Marine debris and associated organic pollutants in surface waters of Chiloé in the Northern Chilean Patagonia (42°-44°S).

We report the occurrence of plastics and associated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in surface waters from Northern Chilean Patagonia. A total of 200 particles were found during the conducted survey. The highest number of particles found was 0.6 item m-3. We found that 53 % of the collected particles corresponded to plastic, with an average of 0.19 ± 0.18 item m-3. Microplastics (68 %) were the dominant size found in the area, followed by macroplastics (18 %) and mesoplastics (14 %). Most plastic particles were white (55 %) while others were <10 % each. Black and light blue represented 9 %; red, dark blue, and other colors 7 %; and green 6 %. Fragments were the most frequent shape of plastic debris (38 %), followed by Styrofoam (30 %) and fiber (27 %). Higher PBDE levels were found in the central zone, and those were higher than DDT, PeCB, HCB, and PCB levels. This study is the first report on POP occurrence in marine plastic debris from Chiloé Sea in the Northern Chilean Patagonia.

Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation after IORT treatment is safe in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy.

INTRODUCTION: Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (hWBI) and intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) could be associated in breast cancer patients showing high-risk factors of local recurrence after breast conserving therapy (BSC). The aim of this trial was to evaluate, for the first time, the toxicity and cosmesis of hWBI after photon-IORT in high-risk patients treated by adjuvant chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-one high-risk localized breast cancer patients treated by BCS, IORT (20 Gy), and adjuvant chemotherapy were included from February 2019 to August 2020 in this prospective trial, of hWBI (40.5 Gy/2.67 Gy/15 fractions). Acute and late toxicity (CTCAEv5.0) and cosmesis (Harvard scale), were assessed after treatment. RESULTS: All patients completed their treatment and were evaluable after treatment. No patients showed severe (G3) acute/late toxicity. Excellent/good cosmesis at least 6 months after completing the treatment, was present in 93.6% of the patients. CONCLUSION: hWBI in high-risk localized breast cancer patients treated by chemotherapy seems to have similar toxicity and cosmetic results than conventionally fractionated WBI in combination to photon-IORT after BCS.

Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation after IORT treatment: evaluation of acute toxicity and cosmesis.

INTRODUCTION: Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (HWBI) is the current standard of treatment after breast conservative surgery (BCS). Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) must be associated to WBI in patients showing high-risk factors of local recurrence in the definitive pathology report. The aim of this trial was to evaluate, for the first time, the acute toxicity and cosmesis of HWBI after photon-IORT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-six luminal breast cancer patients treated by BCS and IORT(20 Gy) were included between February and December 2019, in this prospective trial, of adjuvant HWBI (40.5 Gy/2.67 Gy/15 fractions). Acute toxicity (CTCAEv5.0) and cosmesis (Harvard scale), were assessed 3 months after treatment. RESULTS: All patients completed their treatment without interruptions. All cases were evaluable 3 months after treatment showing no toxicity ≥ G3 and excellent/good cosmesis assessment in 88% of the patients. CONCLUSION: HWBI seems to have similar acute toxicity and cosmesis results than conventionally fractionated WBI in combination to photon-IORT after BCS.

[Traumatic Turf-Toe: challenging diagnosis and controversial treatment]. / Turf-Toe traumático: diagnóstico desafiante y tratamiento controvertido.

INTRODUCTION: Turf-Toe includes a wide variety of traumatic injuries of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the first toe (MTF1). It is a potentially severe injury and there is no consensus for surgical management. The objective of this case report was to describe a patient with traumatic Turf-Toe injury grade III with a sesamoid fracture treated surgically. CLINICAL CASE: 24-year-old male with motorcycle fall with hyperflexion of the MTF1 joint, presented pain, edema and functional limitation; the radiographs showed soft tissue edema, lateral displacement of lateral sesamoid with fracture. Traumatic Turf-Toe was established. The ultrasound of the MTF1 joint showed breakage of the plantar plate and collateral ligaments. Patient was surgically managed with sesamoid reduction and plantar plate repair; postoperative evolution was satisfactory. At 8 weeks the patient was assessed with the AOFAS forefoot scale, obtaining 82 points, SF-12 with 87% and VAS of two and returned to his daily activities. CONCLUSION: We describe a patient with traumatic Turf Toe grade III injury, not related to sports practice; first report in the literature of the use of ultrasound in the evaluation of patients with lesion of the metatarso-phalangic joint of the first toe.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Turf-Toe incluye una gran variedad de lesiones traumáticas de la articulación metatarsofalángica del primer dedo del pie (MTF1). Es una lesión potencialmente grave y no existe consenso para el manejo quirúrgico. El objetivo de este reporte fue describir el caso de un paciente con lesión Turf-Toe traumática grado III con fractura sesamoidea tratado quirúrgicamente. CASO CLÍNICO: Masculino de 24 años con caída de motocicleta con hiperflexión de la articulación MTF1 presentó dolor, edema y limitación funcional; las radiografías mostraron edema de tejidos blandos, desplazamiento lateral de sesamoideo lateral con fractura. Se estableció el diagnóstico de Turf-Toe traumático. En el ultrasonido de la articulación MTF1, se demostró rotura de la placa plantar y ligamentos colaterales. Se manejó quirúrgicamente con reducción del sesamoideo y reparación de la placa plantar. La evolución postoperatoria fue satisfactoria; a las ocho semanas el paciente fue valorado con escala AOFAS­ de antepié obteniendo 82 puntos, SF-12 con 87% y EVA de 2 y retornó a sus actividades cotidianas. CONCLUSIÓN: Describimos un paciente con lesión Turf-Toe traumática grado III, no relacionada con la práctica deportiva. Primer reporte en la literatura del uso del ultrasonido en la evaluación de pacientes con lesión de la articulación metatarso-falángica del primer dedo del pie.

[Beliefs, perceptions and experiences in sexuality of Chilean adolescents with HIV acquired by vertical transmission]. / Creencias, percepciones y experiencias en sexualidad de adolescentes chilenos con infección por VIH adquirida por transmisión vertical.

BACKGROUND: Since the incorporation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) HIV has become a chronic condition, improving survival and allowing children with the virus to come in better conditions to adolescence, where they are faced with a series of changes, among them, to sexual awakening. AIM: To explore the main beliefs, perceptions and experiences in sexuality of a group of adolescents with HIV infection acquired through vertical transmission. METHODS: A qualitative research was carried out with exploratory and descriptive scope. Semi-structured interviews were applied to 28 adolescents, under control in hospitals in Santiago and Valparaíso, with HIV infection. The analysis was carried out according to the Grounded Theory. RESULTS: There was a lack of sexual education and a vision that focuses on risks, such as sexually transmissible infections or teenage pregnancy. There are fears about the possibility of rejection by others and of transmitting the virus to the couple or the children and they are invaded by feelings of shame and anger. CONCLUSION: It is important to train health professionals who work with this group, because they are identified as a reliable source of information and education.

Creencias, percepciones y experiencias en sexualidad de adolescentes chilenos con infección por VIH adquirida por transmisión vertical / Beliefs, perceptions and experiences in sexuality of Chilean adolescents with HIV acquired by vertical transmission

Resumen Introducción: Desde la incorporación de la terapia anti-retroviral (TAR) la infección por VIH ha pasado a ser una condición crónica, mejorando la sobrevida y permitiendo que los niños que han sido infectados con el virus lleguen en mejores condiciones a la adolescencia, donde se ven enfrentados a una serie de cambios, entre ellos, al despertar sexual. Objetivo: Explorar las principales creencias, percepciones y experiencias en sexualidad de un grupo de adolescentes con infección por VIH adquirida por transmisión vertical. Pacientes y Métodos: Se realizó una investigación cualitativa con alcance exploratorio y descriptivo. Se aplicaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 28 adolescentes, bajo control en hospitales de Santiago y Región de Valparaíso, con infección por VIH. El análisis se realizó de acuerdo a la Teoría Fundamentada. Resultados: Se observó falta de educación sexual y una visión que se centra en los riesgos, tales como contagio de infecciones de transmisión sexual o embarazo adolescente. Existen temores frente a la posibilidad de rechazo de los otros y a transmitir el virus a la pareja o a los hijos y los invaden sentimientos de vergüenza y rabia. Conclusión: Es importante capacitar a los profesionales de salud que trabajan con este grupo, pues son identificados como fuente confiable de información y educación.

Background: Since the incorporation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) HIV has become a chronic condition, improving survival and allowing children with the virus to come in better conditions to adolescence, where they are faced with a series of changes, among them, to sexual awakening. Aim: To explore the main beliefs, perceptions and experiences in sexuality of a group of adolescents with HIV infection acquired through vertical transmission. Methods: A qualitative research was carried out with exploratory and descriptive scope. Semi-structured interviews were applied to 28 adolescents, under control in hospitals in Santiago and Valparaíso, with HIV infection. The analysis was carried out according to the Grounded Theory. Results: There was a lack of sexual education and a vision that focuses on risks, such as sexually transmissible infections or teenage pregnancy. There are fears about the possibility of rejection by others and of transmitting the virus to the couple or the children and they are invaded by feelings of shame and anger. Conclusion: It is important to train health professionals who work with this group, because they are identified as a reliable source of information and education.

Divertículo rectal sintomático / Symptomatic rectal diverticulum

Resumen Los divertículos rectales son hallazgos inusuales durante la colonoscopia o estudios radiológicos del colon. Se estima una prevalencia aproximada del 1 % y se presenta con mayor frecuencia en hombres entre la sexta y novena década de la vida. En la mayoría de pacientes son asintomáticos, aunque algunos pueden cursar con síntomas o complicaciones relacionadas. Se reporta el caso de una paciente con divertículo rectal grande con dolor abdominal y estreñimiento.

Abstract Rectal diverticula are unusual findings during colonoscopy and radiological studies of the colon. Prevalence is estimated to be approximately 1%, and they occur more frequently in men between the 6th and 9th decade of life. Most patients are asymptomatic, although some may present symptoms or related complications. We report the case of a patient with a large rectal diverticulum with abdominal pain and constipation.

MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF VARIETIES OF Chenopodium quinoa CULTIVATED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF BOYACÁ, COLOMBIA / CARACTERIZACIÓN MORFOLÓGICA DE VARIEDADES DE Chenopodium quinoa CULTIVADAS EN EL DEPARTAMENTO DE BOYACÁ, COLOMBIA

ABSTRACT In the department of Boyacá, seeds of Chenopodium quinoa Willd. are planted, which correspond to a mixture of varieties, producing different grain sizes and saponin concentrations, affecting the quality and yield of the derived products, and therefore their commercialization, whenever the buyer requires it for a certain purpose, sweet varieties for bakeries or with high contents of saponin for the detergent industry. The objective was to compare the morphological characters, to identify the six varieties, according to the constant and conspicuous characteristics, as well as physiological parameters in the reproductive and vegetative stages. Observations were made in the different stages of development; in seeds, germination tests were made, the diameter and weight were measured; In the seedling stage, the total height, hypocotyl length, cotyledon lamina length and changes in red pigmentation were determined, qualitatively evaluated by direct observation. In adult plants, reproductive and vegetative characters were reviewed. A taxonomic key was proposed for the identification of the varieties. Blanca Real recorded the highest germination percentage (98%). Amarilla Marangani presented the seeds with the greatest weight and diameter and the longest cotyledons. The height of the Black and Piartal seedlings was below the other varieties. Blanca de Jericó, Blanca Real and Piartal presented weak reddish colorations in the hypocotyl and cotyledons. The identification of each variety will result in better products for growers, marketers, and processors.

RESUMEN En el departamento de Boyacá, se siembran semillas de Chenopodium quinoa Willd., las cuales, corresponden a una mezcla de variedades, produciendo diferentes concentraciones de saponina y de tamaños de grano, afectando la calidad y el rendimiento de los productos derivados y, por tanto, su comercialización, toda vez que el comprador lo requiere para un determinado fin, como variedades dulces, para las panaderías o, con altos contenidos de saponina, para la industria de detergentes. El objetivo fue comparar los caracteres morfológicos, para identificar las seis variedades, de acuerdo con las características constantes y conspicuas, además de parámetros fisiológicos en etapa reproductiva y vegetativa. Se realizaron observaciones en las diferentes etapas del desarrollo; en semillas, se hicieron pruebas de germinación, se midió el diámetro y el peso; en el estadio de plántula, se determinó la altura total, longitud del hipocótilo, largo de la lámina de los cotiledones y cambios en la pigmentación rojiza, evaluada cualitativamente por observación directa. En plantas adultas, se revisaron caracteres reproductivos y vegetativos. Se propuso una clave taxonómica, para la identificación de las variedades. Blanca Real registró el porcentaje de germinación más alto (98%). Amarilla Maranganí presentó las semillas con el mayor peso y diámetro y los cotiledones más largos. La altura de las plántulas Negra y Piartal estuvo por debajo de las otras variedades. Blanca de Jericó, Blanca Real y Piartal presentaron coloraciones rojizas débiles en el hipocótilo y en los cotiledones. La identificación de cada variedad redundará en mejores productos para los cultivadores, comercializadores y procesadores.

[Clinical and functional results of the Broström-Gould technique for lateral ankle instability: evaluation with three scales]. / Resultados clínicos y funcionales de la plastía Broström-Gould para inestabilidad lateral de tobillo: evaluación con tres escalas.

BACKGROUND: The most frequent sequel to the ankle sprain is the instability of the lateral ligament complex; the results of surgical treatment have not been evaluated with multiple scales simultaneously. The objective of the study was to assess the clinical and functional results with three scales in patients with lateral instability of ankle undergoing Broström-Gould technique, using for fixation, anchors with suture to distal fibula. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The design of the study was cross-sectional and descriptive; we included patients with lateral instability of ankle and partial or complete rupture of the APA or CP ligament subject to repair with Broström-Gould technique. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to confirm the diagnosis; clinical and functional outcomes were determined with three scales: EVA, SF-36 and AOFAS. Patients were evaluated at six months, or more, after the surgical procedure. RESULTS: We included 13 patients; quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire) showed a good result with average score of 90; 10 (77%) patients showed excellent results in function, absence of pain and alignment of the ankle (AOFAS 90-100). Also found significant improvement in pain (presurgical EVA: 6, compared with 1 in the postoperative period). CONCLUSIONS: The surgical procedure showed excellent results, in the short term with resolution of pain and ankle stability.

ANTECEDENTES: La secuela más frecuente del esguince de tobillo es la inestabilidad del complejo ligamentario lateral; los resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico no han sido evaluados con varias escalas simultáneamente. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar los resultados clínicos y funcionales con tres escalas en pacientes con inestabilidad lateral de tobillo sometidos a plastía de Broström-Gould, utilizando para su fijación anclas con sutura al peroné distal. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: El diseño del estudio fue transversal y descriptivo; se incluyeron pacientes con inestabilidad lateral de tobillo y ruptura parcial o completa del ligamento PAA y/o PC, sometidos a reparación con plastía de Broström-Gould. Se realizó resonancia magnética nuclear para confirmar el diagnóstico; los resultados clínicos y funcionales se determinaron con tres escalas: EVA, SF-36 y AOFAS. Los pacientes fueron evaluados a los seis meses o más posteriores al procedimiento quirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 13 pacientes; la calidad de vida (cuestionario SF-36) arrojó un resultado bueno con promedio de 90; 10 (77%) pacientes mostraron resultados excelentes en la función, ausencia de dolor y alineación del tobillo (AOFAS 90-100). Asimismo, se observó mejoría importante en el dolor (EVA prequirúrgico: 6, comparado con 1 en el período postquirúrgico). CONCLUSIONES: El procedimiento quirúrgico demostró excelentes resultados en el corto plazo con resolución del dolor y estabilidad del tobillo.

Daily Activity Patterns and Thermal Tolerance of Three Sympatric Dung Beetle Species (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Eucraniini) from the Monte Desert, Argentina.

Tolerance to extreme temperatures, thermal limits, and the mechanisms of thermoregulation are related to internal functions of insects and partly define their ecological niche. We study the association between daily activity of dung beetles from the Monte Desert in Argentina and their tolerance to high temperatures. Results indicate that for all three sympatric species studied, Eucranium belenae Ocampo, Anomiopsoides cavifrons (Burmeister), and Anomiopsoides fedemariai Ocampo, daily activity is associated to ground temperature. Eucranium belenae is active when ground temperature is relatively low and it is less tolerant to long periods of activity at high temperatures in the lab, while A. cavifrons and A. fedemariai are active when ground temperatures are higher, and they tolerate high temperatures for longer periods of time than E. belenae in the lab. These species coexist and use similar food sources, and this eco-physiological study may help to explain how they differentiate under the same environmental conditions. The Monte Desert is considered an extreme environment, and studies on thermal tolerance offer testable predictions to understand how species would respond to climate change.

Cáncer de ovario con metástasis a piel. Reporte de un caso y revisión de la bibliografía / Ovarian cancer with skin metastases. A case report and literature review

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: en 80% de las ocasiones el cáncer de ovario epitelial se diagnostica en etapas III y IV, la recurrencia locorregional es una característica frecuente en esta neoplasia maligna. La mortalidad asociada es una de las más importantes de todas las neoplasias malignas en la mujer, en todo el mundo. OBJETIVO: documentar las metástasis de cáncer de ovario a piel, la incidencia, presentación clínica, y pronóstico. CASO CLÍNICO: paciente de 67 años, con un carcinoma seroso papilar etapa IIIC de ovario; se efectuaron cirugía óptima y cuatro ciclos de quimioterapia (carboplatino y paclitaxel), con 21 meses de intervalo libre de enfermedad. La paciente tenía: pápulas y nódulos inexplicables en la piel del abdomen y las piernas. La biopsia incisional documentó la recaída a la piel, sin otro sitio de metástasis a distancia. La paciente recibió tratamiento sistémico paliativo. CONCLUSIONES: las metástasis cutáneas de cáncer de ovario tienen una presentación clínica pleomórfica y distribución amplia en todo el organismo, con frecuencia afectan la región abdominal o torácica; las metástasis cutáneas de ovario tienen una expectativa de vida limitada, a pesar del tratamiento sistémico.

Abstract BACKGROUND: 80% of the cases of epithelial ovarian cancer are diagnosed in stages III and IV, locoregional recurrence is a frequent feature of this malignant neoplasm. Associated mortality is one of the most important of all malignant neoplasms in women, all over the world. OBJECTIVE: To document the metastasis of ovarian cancer to skin, incidence, clinical presentation, and prognosis. CLINICAL CASE: 67-year-old patient with papillary serous carcinoma stage IIIC of ovary; Optimal surgery and four cycles of chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel) were performed, with a 21-month disease-free interval. The patient had unexplained papules and nodules on the skin of the abdomen and legs. Incisional biopsy documented relapse to the skin, with no other site of distant metastases. The patient received systemic palliative treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Cutaneous metastases from ovarian cancer have a pleomorphic clinical presentation and widespread distribution throughout the body, often affecting the abdominal or thoracic region; cutaneous ovarian metastases imply a limited life expectancy, despite systemic treatment.

Validation of a decision support tool for wastewater treatment selection.

Wastewater treatment selection is a complex task usually addressed by applying separate tools for the correct assessment of multi-criteria evaluation. Novedar_EDSS integrates technical, environmental, economic and social assessment capabilities in one single platform. The aim of this work is to evaluate and demonstrate the capabilities of this environmental decision support system (EDSS). For that purpose, 4 case studies of real projects were selected to validate the results in the EDSS by comparing them with those from the study of alternatives performed by the decision makers. Moreover, 1 conceptual case study was applied to support the selection of the most properly strategy for plant retrofitting. Results have demonstrated that the EDSS provides key aspects when deciding the retrofitting process to apply and, when compared to real projects, it recommends analogue treatments as those applied in the projects, ranking them in the same order. Therefore, results in the validation process performed show that this tool provides a reliable basis to support decision makers to select properly treatment alternatives in wastewater treatment plant pre-design.

Grupos focales de discusión: estrategia para la investigación sobre salud sexual con adolescentes con experiencia de vida en calle en Medellín, Colombia / Discussion focus groups: a strategy for research on sexual health with adolescents who have lived on the streets of Medellin, Colombia / Grupos focais de discussão: estratégia para a investigação sobre saúde sexual com adolescentes com experiência de vida na Rua em Medellín, Colômbia

RESUMEN La intención de este artículo es evidenciar la importancia de los grupos focales de discusión como estrategia metodológica para la recolección de información en el trabajo con adolescentes institucionalizados con experiencia de vida en calle y, al mismo tiempo, mostrar su valor en el abordaje de la salud sexual con esta población, en tanto que permite una interacción flexible y reflexiva entre investigadores y participantes, así como de los participantes entre sí. El valor de esta estrategia metodológica es sustentado en este artículo mediante testimonios y resultados obtenidos durante su implementación en el estudio llevado a cabo con adolescentes institucionalizados entre 2013 y 2014 en Medellín. Se espera con este reducir las creencias de profesionales con respecto a las limitaciones de la estrategia para abordar temáticas relacionadas con la salud sexual de este grupo poblacional. Los resultados se articulan en cuatro categorías: conocimientos y percepciones sobre VIH e ITS, salud sexual y reproductiva (SSR), el lenguaje en la SSR, y acceso y uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC). De esta manera se deja de manifiesto el aporte y potencial de la estrategia para el abordaje del tema y para el acercamiento e interacción con adolescentes con experiencia de vida en calle.

ABSTRACT This paper aims to show the importance of discussion focus groups as a methodological strategy for the compilation of information in studies with institutionalized adolescents who have lived on the streets. At the same time, it aims to show the value of this technique in approaching the topic of sexual health with this population, since it allows for flexible and reflexive researcherparticipant and participant-participant interaction. The value of this methodological strategy is supported in this article through accounts and results obtained during the implementation of a study conducted with institutionalized adolescents between 2013 and 2014. We expect these results will reduce the beliefs of professionals regarding the limitations of the strategy to address issues related to the sexual health of this type of population. The results are divided into four categories: knowledge and perceptions of HIV and STIs, sexual and reproductive health (SRH), the language used in SRH, and access to and use of information and communications technology (ICT). Thus, this paper clearly shows the contribution and potential of the strategy for addressing the issue, approaching and interacting with adolescents who have lived on the street.

RESUMO A intenção deste artículo é evidenciar a importância dos grupos focais de discussão como estratégia metodológica para a recolecção de informação no trabalho com adolescentes institucionalizados com experiência de vida na rua e, ao mesmo tempo, mostrar o seu valor na abordagem da saúde sexual com esta população, entanto que permite uma interação flexível e reflexiva entre investigadores e participantes, assim como dos participantes entre eles. O valor desta estratégia metodológica é sustentado neste artigo mediante testemunhos e resultados obtidos durante a sua implementação em estudo levado a cabo com adolescentes institucionalizados entre 2013 e 2014 em Medellín. Espreitando com isto reduzir as crenças de profissionais com respeito ás limitações da estratégia para abordar temáticas relacionadas com a saúde sexual de este grupo populacional. Os resultados se articulam em quatro categorias: conhecimentos e percepções sobre VIH e ITS, saúde sexual e reprodutiva (SSR), a linguajem na SSR, e acesso e uso das tecnologias da informação e a comunicação (TIC). Desta maneira se deixa de manifesto o aporte e potencial da estratégia para a abordagem do tema e para a proximidade e interação com adolescentes com experiência de vida na rua.

Muertes por suicidio en la Región de Tarapacá, años 1990-2013 / Suicides death in the Region of Tarapacá, years 1990-2013

Introduction: It presents the update of an epidemiologic descriptive study of deaths by suicide that took place in the Tarapacá region, Chile. The study encompasses almost a quarter of a century, between the years 1990 and 2013, and brings interesting information with respect to the tendencies of the phenomenon along an extensive period of time. Method: A retrospective epidemiologic descriptive study of type transvensal of deaths classified as violent in the autopsy protocols of the Servicio Médico Legal of the city of Iquique and the medical death certificate. Results: In a total of 565 cases, a general rate of suicide for this period of 9,18 for 100.000 hab has been noted, with variations of the annual rates between 4, 95 in the year 1995 and 13, 97 in the year 1999. It was observed that suicide was more frequent between the ages 20 and 44 years, with a relation men-women of 5,3:1. Conclusions: The previous study (2010) confirmes a tendency to the stabilization of the increasing rates observed in the past decade. In figures this rate was somehow inferior to the general rate of suicide of the country in the year 2011 (13,3 for 100.00 hab.), but it doubled the registered rates in the 90’s.

Introducción: Se presenta la actualización de un estudio epidemiológico descriptivo de las muertes por suicidio ocurridas en la región de Tarapacá, Chile, abarcando casi un cuarto de siglo, entre los años 1990 y 2013, lo que aporta una interesante información respecto del movimiento tendencial del fenómeno a lo largo de un período extenso de tiempo. Método: Estudio epidemiológico descriptivo de tipo retrospectivo transversal a partir de las muertes clasificadas como violentas en los protocolos de autopsias del Servicio Médico Legal de Iquique y del certificado médico de defunción. Resultados: En un total de 565 casos, constatamos una tasa general de suicidio para el período de 9,18 por 100.000 hab., con variaciones de tasas anuales que van entre 4,95 el año 1995 y 13,97 el año 1999; se observó que el suicidio fue más frecuente entre los 20 y los 44 años, con una relación hombre-mujer de 5,3:1. Conclusiones: Respecto del estudio anterior (2010) se confirma una tendencia a la estabilización del alza de tasas observada en la década anterior, en cifras algo inferiores a la tasa general de suicidio del país en el año 2011 (13,3 por 100.000 hab.), pero el doble respecto a las tasas registradas en los años noventa.

Unusual records of deepwater teleosteans trawled off the western coast of Mexico.

The first records of three midwater species for the Mexican ichthyofauna (Holtbyrnia laticauda, Brama dussumieri and Cubiceps baxteri), caught off the coast of Baja California, Mexico, in mid 2014, are reported. As far as is known, they are the first verified specimens, geo-referenced and catalogued in a reference fish collection for the west coast of Mexico. The species' known distributions were extended northward in the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from 3495 to 8300 km.

Trypanosoma cruzi diversity in infected dogs from areas of the north coast of Chile.

As part of a multi-site research program on the eco-epidemiology and control of Chagas disease in northern Chile, we sought to identify the Trypanosoma cruzi discrete typing units (DTUs) infecting rural and peridomestic dogs, using direct methods without grown of the parasite in the laboratory and thus to assess the use of this species as a sentinel of the disease in well-defined endemic areas of T. cruzi in Chile. Infected dogs (35) from three villages were included in the study. The studied villages were Caleta Río Seco and Caleta San Marcos, both in the Tarapacá Region, and La Serena in the Coquimbo Region. These villages were selected based on previous evidence of Mepraia infection reports of the Chilean Ministry of Health. Amplicons from nested-PCR positive samples were used as targets to determine the infective T. cruzi DTUs circulating in blood using PCR-DNA blotting and hybridization assays with five specific DNA probes (TcI, TcII, TcIII, TcV and TcVI). Results of hybridization with dog samples from Caleta Rio Seco showed single infections in 2 out of 16 and mixed infections in 14 out of 16. TcVI was the most frequent DTU found in this area. A highlight is that for the first time the presence of TcIII is reported in this area. Samples from Caleta San Marcos showed single infections in 5 out of 9 and mixed infections in 4 out of 9. TcVI was the most frequent DTU found in this area. Samples from La Serena showed single infections in 5 out of 10 and mixed infections in 2 out of 10; we were unable to genotype the other 3 samples. Our results indicate that infection by T. cruzi DTUs in dogs is not homogeneously distributed but rather specific to each region of our country, as demonstrated by the differences in the T. cruzi DTU distribution in some localities.

Características de los pacientes con diagnóstico de pancreatitis aguda atendidos entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2011 en un centro de cuarto nivel / Characteristics of Patients Diagnosed With Acute Pancreatitis Treated Between January 2008 and December 2011 at a Fourth Level Medical Center

Introducción: la pancreatitis aguda (PA) es causa frecuente de consulta y se asocia con una importante morbimortalidad. En Colombia hay poca información publicada sobre las características clínicas de la PA. Consideramos importante hacer una revisión para establecer las características demográficas, clínicas, manejo recibido y desenlaces de los pacientes con PA en un centro hospitalario de cuarto nivel. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de tipo corte transversal. Se revisaron las historias de los pacientes adultos con PA hospitalizados entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2011. Resultados: se incluyeron 222 pacientes, 60% mujeres, con edad promedio de 52 años. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron dolor abdominal (99%), vómitos (65%) e ictericia (13%). El 99% presentaba un cuadro clínico compatible. La alteración enzimática se encontró en el 96% de los casos y solo en el 7% se necesitó el criterio imagenológico para confirmar el diagnóstico. La etiología biliar fue la más frecuente en el 67% de los casos y solo en el 6% se estableció etiología alcohólica. Un 63% de los pacientes fueron clasificados como PA severa. El 32% requirió manejo en cuidados intensivos; en el 10% de los casos fue necesario soporte vasopresor y la mortalidad global fue del 4%. Conclusión: las características clínicas, demográficas y la etiología son similares a las descritas en otras series de centros de similar complejidad. No obstante, tenemos un porcentaje alto de pacientes con PA severa que podría obedecer a la relativamente baja especificidad de las escalas usadas. A pesar de este porcentaje elevado de severidad, la mortalidad global no fue alta. Dado que la severidad orienta algunas intervenciones terapéuticas, podría ser útil definir criterios de clasificación que sean más útiles en nuestra población.

Introduction: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a frequent reason for patients to consult with physicians and is a condition that is often associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Since little information has been published on the clinical characteristics of AP in Colombia, we consider it important to establish the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients as well as the types of treatment received and the outcomes of patients with AP at a fourth level hospital. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study based on a review of the medical histories of adult patients with AP who were hospitalized between January 2008 and December 2011. Results: The study included 222 patients 60% of whom were women. Their mean age was 52 years. The most frequent symptoms were abdominal pain (99%), vomiting (65%) and jaundice (13%). The clinical characteristics of 99% of these patients were compatible with AP. Enzymatic alterations were found in 96% of the cases and imaging criteria were needed to confirm the diagnosis in only 7% of the cases. Biliary etiology was the most common (67% of cases), and only 6% had alcoholic etiology. Severe AP was diagnosed in 63% of the patients. 32% required intensive care, 10% of patients required vasopressor support, and overall mortality was 4%. Conclusion: The clinical, demographic and etiological characteristics of these patients were similar to those described in other series from medical centers of similar complexity. Nevertheless, the percentage of patients with severe AP was high which may have been due to the relatively low specificity of the staging used. Despite this high percentage severe cases, overall mortality was not high. Since severe cases require specific therapeutic interventions, it might be useful to define classification criteria that are more useful in our population.

Ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. em jumentos (Equus asinus) no estado de Sucre - Colômbia / Occurrence of anti-Neospora spp. Antibodies in donkeys (Equus asinus) in the state of Sucre - Colombia

A neosporose tem grande importância em bovinos, e sua patogênese neste hospedeiro, em termos gerais, está esclarecida, porém, em equídeos é pobremente conhecida. Na Colômbia ainda não foram reportados anticorpos Anti-Neospora spp. em equídeos, sendo assim objetivou-se no presente estudo avaliar a ocorrência do parasito em jumentos (Equus asinus) de fazendas que apresentavam risco da doença nestes animais. Foram utilizados 56 animais no estado de Sucre (Colômbia), escolhidos aleatoriamente dentro das fazendas selecionadas. Utilizou-se um peptídeo recombinante originado de Neospora caninum (NcGRA1) para o diagnóstico por Dot-ELISA, e o soro foi diluído em 1:200. Este estudo reporta, pela primeira vez no estado de Sucre e na Colômbia, a presença de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. na espécie Equus asinus, com uma ocorrência de 19,7% (11/56) dos animais amostrados...

The neosporosis has great importance in cattle, and its pathogenesis in this host has been generally clarified, however, in horses, neosporosis is poorly known, and in Colombia anti-Neospora spp antibodies have not been reported. Therefore, the main objective in the present study was to evaluate the occurrence of this parasite in donkeys (Equus asinus) from farms that presented a risk of disease in these animals, as well as no health plan for them. Were used 56 animals randomly chosen inside selected farms in the state of Sucre (Colombia). A recombinant peptide originated from Neospora caninum (NcGRA1) was used for the diagnosis with Dot-ELISA and serum was diluted 1:200. This study is the first to report the presence of anti-Neospora spp. in donkeys (Equus asinus) in the state of Sucre, and in Colombia. The occurrence was in 19.7% of the animals sampled (11/56)...

Ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. em jumentos (Equus asinus) no estado de Sucre - Colômbia / Occurrence of anti-Neospora spp. Antibodies in donkeys (Equus asinus) in the state of Sucre - Colombia

A neosporose tem grande importância em bovinos, e sua patogênese neste hospedeiro, em termos gerais, está esclarecida, porém, em equídeos é pobremente conhecida. Na Colômbia ainda não foram reportados anticorpos Anti-Neospora spp. em equídeos, sendo assim objetivou-se no presente estudo avaliar a ocorrência do parasito em jumentos (Equus asinus) de fazendas que apresentavam risco da doença nestes animais. Foram utilizados 56 animais no estado de Sucre (Colômbia), escolhidos aleatoriamente dentro das fazendas selecionadas. Utilizou-se um peptídeo recombinante originado de Neospora caninum (NcGRA1) para o diagnóstico por Dot-ELISA, e o soro foi diluído em 1:200. Este estudo reporta, pela primeira vez no estado de Sucre e na Colômbia, a presença de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. na espécie Equus asinus, com uma ocorrência de 19,7% (11/56) dos animais amostrados.(AU)

The neosporosis has great importance in cattle, and its pathogenesis in this host has been generally clarified, however, in horses, neosporosis is poorly known, and in Colombia anti-Neospora spp antibodies have not been reported. Therefore, the main objective in the present study was to evaluate the occurrence of this parasite in donkeys (Equus asinus) from farms that presented a risk of disease in these animals, as well as no health plan for them. Were used 56 animals randomly chosen inside selected farms in the state of Sucre (Colombia). A recombinant peptide originated from Neospora caninum (NcGRA1) was used for the diagnosis with Dot-ELISA and serum was diluted 1:200. This study is the first to report the presence of anti-Neospora spp. in donkeys (Equus asinus) in the state of Sucre, and in Colombia. The occurrence was in 19.7% of the animals sampled (11/56).(AU)