Caracterización clínica y tomográfica de pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19 / Clinical and tomographic characterization of patients hospitalized with COVID-19

OBJETIVO: Realizar una caracterización clínica y por imágenes a pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 y analizar si existen predictores de riesgo asociados con una mayor gravedad. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19, entre abril y julio de 2020. Se registraron datos demográficos, comorbilidades, exámenes de laboratorio, tipo de compromiso en tomografía computada (TC) de tórax, terapias recibidas y tipo de soporte respiratorio. En el análisis estadístico para identificar factores de riesgo se utilizó test χ2 de Pearson o test de Fisher para comparar variables categóricas y test de Mann-Whitney para comparar variables continuas. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 164 pacientes. La mediana de edad fue de 57 años (rango 21 a 89). 111 pacientes (68%) de género masculino y mediana de 7 días de síntomas previo al ingreso (rango 1 a 23). 68 pacientes (41%) tienen obesidad (significativamente mayor en pacientes < 60 años, p = 0,026), 56 (34%) hipertensión arterial (HTA) y 43 (26%) diabetes. El patrón predominante en la TC de ingreso fue de vidrio esmerilado (VE) con "crazy paving" (35%) y luego VE puro (28%). Como indicador de gravedad se tomó en cuenta el tipo de soporte ventilatorio requerido: 51 pacientes (31%) requieren soporte ventilatorio no invasivo (cánula nasal de alto flujo o VMNI) y 19 (11%) ventilación invasiva (VMI). Las variables predictoras de gravedad, estadísticamente significativas, fueron: HTA (p = 0,001), Diabetes Mellitus (p = 0,001) y Obesidad. (p = 0,002). CONCLUSIONES: Los pacientes hospitalizados por COVID 19 con mayor riesgo de evolución tórpida, del punto de vista respiratorio, fueron los pacientes obesos, hipertensos y diabéticos.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a clinical and imaging characterization in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and to analyze whether there are risk predictors associated with greater severity of the condition. METHOD: Observational, retrospective study. Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 were included between April and July 2020. Demographic data, comorbidities, laboratory tests, tomographic pattern in thorax tomography (TC), therapies received, and type of respiratory support were recorded. In the statistical analysis to identify risk factors, we used Pearson's χ2 test or Fisher's test to compare categorical variables and Mann-Whitney test to compare continuous variables. RESULTS: 164 patients were analyzed. Median age was 57 years (21 to 89). 111 patients (68%) were male and a median of 7 days of symptoms prior to admission (1 to 23). 68 patients (41%) have obesity (significantly higher in patients < 60 years, p = 0.026), 56 (34%) arterial hypertension (HT) and 43 (26%) with diabetes mellitus. The predominant pattern in the admission CT scan was ground glass opacity (GGO) with "crazy paving" (35%) and then pure GGO (28%). Type of ventilatory support required was considered as an indicator of severity. 51 patients (31%) require non-invasive ventilatory support (high-flow nasal cannula or NIMV) and 19 (11%) invasive ventilation (IMV). The statistically significant predictor variables of severity were HT (p = 0.001), Diabetes Mellitus (p = 0.001) and Obesity. (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Patients hospitalized for COVID 19 with the highest risk of respiratory torpid evolution were obese, hypertensive and diabetic patients

Características clínicas de los pacientes con apneas obstructivas del sueño: diferencias según género / Clinical features in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: differences by gender

INTRODUCCIÓN: El síndrome de apnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) es más prevalente en hombres, los estudios poblacionales muestran una relación de 2:1, sin embargo, en los estudios clínicos la frecuencia llega a ser de hasta de 6:1. Estas diferencias en el ambiente clínico puede ser consecuencia de variaciones en el reporte de síntomas en hombres comparados con mujeres. OBJETIVO: Evaluar las diferencias de género en la presentación clínica de apnea obstructiva de sueño. Pacientes: Estudio transversal de pacientes sometidos a una poligrafía respiratoria (PR) con sospecha clínica de SAHOS. Se recolectaron datos demográficos, antropométricos, comorbilidades y las variables de la PR. Se realizó estudio t de student, Mann-Whitney y chi-cuadrado según correspondiera. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 1.044 pacientes: edad promedio 53,2 ± 14 años, 76% hombres. Las mujeres con SAHOS poseen mayor IMC (32,2 ± 6,1 vs 30,8 ± 5,0; p=0,002) y edad (61,4 ± 12,2 vs 52,6 ± 13,9; p < 0,001), pero menor circunferencia de cuello (CC) (38,1 ± 3,6 vs 43,2 ± 3,3; p < 0,001), además, presentan menor IA/H y menor duración de las apneas. No hubo diferencias en los síntomas clásicos de apneas presenciada y somnolencia diurna, sin embargo, describen más frecuentemente insomnio, cefalea matinal, depresión y uso de fármacos hipnóticos. CONCLUSIONES: Las mujeres al momento del diagnóstico son de mayor edad y más obesas, aunque presentan una CC menor, presentan una enfermedad más leve, pero refieren más fatiga, cansancio, cefalea e insomnio. Debemos estar alerta en la presentación clínica diferente de las mujeres para mejorar la sospecha diagnóstica.

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more prevalent in men, population studies show a ratio of 2:1, however in clinical studies the frequency is as high as 6:1. These differences in the clinical setting may be a consequence of variations in the reporting of symptoms in men compared to women. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate gender differences between women and men with recent diagnosis of OSA. Patients: A cross-sectional, study of patients undergoing home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) with clinical suspicion of OSA. Demographic, anthropometric, comorbidities and HSAT variables were collected. We performed t student analysis, Mann-Whitney test or chi square test as appropriate. RESULTS: 1,044 patients were included: mean age 53.2 ± 14 years, 76% men. Women with OSA have a higher BMI (32.2 ± 6.1 vs 30.8 ± 5.0, p = 0.002), were older (61.4 ± 12.2 vs 52.6 ± 13.9, p <0.001), but have a lower neck circumference (NC) (38.1 ± 3.6 vs. 43.2 ± 3.3, p <0.001). The women presented lower AHI and shorter duration of apneas. Although the classic symptoms of apnea and daytime sleepiness showed no differences, women reported more frequently insomnia, morning headache, depression and use of hypnotic drugs. CONCLUSIONS:: Clinical differences between gender are present at time of diagnosis. Woman are older and more obese, although they have a lower NC. They have a milder disease, but they refer to be more tired, headache, insomnia and depression. We must be alert in the different clinical presentation of women to improve the diagnostic suspicion.

Cambios en índice de masa corporal en pacientes portadores de apnea del sueño a un año de tratamiento con dispositivo de presión de aire positiva continua (CPAP) / Changes in body mass index in sleep apnea patients with a year of continuous positive airway pressure treatment (CPAP)

Resumen El síndrome de apnea hipoapnea del sueño (SAHS), está asociado fuertemente a la obesidad. El objetivo de este estudio es determinar las variaciones en el índice de masa corporal (IMC) en pacientes portadores de SAHS luego de un año de tratamiento con CPAP. Resultados: 104 pacientes varones fueron incluidos en este estudio, las variables analizadas fueron: índice de apnea-hipopnea (IAH), índice de masa corporal (IMC) y cuestionario de somnolencia diurna Epworth. Respecto a los datos obtenidos de IMC, se encontró tras un año de tratamiento con CPAP un descenso significativo de esta variable (p < 0,001). En la escala de somnolencia también se obtuvo un descenso significativo. Discusión: La evidencia ha sugerido regularmente que a mayor peso corporal existirían también niveles más elevados de IAH, las mejoras en el IMC referidas en este estudio, resaltan la importancia del correcto tratamiento no solo en el control de los eventos respiratorios, sino que en la disminución del peso corporal.

Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) it is highly related to obesity. The main purpose of this study is to determine the variation between Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) and Body Mass Index (BMI) on sleep apnea patients after a year of CPAP treatment on the Linde Sleep Center. Results: 104 male patients were included in this study, the variables analyzed were; AHI, BMI, Epworth daytime somnolence. As for the data obtained from BMI, after one year of treatment with CPAP, the BMI showed a significant decrease (p < 0.001). In the daytime sleepiness scale, a significant decrease was also found between pre and post treatment values. Discussion: Evidence has consistently suggested that higher body weight would also have higher levels of AHI, and the improvements in BMI referred to in this study emphasize the importance of proper treatment not only in control of respiratory events, but in the reduction of body weight.

Diferencias clínicas en pacientes con apnea obstructiva del sueño de carácter postural / Clinical differences in positional obstructive sleep apnea patients

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) is the result of repetitive collapse of the upper airway during the sleep. There is a group of patients with a positional component; which is defined as a reduction of at least 50% in the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) from the supine to a lateral position. Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine positional OSA prevalence and compare clinical characteristics and polygraph recordings among this group of patients. Methods: Prospective study of polygraph recording of patients with suspect of OSA between 2009-2014. Demographic, anthropometric, comorbidities and polygraph recording data was collected. OSA was defined as AHI > 5 events per hour Results: From a total of 457 patients with OSA diagnose, 243 had a positional component (53%). Positional Sleep Apnea patients had mild AHI (p < 0.001), a lower neck circumference (p = 0.001), lower Body Mass Index (p = 0.003) and a lower presence of arterial hypertension (p = 0.001). The multivariable analysis confirmed that there is a lower probability in Positional OSA in patients with Severe AHI (OR 0,96: IC 0,94-0,97), with hypertension (0,54: IC 0,33-0,88) and males (OR 0,41: IC 0,21-0,81). Conclusions: Positional obstructive sleep apnea is a very frequent condition presented in 53% of OSA patients; these patients have often mild AHI, lower BMI, lower neck circumference, less hypertensive, and are usually females.

Introducción: El síndrome de apnea e hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) es producto de un colapso repetido a nivel de la vía aérea superior, durante el sueño. Existe un grupo de pacientes con SAHOS con componente postural, definida por una reducción del 50% o más en el índice de apnea hipopnea (IAH) de la posición supina a la lateral. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de SAHOS postural y comparar las características clínicas y de la poligrafía respiratoria (PR) de este grupo de pacientes. Metodología: Estudio prospectivo de PR entre 2009-2014, derivados a realización de estudio por sospecha clínica de SAHOS. Se recolectaron datos demográficos, antropométricos, comorbilidades y diferentes variables de la PR. Se definió presencia de SAHOS un IAH mayor de 5 eventos/h. Resultados: De un total de 457pacientes con diagnóstico de SAHOS, 243presentaban SAHOS postural (53%). Los pacientes con SAHOS postural eran más leves (p < 0,001), tenían una circunferencia cervical (p = 0,001) e índice de masa corporal (p = 0,003) menor y con menor frecuencia eran hipertensos (p = 0,001). El análisis multivariado confirmó menor probabilidad SAHOS postural en sujetos con IAH graves (OR 0,96: IC 0,94-0,97): hipertensos (0,54: IC 0,33-0,88) y de sexo masculino (OR 0,41: IC 0,21-0,81). Conclusiones: El SAHOS postural es una entidad muy frecuente que está presente en el 53% de los pacientes con SAHOS, estos sujetos tienden a presentar enfermedad más leve, tener un IMC y circunferencia cervical menor, menor frecuencia de hipertensión arterial y son preferentemente mujeres.

Hipoglicemia en el paciente diabético hospitalizado / Hypoglycemia in hospitalized diabetic patiens

Introduction: Hypoglycaemia occurs frequently in hospitalized diabetic patients and increases inpatient morbidity and mortality. In 60 percent of cases, it isn’t managed properly. The goal of this study was to determine prevalence, treatment, complications and length of hospital stay related to hypoglycaemia with local patients. Patients and Methods: This study was designed as a prospective series of cases with diabetic patients, hospitalized in internal medicine and surgical services. Results: 105 cases of hypoglycaemia presented in 47 patients, with a mean of 2,21 +/- 1,68 episodes per patient. 53,32 percent of hypoglycaemic episodes presented in surgical patients. The cause was not determined in 49,52 percent (n = 52) of the episodes, and 41,9 percent (n = 44) of them were asymptomatic. 59,57 percent (n = 28) of patients presented complications during their hospital stay, mainly infectious, with no difference between surgical and medical services. Median inpatient stay in the surgical service was of 28 days (RIQ 19-45), and of 16 days (RIQ 11-28) in the internal medicine service. Treatments were modified in 57,45 percent (n = 27)of patients after their first hypoglycaemic episode occurred, 17 in internal medicine service, and 10 in surgical service (p = 0,003). Conclusions: the majority of patients presented at least two hypoglycaemic events, and only in half of were treatments modified in order to prevent another episode, which is more that reported in literature, particularly in internal medicine service, where diabetologists work. Highlighting the large number of undetermined causes of hypoglycaemia, caused mainly by lack of registry, can lead to the creation of a registry form for these kinds of occurrences in order to successfully prevent more episodes and decrease inpatient stay and complications.

Malestar psicológico en familiares de pacientes con daño neurológico durante la fase subaguda de NeuroRehabilitación / Psychological distress in relatives of patients with neurological damage during the subacute phase of NeuroRehabilitation

Durante la última década la Neurorehabilitación ha comenzado a prestar mayor atención a las familias de personas que adquieren un daño neurológico. Este giro parece responder a un creciente número de estudios describiendo importantes niveles de malestar psicólogico en dichas familias y advirtiendo de su impacto en el proceso de rehabilitación. En Chile, lamentablemente, no contamos con estudios que exploren el estado emocional de familiares en ninguna de las etapas de rehabilitación, esto, a pesar de existir guías clínicas que sugieren el abordaje familiar como meta central. Dicha falta de información limita tanto la capacidad diagnóstica como interventiva de los equipos de rehabilitación. El objetivo de este artículo es describir, y comparar, el perfil de malestar psicológico en familiares de personas con lesión cerebral y medular en etapa subaguda de rehabilitación. Método. 89 familiares de personas con daño neurológico (Lesión Cerebral Adquirida = 50; Trauma Raquimedular = 39) respondieron el General Health Questionnaire-28 como medida de malestar psicológico. Este instrumento que se compone de cuatro subescalas: síntomas somáticos, ansiedad e insomnio, disfunción social y depresión grave. Resultados. En ambas poblaciones el puntaje total del GHQ-28 se observó por encima de los estándares poblacionales, sugiriendo niveles clínicos de malestar psicológico en 90 por ciento de la muestra. No se observaron diferencias entre ambas poblaciones en términos de puntaje total o puntaje de subescalas, sugiriendo similares perfiles de malestar psicólogico. Dicho perfil se caracterizó por altos niveles de ansiedad e insomnio, seguido en menor grado de síntomas somáticos...

During the last decade NeuroRehabilitation has begun to pay more attention to the families of people with neurological damage. This shift seems to respond to a growing number of studies describing significant levels of psychological distress in families, and warning professionals of its potential impact in the process of rehabilitation. In Chile, unfortunately, we have no studies that explore the emotional state of families in any stage of the rehabilitation process, this, despite the existence of clinical guidelines suggesting to address family needs as a central goal. This lack of information limits rehabilitation teams’ ability as well as their capacity to develop interventions. The aim of this article is to describe, and compare, the profile of psychological distress in relatives of people with brain damage and spinal cord injuries, during the sub-acute phase of rehabilitation. Method. 89 relatives of people with neurological damage (Acquired Brain Injury = 50; Spinal Cord Injury = 39) completed the General Health Questionnaire-28, a self-report measure of psychological distress. This instrument has four subscales, each of them screening for different types of symptoms: somatic, anxiety/insomnia, social dysfunction and severe depression. Results. Both neurological groups presented GHQ-28 total scored above population standards, thus suggesting clinical levels of psychological distress in 90 percent of the sample. No differences were observed between the two groups in terms of GHQ-28 total score or subscale score, thus, suggesting similar profiles of psychological distress. High levels of anxiety and insomnia, followed to a lesser degree by somatic symptoms, characterized this profile...

Prevalencia de fluorosis dental, opacidades e hipoplasia del esmalte en niños en edad escolar / Prevalence of dental fluorosis, opacities and enamel hypoplasia in schoolchildren

Determinar la frecuencia de fluorosis dental y anomalías en el desarrollo del esmalte: opacidades e hipoplasia del esmalte, en niños en edad escolar entre 6 y 14 años de la Escuela Básica "Fray Juan Ramos de Lora", del estado Mérida, Venezuela. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal. La población estuvo constituida por 92 niños entre 6 y 14 años de edad, de la Escuela Básica "Fray Juan Ramos de Lora", del estado Mérida, Venezuela. Se tomaron en cuenta las variables fluorosis dental, opacidades e hipoplasia del esmalte, aplicando los índices según la metodología descrita por la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) y la Encuesta Básica de Salud Bucodental. El 75% de los participantes no presentaron fluorosis dental, en contraste con un 1,1% que presentó fluorosis severa. El 70,7% de la población no presentó anomalías en el desarrollo del esmalte, en contraste con un 16,3% y 13,1% que presentó opacidades delimitadas y difusas respectivamente. Se evidencia que el mayor porcentaje de la población estudiada no presenta fluorosis dental ni alteraciones en el desarrollo del esmalte

To determine the frequency of dental fluorosis and developmental defects of enamel: opacities and hypoplasia in 6-14-year-old-school children from the Basic School "Fray Juan Ramos de Lora" in Mérida, Venezuela. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. The population was constituted by 92 6-14-year-old-school children from the Basic School "Fray Juan Ramos de Lora" in Mérida, Venezuela. The variables dental fluorosis, opacities and enamel hypoplasia were taken into account by using the indexes according to the methodology described by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Basic Survey of Dental Health. Results indicated that 75% of the participants did not show dental fluorosis in contrast to 1.1% that presented severe fluorosis. Besides, 70.7% of the population did not present developmental defects of enamel while opposite to 16.3% and 13.1% who presented delimitated and diffuse opacities, respectively. It is evident that the higher percentage of the studied population does not present dental fluorosis or developmental alterations of enamel

Condiciones de salud publica periodontal en niños en edad escolar / Periodontal health conditions in school children

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el estado de salud periodontal en niños en edad escolar. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal. La población estuvo constituida por 92 niños entre 6 y 14 años de edad, de la Escuela Básica "Fray Juan Ramos de Lora", Mérida, Venezuela. Se estudiaron las variables presencia de placa y cálculo dental y signos de periodontopatías, aplicando el Índice de Higiene Bucal Simplificado y el Índice Periodontal Comunitario, según metodología descrita por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. El 90,2% de la población estudiada presentó placa dental, en contraste con un 9,8% que no presentó. El 78,2% no presentó cálculo dental, en contraste con el 17,8% que si presentó. Asimismo, el 14,1% presentó hemorragia. El mayor porcentaje de la población estudiada presenta altos índices de placa dental y un menor porcentaje presenta cálculo y signos de periodontopatías. Se concluye que la población estudiada presenta factores de riesgo para la aparición de caries dental, por lo que se recomienda la implementación de programas preventivos-educativos de higiene bucal

To evaluate the status of periodontal health in school-age children. A descriptive study cross-sectional study was performed. The population consisted of 92 children with ages ranging from 6 and 14 years old of basic school Fray Juan Ramos de Lora, Mérida, Venezuela. The variables presence of dental plaque and calculus, and signs of periodontal diseases, applying the simplified oral hygiene index, and the community periodontal index, according to methodology described by the World Health, were studied. 90.2% of the study population presented dental plaque, in contrast to a 9.8% who did not submit. The 78.2% did not presented dental calculus, in contrast to 17. 8 % if presented. Likewise, 14% had bleeding. The largest percentage of the population study provides high levels of dental plaque and a lower percentage presents calculus and signs of periodontal diseases. We conclude that the population under study presents risk factors for the occurrence of dental caries, therefore recommend the implementation of preventive - education programs of oral hygiene

Evaluación clínica de restauraciones indirectas con resinas / Clinical evaluation of indirect restorations with resin

Evaluar el comportamiento clínico de las restauraciones con resinas fotocuradas a través de la técnica indirecta como alternativa para el tratamiento de cavidades complejas en dientes primarios y/o permanentes posteriores jóvenes. Ocho niños que asistieron al Servicio de Odontopediatría "Santa Elena", en Mérida, Venezuela, fueron incluidos en este estudio, reacondicionando un total de ocho dientes, para posteriormente evaluar el comportamiento clínico: estado periodontal, estado pulpar, restauración presente, satisfacción estética del paciente y estado y adaptación marginal de la restauración. Todas las restauraciones fueron evaluadas a los 8 días y a los 3 meses de realizados los tratamientos. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando el paquete estadístico SPSS versión 13.0 (SPSS INC, Chicago, IL, Estados Unidos de América). Se realizó un análisis estadístico descriptivo de todas las variables estudiadas y un análisis cualitativo no paramétrico aplicando el Test Chi-cuadrado y Exacto de Fisher. Al tercer mes del tratamiento se observa que el comportamiento clínico es exitoso en un 100%, excepto la presencia de placa bacteriana (62,5%) y la satisfacción estética del paciente (87,5%). Sin embargo, al aplicar el Test Chi-Cuadrado y Exacto de Fisher no existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p=0,302, 0,606 y 0,304). Las restauraciones indirectas con resinas compuestas constituyen una alternativa de tratamiento para dientes primarios o permanentes posteriores jóvenes con cavidades complejas

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical behavior of the restorations with resins light cure through the indirect technique like alternative for the treatment of complex cavities in primary and/or permanent posterior young teeth. Eight children who attended the Service of Pediatric Dentistry "Santa Elena", in Mérida, Venezuela, were including in this clinical test, recovering a total of eight teeth, later to evaluate the periodontal state and pulp , is present at or not of biofilm, state and marginal adaptation of the restoration and esthetic satisfaction of the patient. All the restorations were evaluated to the 8 days and the 3 months. The data were analyzed using statistical package SPSS version 13.0 (INC. SPSS, Chicago, IL, United States of America). It was made a descriptive statistical analysis of all the studied variables and a non-parametric qualitative analysis having applied to the Test Chi-square and Exact of Fisher. The third month of the treatment it is observed that the clinical behavior is successful in 100% a, except the presence of biofilm (62.5%) and the esthetic satisfaction of the patient (87.5%). Nevertheless, when applying the Test Chi-Square and Exact de Fisher does not exist statistically significant differences (p=0,302, 0.606 and 0.304). The indirect restorations with compound resins constitute an alternative of treatment for primary or permanent posterior young teeth with complex cavities

Comportamiento clínico y radiográfico del formocresol y la pasta iodoformada en el tratamiento de pulpotomías en molares primarios

OBJETIVO: evaluar el comportamiento clínico y radiográfico de tratamientos de pulpotomía realizados con formocresol y con pasta iodoformada en molares primarios. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: se seleccionó una muestra no probabilística de 21 niños de ambos sexos con edades comprendidas entre 3 y 8 años, que asistieron al Servicio de Odontopediatría del Instituto Autónomo Hospital Universitario de los Andes (IAHULA), Mérida - Venezuela, a los que se le realizaron tratamientos de pulpotomía en molares primarios vitales con exposición pulpar por caries. Los molares seleccionados fueron divididos aleatoriamente en dos grupos en función al tipo de material (grupo 1: formocresol y grupo 2: pasta iodoformada). La muestra fue observada al mes, a los dos y a los tres meses de realizados los tratamientos, para evaluar la presencia de signos y síntomas clínicos y radiográficos de patología pulpar. RESULTADOS: el Test exacto de Fisher demostró que no existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los materiales empleados (p=0,351 y 0,176). Encontrándose un éxito del 81,8% con la técnica del formocresol y un 90,9 % con la técnica de la pasta iodoformada. Los hallazgos clínicos y radiográficos observados durante el tiempo de evaluación fueron, inflamación, fístula, zonas radiolúcidas perifurcales, reabsorción radicular patológica externa, reabsorción radicular interna, siendo este último hallazgo el más frecuente (técnica del formocresol 3,03%, técnica de la pasta iodoformada 1,51%). CONCLUSIONES: tanto el formocresol como la pasta iodoformada son materiales que pueden ser empleados para la obturación de pulpotomías en molares primarios. Por tanto, se puede considerar a la pasta iodoformada como una alternativa al uso del formocresol en la terapia pulpar de molares primarios vitales.

PURPOSE: evaluate the clinical and radiographic behaviour of pulpotomy treatments performed with formocresol and iodoform paste in primary molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: a non probabilistic sample was selected which consisted of 21 children of both sexes ranged in age from 3 to 8 years, who attended to the Pediatric Dentistry Service of the Autonomous Institute Andes's University Hospital, Mérida - Venezuela. Pulpotomy treatments were performed in vital primary molars with carious pulpal exposure. The selected molars were randomly separated according to the material (1st group: formocresol and 2nd group: iodoform paste). The sample was observed into 1, 2 and 3 month after the treatment in stead to evaluate the apparition of clinic and radiographic sings and symptoms of pulpal pathology. RESULTS: the Fisher's exact test showed that there were not statistically significant differences between both materials (p=0,351 y 0,176). It were found a success rates of 81,8% with the formocresol technique and 90,9% with the iodoform paste technique. The clinic and radiographic founds observed during the evaluation period were swelling, fistulation, perifurcal radiolucency, external pathologic radicular resorption, internal radicular resorption. The last one was the most frequently found observed (formocresol technique 3,03%, iodoform paste technique 1,51%). CONCLUSIONS: either formocresol or iodoform paste can be used as obturating materials for pulpotomies in primary molars. Therefore, the iodoform paste can be considered as an alternative to the formocresol use in the primary molar pulpal therapy.

PCR identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in a clinical sample from a patient with symptoms of tuberculous spondylodiscitis

A 42-year-old male complaining of thoracic spine pain was admitted to the hospital for evaluation. An X-ray and computer tomography of the thoracic spine showed spondylodiscitis of the L3 lumbar and L2-L3 intervertebral disk. The tuberculin skin test (PPD) was strongly positive. A radioscopy-guided fine needle aspirate of the affected area was cultured but did not reveal the cause of the disease. Two biopsy attempts failed to reveal the cause of the disease by culturing or by acid-fast-resistant staining (Ziehl Neelsen) of the specimens. A third biopsy also failed to detect the infectious agent by using microbiological procedures, but revealed the presence of a 245-bp amplicon characteristic of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex after PCR of the sample. The result demonstrates the efficacy of PCR for the identification of M. tuberculosis in situations in which conventional diagnosis by culturing techniques or direct microscopy is unable to detect the microorganism. Following this result the patient was treated with the antituberculous cocktail composed by rifampicin, pirazinamide and isoniazid during a six-month period. At the end of the treatment the dorsalgia symptoms had disappeared.

Hipertrofia miocárdica: bases moleculares, modulación e implicancias clínicas / Myocardial hypertrophy: molecular bases, clinical modulation and implications

El corazón es una bomba contráctil regulada por estímulos mecánicos y neurohumorales encargado de mantener un flujo sanguíneo acorde con las demandas metabólicas de nuestro organismo. Los cardiomiocitos y sus sarcómeros son las unidades básicas responsables del proceso de contracción miocárdica. Dado que los cardiomiocitos no proliferan después del nacimiento, estas células experimentan hipertrofia, aumentando la cantidad de sarcómeros, con objeto de aumentar el trabajo cardíaco en situaciones de estrés. En este trabajo se hace una revisión crítica de las señales y mecanismos de transducción responsables del desarrollo de la hipertrofia cardíaca fisiológica y patológica. Además se abordan las implicancias clínicas y bases genéticas asociadas a la cardiomiopatía hipertrófica. El conocimiento de estas vías transduccionales permite comprender las bases biológicas de esta patología y proyectar futuras intervenciones terapéuticas.

Anatomical studies of sibling species within neotropical lymnaeids, snail intermediate hosts of fascioliasis

Several anatomical parameters of the reproductive system have been used to distinguish Lymnaea cubensis from L. viatrix, the snail hosts of fascioliasis in South America and the Caribbean area. Three samples have been collected in the type localities of L. cubensis (Cuba), L. viatrix var. A ventricosa (Argentina, Río Negro Lower Valley), and L. viatrix var. B elongata (Peru, Lima), respectively. Only one parameter, the relative lengths of the penis sheath and preputium, showed significant differences between L. viatrix var. ventricosa and the two other taxa. None of the studied parameters separated L. cubensis from L. viatrix var. elongata.

BCG lymphadenopathy detected in a BCG-vaccinated infant

Large-scale vaccination with BCG, the live attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis, is being adopted around the world, although sporadic complications have occurred after the procedure. Lymphadenopathy is not uncommon especially in babies under one year (0.73 percent of vaccinated infants), but the swelling subsides within 2 months in most cases, with no medical or surgical treatment. Brazil adopted BCG vaccination program earlier in the seventies and by 1995 more than 96 percent of the infant population received this immunization. We report here the occurrence of lymphadenopathy in a two-year-old child vaccinated with the Brazilian BCG strain. The diagnosis was made using a lymph node biopsy and intestinal aspirates that yielded a positive mycobacterial culture. The isolate was resistant to isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and thiophen-2-carbonic acid hydrazide, sensitive to streptomycin, ethambutol, and p-nitrobenzoic acid, and reacted positively to cyclo-serine and negatively to niacin. The pncA gene involved in bacterial activation of pyrazinamide contains in M. bovis a point mutation that renders pyrazinamidase unable to catalyze drug activation. Therefore, this polymorphism is a good option for developing methods to differentiate M. bovis and M. tuberculosis. Taking advantage of this difference we further analyzed the isolates by single-stranded conformation polymorphism electrophoresis of DNA following PCR of the pncA gene. The isolate identity was confirmed by RFLP electrophoretic analysis of the amplified fragment following Eco065I digestion, which selectively cleaves M. tuberculosis DNA. From this result it is proposed that RFLP of pncA gene represents an alternative for differential diagnosis of M. bovis.

Ecografía realizada por cirujanos en el manejo de pacientes con trauma / Echography performed by surgeons in the management of patients with trauma

BACKGROUND: Ultrasonography is useful in trauma patients to detect pleural effusions or peritoneal fluid. AIM: To assess the value of ultrasonography performed by surgeons in the assessment of trauma patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective review of ultrasonography reports and clinical history of 284 trauma patients. RESULTS: One hundred fifty six patients had blunt trauma and 128 had penetrating trauma. Ultrasonography detected peritoneal fluid in 20 per cent, pericardial effusion in 1 per cent and pleural effusion in 1 per cent. Eight percent had visceral damage or hematomas, without peritoneal fluid. None of the patients with a normal ultrasonography required surgery for hemoperitoneum; however, four patients had intestinal perforations and required surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonography had a 100 per cent sensitivity and specificity for the detection of clinically significant hemoperitoneum. Emergency ultrasonography performed by surgeons is useful and accurate.

Mycobacterium bovis: polymerase chain reaction identification in bovine Lymphonode biopsies and genotyping in isolates from Southeast Brazil by spolygotyping and restriction fragment length polymorphism

Diagnosis of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex by direct PCR of mediastinal lymphnode DNA and microbiological tests were compared in cattle suspicious of bearing tuberculous-like lesions detected during slaughter. The PCR procedure applied on DNA samples (n=54) obtained by adding alpha -casein into the thiocyanate extraction mix was positive in 70 percent of the samples. PCR confirmed the identification of 23 samples (100 percent) that grew in culture, 9 samples (60 percent) that failed to grow in culture, plus 6 (37.5 percent) samples that resulted in growth of bacterial contaminants. Genotyping by IS6110-RFLP and DR-spoligotyping analysis of seven samples revealed the presence of several polimorphisms. Seven of the isolates contained multiple copies of IS6110, thus defining the existence of five singular genotypes

A comparison of three DNA extractive procedures with Leptospira for polymerase chain reaction analysis

Three DNA extraction methods were evaluated in this study: proteinase K followed by phenol-chloroform; a plant proteinase (E6870) followed by phenol-chloroform; and boiling of leptospires in 0.1 mM Tris, pH 7.0 for 10 min at 100°C, with no phenol treatment. Every strain treated with proteinase K or E6870 afforded positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) reaction. On the other hand, from five strains extracted by the boiling method, three did not feature the 849 bp band characteristic in Leptospira. We also evaluated by RAPD-PCR, DNAs from serovars isolated with proteinase K and proteinase 6870 with primers B11/B12. Each of the DNA samples provided PCR profiles in agreement with previous data. Moreover, the results with E6870 showed less background non-specific amplification, suggesting that removal of nucleases was more efficient with E6870. The limit for detection by PCR using Lep13/Lep14 was determined to be 10(2) leptospira, using the silver stain procedure.

Use of a cysteine proteinase from Carica candamarcensis as a protective agent during DNA extraction

We describe the use of a plant cysteine proteinase isolated from latex of Carica candamarcensis as a protective agent during isolation of bacterial DNA following growth in culture of these cells. Between 100 to 720 units of proteinase (1 µg = 6 units) afforded good DNA protection when incubated with various kinds of microorganisms. Agarose gel electrophoresis showed that the resulting DNA was similar in size to DNA preparations obtained by treatment with proteinase K. The viability of the resulting material was checked by PCR amplification using species-specific primers. After standing at room temperature (25oC) for 35 days, the enzyme lost 10 percent of its initial activity. The enzyme stability and good yield of DNA suggest the use of this proteinase as an alternative to proteinase K

The radioprotective effect of a new aminothiol (20-PRA)

We examined the radioprotective effect of aminothiol 2-N-propylamine-cyclo-hexanethiol (20-PRA) on a human leukemic cell line (K562) following various radiation doses (5, 7.5 and 20 Gy) using a source of (60)Co gamma-rays. At 5 Gy and 1 nM 20-PRA, a substantial protective effect (58 per cent) was seen 24 h after irradiation, followed by a decrease at 48 h (11 per cent). At the high radiation dose (20 Gy) a low protective effect was also seen (35 per cent). In addition, the antitumorigenic potential of 10 nM 20-PRA was shown by the inhibition of crown gall formation induced by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The radioprotective potency of 20-PRA is 10(5)-10(6) times higher than that of the aminothiol WR-1065 N-(2-mercaptoethyl) - 1,3-diaminopropane) whose protective effect is in the 0.1 to 1.0 mM range.

Changes in protein profile during coagulation of latex from Carica papaya

We describe the changes in peptide composition by SDS-PAGE analysis of latex from Carioca papaya collected at various times after incision of the unripe fruit. The data show that during latex coagulation several peptides are processed in an orderly fashion.