A "Prime and Expand" strategy using the multifunctional fusion proteins to generate memory-like NK cells for cell therapy.

Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) using memory-like (ML) natural killer (NK) cells, generated through overnight ex vivo activation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18, has shown promise for treating hematologic malignancies. We recently reported that a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9201, comprising IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 domains could replace individual cytokines for priming human ML NK cell programming ("Prime" step). However, this approach does not include ex vivo expansion, thereby limiting the ability to test different doses and schedules. Here, we report the design and generation of a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9206, consisting of human IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 cytokines. We observed > 300-fold expansion for HCW9201-primed human NK cells cultured for 14 days with HCW9206 and HCW9101, an IgG1 antibody, recognizing the scaffold domain of HCW9206 ("Expand" step). This expansion was dependent on both HCW9206 cytokines and interactions of the IgG1 mAb with CD16 receptors on NK cells. The resulting "Prime and Expand" ML NK cells exhibited elevated metabolic capacity, stable epigenetic IFNG promoter demethylation, enhanced antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo, and superior persistence in NSG mice. Thus, the "Prime and Expand" strategy represents a simple feeder cell-free approach to streamline manufacturing of clinical-grade ML NK cells to support multidose and off-the-shelf ACT.

A comparative study of cardiovascular risk stratification methods in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients.

The Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen developed the Steno T1 Risk Engine (ST1RE) to predict cardiovascular events, encompassing fatal and nonfatal ischemic heart disease, ischemic stroke, heart failure, and peripheral arterial disease in type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM).The current study investigated the agreement between ST1RE and the Brazilian Society for Endocrinology and Metabology (SBEM) classification. Participants were included in the study if diagnosed with T1DM and had at least one outpatient visit in 2021. Patients with established cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease on dialysis were excluded. Clinical parameters were obtained from medical records, such as age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, physical activity, current smoking, microvascular target organ damage, levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, creatinine, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and albuminuria.Overall, 92 patients (38 males and 53 females) with an age median (P25; P75) of 33 years (25.5;42.5), BMI of 24.8 + 4.1 kg/m2, and duration of diabetes (mean ± SD) of 23.4 + 9.5 years were evaluated. There were no differences considering the gender for most analyzed variables, but a higher proportion of women exhibited microvascular complications such as microalbuminuria, macroalbuminuria, and retinopathy. Our results show a weak agreement in the 10-year cardiovascular risk estimation between SBEM and ST1RE classifications. According to SBEM criteria, 72.8% of patients were considered high-risk, while only 15.2% of patients received the same classification using ST1RE. The dissimilarities between these two classifications were also evident when age and gender factors were compared. While 60% of patients under 35 years were classified as high risk according to SBEM criteria, only 1.8% received this stratification risk in the ST1RE classification.The results indicate a low agreement between the 10-year cardiovascular event risk classification by SBEM and the classification by ST1RE for type 1 diabetes patients without established cardiovascular disease.

Observational approaches to chimpanzee behavior in an African sanctuary: Implications for research, welfare, and capacity-building.

Research in African ape sanctuaries has emerged as an important context for our understanding of comparative cognition and behavior. While much of this work has focused on experimental studies of cognition, these animals semi-free-range in forest habitats and therefore can also provide important information about the behavior of primates in socioecologically-relevant naturalistic contexts. In this "New Approaches" article, we describe a project where we implemented a synthetic program of observational data collection at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Uganda, directly modeled after long-term data collection protocols at the Kibale Chimpanzee Project in Uganda, a wild chimpanzee field site. The foundation for this project was a strong partnership between sanctuary staff, field site staff, and external researchers. We describe how we developed a data-collection protocol through discussion and collaboration among these groups, and trained sanctuary caregivers to collect novel observational data using these protocols. We use these data as a case study to examine: (1) how behavioral observations in sanctuaries can inform primate welfare and care practices, such as by understanding aggression within the group; (2) how matched observational protocols across sites can inform our understanding of primate behavior across different contexts, including sex differences in social relationships; and (3) how more robust collaborations between foreign researchers and local partners can support capacity-building in primate range countries, along with mentoring and training students more broadly.

A Cre-driver rat model for anatomical and functional analysis of glucagon (Gcg)-expressing cells in the brain and periphery.

OBJECTIVE: The glucagon gene (Gcg) encodes preproglucagon, which is cleaved to form glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) and other mature signaling molecules implicated in metabolic functions. To date there are no transgenic rat models available for precise manipulation of GLP1-expressing cells in the brain and periphery. METHODS: To visualize and manipulate Gcg-expressing cells in rats, CRISPR/Cas9 was used to express iCre under control of the Gcg promoter. Gcg-Cre rats were bred with tdTomato reporter rats to tag Gcg-expressing cells. Cre-dependent AAVs and RNAscope in situ hybridization were used to evaluate the specificity of iCre expression by GLP1 neurons in the caudal nucleus of the solitary tract (cNTS) and intermediate reticular nucleus (IRt), and by intestinal and pancreatic secretory cells. Food intake was assessed in heterozygous (Het) Gcg-Cre rats after chemogenetic stimulation of cNTS GLP1 neurons expressing an excitatory DREADD. RESULTS: While genotype has minimal effect on body weight or composition in chow-fed Gcg-Cre rats, homozygous (Homo) rats have lower plasma glucose levels. In neonatal and adult Gcg-Cre/tdTom rats, reporter-labeled cells are present in the cNTS and IRt, and in additional brain regions (e.g., basolateral amygdala, piriform cortex) that lack detectable Gcg mRNA in adults but display transient developmental or persistently low Gcg expression. Compared to wildtype (WT) rats, hindbrain Gcg mRNA and GLP1 protein in brain and plasma are markedly reduced in Homo Gcg-Cre rats. Chemogenetic stimulation of cNTS GLP1 neurons reduced overnight chow intake in males but not females, the effect in males was blocked by antagonism of central GLP1 receptors, and hypophagia was enhanced when combined with a subthreshold dose of cholecystokinin-8 to stimulate gastrointestinal vagal afferents. CONCLUSIONS: Gcg-Cre rats are a novel and valuable experimental tool for analyzing the development, anatomy, and function of Gcg-expressing cells in the brain and periphery. In addition, Homo Gcg-Cre rats are a unique model for assessing the role of Gcg-encoded proteins in glucose homeostasis and energy metabolism.

Body composition and energy expenditure in anorexia nervosa: preliminary data of outpatients with recovering and active disease.

BACKGROUND: In Anorexia Nervosa (AN) recovery, body mass index (BMI) may not reflect body composition. To investigate recovery, bioelectrical impedance (BIA) parameters and energy expenditure were investigated in patients with active and recovering AN, with emphasis on phase angle (PA), a BIA parameter. METHODS: BMI, PA, indirect BIA parameters (fat free mass, fat mass, total body water, fat free mass index, fat mass index) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) were obtained. Data from subjects distributed to active AN (ANact, n = 9), recovered AN (ANrec, n = 9) and healthy individuals (HI) (n = 16) were compared employing univariate methods and ordinal logistic regression. RESULTS: In univariate comparison, the BMI would not distinguish recovered individuals; this distinction was observed for the PA (p = < 0,001). PA showed a good capacity to discriminate, between ANrec and HI (AUC = 0.792; CI = 0.564- 1.000; p = 0.017). In 2 models of ordinal logistic regression PA (OR = 0.123; 95% CI 0.030; 0.503 and OR = 0.091; 95% CI 0.016; 0.528) remained as a significant independent variable, indicating that increases in PA are related to higher probabilities of moving from ANact, to ANrec and to HI group. Bivariate regression indicated the presence of a relationship between PA and (R2 = 0.266, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Changes in body composition and energy expenditure were observed in recovered anorexics with normal BMI. PA can play an important role in the assessment of recovering anorexic patients.

In recovery from anorexia nervosa, the body mass index does not reflect changes in body composition. Energy expenditure can change according to body composition in an anorexia nervosa and normal individuals. To investigate distinctive parameters in recovering Anorexia Nervosa patients, we evaluated body mass index and other indices obtained from body measurements by bioimpedance among patients with anorexia nervosa with low weight and in the weight recovery phase compared with a group of normal weight women without anorexia nervosa. In conclusion, we observed that one of these indexes, the phase angle can play an important role in the assessment of nutritional status in recovering anorexia nervosa.

Prediction of platelet counts with ROTEM-sigma in cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND: Excessive bleeding is common after cardiac surgery. According to transfusion algorithms based on ROTEM results (TEM International Inc., Munich, Germany), platelet transfusion is recommended when FIBTEM amplitude is normal and EXTEM amplitude is reduced. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether ROTEM (TEM International Inc.) parameters may predict accurately platelet counts in cardiac surgery patients, and to determine which of these parameters is the most useful for predicting platelet counts. METHODS: In this retrospective single center study data from 83 patients who underwent cardiac surgery were reviewed. We analyzed the results of patients for whom ROTEM (TEM International Inc.) and conventional laboratory tests were performed simultaneously. The derived ROTEM (TEM International Inc.) parameter PLTEM was used to estimate platelet count; PLTEM is calculated by subtracting FIBTEM from EXTEM. Correlation between ROTEM (TEM International Inc.) variables and platelet counts were determined. Logistic regression analyses were performed to predict platelet counts. RESULTS: ROTEM A5 values show a high linear correlation with MCF values. PLTEM has a strong linear correlation with platelet counts. According to our results for PLTEM A5<32 mm the probability of platelet count <150×109/L is 100%, for PLTEM A5<27 mm the probability of platelet count <100×109/L is nearly 80%, and for PLTEM A5<22 the probability of platelet count <75×109/L is 70%. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the reliability of considering early ROTEM (TEM International Inc.) results and the feasibility of using PLTEM A5 to predict platelet counts and so, improve our ability to decide the need of platelet transfusion in cardiac surgery patients.

Energy Management Strategy for an Autonomous Hybrid Power Plant Destined to Supply Controllable Loads.

This paper proposes an energy management strategy (EMS) for a hybrid stand-alone plant destined to supply controllable loads. The plant is composed of photovoltaic panels (PV), a wind turbine, a diesel generator, and a battery bank. The set of the power sources supplies controllable electrical loads. The proposed EMS aims to ensure the power supply of the loads by providing the required electrical power. Moreover, the EMS ensures the maximum use of the power generated by the renewable sources and therefore minimizes the use of the genset, and it ensures that the batteries bank operates into the prefixed values of state of charge to ensure their safe operation. The EMS provides the switching control of the switches that link the plant components and decides on the loads' operation. The simulation of the system using measured climatic data of Mostoles (Madrid, Spain) shows that the proposed EMS fulfills the designed objectives.

Old age and other factors associated with salivary microbiome variation.

BACKGROUND: Many factors can contribute to the exact makeup of the salivary microbiome. Differences in the oral microbiome occur with old age, which may be due to oral conditions and diseases associated with old age, such as edentulism, as well as other unknown causes. METHODS: The salivary microbiome was sampled in patients from a large urban clinic. For all subjects age, gender, periodontal status, caries status, presence of edentulism, medications, and tobacco usage were recorded. Multifactor analysis was used to study variation in salivary microbiome profiles linked to these factors. RESULTS: In the population sampled, there were significantly higher numbers of edentulous subjects, and increased levels of polypharmacy found with aging. Large differences in alpha diversity and beta diversity of the salivary microbiome in the old age group were largely linked to edentulism. However, multivariable analysis revealed, even after adjusting for differences in edentulism, polypharmacy, tobacco usage, periodontal disease, caries level, and gender, that old age itself was associated with lower levels of taxa Porphyromonas endodontalis, Alloprevotella tannerae, Filifactor alocis, Treponema, Lautropia Mirabilis and Pseudopropionibacterium sp._HMT_194. Surprisingly, of these taxa, most were ones known to reside on or near tooth surfaces. CONCLUSIONS: Another factor or factors beyond edentulism, polypharmacy and periodontal disease play a role in the differences seen in oral microbiome with old age. The nature of this factor(s) is not known.

¿Mejora la función renal tras la paratiroidectomía en el hiperparatirodismo primario? / Does renal function improve after parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism?

Introducción: El hiperparatiroidismo primario (HPTP) es un trastorno endocrino frecuente, caracterizado por hipercalcemia y elevación de la parathormona. La disminución del filtrado glomerular ( < 60ml/min) se mantiene en la guías como un criterio para la realización de la paratiroidectomía (PTX) en el HPTP asintomático. La influencia que tiene la PTX sobre la evolución de la función renal es controvertida. Objetivos: Analizar las características clínicas, analíticas e histológicas de los pacientes intervenidos por HPTP, así como la evolución de la función renal tras la PTX. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 297 pacientes con HPTP remitidos a cirugía en un único centro entre 1998 y 2016. Los parámetros analíticos se determinaron en situación basal, a la semana y al año de la PTX. Resultados: La incidencia de PTX fue de 38 casos/millón/año. La edad media fue 60 ± 14 años y el 80,5% de los pacientes eran mujeres. El 65,3% estaban asintomáticos. La nefrolitiasis fue el hallazgo clínico más frecuente (33%) seguido de la afectación ósea (29,5%). Las indicaciones de PTX fueron: síntomas clínicos (34,7%), hipercalcemia > 11,2 mg/dl (27%), litiasis renal (13%), baja masa ósea (12%), edad < 50 años (11%) y disminución del filtrado < 60 ml/min (2,3%). En el diagnóstico de localización el spect-MIBI presentó una sensibilidad del 92% y la ecografía cervical del 70%. El 94,3% de los casos de HPTP eran debidos a un adenoma paratiroideo. Tras la PTX se objetivó normalización de los parámetros relacionados con el HPTP. Objetivamos un incremento significativo de la creatinina sérica (0,81 vs. 0,85 mg/dl, p < 0,001) desde la primera semana del postoperatorio y que se mantiene al año. Cuando comparamos los pacientes según el filtrado glomerular basal, encontramos que el deterioro de la función renal solamente fue significativo en pacientes con filtrado glomerular > 60 ml/min (creatinina sérica basal 0,77 mg/dl vs. creatinina sérica al año 0,81 mg/dl, p < 0,001). Conclusiones: El HPTP cursó asintomático en la mayoría de los pacientes intervenidos. La hipercalcemia y la nefrolitiasis fueron las indicaciones más frecuentes de paratiroidectomía en los pacientes asintomáticos. El scan-MIBI fue el método de localización más útil. La curación quirúrgica del HPTP se sigue de un deterioro de la función renal, que se mantiene desde la primera semana de la cirugía

Introduction: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a common endocrine disorder characterised by hypercalcaemia and parathormone increase. Decreased glomerular filtration rate ( < 60 ml/min) continues to be a parathyroidectomy (PTX) criterion in asymptomatic PHPT. The influence of PTX on renal function evolution is the subject of debate. Objective: To analyse the clinical, laboratory and histological characteristics of patients undergoing PHPT, as well as renal function evolution after PTX. Material and methods: Retrospective study of 297 patients diagnosed with PHPT and referred to surgery in a single centre between 1998 and 2016. Laboratory parameters were determined at baseline, one week and one year after PTX. Results: The Incidence of PTX was 38 cases/million/year. Mean age was 60 ± 14 years and 80.5% of the patients were female. Approximately 65.3% were asymptomatic. Nephrolithiasis was the most common clinical finding (33%), followed by bone involvement (29.5%). PTX indications were: clinical symptoms (34.7%), hypercalcaemia > 11.2 mg/dl (27%), nephrolithiasis (13%), low bone mass (12%), age < 50 years (11%) and decreased glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min (2.3%). For diagnostic localisation, spect-MIBI had a sensitivity of 92% and cervical ultrasound of 70%. A total of 94.3% of PHPT cases were due to a parathyroid adenoma. After PTX, normalisation of PHPT-related parameters was observed. We found a significant increase in serum creatinine levels (0.81 vs 0.85 mg/dl, P < .001) from the first week post-PTX until the end of the first year. The renal function was only found to be significant in patients with glomerular filtration rate>60ml/min (baseline serum creatinine levels 0.77 mg/dl vs serum creatinine levels after one year 0.81 mg/dl, P < .001). Conclusions: PHPT was asymptomatic in most patients who underwent surgery. Hypercalcaemia and nephrolithiasis were the most common indications of parathyroidectomy in asymptomatic patients. MIBI scan was the most useful localisation method. Surgical treatment of PHPT is followed by renal function impairment, which persists after the first week post-PTX

Association Between Standardized Phase Angle, Nutrition Status, and Clinical Outcomes in Surgical Cancer Patients.

BACKGROUND: Different nutrition assessment tools in surgical cancer patients are used in clinical practice, which results in different prevalence rates of malnutrition. This may impact the interpretation of the association between nutrition status and clinical outcomes. Reduced standardized phase angle (SPA) values are associated with adverse outcomes in patients with cancer. Thus, it is important to assess the association of SPA with nutrition status and relate it to postoperative clinical outcomes. METHODS: This prospective observational study included 121 surgical cancer patients. Bioelectrical impedance analysis, subjective global assessment (SGA), anthropometric measurements, and assessment of muscle strength were used to provide nutrition diagnosis 1 day before surgery. The patients were followed for infectious and noninfectious postoperative complications from the first day after the operation until discharge or death. RESULTS: The prevalence of malnutrition was higher according to SGA (63.6%). Patients with an SPA < -1.65 had a greater chance of being diagnosed as malnourished according to the SGA (3.66 [1.35-9.90]), midarm circumference (OR 4.24; CI95%; 1.72-10.43), midarm muscle area (OR 4.38; CI95%; 1.68-11.42), and low handgrip strength (3.84 [1.31-11.25]). Patients with an SPA < -1.65 presented with more infectious complications (OR 4.19; CI95%; 1.52-11.53), but there was no association between SPA and other outcomes or death. SPA was the only significant predictor of infectious complications (AUC, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.51-0.71). CONCLUSION: SPA was associated with different nutrition status parameters, and it was able to predict postoperative infectious complications.

Does renal function improve after parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism? / ¿Mejora la función renal tras la paratiroidectomía en el hiperparatirodismo primario?

INTRODUCTION: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a common endocrine disorder characterised by hypercalcaemia and parathormone increase. Decreased glomerular filtration rate (<60ml/min) continues to be a parathyroidectomy (PTX) criterion in asymptomatic PHPT. The influence of PTX on renal function evolution is the subject of debate. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the clinical, laboratory and histological characteristics of patients undergoing PHPT, as well as renal function evolution after PTX. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 297 patients diagnosed with PHPT and referred to surgery in a single centre between 1998 and 2016. Laboratory parameters were determined at baseline, one week and one year after PTX. RESULTS: The Incidence of PTX was 38 cases/million/year. Mean age was 60±14 years and 80.5% of the patients were female. Approximately 65.3% were asymptomatic. Nephrolithiasis was the most common clinical finding (33%), followed by bone involvement (29.5%). PTX indications were: clinical symptoms (34.7%), hypercalcaemia>11.2mg/dl (27%), nephrolithiasis (13%), low bone mass (12%), age<50 years (11%) and decreased glomerular filtration rate<60ml/min (2.3%). For diagnostic localisation, spect-MIBI had a sensitivity of 92% and cervical ultrasound of 70%. A total of 94.3% of PHPT cases were due to a parathyroid adenoma. After PTX, normalisation of PHPT-related parameters was observed. We found a significant increase in serum creatinine levels (0.81 vs 0.85mg/dl, P<.001) from the first week post-PTX until the end of the first year. The renal function was only found to be significant in patients with glomerular filtration rate>60ml/min (baseline serum creatinine levels 0.77mg/dl vs serum creatinine levels after one year 0.81mg/dl, P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: PHPT was asymptomatic in most patients who underwent surgery. Hypercalcaemia and nephrolithiasis were the most common indications of parathyroidectomy in asymptomatic patients. MIBI scan was the most useful localisation method. Surgical treatment of PHPT is followed by renal function impairment, which persists after the first week post-PTX.

Antilisterial efficacy of Lactobacillus bacteriocins and organic acids on frankfurters. Impact on sensory characteristics.

Dipping solutions containing bacteriocins produced by Lactobacillus curvatus CRL705 and Lactobacillus sakei CRL1862 (Bact705/1862), nisin and organic acids (lactic acid, LA; acetic acid, AA) were tested alone or in combination against Listeria monocytogenes inoculated by immersion on vacuum-packaged frankfurters stored at 10 °C during 36 days. LA/AA solution (2.5% v/v each) reduced pathogen population by 1.50 log10 CFU/ml during storage. Semi-purified Bact705/1862 prevented L. monocytogenes growth, while nisin was not able to avoid its regrowth after 20 days. The combined addition of Bact705/1862 + LA/AA was the most effective approach for pathogen reduction below detection level from day 6 to final storage. Frankfurters treated with Bact705/1862 + LA/AA compared to fresh-purchased samples did not show significant differences in flavor, juiciness, color intensity and overall preference at 22 days-storage at 5 °C. Meat processors should not only validate the antimicrobial efficacy of combined treatments but also their sensory impact on the product, which is directly related to consumer acceptability.

Associação do Ângulo de Fase Padronizado com estado nutricional e desfechos clínicos em pacientes cirúrgicos oncológicos / Standardized Phase Angle Association with Nutritional Status and Clinical Outcomes in Oncologic Surgical Patients

0 Ângulo de Fase Padronizado (AFP) e medida derivada da Bioimpedância Elétrica (BIA) ajustado por sexo e idade. 0 AFP e capaz de avaliar a integridade das membranas celulares e tem sido estudado recentemente como possível indicador do estado nutricional (EN) e fator prognóstico em pacientes com câncer. Entretanto, poucos trabalhos avaliaram o comportamento do AFP como indicador do estado nutricional e desfechos clínicos adversos em pacientes oncológicos. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o AFP com as variáveis do estado nutricional no pré-operatório e desfechos clínicos em pacientes cirúrgicos oncológicos. Métodos: Estudo longitudinal- prospectivo realizado com pacientes cirúrqicos oncológicos, admitidos no lnstituto Alfa de Gastroenterologia, do Hospital das Clinicas de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. A avaliação do estado nutricional dos pacientes foi realizada antes da cirurgia(pré-operatório) e os desfechos clínicos foram avaliados nos momentos p6s- operat6rio ate a alta hospitalar. Os dados sobre o estado nutricional (EN) foram obtidos no pré-operatório imediato, por meio da Avaliação Global Subjetiva(AGS), circunferência do braco (CB), dobra cutânea tricipital (OCT), área muscular do brace (AMB), percentual de perda de peso (PPP) e a funcionalidade, pela dinamometria. 0 AFP foi obtido por meio da BIA ecalculado segundo a seguinte equacao: AFP=AF medido - AF médio(para idade e sexo)/desvio-Padrão da população, segundo idade e sexo. Dados sobre os desfechos clínicos e glicemia capilar foram coletados em prontuário médico e corridas de leito. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e bivariadas; concordância entre métodos por meio do coeficiente kappa e modelos de reqressão logística simples foram utilizados para avaliar a associação entre o AFP, estado nutricional e desfechos clínicos nessa populacao. Para compararas medias da glicemia capilar, segundo a cateqorização do AFP, utilizou-se o Teste Ancova. Para todas as analises foi adotado um...

The Standardized Phase Angle (AFP) is measured derived from electrical bioimpedance (BIA) adjusted for sex and age. AFP is able to assess the integrity of cell membranes and has recently been studied as a possible indicator of nutritional status (NS) and a prognostic factor in patients with cancer. However, few studies have evaluated the AFP's behavior as an indicator of nutritional status and adverse clinical outcomes in cancer patients. Objective: To evaluate the association between the AFP and the variables ofthe nutritional status preoperatively and clinical outcomes in cancer surgicalpatients. Methods: A longitudinal-prospective study of cancer surgical patients admitted to the Alfa Institute of Gastroenterology, Hospital das Clinicas in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. The evaluation of the nutritional status of patients was performed before surgery (pre-operative) and clinical outcomes were evaluated postoperatively times until hospital discharge. The data on the nutritional status(NS) were obtained immediately preoperatively through the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), arm circumference (AC), triceps skinfold (TSF), arm musclearea (AMA), percentage of weight loss (PPP) and functionality, the grip strength. The AFP was obtained by BIA and calculated according to thefollowing equation: measured AFP = AF - AF average (for age and sex) I standard deviation of the population by age and sex. Data on clinical outcome sand blood glucose were collected from medical records and bed races. Descriptive and bivariate analyzes were performed; agreement between methods using the kappa coefficient and simple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between AFP, nutritional status and clinical outcomes in this population. To compare the mean blood glucose of the second cateqorization AFP, we used the ANCOVA. For all analyzes it was adopted a significance level of 5%; (p <0,05). Results: 121 patients...

Nivel de estrés y satisfacción laboral del profesional de enfermería del Servicio de Neonatología del Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal. 2013 / Level of stress and job satisfaction of the nursing professional of the Neonatology Service at the National Institute Materno Perinatal. 2013

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo; determinar el nivel de estrés y satisfacción laboral del profesional de enfermería del servicio de neonatología del INMP 2013. Material y Método: el estudio es de nivel aplicativo, tipo cuantitativo, método descriptivo de corte transversal. La población estuvo conformada por 147 profesionales de enfermería, la muestra fue de 42 enfermeras, la técnica fue la encuesta y los instrumentos aplicados el inventario de Maslach y la escala de satisfacción laboral de Sonia Palma Carrillo, aplicados previo consentimiento informado. Resultados: del 100 por ciento (42) profesionales de enfermería, 55 por ciento (23) tienen nivel de estrés medio, 24 por ciento (10) alto y 21 por ciento (9) bajo. En relación a la satisfacción laboral 45 por ciento (19) tienen satisfacción media, 29 por ciento (12) baja y 26 por ciento (11) alta. Conclusiones: El nivel de estrés de los profesionales de enfermería del servicio de neonatología del INMP, en su mayoría es de medio a alto, referido a sentirse emocionalmente agotados por el trabajo, sentirse cansados al levantarse por las mañanas y tener que enfrentar otro día en el trabajo, no tener facilidad para crear una atmósfera relajada a los pacientes, sentirse cansados al final del turno de trabajo, preocuparse de que el trabajo le este endureciendo emocionalmente, sentir que en el trabajo están al límite de sus posibilidades y sentir que no sabe tratar de forma adecuada los problemas emocionales en el trabajo. En cuanto al nivel de satisfacción laboral, la mayoría tiene un nivel de satisfacción de media a baja ya que expresan su trabajo les hace sentir realizados, la relación que tienen con sus inmediatos superiores es cordial, es buena la disposición de los jefes cuando se pide una consulta sobre su trabajo, su jefe inmediato valora el esfuerzo que hacen en su trabajo, sin embargo la remuneración económica que reciben es muy baja en relación a la labor que realizan, no se les reconoce el esfuerzo...

The present study aimed; determine the level of stress and job satisfaction of nurse neonatology service INMP 2013. Material and Methods: The study is level application, quantitative, cross-sectional method. The population consisted of 147 nurses, the sample was 42 nurses, the technique was applied survey instruments Maslach inventory and scale of job satisfaction Palma Sonia Carrillo, applied prior informed consent. Results: 100 per cent (42) nurses, 55 per cent (23) have medium level of stress, 24 per cent (10) high and 21 per cent (9) below. In relation to job satisfaction 45 per cent (19) have average satisfaction, 29 per cent (12) low and 26 per cent (11) high. Conclusions: The stress level of nurses neonatology service INMP mostly is medium to high, based on feeling emotionally exhausted from work, feeling tired when getting up in the morning and have to face another day work, not having facility to create a relaxed atmosphere for patients, feeling tired at the end of the work shift, worry that this will work harden emotionally feel at work are at the limit of its possibilities and feel he does not know adequately address the emotional issues at work in the level of job satisfaction, most satisfaction has a medium to low as they express their work makes them feel fulfilled, the relationship they have with their immediate superiors is cordial, layout is good heads when a query is asked about his work, his immediate boss appreciates the efforts made in their work, however, the economic compensation they receive is very low in relation to their work, they are not recognizes the efforts made over whether the scheduled times and feel that their job allows them happily sometimes cover their economic expectations....

Formulation techniques for nanofluids.

Fluids with suspended nanoparticles, commonly known as nanofluids, may be formulated to improve the thermal performance of industrial heat transfer systems and applications. Nanofluids may show enhanced thermal and electrical properties such as thermal conductivity, viscosity, heat transfer coefficient, dielectric strength, etc. However, stability problems may arise as nanoparticles usually have the tendency to agglomerate and sediment producing deterioration in the increment of these properties. In this review, we discuss patents that report advances in the formulation of nanofluids including: production methods, selection of components (nanoparticles, base fluid and surfactants), their chemical compositions and morphologies, and characterization techniques. Finally, current and future directions in the development of nanofluid formulation are discussed.

Evaluación del método dilución neutralización aplicado a un desinfectante según la Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007 / Assessment of the dilution-neutralization method with a disinfectant according to the Colombian Technical Norm 5473 of 2007 / Avaliação do método de diluição-neutralização aplicado num desinfectante segundo a "Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007"

Objetivo. Evaluar el método de dilución neutralización propuesto en la Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007, mediante la utilización de un desinfectante en gel a base de alcohol. Materiales y métodos. El ensayo se efectuó utilizando Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 y Enterococcus hirae ATCC 10541, como microorganismos de ensayo. Las temperaturas del estudio fueron 20±1°C como temperatura obligatoria y 36±1°C y se emplearon cuatro tiempos de contacto entre el desinfectante y los microorganismos evaluados (0, 2, 5 y 10 minutos). El método fue realizado bajo condiciones limpias (0,3 g/L de albumina de suero bovino) y sucias (3g/L de albumina de suero bovino y 3g/L de eritrocitos de oveja). Resultados. La implementación del método arrojó resultados precisos en cada una de las seis repeticiones realizadas en el ensayo. Los resultados obtenidos demostraron una reducción logarítmica superior a cinco, evidenciando la actividad bactericida ejercida por el desinfectante frente a los microorganismos control. El establecimiento de las condiciones experimentales y de la metodología demostró no incidir negativamente en el crecimiento de cada una de las cepas. Igualmente, el neutralizante utilizado no inhibió el desarrollo de los organismos de ensayo. Conclusiones. Se verificó el método mediante el cumplimiento de los límites establecidos por la norma. Los resultados sugieren que el método evaluado mediante la implementación del protocolo establecido en la Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007, permite evaluar la eficacia de un desinfectante bajo condiciones experimentales escogidas y controladas.

Objective. Evaluate the dilution-neutralization method proposed in the Colombian Technical Norm 5473/07, by using a gel, alcohol-based disinfectant. Materials and methods. This study was done using Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, and Enterococcus hirae ATCC 10541 as the assay microorganisms. The study was carried out at 20±1°C as obligatory temperature and additionally at 36±1°C. Four contact times between microorganisms and the disinfectant were evaluated (0, 2, 5 and 10 minutes). The assay was done both under clean conditions (0.3 g/L of bovine serum albumin), and unclean conditions (3 g/L of bovine serum albumin and 3g/L of sheep erythrocytes). Results. The implementation of this method produced precise results in all of the six repetitions used during the assay. The obtained results demonstrated a logarithmic reduction higher than five, demonstrating the bactericidal activity exerted by the disinfectant on the control microorganisms. The established experimental conditions and methodology did not affect negatively the growth of any of the strains of microorganisms. Similarly, the neutralizing used did not inhibit the development of the microorganisms of the assay. Conclusions. The method was verified by means of the fulfillment of the limits set by the rule. Our results suggest that the method evaluated by means of the implementation of the protocol established in the Colombian Technical Norm 5473/07, allows evaluating the effectiveness of a disinfectant under selected and controlled experimental conditions.

Objetivo. Avaliar o método de diluição-neutralização proposto na "Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007", pela utilização de um desinfectante gel à base de álcool. Materiais e métodos. O teste foi realizado utilizando Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 e Enterococcus hirae ATCC 10541, como microrganismos de ensaio. As temperaturas do estudo foram de 20 ± 1°C como temperatura requerida e 36 ± 1°C e foram utilizados quatro tempos de contacto entre o desinfectante e os microorganismos avaliados (0, 2, 5 e 10 minutos). O método foi realizado sob condições limpas (0,3 g/L de albumina sérica bovina) e sujas (3g/L de albumina sérica bovina e 3g/L de eritrócitos de carneiro). Resultados. A implementação do método produz resultados precisos sobre cada uma das seis repetições realizadas no ensaio. Os resultados mostraram uma redução logarítmica superior a cinco, o que evidencia a actividade bactericida exercida pelo desinfectante contra os microrganismos control. O estabelecimento das condições experimentais e da metodologia provou não incidir negativamente no crescimento de cada uma das cepas. Similarmente, o neutralizador utilizado não inibiu o desenvolvimento dos organismos do experimento. Conclusões. Verificou-se o método através do cumprimento dos limites estabelecidos pela norma. Os resultados sugerem que o método avaliado através da aplicação do protocolo estabelecido pela "Norma Técnica Colombiana 5473 de 2007", permite avaliar a eficácia de um desinfectante em condições experimentais seleccionadas e controladas.

Substitution of human for horse urine disproves an accusation of doping*.

In order to detect switching and/or manipulation of samples, the owner of a stallion asked our lab to perform a DNA test on a positive doping urine sample. The objective was to compare the urine DNA profile versus blood and hair DNA profiles from the same stallion. At first, 10 microsatellite markers were investigated to determine the horse identity. No results were obtained when horse specific markers were typed in the urine sample. In order to confirm the species origin of this sample we analyzed the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. This analysis from blood and hair samples produced reproducible and clear PCR-RFLP patterns and DNA sequence match with those expected for horse, while the urine sample results were coincident with human. These results allowed us to exclude the urine sample from the questioned stallion and determine its human species origin, confirming the manipulation of urine sample.

Documentación en colecciones arqueológicas de la cuenca del Lago de Valencia (Venezuela) / Documentation on archeological collections of Valencia lake basin Venezuela

El trabajo aborda el problema de la documentación de las colecciones aruqeológicas de la cuenca del Lago de Valencia (Venezuela), visto desde la Nueva Museología. Se realizó una investigación con soporte documental, de campo y descriptivo, para detectar el sistema de documentación en las distintas colecciones y determinar el aporte de la Nueva Museología en relación a las colecciones y museos arqueológicos. Se estudiaron las distintas instituciones venezolanas que albergan colecciones arqueológicas del Lago de Valencia. Se aplicaron entrevistas con guías de preguntas y observación directa en los museos. Se encontró que las colecciones están intervenidas, disgregadas, con piezas desaparecidas y desconocidas por la comunidad. Se concluye que la carencia de un sistema de documentación no permite al arqueólogo registrar adecuadamente las excavaciones, y al museólogo preservar la información provista a través de la documentación primaria y secundaria.

Características biosociales y de consumo de alcohol y otras drogas adictivas en la mujer y su pareja durante el embarazo / Biosocial characteristics, alcohol consumption, and other addictive drugs in women and their partners during pregnancy

El consumo de alcohol y otras drogas adictivas es un problema prioritario en la salud, ya que produce diversas consecuencias negativas, tanto personales como sociales, constituyendo el principal desafio para la salud pública del país. Así nace la posibilidad de realizar un estudio descriptivo con 50 embarazadas controladas en el consultorio Bellavista y 50 en el consultorio Los Castaños, en los meses de Julio y Diciembre de 1996 respectívamente, para conocer las características biosociales y de consumo de alcohol y otras drogas adictivas en la mujer y su pareja durante el embarazo. Luego de realizado dicho estudio se observó que mayormente las embarazadas en estudio, se encuentran entre los 21 a 34 años de edad, son dueñas de casa, han terminado la educación escolar y poseen vínculo legal con su pareja actual. Se detectó que un gran porcentaje de las embarazadas controladas en el consultorio Los Castaños y Bellavista consumen alcohol durante el embarazo (40 por ciento), un 26 por ciento consume tabaco, pero la totalidad de ellas indican no consumir otras drogas adictivas durante el embarazo actual. De gran importancia son estos resultados, ya que contrastan con cerca de 90 por ciento consideran el alcohol como una sustancia que causa daños al feto y al recién nacido. Así también, se pudo observar que existen diferencias entre ambos consultorios, destaca que un porcentaje más alto de embarazadas controladas en el consultorio Los Castaños consumen alcohol. No así en relación al consumo de tabaco durante el embarazo, se observan cifras similares en ambos consultorios. Dentro de las parejas de las mujeres en estudio se observa que fluctúan entre los 21 y 34 años de edad, son mayormente operarios y han terminado la educación media. En relación al consumo de alcohol, las parejas iniciaron el hábito entre los 12 y 20 años de edad consumiendo principalmente una vez por semana. El mayor porcentaje de las parejas consumen cigarrillos y ellos principalmente fuman más de cuatro por día, y por los datos entregados por la mujer en estudio se observa que no consumen otras drogas adictivas