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Copyright of Revista de Ciencias Sociales (13159518) is the property of Revista de Ciencias Sociales de la Universidad del Zulia Venezuela and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Evacuation is a crucial method for mitigating tsunami risk. However, in many coastal areas, horizontal pedestrian evacuation may not be feasible before a tsunami arrives. In such cases, tsunami vertical-evacuation (TVE) to high-rise structures can be lifesaving. Despite its potential, TVE has received less attention compared to horizontal evacuation, particularly regarding evacuation dynamics within buildings. This article addresses this research gap and links it with previous studies on urban-scale tsunami evacuation. We developed an integrated horizontal-vertical evacuation framework using agent-based modelling, focusing on the tsunami-prone city of Iquique, Chile. Our findings indicate an overall high urban capacity for safe tsunami evacuation in Iquique, with rates of saved evacuees up to roughly 85–90 %. In critical coastal areas, TVE can reduce average effective travel times by 26 %–37 %. However, a high proportion of agents opting for TVE can increase tsunami vulnerability as the result of pedestrian density leading to reduced speeds and bottlenecks emerging around the shelters. We also examined the Terrado Cavancha Hotel, showing it can accommodate approximately 2000–3000 evacuees, with fatalities remaining below 15 % in a worst-case scenario. It takes around 20–25 min (depending on the scenario) to achieve a significant safe evacuation rate (50 % and above) within the building. Additionally, our study identifies potential indoor bottlenecks and congestion points, offering valuable insights for designers and emergency managers in planning or retrofitting buildings to enhance TVE capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFS) has been documented in the oral and maxillofacial region. Occasionally, as previously noted, odontogenic (fibro)myxoma can present histological features resembling LGFS. A 29-year-old female was referred due to discomfort while chewing, which had started one month earlier. Intraoral examination revealed a painless tumoral mass in the posterior maxillary region, resulting in tooth displacement. Panoramic radiography displayed an irregular radiolucent lesion, and CT scans indicated a hypodense area, causing cortical bone expansion with involvement of the maxillary sinus. Following an incisional biopsy, microscopic examination revealed extensive areas containing spindled to stellate cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm, perivascular hyalinization, interspersed with irregular myxoid regions. Additionally, isolated foci of odontogenic epithelium were noted. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated positive staining for CK AE1/3 and p63 in the epithelial component, while S100, SMA, desmin, and, notably, MUC4 were negative. A small number of cells were Ki-67 positive. The final diagnosis was odontogenic fibromyxoma with LGFS-like characteristics. As of a 3-year follow-up, there have been no recurrences or alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucormycosis is an aggressive fungal infection known for its rapid progression, particularly when it involves the oral cavity and potentially extends to the rhinocerebral region. Recently, the association between mucormycosis and post SARS-CoV-2 infection has gained clinical significance. In this report, we present two cases of acute invasive mucormycosis affecting the oral cavity following COVID-19 infection. Biopsies were conducted, and histopathological examinations confirmed the presence of Mucor spp. Subsequently, a multidisciplinary approach was undertaken, involving teams from Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ophthalmology, and Dentistry. In one case, a provisional palatal obturator prosthesis was provided to enhance patient comfort. The Infectious Diseases team initiated treatment with ceftazidime at a dose of 2g per day for 5 days, followed by a transition to clindamycin (600mg every 8 hours) for approximately 2 months, in combination with ciprofloxacin. Additionally, liposomal amphotericin B was administered intravenously at a daily dose of 100mg for 4 months. These case reports underscore the importance of early detection of oral mucormycosis and provide valuable technical information to guide the management of patients affected by this condition, especially in the context of post-COVID-19 infections.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focal myositis (FM) is a benign inflammatory condition primarily affecting a single muscle, although it rarely involves the tongue. Microscopically, FM exhibits myopathic changes, a mixed infiltrate of inflammatory cells, interstitial fibrosis, fissures in skeletal muscle fibers, and variations in myofiber diameter. Here, we report five additional cases of FM affecting the tongue. Among these cases, three were male and two were female, with an average age of 56 years. Three patients experienced short-term swelling with associated ulceration and submucosal nodules. Two patients reported a connection to COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Microscopic analysis was consistent with FM. Immunohistochemically, M2 macrophages and T cells (with a higher CD4+ to CD8+ cell ratio) were predominant. In some areas, CD15+ granulocytes and CD20+ B cells were also observed. Polyclonal CD138+ plasma cells, with a predominance of IgG+ cells (and occasionally IgG4+), were present. All patients experienced complete resolution after biopsy. It's important to consider FM in the differential diagnosis of nodular tongue lesions, with a subset of cases potentially associated with COVID-19 infection or vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syphilis mimicking a lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) under microscopic examination is a rare occurrence. Up to now, 12 cases of secondary syphilis have been reported, with all but one located extraorally. A 22-year-old male sought evaluation for a painful lingual ulcer that had developed a month prior, suggesting an infectious origin. An incisional biopsy revealed an exuberant lymphoid proliferation with follicular architecture, interspersed with sheets of plasma cells in fibrovascular stroma. Additionally, some lymphoid nodules displayed germinal centers, raising suspicions of LPD, specifically MALT lymphoma and low-grade follicular lymphoma. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated positivity for CD20, CD79a, Bcl-2, with Bcl-6 highlighting germinal centers. Polyclonal plasma cells tested positive for MUM1/IRF4, CD79a, and CD138. Given the significant presence of polyclonal plasma cells, an FTA-ABS serum test was conducted, resulting in a positive diagnosis of primary syphilis. Following penicillin therapy, complete resolution of the lingual lesion was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral pyogenic granuloma is rarely seen in cases of chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD). Here is a description of a 6-year-old male patient's case: The patient underwent a second allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation due to severe aplastic anemia. On day 123 after the transplant, he developed cGVHD affecting the oral, ocular, and liver regions. Initially, the oral lesions presented as ulcers on the buccal mucosa and the lateral border of the tongue, which did not show improvement with the use of topical clobetasol. These lesions progressed to become bilateral nodular proliferative tissue, leading to impaired function. An incisional biopsy was performed, which revealed a raised area with extensive erosion of the superficial epithelium. The biopsy also showed a mixed inflammatory process, leukocytic fibrin crust, and capillary proliferation, all of which were consistent with pyogenic granuloma (PG). The nodular lesions were completely removed under general anesthesia, and an acetate plate was created to protect the oral mucosa. Two weeks later, the patient exhibited early signs of recurrence. Topical clobetasol was initiated, and the lesions remained stable until the present time (3 months). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasal T/NK cell tumor is an aggressive subtype of lymphoma characterized by infiltration, necrosis, and a strong association with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. A young patient, diagnosed with nasal T/NK lymphoma by the medical team, underwent four cycles of chemotherapy before being referred to the hospital's dental service due to complaints of pain in the upper incisors and hard palate. Clinical examination revealed the need for endodontic treatment for the teeth and the presence of an ulcer with a necrotic bed in the hard palate, causing oroantral communication. An incisional biopsy of the lesion confirmed mucormycosis as the histopathological result. The patient received systemic antifungal treatment, continued antineoplastic therapy, and had a palatal obturator plate installed to improve comfort. Following the treatment, the patient experienced pain relief and a reduction in necrosis at the site but still maintained oroantral communication with no signs of disease recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is defined as small- and medium-sized vessels vasculitis, compromising mainly upper and lower respiratory tract. Female patient, 17 years old, presented with oral ulcers of erythematous halo and central pseudomembrane in lower labial mucosa and tongue, with "strawberry gingivitis" in anterior maxillary and mandibular marginal gingiva. General evaluation reveled purpuric body lesions and fever. Image exams showed a lung mass, which was biopsied, and histopathological exam indicate GPA. For diagnosis of oral lesions, a biopsy was performed, with findings of epithelial hyperplasia, tissue necrosis, lympho-histiocyte inflammatory infiltrate with neutrophils and subepithelial microabscess formation. After histopathological analysis, clinical findings and positive results for cytoplasmic (c-ANCA-PR3) tests, the final diagnosis was confirmed. Therapy with rituximab, methylprednisolone and azathioprine led to regression of oral lesions. The presence of oral lesions with these characteristics are important for oral medicine clinicians, be aware about initial features of oral lesions in GPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Exploratoris: Revista de la Realidad Global is the property of PDHTech, LLC and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cirugía Plástica Ibero-Latinoamericana is the property of Cirugia Plastica Ibero-Latinoamericana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A 47-year-old man was referred for treatment of a painful lesion of 5 months' duration located on the left side of the maxilla. A small perforation in the buccal cortex was observed during the intraoral examination. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) showed an extensive, well-delimited radiolucent lesion extending from the alveolar ridge to the nasal cavity. An incisional biopsy was performed, and a cystic lesion consistent with an odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) was observed microscopically. The initial treatment option was decompression to be followed by enucleation. However, 3 months after decompression of the lesion, the patient returned because there was a significant increase in the size of the perforation. A destructive lytic lesion that involved the left side of the maxilla and crossed the midline was evident in the CBCT. The examination of a second incisional biopsy specimen showed epithelial neoplasia comprising islands and projections toward the surface. There was abundant keratin deposition, resulting in the formation of pearls and plugs. A diagnosis of primary intraosseous carcinoma arising from an OKC was confirmed, and the patient underwent a maxillectomy. After 1 year of followup, there were no signs of recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epstein-Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) is characterized by cutaneous and/or mucosal ulcers in patients receiving immunosuppressive medication or with age-related immunosenescence. Its microscopic appearance often leads to a diagnostic challenge, sometimes mimicking an overt lymphoma. A 47-year-old woman, with a previous diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, was referred for evaluation of a gingival ulcer, present for about 2 months and located in the maxillary peri-implant mucosa around implants, resembling peri-implantitis. An incisional biopsy was performed, and the microscopic evaluation showed a polymorphic infiltrate with some Reed-Sternberg-like cells. Immunohistochemistry showed positive findings for CD20, CD30, CD45, PAX-5, MUM-1, LMP-1 and EBER1/2, establishing the diagnosis of EBVMCU. After 2 months, total regression of the lesion was noted without any intervention. We discuss the possible association between the EBVMCU and systemic lupus erythematosus; to our knowledge, this is the first report of an EBVMCU simulating peri-implantitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) form a key link between innate and adaptive immune responses. The aim of this study is to analyze presence and distribution of immature (im) and mature (m) DCs in gingival tissue samples obtained from patients diagnosed with aggressive periodontitis (AgP), chronic periodontitis (CP), and clinically healthy periodontium (control group).Methods: Gingival tissue samples obtained from patients with: 1) AgP (aged <35 years); 2) CP (aged ≥35 years); and 3) control group (aged >18 years) (n = 10 per group) were collected. Two-way analysis of variance and posterior Fisher least significant difference test were used to observe differences between the means of cells positively marked for imDC (S100, CD1a, and CD207) and mDC (CD208) immunomarkers.Results: imDCs were more numerous in AgP than CP and control groups, being statistically significant only for S100+ cells. Conversely, mDCs were visualized in higher numbers in CP than AgP and control groups (both P <0.05). Considering frequency of immunostained cells, the number of S100+ cells was greater than CD207+ and CD1a+ cells, followed by a lesser number of CD208+ cells, in all groups.Conclusions: Considering that the ability of DCs to regulate immunity is dependent on DC maturation, results suggest that predominance of imDCs appears to be involved in AgP pathogenesis, probably due to lack of ability to induce immune cell activation. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the role of DC maturation in regulating immune responses in periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and purpose of this study Colegio Ingles is the largest and oldest school in the city of Iquique, the capital of Chile's northern Tarapaca Region. In accordance with the School Evacuation Plan, a drill was held in 2013 with the entire student body (n = 1600). The majority of the students had experienced the 2014 Pisagua earthquake. Considering the school's exposure to natural disasters and the experience of its students, we studied the perspectives of k-12 students relative to their school's evacuation plan for a major disaster, such as an earthquake and a tsunami. Materials and methods The study applied a qualitative methodology for in-depth exploration and insight into the students’ perceptions of the school evacuation plan. The methods applied were: (i) focus groups and (ii) individual mapping exercises. The participants recruited (n = 31), included children between the ages of 11 and 18 years old. The collected information was analyzed through a thematic analysis using NVivo 11 software. Results The results flagged significant issues that had not been considered during the development of the school evacuation plan, such as the family dimension, which in some cases is contradictory with the school evacuation plan, as well as the need of redefining the safe zones from a multidimensional perspective. Conclusions More participation from children in the local planning of the school evacuation plan was seen as necessary in order to strengthen their preparedness in case of disaster, integrating their school evacuation plan and their family ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cementoblastoma is a benign ectomesenchymal odontogenic tumor characterized by the formation of cementum mass continuous with the tooth root, preferentially a permanent mandibular first molar. Clinically, the tumor shows a tender, sometimes painful, cortical plate expansion, frequently in male patients under 30 years old. Radiographically, the lesion exhibits a radiopaque mass, surrounding by a thin radiolucent rim, and attached to the tooth root. Microscopically, it is visualized a calcified matrix lined by large hyperchromatic cementoblasts with radiating columns at the periphery. Treatment of choice is surgery. Interestingly, rare cases of residual (after tooth extraction only) and recurrent (after tumor removal plus tooth extraction) cementoblastomas have been reported, which can be misdiagnosed if an appropriate clinicopathological correlation is not considered. Here, we present a rare case of residual cementoblastoma affecting an 18-year-old male patient at level of permanent mandibular first molar. Thus, residual cementoblastoma is an unusual presentation which should be included in the differential diagnosis of cementum-forming and bone-forming tumors affecting the jaws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tsunami vertical-evacuation (TVE) can save numerous human lives when horizontal evacuation is not feasible. A key topic in TVE planning is the optimal placement of shelters, which is typically studied using a top-down approach. Recently, virtual reality (VR) has become an emerging tool to support disaster risk reduction and emergency response training. While VR has been applied to visualise tsunami flood zones and evacuation routes, no studies have used VR to assess the evacuees' shelter choices during emergencies or to examine the optimal 'siting' of TVE buildings. To address this gap, this study introduces a user-focused VR evacuation experiment to automatically collect the shelter preferences of 435 participants regarding existing buildings that might serve as TVE shelters in four case studies in Chile. Complementary, we used questionnaires to collect information about the participants' tsunami evacuation expertise, awareness, and the factors that led to their shelter selection. Lastly, we used GIS to examine the location characteristics of the selected buildings. The results showed that 50 buildings gathered at least two preferences, with a large diversity of heights (five to 34 storeys) and placements (from 52 to 2774 m from the coast). Height is the most critical factor when choosing a building for TVE (53.1 % of the preferences), and most of them are residential (62.7 %). Additionally, 67.2 % of the participants had experienced real-world evacuations, and the average evacuation rate during the last emergency in each of the case studies was 43.8 %. While most participants declared affirmative response rates about the perceived tsunami threat (above 60 %), low specific knowledge regarding evacuation plans might discourage protective actions in future tsunami emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 12-year-old male patient was referred to the clinic with the main complaint of "tongue wart," with an evolution time of 2 years. In the intraoral examination, a pedicle nodule on the posterior of the tongue approximately 0.5 cm in diameter, asymptomatic, and an intact lining mucosa were observed. The diagnostic hypotheses were fibrous hyperplasia, lipoma, neuroma, granular cell tumor, or other benign neoplasm. Excisional biopsy was performed, and microscopic examination showed a well-circumscribed nodular proliferation in the form of interwoven bundles of spindle cells, compatible with circumscribed solitary neuroma (CSN). A literature review was carried out regarding this lesion in the oral cavity and 71 reported cases were found. However, the present case is the first to report CSN in a pediatric patient. It was concluded that CSN should be included as a differential diagnosis of nodular lesions that affect pediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common autosomal dominant diseases. The wide clinical expression range, the risk of neurofibrosarcomas, and the unpredictable disease course make it necessary to regularly monitor patients with NF1. A 7-year-old male patient was referred presenting an increased volume in the right mandibular angle 1 year ago. On extraoral examination, cafe-au-lait macules on the chest were noticed. Incisional biopsy of the mandibular lesion revealed plexiform neurofibroma, and a diagnosis of NF1 was established. The patient was referred for treatment with a multidisciplinary team, and within 9 years of follow-up he was diagnosed with bilateral optic glioma and astrocytoma. He received surgical and chemotherapy care and is currently stable. It is important to highlight the early NF1 diagnosis, referral for multidisciplinary treatment, and strict clinical evaluation because of the risk of associated neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual dental appointments have been useful tools for identifying emergencies in various specialties, including pediatric dentistry, since the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, a careful evaluation of oral lesions in infants is essential, given the impacts on the child's health and development. The present study aims to present a case series of reactive oral lesions affecting infants. The parents of 3 children contacted our Department of Oral Medicine and Surgery by teledentistry assistance to assess the presence of oral lesions arising from a mandibular alveolar crest. These oral reactive lesions were diagnosed correctly and received appropriate treatment. Reactive or inflammatory lesions that affect the alveolar crest of infants are rare. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic the use of teledentistry is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schwannomas are neoplasms arising from differentiated Schwann cells. These tumors most often affect the soft tissues of the head and neck and rarely occur in intraosseous location. To date, approximately 90 cases of schwannoma affecting the jaws have been reported. A 52-year-old female patient was referred for evaluation of an asymptomatic mandibular lesion. Imaginologic analysis showed a large radiolucent lesion involving the mandibular body and ramus with expansion of the buccal and lingual cortical plates. An incisional biopsy was performed, which microscopically revealed hypercellular and myxoid hypocellular areas composed of spindle cells with ill-defined cytoplasm. Nuclear palisading around cellular areas was evident. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for S-100, CD56, and CD34 (weak). The Ki-67 labeling index was <3%. Schwannomas in an intraosseous location affecting the jaws may mimic odontogenic and nonodontogenic cysts and tumors; thus, a strict clinicopathologic correlation is required for a correct diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The drugs most commonly associated with medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) are bisphosphonates (BPs), denosumab, as well as bevacizumab and sunitinib, among others. MRONJ prevalence among oral BP (OBP) users varies from 0.004% to 0.1%, reaching 0.21% after 4 years of use. Pazopanib is a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). To date, about 12 cases of MRONJ associated with pazopanib have been reported. A 64-year-old woman was referred presenting bone exposure in the mandible 60 days ago. There was no history of local surgery or trauma. Her medications included pazopanib for RCC treatment 7 months ago and OBPs for osteoporosis treatment 8 years ago. Clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings were consistent with MRONJ. The potential risk due to the simultaneous use of 2 drugs known to be associated with MRONJ should be better clarified with the report of further cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities are increasingly becoming hot-spots for nature-originated disasters. While the role of the urban built environment in fostering disaster resilience has been recognized for some time, it has been difficult to translate this potential into practice. This is especially challenging in the case of rapid onset crises such as near-field tsunamis, when appropriate urban forms have to support the populations’ ability to autonomously carry out safe and timely responses. In this respect, much of current research remains focused on large-scale elements of urban configuration (streets, squares, parks, etc.) through which people move during an emergency. In contrast, the critical micro-scale of evacuees’ experiences within the built environment is not commonly examined. This paper addresses this shortfall through a macro- and micro-scale analysis of a near-field tsunami scenario affecting the city of Viña del Mar, Chile, including a mixed-methods approach that combines computer-based models and fieldwork. The results show significant macro-scale tsunami vulnerability throughout major areas of the city, which nonetheless could be mitigated by existing nearby high ground and an urban form that allows short evacuation times. However, micro-scale outcomes show comparatively deficient spatial conditions that during an emergency might lead to dangerous outcomes including bottlenecks, falls and panic. Vertical evacuation, in turn, is confirmed as a suitable option for reducing vulnerability, but further examination of each shelter’s characteristics is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epithelioid angiomatous nodule (EAN) is a rare benign vascular proliferation, regarded as part of the morphologic spectrum of benign and malignant epithelioid vascular lesions. EAN is a rare lesion affecting the oral mucosa and, to date, only three cases have been reported in the English-language literature. We report the second EAN case affecting the gingival mucosa of a 69-year-old female patient. Oral examination revealed an asymptomatic, well-defined nodule exhibiting a smooth and erythematous surface, measuring 0.8 cm in greater diameter. The lesion was fully excised and histopathological study showed a mucosal epithelioid proliferation with solid and organoid growth patterns, and vascular lumens scattered focally throughout the lesion. The large epithelioid cells showed intracytoplasmic vacuoles and vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli, surrounding by scarce extravasated erythrocytes. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for vimentin, α-SMA, CD34, focally for D2-40, and Ki-67 was 15%. Noteworthy, numerous immune cells (HLA-DR+/CD68+/CD163+/FXIIIa + ) scattered throughout the lesion, were detected. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report, which highlights the immune cell population, with M2-like phenotype, as an important component of EAN, suggesting the participation on their etiopathogenic mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Secuencia: Revista de Historia y Ciencias Sociales is the property of Instituto de Investigaciones - Dr. Jose M. Luis Mora and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista de Biologia Marina y Oceanografía (RBMO) is the property of Universidad de Valparaiso, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic immune-mediated mucocutaneous disorder predominantly in white women after the fifth decade of life, rarely affecting children. Symptomatic OLP is usually treated with systemic and/or topical corticosteroids, but its prolonged use may cause several adverse effects. An eight-year-old girl presented bilateral white reticular plaques associated with atrophic areas involving the buccal and labial mucosa, and tongue dorsal surface with burning complaining. Medical history was non-contributory and an incisional biopsy was performed. Clinical and microscopic features were highly consistent with OLP diagnosis. Hence, 20 punctual low-level laser therapy (LLLT) sessions were performed, followed by significant clinical improvement and symptom discontinuation. We suggest that LLLT appears to be a successful treatment for childhood OLP, with good acceptance by pediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to report 2 cases of melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI), emphasizing the analysis of intratumoral immune cells by immunohistochemistry.Study Design: Case 1: A 6-month-old girl presented with a 3-cm tumor in the anterior region of the left maxilla. Case 2: A 4-month-old boy presented with a 4-cm tumor in the anterior region of the left maxilla. Microscopically, case 1 had predominantly neuroblast-like cells supported by fibrillary neuropil-like stroma arranged in an alveolar pattern, whereas case 2 exhibited scattered melanocyte-like and neuroblast-like cells supported by fibrovascular stroma. A large immunohistochemical panel for characterizing intratumoral macrophage and dendritic cell subsets was performed.Results: Immunohistochemical analysis indicated positivity for HLA-DR, XIIIa, CD68, and CD163 (range 6%-50%) mainly on the fibrovascular stroma, suggesting M2 macrophage-like cell phenotype. CD138 was overexpressed in the tumor stroma.Conclusions: Results suggest the involvement of M2-polarized macrophages in the MNTI pathogenesis, which may act by modulating tumor growth and/or tumor stromal remodeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water funds seek to promote long-term watershed conservation with multiple benefits for biodiversity and human well-being. This approach has grown rapidly, particularly in Latin America where more than 30 water funds were in operation or development by 2014. To meet the need for evidence to guide ongoing decisions, we assessed the goals and strategies of 16 programs that were operating in 2013–2014 in association with the Latin American Water Funds Partnership. Our findings underscore the diversity within this approach to investment in watershed services. The various financial, governance, and management mechanisms adopted by these programs reflected their distinct biophysical, socio-economic, and political contexts. All 16 water funds aimed to secure water quality (15/16) and/or quantity (including the timing of flows) (14/16). The majority of programs also explicitly strived for co-benefits to local livelihoods (9/16) and biodiversity (11/16). Public funding secured through legislation provided the most funding to date, but private, NGO, and development bank source were also important for some programs. While programs have actively engaged rural land stewards, this stakeholder group was represented on governance boards in just 4 of 16 funds. Additionally, while the majority of water funds with activities on the ground (13/16) reported biophysical and social impact monitoring (8/16), many faced significant logistical, technical, and funding challenges to its implementation. We recommend greater inclusion of rural land stewards on governance boards, increased engagement of the private sector, and a sustained commitment to an evidence-based approach to increase the likelihood that programs will attain their goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tiempos Modernos is the property of Tiempos Modernos and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum . This study reports 3 cases of syphilis and highlights the importance of identifying oral lesions for its final diagnosis. Case 1: a 48-year-old male patient presented with a bleeding ulcer in the lower lip. Overall clinical examination revealed patchy alopecia and skin target lesions. Case 2: a 61-year-old male patient presented with white spots on the lateral tongue and nodules on the dorsum of the tongue. Overall clinical examination showed erythematous target lesions on the abdomen, forearm, palms of the hand, and soles of the feet. Case 3: a 17-year-old male patient presented with an ulcerated lesion on the tongue and lymph node involvement. The following serologic tests were requested: Venereal Disease Research Laboratory, fluorescent treponemal antibody–absorption, anti–HIV-1 and anti–HIV-2, and anti–hepatitis C virus. An incisional biopsy revealed epithelial hyperplasia associated with intense and diffuse mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltration consisting mainly of plasma cells, in a perivascular and perineural distribution. The final diagnosis in the 3 patients was syphilis. Treatment consisted of 1 weekly dose of penicillin (2.4 million units, intramuscular) for 2 or 3 weeks. Immunohistochemical reactions for XIIIa, CD3, CD20, CD68, CD163, S100, CD1a, CD11c, CD83, CD138, and CD208 were performed. Clinicians should be familiarized with oral syphilis lesions in order to be able to diagnose this emerging infectious disease of variable clinical presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is a rare and locally invasive neoplasm that originates from odontogenic ectomesenchyme, frequently affecting the mandibular body in young women. OM causes bone destruction, cortical expansion, soft tissue infiltration, root displacement, and resorption. Microscopically, OM is characterized by stellate and spindle-shaped cells dispersed in an abundant myxoid stroma. Calcifications are rarely found in OM, with only 22 cases reported to date. A 28-year-old female patient was referred with a complaint of volume increase on the left side of the maxilla. Imaginologic examination revealed an osteolytic lesion with ill-defined borders. After incisional biopsy, microscopy showed a myxoid proliferation associated with diffusely dispersed calcified structures. The clinicopathologic correlation favored OM with calcifications. This histopathologic finding is rare when assessing OM, which should be recognized and differentiated from other lesions containing newly formed bone trabeculae or cementum-like material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]