A comparative study on chromium-induced micronuclei assessment in the peripheral blood of Hsd:ICR mice.

This study investigated the genotoxic effects of chromium (Cr) in Hsd:ICR mice, considering factors such as oxidative state, apoptosis, exposure pathway, duration, pregnancy, and transplacental exposure. Genotoxicity was assessed using the erythrocytes' micronucleus (MN) assay, while apoptosis was evaluated in nucleated blood cells. The results showed that Cr(III) (CrK(SO4 )2 and CrCl3 ) did not induce any marked genotoxic damage. However, Cr(VI) (CrO3 , K2 Cr2 O7 , Na2 Cr2 O7 , and K2 CrO4 ) produced varying degrees of genotoxicity, with CrO3 being the most potent. MN frequencies increased following 24-h exposure, with a greater effect in male mice. Administering 20 mg/kg of CrO3 via gavage did not lead to significant effects compared to intraperitoneal administration. Short-term oral treatment with a daily dose of 8.5 mg/kg for 49 days elevated MN levels only on day 14 after treatment. Pregnant female mice exposed to CrO3 on day 15 of pregnancy exhibited reduced genotoxic effects compared to nonpregnant animals. However, significant increases in MN levels were found in their fetuses starting 48 h after exposure. In summary, data indicate the potential genotoxic effects of Cr, with Cr(VI) forms inducing higher genotoxicity than Cr(III). These findings indicate that gender, exposure route, and pregnancy status might influence genotoxic responses to Cr.

Sulfur Amino Acid Supplementation Abrogates Protective Effects of Caloric Restriction for Enhancing Bone Marrow Regrowth Following Ionizing Radiation.

Radiation therapy damages and depletes total bone marrow (BM) cellularity, compromising safety and limiting effective dosing. Aging also strains total BM and BM hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) renewal and function, resulting in multi-system defects. Interventions that preserve BM and BM HSPC homeostasis thus have potential clinical significance. Here, we report that 50% calorie restriction (CR) for 7-days or fasting for 3-days prior to irradiation improved mouse BM regrowth in the days and weeks post irradiation. Specifically, one week of 50% CR ameliorated loss of total BM cellularity post irradiation compared to ad libitum-fed controls. CR-mediated BM protection was abrogated by dietary sulfur amino acid (i.e., cysteine, methionine) supplementation or pharmacological inhibition of sulfur amino acid metabolizing and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) producing enzymes. Up to 2-fold increased proliferative capacity of ex vivo-irradiated BM isolated from food restricted mice relative to control mice indicates cell autonomy of the protective effect. Pretreatment with H2S in vitro was sufficient to preserve proliferative capacity by over 50% compared to non-treated cells in ex vivo-irradiated BM and BM HSPCs. The exogenous addition of H2S inhibited Ten eleven translocation 2 (TET2) activity in vitro, thus providing a potential mechanism of action. Short-term CR or fasting therefore offers BM radioprotection and promotes regrowth in part via altered sulfur amino acid metabolism and H2S generation, with translational implications for radiation treatment and aging.

Respuesta inmune humoral a cuatro vacunas contra el SARS-CoV-2 en profesionales de la salud

Objetivo: Describir la concentración de los anticuerpos neutralizantes detectados en el suero de profesionales de la salud que recibieron alguna de las vacunas contra el SARS-CoV-2, desarrollada por las empresas Sinopharm, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson o el candidato vacunal de CureVac. Materiales y métodos: Investigación observacional, descriptiva, retrospectiva, de corte transversal. Se incluyeron en el estudio un total de 217 profesionales de la salud que recibieron el esquema completo de las vacunas de Sinopharm, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson o del candidato de CureVac. A estos individuos se les había determinado la presencia de anticuerpos neutralizantes contra el SARS-CoV-2 en el suero mediante la técnica de inmunoensayo por electroquimioluminiscencia (eCLIA). Se consideraron las variables edad, sexo, antecedentes de infección con el SARS-CoV-2, concentración de anticuerpos neutralizantes y tipo de vacuna administrada. Resultados: El 16,60 % de los profesionales de la salud manifestó haber tenido COVID-19 antes de haber recibido la vacunación. Ellos se inmunizaron con las vacunas de Sinopharm (74,65 %), Pfizer (12,90 %), Johnson & Johnson (5,07 %) y el candidato de CureVac (7,37 %). Independientemente de la vacuna recibida, el 42,50 % de las personas sin infección previa que recibieron la vacuna no desarrollaron anticuerpos neutralizantes, mientras que el 16,70 % de los que sí tuvieron enfermedad previa no desarrolló estos anticuerpos. La vacuna de Pfizer indujo mayor concentración de anticuerpos neutralizantes (196,27 UA/mL) en pacientes con o sin infección previa. Conclusiones: El estudio confirma que la vacunación refuerza la inmunidad contra el nuevo coronavirus en individuos con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19, y sugiere que la vacuna desarrollada por Pfizer estimula de manera más eficaz la producción de anticuerpos neutralizantes.

Objective: To describe the concentration of neutralizing antibodies in serum from healthcare professionals who received any of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines developed by Sinopharm, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson, or CureVac's vaccine candidate. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional research which included 217 healthcare professionals fully vaccinated with Sinopharm, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson's vaccines, or CureVac's vaccine candidate. The presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in serum was determined in these individuals using the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA). Variables such as age, sex, history of infection with SARS-CoV-2, concentration of neutralizing antibodies and brand of vaccine administered were considered. Results: Sixteen point six zero percent (16.60 %) of the healthcare professionals stated that they had already had COVID-19 before receiving the vaccine. They were immunized with the vaccines developed by Sinopharm (74.65 %), Pfizer (12.90 %) or Johnson & Johnson (5.07 %), or CureVac's vaccine candidate (7.37 %). Regardless of the vaccine received, 42.50 % of the individuals who had not been previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 and 16.70 % of those who had been previously infected did not develop neutralizing antibodies. Pfizer's vaccine produced the highest concentration of neutralizing antibodies (196.27 AU/mL) in patients with or without previous infection. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that vaccination boosts immunity in people previously infected with the novel coronavirus and suggests that Pfizer's vaccine produces the highest concentration of neutralizing antibodies.

Covid 19, mortalidad en adulto mayor y factores asociados / Covid 19, mortality in the elderly and associated factors

Objetivo: Determinar las variables asociadas a la mortalidad por COVID 19 en población adulta mayor. El estudio: estudio observacional, 521 pacientes de 60 a más años con diagnóstico clínico/laboratorial de COVID -19; incluyó variables edad, sexo, prioridad de atención, procedencia, comorbilidades, estancia, frecuencia respiratoria y cardiaca, SO2, temperatura y signos/síntomas. Hallazgos: fallecidos, mayor frecuencia en julio (50.7%), 91,9% prioridad I/II, edad 70.1 ± 7.5 años, masculinos (71,0%), FC 103,7 ± 18,1 lat./min, FR 29,4 ± 6,4 resp./min (p<0,001), SO2 75,1% ± 14,35 y estancia 6,9 días ± 5,7; tos (68,3%), fiebre (38,0%) y cefalea (23,3%) signos/síntomas más frecuentes. El asma se asoció a la mortalidad (p=0,049). Conclusiones: El adulto mayor es una prioridad para los sistemas de salud pública; a mayor edad, masculino, que presente fiebre, tos y asma tendría mal pronóstico frente a la COVID-19.

Objetive:to determine the variables associated with mortality from COVID 19 in the older adult population. : observational study, 521 patients The studyaged 60 years and over with a clinical/laboratory diagnosis of COVID -19; variables included age, sex, priority of care, origin, comorbidities, stay, respiratory and heart rate, SO2, temperature and signs/symptoms. Findings: deaths, higher frequency in July (50.7%), 91.9% priority I/II, age 70.1 ± 7.5 years, male (71.0%), HR 103.7 ± 18.1 beats/min, RF 29.4 ± 6.4 breaths/min (p<0.001), SO2 75.1% ± 14.35 and stay 6.9 days ± 5.7; cough (68.3%), fever (38.0%) and headache (23.3%) most frequent signs/symptoms. Asthma was associated with mortality (p=0.049). The elderly is a priority for Conclusions:public health systems; older, male, with fever, cough and asthma have a poor prognosis against COVID-19.

Conocimiento sobre viruela del mono en profesionales de la salud, Lima-Perú / Knowledge about monkeypox among health professionals, Lima-Peru

Introducción: la pandemia por SARS-CoV 2 nos demostró que no estábamos preparados, que no se repita. Objetivo: conocer el nivel de conocimiento sobre etiología, síntomas, tratamiento y prevención de la enfermedad viruela del mono en profesionales de la salud. El estudio: observacional-descriptivo, incluyó 251 profesionales de la salud, ambos sexos participación voluntaria. Se elaboró un cuestionario incluyéndose las variables edad, sexo y preguntas sobre la enfermedad viruela del mono; análisis descriptivos de los datos. Hallazgos: bajo conocimiento sobre etiología, síntomas, tratamiento y prevención de la enfermedad. Menor conocimiento sobre formas de contagio (21,9%), tiempo de incubación (21,9%), características del virus (24,3%) y diagnóstico laboratorial (25,1%); mayor conocimiento sobre contagiosidad en periodo de incubación (61,0%), presencia de erupciones como característica de la enfermedad (53,8%) y no existencia de tratamiento específico (52,2%). Conclusión: conocimiento bajo; urge la formulación de estrategias para poder enfrentar, de ser necesario, los posibles casos.

Background:the SARS-CoV 2 pandemic showed us that we were not prepared, that it will not happen again. to know the level of knowledge about Objective:the etiology, symptoms, treatment and prevention of monkeypox disease in health professionals. observational-descriptive, included 251 The study:health professionals, both sexes, voluntary participation. Aquestionnaire was developed including the variables age, sex and questions about the monkeypox disease, descriptive analysis of the data. Finding: low knowledge about the etiology, symptoms, treatment and prevention of the disease. Less knowledge about forms of contagion (21.9%), incubation time (21.9%), characteristics of the virus (24.3%) and laboratory diagnosis (25.1%); greater knowledge about contagiousness in the incubation period (61.0%), presence of rashes as a characteristic of the disease (53.8%) and lack of specific treatment (52.2%). Conclusion: low knowledge; The formulation of strategies is urgently needed to be able to face possible cases, if necessary.

Detección de anticuerpos neutralizantes en profesionales de la salud vacunados contra el SARS-CoV-2

Objetivo: Determinar la presencia y concentración de los anticuerpos neutralizantes en el suero de individuos que recibieron la vacuna contra el SARS-CoV-2 desarrollada por la empresa Sinopharm. Materiales y métodos: Investigación descriptiva y transversal. En el estudio se incluyeron 117 profesionales de la salud inoculados con dos dosis de la vacuna Sinopharm, en quienes se había detectado la presencia de anticuerpos neutralizantes contra SARS-CoV-2 en el suero mediante la técnica de inmunoensayo de electroquimioluminiscencia (eCLIA). Las variables consideradas en el estudio fueron la edad, el sexo, la concentración de anticuerpos neutralizantes y el antecedente de haber tenido COVID-19. Resultados: Se evidenció el incremento significativo de la concentración de anticuerpos neutralizantes en las personas que recibieron la vacuna y tuvieron una infección previa por SARS-CoV-2 (p < 0,001) respecto a las que se vacunaron, pero no presentaron infección previa. Conclusiones: El estudio evidencia que la vacunación refuerza la inmunidad contra el nuevo coronavirus en los pacientes con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19 y sugiere la relevancia de la aplicación de una tercera dosis de esta vacuna.

Objective: To describe the presence and the concentration of neutralizing antibodies at serum of healthcare professionals inoculated with the Sinopharm anti-SARS-CoV2 vaccine. Materials and methods: Descriptive and transversal research. A total of 117 healthcare professionals inoculated with two doses of the Sinopharm vaccine having quantitative data of neutralizing antibodies at serum (detected by eCLIA) were included. Age, sex, neutralizing antibodies concentration and previous diagnostic of COVID-19 diseases were the variables. Results: A significant increase on neutralizing antibodies concentration were detected on pre- COVID-19 vaccinated persons regarding those vaccinated without previous diagnostic of the viral infection (p < 0,001). Conclusions: the study evidence that Sinopharm vaccine boost immunity against the new coronavirus on previously infected persons and suggest that a third dose of the vaccine could be relevant to boost the immune response.

Adipose tissue parasite sequestration drives leptin production in mice and correlates with human cerebral malaria.

Circulating levels of the adipokine leptin are linked to neuropathology in experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), but its source and regulation mechanism remain unknown. Here, we show that sequestration of infected red blood cells (iRBCs) in white adipose tissue (WAT) microvasculature increased local vascular permeability and leptin production. Mice infected with parasite strains that fail to sequester in WAT displayed reduced leptin production and protection from ECM. WAT sequestration and leptin induction were lost in CD36KO mice; however, ECM susceptibility revealed sexual dimorphism. Adipocyte leptin was regulated by the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and blocked by rapamycin. In humans, although Plasmodium falciparum infection did not increase circulating leptin levels, iRBC sequestration, tissue leptin production, and mTORC1 activity were positively correlated with CM in pediatric postmortem WAT. These data identify WAT sequestration as a trigger for leptin production with potential implications for pathogenesis of malaria infection, prognosis, and treatment.

Overweight and obesity significantly reduce pregnancy, implantation, and live birth rates in women undergoing In Vitro Fertilization procedures.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of overweight and obesity on fertility outcomes in IVF procedures. METHODS: This was a retrospective and nonrandomized study that included 191 IVF/ICSI cycles using non-donor oocytes performed between July 2016 and December 2018 that were allocated according to Body Mass Index (BMI) in three groups: Normal group: 18.5-24.9 (n=67 women), Overweight group: 25.0-29.9 (n=86 women) and Obesity group: ≥30.0 (n=38 women). We compared fertilization rates, embryo quality at day 3, development and quality of blastocyst, pregnancy rates, implantation rates, and live birth rates. RESULTS: Patients from all groups had similar stimulation days, but those women with overweight and obesity used more hormones compared to women with normal weight (p<0.05). Fertilization rates, zygotes that underwent cleavage and good-quality embryos at Day 3 were similar between the three evaluated groups. The groups of overweight and obesity had embryos at Day 3 with significantly less cells, compared to those from the normal group (p<0.05). The blastocyst development rate was significantly lower in women with overweight and obesity compared to women with normal BMI (p<0.05); but, the percentages of good blastocysts were similar in all studied patients. Pregnancy, implantation and live birth rates were significantly lower in the group of women with overweight and obesity, compared to those women with normal weight (p<0.05). Obese women had significantly more miscarriages compared to those in the other groups (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our data shows that an increased BMI affects embryo development and significantly reduces the pregnancy, implantation and live birth rates.

Caracterización clínica de infecciones de tracto urinario producidas por enterobacterias productoras de betalactamasas de espectro extendido / Clinical characterization of urinary tract infections caused by extended-spectrum betalactamase producing enterobacteria

Introducción: Las infecciones de tracto urinario se encuentran entre las infecciones de mayor prevalencia en la parte clínica. Son un problema de salud global y se pueden presentar con o sin síntomas. Los agentes bacterianos aislados en mayor frecuencia son Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp y Proteus spp. Objetivo: Caracterizar las infecciones de tracto urinario producidas por enterobacterias productoras de betalactamasas de espectro extendido en pacientes hospitalizados, Lima 2016-2018. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 2 instituciones prestadoras de salud, en Lima, Perú, durante el periodo 2016-2018, a partir de los aislamientos de patógenos blee asociados a infecciones de tracto urinario. Se tuvieron en cuenta variables sociodemográficas, enfermedades asociadas, agentes aislados, tratamiento y respuesta clínica. Resultados: Se obtuvo un registro de 117 pacientes, con edad promedio de 58,18 ± 11,8 años; 65,0 por ciento fueron mujeres y 89,74 por ciento provenían del área urbana de Lima. Las enfermedades asociadas más frecuentes fueron diabetes (39,3 por ciento) y enfermedad renal moderada o grave (12,8 por ciento), con índice de Charlson medio de 2,70 ± 1,21. Los agentes aislados más comunes fueron Escherichia coli (92,3 por ciento), Klebsiella spp (6,0 por ciento) y Proteus spp (1,7 por ciento). Los tratamientos empíricos usados fueron ampicilina/sulbactam (18,9 por ciento), ciprofloxacino (49,6 por ciento) y nitrofurantoína (16,7 por ciento). El 49,2 por ciento de los pacientes recibió tratamiento dirigido, 22,8 por ciento ertapenem y 13,9 por ciento piperacilina/tazobactam. Conclusiones: Las personas con diabetes y enfermedad renal son un grupo vulnerable a las infecciones de tracto urinario. El agente causal aislado en mayor frecuencia fue Escherichia coli blee+. Los tratamientos de inicio luego de la identificación clínica de la infección urinaria fueron ciprofloxacino y cefalosporinas. Una vez obtenidos los resultados microbiológicos se modificó el tratamiento antibiótico a carbapenémicos y penicilinas. La revaloración de los antibióticos usados en pacientes con enfermedades asociadas es importante para el éxito del tratamiento(AU)

Introduction: Urinary tract infections are among the most prevalent infections in clinical practice. They are a global health problem and may present with or without symptoms. The bacterial agents most commonly isolated are Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp. and Proteus spp. Objective: Characterize urinary tract infections caused by extended-spectrum betalactamase producing enterobacteria in hospitalized patients from Lima in the period 2016-2018. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at two health institutions from Lima, Peru, in the period 2016-2018, based on isolation of ESBL pathogens associated to urinary tract infections. Attention was paid to sociodemographic variables, associated conditions, agents isolated, treatment and clinical response. Results: A sample was selected of 117 patients; mean age was 58.18 ± 11.8 years; 65.0 percent were women and 89.74 percent came from the urban area of Lima. The most common associated conditions were diabetes (39.3 percent) and moderate or serious kidney disease (12.8 percent), with a mean Charlson index of 2.70 ± 1.21. The most common isolated agents were Escherichia coli (92.3 percent), Klebsiella spp. (6.0 percent and Proteus spp. (1.7 percent). The empirical treatments used were ampicillin/sulbactam (18.9 percent), ciprofloxacin (49.6 percent) and nitrofurantoin (16.7 percent). 49.2 percent of the patients received targeted treatment, 22.8 percent ertapenem and 13.9 percent piperacillin/tazobactam. Conclusions: People with diabetes and kidney disease are vulnerable to urinary tract infections. The causative agent most commonly isolated was ESBL Escherichia coli. The initial treatments indicated after clinical identification of urinary infection were ciprofloxacin and cephalosporins. When microbiological results were obtained, antibiotic therapy was changed to carbapenems and penicillins. Reassessment of the antibiotics used in patients with associated conditions is important for the success of the treatment(AU)

Perfil del cuidador de adulto mayor en situación de pandemia por SARS-COV-2, Lima-Perú / Profile of the senior caregiver in situation of pandemic for SARS-COV-2, Lima-Peru

Objetivo: Conocer el perfil del cuidador de adulto mayor en situación de pandemia por SARS-COV-2, Lima-Perú. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional y transversal; población conformada por 92 cuidadores de adulto mayor, no familiares y que reciben remuneración, ambos sexos, mayores de 18 años, participación voluntaria; adultos mayores residentes en distritos de Lima norte, estrato económico C y D. Se evaluó en el cuidador variables sociodemográficas, formación/capacitación, vacunas, autoconfianza o autoseguridad y grado de angustia o estrés; las variables del adulto mayor fueron las sociodemográficas, vacunas, discapacidades y enfermedad. Se completó cuestionario de forma virtual durante la última semana de marzo de 2020. Resultados: perfil del cuidador, edad media 33,48 años, 95,7% sexo femenino, 77,2% no tienen capacitación en lavado de manos, 96,7% sin capacitación en el manejo de estrés en adulto mayor. La autoconfianza o autoseguridad para con el cuidado del adulto mayor fue 1,97 (escala de 0 a 5) y el grado de angustia o estrés durante el cuidado 8,03 (escala de 0 a 10). Conclusiones: se evidencia deficiencias en el perfil del cuidador que tiene a su cargo al adulto mayor, se hace urgente el desarrollo de estrategias para revertir el problema, la priorización de acciones para el cuidado del adulto mayor como persona vulnerable son urgentes. Las estrategias deben incluir capacitación del cuidador, automanejo de estrés y acceso a servicios de atención domiciliaria entre otras.

Objetive: To know the profile of the older adult caregiver in a SARS-COV-2 pandemic, Lima-Peru. Materials and methods: observational and crosssectional study; population made up of 92 caregivers of older adults, non-relatives and who receive remuneration, both sexes, over 18 years of age, voluntary participation; older adults residing in districts of northern Lima, economic stratum C and D. Sociodemographic variables, education / training, vaccines, self-confidence or self-safety, and degree of anxiety or stress were evaluated in the caregiver; the older adult variables included were sociodemographic, vaccines, disabilities and disease. Questionnaire was completed virtually during the last week of March 2020. Results: caregiver profile, mean age 33.48 years, 95.7% female, 77.2% do not have training in hand washing, 96.7% without training in stress management in older adults. Self-confidence or self-confidence in caring for the elderly was 1.97 (scale from 0 to 5) and the degree of anxiety or stress during care 8.03 (scale from 0 to 10). Conclusions: deficiencies in the profile of the caregiver who oversees the elderly are evident, the development of strategies to reverse the problem is urgent, the prioritization of actions for the care of the elderly as a vulnerable person are urgent. Strategies should include caregiver training, stress selfmanagement, and access to home care services, among others.

Automedicación en época de pandemia: Covid-19 / Self-medication in time of pandemic: Covid-19

Objetivo. Conocer las características de la automedicación como tratamiento preventivo o sintomático en etapa previa y frente a la pandemia por COVID 19. Material y métodos: estudio observacional-descriptivo, participaron 790 pobladores de los distritos de Lima Norte, ambos sexos, mayores de 18 años, participación voluntaria. Se completó cuestionario con variables sociodemográficas, grado de instrucción, comorbilidades, automedicación previa a la pandemia, automedicación en pandemia, condición de profesional/técnico de la salud y fármacos; análisis de datos descriptivos y pruebas t de student, Chi cuadrado de pearson (nivel de significancia 95%). Resultados: edad media 40,87 años, 51,08% sexo femenino, educación primaria/secundaria en el 61.0% de los casos; comorbilidades presentes, al momento del recojo de información, hipertensión arterial (15,4%), sobrepeso/obesidad (13,7%), diabetes(7,1%) y cáncer (4,6%). Los medicamentos de mayor consumo, automedicado, previos al inicio de la pandemia, analgésico (29,1%), antiinflamatorios (28,1%) y antibióticos (27,6%); durante la pandemia, antibióticos/antiinflamatorios (39,2%), antiinflamatorio (30,9%), antibiótico (21,6%), ivermectina (5,7%) y la ivermectina en combinación con otros fármacos (2,6%). Incremento en el número de mujeres que se automedican como medida preventiva o de tratamiento sintomático en pandemia (p=0,0001), situación similar con las personas con sobrepeso/obesidad (p=0,001) y cáncer (p=0,023). Conclusiones: las variables en torno a la automedicación cambiaron, disminuyó la edad y se incrementó el número de mujeres. La frecuencia de fármacos y tipo también cambio, se pasó de mayor consumo de analgésicos y antiinflamatorios a mayor consumo de antibióticos/antinflamatorios y medicamentos como la ivermectina (sola o en combinación). La automedicación es un problema para los sistemas de salud más aun sin no se conoce e efecto de los fármacos sobre el SRS Cov2; debería fortalecerse las acciones para el cumplimiento de la Ley General de Salud N° 26842, se hace urgente un control más estricto de los aspectos vinculados con el expendio de medicamentos.

Objetive. To know the characteristics of self-medication as a preventive or symptomatic treatment in the previous stage and against the COVID pandemic 19. Materials and methods: observational-descriptive study, 790 inhabitants of the districts of North Lima participated, both sexes, over 18 years, voluntary participation. A questionnaire was completed with sociodemographic variables, educational level, comorbidities, pre-pandemic self-medication, pandemic self-medication, health professional/ technical condition, and drugs; analysis of descriptive data and student's t-tests, pearson's Chisquare (significance level 95%). Results: mean age 40.87 years, 51.08% female, primary / secondary education in 61.0% of cases; comorbidities present, at the time of datacollection, high blood pressure (15.4%), overweight / obesity (13.7%), diabetes (7.1%) and cancer (4.6%). The most widely consumed drugs, self-medicated, prior to the start of the pandemic, pain reliever (29.1%), anti-inflammatories (28.1%) and antibiotics (27.6%); during the pandemic, antibiotics / anti-inflammatories(39.2%),anti-inflammatory (30.9%), antibiotics (21.6%), ivermectin (5.7%) and ivermectin in combination with other drugs (2.6%). Increase in the number of women who self-medicate as a preventive measure or symptomatic treatment in a pandemic (p = 0.0001), a similar situation with people with overweight / obesity (p = 0.001) and cancer (p = 0.023). Conclusions: variables around self-medication changed, age decreased and the number of women increased. The frequency of drugs and type also changed, going from higher consumption of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to greater consumption of antibiotics / anti-inflammatory drugs and medications such as ivermectin (aloneorin combination). Self-medication is a problem for health systems, even more so without the effect of drugs on the SRS Cov2 being known; The actions for compliance with the General Health Law No. 26842 should be strengthened, a stricter control of the aspects related to the sale of medicines is urgent.

Diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial como factor de riesgo de mortalidad en pacientes con Covid-19 / Diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension as a risk factor of mortality in patients with Covid-19

Objetivo. identificar la posible asociación de diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial como factores de riesgo de mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19. Material y métodos: estudio de cohorte prospectivo, incluye a 1947 pacientes con 30 o más años de edad, atenciones realizadas entre marzo y agosto del 2020; pacientes con diagnóstico clínico y laboratorial de COVID-19; se excluyeron pacientes con inconsistencias en la información registrada, fallecidos en primeras 24 horas o estuvieron muertos al ingreso. Se incluyeron variable periodo de atención, edad, sexo, diabetes mellitus, hipertensión arterial, estancia hospitalaria, frecuencia respiratoria, frecuencia cardiaca, saturación de oxígeno y temperatura; para el análisis se utilizó la prueba chi cuadrado de Pearson, Odds Ratio y prueba T de student para muestras no emparejadas (p <0,05). Resultados: 73% de los fallecidos de sexo masculino (p<0.001), mayor frecuencia entre los 60 ­ 79 años de edad (54,8%, p<0,001); diabetes como comorbilidad en 17% de los casos (p=0,019) e hipertensión arterial en 24% (p<0,001). Las variables sexo (OR 1,5) y las comorbilidades diabetes (OR 1,4) e hipertensión arterial (OR 1,9) representan factores de riesgo de mortalidad. Conclusiones: la diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial, para la población en estudio, se identificaron como factor de riesgo de mortalidad frente al COVID-19

Objetive. to identify the possible association of diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension as risk factorsformortalityinpatientswithCOVID-19. Material and methods: prospective cohort study, includes 1947 patients aged 30 or over, care performed between March and August 2020; patients with clinical and laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19; Patients with inconsistencies in the information recorded, who died in the first 24 hours or were dead on admission, were excluded. Variable period of care, age, sex, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, hospital stay, respiratory rate, heart rate, oxygen saturation and temperature were included; Pearson's chi-square test, Odds Ratio and Student's Ttest for unpaired samples (p <0.05) were used for the analysis. Results: 73% of male deaths (p <0.001), the highest frequency was between 60-79 years of age (54.8%, p <0.001); diabetes as comorbidity in 17% of cases (p=0.019) and hypertension in 24% (p <0.001). The variables sex (OR 1.5) and the comorbidities diabetes (OR 1.4) and arterial hypertension (OR 1.9) represent risk factors for mortality. Conclusions: diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension, for the study population, were identified as a risk factor for mortality against COVID-19

Parámetros dietéticos y alimentación habitual de adultos mayores. Cuenca 2018 ­ 2019 / Dietary parameters and habitual diet of older adults. Cuenca 2018 - 2019

Objetivo: conocer los parámetros dietéticos y hábitos alimenticios de adultos mayores atendidos en centros de salud de primer nivel, en la ciudad de Cuenca-Ecuador.Población y métodos: en el estudio descriptivo participaron 102 adultos mayores (AM) pertenecientes a los clubes de la tercera edad de los centros de salud de primer nivel. Los estudiantes del ciclo comunitario de la carrera de Medicina aplicaron un formulario validado previamente con preguntas de condiciones sociodemográficas, parámetros dietéticos y hábitos alimenticios, previa capacitación y firma del consentimiento informado.Resultados: la edad promedio fue de 76 ± 7.20 años, de entre 65 a 95 años, la mayoría eran mujeres, casadas, jubiladas, con educación prima-ria, desocupadas y de estrato socioeconómico bajo. Casi todos ingieren desayuno, almuerzo y merienda, con una consistencia normal. Uno de cada cuatro AM ingiere suplementos vitamínicos, minerales y hierbas. Eligen los alimentos por sabor y menor costo. Ocho de cada diez no pueden preparar sus alimentos. Seis de cada diez se alimentan en forma deficiente, sin necesidad que les agrade o les desagrade lo que comen. Conclusiones: los parámetros y hábitos alimenticios de los AM están relacionados con el envejecimiento y varios factores determinantes. Su cono-cimiento servirá para plantear propuestas sobre alimentación saludable y prevenir enfermedades relacionadas.

Objective: to describe the dietary parameters and eating habits of the elderly who were treated in health centers of the first level, in the city of Cuenca-Ecuador.Population and methods: the descriptive study involved 102 elderly adults belonging to the senior clubs of the first level health centers. The students of the Community Cycle of the medical career applied a validated form, with questions of sociodemographic conditions, dietary parameters and eating habits, with prior training and signing of the informed consent. Results: the average age was 76 ± 7.20 years, between 65 and 95 years, the majority was, married and retired women with primary education, they were unemployed and with low socioeconomic status. Almost everyone eats breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a normal consistency. One in four AM ingests vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements. They choose foods by taste and lower cost. Eight in ten people cannot prepare their food. Six in ten people feed poorly, it does not matter if they like or dislike what they eat. Conclusions: the parameters and eating habits of the AM are related to aging and several determining factors. The knowledge will serve to propose healthy eating and prevent related diseases.

Factores asociados al sedentarismo en jóvenes estudiantes de educación superior. Perú, 2017 / Factors associated with sedentary lifestyle in higher education young students. Peru, 2017

Objetivo: Determinar las variables asociadas al sedentarismo en jóvenes estudiantes de un instituto público de educación superior en Lima, Perú. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal, analítico, retrospectivo. Los datos fueron tomados de las fichas de evaluación médica y registros académicos de los estudiantes. La muestra estuvo conformada por 187 estudiantes de educación superior, se exploró las variables edad, sexo, peso, talla, perímetro abdominal, ciclo académico de estudios, rendimiento académico y programa académico. La evaluación médica anual en los estudiantes incluyó el desarrollo del cuestionario International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Para la identificación de las variables asociadas al sedentarismo se usó la prueba de Chi-Cuadrado. Se aceptó un nivel de significancia del 95 % (p<0.05). Resultados: La edad promedio fue 18,6 años (IC 16,9 - 20,3). El 80 % de los participantes fueron de sexo masculino, 39 % tuvieron obesidad/sobrepeso, y la obesidad abdominal se presentó en el 12 % de los participantes. 32 % de los estudiantes pertenecían al programa de enfermería y 73,8 % tuvieron rendimiento académico moderado o bajo. Se determinó sedentarismo en el 65,8 % de los casos, con un promedio de equivalentes metabólicos (EMT min/semana en los estudiantes sedentarios de 242,17; mientras que para los estudiantes con actividad física fue 5371,13. Se evidenció la existencia de asociación estadísticamente significativa del sedentarismo con el sobrepeso/obesidad (p=0.023), obesidad abdominal (p=0.048), rendimiento académico moderado (p=0.012) y el programa académico de computación e informática (p=0.036). Conclusiones: Existe un alto nivel de sedentarismo en los estudiantes evaluados y no se cumplen las recomendaciones de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) en materia de actividad física (>=600 EMT/semana). El estado nutricional sobrepeso/obesidad y el rendimiento académico moderado estuvieron significativamente asociadas al sedentarismo

Objective: To determine the variables associated with sedentary lifestyle in young students of a public institution of higher education in Lima-Peru. Materials and methods: An observational, cross-sectional, analytical, retrospective study. Data was collected from the students' medical evaluation form and academic records. The sample consisted of 187 higher education students. Variables such as age, sex, weight, height, abdominal perimeter, academic term, academic performance and academic program were assessed. The students' annual medical evaluation included answering the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). For the identification of the variables associated with sedentary lifestyle, the chi square-test was used. A significance level of 95 % was accepted (p <0.05). Results: The average age was 18.6 years (CI 16.9 - 20.3), 80 % were male, 39 % were obese/overweight, 12 % had abdominal obesity, 32 % were attending the nursing program, and 73.8 % had a moderate or low academic performance. A sedentary lifestyle was determined in 65.8 % of the cases. Sedentary students had on average 242.17 MET min/week, while students with physical activity achieved 5371.13 MET min/week. A statistically significant association of sedentary lifestyle with overweight/obesity (p = 0.023), abdominal obesity (p = 0.048), moderate academic performance (p = 0.012), and the Computer Science Academic Program (p = 0.036) was evidenced. Conclusions: There is a high level of sedentary lifestyle in the evaluated students, ignoring the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) on physical activity (≥600 EMT min/week). The nutritional status of overweight/obesity and moderate academic performance were significantly associated with a sedentary lifestyle

Dietary protein restriction reduces circulating VLDL triglyceride levels via CREBH-APOA5-dependent and -independent mechanisms.

Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Dietary interventions based on protein restriction (PR) reduce circulating triglycerides (TGs), but underlying mechanisms and clinical relevance remain unclear. Here, we show that 1 week of a protein-free diet without enforced calorie restriction significantly lowered circulating TGs in both lean and diet-induced obese mice. Mechanistically, the TG-lowering effect of PR was due, in part, to changes in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) metabolism both in liver and peripheral tissues. In the periphery, PR stimulated VLDL-TG consumption by increasing VLDL-bound APOA5 expression and promoting VLDL-TG hydrolysis and clearance from circulation. The PR-mediated increase in Apoa5 expression was controlled by the transcription factor CREBH, which coordinately regulated hepatic expression of fatty acid oxidation-related genes, including Fgf21 and Ppara. The CREBH-APOA5 axis activation upon PR was intact in mice lacking the GCN2-dependent amino acid-sensing arm of the integrated stress response. However, constitutive hepatic activation of the amino acid-responsive kinase mTORC1 compromised CREBH activation, leading to blunted APOA5 expression and PR-recalcitrant hypertriglyceridemia. PR also contributed to hypotriglyceridemia by reducing the rate of VLDL-TG secretion, independently of activation of the CREBH-APOA5 axis. Finally, a randomized controlled clinical trial revealed that 4-6 weeks of reduced protein intake (7%-9% of calories) decreased VLDL particle number, increased VLDL-bound APOA5 expression, and lowered plasma TGs, consistent with mechanistic conservation of PR-mediated hypotriglyceridemia in humans with translational potential as a nutraceutical intervention for dyslipidemia.

Estudio Transversal: Perfil Epidemiológico de Sífilis Notificada en el Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública. Zonas 6 y 7 Ecuador / Cross-sectional Research: Epidemiological Profile of Syphilis Notified in the National Institute of Public Health Research. Zones 6 and 7 Ecuador

INTRODUCCIÓN: La sífilis constituye un desafío para la salud pública nacional y global por las repercusiones en la vida humana. El objetivo del estudio fue caracterizar el perfil epidemiológico de los casos de sífilis atendidos en el sistema de salud de las zonas 6 y 7. MÉTODOS: Estudio de corte transversal, de datos recogidos en los formularios de investigación/notificación de sífilis de todas las personas atendidas y diagnosticadas mediante pruebas de absorción de anticuerpos treponémicos fluorescentes. Los criterios de inclusión fueron los datos clínicos y epidemiológicos de sospecha para sífilis. Las variables analizadas fueron edad, sexo, procedencia, residencia y pruebas diagnósticas. Para el análisis de inferencia estadística se utilizó Odds Ratio y Chi2 mediante el programa Epi info 7.2 RESULTADOS: El 72 % de las personas diagnosticadas de sífilis tienen entre 20 a 49 años, 53 % del sexo femenino. Las pruebas confirmatorias resultaron reactivas en el 75 % de los casos, de los cuales el 27 % presentaron pruebas serológicas no reactivas y 77 % sin pruebas previas. Las provincias con mayor incidencia de casos fueron Cañar (93 %) y Morona Santiago (87 %) . Se detectaron como factores protectores el sexo femenino (OR 0.41; IC95 % 0.25 ­ 0.68) y la residencia en la provincia de Loja (OR 0.21; IC 95 % 0.10 ­ 0.46). CONCLUSIONES: La prevalencia de casos de sífilis se encuentra en el grupo etario de 20 a 49 años y de sexo masculino. Los factores protectores identificados de manera estadísticamente significativos fueron el sexo femenino y la residencia en la provincia de Loja. Se sugieren desarrollar estrategias para ampliar la cobertura en las personas con sospecha de sífilis, para emprender programas prevención y promoción de la salud.

BACKGROUND: Syphilis constitutes a challenge for national and global public health due to the repercussions on human life. The objective of the study was to characterize the epidemiological profile of the cases of syphilis treated in the health system of zones 6 and 7. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of secondary data collected in the form of investigation / notification of syphilis of all people attended and diagnosed by fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption tests. The inclusion criteria were the clinical and epidemiological data of suspicion for syphilis. The variables analyzed were age, sex, origin, residence and diagnostic tests. Odds Ratio and Chi2 were used for the statistical inference analysis using the Epi info 7.2 programs RESULTS: 72 % of people diagnosed with syphilis are between 20 and 49 years old, 53 % of women. The confirmatory tests were reactive in 75 % of the cases, of which 27 % presented non-reactive serological tests and 77 % without previous tests. The provinces with the highest incidence of cases were Cañar (93 %) and Morona Santiago (87 %). Protective factors were female sex (OR 0.41, 95 % CI 0.25 - 0.68) and residence in the province of Loja (OR 0.21, 95 % CI 0.10 - 0.46) CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of cases of syphilis is found in the age group of 20 to 49 years andmale. The protective factors identified in a statistically significant manner were female sex and residence in the province of Loja. It is suggested to develop strategies to expand coverage in people with suspected syphilis, to undertake prevention and health promotion programs.

Bone Marrow Is a Major Parasite Reservoir in Plasmodium vivax Infection.

Plasmodium vivax causes heavy burdens of disease across malarious regions worldwide. Mature P. vivax asexual and transmissive gametocyte stages occur in the blood circulation, and it is often assumed that accumulation/sequestration in tissues is not an important phase in their development. Here, we present a systematic study of P. vivax stage distributions in infected tissues of nonhuman primate (NHP) malaria models as well as in blood from human infections. In a comparative analysis of the transcriptomes of P. vivax and Plasmodium falciparum blood-stage parasites, we found a conserved cascade of stage-specific gene expression despite the greatly different gametocyte maturity times of these two species. Using this knowledge, we validated a set of conserved asexual- and gametocyte-stage markers both by quantitative real-time PCR and by antibody assays of peripheral blood samples from infected patients and NHP (Aotus sp.). Histological analyses of P. vivax parasites in organs of 13 infected NHP (Aotus and Saimiri species) demonstrated a major fraction of immature gametocytes in the parenchyma of the bone marrow, while asexual schizont forms were enriched to a somewhat lesser extent in this region of the bone marrow as well as in sinusoids of the liver. These findings suggest that the bone marrow is an important reservoir for gametocyte development and proliferation of malaria parasites.IMPORTANCEPlasmodium vivax malaria continues to cause major public health burdens worldwide. Yet, significant knowledge gaps in the basic biology and epidemiology of P. vivax malaria remain, largely due to limited available tools for research and diagnostics. Here, we present a systematic examination of tissue sequestration during P. vivax infection. Studies of nonhuman primates and malaria patients revealed enrichment of developing sexual stages (gametocytes) and mature replicative stages (schizonts) in the bone marrow and liver, relative to those present in peripheral blood. Identification of the bone marrow as a major P. vivax tissue reservoir has important implications for parasite diagnosis and treatment.

Plasmodium gametocytes display homing and vascular transmigration in the host bone marrow.

Transmission of Plasmodium parasites to the mosquito requires the formation and development of gametocytes. Studies in infected humans have shown that only the most mature forms of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes are present in circulation, whereas immature forms accumulate in the hematopoietic environment of the bone marrow. We used the rodent model Plasmodium berghei to study gametocyte behavior through time under physiological conditions. Intravital microscopy demonstrated preferential homing of early gametocyte forms across the intact vascular barrier of the bone marrow and the spleen early during infection and subsequent development in the extravascular environment. During the acute phase of infection, we observed vascular leakage resulting in further parasite accumulation in this environment. Mature gametocytes showed high deformability and were found entering and exiting the intact vascular barrier. We suggest that extravascular gametocyte localization and mobility are essential for gametocytogenesis and transmission of Plasmodium to the mosquito.

Amino Acid Restriction Triggers Angiogenesis via GCN2/ATF4 Regulation of VEGF and H2S Production.

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels by endothelial cells (ECs), is an adaptive response to oxygen/nutrient deprivation orchestrated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) upon ischemia or exercise. Hypoxia is the best-understood trigger of VEGF expression via the transcription factor HIF1α. Nutrient deprivation is inseparable from hypoxia during ischemia, yet its role in angiogenesis is poorly characterized. Here, we identified sulfur amino acid restriction as a proangiogenic trigger, promoting increased VEGF expression, migration and sprouting in ECs in vitro, and increased capillary density in mouse skeletal muscle in vivo via the GCN2/ATF4 amino acid starvation response pathway independent of hypoxia or HIF1α. We also identified a requirement for cystathionine-γ-lyase in VEGF-dependent angiogenesis via increased hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production. H2S mediated its proangiogenic effects in part by inhibiting mitochondrial electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in increased glucose uptake and glycolytic ATP production.

A single rapamycin dose protects against late-stage experimental cerebral malaria via modulation of host immunity, endothelial activation and parasite sequestration.

BACKGROUND: Maladaptive immune responses during cerebral malaria (CM) result in high mortality despite opportune anti-malarial chemotherapy. Rapamycin, an FDA-approved immunomodulator, protects against experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) in mice through effects on the host. However, the potential for reduced adaptive immunity with chronic use, combined with an incomplete understanding of mechanisms underlying protection, limit translational potential as an adjunctive therapy in CM. RESULTS: The results presented herein demonstrate that a single dose of rapamycin, provided as late as day 4 or 5 post-infection, protected mice from ECM neuropathology and death through modulation of distinct host responses to infection. Rapamycin prevented parasite cytoadherence in peripheral organs, including white adipose tissue, via reduction of CD36 expression. Rapamycin also altered the splenic immune response by reducing the number of activated T cells with migratory phenotype, while increasing local cytotoxic T cell activation. Finally, rapamycin reduced brain endothelial ICAM-1 expression concomitant with reduced brain pathology. Together, these changes potentially contributed to increased parasite elimination while reducing CD8 T cell migration to the brain. CONCLUSIONS: Rapamycin exerts pleotropic effects on host immunity, vascular activation and parasite sequestration that rescue mice from ECM, and thus support the potential clinical use of rapamycin as an adjunctive therapy in CM.