Secuencia anemia-policitemia en la gestación monocorial. Manejo prenatal y resultados perinatales / Twin anaemia polycythemia polycythemia sequence in monochorionic gestation. Prenatal management and perinatal outcomes

Introducción: El objetivo de este trabajo consiste en describir y analizar los resultados perinatales de una serie de casos de anemia-policitemia (TAPS) seguidos y tratados en un centro de referencia en Medicina Fetal, en términos del tipo TAPS y la conducta prenatal aplicada. Métodos: Análisis estadístico descriptivo e inferencial con el programa IBM SPSS Statistics. Resultados: Se diagnosticaron 13 casos de TAPS en un total de 510 gestaciones monocoriales. La mayoría de TAPS espontáneos se diagnosticaron en estadios precoces (5 casos), mientras que, en TAPS posláser, 3/6 casos se diagnosticaron en estadios avanzados. Cuatro fetos (4/26; 15,4%) presentaron alteraciones en la neurosonografía, 3 (3/14; 21,4%) en TAPS espontáneos y uno (1/12, 8,3%) en TAPS posláser (p = 0,308). Se detectó hipertrofia miocárdica en 7 fetos, 5 (71,4%) de los cuales correspondían a TAPS en estadios avanzados. Cuatro eran TAPS espontáneos (4/14; 28,6%) y 3 TAPS posláser (3/12; 25%) (p = 0,797). Ocho casos (8/13; 62,5%) precisaron algún procedimiento de terapia fetal. Se produjeron 3 muertes fetales anteparto y una pareja decidió interrupción legal del embarazo (19,23%). Las 5 pérdidas se produjeron en estadio IV (p=0,008).La supervivencia global fue del 80,8% (21/26 recién nacidos vivos). No hubo diferencias significativas en función del tipo TAPS (p = 0,159) y la conducta prenatal adoptada (p = 0,746). Conclusiones: El TAPS espontáneo es, por tanto, una entidad clínica con un impacto en los resultados perinatales similar al posláser. Parece que la conducta expectante y el láser consiguen mayor edad gestacional al nacimiento.(AU)

Introduction: The aim of this paper is to describe and analyze the perinatal outcomes of a series of TAPS cases followed and treated in a Fetal Medicine referral center, in terms of the type of TAPS and the prenatal behavior applied. Methods: Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis with IBM SPSS Statistics software. Results: Thirteen cases of TAPS were diagnosed in a total of 510 monocorial gestations. Most of the spontaneous TAPS were diagnosed at early stages (5 cases), whereas, in post-laser TAPS, 3/6 cases were diagnosed at advanced stages. Four fetuses (4/26; 15.4%) presented alterations in neurosonography, 3 (3/14; 21.4%) in spontaneous TAPS and one (1/12, 8.3%) in post-laser TAPS (P=0.308). Myocardial hypertrophy was detected in 7 fetuses, 5 (71.4%) of which corresponded to advanced stage TAPS. Four were spontaneous TAPS (4/14; 28.6%) and 3 were post-laser TAPS (3/12; 25%) (P=0.797). Eight cases (8/13; 62.5%) required some fetal therapy procedure. There were 3 antepartum fetal deaths and one couple decided to legally terminate the pregnancy (19.23%). All 5 losses were stage IV (P=0.008). Overall survival was 80.8% (21/26 live newborns). There were no significant differences according to the type of TAPS (P= 0.159) and the prenatal behavior adopted (P=0.746).Conclusions: Spontaneous TAPS is therefore a clinical entity with an impact on perinatal outcomes similar to post-laser. It seems that expectant management and laser achieve higher gestational age at birth.(AU)

REDACS: Regional emergency-driven adaptive cluster sampling for effective COVID-19 management.

As COVID-19 is spreading, national agencies need to monitor and track several metrics. Since we do not have perfect testing programs on the hand, one needs to develop an advanced sampling strategies for prevalence study, control and management. Here we introduce REDACS: Regional emergency-driven adaptive cluster sampling for effective COVID-19 management and control and justify its usage for COVID-19. We show its advantages over classical massive individual testing sampling plans. We also point out how regional and spatial heterogeneity underlines proper sampling. Fundamental importance of adaptive control parameters from emergency health stations and medical frontline is outlined. Since the Northern hemisphere entered Autumn and Winter season (this paper was originally submitted in November 2020), practical illustration from spatial heterogeneity of Chile (Southern hemisphere, which already experienced COVID-19 winter outbreak peak) is underlying the importance of proper regional heterogeneity of sampling plan. We explain the regional heterogeneity by microbiological backgrounds and link it to behavior of Lyapunov exponents. We also discuss screening by antigen tests from the perspective of "on the fly" biomarker validation, i.e., during the screening.

Descripción de un caso: Hallazgos prenatales del síndrome de Silver-Russell / Case description: Prenatal sonographic features of Silver-Russell Syndrome

Introducción: El síndrome de Silver-Russell es un trastorno congénito que cursa con déficit de crecimiento intrauterino y posnatal, macrocefalia relativa, frente prominente, cara triangular, clinodactilia, asimetría esquelética, problemas de alimentación y bajo índice de masa corporal. Entre las causas genéticas más comunes se encuentran la hipometilación del alelo paterno en la región de control de impronta 1 (ICR1) localizado en 11p15.5 (50% de los casos) y la disomía uniparental materna en el cromosoma 7 (7-10%). Hallazgos clínicos: Presentamos el caso de una gestante de 29 años con un cribado de cromosomopatías de primer trimestre de bajo riesgo. En la ecografía selectiva, realizada con 20+4 semanas, se evidencia un crecimiento intrauterino restringido (CIR) precoz. Se realiza amniocentesis con QF-PCR, cariotipo y array-CGH normales. A las 31+3 semanas persiste CIR tipo I con un peso fetal estimado, circunferencia abdominal y longitud de fémur inferiores al percentil 1, siendo el diámetro biparietal y la circunferencial cefálica normales. Se evidencia prominencia frontal, facies pequeña y clinodactilia del quinto dedo de la mano derecha. A las 37 semanas nace mediante cesárea un varón de 1.410g. Diagnóstico, intervención terapéutica y resultados: A la exploración física destaca fenotipo peculiar sugestivo de síndrome de Silver-Russell. El estudio genético confirma hipometilación del ICR1 en la región 11p15.5. Se incluye iconografía del estudio ecográfico prenatal. Conclusión: Es importante llegar al diagnóstico de esta entidad y conocer la correlación genotipo-fenotipo para poder ofrecer las mejores opciones terapéuticas, un adecuado seguimiento y realizar asesoramiento genético familiar.(AU)

Introduction: Silver-Russell syndrome is a congenital disorder that causes prenatal and postnatal growth restriction, relative macrocephaly, prominent forehead, triangular facies, clinodactyly, body asymmetry, severe feeding difficulties, and low body mass index. The most common underlying mechanisms are hypomethylation of the paternal allele at the imprinting control region 1 (ICR 1) located at 11p15.5 (seen in 50% of patients) and maternal uniparental disomy for chromosome 7 (seen in 7%–10% of patients). Clinical findings: We present the case of a 29-year-old pregnant woman with low risk for chromosomal abnormalities at the first trimester screening. The 20-week ultrasound shows early intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). We performed an amniocentesis with normal QF-PCR, foetal karyotype and array-CGH. Intrauterine growth restriction Type I persists at 31+4 weeks with estimated foetal weight, abdominal circumference, and femur length below the 1st centile. The biparietal diameter and head circumference centiles were normal. Prominent forehead, small face, and fifth finger clinodactyly of right hand were detected. At 37 weeks, a boy weighing 1,410g was born by caesarean section. Diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and results: Physical examination revealed a peculiar phenotype suggestive of Silver-Russell syndrome. The genetic study confirmed hypomethylation of ICR1 in the 11p15.5 region. Prenatal ultrasound images are shown. Conclusions: It is important to diagnose this entity and determine genotype-phenotype correlations in order to provide the best therapeutic options, ensure adequate follow-up, and offer timely family genetic counselling.(AU)

Morbimortalidad en pacientes sometidas a ligadura de arterias hipogástricas con riesgo de hemorragia obstétrica / Morbi-mortality in patients undergoing ligation of hypogastric arteries at risk of obstetric haemorrhage

Antecedentes: La hemorragia obstétrica es la principal causa de mortalidad materna en países subdesarrollados; representan un tercio de las muertes. Existen técnicas quirúrgicas alternativas para detener la hemorragia como lo es la ligadura de arterias hipogástricas. Objetivo: Determinar la morbimortalidad materna en pacientes sometidas a ligadura de arterias hipogástricas con riesgo de hemorragia obstétrica de junio a diciembre de 2012 en el Hospital General Regional n.o 36 del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Puebla (HGR n.o 36, IMSS, Puebla). Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, observacional, transversal, retrospectivo, homodémico. Se incluyeron pacientes con riesgo de hemorragia obstétrica sometidas a «ligadura de arterias hipogástricas» de junio a diciembre de 2012 en el HGR n.o 36, IMSS, Puebla, de cualquier edad materna y gestacional. El tipo y tamaño de muestra fue finita, no probabilística. Método estadístico: descriptivo y odds. Resultados: Treinta y ocho pacientes se sometieron a ligadura de arterias hipogástricas. Edad promedio: 26,9 años. El acretismo placentario (44,74%) fue la indicación más frecuente (odds=0,78), seguida de hipotonía uterina (7,89%; odds=0,07) y placenta previa (7,89%; odds=0,07). Se registraron 22 (57,8%) pacientes con hemorragia obstétrica, 15 (68,18%) contaron con antecedente de cesárea previa (odds=2,12). La razón de probabilidad de culminar en histerectomía por hemorragia obstétrica odds=4,2. Se documentó un (2,63%) paciente con complicación ureteral posterior a la ligadura (odds=0,027). Mortalidad materna y perinatal del 0%. Conclusión: La complicación posterior a la ligadura de arterias hipogástricas se presentó en un paciente con ligadura ureteral. No hubo complicaciones vasculares. La mortalidad materna y perinatal fue de 0 pacientes.(AU)

Background: Obstetric haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal death in underdeveloped countries, accounting for a third of deaths. There are alternative surgical techniques to stop bleeding, such as ligation of the hypogastric arteries. Objective: To determine maternal morbidity and mortality in patients sometimes linked to hypogastric arteries at risk of obstetric haemorrhage from June to December 2012 in Hospital General Regional n.o 36, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Puebla (HGR # 36, IMSS, Puebla). Material and methods: Descriptive, observational, cross-sectional, retrospective, homodemic study. Patients at risk of obstetric haemorrhage undergoing “hypogastric artery ligation” from June to December 2012 were included in the HGR # 36, IMSS, Puebla, of any maternal and gestational age. Sample type and size was finite, not probabilistic. Statistical method: descriptive and Odds. Results: Thirty-eight patients underwent a ligation of the hypogastric arteries. Average age: 26.9 years. Placental accretion (44.74%) was the most frequent indication Odds=.78, subsequent uterine hypotonia (7.89%) Odds=.07 and placenta previa (7.89%) Odds=.07. 22 (57.8%) patients with obstetric haemorrhage were considered, 15 (68.18%) had a history of prior caesarean section Odds=2.12. The probability ratio of completing a hysterectomy for obstetric haemorrhage=4.2. One (2.63%) patient with ureteral complication after ligation was documented Odds=.027. Maternal and perinatal mortality in 0 patient. Conclusion:The complication after ligation of the hypogastric arteries presented in 1 patient with ureteral ligation. There were no vascular complications. Maternal mortality was 0%. Perinatal mortality was 0%.(AU)

Application of plasma polymerized pyrrole nanoparticles to prevent or reduce de-differentiation of adult rat ventricular cardiomyocytes.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the world, cell therapies have been shown to recover cardiac function in animal models. Biomaterials used as scaffolds can solve some of the problems that cell therapies currently have, plasma polymerized pyrrole (PPPy) is a biomaterial that has been shown to promote cell adhesion and survival. The present research aimed to study PPPy nanoparticles (PPPyN) interaction with adult rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (ARVC), to explore whether PPPyN could be employed as a nanoscaffold and develop cardiac microtissues. PPPyN with a mean diameter of 330 nm were obtained, the infrared spectrum showed that some pyrrole rings are fragmented and that some fragments of the ring can be dehydrogenated during plasma synthesis, it also showed the presence of amino groups in the structure of PPPyN. PPPyN had a significant impact on the ARVC´s shape, delaying dedifferentiation, necrosis, and apoptosis processes, moreover, the cardiomyocytes formed cell aggregates up to 1.12 mm2 with some aligned cardiomyocytes and generated fibers on its surface similar to cardiac extracellular matrix. PPPyN served as a scaffold for adult ARVC. Our results indicate that PPPyN-scaffold is a biomaterial that could have potential application in cardiac cell therapy (CCT).

Machine Learning for personalised stress detection: Inter-individual variability of EEG-ECG markers for acute-stress response.

Stress appears as a response for a broad variety of physiological stimuli. It does vary among individuals in amplitude, phase and frequency. Thus, the necessity for personalised diagnosis is key to prevent stress-related diseases. In order to evaluate stress levels, a multi-sensing system is proposed based on non-invasive EEG and ECG signals. A target population of 24 individuals which age range between 18-23 years old are intentionally exposed to control-induced stress tests while EEG and ECG are simultaneously recorded. The acquired signals are processed by using semisupevised Machine Learning techniques as those provide a patient-specific approach due to key characteristics such as adaptiveness and robustness. In here, a stress metric is proposed that jointly with each individual medical history provide mechanisms to prevent and avoid possible chronic-health issues for individuals whom are more sensitive to stressors. Finally, supervised learning techniques are used to classify the obtained featured clusters to evaluate specific and general subject models in order to pave the way for real time stress monitoring.

Puntajes del Concurso Nacional de Ingreso al Sistema Nacional de Servicio de Salud por universidad. Periodo 2017 ­ 2020 / Scores of the National Entrance Contest to the National Health Service System by university. Period 2017 - 2020

INTRODUCCIÓN: El Concurso Nacional de Ingreso al Sistema Nacional de Servicio de Salud (CONISS) es una de las modalidades más conocidas para acceder a una especialización médica en Chile. Se basa en la evaluación de 5 rubros diferentes y en los últimos años no ha sido capaz de cubrir la demanda de los postulantes haciendo necesario un mejor conocimiento de este. El objetivo del estudio es describir los resultados del concurso CONISS de los últimos 4 años según las universidades de los participantes. Material y método: Estudio observacional, corte transversal, descriptivo. Asociación de puntajes obtenidos por los estudiantes con su respectiva universidad, obteniéndose datos de la página de superintendencia de Salud y utilizándose software Microsoft Excel® para su procesamiento. Resultados: El total de egresados fue de 6.092, provenientes de 22 universidades chilenas. Destaca la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile por liderar en el rubro 1 y el puntaje total durante los 4 años y la Universidad Pedro de Valdivia por encontrarse en el último puesto. Los rubros 4 y 5 fueron los que más se completaron. Las universidades con mejor desempeño en el rubro 1 fueron también las que obtuvieron mejor desempeño en el puntaje final. Discusión: El rubro 1 es el que posee mayor importancia en el resultado final del concurso y no se encuentra estandarizado entre universidades quedando sujeto al criterio de cada institución. No completar el resto de los rubros representa una desventaja comparativa pues la mayoría tiene buenos puntajes, pero estos resultados se ven limitados en gran medida por las calificaciones.

INTRODUCTION: The National Entrance Contest to the National Health Service System (CONISS) is one of the best known modalities to access a medical specialization in Chile. It is based on the evaluation of 5 different areas (items) and in recent years it has not been able to meet the demand of the applicants, making it necessary to know more about the subject. The objective of the study is to describe the results of the CONISS by university for the last 4 years. Material and method: Observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study. Association of scores obtained by students with their respective university, obtaining data from the Superintendency of Health page and using Microsoft Excel® software for processing. Results: The total number of graduates was 6,092, from 22 Chilean universities. The Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile stands out for leading in item 1 and the total score during the 4 years and "Pedro de Valdivia" University for being in the last position. Items 4 and 5 were the most completed. The universities with the best performance in item 1 were also the ones that obtained the best performance in the final score. Discussion: Item 1 is the one that has the greatest importance in the final result of the contest and is not standardized among universities, being subject to the criteria of each institution. Not achieving the other items implies a comparative disadvantage as most participants have good scores, but these results are largely limited by grades.

Effect of the reaction medium on the characteristics of silanized titanium dioxide particles: Differences obtained in the Zeta potential data and infrared spectra.

In this document we present the differences in the Zeta potential and in the Infrared spectra data obtained from the characterization of silanized titanium dioxide particles, using two different solvents as reaction media: ethanol and toluene. Also, we provide micrographs of transmission electron microscopy in order to show morphological differences between the analyzed samples.

Maternal mortality in Spain and its association with country of origin: cross-sectional study during the period 1999-2015.

BACKGROUND: The available literature suggests that there are significant differences in maternal mortality according to maternal origin in high income countries. The objective of this study was to quantify the risk of maternal death by maternal origin and region of Spain where the birth occurred and to identify the most important causes of maternal death in our country. METHODS: An ecological cross-sectional study was conducted that included all deliveries that resulted in maternal survival and cases of maternal death during 1999-2015 in Spain. A descriptive analysis of the maternal mortality rate by maternal origin, region and year of birth was performed. The risk of maternal death was calculated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, with adjustment for the variables included in the descriptive analysis. RESULTS: There were 272 maternal deaths during this period, most of which were due to haemorrhage (63 cases, 23.16%).Women whose continent of origin was South America had the highest adjusted risk of maternal death, with an OR of 3.92 (95% CI 2.75-5.58). The region of Spain with the highest risk of maternal death was Ceuta, with an OR of 12.11 (95% CI 2.02-72.68). CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that there are inequalities in maternal mortality according to maternal origin and region where labour occurred. These findings highlight the need to establish strategies at the national and European levels to analyse the most relevant causes and risk factors associated with maternal mortality in order to reduce it and pay closer attention in identifying and carefully managing pregnant women from this at risk groups.

Foliar phenolic compounds of ten wild species of Verbenacea as antioxidants and specific chemomarkers / Compostos fenólicos das folhas de dez especies selvagem de Verbenaceae como antioxidantes e quimiomarcadores específicos

Abstract The family Verbenaceae hosts important species used in traditional medicine of many countries. The taxonomic controversies concerning the specific delimitation of several of its species make it difficult to guarantee the botanical origin of herbal preparations based on species of this family. To contribute to the development of both specific chemomarkers and a quality control tool to authenticate the botanical origin of herbal preparations of Verbenacea species, we determined the foliar HPLC-DAD phenolic profiles and the antioxidant properties of 10 wild species of this family occurring in Mexico. The contents of phenols and flavonoids varied significantly among species. Priva mexicana showed the highest levels of total phenolics (53.4 mg g-1 dry tissue) and Verbena carolina had the highest levels of flavonoids (17.89 mg g-1 dry tissue). Relevant antioxidant properties revealed by antiradical and reducing power were found for the analyzed species. These properties varied significantly in a species-dependent manner. The phenolic compounds accumulated were flavones and phenolic acids. Flavones were the only type of flavonoids found. The results of a cluster analysis showed that the compounds were accumulated in species-specific profiles. The phenolic profiles are proposed as valuable chemomarkers that can become a useful tool for the quality control concerning the botanical origin of herbal medicinal preparations based on the species analyzed. In addition, phenolic profiles could contribute importantly to solve the taxonomic controversies concerning species delimitation in the family Verbenaceae.

Resumo A família Verbenaceae compreende importantes espécies utilizadas na medicina popular de muitos países. As dificuldades taxonômicas relativas à delimitação específica de muitas das suas espécies face difícil a verificar a origem botânico das preparações herbales baseadas nas espécies desta família. Para fazer uma contribuição ao desenvolvimento de indicadores taxonômicos e dum método de controle de qualidade para verificar a origem botânico de preparações herbales das espécies de Verbenaceae, os perfis fenólicos, obtidos pares HPLC-DAD, e as atividades antioxidantes das folhas de 10 espécies selvagens Mexicanas desta família foram determinados. Os conteúdos dos compostos fenólicos totais e dos flavonoides foram significativamente diferentes entre as espécies. Priva mexicana apresentou a maior quantidade de compostos fenólicos totais (53.4 mg g-1 amostra seca) e Verbena carolina apresentou a maior quantidade de flavonoides (17.89 mg g-1 amostra seca). Verifica-se importantes propriedades antioxidantes, como os resultados dos ensaios da capacidade antiradical e do poder redutor indicaram. As propriedades antioxidantes foram significativamente diferentes entre as espécies. Verificou-se que os compostos fenólicos conteúdos nas folhas das espécies analisadas foram só flavonas e ácidos fenólicos. Os resultados das análises de agrupamento provarãn que os perfiles fenólicos foram espécie-específicos. Estes perfis podem ser considerados como indicadores químicos da qualidade relativa à origem botânico de preparações medicinais baseadas nas espécies analisadas e podem fazer importantes contribuições para a delimitação específica na família Verbenaceae.

Foliar phenolic compounds of ten wild species of Verbenacea as antioxidants and specific chemomarkers.

The family Verbenaceae hosts important species used in traditional medicine of many countries. The taxonomic controversies concerning the specific delimitation of several of its species make it difficult to guarantee the botanical origin of herbal preparations based on species of this family. To contribute to the development of both specific chemomarkers and a quality control tool to authenticate the botanical origin of herbal preparations of Verbenacea species, we determined the foliar HPLC-DAD phenolic profiles and the antioxidant properties of 10 wild species of this family occurring in Mexico. The contents of phenols and flavonoids varied significantly among species. Priva mexicana showed the highest levels of total phenolics (53.4 mg g-1 dry tissue) and Verbena carolina had the highest levels of flavonoids (17.89 mg g-1 dry tissue). Relevant antioxidant properties revealed by antiradical and reducing power were found for the analyzed species. These properties varied significantly in a species-dependent manner. The phenolic compounds accumulated were flavones and phenolic acids. Flavones were the only type of flavonoids found. The results of a cluster analysis showed that the compounds were accumulated in species-specific profiles. The phenolic profiles are proposed as valuable chemomarkers that can become a useful tool for the quality control concerning the botanical origin of herbal medicinal preparations based on the species analyzed. In addition, phenolic profiles could contribute importantly to solve the taxonomic controversies concerning species delimitation in the family Verbenaceae.

Career choice in primary care: pre- and post-comparison of Honduran physicians completing social service

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To describe and compare patterns of specialty choice among physicians in Honduras before and after completing mandatory social service; and to identify and compare salary perceptions and factors that may influence their career choice. Methods. A quantitative methods approach was used on a cross-sectional questionnaire survey applied to 106 physicians completing social service in September 2015. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and factor analysis. Results. Interest in family medicine was low and declined from 2.2% before social service to 0.9% after. Median annual expected income was 19.5% lower overall compared to the beginning of social service, and in particular, for primary care specialties (US$ 17 733), it was significantly lower than for other specialties (US$ 27 281). Participants reported that the most important factors influencing career choice were: income potential (23.3%), making a positive difference in people´s lives (19.4%), challenging work (10.7%), and perceived prestige (7.8%). Two factors were significantly associated with a preference for specialties other than primary care: the opportunity to teach (P= 0.008) and “makes positive difference in people´s lives” (P = 0.005). When all categories were compared, “makes positive difference in people´s lives” (P = 0.043), and opportunities to practice with independence (P = 0.036) were factors significantly associated to career decision. Conclusion. Since interest in primary care among physicians decreased during social service and salary perception increased in favor of non-primary care careers, offering greater incentives for this specialty should be explored. Additional research to identify factors that might support the choice of a career in primary care are recommended.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Describir y comparar los patrones de elección de especialidad de los médicos hondureños antes y después de completar el servicio social obligatorio. Establecer y comparar las percepciones sobre el salario y los factores que pueden influir en esa elección. Método. Se aplicaron métodos cuantitativos a un cuestionario transversal administrado a 106 médicos que terminaron el servicio social en septiembre de 2015. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante ji cuadrado y análisis factorial. Resultados. El interés por la medicina familiar era escaso y descendió de 2,2% antes del servicio social a 0,9% después. La mediana de ingresos anuales previstos fue, en general, 19,5% inferior que al comienzo del servicio social y, en particular, fue significativamente inferior para las especialidades de atención primaria (US$ 17 733) que para otras especialidades (US$ 27 281). Los participantes informaron que los factores más importantes que influían en la elección de especialidad eran: posibles ingresos (23,3%), posibilidad de cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas (19,4%), trabajo estimulante (10,7%) y prestigio que pudiera otorgar (7,8%). Dos factores se asociaron significativamente con la preferencia por una especialidad fuera de la atención primaria: la oportunidad de enseñar (P= 0,008) y la posibilidad de “cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas” (P = 0,005). Cuando se compararon todas las categorías, “cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas” (P = 0,043) y la oportunidad de ejercer de forma independiente (P = 0,036) fueron factores que se asociaron significativamente con la decisión sobre la especialidad. Conclusión. Como el interés por la atención primaria entre los médicos disminuyó durante el servicio social y la percepción sobre el salario inclinó la balanza en favor de especialidades distintas a la atención primaria, se debe explorar la posibilidad de ofrecer mayores incentivos para esta especialización. Se recomienda realizar nuevas investigaciones para determinar los factores que podrían apoyar la elección de la especialidad de atención primaria.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Descrever e comparar os padrões de escolha da área de especialidade entre médicos hondurenhos antes e depois da prestação do serviço social obrigatório e identificar e comparar a percepção salarial e de outros potenciais determinantes da escolha profissional. Métodos. Estudo transversal com metodologia quantitativa conduzido com a aplicação de um questionário em uma amostra de 106 médicos que concluíram a prestação do serviço social obrigatório em setembro de 2015. A análise estatística foi realizada com o uso do teste de qui-quadrado e análise fatorial. Resultados. Verificou-se baixo grau de interesse em medicina da família, com redução do interesse de 2,2% a 0,9% após o serviço social. Houve, em geral, uma redução de 19,5% na mediana anual prevista de remuneração comparada ao início do serviço social, sendo particularmente significativa nas especialidades de atenção primária (US$ 17.733) e relação às outras especialidades (US$ 27.281). Os participantes informaram os seguintes principais determinantes da escolha da carreira profissional: ter potencial de remuneração (23,3%), contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (19,4%), ser um trabalho estimulante (10,7%) e prestígio percebido (7,8%). Observou-se uma associação significativa entre os seguintes fatores e a preferência por especialidades fora da atenção primária: oportunidade de ensinar (P = 0,008) e contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (P = 0,005). Quando se compararam todas as categorias, contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (P = 0,043) e oportunidade de exercer a medicina de forma autônoma (P = 0,036) foram os fatores significativamente associados à escolha da carreira. Conclusão. Diante da perda de interesse por parte dos médicos pela área de atenção primária durante o serviço social e uma percepção salarial maior favorecendo carreiras fora da atenção primária, deve ser dado maior incentivo para que os profissionais optem por esta especialidade. Recomenda-se conduzir outros estudos para identificar os fatores que poderiam estimular a escolha de uma carreira profissional em atenção primária.

Assessment of the rs4340 ACE gene polymorphism in acute coronary syndrome in a Western Mexican population.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is considered one of the main causes of death worldwide. Contradictory findings concerning the impact of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene on cardiovascular diseases have been reported. Previous conclusions point out that the variability in results depends on ethnicity and genetic polymorphisms to determine the association of rs4340 polymorphisms of the ACE gene and ACE circulating levels in ACS. Genotyping of rs4340 polymorphisms was performed in a total of 600 individuals from Western Mexico divided into two groups: the ACS and the control group (CG). The polymorphisms were identified by polymerase chain reaction. Serum ACE concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. D/D carriers had higher ACE levels than I/I carriers (3.6 vs 2.8 ng/mL, P < 0.0021) in the CG. The D/D genotype of the rs4340 polymorphism is associated with higher ACE concentration levels; however, the polymorphism was not associated with ACS.

Reflexión teórica sobre el arte del cuidado / Theoretical reflection on the art of care / Reflexão teórica sobre a arte do cuidado

Introducción: Con la construcción del estado del arte se identificó la necesidad de conceptualizar el arte del cuidado con la siguiente interrogante: ¿se concibe el arte del cuidado de enfermería como fenómeno de estudio desde la revisión del pensamiento teórico de enfermería? Este análisis contribuye a la fundamentación filosofica estética de la disciplina de enfermería y su resignificación para la enseñanza y la práctica, de tal forma que el cuidado adquiera el sentido humanístico para la autonomía profesional. Desarrollo: Se analiza el cuidado desde la visión de algunos filósofos y teóricas de enfermería para contextualizar el fenómeno de estudio; posteriormente se describen las concepciones del arte del cuidado y conocimiento estético más significativas desde Florence Nightingale hasta Vera Regina Waldow. Para el análisis de los hallazgos se consideran las concepciones del arte como conocimiento, como actividad práctica y como sensibilidad establecidas por Abaggnano. Conclusiones: El arte del cuidado se sustenta según las concepciones fundamentales del arte, principalmente como actividad práctica, asimismo se identifican las acepciones del arte como conocimiento y como sensibilidad. En síntesis, hasta este momento se puede decir que el arte del cuidado se da en una relación intersubjetiva, la enfermera (ro) hace una abstracción de la realidad de la persona y esta hace una autopercepción para objetivar sus necesidades. De esta interacción se derivan las acciones cuidativas basadas en el amor, en el respeto a la dignidad de la persona.

Introduction: Considering the construction of the state of art, the need to conceptualize the art of care was identified through the following question: Is the nursing care art conceived as a phenomenon of study from the perspective of the nursing theoretical thought? This analysis contributes to the philosophical and aesthetical foundations of nursing teaching and practice so that care acquires the humanistic sense for the professional autonomy. Development: Care is analyzed from the vision of some philosophers and theoreticians of nursing in order to contextualize the phenomenon of study; then, the most significant conceptions of the art and aesthetics of care, from Florence Nightingale until Vera Virginia Waldow are described. The Abaggnano conceptions of art as knowledge, practical activity, and sensibility serve as framework to this analysis. Conclusions: The art of care is supported by the fundamental conceptions of art, mainly as a practical activity, but also as knowledge and sensibility. Therefore, it can be expressed that the art of care develops from and into an intersubjective relationship: the nurses abstract the reality of the persons, while the persons self-perceive to objectivize their needs. From these interactions, caring actions based on love, respect, and dignity are developed.

Introdução: Com a construção do estado da arte identificou-se a necessidade de conceituar a arte do cuidado com a seguinte questão: concebe-se a arte do cuidado de enfermagem como fenómeno de estudo desde a revisão do pensamento teórico de enfermagem? Esta análise contribui à fundamentação filosofica estética da disciplina de enfermagem e sua ressignificação para o ensino e a prática, de tal forma que o cuidado adquira o sentido humanístico para a autonomia profissional. Desenvolvimento: Analisa-se o cuidado desde a visão de alguns filósofos e teóricos de enfermagem para contextualizar o fenómeno de estudo; posteriormente se descrevem as concepções da arte do cuidado e conhecimento estético mais significativas desde Florence Nightingale até Vera Regina Waldow. Para a análise dos achados consideram-se as concepções da arte como conhecimento, como atividade prática e como sensibilidade, estabelecidas por Abaggnano. Conclusões: A arte do cuidado sustenta-se segundo as concepções fundamentais da arte, principalmente como atividade prática, assim mesmo identi-se as acepções da arte como conhecimento e como sensibilidade. Em síntese, até este momento pode-se dizer que a arte do cuidado se dá em uma relação intersubjetiva, a enfermeira (ro) faz uma abstração da realidade da pessoa e esta faz uma autopercepção para objetivar suas necessidades. Desta interação derivam-se as ações de cuidado baseadas no amor, no respeito à dignidade da pessoa.

Career choice in primary care: pre- and post-comparison of Honduran physicians completing social service.

OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare patterns of specialty choice among physicians in Honduras before and after completing mandatory social service; and to identify and compare salary perceptions and factors that may influence their career choice. METHODS: A quantitative methods approach was used on a cross-sectional questionnaire survey applied to 106 physicians completing social service in September 2015. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and factor analysis. RESULTS: Interest in family medicine was low and declined from 2.2% before social service to 0.9% after. Median annual expected income was 19.5% lower overall compared to the beginning of social service, and in particular, for primary care specialties (US$ 17 733), it was significantly lower than for other specialties (US$ 27 281). Participants reported that the most important factors influencing career choice were: income potential (23.3%), making a positive difference in people's lives (19.4%), challenging work (10.7%), and perceived prestige (7.8%). Two factors were significantly associated with a preference for specialties other than primary care: the opportunity to teach (P= 0.008) and "makes positive difference in people's lives" (P = 0.005). When all categories were compared, "makes positive difference in people's lives" (P = 0.043), and opportunities to practice with independence (P = 0.036) were factors significantly associated to career decision. CONCLUSION: Since interest in primary care among physicians decreased during social service and salary perception increased in favor of non-primary care careers, offering greater incentives for this specialty should be explored. Additional research to identify factors that might support the choice of a career in primary care are recommended.

Foliar phenolic compounds of ten wild species of Verbenacea as antioxidants and specific chemomarkers

Abstract The family Verbenaceae hosts important species used in traditional medicine of many countries. The taxonomic controversies concerning the specific delimitation of several of its species make it difficult to guarantee the botanical origin of herbal preparations based on species of this family. To contribute to the development of both specific chemomarkers and a quality control tool to authenticate the botanical origin of herbal preparations of Verbenacea species, we determined the foliar HPLC-DAD phenolic profiles and the antioxidant properties of 10 wild species of this family occurring in Mexico. The contents of phenols and flavonoids varied significantly among species. Priva mexicana showed the highest levels of total phenolics (53.4 mg g-1 dry tissue) and Verbena carolina had the highest levels of flavonoids (17.89 mg g-1 dry tissue). Relevant antioxidant properties revealed by antiradical and reducing power were found for the analyzed species. These properties varied significantly in a species-dependent manner. The phenolic compounds accumulated were flavones and phenolic acids. Flavones were the only type of flavonoids found. The results of a cluster analysis showed that the compounds were accumulated in species-specific profiles. The phenolic profiles are proposed as valuable chemomarkers that can become a useful tool for the quality control concerning the botanical origin of herbal medicinal preparations based on the species analyzed. In addition, phenolic profiles could contribute importantly to solve the taxonomic controversies concerning species delimitation in the family Verbenaceae.

Resumo A família Verbenaceae compreende importantes espécies utilizadas na medicina popular de muitos países. As dificuldades taxonômicas relativas à delimitação específica de muitas das suas espécies face difícil a verificar a origem botânico das preparações herbales baseadas nas espécies desta família. Para fazer uma contribuição ao desenvolvimento de indicadores taxonômicos e dum método de controle de qualidade para verificar a origem botânico de preparações herbales das espécies de Verbenaceae, os perfis fenólicos, obtidos pares HPLC-DAD, e as atividades antioxidantes das folhas de 10 espécies selvagens Mexicanas desta família foram determinados. Os conteúdos dos compostos fenólicos totais e dos flavonoides foram significativamente diferentes entre as espécies. Priva mexicana apresentou a maior quantidade de compostos fenólicos totais (53.4 mg g-1 amostra seca) e Verbena carolina apresentou a maior quantidade de flavonoides (17.89 mg g-1 amostra seca). Verifica-se importantes propriedades antioxidantes, como os resultados dos ensaios da capacidade antiradical e do poder redutor indicaram. As propriedades antioxidantes foram significativamente diferentes entre as espécies. Verificou-se que os compostos fenólicos conteúdos nas folhas das espécies analisadas foram só flavonas e ácidos fenólicos. Os resultados das análises de agrupamento provarãn que os perfiles fenólicos foram espécie-específicos. Estes perfis podem ser considerados como indicadores químicos da qualidade relativa à origem botânico de preparações medicinais baseadas nas espécies analisadas e podem fazer importantes contribuições para a delimitação específica na família Verbenaceae.

Career choice in primary care: pre- and post-comparison of Honduran physicians completing social service / Elección de especialidad en atención primaria: comparación entre médicos hondureños antes y después de completar el servicio social / Escolha da carreira profissional em atenção primária: comparação entre médicos hondurenhos antes e depois da prestação do serviço social

ABSTRACT Objective To describe and compare patterns of specialty choice among physicians in Honduras before and after completing mandatory social service; and to identify and compare salary perceptions and factors that may influence their career choice. Methods A quantitative methods approach was used on a cross-sectional questionnaire survey applied to 106 physicians completing social service in September 2015. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and factor analysis. Results Interest in family medicine was low and declined from 2.2% before social service to 0.9% after. Median annual expected income was 19.5% lower overall compared to the beginning of social service, and in particular, for primary care specialties (US$ 17 733), it was significantly lower than for other specialties (US$ 27 281). Participants reported that the most important factors influencing career choice were: income potential (23.3%), making a positive difference in people's lives (19.4%), challenging work (10.7%), and perceived prestige (7.8%). Two factors were significantly associated with a preference for specialties other than primary care: the opportunity to teach (P= 0.008) and "makes positive difference in people's lives" (P = 0.005). When all categories were compared, "makes positive difference in people's lives" (P = 0.043), and opportunities to practice with independence (P = 0.036) were factors significantly associated to career decision. Conclusion Since interest in primary care among physicians decreased during social service and salary perception increased in favor of non-primary care careers, offering greater incentives for this specialty should be explored. Additional research to identify factors that might support the choice of a career in primary care are recommended.

RESUMEN Objetivo Describir y comparar los patrones de elección de especialidad de los médicos hondureños antes y después de completar el servicio social obligatorio. Establecer y comparar las percepciones sobre el salario y los factores que pueden influir en esa elección. Método Se aplicaron métodos cuantitativos a un cuestionario transversal administrado a 106 médicos que terminaron el servicio social en septiembre de 2015. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante ji cuadrado y análisis factorial. Resultados El interés por la medicina familiar era escaso y descendió de 2,2% antes del servicio social a 0,9% después. La mediana de ingresos anuales previstos fue, en general, 19,5% inferior que al comienzo del servicio social y, en particular, fue significativamente inferior para las especialidades de atención primaria (US$ 17 733) que para otras especialidades (US$ 27 281). Los participantes informaron que los factores más importantes que influían en la elección de especialidad eran: posibles ingresos (23,3%), posibilidad de cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas (19,4%), trabajo estimulante (10,7%) y prestigio que pudiera otorgar (7,8%). Dos factores se asociaron significativamente con la preferencia por una especialidad fuera de la atención primaria: la oportunidad de enseñar (P= 0,008) y la posibilidad de "cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas" (P = 0,005). Cuando se compararon todas las categorías, "cambiar para mejor la vida de las personas" (P = 0,043) y la oportunidad de ejercer de forma independiente (P = 0,036) fueron factores que se asociaron significativamente con la decisión sobre la especialidad. Conclusión Como el interés por la atención primaria entre los médicos disminuyó durante el servicio social y la percepción sobre el salario inclinó la balanza en favor de especialidades distintas a la atención primaria, se debe explorar la posibilidad de ofrecer mayores incentivos para esta especialización. Se recomienda realizar nuevas investigaciones para determinar los factores que podrían apoyar la elección de la especialidad de atención primaria.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever e comparar os padrões de escolha da área de especialidade entre médicos hondurenhos antes e depois da prestação do serviço social obrigatório e identificar e comparar a percepção salarial e de outros potenciais determinantes da escolha profissional. Métodos Estudo transversal com metodologia quantitativa conduzido com a aplicação de um questionário em uma amostra de 106 médicos que concluíram a prestação do serviço social obrigatório em setembro de 2015. A análise estatística foi realizada com o uso do teste de qui-quadrado e análise fatorial. Resultados Verificou-se baixo grau de interesse em medicina da família, com redução do interesse de 2,2% a 0,9% após o serviço social. Houve, em geral, uma redução de 19,5% na mediana anual prevista de remuneração comparada ao início do serviço social, sendo particularmente significativa nas especialidades de atenção primária (US$ 17.733) e relação às outras especialidades (US$ 27.281). Os participantes informaram os seguintes principais determinantes da escolha da carreira profissional: ter potencial de remuneração (23,3%), contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (19,4%), ser um trabalho estimulante (10,7%) e prestígio percebido (7,8%). Observou-se uma associação significativa entre os seguintes fatores e a preferência por especialidades fora da atenção primária: oportunidade de ensinar (P = 0,008) e contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (P = 0,005). Quando se compararam todas as categorias, contribuir para melhorar a vida das pessoas (P = 0,043) e oportunidade de exercer a medicina de forma autônoma (P = 0,036) foram os fatores significativamente associados à escolha da carreira. Conclusão Diante da perda de interesse por parte dos médicos pela área de atenção primária durante o serviço social e uma percepção salarial maior favorecendo carreiras fora da atenção primária, deve ser dado maior incentivo para que os profissionais optem por esta especialidade. Recomenda-se conduzir outros estudos para identificar os fatores que poderiam estimular a escolha de uma carreira profissional em atenção primária.

Phase behavior, structure and rheology of candelilla wax/fully hydrogenated soybean oil mixtures with and without vegetable oil.

Vegetable oil organogelation is one of the most promising strategies to eliminate trans fatty acids in plastic fats. Organogels prepared with edible wax are stable at refrigerator and room temperature. Some functional properties (i.e., texture) of wax organogels can be improved by adding saturated triacylglycerols. Mixtures of fully hydrogenated soybean oil (FH) and candelilla wax (CW) were studied with and without the addition of high oleic safflower oil (HOSFO). Crystallization and melting behavior, X-ray diffraction, and crystalline microstructure of the mixtures were analyzed. The elastic modulus (G'), and the structural recovery after shear of the organogels were also assessed. Mixtures without HOSFO formed solid dispersions of CW and FH crystals, where up to ~10% CW crystals were incorporated into the FH crystal lattice. The vegetable oil solutions of FH/CW mixtures crystallized from the melt, developed mixed crystal networks composed of FH crystals in the ß polymorph and CW in an orthorhombic subcell packing. As the systems crystallized in the most stable polymorph, only minor microstructural changes were shown along 28days of storage at 25°C. CW and FH crystals showed a synergistic effect on the elasticity of organogels. This was attributed to the large number FH crystals nucleated on the surface of CW crystals. The structural recovery after shear was superior for mixed organogels composed of CW platelets and grainy FH crystals compared to that of CW organogels. A recovery of up to 65.7% the G' of gels formed under static conditions was observed upon shearing.