Hallazgo incidental atípico en radiografía panorámica de extensa masa calcificada en rodete tubárico. Seguimiento a 11 años / Atypical incidental finding in panoramic radiography of an extensive calcified mass in torus tubarius: a 11-year follow-up

Introducción: La mayoría de las calcificaciones en la región de cabeza y cuello son asintomáticas, generalmente detectadas como hallazgos incidentales en estudios imagenológicos. Se han reportado calcificaciones previamente en el rodete tubárico, sin embargo, no hay reportes del hallazgo incidental de una gran calcificación asintomática en el rodete tubárico con seguimiento de 11 años. Objetivo: El propósito del presente artículo es reportar el hallazgo incidental en una radiografía panorámica, de una gran calcificación en el rodete tubárico y discutir sus posibles diagnósticos. Presentación del caso: Mujer de 43 años, sin historia clínica personal ni antecedentes familiares relevantes asiste a una clínica dental privada, para su evaluación antes de un tratamiento dental integral. Se encontró una gran calcificación asintomática en la trompa auditiva, específicamente en el rodete tubárico, como hallazgo incidental en una radiografía panorámica. El presente reporte muestra el enfoque de toma de decisiones para su diagnóstico diferencial. Basado en las imágenes y su comportamiento clínico, es posible que esta lesión corresponda a un tonsilolito o la unión de varios tonsilolitos en el rodete tubárico. No se realizó ningún tratamiento quirúrgico. En su lugar, se ha realizado un seguimiento imagenológico de 11 años. Teniendo en cuenta la evolución del caso, se espera que la lesión se mantenga estable, sin embargo, debe continuar su seguimiento para evaluar sus características clínicas y radiográficas en el tiempo. Conclusiones: La radiografía panorámica permite observar la superposición de estructuras anatómicas externas al territorio maxilofacial. Por lo tanto, es esencial que los radiólogos maxilofaciales tengan conocimiento adecuado del territorio evaluado, para detectar alteraciones como la reportada. (AU)

Introduction: Most of calcifications in head and neck region are asymptomatic and are usually detected as incidental findings in imaging studies. Calcifications have previously been reported in the torus tubarius, however, there are no reports of the incidental finding of a large, asymptomatic calcification located in the torus tubarius that include an 11-years follow-up. Objective: The purpose of the present article is to report the incidental finding in a panoramic radiography, of a large calcification at the previously described location and discuss its presumptive diagnoses. Case presentation: A 43-year-old female patient, with neither personal medical history nor relevant family history attended a private dental clinic, for evaluation prior to the start of a comprehensive dental treatment. A large, asymptomatic calcification in the auditory tube, specifically in thetorus tubarius, was found as incidental finding in a panoramic radiography. The approach for its differential diagnosis decision making is shown. Based on imaging and clinical behavior, it is possible that this lesion corresponds to a tonsilolith, or the coalescence of several tonsiloliths formed in the torus tubarius. No surgical treatment was carried out. A 11-yearsclinical an imaging follow-up has been performed instead. Considering the evolution of this case, it is expected that this lesion will remain stable, however, the status of the patient must be followed-up to assess its clinical and radiographic characteristics. Conclusions: Panoramic radiograph allows clinicians to observe the superimposition of anatomical structures which are external to the maxillofacial territory. Therefore, it is essential that dental radiologists have an appropriate knowledge of the territory being evaluated. (AU)

In situ electromagnet with active cooling for real-time magneto-optic Kerr effect spectroscopy.

We present a compact in situ electromagnet with an active cooling system for use in ultrahigh vacuum environments. The active cooling enhances the thermal stability and increases the electric current that can be applied through the coil, promoting the generation of homogeneous magnetic fields, required for applications in real-time deposition experiments. The electromagnet has been integrated into a reflectance difference magneto-optic Kerr effect (RD-MOKE) spectroscopy system that allows the synchronous measurement of the optical anisotropy and the magneto-optic response in polar MOKE geometry. Proof of principle studies have been performed in real time during the deposition of ultra-thin Ni films on Cu(110)-(2 × 1)O surfaces, corroborating the extremely sharp spin reorientation transition above a critical coverage of 9 monolayers and demonstrating the potential of the applied setup for real-time and in situ investigations of magnetic thin films and interfaces.

Aporte de la radiología oral y maxilofacial al diagnóstico clínico / Contribution of oral and maxillofacial radiology to the clinical diagnosis

Introducción: La radiología oral y maxilofacial (RMF) es la disciplina encargada del uso de rayos X y otros tipos de radiación para el diagnóstico de enfermedades y condiciones del área maxilofacial. El propósito de la presente revisión es analizar el aporte de la RMF al diagnóstico clínico. Revisión: Las legislaciones nacionales suelen establecer requisitos para autorizar el uso e instalación de equipos generadores de radiaciones ionizantes, sin embargo, falta regulación sobre la responsabilidad del diagnóstico radiográfico. Por esto, es necesario aplicar consideraciones éticas y principios de protección radiológica que garanticen el uso responsable de los exámenes radiográficos. Debiera existir una persona responsable del diagnóstico radiográfico, que debe ser un odontólogo con conocimientos en interpretación radiográfica y cursos de educación continua en RMF. La solicitud y toma radiográfica son acciones fundamentales que contribuyen a que el responsable del diagnóstico radiográfico realice uno correcto. La RMF actualmente es reconocida como especialidad en más de 50 países, sin embargo, existe la necesidad de reconocimiento en otros países. Debido a su formación profesional, la existencia de especialistas en RMF contribuye a mejores diagnósticos radiográficos, con el consecuente impacto en el diagnóstico clínico y tratamiento del paciente. Conclusiones: La RMF es una disciplina fundamental para determinar el diagnóstico clínico del paciente. Para que los exámenes radiográficos usados aporten al clínico tratante a brindar la mejor atención al paciente, es fundamental que estos exámenes cuenten con un correcto y completo diagnóstico realizado por un profesional con entrenamiento y conocimientos en RMF, idealmente especialista en RMF

Introduction: Oral and maxillofacial radiology (MFR) is the discipline that deals with the use of X-rays and other kinds of radiation for the diagnosis of diseases and conditions of the maxillofacial region. The aim of the present review is to analyze the contribution of MFR to the clinical diagnosis. Review: National laws usually establish the requirements to authorize the use and installation of ionizing radiation generating equipment, nevertheless, there is a lack of regulation regarding the responsibility of the radiographic diagnosis. Because of this, it is necessary to apply ethical considerations and principles of radiation protection to guarantee the responsible use of the radiographic examinations. There should be a person responsible of the radiographic diagnosis, who must be a dentist with knowledge in radiographic interpretation and with continuing education courses in MFR. The radiographic request and taking are fundamental actions that contribute the responsible of radiographic diagnosis to elaborates a correct diagnosis. Nowadays, MFR is recognized as a specialty in more than 50 countries, however, there is a need of its acknowledgment in other countries. Due to the MFR specialist training, his/her existence contributes to a better radiographic diagnosis, with the consequent impact on clinical diagnosis and patient treatment. Conclusions: MFR is a fundamental discipline for determining the clinical diagnosis of the patient. In order the radiographic exams contribute the treating clinician to offer the best clinical attention to the patient, it is fundamental these exams have a correct and complete radiographic diagnosis, performed by a professional with training and knowledge in MFR, ideally an MFR specialist

Efficacy of needleless transcutaneous electroacupuncture in synchronization with breathing for symptomatic idiopathic gastroparesis: A blinded and controlled acute treatment trial.

BACKGROUND: Needleless transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) improves nausea and myoelectrical activity in diabetic gastroparesis (GP). Synchronized TEA (STEA), which combines synchronized breathing with TEA, is more potent than TEA in enhancing vagal activity in healthy subjects. AIMS: To investigate whether STEA improves symptoms, electrogastrogram (EGG) and vagal activity in idiopathic gastroparesis (IGP). METHODS: Eighteen IGP subjects underwent 2 randomized visits (sham at non-acupoints or real STEA at acupoints) consisted of a 30-minute baseline, an Ensure challenge to provoke nausea, followed by 60-minute treatment with sham or real STEA, and 15-minute observation period. Severity of nausea, EGG, and vagal activity (based on electrocardiogram and serum Pancreatic Polypeptide, PP) were recorded. RESULTS: In sham or STEA, the nausea scores of 2.7 ± 0.5 and 1.9 ± 0.5 at fasting baseline, respectively, increased to 5.9 ± 0.4 and 5.8 ± 0.3 during Ensure test (P < .05, vs baseline), subsequently reduced to 3.4 ± 0.6 with sham or 3.6 ± 0.6 with STEA, respectively (P < .05, vs Ensure period). Experiments with sham and STEA started with similar % of normal waves on EGG (66.4 ± 3.9 and 61.8 ± 3.0, respectively); decreased to 63. 5 ± 4.1 and 58.2 ± 2.8 during the Ensure test. After STEA, there was ~24% increase in % of normal waves, significantly different from the sham (6.0%) (P < .01). In sham or STEA, vagal activity was identical at baseline and after the Ensure. STEA induced a 3-fold increase in vagal activity compared with sham (P < .01). Ensure increased serum PP levels, and both treatments decreased the PP CONCLUSIONS: In IGP, STEA is not superior to Sham in decreasing nausea, but is more effective in improving gastric dysrhythmia.

Tumor odontogénico adenomatoide extrafolicular mandibular, de ubicación inusual e imagenología atípica. Reporte de un caso / Extra follicular adenomatoid odontogenic tumor in mandible with unusual location and atipic imaging. A case report

Introducción: El tumor odontogénico adenomatoide (TOA) es un tumor poco común, no agresivo, de crecimiento lento e indoloro. Afecta a pacientes entre la segunda y tercera décadas de vida, más común en mujeres. Revisión: El TOA se presenta mayormente en sector anterior maxilar, asociado a la corona y parte de la raíz de un diente no erupcionado (folicular, 70%), o no asociado a un diente sin erupcionar (extrafolicular, 24%). Radiográficamente se observa una lesión de bordes definidos, corticalizados, radiolúcida o mixta con focos radiopacos internos en 2/3 de los casos. Al examen histopatológico se observa una cápsula externa de tejido conjuntivo fibroso rodeando un patrón nodular de células epiteliales fusiformes, con una configuración característica de roseta. Presenta además estructuras tubulares y calcificaciones esféricas. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de sexo femenino, 10 años de edad, con una lesión radiolúcida de bordes definidos, corticalizados, ubicado en región canina mandibular. Mediante exámenes imagenológicos se descartan diversas patologías radiolúcidas. Se confirma el diagnostico presuntivo de TOA mediante el análisis histopatológico. Conclusiones: El TOA mandibular con presentación imagenológica extrafolicular se presenta con poca frecuencia. Es necesario un examen imagenológico adecuado para distinguir características propias de la lesión y poder diferenciarla de otras lesiones radiolúcidas con radiopacidades internas. Es importante la confirmación del diagnóstico mediante examen histopatológico

Introduction: Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) is a rare, non-aggressive, slow-growing, painless tumor. It affects patients between the second and third decade of life, being more common in women. Review: Commonly, the AOT affects the anterior maxilla, associated to the crown and part of the root of an unerupted tooth (follicular, 70%), or not associated to an unerupted tooth (extrafolicular, 24%). Radiographically, AOT appears as a radiolucency with a well-defined sclerotic border. It can be completely radiolucent or contain radiopaque foci in 2/3 of cases. Histopathological analysis shows an external capsule composed of fibrous connective tissue surrounding a nodular pattern of fusiform epithelial cells, with a characteristic rosette configuration. It also has tubular structures and spherical calcifications. A case of an extrafollicular AOT in mandible with unusual location and atypical imaging is reported. A 10-year-old female patient, with a well-defined radiolucent lesion, with sclerotic borders, located in the canine mandibular region was evaluated. Imaging tests discarded various radiolucent pathologies. The presumptive diagnosis of AOT was confirmed by histopathological analysis. Conclusions: Mandibular extrafollicular AOT is an infrequent tumor which requires adequate imaging to observe its characteristics and to differentiate it from other radiolucent lesions with internal radiopacities. It is important the confirmation of the diagnosis by histopathological examination

Response to pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine in children with asthma, and children with recurrent respiratory infections, and healthy children

BACKGROUND: To analyse specific immune response to the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine by measuring pneumococcal antibodies in children with asthma and with respiratory recurrent infection (RRI) as compared to healthy children. METHODS: The study included 60 children, divided into three groups: 20 with asthma, 20 with RRI, and 20 healthy controls. Post-vaccination specific IgG antibodies against 10 pneumococcal serotypes (S1, S3, S4, S5, S6B, S9V, S14, S18C, S19F, and S23F) contained in the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) were measured. A specific IgG concentration ≥1.3μg/mL was considered a protective response to the vaccine. For statistical analysis, levels of specific IgG antibodies against each of the 10 pneumococcal serotypes were compared across the three groups of children using the x2 test. RESULTS: All of the children showed antipneumococcal antibody levels >1.3μg/mL for over 70% of the serotypes, considered within the normal range of response. Average IgG antibody levels and percentages of children protected were statistically comparable among the three groups studied. CONCLUSION: The asthmatic children without RRI had pneumococcal antibody levels and percentages of serotype-specific protection to PPV comparable to those of healthy children. Asthmatic children with recurrent infections should be evaluated for specific antibody deficiency (SAD). Because asthma patients are at high risk for invasive pneumococcal infections, it would be worthwhile to explore systematic administration of PPV in children over the age of two years who have not received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, considering the positive response to PPV reported here

No disponible

Response to pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine in children with asthma, and children with recurrent respiratory infections, and healthy children.

BACKGROUND: To analyse specific immune response to the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine by measuring pneumococcal antibodies in children with asthma and with respiratory recurrent infection (RRI) as compared to healthy children. METHODS: The study included 60 children, divided into three groups: 20 with asthma, 20 with RRI, and 20 healthy controls. Post-vaccination specific IgG antibodies against 10 pneumococcal serotypes (S1, S3, S4, S5, S6B, S9V, S14, S18C, S19F, and S23F) contained in the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) were measured. A specific IgG concentration ≥1.3µg/mL was considered a protective response to the vaccine. For statistical analysis, levels of specific IgG antibodies against each of the 10 pneumococcal serotypes were compared across the three groups of children using the x(2) test. RESULTS: All of the children showed antipneumococcal antibody levels >1.3µg/mL for over 70% of the serotypes, considered within the normal range of response. Average IgG antibody levels and percentages of children protected were statistically comparable among the three groups studied. CONCLUSION: The asthmatic children without RRI had pneumococcal antibody levels and percentages of serotype-specific protection to PPV comparable to those of healthy children. Asthmatic children with recurrent infections should be evaluated for specific antibody deficiency (SAD). Because asthma patients are at high risk for invasive pneumococcal infections, it would be worthwhile to explore systematic administration of PPV in children over the age of two years who have not received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, considering the positive response to PPV reported here.

Polarization-dependent differential reflectance spectroscopy for real-time monitoring of organic thin film growth.

By monitoring the reflectance of a sample surface during deposition of a thin organic film, one can obtain information with submonolayer resolution in real-time. A special kind of optical spectroscopy is Differential Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), which compares the reflectance before and during deposition of a thin film or any other change of the surface optical properties. In this work, we present an extended DRS setup that allows monitoring simultaneously both linear polarization states (s and p) of the reflected light. We implement polarization-dependent DRS to monitor the growth of perflouropentacene thin films on a Ag(110) single crystal. The setup allows us to deduce the optical anisotropy of the sample and, in particular, the preferred orientation of the molecules on the surface.

Specific antibody deficiency with normal immunoglobulin concentration in children with recurrent respiratory infections

BACKGROUND: Response to polysaccharide antigens is a test to evaluate the immunological competence of children with recurrent respiratory infections (RRI) of unknown cause and no other immune system abnormality. In order to detect specific antibody deficiency (SAD), a group of children with RRI without other immunodeficiency were prospectively studied. METHODS: We included 20 children (12 male), age range 3-14 years, with six or more annual episodes of respiratory infections (RI); one or more monthly episodes of RI during the winter months; or three or more annual episodes of lower RI. The children were immunised with 23-valent polysaccharide anti-pneumococcal vaccine, and ELISA was used to measure anti-polysaccharide IgG antibody levels for 10 pneumococcal serotypes at baseline (T0), and 45 days (T1) and one year post-immunisation (T2). Post-immunisation response above 1.3 μg/ml for more than 50% of the serotypes was considered normal for children 2-5 years, and for more than 70% of the serotypes in children older than 5 years. RESULTS: At T1 19/20 children showed a normal response for their age, and only one patient showed a deficient response, suggestive of classic moderate SAD. At T2, 8/20 patients showed deficient responses, suggestive of impaired persistence of specific antibodies. There was a noteworthy association between deficient response and asthma and allergic rhinitis. CONCLUSIONS: We propose first ruling out local or systemic causes, then performing serum immunoglobulin IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE and IgG

No disponible

Specific antibody deficiency with normal immunoglobulin concentration in children with recurrent respiratory infections.

BACKGROUND: Response to polysaccharide antigens is a test to evaluate the immunological competence of children with recurrent respiratory infections (RRI) of unknown cause and no other immune system abnormality. In order to detect specific antibody deficiency (SAD), a group of children with RRI without other immunodeficiency were prospectively studied. METHODS: We included 20 children (12 male), age range 3-14 years, with six or more annual episodes of respiratory infections (RI); one or more monthly episodes of RI during the winter months; or three or more annual episodes of lower RI. The children were immunised with 23-valent polysaccharide anti-pneumococcal vaccine, and ELISA was used to measure anti-polysaccharide IgG antibody levels for 10 pneumococcal serotypes at baseline (T0), and 45 days (T1) and one year post-immunisation (T2). Post-immunisation response above 1.3 µg/ml for more than 50% of the serotypes was considered normal for children 2-5 years, and for more than 70% of the serotypes in children older than 5 years. RESULTS: At T1 19/20 children showed a normal response for their age, and only one patient showed a deficient response, suggestive of classic moderate SAD. At T2, 8/20 patients showed deficient responses, suggestive of impaired persistence of specific antibodies. There was a noteworthy association between deficient response and asthma and allergic rhinitis. CONCLUSIONS: We propose first ruling out local or systemic causes, then performing serum immunoglobulin IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE and IgG subclass levels, and finally measuring response to polysaccharide pneumococcal antigens for detection of SAD.

Morphological characteristics of the temporomandibular joint articular surfaces in patients with temporomandibular deisorders / Características morfológicas de las superficies articulares de la articulación temporomandibular de pacientes con trastornos temporomandibulares

The knowledge of the anatomical characteristics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articular surfaces is essentital to enable physicians and dentists to recognize the morphological changes that occur in this articulation in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Several researchers associate the TMD with changes of TMJ articular surfaces. The careful identification of bone changes related to TMJ is critical, since these abnormalities are associated with signs and symptoms of TMD and the knowledge of TMD signs and symptoms is fundamental for correctly diagnosing and for adequate treatment planning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of the TMJ articular surfaces in patients with TMD diagnosed according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD). In addition, therelationship between increasing age-osteoarthrosis was evaluated. For the sample we selected 19 patients, 17 female and 2 male, referred to the "Unidad de Trastornos Cráneo Cérvico Mandibulares (UCRACEM) - Universidad de Talca, Chile". The imaging assessment was carried out by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). In the imaging analysis of the articular surfaces 11 joints (28.94 percent) showed normal morphology. The bone changes found were: sclerosis, flattening, erosion, osteoarthrosis, osteophytes, subcondral cysts. We found statistically significant difference between increasing age-osteoarthrosis (p=0.00). Considering our results we concluded that bone changes of the TMJ articular surfaces in patients with TMD are very common, with sclerosis as the most frequent finding. It was also possible to conclude that there was a significant association between increasing age-osteoarthrosis.

El conocimiento de las características anatómicas de las superficies articulares de la articulación temporomandibular (ATM) es fundamental para que clínicos y odontólogos reconozcan las alteraciones morfológicas que ocurren en la articulación de pacientes con trastornos temporomandibulares (TTM). Diversos investigadores asocian los TTMs con alteraciones en las superficies articulares de la ATM. La identificación de los cambios óseos relacionados con la ATM es crítica, ya que estos se asocian a signos y síntomas de TTM, y el conocimiento de estos es fundamental para el correcto diagnóstico y adecuada planificación de tratamiento. El objetivo fue analizar las características morfológicas de las superficies articulares de la ATM en pacientes con diagnóstico de TTM, diagnosticado de acuerdo a los Criterios Diagnósticos para Investigación de los Trastornos Temporomandibulares (CDI/TTM), junto con analizar la relación existente entre incremento de edad-osteoartrosis. Fueron seleccionados 19 pacientes, 17 mujeres y 2 hombres, de la Unidad de Trastornos Cráneo Cérvico Mandibulares (UCRACEM) - Universidad de Talca, Chile. La evaluación imagenológica se realizó mediante el examen de Tomografía Computarizada Cone-Beam (TCCB). En el análisis de las superficies articulares, 11 (28,94 por ciento) presentaron morfología normal. Los cambios óseos encontrados fueron: esclerosis, aplanamiento de la cabeza de la mandíbula, erosión, osteoartrosis, osteofitos y quiste subcondral. Hubo relación estadística significativa entre incremento de edad-osteoartrosis (p=0,00). Nuestros hallazgos nos permiten concluir que los cambios óseos en las caras articulares de la ATM en pacientes con TTM son frecuentes, y la esclerosis el hallazgo más común. También se encontró asociación entre incremento de edad y osteoartrosis.

Percepción del nivel cognoscitivo sobre manejo postural continuo en cuidadores de pacientes en silla de ruedas / Perception of cognition level about continuous postural management in caregivers of patients in wheelchairs

Introducción: Los pacientes con alteraciones neurológicas severas dependen del cuidado de terceros, muchas veces son las familias quienes asumen este rol, pero se desconoce cuánto logran integrar del manejo postural continuo. Objetivo: Determinar la percepción del nivel cognoscitivo de los cuidadores, en relación al manejo postural continuo, de pacientes en silla de ruedas, que asisten al Instituto Teletón Concepción, durante el año 2011. Pacientes y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo fenomenológico con muestra de casos tipos en 8 cuidadores, que permitió profundizar en las experiencias individuales de estos, a través de entrevistas semi-estructuradas. Se realizó análisis semántico estructural sobre el discurso de los cuidadores. Resultados: Se estableció los códigos principales bajo los cuales los cuidadores comprenden el manejo postural continuo, el cual se entendió por el concepto de alineación corporal, la condición muscular del paciente y las expectativas de rehabilitación. Hay un mayor reconocimiento de los padres a la información entregada por sus pares, dándole mayor valor emocional. Las experiencias particulares de cada cuidador pueden ser una fuente positiva de refuerzo del programa de manejo postural continuo. Conclusiones: Los cuidadores refieren poseer amplios conocimientos del manejo postural continuo, pero no son capaces de detallar los aspectos básicos del mismo, evidenciando una falta de integración del conocimiento en esta área.

Introduction: Patients with severe neurological disorders depend on a third party for their care. Usually it is within their own families, that someone takes over that role, however, it is unknown to what extent they are able to integrate “continuous postural management”. Objective: To determine caregivers’ cognitive perception level with regards to “continuous postural management”, of patients who use wheelchairs and who attended Teletón Institute at Concepción, Chile, during the year 2011. Patients and Method: A phenomenological qualitative research using type cases samples in 8 caregivers was carried out. This made possible to go in depth with their individual experiences by conducting semi-structured interviews. A structural semantic analysis about the caregivers’ speech was done. Outcomes: Main codes under which caregivers understand “continuous postural management” were established. This was understood as the concept of body or corporal alignment, patients’ muscular condition and rehabilitation expectancies. There is greater acknowledgment from parents regarding information provided by their peers, which adds greater emotional value. Therefore, each caregiver’s individual experience may become a constructive strengthening source for the “continuous postural management” program. Conclusions: Caregivers reported having broad knowledge regarding “continuous posture management”, however they were unable to provide details about its basic characteristics, thus showing lack of knowledge integration in this area.

Transmitted drug-resistance in human immunodeficiency virus-infected adult population in El Salvador, Central America.

El Salvador harbours one of the largest Central American human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics, but few studies have analysed it in depth. Here, we describe the presence of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) and HIV variants in the HIV-infected adult population in El Salvador. Dried blood spots from 119 HIV-infected antiretroviral-naive adults attended in El Salvador were collected in 2011. The TDR was assessed according to the list recommended by the WHO. HIV-1 variants were described using phylogeny. Pol sequences could be amplified in 88 patients (50.6% men), with a mean age of 35 years. Almost all (96.7%) were infected with HIV through sexual practice and 58.7% were recently diagnosed. The mean CD4(+) count was 474 cells/mm(3) and 43.1% and 15.5% of patients showed moderate (<500 CD4 cells) or severe (<200) immune suppression, respectively. HIV-1 viral load was >100 000 copies/mL in 24.7% of patients and <2000 copies/mL in 9.1%. Five samples (5.7%) harboured any TDR mutation: 2.3% for nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), and 1.4% for protease inhibitor (PI). All showed only one TDR single-class resistance mutation: M184I (two cases) for NRTI, K101E and K103N for NNRTI and L23I for PI. All viruses excepting one (URF_BG) belonged to subtype B. No phylogenetic TDR networks were found. In conclusion, we report a TDR prevalence of 5.7% in El Salvador, lower than in other Central American studies. Periodical studies are essential to monitor and prevent TDR emergence in low-income and middle-income regions. Also, more efforts are needed to promote early diagnosis and prevention of infection in El Salvador.

Hallazgos en radiografías panorámocas de adultos mayores de Talca, Chile / Radiological findings in panoramic radiograhs of elderly people of Talca, Chile

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de hallazgos radiográficos en pacientes mayores de 60 años, atendidos en el Servicio de Radiología del Centro de Clínicas Odontológicas de la Universidad de Talca entre los meses de marzo y octubre del año 2010. Se evaluaron 190 radiografías panorámicas digitales de pacientes mayores de 60 años de edad. Se determinó la presencia de lesiones radiolúcidas (RL), lesiones radiopacas (RO), restos radiculares (RR), lesiones apicales (LA), cuerpos extraños (CE), dientes incluidos (DI), calcificaciones en tejidos blandos (CTB) y calcificaciones del complejo estilohioídeo (CCE). El 58,9 % del total de la muestra tuvo hallazgos. En pacientes edéntulos totales, el 51,4% de las radiografías tuvieron algún hallazgo, mientras que en edéntulos parciales, el porcentaje el 60,6% presentaron hallazgos radiográficos. Estos en el total de la muestra se encontraron en orden decreciente fueron CCE 25,26%; CTB 24,21%; LA 19%; RO 11,05%; RR 7,36%; PI 4,21%; RL 3,68%. No se encontró cuerpos extraños. La mayoría de los hallazgos se encontró de manera única (57%). Nuestros resultados sugieren que sería adecuado solicitar una radiografía panorámica antes de iniciar el tratamiento rehabilitador de un paciente adulto mayor, para obtener información que permita la realización de un tratamiento odontológica de forma segura

The aim of this study was to determine prevalence of radiological findings in digital panoramic radiographs of 60-year-old patients and more, treated in Radiological Service of Universidad de Talca`s Dental Clinical Center during the period between March and October of year 2010. 190 digital panoramic radiographs from elderly patients were observed. Radiolucent lesions (RL), radiopaque lesions (RO), periapical radiolucent lesions (LA), root fragments (RF), foreign bodies (FB), unerupted teeth (UT), soft tissue calcifications (STC) and calcified stylohyoid complex (CSC) were assessed. 58,9 % of full sample showed radiological findings. In edentulous mouths, 51,4% of radiographs had findings, whereas in partially edentulous, percentage of Rx with findings was 60,6%. Radiological findings of full sample in decreasing order were as next: CSC 25,26%; STC 24,21%; LA 19%; RO 11,05%; RF 7,36%; UT 4,21%; RL 3,68%. Foreign bodies were not found. Radiological findings were seen multiple in 43%. Our results suggest that prescribe a panoramic radiograph before starting a rehabilitation treatment to an elderly patient, would be beneficial in order to obtain useful information for safer dental treatments

Necrosis-inducing proteins of Rhynchosporium commune, effectors in quantitative disease resistance.

The barley pathogen Rhynchosporium commune secretes necrosis-inducing proteins NIP1, NIP2, and NIP3. Expression analysis revealed that NIP1 transcripts appear to be present in fungal spores already, whereas NIP2 and NIP3 are synthesized after inoculation of host plants. To assess the contribution of the three effector proteins to disease development, deletion mutants were generated. The development of these fungal mutants on four barley cultivars was quantified in comparison with that of the parent wild-type strain and with two fungal strains failing to secrete an "active" NIP1 avirulence protein, using quantitative polymerase chain reaction as well as microscopic imaging after fungal green fluorescent protein tagging. The impact of the three deletions varied quantitatively depending on the host genotype, suggesting that the activities of the fungal effectors add up to produce stronger growth patterns and symptom development. Alternatively, recognition events of differing intensities may be converted into defense gene expression in a quantitative manner.

Lung involvement in rheumatologic diseases in children

Background: Lung involvement in rheumatologic disease in children has been described with low frequency. Objective: To describe the lung function test and the radiological findings in a group of paediatric patients with rheumatologic diseases. Methods: Descriptive study. Pulmonary function was evaluated with spirometry, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, blood arterial gas at rest and post exercise in addition to chest radiography and high resolution computed tomography were performed in children with rheumatologic disease. Results: Of the fourteen patients studied: 11 were diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), two with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and one with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Mean age: 13 years (range 7-18 years). Nine females, duration of disease 4±2.8 years (range 1-11 years). Four patients had any grade of abnormalities in one or more lung function tests and/or radiological test. Conclusion: We recommend routine checks of pulmonary function in all patients with rheumatologic diseases even in the absence of respiratory symptoms(AU)

Lung involvement in rheumatologic diseases in children.

BACKGROUND: Lung involvement in rheumatologic disease in children has been described with low frequency. OBJECTIVE: To describe the lung function test and the radiological findings in a group of paediatric patients with rheumatologic diseases. METHODS: Descriptive study. Pulmonary function was evaluated with spirometry, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, blood arterial gas at rest and post exercise in addition to chest radiography and high resolution computed tomography were performed in children with rheumatologic disease. RESULTS: Of the fourteen patients studied: 11 were diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), two with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and one with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Mean age: 13 years (range 7-18 years). Nine females, duration of disease 4 ± 2.8 years (range 1-11 years). Four patients had any grade of abnormalities in one or more lung function tests and/or radiological test. CONCLUSION: We recommend routine checks of pulmonary function in all patients with rheumatologic diseases even in the absence of respiratory symptoms.

Primary immunodeficiency diseases in Latin America: Proceedings of the Second Latin American Society for Immunodeficiencies (LASID) Advisory Board

Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy are essential for the best prognosis and quality of life in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDDs). Experts from several Latin American countries have been meeting on a regular basis as part of an on going effort to improve the diagnosis and treatment of PIDD in this region. Three programmes are in development that will expand education and training and improve access to testing facilities through out Latin America. These programmes are: an educational out reach programme (The L-Project); an immunology fellowship programme; and the establishment of a laboratory network to expand access to testing facilities. This report provides the status of these programmes based on the most recent discussions and describes the next steps toward full implementation of these programmes (AU)

Primary immunodeficiency diseases in Latin America: proceedings of the Second Latin American Society for Immunodeficiencies (LASID) Advisory Board.

Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy are essential for the best prognosis and quality of life in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDDs). Experts from several Latin American countries have been meeting on a regular basis as part of an ongoing effort to improve the diagnosis and treatment of PIDD in this region. Three programmes are in development that will expand education and training and improve access to testing facilities throughout Latin America. These programmes are: an educational outreach programme (The L-Project); an immunology fellowship programme; and the establishment of a laboratory network to expand access to testing facilities. This report provides the status of these programmes based on the most recent discussions and describes the next steps toward full implementation of these programmes.