Identification of the ATPase alpha subunit of Trypanosoma cruzi as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of Chagas disease.

BACKGROUND: Chagas disease (CD) is considered by the World Health Organisation (WHO) a neglected disease endemic to the Americas, but it has spread throughout the world due to migrations. The disease is almost 100% curable if detected in time. Still, the lack of rapid diagnostic tests with sufficient sensitivity and specificity leads to a chronic phase with a mortality of about 50,000 people worldwide per year. METHODS: Using the total proteins extracted from serum samples of patients confirmed with chronic phase CD; we performed the Bio-SELEX strategy. The best aptamers were selected using next-generation sequencing (NGS) based on their most abundant sequences (reads and rpm). Then, selected aptamers were used to isolate potential biomarkers directly from serum samples of patients with chronic phase CD using pull-down and mass spectrometry experiments. RESULTS: CH1 aptamer was the aptamer selected after the NGS results analysis. The pull-down and mass spectrometry experiments identified the presence of the ATPase alpha subunit of T. cruzi circulating in serum samples of patients with chronic phase CD. CONCLUSIONS: We report the ATPase alpha subunit of T. cruzi as a potential biomarker for chronic phase CD and CH1 aptamer as a potential tool for diagnosing CD.

Enfermedad de Castleman unicéntrica, una causa infrecuente de masa cervical / Unicentric Castleman disease, an infrequent cause of cervical mass

La enfermedad de Castleman (EC) describe una serie de desórdenes linfoproliferativos de patrones histológicos similares, pero de etiologías, presentaciones clínicas y enfrentamientos notoriamente variables. Se presenta el caso de un paciente que consultó por masa cervical, cuyo estudio final concluyó EC unicéntrica, la cual se resolvió de forma quirúrgica. Además, se presenta una revisión actualizada del tema, con foco en la enfermedad unicéntrica.

Castleman's disease (CD) describes several lymphoproliferative disorders with similar histological patterns, but with notoriously variable etiologies, clinical presentations, and management. We present the case of a patient who consulted with cervical mass, whose final study concluded with unicentric CD, which was treated surgically. In addition, an updated review of the subject is presented, focusing on unicentric disease.

Implantes cocleares ópticos: una herramienta promisoria de tratamiento para la hipoacusia / Optical cochlear implants: a promising treatment tool for hearing loss

La hipoacusia afecta a más de 1.500 millones de personas mundialmente. Los principales medios de rehabilitación usados son los audífonos e implantes cocleares (IC). El IC eléctrico convierte el sonido en impulsos eléctricos que estimulan, directamente, a las neuronas del ganglio espiral para proveer sensación auditiva. Tiene como desventaja una amplia dispersión espacial de la corriente, limitando la resolución espectral y el rango dinámico de codificación sonoro, lo que conduce a una mala comprensión del habla en entornos ruidosos y mala apreciación de la música. En los últimos años se ha estudiado utilizar estimulación óptica en vez de eléctrica, pues emite estímulos con mayor selectividad espacial. Se han descrito IC ópticos usando luz infrarroja y otros con métodos de optogenética, estos últimos requieren de la expresión de proteínas fotosensibles inducidas por virus adenoasociados. Se ha visto que la selectividad espectral de la estimulación optogenética es indistinguible de la acústica, y permitió tasas de disparo casi fisiológicas con buena precisión temporal hasta 250 Hz de estimulación. Estudios que compararon un sistema de IC óptico con uno eléctrico concluyen que el uso de optogenética permitiría una restauración de la audición con una selectividad espectral mejorada en comparación con un IC eléctrico.

Hearing loss affects more than 1.5 billion people worldwide. The main means of rehabilitation used are hearing aids and cochlear implants (CI). The electrical CI converts sound into electrical impulses that directly stimulate neurons in the spiral ganglion to provide auditory sensation; it has the disadvantage of a wide spatial dispersion of the current, limiting the spectral resolution and the dynamic range of sound coding, which leads to a poor understanding of speech in noisy environments and a poor appreciation of music. In recent years, the use of optical stimulation instead of electrical stimulation have been studied since it emits stimuli with greater spatial selectivity. Optical CIs have been described using infrared light and others using optogenetic methods, the latter requiring the expression of photosensitive proteins induced by adeno-associated viruses. The spectral selectivity of optogenetic stimulation has been found to be indistinguishable from acoustic stimulation and allowed near-physiological firing rates with good temporal accuracy up to 250 Hz stimulation. Studies comparing an optical and an electrical CI system conclude that the use of optogenetics would allow hearing restoration with improved spectral selectivity compared to an electrical CI.

Rinoplastia en nariz mestiza, un desafío quirúrgico / Rhinoplasty in mestizo nose, a surgical challenge

Las características anatómicas de pacientes con nariz mestiza, generalmente, incluyen una nariz aparentemente grande, un dorso convexo con radix bajo y una base nasal ancha. La longitud de la columela y punta nasal se ve disminuida debido a que los cartílagos alares son cortos, débiles y delgados, proporcionando un soporte estructural insuficiente, mala definición y proyección de la punta nasal. La principal dificultad al manejar este tipo de narices es un marco osteocartilaginoso mal estructurado y débil. En los últimos años se han desarrollado técnicas quirúrgicas para mejorar los resultados estéticos y funcionales de la rinoplastía en estos pacientes. Se realizó una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura describiendo las técnicas quirúrgicas utilizadas en este tipo de nariz.

The anatomical characteristics of patients with mestizo nose usually include an apparently large nose, a convex dorsum with a deep radix, and a wide nasal base. The length of the nasal columella and tip is decreased because the alar cartilages are short, weak and thin, providing insufficient structural support, poor definition and nasal tip projection. The main difficulty in managing this type of noses is a poorly structured and weak osteocartilaginous framework. In recent years, surgical techniques have been developed to improve the aesthetic and functional results of rhinoplasty in these patients. A comprehensive literature review was conducted describing the surgical techniques used in this type of nose.

Actualización en clasificación y manejo de anomalías vasculares laríngeas en adultos / Update on classification and management of laryngeal vascular anomalies in adults

Introducción: Las anomalías vasculares (AV) de cabeza y cuello son una patología prevalente en niños, pero son poco frecuentes en adultos. La última clasificación descrita por la International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) en 2018, propone dividirlas en tumores vasculares (TV) y malformaciones vasculares (MV) con una aproximación basada en la etiopatogenia, comportamiento biológico e inmunohistoquímico (IHQ). Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en el manejo de AV laríngeas (AVL) en adultos operados en los últimos 5 años en el Servicio de Otorrinolaringología (ORL) del Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau (HBLT) y realizar una revisión actualizada en cuanto a diagnóstico y manejo. Material y Método: Revisión retrospectiva y descriptiva de los casos de AVL en adultos operados del servicio de ORL del HBLT informadas por biopsia en el servicio de anatomía patológica del mismo hospital entre los años 2015 a 2020. Resultados: Se encontraron cinco casos de AVL. Los síntomas descritos fueron disfonía, odinofagia y disfagia. La sospecha diagnóstica se fundó en historia clínica, nasofibroscopia y estudio imagenológico, y se confirmó con biopsia posoperatoria. Todos los pacientes fueron resueltos de manera quirúrgica con leve preferencia por el láser CO2. No se registraron complicaciones ni signos de recidiva durante el seguimiento. Conclusión: Recomendamos el manejo quirúrgico de las AVL en adultos, realizando una resección completa de la lesión y su clasificación, según las recomendaciones de la ISSVA, con biopsia posoperatoria e inmunohistoquímica debido a la heterogeneidad de las clasificaciones previas.

Introduction: Head and neck vascular abnormalities (AV) are common alterations found in children, but rare in adults. The latest classification described by the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) in 2018, proposes dividing them into vascular tumors (TV) and vascular malformations (MV), based on their etiopathogenesis, biological and immunohistochemical behavior (IHC). Aim: To describe the experience in the management of laryngeal AV (AVL) of adults treated surgically on in the last 5 years in the Otolaryngology Service (ORL) of the Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau (HBLT). Material and Method: Retrospective and descriptive review of cases with histologically confirmed AVL in adults treated surgically in the ORL service of the same hospital between the years 2015 and 2020. Results: Five cases of AVL were found. The symptoms described were dysphonia, pharyngodine, and dysphagia. The diagnostic suspicion was based on clinical history, nasofibroscopy and imaging study, confirmed with post-operative biopsy. All patients were resolved surgically with a slight preference for the CO2 laser. No complications or signs of recurrence were recorded during the follow-up. Conclusion: We recommend surgical management of AVL in adults with a complete resection and their classification according to the recommendations of the ISSVA with postoperative and immunohistochemical biopsy, due to heterogeneity of previous classifications systems.

Hematoma orbitario secundario a cirugía endoscópica nasosinusal / Orbital hematoma secondary to endoscopic sinus surgery

Resumen Durante la cirugía endoscópica nasosinusal, la sección inadvertida y retracción hacia la órbita de la arteria etmoidal anterior (AEA) es el mecanismo habitual del hematoma orbitario (HO); éste se manifiesta con proptosis, dolor y déficit visual potencialmente irreversible. El déficit visual es secundario a isquemia del nervio óptico por aumento de la presión intraocular, siendo suficientes treinta minutos para que ocurra daño visual permanente. Por sus secuelas el tratamiento del HO debe ser rápido y agresivo. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 72 años con diagnóstico de rinosinusitis crónica con pólipos nasales refractaria a tratamiento médico que se sometió a cirugía endoscópica nasal y que desarrolló en el posoperatorio inmediato con un HO. Se manejó precozmente con cantotomía-cantolisis, descompresión orbitaria medial endoscópica y control vascular de la AEA. El paciente evoluciona favorablemente, sin déficit visual. En este artículo se discutirán el diagnóstico y manejo oportunos del hematoma orbitario iatrogénico.

Abstract During endoscopic sinonasal surgery, inadvertent section of the anterior ethmoidal artery (AEA) with retraction into the orbit is the usual mechanism of orbital hematoma (OH), leading to proptosis, pain, and potentially irreversible visual loss. Thirty minutes is sufficient for retinal ischemia and permanent visual loss. The explanation for blindness is due to increased intraorbital pressure. The treatment of iatrogenic HO must be quick and aggressive, because if it is not managed in time, it can cause a permanent visual deficit. We present the case of a 72-year-old man with a diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps refractory to medical treatment who underwent nasal endoscopic surgery, evolving in the immediate postoperative period with an HO, requiring canthotomy - cantolysis and early surgical reintervention for endoscopic medial orbital decompression and vascular control of AEA. The patient evolves favorably, without visual deficit. This article will discuss the timely diagnosis and management of iatrogenic orbital hematoma.

5-Fluorouracil drug delivery system based on bacterial nanocellulose for colorectal cancer treatment: Mathematical and in vitro evaluation.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common worldwide. Its treatment includes adjuvant chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5FU) administered intravenously. 5FU is an antineoplastic drug of the fluoropyrimidines group, widely used in the treatment of solid tumors, mainly CRC. Nevertheless, it causes several adverse effects and poor effectiveness due to its short half-life. This work aimed to employ bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as an encapsulation material for the oral administration of 5FU. First, the adsorption phenomena were analyzed by isotherms, thermodynamic parameters, and kinetic models. Then, encapsulation was carried out using spray-drying, and encapsulated 5FU desorption profiles were assessed in simulated fluids. The biological behavior was evaluated on colon cancer SW480 and SW620 cell lines. As result, it was found that at 25 °C a monolayer of 5FU was formed and the process showed to be the most spontaneous one. In the characterization of the nanocapsules, important changes were detected by the presence of 5FU. The delivery in the colon corresponded to a controlled release behavior. The in vitro assay indicated an improvement in the toxicity effect of the drug and its mechanism of action. Accordingly, BNC is a promising biomaterial for the development of a colon drug delivery platform of 5FU.

Phytotoxicity of plant extracts of Vismia japurensis cultivated in vivo and in vitro / Fitotoxicidade de extratos de plantas de Vismia japurensis cultivadas in vivo e in vitro

Plants that produce secondary metabolites with allelopathic activity or phytotoxicity can be biotechnologically important, serving as sources of allelochemicals, and thus contributing to the agroindustrial sector. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) is an Amazonian species that grows in clumps called vismiais, from which most other plants are absent. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to identify possible phytotoxicity effects of hexane and methanol extracts of Vismia japurensis leaves and branches in vivo and from seedlings grown in vitro on Lactuca sativa. In addition, fresh and dry leaves were assayed by the sandwich method in order to determine their ability to release allelochemicals. The hexanic extract from in vitro seedlings reduced germination by 10%, while the methanol extract produced a 16% reduction in germination speed. Root growth of Lactuca sativa was inhibited by 64.7% when subjected to hexane leaf extract, by 39.3% under the influence of hexane branch extract, and by 96.09% for in vitro seedling hexanic extract. When analysed by thin layer chromatography and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, extracts showed evidence of terpenes, anthraquinones and flavonoids, with greater intensity of signals in the aromatic region of in vitro seedling hexanic extract. Clearly, Vismia japurensis has a high biotechnological potential in terms of the production of substances of low polarity with capacity to interfere in plant development.

Plantas que produzem metabólitos secundários com atividade alelopática ou fitotóxica podem ser biotecnologicamente importantes, servindo como fontes de aleloquímicos e, assim, contribuindo para o setor agroindustrial. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) é uma espécie amazônica que cresce em grupos, formando vismiais. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar possíveis efeitos fitotóxicos de extratos hexânicos e metanólicos de folhas e ramos de Vismia japurensis in vivo e de plântulas cultivadas in vitro sobre Lactuca sativa. Além disso, folhas frescas e secas foram analisadas pelo método sanduíche, a fim de determinar sua capacidade de liberação de aleloquímicos. O extrato hexânico de plântulas in vitro reduziu a germinação em 10% e o extrato metanólico promoveu uma redução de 16% na velocidade de germinação. O crescimento radicular de Lactuca sativa foi inibido em 64,7% quando submetido ao extrato hexânico das folhas, em 39,3% sob influência do extrato hexânico dos galhos e em 96,09% para o extrato de hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Quando analisados por cromatografia em camada delgada e ressonância magnética nuclear de 1H, os extratos mostraram evidências de terpenos, antraquinonas e flavonoides, com maior intensidade de sinais na região aromática do extrato hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Assim, Vismia japurensis possui elevado potencial biotecnológico em termos de produção de substâncias de baixa polaridade com capacidade de interferência no desenvolvimento de plantas.

Phytotoxicity of plant extracts of Vismia japurensis cultivated in vivo and in vitro / Fitotoxicidade de extratos de plantas de Vismia japurensis cultivadas in vivo e in vitro

Plants that produce secondary metabolites with allelopathic activity or phytotoxicity can be biotechnologically important, serving as sources of allelochemicals, and thus contributing to the agroindustrial sector. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) is an Amazonian species that grows in clumps called vismiais, from which most other plants are absent. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to identify possible phytotoxicity effects of hexane and methanol extracts of Vismia japurensis leaves and branches in vivo and from seedlings grown in vitro on Lactuca sativa. In addition, fresh and dry leaves were assayed by the sandwich method in order to determine their ability to release allelochemicals. The hexanic extract from in vitro seedlings reduced germination by 10%, while the methanol extract produced a 16% reduction in germination speed. Root growth of Lactuca sativa was inhibited by 64.7% when subjected to hexane leaf extract, by 39.3% under the influence of hexane branch extract, and by 96.09% for in vitro seedling hexanic extract. When analysed by thin layer chromatography and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, extracts showed evidence of terpenes, anthraquinones and flavonoids, with greater intensity of signals in the aromatic region of in vitro seedling hexanic extract. Clearly, Vismia japurensis has a high biotechnological potential in terms of the production of substances of low polarity with capacity to interfere in plant development.

Plantas que produzem metabólitos secundários com atividade alelopática ou fitotóxica podem ser biotecnologicamente importantes, servindo como fontes de aleloquímicos e, assim, contribuindo para o setor agroindustrial. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) é uma espécie amazônica que cresce em grupos, formando vismiais. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar possíveis efeitos fitotóxicos de extratos hexânicos e metanólicos de folhas e ramos de Vismia japurensis in vivo e de plântulas cultivadas in vitro sobre Lactuca sativa. Além disso, folhas frescas e secas foram analisadas pelo método sanduíche, a fim de determinar sua capacidade de liberação de aleloquímicos. O extrato hexânico de plântulas in vitro reduziu a germinação em 10% e o extrato metanólico promoveu uma redução de 16% na velocidade de germinação. O crescimento radicular de Lactuca sativa foi inibido em 64,7% quando submetido ao extrato hexânico das folhas, em 39,3% sob influência do extrato hexânico dos galhos e em 96,09% para o extrato de hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Quando analisados por cromatografia em camada delgada e ressonância magnética nuclear de 1H, os extratos mostraram evidências de terpenos, antraquinonas e flavonoides, com maior intensidade de sinais na região aromática do extrato hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Assim, Vismia japurensis possui elevado potencial biotecnológico em termos de produção de substâncias de baixa polaridade com capacidade de interferência no desenvolvimento de plantas.

Phytotoxicity of plant extracts of Vismia japurensis cultivated in vivo and in vitro

Abstract Plants that produce secondary metabolites with allelopathic activity or phytotoxicity can be biotechnologically important, serving as sources of allelochemicals, and thus contributing to the agroindustrial sector. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) is an Amazonian species that grows in clumps called vismiais, from which most other plants are absent. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to identify possible phytotoxicity effects of hexane and methanol extracts of Vismia japurensis leaves and branches in vivo and from seedlings grown in vitro on Lactuca sativa. In addition, fresh and dry leaves were assayed by the sandwich method in order to determine their ability to release allelochemicals. The hexanic extract from in vitro seedlings reduced germination by 10%, while the methanol extract produced a 16% reduction in germination speed. Root growth of Lactuca sativa was inhibited by 64.7% when subjected to hexane leaf extract, by 39.3% under the influence of hexane branch extract, and by 96.09% for in vitro seedling hexanic extract. When analysed by thin layer chromatography and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, extracts showed evidence of terpenes, anthraquinones and flavonoids, with greater intensity of signals in the aromatic region of in vitro seedling hexanic extract. Clearly, Vismia japurensis has a high biotechnological potential in terms of the production of substances of low polarity with capacity to interfere in plant development.

Resumo Plantas que produzem metabólitos secundários com atividade alelopática ou fitotóxica podem ser biotecnologicamente importantes, servindo como fontes de aleloquímicos e, assim, contribuindo para o setor agroindustrial. Vismia japurensis (Hypericaceae) é uma espécie amazônica que cresce em grupos, formando vismiais. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar possíveis efeitos fitotóxicos de extratos hexânicos e metanólicos de folhas e ramos de Vismia japurensis in vivo e de plântulas cultivadas in vitro sobre Lactuca sativa. Além disso, folhas frescas e secas foram analisadas pelo método sanduíche, a fim de determinar sua capacidade de liberação de aleloquímicos. O extrato hexânico de plântulas in vitro reduziu a germinação em 10% e o extrato metanólico promoveu uma redução de 16% na velocidade de germinação. O crescimento radicular de Lactuca sativa foi inibido em 64,7% quando submetido ao extrato hexânico das folhas, em 39,3% sob influência do extrato hexânico dos galhos e em 96,09% para o extrato de hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Quando analisados por cromatografia em camada delgada e ressonância magnética nuclear de 1H, os extratos mostraram evidências de terpenos, antraquinonas e flavonoides, com maior intensidade de sinais na região aromática do extrato hexânico das plântulas in vitro. Assim, Vismia japurensis possui elevado potencial biotecnológico em termos de produção de substâncias de baixa polaridade com capacidade de interferência no desenvolvimento de plantas.

Rehabilitación olfatoria en pacientes laringectomizados: maniobra de inducción del flujo aéreo nasal / Olfactory rehabilitation in laryngectomized patients: nasal airflow inducing maneuver

Resumen Introducción: La laringectomía total (LT) tiene como secuela la perdida de la voz, pero otra consecuencia no estudiada es la pérdida del olfato. Objetivo: Demostrar que la "maniobra de inducción del flujo aéreo nasal" (MIFAN) rehabilita el olfato en pacientes con LT. Material y Método: Estudio cuasiexperimental antes-después en pacientes laringectomizados por cáncer de laringe del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau (HBLT) de Santiago de Chile. Evaluación a través de encuesta, examen físico, nasofibroscopía y test olfatométrico. Pacientes con alteración del olfato por transmisión serán enrolados y se enseñará la MIFAN. Resultados: Se estudiaron 12 pacientes: 10 hombres, 2 mujeres. Edad promedio 66,3 años, todos autovalentes. 66,6% presentó anosmia y 33,3% hiposmia. Todos lograron realizar la maniobra. Posrehabilitación el 100% presentó presencia de olfato valorada por olfatometría. Población intervenida similar a otras series en cuanto a sexo y edad. La erigmofonación facilita la rehabilitación con MIFAN. La rehabilitación del olfato se logró en todos y paralelamente mejoró el sentido del gusto. Conclusión: La MIFAN es una técnica sencilla, barata y asequible para lograr rehabilitar el sentido del olfato en pacientes laringectomizados.

Abstract Introduction: Total laryngectomy (TL) has as a consequence the loss of voice, but another not studied consequence is the loss of smell. Aim: To demonstrate that the "nasal airflow inducing maneuver" (NAIM) rehabilitates smell in patients with TL. Material and Method: A quasi-experimental before-after study in laryngectomized patients for laryngeal cancer from the Otorhinolaryngology Service (ENT) of the Barros Luco Trudeau Hospital (BLTH) at Santiago, Chile. Evaluation through survey, physical examination, nasofibroscopy and olfactory test. Patients with transmission impairment of smell were enrolled and NAIM was performed. Results: 12 patients were studied: 10 men, 2 women. Average age 66.3 years. All self-supporting. 66.6% presented anosmia and 33.3% hyposmia. They all managed to perform the maneuver. Post-rehabilitation, 100% presented the presence of smell assessed by olfactometry. Intervened population similar to other series in terms of sex and age. Esophageal speech facilitates NAIM rehabilitation. Rehabilitation of smell was achieved in all of them and in parallel, the sense of taste improved. Conclusion: NAIM is a simple, cheap and affordable technique to rehabilitate the sense of smell in laryngectomized patients.

Comparación de sutura mecánica con sutura manual de la faringe en laringectomía total / Comparison of mechanical suture with manual suture of the pharynx in total laryngectomy

Introducción: La sutura mecánica es una opción para el cierre de la faringorrafia en laringectomía total por cáncer de laringe. Objetivo: Comparar el uso de sutura mecánica lineal con sutura manual de la faringe durante la laringectomía total por cáncer de laringe. Material y Método: Se realizó un estudio de tipo experimental prospectivo. Se compararon dos grupos pacientes: Los pacientes con sutura mecánica desde 2018 a marzo de 2020 y los pacientes con sutura manual previa a enero de 2018 en el Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Barros Luco. Se analizaron fístula faringo-cutánea posoperatoria (FFC), tiempo operatorio, estadía hospitalaria y costo. Resultados: El estudio incluyó a 14 pacientes, cada grupo con n = 7. El grupo con sutura mecánica presento 0% de FFC y el grupo sutura manual 28%. El grupo con sutura mecánica reinicio alimentación a los 7 días y el grupo con sutura manual en promedio a los 11,5 (7-23) días. (p = 0,0023). El tiempo promedio de cirugía para el grupo experimental es de 288 ± 37,4 minutos y con sutura manual 311 ± 32,4 minutos. (p = 0,0176). El promedio de hospitalización para el grupo experimental fue de 11 ± 2,6 días (9 a 16), y para el grupo control fue de 21 ± 14 días (10 a 49) (p < 0,0001). Conclusión: La sutura mecánica es un procedimiento fácil de usar y seguro. Existiría un beneficio en el uso de sutura mecánica para el cierre faríngeo al compararlo con la sutura manual al disminuir el número de FFC, el tiempo operatorio y los días de hospitalización.

Introduction: Mechanical suture is an option for the closure of the pharyngorrhaphy in total laryngectomy due to laryngeal cancer. Aim: To compare the use of linear mechanical suture with manual pharyngeal suture during total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer. Material and Method: A prospective experimental study was carried out. Two patient groups were compared: patients with mechanical suture from 2018 to March 2020 and patients with manual suture prior to January 2018 at the otorhinolaryngology service of the Barros Luco Hospital. Postoperative pharyngocutaneous fistula (FFC), operative time, hospital stay and cost were analyzed. Results: The study included 14 patients, each group with n = 7. The group with mechanical suture presented 0% of FFC and the group with manual suture 28%. The group with mechanical suture restarted feeding at 7 days and the group with manual suture on average at 11.5 (7-23) days (p = 0.0023). The average surgery time for the experimental group was 288 ± 37.4 minutes, while for the group with manual suture was 311 ± 32.4 minutes (p = 0.0176). The mean hospitalization for the experimental group was 11 ± 2.6 days (9 to 16), and for the control group it was 21 ± 14 days (10 to 49) (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The mechanical suture is an easy to use and safe procedure. There would be a benefit in the use of mechanical suture for pharyngeal closure when buying it with manual suture by reducing the number of FFCs, operative time and days of hospitalization.

Aplasia congénita unilateral del cartílago alar

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo es discutir la presentación y el manejo de la aplasia congénita unilateral del cartílago alar. En este informe, presentamos el caso de un paciente sometido a rinoseptoplastia abierta primaria que presenta aplasia congénita del cartílago alar izquierdo que se repara con cartílago septal. Se discute el manejo de casos y se revisa la literatura. Las anomalías nasales congénitas son poco frecuentes. La ausencia aislada de cualquier estructura nasal específica es aún más rara. El diagnóstico preoperatorio en una nariz hispana es difícil, pero cuando se encuentra este defecto congénito, puede repararse con cartílago septal u otros tipos de cartílago, dependiendo de la disponibilidad del injerto, con buenos resultados. Se recomienda un enfoque abierto para este tipo de patología. La aplasia unilateral del cartílago alar podría reconstruirse con éxito utilizando el cartílago septal a través de un abordaje abierto.

Abstract The objective of this work is discussing the presentation and management of unilateral congenital aplasia of the alar cartilage. In this report, we present the case of a patient undergoing primary open rhinoseptoplasty presenting congenital aplasia of the left alar cartilage that is repaired with septal cartilage. Case management is discussed, and the literature is reviewed. Congenital nasal abnormalities are rare. The isolated absence of any specific nasal structure is even more rare. Preoperative diagnosis in a Hispanic nose is difficult, but when this deformed congenital is found, it can be repaired with septal cartilage or other types of cartilage, depending on the availability of the graft, with good results. An open approach is recommended for this type of pathology. Unilateral alar cartilage aplasia could be successfully reconstructed using septal cartilage through and open approach.

Rol de la oxitocina en patología psiquiátrica / Role of oxytocin in psychiatric pathology

Oxytocin is a neuropeptide that in mammals has important functions on different reproductive stages and socialization behaviors. In humans, its importance has been recognized in processes of social regulation such as social memory, affiliation, mentality and empathy. The objective of this work is to perform an updated review of the evidence about the role of oxytocin in psychiatric disorders. A bibliographic search was carried out on this topic through the Medline / PubMed and SciELO databases. The results show evidence on the possible etiopathogenic role of oxytocin in different clinical conditions. In addition, research has sought answers in this hormone to understand the different symptomatic profiles, such as emotional regulation, the recognition of emotions, the capacity for mentalization and the response to stress, which could operate as targets for possible therapeutic uses of oxytocin. Although the data are still incipient and inconclusive, oxytocin has been positioned as an important focus of neurobiological and therapeutic study in psychiatry for future research.

Prevalencia de comorbilidad depresiva en la enfermedad de Ménière

Resumen Introducción: Existe relación entre la enfermedad de Ménière (EM) y los trastornos psiquiátricos. Objetivo: Evaluar si los pacientes con EM presentan mayor prevalencia de comorbilidad depresiva en comparación a lo descrito para la población general nacional. Material y Método: Estudio analítico transversal entre los años 2009-2016, en pacientes del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau con diagnóstico de EM definitivo. Se aplicó la escala del nivel funcional para EM, tinnitus handicap inventory, test de tamizaje de depresión de Goldberg y una evaluación por psiquiatra. Resultados: Se evaluaron 64 pacientes. Promedio de edad fue 52,5 años. La prevalencia de trastorno depresivo fue 71,8%. De éstos, el 71,7% fue diagnosticado antes del estudio y el 28,3% restante durante el estudio. Conclusión: La prevalencia de comorbilidad depresiva en la EM es mayor que la descrita para la población general nacional. Determinar si la EM es la causante de esta prevalencia, o cada uno de sus síntomas por separado, requerirá de nuevos estudios.

Abstract Introduction: There is a relationship between Ménière's disease (MD) and psychiatric disorders. Aim: To assess whether MD patients have a higher prevalence of depressive comorbidity compared to that described for the national general population. Material and Method: Cross-sectional analytical study between 2009-2016, for patients seen at the Department of Otolaryngology at the Barros Luco Trudeau Hospital with a definitive MD diagnosis. The functional level scale was applied for MD, tinnitus handicap inventory, Goldberg screening for depression, and an evaluation by a psychiatrist. Results: 64 patients were evaluated. Average age was 52.5 years. The prevalence of depressive disorder was 71.8%. Of these, 71.7% were diagnosed before the study and the remaining 28.3% during the study. Conclusion: The prevalence of depressive comorbidity in MD is higher than that described for the national general population. Determine if MD or each symptom separately is the cause of this prevalence requires other studies.

Análisis de tratamiento de la otitis media crónica simple con miringoplastía en el Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau

Resumen Introducción: La otitis media crónica simple (OMC) es una patología común en nuestra población y hasta la fecha no queda bien claro cuál técnica y material de injerto da mejores resultados. Objetivo: Determinar si existen diferencias en los resultados anatómicos y funcionales al utilizar fascia de músculo temporal (FMT) versus injerto de cartílago de trago (CT) en los pacientes con OMC en que se les realizó miringoplastía en el Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau. Material y Método: Estudio de cohorte no concurrente de datos obtenidos de la revisión de fichas clínicas. Resultados: De 227 fichas, 154 cumplieron criterios de inclusión. En 102 pacientes (66%) se utilizó FMT y en 52 pacientes (34%) CT. Con FMT 38 presentaron reperforación (37%) y 41 presentaron un éxito funcional (40%). Con CT 18 presentaron reperforación (35%) y 22 presentaron un éxito funcional (42%). 38 pacientes presentaban antecedente de tabaquismo activo y de ellos 53% presentaron reperforación, mientras que de los sin antecedentes de tabaquismo solo un 31%, siendo esta diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p < 0,05). Conclusión: No se obtuvieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los resultados anatómicos y funcionales comparando el uso de injerto FMT y CT para el tratamiento quirúrgico de la OMC simple con miringoplastía.

Abstract Introduction: Simple chronic otitis media (COM) is a common pathology in our population, and it is currently unclear, which grafts technique and material gives the best results. Aim: To determine if there are differences in the anatomical and functional results, when using temporal muscle fascia (FMT) or tragus cartilage graft (CT) in patients with COM who underwent myringoplasty at the Barros Luco Trudeau Hospital. Material and Method: Retrospective analytical cohort study of data obtained from clinical records. Results: Of 227 medical records, 154 met inclusion criteria. FMT was used in 102 patients (66%) and CT in 52 patients (34%). With FMT, 38 had reperforation (37%) and 41 had functional success (40%). With CT 18 had reperforation (35%) and 22 had functional success (42%). 38 patients had a history of active smoking and 53% of them presented reperforation, while of those without a history of smoking only 31%, this difference being statistically significant (p < 0,05). Conclusion: No statistically significant differences were obtained when analyzing the anatomical and functional results comparing the use of FMT and CT graft, for the simple surgical treatment of COM with myringoplasty.

Improved algorithm with adaptive regularization for tomographic reconstruction of gas distributions using DOAS measurements.

Differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) is notably well suited for the retrieval of UV-absorbing trace gases present in the atmosphere. We combine multi-axis DOAS observations to perform a tomographic reconstruction of the distribution of gases emitted from different sources. We use a new algorithm based on a regularized minimization approach embedding key physical aspects of the solution to constrain the inversion. In this work, we take into account that the spatial sampling of the plume being scanned by the instruments is not homogeneous. Therefore, we introduce an adaptive approach with a locally tuned regularization weight according to the uncertainty levels introduced by the sampling scheme. We tested our approach on reconstructions of simulated gas distributions and different configurations applicable to multi-axis DOAS. Finally, our approach is applied to experimental data for the retrieval of the distribution of ${\rm NO}_2$NO2 within a plume cross section emitted from a group of stacks.

A platform to understand amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and extend human motor neurons longevity / Plataforma para empezar a comprender la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica (ELA) y extender la longevidad de neuronas motoras humanas

In vitro modeling of neurodegenerative diseases is now possible by using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS). Through them, it is nowadays conceivable to obtain human neurons and glia, and study diseases cellular and molecular mechanisms, an attribute that was previously unavailable to any human condition. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the diseases that has gained a rapid advance with iPS technology. By differentiating motor neurons from iPS cells of ALS- patients, we are studying the mechanisms underlying ALS- disease onset and progression. Here, we introduce a cellular platform to help maintain longevity of ALS iPS-motor neurons, a cellular feature relevant for most late-onset human diseases. Long term cultures of patient-derived iPS cells might prove to be critical for the development of personalized-drugs.

Actualmente es posible modelar in vitro enfermedades neurodegenerativas humanas mediante el uso de células madre pluripotentes inducidas (iPS) derivadas del paciente. A través de ellas, es hoy concebible obtener neuronas y glía humanas, y estudiar mecanismos celulares y moleculares de enfermedades, un atributo que anteriormente no era posible para ninguna condición humana. La esclerosis lateral amiotrófica (ELA) es una de las enfermedades que se ha beneficiado con la tecnología de iPS. Al diferenciar neuronas motoras de células iPS obtenidas de pacientes con ELA, hemos iniciado estudios sobre los mecanismos que subyacen a la aparición y progresión de la enfermedad. Aquí, presentamos el desarrollo de una plataforma celular que permite extender la longevidad de las neuronas motoras derivadas de iPS, una característica relevante para la mayoría de las enfermedades humanas de inicio tardío. Los cultivos a largo plazo de células iPS provenientes de pacientes pueden ser determinantes en el desarrollo de terapias asociadas a la medicina de precisión.

Neurogenetics of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease.

Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease (PMD) is an X-linked disorder caused by mutations in the PLP1 gene, which encodes the proteolipid protein of myelinating oligodendroglia. PMD exhibits phenotypic variability that reflects its considerable genotypic heterogeneity, but all forms of the disease result in central hypomyelination associated with early neurologic dysfunction, progressive deterioration, and ultimately death. PMD has been classified into three major subtypes, according to the age of presentation: connatal PMD, classic PMD, and transitional PMD, combining features of both connatal and classic forms. Two other less severe phenotypes were subsequently described, including the spastic paraplegia syndrome and PLP1-null disease. These disorders may be associated with duplications, as well as with point, missense, and null mutations within the PLP1 gene. A number of clinically similar Pelizaeus-Merzbacher-like disorders (PMLD) are considered in the differential diagnosis of PMD, the most prominent of which is PMLD-1, caused by misexpression of the GJC2 gene encoding connexin-47. No effective therapy for PMD exists. Yet, as a relatively pure central nervous system hypomyelinating disorder, with limited involvement of the peripheral nervous system and little attendant neuronal pathology, PMD is an attractive therapeutic target for neural stem cell and glial progenitor cell transplantation, efforts at which are now underway in a number of centers internationally.