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Introduction: The normative relationship between lumbar intervertebral disc space height (DSH) and neuroforaminal dimensions (NFD) has yet to be defined. Research question: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between lumbar DSH and NFD using computed tomography (CT), accounting for influences of patient demographic and anthropometric characteristics. Materials and methods: We analyzed CT imaging of 350 female and 350 male patients. Anterior, middle, and posterior DSH were measured. NFD were defined as sagittal anterior-to-posterior (AP) width, axial AP width, foraminal height, and area. Statistical analyses were performed to assess associations among DSH, NFD, and patient height, weight, body mass index, sex, and ethnicity. Results: Irrespective of disc level, mean anterior, middle, and posterior DSH were 7.98 mm (n = 3500), 8.16 mm (n = 3500), and 4.09 mm (n = 3500). DSH measurements demonstrated increasing, linear trends moving caudally from L1-L2 to L5-S1, while NFD demonstrated a unimodal distribution pattern with largest NFD at L3-L4 and smallest NFD at L1-2 and L5-S1. Male patients demonstrated larger DSH compared to female patients from L1-S1. Asian patients demonstrated taller DSH across all levels L1-S1. Discussion and conclusion: This study describes 38,500 CT-based L1-S1 DSH and NFD in young patients without spinal pathology. DSH follows an increasing trend moving caudally from L1-S1, while NFD demonstrate a unimodal distribution clustered at L3-L4. NFD are not moderately or strongly associated with DSH. DSH is influenced by sex and ethnicity but is not moderately or strongly influenced by patient height, weight, and BMI.

Introduction: It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism, but evidence is not consistent. Genetics may account for differences in CAP tolerance and its impact on adiposity status. The aim of this study was to systematically review current evidence concerning the role of genetic polymorphisms influencing CAP tolerance. Methods: The present systematic review analyzed and synthesized available evidence concerning associations between genetic polymorphisms and CAP tolerance following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS were screened. Out of 228 publications identified, only 6 meet inclusion criteria and were finally included in the final report. Results: Overall, a total of 28 single nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with several CAP tolerance traits including sensitivity to burning/stinging, heat pain, and cough reactions, and detection of bitter taste thresholds. These genetic variants were located within 6 genes involved in key physiological processes such synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide production (GCH1), CAP uptake and transduction of thermal stimuli (TRPV1), and bitter taste perception (TAS2R38, TAS2R3, TAS2R4, and TAS2R5). Conclusion: There is evidence about the influence of genetic polymorphisms on CAP tolerance by affecting nociceptive signaling, CAP binding, and bitter tasting. This knowledge may facilitate the design and implementation of innovative CAP-based nutrigenetic strategies for a more precise clinical management of obesity.

Introduction: Glucose homeostasis may be dependent on liver conditions and influence health-related markers and quality of life (QoL) objective measurements. This study aimed to analyze the interactions of glycemia with liver and health status in a prediabetic population. Subjects and methods: This study included 2220 overweight/obese prediabetics from the multinational PREVIEW project. Anthropometrics; clinical, metabolic and other health-related markers; and QoL variables were analyzed. Univariate and multilinear-adjusted regression models were run to explain the interrelationships and effect modification between glycemia, health-related QoL (applying SF-12) and metabolic/liver health (using the HSI, a putative marker of fatty liver). Results: Relevant age/sex interactions were found concerning the levels of insulin, HOMA-IR, C peptide and transaminases in this prediabetic population. Multivariate models identified age, sex, glucose, WC and QoL as important predictors of HSI variability (adj. R value = 0.1393, p < 0.001), whereas the QoL status was statistically related to age, sex, HOMA-IR and HSI (adj. R value = 0.1130, p < 0.001) in this glycemia-impaired group. Furthermore, the QoL values declined with increased HSI scores, where a significant interaction was found (p = 0.011) when the data were analyzed when comparing lower glycemia vs. higher glycemia in prediabetics. Indeed, an effect modification was featured depending on the glycemia levels concerning the QoL and HSI worsening. Conclusion: Glycemia associations with the QoL status and liver metabolism markers were evidenced, with clinical implications for diabetes and liver disease precision management given the modification of the QoL outcomes depending on the liver status and glycemia concentrations. Notably, independent associations of circulating glucose with age, sex, adiposity, inflammation and C peptide levels were found.

Objective: Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease that greatly increases the risk of pathologic fractures and accounts for approximately 700,000 vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) annually in the United States. Cement augmentation procedures such as balloon kyphoplasty (KP) and percutaneous vertebroplasty (VP) have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of VCFs, however, some studies report rates of readmission as high as 10.8% following such procedures. The purpose of this study was to employ Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to predict 30-day hospital readmission following cement augmentation procedures for the treatment of VCFs using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. Methods: ACS-NSQIP was queried to identify patients undergoing either KP or VP from 2011 to 2014. Three ML algorithms were constructed and tasked with predicting post-operative readmissions within this cohort of patients. Results: Postoperative pneumonia, ASA Class 2 designation, age, partially-dependent functional status, and a history of smoking were independently identified as highly predictive of readmission by all ML algorithms. Among these variables postoperative pneumonia (p < 0.01), ASA Class 2 designation (p < 0.01), age (p = 0.002), and partially-dependent functional status (p < 0.01) were found to be statistically significant. Predictions were generated with an average AUC value of 0.757 and an average accuracy of 80.5%. Conclusions: Postoperative pneumonia, ASA Class 2 designation, partially-dependent functional status, and age are perioperative variables associated with 30-day readmission following cement augmentation procedures. The use of ML allows for quantification of the relative contributions of these variables toward producing readmission.

Background: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusions (ACDF) are among the most common cervical spine operations, with over 137,000 surgeries performed annually. Understanding reasons underlying malpractice pertaining to ACDF may inform physicians of practices to improve delivery of patient care and mitigate malpractice. The aim of our study was to analyze the causes and outcomes for lawsuits pertaining to ACDF. Methods: The Westlaw Edge and Verdict Search databases were queried for malpractice claims utilizing the keywords “anterior cervical discectomy and fusion” and “ACDF”. Inclusion criteria was based on relevance of case grievance(s) to ACDF. Data collected included date of case hearing, plaintiff demographics, defendant specialty, verdict ruling, location of filed claim, monetary award, and sustained injuries. Results: Fifty cases were included in this study after excluding 1933 cases. Of the 50 cases, 34 (68%) resulted in a defendant outcome, 8 (16%) resulted in a plaintiff outcome, and 8 (16%) resulted in settlement. Plaintiff verdicts resulted in an average monetary payment of $9.70 million, while settlements resulted in an average payment of $2.06 million. Reasons for litigation were divided into 10 categories, most commonly improper postoperative management (20%), hardware failure (18%), intraoperative error (14%), off-label use of implants (14%), and insufficient informed consent (12%). Conclusions: Malpractice claims due to ACDF are associated with higher frequencies of plaintiff verdicts and higher monetary costs compared to other spinal surgery procedures. There does not appear to be supporting evidence that spinal cord neuromonitoring is mandatory for ACDF procedures from a medicolegal standpoint.

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar una metodología para evaluar la estabilidad oscilatoria de un sistema eléctrico de potencia (SEP) mediante el análisis de los modos oscilatorios de baja frecuencia (MOBF) a través del procesamiento de mediciones sincrofasoriales (Phasor Measurement Units PMU) de datos tipo ambiente. La metodología propuesta, basada en el análisis espectral y de pseudoenergía y en los métodos paramétricos de Análisis de Correlación Canónica y de Yule – Walker, estima los MOBF, cuyas características de frecuencia y amortiguamiento brindan información crítica a los operadores del SEP para adoptar acciones de control preventivo o de emergencia. La metodología propuesta fue aplicada a mediciones sintéticas para su sintonización y caracterizar su alcance y precisión, y a registros PMU del sistema de transmisión de energía de Ecuador logrando identificar satisfactoriamente el modo interárea de 0,4 Hz propio de la interconexión Ecuador-Colombia. Las contribuciones de este trabajo están encaminadas a evaluar la estabilidad oscilatoria de los SEP a través de una herramienta computacional automática que procese señales PMU de datos tipo ambiente.

Background: It has been suggested that the dysfunction of the gut microbiome can have deleterious effects on the regulation of body weight and adiposity by affecting energy metabolism. In this context, gut bacterial profiling studies have contributed to characterize specific bacteria associated with obesity. This review covers the information driven by gut bacterial profiling analyses and emphasizes the potential application of this knowledge in precision nutrition strategies for obesity understanding and weight loss management. Summary: Gut bacterial profiling studies have identified bacterial families that are more abundant in obese than in nonobese individuals (i.e., Prevotellaeae, Ruminococcaceae, and Veillonellaceae) as well as other families that have been repeatedly found more abundant in nonobese people (i.e., Christensenellaceae and Coriobacteriaceae), suggesting that an increase in their relative amount could be an interesting target in weight-loss treatments. Also, some gut-derived metabolites have been related to the regulation of body weight, including short-chain fatty acids, trimethylamine-N-oxide, and branched-chain and aromatic amino acids. Moreover, gut microbiota profiles may play a role in determining weight loss responses to specific nutritional treatments for the precise management of obesity. Thus, incorporating gut microbiota features may improve the performance of integrative models to predict weight loss outcomes. Key Messages: The application of gut bacterial profiling information is of great value for precision nutrition in metabolic diseases since it contributes to the understanding of the role of the gut microbiota in obesity onset and progression, facilitates the identification of potential microorganism targets, and allows the personalization of tailored weight loss diets as well as the prediction of adiposity outcomes based on the gut bacterial profiling of each individual. Integrating microbiota information with other omics knowledge (genetics, epigenetics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) may provide a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular and physiological events underlying obesity and adiposity outcomes for precision nutrition.

Background: Exercise is an essential pillar for human health, as it contributes to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Well-recognized international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, advocate for integrating exercise into healthy lifestyles, recognizing its importance in disease prevention and improving quality of life. However, despite the consensus on its value, there is no universal agreement on specific prescriptions for vulnerable groups, highlighting the need for personalized approaches that consider the unique characteristics and needs of everyone. Emerging studies have demonstrated that exercise training performed at the intensity that elicits maximal fat oxidation improves insulin sensitivity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body composition in patients with obesity, making it a highly effective strategy for long-term weight management and metabolic health in this specific population. Methods: The present study protocol settles the basis for a 16-week randomized clinical trial based on exercise prescription at the maximal fat oxidation rate combined with resistance training in young individuals with overweight and obesity. Expected Results: This study will elucidate how FatMax, with or without resistance exercises, can enhance metabolic flexibility, increase fat oxidation, and improve body composition, evaluating changes in biochemical parameters (cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers), metabolic biomarkers (determination of fat and carbohydrate utilization rates during rest and exercise), and epigenetic indicators (focusing on microRNAs associated with adipogenesis, inflammation, and fat metabolism). ClinicalTrials.gov identification number: NCT06553482 (FatMax Training on Metabolic and Epigenetic Parameters).

Chronic liver disease is a global health issue. Patients with chronic liver disease require a fresh approach that focuses on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to disease initiation and progression. Emerging knowledge in the fields of Genomic Medicine and Genomic Nutrition demonstrates differences between countries in terms of genetics and lifestyle risk factors such as diet, physical activity, and mental health in chronic liver disease, which serves as the foundation for the implementation of Personalized Medicine and Nutrition (PerMed-Nut) strategies. Most of the world’s populations have descended from various ethnic groupings. Mexico’s population has a tripartite ancestral background, consisting of Amerindian, European, and African lineages, which is common across Latin America’s regional countries. The purpose of this review is to discuss the genetic and environmental components that could be incorporated into a PerMed-Nut model for metabolic-associated liver disease, viral hepatitis B and C, and hepatocellular carcinoma in Mexico. Additionally, the implementation of the PerMed-Nut approach will require updated medicine and nutrition education curricula. Training and equipping future health professionals and researchers with new clinical and investigative abilities focused on preventing liver illnesses in the field of genomic hepatology globally is a vision that clinicians and nutritionists should be concerned about.

Abstract Background and aim The role of dietary protein and glycemic index on insulin resistance (based on TyG index) within a nutritional program for weight loss and weight maintenance was examined. Methods This study analyzed 744 adults with overweight/obesity within the DIOGenes project. Patients who lost at least 8% of their initial weight (0–8 weeks) after a low-calorie diet (LCD) were randomly assigned to one of five ad libitum diets designed for weight maintenance (8–34 weeks): high/low protein (HP/LP) and high/low glycemic index (HGI/LGI), plus a control. The complete nutritional program (0–34 weeks) included both LCD plus the randomized diets intervention. The TyG index was tested as marker of body mass composition and insulin resistance. Results In comparison with the LP/HGI diet, the HP/LGI diet induced a greater BMI loss (p

In this study, the temporal variations of black carbon (BC) were analyzed from November 2019 to September 2021, in Tacna, Peru. Ground measurements obtained with a photoacoustic extinctiometer (PAX BC) and NASA’s MERRA-2 reanalysis data (MERRA-2 BC) were used. The seasonal concentrations of PAX BC (mean ± standard deviation) were as follows: 0.70 ± 0.35, 0.73 ± 0.46, 0.70 ± 0.39, and 0.85 ± 0.46 µg m−3, for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively; while MERRA-2 BC values were 0.12 ± 0.11, 0.06 ± 0.02, 0.06 ± 0.02, and 0.11 ± 0.06 µg m−3, for the same seasons. We found a large discrepancy between these two techniques, as the PAX BC measurements were an order of magnitude higher than the MERRA-2 BC values. In addition, MERRA-2 did not record urban pollution events and did not present the BC weekend effect. The most frequent wind direction (81%) was from the southwest and the sources of greatest contamination were located to the northeast and southeast. The Mann–Kendall test confirmed a downward trend in PAX BC one week (37%) and two weeks (30%) after the start of the COVID-19 lockdown, and no trend in MERRA-2 BC. These results suggest that MERRA-2 underestimates the BC emissions from local sources.

Viral infections activate the innate immune response and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. They also alter oxidative stress markers, which potentially can have an involvement in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this research was to study the role of the oxidative stress process assessed through lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) on the severity of COVID-19 measured by oxygen saturation (SaO2) and the putative interaction with inflammation. The investigation enrolled 1808 patients (mean age of 68 and 60% male) with COVID-19 from the HM Hospitals database. To explore interactions, a regression model and mediation analyses were performed. The patients with lower SaO2 presented lymphopenia and higher values of neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio and on the anisocytosis coefficient. The regression model showed an interaction between LDH and anisocytosis, suggesting that high levels of LDH (>544 U/L) and an anisocytosis coefficient higher than 10% can impact SaO2 in COVID-19 patients. Moreover, analysis revealed that LDH mediated 41% (p value = 0.001) of the effect of anisocytosis on SaO2 in this cohort. This investigation revealed that the oxidative stress marker LDH and the interaction with anisocytosis have an important role in the severity of COVID-19 infection and should be considered for the management and treatment of the oxidative phenomena concerning this within a precision medicine strategy.

Abstract Background Olfaction is an important sense influencing food preferences, appetite, and eating behaviors. This hypothesis-driven study aimed to assess associations between olfactory pathway gene methylation signatures, obesity features, and dietary intakes. Methods A nutriepigenomic analysis was conducted in 474 adults from the Methyl Epigenome Network Association (MENA) project. Anthropometric measurements, clinical data, and serum metabolic profiles of the study population were obtained from structured databases of the MENA cohorts. Habitual dietary intake was assessed using a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. DNA methylation was measured in circulating white blood cells by microarray (Infinium Human Methylation 450 K BeadChips). FDR values (p

Introducción: las ataxias hereditarias son enfermedades neurodegenerativas que provocan deterioro funcional. Como consecuencia de su carácter progresivo conllevan a la discapacidad en los individuos afectados con una severa afectación psicológica en sus familias. Objetivo: caracterizar clínico y genéticamente los pacientes con ataxias hereditarias en el estado Portuguesa- Venezuela en el periodo 2013-2015. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de ataxia hereditaria. El universo estuvo constituido por 33 pacientes diagnosticados en el periodo de estudio, se trabajó con todos ellos. Se realizó la revisión de las historias de salud individual y familiar. Los datos obtenidos fueron procesados mediante programa estadístico SPSS. Resultados: existió predominio del grupo de edad de 25-29 años (18.18 %) y del sexo masculino (51.5%); así como de las ataxias espinocerebelosas autosómicas dominantes del adulto (SCA1 y la SCA2) (82 %). Los pacientes en etapa 3 de la enfermedad fueron los más predominantes (40 %). Predominó el tipo de herencia autosómica dominante (69 %) y la vía de herencia paterna (63 %). Conclusiones: la genética comunitaria y el asesoramiento genético contribuyeron con alternativas terapéuticas para mejorar la calidad de vida. Además, quedaron identificadas las poblaciones de riesgo para trazar acciones preventivas y reducir la recurrencia de las afecciones hereditarias.

Este trabajo presenta el análisis de correlación canónica (CCA) y de Yule Walker (YW) de las mediciones de las PMU (Phasor Measurement Unit) registradas en el marco del Proyecto MedFasee BT Argentina, que observa la dinámica del Sistema Argentino de Interconexión (SADI). Los métodos de CCA y YW se utilizan para determinar los modos oscilatorios de baja frecuencia con bajo amortiguamiento presentes en las señales de tensión y de frecuencia. Estos modos se caracterizan por su frecuencia, amortiguamiento y pseudoenergía. Los métodos CCA y YW se aplican a las mediciones de datos de tipo ambiente de las PMU. Este estudio además de permitir la detección de los modos con bajo amortiguamiento, permitido determinar diferentes parámetros de los métodos como señal a analizar, lo cual es un requisito para el preprocesamiento, así como la definición de la ventana de análisis, periodo de muestreo y orden del sistema.

Background:. The goal of this study was to evaluate the societal costs of using in-office diagnostic arthroscopy (IDA) compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis of intra-articular knee and shoulder pathology in employed patients receiving Workers’ Compensation or disability coverage. The prevalence is estimated at 260,000 total cases per year. Methods:. A cost-minimization analysis of IDA compared with MRI was conducted. Direct costs (in 2018 U.S. dollars) were calculated from private reimbursement amounts and Medicare. Indirect costs were estimated from a societal perspective including effects of delayed surgical procedures on the ability to work, lost income, Workers’ Compensation or disability coverage, and absenteeism. Four regions were selected: Boston, Massachusetts; Detroit, Michigan; Denver, Colorado; and San Bernadino, California. Sensitivity analyses were performed using TreeAge Pro 2019 software. The base assumption was that it would take approximately 4 weeks for a diagnosis with MRI and 0 weeks for a diagnosis with IDA. Results:. Direct costs to determine a knee diagnosis with IDA were $556 less expensive (California) to $470 more expensive (Massachusetts) than MRI. Assuming a 4-week wait, societal costs (indirect and direct) for knee diagnosis were anywhere from $7,852 (Denver) to $11,227 (Boston) less using IDA. Direct costs were similar for shoulder pathology. In order for MRI to be the less costly option, the MRI and the follow-up visit to the physician would need to occur directly after consultation. Under Medicare, direct costs were similar for both the knee and shoulder when comparing IDA and MRI. Including indirect costs resulted in IDA being the less costly option. Conclusions:. The use of IDA instead of MRI for the diagnosis of knee and shoulder pathology reduced costs. The potential savings to society were approximately $7,852 to $11,227 per operative patient and were dependent on scheduling and follow-up using MRI and on Workers’ Compensation. Level of Evidence:. Economic and Decision Analysis Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background context: Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is a rare condition that can be difficult to diagnose. There are no guidelines for the treatment of SAPHO syndrome, but newer modalities of medications show promising results. We present the case of a patient who presented with a pathologic fracture of her cervical spine who ended up being diagnosed with SAPHO syndrome. Case: A 51-year-old female presented with severe neck pain and a rash on her hands and feet. Imaging showed a C5 vertebral compression fracture and multiple sites of bony involvement concerning for malignancy or widespread infection. The patient underwent corpectomy and fusion to address the instability and cervical stenosis and was started on immunomodulating therapy. Based on the biopsy findings showing left shifted bone marrow versus mild acute inflammation, and in conjunction with the cutaneous findings, the patent was diagnosed with SAPHO syndrome. Outcome: At two year follow up, although posterior stabilization was required, her overall condition was improved. Nonetheless, she continued to have fatigue, malaise, and total body pain involving: the cervical spine, the mid thoracic spine, the left costal margin, bilateral sternoclavicular joints, and bilateral hips and knees. Conclusion: SAPHO syndrome can mimic infection and neoplasia. It should be suspected in patients presenting with multifocal osteitis and associated rash. Accurate and timely diagnosis is paramount as the treatment of this condition may require immunomodulating agents.

Background: The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused unprecedented levels of strain on the United States healthcare and its workforce. Orthopaedic and neurosurgery residents and fellows, as part of this workforce have also experienced some of the uncertainty and stress caused by this pandemic. Concerns exist regarding the effects of the pandemic on spine surgery education due to the cancellation of all elective surgeries. Current Context: We explore how this pandemic is affecting orthopaedic and neurosurgery residents and fellows and their spine surgery education and experience. We also examined measures taken by the residency and fellowship programs to protect their residents and fellows, and measures taken by regulatory agencies like the ACGME and the ABOS to give programs some flexibility during these difficult times. Conclusion: Orthopaedic and neurosurgery residents and fellows are often on the front lines of patient care. Programs have to ensure adequate resources and training, supervision, and work hour requirements are met. Residents and fellows need to be ready to assist with management of COVID-19 patients if necessary. Residency programs and spine surgery fellowships need to use objective metrics to assess the impact of the pandemic on the spine surgery education of their residents and fellows in order to address any potential area of weakness caused by the decreased exposure to spine surgery.

Introducción: la cirrosis hepática es una afección frecuente que se presenta en todas las latitudes y grupos humanos, y se observa más a menudo pasada la edad media de la vida. Objetivo: describir los cambios morfofuncionales que ocurren en el hígado como consecuencia de la cirrosis hepática. Método: se utilizaron los métodos histórico-lógico, empleado para el estudio de la historia, lo que permite establecer el marco teórico y el análisis-síntesis para evaluar la información recopilada. El análisis de documentos permitió toda la documentación acerca de la cirrosis hepática. Resultados: se elaboró un texto organizado en acápites donde se abordan los aspectos microscópicos y macroscópicos del hígado, alteraciones macroscópicas en la cirrosis hepática, características morfofuncionales del hepatocito, caras o superficies de los hepatocitos, organización del parénquima hepático, alteraciones microscópicas en la cirrosis hepática, funciones del hígado, fisiopatología de la cirrosis hepática, coagulopatía, etiología, prevención de salud, tratamiento quirúrgico y tratamiento con la Medicina Natural y Tradicional. Conclusiones: la cirrosis hepática constituye una de las afecciones más agresivas del hígado y obedece a varias causas, frecuentemente de manifestación insidiosa, se observan cambios en la arquitectura macroscópica y microscópica del órgano, así como la abolición de varias de sus funciones.

Mesoscale Convective Systems (MCS) may vary greatly with respect to their morphology, propagation mechanism, intensity, and under which synoptic-scale conditions as a function of topographic complexity. In this study, we develop a long-term climatology of MCS during the North American Monsoon focusing on MCS morphology, lifecycle, and intensity as well as possible propagation mechanisms. We employ an MCS tracking and classification technique based on 23 years (1995 to 2017) of GOES IR satellite data. MCS intensity is also gauged with 7 years (2011 to 2017) of Vaisala GLD360 lightning data and, finally, monthly and interannual variability in synoptic conditions are examined with ERA5 reanalysis data. Our results based on 1594 identified MCS reveal that 98% are morphologically classified as Persistent Elongated Convective Systems. During the 23 summers (June through September) observed, the number of MCS varied considerably, averaging 70 MCS with minimum of 41 and maximum of 94. MCS typically have an average duration of around 8 h ± with a 2 h standard deviation. Propagation speeds, estimated with Hovmöller diagrams in addition to MCS centroid initial and final position, vary slightly depending on the trajectory. A notable result suggests that MCS propagation speeds are more consistent density currents or cold pools and not gravity waves nor steering-level winds. The results of this study could also provide a dataset for examining larger-scale controls on MCS frequency in addition to assesing convective parameterization and convective-resolving models in regions of complex topography.

Abstract Background Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and α-lipoic acid (α-LA) have been investigated for their beneficial effects on obesity and cardiovascular risk factors. In the current research, the goal was to evaluate metabolomic changes following the dietary supplementation of these two lipids, alone or combined in healthy overweight/obese sedentary women following an energy-restricted diet. For this purpose, an untargeted metabolomics approach was conducted on urine samples using liquid chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-TOF-MS). Methods This is a short-term double blind placebo-controlled study with a parallel nutritional design that lasted 10 weeks. Participants were assigned to one of the 4 experimental groups [Control, EPA (1.3 g/d), α-LA (0.3 g/d) and EPA+α-LA (1.3 g/d + 0.3 g/d)]. All intervention groups followed an energy-restricted diet of 30% less than total energy expenditure. Clinically relevant biochemical measurements were analyzed. Urine samples (24 h) were collected at baseline and after 10 weeks. Untargeted metabolomic analysis on urine samples was carried out, and principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were performed for the pattern recognition and characteristic metabolites identification. Results Urine samples were scattered in the PCA scores plots in response to the supplementation with α-LA. Totally, 28 putative discriminant metabolites in positive ionization, and 6 in negative ionization were identified among groups clearly differentiated according to the α-LA administration. Remarkably is the presence of an ascorbate intermediate metabolite (one of the isomers of trihydroxy-dioxohexanoate, or dihydroxy–oxohexanedionate) in the groups supplemented with α-LA. This fact might be associated with antioxidant properties of both α-LA and ascorbic acid. Correlations between phenotypical parameters and putative metabolites of provided additional information on whether there is a direct or inverse relationship between them. Especially interesting are the negative correlation between ascorbate intermediate metabolite and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and the positive one between superoxide dismutase (SOD) and α-LA supplementation. Conclusions This metabolomic approach supports that the beneficial effects of α-LA administration on body weight reduction may be partly explained by the antioxidant properties of this organosulfur carboxylic acid mediated by isomers of trihydroxy-dioxohexanoate, or dihydroxy–oxohexanedionate. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01138774.

Objective. To systematically explore genetic polymorphisms associated with the clinical outcomes in SARS-CoV infection in humans. Methods. This comprehensive literature search comprised available English papers published in PubMed/Medline and SCOPUS databases following the PRISMA-P guidelines and PICO/AXIS criteria. Results. Twenty-nine polymorphisms located in 21 genes were identified as associated with SARS-CoV susceptibility/resistance, disease severity, and clinical outcomes predominantly in Asian populations. Thus, genes implicated in key pathophysiological processes such as the mechanisms related to the entry of the virus into the cell and the antiviral immune/inflammatory responses were identified. Conclusions. Although caution must be taken, the results of this systematic review suggest that multiple genetic polymorphisms are associated with SARS-CoV infection features by affecting virus pathogenesis and host immune response, which could have important applications for the study and understanding of genetics in SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 and for personalized translational clinical practice depending on the population studied and associated environments.

Background: Different genetic and environmental factors can explain the heterogeneity of obesity-induced metabolic alterations between individuals. In this study, we aimed to screen factors that predict metabolically healthy (MHP) and unhealthy (MUP) phenotypes using genetic and lifestyle data in overweight/obese participants. Methods: In this cross-sectional study we enrolled 298 overweight/obese Spanish adults. The Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for metabolic syndrome were used to categorize MHP (at most, one trait) and MUP (more than one feature). Blood lipid and inflammatory profiles were measured by standardized methods. Body composition was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A total of 95 obesity-predisposing single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped by a predesigned next-generation sequencing system. SNPs associated with a MUP were used to compute a weighted genetic-risk score (wGRS). Information concerning lifestyle (dietary intake and physical activity level) was collected using validated questionnaires. Results: The prevalence of MHP and MUP was 44.3% and 55.7%, respectively, in this sample. Overall, 12 obesity-related genetic variants were associated with the MUP. Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that wGRS (OR = 4.133, p

Aim: To analyze the influence of genetics and interactions with environmental factors on adiposity outcomes [waist circumference reduction (WCR) and total body fat loss (TFATL)] in response to energy-restricted diets in subjects with excessive body weight.Materials and Methods: Two hypocaloric diets (30% energy restriction) were prescribed to overweight/obese subjects during 16 weeks, which had different targeted macronutrient distribution: a low-fat (LF) diet (22% energy from lipids) and a moderately high-protein (MHP) diet (30% energy from proteins). At the end of the trial, a total of 201 participants (LF diet = 105; MHP diet = 96) who presented good/regular dietary adherence were genotyped for 95 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with weight loss through next-generation sequencing from oral samples. Four unweighted (uGRS) and four weighted (wGRS) genetic risk scores were computed using statistically relevant SNPs for each outcome by diet. Predictions of WCR and TFATL by diet were modeled through recognized multiple linear regression models including genetic (single SNPs, uGRS, and wGRS), phenotypic (age, sex, and WC, or TFAT at baseline), and environment variables (physical activity level and energy intake at baselines) as well as eventual interactions between genes and environmental factors.Results: Overall, 26 different SNPs were associated with differential adiposity outcomes, 9 with WCR and 17 with TFATL, most of which were specific for each dietary intervention. In addition to conventional predictors (age, sex, lifestyle, and adiposity status at baseline), the calculated uGRS/wGRS and interactions with environmental factors were major contributors of adiposity responses. Thus, variances in TFATL-LF diet, TFATL-MHP diet, WCR-LF diet, and WCR-MHP diet were predicted by approximately 38% (optimism-corrected adj. R2 = 0.3792), 32% (optimism-corrected adj. R2 = 0.3208), 22% (optimism-corrected adj. R2 = 0.2208), and 21% (optimism-corrected adj. R2 = 0.2081), respectively.Conclusions: Different genetic variants and interactions with environmental factors modulate the differential individual responses to MHP and LF dietary interventions. These insights and models may help to optimize personalized nutritional strategies for modeling the prevention and management of excessive adiposity through precision nutrition approaches taking into account not only genetic information but also the lifestyle/clinical factors that interplay in addition to age and sex.

The assessment of liver fibrosis has gained importance since the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Indeed, the description of the association between undetected liver fibrosis and lifestyle in terms of antioxidant habits, comorbidity and quality of life (QoL) domains may help in the characterization of subjects with NAFLD. A cross-sectional evaluation of (n = 116) consecutive patients from an Internal Medicine ambulatory evaluation was performed. Demographic data, lifestyle, co-morbidity, QoL (according to the SF-36 index) and analytical values to calculate the oxidative related Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index were recorded. The association between FIB-4 and co-morbidity, antioxidant habits in QoL was assessed in univariate analysis (p < 0.05) and confirmed in multivariable analysis for 4 of the 8 SF-36 categories: Physical QoL, Physical role, Social QoL and General QoL, as well as in the Physical summary of SF-36 (p < 0.05). Finally, interactions were assessed between co-morbidity, FIB-4 and antioxidant habits showed in the prediction of mean SF-36 (p < 0.01). Liver fibrosis assessed by the oxidative surrogate index FIB-4 is associated with the interaction between antioxidant lifestyle, co-morbidity and physical, social and general aspects of QoL in apparent liver disease-free individuals, generating a proof of concept for health empowerment and personalized medicine.

Objective Mexico has one of the world’s highest rates of obesity, which is influenced by lipid-genetic and lifestyle factors. This study aimed to determine whether FABP2 (Ala54Thr) and MTTP (-493 G/T) genetic polymorphisms are associated with metabolic disorders in Mexican subjects. Methods A total of 523 subjects participated in a cross-sectional study. Genotyping for FABP2 and MTTP was performed using real-time RT-PCR. Biochemical and anthropometric data were evaluated. Results The genetically at-risk group (Thr54/-493T) was associated with significantly higher total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (difference between genetically at-risk group and wild-type group: 10.6 mg/dL and 8.94 mg/dL, respectively). Carriers within the genetically at-risk group had a significantly higher prevalence rate of hypercholesterolaemia (42.5% vs. 32.0%) and higher LDL-C levels (37.6% vs. 26.4%) than did non-carriers. Conclusions Subjects who are genetically at risk (Thr54/-493T) have higher total cholesterol levels, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and prevalence rate of hypercholesterolaemia. These findings highlight the importance of basing nutritional intervention strategies for preventing and treating chronic diseases on individual genetic characteristics.

Background. Alcohol intake has been associated with the bitter taste receptor T2R38. TAS2R38 gene expresses two common haplotypes: PAV and AVI. It has been reported that AVI homozygotes consume more alcohol than heterozygotes and PAV homozygotes. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of the TAS2R38 haplotypes among Mexican-Mestizo population and to analyze its association with alcohol intake.Material and methods. In a cross-sectional study, a total of 375 unrelated Mestizo individuals were genotyped for TAS2R38 polymorphisms (A49P, V262A and I296V) by a Real-Time PCR System (TaqMan). Haplotype frequencies were calculated. Association of TAS2R38 haplotypes with alcohol intake was estimated in drinkers (DRS) and nondrinkers (NDRS).Results. Two haplotypes accounted for over 96% of all haplotypes (AVV, 60%, and PAI, 36.5%). The frequency of AVV homozygotes was significantly higher in DRS than NDRS (47.2 vs. 32.2%, respectively; p < 0.05). Additionally, the AVV/AVV genotype was associated with alcohol intake when compared with heterozygotes and PAI homozygotes (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.13-2.84, p < 0.05 and OR = 2.23, 95% CI 1.11-4.48; p < 0.05, respectively).Conclusions. In conclusion, two TAS2R38 haplotypes (AVV and PAI) prevailed in Mexican-Mestizo population. The novel AVV haplotype was associated with alcohol intake. The high prevalence of this allelic profile in our population could help to explain, at least in part, the preference for alcohol among the Mexicans.

Background and Aim. Individual lipid phenotypes including circulating total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and triglycerides (TG) determinations are influenced by gene-environment interactions. The aim of this study was to predict blood lipid level (TC, LDL-c, HDL-c, and TG) variability using genetic and lifestyle data in subjects with excessive body weight-for-height. Methods. This cross-sectional study enrolled 304 unrelated overweight/obese adults of self-reported European ancestry. A total of 95 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to obesity and weight loss were analyzed by a targeted next-generation sequencing system. Relevant genotypes of each SNP were coded as 0 (nonrisk) and 1 (risk). Four genetic risk scores (GRS) for each lipid phenotype were calculated by adding the risk genotypes. Information concerning lifestyle (diet, physical activity, alcohol drinking, and smoking) was obtained using validated questionnaires. Total body fat (TFAT) and visceral fat (VFAT) were determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results. Overall, 45 obesity-related genetic variants were associated with some of the studied blood lipids. In addition to conventional factors (age, sex, dietary intakes, and alcohol consumption), the calculated GRS significantly contributed to explain their corresponding plasma lipid trait. Thus, HDL-c, TG, TC, and LDL-c serum concentrations were predicted by approximately 28% (optimism-corrected adj. R2=0.28), 25% (optimism-corrected adj. R2=0.25), 24% (optimism-corrected adj. R2=0.24), and 21% (optimism-corrected adj. R2=0.21), respectively. Interestingly, GRS were the greatest contributors to TC (squared partial correlation (PC2) = 0.18) and LDL-c (PC2 = 0.18) features. Likewise, VFAT and GRS had a higher impact on HDL-c (PC2 = 0.09 and PC2 = 0.06, respectively) and TG levels (PC2 = 0.20 and PC2 = 0.07, respectively) than the rest of variables. Conclusions. Besides known lifestyle influences, some obesity-related genetic variants could help to predict blood lipid phenotypes.

AIM:To analyze the genetic heterogeneity of the Amerindian and admixed population (Mestizos) based on the IL28B (rs12979860, rs8099917) and IFNL4 (rs368234815) haplotypes, and their association with spontaneous clearance (SC) and liver damage in patients with hepatitis C infection from West Mexico. METHODS:A total of 711 subjects from West Mexico (181 Amerindians and 530 Mestizos) were studied for the prevalence of IL28B (rs12979860C/T, rs8099917G/T) and IFNL4 (rs368234815∆G/TT) genotypes. A case-control study was performed in 234 treatment-naïve HCV Mestizos (149 chronic hepatitis C and 85 with SC) for the association of haplotypes with SC and liver damage. A real-time PCR assay was used for genotyping, and transitional elastography staged liver damage. RESULTS:Significant Fst-values indicated differentiation between the studied populations. The frequencies of the protective C, T, TT alleles were significantly lower in the Amerindians than in Mestizos (p

With the objective to study the effect of the difference of potential in the rheological parameters, the study of the rheology behaviour of a liquor “sabajón” was made, submissive a difference of potential between 11 volts and 45 volts in 11 applications with a rank of time between 120 second and 630 seconds. In order to determine the meaning of the results and of finding mathematical the models suitable that they give answer to the correlation of the variables, multiple regression analysis for each one of the dependent variables with respect to the independent ones was made. The drink “sabajón” is a slightly pseudoplastic fluid, with flow number average of 0.815 and to the being submissive different voltages and times from application, this index diminished up to 0.754, becoming more pseudoplastic the flow number, n, diminishes with the application of voltage from 0.815 to 0.754, which allows to conclude that the pseudoplasticity of liquor “sabajon” increases slightly with the electrical treatment. The index of consistency, k, increases with the application of voltage from 0.112 to 0.155, allowing to infer that the viscosity of the fluid (sabajon) increases due to better molecular ordering of the treated sample.

Se estudió la biomasa, producción secundaria e índice de condición del bivalvo Arca zebra, desde agosto, 1984 hasta agosto, 1985 en Pariche, localidad situada en la costa norte del Golfo de Cariaco, Venezuela. La densidad promedio fue de 37 ind.m-2, con una mayor abundancia a 3 m de profundidad (49.75 ind.m-2). La estructura poblacional es estable con reclutamientos en octubre, diciembre 1984 y junio 19885. Los valores bimensuales de biomasa oscilaron entre 189.86 g Ps m-2 (agosto-84) y 28.51 g Ps m-2 (octubre-84), con un promedio de 93.69 g Ps m-2, y no presentaron diferencias significativas (Fs, P 0.05). Utilizando un método para poblaciones con reproducción contínua y edades no separables, se obtuvo una producción secundaria de 131.61 g Ps. m-2.año-1, y la relación P/B de1.41 año-1. La mayor producción secundaria ocurrió entre febrero 1985 y agosto 1985 (65%), con el mayor aporte por el intervalo 60.00-79.95 mm (45.73%). Se observaron cambios significativos en la variación mensual del índice de condición (IC= (Ps/ Ph) x100) en dos clases de tallas analizadas, presentando los valores más altos en julio de 1985 (26.84%) y el mínimo en enero de 1985 (16.31%).Production and condition index of a turkeywing (Arca zebra) population were studied from August 1984 to August 1985 in Pariche, Cariaco Gulf, Venezuela. Production was studied through bimonthly collections using a method designed for populations with continuous reproduction and indistinguishable age classes. The population distribution was stable with a mean density of 37 ind.m-2. A production of 131.61 g dry weight m-2.year-1 was calcuclated from data on density, biomass and weight increase along the year. Highest production was between February 1985 and August 1985 (65%) and concentrated in individuals 60.00-79.95 mm long (45.73%). There was large seasonal variation in the mean monthly condition index (IC= (Ps/Ph) x100) in the two size classes examined: it reached a maximum in July 1985 (26.84%) and a minimum in January 1985 (16.31%).

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