Autoimmune associations in a Mexican cohort with primary biliary cholangitis. / Asociaciones autoinmunes en una cohorte mexicana con colangitis biliar primaria.

INTRODUCTION: Several groups have reported associations of primary biliary cholangitis with other autoimmune entities, particularly Sjögren's syndrome and hypothyroidism. Its prevalence and characteristics in Mexican patients is unknown. AIM: To determine the frequency and characteristics of autoimmune diseases in a Mexican cohort of patients with primary biliary cholangitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical records of patients that presented with primary biliary cholangitis within the time frame of 2005 and 2012 were reviewed and assessed for other autoimmune diseases. RESULTS: Seventy-eight patients, 75 women and 3 men, were included. Their mean age was 55.8 years. Seventy-three cases had positive antimitochondrial antibodies (94.8%) and disease was confirmed in 5 through liver biopsy. Five patients (8%) had anti-smooth muscle antibodies and 55/78 (70.5%) had antinuclear antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence. Forty-nine patients (62.8%) were positive for an autoimmune disease other than primary biliary cholangitis. Among those, 20 patients had one associated disease, 14 had 2, and 15 patients had 3 concomitant diseases. They included: Sjögren's syndrome in 23/78 patients (29.5%), dysthyroidism in 21/78 cases (26.9%), Raynaud syndrome in 11/78 (14.1%), CREST syndrome in 9/78 patients (11.4%), rheumatoid arthritis in 6/78 patients (7.7%), vitiligo in 5/78 (6.4%), scleroderma in 4/78 patients (5.1%), and other diseases in 8 patients. In 12/78 patients (15.4%), there was a documented family background of autoimmune disease. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of autoimmune associations in our cohort was frequent, and similar in characteristics to the information reported by other groups. The clinical implications of those findings remain to be determined.

Cementum protein 1 transfection does not lead to ultrastructural changes in nucleolar organization of human gingival fibroblasts.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Transfection of cementum protein 1 (CEMP1) into human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) notably increases cell metabolism and results in overexpression of molecules related to biomineralization at transcriptional and protein levels. Therefore, HGF-CEMP1 cells are considered as putative cementoblasts. This represents a significant advance in periodontal research because cementum neoformation is a key event in periodontal regeneration. In addition, it is well known that important changes in cell metabolism and protein expression are related to nucleolar structure and the function of this organelle, which is implicated in ribosome biogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of transfecting CEMP1 gene in human HGF on the ultrastructure of the nucleolus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cells were processed using the conventional technique for transmission electron microscopy, fixed with glutaraldehyde, postfixed with osmium tetraoxide, and embedded in epoxy resin. Semi-thin sections were stained with Toluidine blue and observed by light microscopy. Thin sections were stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. For ribonucleoprotein detection, the staining method based on the regressive effect of EDTA was used. In addition, the osmium ammine technique was used for specific staining of DNA. RESULTS: The results obtained in this study suggest that transfection of CEMP1 into HGFs does not produce changes in the general nucleolar ultrastructure because the different components of the organelle are present as fibrillary centers, and dense fibrillar and granular components compared with the control. CONCLUSION: The transfection of CEMP1 into HGFs allows these cells to perform cementoblast-like functions without alteration of the ultrastructure of the nucleolus, evaluated by the presence of the different compartments of this organelle involved in ribosomal biogenesis.

Integral pharmacological management of bone mineral disorders in chronic kidney disease (part I): from treatment of phosphate imbalance to control of PTH and prevention of progression of cardiovascular calcification.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD), involving a triad of laboratory and bone abnormalities, and tissue calcifications, are associated with dismal hard-outcomes. AREAS COVERED: In two comprehensive articles, we review contemporary and future pharmacological options for treatment of phosphate (P) imbalance (this part 1) and hyperparathyroidism (part 2), taking into account CKD-accelerated atheromatosis/atherosclerosis and/or cardiovascular calcification (CVC) processes. EXPERT OPINION: Improvements in CKD-MBD require an integral approach, addressing all three components of the CKD-MBD triad. Individualization of treatment with P-binders and combinations of anti-parathyroid agents may improve biochemical control with lower incidence of undesirable effects. Isolated biochemical parameters do not accurately reflect calcium or P load or bone activity and do not stratify high cardiovascular risk patients with CKD. Initial guidance is provided on reasonable therapeutic strategies which consider the presence of CVC. This part reflects that although there is not an absolute evidence, many studies point to the need to improve P imbalance while trying to, at least, avoid progression of CVC by restriction of Ca-based P-binders if economically feasible. The availability of new drugs (i.e. inhibitors of intestinal transporters), and studies including early CKD should ultimately lead to clearer and more cost/effective clinical targets for CKD-MBD.

Integral pharmacological management of bone mineral disorders in chronic kidney disease (part II): from treatment of phosphate imbalance to control of PTH and prevention of progression of cardiovascular calcification.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) are associated with costly complications and dismal hard-outcomes. AREAS COVERED: In two comprehensive articles we review contemporary and future pharmacological options for treatment of phosphate (P) imbalance (part 1) and hyperparathyroidism (this part 2), taking into account CKD-accelerated cardiovascular calcification (CVC) processes. EXPERT OPINION: Improvements in CKD-MBD require an integral approach, addressing all three components of the CKD-MBD triad. Here, initial guidance to control hyperparathyroidism is provided, taking into account the presence/absence of CVC. We include also measures for patients at risk of adynamic bone disease or suffering from calciphylaxis. Many epidemiological studies (relating to vitamin D) and thorough analyses of recent randomized clinical trials (of cinacalcet) point towards benefits of attempting to improve biochemical parameters while trying to, at least, avoid progression of CVC by more rational use of intestinal P-binders and low-dose vitamin D derivatives and/or calcimimetics. This approach does not seem to be far away from significantly improving hard-outcomes, at least in the dialysis population. The availability of new drugs and the performance of randomized clinical trials should ultimately lead to define earlier, clearer, and more cost-effective patient stratification and biochemical targets with consequent significant clinical improvements.

Tratamiento de la sialorrea en niños con patología neurológica / Drooling therapy in children with neurological disorders

Introducción. La sialorrea es la incapacidad para retener la saliva dentro de la boca y su progresión al tracto digestivo, y es un problema frecuente en pacientes pediátricos con patología neurológica, por lo que se están utilizando diferentes medidas para su tratamiento. Objetivo. Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad del trihexifenidilo, la escopolamina y la infiltración de toxina botulínica en el tratamiento del babeo en niños con patología neurológica. Pacientes y métodos. Es un estudio de tipo abierto y prospectivo. Incluye pacientes atendidos en el servicio de neurología que presentaban babeo excesivo, con repercusión en su calidad de vida, entre 2009 y 2013. Resultados. En 46 pacientes se indicó tratamiento con trihexifenidilo oral, y se obtuvo buena respuesta en 15 (32,6%), tres con efecto transitorio y el resto mantenido. Presentaron efectos secundarios tres pacientes (6,5%). De los 11 pacientes a los que se indicaron parches de escopolamina, se halló efecto beneficioso en cuatro (36,36%), uno fue retirado por falta de eficacia y seis por efectos secundarios. Veinticinco pacientes fueron infiltrados con toxina botulínica, con disminución significativa del babeo en 16 (64%) tras la primera infiltración. No observamos cambios significativos en nueve casos. Sólo uno presentó efectos secundarios (disfagia leve). Conclusiones. Por no haber una opción terapéutica totalmente eficaz para los pacientes con sialorrea, recomendamos iniciar el tratamiento con trihexifenidilo; como segunda opción, los parches de escopolamina, y como tercera opción, la toxina botulínica. La infiltración de toxina botulínica en glándulas salivales se muestra como una alternativa eficaz y segura según nuestra serie (AU)

Introduction. Drooling is the inability to retain saliva in the mouth and its progression to the digestive tract, being a common problem in pediatric patients with neurological disorders. Three different treatment options are available. Aim. To assess the effectiveness and safety of trihexyphenidyl, scopolamine and botulinum toxin infiltration in the treatment of drooling in children with neurological disorders. Patients and methods. This is an open and prospective type study. We include patients treated in the Neurology Service that present excessive drooling, affecting their quality of life, between 2009 and 2013. Results. We enrolled 46 patients in the study. The treatment with oral trihexyphenidyl was indicated in 46, obtaining good result in 15 (32.6%), three with temporary effect and the rest with lasting effect. Three patients presented side effects (6.5%). Four out of 11 (36.36%) patients treated with scopolamine patch had beneficial effects. One was withdrawn due to lack of efficacy and six due to side effects. Twenty-five patients were infiltrated with botulinum toxin, with a significant decrease of drooling in 16 patients (64%) after the first injection. We observed no significant changes in nine patients. Only one out of 25 showed side effects (mild dysphagia). Conclusions. Currently there is not a fully effective therapeutic option for drooling. We recommend starting treatment with trihexyphenidyl. A second option could be the scopolamine patch and botulinum toxin as a third option. Botulinum toxin infiltration in salivary glands is shown as an effective and safe alternative in our study (AU)

Vasectomía sin bisturí: resultados de una cohorte de 309 pacientes / No-scalpel vasectomy

Introducción: La vasectomía es una técnica segura y efectiva para el control de la fertilidad masculina. A pesar de esto, en el mundo se realizan el doble de esterilizaciones femeninas respecto a vasectomías, lo cual es más acentuado en países en vías de desarrollo. Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar nuestra experiencia y resultados en pacientes sometidos a una vasectomía sin bisturí. Materiales y Métodos: Se incluyó un total de 309 pacientes sometidos a una vasectomía sin bisturí entre junio de 2009 y mayo de 2010. En cada caso se evaluó la edad, tiempo operatorio, espermiograma a los 3 y 6 meses (en caso de ser necesario) y la morbilidad perioperatoria. Resultados: 281 pacientes (91 por ciento) se controlaron con al menos un espermiograma. En 189 pacientes (67 por ciento) se evidenció azoospermia en el espermiograma a los 3 meses. En 81 pacientes (29 por ciento) se evidenció un recuento con < 100.000 espermatozoides 100 por ciento inmóviles. En 9 pacientes (3,2 por ciento) se necesitó un segundo espermiograma para obtener menos de 100.000 espermatozoides 100 por ciento inmóviles. Seis pacientes (2 por ciento) consultaron por complicaciones menores: orquialgia, epididimitos o hematoma del sitio operatorio. A 2 años de seguimiento, no se registraron embarazos. Conclusiones: La vasectomía sin bisturí es un método seguro y reproducible de anticoncepción masculina, presentando tasas de efectividad superiores al resto de los métodos anticonceptivos. Un espermiograma de control debe ser realizado a los 3 meses de realizado el procedimiento. La tasa de falla temprana se estima en 0,3 por ciento de los pacientes.

Introduction: Vasectomy is a safe and effective technique of male fertility control. Despite this, in the world are carried out more than double female sterilization in comparison with vasectomies, that is more pronounced in less developed countries. Aims: To present our experience and results in patients undergoing a no-scalpel vasectomy. Methods and Material: A total of 309 patients undergoing a no-scalpel vasectomy between June 2009 and May 2010 were included. For each case was record age, operative time, sperm count at 3 months post vasectomy and peri-operative morbidity. Results: 309 vasectomies were performed, 281 patients (91%) were controlled with at least one sperm count. Azoospermia was obtained in the first sperm count at 3 months in 189 patients (67%). In 81 patients (29%) were observed ≤ 100,000 sperm 100% immobile. 9 patients (3.2%) needed a second semen analysis and 2 patients a third one for less than 100,000 sperm that were 100% immobile. 6 patients (2%) consulted by minor complications such as postoperative pain, epididymitis or hematoma with spontaneous resolution. Conclusions: Vasectomy is a safe and reproducible method of male contraception, presenting an effectiveness rates higher than others contraceptive methods. There are no absolute contraindications for performing the procedure. A sperm count should be done at 3 months of the procedure. The early failure rate in our study is 0.3%.

Efectividad y satisfacción del tratamiento con dosis diaria de Tadalafilo 5 mg para la disfunción eréctil / Effectiveness and satisfaction of the treatment with daily dose of Tadalafil 5 mg for erectile dysfunction

La base del tratamiento de la disfunción eréctil (DE) son los inhibidores de la fosfodiesterasa 5, disponibles mayoritariamente para dosificación a demanda. En 2008 la FDA aprobó el Tadalafilo 5 mg de uso diario. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la efectividad del Tadalafilo 5 mg de uso diario para el tratamiento de la DE y la satisfacción de los pacientes frente a su uso. PACIENTES Y METODOS: Se reclutaron pacientes con DE entre Junio de 2011 y Mayo de 2012. Se registraron datos sociodemográficos, clínicos y andrológicos. La DE se clasificó según el puntaje del cuestionario IIEF. Todos los pacientes iniciaron tratamiento diario con Tadalafilo 5 mg y fueron reevaluados luego de un mes. La satisfacción y calidad de vida se evaluó con cuestionarios validados (EDITS, SEAR y GAQ). Para el análisis estadístico se consideró significativo un P<0.05.RESULTADOS: Se reclutaron 49 pacientes con edad promedio de 59,9 +/- 8,8 años. Un 14,3 por ciento presentaba DE severa, 36,7 por ciento moderada, 36,7por ciento leve-moderada y 12,2 por ciento leve. Al mes de tratamiento, el puntaje IIEF aumentó significativamente (P<0.0005), encontrándose un 18,4 por ciento sin DE, 53,1 por ciento con DE leve, 28,6 por ciento con DE leve-moderada y ninguno con DE moderada o grave. El 87,7 por ciento de los pacientes refirió mejores erecciones y el 81,6 por ciento una mejor capacidad para mantener la relación sexual. La satisfacción global con el tratamiento fue de 64,1 por ciento. CONCLUSIÓN: El tratamiento diario con Tadalafilo 5 mg es efectivo para el manejo de la DE y se asocia a niveles adecuados de satisfacción y confianza al cabo de un mes de tratamiento.

The base of the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) are the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, mostly available for “on demand” dosing. In 2008, the FDA approved Tadalafil 5mg for daily use. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of Tadalafil 5 mg daily dose for the treatment of ED and the patient’s satisfaction with its use. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with ED were enrolled between June 2011 and May 2012. Sociodemographic, clinical and andrologic data was recorded. The severity of ED was classified according to the score of the IIEF questionnaire. All patients started daily treatment with Tadalafil 5 mg and were reevaluated after one month. Satisfaction and quality of life was assessed using validated questionnaires (EDITS, SEAR and GAQ). A P<0.05 was considered significant in all statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 49 patients were enrolled, with mean age of 59.9 +/- 8.8 years. A 14.3 ´percent suffered severe ED, 36.7 percent moderate, 36.7 percent mild-moderate and 12.2 percent mild. After one month, the IIEF score significantly increased (P<0.0005), finding a 18.4 percent of patients without ED, 53.1 percent with mild ED, 28.6 percent with mild-moderate ED and no cases with moderate or severe ED. 87.7 percent of patients reported better erections and 81.6 percent stated a better capacity to maintain erections during. The global satisfaction rate with the treatment was of 64.1 percent. CONCLUSION: The treatment with daily dose of Tadalafil 5 mg is effective for the management of ED and is associated with adequate levels of satisfaction and confidence after one month of use.

Usage and attitudes of physicians in Japan concerning traditional Japanese medicine (kampo medicine): a descriptive evaluation of a representative questionnaire-based survey.

Kampo medicine has been the primary medical model in Japan until the mid 1800s, regained a prominent role in today's Japanese medical system. Today, 148 herbal Kampo formulas can be prescribed under the national health insurance system, allowing physicians to integrate Kampo in their daily practice. This article aims to provide information about the extent to which Kampo is now used in clinics throughout Japan and about physician's current attitudes toward Kampo. We used the results of a 2008 survey that was administered to physicians throughout Japan (n = 684). The data showed that 83.5% of physicians currently use Kampo in the clinic, although the distribution of physicians who use Kampo differ widely depending on the specialty and provided a breakdown of Kampo usage by specialty. It will be interesting to see how each specialty incorporates Kampo into its respective field as Kampo continues to play a pertinent role in Japanese medical system.

Is social support associated with greater weight loss after bariatric surgery?: a systematic review.

Social support may be associated with increased weight loss after bariatric surgery. The objective of this article is to determine impact of post-operative support groups and other forms of social support on weight loss after bariatric surgery. MEDLINE search (1988-2009) was completed using MeSH terms including bariatric procedures and a spectrum of patient factors with potential relationship to weight loss outcomes. Of the 934 screened studies, 10 reported on social support and weight loss outcomes. Five studies reported on support groups and five studies reported on other forms of social support (such as perceived family support or number of confidants) and degree of post-operative weight loss (total n = 735 patients). All studies found a positive association between post-operative support groups and weight loss. One study found a positive association between marital status (being single) and weight loss, while three studies found a non-significant positive trend and one study was inconclusive. Support group attendance after bariatric surgery is associated with greater post-operative weight loss. Further research is necessary to determine the impact of other forms of social support. These factors should be addressed in prospective studies of weight loss following bariatric surgery, as they may represent ways to improve post-operative outcomes.

Expresión y actividad de proteínas de multirresistencia a drogas (MDR) en líneas celulares de cáncer de próstata / Expression and activity of multidrug resistance proteins in prostate cancer cell lines

Introducción: Nuestro grupo ha reportado previamente una asociación entre sensibilidad a quimioterapia y la expresión de proteínas MDR (P-Gp y MRP1) en líneas celulares y cultivos primarios de cáncer de próstata, quedando por estudiar la actividad de las mismas. Material y métodos: Se utilizó líneas celulares de cáncer de próstata PC3 y DU145. Se evaluaron los niveles de mARN de P-Gp y MRP1 mediante RT-PCR. La expresión de ambas proteínas se determinó mediante inmunofluorescencia. Se estableció un ensayo funcional en base a la acumulación de sustratos fluorescentes (DiOC2(3) para P-gp y CFDA para MRP1) y al uso de inhibidores específicos para cada proteína (Ciclosporina A para P-Gp y MK571 para MRP1). Las células se incubaron durante 60 minutos a 37ºC con o sin el inhibidor específico, seguido de otra incubación por 60 minutos agregando el sustrato fluorescente. La acumulación del sustrato fluorescente se determinó por citometría de flujo. Resultados: Las líneas celulares utilizadas sólo expresaron MRP1, mientras no se detectó P-Gp (mARN ni proteína). Mediante el ensayo funcional se observó que las células acumulaban más CFDA cuando eran tratadas con MK571. No se observó diferencias en la acumulación de DiOC(2)3 frente al tratamiento con Ciclosporina A. Conclusión: La mayor acumulación intracelular de CFDA frente al tratamiento con MK571 indica que la proteína MRP1 expresada en las líneas celulares utilizadas es funcional. P-Gp no se expresa en las líneas evaluadas. En estudios en curso nos encontramos evaluando la expresión y función de ambas proteínas en cultivos primarios.

Introduction: We have previously reported an association between sensitivity to chemotherapy and the expression of multidrug resistance proteins (MDR) (P-Gp and MRP1) in cell lines and primary cultures of prostate cancer. Activity remains to be studied. Material and methods: Prostate cancer cell lines PC3 and DU145 were used. Levels of mRNA of P-Gpand MRP1 using RT-PCR, were evaluated. The expression of both proteins was determined using immunofluorescence. A functional assay based on the accumulation of fluorescence substrates (DiOC2(3) for P-Gp and CFDA for MRP1) was established. Cells were incubated for 60 minutes at 37C with/without the specific inhibitor, followed by another 60 minutes incubation adding the fluorescence substrate. Accumulation of fluorescence substrate was determined by flow citometry. Results: Cell lines expressed only MRP1, whereas P-Gp (mRNA/protein) was not detected. Using the functional assay, we found that cells accumulated more CFDA when treated with MK571. No differences were seen in the accumulation of DiOC2(3) after treatment with ciclosporin A. Conclusion: The higher intracellular accumulation of CFDA after treatment with MK571 indicates that the MRP1 protein expressed in these cell lines is functional. P-Gp was not expressed in these cell lines. We are currently evaluating the expression and function of both proteins in primary cultures.

Eosinophilic enteritis in association with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE) is an uncommon disease and has rarely been reported in association with connective tissue diseases as systemic lupus erythematosus. We report a 36-year-old woman who developed recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and melena. Complete blood counts showed elevated eosinophil counts. Ultrasound and CT-scan images studies were significant for bowel wall thickening and ascites. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy with a mesenteric biopsy and appendectomy that showed eosinophil infiltration in the muscularis propria, establishing the diagnosis of EGE. The patient developed pleural effusions, with laboratory studies showing haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, positive antinuclear antibody and anticardiolipin antibodies. The patient was treated with high-dose systemic corticosteroid therapy, with successful resolution of symptoms. Three months later, she developed a new episode of abdominal pain defined as intestinal pseudo-obstruction that was resolved without complications.

Melanoma maligno cutáneo: revisión de conceptos actuales en etapificación, manejo y seguimiento / Malignant cutaneous melanoma: staging, management and follow-up

El cáncer de piel aumentó en incidencia en los últimas décadas, y el melanoma maligno cutáneo es su variedad más agresiva. Su diagnóstico tardío determina un mal pronóstico, por lo que se deben dirigir esfuerzos al control de factores de riesgo para prevenir su desarrollo, además de procurar una pesquisa precoz. La biopsia es el estándar de oro para el diagnóstico, a partir del cual se realiza la etapificación, utilizando el sistema TNM de la AJCC (2002). Éste se basa en una serie de factores que han demostrado ser los que mejor se correlacionan con el pronóstico del paciente, como el espesor y ulceración de la lesión, el número de ganglios comprometidos y las metástasis a distancia. Para lo evaluación ganglionar, la biopsia de ganglio centinela es considerada la herramienta más útil y poderosa. El presente artículo tiene como principal objetivo revisar la evidencia actual en cuanto a la etapificación, manejo y seguimiento de los pacientes con melanoma maligno.

Skin cancer has increased in incidence during the last decades, being the malignant cutaneous melanoma its most aggressive type. A late diagnosis determines a bad prognosis, for which is very important to make efforts controlling risk factors to prevent its development, and also to do an early diagnosis. The biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis after which follows a staging wor-kup, based on the AJCCTNM (2002) system. This includes a series of factors that have been proven as prognostics factors, such as thickness and ulceration of the primary lesion, the number of metastatic lymph nodes and distant metastasis. For the nodal evaluation, the centinel lymph node biopsy is considered the most useful and powerful instrument. Other exams used for the stangig-workup are discussed. The patient’s follow-up should be life, although frequencies of controls are not precisely defined. The present article reviews, the actual evidence in relation with staging workup, management and follow-up of patients with malignant cutaneous melanoma.

Neumonías neonatales / Neonatal pneumonia

El pulmón constituye el lugar más común de asentamiento de los microorganismos causales de sepsis del recién nacido. Este origen corresponde tanto a la vida prenatal y al parto como a la vida posnatal. Es por ello por lo que deben observarse estrechamente los signos sugerentes de dificultad respiratoria en el neonato, con el fin de llevar a cabo un diagnóstico y un tratamiento precoces. Estos cuadros se asocian a una gran morbilidad, pues se estima en unas 800.000 las muertes neonatales al año debidas a infecciones respiratorias en países en vías de desarrollo. En nuestro medio se estima que la incidencia es menor del 1%, pero sería cercana al 10% en niños con comorbilidad si se englobasen tanto los recién nacidos con peso adecuado para la edad gestacional como los de bajo peso. Además, en la práctica clínica se observa que casi en la totalidad de los cuadros sépticos existe afectación neumónica más o menos significativa tanto clínica como radiológica. En este artículo revisamos los diversos aspectos y retos que plantean las neumonías neonatales (en especial los gérmenes más habituales), y su enfoque terapéutico(AU)

The lung is the most common site of entry of the microorganisms causing sepsis in the newborn infant. This invasion can occur during the prenatal period and labor, as well as during the postnatal period. Thus, we must closely monitor signs suggestive of respiratory distress in the newborn infant in order to establish an early diagnosis and initiate treatment. These conditions are associated with a high rate of morbidity, and it is estimated that, in developing countries, approximately 800,000 neonatal deaths a year are due to respiratory infections. In our population, the incidence is calculated to be less than 1%, but it would be nearly10% in children with co-morbidity if the population includes those with a birth weight adequate for their gestational age and full term and premature infants. In addition, in clinical practice, it is observed that in nearly every case of sepsis, there is more or less significant evidence of pulmonary involvement in both the clinical and radiological examinations. In this article, we review the different aspects and challenges associated with neonatal pneumonia, focusing especially on the most common microorganisms and the therapeutic approach (AU)

Early and late fistula failure.

While an arteriovenous fistula is the best available form of hemodialysis access, a significant number of fistulae never mature to support dialysis (early failure) or fail after successful use (late failure). Venous stenosis and the presence of accessory veins are the two main causes of early failure. Recent data have demonstrated that a great majority of such AVFs can be successfully salvaged by percutaneous interventions and become available for dialysis. In addition to early failure, a great majority of thrombosed fistulae can also be successfully declotted using simple endovascular techniques. Fistula thrombosis has clear differences from graft clotting. First of all, cannulation of a clotted fistula is more challenging. Secondly, thrombus volume present in a clotted fistula can be quite variable. A fistula might thrombose with minimal or no thrombus. At other times, there is moderate-to-severe thrombus burden that accompanies fistula clotting. While percutaneous balloon angioplasty to correct the underlying stenosis might be all that is needed to declot a fistula with no thrombus, thromboaspiration is required to successfully declot a fistula with moderate thrombus. Salvage of early and late fistula failure is critical to minimize catheter use and is supported by the National Kidney Foundation Dialysis Outcomes Quality Initiative. Additionally, it is a powerful strategy to maximize AVF use in hemodialysis patients.

[Transitional cell tumor in a 12-year-old patient]. / Urotelioma vesical en paciente de 12 años.

Transitional cell papillomas, which are tumors of epithelial origin, are the most common urinary tract neoplasm in adults but are extremely rare in children. In both groups the main location is the bladder, often around one of the ureteric orifices. Symptoms vary widely but the most frequent is gross hematuria. Transitional cell papillomas are histologically low-grade tumors and total excision is considered curative. However the rate of recurrence in the literature is high, and there is a potential for a more aggressive type of tumor. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl who presented with a transitional cell papilloma near the right ureteric orifice and describe the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of this entity.

Urotelioma vesical en paciente de 12 años / Transitional cell tumor in a 12-year-old patient

Los papilomas de células transicionales son tumores de origen epitelial, y forman las neoplasias del tracto urinario más frecuentes en los adultos, sin embargo su incidencia en la infancia es muy baja. La localización más común en ambos grupos es la vesical, a menudo en la proximidad de los orificios ureterales. La clínica posible es muy variable, siendo la más frecuente la hematuria macroscópica. Histológicamente son de bajo grado de malignidad, y la escisión radical es considerada curativa; sin embargo, la tasa de recurrencia en la literatura especializada es alta, y existe la posibilidad de un tipo tumoral más agresivo. Presentamos el caso de una niña de 12 años de edad que presenta esta rara lesión cercana al orificio ureteral derecho y se revisa la etiopatogenia, diagnóstico, tratamiento y evolución de esta entidad

Transitional cell papillomas, which are tumors of epithelial origin, are the most common urinary tract neoplasm in adults but are extremely rare in children. In both groups the main location is the bladder, often around one of the ureteric orifices. Symptoms vary widely but the most frequent is gross hematuria. Transitional cell papillomas are histologically low-grade tumors and total excision is considered curative. However the rate of recurrence in the literature is high, and there is a potential for a more aggressive type of tumor. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl who presented with a transitional cell papilloma near the right ureteric orifice and describe the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of this entity

Semen alterations in porcine rubulavirus-infected boars are related to viral excretion and have implications for artificial insemination.

Porcine rubulavirus (PoRV), also known as blue eye disease (BED) of swine, causes respiratory and reproductive problems in pigs at several developmental stages. To study the effect of PoRV infection on semen production, five boars were infected with 1 x 10(6) TCID(50)/ml of PoRV strain PAC-3 and evaluated for 59 days post inoculation (DPI). Infected boars developed reproductive tract pathology that included swelling of the testes and epididymides. Analysis of the semen showed that the infection had little effect on semen production in four animals, but semen from one boar showed severe alterations in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. When motility was analyzed in BTS-diluted semen after 24, 48, or 72 h, alterations were detected in all boars. Furthermore, viral antigen was detected in semen, the seminal plasma fraction, or sperm fraction from all boars. These results showed that PoRV is excreted via semen and, therefore, artificial insemination is a potential route of dissemination.

Porcine circovirus type 2 antibody detection in backyard pigs from Mexico City.

PCV2 antibodies have been found in pigs from all continents. However, this finding has been mainly studied in domestic swine reared under intensive production conditions. Mexico City, with a human population over 19 million in 2005, has both urban and rural areas. The pig production in its rural area is based on small family backyard farms. Taking into account this rather unique form of rearing pigs, the objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence in backyard pigs from the rural area of Mexico City. A total of 695 backyard pig serum samples from 108 small family farms belonging to seven municipal areas were studied by immunoperoxidase monolayer assay technique. One hundred six out of the 108 family farms (98.14%) had at least one positive serum sample. On the other hand, 136 (19.57%), 264 (37.99%) and 248 (34.82%) pigs had low, intermediate and high titres to PCV2, respectively. Only 53 samples (7.63%) were negative for PCV2 antibodies. No apparent differences in antibody titre groups were observed among backyard pigs from the different municipal areas. In conclusion, the present study, the first one performed in this kind of extensively produced pigs, indicates that PCV2 is ubiquitous in backyard pigs from Mexico City.

Drug-drug interactions of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with other drugs in patients with rheumatic diseases

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia e identificar las interacciones (INTMED) entre antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (AINE) y otros fármacos en una base de datos de prescripción a enfermos reumáticos. Material y métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal de una base de datos de prescripción de 35.000 beneficiarios de un sistema de atención médica de prepago para trabajadores bancarios y sus familiares. El análisis abarca un año (de enero a diciembre de 1998). La lista y la clasificación de las AINE-INTMED en 3 niveles (1: mínimo; 2: moderado, y 3: alto riesgo para la salud/peligro de muerte) se hicieron de acuerdo con DRUGDEX® y búsquedas en MEDLINE y EMBASE. Resultados: Se analizaron 3.207 prescripciones de AINE (1,7 ± 1,6 por paciente) a 1.855 pacientes reumáticos (el 76,7% adultos, el 20,2% geriátricos y el 3,0% pediátricos; reumatismo extraarticular: 52%; osteoartrosis: 19%; artritis reumatoide: 10%). Se encontraron 648 (20,20%) AINE-INTMED, de las que 594 (91,66%) correspondieron al nivel 1, 46 (7,09%) al nivel 2 y 8 (1,23%) al nivel 3. Además, encontramos 96 (2,99%) prescripciones con duplicación de AINE. No encontramos AINE-INTMED con anticoagulantes, anticonvulsionantes o hipoglucemiantes orales. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de AINE-INTMED en prescripciones a 1.855 pacientes reumáticos en un año fue del 20,20%. La mayoría (91,66%) fue del nivel 1 y raramente del 3 (1,23%). El 2,99% de ellas tuvieron duplicaciones de AINE. Nuestros resultados proporcionan información de la prevalencia de INTMED que potencialmente podrían producir daños al individuo y datos que podrían influir en el desarrollo de estudios de la importancia clínica de las AINE-INMED(AU)

Objective: To determine the prevalence of and identify drug-drug interactions (DDI) between non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and other drugs in a prescription database of patients with rheumatic diseases. Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional study of a drug prescription database saving information on 35,000 individuals who benefited from a pre-paid medical system serving bank employees and their relatives. The analysis included one year period (from January to December 1998). NSAID-DDI were listed and classified into 3 levels (1: minor; 2: moderate, and 3: high health risk or death risk) according to DRUGDEX® as well as MEDLINE and EMBASE search. Results: We analyzed 3,207 NSAID prescriptions (1.7 ± 1.6 per patient) to 1,855 rheumatic patients (adults: 76.7%; geriatric: 20.2%, and pediatric: 3.0%; soft tissue rheumatism: 52%; osteoarthritis: 19%, and rheumatoid arthritis: 10%). There were 648 (20.20%) NSAID-DDI prescriptions: 594 (91.66%) corresponded to level 1; 46 (7.09%) to level 2, and 8 (1.23%) to level 3. In addition, 96 (2.99%) prescriptions included NSAID duplications. Interestingly, we found no NSAID-DDI with anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and oral hypoglycemiants were found. Conclusions: The prevalence of NSAID-DDI prescriptions to 1,855 rheumatic patients was 20.20% in one year. NSAID-DDI was mostly (91.66%) level 1, and rarely (1.23%) level 3. NSAID duplications were found in 2.99%. These results provides information on the frequency of prescriptions with DDI, which might potentially produce harmful effects and data, which may help in the development of studies searching for the clinical relevance of NSAID-DDI(AU)