Abstract The suffix -ístico has an atypical form in Spanish because it has three syllables and is proparoxytone. Furthermore, its segmentation can be ambiguous, since it can be described as the result of a root + -ístico, or as a base ending in -ista + -’ico. According to these characteristics of -ístico, this suffix fails to follow the principles established by the preference theory of natural morphology, specifically two of them: the optimal shape of units and the morphotactic transparency. Because of this, -ístico seems unnatural from this approach. In this paper, I suggest an analysis of -ístico as a result of a combination of a base ending in -ista + -’ico, following the concept of morphological solidarity, which I will define in this paper also (Beniers 1996). These affixes are on a solidary relationship, from which it follows that it is unnecessary to observe a term derived with -ista in the process of using -’ico on it.

Resumen El sufijo -ístico es anómalo en español en su forma porque tiene tres sílabas y es esdrújulo. Además, su segmentación puede ser ambigua, ya que se puede describir como resultado de una raíz + -ístico, o como una base terminada en -ista + -´ico. De acuerdo con sus características, este sufijo incumple los principios de la teoría de las preferencias de la morfología natural, particularmente dos: la forma óptima de la unidad y la transparencia morfotáctica. Por lo anterior, el sufijo -ístico resulta antinatural según este enfoque. En este artículo, propongo un análisis de -ístico como el resultado de la combinación de una base terminada en -ista + -ico, siguiendo la noción de solidaridad morfológica que también explico en este trabajo (Beniers 1996). Estos afijos se encuentran en una relación solidaria, de la que se sigue que no es necesario observar una palabra derivada con -ista en el proceso para emplear el sufijo -’ico sobre ella.

Abstract The present work focuses on a construction in Spanish, censured by grammarians, which combines the morphology of the analytical or periphrastic passive (ser ‘be’ + participle) with the multifunctional reflexive morpheme se and typically serves to generalize over processes affecting classes of things or groups of individuals (La energía incrementa cuando se es contenida ‘Energy increases when (it is) contained’). Our interest in the genesis of the construction leads us to locate its source in a regular structure of the language, known as the “impersonal reflexive with a passive clause”, wherein se marks the unspecified identity of the patient subject (cuando se es amado…‘when one is loved...’). Viewed from this angle, the “deviant” feature of the construction in study thus resides in the introduction of an explicit subject, which has the effect of erasing the impersonal character of the source and of altering the function of se in ways that will impose a reference to the so-called reflexive passive of Spanish. In the second part of our research, we seek to account for the productivity of the anomalous construction, discovered through our perusal in Google, by calling attention to the instrumental role played by the participle in allowing shifts of perspective between passive actions and resulting states. We discuss some examples to corroborate our hypothesis, highlight the expansion of the construction to non-generic contexts and, as our final task, take on the challenge of having to explain how the anomalous passive comes to be used with intransitive unaccusative verbs, as evidenced in the data of our corpus.

Resumen Este trabajo se centra en una construcción en español, censurada por los gramáticos, que combina la morfología de la pasiva perifrástica (ser + participio) con el multifuncional morfema reflexivo se y típicamente sirve para generalizar sobre procesos que afectan a clases de cosas o grupos de individuos (La energía incrementa cuando se es contenida). El interés por la formación de la construcción nos lleva a situar su origen en una estructura regular del idioma, conocida como “impersonal refleja con oración pasiva”, en la que se marca la indeterminación del sujeto paciente (cuando se es amado…). Desde este punto de vista, la “desviación” que manifiesta la construcción en estudio radica en la introducción de un sujeto explícito, con el efecto de que se borra el carácter impersonal del modelo original y se altera a la vez la función de se, que pasa a relacionarse con la llamada pasiva refleja del español. En la segunda parte de nuestra investigación, nos proponemos arrojar luz sobre la productividad de la construcción anómala, que desplegaron nuestras búsquedas en Google, apuntando al papel instrumental que juega el participio en propiciar cambios de perspectiva entre acciones pasivas y estados resultantes. Analizamos algunos ejemplos que ayudan a corroborar nuestra hipótesis, destacamos la expansión de la construcción a contextos no-genéricos y, finalmente, nos damos a la tarea de explicar cómo la pasiva anómala llega a utilizarse con verbos intransitivos inacusativos, según reflejan los datos recopilados para nuestro estudio.

Abstract Introduction. Cocoa cultivation in tropical areas is a commercially viable agroecological alternative that allows for productive diversification and sustainable soil management through the use of organic fertilization. Objective. To evaluate the development of four cocoa varieties (INIFAP 4, INIFAP 8, INIFAP 9, and Almendra Blanca) under the climatic conditions of the Úrsulo Galván region, Veracruz, Mexico. Materials and methods. An experiment was conducted between winter (December 2021) and summer (June 2022), using a completely randomized design with four treatments and ten replications. Conventional agronomic management was employed, with the addition of 10 kg of compost per tree, followed by 3 kg of vermicompost. At four months into the study, 50 g of urea, 50 g of ammonium diphosphate, and 50 g of potassium chloride were incorporated. The study included analysis of variance and Tukey’s tests (α 0.05). Results. Statistical equality was found for height, diameter, and number of branches. The cocoa’s response to temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and wind showed that these factors influenced the expression of its productive potential, as well as its morphology and yield, without adapting to the climatic conditions under study. Conclusion. The development of the studied varieties was homogeneous based on the climatic conditions of the Ursulo Galvan region, with the Almendra Blanca variety standing out.

Resumen Introducción. El cultivo del cacao en las zonas tropicales es una alternativa comercial de interés agroecológico, que permite la diversificación productiva y el manejo sustentable de los suelos al emplear abonado orgánico. Objetivo. Evaluar el desarrollo de cuatro variedades de cacao (INIFAP 4, INIFAP 8, INIFAP 9 y Almendra Blanca) en las condiciones climatológicas de la región de Úrsulo Galván, Veracruz, México. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un experimento, entre invierno (diciembre 2021) y verano (junio 2022), bajo un diseño completamente al azar, distribuido en cuatro tratamientos y diez repeticiones. El manejo agronómico fue convencional, se agregaron 10 kg de composta por árbol, seguidos de 3 kg de vermicompost. A los cuatro meses del estudio se incorporaron 50 g de urea, 50 g de difosfato de amonio y 50 g de cloruro de potasio. El estudio incluyó análisis de varianza y pruebas de Tukey (α 0,05). Resultados. Se encontró igualdad estadística para altura, diámetro y número de ramas. La respuesta del cacao a temperatura, precipitación, humedad relativa y viento, demostró que afectaron la expresión de su potencial productivo, así como su morfología y rendimiento, no adaptándose a las condiciones climáticas en estudio. Conclusión. El desarrollo de las variedades en estudio fue homogéneo, con base en las condiciones climatológicas de la región Úrsulo Galván, destacándose la variedad Almendra Blanca.

Abstract In view of enhanced Pc applications, doped materials have drawn much attention. The present work focused on synthesizing pure and Pd doped WO3 Np, which were used as Pc for MB and RhB aqueous solutions discoloration, under VL, by a unique MWI technique. XRD and TEM studies revealed that Pd dopant did not influence WO3 samples structure and morphology, since they had mono-dispersed spherical forms, with an average diameter of about 50-30 nm. Optical spectra showed a red shift in the absorption edges, with an increase in Ct of Pd from 0 to 10 wt%, which indicates the decrease in Eg of WO3 with Pd doping. Eg was calculated as 3.02, 2.84 and 2.73 eV, for pure and Pd (5 and 10 wt%) doped WO3 samples, respectively. Pc intensity of Pd doped WO3 was significantly higher than that of the pure one. This was due to the recombination of photo-excited electrons and holes. Pc activities of pure and Pd doped WO3 samples were analyzed based on their ability to degrade MB and RhB dyes under VL. Pd doped WO3 showed better Pc degradation, due to an increase in SA, and a decrease in Eg and O vacancies.

Abstract: The unplanned and fragmented urban development of cities has caused them to be responsible for most of the planet's unsustainable development. Urban sustainability emerges as a response to this imbalance. Throughout its history, Guayaquil has shown unplanned urban growth that has continuously degraded its natural resources, such as forests and estuaries. The present research aims to evaluate the level of sustainability resulting from such change at the neighborhood level in Guayaquil. The study analyzes urban indicators of six representative neighbourhoods of the city regarding socioeconomic and historical factors. Thus, indicators were analyzed with respect to form, diversity, mobility, and environmental quality. The methodology includes an analysis for selecting variables, a study of the neighbourhoods' morphology using geo-portal map and information gathering through field studies and data processing. The results allow inferring the variables' influence on the sustainability level of each analyzed neighbourhood and how density, diversity and environmental quality play a vital role in developing greater sustainability at the neighbourhood and city levels.

Resumen: El desarrollo urbano no planificado y fragmentado de las ciudades ha ocasionado que estas sean responsables de la mayor parte del desarrollo no sustentable del planeta. La sostenibilidad urbana surge como medida de respuesta ante esta descompensación. La ciudad de Guayaquil presenta a lo largo de su historia un crecimiento urbano no planificado que continuamente ha degradado sus recursos naturales, como bosques y esteros. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar el nivel de sostenibilidad resultante de tal crecimiento a nivel barrial en Guayaquil. El estudio analiza indicadores urbanos de seis barrios representativos de la ciudad en cuanto a factores socioeconómicos e históricos. Se analizaron indicadores con respecto a la forma, diversidad, movilidad y calidad ambiental. La metodología utilizada recoge un análisis para la selección de variables, estudio de la morfología de los barrios realizada por medio de mapas de geo portales, relevamiento de información a través de estudio de campo y procesamiento de datos. Los resultados permiten inferir la influencia de las variables en el nivel de sostenibilidad de cada uno de los barrios analizados y como la densidad, la diversidad y calidad ambiental desempeñan un papel primordial en el desarrollo de una mayor sostenibilidad a nivel barrial y de ciudad.

ABSTRACT Drought is a significant abiotic constraint in Salvia miltiorrhiza production, particularly during seedling cultivation. Therefore, researching drought resistance is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the effects of drought stress on the agronomic and physiological characteristics of S. miltiorrhiza at the seedling stage, evaluate drought resistance of various germplasms, and identify drought resistance markers. To simulate drought stress, five different concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG) (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) were applied to four S. miltiorrhiza germplasms at the seedling stage. Agronomic traits, root morphology, and physiological and biochemical indicators were measured. The data were then analyzed using the membership function method, correlation analysis, and stepwise regression analysis. The results revealed that as the PEG concentration increased, the aboveground agronomic traits and underground root morphology of the four S. miltiorrhiza germplasms showed a decline. The activities of catalase and peroxidase initially increased and then decreased, while the contents of soluble sugar (SS), soluble protein, and proline increased compared to the control. Based on the membership function values of 16 morphological and physiological indicators, the drought resistance order of the four S. miltiorrhiza germplasms was as follows: Yudanshen VD > Yudanshen VA > Yudanshen VB > Yudanshen VC. Additionally, an optimal regression equation (D = 0.887X1 - 0.003X2 + 0.142X3) was developed through stepwise regression analysis, indicating that X1, X2, and X3 represent the maximum root length, root surface area, and SS content, respectively. Consequently, this study presents a comprehensive and reliable method for evaluating drought resistance in S. miltiorrhiza germplasm resources.

BACKGROUND. Although leprosy, a neglected tropical disease, has been eliminated (<1 case per 10 000 population) in South Africa (SA) since 1926, according to the World Health Organization, new cases continue to be reported. The management of leprosy poses several challenges, including patient adherence, education and insufficient training of healthcare practitioners. OBJECTIVES. To describe the biographical profile, clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes in patients with leprosy in KwaZulu-Natal Province. METHODS. This retrospective study aimed to analyse the clinical data of leprosy patients in SA from 2002 to 2022. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, cutaneous and neurological manifestations of leprosy, complications, treatment and adverse reactions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data. RESULTS. The study analysed the clinical data of 194 leprosy patients from 2002 to 2022. The majority of patients were male and middle aged, with a disproportionate representation of black South Africans. Regarding socioeconomic status, 80% were unemployed and 40% were social grant recipients. Most cases were clustered in urban centres and diagnosed at secondary care facilities, with 15% being HIV positive. The majority of patients (90%) were classified as having multibacillary leprosy. Common symptoms included upper respiratory tract involvement, hair loss and painful nerves, with the face and limbs being most frequently affected. Cutaneous morphology predominantly included plaques and hypopigmented patches, while neurological signs included ulnar nerve tenderness, muscle weakness and sensory deficits. Debilitating neurological complications were found in one-fifth of patients. Despite initiation of multidrug therapy in most patients, a significant proportion (27.3%) did not complete the full course of treatment, and treatment reactions were noted in 33.5% of patients. CONCLUSION. These findings emphasise the urgent need for enhanced patient and healthcare worker education, particularly in primary healthcare settings, to improve adherence to treatment, advocate for prophylactic measures and prevent new cases. Achieving leprosy-free status in SA requires the collaboration of many role-players to address these challenges and improve healthcare practices.

RESUMEN Con el objetivo de evaluar la morfología del polen en especies melíferas del bosque seco tropical del recinto Quimis, se seleccionaron cinco apiarios distribuidos en dicha formación vegetal, se recolectaron las cargas de polen obtenidas directamente de los apiarios y se registró la flora apícola de acuerdo al tiempo de floración. Los resultados revelaron 21 especies melíferas pertenecientes a 13 familias y 21 géneros, Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra y Prosopis pallida las especies más frecuentes y la familia más abundante fue la Fabaceae. En relación con las unidades de polen, el 0,95 % corresponde al tipo mónada y referente a la simetría, el 0,67 % se caracteriza por ser de tipo radiosimétrico, mientras que el 0,48 % presenta aberturas tricolporadas. Con respecto a la forma de la exina, el 0,43 % exhibe una forma psilada, y el 0,38 % mostró forma esferoidal. Los meses de mayor floración coincidieron con junio, julio y agosto, que corresponden a la temporada seca. La gran mayoría de las especies nectaríferas y poliníferas resultaron ser dominantes, con la excepción de Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai y Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, las cuales solo proporcionan polen y Cordia lutea y Cynophalla sclerophylla, que son productoras de néctar.

RESUMO Com o objetivo de avaliar a morfologia polínica de espécies melíferas na floresta tropical seca do Recinto dos Quimis, foram selecionados cinco apiários distribuídos nessa formação vegetal, coletadas cargas de pólen obtidas diretamente dos apiários e registrada a flora apícola de acordo com a época de floração. Os resultados revelaram 21 espécies melíferas pertencentes a 13 famílias e 21 gêneros, sendo que Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra e Prosopis pallida foram as espécies mais frequentes e a família mais abundante foi Fabaceae. Em relação às unidades polínicas, 0,95% corresponde ao tipo mônada e, com relação à simetria, 0,67% é caracterizado pelo tipo radiossimétrico, enquanto 0,48% tem aberturas tricolporadas. Com relação à forma da exina, 0,43% exibiu uma forma psilada e 0,38% uma forma esferoidal. Os meses de pico de floração coincidiram com junho, julho e agosto, que correspondem à estação seca. A grande maioria das espécies produtoras de néctar e poliníferas foi considerada dominante, com exceção de Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai e Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, que fornecem apenas pólen, e Cordia lutea e Cynophalla sclerophylla, que são produtoras de néctar.

ABSTRACT With the objective of evaluating the morphology of pollen in honey species from the tropical dry forest of the Quimis enclosure, five apiaries distributed in said plant formation were selected, the pollen loads obtained directly from the apiaries were collected and the bee flora was recorded according to the flowering time. The results revealed 21 honey species belonging to 13 families and 21 genera, being Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra and Prosopis pallida the most common species and the most abundant family was Fabaceae. In relation to the pollen units, 0.95% corresponds to the monad type and referring to symmetry, 0.67% is characterized by being of the radiosymmetric type, while 0.48% has tricolporate openings. Regarding the shape of the exine, 0.43% exhibited a psyllate shape, and 0.38% showed a spheroidal shape. The months of greatest flowering coincided with June, July and August, which correspond to the dry season. The vast majority of nectariferous and polliniferous species were dominant, with the exception of Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai and Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, which only provide pollen and Cordia lutea and Cynophalla sclerophylla, which are nectar producers.

Abstract To assess the effect of different whitening toothpastes on enamel surface morphology, chemical profile and their whitening efficiency. Sixty teeth were divided into 5 groups (12 teeth/group); Gp I: brushed with no toothpaste. Gp II: brushed with Pearl-based toothpaste. Gp III: brushed with Charcoal- based toothpaste. Gp IV: brushed with Alumina-based toothpaste. Gp V: brushed with salt and lemon- based toothpaste. Each tooth was brushed with a bean sized toothpaste wetted with distilled water twice daily by using standard electronic toothbrush for four weeks. Enamel surface morphology, chemical profile and color of each tooth were investigated. Chemical profile results and color measurements were analyzed statistically. Gp I revealed normal enamel surface morphology and chemical profile. Gp II and Gp III demonstrated surface morphology close to Gp I with insignificant reduction in mineral content. Gp IV showed obvious shallowing of perikymata ridges, exposure of fish-scale appearance, with pits and depressions, alongside to the significant reduction in mineral content. Gp V presented the most enamel surface alteration with widening of prism sheath and depressions all over the surface, besides the highest significant reduction in mineral content. Gp V, followed by Gp IV, demonstrated the highest color and whiteness changes, followed by Gp III, then Gp II, while the lowest value was in Gp I. Salt & lemon-based toothpaste, followed by Alumina-based, exerted the most considerable changes in the morphology and chemical profile of the enamel surface, beside to the higher whitening effects on teeth than the others.

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto de diferentes pastas dentales blanqueadoras sobre la morfología y el perfil químico de la superficie del esmalte y su eficacia blanqueadora. Sesenta dientes se dividieron en 5 grupos (12 dientes/grupo); Grupo I: cepillado sin pasta de dientes. Grupo II: cepillado con pasta de dientes a base de perlas. Grupo III: cepillado con pasta de dientes a base de carbón. Grupo IV: cepillado con pasta de dientes a base de Alúmina. Grupo V: cepillado con sal y pasta de dientes a base de limón. Cada diente se cepilló con una pasta de dientes del tamaño de un frijol humedecida con agua destilada dos veces al día utilizando un cepillo de dientes electrónico estándar durante cuatro semanas. Se investigaron la morfología de la superficie del esmalte, el perfil químico y el color de cada diente. Los resultados del perfil químico y las mediciones de color se analizaron estadísticamente. El Grupo I reveló una morfología de la superficie del esmalte y un perfil químico normales. Los Grupos II y III demostraron una morfología de superficie cercana a la del Grupo I con una reducción insignificante en el contenido mineral. El grupo IV mostró una evidente reducción de las crestas perikymatas, exposición de apariencia de escamas de pez, con hoyos y depresiones, junto con una reducción significativa en el contenido mineral. El grupo V presentó la mayor alteración de la superficie del esmalte con ensanchamiento de la vaina del prisma y depresiones en toda la superficie, además de una significativa reducción en el contenido mineral. El grupo V, seguido del grupo IV, demostró los mayores cambios de color y blancura, seguido del grupo III, luego el grupo II, mientras que el valor más bajo se presentó en el grupo I. Las pastas dentales a base de sal y limón, seguidas de las de alúmina, ejercieron los cambios más considerables en la morfología y el perfil químico de la superficie del esmalte, además de tener mayores efectos blanqueadores sobre los dientes que las demás.

Wetland delineation in South Africa incorporates soil form and soil wetness indicators, requiring formal soil classification and description of soil redox morphology. The current wetland definition used administratively in South Africa focuses on saturated (hydric) soil signatures within plant root zones. Saturated soil horizons deeper than plant root zones fall outside the 50 cm criterion in the local approach as well as the accepted zone in USA literature. The field of hydropedology accommodates the classification of the various hydrologically active horizons and provides a tool for the handling of horizons with ephemeral wetness. This approach has been variably accepted by mandated authorities in South Africa. The South African soil classification system has evolved through three editions over the past 50 years while retaining the same redox morphology understanding. However, despite the concepts and context of redox morphology having been thoroughly technically adopted by soil scientists, this is not the case within the wetland research and management environment. This especially because the classification system is structured differently from other international systems, and the South African landscape is geologically ancient with mature soils, introducing challenges to resource assessment specialists who rely on international norms and approaches for wetland assessment. This paper reviews the various components of soil classification and redox morphology based on Fe and Mn minerals within the context of the South African soil classification system, the field of hydropedology and wetland delineation indicators. We provide a qualitative correlation between the various diagnostic horizons and materials in the system and their related redox morphology contexts that are relevant to wetland assessment, delineation, and protection in South Africa. This paper therefore aims to serve as a reference point for the description and correlation of various soil hydrological parameters used in formal assessments.

Abstract Background: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto is widely distributed in America, extending from the southern United States to Mexico and Centroamerica. In Mexico, its distribution encompasses 27 states, with contrasting habitats. However, whether this distribution pattern corresponds to a wide morphological variation has not been studied. Research question and/or Hypothesis: Is it possible to distinguish populations of Allium glandulosum along its Mexican distribution based on the morphological variations observed in its flowers and vegetative components? Species under study: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto. Study site and dates: Populations of Allium glandulosum distributed across the Volcanic Axis and the Mexican Plateau, during 2020. Methods: Morphological traits, both qualitative and quantitative, were identified and measured from herbarium specimens and field-collected samples. Univariate and multivariate statistical methods were employed to characterize and summarize the variability observed in the field-collected specimens and herbarium materials. Results: The principal component analysis revealed that 14 traits accounted for 51.29 % of the total accumulated variation cross the first three components. The linear discriminant analysis resulted in the formation of four groups, with a classification rate of 71.53 % for individuals. The cluster analysis identified four distinct groupings characterized by both quantitative and qualitative traits. Conclusions: Variations in vegetative and floral morphology in Allium glandulosum allow for population differentiation across its Mexican distribution.

Resumen Antecedentes: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto se distribuye ampliamente desde el sur de Estados Unidos, México y Centroamérica. En México se distribuye en 27 estados, en ambientes contrastantes. Sin embargo, no se ha estudiado si su patrón de distribución se refleja en una amplia variación morfológica. Pregunta y/o Hipótesis: ¿La variación morfológica vegetativa y floral en Allium glandulosum a lo largo de su distribución en México permite diferenciar entre poblaciones de esta especie? Especie de estudio: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto. Sitio y fechas de estudio: Poblaciones de Allium glandulosum con distribución en el Eje Volcánico Transmexicano y la Altiplanicie Mexicana, durante el 2020. Métodos: Se determinaron y midieron caracteres morfológicos cualitativos y cuantitativos de ejemplares herborizados y de especímenes recolectados en campo. Se emplearon métodos estadísticos univariados y multivariados para describir y sintetizar la variabilidad de las recolectas de campo y materiales herborizados. Resultados: El análisis de componentes principales mostró que 14 caracteres representan el 51.29 % de la variación total acumulada en los primeros tres componentes. El análisis discriminante lineal resulto en la formación de cuatro grupos y el porcentaje de clasificación de los individuos fue de 71.53 %. El análisis de conglomerados mostró cuatro agrupaciones, diferenciados por caracteres cuantitativos y cualitativos. Conclusiones: La variación morfológica vegetativa y floral de Allium glandulosum permite diferenciar entre las poblaciones de la especie a lo largo de su distribución en México.

The complexity of root canal morphology can influence cleaning and shaping of the root canal system and, ultimately, treatment outcomes. Undiscovered root canal morphology can greatly reduce the prognosis of endodontic treatment due to the preservation of offending organisms and their byproducts. The maxillary first molar has been identified as one of the most challenging teeth to treat endodontically due to its complex internal anatomy, the presence of additional and accessory canals and intricate root canal configurations. This paper is the second of two that provide a micro-computed tomography (micro-CT)-focused overview of available literature on various aspects of the root and canal morphology of the maxillary first permanent molar. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of relevant aspects of the internal root morphology in different populations. The content is supported by illustrative micro-CT images and clinical cases or images.

ABSTRACT: Endodontic treatment requires detailed knowledge of root morphology. In maxillary premolars, variability in root number and root canal system (RCS) morphology has been reported. The most frequent cause of endodontic failure is non treated canals. Therefore, a better understanding of RCS morphology and its variations is crucial for endodontic treatment. The aim of this research was to describe the frequency of root number and SCR morphology in maxillary premolars, by means of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) examinations in a Chilean population. A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was carried out in which the morphology of the root canal system of maxillary first and second premolars was observed through CBCT examinations, grouping them according to the Vertucci Classification. A total of 228 CBCT examinations were observed, which included 268 upper first premolars and 233 maxillary second premolars. It was determined that in maxillary first premolars 56.3 % presented one root, 43.3 %, being more frequent a SCR type IV morphology. In maxillary second premolars, the presence of one root was determined in 95.7 % of the cases, being more frequent a SCR type I morphology. These results may be of interest to endodontists, since knowing the morphology of the RCS of maxillary premolars allows improving the planning of endodontic therapy performed on these teeth.

RESUMEN: El tratamiento endodóntico requiere detallados conocimientos sobre la morfología radicular. En premolares maxilares, se ha reportado variabilidad en el número de raíces y morfología del sistema de canales radiculares (SCR). La causa más frecuente de fracaso endodóntico son los conductos no tratados. Por lo tanto, una mejor compresión de la morfología del SCR y sus variaciones es crucial para el tratamiento endodóntico. El objetivo de esta investigación fue describir la frecuencia del número de raíces y morfología del SCR en premolares maxilares, mediante exámenes de tomografía computarizada Cone Beam (CBCT) en una población chilena. Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal donde se observó la morfología del sistema de canales radiculares de primeros y segundos premolares maxilares a través de exámenes CBCT, agrupándolos de acuerdo con la Clasificación de Vertucci. Se observaron 228 exámenes CBCT, donde se incluyeron 268 primeros premolares superiores y 233 segundos premolares maxilares. Se determinó que en primeros premolares maxilares un 56,3 % presentó una raíz, un 43,3 %, siendo más frecuente una morfología del SCR tipo IV. En los segundos premolares maxilares, se determinó la presencia de una raíz en el 95,7 % de los casos, siendo más frecuente una morfología del SCR tipo I. Estos resultados pueden ser de interés para endodoncistas, ya que conocer la morfología del SCR de premolares maxilares permite mejorar la planificación de la terapia endodóntica realizada en estos dientes.

Abstract Increasing availability to assisted reproduction (AR) treatments in Argentina and advances in cryobiology resulted in changes in andrology laboratories. The aim of this study was to evaluate the demand and evolution of seminal variables in the last two decades, characterise the current andrology laboratory, evaluate the impact of the incorporation of quality assurance and the introduction of computer assisted semen analysis (CASA). Data were taken from internal quality control (IQC) monthly means (n=22 528) and professionals in charge of laboratories (n=65) and fertility physicians’ (n=33) surveys. Overall demand decreased significantly while first-time orders increased. Sperm volume and sperm count –androgen dependent parameters– decreased over the years. Strict morphology criteria reduced the percentage of normal results; half of the physicians received results between 0 and 10% and 40% considered that it compromised the clinical value of the variable. The CASA system made it possible to objectify sperm kinetic, increasing the percentage of fast progressives, but few laboratories have incorporated it. Sixty-six percent of physicians resolve severe andrological factor by clinical treatments and 95% use AR techniques in those cases. Semen analysis is mainly performed by specialised biochemists, with low adherence to laboratory automatisation and accreditation, but with participation in external quality assessment programmes. The demand decreased because of the increase in AR treatment. The lower percentage of normal forms compromises their clinical utility.

Resumen La mayor accesibilidad a los tratamientos de reproducción asistida (RA) y los avances de la criobiología produjeron cambios en los laboratorios de andrología. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la demanda y evolución de las variables seminales en las últimas dos décadas, caracterizar el laboratorio andrológico actual, evaluar el impacto de la incorporación del aseguramiento de la calidad y la inclusión de los sistemas computarizados (CASA). Se utilizaron datos de las medias mensuales del control de calidad interno (n=22 528) y encuestas a profesionales de laboratorios andrológicos (n=65) y a médicos especialistas en fertilidad (n=33). La demanda global se redujo significativamente con el aumento de las solicitudes de primera vez. El volumen y recuento, variables dependientes de andrógenos, disminuyeron con los años. El criterio estricto en morfología disminuyó el porcentaje de normales; la mitad de los médicos encuestados recibieron resultados entre 0 y 10% y el 40% consideró que ponía en riesgo el valor clínico de la variable. El sistema CASA permitió objetivar la cinética espermática e incrementar el porcentaje de progresivos rápidos, pero pocos laboratorios lo incorporaron. El 66% de los médicos resuelven el factor andrológico severo por tratamientos clínicos y el 95% utiliza técnicas de RA. El análisis de semen es ejecutado fundamentalmente por bioquímicos especializados, con baja adhesión a la automatización y acreditación del laboratorio, pero con participación en programas de evaluación externa de calidad. La demanda disminuyó como consecuencia del aumento del tratamiento por RA. La reducción del porcentaje de formas normales compromete su utilidad clínica.

Resumo O aumento do acesso aos tratamentos de reprodução assistida (RA) e os avanços na criobiologia levaram a mudanças nos laboratórios de andrologia. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a demanda e a evolução das variáveis de sêmen nas últimas duas décadas, caracterizar o laboratório de andrologia atual, avaliar o impacto da incorporação da garantia da qualidade e a inclusão dos sistemas computadorizados (CASA). Foram utilizados dados das médias mensais do controle de qualidade interno (n= 22 528) e pesquisas a profissionais de laboratórios andrológicos e a médicos especialistas em fertilidade (n=33). A demanda geral diminuiu significativamente com o aumento das solicitações de primeira vez. O volume e a contagem de esperma, parâmetros dependentes de andrógenos, diminuíram ao longo dos anos. O critério morfológico rigoroso diminuiu a porcentagem de normais; metade dos médicos entrevistados recebeu resultados entre 0 e 10% e 40% considerou que isso comprometía o valor clínico do parâmetro. O sistema CASA, permitiu objetivar a cinética espermática e aumentar o percentual de progressões rápidas, mas poucos laboratórios o incorporaram. 66% dos médicos resolvem o fator andrológico grave por tratamentos clínicos e 95% utilizam técnicas de RA nesses casos. A análise do sêmen é realizada principalmente por bioquímicos especializados, com baixa aderência à automação e acreditação laboratorial, mas com participação em programas de avalação externa de qualidade. A demanda diminuiu como consequência do aumento do tratamento por RA. A diminuição em percentagem de formas normais compromete sua utilidade clínica.

Abstract Objective: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Diagnosis is based on the Mc-Donalds criteria, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies, and the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) which assesses disease progression. These criteria do not include the recently described cortical lesions. The aim of the study was to describe the most frequent location and morphology of cortical lesions in patients with MS in Puebla, Mexico. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted on patients with MS at a tertiary care hospital. Patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting, secondary-progressive, and progressive-relapsing MS variants with cranial magnetic resonance imaging were included in the study. Age, sex, MS variant, EDSS score, cognitive impairment, annual relapse rate, morphology, location, and number of cortical lesions were evaluated. Descriptive statistics were used. To compare features between groups, the χ2 test was used, and for correlations, the Spearman's Correlation Coefficient was used. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Twenty-five patients met the selection criteria. The most frequent location of cortical lesions was the parietal region 84%, and the second was the temporal region 16%. The most common morphology was juxtacortical at 64% and mixed at 36%. The most frequent variant of MS was relapsing-remitting, present in 92%, and 8% had the secondary progressive variant. In the EDSS scale, the scores most frequently observed were 0.0 and 3.5. Conclusions: The most frequent location of cortical lesions was in the parietal region, and the most common morphology was juxtacortical.

Resumen Objetivo: La esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad desmielinizante inflamatoria crónica del sistema nervioso central. El diagnóstico se basa en los criterios de Mc-Donalds, los estudios de Resonancia Magnética y la Escala Expandida del Estado de Discapacidad (EDSS) que evalúa la progresión de la enfermedad. Estos criterios no incluyen las lesiones corticales descritas recientemente. Describir la localización y morfología más frecuente de lesiones corticales en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple en Puebla, México. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, transversal y analítico en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple en un hospital de tercer nivel de atención. Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de Esclerosis Múltiple con variantes Remitente-Recurrente, Secundaria-Progresiva y Progresiva-Recurrente con resonancia magnética de cráneo. Se evaluó edad, sexo, variante de esclerosis múltiple, puntaje de EDSS, deterioro cognitivo, tasa de recaída anual, morfología, ubicación y numero de lesiones corticales. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. Para comparar características entre grupos se utilizó χ2, para correlaciones se utilizó Coeficiente de Correlación de Spearman. Una p ≤ 0.05 se consideró significativa. Resultados: 25 pacientes cumplieron con criterios de selección. La localización más frecuente de lesiones corticales fue la región parietal 84% y la segunda temporal 16%. La morfología más frecuente fue la yuxtacortical en un 64%, y la mixta en 36%. La variante más frecuente de esclerosis múltiple fue Remitente-Recurrente presente en 92%, y 8% la variante Secundaria Progresiva. En la escala de EDDS la puntuación con mayor frecuencia fue 0.0 y 3.5. Conclusiones: La localización más frecuente de las lesiones corticales fue en región parietal y la morfología más frecuente la yuxtacortical.