DS2-VASC scores were not different between the groups. Recurrence rate of CTI-dependent atrial flutter and complication rate were 11.5% and 1.2%, respectively, after ablation. Conclusions Although ablation of CTI-dependent atrial flutter is a safe and effective procedure, 50% of the patients developed AF after the procedure. However, the role of combined ablation (CTI-dependent atrial flutter plus AF) aiming at preventing AF is still uncertain. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Aortic isthmus doppler velocimetry in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction: A literature review / Dopplervelocimetria do istmo aórtico em fetos com crescimento intrauterino restrito: Uma revisão da literatura

Abstract Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with poor perinatal prognosis and a higher risk of stillbirth, neonatal death, and cerebral palsy. Its detection and the evaluation of its severity by new Doppler velocimetric parameters, such as aortic isthmus (AoI), are of great relevance for obstetrical practice. The AoI is a vascular segment that represents a point of communication between the right and left fetal circulations. It is considered to be a functional arterial shunt that reflects the relationship between the systemic and cerebral impedances, and has recently been proposed as a tool to detect the status of hemodynamic balance and prognosis of IUGR in fetuses. In the present review, we noticed that in healthy fetuses, the AoI net flow is always antegrade, but in fetuses with IUGR the deterioration of placental function leads to progressive reduction in its flow until it becomes mostly retrograde; this point is associated with a drastic reduction in oxygen delivery to the brain. The more impaired the AoI flow is, the greater is the risk of impairment in the Doppler velocimetry of other vessels; and the alterations of the AoI Doppler seem to precede other indicators of severe hypoxemia. Although there seems to be an association between the presence of retrograde flow in the AoI and the risk of long-term neurologic disability, its role in the prediction of perinatal morbi-mortality remains unclear. The AoI Doppler seems to be a promising tool in the management of fetuses with IUGR, but more studies are needed to investigate its employment in clinical practice.

Resumo O crescimento intrauterino restrito (CIUR) está associado a um prognóstico perinatal adverso, com maior risco de óbito intrauterino e neonatal, bem como de paralisia cerebral. Assim, sua detecção e a determinação de sua gravidade por novos parâmetros Dopplervelocimétricos, como o istmo aórtico (IAo), são de fundamental importância na prática obstétrica. O IAo é um segmento vascular que representa um ponto de comunicação entre os sistemas circulatórios fetais esquerdo e direito. É considerado um shunt arterial funcional, capaz de refletir a relação entre as impedâncias dos circuitos cerebral e sistêmico, e foi proposto como uma ferramenta para detecção do status do equilíbrio hemodinâmico e do prognóstico de fetos com CIUR. Na presente revisão, observou-se que, em fetos saudáveis, o fluxo predominante no IAo é sempre anterógrado; mas em fetos com CIUR a deterioração do estágio de insuficiência placentária acarreta reduções progressivas no fluxo ístmico até este apresentar sentido predominantemente retrógrado e levar a uma drástica redução no aporte de oxigênio ao sistema nervoso central. Quanto mais alterado estiver o fluxo no IAo, maior a chance de haver alteração na Dopplervelocimetria de outros vasos; e as alterações no Doppler do IAo parecem preceder outros indicadores de hipoxemia severa. Embora o fluxo retrógrado no IAo pareça se correlacionar com maior risco de alteração no desenvolvimento neurológico a longo prazo, ainda não está claro o seu papel na predição de morbimortalidade perinatal. O Doppler do IAo parece ser um parâmetro promissor no manejo do CIUR; entretanto, mais estudos são necessários para avaliar seu emprego na prática clínica.

Incidencia y tipo de istmos en primeros molares permanentes humanos, evaluación in vitro / Incidence and type of isthmus in human permanent first molars, in vitro assessment

RESUMEN: El conocimiento de la complejidad anatómica del sistema radicular de conductos generada por conductos accesorios, deltas apicales e istmos, aumenta la probabilidad de éxito en el tratamiento endodóntico, dado que dichos sitios pueden ser un reservorio de microorganismos y materia orgánica que pueden limitar la acción de los instrumentos, las sustancias irrigantes y los medicamentos intraconducto. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la incidencia y el tipo de istmos presentes en los distintos segmentos de raíces mesio-vestibulares de molares superiores y mesiales de molares inferiores. Se recolectaron setenta y dos primeros molares extraídos, treinta y seis superiores y treinta y seis inferiores a los cuales se les tomó radiografías y se les estudiaron distintas variantes anatómicas como número de conductos, curvatura y configuración radicular; posteriormente se les eliminó la corona y las raíces mesio-vestibulares de superiores y mesiales de inferiores se incluyeron en resina epóxica y con un disco de diamante se hicieron cortes transversales en cada raíz dejando cinco secciones de un mm iniciando desde el extremo apical hasta el cervical, se tiñeron con cristal violeta y se analizó la presencia de istmos y su clasificación bajo microscopio estereoscópico. Los resultados mostraron una alta incidencia de istmos asociada a raices de configuración aplanada. Entre más cerca del ápice, más baja la incidencia de istmo tanto en las raices mesiovestibulares del primer molar superior como en las raices mesiales del primer molar inferior; la más alta incidencia de istmos se dio aproximadamente a siete mm del ápice y la clase de istmo más frecuentemente encontrada fue la clase II en ambos tipos de raíz.

SUMMARY: The profound knowledge of the root canal anatomical complexity generated by accessory canals, apical deltas and isthmuses, increases the likelihood of success in endodontic treatment, given that such sites may be a reservoir of microorganisms and organic matter that may limit the action of instruments, irrigant substances and intracanal medications. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence and type of isthmus in the various segments of mesio-buccal roots of first upper molars and mesial root of first lower molars. Seventy-two extracted first molars, thirty-six upper and thirty-six lower were radiographed and different anatomic variants such as number of canals, curvature and root configuration were studied. Later, mesio-buccal and mesial roots were cut and embedded in resin and sectioned with a diamond disc, five serial horizontal sections were made perpendicular to the root long axis. These were stained with crystal violet and examined under stereomicroscope in order to determine the presence of isthmuses and their classification. Results showed a high incidence of isthmus associated with roots of flattened configuration. The closer to the apex, the lower the incidence of isthmus observed in both in the upper and lower roots; the isthmus were most frequently found at 7 mm from the apex, the type of isthmus found more frequently was type II in both types of root.

Evaluación de la frecuencia, ubicación y tipos de itsmos en raíces mesiobucales de primeros molares maxilares: un estudio ex vivo / Evaluation of Isthmus frequency, location, and types in mesiobuccal roots of first maxillary molars: an ex vivo study

El objetivo fue describir la configuración interna del sistema canalicular de la raíz mesiobucal (MB) del primer molar maxilar, identificando el número de canales junto a la frecuencia, ubicación y tipos de itsmo a 1, 3 y 5 mm del ápice. Esta investigación fue aprobado por el comité de ética. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo ex vivo de corte transversal. Molares extraídos fueron limpiados, desinfectados y fijados en formalina al 10 %. Se identificó la raíz MB y se obtuvieron cortes transversales (3) a 1, 3 y 5 mm desde apical a coronal, identificadas como secciones A, B y C. Ciento cincuenta secciones fueron teñidas con azul de metileno y observadas bajo microscopio óptico, tanto en la superficie apical como coronal, y analizadas mediante el programa ImageJ. Se obtuvieron estadísticas descriptivas (media ± DE), y mediante las prueba ANOVA y chi-cuadrado de Pearson se compararon las secciones a diferentes niveles. Se observaron un total de 445 canales radiculares, 289 correspondieron a canales accesorios. El 41,6 % fueron canales mesiobucales secundarios (MB2) y 5,1 % un tercer canal accesorio. Se observaron con mayor frecuencia istmos Tipo I (48), seguidos de Tipo IV (26); los Tipos II, III y V no superaron el 15 %. De acuerdo con la prueba de chi-cuadrado de Pearson, existen diferencias significativas entre los tipos istmos y distancia del ápice (p> 0,001). La incidencia del Tipo I fue mayor cerca del ápice, con un descenso hacia los 3,0 mm. Se observó una compleja morfología del sistema canalicular apical en la raíz MB, que explica su baja tasa de éxito cuando son tratados con endodoncia. Las variaciones anatómicas, tales como MB2 o más canales accesorios e istmos deben ser considerados en la planificación y realización del tratamiento de endodoncia convencional o cirugía apical, con el fin de lograr procedimientos más exitosos. Se recomienda que las apicectomías se extiendan por lo menos a 3,3 mm del ápice.

The aim was to describe the internal configuration of the canalicular system of the mesiobuccal root (MB) of the maxillary first permanent molar, identifying the number of canals and isthmus frequency, location, and types at 1, 3 and 5 mm from the apex. This research was approved by the ethics committee. A descriptive ex vivo cross-sectional study was conducted. Extracted molars were cleaned, disinfected and fixed in 10% buffered formalin. The non-instrumented MB root was identified and 3 cross sections at 1, 3 and 5 mm from apical to coronal identified as A, B and C were obtained. 150 sections were stained with methylene blue and observed under microscope, in both apical and coronal surface using the ImageJ program. Descriptive statistics (Mean±SD) was obtained, and ANOVA and Pearson chi-square tests were used to compare the sections at different levels. A total of 445 root canals were observed, 289 corresponded to accessory canals. 41.6% were secondary mesiobuccal canal (MB2) and 5.1% a third accessory canal. The isthmus observed were Type I (48), followed by Type IV (26); Types II, III and V did not exceed 15%. According to the Pearson chi-square test, there are significant differences between the isthmus types and distance of the apex (p> 0.001). The incidence of Type I was greater near the apex, with a decline towards 3.0 mm. A complex morphology of the apical maxillary MB root system was found, and explains their low success rate when treated endodontically. Anatomical variations such as MB2, accessory canals and isthmus should be considered when planning and conducting endodontic treatment or apical surgery, in order to achieve more successful procedures. It is recommended that apicectomies extend at least 3.3 mm from the apex.

Causes and consequences of change rates in the habitat of the threatened tropical porcupine, Sphiggurus mexicanus (Rodentia: Erethizontidae) in Oaxaca, Mexico: implications for its conservation / Causas y consecuencias de las tasas de cambio en el hábitat del puerco espín tropical amenazado, Sphiggurus mexicanus (Rodentia: Erethizontidae), en Oaxaca, México: implicaciones para su conservación

Land use changes by human activities have been the main causes of habitats and wildlife population degradation. In the Tehuantepec Isthmus in Oaxaca, the tropical habitat of the porcupine Sphiggurus mexicanus has been subject to vegetation and land use changes, causing its reduction and fragmentation. In this study, we estimated vegetation cover and land use (δn) change rates and assessed habitat availability and potential corridors for possible porcupine movements to avoid its isolation. In the study area, the type of vegetation with the most change rate value was the savanna (δn=-2.9), transformed into induced grasslands. Additionally, we have observed the porcupine (since 2011) in semi-deciduous (δn=-0.87) and tropical dry (δn=-0.89) forests that have been transformed in temporal agriculture and mesquite and induced grasslands. The vegetation inhabited by the porcupine resulted in recording a total of 64 plant species (44 trees, nine vines, seven herbs, four shrubs), of which the vine Bunchosia lanceolata showed the highest importance value (41.85) followed by the trees Guazuma ulmifolia (22.71), Dalbergia glabra (18.05), and Enterolobium cyclocarpum (17.02). The habitat evaluation and potential corridor analysis showed that only 1 501.93ha could be considered as suitable habitats with optimum structural conditions (coverage, surface, and distances to transformed areas) to maintain viable populations of S. mexicanus, and 293.6ha as corridors. An increasing destruction of the porcupines’ habitat has been observed in the study area due to excessive logging, and actions for this species and its habitat conservation and management have to be taken urgently. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (4): 1481-1494. Epub 2014 December 01.

Los cambios de uso del suelo por actividades humanas, han sido de las principales causas de la degradación, reducción y fragmentación de los hábitats y poblaciones de fauna silvestre. En el Istmo de Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, el hábitat del puercoespín tropical Sphiggurus mexicanus, se encuentra sometido a cambios de cobertura vegetal y uso del suelo, que están causando la reducción y fragmentación de su hábitat. Debido a ello, estimamos las tasas de cambio de la cobertura vegetal y uso del suelo (δn), y evaluamos la disponibilidad del hábitat y de corredores vegetales potenciales para los posibles movimientos del puercoespín tropical y evitar su aislamiento. En el área de estudio el tipo de vegetación con mayor valor de tasa de cambio fue la sabana (δn=-2.9), transformado en pastizal inducido. Adicionalmente, observamos puercoespínes (desde 2011) en selva mediana subperennifolia (δn=-0.87) y selva baja caducifolia (δn=-0.89), los cuales han sido transformados en áreas de cultivo, selva baja espinosa y pastizal inducido. Caracterizamos la vegetación del hábitat del puercoespín, registrando un total de 64 especies vegetales (44 árboles, nueve bejucos, siete hierbas y cuatro arbustos), de los cuales, el bejuco Bunchosia lanceolata, presentó los valores más altos de importancia (41.85), seguidos por los árboles Guazuma ulmifolia (22.71), Dalbergia glabra (18.05), y Enterolobium cyclocarpum (17.02). El análisis de evaluación de hábitat y corredores potenciales mostró que solo 1 501.93ha pueden considerarse como hábitats adecuados con condiciones estructurales (de cobertura, superficie y distancias a áreas transformadas) para mantener poblaciones viables de S. mexicanus; y 293.6ha como corredores. La destrucción del hábitat del puerco espín en el área de estudio está incrementándose por la tala excesiva, por lo tanto, es prioritario emprender acciones para la conservación y manejo del taxón y su hábitat.

Respuesta ambiental en el Pacífico frente a la subducción de la dorsal asísmica de Cocos (Panamá y Costa Rica) / Environmental response in the Pacific to aseismic Cocos Ridge subduction (Panama and Costa Rica)

Environmental response in the Pacific to aseismic Cocos Ridge subduction (Panama and Costa Rica). The evolution of the marine communities along the Pacific coast of Central America, may have changed in response to the formation of the Isthmus of Panama. To evaluate the effect of the Aseismic Cocos Ridge (DAC) subduction on the marine benthic communities, we reconstructed benthic assemblages from Neogene fossiliferous formations in Burica and Nicoya peninsulas of Panama and Costa Rica. Paleoecological and paleoenvironmental conditions were reconstructed by comparing community structure from bulk fossil samples with dredge collections from modern Tropical American seas, using principal component analysis. Our results indicate that during the early Pliocene, before the closing of the Isthmus, some oceanic islands existed with moderate upwelling in the Burica region. After the closure, during the late Pliocene and early Pleistocene the collision of the DAC caused an uplift of the seafloor, where water depth of 2 300m became shallow waters of less than 40m depth. Meanwhile, upwelling intensified in the open ocean the uplift that had formed small islands in coastal areas of Burica, creating protected areas and limiting the upwelling effect that was given in open ocean. The subduction of the DAC continued until the islands were joined to the mainland and gradually disappeared, allowing the return of the upwelling. During the middle Pleistocene a second process of accelerated uplift ith speeds of 8m/1 000 years provoked again the elevation of the seafloor and later the elevation of the Talamanca Range. The new range formed a barrier that blocked the passage of the Trade winds, created new ecological conditions and optimized and allowed the growth of the best coral reefs in the coasts of the tropical Eastern Pacific (POT) between Panama and Costa Rica. Rev. Biol. Trop. 60 (2): 893-908. Epub 2012 June 01.

Con el fin de evaluar el efecto de la Subducción de la Dorsal Asísmica de Cocos (DAC) durante las etapas finales de la formación del Istmo. Realizamos muestreos con bultos en afloramientos fosilíferos en las penínsulas de Burica y Nicoya. Las condiciones paleoecológicas y paleoambientales fueron reconstruidas a partir de la comparación entre la estructura de las comunidades fósiles, con las comunidades modernas dragadas de los mares de Panamá, usando análisis de componentes principales. Los resultados indican que antes del cierre del Istmo, existieron islas oceánicas y un afloramiento moderado en Burica. Posterior al cierre, el choque de la DAC provocó la elevación del fondo marino y las aguas que se encontraban a 2 300m pasaron a 40m. El afloramiento se intensificaba en mar abierto pero la dorsal había formado islas en Burica que limitaban el efecto del afloramiento en la costa. La subducción de la DAC continuó y las islas se unieron gradualmente a tierra firme y desaparecieron, permitiendo el afloramiento. Durante el Pleistoceno medio un segundo proceso de levantamiento acelerado continuó elevando el fondo marino y formó la Cordillera de Talamanca. La cordillera creó una barrera que bloqueó el paso de los vientos Alisios y originó condiciones ecológicas y optimas que permiten el crecimiento de los mejores arrecifes de coral costeros del Pacífico oriental tropical (POT) entre Panamá y Costa Rica.

Embarazo ístmico y acretismo placentario: diagnóstico en I trimestre: caso clínico / Isthmic pregnancy and placental accretism: clinical case

The diagnosis of placenta accreta is oftenmade during the second half of pregnancy, usually associated with previous placenta. Here we present acase of pregnancy implantation in the uterine isthmus diagnosed during the 8th week of gestation. Among the ultrasound findings to highlight we found isthmic bulging by the gestational sac with fetal heartbeats, empty uterine cavity and cervical canal, absence ofmyometrium along the vesico-uterine septum and posterior signs of early placental accretism. At thirteen weeks dilated vessels and irregularly shaped lacunae with turbulent blood flow were seen in the placenta. Expectant management was made confirming accretism with placenta percreta involving the parametrium and respecting the bladder. Cesarean section with hysterectomy was made at 34th weeks in conjunction with interventional radiology (Vascular ballooning of the internal and common iliac arteries) with good maternal and perinatal outcomes. Pathology analysis confirmed prenatal findings.

El diagnóstico de acretismo placentario se realiza en la segunda mitad del embarazo, asociado frecuentemente a placenta previa. Presentamos uncaso clínico en el que se observó una implantación ístmica en la semana 8, destacando los signos de abombamiento ístmico global con saco gestacionaly embrión vivo, cavidad corporal uterina vacía, canal cervical vacío, ausencia de miometrio en tabique vesico-uterino y posteriormente signos sugerentes deacretismo en semana 13 con desarrollo de vasculatura subplacentaria y luego lagunas vasculares de flujo turbulento.Se hizo un manejo espectante confirmando durante la evolución signos de acretismo y percretismo miometrial, extenso desarrollo vascular en parametrios y sin invasión vesical. Fue interrumpida con semanas, por cesárea-histerectomía, optimizada con técnica radiológica intervencional (oclusiónvascular intraoperatoria en secuencia de arterias ilíacas internas e íliacas comunes) con buen resultado materno y perinatal. La anatomía patológica confirmó diagnósticos ultrasónicos.

Evaluación de la función cardiovascular en fetos con restricción de crecimiento / Cardiac function in fetus with growth restriction

Objective: To evaluate longitudinal changes in the cardiac function parameters in relation to the hemodynamic worsening in growth restricted (IUGR) fetuses. Methods: The cardiac function was serially studied in a cohort of 46 IUGR fetuses below 32 weeks of gestation by 2-D and Doppler ultrasound parameters. IUGR was defined as an estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile with a Doppler pulsatility index (PI) in the umbilical artery (UA) above 2 standard deviations of the mean. Longitudinal changes, perinatal deaths and survivors were evaluated. Results: All cardiac parameters were significantly different in IUGR fetuses. Aortic isthmus blood flow index (IFI) and Modified myocardial performance index (Mod-MPI) showed the clearest longitudinal changes and temporal deterioration. Conclusions: IFI and Mod-MPI showed consistent longitudinal changes in IUGR fetuses. These 2 markers could be added to the DV to evaluate the fetal deterioration and indicate the optimal time of delivery.

Objetivo: Evaluar cambios longitudinales de los parámetros de función cardíaca en relación al agravamiento hemodinámico en fetos con restricción del crecimiento intrauterino (RCIU). Métodos: La función cardíaca fue estudiada en una cohorte de 46 fetos RCIU con menos de 32 semanas de gestación con parámetros 2-D y ultrasonografía Doppler. Se definió RCIU como un peso fetal estimado bajo el percentil 10 asociado a un índice de pulsatilidad (IP) al Doppler de la arteria umbilical (AU) por debajo de dos desviaciones estándar del promedio. Se evaluaron cambios longitudinales, mortalidad y sobrevida perinatal. Resultados: Todos los parámetros tuvieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en fetos RCIU. El índice de velocidad de flujo del istmo aórtico (IFI) y el índice de función miocárdico modificado (IFM-mod) mostraron los más evidentes cambios longitudinales y deterioro en el tiempo. Conclusiones: El IFI y el IFM-mod mostraron consistentes cambios longitudinales en fetos RCIU. Estos dos marcadores podrían ser usados junto a la medición del ductus venoso para evaluar el deterioro fetal y la indicación óptima del momento del parto.

Producción de investigaciones científicas sobre agua potable y saneamiento publicadas e indexadas en línea en América Latina y el Caribe 1990-2006 / Production of scientific research on water and sanitation indexed and published online in Latin America and The Caribbean

Objetivo: analizar la producción científica sobre agua potable y saneamiento, aguas residuales y contaminación de cuerpos de agua, en América Latina y el Caribe, AL y C, y el Istmo Centroamericano, durante el período 1990-2006. Metodología: se recolectaron datos de investigaciones sobre agua potable, AP, y saneamiento, S, publicadas "en línea" en 8 bases de datos del ámbito interamericano y mundial. Estos resultados se compararon con las publicaciones presentadas en el XXX Congreso de Ingeniería Sanitaria, AIDIS, celebrado en Punta del Este, Uruguay, en noviembre del año 2006, con el propósito de evaluar la tendencia de la producción por país. Los datos se procesaron por número y tasas de publicaciones / 1.000.000 de habitantes en cada país. Resultados: los resultados indican que Brasil es el país con mayor cantidad de artículos científicos publicados en línea; sin embargo, al procesar los datos por tasas / 1.000.000, surgen Costa Rica y Chile, respectivamente, con tasas de 5,092 y 1,312 por millón de habitantes, ocupando Cuba el cuarto lugar con 0,442 y Brasil el quinto puesto con 0,355. El análisis comparativo con las presentaciones en el congreso de AIDIS, indica un comportamiento semejante a las publicaciones en línea, excepto Uruguay que, por ser país sede del Congreso, tuvo una gran participación en presentaciones. Conclusiones: se identificaron 133 artículos científicos en línea e indexados en un período de 16 años, de los cuales el 48 por ciento fueron producidos en Brasil, 16.5 por ciento en Costa Rica, 15.3 por ciento en Chile y el resto en Cuba, 3.8 por ciento, Venezuela, 4.5 por ciento, Colombia, 3.2 por ciento, Bolivia, 0.8 por ciento y Guatemala, 10.8 por ciento. Sin embargo, el cálculo de las tasas de producción científica en AP y S por 1.000.000 de habitantes, indican que Costa Rica y Chile son los países de mayor producción científica, con 5,092 y 1,312, respectivamente, superando a Brasil que obtuvo 0.365/1.000.000 habitantes.

Objective: To analyze the scientific research production regarding drinking water as well as environmental hygiene (by which, we refer to residual waters and contamination of bodies of water) in Latin America and the Caribbean as well as Central America, during theperiod comprised between the years 1990 and 2006. Methods: research data on drinking water and environmentalhygiene published online were collected on 8 databases which include the Latin American and also the global level. These results were compared with publications presented during the 30th. Congress on Sanitary Engineering which took place in Punta del Este, Uruguay in November, 2006. The purpose was toevaluate per country productivity. Data were processed according to gross numbers as well as publication ratesper 1,000,000 inhabitants per country.Results: we found that Brazil is the country with the greatest total number of articles published online; nevertheless, when rates per million people are calculated, the countries with the highest production areCosta Rica and Chile with rates of 5.092 and 1.312 per million respectively. Cuba occupies the next place with a rate of 0.442 and Brazil has a rate of 0.355 per million. When comparing the above data with the presentations in the 30th. Congress on Sanitary Engineering,the results follow a similar behavior except that since the host country was Uruguay, the latter country showed an important participation during the Congress. Conclusions:133 scientific articles published and indexed online for a 16-year period were identified.Of these, 48% were produced in Brazil, 16.5% in Costa Rica, 15.3% in Chile and the rest were from Cuba (3.8%),Venezuela (4.5%), Colombia (3.2%), Bolivia (0.8%) and Guatemala (10.8%). Our results show that the rates per million of scientific productivity in drinking water andenvironmental hygiene are highest in Costa Rica and Chile with rates of 5.092 and 1.312 respectively...