A Case Series of Primary Cutaneous Sarcomatoid Carcinoma With Aberrant Smooth Muscle Actin Expression: A Clinicopathologic and Immunophenotypic Study.

ABSTRACT: Primary cutaneous sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma can show significant histologic overlap with other malignant spindle cell tumors, posing a diagnostic challenge. Even with a wide array of immunohistochemical markers, the exact line of differentiation can be a challenge to identify in some cases. The picture is further complicated by the aberrant expression of myofibroblastic markers [such as smooth muscle actin (SMA)] by these neoplasms, along with a concomitant loss of conventional epithelial markers. The histologic differential diagnoses of primary cutaneous sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma include desmoplastic melanoma, leiomyosarcoma, and spindle cell atypical fibroxanthoma/pleomorphic dermal sarcoma (AFX/PDS). A retrospective analysis of 16 cases of PCSSCCs with SMA expression, obtained from large academic institutions, was performed and is summarized below. The tumors were in the scalp (6 cases), arm (4 cases), leg (2 cases), face (2 cases), hand (1 case), and neck (1 case). Immunohistochemical studies were performed in all cases with the following antibodies: AE1/AE3, CAM 5.2, MNF-116, p63, p40, CK5/6, S-100, SOX10, SMA, desmin, calponin, H-caldesmon, CD10, CD68, CD163, and CD34. Histopathologically, all cases were classified as high-grade malignant poorly differentiated neoplasms. Tumors were characterized by an infiltrative neoplasm that involved the entire reticular dermis and, in 7 cases, the subcutaneous fat. Three cases were associated with a well-differentiated squamous cell component. The neoplasms were composed of atypical spindle and epithelioid cells arranged in long and intersecting fascicles. All neoplasms were positive for epithelial markers (at least 1 marker), and all cases were strongly positive for SMA. Our data emphasize the diagnostic utility of multiple epithelial markers as a first screening tool in the detection and workup of malignant cutaneous sarcomatoid neoplasms. Awareness of SMA expression in these tumors can complicate its diagnosis, and it is important to recognize this aberrant immunophenotype to facilitate definitive diagnosis and avoid misdiagnosis.

Persistent organic pollutants and chlorpyrifos in tissues of a histotrophic viviparous species, the Southern Eagle Ray Myliobatis goodei.

Elasmobranchs are good indicators of marine pollution as they accumulate pollutants from water and food, and occupy different trophic levels. Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlorpyrifos were quantified in muscle, liver, gonads, gills, and brain in both sexes and maturity stages of the Southern Eagle Ray, Myliobatis goodei, captured in Argentine coastal waters. Moreover, possible histological alterations in the liver and gonads were analyzed. Pollutant concentrations were pervasive across all tissues, with PCBs > OCPs > chlorpyrifos. Elevated pollutant levels were notably found in the liver and gills. We identified thirty-six PCB congeners in tissues, with low-chlorine congeners prevailing. Among OCPs, ∑DDT and ∑endosulfan were predominant. Females exhibited higher pollutant levels in most tissues compared to males, except in the gonads, and adults generally displayed elevated pollutant levels. Histological analysis revealed the presence of atretic follicles and melanomacrophages (MM). Continuous monitoring of pollutant levels, alongside their effects on physiological and ecological traits, is imperative for effective management and conservation efforts.

Low-grade Hidradenocarcinomas: A Clinicopathologic Study of an Unusual Carcinoma That Can Mimic its Benign Counterpart.

Hidradenocarcinomas are rare cutaneous adnexal malignancies with sweat gland differentiation that can show a broad spectrum of histomorphologic appearances, ranging from low to high grade. The diagnosis of low-grade hidradenocarcinoma can be challenging and may be mistaken for benign hidradenomas, especially on superficial and partial samples. We performed a retrospective analysis of 16 low-grade hidradenocarcinomas, obtained from 4 large academic institutions. All neoplasms presented clinically as nodular lesions that ranged in size from 1.5 to 6.0 cm. All patients were adults and their age ranged from 33 to 74 years of age. All cases shared features similar to hidradenomas in the surface and mid portion of the tumors and all tumors had 1 or more histomorphologic clues to malignancy, including the presence of an asymmetric and infiltrative growth pattern (especially at the base of the tumors), perineurial invasion, and a desmoplastic stromal reaction. In the tumors evaluated for immunohistochemistry, the tumor cells were positive for p63, EMA, AE1/AE3, MNF116, and CK7. Three patients underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy, and 2 cases showed metastatic disease to regional lymph nodes. All cases (including the 2 cases that had regional lymph node metastasis), showed no local recurrence or distant metastasis observed after a complete re-excision of the tumors (follow-up range from 6 to 72 mo). Our study highlights the salient clinical and histopathologic features of low-grade hidradenocarcinomas and emphasizes the potential diagnostic pitfalls in distinguishing this entity from other neoplasms. Our results indicate that a combination of thorough histopathologic inspection is necessary to support the diagnosis of this rare neoplasm. These tumors can be exceedingly difficult to diagnose and awareness of the subtle features of low-grade hidradenocarcinoma is of importance are as it remains a diagnostic challenge for practicing pathologists.

Low-Grade Hidradenocarcinoma of the Foot With Metastasis to a Lymph Node.

ABSTRACT: Hidradenocarcinoma (HAC) is a rare adnexal tumor associated with the potential for locoregional recurrence and systemic metastasis. The clinical appearance of HAC is nonspecific, frequently presenting as a solitary firm subcutaneous nodule or plaque on the head and neck region or distal extremities. These tumors show histomorphologic heterogeneity, as they can be low and high grade. Distinguishing HAC from hidradenoma, especially the low-grade variant of HAC, can be challenging as both tumors can show histologic overlapping features. In this article, we describe a case of a 33-year-old patient presenting with a low-grade HAC of the plantar foot who was subsequently found to have lymph node metastasis.

Antitumor activity of bovine lactoferrin and its derived peptides against HepG2 liver cancer cells and Jurkat leukemia cells.

Liver cancer and leukemia are the fourth and first causes, respectively, of cancer death in children and adults worldwide. Moreover, cancer treatments, although beneficial, remain expensive, invasive, toxic, and affect the patient's quality of life. Therefore, new anticancer agents are needed to improve existing agents. Because bovine lactoferrin (bLF) and its derived peptides have antitumor properties, we investigated the anticancer effect of bLF and LF peptides (LFcin17-30, LFampin265-284 and LFchimera) on liver cancer HepG2 cells and leukemia Jurkat cells. HepG2 and Jurkat cells were incubated with bLF and LF peptides. Cell proliferation was quantified by an MTT assay, and cell morphology and damage were visualized by light microscopy or by phalloidin-TRITC/DAPI staining. The discrimination between apoptosis/necrosis was performed by staining with Annexin V-Alexa Fluor 488 and propidium iodide, and the expression of genes related to apoptosis was analyzed in Jurkat cells. Finally, the synergistic interaction of bLF and LF peptides with cisplatin or etoposide was assessed by an MTT assay and the combination index. The present study demonstrated that bLF and LF peptides inhibited the viability of HepG2 and Jurkat cells, inducing damage to the cell monolayer of HepG2 cells and morphological changes in both cell lines. bLF, LFcin17-30, and LFampin265-284 triggered apoptosis in both cell lines, whereas LFchimera induced necrosis. These results suggested that bLF and LF peptides activate apoptosis by increasing the expression of genes of the intrinsic pathway. Additionally, bLF and LF peptides synergistically interacted with cisplatin and etoposide. In conclusion, bLF and LF peptides display anticancer activity against liver cancer and leukemia cells, representing an alternative or improvement in cancer treatment.

Poder mecánico como predictor de mortalidad en los pacientes con diagnóstico de neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 que recibieron ventilación mecánica invasiva / Mechanical power as a predictor of mortality in patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia who received invasive mechanical ventilation / Potência mecânica como preditor de mortalidade em pacientes diagnosticados com pneumonia por SARS-CoV-2 que receberam ventilação mecânica invasiva

Resumen: Introducción: Las fuerzas mecánicas generadas durante la ventilación mecánica por la interacción entre el ventilador y el sistema respiratorio pueden dañar al pulmón en un proceso que se ha denominado lesión inducida por el ventilador. El grado de lesión se ha relacionado con la cantidad de energía transferida desde el ventilador mecánico al sistema respiratorio dentro de un periodo de tiempo determinado, denominado poder mecánico; datos experimentales basados en tomografías sugieren que el poder mecánico mayor de 12 J/min podría generar lesión. Se proyecta como otra de las variables a controlar dentro de las estrategias de protección pulmonar, determinado en estudios experimentales como un umbral de energía a partir del cual inician los cambios mecánicos en el pulmón que pueden conducir a lesión inducida por el ventilador. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, analítico, comparativo, se incluyeron todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 que requieren ventilación mecánica invasiva; en un periodo de tiempo comprendido de marzo-agosto de 2021 que ingresaron a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos y utilizaron el poder mecánico como variable para predecir la mortalidad. Resultados: La población estudiada se compuso de 67 pacientes; se evaluó la asociación entre el poder mecánico alto a las 48 horas y la mortalidad, se documentó que 49.25% (n = 33) de los casos que mantuvieron el poder mecánico alto en 48 horas murieron, 28.35% (n = 19) con poder mecánico alto no se asoció con mortalidad, 8.95% (n = 6) que no mantuvieron cálculo de poder mecánico alto murieron y 13.43% (n = 9) de los pacientes con poder mecánico menor a 12 J/min no murieron. Se realizó una prueba de asociación con χ2 de Pearson en la que se obtiene un valor de p = 0.105, por lo que no existe diferencia estadísticamente significativa y no se corrobora la asociación entre la mortalidad de los pacientes con poder mecánico alto (> 12 J/min) a las 48 horas. Conclusión: El poder mecánico puede considerarse como otra variable a controlar como estrategia de protección pulmonar del paciente con infección por SARS-CoV-2, basado en que la energía transmitida al pulmón tiene mayor impacto en los pacientes que reciben ventilación mecánica por un intervalo de tiempo mayor de siete días, con un promedio de estancia en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos 12.3 + 6.2 días y el promedio de días de ventilación mecánica invasiva 9.2 + 5.6.

Abstract: Introduction: The mechanical forces generated during mechanical ventilation by the interaction between the ventilator and the respiratory system can damage the lung in a process that has been called ventilator induced injury. The degree of injury has been related to the amount of energy transferred from the mechanical ventilator to the respiratory system within a given period of time, called mechanical power, experimental data based on tomographies suggest that mechanical power greater than 12 J/min could generate injury. It is projected as another variables to control within lung protection strategies, determining in experimental studies as an energy threshold from which mechanical changes in the lung begin that can lead to ventilator induced injury. Material and methods: A retrospective, analytical, comparative study was carried out. All patients with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia who required invasive mechanical ventilation were admitted; In a period of time between March-August 2021, they were admitted to the intensive care unit and used mechanical power as a variable to predict mortality. Results: The studied population consisted of 67 patients; the association between high mechanical power at 48 hours and mortality was evaluated, it was documented that 49.25% (n = 33) of the patients who maintained high mechanical power in 48 hours died, 28.35% (n = 19) with power high mechanical was not associated with mortality, 8.95% (n = 6) who did not have high mechanical power calculation died and 13.43% (n = 9) of patients with mechanical power less than 12 J/min survived. An association test was performed with Pearson's χ2 in which a p value of 0.105 was obtained, so there is no statistically significant difference and the association between the mortality of the patients is not corroborated. with high mechanical power (> 12 J/min) at 48 hours. Conclusion: Mechanical power can be considered as another variable to control as a lung protection strategy for patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, based on the fact that the energy transmitted to the lung has a greater impact on patients who receive mechanical ventilation for an interval time greater than seven days, with an average stay in the intensive care unit 12.3 + 6.2 days and the average days of invasive mechanical ventilation 9.2 + 5.6.

Resumo: Introdução: As forças mecânicas geradas durante a ventilação mecânica pela interação entre o ventilador e o sistema respiratório podem lesar o pulmão em um processo que tem sido chamado de lesão induzida pelo ventilador. O grau de lesão tem sido relacionado à quantidade de energia transferida do ventilador mecânico para o sistema respiratório em um determinado período de tempo, denominado potência mecânica. Dados experimentais baseados em tomografia sugerem que potência mecânica superior a 12 J/min pode gerar lesão. Ele é projetado como mais uma das variáveis a serem controladas dentro das estratégias de proteção pulmonar, determinando em estudos experimentais como um limiar de energia a partir do qual se iniciam as alterações mecânicas no pulmão que podem levar à lesão induzida pelo ventilador. Material e métodos: Realizou-se um estudo retrospectivo, analítico e comparativo, foram admitidos todos os pacientes com diagnóstico de pneumonia por SARS-CoV-2 que necessitaram de ventilação mecânica invasiva; em um período de março a agosto de 2021 que foram internados na unidade de terapia intensiva e utilizaram a potência mecânica como variável para predizer mortalidade. Resultados: A população do estudo foi composta por 67 pacientes; Foi avaliada a associação entre alta potência mecânica em 48 horas e mortalidade, foi documentado que 49.25% (n = 33) dos pacientes que mantiveram potência mecânica alta em 48 horas morreram, 28.35% (n = 19) com potência mecânica alta não foi associado à mortalidade, 8.95% (n = 6) que ñao mantiveran o calculo de alta potencia mecanoca morreram e 13.4% (n = 9) dos pacientes com potencia mecanica menor que 12 J/min nao morreram. Realizou-se um teste de associação com o χ2 de Pearson, no qual se obtém um valor de p de 0.105, portanto não há diferença estatisticamente significante e a associação entre mortalidade do paciente não é corroborada com alta potência mecânica (> 12 Joul/min) em 48 horas. Conclusão: A potência mecânica pode ser considerada mais uma variável a ser controlada como estratégia de proteção pulmonar para pacientes com infecção por SARS-CoV-2, tendo em vista que a energia transmitida ao pulmão tem maior impacto em pacientes que recebem ventilação mecânica por um intervalo de tempo superior a 7 dias, com média de permanência na unidade de terapia intensiva 12.3 + 6.2 dias e média de dias de ventilação mecânica invasiva 9.2 + 5.6.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pregnant women and neonates with COVID-19 in Northwest Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, has spread quickly worldwide, causing millions of cases and thousands of deaths. Some risk factors in the general population are related to the development of severe COVID-19 or death, but in pregnant women and neonates, the information is limited. OBJECTIVE: To determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pregnant women and neonates diagnosed with COVID-19 by RT-PCR and serological tests, and analyze the relationship between the influenza vaccination and COVID-19 symptoms in infected pregnant women in Sinaloa state. METHODS: We collected samples from 116 pregnant women and 84 neonates from the Women´s Hospital of Sinaloa. They were diagnosed with COVID-19 by RT-PCR and serological tests (IgG), and sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory parameters were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 11.2% (13/116) of the pregnant women were RT-PCR+, 25% (29/116) were IgG+ and 4.3% (5/116) were positive for both tests. Symptoms such as rhinorrhea (P = .04), cough (P = .02) and polypnea (P = .04) in pregnant women were related to COVID-19, also leukocyte index was higher in pregnant women with COVID-19 (P = .03), but the associations were lost after the Bonferroni correction. No laboratory parameters or underlying diseases were associated with COVID-19, and most infected pregnant women had mild cases. We found an association between the influenza vaccine and less common COVID-19 symptoms in pregnant women who were infected (P = .01). A total of 7.2% (6/84) of neonates were RT-PCR+, 35.7% (30/84) were IgG+, and there were no symptoms or underlying diseases associated with neonates who were infected. In conclusion, this work demonstrated that some symptoms were related to COVID-19, most pregnant women and neonates had mild cases, and the influenza vaccine could decrease the severity of COVID-19 cases in pregnant women.

Índices de oxigenación, índice de choque diastólico y tiempo en presión soporte como predictores de éxito en el retiro de la ventilación mecánica invasiva en paciente críticamente enfermo con COVID-19 / Oxygenation indices, diastolic shock index, and time in support pressure as predictors of success in the removal of invasive mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients with COVID-19 / Índices de oxigenação, índice de choque diastólico e tempo em pressão de suporte como preditores de sucesso na retirada de ventilação mecânica invasiva em pacientes em estado crítico com COVID-19

Resumen Introducción: El porcentaje de pacientes gravemente enfermos por COVID-19 que toleran el retiro de la ventilación mecánica es mínimo, por lo cual es fundamental determinar cuáles son los predictores de éxito en el retiro de la ventilación mecánica. Objetivos: Determinar si los índices de oxigenación, tiempo en presión soporte e índice de choque diastólico son predictores de éxito en el retiro de la ventilación mecánica en pacientes críticamente enfermos por COVID-19. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte prospectivo en pacientes con COVID-19 que ingresaron a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos y fueron sometidos a pruebas de ventilación espontánea, siendo posteriormente liberados del ventilador mecánico. Se recolectaron datos demográficos, resultados de laboratorio y parámetros ventilatorios con la finalidad de analizar y determinar predictores de éxito en el retiro de la ventilación mecánica. Resultados: Se observó una diferencia significativa entre los pacientes que toleraron y los que no toleraron el retiro de la ventilación mecánica en las siguientes variables: índice de respiración rápida superficial 47 ± 17.9 vs 90 ± 20.2 (p = 0.08), días de ventilación mecánica 5.8 vs 9.3 (p = 0.03), sesiones de prono 1.36 vs 2.33 (p = 0.058) y presión arterial diastólica 57 ± 3.6 (p = 0.027). Conclusión: En los pacientes críticamente enfermos por COVID-19 que son candidatos a retiro de la ventilación mecánica sugerimos usar como predictores de éxito: el índice de respiraciones rápidas superficiales < 64, días de ventilación mecánica < 8, presión arterial diastólica > 57 mmHg y haber tenido máximo dos sesiones de prono como predictores de éxito en el retiro de la ventilación mecánica.

Abstract Introduction: The percentage of critically ill patients due to COVID-19 who tolerate the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation is minimal. It is essential to determine which are the predictors of success in weaning. Objectives: To determine if the oxygenation indices, time in pressure support, and diastolic shock index are predictors of success in the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients due to COVID-19. Material and methods: Prospective cohort study in patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU and underwent tests of spontaneous ventilation, being later released from the mechanical ventilator. Demographic data, laboratory results, ventilatory parameters were collected in order to analyze and determine predictors of success in weaning. Results: A significant difference was found between those who tolerated and those who did not tolerate the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in the following variables: rapid shallow breathing index 47 ± 17.9 vs 90 ± 20.2 (p = 0.08), days of mechanical ventilation 5.8 vs 9.3 (p = 0.03), prone sessions 1.36 vs 2.33 (p = 0.058), diastolic blood pressure 57 ± 3.6 (p = 0.027). Conclusion: In critically ill patients due to COVID-19 who are candidates for withdrawal from mechanical ventilation, we suggest using as predictors of success: Index of rapid shallow breaths < 64, days of mechanical ventilation < 8, diastolic blood pressure > 57 mmHg and having had a maximum two prone sessions as predictors of success in the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation.

Resumo Introdução: A porcentagem de pacientes graves com COVID-19 que toleram a retirada da ventilação mecânica é mínima, por isso é essencial determinar os preditores de sucesso na retirada da ventilação mecânica. Objetivos: Determinar se os índices de oxigenação, tempo em pressão suporte, índice de choque diastólico são preditores de sucesso no desmame da ventilação mecânica em pacientes críticos com COVID-19. Material e métodos: Estudo de coorte prospectivo em pacientes com COVID-19 admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva e submetidos a testes de ventilação espontânea e posteriormente liberados do ventilador mecânico. Foram coletados dados demográficos, resultados laboratoriais e parâmetros ventilatórios para analisar e determinar os preditores de sucesso no desmame da ventilação mecânica. Resultados: Observou-se uma diferença significativa entre os pacientes que toleraram e os que não toleraram a retirada da ventilação mecânica nas seguintes variáveis: índice de respiração rápida e superficial 47 ±17.9 vs 90 ± 20.2 (p = 0.08), dias de ventilação mecânica 5.8 vs 9.3 (p = 0.03), sessões de prona 1.36 vs 2.33 (p = 0.058) e pressão arterial diastólica 57 ± 3.6 (p = 0.027). Conclusão: Em pacientes em estado crítico com COVID-19 candidatos à retirada da ventilação mecânica, sugerimos usar como preditores de sucesso: índice de respirações rápidas e superficiais < 64, dias de ventilação mecânica < 8, pressão arterial diastólica > 57 mmHg e ter realizado no máximo 2 sessões em decúbito ventral como preditores de sucesso no desmame da ventilação mecânica.

Prevalence of Cyclomodulin-Positive E. coli and Klebsiella spp. Strains in Mexican Patients with Colon Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance.

Colon diseases, such as colorectal cancer (CRC), are multifactor diseases that affect more than one million people per year; recently, the microbiota has been associated with an etiologic factor, specifically bacterial cyclomodulin positivity (CM+). Unfortunately, there are no studies from Mexico that detail the presence of bacterial CM+ in patients with colon diseases. We therefore performed a comprehensive study to investigate the associations and prevalence of cyclomodulin-positive Diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC), non-DEC, and Klebsiella spp. strains isolated from Mexican subjects with colon diseases. In this work, we analyzed 43 biopsies, 87 different bacteria were isolated, and E. coli was the most frequently noted, followed by Klebsiella spp., and Enterococcus spp. E. coli, non-DEC, and EPEC belonging to phylogroup B2 were the most prevalent. More than 80% of E. coli and Klebsiella were CM+. pks, cdt, cnf, and cif were identified. cdt was associated with non-DEC, cif and its combinations with EPEC, as well as cdt and psk with Klebsiella. Lastly, all the CM+ bacteria were resistant to at least one antibiotic (34% were MDR, and 48% XDR). In conclusion, the high prevalence of bacterial CM+ in colon disease patients suggests that these bacteria play an important role in the genesis of these diseases.

The "bumpy" adolescent nose: Acne associated angiofibroma-like nasal papules.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Papular scars are a recently described clinical phenotype of acne scarring characterized by papules occurring on the nose and chin. We have observed a similar presentation of nasal papules among patients seen in our clinic for acne and sought to further characterize the clinical and histopathological characteristics of this entity. METHODS: In this single-site case series, a retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients with nasal papules in association with acne vulgaris between April 2018 and April 2019 was performed. Clinical and histopathologic findings were recorded. RESULTS: We identified 20 patients who presented with a similar clinical phenotype of predominantly skin-colored, dome-shaped papules concentrated on the nose and chin in association with a history of more classic facial acne vulgaris. Papular lesions were seen predominately in adolescent Hispanic males. Concomitant acne on other areas of the face was identified in 18 patients at presentation while two patients had a history of adolescent acne. Biopsies were performed for five patients. Histopathologic examination demonstrated features of fibrosis and dilated thin-walled blood vessels, typical of angiofibromas. CONCLUSION: We present a series of adolescent patients with large, flesh-colored to erythematous papules seen predominantly on the nose. These lesions are histologically indistinguishable from angiofibromas and may represent an under-recognized yet disfiguring sequela of acne that may disproportionately affect adolescents with skin of color.

First report and molecular identification of Trypanosoma (Duttonella) vivax outbreak in cattle population from Ecuador.

The bovine trypanosomosis is responsible for economic losses from tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and Latin America. This disease is characterized by fever, anaemia, loss of production and even death. Few studies have been carried out in Ecuador regarding Trypanosoma spp. presence but the species has not been determined in cattle and those have only determined the presence of genus, but not the species. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the trypanosome species involved in the suspected bovine trypanosomosis outbreak reported in Convento Village in Manabí Province located in the coastal region of Ecuador. Twenty cattle from three farms were sampled. Three samples were positive for T. vivax, using an end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a fragment of the cathepsin L-like cysteine protease (CatL-like) gene. A phylogenetic tree analysis of these three Ecuadorian isolates showed a close relationship with isolates from South America (Colombia, Brazil and Venezuela) and West Africa (Nigeria). This is the first report of T. vivax in Ecuadorian cattle.

Dermatologists' Perceptions and Confidence in Cosmetic Care for Male Patients.

BACKGROUND: Despite a growing interest in nonsurgical cosmetic procedures in men, the utilization of aesthetic treatments remains comparatively low, suggesting the presence of barriers to care. OBJECTIVE: To describe barriers to cosmetic intervention for male patients from the perspective of dermatologists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anonymous, online survey was distributed through a listserv made available by the American Academy of Dermatology. RESULTS: Dermatologist respondents perceived a low utilization of cosmetic services in male patients (5%) and a lack of opportunity (72.3%) to provide such services. Respondents also perceived a lack of sufficient education/training (40.9%), experience (20.5%), and a lack of evidence in the field (20.5%) for dermatologists as potential barriers to cosmetic care for male patients. Presence of targeted messaging and in-office educational materials for male patients was found to be associated with increased utilization of cosmetic treatments by male patients (p = .012, p = .012, respectively). Dermatologists reported strong confidence in delivering various noninvasive cosmetic treatments to male patients. CONCLUSION: Despite dermatologists' reported confidence in performing cosmetic procedures in men, many perceive insufficient education/training and experience with this population which may create barriers to cosmetic care for male patients. Increasing educational materials and targeted messaging to male patients may decrease barriers for patients to receive desired cosmetic care.

Nevus psiloliparus: Newly described histopathological features from transverse sections.

Nevus psiloliparus is a rare fatty tissue nevus that is a marker for encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis, a neurocutaneous syndrome with ocular and central nervous system anomalies. Clinically, nevus psiloliparus is often described as a congenital alopecia and appears as an irregularly shaped, circumscribed area of alopecia on the scalp. Histopathology demonstrates a near-complete absence of mature hair follicles with preservation of arrector pili muscles and mature adipocytes within the dermis. The pathogenesis of nevus psiloliparus may be related to mosaic mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptor 1. Herein we report the histopathological features of a nevus psiloliparus in an 11-year-old girl diagnosed from transverse sections, which show "shadow" follicular units characterized by columns of loosely arranged collagen and a relative paucity of elastic fibers.

Optimism and Social Support Predict Healthier Adult Behaviors Despite Socially Disadvantaged Childhoods.

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown adverse effects of a disadvantaged childhood on adult health-promoting behaviors and related outcomes. Optimism and social support have been linked to greater likelihood of engaging in healthy behavior, but it is unclear whether these positive psychosocial factors may buffer harmful effects of early adversity. This study aims to determine if optimism and social support in adulthood can modify effects of childhood disadvantage on health behavior-related outcomes. METHODS: Longitudinal data were analyzed from a subset of participants in a US birth cohort established in 1959-1966 (ns of 681-840, per outcome). An index of childhood social disadvantage was derived from adverse socioeconomic and family stability factors reported by mothers at child's birth and age 7 years. Health behavior-related outcomes were self-reported when participants were of mean age 47 years. Multivariable adjusted robust Poisson regressions were performed. RESULTS: Regardless of level of childhood social disadvantage, we found higher levels of optimism and social support were both associated with higher probabilities of being a non-smoker (relative risk [RR]optimism = 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09-1.26; RRsocial support = 1.24, 95%CI = 1.11-1.39), having a healthy diet (RRoptimism = 1.25, 95%CI = 1.10-1.43; RRsocial support = 1.27, 95%CI = 1.04-1.56), and a healthy body mass index (RRoptimism = 1.18, 95%CI = 1.00-1.40; RRsocial support = 1.29, 95%CI = 1.00-1.66). Interactions link higher optimism or social support with lower risk of smoking among those with moderate childhood disadvantage. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these findings are consistent with the possibility that positive psychosocial resources contribute to maintaining a healthy lifestyle in mid-adulthood and may buffer effects of childhood social disadvantage.

Demographics of Men and Minorities in Cosmetic Clinical Trials of Botulinum Toxin and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers.

BACKGROUND: The demographics of men and minorities in clinical studies of nonsurgical cosmetic procedures have not been well described. There is a growing interest in nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. The patients studied in clinical trials may not be reflective of the real-world demographic of patients seeking nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. OBJECTIVE: To examine the demographics of men and minorities in clinical studies of nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. METHODS: A systematic review of clinical trials of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) for facial rhytides and hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable fillers for soft-tissue augmentation was performed. Data on ethnicity and sex were collected and examined. RESULTS: Nineteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on BTX-A and 22 RCTs on HA were included for analysis. Men represented 11.8% of all participants. Men were more represented in the BTX-A RCTs (13.9%) compared with the HA RCTs (6.4%). Caucasian patients represented 67.1% of the total patients. Asian, Hispanic, and black patients represented 16.8%, 6.5%, and 5.4% of study participants, respectively. CONCLUSION: The proportion of men in clinical trials of BTX-A and HA reflects the real-world demographics of men undergoing these procedures. Hispanic and black patients were underrepresented in clinical trials.

Feeding habits of the cockfish, Callorhinchus callorynchus (Holocephali: Callorhinchidae) from off northern Argentina

The feeding habits of Callorhinchus callorynchus were investigated in coastal waters off northern Argentina. The effect of body size, seasons and regions was evaluated on female diet composition using a multiple-hypothesis modelling approach. Callorhinchus callorynchus fed mainly on bivalves (55.61% PSIRI), followed by brachyuran crabs (10.62% PSIRI) and isopods (10.13% PSIRI). Callorhinchus callorynchus females showed changes in the diet composition with increasing body size and also between seasons and regions. Further, this species is able to consume larger bivalves as it grows. Trophic level was 3.15, characterizing it as a secondary consumer. We conclude that C. callorynchus showed a behavior of crushing hard prey, mainly on bivalves, brachyuran, gastropods and anomuran crabs. Females of this species shift their diet with increasing body size and in response to seasonal and regional changes in prey abundance or distribution.(AU)

RESUMEN Los hábitos alimentarios de Callorhinchus callorynchus fueron investigados en las aguas costeras del norte de Argentina. Se evaluó el efecto del tamaño del cuerpo, la temporada y la región sobre la composición de la dieta de las hembras mediante un enfoque de modelado de múltiples hipótesis. Callorhinchus callorynchus se alimentó principalmente de bivalvos (55,61% PSIRI), seguido de cangrejos brachyuras (10,62% PSIRI) y de isópodos (10,13% PSIRI). Las hembras de C. callorynchus presentaron cambios en la dieta con incremento del tamaño del cuerpo, la temporada y la región. Además, esta especie es capaz de consumir bivalvos de mayor tamaño a medida que incrementa el tamaño del cuerpo. El nivel trófico fue calculado en 3,15, caracterizando a esta especie como un consumidor secundario. Concluimos que C. callorynchus presentó un comportamiento de triturador de presas duras, principalmente bivalvos, cangrejos y gasterópodos. Las hembras de esta especie cambian su dieta con el incremento del tamaño del cuerpo y en respuesta a cambios temporales y regionales en la abundancia y distribución de sus presas.(AU)

Concordancia entre la Edad Cronológica y Edad Dental Según el Método de Demirjian en Pacientes Mexicanos / Concordance Between Chronological Age and Dental Age by the Demirjian Method in Mexican Patients

RESUMEN: En la práctica forense un dato de gran importancia es la edad cronológica de los pacientes, este puede obtenerse de múltiples formas, algunas son complejas, costosas y tardadas, el cálculo de la edad dental (ED) por vía radiográfica es sencillo y de bajo costo, ha mostrado ser concordante con la edad cronológica (EC), presentando variaciones por sexo y raza. El objetivo de este estudio es establecer la concordancia de la ED y la EC en población mexicana. Este es un estudio transversal, observacional en el que un residente estandarizado evaluó 88 Ortopantomografías (44 femeninos y 44 masculinos) de manera cegada respecto a la EC, del archivo de la clínica de Ortodoncia de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, con edades desde los 3 a los 16 años. Existe una diferencia en meses de 3,36 entre los valores ED y EC en el total de la población (p=0,384) con una concordancia de 94 % entre los valores. Al analizarlos por sexo los masculinos muestran una diferencia de 5,16 (P=0,785) con una concordancia de 96 % y los femeninos de 7,32 (P=0,095) con una concordancia de 92 %. La ED según Demirjian es un método confiable para estimar la EC en esta población.

ABSTRACT: In forensic practice knowledge of chronological age (CA) is an important factor, and it can be estimated by several methods. Some are complex, expensive and time consuming. Dental Age (DA) estimation by radiographic methods is easy and inexpensive, it has shown to be consistent with chronological age (CA), with variations according to sex and race. The objective of this study was to estimate the concordance between DA and CA in Mexicans. This is a cross sectional, observational study, in which a standardized dental resident reviewed 88 Orthopantomographies (44 female, 44 male), blinded to CA, of the Orthodontics School Files of the Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, the population was 3 to 16 years of age. The main difference in months between DA and CA was 3.36 (p=0.384) and 94 % of concordance, the analysis by sex for males showed a main difference of 5.16 (P=0.785) and 96 % concordance; for females it showed 7.32 (P=0.095) and concordance of 92 %. In conclusion the DA according to Demirjian is a reliable method to estimate CA in these patients.