Function and expression of N-acetyltransferases 1 and 2 are altered in lymphocytes in type 2 diabetes and obesity.

The cytosolic enzymes N-Acetyl Transferases 1 and 2 (NATs) transfer an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to a xenobiotic substrate. NATs are regulated at the genetic and epigenetic levels by deacetylase enzymes such as sirtuins. The enzymatic expression of NAT1, NAT2, and SIRT1 was evaluated by flow cytometry, as well as the enzymatic activity of NATs by cell culture and HPLC analysis. Six SNPs were determined through genotyping. T2D patients (n = 29) and healthy subjects (n = 25) with a median age of 57 and 50, respectively, were recruited. An increased enzyme expression and a diminished NAT2 enzymatic activity were found in cells of T2D patients compared to the control group, while NAT1 was negatively correlated with body fat percentage and BMI. In contrast, Sirtuin inhibition increased NAT2 activity, while Sirtuin agonism decreased its activity in both groups. The analysis of NAT2 SNPs showed a higher frequency of rapid acetylation haplotypes in T2D patients compared to the control group, possibly associated as a risk factor for diabetes. The enzymatic expression of CD3+NAT2+ cells was higher in the rapid acetylators group compared to the slow acetylators group. The levels and activity of NAT1 were associated with total cholesterol and triglycerides. Meanwhile, CD3+NAT2+ cells and NAT2 activity levels were associated with HbA1c and glucose levels. The results indicate that NAT2 could be involved in metabolic processes related to the development of T2D, due to its association with glucose levels, HbA1c, and the altered SIRT-NAT axis. NAT1 may be involved with dyslipidaemias in people who are overweight or obese.

Exploring Phosphate Solubilizing Bacterial Communities in Rhizospheres of Native and Exotic Forage Grasses in Alkaline-Sodic Soils of the Flooding Pampa.

The flooding pampa is one of the most important cattle-raising regions in Argentina. In this region, natural pastures are dominated by low-productivity native grass species, which are the main feed for livestock. In this context, previous studies in the region with the subtropical exotic grass Panicum coloratum highlight it as a promising species to improve pasture productivity. Cultivable phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) communities associated to native (Sporobolus indicus) and exotic (Panicum coloratum) forage grasses adapted to alkaline-sodic soils of the flooding pampa were analyzed. PSB represented 2-14% of cultivable rhizobacteria and Box-PCR fingerprinting revealed a high genetic diversity in both rhizospheres. Taxonomic identification by MALDI-TOF showed that PSB populations of P. coloratum and S. indicus rhizospheres are dominated by the phylum Proteobacteria (92,51% and 96,60% respectively) and to a lesser extent (< 10%), by the phyla Actinobacteria and Firmicutes. At the genus level, both PSB populations were dominated by Enterobacter and Pseudomonas. Siderophore production, nitrogen fixation, and indoleacetic acid production were detected in a variety of PSB genera of both plant species. A higher proportion of siderophore and IAA producers were associated to P. coloratum than S. indicus, probably reflecting a greater dependence of the exotic species on rhizospheric microorganisms to satisfy its nutritional requirements in the soils of the flooding pampa. This work provides a novel knowledge about functional groups of bacteria associated to plants given that there are no previous reports dedicated to the characterization of PSB rhizosphere communities of S indicus and P coloratum. Finally, it should be noted that the collection obtained in this study can be useful for the development of bioinputs that allow reducing the use of chemical fertilizers, providing sustainability to pasture production systems for livestock.

Clinical Significance of the Lipid Profile Ratios and Triglyceride Glucose Index in the Diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome.

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a pathophysiological condition defined by a set of metabolic alterations such as hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension, low HDL-c levels, and visceral obesity. Its presence identifies people with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes; however, the lack of practical and reliable methods for its diagnosis limits the identification of people with this condition. In this sense, the objective of this study was to analyze the diagnostic utility of markers derived from the lipid profile [triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the ratios total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), triglyceride (TG)/HDL-c, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/HDL-c, fasting blood glucose (FBG)/HDL-c, and white blood cell/HDL-c] in the determination of MetS. Methods: A retrospective study was designed that included 619 individuals. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the associations of the different markers with MetS, and the cutoff points of the markers were determined through an analysis of receiver operating characteristic curves and the Youden Index. Results: A positive and significant association was observed between all markers and the presence of MetS. The cutoff values for the markers that best predicted MetS were TyG ≥ 4.8 (sensitivity = 91.4%, specificity = 74.3%), TC/HDL-c ≥ 3.7 (sensitivity = 74.3%, specificity = 75.7%), TG/HDL-c ≥ 3.3 (sensitivity = 82.5%, specificity = 84.0%), and FBG/HDL-c ≥ 2.0 (sensitivity = 85.1%, specificity = 79.7%). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated the diagnostic relevance of the different markers in detecting MetS, suggesting that these ratios may be useful in clinical practice for the opportune and accurate diagnosis of MetS.

Unveiling the mechanisms for the development of rosehip-based dermatological products: an updated review.

Rosa spp., commonly known as rosehips, are wild plants that have traditionally been employed as herbal remedies for the treatment of a wide range of disorders. Rosehip is a storehouse of vitamins, including A, B complex, C, and E. Among phytonutrients, vitamin C is found in the highest amount. As rosehips contain significant levels of vitamin C, they are perfect candidates for the development of skincare formulations that can be effectively used in the treatment of different skin disorders (i.e., scarring, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, melasma, and atopic dermatitis). This research focuses on the vitamin C content of several Rosa sp. by their botanical and geographic origins, which according to research studies are in the following order: R. rugosa > R. montana > R. canina > R. dumalis, with lower levels in R. villosa and R. arvensis, respectively. Among rosehip species, R. canina is the most extensively studied species which also displays significant amounts of bioactive compounds, but also antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities (e.g., against Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, S, epidermis, and S. haemolyticus). The investigation also highlights the use of rosehip extracts and oils to minimise the harmful effects of acne, which primarily affects teenagers in terms of their physical appearance (e.g., scarring, hyperpigmentation, imperfections), as well as their moral character (e.g., low self-confidence, bullying). Additionally, for higher vitamin C content from various rosehip species, the traditional (i.e., infusion, maceration, Soxhlet extraction) and contemporary extraction methods (i.e., supercritical fluid extraction, microwave-assisted, ultrasonic-assisted, and enzyme-assisted extractions) are highlighted, finally choosing the best extraction method for increased bioactive compounds, with emphasis on vitamin C content. Consequently, the current research focuses on assessing the potential of rosehip extracts as medicinal agents against various skin conditions, and the use of rosehip concentrations in skincare formulations (such as toner, serum, lotion, and sunscreen). Up-to-date studies have revealed that rosehip extracts are perfect candidates as topical application products in the form of nanoemulsions. Extensive in vivo studies have revealed that rosehip extracts also exhibit specific activities against multiple skin disorders (i.e., wound healing, collagen synthesis, atopic dermatitis, melasma, and anti-aging effects). Overall, with multiple dermatological actions and efficacies, rosehip extracts and oils are promising agents that require a thorough investigation of their functioning processes to enable their safe use in the skincare industry.

Device-Associated Infections in COVID-19 Patients: Frequency of Resistant Bacteria, Predictors and Mortality in Medellín, Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Increased antimicrobial use during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the spread of resistant bacteria. This study analyzed the frequency of device-associated infections (DAI) caused by resistant bacteria, the predictors of these infections, and 30-day all-cause mortality in patients with and without COVID-19. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on DAI patients admitted to the ICU (intensive care unit) in 20 hospitals in Medellin, Colombia (2020-2021). The exposure assessed was the COVID-19 diagnosis, and outcomes analyzed were resistant bacterial infections and 30-day mortality. Clinical and microbiological information was collected from surveillance databases. Statistical analysis included generalized linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS: Of the 1521 patients included, 1033 (67.9%) were COVID-19-positive and 1665 DAI were presented. Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections predominated during the study (n = 98; 9.9%). The patients with COVID-19 had a higher frequency of metallo-beta-lactamase-producing CRE infections (n = 15; 33.3%) compared to patients without the disease (n = 3; 13.0%). Long-stay in the ICU (RR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.39-3.16), diabetes (RR: 1.73; 95% CI: 1.21-2.49), and mechanical ventilation (RR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.01-4.51) were CRE infection predictors in COVID-19 patients, with a mortality rate of 60.3%. CONCLUSION: CRE infections were predominant in COVID-19 patients. In pandemic situations, the strategies to control DAI should be maintained to avoid infections caused by resistant bacteria, such as length of stay in the ICU and duration of mechanical ventilation.

Impact of Bt corn expressing Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner insecticidal proteins on the growth and survival of Spodoptera frugiperda larvae in Colombia.

Bioassays were conducted under controlled conditions to determine the response of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae fed with corn materials expressing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal endotoxins: (1) VT Double Pro® (VT2P) expressing Cry1A.105-Cry2Ab2 proteins and (2) VT Triple Pro® (VT3P) expressing Cry1A.105-Cry2Ab2-Cry3Bb1 proteins. The parameters assessed were: (i) mortality rate, and (ii) growth inhibition (GI) with respect to the control. To conduct this study, larvae were collected from commercial non-Bt corn fields, in four agricultural sub-regions in Colombia, between 2018 and 2020. Fifty-two populations were assessed from the field and neonate larvae from each of the populations were used for the bioassays. The study found that mortality rates in the regions for larvae fed with VT2P corn ranged from 95.1 to 100.0%, with a growth inhibition (%GI) higher than 76.0%. Similarly, mortality rate for larvae fed with VT3P corn were between 91.4 and 100.0%, with a %GI above 74.0%. The population collected in Agua Blanca (Espinal, Tolima; Colombia) in 2020, showed the lowest mortality rate of 53.2% and a %GI of 73.5%, with respect to the control. The population that exhibited the lowest %GI was collected in 2018 in Agua Blanca (Espinal, Tolima, Colombia) with a 30.2%, growth inhibition, with respect to the control. In recent years, the use of plant tissue to monitor susceptibility to fall armyworm has proven to be useful in the resistance management program for corn in Colombia determining that the FAW populations are still susceptible to Bt proteins contained in VT2P and VT3P.

Quantitative detection of cassava common mosaic virus for health certification of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) germplasm using qPCR analysis.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a crop of global economic and food safety importance, used for human consumption and in various industrial applications. The genebank of the Genetic Resources Program of the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT currently holds the world's largest cassava collection, with 5965 in vitro accessions from 28 countries. Managing this extensive collection involves indexing quarantine pathogens as a phytosanitary certification requirement for safely distributing cassava germplasm. The study therefore aimed to optimize a quantitative diagnostic protocol to detect cassava common mosaic virus (CsCMV) using quantitative PCR (qPCR) as a better alternative to other molecular techniques. This was done through designing primers and a probe in the RdRP region of CsCMV, and optimizing the qPCR conditions of the diagnostic protocol using primer concentration assays, and reaction amplification conditions such as volume and reaction time. We also evaluated the qPCR protocol by comparing the results of 140 cassava accession evaluations using three diagnostic methodologies (DAS-ELISA, end-point PCR, and qPCR) for CsCMV. Our protocol established that qPCR technique analysis is ten-times more sensitive in detecting CsCMV compared to end-point PCR, showing a maximum detection level of 77.97 copies/µL of plasmid, with 76 min of reaction time. The comparison allowed us to verify the level of CsCMV detection through the techniques evaluated, concluding that qPCR was more sensitive and allowed the quantification of viral concentration. The optimized qPCR protocol will be used to accelerate diagnostic screening of cassava germplasm for the presence or absence of CsCMV to ensure safe movement and distribution of disease-free germplasm.

Breed and non-genetic risk factors associated with the prevalence of subclinical mastitis in livestock systems of Arauca, Colombian orinoquia.

Subclinical Mastitis (SCM) is caused by several factors associated with the interaction of the individual cow, cow management, and the environment. The aim of this study was to assess the breed and non-genetic risk factors on the prevalence of SCM in cows from the dual-purpose livestock system on the floodplain of Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia. Milk samples were taken from the individual mammary quarters of 481 cows representing 28 different farms where the electrical conductivity (EC) test applied. To determine the factors associated with SCM, a multiple logistic regression analysis was used. The response variable was the SCM presence (1), or absence (0) obtained with the EC test. Breed was included as a genetic risk factor, and as non- genetic risk factors: number of cows in production, daily milk production, lactation month, cow age, climatic period, body condition, and calving number. The factors that were significantly associated with the SCM presence were body condition, climatic period, and breed (p < 0.05). Odds ratio (OR) analysis of significant effects indicates that for each unit increase in body condition, the OR of having animals with SCM is reduced by 71%. In the dry period the OR of animals with SCM increases by 150% compared to the rainy period. Composite breeds reduce the OR of SCM animals by 73%, compared with Indicus-predominance animals. In this study, the occurrence of SCM in extensive management systems in Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia, is determined by the risk factors of breed, climatic period, and body condition.

Challenges in Delivering Effective Care for Older Persons with Fragility Fractures.

Fragility fractures occur because of low-impact trauma or even spontaneously in individuals with osteoporosis. Caring for older persons with fragility fractures can present several challenges due to the unique needs and vulnerabilities of this population. Older individuals commonly have multiple medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. These comorbidities can complicate fracture management and increase the risk of complications. Fracture repair through surgery may be more complex in older patients due to poor bone quality, decreased tissue elasticity, and higher chances of anesthesia complications. In addition, mobility and functional limitations post-fracture are highly prevalent in this population, affecting their independence and increasing their risk of institutionalization. Addressing these challenges requires a multidisciplinary approach involving orthopedic surgeons, geriatricians, physical and rehabilitation physicians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians, social workers, and caregivers. Preventive measures, such as fall prevention strategies and osteoporosis management, can also play a vital role in reducing the incidence of fragility fractures in older persons.

Whoever wants better healthcare simply pays more: citizens' perception about voluntary private health insurance in Colombia.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the perceptions that Colombians have about voluntary private health insurance plans (VPHI) in the health system to identify the tensions that exist between the public and private systems. METHODS: A qualitative case study approach with 46 semi structured interviews of patients, healthcare workers, healthcare administrators, decision-makers, and citizens. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, anonymized, digitally stored, and analyzed following grounded theory guidelines. RESULTS: We developed a paradigmatic matrix that explores how, in a context mediated by both the commodification of health and social stratification, perceptions about the failures in the public health system related to lack of timely care, extensive administrative procedures, and the search for privileged care led to positioning VPHI as a solution to these failures. The interviewees identified three consequences of using VPHI: first, the worsening of problems of timely access to care in the public system; second, higher costs for citizens translated into double payment for technologies and services to which they are entitled; third, the widening of inequity gaps in access to health services between people with similar needs but different payment capacities. CONCLUSIONS: These findings can help decision makers to understand citizens´ perceptions about the implications that VPHI may have in worsening equity gaps in the Colombian health system. It also shows, how VPHI is perceived as a double payment for services covered within social security plans and suggests that the perceived lack of timely access to care in the public systems and the fear that citizens have for themselves or their family members when using suboptimal healthcare are important drivers to purchase these private insurances.

RESUMEN: OBJETIVOS: Explorar las percepciones que tienen los colombianos sobre los planes de seguro de salud privados voluntarios (VPHI) en el sistema de salud para identificar las tensiones que existen entre los sistemas público y privado. MéTODOS: Un estudio cualitativo de caso con 46 entrevistas semiestructuradas a pacientes, trabajadores de la salud, administradores de salud, tomadores de decisiones y ciudadanos. Las entrevistas se grabaron, transcribieron y almacenaron de manera anónima. El análisis se hizo siguiendo conceptos de la teoría fundamentada. RESULTADOS: Desarrollamos una matriz paradigmática que explora cómo, en un contexto mediado tanto por la mercantilización de la salud como por la estratificación social, las percepciones sobre las fallas en el sistema de salud público relacionadas con la falta de atención oportuna, procedimientos administrativos extensos y la búsqueda de atención privilegiada llevaron a posicionar los VPHI como una solución a estas fallas. Los entrevistados identificaron tres consecuencias del uso de los VPHI: primero, el empeoramiento de los problemas de acceso oportuno a la atención en el sistema público; segundo, mayores costos para los ciudadanos, traducidos en un pago doble por tecnologías y servicios a los que tienen derecho; tercero, el aumento de las brechas de equidad en el acceso a los servicios de salud entre personas con necesidades similares pero diferentes capacidades de pago. CONCLUSIONES: Estos hallazgos pueden ayudar a los tomadores de decisiones a comprender las percepciones de los ciudadanos sobre las implicaciones que el VPHI puede tener en el empeoramiento de las brechas de equidad en el sistema de salud colombiano. También muestra cómo el VPHI se percibe como un pago doble por servicios cubiertos dentro de los planes de seguridad social y sugiere que la falta percibida de acceso oportuno a la atención en los sistemas públicos y el miedo que los ciudadanos tienen por sí mismos o por sus familiares cuando utilizan una atención sanitaria subóptima son factores importantes para adquirir estos seguros privados.

Safety of biologic therapy in combination with methotrexate in moderate to severe psoriasis: a cohort study from the BIOBADADERM registry.

BACKGROUND: Safety is an important consideration in decisions on treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis and the study of drug safety is the main purpose of the BIOBADADERM registry. The combination of a biologic agent and a conventional systemic drug [generally methotrexate (MTX)] is a common treatment in clinical practice. However, there is a paucity of evidence from real-world practice on the safety of such combination regimens in the treatment of psoriasis. OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study was to ascertain whether the use of regimens combining biologic drugs with MTX in the management of moderate-to-severe psoriasis increases the risk of adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs (SAEs). We compared monotherapy using tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-23 inhibitors with the use of the same drugs in combination with MTX. METHODS: Using data from the BIOBADADERM registry, we compared biologic monotherapies with therapies that were combined with MTX. We estimated adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRR) using a random effects Poisson regression with 95% confidence intervals for all AEs, SAEs, infections and serious infections and other AEs by system organ class. RESULTS: We analysed data from 2829 patients and 5441 treatment cycles, a total of 12 853 patient-years. The combination of a biologic with MTX was not associated with statistically significant increases in overall risk of AEs or SAEs in any treatment group. No increase in the total number of infections or serious infections in patients receiving combined therapy was observed for any group. However, treatment with a TNF inhibitor combined with MTX was associated with an increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal AEs (aIRR 2.50, 95% CI 1.57-3.98; P < 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: The risk of AEs and SAEs was not significantly increased in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis receiving different classes of biologic drugs combined with MTX compared with those on biologic monotherapy.

Estenosis laringotraqueal recurrente asociada a Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. rhinoscleromatis / Recurrent laryngotracheal stenosis associated with Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. rhinoscleromatis

Introducción: Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis (KR) es una enterobacteria asociada con formación de granulomatosis crónica. Cuando este microorganismo afecta el tracto respiratorio se denomina escleroma, afectando principalmente la cavidad nasal; puede comprometer nasofaringe, laringe, tráquea y bronquios. Caso clínico: paciente femenina con antecedente de laringotraqueítis crónica con diagnóstico de estenosis traqueal y aislamiento en cultivos de Klebsiella pneumoniae ssp rhinoscleromatis multisensible, sin compromiso nasosinusal o extralaríngeo. Discusión: el escleroma puede afectar todo el tracto respiratorio y se deben tener presentes factores de riesgo asociados, como condiciones de hacinamiento, inmunosupresión y sexo femenino. El pilar del tratamiento es médico, basado en antibióticos; adicionalmente, se reserva manejo quirúrgico en la etapa esclerótica, donde hay ausencia del fenómeno inflamatorio. Conclusión: el escleroma es una patología rara con una evolución crónica y compromiso principalmente en cavidad nasal, que requiere alta sospecha diagnóstica para realizar manejo oportuno.

Introduction: Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis (KR) is an enterobacterium associated with the formation of chronic granulomatosis. When this microorganism affects the respiratory tract, it is called scleroma, the nasal cavity is the main one affected; additionally, it can involve nasopharynx, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. Clinical case: female patient with a history of chronic laryngotracheitis, with diagnosis of tra-cheal stenosis and isolation in cultures of multisensitive Klebsiella pneumoniae ssp rhinoscleromatis, without nasosinusal or extralaryngeal involvement. Discussion: scleroma can affect the entire respiratory tract, so associated risk factors should be taken into account, mainly overcrowding, immunosuppression, and female sex, in whom it is more common. The mainstay of treatment is medical, based on antibio-tics; additionally, surgical management is reserved for sclerotic stage, when there is no inflammatory phenomenon. Conclusion: scleroma is a rare pathology, with a chronic evolution, with involvement mainly in the nasal cavity, which requires a high diagnostic suspicion for its timely management.

Promoción número 100 del programa de enfermería de la Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS / 100th graduating class of the nursing program at the Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud FUCS

El 14 de diciembre de 2023 durante la ceremonia de grados del programa de enfermería se escuchó en el auditorio Guillermo Fergusson que correspondía a la promoción 100, es muy seguro que surgió en los asistentes la pregunta: ¿Cómo se llegó a este número que parece difícil de alcanzar?La respuesta está en el logro del sueño de los miembros de la Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá, Hospital de San José, quienes proyectaron tener una gran institución de salud y de educación superior. En 1975 el presidente de la Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá, Dr. Eugenio Ordóñez Márquez asignó al Dr. Juan Consuegra Zulaica y a la enfermera María Teresa Perdomo de Piñeros, la tarea de realizar los trámites para la creación del programa de enfermería. Como resultado del eficiente trabajo por ellos realizado, el 14 de enero de 1976 la junta directiva de la Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá aprobó la creación de la Escuela de Enfermería en sesión ordinaria, acta 01. El 1 de diciembre se obtuvo la personería jurídica mediante la resolución 10917, expedida por el Ministerio de Educación Nacional con el nombre de "Corporación Escuela de Ciencias de la Salud".

Environmental and Breed Risk Factors Associated with the Prevalence of Subclinical Mastitis in Dual-Purpose Livestock Systems in the Arauca Floodplain Savannah, Colombian Orinoquia.

The aim of this study was to assess the environmental and breed risk factors associated with the prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) in cows in the dual-purpose livestock system of Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia. Milk samples were taken from 1924 mammary quarters, corresponding to 481 cows on 28 different farms, and the California Mastitis Test (CMT) was applied. Risk factors associated with SCM were determined using multiple logistic regression analysis. The response variable was the presence (1) or absence (0) of SCM. Breed was included as a genetic risk factor, and daily milk production, number of cows in production, lactation month, calving number, cow age, climatic period, and body condition were included as environmental risk factors. The analysis of the odds ratio (OR) of significant effects indicated that the factors significantly associated with the presence of SCM were the number of cows (OR = 2.29; p = 0.005), milk production (OR = 0.88; p = 0.045), and the Taurus-Indicus breeds (OR = 1.79; p = 0.009) and composite breed (OR = 3.95; p = 0.005). In this study, the occurrence of SCM was determined by the following risk factors: number of cows, milk production, and breed. Likewise, the highest prevalence seemed to occur on farms with less technological development and sanitary management of producers from the lowest socioeconomic stratum.

Variables que influyen el desempeño de los estudiantes de enfermería de la Universidad del Magdalena en las pruebas SABER PRO

Objetivo: Analizar la relación entre las variables personales, familiares e institucionales con el desempeño en las pruebas SABER PRO del periodo 2016 a 2019 de los estudiantes de enfermería de la Universidad del Magdalena (Colombia). Metodología: Estudio de tipo descriptivo, correlacional. Se realizó el análisis de los puntajes objetivos en los módulos genéricos y específicos de las pruebas SABER PRO, extrayendo los puntajes de los estudiantes de la carrera de Enfermería de la Universidad del Magdalena. Se realizó el análisis descriptivo e inferencial utilizando el programa Infostat/L. Resultados: El desempeño en los distintos módulos de las pruebas SABER PRO se encontró asociado a variables personales como la menor edad, género masculino y área de residencia rural; variables familiares como el acceso a servicio de televisión por cable, la tenencia de computadora y de consola de videojuegos, residir en un hogar permanente y no tener personas a cargo y variables institucionales como el valor intermedio de la matrícula y la tenencia de becas. Conclusiones: Se identificaron variables personales, familiares e institucionales que se relacionan con un mejor desempeño en las pruebas de estado. Estos hallazgos destacan la importancia de considerar múltiples factores tanto individuales como contextuales al abordar la mejora de los resultados académicos y la equidad educativa. Se sugiere que las políticas y programas educativos deberían dirigirse hacia la reducción de las brechas existentes en relación con estas variables, proporcionando un acceso equitativo a recursos y oportunidades de aprendizaje para todos los estudiantes.

Objetivo: Analisar a relação entre variáveis pessoais, familiares e institucionais com o desempenho nas provas SABER PRO de 2016 a 2019 de estudantes de enfermagem da Universidade de Magdalena (Colômbia). Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, correlacional. Foi realizada a análise das pontuações objetivas nos módulos genéricos e específicos dos testes SABER PRO, extraindo as pontuações dos estudantes do curso de Enfermagem da Universidade de Magdalena. Foi realizada uma análise descritiva e inferencial por meio do programa Infostat/L. Resultados: Verificou-se que o desempenho nos diferentes módulos dos testes do SABER PRO está associado a variáveis pessoais como ser mais jovem, do sexo masculino e residir em área rural; variáveis familiares, como acesso ao serviço de televisão a cabo, posse de computador e console de videogame, residência em casa própria e não ter dependentes, e variáveis institucionais, como o valor intermediário da matrícula e ter bolsas de estudo. Conclusões: Foram identificadas variáveis pessoais, familiares e institucionais que estão relacionadas com um melhor desempenho nos testes estaduais. Esses achados destacam a importância de considerar múltiplos fatores, tanto individuais quanto contextuais, ao abordar a melhoria dos resultados acadêmicos e a equidade educacional. Sugere-se que as políticas e programas educacionais sejam direcionados para reduzir as lacunas existentes em relação a essas variáveis, proporcionando acesso equitativo a recursos e oportunidades de aprendizagem para todos os alunos.

Objective: To analyze the relationship between personal, family, and institutional variables with the performance in the SABER PRO tests from 2016 to 2019 of nursing students at the Universidad del Magdalena (Colombia). Methodology: Descriptive correlational study. The analysis of the scores obtained in the generic and specific modules of the SABER PRO tests of the nursing students of the Universidad del Magdalena was carried out. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using Infostat/L software. Results: The performance in the different modules of the SABER PRO tests was found to be associated with personal variables such as younger age, male gender, and rural residence; family variables such as access to cable television service, ownership of a computer and video game console, residence in a permanent home and no dependents; and institutional variables such as the mean value of tuition fees and scholarships. Conclusions: Personal, family, and institutional variables were identified that are associated with better performance on state tests. These findings highlight the importance of considering multiple individual and contextual factors, when addressing academic achievement and educational equity. It is suggested that educational policies and programs should be designed to reduce existing gaps in these variables and provide equitable access to resources and learning opportunities for all students.

Evaluation of hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects of Brickellia eupatorioides, Citrus limettioides and Gochnatia hypoleuca.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition with a rapidly increasing prevalence. It comes with a rise in the generation of free radicals, potentially leading to additional health issues. Further studies and creative approaches are required to address this. Natural products are potential new antidiabetic drugs that are worth exploring. The aim of the present study is to assess the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of ethanolic extracts of Brickellia eupatorioides, Citrus limettioides and Gochnatia hypoleuca. The antihyperglycemic activity of the extracts was tested on Wistar rats (diabetes induced by alloxan, 150mg/kg), as well as the inhibitory effect on a-glucosidase and a-amylase (in vitro assay). The antioxidant potential was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS assays. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also determined. The results indicated that ethanolic extracts of B. eupatorioides induced a powerful hypoglycemic in vivo effect with a significant decrease at 6h after administration, similar to that produced by glibenclamide; the decrease could be related to a-glucosidase inhibition. Moreover, the extract exhibited a potent scavenging activity (IC50 values 33±6mg/mL and 15±2mg/mL in the DPPH and ABTS methods, respectively). The results demonstrated antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts of B. eupatorioides.

Dynamical changes in the expression of GABAergic and purinergic components occur during the polarization of THP-1 monocytes to proinflammatory macrophages.

The monocytes are key components of innate immunity, as they can differentiate into phagocytic cells or macrophages with proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory phenotypes. The gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), two known neurotransmitters, are two environmental signals that contribute to the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages and their subsequent polarization into proinflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. Although monocytes and macrophages express proteins related to GABA and ATP-mediated response (GABAergic and purinergic systems, respectively), it is unknown whether changes in their expression occur during monocyte activation or their differentiation and polarization into macrophages. Therefore, we evaluated the expression levels of GABAergic and purinergic signaling components in the THP-1 monocyte cell line and their changes during monocyte activation, differentiation, and polarization to M1 proinflammatory macrophages. Our results showed that activated monocytes are characterized by increased expression of two GABAergic components, the GABA transporter 2 (GAT-2) and the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)-67, an enzyme involved in GABA synthesis. Also, monocytes showed a pronounced expression of the purinergic receptors P2X4 and P2X7. Interestingly, during differentiation, monocytes increased the expression of the ß2 subunit of GABA A-type receptor (GABA-AR), while the purinergic receptors P2X1 and P2X1del were reduced. In contrast, proinflammatory M1 macrophages showed a reduced expression in the α4 subunit of GABA-AR and GAD67, while P2X4 and P2X7 were overexpressed. These results indicate that dynamical changes in the GABAergic and purinergic components occur during the transition from monocytes to macrophages. Since GABA and ATP are two neurotransmitters, our results suggest that monocytes and macrophages respond to neurotransmitter-induced stimulation and may represent a path of interaction between the nervous and immune systems during peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation development.

Characterization of extended spectrum ß-lactamases in Colombian clinical isolates of non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica between 1997 and 2022 / Caracterización de ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido en aislamientos clínicos colombianos de Salmonella enterica no tifoidea de 1997 a 2022.

Introduction. Salmonella spp. is a zoonotic pathogen transmitted to humans through contaminated water or food. The presence of extended-spectrum ß-lactamases is a growing public health problem because these enzymes are resistant to third and fourth generation cephalosporins. Objective. To characterize extended-spectrum ß-lactamases in Salmonella spp. isolates received by the acute diarrheal disease/foodborne disease surveillance program of the Grupo de Microbiología of the Instituto Nacional de Salud. Materials and methods. A total of 444 Salmonella spp. isolates, resistant to at least one of the cephalosporins, were obtained between January 1997 and June 2022. The extendedspectrum ß-lactamases phenotype was identified by the double disk test. DNA extraction was carried out by the boiling method, and the blaCTX-M, blaSHV, and blaTEM genes were amplified by PCR. Results. All the isolates were positive for the extended-spectrum ß-lactamases test. The genes identified were: blaCTX-M + blaTEM (n=200), blaCTX-M (n=177), blaSHV (n=16), blaSHV + blaCTX-M (n=6), blaTEM (n=13) and blaSHV + blaCTX-M + blaTEM (n=3). Twenty-six isolates were negative for the evaluated genes. Positive extended-spectrum ß-lactamases isolates were identified in Bogotá and 21 departments: Chocó, Magdalena, Meta, Bolívar, Casanare, Cesar, Córdoba, Quindío, Atlántico, Tolima, Cauca, Cundinamarca, Huila, Boyacá, Caldas, Norte de Santander, Risaralda, Antioquia, Nariño, Santander y Valle del Cauca. Conclusion. Resistance to third generation cephalosporins in Salmonella spp. isolates was mainly caused by blaCTX-M. Isolates were resistant to ampicillin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (44 %; 197/444). The most frequent extended-spectrum ß-lactamases-expressing serotypes were Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Infantis.

Introducción. Salmonella spp. es un agente patógeno zoonótico transmitido al humano por el agua o los alimentos contaminados. La presencia de ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido es un creciente problema para la salud pública debido a que estas enzimas confieren resistencia contra las cefalosporinas de tercera y cuarta generación. Objetivo. Caracterizar las ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido en aislamientos de Salmonella spp. recibidos por el programa de vigilancia de enfermedad diarreica aguda o enfermedad transmitida por alimentos del Grupo de Microbiología del Instituto Nacional de Salud. Materiales y métodos. Entre enero de 1997 y junio de 2022, se recibieron 444 aislamientos de Salmonella spp. resistentes, por lo menos, a una de las cefalosporinas de tercera generación. El fenotipo de las ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido se identificó con la prueba de doble disco. El ADN se extrajo por ebullición y mediante PCR se amplificaron los genes blaCTX-M, blaSHV y blaTEM. Resultados. Todos los aislamientos fueron positivos para la prueba de ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido. Los resultados de la amplificación por PCR fueron: blaCTX-M + blaTEM (n=200), blaCTX-M (n=177), blaSHV (n=16), blaSHV + blaCTX-M (n=6), blaTEM (n=13) y blaSHV + blaCTX-M + blaTEM (n=3). Del total, 26 aislamientos fueron negativos para los genes evaluados. Los aislamientos positivos para ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido se identificaron en Bogotá y en 21 departamentos: Chocó, Magdalena, Meta, Bolívar, Casanare, Cesar, Córdoba, Quindío, Atlántico, Tolima, Cauca, Cundinamarca, Huila, Boyacá, Caldas, Norte de Santander, Risaralda, Antioquia, Nariño, Santander y Valle del Cauca. Conclusión. La resistencia a las cefalosporinas de tercera generación en aislamientos de Salmonella spp. fue generada principalmente por blaCTX-M. El 44 % (197/444) de los aislamientos presentó resistencia a ampicilina, tetraciclina, cloranfenicol y trimetoprimsulfametoxazol Los serotipos portadores de ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido más frecuentes fueron S. Typhimurium y S. Infantis.

Soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (sRAGE) in childhood obesity: association with gene expression of RAGE and cardiometabolic markers / Receptor soluble para productos finales de glicación avanzada (sRAGE) en la obesidad infantil:asociación con la expresión génica de RAGE y marcadores cardiometabólicos

Introduction: advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) interact with the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). Full-length RAGE is associated with intracellular signal transduction, and soluble-RAGE (sRAGE) lacks the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains, acting as a competitive inhibitor ofAGEs-RAGE binding. sRAGE levels in healthy children are associated with cell surface expression of RAGE. However, the expression of RAGE hasnot been explored in childhood obesity.Objective: the study aim was to evaluate the sRAGE levels and the gene expression of RAGE in children and its association with cardiometabolicmarkers.Methods: this is a cross-sectional study with 6-11-year children, 20 with overweight and 20 with obesity. Anthropometric measurements includedwaist circumference (cm) (WC), neck circumference (NC), weight (kg), fat mass (%), trunk fat (kg), muscular mass (kg), height (cm), and bodymass index (BMI) (kg/m2). Blood samples following an overnight fast were collected to measure glucose (mg/dl) and lipid profile with colorimetricmethods. sRAGE was determined in serum using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Quantitative reverse transcription (RT-qPCR)was performed to analyze RAGE transcripts in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated by Ficoll®-Hypaque.Results: we found higher RAGE (p = 0.0315) and lower sRAGE (p = 0.0305) levels in the obesity group. sRAGE level showed a negative correlation with RAGE (r = -0.35) and BMI (r = -0.24), and positive with HDL-cholesterol (r = 0.29). Regression analysis suggests that HDL-C andRAGE levels are predictors of sRAGE levels.Conclusions: expression of RAGE is associated with lower sRAGE levels in childhood obesity. Moreover, obese children show higher cardiometabolic risk markers, and a positively associated with sRAGE. (AU)

Introducción: los productos finales de glicación avanzada (AGE) interactúan con el receptor de AGE (RAGE). El RAGE de longitud completaestá asociado con la transducción de señales intracelulares y el RAGE soluble (sRAGE) carece de los dominios transmembrana y citoplásmico,actuando como un inhibidor competitivo de la unión de AGE-RAGE. Los niveles de sRAGE en niños sanos están asociados con la expresión deRAGE en la superficie celular. Sin embargo, la expresión de RAGE no se ha explorado en la obesidad infantil.Objetivo: el objetivo del estudio fue evaluar los niveles de sRAGE y la expresión génica de RAGE en niños y su asociación con marcadorescardiometabólicos.Métodos: se trata de un estudio transversal con niños de seis a once años, 20 con sobrepeso y 20 con obesidad. Las medidas antropométricasincluyeron la circunferencia de la cintura (cm) (CC), la circunferencia del cuello (NC), el peso (kg), la masa grasa (%), la grasa del tronco (kg),la masa muscular (kg), la altura (cm) y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) (kg/m2). Se tomaron muestras de sangre después de una noche deayuno para medir glucosa (mg/dl) y el perfil de lípidos con métodos colorimétricos. Los sRAGE se determinaron en suero utilizando un ensayoinmunoabsorbente ligado a enzimas (ELISA). Se realizó una transcripción inversa cuantitativa (RT-qPCR) para analizar los transcritos de RAGE encélulas mononucleares de sangre periférica aisladas por Ficoll®-Hypaque.Resultados: encontramos niveles más altos de RAGE (p = 0,0315) y más bajos de sRAGE (p = 0,0305) en el grupo de obesidad. El nivel de sRAGE mostró una correlación negativa con RAGE (r = -0,35) e IMC (r = -0,24), y positiva con el colesterol HDL (r = 0,29). El análisis de regresión sugiere que los niveles de HDL-C y RAGE predicen los niveles de sRAGE.Conclusiones: la expresión de RAGE se asocia con niveles más bajos de sRAGE en la obesidad infantil. ... (AU)