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In this paper, the authors generalize the fractional curvature of plane curves introduced by Rubio et al. in 2023, to regular curves in the Euclidean space R3, and study the geometric properties of the curve using Caputo’s fractional derivative. Furthermore, we introduce a new definition of fractional curvature and fractional mean curvature of a regular surface, using fractional principal curvatures; and prove that such concepts are invariant under isometries; i.e., they belong to the intrinsic geometry of the regular surface. Also, a geometric interpretation is given to Caputo’s fractional derivative of algebraic polynomials.

In the present work it is indicated that the entropy of the information is the most appropriate tool to analyze the behavior of the flow of prices in the financial market. For this, the following points are mentioned: general concepts of chaos theory applied to the financial market, concept of dynamic systems applied to the flow of prices, time series of prices and the entropy of information applied to the flow of prices in the financial market.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213013.].

En este artículo presentamos una estimativa del error a posterior de mallas construidas por elementos finitos en la parte espacial, y elemento finito discontinuo en el tiempo, para la ecuación de transporte del CO2 en los sacos alveolares del pulmón humano, usando el método residual ponderado dual(DWR).

Big biomedical data create exciting opportunities for discovery, but make it difficult to capture analyses and outputs in forms that are findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR). In response, we describe tools that make it easy to capture, and assign identifiers to, data and code throughout the data lifecycle. We illustrate the use of these tools via a case study involving a multi-step analysis that creates an atlas of putative transcription factor binding sites from terabytes of ENCODE DNase I hypersensitive sites sequencing data. We show how the tools automate routine but complex tasks, capture analysis algorithms in understandable and reusable forms, and harness fast networks and powerful cloud computers to process data rapidly, all without sacrificing usability or reproducibility-thus ensuring that big data are not hard-to-(re)use data. We evaluate our approach via a user study, and show that 91% of participants were able to replicate a complex analysis involving considerable data volumes.

Hematopoietic stem cell differentiation involves the silencing of self-renewal genes and induction of a specific transcriptional program. Identification of multiple covalent cytosine modifications raises the question of how these derivatized bases influence stem cell commitment. Using a replicative primary human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell differentiation system, we demonstrate dynamic changes of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) during stem cell commitment and differentiation to the erythroid lineage. Genomic loci that maintain or gain 5-hmC density throughout erythroid differentiation contain binding sites for erythroid transcription factors and several factors not previously recognized as erythroid-specific factors. The functional importance of 5-hmC was demonstrated by impaired erythroid differentiation, with augmentation of myeloid potential, and disrupted 5-hmC patterning in leukemia patient-derived CD34+ stem/early progenitor cells with TET methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2) mutations. Thus, chemical conjugation and affinity purification of 5-hmC-enriched sequences followed by sequencing serve as resources for deciphering functional implications for gene expression during stem cell commitment and differentiation along a particular lineage.

The pathogenesis of the renal lesion upon envenomation by snakebite has been related to myolysis, hemolysis, hypotension and/or direct venom nephrotoxicity caused by the venom. Both primary and continuous cell culture systems provide an in vitro alternative for quantitative evaluation of the toxicity of snake venoms. Crude Crotalus vegrandis venom was fractionated by molecular exclusion chromatography. The toxicity of C. vegrandis crude venom, hemorrhagic, and neurotoxic fractions were evaluated on mouse primary renal cells and a continuous cell line of Vero cells maintained in vitro. Cells were isolated from murine renal cortex and were grown in 96 well plates with Dulbecco's Modified Essential Medium (DMEM) and challenged with crude and venom fractions. The murine renal cortex cells exhibited epithelial morphology and the majority showed smooth muscle actin determined by immune-staining. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by the tetrazolium colorimetric method. Cell viability was less for crude venom, followed by the hemorrhagic and neurotoxic fractions with a CT50 of 4.93, 18.41 and 50.22 µg/mL, respectively. The Vero cell cultures seemed to be more sensitive with a CT50 of 2.9 and 1.4 µg/mL for crude venom and the hemorrhagic peak, respectively. The results of this study show the potential of using cell culture system to evaluate venom toxicity.La patogénesis de la lesion renal ha sido relacionada a la miolisis, hemólisis, hipotensión y/o el efecto directo del veneno. Tanto el cultivo primario o el cultivo celular continuo proveen una alternativa in vitro para la evaluación cuantitativa de la toxicidad de venenos de serpiente. El veneno crudo de Crotalus vegrandis fue fraccionado por una cromatografía de exclusión molecular. La toxicidad del veneno crudo de C. vegrandis, sus fracciones hemorrágicas y neurotóxicas fueron evaluadas en células renales primarias de ratón y una línea continua de células Vero mantenidas in vitro. Las células fueron aisladas de la corteza renal murina y se cultivaron en placas de 96 pozos con medio Dulbecco (DMEM). Allí fueron tratadas con el veneno crudo y sus fracciones. Las células de la corteza renal murina tuvieron una morfología de células epiteliales y la mayoría se tiñeron con un anticuerpo anti-músculo actina. La citotoxicidad fue evaluada por el método colorimétrico del tetrazolium. La viabilidad de las células fue menor en las células tratadas con el veneno crudo, seguida por la fracción hemorrágica y neurotóxica, con un CT50 de 4.93, 18.41 y 50.22 µg/mL, respectivamente. Los cultivos de células Vero parecieron ser más sensibles con un CT50 de 2.9 y 1.4 µg/mL para el veneno crudo y el pico hemorrágico, respectivamente. Los resultados de este estudio muestran la potencialidad de usar sistemas de cultivo celular para evaluar la toxicidad de los venenos.

This is a case report of a "non-venomous" snake bite in a herpetologist observed at the Sciences Faculty of the Universidad de los Andes (Mérida, Venezuela). The patient was bitten on the middle finger of the left hand, and shows signs of pronounced local manifestations of envenomation such as bleeding from the tooth imprint, swelling and warmth. He was treated with local care, analgesics, and steroids. He was dismissed from the hospital and observed at home during five days with marked improvement of envenomation. The snake was brought to the medical consult and identified as a Thamnodynastes cf. pallidus specimen. This report represents the first T. pallidus accident described in a human.Se reporta un caso de una mordedura de serpiente "no venenosa", en un herpetólogo observado en la Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad de los Andes (Mérida, Venezuela). El paciente fue mordido en el dedo medio de la mano izquierda, mostrando pronunciados signos locales de sangramiento por la impronta ocasionada por los dientes de la serpiente, edema y calor local. El paciente fue tratado con cuidados locales, analgésicos y esteroides. Fue dado de alta del hospital y observado en el hogar durante 5 días, con marcada mejoría del envenenamiento. La serpiente fue traída a la consulta médica e identificada como un espécimen de Thamnodynastes cf. pallidus. Este es el primer caso humano descrito, ocasionado por un T. pallidus.

Al analizar el contexto macroeconómico que enmarca la transición española y la década de 1980, hemos estudiado los pactos a los que se llegó en la negociación colectiva y relacionado estos con el indicador de la densidad sindical. Aquí se observa que entre 1977 y 1988 existe una política económica acordada por los actores económicos de la concertación: guiada por el Estado, con el beneplácito de los sindicatos, y con beneficios patronales. Ello tiene consecuencias en las condiciones laborales de los trabajadores si se toma por referencia básica los salarios, pues pierden poder adquisitivo. Además, ello viene acompañado de contrapartidas legales y/o financieras para las confederaciones obreras y de una bajada en la densidad sindical. Los datos indican la influencia del comportamiento sindical en las condiciones laborales y la densidad sindical.

The first case of centipede (Scolopendra gigantea Linneaus 1758) envenomation in a newborn is reported. When first examined, approximately 6 hours after the bite, the 28-day-old girl was irritable, with uncontrollable cry and intense local pain, oedema, local hyperthermia, and blood clots at punctures. Uncontrollable crying in neonates should rise the possibility of an insect or arachnid sting.

La inteligencia artificial (IA) generativa tiene la capacidad de realizar invenciones que podrían estar protegidas por los derechos de autor. Sin embargo, actualmente existe una considerable resistencia a permitir que estas producciones sean amparadas por ellos, dado que no provienen del espíritu humano, un criterio considerado esencial para que puedan incluirse en este grupo. Aunque esta tendencia es predominante, existen algunas posiciones interesantes que la cuestionan. De todas maneras, varios actores intervienen en la creación, por lo tanto, es importante reconocer la aportación e intención de cada uno.

La justicia penal militar constituye una forma especializada de justicia encargada de juzgar a militares y policías que han violado la legislación penal. Según la Constitución Política, la justicia penal militar ejerce funciones judiciales al igual que otros tribunales y juzgados. Sin embargo, es importante destacar que esta jurisdicción militar no forma parte de la rama judicial del poder público, sino que está integrada en el poder ejecutivo. Esta ubicación fuera del poder judicial genera numerosos interrogantes, pero hay razones específicas que justifican su existencia dentro de dicho ámbito.

The increasing demand for mineral resources has generated mine tailings with heavy metals (HM) that negatively impact human and ecosystem health. Therefore, it is necessary to implement strategies that promote the immobilization or elimination of HM, like phytoremediation. However, the toxic effect of metals may affect plant establishment, growth, and fitness, reducing phytoremediation efficiency. Therefore, adding organic amendments to mine tailings, such as biochar, can favor the establishment of plants, reducing the bioavailability of HM and its subsequent incorporation into the food chain. Here, we evaluated HM bioaccumulation, biomass, morphological characters, chlorophyll content, and genotoxic damage in the herbaceous Crotalaria pumila to assess its potential for phytostabilization of HM in mine tailings. The study was carried out for 100 days on plants developed under greenhouse conditions under two treatments (tailing substrate and 75% tailing/25% coconut fiber biochar substrate); every 25 days, 12 plants were selected per treatment. C. pumila registered the following bioaccumulation patterns: Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd in root and in leaf tissues. Furthermore, the results showed that individuals that grew on mine tailing substrate bioaccumulated many times more metals (Zn: 2.1, Cu: 1.8, Cd: 5.0, Pb: 3.0) and showed higher genetic damage levels (1.5 times higher) compared to individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar. In contrast, individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar documented higher chlorophyll a and b content (1.1 times more, for both), as well as higher biomass (1.5 times more). Therefore, adding coconut fiber biochar to mine tailing has a positive effect on the establishment and development of C. pumila individuals with the potential to phytoextract and phytostabilize HM from polluted soils. Our results suggest that the binomial hyperaccumulator plant in combination with this particular biochar is an excellent system to phytostabilize soils contaminated with HM.

Phytoremediation is a useful, low-cost, and environmentally friendly alternative for the rehabilitation of heavy-metal-contaminated (HM) soils. This technology takes advantage of the ability of certain plant species to accumulate HMs in their tissues. Crotalaria pumila is a herbaceous plant with a wide geographical distribution that grows naturally in environments polluted with HMs. In this work, the bioaccumulation capacity of roots and leaves in relation to five HMs (Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn) was evaluated, as well as the morphological changes presented in C. pumila growing in control substrate (without HMs) and mine-tailing substrate (with HMs) under greenhouse conditions for 150 days. Four metals with the following concentration pattern were detected in both tissues and substrates: Fe > Pb > Cu > Zn. Fe, Pb, and Zn concentrations were significantly higher in the roots and leaves of individuals growing on mine-tailing substrate compared to the control substrate. In contrast, Cu concentration increased over time in the exposed individuals. The bioconcentration factor showed a similar pattern in root and leaf: Cu > Fe > Pb > Zn. Around 87.5% of the morphological characters evaluated in this species decreased significantly in individuals exposed to HMs. The bioconcentration factor shows that C. pumila is efficient at absorbing Cu, Fe, and Pb from the mine-tailing substrate, in the root and leaf tissue, and the translocation factor shows its efficiency in translocating Cu from the roots to the leaves. Therefore, C. pumila may be considered as a HM accumulator plant with potential for phytoremediation of polluted soils with Cu, Pb, and Fe, along with the ability to establish itself naturally in contaminated environments, without affecting its germination rates. Also, it exhibits wide geographical distribution, it has a short life cycle, exhibits rapid growth, and can retain the mine-tailing substrate, extracting HMs in a short time.

Reducing high concentrations of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, drugs, and dyes from water is an emerging necessity. We evaluated the use of Luffa cylindrica (Lc) as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to remove azo dye mixture (ADM) from water. The capacity of Lc at three different doses (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 g/L) was evaluated using three concentrations of azo dyes (0.125, 0.250, and 0.500 g/L). The removal percent (R%), maximum adsorption capacity (Qm), isotherm and kinetics adsorption models, and pH influence were evaluated, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed. The maximum R% was 70.8% for 10.0 g L−1 Lc and 0.125 g L−1 ADM. The Qm of Lc was 161.29 mg g−1. Adsorption by Lc obeys a Langmuir isotherm and occurs through the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Statistical analysis showed that the adsorbent dose, the azo dye concentration, and contact time significantly influenced R% and the adsorption capacity. These findings indicate that Lc could be used as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to reduce ADM in water, and it has a potential application in the pretreatment of wastewaters.

La doctrina kelseniana fue la encargada de traer al mundo jurídico los tribunales constitucionales como órganos que no integraban ninguno de los poderes públicos, evento novedoso y extraño para la estructura del Estado; por lo tanto, los tribunales quedaron alejados de la influencia de los poderes y desde allí protegieron a la constitución. La creación de la Corte Constitucional en Colombia representó el compromiso del constituyente para que existiera un órgano que tuviera a su cargo amparar la constitución. A pesar de que la doctrina kelseniana influenció el ordenamiento colombiano, la Corte Constitucional terminó integrada al poder judicial debido a razones históricas, prácticas y polémicas.

Introducción: Los individuos con hiperreación cardiovascular poseen un riesgo cinco veces superior de padecer hipertensión. En el contexto cubano no están descritos los cambios en la actividad eléctrica ventricular del electrocardiograma, durante la prueba isométrica del peso sostenido, y no se conoce si estos pueden estar influenciados por el grado de reactividad cardiovascular.Objetivo: Describir los parámetros de la actividad eléctrica ventricular en condiciones basales y durante el ejercicio isométrico, en adultos jóvenes de ambos sexos con diferente grado de reactividad cardiovascular.Métodos: La muestra estuvo constituida por 130 individuos de ambos sexos, y se dividió en dos grupos: Normorreactivos e hiperreactivos. A todos se les realizó un electrocardiograma digital en derivación DII; se utilizó el programa LabChart 8 en un polígrafo ADInstruments. Se estudiaron las siguientes variables: Complejo QRS, intervalo QT corregido (QTc), intervalo JT, intervalo Tpeak-Tend, amplitud del segmento ST y de la onda T en reposo, en el ejercicio isométrico y durante la recuperación.Resultados: Entre las mujeres normorreactivas e hiperreactivas se encontraron diferencias significativas en la amplitud de la onda T, tanto basales, durante el ejercicio isométrico, como en la recuperación. Entre los hombres de ambos grupos solo se encontraron diferencias significativas en el intervalo JT, durante el ejercicio.Conclusiones: Los cambios producidos en la regulación autonómica de la función cardíaca durante el ejercicio isométrico y la recuperación, se reflejaron en la actividad eléctrica ventricular en los individuos normorreactivos e hiperreactivos de ambos sexos, principalmente en el intervalo JT y la altura de la onda T.

The third improvement of Higher Education in Cuba, started in the academic year 2016-2017, brought about deep transformations, characterized by uncertainty and the dynamics of change and such situation demands to propitiate a general knowledge of the educational processes and actions. This work aimed to know the opinions of Physical Education teachers of the University "Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca" of Pinar del Rio (UPR in Spanish) about the purpose of this discipline and the knowledge they have about its different models. From a qualitative approach, the knowledge of 18 teachers was explored, based on the dialectical-materialistic method. The interview was used as an instrument to collect information. The results allowed to know those variables that determine the purpose of Physical Education, from the model assumed, as well as to glimpse some of the limitations that hinder the integral education of the graduate. It is concluded with some proposals to advance towards a Physical Education that integrates the different models and trends and with future lines of research on the subject.

Introduction: The thymus is active mainly during the neonatal and pre-adolescent periods. Objective: To test naïve thymocytes proliferation and monocytes stimulation. Materials and methods: We collected fresh thymus tissue from neonate mice after surgery. Suspension cells were coated onto Ficoll-Hypaque support. The obtained cells (thymocytes) were cultured measuring the proliferation of naïve T cells stimulated by Crotalus durissus cumanensis (Cdc) venom at sub-lethal doses (20 ng). Then, we supplemented the wells with AlamarBlue™ and incubated them for 5 h to test their proliferation. Mononuclear cells from mice peripheral blood were collected and layered onto the support of the Ficoll-Hypaque solution. We added the thymocytes actively dividing (25 x 105 cells) from cultures stimulated with Cdc venom at 20 ng/well to cultured monocytes freshly obtained from the Ficoll-Hypaque separation. Both cell populations were incubated for 36 h until monocytes matured to macrophages. Results: The naïve thymocytes rapidly proliferated after stimulation with the Cdc venom (NTCdc) and these successively induced the maturation and function of monocytes progenitor cells to mature macrophages, which ingested Chinese ink. Conclusions: The naïve thymocytes proliferated by stimulation with the Cdc venom and subsequently the NT/Cdc induced the rapid maturation and function of monocytes progenitor cells becoming mature macrophages with their phenotypic characteristics.

This article aims to internalize the importance and benefits of the regular practice of physical activity. The objective of this work consisted in carrying out a study of the components of health-related physical fitness in students of the Bachelor's Degree in Socio-Cultural Studies of the University of Pinar del Río "Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca". Nineteen first year students of this career were randomly selected. Theoretical and empirical research methods were used, such as document analysis and measurement. The values obtained, in terms of the percentage of fat, indicate that the risk factor of excessive fat accumulation can lead to the appearance of several chronic non-communicable diseases. In addition, it is evident that 73% of the investigated sample presents deficiencies in the maximum aerobic power, that is, to supply the necessary oxygen to the muscles during a maximum physical effort. In general, the sample reaches an acceptable level that allows them to maintain an effort at medium or low intensity with sufficient oxygen supply. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly comply with a plan of actions aimed at modifying the body composition of the students under study.

Pesticides are chemical molecules employed to protect crops from pests in agriculture. The use of pesticides significantly enhances crop yields and helps to guarantee the quality of farm products; due to this, each year, millions of tons of pesticides are employed in crop fields worldwide. However, the extensive use of pesticides has been related to environmental pollution, mainly in soils and water bodies. The presence of pesticides in the environment constitutes a menace to biodiversity, soil fertility, food supply, and human health. Activities related to pesticide use in crops, such as the handling and pesticide dissolution before application, the filling and cleaning of aspersion equipment and machinery, accidental spills in crop fields, and the inadequate disposal of pesticide residues have been identified as important punctual pesticide pollution sources. Therefore, avoiding releasing pesticide residues into the soil and water is crucial to mitigating the environmental pollution associated with agricultural practices. Biobeds are biological systems that have been proposed as feasible, low-cost, and efficient alternatives for punctual pesticide pollution mitigation. Biobeds were first described as trenches packed with a mixture of 50% wheat straw, 25% soil, and 25% peat, covered with a grass layer; this composition is known as a “biomixture”. In biobeds, the biomixture absorbs the pesticide residues and supports the development of different microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, needed for pesticide degradation in the system. The effectiveness of a biobed systems lies in the high pesticide retention in the biomixture and the degradation potential of the microorganisms growing in the system. In this review, 24 studies published in the last five years (2018–2022) related to pesticide biodegradation in biobed systems are analyzed, emphasizing alternative biomixture composition usage, microbiological strategies, and the key physicochemical parameters for efficient pesticide degradation in the biobed systems. The availability of robust scientific evidence about the simple applicability, low cost, and effectiveness of biobeds for pesticide residue treatment is crucial to increasing the use of biobeds by farmers in different agricultural regions around the world.

A quantitative model to expose the adrenal gland sub-cellular alterations produced by crotamine-like (C-L) from rattlesnake venom during 3, 6 and 24 hours (h), and also qualitative changes on mice neuromuscular structures in vivo were observed and calculated by transmission electron microscopy. A pure crotamine-like (C-L) isoform was obtained using a cationic exchange chromatography column from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus cumanensis venom. The C-L SDS-PAGE (15.5 %) under non-reduced conditions exhibited a molecular mass of ~3 kDa single band. The C-L in vivo qualitative experiments induced ultrastructural changes in mouse neuromuscular structures at 3, 6 and 24 h, such as reduction in the number of acetylcholine vesicles, disorganisation of the secondary synaptic clefts, enlargement of the sub-sarcolemma space and alteration of the mitochondria morphology, number and cristae. Regarding neurotoxic actions in vivo, the animals injected with C-L presented spastic paralysis of the hind limbs. The quantitative alterations studied on the capillaries, the nucleus, the mitochondria the lipid inclusions, and the smooth endoplasmic reticulum were observed from 3 to 24 h after C-L injection. As far as it is known from the literature review, there are no quantitative records of similar sub-cellular alterations caused by crotamine.

Cuaima (Lachesis muta muta)(Lmm) is responsible for particular envenomations that occur mainly in people who are exploring forest areas, in logging activities, mining exploitation (mainly gold and diamonds) or indigenous people who live in small communities and develop their vital activity in tropical and subtropical jungles of the Venezuelan Lmm territory. A fibrinolytic toxin has been purified from the venom of bushmaster cuaima by size exclusion chromatography Sephacryl 300 chromatography column. Fractions collected with high fibrinolytic and scarce haemorrhagic activities were further fractionated by a cationic exchange Carboxymetil-Sepharose (CMS) chromatography column. From CMS was obtained a molecular mass ~26 kDa single band by SDS-PAGE, called Yuyilysin, which had fibrinolytic activity that was completely lost after treatment with ethylene di-amine tetra acetic acid (EDTA). In conclusion, Yuyilysin showed a broader spectrum of activities, with moderate haemorrhagic activity, non-oedematogenic achievement, but strong fibrinolytic and coagulant actions.

Phytoremediation is a cost-effective technique to remediate heavy metal (HM) polluted sites. However, the toxic effects of HM can limit plant establishment and development, reducing phytoremediation effectiveness. Therefore, the addition of organic amendments to mine wastes, such as biochar, improves the establishment of plants and reduces the bioavailability of toxic HM and its subsequent absorption by plants. Prosopis laevigata can establish naturally in mine tailings and accumulate different HM; however, these individuals show morphological and genetic damage. In this study, the effect of biochar on HM bioaccumulation in roots and aerial tissues, HM translocation, morphological characters and plant growth were evaluated, after three and six months of exposure. Plants grown on mine tailings with biochar presented significantly higher values for most of the evaluated characters, in respect to plants that grew on mine tailing substrate. Biochar addition reduced the bioaccumulation and translocation of Cu, Pb, and Cd, while it favored the translocation of essential metals such as Fe and Mn. The addition of biochar from agro-industrial residues to mine tailings improves the establishment of plants with potential to phytoextract and phytostabilize metals from polluted soils. Using biochar and heavy metal accumulating plants constitutes an assisted phytostabilization strategy with great potential for HM polluted sites such as Cd and Pb.

Introduction: The autonomic nervous system plays an important role in cardiovascular readjustments to exercise. In cardiovascular hyperreactivity there is a greater sensitivity of the sympathetic system to different stressors. Objectives: To determine the characteristics of cardiac autonomic control in young adults with different degrees of cardiovascular reactivity under basal conditions and during isometric exercise. Method: The sample consisted of 97 individuals of both sexes, and was divided into three groups: normoreactive, hyperreactive and with hypertensive response, according to the pressor response to weight-bearing tests. The individuals underwent a complete study of heart rate variability at rest and during isometric test. The frequency domain for the variables was: low, high, low/high resting ratio, and the parameters of Poincaré plots at rest and during exercise (values of standard deviation 1 [SD1], 2 [SD2], and the reason between them). Results: Under basal conditions, hyperreactive individuals with a hypertensive response had a sympathetic predominance over cardiac function and lower heart rate variability. During the isometric exercise SD1 and SD2 axes values decreased in all groups and SD1/SD2 ratio decreased in normoreactive individuals with hypertensive response; but it was hardly modified in those hyperreactive. Conclusions: Individuals with cardiovascular hyperreactivity have a prior autonomic imbalance under basal conditions and a reduction of autonomic vagal modulation during exercise that may favor the development of arterial hypertension.

The making of antibodies in animals can be demanding due to that several antigens, mostly of low molecular masses, provoke imperceptible immune response or are even totally non-immunogenic. The transformation of non-immunogenic molecules into effective antigens represent an important immunological tasks. The crotamine from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus cumanensis snake venom was purified by a Mono S HR 10/10 chromatography column and used to immunise C57/B mice, after to be polymerised with glutaraldehyde. The murine polyclonal antibodies directed against native crotamine-like (NCL) treated with glutaraldehyde and their product crotamine-like polymer (CLP) were generated by immunisation injecting CLP via lymph node cells. These antibodies were capable of detecting CLP in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The SDS-PAGE of NCL and CLP showed bands of molecular masses ~ 3 kDa and ~18 kDa, respectively. These results offer evidence that the polyclonal antibodies recognise specific putative original and post-polymerisation epitopes on the CLP molecule, which were maintained following the process of polymerisation. The results are discussed in relation to the preservation of a functional post-polymerisation epitopes on CLP.

The objective was to characterise hutmannin-1 (hut-1), a new~62 kDa P-III-class metalloprotease from Porthidium lansbergii hutmanni(P.l.h) (Margarita Island, Venezuela). To characterise this protein, the crude venom of P.l.h was fractionated by size exclusion chromatography, anion exchange chromatography and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Hutmannin-1 was identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry, and the venom was analysed by SDS-PAGE. The lethality, minimum haemorrhagic dose (MHD), effect of temperature on the activity, procoagulant activity on human plasma, and anticoagulant, defibrinating, gelatinolytic fibrinolytic, and fibrinogenolytic and platelet aggregation activities of hut-1 were determined. Antigenic recognition assays were performed on P.l.h crude venom and hut-1 by a venezuelan polyvalent anti-ophidic serum (PAOS) Hut-1 had strong fibrinogenolytic and moderate fibrinolytic activity. These activities and the haemorrhagic activity of hut-1 were completely inhibited by EDTA. P.l.h crude venom had potent anticoagulant activity on recalcified plasma and inhibited the platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, ADP, collagen and ristocetin. In contrast, the anticoagulant, coagulant and platelet aggregation inhibition of hut-1 were not observed with any of the agonists. This result suggests that other proteins in the crude venom, markedly impact platelet functions and/or coagulation factors. Commercial venezuelan antivenin showed limited ability to neutralise the haemorrhagic activity of hut-1.

In this study, a flour from corn cob (central core of the maize ear, stage R4) was obtained through three treatments. The three flours obtained were characterized by bromatological analysis, yield, and granulometry. Additional dressing-type oil in water (O/W) emulsions were developed, varying the formulation by incorporating distinct amounts of corn cob flour. The formulations' stability was evaluated over a period of 21 days, determining the particle size, creaming index, coalescence rate, consistency coefficient (k), and flow behavior indices (n). Results have shown significant differences in protein, fat, and carbohydrate content in the flour, depending on the cooking treatment. A good percentage of grinding yield was obtained (98%), in addition to several fractions by granulometry (60, 120, 250 MESH), showing differences in their nutritional content. Finally, the particle size of O/W emulsions developed varied among formulations. The combination of 0.6% of xanthan gum (XG) and corn cob flour showed major stability in average droplet size. No significant differences were observed in the coalescence rate values for the three formulations. Still, significant differences in the creaming index were evidenced in those formulations without XG or corn cob flour. The results regarding the consistency coefficient (k) and flow behavior indices (n) suggest a possible synergy between XG and flour of corn cob for enhancing the viscosity and pseudoplasticity of dressings in a concentration-dependent manner.

Introduction: the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in cardiovascular readjustments to exercise. In cardiovascular hyperreactivity there is a greater sensitivity of the sympathetic system to different stressors. Objective: to determine the characteristics of cardiac autonomic control in young adults with different degrees of cardiovascular reactivity at rest and during isometric exercise. Material and Methods: the sample consisted of 97 individuals of both sexes, it was divided into three groups; normorreactives, hyperreactive and with hypertensive response according to the pressor response to the sustained weight test. All individuals underwent a variability study of heart rate at rest and during the isometric test. Variables in the frequency domain were studied: HF, LF, resting LF/HF ratio and the parameters of the Poincaré diagram SD1, SD2 and the SD1/SD2 ratio at rest and during exercise. Results: At the basal state, hyperreactive individuals and with a hypertensive response had a sympathetic predominance over cardiac function and a lower variability of heart rate. During isometric exercise the values of the SD1 and SD2 axes decreased in all groups and the SD1/SD2 ratio decreased in normorreactive individuals and with hypertensive response, but it was only significantly in the hyperreactive ones. Conclusions: In individuals with cardiovascular hyperreactivity, an autonomic imbalance is already present in the basal state and there is a reduction in autonomic vagal modulation during exercise that may contribute to the development of hypertension.

Introduction: a number of adjustments of the cardiovascular system are required during isometric exercise; variations in the components involved in young people blood pressure response result controversial. Objective: to determine the difference between gender at baseline hemodynamic parameters and response to Sustained Weight Test in normorreactive, hyperreactive and hypertensive young people. Methods: sample was constituted by 97 young people of both genders, 41 males and 56 females, with an average age of 19±1,40 years, whom was applied hemodynamic monitoring in supine decubitus position with non- invasive by impedance cardiography at rest and while the sustained weight test was performed. Results: significantly superior values of heart rate and cardiac index were obtained in normorreactive women in basal conditions, and at the exercise. Normorreactive male had significantly higher Resistance index than females in both conditions and hypertensive response group had differences only in the exercise. Women achieved higher heart rate increments than men during isometric exercise. Systemic vascular resistance and resistance index were increased in all groups of both genders, mainly in normorreactive men. Conclusions: at baseline, women had higher values of hemodynamic variables related to cardiac activity and men related to vascular tone. Differences between both genders remained during isometric exercise, and the increased blood pressure was mainly due to the increase of systemic vascular resistance.

Introducción: la hipertensión arterial es una enfermedad multifactorial; su expresión depende de factores genéticos, epigenéticos y ambientales que influyen en cada individuo. Objetivo: actualizar los aspectos más relevantes sobre el papel de los genes y el medio ambiente en el desarrollo de la hipertensión arterial. Métodos: se realizó una búsqueda en bases de datos de publicaciones como Pubmed, EBSCO, Google Académico y Scielo; se seleccionaron artículos destacados de prestigiosas revistas, de los cuales el 90 % corresponden a los últimos 5 años. Conclusiones: la hipertensión arterial es una enfermedad con mecanismos fisiopatológicos complejos y con cientos de genes involucrados; ha resultado muy difícil diferenciar a individuos que comparten solo el criterio de tener cifras superiores a 140/90 mmHg, en los que subyacen una serie de alteraciones que los diferencian y definen en diferentes grupos. El desarrollo de investigaciones que se acerquen al conocimiento de los genes implicados, sus polimorfismos o sus modificaciones epigenéticas, y en especial, a su expresión fenotípica, con la identificación del mecanismo fisiopatológico predominante en la elevación de la presión arterial, contribuyen a un tratamiento más individualizado de la enfermedad con un mejor abordaje farmacológico y no farmacológico.

Introducción: durante el ejercicio isométrico se requieren una serie de ajustes del sistema cardiovascular; las variaciones en los componentes que intervienen en la respuesta presora resultan controversiales. Objetivos: determinar las variables hemodinámicas en condiciones basales y durante el ejercicio isométrico en jóvenes normotensos, prehipertensos e hipertensos y si existen diferencias atribuibles al género. Métodos: la muestra estuvo constituida por 97 jóvenes de ambos sexos, con un promedio de edad de 19 años, a los que se les realizó la prueba del peso sostenido en posición decúbito supino, con monitorización hemodinámica no invasiva por cardiografía de impedancia. Se determinaron las variables hemodinámicas en reposo y al finalizar la prueba isométrica. Resultados: en condiciones basales, y al concluir el ejercicio, se obtuvieron valores significativamente superiores de la frecuencia cardíaca y el índice cardíaco en las mujeres normotensas y prehipertensas. El índice de resistencia fue superior en los hombres normotensos y prehipertensos en ambas condiciones. Durante el ejercicio isométrico, las mujeres alcanzaron mayores incrementos de la frecuencia cardíaca que los hombres. La resistencia vascular sistémica y el índice de resistencia se incrementaron en todos los grupos de ambos sexos, principalmente en los hombres normotensos. Conclusiones: en condiciones basales, las mujeres presentaron un patrón con valores superiores de las variables hemodinámicas relacionadas con la actividad cardíaca y los hombres de las relativas al tono vascular. Durante el ejercicio isométrico se mantuvieron las diferencias entre ambos sexos, y el incremento de la presión arterial se debió fundamentalmente al aumento de la resistencia vascular sistémica.

Fundamento: el uso del ultrasonido en pediatría favorece el diagnóstico primario de algunas enfermedades. El ultrasonido transfontanelar es el más usado para detectar alteraciones intracraneales.Objetivo: identificar tipo de hallazgo ultrasonográfico en niños con fontanela anterior abierta y factores de riesgo asociados. Métodos: estudio descriptivo realizado en el Hospital Pediátrico de Cienfuegos de enero de 2014 a enero de 2015. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con fontanela anterior abierta e indicación de ultrasonido transfontanelar. Se analizaron: edad del niño, sexo, edad materna, complicaciones del embarazo, tipo de parto, complicaciones al nacimiento, variantes anatómicas intracerebrales y malformaciones intracerebrales. Resultados: se estudiaron 221 pacientes entre uno y 24 meses con una media de cuatro meses; el 59,3 % masculinos; existieron alteraciones ultrasonográficas en el 21,3 % (66 % masculinos). La asimetría ventricular estuvo como variante anatómica más frecuente (6,8 %) seguida de macrocefalia benigna (5,9 %) y cavum septum pellucidum (4,1 %). La principal malformación fue la mega cisterna magna (1,4 %) seguida del quiste del tercer ventrículo (0,9 %) y del quiste subependimario (0, 5 %). El parto distócico y la hipertensión arterial en la madre, la prematuridad y la enfermedad hipóxico isquémica en el niño, fueron los factores de riesgo más observados. Conclusiones: la ultrasonografía cerebral es un método útil, no invasivo y de fácil interpretación para la determinación precoz de entidades nosológicas en el infante, mientras permanece abierta su fontanela anterior. La interacción de factores de riesgo tanto maternos como en el niño incide en la aparición de malformaciones intracerebrales.

Foundation: the use of ultrasound in pediatrics favors the primary diagnosis of some diseases. Trans-fontanel ultrasound is the most used to detect intracranial disturbances. Objective: to identify the type of ultrasound finding in children with open front fontanel and associated risk factors. Methods: decriptive study realized at the Pediatric Hospital of Cienfuegos from January 2014 to January 2015. All patients with open front fontanel and indicated trans-fontanel ultrasound were included. Children´s age and sex were analyzed and mother´s age, pregnancy complications, type of delivery and its complications, anatomic intracerebral variants and malformations as well. Results: 221 patients were studied between 1 and 24 months old with a mean of four months; 59.3% were male; ultrasonography disturbances in 21,3% (66% male). Ventricular Asymmetry was the most frequent anatomic variant. (6.8%) followed by benign macro-cephalic (5.9 %) and cavum septum pellucidum (4,1 %). The main malformation was mega cisterna magna (1,4 %) followed by subependymal cyst (0, 5 %). Dystocic delivery and maternal arterial hypertension, prematurity and hypoxic ischemic disease were the most frequently observed risk factors. Conclusion: brain ultrasonography is a useful, non-invasive method of easy interpretation for the early determination of nosology conditions of children, while the front fontanel is still opened. The interaction of risk factors in the mother so as in the child influence in the appearance of intra-cerebral malformations.

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide extensively used worldwide to eliminate weeds in agricultural areas. Since its market introduction in the 70’s, the levels of glyphosate agricultural use have increased, mainly due to the introduction of glyphosate-resistant transgenic crops in the 90’s. Glyphosate presence in the environment causes pollution, and recent findings have proposed that glyphosate exposure causes adverse effects in different organisms, including humans. In 2015, glyphosate was classified as a probable carcinogen chemical, and several other human health effects have been documented since. Environmental pollution and human health threats derived from glyphosate intensive use require the development of alternatives for its elimination and proper treatment. Bioremediation has been proposed as a suitable alternative for the treatment of glyphosate-related pollution, and several microorganisms have great potential for the biodegradation of this herbicide. The present review highlights the environmental and human health impacts related to glyphosate pollution, the proposed alternatives for its elimination through physicochemical and biological approaches, and recent studies related to glyphosate biodegradation by bacteria and fungi are also reviewed. Microbial remediation strategies have great potential for glyphosate elimination, however, additional studies are needed to characterize the mechanisms employed by the microorganisms to counteract the adverse effects generated by the glyphosate exposure.

Este estudio se realizó con el objetivo de determinar si la posición del cuerpo influye sobre la respuesta presora a la prueba isométrica del peso sostenido. La muestra estuvo constituida por 97 adultos jóvenes de ambos sexos, a los que se les realizó una prueba isométrica en posición sentada y en decúbito supino. Se obtuvieron los valores de las presiones arteriales sistólica, diastólica y media en reposo y al segundo minuto del ejercicio isométrico, así como las variaciones de las presiones sistólica, diastólica y media en posición sentada y en decúbito. Las medias de las presiones en reposo y durante la prueba isométrica fueron superiores en la posición sentada respecto al decúbito. Los valores delta de las presiones arteriales sistólica, diastólica y media no tuvieron diferencias significativas. Se concluye que la posición del cuerpo influye en la respuesta presora durante el ejercicio isométrico y no en el grado de la reactividad cardiovascular.

Introduction: a number of adjustments of the cardiovascular system are required during isometric exercise; variations in the components involved in young people blood pressure response result controversial. Objective: to determine the difference between gender at baseline hemodynamic parameters and during isometric Sustained Weight Test in normorreactive, hyperreactive and with hypertensive response young people. Methods: sample was constituted by 97 young people of both genders, 41 males and 56 females, with an average age of 19±1,40 years, whom was applied hemodynamic monitoring in supine decubitus position with non-invasive by impedance cardiography at rest and while the sustained weight test was performed. Results: significantly superior values of heart rate and cardiac index were obtained in normorreactive women in basal conditions, and at the exercise. Normorreactive male had significantly higher systemic vascular resistance index than females in both conditions and the hypertensive response group had differences only in the exercise. Women achieved higher heart rate increments than men during isometric exercise. Systemic vascular resistance index were increased in all groups of both genders, mainly in normorreactive men. Conclusions: at baseline, women had higher values of hemodynamic variables related to cardiac activity and men related to vascular tone. Differences between both genders remained during isometric exercise, and the increased blood pressure was mainly due to the increase of systemic vascular resistance.

Burkholderia zhejiangensis CEIB S4-3 has the ability to degrade methyl parathion (MP) and its main hydrolysis byproduct p-nitrophenol (PNP). According to genomic data, several genes related with metabolism of MP and PNP were identified in this strain. However, the metabolic state of the strain during the MP degradation has not been evaluated. In the present study, we analyzed gene expression changes during MP hydrolysis and PNP degradation through a transcriptomic approach. The transcriptional analysis revealed differential changes in the expression of genes involved in important cellular processes, such as energy production and conversion, transcription, amino acid transport and metabolism, translation, ribosomal structure and biogenesis, among others. Transcriptomic data also exhibited the overexpression of both PNP-catabolic gene clusters (pnpABA′E1E2FDC and pnpE1E2FDC) present in the strain. We found and validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction the expression of the methyl parathion degrading gene, as well as the genes responsible for PNP degradation contained in two clusters. This proves the MP degradation pathway by the strain tested in this work. The exposure to PNP activates, in the first instance, the expression of the transcriptional regulators multiple antibiotic resistance regulator and Isocitrate Lyase Regulator (IclR), which are important in the regulation of genes from aromatic compound catabolism, as well as the expression of genes that encode transporters, permeases, efflux pumps, and porins related to the resistance to multidrugs and other xenobiotics. In the presence of the pesticide, 997 differentially expressed genes grouped in 104 metabolic pathways were observed. This report is the first to describe the transcriptomic analysis of a strain of B. zhejiangensis during the biodegradation of PNP.

Con el objeto de estimar la calidad de los efluentes líquidos de la industria curtidora de nuestro país y su posible impacto en los ecosistemas acuáticos, se estudiaron los desechos líquidos de dos tenerías típicas del país. Se analizaron las descargas líquidas de las diferentes etapas del proceso del curtido al cromo así como los efluentes finales de ambas tenerías. Una de las tenerías estudiadas recircula los licores agotados de los prcesos de los baños de pelambre y curtido. Se encontr´ó que ambas tenerías producen una contaminación considerable a los receptores aún cuando se nota una menor cuatía en aquella que emplea la recirculación. Los niveles de cromo residual encontrados en las desacargas finales son de 1,0 a 4,0 ppm.

Mediante un diseño factorial 32 x 22, se estableció tanto la capacidad del lirio acuático (Eichornia crassipess (Mart) Solms) para absorber y concentrar cromo, como el factor de concentración del mismo en la planta y la posible migración del ión en la misma, en un sistema de agua estático. Se hicieron intervenir las variables: pH, concentración de sulfuro y tiempo de exposición, manteniéndose constantes: la temperatura, la vierdad y la edad de las plantas. Las plantas demostraron capacidad para absorber hasta 0,66 mg. de cromo por día por gramo de planta seca, en presencia de 1,0 ppm de sulfuro y hasta 1,08 mg. de cromo por día por gramo de planta seca en presencia de 100 ppm de sulfuro.

Con el objeto de estimar la calidad de los efluentes líquidos de la industria curtidora de nuestro país y su posible impacto en los ecosistemas acuáticos, se estudiaron los desechos líquidos de dos tenerías típicas del país. Se analizaron las descargas líquidas de las diferentes etapas del proceso del curtido al cromo así como los efluentes finales de ambas tenerías. Una de las tenerías estudiadas recircula los licores agotados de los prcesos de los baños de pelambre y curtido. Se encontr´ó que ambas tenerías producen una contaminación considerable a los receptores aún cuando se nota una menor cuatía en aquella que emplea la recirculación. Los niveles de cromo residual encontrados en las desacargas finales son de 1,0 a 4,0 ppm.

Mediante un diseño factorial 32 x 22, se estableció tanto la capacidad del lirio acuático (Eichornia crassipess (Mart) Solms) para absorber y concentrar cromo, como el factor de concentración del mismo en la planta y la posible migración del ión en la misma, en un sistema de agua estático. Se hicieron intervenir las variables: pH, concentración de sulfuro y tiempo de exposición, manteniéndose constantes: la temperatura, la vierdad y la edad de las plantas. Las plantas demostraron capacidad para absorber hasta 0,66 mg. de cromo por día por gramo de planta seca, en presencia de 1,0 ppm de sulfuro y hasta 1,08 mg. de cromo por día por gramo de planta seca en presencia de 100 ppm de sulfuro.

Crude extract samples of Pleurotus pulmonarius and Pycnoporus cinnabarinus were taken during growth in liquid broth in an airlift reactor. Growth was monitored indirectly by sugar consumption and pH profile. During growth Pleurotus pulmonarius consumed glucose more slowly than Pycnoporus cinnabarinus, reaching a final pH of 8.0. In contrast, Pycnoporus cinnabarinus started consuming glucose faster from the beginning to the end with a pH of 3.6, suggesting the production of different metabolites while they grow in the same culture broth. Additionally, antioxidant activity, polyphenol and flavonoid contents, as well as laccase and hydrolase activities were quantified in the culture extracts during the fermentation. Pleurotus pulmonarius showed higher antioxidant activity than Pycnoporus cinnabarinus. Both fungi have a very low polyphenol and flavonoid content. Values of amylase and pectinase activities were similar in crude extracts of both fungi; however, cellulase, xylanase, invertase, and laccase activities showed higher levels in crude extract of Pleurotus pulmonarius. Antimicrobial and insecticidal activities were also evaluated in each crude extract. In fact, Pycnoporus cinnabarinus presented a very strong bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and reliably killed Diatraea magnifactella larvae, while Pleurotus pulmonarius did not showed any negative effect on the growth of these bacteria or larvae.

Intraventricular hemorrhage is a serious disease that usually occurs in the first hours or days of life, especially in premature infants weighing less than 1500 g. We present the case of full-term newborn with normal birth weight who was non-institutionally delivered. At 17 days old, he was referred to the Paquito González Cueto Hospital because of fever and seizures. Subsequently, he was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Increased head circumference, tense anterior fontanelle and global hypertonia were found. A transfontanelle ultrasound revealed a subependymal/intraventricular hemorrhage. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were used to confirm the diagnosis. Symptoms and echoencephalographic results improved as occurs in 65% of cases. We decided to present this case since the condition developed in a full-term newborn with normal weight, which is unusual, and the fact that he was born outside a hospital. Although the relationship between this fact and the disease could not be established, it helps general practitioners to develop the ability to consider such serious diseases in cases that do not necessarily meet what is classically described.

La hemorragia intraventricular es una grave enfermedad que suele presentarse en las primeras horas o días después del nacimiento pretérmino en niños con peso inferior a 1 500 g. Se presenta el caso de un recién nacido a término, con peso adecuado, masculino, producto de parto no institucional, que a los 17 días fue remitido al Hospital Paquito González Cueto, con fiebre y convulsiones. Ingresó en Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Se constató aumento del perímetro cefálico, fontanela anterior tensa e hipertonía global. La ecografía transfontanelar reveló hemorragia subependimaria/intraventricular. Se realizó tomografía computarizada y resonancia magnética para confirmar diagnóstico. La sintomatología y resultados ecoencefalográficos presentaron una evolución satisfactoria como ocurre en el 65 % de casos. Se decidió la presentación del caso por manifestarse la entidad en un recién nacido a término y con peso adecuado, lo que es poco usual y por darse la circunstancia de haber nacido fuera de una institución hospitalaria, por lo que, aunque no se pudo establecer la relación entre este hecho y la enfermedad, contribuye a que los médicos generalistas desarrollen la habilidad de sospechar diagnósticos de tal gravedad en casos que no necesariamente se ajusten a lo que está clásicamente descrito como más frecuente.

Introducción: la hipoacusia infantil se considera el defecto congénito y la discapacidad neurosensorial más frecuente en el recién nacido. Cuando se preselecciona la población a estudiar sobre la base de determinados factores de riesgo, su incidencia se incrementa hasta 14 veces. Objetivos. determinar la incidencia del tipo y la cantidad de factores de riesgos en la presencia de hipoacusia y su lateralidad. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal entre enero del 2014 y diciembre del 2015 en niños menores de un año con factores de riesgo para padecer hipoacusia en el Laboratorio de Neurofisiología Clínica del Hospital Pediátrico Universitario «José Luis Miranda» de Villa Clara. Se utilizaron técnicas de estadística descriptiva, así como la prueba de independencia basada en la distribución de Ji al cuadrado, con su estadígrafo X2, para estudiar la posible asociación entre las variables cualitativas. Resultados: la mitad de los pacientes afectados sufrió hipoxia como factor de riesgo perinatal. La hipoacusia se incrementó casi tres veces en los niños que presentaron más de un factor de riesgo, y en estos predominaron las pérdidas de tipo bilateral. Conclusiones: presentar más de un factor de riesgo incrementa la posibilidad de padecer hipoacusia y que esta se manifieste de forma bilateral.

Se presenta un estudio de la calidad de las aguas de los ríos Toyogres y San Nicolás, Cartago, Costa Rica, para el período 1980- 1982. Ambos cauces reciben gran cantidad de descargas domésticas sin tratamiento previo y sus aguas se emplean en el riego de hortalizas. Se determinaron diferencias espaciales para variables seleccionadas en dos transectos del río Toyogres y en dos del río San Nicolás, mediante análisis unilateral de varianzas. Los índices de calidad calculados indican que ambos cauces están muy contaminados y sus aguas no son aptas para el consumo humano, poco aptas para el consumo animal, la agricultura y la industria.

Introducción: los trastornos del espectro autista se consideran una familia de alteraciones del neurodesarrollo, caracterizada por dificultades en la comunicación y la interacción social, así como la existencia de un comportamiento estereotipado y repetitivo. Aunque existen varias hipótesis que involucran a factores genéticos y ambientales en su etiopatogenia, la verdadera contribución de estos aún se desconoce. En este estudio se explora la relación entre los niveles séricos de plomo, el daño del ADN y la severidad del autismo. Métodos: se estudiaron 15 niños con el diagnóstico de trastornos del espectro autista entre 4 y 11 años de edad y un grupo control del mismo rango de edad. El coeficiente de inteligencia fue evaluado mediante la prueba de Terman-Merrill y los niños fueron clasificados en dos grados de retardo mental (ligero y moderado/severo). Los niveles de plomo en sangre fueron medidos por espectrometría de masa, mientras que el daño del ADN fue determinado en linfocitos de sangre periférica con el empleo de un ensayo de electroforesis alcalina (ensayo del cometa). Resultados: no se mostró diferencia significativa en los niveles de plomo entre los grupos. El daño del ADN fue mayor en los pacientes autistas en relación con el grupo control, cuya diferencia fue significativa (p< 0,05), cuando comparamos los grupos teniendo en cuenta la severidad del retardo mental. Los pacientes con trastorno moderado/severo mostraron un daño del ADN significativamente superior a los que presentaron trastornos ligeros y al grupo control. Conclusiones: los resultados confirman la presencia de daño del ADN en pacientes con trastornos del espectro autista, lo cual sugiere que este pudiera ser un factor que se relaciona con la severidad del retardo mental en estos enfermos.Introduction:autistic spectrum disorders are considered to be a family of neurodevelopmental alterations characterized by difficulty to communicate and interact socially, as well as stereotyped, repetitive behavior. Though several hypotheses involve genetic and environmental factors in the etiopathogeny of this condition, their actual participation is still unknown. The present study explores the relationship between serum lead levels, DNA damage and the severity of autism. Methods: a study was conducted with 15 children 4-11 years old diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorders and a control group from the same age range. The intelligence quotient was measured by the Terman-Merrill test, and children were classified into two degrees of mental retardation (mild and moderate/severe). Blood lead levels were measured by mass spectrometry, whereas DNA damage was determined in peripheral blood lymphocytes using the alkaline electrophoresis assay (the comet assay). Results: this study did not show any significant difference in lead levels between the groups. DNA damage was greater in autistic patients than in the control group, and the difference was significant (p

La evaluación externa de la calidad permite determinar el desempeño de laboratorios individuales para efectuar ensayos o mediciones específicos e identifica los problemas existentes en ellos. La necesidad de establecer una metodología económica y confiable para la evaluación externa de la calidad de algunas de las variables hematológicas de los laboratorios nos impulso a realizar este trabajo. En esta metodología definimos tres etapas: a) capacitación, b) control externo de una técnica por espectrofotometría, la concentración de hemoglobina y otra de microscopia, conteo total de leucocitos que permitieran evaluar el trabajo de la sección de hematología, c)la retroalimentación de los resultados y una inspección in situ a los que obtuvieran resultados deficientes para aplicar medidas correctivas. Los profesionales de los laboratorios recibieron la capacitación y los procedimientos. La evaluación externa se aplicó a los laboratorios de 4 municipios de La Habana y se estandarizaron las variables. De los 9 laboratorios examinados; en la concentración de hemoglobina: 5 obtuvieron calificación de excelente, 1 bien y 3 satisfactorio; en el conteo total de leucocitos: 2 con excelente, 3 bien, 1 satisfactorio y 3 no reportaron. Estos últimos fueron visitados e identificados los problemas. El coeficiente de variación ínter laboratorio se calculo para el grupo 2 con 6 laboratorios; en la Hb el resultado es de 2.05%, para el conteo total de leucocitos de 9.93%. La metodología implementada requiere de menos recursos que la forma recomendada internacionalmente y permite diferenciar los laboratorios en cuanto a la exactitud y la precisión.External quality assessment allows us to determine the performance of individual laboratories to make trials or take specific measurements and identify the specific problems in them. The need to establish a cheap and reliable methodology for the external evaluation of the quality of some of some haematological variables of laboratories encouraged us to carry out this work. In this methodology, we define three stages: a) training, b) external control of a spectrophotometer technique, haemoglobin concentrations and microscopy, total leukocyte count that allowed us to assess the work of the haematology section, c) feedback of results and an in situ inspection to the ones that obtained deficient results to apply correction measures. The laboratory professionals were trained and informed on the procedures. The external evaluation was applied to the laboratories of four municipalities of Havana and the variables were standardized. Of the nine laboratories tested on haemoglobin concentration we had the following results: five of them obtained excellent marks, one was marked good and the other three were marked satisfactory. In relation to the total leukocyte count, two of them were marked excellent, three were marked good, one was considered satisfactory and the remaining three were not reported. The latter laboratories were visited and the problems were identified. The inter-laboratory rates of variation were calculated for group two with six laboratories. The result of haemoglobin was 2.05%, for a total leukocytes count of 9.93%. The implemented methodology requires fewer resources than the internationally recommended form and allows the differentiation of laboratories in terms of both accuracy and precision.