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Abstract The present work deals with developing a method for revalorizing steel residues to create sunlight-active photocatalysts based on iron oxides. Commercial-grade steel leftovers are oxidized under different combinations of pH and temperature (50–90 °C and 3 ≥ pH ≤ 5) in a low energy-intensive setup. The material with the highest production efficiency (yield > 12%) and magnetic susceptibility (χm = 387 × 10−6 m3/kg) was further explored and modified by diffusion of M2+ (Zn and Co) ions within the structure of the oxide using a hydrothermal method to create ZnFe2O4, CoFe2O4 and combined Co–Zn ferrite. (Co–Zn)Fe2O4 displayed a bandgap of 2.02 eV and can be activated under sunlight irradiation. Electron microscopy studies show that (Co–Zn)Fe2O4 consists of particles with diameters between 400 and 700 nm, homogeneous size, even distribution, and good dispersibility. Application of the developed materials in the sunlight catalysis of black liquors from cellulose extraction resulted in a reduction of the Chemical Oxygen Demand (− 15% on average) and an enhancement in biodegradability (> 0.57 BOD/COD) after 180 min of reaction. Since the presented process employs direct solar light, it opens the possibility to large-scale water treatment and chemical upgrading applications.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the intra and inter observer agreement of the Sauvegrain, Greulich and Pyle methods. Material and methods: This is an observational, retrospective and cross-sectional study ethically approved by opinion 6,192,391. 100 radiographic images of the elbow and 100 of the left wrist and hand were collected from children whose images were selected by a researcher who did not carry out the evaluations. The Sauvegrain, Greulich and Pyle methods were used to determine bone age. We provided a detailed explanation of each method and the evaluators received a file with the study images. After three weeks, the exams were randomized and the radiograms were reevaluated. Of the 100 patients in group A, 61 (61%) were boys and 39 (39%) were girls. In group B, 67 (67%) were boys and 33 (33%) were girls. Four statistical analyzes were used: correlation; intraclass correlation; analysis using the Bland-Altman graph; differences between groups. Results: Intra and interobserver agreement between groups was considered excellent. Conclusions: Despite the excellent agreement, group A presented a significantly better value than B. Biological ages show a greater difference compared to chronological ages in group A. In group B, skeletal and chronological ages do not show statistical difference according to the accuracy test. Level of Evidence III, Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

Objetivos: Conocer el efecto de la autotrascendencia sobre el bienestar, por lo cual se planteó la hipótesis que indica que a mayor autotrascendencia (intrapersonal, interpersonal y transpersonal [espiritualidad]) mayor bienestar (físico, psicológico y social) en los adultos mayores. Metodología: estudio descriptivo correlacional. La población fueron adultos mayores de ambos sexos. El muestreo fue probabilístico aleatorio estratificado, la muestra total fueron 251 adultos mayores. Resultados: El efecto de la autotrascendencia y la espiritualidad fue significativo (F(1,249) = 4.24, p=.015) sobre el bienestar físico (consumo de alcohol sensato) explicando el 25% de la varianza total. Respecto al efecto de estas mismas variables sobre el bienestar psicológico se puede observar que el modelo fue significativo (F(1,249) = 51.52,p=.001) explicando el 28.8% de la varianza total. Por último se identificó que el efecto de la autotrascendencia y la espiritualidad sobre el bienestar social fue significativo (F(1,249) = 31.00, p=.001), este modelo explicó el 20.0% de la varianza total. Conclusiones: La autotrascendencia (intra e interpersonal y transpersonal [espiritualidad]) tiene efecto sobre el bienestar físico (consumo de alcohol sensato), bienestar psicológico y social. Debido a los resultados se considera que la enfermería debe de abordar estas problemáticas de estudio bajo marcos teóricos que promuevan el desarrollo integrar en el adulto mayor y facilitar el bienestar de la persona en todas las etapas de la vida. ABSTRACT Objectives: To know the effect of self-transcendence on well-being, for which the hypothesis was raised that indicates that the greater the self-transcendence (intrapersonal, interpersonal and transpersonal [spirituality]), the greater the well-being (physical, psychological and social) in elderly. Methodology: predictive descriptive study. The population was older adults of both sexes. The sampling was stratified random probabilistic, the total sample was 251 older adults. Results: The effect of self-transcendence and spirituality was significant (F(1,249) = 4.24, p=.015) on physical well-being (sensible alcohol consumption) explaining 25% of the total variance. Regarding the effect of these same variables on psychological well-being, it can be seen that the model was significant (F(1,249) = 51.52, p=.001) explaining 28.8% of the total variance. Finally, it was identified that the effect of self-transcendence and spirituality on social well-being was significant (F(1,249) = 31.00, p=.001), this model explained 20.0% of the total variance. Conclusions: Self-transcendence (intra- and interpersonal and transpersonal [spirituality]) has an effect on physical well-being (sensible alcohol consumption), psychological and social well-being. Therefore, it is considered that nursing should address these study problems under theoretical frameworks that promote the comprehensive development of the elderly and facilitate the well-being of the person at all stages of life.

Introduction: the Colombian armed conflict, due to its long duration and extent of the damage caused, impacted the lives of millions of people through various dimensions. Among the most affected populations are women, who were subject to different forms of violence and social wrongs and saw their health affected as a consequence. Objective: the study aimed to analyze the consequences of the conflict on women who seek to rebuild their lives through entrepreneurship. Method: A qualitative study was carried out with a grounded theory design and a sample of 16 entrepreneurial women participating in support programs in Caquetá, Colombia. Results: the results were organized into three main themes, which represent the intersection between conflict, health, illness, social factors and the resilience of women entrepreneurs. Significant relationships were identified between gender-based violence, human rights violations and the health-illness process. In addition, it was assessed that entrepreneurship, despite the barriers, was a crucial protective factor. The study allowed the identification of the main conditions, stressors, consequences and needs to be considered in future studies, which should be aimed at rebuilding life and promoting resilience. Conclusions: the research concluded that a better understanding of the conditioning exerted by the health-disease process on entrepreneurial women is needed, especially regarding its relationship with psychological and social factors.

BackgroundDuring the pandemic in Peru, the COVIDA (Collaboration Network of Volunteer Brigade Members for the Investigation, Detection, and Primary Management of Community Cases Affected by COVID-19) project proposed an innovative way to provide telemonitoring and teleorientation to COVID-19 patients, led by health care student volunteers. However, it has not been described how this interaction is perceived from the patient’s perspective and which factors increase their engagement with this service. ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to describe the perceptions of patients about COVIDA and identify factors associated with their engagement with this service. MethodsA mixed methods study was conducted to evaluate perceptions of patients that participated in the COVIDA project. This telehealth intervention organized by the National University of San Marcos was implemented in Peru from August to December 2020. The service involved daily phone calls by volunteer students to monitor registered COVID-19 patients until the completion of the 14th day of the illness or if a warning sign was identified. The volunteers also provided teleorientation to address the patients’ needs and concerns. Quantitative analysis was performed to describe the characteristics of the patients and to assess the factors related to their engagement with the service, which was defined by the percentage of participants who completed the follow-up according to their individual schedule. Qualitative analysis through semistructured interviews evaluated the patients’ perceptions of the service regarding the aspects of communication, interaction, and technology. ResultsOf the 770 patients enrolled in COVIDA, 422 (55.7%) were female; the median age was 39 (IQR 28-52) years. During the monitoring, 380 patients (49.4%) developed symptoms, and 471 (61.2%) showed warning signs of COVID-19. The overall median for engagement was 93% (IQR 35.7%-100%). Among those patients who did not develop warning signs, engagement was associated with the presence of symptoms (OR 3.04, 95% CI 2.22-4.17), a positive COVID-19 test at the start of follow-up (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.48-2.61), and the presence of comorbidities (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.29-2.59). Patients reported that the volunteers provided clear and valuable information and emotional support. Communication via phone calls took place smoothly and without interruptions. ConclusionsCOVIDA represents a well-accepted and well-perceived alternative model for student volunteers to provide telemonitoring, teleorientation, and emotional support to patients with COVID-19 in the context of overwhelmed demand for health care services. The deployment of this kind of intervention should be prioritized among patients with symptoms and comorbidities, as they show more engagement with these services.

Introduction: Sexual violence can be treated as a public health problem because of its high prevalence worldwide and the negative physical and mental impacts. Objective: Investigate the relationship between parenting styles and the occurrence of sexual violence experienced by adolescents and young adults at some point in life. Methods: Validated instruments were applied to a population of university students to assess the presence or absence of sexual violence (Questionnaire on Exposure to Traumatizing Events) and parenting style Parenting Styles Inventory (PSI). The initial statistical analysis was descriptive and inferential, applying multivariate logistic regression and assessing the risk factors for sexual violence associated with parenting styles. Results: Of the 858 students who responded to the survey, 71 (8.3%) were the victims of sexual violence and 52 (73.0%) were female. The PSI showed that in victims of sexual violence, less protective styles predominate (p=0.002), with higher scores in the following practices: inconsistent punishment (p=0.003), negligence (p=0.001), negative monitoring (p=0.017), and physical abuse (p

Introduction. Low-cost, accurate high-risk HPV tests are needed for cervical cancer screening in limited-resource settings. Objective. To compare the performance of the low-cost Hybribio-H13 test with the Hybrid Capture® 2 to detect cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or 3 (CIN2 and CIN3). Materials and methods. Archived baseline samples tested by the Hybrid Capture® 2 from women of the ASCUS-COL trial, aged 20 to 69 years, with biopsy-colposcopy directed diagnosis of CIN2+ (n = 143), CIN3+ (n = 51), and < CIN2 (n = 632) were blindly tested by the Hybribio-H13 test. Results. The relative sensitivity of the Hybribio-H13 test versus the Hybrid Capture® 2 for detecting CIN2+ was 0.89 (90% CI = 0,80-0,98; NIT = 0,66), and for CIN3+ was 0,92 (90% CI = 0,85-0,98; NIT = 0,35). Relative specificity was 1.19 (90% CI = 1.05-1.33; NIT

Abstract Polylactic acid (PLA) is a bioresorbable and biodegradable polymer extensively used in various biomedical and engineering applications. In this study, we investigated the mass loss and thermal properties of PLA-multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites under simulated physiological conditions. The composites were prepared by melting PLA with 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 5.0 wt% MWCNTs using an ultrasonic agitator, and FTIR analysis confirmed composite formation. Subsequently, the composites were subjected to hydrolysis under simulated physiological conditions (pH 7.4 and 37 °C) for up to 60 days. The results revealed that the mass loss of the composites decreased with increasing MWCNT content, suggesting that the presence of MWCNTs decelerated the hydrolysis process. On day 58, the mass loss of pure PLA was 12.5%, decreasing to 8.34% with 0.1% MWCNT, 5.94% with 0.5% MWCNT, 4.59% with 1% MWCNT, and 3.54% with 5.0% MWCNT. This study offers valuable insights into the behavior of PLA-MWCNT composites under physiologically simulated conditions, facilitating the development of new polymer composites with enhanced thermal stability and degradation resistance for biomedical applications.

Introduction. Although Chagas disease causes high levels of morbidity, the muscle function and tolerance to physical activity in Chagas disease patients are still not completely understood. Objective. To compare health-related fitness of patient groups with acute Chagas disease versus chronic Chagas disease. Materials and methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 18 patients. The data were obtained from patient´s records, and functional capacity was measured with the sixminute walk test, the peripheral muscle strength with handgrip strength, and respiratory muscle strength using the maximum inspiratory pressure and the maximum expiratory pressure. Results. The 18 patients were divided in two groups: acute Chagas disease (n=9) and chronic Chagas disease (n=9). The distance walked in the six-minute walk test was lower than the predicted distance walked in both groups (p < 0.0001). The maximum expiratory pressure was lower than the predicted one (p = 0.005), and statistically significant for chronic Chagas disease patients (p = 0.02). Heart rate increased faster in the chronic Chagas disease group within the first two minutes of the six-minute walk test (p = 0.04). The sixminute walk test in the acute Chagas disease group presented a strong correlation with peripheral muscle strength (p = 0.012) and maximum inspiratory pressure (p = 0.0142), while in the chronic Chagas disease group, only peripheral muscle strength and maximum inspiratory pressure were correlated (p = 0.0259). Conclusion. The results suggest lowered functional capacity and reduced respiratory and peripheral muscle strength in patients with Chagas disease, although no differences were observed between groups. The early increase in heart rate during exercise in the chronic Chagas disease group implies a greater myocardial overload.

Abstract Respiratory viruses can cause life-threatening illnesses. The focus of treatment is on supportive therapies and direct antivirals. However, antivirals may cause resistance by exerting selective pressure. Modulating the host response has emerged as a viable therapeutic approach for treating respiratory infections. Additionally, considering the probable future respiratory virus outbreaks emphasizes the need for broad-spectrum therapies to be prepared for the next pandemics. One of the principal bioactive constituents found in the seed extract of Aesculus hippocastanum L. (AH) is β-escin. The clinical therapeutic role of β-escin and AH has been associated with their anti-inflammatory effects. Regarding their mechanism of action, we and others have shown that β-escin and AH affect NF-κB signaling. Furthermore, we have reported the virucidal and broad-spectrum antiviral properties of β-escin and AH against enveloped viruses such as RSV, in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we demonstrate that β-escin and AH have antiviral and virucidal activities against SARS-CoV-2 and CCoV, revealing broad-spectrum antiviral activity against coronaviruses. Likewise, they exhibited NF-κB and cytokine modulating activities in epithelial and macrophage cell lines infected with coronaviruses in vitro. Hence, β-escin and AH are promising broad-spectrum antiviral, immunomodulatory, and virucidal drugs against coronaviruses and respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

It has been indicated that extreme sport activities result in a highly rewarding experience, despite also providing fear, stress and anxiety. Studies have related this experience to the concept of flow, a positive feeling that individuals undergo when they are completely immersed in an activity. However, little is known about the exact nature of these experiences, and, there are still no empirical results to characterize the brain dynamics during extreme sport practice. This work aimed at investigating changes in psychological responses while recording physiological (heart rate–HR, and breathing rate–BR) and neural (electroencephalographic–EEG) data of eight volunteers, during outdoors slackline walking in a mountainous environment at two different altitude conditions (1 m–low-walk– and 45 m–high-walk–from the ground). Low-walk showed a higher score on flow scale, while high-walk displayed a higher score in the negative affect aspects, which together point to some level of flow restriction during high-walk. The order of task performance was shown to be relevant for the physiological and neural variables. The brain behavior during flow, mainly considering attention networks, displayed the stimulus-driven ventral attention network–VAN, regionally prevailing (mainly at the frontal lobe), over the goal-directed dorsal attention network–DAN. Therefore, we suggest an interpretation of flow experiences as an opened attention to more changing details in the surroundings, i.e., configured as a ‘task-constantly-opened-to-subtle-information experience’, rather than a ‘task-focused experience’.

Introduction Methods and validated tools for evaluating the performance of competency-based implementation research (IR) training programmes in low–middle-income countries (LMICs) are lacking. In this study, we developed tools for assessing the performance of IR training programmes based on a framework of IR core competencies in LMICs.Methods We developed self-assessment and objective-assessment tools drawing on the IR competency framework. We used exploratory factor analyses and a one-parameter logistic model to establish construct validity and internal consistency of the tools drawing on a survey conducted in 2020 with 166 trainees before and after an index IR course across five universities and LMICs under the Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases postgraduate IR training scheme. We conducted key informant interviews (KII) with 20 trainees and five trainers to reflect on the usefulness of the tools and framework for guiding IR training in LMICs.Results Two 16-item tools for self-assessment of IR knowledge and self-efficacy and a 40-item objective assessment tool were developed. The factor loadings of items in the self-assessment tools were 0.65–0.87 with Cronbach’s alpha (α) of 0.97, and 0.77–0.91 with α of 0.98 for the IR knowledge and self-efficacy tools, respectively. The distribution of item difficulty in the objective-assessment tool was consistent before and after the index IR course. Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between the self-assessed and objectively assessed IR knowledge before the index IR course was low, r=0.27 (p value:

Introducción: La muerte es parte de los tabúes sociales existentes y puede fomentar actitudes que distan de su abordaje explícito en relación con los cuidados. Objetivo: Analizar las actitudes ante la muerte en profesionales de enfermería de acuerdo con las publicaciones científicas en el contexto latinoamericano en el período 2018 a 2022. Metodología: Se realizó una revisión de literatura integrativa de las publicaciones científicas latinoamericanas respecto de las actitudes ante la muerte en el contexto de la enfermería, empleando los siguientes términos estandarizados: actitud, muerte, enfermería y cuidados de enfermería. Se incluyeron 8 artículos publicados en el período definido, en idioma español y portugués, en los que se abordó explícitamente la temática de la revisión. La información de los artículos fue analizada tomando como referencia los conceptos de la teoría de las transiciones. Resultados: Se encontraron diseños tanto cuantitativos (50 %) como cualitativos (50 %), elaborados en su totalidad en el ámbito hospitalario. Los principales resultados dan cuenta del predominio de la indiferencia ante la muerte en el contexto de los cuidados. En relación con la teoría de las transiciones, la mayoría de los artículos abordan las condiciones en que estas se dan, además de los conceptos de terapéutica de enfermería y patrones de respuesta. Conclusiones: La producción de investigaciones sobre la actitud ante la muerte en profesionales de enfermería es escasa en Latinoamérica. Las experiencias de pérdidas cercanas, la capacitación y el soporte institucional son la base para contribuir a una mejor actitud hacia la muerte.

Introducción: la Retinopatía Diabética es una de las complicaciones de los pacientes diabéticos con potencial para generar trastornos visuales y la ceguera del paciente si no controla adecuadamente. Objetivo: describir los efectos de la Retinopatía Diabética sobre la salud ocular. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sistemática, descriptiva, limitada a los idiomas de inglés y español. Se realizó una búsqueda de información actualizada en bases de datos electrónicos como: Scielo, Elsevier, PubMed, Biblioteca virtual de la salud, Google Académico. Desarrollo: la detección temprana y el riguroso control de los niveles de glucosa en la sangre es de vital importancia para evitar o retrasar la manifestación de la Retinopatía Diabética son factores de gran relevancia. La incorporación de evaluaciones periódicas, como la oftalmoscopia y la tomografía de coherencia óptica, desempeña un papel esencial en la identificación de los cambios retinianos incipientes. Además, las opciones terapéuticas han progresado, incluyendo tratamientos con láser y fármacos intravítreos, los cuales pueden detener o reducir la progresión de la enfermedad en algunos casos. Conclusiones: se categoriza en dos formas primordiales: no proliferativa y proliferativa. La primera se caracteriza por el debilitamiento de los vasos sanguíneos retinianos y la acumulación de líquido en el tejido de la retina. Contrariamente, la variedad proliferativa involucra el desarrollo anormal de nuevos vasos sanguíneos delicados en la retina, con el potencial de generar hemorragias y desprendimiento de la retina, lo que resulta en pérdida de la capacidad visual.

ABSTRACT Objective: Although 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) uptake is frequently observed in extraosseous metastases of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) with calcification, it can also occur in metastatic sites without visible calcium deposition, leading to the hypothesis that visually undetectable calcium accumulation may be responsible for this uptake. The aim of this study was to indirectly support this hypothesis by analyzing the correlation between the degree of 18F-NaF uptake and radiodensity in extraosseous MTC metastases, since calcium deposition can increase attenuation even when not visually detectable. Subjects and methods: Extraosseous metastatic lesions of 15 patients with MTC were evaluated using 18F-NaF positron-emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) and segmented by levels of standardized uptake value (SUV). The correlation between mean SUV and mean Hounsfield unit (HU) values was assessed for the entire group of segments and for two subgroups with different mean HU values. Results: Very high correlations were observed between mean SUV and mean HU values for both the entire group of segments and the subgroup with a mean HU value greater than 130 (p = 0.92 and p = 0.95, respectively; p < 0.01). High correlation (p = 0.71) was also observed in the subgroup with mean HU values ranging from 20 to 130 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that there is an association between 18F-NaF uptake and calcium deposition in extraosseous metastases of MTC, supporting the hypothesis that visually undetectable calcium accumulation may be responsible for 18F-NaF uptake in regions without visible calcium deposition.

Abstract Soil fertility is key point to pastures systems and drives the microbial communities and their functionality. Therefore, an understanding of the interaction between soil fertility and microbial communities can increase our ability to manage pasturelands and maintain their soil functioning and productivity. This study probed the influence of soil fertility on microbial communities in tropical pastures in Brazil. Soil samples, gathered from the top 20 cm of twelve distinct areas with diverse fertility levels, were analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. The soils were subsequently classified into two categories, namely high fertility (HF) and low fertility (LF), using the K-Means clustering. The random forest analysis revealed that high fertility (HF) soils had more bacterial diversity, predominantly Proteobacteria, Nitrospira, Chloroflexi, and Bacteroidetes, while Acidobacteria increased in low fertility (LF) soils. High fertility (HF) soils exhibited more complex network interactions and an enrichment of nitrogen-cycling bacterial groups. Additionally, functional annotation based on 16S rRNA varied between clusters. Microbial groups in HF soil demonstrated enhanced functions such as nitrate reduction, aerobic ammonia oxidation, and aromatic compound degradation. In contrast, in the LF soil, the predominant processes were ureolysis, cellulolysis, methanol oxidation, and methanotrophy. Our findings expand our knowledge about how soil fertility drives bacterial communities in pastures.

Abstract Hip fractures (HFx) are associated with a higher morbidity and mortality rates, leading to a significant reduction in life quality and in limitation of patient´s mobility. The present study aimed to obtain real-world evidence on the clinical characteristics of patients with an initial and a second hip fracture (HFx) and develop a predictive model for second HFx using artificial intelligence. Electronic health records from one hospital centre in Spain from January 2011 to December 2019 were analysed using EHRead® technology, based on natural language processing and machine learning. A total of 1,960 patients with HFx were finally included during the study period after meeting all inclusion and exclusion criteria. From this total, 1835 (93.6%) patients were included in the HFx subgroup, while 124 (6.4%) were admitted to the second HFx (2HFx) subgroup. The mean age of the participants was 84 years and 75.5% were female. Most of comorbidities were more frequently identified in the HFx group, including hypertension (72.0% vs. 67.2%), cognitive impairment (33.0% vs. 31.2%), diabetes mellitus (28.7% vs. 24.8%), heart failure (27.6% vs. 22.4%) and chronic kidney disease (26.9% vs. 16.0%). Based on clinical criteria, 26 features were selected as potential prediction factors. From there, 16 demographics and clinical characteristics such as comorbidities, medications, measures of disabilities for ambulation and type of refracture were selected for development of a competitive risk model. Specifically, those predictors with different associated risk ratios, sorted from higher to lower risk relevance were visual deficit, malnutrition, walking assistance, hypothyroidism, female sex, osteoporosis treatment, pertrochanteric fracture, dementia, age at index, osteoporosis, renal failure, stroke, COPD, heart disease, anaemia, and asthma. This model showed good performance (dependent AUC: 0.69; apparent performance: 0.75) and could help the identification of patients with higher risk of developing a second HFx, allowing preventive measures. This study expands the current available information of HFx patients in Spain and identifies factors that exhibit potential in predicting a second HFx among older patients.

A comprehensive LC-MS study examined the venom components of the solitary scoliid wasp Scolia oculata. Online mass fingerprinting showed that crude venom contains 25 small molecules (amino acids, biogenic amines, and nucleosides/nucleotides) and 45 peptides with MW 400-2700. The small molecules were identified by elemental composition analysis, and peptide sequences were determined by ESI-MS/MS and MALDI-TOF/TOF MS analyses. As major peptide components, a known peptide, β-scoliidine (DYVTVKGFSPLRKA), and three new peptides, γ-scoliidine (YVTVKGFSPLR), δ-scoliidine (YVTVKGFSPLREP) and ε-scoliidine (DYVTVKGFSPLREP) were identified, all of which are closely homologous to each other. Once the neuroprotective effects of β-scoliidine have already been described, the other three new scoliidine peptides were analyzed against oxidative stress-induced toxicity in PC12 neuronal cells by mitochondrial metabolism assay, and the structure-activity relationship was evaluated. Interestingly, pre-treatment with ε-scoliidine increased the mitochondrial metabolism of PC12 cells (106 ± 3.6%; p = 0.007) exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative stress in contrast to γ- and δ-scoliidines (77.6 ± 4.8 and 68.5 ± 4.1%, respectively) in compared to cells treated only H2O2 (75.8 ± 2.4%). These new peptides were also analyzed for enzyme inhibitor/substrate assays with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), neprilysin (NEP), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). In these assays, only δ- and ε-scoliidines increased the AChE activity (128.7 ± 3.8%; p = 0.01; and 116.8 ± 3.8% p = 0.03; respectively) in relation to basal activity (100.1 ± 1.6%). In addition, the four peptides were analyzed through in silico analysis, and none of them demonstrated possible hemolytic and toxic activities. In our study, the comprehensive LC-MS and MS/MS analyses of Scolia oculate venom identified four major peptide components of the venom β-, γ-, δ- and ε-scoliidines, and small differences in their primary structures are important to their neuroprotective properties.

Introduction Understanding the use of medicinal plants as herbal medicines is considered essential for the survival and continuity of humanity. Since ancient times, the origin and development of natural and traditional medicine have been intrinsically linked to humanity struggle for survival. Nowadays, ethnobotanical studies are employed as a tool for the preservation and conservation not only of taxonomic biodiversity but also of cultural biodiversity. Methodology A descriptive research with a quantitative, non-experimental cross-sectional design was carried out. The study was conducted in six Quechua-speaking communities in the district of Incahuasi (3,000 meters above sea level), selected for convenience considering factors such as altitude, accessibility, and proximity to the city. A questionnaire was administered to 32 residents from the communities, who shared their knowledge about medicinal plants, providing relevant information about them. The gender of the participants was considered because men and women use traditional medicine and the knowledge of them is transmitted from parents to children. Results During the study, a total of 46 medicinal species were recorded, belonging to 42 genera and 22 botanical families. The most representative medicinal families used by the informants of the communities were Asteraceae (30.4%) and Lamiaceae (15.2%). It is also worth mentioning the genera Salvia and Baccharis, with three and two species respectively, which are commonly used to treat various ailments and diseases. Conclusions Ethnobotanical information was collected on the medicinal plants used by the community members of the selected communities in Incahuasi, and the corresponding data were recorded. A total of 46 plants were collected, with the majority belonging to the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families.

Introdução: A imunoterapia é a nova fronteira no tratamento do câncer, desafiando as visões tradicionais em relação ao tratamento da malignidade. Ela abrange o tratamento com inibidores do ponto de checagem imunológico (check point), anticorpos monoclonais, células T de recetor quimérico de antígeno (CAR-T) e anticorpos monoclonais biespecíficos (BsAbs). Os BsAbs são medicamentos compostos por um único anticorpo monoclonal, o qual tem dois domínios de ligação que podem ligar-se a dois antígenos diferentes simultaneamente, sendo esta a grande vantagem desta terapia em relação às demais. Por isso, os BsAbs vêm revolucionando os desfechos clínicos em diferentes tipos de cânceres, principalmente os hematológicos, trazendo bons resultados e esperança aos pacientes com linfomas, leucemias e mieloma múltiplo. Objetivo: Fornecer uma visão geral atualizada sobre os tratamentos com BsAbs aplicados às principais neoplasias hematológicas, bem como abordar a sua classificação e mecanismo de ação. Material e Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura a partir de artigos publicados nos últimos 9 anos (2015-2023) na base de dados PubMed (Medline), relacionando neoplasias hematológicas e BsAbs, empregando o descritor: “Bispecific antibody”. Resultados: Foram encontrados o total de 1530 artigos, sendo que 48 foram incluídos no desenvolvimento desse artigo de revisão. Conclusões: Os BsAbs redirecionam a ação das células do sistema imune, gerando uma nova resposta terapêutica, demonstrando ser uma alternativa inovadora na imunoterapia, sendo uma opção de vanguarda que combina a engenharia da biologia molecular e a atividade biológica do sistema imunológico.

Abstract Mandacaru is a cactus with great socioeconomic potential, but lack of information about its cultivation hinders its domestication. Here, we aimed to evaluate the acclimatization and vegetative development of mandacaru under different substrates and irrigation levels. For this, seeds inoculated in vitro were grown for 120 days, being transplanted to pots containing four types of substrate (S1—caatinga soil + gravel; S2—washed sand + organic matter + soil + charcoal; S3—washed sand + cattle manure + soil + sand; S4—commercial organic substrate). Pots were irrigated with 100% of the field capacity (FC) once-a-week, or with 50% FC twice-a-week, and kept in a greenhouse for six months. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme, with six replications. Plant height and diameter, axial and radial growth rate, fresh and dry mass of stem and root, water content, and photosynthetic pigments were determined. Growth was affected mainly by the substrate, with S4 resulting in higher growth and pigment content, while S1 was impaired and S2 and S3 resulted in intermediate growth. The use of S4 and 100% FC once per week was the best condition for mandacaru.

Introducción. Las guías internacionales plantean que la evaluación de los movimientos generales en los recién nacidos puede ser una herramienta altamente predictiva para el diagnóstico temprano de la parálisis cerebral. Su uso en países en desarrollo como Colombia es limitado, por ello el diseño de un protocolo de evaluación de los movimientos generales permitiría optimizar el acceso de poblaciones de riesgo a esta herramienta. Objetivos. Desarrollar un protocolo de evaluación de los movimientos generales y los desenlaces en el desarrollo de los niños con riesgo de parálisis cerebral después de los 14 meses y evaluar su aplicabilidad en niños con dificultades de acceso a los servicios de salud. Métodos. El protocolo se planteó con un esquema de valoración de cuatro etapas. Según la edad al momento de ingreso al programa, se realizaron ajustes para la valoración, el análisis y el seguimiento de los pacientes. Los videos, que fueron grabados según las recomendaciones publicadas en la literatura médica relacionada con la metodología utilizada, fueron evaluados por profesionales certificados. Resultados. Se reporta el protocolo sugerido para la evaluación cualitativa y semicuantitativa de los movimientos generales y se presentan los resultados de su aplicación en 11 niños incluidos en la prueba piloto. Este protocolo, que fue diseñado con base en una revisión de la literatura y la experiencia de dos de los investigadores, incluye información para grabar los videos, realizar la evaluación médica, aplicar la evaluación cualitativa de Prechtl de los movimientos generales del recién nacido y el examen neurológico infantil Hammersmith. Conclusión. La evaluación de los movimientos generales constituye una herramienta valiosa para la valoración del riesgo de parálisis cerebral en lactantes. La utilización de un protocolo garantiza una evaluación seriada y sistemática, por lo que es conveniente implementar su uso en centros de atención primaria y mejorar la accesibilidad a estas herramientas.

Objetivo: conocer la relación que existe entre la Inteligencia Emocional y los Eventos Estresantes de la Vida en los Adultos Mayores. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo correlacional realizado en 95 participantes de Chihuahua, Chihuahua, México. Se aplicó una Cedula de Datos Personales, la Escala de Meta-Estado de Ánimo y el Inventario de Estrés en la Vida de Adultos Mayores. Resultados: el 64.2% de los participantes pertenecieron al sexo femenino, los eventos que más experimentaron los AM en el último año fueron la presencia de una lesión o enfermedad en el Adulto Mayor (67.4%), el no poder realizar actividades que disfrutaba mucho (65.3%) y la muerte de un miembro cercano a la familia (63.8%). No se encontró relación significativa entre la Inteligencia Emocional y los Eventos Estresantes de la Vida en los Adultos Mayores (rs = -.06, p = .56), sin embargo, se realizó en análisis con cada uno de los eventos y los resultados mostraron que la Inteligencia Emocional se relacionó de forma positiva con la muerte de un miembro cercano a la familia (rs = .65, p = .05), la alteración en la salud de algún miembro en la familia (rs = .54, p = .05), el no poder realizar actividades que disfrutaba (rs = .54, p = .05). Conclusiones: La experiencia repetida de los Eventos Estresantes de la Vida pueden impactar de forma negativa la salud del Adulto Mayor, se requiere de más estudios que permitan identificar como la IE puede ayudar al Adulto Mayor a enfrentar estos eventos.

Using orthopedic devices or prosthetic joints to treat various conditions is expected in a Traumatology and Orthopedics Unit. Recently, the materials used to build these different devices have evolved; however, pathogens can still infect these materials. Additionally, the immune system has limitations when defending against these pathogens, which results in bacterial infections like Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). A total of 276 patients who attended the Traumatology and Orthopedics Unit of our hospital from 1 June 2018 to 1 June 2019, were included in the present study. Our study analyzed the incidence of S. aureus and other bacterial pathogens in the surgical sites of patients with orthopedic implants, as well as the most used types of implants and implant materials. The specimens obtained from the surgical sites of the patients were cultured in anaerobic and aerobic media for subsequent identification using their phenotypic characteristics. Subsequently, antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed to establish the appropriate treatment. The primary pathogens identified were Staphylococcus aureus (26.4%), followed by Escherichia coli (21.0%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (15.8%). The most commonly used implants were plates (41.7%), followed by endomedullary nails (20%), Kirschner wires (14.1%), and fixators (10.1%). As for the anatomical regions of the implants, the most frequent sites were the legs, followed by the thighs, wrists, and ankles. The pathogens were more susceptible to ciprofloxacin (95%), clindamycin (89%), and cefotaxime (86%). S. aureus is the primary infectious agent in our hospital, with an incidence of 26.4% after the placement of orthopedic implants. Although its incidence was lower compared to other tertiary hospitals, it is necessary to improve aseptic techniques in such a way as to reduce the incidence of this pathogen further.

We evaluated the specificity of the primers OPF-01, P54, and 1253 to identify A. fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger, respectively, with the RAPD-PCR method. Eighty-two isolates belonging to the sections Fumigati, Flavi, and Nigri were used. The isolates were identified by phenotypic (macro- and micromorphology) and genotypic (partial sequences of the BenA gene) methods. The RAPD-PCR method was used to obtain polymorphic patterns with the primers OPF-01, P54, and 1253. The specificity of the polymorphic patterns of the isolates of each species was evaluated through the UPGMA clustering method and logistic regression model. All isolates of the genus Aspergillus were identified at the section level by macro- and micromorphology showing the typical morphology of the sections Fumigati, Flavi, and Nigri, and the species were identified by the construction of the phylogeny of the partial sequence of the BenA gene. The patterns’ polymorphic strains obtained with the primers OPF-01, P54, and 1253 for the isolates of A. fumigatus, A. flavus, and A niger, respectively, showed the same polymorphic pattern as the reference strains for each species. To verify the specificity of the primers, they were tested with other species from the sections Fumigati, Flavi and Nigri. The results support that the primers OPF-01, P54, and 1253 generate polymorphic patterns by RAPD-PCR species specific to A. fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger, respectively.

Introduction. The proline-rich decapeptide 10c (Bj-PRO-10c; ENWPHPQIPP) from the Bothrops jararaca snake modulates argininosuccinate synthetase (AsS) activity to stimulate L-arginine metabolite production and neuroprotection in the SH-SY5Y cell line. The relationships between structure, interactions with AsS, and neuroprotection are little known. We evaluated the neuroprotective effects of Bj-PRO-10c and three other PROs (Bn-PRO-10a, Bitis nasicornis snake venom, with a high degree of similarity to Bj-PRO-10c, on oxidative stress-induced toxicity in neuronal PC12 cells and L-arginine metabolite generation via AsS activity regulation. Methods. Cell integrity, metabolic activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and arginase activity were examined after 4 h of PRO pre-treatment and 20 h of H2O2-induced damage. Results. Only Bn-PRO-10a-MK and Bn-PRO-10c restored cell integrity and arginase function under oxidative stress settings, but they did not reduce ROS or cell metabolism. The MK dipeptide in Bn-PRO-10a-MK and valine (V8) in Bn-PRO-10c are important to these effects when compared to Bn-PRO-10a. Bj-PRO-10c is not neuroprotective in PC12 cells, perhaps because of their limited NMDA-type glutamate receptor activity. The PROs interaction analysis on AsS activation can be rated as follows: Bj-PRO-10c > Bn-PRO-10c > Bn-PRO-10a-MK > Bn-PRO-10a. The structure of PROs and their correlations with enzyme activity revealed that histidine (H5) and glutamine (Q7) in Bj-PRO-10c potentiated their affinity for AsS. Conclusions. Our investigation provides the first insights into the structure and molecular interactions of PROs with AsS, which could possibly further their neuropharmacological applications.

Surgical intervention is a key element in the management of patients diagnosed with mucormycosis. A retrospective cohort study was carried out, in which patients with a proven diagnosis of mucormycosis were evaluated over a period of 10 years, according to the MSGERC criteria. A descriptive analysis of the clinical characteristics, comorbidities, imaging, and microbiology studies, as well as medical and surgical treatment and the type of prosthesis was carried out. A total of 22 cases were identified, of which 54.5% (n = 12) of the population were men. Furthermore, 77.2% (n = 17) of the population had diabetes mellitus. The main antifungal treatment implemented was liposomal amphotericin B (77.2%, n = 17). The most affected structures in our patients were the paranasal sinuses (n = 18; 81%), followed by the maxilla and orbit (n = 15; 68%), nose (n = 12; 54%), central nervous system (n = 11; 50%), and skin and soft tissues (n = 2;

This work examines the current landscape of drug discovery and development, with a particular focus on the chemical and pharmacological spaces. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these spaces to anticipate future trends in drug discovery. The use of cheminformatics and data analysis enabled in silico exploration of these spaces, allowing a perspective of drugs, approved drugs after 2020, and clinical candidates, which were extracted from the newly released ChEMBL34 (March 2024). This perspective on chemical and pharmacological spaces enables the identification of trends and areas to be occupied, thereby creating opportunities for more effective and targeted drug discovery and development strategies in the future.

Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by the bite female sand fly. The present work is characterized as a descriptive study in two areas: a forest area located in the Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, and another urban area located in the municipality of Timóteo-MG, with the objective of identifying the presence of Leishmania spp. and the blood source of the collected female sand flies. Part of the females were obtained from the Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, and part was collected using 19 ligth traps distributed in residences of Timóteo. For molecular studies of Leishmania spp. DNA, the ITS1 gene was used, and in the search for blood source, the CytB gene was used and positive samples were sequenced. The study demonstrated that there are at least three species of Leishmania circulating in the study areas: Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis, and Leishmania (V.) guyanensis. Nyssomyia whitmani was the predominant sand fly species in the urban area of Timóteo with a positive diagnosis for the presence of Leishmania braziliensis DNA. We found the presence of blood from Gallus gallus (Chicken) and Sus scrofa (Pig) in sand flies. The present study demonstrates that Leishmania braziliensis is the main agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the study area, with the effective participation of Nyssomyia whitmani as the vector and both Gallus gallus and Sus scrofa acting as a food source for female sand flies, and helping maintaining the sand fly life.

El Síndrome de Nutcracker producido por compresión aorto-mesenterica de la vena renal izquierda puede tratarse con transposición quirúrgica. Se realizó revisión de dicho tratamiento realizado en el Instituto de Previsión Social. Se identificaron dos mujeres de 15 y 26 años, que presentaron dolor lumbar y hematuria. Egresaron al cuarto y quinto día de postoperatorio. Las pacientes no presentaron síntomas a los cinco y nueve meses de seguimiento.

A arquitetura da informação, como campo do conhecimento, é analisada em relação à área da Ciência da Informação. O histórico do desenvolvimento conceitual da arquitetura da informação é apresentado, explorando em particular as aplicações das estruturas de classificação, e também suas relações com os conceitos de uso, utilidade e usuário. O entendimento que pode ser depreendido é que a arquitetura da informação pode ser concebida como um campo interdisciplinar da Ciência da Informação e computação. Os princípios fundamentais deste subcampo são aplicados no estudo de caso do portal web de uma instituição de pesquisa na área da saúde, a Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. São verificados seu funcionamento, sua estrutura de informação, a natureza da linguagem adotada, sua navegabilidade e sua adequação às necessidades de informação dos usuários do portal.

Introducción: La modelación de los flujos de pacientes se considera una herramienta clave para el análisis y mejora de las trayectorias intrahospitalarias. Objetivo: Desarrollar y validar, en un servicio de cirugía general, un modelo matemático para la gestión de flujos de pacientes en servicios hospitalarios. Métodos: Se desarrolló una investigación de tipo cuantitativa descriptiva. Se analizaron diferentes modelos de gestión y se identificaron brechas a solventar. Para su concepción se diseñó un procedimiento metodológico que tiene en cuenta la agrupación de pacientes en categorías diagnósticas mayores, en función de características clínicas homogéneas y similar consumo de recursos. Resultados: Se identificó como problema principal la insuficiente gestión de los flujos de pacientes. Se construyó un modelo matemático de simulación discreta que se validó mediante la comparación de datos reales del servicio y las opiniones subjetivas de especialistas. Se identificó que los recursos limitantes del sistema son las enfermeras y las camas con porcentajes de utilización de 93,377 % y 89,265 % respectivamente. Conclusiones: Se desarrolla un modelo para la gestión de los flujos de pacientes en el servicio de cirugía general y se demuestra su influencia en el análisis, el proceso de toma de decisiones y la mejora de la gestión.

Essential oil (EO) distillation units, which are commonly installed on farms, have difficultly accessing knowledge centers. The apparent simplicity of the process hides unwanted losses and deviations that go undetected and, therefore, not corrected. This article proposes improvements to the process that are based on "4.0" technologies in order to detect and correct two important deficiencies, with an impact on the yield, quality and environmental performance. The first deficiency comprises the steam channels that are formed through green mass (channeling), are well known and are considered normal by EO producers. Without detection and correction, this negatively affects the extraction results. The second is the lack of technology that is able to automatically determine the extraction endpoint. Smart sensing, control, self-configuration and the dynamic determination of improved process parameters make up a set of actions undertaken by a smart extraction plant (50-liter capacity). Nineteen experiments using lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) exhibited remarkable 24% and 10% improvements in the yield and quality, respectively. Energy consumption and a more than 50% reduction in the processing complete the set of results achieved. In addition to manufacturing costs and the utilization of capacity, better sustainability indicators are positive consequences of this technological updating.

Abstract: Brazil has the second largest number of leprosy cases (a disease with a significant burden) in the world. Despite global and local efforts to eliminate this public health problem, inadequate or late diagnosis contribute to perpetuate its transmission, especially among household contacts. Tests such as the rapid IgM antibody detection (RT) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were developed to overcome the challenges of early diagnosis of leprosy. This study aimed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of a new diagnostic algorithm recommended by the Brazilian government to diagnose leprosy in household contacts of confirmed leprosy cases, which includes the RT and RT-PCR tests. A decision tree model was constructed and the perspective of the Brazilian Unified National Health System (SUS) and a 1-year time horizon were adopted. Only direct medical costs related to diagnostic tests were included. Effectiveness was measured as the number of avoided undiagnosed leprosy cases. Different scenarios were analyzed. The sequential use of RT, slit-skin smear (SSS) microscopy, and RT-PCR as recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health was compared to a base case (isolated SSS microscopy), yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of USD 616.46 per avoided undiagnosed leprosy case. Univariate sensitivity analysis showed that the prevalence of leprosy among household contacts was the variable that influenced the model the most. This is the first economic model to analyze a diagnostic algorithm of leprosy. Results may aid managers to define policies and strategies to eradicate leprosy in Brazil.

Introdução: A Farmacovigilância compreende as atividades referentes à deteção, avaliação, compreensão e prevenção de eventos adversos, ou quaisquer outros problemas relacionados a medicamentos. É um componente essencial dos sistemas de saúde, contribuindo na avaliação e no monitoramento da segurança do uso de medicamentos. Dentre as atividades relevantes da Farmacovigilância, destacam-se as notificações de reações adversas a medicamentos (RAM). Por apresentarem índice terapêutico estreito, os medicamentos antineoplásicos possuem alto potencial para ocorrência de eventos adversos. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi quantificar globalmente o perfil das notificações espontâneas de RAM antineoplásicos encaminhadas ao Programa de Farmacovigilância de um hospital universitário em Porto Alegre. Material e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de caráter descritivo e retrospetivo, no período dos anos de 2020 e 2021. Este trabalho foi aprovado no Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da referida instituição. Resultados: O Programa de Farmacovigilância do hospital recebeu espontaneamente 119 e 105 notificações de RAM nos anos de 2020 e 2021, respetivamente, sendo que 71 (60%) e 49 (47%), respetivamente, foram relacionadas a terapia antineoplásica. Foram identificados 14 diferentes medicamentos antineoplásicos envolvidos nas notificações de 2020 e, 11, nas de 2021, com destaque para a Oxaliplatina e o Paclitaxel. Conclusões: Este trabalho evidenciou a importância da atuação do Programa Farmacovigilância na área de quimioterapia antineoplásica, agregando segurança no uso de medicamentos no ambiente hospitalar.

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar como a Universidade pública tem atuado na aproximação com a sociedade e como tem se relacionado com a comunidade em que está inserida, tendo como referência o projeto de extensão “CCA de Portas Abertas” do Centro de Ciências Agrárias, da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. O estudo tem como abordagem o método qualitativo e se caracteriza por ser descritivo. Através deste estudo, evidenciou-se que a extensão é um instrumento necessário para a relação universidade-comunidade e que ações como o “CCA de Portas Abertas” promovem o intercâmbio de conhecimentos e legitimam o papel da universidade perante a comunidade ao seu entorno.

Não se aplica

Introducción: la pandemia causada por el virus respiratorio SARS-Cov2, generó una gran crisis mundial por su alta tasa de mortalidad y morbilidad. En los últimos años se ha evidenciado casos de personas que han desarrollado manifestaciones cutáneas como el vitíligo ya sea durante la enfermedad o después de la vacunación. Objetivo: describir la relación entre Vitíligo y Covid-19 para así poder facilitar su diagnóstico y tratamiento. Método: se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en donde se ejecutó el análisis de artículos originales y revisiones sistémicas actualizadas que nos aportaran información acerca del vitíligo y SARS-Cov2. La búsqueda se realizó en buscadores Bibliográficos como Clinical Key, Pubmed, Google Académico, teniendo en cuenta los artículos más relevantes dentro de la comunidad científica. Se tuvieron en cuenta para la búsqueda palabras claves como, "Vitíligo", y "Vitíligo asociado a COVID- 19". Resultado: en los estudios y artículos analizados, se evidencia la aparición de algunas enfermedades autoinmunes en la que destaca el vitíligo. Se asocian estrés por COVID-19 y la extensión del vitíligo. El estrés y los factores estresantes pueden tener un efecto profundo en la autoinmunidad, siendo el vitíligo una enfermedad autoinmunitaria. Conclusión: la patogenia del vitíligo es compleja e implica la interacción de múltiples factores, entre ellos el estrés oxidativo y la autoinmunidad con susceptibilidad genética. La enfermedad por COVID-19 desencadena una tormenta de citocinas, en la que se observa elevación de IL-6, mientras que el vitíligo probablemente pueda incrementar la cascada de citocinas y empeorar el pronóstico.

Introduction Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the leading causes of childhood disability globally with a high burden in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Preliminary findings from the global LMIC CP Register (GLM CPR) suggest that the majority of CP in LMICs are due to potentially preventable causes. Such data are lacking in the Latin American region. Generating comparable epidemiological data on CP from this region could enable translational research and services towards early diagnosis and early intervention. We aim to establish a Latin American multicountry network and online data repository of CP called Latin American Cerebral Palsy Register (LATAM-CPR).Methods and analysis The LATAM-CPR will be modelled after the GLM CPR and will support new and emerging Latin American CP registers following a harmonised protocol adapted from the GLM CPR and piloted in Argentina (ie, Argentine Register of Cerebral Palsy). Both population-based and institution-based surveillance mechanisms will be adopted for registration of children with CP aged less than 18 years to the participating CP registers. The data collection form of the LATAM-CPR will include risk factors, clinical profile, rehabilitation, socioeconomical status of children with CP. Descriptive data on the epidemiology of CP from each participating country will be reported, country-specific and regional data will be compared.Ethics and dissemination Individual CP registers have applied ethics approval from respective national human research ethics committees (HREC) and/or institutional review boards prior to the establishment and inclusion into the LATAM-CPR. Ethical approval for LATAM-CPR has already been obtained from the HREC in the two countries that started (Argentina and Mexico). Findings will be disseminated and will be made publicly available through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and social media communications.

Abstract Leaf-cutting ants of the genera Atta and Acromyrmex (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are the most important pests in forest and agricultural plantations and livestock. Toxic baits are the main method to manage these insects. The objective was to determine whether the behavior of allogrooming, touch, and self-grooming among Atta sexdens rubropilosa Forel, 1908 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) workers disperse the fungicide quinone inside inhibitor and whether this product is toxic to them. This fungicide was applied, topically, in groups of workers and the social interactions between them and their mortality with and without the fungicide were evaluated. The interactions and the quinone inside inhibitor fungicide contamination increased with the number of leaf-cutting ant workers per group. Excessive touches, with subsequent allogrooming, and self-grooming among the ant workers dispersed the quinone inside the inhibitor fungicide causing 100% mortality and indicating its toxicity to this insect. The hypothesis that social interactions contaminated ant colony mates and the toxicity of the fungicide quinone inside inhibitor to workers of the leaf-cutting ant A. sexdens rubropilosa was proven.

Background: Recognizing the positive or negative effects of students’ mental health promotes personal development, well-being, and academic success. Academic life exposes college students to multiple adjustments, demands, and vulnerabilities that can cause stress and mental health problems. This study aims to identify psychological well-being and psychological distress effects on college students’ mental health. Methods: A correlational study was designed involving a non-probabilistic 560 sample of students (446 women) aged 18 to 41 years (M = 19.6; SD = 1.68). An online self-report questionnaire was used including demographic, relational, academic, and health behaviors variables, and the measures: Mental Health Inventory; Satisfaction with Social Support Scale; Academic Life Satisfaction Scale; and Psychological Vulnerability Scale. Results: Regression analyses indicate that male students, dating, good academic performance, exercise, sleeping seven hours, satisfaction with social support, and academic life satisfaction were significant correlates (p < 0.05) of psychological well-being, with the last two having great weight in the model. Females, low income, aged 21–24 years, sleeping less than 6 h, moderate psychological vulnerability, and perception of vulnerability were significant (p < 0.05) negative effects of psychological distress. Conclusions: This study addresses the positive and negative effects of psychological well-being and distress in college students. Specific mental health promotion and morbidity prevention programs can improve students’ mental health literacy and resilience.

Neutrophils, which constitute the most abundant leukocytes in human blood, emerge as crucial players in the induction of endothelial cell death and the modulation of endothelial cell responses under both physiological and pathological conditions. The hallmark of preeclampsia is endothelial dysfunction induced by systemic inflammation, in which neutrophils, particularly through the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), play a pivotal role in the development and perpetuation of endothelial dysfunction and the hypertensive state. Considering the potential of numerous pharmaceutical agents to attenuate NET formation (NETosis) in preeclampsia, a comprehensive assessment of the extensively studied candidates becomes imperative. This review aims to identify mechanisms associated with the induction and negative regulation of NETs in the context of preeclampsia. We discuss potential drugs to modulate NETosis, such as NF-κβ inhibitors, vitamin D, and aspirin, and their association with mutagenicity and genotoxicity. Strong evidence supports the notion that molecules involved in the activation of NETs could serve as promising targets for the treatment of preeclampsia.

In Colombia, Micrurus snakebites are classified as severe according to the national clinical care guidelines and must be treated with specific antivenoms. Unfortunately, these types of antivenoms are scarce in certain areas of the country and are currently reported as an unavailable vital medicine. To address this issue, La Universidad de Antioquia, through its spin-off Tech Life Saving, is leading a project to develop third-generation polyvalent freeze-dried antivenom. The goal is to ensure access to this therapy, especially in rural and dispersed areas. This project aims to evaluate the physicochemical and preclinical parameters (standard quality characteristics) of a lab-scale anti-elapid antivenom batch. The antivenom is challenged against the venoms of several Micrurus species, including M. mipartitus, M. dumerilii, M. ancoralis, M. dissoleucus, M. lemniscatus, M. medemi, M. spixii, M. surinamensis, and M. isozonus, following the standard quality characteristics set by the World Health Organization (WHO). The antivenom demonstrates an appearance consistent with standards, 100% solubility within 4 min and 25 s, an extractable volume of 10.39 mL, a pH of 6.04, an albumin concentration of 0.377 mg/mL (equivalent to 1.22% of total protein), and a protein concentration of 30.97 mg/mL. Importantly, it maintains full integrity of its F(ab′)2 fragments and exhibits purity over 98.5%. Furthermore, in mice toxicity evaluations, doses up to 15 mg/mouse show no toxic effects. The antivenom also demonstrates a significant recognition pattern against Micrurus venoms rich in phospholipase A2 (PLA2) content, as observed in M. dumerilii, M. dissoleucus, and M. isozonus. The effective dose 50 (ED50) indicates that a single vial (10 mL) can neutralize 2.33 mg of M. mipartitus venom and 3.99 mg of M. dumerilii venom. This new anti-elapid third-generation polyvalent and freeze-dried antivenom meets the physicochemical parameters set by the WHO and the regulators in Colombia. It demonstrates significant efficacy in neutralizing the venom of the most epidemiologically important Micrurus species in Colombia. Additionally, it recognizes seven other species of Micrurus venom with a higher affinity for venoms exhibiting PLA2 toxins. Fulfilling these parameters represents the first step toward proposing a new pharmacological alternative for treating snakebites in Colombia, particularly in dispersed rural areas, given that this antivenom is formulated as a freeze-dried product.

Purpose We aimed to describe the performance and evaluate the educational value of justifications provided by artificial intelligence chatbots, including GPT-3.5, GPT-4, Bard, Claude, and Bing, on the Peruvian National Medical Licensing Examination (P-NLME). Methods This was a cross-sectional analytical study. On July 25, 2023, each multiple-choice question (MCQ) from the P-NLME was entered into each chatbot (GPT-3, GPT-4, Bing, Bard, and Claude) 3 times. Then, 4 medical educators categorized the MCQs in terms of medical area, item type, and whether the MCQ required Peru-specific knowledge. They assessed the educational value of the justifications from the 2 top performers (GPT-4 and Bing). Results GPT-4 scored 86.7% and Bing scored 82.2%, followed by Bard and Claude, and the historical performance of Peruvian examinees was 55%. Among the factors associated with correct answers, only MCQs that required Peru-specific knowledge had lower odds (odds ratio, 0.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.09–0.61), whereas the remaining factors showed no associations. In assessing the educational value of justifications provided by GPT-4 and Bing, neither showed any significant differences in certainty, usefulness, or potential use in the classroom. Conclusion Among chatbots, GPT-4 and Bing were the top performers, with Bing performing better at Peru-specific MCQs. Moreover, the educational value of justifications provided by the GPT-4 and Bing could be deemed appropriate. However, it is essential to start addressing the educational value of these chatbots, rather than merely their performance on examinations.

Background: The global scientific literature in dentistry has shown important advances in the field, with major contributions ranging from the analysis of the basic epidemiological aspects of prevention to specialised results in the field of dental treatments. The present investigation aimed to analyse the current state of the scientific literature on dentistry hosted in the Web of Science database. Methods: The methodology included two phases in the analysis of articles and indexed reviews in all thematic areas. During the first phase, the following variables were analysed: scientific production by the publisher, the evolution of scientific output published by publishers, the factors associated with the impact of scientific production, and the modelling of the impact of scientific production on dentistry. During the second phase, associations, evolutions, and trends in the use of keywords in the scientific literature in dentistry were analysed. Results: The first phase shows that scientific production in dentistry will increase between 2010 and 2021, reaching 12,126 articles in 2021. Publishers such as Wiley and Elsevier stand out, but Quintessence Publishing has the most citations. Factors such as pages, authors, and references influence the number of citations. Phase 2 analyzes trends in the dental literature using the WoS database. Topics such as "dental education", "pediatric dentistry", and "pandemic" stand out. The intersection of technology and dentistry and the importance of evidence-based education are highlighted. Conclusions: In conclusion, the study shows that the most studied topics include the association of dental education and the curriculum, the association of pediatric dentistry with oral health, and dental care. The findings show that more recently emphasised topics also stand out, such as evidence-based dentistry, the COVID-19 pandemic, infection control, and endodontics, as well as the need for future research to expand current knowledge based on emerging topics in the scientific literature on dentistry.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To describe the regional distribution of hospital admission authorizations (HAA), hospitalization costs (HC), the average length of stay (LOS), and mortality rates (MR) related to primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) funded by the Brazilian Health Unic System (SUS) from 2012 to 2021. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study using secondary data of public domain obtained from the Department of Informatics of SUS (DATASUS) database website. Results: A total of 125,463 HAA were released with HC of 552,218,181.04 BRL in the evaluated period. The average LOS was of 6.8 days. MR was 1.62%. Conclusion: The regional distribution of HAA was 65,756 (52%) in the Southeast; 33,837 (27%) in the South; 14,882 (12%) in the Northeast; 9,364 (8%) in Midwest; and 1,624 (1%) in North - in 2020 there was a sharp decrease of the released HAA, probably due to the COVID-19 pandemic. HC was 293,474,673.20 BRL in the Southeast; 144,794,843.11 BRL in the South; 61,751,644.36 BRL in the Northeast; 45,724,353.80 BRL in the Midwest; and 6,472,666.57 BRL in the North. The average LOS was 6.7 in the Southeast; 5.3 in the South; 9.2 in the Northeast; 7.6 in the Midwest; and, 13.6 in the North. MR was as follows: Southeast=1.88%; South=1.07%; Northeast=1.83%; Midwest=1.44%; and North=1.47%. Evidence Level III; Retrospective Comparative Study .

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) mutations associated with antiviral resistance have become a major problem related to high mortality in kidney transplant patients. The aim of the study was to investigate mutations in the CMV genes UL97 and UL54 associated with antiviral resistance. A retrospective observational cohort study was carried out at Hospital Ophir Loyola (HOL), a reference in Kidney Transplantation. A total of 81 patients who underwent kidney transplantation were followed up between 2016 and 2018 were monitored for CMV viral load by performing qPCR. Sanger sequencing was performed on 66 patients. All CMV-positive kidney transplant recipients were included. Mutations were observed in 15 samples (22.72%) from patients. Most cases involved UL97 mutations. Mutation in UL54 without mutation in UL97 was detected in only 2 cases. Resistance mutations in UL97 were identified, such as M460V, L595S, H520Q, two co-mutations D465R + Del524 and A594P + D413A and a 3 codon deletion (del598-601). The search for mutations in the CMV genes identified mutations that confer resistance to conventional antivirals, such as ganciclovir and cidofovir, used in the treatment of these patients. Confirmation of the association with increased CMV viral load in transplanted patients, due to mutation in resistance genes, requires phenotypic analysis for confirmation purposes. These were the first findings in patients in northern Brazil that we know of.