Pictograms are more effective than verbal descriptors in Spanish for bloating and distension.

Background: There is no translation for bloating in Spanish, and distension is very technical.

Aims: To evaluate pictograms for assessing bloating/distension in patients with general gastroenterology (Study 1, n = 88) and in those with irritable bowel syndrome [IBS] (Study 2: n = 144), and to correlate them with verbal descriptors (VDs) and physician's diagnosis (PDx).

Methods: Patients answered the Rome III Questionnaire with VDs and pictograms, and were consulted by two gastroenterology fellows (PDx).

Usefulness of speckle myocardial imaging modalities for differential diagnosis of left ventricular non-compaction of the myocardium.

Background/objectives: Current diagnostic criteria for left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) may result in over-diagnosis of the disease. We evaluate the role of speckle imaging in differential diagnosis of LVNC.

Methods And Results: We included all patients who, between January 2012 and May 2015, fulfilled currently accepted criteria for LVNC (28 patients).

Parathormone Levels Are Independently Associated with the Presence of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease.

Background: Abnormalities of mineral metabolism and inflammation may affect the cardiovascular system. We have assessed the relationship of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with inflammation and mineral metabolism.

Methods: LVH was measured in 146 outpatients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) using echocardiography.

Mosquitoes of Guam and the Northern Marianas: distribution, checklists, and notes on mosquito-borne pathogens.

This report includes the distribution records and updated checklists of the mosquitoes known to occur in Guam and nearby selected islands (ie, Saipan, Tinian, Rota), based on our field collections from various localities during 2010, published reports, and accessioned specimens deposited in the US National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC. The status of common and potential mosquito vectors and their borne-pathogens are also noted.

Multicystic/cavitated giant left atrial myxomas: a matter of technology?

We present the case of a rare echocardiographic image of a giant cavitated myxoma and the pathologic findings of the cystic mass. The new echocardiographic equipment not only has improved the sensitivity for diagnosis of different pathologies but also has redefined its visual and morphologic characteristics. Although most myxomas are solid masses and some cystic myxomas have been reported, the presence of multiple cavities on echocardiographic exam has exceptionally been described.