Genetic and morphological characterization of a new genotype of nervous necrosis virus circulating among Nile tilapia in the south of Egypt

Nervous necrosis virus (NNV) is the causative agent of viral nervous necrosis in freshwater and marine fishes. In this study, NNV circulating among wild and farmed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) was genetically and morphologically characterized using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), sequencing analysis, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Brain, eye, and other organ (spleen, kidney, heart, and liver) specimens were collected from 87 wild (66) and farmed (21) Nile tilapia fish during their adult or juvenile stage at different localities in Qena and Sohag governorates in southern Egypt. Among them, 57/87 fish showed suspected NNV clinical signs, and 30/87 were healthy. The results revealed that NNV was detected in 66 out of 87 fish (58.62% in the wild and 17.24% in farmed Nile tilapia by RT-PCR), and the prevalence was higher among diseased (55.17%) than in healthy (20.69%) fish. NNV was detected in the brain, eye, and other organs. Using TEM, virion size variations based on the infected organs were observed. Nucleotide sequence similarity indicated that NNVs had a divergence of 75% from other fish nodaviruses sequenced in Egypt and worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis distinguished them from other NNV genotypes, revealing the emergence of a new NNV genotype in southern Egypt. In conclusion, NNV is circulating among diseased and healthy Nile tilapia, and a new NNV genotype has emerged in southern Egypt. (AU)

Ganancia auditiva en pacientes intervenidos de cirugía del estribo por otosclerosis / Hearing gain in patients undergoing stapes surgery for otosclerosis

Introducción y objetivo: La otosclerosis es una causa de hipoacusia en jóvenes, con mayor frecuencia en mujeres. La cirugía del estribo es un procedimiento correctivo ampliamente aceptado, con el advenimiento de la tecnología y cambios en la técnica, surge la interrogante de si existen diferencias entre ellas. Objetivo: Evaluar si existen diferencias en la ganancia auditiva entre técnicas y abordajes de las cirugías del estribo en pacientes con otosclerosis Método: Se recabaron variables demográficas, clínicas y quirúrgicas. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva. Se empleó prueba U de Mann-Whitney para variables numéricas, así como Kruskal Wallis para comparación diferencias en tres o más grupos. Se consideró significativo un valor de p ≤ a 0.05. Resultados: Entre los años 2020 y 2023 se realizaron 55 cirugías de estribo por otosclerosis, de las cuales 20 se tuvieron que excluir. De 35 cirugías en 31 pacientes, la media de edad de 41.16 ± 8.64 años, 77.4% fueron mujeres, el 51.4 % fueron en el oído derecho; se presentaron comorbilidades en el 25.7%, las complicaciones 5 presentaron hipoacusia, el 88.6 % de los procedimientos se encontró un cierre satisfactorio de la brecha aérea y ósea. No se presentaron diferencia entre las técnicas de la cirugía de estribo y resultados audiológicos postquirúrgicos p=0.872, ni con el tipo de abordaje de visualización p=0.636. Discusión: Nuestros resultados son similares a lo que encontraron algunos autores, no obstante, aún sigue existiendo incertidumbre sobre la mejor técnica. Conclusiones: No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuanto a la ganancia auditiva con el abordaje de visualización y el tipo de procedimiento en el estribo para la colocación de la prótesis. (AU)

Introduction and objective: Otosclerosis is a cause of hearing loss in young people, more frequently in women. Stapes surgery is a widely accepted corrective procedure, with the advent of technology and changes in technique, the question arises as to whether there are differences between them. Objective: To evaluate whether there are differences in hearing gain between techniques and approaches of stapes surgeries in patients with otosclerosis. Method: Demographic, clinical and surgical variables were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for numerical variables, as well as the Kruskal Wallis test to compare differences in three or more groups. A p value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Between 2020 and 2023, 55 stapes surgeries were performed for otosclerosis, of which 20 had to be excluded. Of 35 surgeries in 31 patients, mean age 41.16 ± 8.64 years, 77.4% were women, 51.4% were in the right ear; Comorbidities were present in 25.7%, 5 complications presented hearing loss, in 88.6% of the procedures a satisfactory closure of the air-bone gap was found. There was no difference between stapes surgery techniques and postsurgical audiological results p=0.872, nor with the type of visualization approach p=0.636. Discussion: Our results are similar to what some authors found, however, there is still uncertainty about the best technique. Conclusions: No statistically significant differences were found in terms of hearing gain with the visualization approach and the type of procedure in the stapes for placement of the prosthesis. (AU)

Cabello impeinable, un diagnóstico clínico fácil / Uncombable hair, an easy diagnosis

El cabello impeinable o indomable es una entidad benigna con unas características clínicas muy peculiares y fácilmente reconocibles. La sospecha diagnóstica es clínica y la confirmación se realiza mediante estudio por microscopía óptica de una muestra de cabello del paciente. Requiere evaluación dermatológica y oftalmológica. Su pronóstico es favorable y en ocasiones se consiguen buenos resultados con champú de piritiona de zinc (AU)

Uncombable hair is a benign entity with very peculiar and easily recognizable characteristics. The diagnostic suspicion is clinical and confirmation is made by an optical microscopy study of a sample of the patient's hair. A dermatological and ophthalmological evaluation are required. Its prognosis is favorable and good results are sometimes achieved with pyrithione zinc shampoo. (AU)

Microscopía vs. biología molecular en el diagnóstico de infecciones protozoarias intestinales, ¿es el momento del cambio? / Microscopy vs. molecular biology in the diagnosis of intestinal protozoal infections, is it time for a change?

Introducción: El examen microscópico de las parasitosis intestinales, a partir de las heces concentradas del paciente, presenta una menor sensibilidad si se compara con las técnicas de diagnóstico molecular. Por ello, el objetivo del presente estudio ha sido comparar ambas técnicas, así como evaluar si existe correlación entre el examen microscópico y los ciclos umbrales (Ct) obtenidos para Blastocystis hominis. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de las muestras recibidas en el laboratorio de Microbiología durante septiembre de 2021. Se realizó la prueba de concentración MiniParasep SF® para la visualización microscópica y posteriormente se realizó la PCR con el panel Seegene AllplexTM Parasite Assay. Resultados: Un 27% (n=74) de las muestras fueron positivas por diagnóstico molecular, con un total de 87 parásitosdetectados. El 53% (n=39) fueron mujeres con una edad media de 47 ± 24 años. En el 76% (n=56) de los casos el servicio de procedencia fue Atención Primaria. El parásito hallado con más frecuencia fue B. hominis, 85% (n=64), seguido de Dientamoeba fragilis 20% (n=15) y Giardia lamblia 11% (n=8). En 13 casos se detectaron co-infección por dos parásitos (en 6 casos B. hominis + D. fragilis, y en 7 casos B. hominis + G. lamblia). En el diagnóstico microscópico se obtuvo un 9,5% (n=26) de positividad. El parásito hallado con más frecuencia fue B. hominis,84% (n=23), seguido de G. lamblia se visualizó en tres casos por microscopía. D. fragilis no se visualizó en ningún caso. En una muestra se observó coinfección de B. hominis + G. lamblia. Conclusiones: Las técnicas para el diagnóstico molecular de las parasitosis intestinales son rápidas, fiables y más sensibles que las técnicas microscópicas, mejorando el diagnóstico microbiológico y la calidad asistencial. (AU)

Introduction: Microscopic examination of the intestinal parasites, from the patient’s concentrated feces, has a lower sensitivity when compared to molecular diagnostic techniques. Therefore, the objective of this study has been to compare both techniques, as well as to evaluate whether there is a correlation between the microscopic examination and the threshold cycles (Ct) obtained for Blastocystis hominis. Material and methods: Retrospective study of the samples received in the Microbiology laboratory during September 2021. The MiniParasep SF® concentration test was performed for microscopic visualization and then PCR was performed with the Seegene AllplexTM Parasite Assay panel. Results: A 27% (n=74) of the samples were positive by molecular diagnosis, with a total of 87 parasites detected. 53% (n=39) were women with a mean age of 47 ± 24 years. In 76% (n=56) of the cases the service of origin was Primary Care. The most frequently found parasite was B. hominis, 85% (n=64), followed by Dientamoeba fragilis 20% (n=15) and Giardia lamblia 11% (n=8). Co-infection by two parasites was detected in 13 cases (B. hominis + D. fragilis in 6 cases, and B. hominis + G. lamblia in 7 cases). In the microscopic diagnosis, 9.5% (n=26) positivity was obtained. The most frequently found parasite was B. hominis, 84% (n=23), followed by G. lamblia, which was seen in three cases by microscopy. D. fragilis was not seen in any case. Coinfection of B. hominis + G. lamblia was observed in one sample. Conclusions: Techniques for molecular diagnosis of intestinal parasites are fast, reliable and more sensitive than microscopic techniques, improving microbiological diagnosis and quality of care. (AU)

¿Sigue siendo útil la microscopia de campo oscuro en el diagnóstico de la sífilis primaria en el siglo XXI? / Is dark-field microscopy still useful for the primary syphilis diagnosis in the 21ST century?

IntroducciónLa serología luética en la sífilis primaria puede ser negativa los primeros 5-15 días. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar los beneficios de incluir la microscopia de campo oscuro (MCO) en el algoritmo diagnóstico de la sífilis primaria.MetodologíaSe incluyó a todos los pacientes que acudieron a una clínica de infecciones de transmisión sexual de la Comunidad de Madrid entre 2015 y 2019 que presentaban una úlcera genital sospechosa de sífilis primaria. Se les realizó MCO y serología (EIA/TPPA/RPR).ResultadosDe las 806 muestras, el 53,2% (429) fueron positivas para MCO. De los 429, el 48% presentaba screening serológico negativo (EIA/RPR) y de ellos en el 77,6% el TPPA fue positivo.ConclusionesLa MCO permite un diagnóstico de sífilis primaria precoz, incluso sin confirmación serológica. Si no se dispone de técnicas directas, en primoinfección, la TPPA es de gran ayuda en el diagnóstico.

IntroductionSerological test for primary syphilis could be negative the first 5-15 days. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of including dark field microscopy (DFM) in the diagnosis algorythm for primary syphilis.Materials/methodsPatients attended to a sexual transmission diseases clinic of Madrid, from 2015 to 2019, for a genital ulcer with clinical suspicion of primary syphilis. They were tested for DMF and serological test (EIA/TPPA/RPR).ResultsOver the total amount of samples (806), 53.2% (429) were positive for DFM. Thus, the 48% of the 429 patients had negative serological test (EIA/RPR) of which the 77.6% were positive at TPPA.ConclusionsDFM allows primary syphilis early diagnosis, even without serological test. If no direct detection methods are available, for patients without history of syphilis, TPPA could help to diagnose primary syphilis.

Detección microscópica y molecular de Plasmodium spp. en flamencos (Phoenicopterus ruber) mantenidos bajo cuidado humano en Zoofari, Centro de Conservación, Morelos, México / Microscopic and molecular detection of Plasmodium spp. in American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) kept under human care in Zoofari Conservation center in Morelos, Mexico

Objetivos: Establecer la prevalencia de Plasmodium en la población de Phoenicopterus ruber mantenidos bajo cuidado humano en el Centro de Conservación Zoofari, Morelos, México. Configuración y Diseño: Se han presentado reportes de vectores de malaria aviar pertenecientes a la familia Culicidae en estado de Morelos, México. La malaria aviar puede afectar diversas especies de aves incluyendo Phoenicopteriformes (Phoeniconaias minor, Phoenicopterus chilensis) la población de interés podría ser portadora subclínica de Plasmodium. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó un estudio exploratorio en el total de la población de Phoenicopterus ruber. En la investigación se implementaron dos técnicas de diagnóstico de hemoparásitos, la primera corresponde a análisis de frotis sanguíneos teñidos con una tinción rápida tipo Romanowsky los cuales fueron evaluados mediante microscopía óptica convencional y la segunda concierne la realización de la PCR utilizando iniciadores para amplificar ADN mitocondrial de tres especies de hemoparásitos (Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon). Análisis Estadístico utilizado. los resultados negativos del estudio no permiten realizar análisis estadístico. Resultados: En la evaluación mediante microscopía convencional no se evidenció en ningún frotis sanguíneo, presencia de merogonias o gránulos de hemozoína, obteniendo una totalidad de 80 muestras negativas. Las PCR realizadas bajo las condiciones utilizadas no demostraron amplificación exitosa de ADN parasitario. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio corresponde al primero de este tipo en la región. Después de implementar dos técnicas diferentes de diagnóstico para malaria aviar no se obtiene evidencia de la presencia de hemoparásitos en la población de Phoenicopterus ruber. Este tipo de investigaciones permite entender la dinámica e identificar enfermedades emergentes que puedan afectar a los animales y al hombre en una determinada región geográfica.(AU)

Aims: The goal of the current study was to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium in the population of Phoenicopterus ruber kept under human care at Zoofari Conservation Center, Morelos, Mexico. Settings and Design: Avian malaria vectors belonging to the family Culicidae has been reported at different Mexican States. Malaria infections compromise different host ranges including Phoenicopteriformes (Phoeniconaias minor, Phoenicopterus chilensis). The singled population housed in Zoofari, Conservation Center may harbor subclinical malaria (Plasmodium) infections. Methods and Material: A descriptive cross- sectional study in a singled population of American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber). We compared and contrasted two diagnostic techniques, microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for avian haemosporidia. In this study 80 blood smears stained in a Romanowsky stain were examined by microscopy, also molecular analysis were conducted, PCR was performed with the use of primers that amplifies parasite mtDNA from species of Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon. Results: A total of 80 Phoenicopterus ruber birds were examined for malarial parasites using both microscopy and PCR diagnostic methods, none of them were positives. Conclusions: Our study corresponds to the first of its kind in the region. After implementing two different diagnostic methods for avian malaria, no evidence was obtained of the presence of hemoparasites in the Phoenicopterus ruber population. This type of research allows us to understand the dynamics and identify emerging diseases that can affect animals and man in a certain geographic region.(AU)

Ringworm in cats and dogs: New guidelines / Dermatofitosis en perros y gatos: nuevas recomendaciones

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Tongue lesion due to Cryptococcus neoformans as the first finding in an HIV-positive patient / Lesión lingual por Cryptococcus neoformans como primer hallazgo clínico en una paciente VIH positiva

BACKGROUND: Cryptococcosis is a severe universally distributed mycosis which mainly affects immunocompromised hosts. This mycosis is caused by yeasts of two species complex of the genus Cryptococcus: Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. Meningeal cryptococcosis is the most frequent clinical presentation of this disseminated mycosis. The oral mucosa involvement is extremely unusual. CASE REPORT: We present a case of cryptococcosis with an unusual clinical form. The patient was assisted because she had an ulcerated lesion on the lingual mucosa. Encapsulated yeasts compatible with Cryptococcus were found in microscopic exams of wet preparations from lingual ulcer clinical samples obtained for cytodiagnosis and mycological studies. Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans var. grubii VNI) was isolated in culture. This patient did not know her condition of HIV seropositive before the appearance of the tongue lesion. CONCLUSIONS: The involvement of the oral mucosa is uncommon in this fungal infection, but is important to include it in the differential diagnosis in HIV positive patients

ANTECEDENTES: La criptococosis es una micosis grave de distribución universal que afecta principalmente a los huéspedes inmunodeficientes. Se han definido dos complejos de especies patógenas: Cryptococcus neoformans y Cryptococcus gattii. La meningoencefalitis es la presentación clínica más frecuente de esta micosis sistémica. La afectación de la mucosa oral es extremadamente rara. CASO CLÍNICO: Presentamos el caso de una paciente VIH positiva con una forma clínica inusual de criptococosis. La enferma presentaba una lesión ulcerada en la punta de la lengua. El examen microscópico en fresco de la escarificación y de la biopsia de esta lesión mostraron levaduras capsuladas compatibles con Cryptococcus. Se obtuvo Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans var. grubii VNI) en los cultivos. La paciente conoció su estado inmunológico (infección por VIH) en el contexto de esta enfermedad oportunista. CONCLUSIONES: La afectación de la mucosa oral es poco común en esta infección fúngica, pero es importante incluirla en el diagnóstico diferencial en pacientes VIH positivos

Mitotic count: A need for standardization / Recuento mitótico: una necesidad de estandarización

PURPOSE: The mitotic count (MC), number of mitosis per unit area, is a very important parameter frequently used for classification and grading of some tumors. Traditionally, the MC has been expressed in terms of number of mitoses per high power field. The size of the field of view can vary greatly among different microscopes. In order to avoid under or overestimation of mitotic count, a conversion needs to be made. METHODS: A simple formula based on a simple rule of three has been devised to standardize the mitotic count to the reference area by multiplying the number of mitotic figures by a correction factor which has been calculated for the most frequently used microscopes and various common tumors. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We propose this simple method, which involves only a single multiplication, to standardize the mitotic count to the reference area

OBJETIVO: El recuento mitótico o número de mitosis por unidad de área, es un parámetro muy importante utilizado frecuentemente para clasificar y estadificar ciertos tumores. Tradicionalmente se ha expresado el recuento mitótico en términos de número de mitosis por campos de alta frecuencia. El tamaño del campo de visión puede variar ampliamente entre los diferentes microscopios. A fin de evitar la infraestimación o sobreestimación del recuento mitótico, debe realizarse una conversión. MÉTODOS: Por medio de una simple regla de tres, se ha obtenido una fórmula simple para estandarizar el recuento mitótico. Multiplicando el número de mitosis por un factor de corrección, se obtiene el recuento mitótico estandarizado al área de referencia. Se han calculado los factores de corrección para los microscopios más habituales y para los diferentes tumores comunes. RESULTADOS Y CONCLUSIONES: Proponemos este método simple (únicamente uno por multiplicación) para estandarizar el recuento mitótico con respecto al área de referencia

Comparison of the whole slide imaging and conventional light microscopy in the grading of oral epithelial dysplasia: a multi-institutional study

BACKGROUND: Whole Slide Imaging (WSI) is an alternative method to light microscopy (LM). However, few studies have compared the diagnostic agreement between WSI and LM, especially to grade oral epithelial dysplasia (OED). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the variability in grading OED by the World Health Organization grading system, using WSI and conventional LM, and to investigate whether the access to clinical information, and psychologic or physical states of the pathologists could interfere with the diagnosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: eleven experienced pathologists from seven Brazilian universities independently evaluated twenty-five OED cases. The analyses were performed in duplicate for each method, with an interval of at least 30 days, and the time consumed in each analysis was measured. Physical and psychologic states were evaluated by blood pressure levels, heart rate and two questionnaires: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale. Clinical information was provided after the second evaluation using WSI and the pathologist could change their diagnostic decision or not. RESULTS: LM showed a higher inter-examiner agreement (k=0.53) than WSI (k=0.45) and a smaller time consumed by the pathologists (mean of 65.53 seconds compared to 91.02 seconds in WSI). In the first analysis using conventional microscopy, there was a positive correlation between kappa values and anxiety (r=0.47, p = 0.02), and stress (r=0.64, p < 0.01), and an inverse correlation with heart rate (r=-0.48, p = 0.02). In the digital analysis, there was also a positive correlation between kappa values and anxiety (r=0.75, p < 0.001). After clinical information was given, there was a slight change in 11.3% of the cases, and a great discrepancy in 1.1% of the cases, mainly increasing the OED grade. CONCLUSIONS: both microscopy systems had similar results, although LM had slightly higher kappa values, and WSI was more time consuming

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Actualización en el diagnóstico de las infecciones de transmisión sexual / Update on the Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) son uno de los problemas de salud pública más frecuentes y universales. Debido a que las ITS son responsables de una alta morbilidad, así como de secuelas graves, es muy importante que todos los profesionales de la salud las tengan en cuenta en el momento de valorar al paciente. La dificultad en el control de las ITS se debe principalmente al retraso diagnóstico. Las pruebas diagnósticas permiten realizar un manejo etiológico, así como facilitar un tratamiento más efectivo tanto de los pacientes sintomáticos como de los asintomáticos, y finalmente permitirán interrumpir de una forma más precoz la cadena epidemiológica de transmisión. En la presente revisión se ha llevado a cabo una actualización acerca de los principales métodos diagnósticos existentes en las ITS más relevantes

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are one of the most frequent and universal Public Health problems. Health professionals should be aware of the possibility of STIs due to their high morbidity and the presence of sequelae. The delay in the diagnosis is one of the factors that justifies the difficulty to infections control. Diagnostic tests allow the introduction of aetiological treatment and also lead to treating symptomatic and asymptomatic patients more effectively, as well as to interrupt the epidemiological transmission chain without delay. In this review we have made an update of the main existing diagnostic methods for the more important STIs

Corpus callosum morphology of healthy children: a structural magnetic resonance imaging study from Turkey

Morphological measurement of corpus callosum (CC) in magnetic resonance imaging studies has an important value for clinical decision-making during the period of childhood. Although there is evidence for differences in brain morphology in terms of socioeconomic disparities, there is no research specifically on CC morphology from any low-and middle-income countries. This study aims to report structural measurements and area of CC of healthy children from Turkey, a middle-income country, and find out whether the CC morphology differs between male and female children in different age groups. Healthy children aged 6-18 years were recruited retrospectively and their CC antero-posterior (AP) length, genu, body and splenium width (GW, BW, SW) and CC midsagittal area were measured from magnetic resonance imaging studies. Independent sample t-test was used to compare CC measurements of the sex and age groups. Pearson correlation test was used to determine linear correlations between age and CC parameters. The sample consisted of 200 healthy children; at least 5 female and 5 male children for each age; 103 (51.5%) females, 97 (45.5%) males. There was a positive correlation between the age and CC AP length (r=0.248, p < 0.001) and SW (r=0.325, p < 0.001) as well as midsagittal area (r=0.191, p < 0.007). The CC AP length, GW, BW, SW and area were not different statistically between sex groups.This study is the first report providing age and sex-related morphological measurements of CC of healthy children in Turkey. The findings may be helpful for clinicians and researchers from Turkey as well as other low-and middle-income countries

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Formulation and evaluation of baclofen liposome vesicles using lecithin / Formulación y evaluación de vesículas de liposomas de baclofeno usando lecitina

INTRODUCTION: The main aim of present study was to prepare and characterize liposomal formulation of baclofen to improve the effectiveness of the topically applied formulation. METHOD: For the preparation of liposomes, different ratio of lecithin, cholesterol and ethanol were taken but ratio of drug and stearic acid were kept constant and prepared by ethanol injection method. Liposomes were characterized for vesicle size, vesicle shape, entrapment efficiency, in vitro studies, stability studies and in vivo studies. RESULTS: The average particle size of formulated liposome was in the range of 3.98 ± 0.45-4.24 ± 0.65 mim and small unilamellar vesicles with spherical in shape observed. Entrapment efficiency of optimized formulation was 58.67 ± 0.81 %. The maximum % cumulative drug release behaviours were 67.66 ± 5.32 % after 10 h. formulation stored in 4 ± 2 °C temperature shows better stability (64.19 ± 0.26) compared to elevated temperature. Swiss albino mice were used for the in vivo study and exhibit muscle relaxant activity in terms of no. of falls from rota rod apparatus (p value = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Baclofen loaded liposomal formulation have shown skeletal muscle relaxant activity in mice suggesting delivery of baclofen from liposomes in the therapeutic range

INTRODUCTION: the use of specific rules to correctly identify ingredients used in cosmetics was essential for their control. This paper analyses the complex process to adapt the INCI terminology between the 1960s and the 1990s. METHOD: analysis of the legislation published in Spain on the control of cosmetic products between the 1940s and the 1990s, focusing on cosmetic's registers and terminologies and nomenclatures used to identify their ingredients. Printed Primary sources, and periodical press have also been consulted. Primary sources have been discussed and contextualized with the help of more recent history of science publications. Results and CONCLUSIONS: The adoption of precise cosmetic nomenclature or terminology was required by health authorities registering these products, as well as for the labelling to inform consumer. The sanitary regulation of cosmetic products was very lax until the development of this industry and its market in Spain in the 1960s. The consolidation of the dermopharmaceutical sector occurred in the 1970s, in part due to the efforts of various pharmaceutical sectors. The gradual introduction of international cosmetic nomenclatures culminated in the 1990s with the official introduction of the INCI terminology in Spain

Descripción clínica mediante tomografía de coherencia óptica de segmento anterior y microscopía especular de un síndrome endotelial iridocorneal tipo Cogan Reese / Clinical description of a Cogan-Reese type iridocorneal endothelial syndrome using anterior segment optical coherence tomography and specular microscopy

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Métodos diagnósticos de la tuberculosis / Diagnostic methods of tuberculosis

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Utilidad de las nuevas pruebas treponémicas automatizadas en el diagnóstico de la sífilis precoz. A propósito de 15 casos / Usefulness of New Automated Treponemal Tests in the Diagnosis of Early Syphilis: A Series of 15 Cases

INTRODUCCIÓN: La sífilis es una infección de transmisión sexual (ITS) producida por el Treponema pallidum subespecie pallidum, bacteria difícil de cultivar por lo que se requieren técnicas serológicas para su diagnóstico. La aparición de nuevas pruebas treponémicas (PT) automatizadas ha supuesto un cambio en el algoritmo diagnóstico de la sífilis, el cual tradicionalmente se iniciaba con una prueba no treponémica (PNT). Presentamos 15 casos de sífilis primarias detectadas gracias a la utilización de las nuevas PT automatizadas y realizamos una revisión de las técnicas microbiológicas en el diagnóstico de la sífilis precoz. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se recogieron todos los casos de sífilis diagnosticados en nuestro servicio desde enero de 2013 hasta septiembre de 2018. Se seleccionaron los pacientes con PNT negativas, Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) en particular. RESULTADOS: De un total de 158 pacientes diagnosticados de sífilis en este periodo, 15 presentaron PNT (RPR) negativas y de estos 15, todos excepto uno presentaron PT positivas. Catorce casos eran varones, con un rango de edad desde 22 a 60 años. Además, a 8 pacientes se les realizó reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) del exudado de la úlcera, siendo en todos ellos positiva. Los 15 pacientes fueron tratados con una dosis única de penicilina G benzatina 2,4 MUI. CONCLUSIÓN: resaltamos la utilidad de las nuevas técnicas serológicas automatizadas, Chemiluminiscence Inmunoassay (CLIA) y Automated Treponema Pallidum Enzime linked Inmunoassay (EIA) y apoyamos su implantación como pruebas de screening en el diagnóstico de sífilis, dado su sensibilidad diagnóstica, su rapidez y su bajo coste

BACKGROUND: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum, subspecies pallidum. As these bacteria are difficult to culture, syphilis must be diagnosed by serologic testing. The introduction of automated treponemal tests has led to changes in the traditional diagnostic algorithm for syphilis, which began with a nontreponemal test. We present 15 cases of primary syphilis detected using these new tools and review the microbiologic techniques used for the diagnosis of early syphilis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We examined all cases of syphilis diagnosed in our department between January 2013 and September 2018 and selected patients with negative nontreponemal (rapid plasma reagin [RPR]) tests. RESULTS: Of the 158 patients diagnosed with syphilis during the study period, 15 had a negative RPR test, and 14 of them had a positive treponemal test. Fourteen of the patients were men and ages ranged from 22 to 60 years. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect T pallidum in the lesion exudate from 8 patients and was positive in all cases. The 15 patients were treated with a single injection of 2.4 million units of benzathine penicillin G. CONCLUSIÓN: Chemiluminescence immunoassays and T pallidum automated enzyme-linked immunoassays are useful in the diagnosis of early syphilis, and we believe that they should be adopted as screening tools given their diagnostic sensitivity, speed, and low cost

Microscopic study of the rat pancreas after denervation

The aim of this study is to demonstrate that the denervation of the pancreas may affect the enteric neuronal plexus, which controls both the endocrine and exocrine parts of the pancreas. By using the light microscope, the histological changes of the islets of Langerhans and the pancreatic acini in the rat pancreas were studied two and three weeks after sympathectomy and truncal vagotomy. More-over, measurements of the changes infasting blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance tests in the control and experimental animals were recorded. Atrophic changes and degeneration of the pancreatic acinar cells and islets of Langerhans cells were observed after both sympathectomy and vagotomy. Biochemical measurements of fasting blood, and the glucose tolerance tests after sympathectomy and vagotomy were increased significantly, which is consistent with the histological results. The results of this study explain that the exocrine and endocrine parts of the pancreas are dependent on both sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation via the enteric plexuses of the rat pancreas. These results establish a firm correlation between the autonomic innervation and the enteric plexus, which controls the function of the endocrine and exocrine parts of the pancreas

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Francesc Darder y el inicio de la veterinaria de pequeños animales y especies exóticas en Barcelona a finales del siglo XIX / No disponible

Esta investigación se centra en la aproximación del veterinario Francesc Darder (1851-1918) a la clínica de pequeños animales en la Barcelona de la década de 1880. Se analizan los factores sociales, económicos e ideológicos que favorecieron que un sector creciente de la población comenzara a compartir su espacio doméstico con unos seres cuyo único propósito podía ser el de proporcionar placer o compañía a sus cuidadores. Esa transformación generó una demanda de cuidados especializados para un tipo de clientela insólita según los parámetros veterinarios del momento. Darder, condicionado por su notoria actividad comercial como intermediario en la compraventa animal, supo satisfacer esas necesidades ejerciendo como un clínico de gran perspicacia sobre mascotas y otros animales de tamaño pequeño. El presente trabajo examina su pionera labor médico-sanitaria en el terreno de las ideas y en el práctico, incorporando en sus procedimientos metodológicos novedades científicas y técnicas que, como la microscopía, concentró en un espacio específico que denominó laboratorio. La práctica profesional iniciada por Darder no tuvo parangón en la España de finales de la centuria decimonona. Era una idea que apenas se podía vislumbrar y nada hacía pensar todavía que poco más de un siglo después mascotas o microscopios constituyeran dos elementos arquetípicos asociados a la figura del veterinario

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Las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de la epidemia de sífilis en Barcelona / The Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of the Epidemic of Syphilis in Barcelona

Introducción: Desde el año 2000 se ha descrito un aumento progresivo de los casos de sífilis en diferentes ciudades europeas, sobre todo en hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH). Las manifestaciones clínicas de la sífilis pueden estar influidas por la coinfección del VIH o por el antecedente de sífilis. El objetivo del presente estudio es describir las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de los casos de sífilis precoz diagnosticados en Barcelona. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de casos de sífilis precoz diagnosticados en Barcelona (2003-2013). Se revisaron las historias clínicas y los datos epidemiológicos y clínicos fueron recogidos de forma estructurada. Las variables se compararon según el estatus serológico del VIH y el antecedente de sífilis. Resultados: Se diagnosticaron 1.702 casos de sífilis precoz (37% primaria, 48% secundaria y 14% latente precoz), 93% de ellos en HSH. Entre ellos, el 40% presentaba una coinfección por VIH. Los casos de sífilis en pacientes VIH positivos estaban asociados con un episodio previo de sífilis (aOR, 5,2 [IC del 95%, 3,32-8,24]) y con haber tenido sexo anal desprotegido (aOR, 1,75 [IC del 95%, 1,17-2,63]). Los casos con antecedentes de sífilis se presentaron con menor frecuencia como sífilis primaria (27,5% vs. 40%) (aOR, 0,58 [IC del 95%, 0,44-0,77]). Un año después del tratamiento, la evolución clínica y serológica fue similar en los pacientes VIH positivo y negativo. Conclusiones: La epidemia de sífilis en Barcelona afecta desproporcionalmente a HSH y está estrechamente relacionada con el VIH. La forma de presentación de la sífilis está influida por el antecedente de sífilis y por el VIH, sin diferencias significativas en cuanto a la evolución un año después del tratamiento

Background: Since 2000, substantial increases in syphilis have been reported in metropolitan areas of Western countries, with increases noted among men who have sex with men (MSM). Clinical manifestations of syphilis might be influenced by concomitant VIH infection and previous episodes of syphilis. The objectives of this study were to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the cases of syphilis diagnosed in Barcelona. Methods: Retrospective study of cases with early syphilis diagnosed in the referral STI Unit of Barcelona from January 2003 to December 2013. Revision of medical records with structured collection of epidemiological and clinical data. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses comparing the characteristics of MSM cases with and without VIH infection and with and without previous syphilis. Results: A total of 1702 cases of syphilis (37% primary, 48% secondary and 14% early latent) were diagnosed, 93% of them in MSM. Among MSM 40% were coinfected with VIH, VIH-positive cases were associated with a previous syphilis (aOR, 5.2 [95% CI, 3.32-8.24]) and with unprotected anal intercourse (aOR, 1.75 [95%CI, 1.17-2.63]). Cases with a history of syphilis presented less often with primary syphilis compared to those without it (27.5% vs. 40%) (aOR, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.44-0.77]). One year after treatment, the clinical and serological evolution were similar between VIH-positive and VIH-negative cases. Conclusion: The epidemic of syphilis in Barcelona disproportionately affects MSM and is closelly linked to VIH infection. The presentation of syphilis is influenced by VIH infection and by previous history of syphilis, without significant differences in their evolution after one year of treatment

Reply to "Commentaries on the publication entitled: 'Structure and distribution of an unrecognized interstitium in human tissues' by Benias et al. (2018)

We appreciate the time and attention paid to our paper by Prof. Mestres-Ventura and similarly appreciate the opportunity to respond to his concerns. We would like to address what we believe are several fundamental misunderstandings in his commentary.1. Scale: The most significant misunderstanding is one of scale. The schematic (Fig. 1) provided by Prof. Mestres-Ventura is (per personal communication) at the nano scale, while in vivo microscopy of extrahepatic bile duct and dermis shows that the collagen bundles we report are at the micron scale, each containing many individual fibrils at the nanometer scale. Indeed, examining the tissues described in our paper - submucosae, dermis and subcutaneous fascia - fresh in resected specimens or intraoperatively, we find that the structures we describe are visible at the macroscopic level (if one leans in closely enough). In other words, they are macroscopic, not microscopic. Prof. Mestres-Ventura, in summarizing the prior pCLE work of Wallace and Fockens, which he notes is similar to ours, states "the 'holes' shown under intravital microscopy and in cryofixed samples are huge (over 20 µm)" This is exactly our point - we were surprised as well at the scale of these structures, as this has not been well appreciated in the past

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