Agreement between PSMA-RADS and E-PSMA systems in classifying [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT lesions among prostate cancer patients: exploring the correlation between lesion size and uptake.

Purpose: To determine the agreement between the PSMA-RADS and E-PSMA standardized reporting systems in the classification of [18F]PSMA-1007-uptaking lesions identified on PET/CT scan in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) and post-prostatectomy with suspected recurrent disease (local recurrence, regional nodal involvement and distant metastases), based on biochemical recurrence, while also exploring the correlation between lesion size and tracer uptake. Materials and methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study of 32 post-prostatectomy PCa patients who had suspected recurrent disease based on biochemical recurrence post-prostatectomy (prostate-specific antigen values that are 0.2 ng/mL or higher) underwent [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT scan. The recurrent disease PCa lesions were characterized and subsequently classified using two standardized reporting systems (PSMA-RADS and E-PSMA). The lesions were grouped based on anatomical site, their size and SUVmax were compared using Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc tests. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated between the size of the lesions and their SUVmax of the radiotracer [18F]PSMA-1007 for all the lesions and when grouped by anatomical site. Additionally, the agreement between lesion classifications was assessed using Cohen's kappa index. Results: Only 32 (69.98 ± 8.27, men) patients met the inclusion criteria, a total of 149 lesions with avid uptake of [18F]PSMA-1007 were identified. Positive correlation (r = 0.516, p < 0.001) was observed between the size of the metastatic prostate cancer lymph node lesions and their [18F]PSMA-1007 uptake. Substantial agreement was noted between the PSMA-RADS and E-PSMA classification system scores among all lesions (κ = 0.70, p < 0.001), with notable discrepancies primarily among lymph node lesions. Conclusion: Our findings revealed a positive correlation between the size of the metastatic prostate cancer lymph node lesions and [18F]PSMA-1007 uptake, and although there was substantial agreement between the PSMA-RADS and E-PSMA classification systems, there were discrepancies mainly among the lymph node lesions.

Pielonefritis xantogranulomatosa: un reto actual para la laparoscopia.

OBJECTIVE: To present the results of our case series on laparoscopic nephrectomy in xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP). METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted that included 143 patients treated with laparoscopic nephrectomy for non-functioning kidney, of whom 15 had XGP, within the time frame of 2011 to 2019. The demographic and clinical data were collected, along with the intraoperative results, complications, and days of hospital stay. RESULTS: Transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy was successfully performed on 15 patients with XGP, with no need for conversion. Mean intraoperative time was 124.4 minutes (range 70-240) and intraoperative blood loss was 148.5 ml (range 30-550), with no blood transfusion required. No intraoperative complications occurred but there was one postoperative complication (6.6%), classified as Clavien-Dindo I (surgical wound infection). Mean hospital stay was 2.85 days (range 2-7). CONCLUSIONS: Nephrectomy is the definitive management for XGP, and the laparoscopic approach should be considered a treatment modality, despite the fact that the pathology involves a severe chronic inflammatory process. Its benefits are reduced surgery duration, less blood loss, a lower complication rate, and fewer days of hospital stay, when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

OBJETIVO: Presentar los resultados de nuestra serie de nefrectomía laparoscópica en pielonefritis xantogranulomatosa (PXG). MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo que incluyó 143 pacientes tratados con nefrectomía laparoscópica por exclusión renal, de los cuales 15 fueron por PXG, en el periodo comprendido de 2011 a 2019. Se recolectaron datos demográficos y clínicos, resultados transoperatorios, complicaciones y días de estancia hospitalaria. RESULTADOS: Se realizó nefrectomía laparoscópica transperitoneal de forma exitosa en 15 pacientes con PXG, sin necesidad de conversión. El tiempo transoperatorio promedio fue de 124.4 minutos (rango: 70-240). El sangrado transoperatorio fue de 148.5 ml (rango: 30-550), sin requerimiento de transfusión sanguínea. No se reportaron complicaciones transoperatorias; se presentó una complicación en el posoperatorio (6.6%) clasificada como Clavien-Dindo I (infección de la herida quirúrgica). La estancia hospitalaria promedio fue de 2.85 días (rango: 2-7). CONCLUSIONES: El manejo definitivo de la PXG es la nefrectomía, y el abordaje laparoscópico debe ser considerado como una modalidad de tratamiento a pesar de ser una patología que presenta un proceso inflamatorio grave y crónico, obteniéndose beneficios como disminución en el tiempo quirúrgico, menor sangrado, menor tasa de complicaciones y menos días de estancia hospitalaria cuando es realizado por un cirujano experimentado.

Geographic variation in the altitudinal migration patterns, body size, oxidative status and exploratory behavior in a neotropical bird.

To cope with life in the mountains, populations of the same species can exhibit substantial variability in their altitudinal migration patterns and phenotypes in response to local weather conditions. Studying such variability can provide valuable insights into how local populations respond to environmental challenges, and this information can be useful for conservation efforts in mountain ecosystems. Here, we used δ2H values of feathers and blood to evaluate latitudinal variation in altitudinal migration patterns and its possible links with body size, oxidative status, and exploratory behavior in 72 individuals of rufous-collared sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis) that breed at low and high elevations in the center (~33°) and south (~38°) of Chile. Our results show that both altitudinal migration patterns and oxidative status were significantly influenced by the latitude of breeding sites, while exploratory behavior was associated with elevation. Notably, we found that fast-explorer birds inhabiting low elevations in central Chile displayed higher levels of oxidative damage than slow-explorer birds. These outcomes underscore the possibility of local adaptations in response to diverse local environmental conditions in the Andes. We discuss the implications of latitude, elevation, and environmental temperature in shaping the observed patterns and highlight the significance of identifying local adaptations in mountain birds for better predicting their response to climate change and other challenges stemming from anthropogenic activities.

Comparación de parámetros antropométricos y de composición corporal de futbolistas profesionales / A Comparison of Anthropometric Parameters and the Body Composition of Professional Soccer Players

Resumen El presente estudio tuvo por objetivo comparar los parámetros antropométricos y de composición corporal en futbolistas profesionales en cinco temporadas. Se efectuó un estudio transversal (comparativo). Se estudió a 120 futbolistas, donde cada cohorte por año se evaluó a 24 futbolistas. El rango de edad fue de 18 a 37 años. Se evaluó a los futbolistas al inicio de cada temporada en los años 2012 a 2016: Se midió el peso, la estatura, seis pliegues cutáneos (Tríceps, subescapular, supra-iliaco, abdominal, muslo y pantorrilla). Se calculó el Índice de Masa corporal IMC, % de grasa, la masa grasa y masa libre de grasa MLG. El tejido adiposo se agrupó en tres grupos (brazo: (tricpes+subescapular, tronco: suprailiaco+abdominal, Piernas: muslo+pantorrilla). Hubo diferencias en el peso corporal, la estatura, la sumatoria de los 6 pliegues y la MLG a lo largo de los 5 años. [año 2012 (Peso: 76,6±7.8kg, estatura: 177.6±5.7cm, Pliegues: 58.7±12.8mm, MLG: 64.5±6.3mm), año 2013: (Peso: 77.8±6.4kg, Estatura: 178,4±4.4, Pliegues: 60.1±15.9mm, MLG:66.3±3.5mm), año 2014: (Peso: 74.9±5.7kg, Estatura: 177.0±5.8cm, Pliegues: 54.4±14.7mm, MLG: 64.5±4.5kg), año 2015: (Peso: 74.1±6.8kg, Estatura: 176.1±5.5cm, Pliegues: 54.9±15.6mm, MLG: 63.8±4.6kg), año 2016: (Peso: 72.7±kg, Estatura: 175.3±6.9kg, Pliegues: 50.8±12.mm, MLG: 62.8±5.9kg)]. Este estudio verificó que el perfil antropométrico y el tejido adiposo de los futbolistas fueron disminuyendo en cada temporada, mientras que la MLG reflejó similares valores en cada uno de las cohortes evaluadas.

Abstract The present cross-sectional (comparative) study aimed to compare the anthropometric and body composition parameters in professional soccer players over five seasons. It was conducted on 120 soccer players grouped in a cohort of 24 subjects per year. The age range was 18 to 37 years. The footballers were evaluated at the beginning of each season from 2012 to 2016; weight, height, six skin folds (triceps, subscapularis, supra-iliac, abdominal, thigh, and calf) were evaluated from 2012 to 2015. The Body Mass Index (BMI), fat percentage, fat mass, and FFM were calculated. The adipose tissue was grouped into three groups: arm (triceps + subscapular), trunk (supra iliac + abdominal), and legs (thigh + calf). Body weight, height, the sum of the 6 folds, and the MLG varied during the 5 years. For 2012 the results were the following: Weight, 76.6 ± 7.8kg; Height, 177.6 ± 5.7cm; Folds, 58.7 ± 12.8mm; MLG, 64.5 ± 6.3mm). In 2013, these were the results: Weight, 77.8 ± 6.4kg; Height, 178, 4 ± 4.4; Folds, 60.1 ± 15.9mm; MLG, 66.3 ± 3.5mm). These were the measures obtained in 2014: Weight, 74.9 ± 5.7kg; Height, 177.0 ± 5.8cm; Folds, 54.4 ± 14.7mm; MLG, 64.5 ± 4.5kg ). And these were of the year 2015: Weight, 74.1 ± 6.8kg; Height, 176.1 ± 5.5cm; Folds, 54.9 ± 15.6mm; MLG, 63.8 ± 4.6kg). Finally, in 2016 these were the measures collected: Weight, 72.7 ± kg; Height, 175.3 ± 6.9 kg; Folds, 50.8 ± 12.mm; MLG, 62.8 ± 5.9kg. This study verified that the soccer players' anthropometric profile and adipose tissue decreased each season, while the MLG reflected similar values in each of the evaluated cohorts.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo comparar os parâmetros antropométricos e de composição corporal em jogadores profissionais de futebol durante cinco temporadas. Foi realizado um estudo transversal (comparativo). Foi estudado um total de 120 jogadores de futebol, onde cada coorte por ano foram avaliados 24 jogadores. A faixa etária era de 18 a 37 anos. Os futebolistas foram avaliados no início de cada temporada, nos anos de 2012 a 2016. Foram medidas altura, peso, seis dobras da pele (tríceps, subescapular, supra ilíaca, abdominal, coxa e calcanhar). Foram calculados índice de massa corporal IMC, % de gordura, massa de gordura e massa livre de gordura MLG. O tecido adiposo foi agrupado em três grupos (braço: tríceps + subescapular, tronco: suprailíaco + abdominal, pernas: coxa + calcanhar). Houve diferenças no peso corporal, na altura, a soma de 6 dobras e a MLG ao longo dos 5 anos: ano 2012 (Peso: 76,6±7,8kg, Altura: 177,6±5,7cm, Dobras: 58,7±12,8mm, GLM: 64,5±6,3mm), ano 2013 (Peso: 77,8±6,4kg, Altura: 178,4±4,4, Dobras: 60,1±15,9mm, GLM:66,3±3.5mm), ano 2014 (Peso: 74,9±5,7kg, Altura: 177,0±5,8cm, Dobras: 54,4±14,7mm, GLM: 64,5±4,5kg), ano 2015 (Peso: 74,1±6,8kg, Altura: 176,1±5,5cm, Dobras: 54,9±15,6mm, GLM: 63,8±4,6kg), ano 2016 (Peso: 72,7±kg, Altura: 175,3±6,9kg, Dobras: 50,8±12,mm, GLM: 62,8±5,9kg). Este estudo verificou que o perfil antropométrico e o tecido adiposo dos jogadores de futebol diminuíram em cada temporada, enquanto que a MLG refletiu valores similares em cada um dos coortes avaliados.

Association Between Testicular Microlithiasis and Histological Subtype in Testicular Cancer.

Background There is a clear association between testicular cancer and microlithiasis when there are predisposing risk factors such as the history of germ cell tumors in first-degree relatives, testicular atrophy, Klinefelter's syndrome, and cryptorchidism. This study aimed to establish an association between microlithiasis and the histological subtype of testicular cancer by analyzing data on Hispanic population. Methods A retrospective cohort, longitudinal, comparative, and analytic study was conducted on patients with a confirmed diagnosis of primary testicular cancer. The testicular ultrasounds were checked before any surgical treatment to find microlithiasis. We performed a binary logistic regression to establish an association between microlithiasis and the type of testicular cancer. Results A total of 130 clinical files were analyzed. Binary logistic regression showed no association between testicular microlithiasis and the subtype of testicular cancer (p = 0.438, 95% CI: 0.80-1.64). The result of the Pearson chi-square test showed no association (p = 0.184). We also analyzed the association between age and microlithiasis using the one-way ANOVA test (p = 0.82) and the association between age and the dichotomic subtype of testicular cancer (seminomatous and non-seminomatous) using the ANOVA one-way test, which showed no significant association in age and testicular cancer subtype (p = 0.178). Conclusions There was no association between testicular microlithiasis and the histological subtype of testicular cancer in our study. As mentioned before, we recommend conducting a more extensive study to provide further scientific evidence to establish a reliable association between microlithiasis and the subtype of testicular cancer since there is a discrepancy in the results of our study with the information previously reported. We encourage the study of characterization of risk factors among ethnic groups as this field has not been explored yet.

Advantages and Short-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic-Assisted Renal Surgery in Elderly Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the perioperative results of adult and elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic renal surgery. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective, analytical study. 448 who underwent kidney surgery for benign or malignant pathologies between 2011-2019 were included in the General Hospital of Mexico "Dr. Eduardo Liceaga". They were categorized into two groups: Group 1 <60 years and Group 2 >60 years. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were performed, the calculations were performed with 95% reliability and a value of p (<0.05). RESULTS: In the group over 60 years of age, the following was found: Age: 67.1 years (60-83). IMC 28.3 kg/m2 (19-48.7). Intra and postsurgical outcomes: intraoperative bleeding = 184.4cc (5-1700). Surgical Time = 112.6min (30-240). Days of hospital stay = 2 (1-7). Complications in 2.6% (Clavien-Dindo: I = 2; II = 1), no conversion was required in any patient. There were no statistically significant differences with group 1, an exception for intraoperative bleeding. CONCLUSIONS: Our study is a pioneer in Latin America in the evaluation of the geriatric population and outcomes with laparoscopic surgery and we recommend that renal procedures with a laparoscopic approach should be considered as the best strategy in the management of benign or malignant renal pathology in geriatric patients.

Deterioro de la piel asociado con aseguramiento del dispositivo de acceso intravascular / Skin breakdown associated with securing of the intravascular access device / Ruptura da pele associada à fixação do dispositivo de acesso intravascular

El deterioro de la piel asociado con adhesivos de uso médico en dispositivos de acceso intra-vascular es un evento adverso que puede contribuir a la interrupción de la terapia de infusión intravascular. La Sociedad de enfermeras de infusión recomienda usar tecnologías de protec-ción como apósito estéril para aseguramiento del catéter y cinta quirúrgica para aseguramien-to complementario. Objetivo: Analizar las causas y prevalencia del deterioro de la piel aso-ciado con aseguramiento del dispositivo de acceso intravascular. Métodos: Estudio analítico, de corte transversal. Para recolectar datos se empleó un formato digital y observación directa a pacientes hospitalizados (n=813) con algún dispositivo de aseguramiento en acceso intra-vascular central o periférico, y aseguramiento complementario con cinta quirúrgica, dando seguimiento durante 7 días en febrero 2020. Resultados: El deterioro de la piel incluyó de-sprendimiento de epidermis, maceración, dermatitis irritativa por contacto y alérgica, con prevalencia de 2.2%. Se atribuyeron a catéter venoso central (f=8), catéter venoso periférico (f=7) y cinta quirúrgica para aseguramiento complementario del apósito transparente (f=3). Discusión: Las causas de deterioro de la piel se debieron al tipo de dispositivo y material implementado para aseguramiento; en la mayoría de casos las lesiones se encontraron en accesos venosos periféricos, seguida de accesos venosos centrales, siendo el aseguramiento complementario la menor causa de deterioro de la piel. Conclusiones: La técnica correcta de aplicación y retiro de insumos adhesivos de estabilización y aseguramiento del catéter intravascular evitará el desprendimiento de los mismos, lesiones de piel e interrupción de la terapia de infusión intravascular

Deterioration of the skin associated with medical adhesives in intravascular access devices is an adverse event that can contribute to the discontinuation of intravascular infusion ther-apy. The Society of Infusion Nurses recommends the use of protective technologies such as sterile dressing for catheter securing and surgical tape for supplemental securing. Objective: To analyze the causes and prevalence of skin deterioration associated with securing the intravascular access device. Methods: Analytical, cross-sectional study. To collect data, a digital format and direct observation of hospitalized patients (n = 813) were used with some device for securing in central or peripheral intravascular access, and complementary securing with surgical tape, with follow-up for 7 days in February 2020. Results: The Skin deterioration included epidermal detachment, maceration, irritant contact and allergic dermatitis, with a prevalence of 2.2%. They were attributed to central venous catheter (f = 8), peripheral venous catheter (f = 7) and surgical tape for complementary securing of the transparent dressing (f = 3). Discussion: The causes of skin deterioration were due to the type of device and mate-rial implemented for belaying; In the majority of cases, the lesions were found in peripheral venous accesses, followed by central venous accesses, with supplementary insurance being the least cause of skin deterioration. Conclusions: The correct technique for applying and removing adhesive supplies for stabilization and securing of the intravascular catheter will avoid their detachment, skin lesions and interruption of intravascular infusion therapy

A deterioração da pele associada a adesivos médicos em dispositivos de acesso intravascular é um evento adverso que pode contribuir para a descontinuação da terapia de infusão intra-vascular. A Society of Infusion Nurses recomenda o uso de tecnologias de proteção, como curativo estéril para fixação do cateter e esparadrapo para fixação suplementar. Objetivo: Analisar as causas e a prevalência da deterioração da pele associada à fixação do dispositivo de acesso intravascular. Métodos: Estudo analítico, transversal. Para a coleta de dados, uti-lizou-se o formato digital e observação direta dos pacientes internados (n = 813) com algum dispositivo de fixação em acesso intravascular central ou periférico e a fixação complementar com esparadrapo, com seguimento de 7 dias em fevereiro de 2020. Resultados: A deterio-ração da pele incluiu descolamento epidérmico, maceração, contato com irritante e dermatite alérgica, com prevalência de 2,2%. Foram atribuídos a cateter venoso central (f = 8), cateter venoso periférico (f = 7) e esparadrapo para fixação complementar do curativo transparente (f = 3). Discussão: As causas da deterioração da pele foram devido ao tipo de dispositivo e material implementado para amarração; Na maioria dos casos, as lesões foram encontradas em acessos venosos periféricos, seguidos de acessos venosos centrais, sendo a amarração suplementar a menor causa de deterioração da pele. Conclusões: A técnica correta de apli-cação e retirada de suprimentos adesivos para estabilização e fixação do cateter intravascular evitará seu descolamento, lesões cutâneas e interrupção da terapia de infusão intravascular

Wnt/ß-Catenin-Dependent Transcription in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by synaptic dysfunction and defects in dendritic spine morphology. In the past decade, an extensive list of genes associated with ASD has been identified by genome-wide sequencing initiatives. Several of these genes functionally converge in the regulation of the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway, a conserved cascade essential for stem cell pluripotency and cell fate decisions during development. Here, we review current information regarding the transcriptional program of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling in ASD. First, we discuss that Wnt/ß-catenin gain and loss of function studies recapitulate brain developmental abnormalities associated with ASD. Second, transcriptomic approaches using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) cells, featuring mutations in high confidence ASD genes, reveal a significant dysregulation in the expression of Wnt signaling components. Finally, we focus on the activity of chromatin-remodeling proteins and transcription factors considered high confidence ASD genes, including CHD8, ARID1B, ADNP, and TBR1, that regulate Wnt/ß-catenin-dependent transcriptional activity in multiple cell types, including pyramidal neurons, interneurons and oligodendrocytes, cells which are becoming increasingly relevant in the study of ASD. We conclude that the level of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling activation could explain the high phenotypical heterogeneity of ASD and be instrumental in the development of new diagnostics tools and therapies.

Experiencia de la plastia laparoscópica de uréter retrocavo en el Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El uréter retrocavo es una anomalía congénita rara que requiere manejo quirúrgico. OBJETIVO: Reportar los resultados en el manejo laparoscópico para uréter retrocavo y hacer una revisión bibliográfica. MÉTODO: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, transversal, en pacientes con diagnóstico de uréter retrocavo que fueron sometidos a plastia laparoscópica de uréter retrocavo. RESULTADOS: Cuatro pacientes sometidos a plastia laparoscópica por diagnóstico de uréter retrocavo, 1 hombre y 3 mujeres, con una media de edad de 40.7 años. La media del tiempo operatorio fue de 138.2 minutos. La pérdida de sangre cuantificada transoperatoria media fue de 23.7 ml. Ningún paciente presentó complicaciones transoperatorias ni posoperatorias. Los pacientes permanecieron hospitalizados hasta su egreso una media de 2.5 días. Todos los pacientes presentaron mejoría de su sintomatología. CONCLUSIONES: El uréter retrocavo es una condición rara y aún no existe un consenso sobre su diagnóstico, tratamiento y seguimiento. El manejo quirúrgico laparoscópico es una opción para el tratamiento de estos pacientes. INTRODUCTION: The retrocave ureter is a rare congenital anomaly that requires surgical management. OBJECTIVE: Report the results in laparoscopic management for retrocave ureter and literature review. METHOD: Retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study in patients with a diagnosis of retrocave ureter who were sometimes a laparoscopic retrocave ureter. RESULTS: Four patients sometimes underwent laparoscopic plasty for diagnosis of retrocave ureter, 1 man and 3 women, with a mean age of 40.7 years. The mean operative time was 138.2 minutes. The mean intraoperative quantified blood loss was 23.7 ml. No patient presented transoperative or postoperative complications. The patients remained hospitalized until their progress with an average of 2.5 days. All patients visualize improvement in their symptoms. CONCLUSION: The retrocave ureter is a rare condition and there is still no consensus on its diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Laparoscopic surgical management is an option for the treatment of these patients.

Adrenal cyst: our experience in its laparoscopic management.

ANTECEDENTES: Los quistes suprarrenales son una afección rara. Su diagnóstico y su tratamiento son un desafío debido a la escasa información, lo que genera incertidumbre respecto al mejor manejo. CASOS CLÍNICOS: Presentamos tres casos de quistes suprarrenales que recibieron tratamiento de mínima invasión con cirugía laparoscópica, sin presentar complicaciones y con una evolución favorable. DISCUSIÓN: Las nuevas técnicas quirúrgicas de mínima invasión ofrecen una oportunidad terapéutica que permite preservar estructuras y obtener material necesario para su diagnóstico histopatológico, así como la resolución de la sintomatología. BACKGROUND: Adrenal cysts are a rare entity; their diagnosis and treatment are challenging due to the lack of information, generating uncertainty regarding the best management. CASE REPORTS: We present three cases of adrenal cysts that received minimally invasive treatment with laparoscopic surgery, without complications and with a favorable evolution. DISCUSSION: The new minimally invasive surgical techniques offer a therapeutic opportunity that allows preserving structures and obtaining the necessary material for histopathological diagnosis, as well as a resolution of the symptoms.

Infestation dynamics of Triatoma dimidiata in highly deforested tropical dry forest regions of Guatemala.

BACKGROUND: Deforestation, driven by anthropogenic change in land use, influences the behaviour and abundance of vector-borne diseases. For various species of Chagas disease vectors, there is evidence that change in land use affects population density and abundance. Triatoma dimidiata is the most important Chagas vector in Guatemala, and at least one million people live in T. dimidiata endemic areas; however, infestation dynamics vary among regions, from high infestation with all life stages to low seasonal infestation by sylvatic adults. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate how land-use, combined with domiciliary risk factors, influences the infestation dynamics of T. dimidiata for four villages in a dry forest region with a strong deforestation history. METHODS: Land use, measured with drone and satellite images, was classified into four categories (houses, monocultures and pastures, woodland and shrubland, and bare soil). Domiciliary risk factors and infestation were assessed through entomological surveys. Statistical analyses compared infestation indices and the ability of land use and domiciliary risk factors to explain infestation. FINDINGS: Two villages had significantly higher infestation (26 and 30% vs. 5 and 6%), yet all villages had high colonisation (71-100% of infested houses had immature insects), with no significant difference among them. Because of the high level of deforestation across the study area, land use was not related to infestation; however, domiciliary risk factors were. A model based on four weighted domiciliary risk factors (adobe or bajareque walls, intradomicile animals, intradomicile clutter, and dirt floors) explains the infestation risk. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Because almost all infested houses have reproducing populations in this deforested dry forest region and statistical analysis identified the domiciliary risk factors for infestation, intermediate and long-term control of Chagas disease vectors in this region requires management of these risk factors.

Infestation dynamics of Triatoma dimidiata in highly deforested tropical dry forest regions of Guatemala

BACKGROUND Deforestation, driven by anthropogenic change in land use, influences the behaviour and abundance of vector-borne diseases. For various species of Chagas disease vectors, there is evidence that change in land use affects population density and abundance. Triatoma dimidiata is the most important Chagas vector in Guatemala, and at least one million people live in T. dimidiata endemic areas; however, infestation dynamics vary among regions, from high infestation with all life stages to low seasonal infestation by sylvatic adults. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate how land-use, combined with domiciliary risk factors, influences the infestation dynamics of T. dimidiata for four villages in a dry forest region with a strong deforestation history. METHODS Land use, measured with drone and satellite images, was classified into four categories (houses, monocultures and pastures, woodland and shrubland, and bare soil). Domiciliary risk factors and infestation were assessed through entomological surveys. Statistical analyses compared infestation indices and the ability of land use and domiciliary risk factors to explain infestation. FINDINGS Two villages had significantly higher infestation (26 and 30% vs. 5 and 6%), yet all villages had high colonisation (71-100% of infested houses had immature insects), with no significant difference among them. Because of the high level of deforestation across the study area, land use was not related to infestation; however, domiciliary risk factors were. A model based on four weighted domiciliary risk factors (adobe or bajareque walls, intradomicile animals, intradomicile clutter, and dirt floors) explains the infestation risk. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Because almost all infested houses have reproducing populations in this deforested dry forest region and statistical analysis identified the domiciliary risk factors for infestation, intermediate and long-term control of Chagas disease vectors in this region requires management of these risk factors.

[Testicular Microlithiasis: Update on diagnosis and management.] / Actualidades sobre microlitiasis testicular.

Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is an uncommonurologic condition incidentally diagnosed byscrotal ultrasound. It has been associated with differentdiseases, such as Klinefelter`s syndrome, testicular atrophy,cryptorchidism, testicular torsion, and infertility.However, it can also present in healthy males that haveno associated risk factors. Currently, TM is most oftendetected thanks to the superior resolution of today's ultrasoundequipment, compared with former models. In the1990s, TM was considered a benign condition with noimportant clinical relevance, but later reports associatedit with the development of testicular neoplasias andinfertility. Thus, many authors recommended periodic surveillance with tumor markers and ultrasound imaging,with some even promoting the use of testicular biopsy.The aim of this article is to clearly and specifically presentcurrent information about testicular microlithiasis, toestablish both diagnostic and follow-up indications.

La microlitiasis testicular (MT) es un padecimiento urológico poco frecuente que se diagnostica de forma incidental mediante ltrasonografía escrotal. Ha sido asociado a diversas enfermedades como síndrome de Klinefelter, atrofia testicular, criptorquidia, torsión testicular e infertilidad. Sin embargo, también se puede encontrar en varones sanos sin factores de riesgo asociados. La microlitiasis testicular es detectada con mayor frecuencia en la actualidad, debido a la resolución superior de los equipos de ultrasonido actuales en comparación a los anteriores.  En la década de los  noventa la MT fue considerada una condición benigna sin gran relevancia clínica. Sin embargo, reportes posteriores asociaron este padecimiento al desarrollo de neoplasias testiculares e infertilidad. Por tal motivo muchos autores recomendaban la vigilancia periódica con marcadores tumorales y ultrasonido, e incluso algunos preconizaban el uso de la biopsia testicular. El objetivo del presente articulo de revisión es exponer de manera clara y especifica la evidencia actual de la microlitiasis testicular para así establecer las pautas tanto diagnósticas como de seguimiento.

Actualidades sobre microlitiasis testicular / No disponible

La microlitiasis testicular (MT) es un padecimiento urológico poco frecuente que se diagnostica de forma incidental mediante ltrasonografía escrotal. Ha sido asociado a diversas enfermedades como síndrome de Klinefelter, atrofia testicular, criptorquidia, torsión testicular e infertilidad. Sin embargo, también se puede encontrar en varones sanos sin factores de riesgo asociados. La microlitiasis testicular es detectada con mayor frecuencia en la actualidad, debido a la resolución superior de los equipos de ultrasonido actuales en comparación a los anteriores. En la década de los noventa la MT fue considerada una condición benigna sin gran relevancia clínica. Sin embargo, reportes posteriores asociaron este padecimiento al desarrollo de neoplasias testiculares e infertilidad. Por tal motivo muchos autores recomendaban la vigilancia periódica con marcadores tumorales y ultrasonido, e incluso algunos preconizaban el uso de la biopsia testicular. El objetivo del presente articulo de revisión es exponer de manera clara y especifica la evidencia actual de la microlitiasis testicular para así establecer las pautas tanto diagnósticas como de seguimiento

Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is an uncommon urologic condition incidentally diagnosed by scrotal ultrasound. It has been associated with different diseases, such as Klinefelter's syndrome, testicular atrophy, cryptorchidism, testicular torsion, and infertility. However, it can also present in healthy males that have no associated risk factors. Currently, TM is most often detected thanks to the superior resolution of today’s ultrasound equipment, compared with former models. In the 1990s, TM was considered a benign condition with no important clinical relevance, but later reports associated it with the development of testicular neoplasias and infertility. Thus, many authors recommended periodic surveillance with tumor markers and ultrasound imaging, with some even promoting the use of testicular biopsy. The aim of this article is to clearly and specifically present current information about testicular microlithiasis, toestablish both diagnostic and follow-up indications

Wnt/ß-catenin signaling stimulates the expression and synaptic clustering of the autism-associated Neuroligin 3 gene.

Synaptic abnormalities have been described in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The cell-adhesion molecule Neuroligin-3 (Nlgn3) has an essential role in the function and maturation of synapses and NLGN3 ASD-associated mutations disrupt hippocampal and cortical function. Here we show that Wnt/ß-catenin signaling increases Nlgn3 mRNA and protein levels in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells and primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons. We characterized the activity of mouse and rat Nlgn3 promoter constructs containing conserved putative T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancing factor (TCF/LEF)-binding elements (TBE) and found that their activity is significantly augmented in Wnt/ß-catenin cell reporter assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and site-directed mutagenesis experiments revealed that endogenous ß-catenin binds to novel TBE consensus sequences in the Nlgn3 promoter. Moreover, activation of the signaling cascade increased Nlgn3 clustering and co- localization with the scaffold PSD-95 protein in dendritic processes of primary neurons. Our results directly link Wnt/ß-catenin signaling to the transcription of the Nlgn3 gene and support a functional role for the signaling pathway in the dysregulation of excitatory/inhibitory neuronal activity, as is observed in animal models of ASD.

Comparison of three analgesic drug regimens with twelfth subcostal nerve block for pain control during extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the first-line treatment in the majority of cases of upper urinary tract stones. Since its introduction, attempts have been made to establish the ideal accompanying analgesic method to enable the application of shock waves of adequate duration and intensity for efficacious stone fragmentation. An open, randomized, prospective, longitudinal, comparative, and experimental clinical study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of subcostal nerve block with lidocaine, comparing it in combination with tramadol or diclofenac for pain control during ESWL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy patients of both sexes were included in the study. Thirty-five were men and 35 were women, all above 18 years of age, with kidney stones or ureteral stones smaller than 20 mm. The patients were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: Group 1 (24 patients) Twelfth subcostal nerve block with 10 ml of lidocaine 2%, 5 min before ESWL. Group 2 (25 patients) Twelfth subcostal nerve block with 10 ml lidocaine 2% + intramuscular diclofenac sodium 45 min before ESWL. Group 3 (21 patients) Twelfth subcostal nerve block with 10 ml of lidocaine 2% + tramadol at 1 mg/Kg of weight, 45 min before ESWL. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain was applied at minutes 10, 20, and 30 of the procedure. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were reported by the ANOVA test for comparing the mean pain values between the three groups at minutes 10, 20, and 30 of the ESWL. There were no adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Even though there were no statistically significant differences between the three groups, the analgesic regimen of twelfth subcostal nerve block with lidocaine 2%, alone, was as efficacious as its combination with other analgesics and therefore can be used as a sole analgesic method during ESWL.

Prestretched airway smooth muscle response to length oscillation.

Airway smooth muscle (ASM) hyperconstriction is the cause of many respiratory diseases including asthma. In vitro testing has demonstrated that the active forces of ASM are reduced by length oscillation (LO) mimicking tidal breathing. In a previous study, we demonstrated that this force reduction can be further enhanced when superimposing oscillations (with certain frequencies and amplitudes) on this LO In contrast, it has been reported that pressurizing the lung may help in relieving asthmatic airway constrictions. Ultimately, this pressurizing stretches the ASM and may disturb the acto-myosin cross-bridges in a manner similar to LO; however, it is of a static rather than dynamic nature. This research investigates the effect of combining both prestretch- and LO-applications on contracted porcine ASM Isolated porcine ASM relaxation was tested with a 0.56%, 2%, or 4% stretch of its reference length (Lref) in addition to LO These oscillations are composed of a main wave mimicking the normal breathing (frequency of 0.33 Hz and amplitude of 4% Lref) and superimposed oscillations (frequencies of 20, 30, 40, 60 and 80 Hz and amplitude of 1% Lref). The oscillations were maintained for 10 min. The results demonstrate that a prestretch of 0.56% and 2% Lref does enhance the contracted ASM relaxation at certain superimposed length oscillations frequencies while of 4% Lref does not.

Treatment of reno-ureteral colic by twelfth intercostal nerve block with lidocaine versus intramuscular diclofenac.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Renal colic is one of the most intense pains known to humans. Standard treatment usually consists of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opiates, but they do not always provide optimum efficacy and speed in relieving the pain. For more than 25 years, our hospital has been employing twelfth subcostal nerve block. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficacy of subcostal nerve block with lidocaine versus intramuscular diclofenac in renal colic management. METHODS: Sixty patients of both sexes, above the age of 18 years, and presenting with renal colic were randomly selected for the study. The visual analog scale was applied prior to the treatment and at minutes 1, 3, 5, 30, and 45 after the application of the twelfth nerve block or the intramuscular administration of diclofenac. RESULTS: A total of 60 patients, 35 women and 25 men, were included in the study. There were statistically significant differences in the mean scores for pain from minute 1 to minute 45. There were no adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Twelfth Subcostal nerve block with lidocaine is an efficacious, safe, inexpensive, and very fast-acting medication for pain control related to renal colic. These characteristics make it superior to diclofenac.

Efficacy of Tamsulosin, Oxybutynin, and their combination in the control of double-j stent-related lower urinary tract symptoms.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Indwelling double J ureteral stents are used routinely in the resolution of ureteral obstruction caused by different etiologies. Evaluation of urinary symptoms related to double-J stent, indicate that these affect 73-90% of patients. We conducted a prospective, randomized study, to evaluate the efficacy of tamsulosin, oxybutinin and combination therapy in improving the urinary symptoms. METHODS: Patients who underwent ureteral stent placement after ureterolithotripsy (total 51), were randomized into three groups: Group I: Tamsulosin 0.4 mg. Once per day(17 patients), Group II: Oxybutinin 5 mg. once per day (17 patients), Group III: Tamsulosin+ oxybutynin once per day (17 patients). All the groups received the drugs for three weeks and completed a Spanish validated Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ) at day 7 and 21. RESULTS: Repeated measures ANOVA showed mean urinary symptom index score was 22.3 vs. 15.5 in group three (p<0.001) at day 7 and 21 respectively. The mean work performance index was 6.6 vs 8.1 (p=0.049) favoring tamsulosin group, the mean sexual score was 0.5 vs 1.5 (p=0.03). Among additional problems the mean was 7.2 vs 6.2 (p=0.03). No significant difference was noted among pain and general health index. No side effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Combination therapy with tamsulosin and oxybutynin improved irritative symptoms and work performance as well as sexual matters. Combination therapy should be considered for patients who complained of stent related symptoms.