Study of the fingerprints of a Spanish sample for the determination of the hand and finger.

The individuality and permanence of fingerprints make of them a very useful feature in the identification of individuals. There are now automated computer programmes that allow a quick comparison between a fingermark and a database. However, in order to assess the strength of evidence in fingerprint identification, complementary information on the frequencies of the different morphological features of the dermopapillary ridges is required.

Systemic inflammation and sympathetic activation in gestational diabetes mellitus with obstructive sleep apnea.

Background: Although some evidence suggests an association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), its consequences still remain largely unknown. We sought to determine whether OSA is associated with higher inflammation and sympathetic levels in GDM, and to relate them with insulin resistance and perinatal outcomes.

Methods: OSA was identified by polysomnography and defined as an apnea-hypopnea index of ≥ 5 h.

A 51-Year-Old Woman With Hypoacusia and Increased Respiratory Effort in the Supine Position and OSA.

A 51-year-old woman with a personal history of vitiligo, normal thyroid hormone studies, a simple hysterectomy for multiple uterine myomas at age 35 years, and childhood adenotonsillectomy was seen for progressive hearing loss. She reported mild asthenia, cold intolerance, mild dysphagia with frequent choking while eating and drinking, and a progressive increase in inspiratory effort, especially in the supine position. Her partner described a progressively worsening history of snoring and witnessed apneic episodes, mostly in the supine position.

A Bayesian cost-effectiveness analysis of a telemedicine-based strategy for the management of sleep apnoea: a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

Background: Compliance with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is essential in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), but adequate control is not always possible. This is clinically important because CPAP can reverse the morbidity and mortality associated with OSA. Telemedicine, with support provided via a web platform and video conferences, could represent a cost-effective alternative to standard care management.

Obstructive sleep apnea and systemic hypertension: longitudinal study in the general population: the Vitoria Sleep Cohort.

Rationale: Obstructive sleep apnea and systemic hypertension (SH) are highly prevalent. Although their association has been suggested in cross-sectional studies, conflicting evidence has emerged from longitudinal studies.

Objectives: To assess the association between obstructive sleep apnea and SH in the middle-aged general population.