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Neogale africana (Desmarest, 1818), Amazon Weasel, is a poorly known South American carnivore, with records from north-central Brazil to Ecuador and south to central Peru and central Brazil. Based on two videographic records, we report the presence of this species in Bolivia and document a new elevational record. Furthermore, our new record extends the species’ distribution by 900 km from the nearest locality in Peru, and by 1500 km from the nearest Brazilian locality. Current gaps in its distribution are attributable to the low detectability and rarity of this mustelid.

BackgroundThe incidence of mental health issues in children is increasing worldwide. In Chile, a recent surge in reports of deteriorating mental health among school populations and an increase in complaints related to poor school climate have been observed. Physical activity, specifically active breaks in the classroom, has shown positive effects on children’s health. However, evidence regarding its impact on mental health and school climate in children is limited.ObjectiveThis work outlines the design, measurements, intervention program, and potential efficacy of the “Active Classes + School Climate and Mental Health” project. This project will assess a 12-week program of active breaks through guided videos with curricular content in the school classroom, and its effects on mental health and school climate as its primary indicators. Additionally, it will measure physical activity, physical fitness, motor competence, and academic performance in students aged 6–10 years in the Biobío province, Chile, as secondary indicators. Methodology: A multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 823 students from 1st to 4th grade (6–10 years old), six schools (three intervention and three control) will be conducted in the Biobío region, Chile. Participants belonging to the intervention group will implement video-guided active breaks through the “Active Classes” web platform, featuring curricular content, lasting 5–10 min and of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity, twice a day, Monday to Friday, over a span of 12 weeks. Expected Results/Discussion: To our knowledge, this will be the first study in Chile to evaluate the effects of incorporating video-guided active breaks with curricular content on mental health variables and school climate in schoolchildren. Thus, this study contributes to the scarce evidence on the effects of video-guided active breaks on mental health variables and school climate in schoolchildren worldwide. Additionally, it will provide crucial information about active teaching methodologies that have the potential to positively contribute to the wellbeing of students, thus addressing the problems of mental health and climate in Chilean schools. ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06423404.

Background COVID-19 survivors who were hospitalised continue to experience long-term multisystemic sequelae and symptoms, impacting their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The complexity of post-COVID-19 conditions underscores the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary, patient-centric approach to ensure ongoing care. This study aims to assess HRQoL and post-COVID symptoms in a cohort of severe COVID-19 survivors depending on their participation in a multidisciplinary programme. Methods This prospective study was conducted in a post-COVID clinic staffed by a multidisciplinary team (physical rehabilitator, nutritionist, psychologist, including experts in pulmonary rehabilitation, nutrition, psychology and others). Subjects over 18 years old who were hospitalised due to severe COVID-19 during the acute phase and had attended the post-COVID clinic within the first 3 months following discharge were included. Subjects who were unable or unwilling to provide informed consent to participate in the protocol were excluded. Linear mixed-effect models were employed to examine changes in 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) component scores. The resolution of post-COVID symptom clusters was compared using the Cox model. Results A total of 730 patients were included, with a mean±sd age of 55.78±15.43 years; 60.55% were male and 90.62% required mechanical ventilation during hospitalisation. Programme attendants demonstrated improved SF-12 physical and mental component scores at 3 and 12 months. A reduction in the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms was observed in both groups, with greater reductions in those attending the programme. Conclusion Our study showed that patients enrolled on the multidisciplinary programme experienced improvements in fatigue, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric and respiratory symptoms, along with enhanced SF-12 mental and physical component scores.

Objective In the Steroid EliMination In Rheumatoid Arthritis (SEMIRA) trial, 65% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in low disease activity (LDA) on stable biologic therapy successfully tapered glucocorticoids. We aimed to evaluate real‐world rates of glucocorticoid tapering among similar patients in the Veterans Affairs Rheumatoid Arthritis registry. Methods Within a multicenter, prospective RA cohort, we used registry data and linked pharmacy claims from 2003 to 2021 to identify chronic prednisone users achieving LDA after initiating a new biologic or targeted synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (b/tsDMARD). We defined the index date as first LDA occurring 60 to 180 days after b/tsDMARD initiation. The primary outcome of successful tapering, assessed at day 180 after LDA, required a 30‐day averaged prednisone dose both less than or equal to 5mg/day and at least 50% lower than at the index date. The secondary outcome was discontinuation, defined as a prednisone dose of 0 mg/day at days 180 through 210. We used univariate statistics to compare patient characteristics by fulfillment of the primary outcome. Results We evaluated 100 b/tsDMARD courses among 95 patients. Fifty‐four courses resulted in successful tapering; 33 resulted in discontinuation. Positive rheumatoid factor, higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate, more background DMARDs, shorter time from b/tsDMARD initiation to LDA, and higher glucocorticoid dose 30 days before LDA were associated with greater likelihood of successful tapering. Conclusion In a real‐world RA cohort of chronic glucocorticoid users in LDA, half successfully tapered and a third discontinued prednisone within 6 months of initiating a new b/tsDMARD. Claims‐based algorithms of glucocorticoid tapering and discontinuation may be useful to evaluate predictors of tapering in administrative data sets.

Background Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) is a common mechanism of recurrent elbow instability. While the essential lesion is a deficiency in the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), there are often associated concomitant bony lesions, such as an Osborne-Cotterill lesions (posterior capitellar fractures) and marginal radial head fractures, that compromise stability. Currently, there is no standard treatment for posterior capitellar deficiency associated with recurrent PLRI. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of five patients with recurrent PLRI of the elbow associated with a posterior capitellar impaction fracture engaging with the radial head during normal range of motion. The patients were treated surgically with LUCL reconstruction or repair and off-label reconstruction of the capitellar joint surface using a small metal prosthesis designed for metatarsal head resurfacing (HemiCAP toe classic). Results Five patients (three adolescent males, two adult females) were treated between 2007 and 2018. At a median follow-up of 5 years, all patients had complete relief of their symptomatic instability. No patients had pain at rest, but two patients had mild pain (visual analog scale 1–3) during physical activity. Three patients rated their elbow as normal, one as almost normal, and one as greatly improved. On short-term radiographic follow-up there were no signs of implant loosening. None of the patients needed reoperation. Conclusions Recurrent PLRI of the elbow associated with an engaging posterior capitellar lesion can be treated successfully by LUCL reconstruction and repair and filling of the capitellar defect with a metal prosthesis. This treatment option has excellent clinical results in the short-medium term. Level of evidenceIV.

Vegetable oils and extracts have been used from ancient times for skin care. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the physicochemical, organoleptic, and microbiological characteristics and the instrumental efficacy in vivo of a cosmetic formula named “ASC Cream”, containing sangre de grado resin extract (Croton lechleri) and vegetable oils obtained from moriche palm (Mauritia flexuosa L.), goldenberry (Physalis peruviana), super sacha peanut (Plukenetia huayllabambana sp. nov.), and sacha peanut (Plukenetia volubilis L.). Instrumental efficacy, skin hydration and skin pH were tested in vivo in 24 healthy female volunteers between 40 and 65 years old, using non-invasive skin bioengineering equipment from Courage + Khazaka Electronics, both in the short term (30 min, 1 h and 3 h) and long term (14 and 28 days). The main findings were increased immediate hydration (132.4%) and long-term hydration (143.6%), showing a statistically significant average improvement (p < 0.05) without altering the skin pH. In conclusion, a balanced combination of the extract and oils significantly increases hydration levels while maintaining skin pH.

La cirugía de manguito rotador se ha popularizado en los últimos años y pasó de realizarse mediante una técnica abierta, en la mayoría de los casos, a la reparación artroscópica. Se han descrito múltiples técnicas para la fijación del hueso, pero no se han estandarizado el orden y los pasos para llevar a cabo esta reparación, lo que generó inconsistencias y heterogeneidad en los resultados de la reparación. En este artículo, se propone una nueva clasificación de las lesiones del manguito rotador que les permitirá a los cirujanos tomar decisiones durante la cirugía de reparación artroscópica del manguito rotador.

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la eficacia de los bloqueos interescalénico y supraescapular, solos y combinados, como analgesia posoperatoria en las primeras 3 horas tras la reparación artroscópica del manguito rotador. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio de cohorte comparativo retrospectivo, realizado entre 2019 y 2021. El criterio de valoración principal fue el puntaje del dolor de hombro en la sala de recuperación evaluado con una escala analógica visual por el paciente. Los criterios de valoración secundarios fueron el consumo de opioides en la sala de recuperación y las complicaciones de la anestesia locorregional. Resultados: Se incluyó a 175 pacientes, 13 en el grupo de bloqueo interescalénico, 61 en el grupo de bloqueos interescalénico más supraescapular y 101 en el grupo de bloqueo supraescapular. Los grupos de bloqueo interescalénico y de bloqueo interescalénico más supraescapular tuvieron significativamente menos dolor en la sala de recuperación y una tasa total menor de opioides consumidos en miligramos equivalentes de morfina que el grupo de bloqueo supraescapular (p = 0,001 y p

Abstract Background Several studies describe an inverse statistical relationship between the presence of an allergy and development of cancer. However, the immunological mechanism involved in the relationship between these two degenerative diseases has not been explored. Aims The main objective of this study was to explore the possibility that the lymphocyte T helper (Th) 2 response, a characteristic of allergy, induces recognition of tumor antigens. Methods and results Patients with a clinical diagnosis of breast ductal carcinoma were included. Histopathological markers related to proliferation of tumor cells were determined (Her‐2‐neu, Ki‐67, estrogen receptor, and progesterone receptor). IHC was performed using IgE antibodies purified from an allergy patient and from each biopsy donor patient. Serum concentrations of cytokines representative of Th1 and Th2 inflammatory responses were determined. A total of 14 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of breast ductal carcinoma were included. IHC performed on biopsies showed a weak response when using purified IgE antibodies from an allergy patient; however, IHC using the IgE of each patient as the primary antibody showed an intense and highly specific signal. Serum concentrations of cytokines of the Th2 response, that is, IL‐4 (130.5 pg/mL (116–135 pg/mL)), IL‐5 (202 pg/mL (191–213 pg/mL)), and IL‐13 (105.5 pg/mL (98–117 pg/mL)), were significantly higher than those of the Th1 response, that is, IL‐6 (86 pg/mL (79–90 pg/mL)) and INF‐γ (93 pg/mL (79–99 pg/mL)). Conclusion Purified IgE antibodies specifically recognize tumor cells in breast ductal carcinoma.

Ocean oil pollution has a large impact on the environment and the health of living organisms. Bioremediation cleaning strategies are promising eco-friendly alternatives for tackling this problem. Previously, we designed and reported a hydrocarbon (HC) degrading microbial consortium of four marine strains belonging to the species Alloalcanivorax xenomutans, Halopseudomonas aestusnigri, Paenarthrobacter sp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, the knowledge about the metabolic potential of this bacterial consortium for HC bioremediation is not yet well understood. Here, we analyzed the complete genomes of these marine bacterial strains accompanied by a phylogenetic reconstruction along with 138 bacterial strains. Synteny between complete genomes of the same species or genus, revealed high conservation among strains of the same species, covering over 91% of their genomic sequences. Functional predictions highlighted a high abundance of genes related to HC degradation, which may result in functional redundancy within the consortium; however, unique and complete gene clusters linked to aromatic degradation were found in the four genomes, suggesting substrate specialization. Pangenome gain and loss analysis of genes involved in HC degradation provided insights into the evolutionary history of these capabilities, shedding light on the acquisition and loss of relevant genes related to alkane and aromatic degradation. Our work, including comparative genomic analyses, identification of secondary metabolites, and prediction of HC-degrading genes, enhances our understanding of the functional diversity and ecological roles of these marine bacteria in crude oil-contaminated marine environments and contributes to the applied knowledge of bioremediation.

Abstract Purpose Since Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) originally classified knee osteoarthritis, several authors have reported varying levels of reliability and a lack of uniformity in the use of this classification system. We propose several modifications to the KL classification including the use of a compartment‐specific approach that we hypothesize will lead to a better understanding of knee OA while maintaining an adequate interobserver and intraobserver reliability. Methods We propose the addition of the lateral and skyline‐view radiographs to the standard anteroposterior (AP) and lateral projections in the evaluation. Also suggest a more precise definition of the evaluated parameters; the addition of the subchondral cancellous bone as parameter of evaluation; and the assessment of medial tibiofemoral compartment (MTFC), lateral tibiofemoral compartment (LTFC) and patellofemoral compartment (PFC) separately resulting in a compartment‐specific KL staging score rather than a single overall KL score. Six evaluators (two knee surgeons, two radiologists and two knee fellows) used the modified KL classification to classify 230 randomly selected knees on two separate occasions. Reliabilities were assessed by calculating Krippendorff's ⍺ coefficients. Results Two hundred and ten knees were included for final evaluation and analyses (53% left knees; 65% females; mean age 56 years old). Average interobserver reliability was moderate for all compartments (0.51 for the MTFC; 0.51 for the LTFC; and 0.56 for the PFC). Average intraobserver reliability was substantial for all compartments (0.63 for the MTFC; 0.65 for the LTFC; and 0.7 for the PFC). Experienced evaluators showed a higher intraobserver reliability than less‐experienced evaluators. Conclusions A modified compartment‐specific KL classification enables a practical and detailed description of knee OA involvement and demonstrates acceptable interobserver and intraobserver reliability. Level of Evidence: Level III

AimTo characterize the lung microbiome in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of patients with Antisynthetase Syndrome (ASSD) according to anti-Jo1 autoantibody positivity and evaluate the correlation with differential cell count and other bacterial genera in BALF.MethodsWe sequenced the 16S ribosomal RNA gene in the BALF of anti-Jo1-positive (JoP, n=6) and non-Jo1-positive (NJo, n=17) patients, and the differential cell count in BALF was evaluated. The Spearman’s correlation was calculated for the quantitative variables and abundance of bacterial species.ResultsThe Veillonella genus showed a significant decrease (p

The pandemic, the economic crisis, and climate change impose new development models of scientific production, as we suggest in this perspective study. The authors propose “new ways of evaluating academic performance,” which means stopping exclusively rewarding researchers who publish in indexed journals and valuing work with communities and applied interdisciplinary research, aimed at understanding socioenvironmental problems and proposing possible solutions that improve academic performance, improve quality of life of the population, and protect nature.

Abstract Human intrusions into undisturbed wildlife areas greatly contribute to the emergence of infectious diseases. To minimize the impacts of novel emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) on human health, a comprehensive understanding of the microbial species that reside within wildlife species is required. The Gulf of California (GoC) is an example of an undisturbed ecosystem. However, in recent decades, anthropogenic activities within the GoC have increased. Zalophus californianus has been proposed as the main sentinel species in the GoC; hence, an assessment of sea lion bacterial microbiota may reveal hidden risks for human health. We evaluated the presence of potential human pathogenic bacterial species from the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of wild sea lions through a metabarcoding approach. To comprehensively evaluate this bacterial consortium, we considered the genetic information of six hypervariable regions of 16S rRNA. Potential human pathogenic bacteria were identified down to the species level by integrating the RDP and Pplacer classifier outputs. The combined genetic information from all analyzed regions suggests the presence of at least 44 human pathogenic bacterial species, including Shigella dysenteriae and Bacillus anthracis. Therefore, the risks of EIDs from this area should be not underestimated.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to highlight the clinical and molecular features of 13 Raoultella ornithinolytica strains isolated from clinical environments in Ecuador, and to perform comparative genomics with previously published genomes of Raoultella spp. As Raoultella is primarily found in environmental, clinical settings, we focused our work on identifying mechanisms of resistance that can provide this bacterium an advantage to establish and persist in hospital environments.MethodsWe analyzed 13 strains of Raoultella ornithinolytica isolated from patients with healthcare associated infections (HAI) in three hospitals in Quito and one in Santo Domingo de Los Tsáchilas, Ecuador, between November 2017 and April 2018. These isolates were subjected to phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility testing, end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the presence of carbapenemases and whole-genome sequencing.ResultsPolymerase chain reaction revealed that seven isolates were positive isolates for blaOXA–48 and one for blaKPC–2 gene. Of the seven strains that presented the blaOXA–48 gene, six harbored it on an IncFII plasmid, one was inserted into the bacterial chromosome. The blaKPC gene was detected in an IncM2/IncR plasmid. From the bioinformatics analysis, nine genomes had the gene blaOXA–48, originating from Ecuador. Moreover, all R. ornithinolytica strains contained the ORN-1 gene, which confers resistance for β-lactams, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. Comparative genome analysis of the strains showed that the pangenome of R. ornithinolytica is considered an open pangenome, with 27.77% of core genes, which could be explained by the fact that the antibiotic resistance genes in the ancestral reconstruction are relatively new, suggesting that this genome is constantly incorporating new genes.ConclusionThese results reveal the genome plasticity of R. ornithinolytica, particularly in acquiring antibiotic-resistance genes. The genomic surveillance and infectious control of these uncommon species are important since they may contribute to the burden of antimicrobial resistance and human health.

Additive manufacturing is fast becoming a key process to manufacture a customized design with complex geometry and one process usually employed is based on the fused filament fabrication. Up to now this method is typically employed for rapid prototyping, it is therefore their mechanical strength is lower than the components manufactured using conventional casting process. It is well known that most failures are happened under repeated loads; therefore, a functional component mandatory needs to reach endurance strength under cyclic loads. Hence, this study set out to clarify several aspects of filament fused test specimens to determine their effect on accumulated damage to then predict component life under repeated loads. In this study is considered three waveforms such as sinusoidal, triangular and square, where it is observed that the square waveform provides the most severe loads. This study therefore makes a major contribution to research on the fatigue properties of parts manufactured using fused filament by reporting their fatigue behaviour under different fatigue load conditions. It would give a better understanding to improve the mechanical prediction of PLA, thereby it might be used to manufacture a functional component instead of only a prototype or spare part.

The existing evidence on burns in the underage population has focused mainly on children under ten years, leaving behind the age group defined as "adolescents" by the World Health Organization. However, adolescents present their own characteristics that differentiate them from their younger counterparts. These differences are relevant from a primary prevention perspective, focusing on preventing illness or injury. In this context, this article reflects on why adolescents need special attention in the primary prevention of burns in Latin America and the Caribbean. First, burn scenarios in adolescents are often linked to participation in risky activities due to pressure, social desirability, or low perception of the associated risks. Second, it is essential to emphasize that adolescents may experience social vulnerability, which entails a higher risk of suffering an intentional or unintentional burn. Third, the risk of burns in adolescents may be related to mental health and self-harm scenarios. These aspects need to be investigated through both quantitative and qualitative studies to design and implement primary prevention strategies relevant to this population group in the region.

Objective We studied the safety and efficacy of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) as pre-exposure prophylaxis for COVID-19 in healthcare workers (HCWs), using a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs).Data sources PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched to identify randomised trials studying HCQ.Study selection Ten RCTs were identified (n=5079 participants).Data extraction and synthesis The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used in this systematic review and meta-analysis between HCQ and placebo using a Bayesian random-effects model. A pre-hoc statistical analysis plan was written.Main outcomes The primary efficacy outcome was PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and the primary safety outcome was incidence of adverse events. The secondary outcome included clinically suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection.Results Compared with placebo, HCWs randomised to HCQ had no significant difference in PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR 0.92, 95% credible interval (CI): 0.58, 1.37) or clinically suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR 0.78, 95% CI: 0.57, 1.10), but significant difference in adverse events (OR 1.35, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.73).Conclusions and relevance Our meta-analysis of 10 RCTs investigating the safety and efficacy of HCQ as pre-exposure prophylaxis in HCWs found that compared with placebo, HCQ does not significantly reduce the risk of confirmed or clinically suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection, while HCQ significantly increases adverse events.PROSPERO registration number CRD42021285093.

Grapes (Vitis vinífera L) is extensively cultivated and widely consumed fruit world wide But it is also very highly susceptible to fungal infections such as B cinérea which increases post-harvest losses, quality deterioration, and making it unsuitable for human consumption. This results in significant economic loss of grapes and impacts grape farmers’ profits. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify potential methods and approaches to decrease post-harvest losses of grapes caused by B. cinérea. Currently, synthetic fungicides are used to control grape infections which has harmful impact on the environment and human health. Therefore, essential oil from plants sources could be a potential alternative to synthetic fungicides. In this study, antifungal activity of three essential oils was evaluated against B. cinérea using fumigation method. In an in vitro study, the essential oils extracted from Zingiber officinale and Saturaga montana, each at a concentration of 4mg/mL, exhibited complete inhibition (100%) of fungal growth. The physiological study of fruit in term of TSS, pH and weight loss showed that there is slow deterioration of fruit during storage. In-vivo results showed that essential oil from natural source can be potential alternative for synthetic fungicides which is ecofriendly and effective to control diseases and post-harvest losses in grapes.

Citrus fruits are highly valued for their flavor, nutritional content, and versatility, but their perishable nature makes them susceptible to postharvest losses due to fungal infections. Conventional synthetic fungicides, while effective, raise concerns about food safety and environmental impact. Essential oils have emerged as promising alternatives due to their natural antifungal properties. This study investigates the antifungal activity of four plant essential oils as antifungal fumigants against Penicillium digitatum, the primary cause of green mould disease in citrus fruits. In vitro fumigant assays, Satureja montana essential oil exhibits the highest inhibition percentage against P. digitatum. In vivo experiments confirmed the efficacy of S. montana oil in reducing fungal growth on mandarins. Further analysis of different parameters revealed potential alterations in fruit quality attributes based on ripening, acidity, and firmness. Therefore, essential oils could be a potential alternative and eco-friendly approach for postharvest disease management in citrus fruits, contributing to efforts towards food safety, environmental sustainability, and public health.

Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme) believed to be the progenitor of modern cultivated tomatoes, is one of the world’s most cultivated and widely consumed vegetables. However, it is very susceptible to fungal (Botrytis cinerea) infection, which decreases shelf life, and increases post-harvest loss. Postharvest loss and lower quality of fruit decrease the economic value of the crop or may make it unsuitable for human consumption and affect farmer profit. Therefore, an effective method is needed to reduce tomato’s post-harvest loss. This study aims to assess the efficacy of Zingiber officinale oil and Piper nigrum oil in controlling fungal disease in tomato fruit. The antifungal activity of essential oil was evaluated using the essential oil fumigation method. The result showed that essential oil significantly inhibits Botrytis cinerea growth as compared to the control. Therefore, essential oil can effectively control the fungal diseases of cherry tomatoes against Botrytis cinerea fruit rot and reduce the post-harvest loss of tomatoes.

Protein citrullination is accomplished by a broad enzyme family named Peptidyl Arginine Deiminases (PADs), which makes this post-translational modification in many proteins that perform physiological and pathologic mechanisms in the body. Due to these modifications, citrullination has become a significant topic in the study of pathological processes. It has been related to some chronic and autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), interstitial lung diseases (ILD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and certain types of cancer, among others. Antibody production against different targets, including filaggrin, vimentin, and collagen, results in an immune response if they are citrullinated, which triggers a continuous inflammatory process characteristic of autoimmune and certain chronic diseases. PAD coding genes (PADI1 to PADI4 and PADI6) harbor variations that can be important in these enzymes’ folding, activity, function, and half-life. However, few studies have considered these genetic factors in the context of chronic diseases. Exploring PAD pathways and their role in autoimmune and chronic diseases is a major topic in developing new pharmacological targets and valuable biomarkers to improve diagnosis and prevention. The present review addresses and highlights genetic, molecular, biochemical, and physiopathological factors where PAD enzymes perform a major role in autoimmune and chronic diseases.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease mainly characterized by joint inflammation. It presents extra-articular manifestations, with the lungs being one of the affected areas. Among these, damage to the pulmonary interstitium (Interstitial Lung Disease—ILD) has been linked to proteins involved in the inflammatory process and related to extracellular matrix deposition and lung fibrosis establishment. Peptidyl arginine deiminase enzymes (PAD), which carry out protein citrullination, play a role in this context. A genetic association analysis was conducted on genes encoding two PAD isoforms: PAD2 and PAD4. This analysis also included ancestry informative markers and protein level determination in samples from patients with RA, RA-associated ILD, and clinically healthy controls. Significant single nucleotide variants (SNV) and one haplotype were identified as susceptibility factors for RA-ILD development. Elevated levels of PAD4 were found in RA-ILD cases, while PADI2 showed an association with RA susceptibility. This work presents data obtained from previously published research. Population variability has been noticed in genetic association studies. We present data for 14 SNVs that show geographical and genetic variation across the Mexican population, which provides highly informative content and greater intrapopulation genetic diversity. Further investigations in the field should be considered in addition to AIMs. The data presented in this study were analyzed in association with SNV genotypes in PADI2 and PADI4 to assess susceptibility to ILD in RA, as well as with changes in PAD2 and PAD4 protein levels according to carrier genotype, in addition to the use of covariates such as ancestry markers.

The humeral head is considered the second most common site for osteonecrosis to occur after the femoral head. As seen in the femoral head, the circulatory implications characteristic of this condition are attributable to the interaction between a genetic predisposition and the exposure to certain risk factors. There is no consensus regarding the pathogenesis of osteonecrosis, yet the final common pathway results in disrupted blood supply, increased intraosseous pressure, and bone death. Disease staging using radiography and magnetic resonance imaging is predictive of disease progression and can help the orthopedic surgeon to guide treatment. Although there is a myriad of treatment modalities, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to conclude what is the most appropriate treatment option for each stage of humeral head osteonecrosis. Nonoperative treatment is the preferred option in early-stage disease, and it may prevent disease progression. Nonetheless, in some cases, disease progression occurs despite nonoperative measures, and surgical treatment is required. The purpose of this article is to provide an updated review of the available evidence on risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of atraumatic humeral head osteonecrosis.

Early T-cell precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) has a dismal prognosis. Nelarabine is a purine nucleoside analog that increases the apoptosis rate in T-cell lymphoblasts. We present a 30-year-old patient diagnosed with T-cell ALL. He was a high-risk patient because of an early precursor phenotype and a complex karyotype that had been refractory to three previous lines of treatment. He started a course of nelarabine (1500 mg/m for three days), pegylated-asparaginase, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (Nelarabine Peg-Asp AdmVP). He reached complete remission and received an allogeneic sibling hematopoietic stem cell transplant with fludarabine, total body irradiation, and cyclophosphamide as the conditioning regimen. He developed a pulmonary mycosis, which resolved, and grade-2 neurotoxicity in his upper and lower limbs. He was discharged after 40 days and to date remains with 23 months of complete remission. The Nelarabine Peg-Asp AdmVP regimen seems to be effective and safe. Further research is needed to establish it as an induction treatment in refractory early T-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leucemia.

Around 50% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients show some extra-articular manifestation, with the lung a usually affected organ; in addition, the presence of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) is a common feature, which is caused by protein citrullination modifications, catalyzed by the peptidyl arginine deiminases (PAD) enzymes. We aimed to identify single nucleotide variants (SNV) in PADI2 and PADI4 genes (PAD2 and PAD4 proteins, respectively) associated with susceptibility to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in RA patients and the PAD2 and PAD4 levels. Material and methods: 867 subjects were included: 118 RA-ILD patients, 133 RA patients, and 616 clinically healthy subjects (CHS). Allelic discrimination was performed in eight SNVs using qPCR, four in PADI2 and four in PADI4. The ELISA technique determined PAD2 and PAD4 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, and the population structure was evaluated using 14 informative ancestry markers. Results: The rs1005753-GG (OR = 4.9) in PADI2 and rs11203366-AA (OR = 3.08), rs11203367-GG (OR = 2.4) in PADI4 are associated with genetic susceptibility to RA-ILD as well as the ACTC haplotype (OR = 2.64). In addition, the PAD4 protein is increased in RA-ILD individuals harboring the minor allele homozygous genotype in PADI4 SNVs. Moreover, rs1748033 in PADI4, rs2057094, and rs2076615 in PADI2 are associated with RA susceptibility. In conclusion, in RA patients, single nucleotide variants in PADI4 and PADI2 are associated with ILD susceptibility. The rs1748033 in PADI4 and two different SNVs in PADI2 are associated with RA development but not ILD. PAD4 serum levels are increased in RA-ILD patients.

Background. The ayocote bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) is a leguminous native of the temperate zones of the Mexican territory, with great potential for use and exploitation by the population. However, information on its growth and mineral nutrition for its production is scarce. Objective. Determine the dynamics of growth, biomass production, grain yield and its components in the cultivation of runner beans in a cultivation system with nitrogen fertilization. Methodology. The trial was carried out under field conditions, under a rainfall regime during 2014 in Montecillo, State of México, México; with temperate clime. The purple runner bean cultivar was sown with applications of 0, 75 and 150 kg ha-1 of nitrogen fertilization. Variables were recorded as number of green leaves, leaf area index, total biomass and grain yield with its components. The study was developed using an experimental design that was randomized complete blocks with four replications. Results. With the treatment of 150 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, the highest values were obtained, such as the number of green leaves, 240 m2; leaf area index, 7.75; leaf area length, 277 days; total biomass, 566 g m2 and grain yield 363 g m2 with respect to the control. With the same treatment, the organs with the highest accumulation of dry matter were: grain and stem with 39%. Implications. Whit the supply of nitrogen, the biomass and the yield of the runner bean can be increased. This contribution can help the producers of this crop. Conclusions. The application of nitrogen to the soil increases the leaf area index, its duration, growth rate, biomass and crop yield. The highest profitability in runner beans is achieved with the application of 150 kg ha-1 of nitrogen.

Abstract Background The clinical presentation and severity of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children associated with COVID-19 (MIS-C) is widespread and presents a very low mortality rate in high-income countries. This research describes the clinical characteristics of MIS-C in critically ill children in middle-income countries and the factors associated with the rate of mortality and patients with critical outcomes. Methods An observational cohort study was conducted in 14 pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in Colombia between April 01, 2020, and January 31, 2021. Patient age ranged between one month and 18 years, and each patient met the requirements set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) for MIS-C. Results There were seventy-eight children in this study. The median age was seven years (IQR 1-11), 18 % (14/78) were under one year old, and 56 % were male. 35 % of patients (29/78) were obese or overweight. The PICU stay per individual was six days (IQR 4-7), and 100 % had a fever upon arrival to the clinic lasting at least five days (IQR 3.7-6). 70 % (55/78) of patients had diarrhea, and 87 % (68/78) had shock or systolic myocardial dysfunction (78 %). Coronary aneurysms were found in 35 % (27/78) of cases, and pericardial effusion was found in 36 %. When compared to existing data in high-income countries, there was a higher mortality rate observed (9 % vs. 1.8 %; p=0.001). When assessing the group of patients that did not survive, a higher frequency of ferritin levels was found, above 500 ngr/mL (100 % vs. 45 %; p=0.012), as well as more cardiovascular complications (100 % vs. 54 %; p = 0.019) when compared to the group that survived. The main treatments received were immunoglobulin (91 %), vasoactive support (76 %), steroids (70.5 %) and antiplatelets (44 %). Conclusions Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children due to SARS-CoV-2 in critically ill children living in a middle-income country has some clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic characteristics similar to those described in high-income countries. The observed inflammatory response and cardiovascular involvement were conditions that, added to the later presentation, may explain the higher mortality seen in these children.

BackgroundProgressive pulmonary fibrosis is a serious complication in subjects with sarcoidosis. The absence of reliable, non-invasive biomarkers that detect early progression exacerbates the difficulty in predicting sarcoidosis severity. To potentially address this unmet need, we evaluated a panel of markers for an association with sarcoidosis progression (HBEGF, NAMPT, IL1-RA, IL-6, IL-8, ANG-2). This panel encompasses proteins related to inflammation, vascular injury, cell proliferation, and fibroblast mitogenesis processes.MethodsPlasma biomarker levels and biomarker protein expression in lung and lymph nodes tissues (immunohistochemical studies) from sarcoidosis subjects with limited disease and progressive (complicated) sarcoidosis were performed. Gene expression of the protein-coding genes included in this panel was analyzed using RNAseq in sarcoidosis granulomatous tissues from lung and lymph nodes.ResultsExcept for IL-8, plasma levels of each biomarker—eNAMPT, IL-1RA, IL-6, ANG-2, and HBEGF—were significantly elevated in sarcoidosis subjects compared to controls. In addition, plasma levels of HBEGF were elevated in complicated sarcoidosis, while eNAMPT and ANG-2 were observed to serve as markers of lung fibrosis in a subgroup of complicated sarcoidosis. Genomic studies corroborated HBEGF and NAMPT among the top dysregulated genes and identified cytokine-related and fibrotic pathways in lung granulomatous tissues from sarcoidosis.ConclusionThese findings suggest HBEGF, eNAMPT, and ANG-2 may serve as potential novel indicators of the clinical severity of sarcoidosis disease.

We describe an assembled marine bacterial consortium designed for bioremediation of oil-contaminated seawater, based on a statistical method using a Plackett-Burman (PB) experimental approach. The final consortium consists of four bacteria isolated from the Gulf of Mexico, from four genera: Pseudomonas, Halopseudomonas, Paenarthrobacter, and Alcanivorax. Individually, bacterial oil removal by these microorganisms was evaluated by gravimetry, reaching 39% at maximum after 75 days, whereas in consortium it was ~62%. We also measured biodegradation levels by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) observing 12 polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) degradation analyzed and n-alkanes degradation with a preference for specific chain length. Consortium population analysis using the V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA showed a stable community, suggesting that the metabolic load was distributed among bacteria and that stable dynamic interactions were achieved. In this work, we show that the use of a factorial method for synthetic consortium design offers the possibility of improving oil degradation efficiency with stable bacterial populations.

ABSTRACT - BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LGB) is the recommended procedure for morbidly obese patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, there have been reported gastroesophageal reflux symptoms or esophagitis after LGB. Few functional esophageal studies have been reported to date. AIM: To evaluate the anatomic and physiologic factors contributing to the appearance of these problems in patients who underwent LGB. METHODS: This prospective study included 38 patients with postoperative gastroesophageal reflux symptoms submitted to LGB. They were subjected to clinical, endoscopic, radiologic, manometric, and 24-h pH-monitoring evaluations. RESULTS: Eighteen (47.4%) of 38 patients presented with heartburn or regurgitation, 7 presented with pain, and 4 presented with dysphagia. Erosive esophagitis was observed in 11 (28.9%) patients, and Barrett’s esophagus (5.7%) and jejunitis (10.5%) were also observed. Hiatal hernia was the most frequent finding observed in 15 (39.5%) patients, and most (10.5%) of these patients appeared with concomitant anastomotic strictures. A long blind jejunal loop was detected in one (2.6%) patient. Nearly 75% of the patients had hypotensive lower esophageal sphincter (9.61±4.05 mmHg), 17.4% had hypomotility of the esophageal body, and 64.7% had pathologic acid reflux (% time pH

Goal: The relationship between air pollution and human health has been widely studied in medicine and economics. However, only a few recent articles have estimated the direct impact of air pollution on academic achievement. Methodology: We collect daily air pollution data from all monitoring stations in the city of Santiago, Chile, and combine it with academic results recorded by the National Learning Outcome Assessment System of (SIMCE in Spanish) for fourth grade students over the past decade, to create a unique pooled cross-sectional dataset. Results: Applying different econometric strategies, we find that certain air pollutants have a negative impact on the test scores of the cohort. Our estimated effects are negative and statistically significant, ranging between 0.02 and 0.06 standard deviations. Conclusions: These results seem to be small, but are equivalent to around 30% of a successful educational policy that specifically targets performance. Recommendations: Public policy must consider the positive externalities of reducing air pollution.

Objetivo: Analizar las características metodológicas y de investigación, los antecedentes del sujeto de estudio y de las evaluaciones e intervenciones de las tesis de pregrado de la carrera de kinesiología en una universidad chilena durante los años 2010 - 2018.Materiales y métodos: Se analizaron 91 tesis; para su análisis se utilizó un instrumento validado que se organizó en tres grandes categorías: a) características metodológicas y de investigación, b) antecedentes del sujeto de estudio y c) antecedentes de las evaluaciones e intervenciones, y se registró un total de 38 ítems.Resultados: Se reportó que las tesis mayoritariamente las realizan dos estudiantes tesis-tas, en conjunto con un guía con grado licenciado, presentan un alcance descriptivo, diseño no experimental, temporalidad transversal, con muestras pequeñas, no probabilísticas, por conveniencia, utilizando cuestionarios y/o encuestas para medir parámetros de actividad y condición físicas principalmente en las áreas respiratoria y traumatológica. Las tesis cumplen con la estructura de un reporte científico, aun cuando un gran porcentaje de ellas tiene referencias poco actualizadas y no incluyen datos de aprobación del comité de ética. Los sujetos de estudio principalmente eran jóvenes y adultos pertenecientes a centros educativos de enseñanza básica, media, universitaria o a una red de atención de salud pública que presentaban algún diagnóstico médico de enfermedad cardiometabólica.Conclusión: Este estudio reveló información valiosa respecto a cómo se ha llevado a cabo la formación investigativa de esta carrera de la salud, identificó áreas de conocimiento, poblaciones y condiciones de salud poco exploradas y los tratamientos usados frecuentemente.

Reseña de: Yun Casillas, Bartolomé: Los imperios ibéricos y la globalización de Europa (siglos XV a XVII). Barcelona, Galaxia Gutenberg, 2019, 430 pp., ISBN: 978-841-774-796-1.

La Universidad de Concepción es una Corporación Educacional sin fines de lucro, creada por iniciativa de la comunidad local en 1919 y definida como una institución tolerante, pluralista y dedicada al Servicio Público. A través de su historia, ha estado vinculada al progreso social, cultural y económico del país, siendo en la actualidad la tercera universidad en importancia académica en Chile. La Universidad de Concepción es reconocida por su gran contribución en la formación de profesionales, creación de conocimientos y vinculación con la sociedad, generando múltiples aportes en las artes plásticas, literatura, política, música, ciencia y tecnología. La cooperación multi e interdisciplinaria adquiere cada vez mayor importancia ante los grandes retos impuestos por el actual modelo neoliberal y la globalización tecno-económica, donde la vinculación de la Universidad con la sociedad y sus instituciones aparece como un factor decisivo y estructurante de sus actividades y proyección futura hacia una sociedad sustentable.