Assessment of heavy metals and human health risk associated with the consumption of crops cultivated in industrial areas of Maputo, Mozambique.

This study aimed to evaluate heavy metals concentrations in soils and vegetables (cabbage, lettuce, and cassava) cultivated at Matola and Beluluane Industrial Parks, and to assess health risks linked to their consumption through estimated daily intake, hazard index (HI), and incremental lifetime cancer risk. Concentrations of Al, As, Co, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn were determined in the two sites. Soil concentrations of As at Beluluane site and As, Cd, and Cr at Matola site exceeded reference limits of the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization, showing heavy metal contamination. At Beluluane site, all studied vegetables presented As and Pb levels higher than reference limits, Cd concentrations were higher than the reference limit in cabbage, lettuce, and cassava leaves. At Matola site crops concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, and Pb exceeded the reference limits. Zinc exceeded the reference limit in all crops except in cabbage. HIs for vegetables from Beluluane exceeded 1.0 in cabbage (2.66), lettuce (2.27), and cassava leaves (2.37). Likewise, at Matola, HIs exceeded 1.0 in lettuce (1.67), cassava leaves (1.65), and root tubers (13). We found that vegetables cultivated in industrial parks present high carcinogenic risk due to heavy metal contamination, rendering them unsuitable for human consumption.

Influence of Photosensitizer on Photodynamic Therapy for Peri-Implantitis: A Systematic Review.

The treatment of peri-implantitis is challenging in the clinical practice of implant dentistry. With limited therapeutic options and drug resistance, there is a need for alternative methods, such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), which is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat peri-implantitis. This study evaluated whether the type of photosensitizer used influences the results of inflammatory control, reduction in peri-implant pocket depth, bleeding during probing, and reduction in bone loss in the dental implant region. We registered the study in the PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Review) database. We searched three main databases and gray literature in English without date restrictions. In vivo randomized clinical studies involving individuals with peri-implantitis, smokers, patients with diabetes, and healthy controls were included. PDT was used as the primary intervention. Comparators considered mechanical debridement with a reduction in pocket depth as the primary outcome and clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, gingival index, plaque index, and microbiological analysis as secondary outcomes. After reviewing the eligibility criteria, we included seven articles out of 266. A great variety of photosensitizers were observed, and it was concluded that the selection of the most appropriate type of photosensitizer must consider the patient's characteristics and peri-implantitis conditions. The effectiveness of PDT, its effects on the oral microbiome, and the clinical patterns of peri-implantitis may vary depending on the photosensitizer chosen, which is a crucial factor in personalizing peri-implantitis treatment.

Rotura aneurismática de la arteria hepática común / Ruptured common hepatic artery aneurysm

RESUMEN Los aneurismas de la arteria hepática son una patología poco frecuente. Cuando son sintomáticos, se debe sospechar un sufrimiento aneurismático y su tratamiento está indicado. Presentamos el caso clínico de un paciente con mal terreno cardiovascular, que consultó por un cuadro clínico de dolor epigástrico, repercusión hemodinámica e ictericia. La imagenología evidenció la presencia de un aneurisma de la arteria hepática común complicado con compromiso del origen de la arteria hepática propia y la arteria gastroduodenal. La presencia de una vascularización arterial hepática "no convencional" con una arteria hepática derecha proveniente de la arteria mesentérica superior, en la angiotomografía, permitió cambiar la táctica quirúrgica haciéndose prescindible la realización de un bypass. Este caso resalta la importancia de determinar en el preoperatorio no solo la extensión del aneurisma, sino también la anatomía vascular hepática a fin de planificar mejor la cirugía, disminuyendo así la morbimortalidad de esta enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Hepatic artery aneurysms are rare. Expanding aneurysms should be suspected in case of symptoms and treatment is indicated. We report the case of a patient with a history of cardiovascular disease who sought medical care due to epigastric pain, hemodynamic instability and jaundice. The imaging tests showed the presence of an aneurysm of the common hepatic artery complicated with involvement of the origin of the proper hepatic artery and the gastroduodenal artery. The surgical approach could be changed due to presence of a "non-conventional" hepatic arterial variant with a right hepatic artery originating from the superior mesenteric artery in the computed tomography angiography as bypass surgery was not necessary. This case highlights the importance of determining the extent of the aneurysm in the preoperative period and the anatomy of the hepatic vessels to better plan the surgery, thus reducing morbidity and mortality of this disease.

Common Operative Procedural Errors and Clinical Factors Associated with Root Canal Treatment

Abstract Operative procedural errors must be well analyzed in order to avoid influence negatively the root canal treatment (RCT) prognosis. The successful RCT prevents tooth loss and avoids pain and apical periodontitis. This review aimed to categorize common operative procedure errors and clinical factors associated with RCT. Based on this, will be approached common errors of procedures within the clinical operative sequence: endodontic treatment planning, pulp and periapical disease diagnosis, anaesthesia, access cavity preparation, isolation with rubber dam, root canal preparation, root canal filling and retreatment, restoration of endodontically treated teeth, postoperative pain, follow up of endodontically treated teeth. The professional must remind that in each phase of RCT an operative error may have adverse implication on prognosis, and these errors characterize risk factors to failure. The knowledge of probable operative procedural errors and its consequences are essentials to avoid future problems to the tooth health.

Resumo Erros de procedimentos operatórios devem ser bem analisados e evitados em função de influenciar negativamente o prognóstico do tratamento do canal radicular. Tratamento do canal radicular bem sucedido previne a perda do dente, evita dor pulpar e lesão periapical. Esta revisão objetiva categorizar erros de procedimentos operatórios comuns e os fatores clínicos associados ao tratamento do canal radicular. Neste intuito, serão abordados os erros mais comuns e os fatores clínicos dentro da seguinte sequência operatória: planejamento do tratamento endodôntico, diagnóstico da doença pulpar e periapical, anestesia, preparo do acesso cavitário, isolamento do campo operatório, preparo do canal radicular, obturação e retratamento do canal radicular, restauração do dente tratado endodonticamente, dor pós-tratamento do canal radicular, e acompanhamento do dente tratado endodonticamente. O profissional deve estar consciente de que em cada fase operatória um erro pode ter implicação no prognóstico, e ser fator de risco ao fracasso. O conhecimento dos prováveis erros de procedimentos operatórios e suas consequências é essencial para evitar futuros problemas com a saúde do dente.

Epidemiología de la brucelosis caprina y ovina en la provincia de Formosa, Argentina / Epidemiology of caprine and ovine brucellosis in Formosa province, Argentina

Se realizó un estudio epidemiológico de brucelosis en 516 majadas caprinas o mixtas (caprinos/ovinos) de las 3 regiones agroecológicas de la provincia de Formosa, Argentina. Mediante las pruebas de aglutinación en placa con antígeno tamponado y de fijación del complemento en suero se estudiaron un total de 25.401 caprinos y 2.453 ovinos. Además, se realizaron cultivos bacteriológicos y PCR en muestras de leche de cabras de 3 majadas con brucelosis y abortos recientes. Se detectó brucelosis en 4 de los 9 departamentos de la provincia, la prevalencia global fue del 2 % y la intrapredial varió entre el 1 y el 40%. La proporción de majadas positivas fue del 3,6, el 12 y el 36 % para las regiones este, centro y oeste, respectivamente. Se aisló Brucella melitensis bv. 1 de cabras por primera vez en la provincia. La PCR amplificó fragmentos esperados de 827 pb correspondiente al gen omp2ab (Brucella spp.) y de 731 pb correspondiente al inserto IS711 (B. melitensis). La detección de anticuerpos en ovinos que cohabitan con caprinos sugiere que las infecciones habrían sido causadas por B. melitensis, lo que constituye un riesgo adicional para la salud pública. Los programas de control y erradicación de la brucelosis deberían considerar las majadas mixtas como una sola unidad epidemiológica. Los resultados indican que la brucelosis por B. melitensis bv. 1 es altamente endémica en las regiones centro y oeste de la provincia de Formosa.

An epidemiological study of brucellosis was carried out in 516 goats and mixed flocks (goat/sheep) from the three agro-ecological regions of Formosa province, Argentina. Serum samples from a total of 25401 goats and 2453 sheeps were analyzed using buffered plate agglutination test (BPAT) and complement fixation test (CFT). Bacteriological and PCR analyses on milk samples from goats in three flocks with a history of brucellosis and recent abortions were also performed. Brucellosis was detected in four of the nine departments of the province with an overall prevalence of 2 % and an intra-flock prevalence ranging between 1 % and 40 %. The proportion of infected flocks was 3.6 %, 12 % and 36 % for the eastern, central and western regions, respectively. Brucella melitensis bv. 1 was isolated efrom goats for the first time in the province. The expected fragments of 827 bp from the omp2ab gene (Brucella spp.) and 731 bp from the insert IS711 (B. melitensis) were amplified by PCR. Detection of antibodies by BPAT and FCT in sheep cohabiting with goats suggests that infections could have been caused by B. melitensis, posing an additional risk to public health. Control and eradication programs for brucellosis should consider mixed flocks as a single epidemiological unit. The results indicate that brucellosis by B. melitensis bv1 is highly endemic in the central and western regions of Formosa province.

Identification of Apical and Cervical Curvature Radius of Human Molars

To determine the frequency of apical and cervical curvatures in human molars using the radius method and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Four hundred images of mandibular and maxillary first and second molars were selected from a database of CBCT exams. The radius of curvature of curved root canals was measured using a circumcenter based on three mathematical points. Radii were classified according to the following scores: 0 - straight line; 1 - large radius (r>8 mm, mild curvature); 2 - intermediate radius (r>4 and r<8 mm, moderate curvature); and 3 - small radius (r≤4 mm, severe curvature). The frequency of curved root canals was analyzed according to root canal, root thirds, and coronal and sagittal planes, and assessed using the chi-square test (significance at α=0.05). Of the 1,200 evaluated root canals, 92.75% presented curved root canals in the apical third and 73.25% in the cervical third on coronal plane images; sagittal plane analysis yielded 89.75% of curved canals in the apical third and 77% in the cervical third. Root canals with a large radius were significantly more frequent when compared with the other categories, regardless of root third or plane. Most root canals of maxillary and mandibular first and second molars showed some degree of curvature in the apical and cervical thirds, regardless of the analyzed plane (coronal or sagittal).

Determinar a frequência de curvaturas apicais e cervicais em molares humanos usando o método do raio de curvatura e imagens de Tomografia Computadorizada de Feixe Cônico (TCFC). Quatrocentas imagens de primeiros e segundos molares superiores e inferiores foram selecionadas a partir de um banco de dados de exames de TCFC. O raio de curvatura dos canais foi medido usando um circuncentro com base em três pontos matemáticos e classificado de acordo com os seguintes escores: 0 - linha reta; 1 - raio grande (r > 8 mm, curvatura suave); 2 - raio intermediário (r > 4 e r < 8, curvatura moderada); 3 - raio pequeno (r ≤ 4 mm, curvatura severa). A frequência de curvaturas foi analisada em função do canal radicular, dos terços da raiz, e dos planos de avaliação (coronal e sagital); e avaliados usando o teste Qui-Quadrado (significância de α=0.05). Dos 1200 canais radiculares avaliados, 92,75% apresentaram curvatura no terço apical e 73,25% no terço cervical quando da análise no plano coronal; a análise do plano sagital revelou 89,75% de canais curvos no terço apical e 77% no terço cervical. Canais radiculares com curvatura suave foram significantemente mais frequentes quando comparados com as demais categorias, independentemente do terço radicular ou do plano. A maioria dos canais radiculares dos primeiros e segundos molares superiores e inferiores apresentou algum grau de curvatura nos terços apical e cervical, independentemente do plano analisado (coronal ou sagital).

Aves de Quindicocha - Valle de Sibundoy, Putumayo - Colombia: Potencial área de conservación / Birds from Quindicocha - Sibundoy Valley, Putumayo - Colombia: Potential Conservation Area / Aves Quindicocha - Vale do Sibundoy, Putumayo-Colômbia: Área Potencial de Conservação

La base para la conservación es el conocimiento de la biodiversidad. Para establecer Áreas de Importancia para la Conservación de Aves (AICA) en el valle de Sibundoy (departamento de Putumayo, territorio Quindicocha, sudoeste de Colombia), se realizaron 21 jornadas de observación de aves en 11 zonas entre mayo y junio de 2013. Fueron registradas 164 especies de aves, nueve de estas corresponden a amplitudes o confirmaciones de distribución en la región. Los resultados obtenidos apoyan la propuesta de nominar esta región como un AICA independiente a AICA Laguna de la Cocha; ya que cumple con los criterios propuestos por BirdLife International en cuanto a presencia de especies amenazadas - A1 (Hapalopsittaca amazonina; Grallaria rufocinerea; Doliornis remseni; Sericossypha albocristata; Buthraupis wetmorei; Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster); presencia de siete aves restringidas a cinco Áreas de Endemismo de Aves (EBAs) - A2; y la presencia de 27 especies de aves restringidas al bioma Norte de los Andes - A3. Algunas de las especies no incluidas para el AICA Laguna de la Cocha.

Knowledge of the existing biodiversity is the basis of conservation. To establish Area of Important Bird Area (IBA) in the valley of Sibundoy (department of Putumayo, Quindicocha territory, in the southwest of Colombia). I conducted 21 days of birding in 11 areas between May and June 2013. I recorded 164 bird species; nine of these species correspond to distribution amplitudes or confirmations in the region. The results support the request to designate this region as an IBA, independent to IBA Laguna de la Cocha. It meets the BirdLife International criteria regarding the presence of endangered species - A1 (Hapalopsittaca amazonina; Grallaria rufodnerea; Doliornis remseni; Sericossypha albocristata; Buthraupis wetmorei;Hypopyrrhuspyrohypogaster), the presence of seven birds restricted to five Endemic Bird Areas (EBAs) - A2, and the presence of 27 species of birds restricted to the North Andes biome - A3. Some of the species not included for IBA Laguna de la Cocha.

A base para a conservação é o conhecimento da biodiversidade. Para estabelecer Áreas de Importância para a Conservação das Aves (IBA), no vale do Sibundoy (departamento de Putumayo, território Quindicocha, sudoeste da Colômbia), realizaram-se 21 dias de observação de pássaros em 11 áreas, entre maio e junho de 2013. Foram registadas 164 espécies de aves, nove delas correspondem a amplitudes ou confirmações de distribuição na região. Os resultados apoiam a proposta de nomear esta região como um AICA independente a AICA Lagoa da Cocha; pois cumpre com os critérios propostos pela BirdLife International para a presença de espécies ameaçadas de extinção - A1 (Hapalopsittaca amazonina; Grallaria rufocinerea; Doliornis remseni;albocristata Sericossypha; Buthraupis wetmorei; Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster); presença de sete aves restritas a cinco Áreas endémicas de pássaros (EBAS) - A2, bem como a presença de 27 espécies de aves restritas ao bioma Norte dos Andes - A3 . Algumas das espécies não incluídas para a AICA Lagoa da Cocha.

Consumo dietario y estado de nutrición en población colombiana / Dietary intake and nutritional status in a Colombian population

The objective of this study was to establish the relationship between nutritional status and dietary intake in a Colombian population. An analytical study with measurements of dietary intake of energy (calories), nutritional status, socioeconomic conditions, environmental conditions and food insecurity was carried out in 1,488 subjects. Dietary intake was calculated based on two recall of the past 24 hours and nutritional status was assessed with anthropometry. Food intake was expressed as: a) participation (%) intra-household, b) consumption per 1000 kcal usual, c) adequacy between required consumed and d) individual food insecurity. Using multinomial logistic models with nutritional status as dependent variable, we calculated adjusted prevalence ratios with 95%. For every five percentage points increase in the participation in energy consumption, the risk of deficit increased by 1.16 times (CI95 %: 1.03 to 1.30). The risk of deficit increases by living in urban areas 4.10 (CI 95 %: 1.29 to 13.02), increasing age (per 5 years) 1.32 (CI 95 %: 1.27 to 1.37) and not getting food aid 1.73 (CI 95 %: 1.10 to 2.74). The loss of discriminating power of dietary intake, explaining the nutritional status and the emergence of other variables such as food support calls for reformulation of individual and population-based care of nutritional status.

El objetivo de este estudio fue establecer la relación entre el estado de nutrición y la ingesta dietaria en la población colombiana. Se realizó un estudio analítico con datos repetidos sobre la ingesta dietaria de energía (kilocalorías) y transversales del estado de nutrición, condiciones socioeconómicas, ambientales y de inseguridad alimentaria. En 1488 sujetos se calculó el consumo usual con base en dos recordatorios de las últimas 24 horas y el estado de nutrición con antropometría. El consumo se expresó como; a) participación (%) intrahogar, b) consumo usual por cada 1000 kilocalorías, c) adecuación entre lo consumido y lo requerido y d) inseguridad alimentaria individual. Mediante modelos logísticos multinomiales con el estado de nutrición como variable dependiente, se calcularon Razones de Prevalencia ajustadas con sus IC 95 %. Por cada cinco puntos porcentuales que aumenta la participación en el consumo de energía, el riesgo de déficit aumenta en 1,16 veces (IC 95 %: 1,03 a 1,30). El riesgo de déficit es explicado consistentemente por habitar en la zona urbana 4,10 (IC 95 %: 1,29 a 13,02), el de exceso por el aumento de la edad (por cada 5 años) 1,32 (IC 95 %: 1,27 a 1,37) y por no recibir apoyo alimentario 1,73 (IC 95 %: 1,10 a 2,74). La pérdida de poder discriminante del consumo dietario, al explicar el estado de nutrición y la aparición de otras variables, como el apoyo alimentario invita a la reformulación de la atención individual y poblacional del estado de nutrición.

ANOTACIONES SOBRE LOS REGISTROS DEL VIREO VERDEAMARILLO (Vireo flavoviridis: Vireonidae) EN LA SABANA DE BOGOTÁ, CUNDINAMARCA (COLOMBIA) / Notes of Records about Yellow-Green Vireo (Vireo flavoviridis: Vireonidae) at the Sabana de Bogotá, Cundinamarca (Colombia)

El vireo verdeamarillo (Vireo flavoviridis) es una especie de ave migratoria que no cuenta con registros en literatura dentro del departamento de Cundinamarca. Adicionalmente, la distribución conocida de V. flavoridis en Colombia solo incluye localidades por debajo de 1500 msnm. Dos individuos de V. flavoviridis fueron vistos a 2600 msnm en el campus de Bogotá de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, dentro de la Sabana de Bogotá del departamento de Cundinamarca en 2011. Posterior a consulta en colecciones y reportes de observadores de aves, encontramos 18 registros no publicados de la especie para el departamento de Cundinamarca por encima de 2500 msnm. Diez registros fueron a partir de colecciones científicas (Instituto de Ciencias Naturales de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colección de Vertebrados (Ornitología) de la Universidad de los Andes y colección del Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt), y los otros ocho por reportes de observadores de aves. El primer registro fue en 1964, pero la mayoría de registros corresponden al período entre 2008 y 2013. Consideramos que V. flavoviridis ha pasado desapercibido en Cundinamarca por las similitudes morfológicas con el vireo ojirrojo (V. olivaceus). Además, la falta de revisión de colecciones científicas y un inconstante depósito de especímenes en ellas, genera un vacío de información sobre la distribución de la biodiversidad. Al parecer, V. flavoviridis puede ser más común de lo que se espera por encima de 1500 m durante migración, como ocurre para el departamento de Cundinamarca.

The Yellow-green Vireo (Vireo flavoviridis) is migrant bird specie, previously non reported to Cundinamarca Department. Distribution known in Colombia only includes localities below 1500 masl. Two individuals of the Yellow-green Vireo were observed at 2600 masl in the Universidad Nacional de Colombia Bogotá Campus, at the Sabana de Bogotá in Cundinamarca Department in 2011. In addition, we found 18 unpublished records for this species in the Cundinamarca Department above 2500 masl. Ten records were museum specimens (Instituto de Ciencias Naturales de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Vertebrate collection (Ornitology) Universidad de los Andes and Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt Museum), and the other eight were birdwatching records. The oldest record was in 1964, but the great majority of records were collected between 2008 and 2013. We consider that the Yellow-green Vireo has been unnoticed in the Cundinamarca Department because of its morphological similarities with the Red-eye Vireo (V. olivaceus). Furthermore, the lack of review of scientific collections, and the deposition of specimens discontinuous there, make gap information about biodiversity distribution. Apparently, Yellow-green Vireo could be more common than expected above 1500 m during its migration, such as it was observed in at Cundinamarca Department.

Infecção endodôntica como fator de risco para doença coronariana / Endodontic infection as risk factor for coronary diseases

Objetivo: Avaliou-se em estudos longitudinais a influência da infecção endodôntica no desenvolvimento das alterações cardiovasculares. Metodologia: Empregou-se fontes de catalogação bibliográfica identificadas eletronicamente por MEDLINE, a partir de 1966 até 02 de dezembro de 2012 e Cochrane Library. Como estratégia de busca utilizou-se os termos - cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, periapical lesion, periapical disease, endodontic infection e root canal infection - diferentes combinações. Os estudos foram selecionados por dois revisores independentes, que também determinaram os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: A busca apresentou 191 artigos, sendo que destes, 33 artigos eram de revisão de literatura, 58 artigos relacionavam-se com estudos in vivo (humanos ou animais), 38 estudos eram relatos de casos clínicos e 2 incluíram estudos in vitro. Dos 58 estudos in vivo, 9 estudos satisfizeram os critérios de inclusão, o que possibilitou a análise dos dados. Conclusão: Diante dos resultados obtidos, observou-se ausência de homogeneidade dos protocolos clínicos empregados nos estudos incluídos, o que inviabilizou uma meta-análise. A partir dos estudos incluídos parece oportuno maior número de pesquisas para o estabelecimento com o rigor de evidência das possíveis relações entre estas duas doenças.

Aim: Longitudinal studies about the influence of endodontic infection as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease were studied. Methodology: Bibliographic tabulation sources identified electronically by MEDLINE, since 1966 until December 2nd of 2012 and Cochrane Library, on the same period, were used. As searching strategy the following terms were used in different combinations: cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, periapical lesion, periapical disease, endodontic infection e root canal infection. The studies were selected by two independent reviewers, which also determined the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The search presented 191 related articles, and from these, 33 articles were literature reviews, 58 articles wer related to in vivo studies (humans or animals), 38 studies were cases reports, and 2 included in vitro and/or ex vivo studies.From the 58 in vivo studies, 9 studies satisfied the inclusion criteria, what enabled the data analysis. Conclusion: Based on these results, it was observed lack of homogeneity of the clinical protocols used in the included studies, which prevented a meta-analysis. From the included studies seems appropriate to further research to establish with the rigor of evidence of possible relationships between these two diseases.

Farmacognosia, farmacobotánica, farmacogeografía y farmacoetimología del platanillo de Cuba (Piper aduncum subespecie ossanum) / Pharmacognosy, pharmacobotany, pharmacogeography, and pharmacoetimology of platanillo de Cuba (Piper aduncum subspecie ossanum)

Introducción: los estudios farmacognósticos son de vital importancia en la investigación de plantas medicinales, así como en la producción de medicamentos herbarios y fitofármacos. La especie Piper aduncum L (Piperaceae), posee un gran aval de uso tradicional en Cuba y otras regiones del mundo. Objetivo: estudiar desde el punto de vista farmacognóstico la droga de Piper aduncum en cuanto a botánica, geografía y etimología. Métodos: se realizó el estudio botánico, de distribución geográfica y etimología de esta droga, mediante el empleo de literatura especializada y la determinación de caracteres macromorfológicos de hojas de esta planta colectada en la provincia Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. Resultados: existen 2 categorías infraespecíficas bien localizadas geográficamente de la planta que en Cuba se llama por lo común platanillo de Cuba, guayuyo o canilla de muerto, una de las cuales -Piper aduncum subespecie ossanum (C.DC.) Saralegui-, endémica, es la que se investiga. Las características macromorfológicas de la droga coinciden con las descritas en la literatura. Se hallaron aspectos etimológicos y de distribución geográfica de interés relacionados con esta planta. Conclusiones: en las investigaciones farmacognósticas los estudios botánicos, geográficos y etimológicos pueden ser de gran significación, como en el caso de esta planta. Para cualquier investigación con esta especie resulta imprescindible abordar su tratamiento taxonómico en el país, porque incluye 2 categorías infraespecíficas en las cuales la ubicación geográfica es fundamental

Introduction: pharmacognostic studies are essential on medicinal plant research, as well as in herbal medicine and phytomedicine production. Piper aduncum L. (Piperaceae) specie known as "platanillo de Cuba", has wide recognition due to its traditional use in Cuba and other regions. Objective: to research the drug derived from Piper aduncum (platanillo de Cuba) from the pharmacognostic viewpoint in terms of pharmacobotany, pharmacogeography and pharmacoetymology. Methods: the pharmacobotanical, geographical distribution and etymological study of this drug was conducted by using specialized literature and determination of macromorphologic characteristics of leaves collected in Ciego de Ávila province, Cuba. Results: there are two geographically located infraspecific taxa of the plant commonly called "platanillo de Cuba", "guayuyo" o "canilla de muerto" in Cuba. One of them -Piper aduncum subspecie ossanum (C.DC.) Saralegui- is endemic and the topic of this research. Macromorphologic characteristics of the drug are comparable to those described in literature. Geographical distribution and etymologic aspects of interest were found. Conclusions: in the pharmacognostic research, pharmacobotanical, pharmacogeographical and pharmacoetymological studies could be very signicant, as in the case of this plant. For any further research on this species, it is fundamental to approach its taxonomic treatment in the country, since it includes two infraspecific taxa in which geographical location is essential.

Avaliação radiográfica da posição e forma do forame mentual em uma subpopulação Brasileira / Radiographic evaluation of the position and shape of mental foramen in a Brazilian subpopulation

Objetivo: Avaliou-se a posição e a forma do forame mentual em radiografias panorâmicas digitais em uma subpopulação Brasileira. Material e Método: Quinhentas e dezoito radiografias panorâmicas foram consecutivamente selecionadas de um banco de dados secundário de uma clínica radiológica privada e analisadas de acordo com a faixa etária, gênero e simetria. Dois especialistas em radiologia odontológica determinaram a posição horizontal, vertical e o formato de 1036 forames mentuais. Resultados: A frequência do forame mentual com localização entre o longo eixo do primeiro e segundo pré-molares inferiores foi de 55,89%. Não foi observada diferença no posicionamento horizontal em relação ao gênero e a idade. Simetrias foram observadas em 68,91% dos casos. O posicionamento vertical do forame mostrou uma localização comum abaixo dos ápices do primeiro e segundo pré-molar inferior (55,31%). Diferença na relação vertical foi observada apenas em pacientes com idade variando entre 10 a 20 anos. Posições simétricas foram observadas em 84,36% dos casos. Significativa quantidade dos forames mentuais apresentava contorno indefinido/irregular (62,74%), com simetrias em 68,15%. Conclusão: O forame mentual apresentava-se comumente localizado abaixo e entre os primeiros e segundos pré-molares e com formato indefinido/irregular.

Objective: It was evaluated the position and shape of mental foramen on digital panoramic radiographs in a Brazilian subpopulation. Material and Methods: Five hundred and eighteen panoramic radiographs were consecutively selected from a secondary database from a private radiology clinic and analyzed according to age, gender and symmetry. Two specialists in dental radiology determined the horizontal and vertical positions and the format of 1036 mental foramen. Results: The highest frequency of the mental foramen was located between the long axis of the first and second premolars (55.89%). There was no difference in horizontal position in relation to gender and age. Symmetries were observed in 68.91% of the sample. The vertical positioning of the foramen showed a common location below the apex of the first and second lower premolars (55.31%). Difference in vertical relationship was observed only in patients aged 10 to 20 years. Symmetries were observed in 84.36% of cases. A large number of mental foramen had undefined/irregular contours (62.74%), with symmetries in 68.15%. Conclusion: The mental foramen is commonly presented below and between the first and second premolars and with undefined/irregular format.

Análise de critérios de sucesso em endodontia e implantodontia / Analysis of criteria of success in endodontics and implant dentistry

Objetivo: Avaliou-se em estudos longitudinais os critérios de sucesso em endodontia e implantodontia. Material e métodos: Fontes de catalogação bibliográfca identifcadas eletronicamente pela MEDLINE e Cochrane Collaboration foram utilizadas. A estratégia de busca na base de dados MEDLINE foi realizada pelo portal PubMed(htp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed), de 1966 até 19 de janeiro de 2009, a partir de várias combinações de palavras-chave: success criteria and dental implants OR failure criteria and dental implants OR success criteria and osseointegration OR failure criteria and osseointegration OR success criteria and endodontic treatment OR failure criteria and endodontic treatment OR success criteria and root canal treatment OR failure criteria and root canal treatment OR success criteria and endodontic therapy OR failure criteria and endodontic therapy OR success criteria and endodontics OR failure criteria and endodontics. Resultados: A busca apresentou 684 artigos, sendo que destes, 263 não vinculavam-se com o objetivo, 206 eram revisões de literatura, 378 relacionavam-se com estudos em humanos, 14 estudos em animais, e 112 incluíram estudos in vitro. Dos 378 estudos em humanos, 15 satisfizeram os critérios de inclusão, sendo que todos estavam relacionados ao sucesso e/ou sobrevivência de implantes, não havendo trabalho relacionado ao sucesso do tratamento endodôntico não-cirúrgico. Foi analisado o sucesso de 1601 implantes com índice de sucesso médio de 90,84%; a sobrevivência média de 5663 implantes foi de 94,7%. Conclusão: Os estudos adotaram critérios de sucesso distintos para ambas as áreas, o que implica na necessidade do estabelecimento de um modelo de referência contemporâneo e de consenso, com vistas a facilitar os futuros estudos.

Objective: The criteria of success in endodontics and implant dentistry were evaluated in longitudinal studies. Material and methods: Bibliographic catalogue sources, electronically identifed as MEDLINE (htp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed), from 1966 until January 19th, 2009, and Cochrane Library were used. On the searching strategy, the following combination of keywords were used: success criteria and dental implants OR failure criteria and dental implants OR success criteria and osseointegration OR failure criteria and osseointegration OR success criteria and endodontic treatment OR failure criteria and endodontic treatment OR success criteria and root canal treatment OR failure criteria and root canal treatment OR success criteria and endodontic therapy OR failure criteria and endodontic therapy OR success criteria and endodontics OR failure criteria and endodontics. Results: The search presented 684 related articles, 263 articles that had no relation with the objective of this study, 206 were literature reviews, 378 were related with in vivo studies on humans, 14 studies on animals, and 112 were in vitro studies. From the 378 studies on humans, 15 satisfed the inclusion criteria, and all these were related to the success and/or survival of dental implants, with no work related to the success of non-surgical root canal treatment. It was analyzed the success of 1601 implants with average success rate of 90.84%; the average survival of 5663 implants was 94.7%. Conclusion: It was observed that the investigations used distinct success criteria for the root canal treatments and the dental implants, what implicates the need of adoption of a consensus and actual model, to facilitate the future studies.

á-N-acetylglucosamine-linked O-glycans of sialoglycoproteins (Tc-mucins) from Trypanosoma cruzi Colombiana strain

Trypanosoma cruzi sialoglycoproteins (Tc-mucins) are mucin-like molecules linked to a parasite membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor. We previously determined the structures of Tc-mucin O-glycan domains from several T. cruzi strains and observed significant differences among them. We now report the amino acid content and structure of Tc-mucin O-glycan chains from T. cruzi Colombiana, a strain resistant to common trypanocidal drugs. Amino acid analysis demonstrated the predominance of threonine residues (42%) and helped to identify the O-glycans as belonging to a Tc-mucin family that contain a ²-galactofuranose (²-Galf) residue attached to an á-N-acetylglucosamine (á-GlcNAc) O-4, with the most complex glycan, a pentasaccharide-GlcNAc-ol with a branched trigalactopyranose chain, on the GlcNAc O-6. The presence of ²-Galf on O-glycans from T. cruzi Colombiana mucins supports the use of glycosylation as a phylogenetic marker for the classification of Colombiana in the T. cruzi I group.

Tratamiento de la infección de la artroplastia total de cadera / Treatment applied in total hip arthroplasty infection / Traitement des arthroplasties totales de hanche infestées

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo, longitudinal, en el Complejo Científico Internacional "Frank País" en el período del 1ro, de octubre de 2003 al 31 de septiembre de 2005, con una muestra de 34 pacientes adultos con artroplastia total de cadera infectada tratadas por el Servicio de Séptico. El 44,2 por ciento perteneció al sexo femenino y el 55,8 por ciento al masculino. En el sexo masculino, el grupo de edad de 60 a 69 años, fue el de mayor número de casos con un 23,52 por ciento del total de pacientes. En el estadio II de Fitzgerald se incluyó el mayor número de pacientes (14 pacientes para un 41,16 por ciento). El agente bacteriano que con mayor frecuencia se aisló en el primer cultivo fue el Staphylococcus epidermidis en 11 pacientes. En ningún paciente se utilizó como método de tratamiento la administración exclusiva de antibióticos sin cirugía. La artroplastia de recambio (en dos tiempos) fue el método de tratamiento más utilizado y se aplicó a 14 pacientes (41,17 por ciento). A los seis meses de realizado el tratamiento combinado de desbridamiento amplio, administración de antibióticos por vía parenteral, uso de artroclisis y retención protésica, se observó buena evolución en 8 de los 13 pacientes y en 11 de los 14 tratados con artroplastia de recambio en dos tiempos, La complicación más frecuente fue el dolor residual, el que se presentó en 14 pacientes.

We made a longitudinal, prospective and descriptive study in "Frank País" International Scientific Center during October 1, 2003 to September 31, 2005 with a cohort of 34 adult patients presenting total arthroplasty of infected hip treated in Septic Service. The 44.2 percent was of female sex and the 55.8 percent of male one. In this latter, age group was of 60 to 69 years and was the greatest case figure with a 23.52 percent of patient total. In Fitzgerald II stage was included the greatest figure of patients (14 patients for a 41.16 percent). The more frequent bacterial agent was Staphylococcus epidermidis in 11 patients. In no patient we used the exclusive administration of antibiotics with surgery as treatment method. The turnover arthroplasty (in two steps) was the more used treatment method and we applied it in 14 patients (41.17 percent). At 6 months of combined treatment of wide debridement, the parenteral antibiotic administration, the use of arthrodesis and prosthetic retention, we noted a good course in 8 of the 13 patients treated with two steps-turnover arthroplasty. The more frequent complication was the residual pain, present in 14 patients.

Une étude descriptive, prospective et longitudinale d'un échantillon de 34 patients adultes atteints d'une infection de leur arthroplastie totale de hanche, et traités chirurgicalement au Service de chirurgie septique du Centre orthopédique international « Frank Pais ¼ a été réalisée entre le 1er octobre 2003 et le 31 septembre 2005. Les cas du sexe féminin et ceux du sexe masculin ont été respectivement 44,2 percent et 55,8 percent, étant la tranche d'âge de 60 à 69 ans la plus souvent touchée dans le sexe masculin (23,52 percent). Le plus grand nombre de patients (14 patients ; 41,16 percent) étaient en stade II de Fitzgerald. Dans les premières cultures, le germe majoritairement rencontré a été le Staphylococcus epidermidis (11 patients). L'antibiothérapie sans chirurgie n'a pas été le seul traitement utilisé. L'arthroplastie de remplacement (en deux temps) a été le traitement le plus souvent utilisé (14 patients ; 41,17 percent). Après six mois de traitement combiné de débridement, antibiothérapie par voie parentale, arthroclyse et prothèse, on a pu constater une bonne récupération chez 8 patients sur 13, et chez 11 patients sur 14 traités par arthroplastie de remplacement en deux temps. La douleur résiduelle a été la complication la plus fréquente (chez 14 patients).

¿Hubo ciencia en la Medicina Tradicional China? Una mirada desde la epistemología de la complejidad / Was there any science in traditional Chinese medicine? An approach from the epistemology of complexity

Introducción: desde diferentes disciplinas han emergido los saberes de la complejidad, los que están impactando los cimientos epistemológicos de muchas ciencias. Las escuelas filosóficas orientales de la antigüedad se pueden considerar como paradigma de pensamiento no lineal. Como parte de esta visión del universo, la Medicina Tradicional China (MTCh) es un sistema médico tradicional con un marco teórico que difiere sustancialmente de los preceptos vigentes en Occidente, por lo cual es profusa la polémica generada sobre las categorías científicas en que se basa. Cuando los albores de las interacciones de las tribus europeas, la Antigua China, desde una dinámica social más avanzada, ya se establecía como Estado y se comenzaba a conformar la MTCh. Objetivo: explorar desde el Enfoque de la Complejidad cuanta ciencia habo o no en la génesis de la MTCh. Método: es abordada desde la perspectiva de la complejidad la evolución histórica y entorno de la MTCh en función de lo que hoy se conoce como ciencia. Y se valora bajo la hipótesis contextual de las cuatro hipótesis del mundo según Stephen Pepper. Resultados: todo aquel que se interese en la MTCh, debe abstraerse y ubicarse en los siglos en que esta floreció para apreciar su devenir histórico y juzgarla con la justeza dialéctica que merece. Aunque poco conocidos, existen elementos que apoyan la idea de que en el proceso de generación del marco teórico de la MTCh por mucho tiempo se aplicaron métodos y se sistematizaron conocimientos. La visión de la complejidad permite valorar la profunda relación contextual de este sistema terapéutico. Conclusiones: en la MTCh hay mucho de ciencia y en las raíces de su concepción sí se manejaron métodos, sólo que basados en una concepción cosmogónica no formal ni mecanicista; sino cuando menos contextual, que precisan de otro paradigma epistemológico para su análisis.

Introduction: Knowlegde on complexity has emerged from different disciplines and has been impacting the epistemological grounds of many sciences. The ancient philosophical eastern schools may be considered as a paradigm of the non-lineal thinking. As part of this view of the universe, the Traditional Chinese Medicine is a traditional medical system with a theoretical approach opposing essentially from the current western codes. This explains the increasing discussion on the scientific categories that it is based on. By the time European tribes were beginning to interact, ancient China, from a most advanced social dynamics, had already become a state and its traditional Chinese medicine had begun to exist. Objective: To explore, from the complexity approach, how much of science there was or was not in the origins of traditional Chinese medicine. Method: The historical evolution and environment of traditional Chinese medicine are analyzed from the perspective of complexity taking into account what science is nowadays, and evaluated considering the contextual hypothesis of the four hypotheses of the world according to Stephen Pepper. Results: Those interested in traditional Chinese medicine, must focus and place themselves in the centuries of its flourishing to value its historical development and judge it with the dialectical justice it deserves. Although little known, there are elements supporting that, for a long period of time, some methods were used and knowledge was systematized in the formation process of the theoretical approach of the traditional Chinese medicine. The view of complexity allows an evaluation of the deep contextual relation of this therapeutic system. Conclusions: There is much of science in traditional Chinese medicine and, in the roots of its conception, there WERE methods neither based on a formal nor mechanistic cosmogonic conception, but at least, contextual demanding another epistemological paradigm for its analysis.

Estrategias en la selección de las plantas medicinales a investigar / Strategies for the selection of medicinal plants to be studied

Antecedentes: las especies vegetales se calculan entre 250 000 y 500 000, el criterio en su selección para desarrollar medicamentos en ocasiones puede ser un problema; de no concebirse adecuadamente, los resultados pueden ser infructuosos. Objetivo: analizar diferentes estrategias que se pueden adoptar en este sentido. Métodos: se incluyen y valoran 7 criterios para el enfoque de estas investigaciones. Resultados: los criterios más empleados hoy día son: colecta al azar (sobre todo cuando hay intereses comerciales) y basados en el conocimiento etnomédico de los pueblos (máxime en el desempeño académico); otras disciplinas más recientes como la genómica y metabolómica tienen ya su aplicación en este campo. En la práctica, cuando procede, estos criterios se pueden combinar. Además, pueden ser esenciales en la selección elementos que en apariencia no se relacionan, como son las tecnologías de la información, bases de datos especializadas, aspectos conservacionistas y bioéticos. Conclusiones: los criterios para seleccionar especies del reino vegetal para desarrollar medicamentos pueden ser variados, los límites entre estos no siempre se mantienen y la combinación entre algunos es factible.

Background: Plant species are estimated to be 250 000 to 500 000, so the selection criteria for development of drugs may sometimes be a problem. If they are not properly designed, then the results may be useless. Objectives: to analyze several strategies for selection that can be adopted. Methods: Seven criteria were included and assessed for the research approach. Results: The most used current criteria were random collection (mainly influenced by commercial interests) and ethnomedical knowledge of peoples-based criteria (mainly academic performance considered); other recent disciplines like Genomics and Metabolomics are already been implemented in this field. When appropriate, these criteria may be combined. Furthermore, some elements that seem to have no relation with selection criteria may be essential in this regard such as information technologies, specialized database and conservation and bioethical aspects. Conclusions: the selection criteria of plant species to develop drugs may be varied, restrictions are not always kept and the combination of some of them is feasible.

Fitoquímica del género Vaccinium (Ericaceae) / Phytochemisty of genus Vaccinium (Ericaceae)

Antecedentes: se revisó la fitoquímica del género Vaccinium (Ericaceae) Métodos: se consultaron las bases de datos: NAPRALERT y Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Database y la literatura disponible. Resultados: se halló un elevado número de estudios y compuestos de 32 especies y 23 cultivares de algunas de ellas. Los metabolitos predominantes, principalmente en el fruto, fueron: benzenoides, flavonoides (cianidinas, hiperósido, epi-catequina y proantocianidinas) y fenilpropanoides. La distribución geográfica de los estudios indica que el elevado número de especies autóctonas de Latinoamérica, prácticamente no se ha investigado. Conclusiones: la potencialidad de compuestos biológicamente activos en este género representa un campo con probabilidades de éxito para la obtención de medicamentos herbarios o suplementos nutricionales.

Background: Phytochemistry of genus Vaccinium (Ericaceae) was reviewed. Methods: NAPRALERT and Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Database as well as available literature were accessed. Results: A great number of research studies and compounds of 32 species and 23 cultivars were found. Predominant metabolites -mainly in the fruit- were benzenoids, flavonoids (cyanidines, hyperoside, epi-cathequine and proanthocyanidines) and phenylpropanoids. Geographic distribution of research studies showed that a high number of indigenous Latin-American species has not yet been studied as part of a research work. Conclusions: The potential of biologically active compounds of this genus represents a likely successful field to develop herbal medicines or nutritional supplements.

Estudio comparado de rentabilidad en centros de atención veterinaria especializados y diversificados en el estado Aragua

Fueron estudiados cincuenta y seis (56) Centros de Atención Veterinaria (CAV) ubicados en el estado Aragua, considerándose las variables: Ingresos Totales Anuales, Costos Fijos Anuales y Costos Variables Anuales. Se registraron elevados Costos Totales Anuales en los Centros de Atención Diversificados (CAVDIV), seguidos de los Centros de Atención Semidiversificados (CAVSD) y los Centros de Atención Especializados (CAVES). El análisis de los Ingresos Netos Anuales para los CAVDIV, CAVSD y CAVES reveló la misma tendencia, registrándose los montos de 64,7millones de Bolívares, 15,6 millones y 6,8 millones, respectivamente. Al analizar la variable Margen Bruto, se registraron de igual modo los mayores valores para los CAVDIV con un promedio anual de 75 millones de Bolívares, seguido por los CAVSD y CAVES con un promedio anual de 17 y 7 millones de Bolívares, respectivamente. El promedio de la variable Rentabilidad Anual para la totalidad de los CAV fue de 668,6% lo que significa que por cada 100 Bolívares invertidos en el centro se generaron Bs. 668.6 de Ingreso Neto, lo cual evidencia que los CAV son negocios económicamente rentables. La mayor rentabilidad fue registrada en los CAVES (1085,3%), seguidos por los CAVSD (756,13%) y CAVDIV (441,02%). Esta rentabilidad registrada en los CAVES no significa necesariamente que se generó un mayor beneficio económico al responsable del centro, sino que la retribución en Ingreso Neto por Capital Invertido fue proporcionalmente mayor en relación a los CAVSD y CAVDIV. Mediante un Análisis de Varianza se determinó el efecto del grado de diversificación sobre las variables Rentabilidad y Margen Bruto, encontrándose que no hubo efecto significativo sobre la Rentabilidad, pero si efecto significativo (p<0,05) sobre la variable Margen Bruto. Con una prueba de medias de Tukey se determinó que no se encontraron diferencias entre los CAVES y CAVSD, pero si presentaron diferencias entre éstos y los CAVDIV, por lo que se concluye que los CAVDIV logran economías de diversificación en su estructura de costos variables, que permite mayor Margen Bruto que otras formas especializadas y semidiversificadas de prestación de servicios veterinarios. Para todo el análisis se utilizó el paquete estadístico Statistix 7.0. La presente investigación plantea como objetivo principal analizar comparativamente la rentabilidad de Centros de Atención Veterinaria Especializados (CAVES), Semidiversificados (CAVSD) y diversificados (CAVDIV) existentes en el estado Aragua.

Comparative Study of Profitability in Specialized and Diversified Veterinary Care Centers in Aragua State Abstract A total of fifty-six (56) Veterinary Care Centers (CAV) located in the state of Aragua, were studied, considering the following variables: Total Annual Income, Annual Fixed Costs, and Annual Variable Costs. Annual Total Costs were higher at the Diversified Veterinary Care Centers (CAVDIV ) followed by the Semidiversified Veterinary Care Centers (CAVSD) and Specialized Veterinary Centers (CAVES). The analysis of Net Annual Income showed the same trend, with amounts of 64.7million Bs., 15.6 million Bs. and 6.8 million Bs. for CAVDIV, CAVSD and CAVES, respectively. When analyzing the Gross Margin variable, the highest values were for CAVDIV with an annual average of 75.0 million Bs., followed by CAVSD and then CAVES with an annual average of 7.0 and 17.0 million Bs. respectively. On average, Annual Profit for all, Veterinarian Care Centers was 668.6%, which indicates that for any 100 Bs. invested on the center, 668.6 Bs. was returned as Net Income, showing that was the CAV are very profitable from the economic business point of view. The highest profitability recorded was at the CAVES (1085.3%) followed by the CASD (756.1%) and then the CAVDIV (441.0%). It is important to joinpoint that the highest profitability recorded for the CAVES, does not necessarily has to be associated to a high economic profit accrued to the personal in charge of the center, but rather that the return of investment was proportionally greater than those of CAVSD y CAVDIV. The statistical package STATISTIX 7.0 was utilized for all statistics estimations. An ANOVA was used to analyzed the estimate the effects of the degree of diversification on Profitability and Gross Margin Variables. It was found that there was no significant effect of greater diversification on profitability. However, was significant on Gross Margin (p<0.05).Tukey test did not find differences between CAVES and CAVSD, but there were differences among these two and the CAVDIV. Therefore, it can be concluded that the CAVDIV reached economics of diversification in its variable costs structure, which allowed for a greater gross margin, not being the same for CAVES and CAVSD. This study intends to analyze as its main objective, from a profitability point of view, the comparison among the Specialty Centers for the Veterinary Care (CAVES), Semidiversified Centers for Veterinary Care (CAVSD) and Diversified Centers for Veterinary Care (CAVDIV), located in the state of Aragua, Venezuela.