Severe Allergy as a Chronic Inflammatory Condition From a Systems Biology Perspective.

Persistent and unresolved inflammation is a common underlying factor observed in several and seemingly unrelated human diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Particularly, in atopic conditions, acute inflammatory responses such as those triggered by insect venom, food or drug allergies possess also a life-threatening potential. However, respiratory allergies predominantly exhibit late immune responses associated with chronic inflammation, that can eventually progress into a severe phenotype displaying similar features as those observed in other chronic inflammatory diseases, as is the case of uncontrolled severe asthma. This review aims to explore the different facets and systems involved in chronic allergic inflammation, including processes such as tissue remodelling and immune cell dysregulation, as well as genetic, metabolic and microbiota alterations, which are common to other inflammatory conditions. Our goal here was to deepen on the understanding of an entangled disease as is chronic allergic inflammation and expose potential avenues for the development of better diagnostic and intervention strategies.

Magnetic resonance based morphometric analysis of the tentorial notch.

BACKGROUND: The study of the tentorial notch can improve the understanding of brain injury mechanisms. Tentorial morphology has been analysed primarily in cadaveric studies. However, the postmortem effect can cause variability in the measurements. The objective was to evaluate the morphometry of the tentorial notch and the third cranial nerve on living subjects using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed. Using consecutive cases, 60 MRI scans were analysed for tentorial notch morphology. Maximum notch width (MNW), notch length (NL), interpedunculoclival (IC) distance, apicotectal (AT) distance, third cranial nerve (CN-III) distance, and inter- CN-III angle, were obtained. For the classification of the tentorial notch quartile distribution technique for MNW, NL, AT distance, and IC distance were used. RESULTS: According to the quartile of the MNW, patients were stratified into narrow, midrange, and wide groups. Using the NL quartile groups, they were also classified as short, midrange, and long. With these, the tentorial notch could be classified into eight types. Statistical differences between genders in the MNW and inter-CN-III angle were found, as well as a strong positive correlation between NL and AT distance, and between right and left CN-III distances. CONCLUSIONS: There were differences between the cadaveric samples and living subjects in the CN-III distances. This difference could be explained by the dehydration of brain volume in the postmortem process which may cause nerve elongation. Morphometry of the tentorial notch and its neurovascular relations allows a better understanding of the mechanisms of brain herniation.

Characterization and application of a coating of starch extracted from avocado (Persea americana L. cv. Hass) seeds as an alternative to reduce acrylamide content in French fries.

The starch extracted from avocado (Persea americana L. cv. Hass) seeds was characterized and used in the preparation of an edible coating to reduce the oil uptake and acrylamide content in French fries. Starch characterization was carried out using Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry, gelatinization, and scanning electron microscopy. Uncoated (UFF) and coated (CFF) French fries were compared and evaluated for moisture, water activity (Aw), fat, color, firmness, acrylamide content, and sensorial analysis. The extracted starch presented a high crystalline structure and good stability to mechanical work and heat treatments. The CFF French fries showed significantly higher Aw, color parameter a*, but lower luminosity and acrylamide content than UFF samples. Similarly, the CFF samples tended to decrease the fat content, although without statistical differences. Avocado seed starch can be an economical and technically feasible alternative to the food industry as an effective coating to reduce acrylamide content in French fries.

Organelle calcium-derived voltage oscillations in pacemaker neurons drive the motor program for food-seeking behavior in Aplysia.

The expression of motivated behaviors depends on both external and internally arising neural stimuli, yet the intrinsic releasing mechanisms for such variably occurring behaviors remain elusive. In isolated nervous system preparations of Aplysia, we have found that irregularly expressed cycles of motor output underlying food-seeking behavior arise from regular membrane potential oscillations of varying magnitude in an identified pair of interneurons (B63) in the bilateral buccal ganglia. This rhythmic signal, which is specific to the B63 cells, is generated by organelle-derived intracellular calcium fluxes that activate voltage-independent plasma membrane channels. The resulting voltage oscillation spreads throughout a subset of gap junction-coupled buccal network neurons and by triggering plateau potential-mediated bursts in B63, can initiate motor output driving food-seeking action. Thus, an atypical neuronal pacemaker mechanism, based on rhythmic intracellular calcium store release and intercellular propagation, can act as an autonomous intrinsic releaser for the occurrence of a motivated behavior.

Reproducibilidad, correlación y concordancia de un cuestionario abreviado del Dietary Score / Reproducibility, correlation and concordance of the Abbreviated Dietary Score questionnaire

OBJETIVO: El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la reproducibilidad, la correlación y la concordancia del Dietary Score abreviado (DSa) utilizado en el estudio IBERICAN. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal. Se evaluó la reproducibilidad del DSa mediante una prueba test-retest, evaluando su consistencia interna mediante alfa de Cronbach y la fiabilidad de las mediciones mediante el coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI). A partir del cuestionario de frecuencia alimentaria (CFA) del estudio PREDIMED-Plus se evaluó la adherencia a un patrón de dieta mediterránea mediante el DS, valorándose su correlación y concordancia con el DSa. En ambos casos se utilizaron técnicas de regresión lineal, de Bland-Altman e índice de kappa. RESULTADOS: Participaron 142 sujetos, mayoritariamente hombres (56,3%), con una media de edad de 64,6+/-4,9 años. En términos de reproducibilidad, se obtuvo un coeficiente de correlación de Pearson de 0,538; una media de las diferencias de 2,03 puntos y un índice kappa ponderado de 0,400 (IC del 95%=0,295-0,577). El instrumento tuvo buena consistencia interna (alfa de Cronbach=0,699), así como buena fiabilidad (CCI=0,931). El DSa presentó un coeficiente de correlación con el DS de 0,517; una media de las diferencias de 1,19 puntos y un índice kappa ponderado de 0,450 (IC del 95%=0,366-0,532). CONCLUSIONES: El DSa presenta una moderada reproductibilidad y una buena correlación y concordancia con el DS, por lo que puede ser una herramienta útil en Atención Primaria para valorar la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility, correlation and concordance of the abbreviated Dietary Score (aDS) used in the IBERICAN study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in order to assess the reproducibility of the aDS using a test-retest. Its internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha, and reliability of the measurements using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). From the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) of the PREDIMED-Plus study, adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern was evaluated using DS, and its correlation and agreement with aDS was assessed. In both cases the lineal regression, Bland-Altman, and kappa index techniques were used. RESULTS: A total of 142 subjects participated, mostly men (56.3%), with a mean age of 64.6+/-4.9 years. In terms of reproducibility, a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.538 was obtained; a mean of the differences of 2.03 points, and a weighted kappa index of 0.400 (95% CI=0.295-0.577). The instrument had good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.699), as well as good reliability (CCI=0.931). The aDS had a correlation coefficient with the DS of 0.517, a mean difference of 1.19 points, and a weighted kappa index of 0.450 (95% CI=0.366-0.532). CONCLUSIONS: The aDS has moderate reproducibility and a good correlation and agreement with the DS, so it can be a useful tool in Primary Care to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet

Systemic sclerosis induced by the use of cocaine: is there an association?

The association between cocaine abuse and systemic sclerosis (SSc) is rarely described. Two new cases of this association are presented: two young adults, after using inhaled cocaine for a few years, were diagnosed with SSc. While a 24 year-old white female patient presented with diffuse SSc with multiple digital ulcers and scleroderma renal crisis (SRC), a 27 year-old male patient presented limited SSc with skin ulcers and digital gangrene, rapidly evolving to death due to massive intestinal hemorrhage. The authors performed a literature search and found only eight previously published cases. The clinical picture of these patients shows a predominance of vascular involvement, including multiple ulcers and SRC. There is no association with specific SSc autoantibodies. The concomitance of alcohol and other drugs abuse, as well as the presence of drug adulterers, complicates a clear understanding of the role of cocaine in SSc patients.

[Reproducibility, correlation and concordance of the Abbreviated Dietary Score questionnaire]. / Reproducibilidad, correlación y concordancia de un cuestionario abreviado del Dietary Score.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility, correlation and concordance of the abbreviated Dietary Score (aDS) used in the IBERICAN study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in order to assess the reproducibility of the aDS using a test-retest. Its internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha, and reliability of the measurements using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). From the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) of the PREDIMED-Plus study, adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern was evaluated using DS, and its correlation and agreement with aDS was assessed. In both cases the lineal regression, Bland-Altman, and kappa index techniques were used. RESULTS: A total of 142 subjects participated, mostly men (56.3%), with a mean age of 64.6±4.9 years. In terms of reproducibility, a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.538 was obtained; a mean of the differences of 2.03 points, and a weighted kappa index of 0.400 (95% CI=0.295-0.577). The instrument had good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.699), as well as good reliability (CCI=0.931). The aDS had a correlation coefficient with the DS of 0.517, a mean difference of 1.19 points, and a weighted kappa index of 0.450 (95% CI=0.366-0.532). CONCLUSIONS: The aDS has moderate reproducibility and a good correlation and agreement with the DS, so it can be a useful tool in Primary Care to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet.

[Complex fractures of the clavicles lateral third]. / Fracturas complejas del tercio lateral de la clavícula.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the lateral third of the clavicle represent 18% of all clavicle fractures. Even though non-displaced fractures can be managed conservatively, displaced fractures have a non-union percentage of 30%. Multiple approaches have been proposed to manage the displaced fractures. The objective of this study was to record the prevalence of fractures of the lateral third of the clavicle with involvement of the clavicular-acromial joint, as well as to briefly review the treatment performed in our center and compare it with the current literature. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive and observational study, which consisted in a review of the records of patients with a diagnosis of fracture of the lateral third of the clavicle with an injury to the clavicular-acromial joint. RESULTS: Lateral third fractures accounted for 24% of all clavicle fractures. Distribution by sex: 10: 2, men: women. Left shoulder predominance, 8:4. The predominant maneuvers were anatomical plate for the lateral third of the clavicle (50% of the cases), coracoclavicular cerclage technique plus resection of the lateral third of the clavicle (25%), plate hook (8.3%), Mumford combined with Waever/Dunn (8.3%), anchor plus Kirschner rods (8.3%). DISCUSSION: The choice of the appropriate treatment will depend on the type of fracture and specific characteristics of each patient. We suggest the use of the coracoclavicular cerclage technique in cases in which the lateral fragment is multifragmented, irreducible or smaller in size than its osteosynthesis would allow, performing plasty of clavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments.

ANTECEDENTES: Las fracturas del tercio lateral de la clavícula representan 18% de todas las fracturas de clavícula. A pesar de que las fracturas no desplazadas pueden manejarse conservadoramente, las desplazadas tienen un porcentaje de no unión de 30%. Múltiples manejos han sido propuestos para las fracturas desplazadas. El objetivo de este estudio fue registrar la prevalencia de fracturas del tercio lateral de la clavícula con afectación de la articulación acromioclavicular, así como hacer una revisión breve del tratamiento realizado en nuestro centro y compararlo con la literatura actual. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, transversal, descriptivo y observacional, que consistió en una revisión de los expedientes de los pacientes con diagnóstico de fractura del tercio lateral de la clavícula con lesión de la articulación acromioclavicular. RESULTADOS: Las fracturas del tercio lateral representaron 24% de todas las fracturas de clavícula. Distribución por sexos: 10:2, hombres:mujeres. Predominio: hombro izquierdo, 8:4. Los manejos predominantes fueron placa anatómica para tercio lateral de la clavícula (50% de los casos), técnica de cerclaje coracoclavicular más resección del tercio lateral de la clavícula (25%), placa gancho (8.3%), Mumford combinado con Waever/Dunn (8.3%), ancla más varillas Kirschner (8.3%). DISCUSIÓN: La elección del tratamiento adecuado dependerá del tipo de fractura y las características específicas de cada paciente. Sugerimos el uso de la técnica de cerclaje coracoclavicular en los casos en que el fragmento lateral sea multifragmentado, irreductible o de tamaño menor al que permitiría su osteosíntesis, realizando plastía de ligamentos acromioclaviculares y coracoclaviculares.

Improving outcome in congenital diaphragmatic hernia - experience of a tertiary center without ECMO.

BACKGROUND: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has a high mortality rate, representing a therapeutic challenge. Prenatal diagnosis (PND) is essential in defining optimal perinatal strategy, particularly delivery planning. Hospital Pediátrico de Coimbra is the referral centre for all neonatal surgery, particularly CDH, for the central region of Portugal. The aim was to evaluate clinical management and outcome of newborns with CDH. METHODS: An exploratory retrospective study made up of newborns admitted to PICU with CDH was undertaken between January 1995 and December 2014. Two groups were formed based on their year of admission: group A (1995- 2004) and group B (2005- 2014) and were compared. RESULTS: The mean birth weight of the 69 newborns admitted was 2.762 ± 696 g; the median of the gestational age was 38 weeks. Associated malformations were observed in 28 (40.5%) and 15 (21.7%) had a right-sided diaphragm defect. The global mortality was 13.0%; in group A was significantly higher than in group B (22.2 vs 3.0%; p = 0.029). A reduction in mortality throughout the years was confirmed after adjusting for POS score (OR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.62- 0.96, p = 0.021). PND was made in 30.6% of cases in the group A and 66.7% in the group B (p = 0.03). Tertiary perinatal hospital birth was achieved in 60% of newborns in the group A versus 84.8% in group B (p = 0.022). Maximum fraction of inspired oxygen showed a statistically significant difference between the two study groups (60% vs 40%; p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS: A significant decrease in mortality was observed throughout the study. The authors highlight the increase in prenatal diagnosis and an improvement in perinatal care with planning delivery as important contributors to these results.

Health literacy interventions for immigrant populations: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Health literacy is considered a social health determinant that influences improvement in health, patient empowerment and reduction in inequalities. There is a lack of health literacy interventions for vulnerable social groups (i.e. immigrants), and nurses have shown little familiarity with the concept. AIM: This study aimed to identify and analyse whether interventions directed at immigrant populations improve the functional (basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills), interactive (social and cognitive skills) and critical (advanced cognitive and social skills in critically analyzing information and making informed decisions) dimensions of health literacy, taking into account the role played by nursing in these interventions. METHODS: A systematic review of four databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library and ERIC was conducted to identify relevant articles published between 2000 and 2015. Thirty-four articles met the inclusion criteria, and nine articles used a validated instrument. RESULTS: Few specific health literacy interventions for immigrant populations were found. The main findings of the studies showed positive changes in functional health literacy. However, the interventions were less effective in improving interactive and critical health literacy. LIMITATIONS: Several of the findings of this review were based on studies that had their own limitations. The assessment of the articles was not blinded, and the review was restricted to articles written in Spanish and English. CONCLUSIONS: The interventions studied were reported as being effective in improving health literacy in immigrants, particularly the functional aspects. Regarding the role played by nursing, this review observed little involvement. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY: It is important for educational strategies to include health literacy dimensions. The concept of health literacy should be included as a Nursing Outcomes Classification and in its subsequent validation taxonomy. To promote community health, health literacy must be a prioritized objective of health management and policies.

Eosinophilic fasciitis during pregnancy: case report and review of literature.

The authors describe the case of a 23-year-old woman who was referred to the rheumatologist due to symmetrical and progressive stiffness, induration, and swelling of arms and thighs at the 12th week of her first gestation. The characteristic clinical aspect of 'peau d'orange', associated to the histopathologic results of the deep biopsy of the skin confirmed the diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis. Treatment with oral prednisone, at an initial dose of 1 mg/kg/day, was effective and rapidly tapered to 10 mg/day till the birth of a healthy newborn. A literature review showed only one previous description of pregnancy and eosinophilic fasciitis.

Impact of climate change on vector transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1909) in North America.

Climate change can influence the geographical range of the ecological niche of pathogens by altering biotic interactions with vectors and reservoirs. The distributions of 20 epidemiologically important triatomine species in North America were modelled, comparing the genetic algorithm for rule-set prediction (GARP) and maximum entropy (MaxEnt), with or without topographical variables. Potential shifts in transmission niche for Trypanosoma cruzi (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) (Chagas, 1909) were analysed for 2050 and 2070 in Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and RCP 8.5. There were no significant quantitative range differences between the GARP and MaxEnt models, but GARP models best represented known distributions for most species [partial-receiver operating characteristic (ROC) > 1]; elevation was an important variable contributing to the ecological niche model (ENM). There was little difference between niche breadth projections for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5; the majority of species shifted significantly in both periods. Those species with the greatest current distribution range are expected to have the greatest shifts. Positional changes in the centroid, although reduced for most species, were associated with latitude. A significant increase or decrease in mean niche elevation is expected principally for Neotropical 1 species. The impact of climate change will be specific to each species, its biogeographical region and its latitude. North American triatomines with the greatest current distribution ranges (Nearctic 2 and Nearctic/Neotropical) will have the greatest future distribution shifts. Significant shifts (increases or decreases) in mean elevation over time are projected principally for the Neotropical species with the broadest current distributions. Changes in the vector exposure threat to the human population were significant for both future periods, with a 1.48% increase for urban populations and a 1.76% increase for rural populations in 2050.

Anticoagulant properties of a high molecular weight polysaccharide fraction (1000RS) of the ascidian Microcosmus exasperatus / Propiedades anticoagulantes de una fracción polisacárida de alto peso molecular (1000RS) del ascidian Microcosmus exasperatus

Aims: The anticoagulant effect and cytotoxicity of a high molecular weight polysaccharide fraction (1000RS) obtained from the tunic of the ascidia Microcosmus exasperatus were evaluated. Methods: Anticoagulant properties of 1000RS was evaluated by activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), Thrombin Time (TT), Prothrombin Time (PT), anti-factor Xa and lupic anticoagulant (dRVVT) assays. Cytotoxicity was tested on murine hematopoietic cells using MTT assay. Results: This galactose rich fraction showed to be a potential anticoagulant due to its inhibitory effect on the intrinsic coagulation pathway. At the same time, anticoagulant doses of this fraction have no effect on cellular viability, which means that it can be used as a therapeutic agent. Conclusion: In vitro anticoagulant effect of 1000RS occurs at innocuous doses, however, it still need to be tested using in vivo models and its cytotoxicity evaluated in normal human cell lines

Objetivos: El efecto anticoagulante y la citotoxicidad de una fracción de polisacáridos de alto peso molecular (1000RS), obtenida de la túnica de la ascidia Microcosmus exasperatus, fueron evaluados. Métodos: La actividad anticoagulante de 1000RS fue evaluada mediante los ensayos de tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activado (TTPa), tiempo de trombina (TT), tiempo de protrombina (TP), anti factor Xa y anticoagulante lúpico (dRVVT). La citotoxicidad sobre las células hematopoyéticas murinas, fue evaluada usando el método del MTT. Resultados: Esta fracción rica en galactosa mostró ser un anticoagulante potencial debido a su efecto inhibidor de la vía intrínseca de la coagulación. Así mismo, las dosis anticoagulantes de esta fracción no afectan la viabilidad celular, lo cual ratifica su potencial como agente terapéutico. Conclusión: El efecto anticoagulante in vitro de 1000RS ocurre a dosis inocuas, sin embargo, este debe ser evaluado en modelos in vivo, así como su citotoxicidad sobre células humanas normales

Shifts in the ecological niche of Lutzomyia peruensis under climate change scenarios in Peru.

The Peruvian Andes presents a climate suitable for many species of sandfly that are known vectors of leishmaniasis or bartonellosis, including Lutzomyia peruensis (Diptera: Psychodidae), among others. In the present study, occurrences data for Lu. peruensis were compiled from several items in the scientific literature from Peru published between 1927 and 2015. Based on these data, ecological niche models were constructed to predict spatial distributions using three algorithms [Support vector machine (SVM), the Genetic Algorithm for Rule-set Prediction (GARP) and Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt)]. In addition, the environmental requirements of Lu. peruensis and three niche characteristics were modelled in the context of future climate change scenarios: (a) potential changes in niche breadth; (b) shifts in the direction and magnitude of niche centroids, and (c) shifts in elevation range. The model identified areas that included environments suitable for Lu. peruensis in most regions of Peru (45.77%) and an average altitude of 3289 m a.s.l. Under climate change scenarios, a decrease in the distribution areas of Lu. peruensis was observed for all representative concentration pathways. However, the centroid of the species' ecological niche showed a northwest direction in all climate change scenarios. The information generated in this study may help health authorities responsible for the supervision of strategies to control leishmaniasis to coordinate, plan and implement appropriate strategies for each area of risk, taking into account the geographic distribution and potential dispersal of Lu. peruensis.

Post-fundoplication symptoms and complications: Diagnostic approach and treatment. / Síntomas y complicaciones posfunduplicatura: abordaje diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is currently considered the surgical treatment of choice for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its long-term effectiveness is above 90%. Adequate patient selection and the experience of the surgeon are among the predictive factors of good clinical response. However, there can be new, persistent, and recurrent symptoms after the antireflux procedure in up to 30% of the cases. There are numerous causes, but in general, they are due to one or more anatomic abnormalities and esophageal and gastric function alterations. When there are persistent symptoms after the surgical procedure, the surgery should be described as "failed". In the case of a patient that initially manifests symptom control, but the symptoms then reappear, the term "dysfunction" could be used. When symptoms worsen, or when symptoms or clinical situations appear that did not exist before the surgery, this should be considered a "complication". Postoperative dysphagia and dyspeptic symptoms are very frequent and require an integrated approach to determine the best possible treatment. This review details the pathophysiologic aspects, diagnostic approach, and treatment of the symptoms and complications after fundoplication for the management of GERD.

First molecular characterization of Galba neotropica in Uruguay

Until recently, it was believed that only two lymnaeid species (i.e. Galba viatrix and Pseudosuccinea columella) occurred in Uruguay. However, based on a molecular approach, an additional species Galba cubensis, was recently discovered. The aim of this study was to molecularly characterize different lymnaeid populations from the northern region of Uruguay. The lymnaeids collections were carried out in two farms of the departments of Paysandú and Tacuarembó. The collected lymnaeids were divided in two fractions, one fraction was used for conchological analyses and detection of trematode larval stages, while the other fraction was used for molecular studies. Three PCRs targeting the 16S, ITS-2 and COI DNA regions were performed and the amplicons obtained were direct sequenced. The sequences were used for homology search and construction of phylogenetic trees by the maximum-likelihood method. The sequencing results revealed that both isolates corresponded to Galba neotropica. The phylogenetic analyses placed our isolates among the G. neotropica monophyletic group, closely related to other isolates of this species found in several South American countries. To our knowledge, this is the first record of G. neotropica in Uruguay and the confirmation as competent intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica. Further studies are needed to define the distribution and the role of each lymnaeid species in the transmission of F. hepatica in Uruguay.

Tradicionalmente se indicaba que existían dos especies de limneidos en Uruguay: Galba viatrix y Pseudosuccinea columella. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se identificó por medio de técnicas moleculares una tercera especie, Galba cubensis. El objetivo de los autores fue muestrear e identificar por medios moleculares poblaciones de limneidos del norte del país. Las colectas fueron realizadas en establecimientos rurales de los departamentos de Tacuarembó y Paysandú. Los caracoles colectados fueron divididos en dos fracciones, una de ellas fue destinada para el estudio morfológico de las conchillas y búsqueda de larvas de trematodos. La otra fracción se usó para la caracterización molecular. Tres genes fueron amplificados (ITS2, COI y 16S) utilizando protocolos de PCRs previamente descriptos. Las secuencias obtenidas se utilizaron para estudios de homología y construcción de árboles filogenéticos por medio del método de máxima verosimilitud. Por medio de la secuenciación se pudo confirmar que los dos aislamientos corresponden a Galba neotropica. Los estudios filogenéticos colocan ambos aislamientos dentro del grupo monofilético de G. neotropica junto a otros encontrados en distintas regiones de Sudamérica. Hasta lo que sabemos, el presente, es el primer registro de G. neotropica en Uruguay, además de comprobarse su capacidad para actuar como hospedero intermediario de Fasciola hepatica en condiciones de campo. Se sugieren futuros estudios para determinar la distribución y el rol de cada especie de limneido en la transmisión de F. hepatica.

Digeneos parásitos de Cyphocharax platanus (Günther, 1880) (Characiformes: Curimatidae) en el tramo inferior del río Uruguay en la zona de influencia de la represa de Salto Grande, Uruguay

Entre agosto de 2012 y junio de 2013 estudios parasitológicos fueron llevados a cabo en 76 ejemplares de Cyphocharax platanus procedentes del tramo inferior del río Uruguay en la zona de influencia de la represa de Salto Grande. Tres taxones de digeneos fueron identificados: Saccocoelioides spp. (Haploporidae) y Zonocotyle bicaecata (Zonocotylidae) en intestino, y metacercarias de Sphincterodiplostomum musculosum (Diplostomidae) en el interior de los ojos. El 69,7% de los peces analizados resultaron parasitados por al menos un taxón de digeneo. Saccocoelioides spp. mostro los mayores valores de prevalencia, intensidad media y abundancia media (43,4%, 5,45, 2,37 respectivamente) de infección, en relación a Z. bicaecata (28,9%, 1,32 y 0,38 respectivamente) y S. musculosum (13,2%, 2,82 y 0,37 respectivamente). Saccocoelioides spp. y S. musculosum mostraron un patrón de distribución agregado, en tanto que Z. bicaecata presentó una distribución aleatoria en la población de hospedadores. No se hallaron diferencias significativas en los índices de infección de ninguno de los taxones de digeneos en relación al sexo de los hospedadores, y sólo Saccocoelioides spp. presentó una asociación significativa con el tamaño, siendo más frecuente en peces pequeños. Los dos parásitos intestinales (Saccocoelioides spp. y Z. bicaecata) no presentaron una asociación significativa entre sus índices de infección. Los registros de Saccocoelioides spp. y Z. bicaecata corresponden a los primeros para este hospedador en el río Uruguay, y el hallazgo de las metacercarias de S. musculosum constituye una nueva relación parásito-hospedador.

Seventy six specimens of Cyphocharax platanus were collected downstream Salto Grande dam, lower Uruguay River, Uruguay, between August 2012 and June 2013 and examined for digenean parasites. Three digenean taxa were identified: Saccocoelioides spp. (Haploporidae), Zonocotyle bicaecata (Zonocotylidae) (both adult in intestine) and Sphincterodiplostomum musculosum (Diplostomidae) metacercariae inside eyes. We found that 69.7% of examined fish were parasitized by at least one digenean taxon. Saccocoelioides spp. showed highest values of prevalence, mean intensity and mean abundance (43.4%, 5.45, and 2.37, respectively) of infection throughout the study than Z. bicaecata (28.9%, 1.32 and 0.38, respectively) and S. musculosum (13.2%, 2.80 and 0.37, respectively). Saccocoelioides spp. and S. musculosum showed an aggregated distribution pattern, while Z. bicaecata presented a random distribution in the host population. No significant differences in infection indexes of any digenean taxa in relation to host sex were found, and only Saccocoelioides spp. showed a significant association with host size, being more frequent in small fish. The infection indexes of the two intestinal digeneans (Saccocoelioides spp. and Z. bicaecata) were not significantly associated. These are the first records of Saccocoelioides spp. and Z. bicaecata from C. platanus in the Uruguay River, and the finding of S. musculosum metacercariae is a new host-parasite relationship.

Caracterización físico-química y actividad antimicrobiana de la secreción mucosa de Achatina fulica / Mother-infant bonding disorders: prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic criteria and assessment strategies

Introducción: El caracol gigante africano Achatina fulica es reconocido como una plaga que afecta la biodiversidad, la Salud Pública y la productividad. Sin embargo, se ha demostrado que su secreción mucosa tiene propiedades cosméticas, cicatrizantes y antimicrobianas. Objetivo: Determinar las características físico-químicas y evaluar la actividad antimicrobiana de la secreción mucosa de Achatina fulica. Metodología: Se hicieron pruebas bioquímicas para la determinación cualitativa y cuantitativa de glúcidos, proteínas y lípidos. Se determinó el contenido de Calcio, Potasio, cloruros, Sodio y Magnesio. Se midieron los parámetros de conductividad eléctrica, potencial óxido-reducción, saturación de oxígeno, oxígeno total disuelto, pH, sólidos disueltos totales. Se realizó un ensayo de actividad antibacteriana por la técnica de microdilución en caldo. Resultados: Se encontraron glúcidos en concentraciones de 582 μg/mL en la fracción soluble y de 62.1 μg/mL en la fracción de mucinas, y proteínas en concentraciones de 836 μg/mL en la fracción soluble y de 1413 μg/mL en la fracción de mucinas. Se observó actividad antimicrobiana frente a las tres cepas ensayadas. Streptococcus agalactiae alcanzó un MIC90 a una concentración de 3,6 mg/mL con la fracción de mucinas; Staphylococcus aureus resistente a meticilina tuvo un MIC50 de 3,3 mg/mL y Escherichia coli un MIC 70 de 3.8 mg/mL. Conclusiones: Se reportan por primera vez las características físicas y los oligoelementos presente en la secreción de Achatina fulica. La actividad antibacteriana obtenida frente a cepas Gram positivas y Gram negativas plantea la necesidad de realizar estudios para purificar las moléculas con dicha actividad, conocer los mecanismos de acción y establecer la inocuidad, entre otros.

Introduction: The giant African snail Achatina fulica is recognized as a scourge affecting biodiversity, public health and productivity. However, it has been shown that the mucus has cosmetic, healing and antimicrobial properties. Objective: Determine physico-chemical characteristics and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the mucus. Methodology: Qualitative and quantitative determinations of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids were made by biochemical tests. Using multiparameter meter parameters of electrical conductivity, redox potential, oxygen saturation, the total dissolved oxygen, pH, total dissolved solids were measured. Content of Calcium, Potassium, chloride, Sodium and Magnesium was determined. Antibacterial activity assay was performed by broth microdilution method against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Results: Carbohydrates were found in concentrations of 582 μg/mL in soluble fraction and 62.1 μg/mL in mucin fraction, and protein concentration of 836 μg/mL in the soluble fraction and 1413 μg/mL in mucin fraction. Antimicrobial activity was demonstrated against the three strains tested. Streptococcus agalactiae reached MIC90 at a concentration of 3.6 μg/mL with mucin fraction; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus had a MIC50 of 3.3 mg / mL and Escherichia coli had a MIC70 of 3.8 mg / mL. Conclusions: This is the first report of the physical and trace elements in the secretion of Achatina fulica. The antibacterial activity obtained against Gram positive and Gram negative strains raises the need for studies to purify the molecules with such activity, understanding the mechanisms of action and establish the safety, among others.

Prevalence, topographic and morphometric features of femoral cam-type deformity: changes in relation to age and gender.

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome is a frequent cause of pain and in recent years considered to be a precursor of premature hip osteoarthritis. The structural abnormalities which characterize FAI syndrome, such as the cam-type deformity, are associated with morphological alterations that may lead to hip osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and topographic and morphometric features of the cam deformity in a series of 326 femur specimens obtained from a Mexican population, as well as changes in prevalence in relation to age and gender. The specimens were subdivided into groups according to gender and age. A standardized photograph of the proximal femur of each specimen was taken, and the photograph was used to determine the alpha angle using a computer program; the location of the lesion was determined by quadrant and the morphometric characteristics were determined by direct observation. The overall prevalence of cam deformities in the femur specimens was 29.8 % (97/326), with a prevalence by gender of 35.2 % (64/182) in men and 22.9 % (33/144) in women. The mean alpha angle was 54.6° ± 8.5° in all of the osteological specimens and 65.6° ± 7.5° in those specimens exhibiting a cam deformity. Cam deformities were found topographically in the anterior-superior quadrant of the femoral head-neck junction in 86.6 % (84/97) of the femurs. Deformities were found in 28.2 % of the right femurs and 31.3 % of the left femurs. The prevalence of cam deformity was higher in the femur specimens of young men and in those of middle-aged and older women. There were no significant differences in this deformity in relation to the alpha angle according to age and gender.