Uso potencial de residuos agroindustriales como fuente de compuestos fenólicos con actividad biológica

Los compuestos fenólicos poseen propiedades bioactivas de interés en la Medicina. Investigaciones actuales se enfocan en la búsqueda de nuevas fuentes de este tipo de compuestos. Varios estudios se han propuesto recuperar, caracterizar e identificar compuestos fenólicos a partir de residuos agroindustriales buscando en ellos diversas actividades biológicas. La presente investigación se desarrolló con el objetivo de describir el uso potencial de residuos agroindustriales como una fuente de compuestos fenólicos con actividad biológica y su uso en la Medicina. Los residuos agroindustriales poseen un elevado potencial como novedosa fuente de compuestos fenólicos con actividad biológica, empleables en la farmacéutica, industria alimentaria y cosmética. Entre sus aplicaciones se encuentran las de antioxidante, antiinflamatorio, antimicrobiano y la actividad antiproliferativa. Varios de los residuos agroindustriales provienen de productos cultivables en Ecuador, de ahí que constituya una oportunidad a explotar en la industria nacional. Los estudios en Ecuador sobre el aprovechamiento de residuos agroindustriales se enfocan en la obtención de biocombustibles, bioplásticos y productos de alimentación animal, por lo que la búsqueda de compuestos bioactivos a partir de nuevas fuentes aún es un campo incipiente.

Phenolic compounds have bioactive properties of interest in Medicine. Current research focuses on the search for new sources of this type of compounds. Several studies have proposed recovering, characterizing and identifying phenolic compounds from agroindustrial waste, searching for various biological activities in them. The present research was developed with the objective of describing the potential use of agroindustrial waste as a source of phenolic compounds with biological activity and their use in Medicine. Agroindustrial waste has a high potential as a novel source of phenolic compounds with biological activity, which can be used in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. Among its applications are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiproliferative activity. Several of the agroindustrial waste come from cultivable products in Ecuador, hence it constitutes an opportunity to be exploited in the national industry. Studies in Ecuador on the use of agroindustrial waste focus on obtaining biofuels, bioplastics and animal feed products, so the search for bioactive compounds from new sources is still an incipient field.

[Comparison of cervical fusion with autografting of fibula vs titanium cage]. / Comparación de artrodesis cervical mediante autoinjerto de peroné frente a caja de titanio.

Background: The anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the gold standard in the treatment of cervical compression pathology and the titanium cage for fusion represents the most used procedure at an institutional level. A technique using fibular autograft has been described, with good results, lower morbidity and lower cost. Objective: To compare the rate of fusion, subsidence and functional clinical results after discectomy with titanium cage and fibular autograft. Material and methods: A clinical trial with follow-up at 3 and 6 months was carried out in patients diagnosed with cervical spondylosis, candidates for ACDF. 2 groups were formed: fibular autograft and titanium cage. Pre and post functional evaluation using the cervical disability score was made, as well as radiographic fusion and subsidence evaluation. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact test, t-test and ANOVA were obtained, establishing p < 0.05. Results: A sample of 20 patients with an average age of 56 years was obtained, finding a fusion rate of 90% for fibular autograft and 30% for titanium (p = 0.02) at 3 months. 10% of patients with fibular autograft presented subsidence and 70% with titanium cage at 3 and 6 months (p = 0.02). In the functional results was not found difference between both procedures (p = 0.874). Conclusions: The use of autologous fibular graft offers a better rate of fusion and subsidence compared to the titanium cage, as well as similar functional results at 3 months of follow-up. It represents an excellent treatment option for cervical spondylosis.

Introducción: la disectomía cervical anterior y fusión (ACDF) es el estándar de oro en el tratamiento de la patología compresiva cervical. La caja de titanio para artrodesis es el procedimiento más usado a nivel institucional. Se ha descrito una técnica con autoinjerto de peroné, con buenos resultados, menor morbilidad y menor costo. Objetivo: comparar la tasa de fusión, subsidencia y resultados clínicos funcionales posteriores a disectomía con caja de titanio y autoinjerto de peroné. Material y métodos: ensayo clínico con seguimiento a tres y seis meses en pacientes con diagnóstico de espondilosis cervical, candidatos a ACDF. Se formaron dos grupos: autoinjerto de peroné y caja de titanio. Se hizo evaluación funcional antes y después mediante la escala de discapacidad cervical, y evaluación de fusión y subsidencia radiográficas. Se usó estadística descriptiva, prueba exacta de Fisher, prueba t y ANOVA, estableciendo una p < 0.05. Resultados: se obtuvo una muestra de 20 pacientes con promedio de 56 años; hubo una tasa de fusión del 90% para autoinjerto de peroné y 30% para titanio (p = 0.02) a los tres meses. De los pacientes con autoinjerto de peroné, 10% presentaron subsidencia y un 70% con caja de titanio a los tres y seis meses (p = 0.02). No se encontró diferencia en los resultados funcionales a tres y seis meses de ambos procedimientos. Conclusiones: el uso de injerto autólogo de peroné ofrece mejor tasa de fusión y subsidencia en comparación con la caja de titanio, así como resultados funcionales similares a los tres meses. Es una excelente opción para tratar la espondilosis cervical.

Estimation of Reference Evapotranspiration in a Semi-Arid Region of Mexico.

Reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is the first step in calculating crop irrigation demand, and numerous methods have been proposed to estimate this parameter. FAO-56 Penman-Monteith (PM) is the only standard method for defining and calculating ET0. However, it requires radiation, air temperature, atmospheric humidity, and wind speed data, limiting its application in regions where these data are unavailable; therefore, new alternatives are required. This study compared the accuracy of ET0 calculated with the Blaney-Criddle (BC) and Hargreaves-Samani (HS) methods versus PM using information from an automated weather station (AWS) and the NASA-POWER platform (NP) for different periods. The information collected corresponds to Module XII of the Lagunera Region Irrigation District 017, a semi-arid region in the North of Mexico. The HS method underestimated the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) by 5.5% compared to the PM method considering the total ET0 of the study period (26 February to 9 August 2021) and yielded the best fit in the different evaluation periods (daily, 5-day mean, and 5-day cumulative); the latter showed the best values of inferential parameters. The information about maximum and minimum temperatures from the NP platform was suitable for estimating ET0 using the HS equation. This data source is a suitable alternative, particularly in semi-arid regions with limited climatological data from weather stations.

Variants in the Control Region of Mitochondrial Genome Associated with type 2 Diabetes in a Cohort of Mexican Mestizos.

BACKGROUND: According to the International Diabetes Federation, Mexico is seventh place in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) worldwide. Mitochondrial DNA variant association studies in multifactorial diseases like T2D are scarce in Mexican populations. AIM OF THE STUDY: The objective of this study was to analyze the association between 18 variants in the mtDNA control region and T2D and related metabolic traits in a Mexican mestizo population from Mexico City. METHODS: This study included 1001 participants divided into 477 cases with T2D and 524 healthy controls aged between 42 and 62 years and 18 mtDNA variants with frequencies >15%. RESULTS: Association analyses matched by age and sex showed differences in the distribution between cases and controls for variants m.315_316insC (p = 1.18 × 10-6), m.489T>C (p = 0.009), m.16362T>C (p = 0.001), and m.16519T>C (p = 0.004). The associations between T2D and variants m.315_316ins (OR = 6.13, CI = 3.42-10.97, p = 1.97 × 10-6), m.489T>C (OR = 1.45, CI = 1.00-2.11, p = 0.006), m.16362T>C (OR = 2.17, CI = 1.57-3.00, p = 0.001), and m.16519T>C (OR = 1.69, CI = 1.23-2.33, p = 0.006) were significant after performing logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, and diastolic blood pressure. Metabolic traits in the control group through linear regressions, adjusted for age, sex and BMI, and corrected for multiple comparisons showed nominal association between glucose and variants m.263A>G (p <0.050), m.16183A>C (p <0.010), m.16189T>C (p <0.020), and m.16223C>T (p <0.024); triglycerides, and cholesterol and variant m.309_310insC (p <0.010 and p <0.050 respectively); urea, and creatinine, and variant m.315_316insC (p <0.007, and p <0.004 respectively); diastolic blood pressure and variants m.235A>G (p <0.016), m.263A>G (p <0.013), m.315_316insC (p <0.043), and m.16111C>T (p <0.022). CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate a strong association between variant m.315_316insC and T2D and a nominal association with T2D traits.

Microsatellite Loci of the Atlantic Horseshoe Crab (Limulus polyphemus) Reveal Inter-Localities Genetic Diversity in the Coastal Waters of the Eastern and Northern Yucatan Peninsula.

The American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) is an economically and ecologically important species, which is currently categorized as endangered in Mexico. L. polyphemus, one of four extant horseshoe crab species that constitute the class Merostomata, is distributed along the Atlantic coastline of the USA from Alabama to Maine and has another population on the coastline of Campeche, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. In the present study, we evaluated the genetic diversity and genetic structure of four separated localities along the coast of the Yucatan peninsula (Champoton, CH; Isla Arena, IA; Rio Lagartos, RL; and Holbox Island, HI), using nine microsatellite-type molecular markers for this species. The aim of this study is to obtain a baseline of the current level of genetic diversity, which would allow the monitoring of important changes over time. Multilocus analyses revealed moderate levels of genetic diversity (He, 0.5230 to 0.6389) and genetic structure within the whole study area (FST 0.025). The population from RL showed limited gene flows, differing significantly from the other sampling sites. The genetic information obtained in this study can support the implementation of management and conservation programs for this species in Mexico.

Infective endocarditis: 10-year experience in a non-cardiovascular center.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infection with a poor prognosis, and an associated in-hospital mortality of at least 25%. Optimal therapy of IE requires long-term effective antibiotic therapy and valve surgery in many cases. The aim of this study was to review the demographics, bacteriology, and outcomes of patients with IE admitted to a tertiary referral center in Mexico City, over a 10-year period. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of patients admitted at Instituto Nacional Salvador Zubiran with a new diagnosis of IE over a 10-year period, from January 2009 to January 2019. Patients who met the definition for definitive diagnosis of infective endocarditis according to the modified Duke criteria were included in the study. RESULTS: There were 62 patients (50.85 ± 17.46 years, 40.3% females) with IE. The culprit microorganism was identified in all cases, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most frequently found (34%). Valve surgery was performed in 58.1%, while 41.9% only received medical treatment. The mortality rate was 25.8% at 30 days and 41.9% at 12 months. Comparing the surgical and medical treatment groups, we found that 50% and 36% in each group, respectively, had died within 12 months of admission. CONCLUSIONS: Our center has a high prevalence of health care-associated endocarditis, mostly related to the presence of intravascular access devices. Most of the patients had a surgical indication. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and decreased right ventricular systolic function had an increased mortality rate at 12 months.

Antecedentes y objetivo: La endocarditis infecciosa (EI) es una infección de mal pronóstico, con una mortalidad intrahospitalaria que va del 15-20%. La terapia óptima requiere antibioticoterapia efectiva por tiempo prolongado y cirugía valvular en algunos casos. El objetivo de este estudio fue revisar la epidemiología y desenlaces de pacientes con EI en un centro de referencia en la Ciudad de México. Métodos: Cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes admitidos al Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán con diagnóstico de EI en un periodo de 10 años, de enero de 2009 a enero de 2019. Se incluyeron a pacientes que cumplían la definición de diagnóstico definitivo de endocarditis infecciosa de acuerdo a los criterios modificados de Duke. Resultados: Se incluyeron a 62 pacientes (50.85 ± 17.46 años, 40.3% mujeres). Todos los casos tuvieron cultivos positivos, siendo S. aureus el microorganismo más frecuente (34%). El 58.1% de los pacientes recibió tratamiento quirúrgico y 41.9% recibió únicamente tratamiento médico. La mortalidad a 30 días fue de 25.8% y a 12 meses fue de 41.9%. Comparando los grupos de tratamiento médico y quirúrgico, se encontró que 50% y 36% de cada grupo, respectivamente, habían fallecido a los 12 meses. Conclusiones: Encontramos una alta prevalencia de EI asociada a los cuidados de la salud, principalmente en relación a accesos intravasculares. Casi todos los pacientes presentaban un criterio quirúrgico al momento del diagnóstico. Los pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y función sistólica del ventrículo derecho disminuida presentaron una mayor mortalidad a 12 meses.

"V-Reverse" Suturing Technique for Tunnel Soft Tissue Graft and Flap Stabilization: Technique Illustration.

INTRODUCTION: In periodontal and peri-implant plastic procedures, proper stabilization of the graft and the flap plays a crucial role in the outcomes. While the coronally advanced flap allows for better access with the possibility of suturing the graft to the periosteum and the de-epithelialized papillae, there is little evidence regarding what is the best approach in stabilizing the graft and the flap when performing the tunnel techniques (TUN). The purpose of this technical note is to describe a new suturing technique "V-reverse" for stabilization of the graft and the flap during a TUN procedure. CASE PRESENTATION: The V-reverse suturing technique was used to enhance the stabilization of the graft and the flap during root coverage procedures, papilla augmentation, and immediate implant placement. Other advantages of this technique include reduced flap and graft micromotion; simple, easy, and fast procedure; and high patient compliance. CONCLUSIONS: The present article describes three main clinical scenarios in which V-reverse suturing technique is used to stabilize TUN + connective tissue graft for root coverage procedures, papilla augmentation, and immediate implant placement.

Dataset on the epidemiology and genetic diversification of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes in Mexico.

Dengue virus (DENV) evolution has had a significant impact on disease pathogenesis, virulence, and epidemiology in Mexico. Novel genotypic variation in DENV serotypes and genotypes may influence the magnitude and severity of dengue epidemics, as evidenced by 2009 data from Veracruz State. The data presented herein is related to the publication entitled "Epidemiological Implications of the Genetic Diversification of Dengue Virus (DENV) Serotypes and Genotypes in Mexico" [1]. Raw data and trees provide epidemiological data on DENV prevalence and a comprehensive phylogeny of both representative sequences collected from an NCBI repository, and 28 additional isolates from acute-phase plasma samples diagnosed with dengue fever or severe dengue (Raw sequencing data is hosted in the public repository Mendeley Data (http://dx.doi.org/10.17632/bf2kdhhf6x.2). Phylogenetic trees for each DENV serotype (DENV-1, -2, -3 and -4) were constructed using these sequences by a maximum likelihood methodology as well as a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) integration approach. Phylogenetic trees exhibited: (1) DENV-1, genotype V, (2) the DENV-2 Asian/American and Asian II genotypes, (3) DENV-3, genotype III, and (4) DENV-4, genotype I. This data can be beneficial for future analyses on DENV serotype and genotype structure and the introduction of novel DENV genotype sequences in the Americas, for the further elucidation of dengue etiology.

Epidemiological implications of the genetic diversification of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes in Mexico.

Variation and clade shifts in dengue virus (DENV) genotypes are responsible for numerous dengue fever outbreaks throughout Latin America in the past decade. Molecular analyses of dengue serotypes have revealed extensive genetic diversification and the emergence of new genotypes in Brazil (DENV-4 genotype I) and elsewhere in tropical and subtropical America. The goal of the present study is to assess the extent to which the adventitious introduction of DENV genotypes and their increasing genetic diversity affects dengue epidemiology in Mexico. A nuanced sequence inspection and phylogenetic analysis of the C-prM nucleotide region of DENV was performed for specimens collecting in 2009 from the Veracruz State, Mexico. Findings were contrasted with specimens collected in adjacent years and analysed based on the epidemiological patterns reported between 1990 and 2019. Additionally, the identification process of various DENV genotypes was assessed, including: (1) DENV-1, genotype V, (2) the DENV-2 Asian/American and Asian II genotypes (3) DENV-3, genotype III, and (4) DENV-4, genotype I. This resulted in the discovery of a distinct genetic cladistic pattern for serotype DENV-2. Lastly, study findings suggest that a correlation exists between the emergence of novel genotypes and genetic diversification, with the increasing incidence of DENV infections in Mexico in 2009.

Effect of extrafine formulation of BDP/FF inhaler on asthma control, small airway function and airway inflammation among Mexican asthmatic patients. A retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Asthma, an inflammatory disease affecting more than 300 million patients in the world. Small airways are by far bigger than the large airway's one and constitutes the area most affected by asthma. Reaching the small airways represents a challenge for treatments because of the dimensions and structure of the bronchial lumen. Inhaled extrafine (ExF) combinations are needed to reach and treat them. This study aimed to assess the effect of extrafine Beclometasone dipropionate/Formoterol fumarate (BDP/FF) in the control of symptoms, lung function and lung inflammation in patients with asthma. METHODS: Retrospective study, carried out in 62 Mexican patients diagnosed with asthma and treated with two inhalations twice daily of ExF BDP/FF 100/6 µg (via pMDI) and with an Asthma Control Test (ACT) score ≤19 points. Moreover, from patient's files, we analysed ACT score, Impulse Oscillometry (IOS) and Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) both from their first consultation (baseline) and after one month of therapy. RESULTS: BDP/FF 100/6 µg ExF showed that ACT, 79% of patients achieved control of disease (ACT ≥ 20 points) and 14.5% of patients achieved total control of the disease (ACT = 25 points); Oscillometry values R5- R20 diminished by 41%, X5 by 18.1% and AX by 56.5% and FeNO decreased by 52% after one month of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: BDP/FF 100/6 µg extrafine improved asthma control after one month of treatment, and this was sustained for 3 months. Likewise, both the lung function, measured by IOS and inflammatory state, measured by FeNO, also significantly improved.

Bioaccumulation of Metals in Cultured Carp (Cyprinus carpio) from Lake Chapala, Mexico.

Chapala, the largest lake in Mexico, has a great potential for aquaculture and a community of some 2500 fishermen who are interested in this activity. However, diverse reports over the past two decades suggest that the fish there are contaminated with heavy metals, raising concern among consumers. Although more recent scientific studies have clarified that the metal content in the edible parts of fish is below allowable limits, the negative perception persists. The present study, therefore, was designed to evaluate the bioaccumulation of the metals Cu, Zn, Pb, As, and Cd in organs such as the muscles, liver, and gills of carp (Cyprinus carpio) cultured in Lake Chapala, and compared the results to fish cultured in a pond. Results after 473 days of monitoring showed that metal bioaccumulation in the muscles of the carp increased by 1.71, 0.50, and 12.36 µg/kg for Cu, Cd, and Pb, respectively, but Zn and As levels decreased by 7.84 and 131.7 µg/kg, respectively. The livers showed concentrations one or two times higher than the muscles in the case of Pb, Cu, Zn, and Cd. According to these results, the metal concentrations in the edible parts of these fish were below international standards for human consumption, and no significant differences were found between the bioaccumulation patterns in the muscles and livers of the carp cultured in the lake and those raised in the pond, except for Cd and Pb in the liver. Finally, no correlations were found between metal concentrations in the fish and lake sediments.

Whole sequence of the mitochondrial DNA genome of Kearns Sayre Syndrome patients: Identification of deletions and variants.

Mitochondria both produce the energy of the cell as ATP via respiration and regulate cellular metabolism. Accordingly, any deletion or mutation in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) may result in a disease. One of these diseases is Kearns Sayre syndrome (KSS), described for the first time in 1958, where different large-scale deletions of different sizes and at different positions have been reported in the mitochondrial genome of patients with similar clinical symptoms. In this study, sequences of the mitochondrial genome of three patients with clinic features of KSS were analyzed. Our results revealed the position, heteroplasmy percentage, size of deletions, and their haplogroups. Two patients contained deletions reported previously and one patient showed a new deletion not reported previously. These results display for the first time a systematic analysis of mtDNA variants in the whole mtDNA genome of patients with KSS to help to understand their association with the disease.

Abnormal Cardiovascular Findings in Acute Pancreatitis: Are They Associated with Disease Severity?

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis (AP), a disease that commonly requires in-hospital treatment, has been associated with a high incidence of abnormal cardiovascular findings (ACFs). We conducted a prospective study to explore the association of these findings with severity of the disease. METHODS: Adult patients with AP diagnosis were prospectively enrolled in an observational study during an 8-month period in a tertiary care center. AP and its severity were defined according to the Revised Atlanta Classification of AP. Subjects were submitted to electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and serologic testing during the acute period and a 3-month follow-up. The incidence of ACF was compared between two groups: (1) Mild and (2) moderate/severe cases. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients (mean age 48 ± 17 years) with AP were enrolled; 15 (55%) had mild and 12 (45%) had moderate/severe AP. During the acute episode, 67% had increased pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels; 52% had abnormal electrocardiographic findings; 48% had abnormal echocardiographic findings; and 18% had increased troponin I levels. There was no significant difference in the incidence of ACF between mild and moderate/severe groups. Nineteen patients (70%) had repeated follow-up testing, and most of the initial ACF did not persist. CONCLUSION: ACFs occur in an important proportion of patients during AP episodes. Future research should continue to focus in the association of ACFs and the severity of the disease.

HLA-Matched Donor-Recipient Combinations and Kidney Transplant Probabilities in a Specific Colombian Population / Compatibilidad HLA donante-receptor y probabilidades de trasplante renal en una población colombiana / Compatibilidade HLA doador-receptor e probabilidades de transplante renal em uma população colombiana

Introduction: In Colombia, despite the fact that kidney transplants are the most common type of transplant surgery, a great number of transplanted patients do not achieve the desired Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) compatibility. HLA compatibility plays an important role in graft survival; patients with matched-HLA have a lower chance of graft-versus-host disease and graft rejection. Objective: To determine the probability of finding an HLA-matched donor-recipient pairs according to HLA−A, −B and −DRB1 frequencies in a specific Colombian population. Materials and methods: The study included a total of 484 unrelated individuals (61 donors and 423 recipients) from the HLA registry. HLA alleles were determined by polymerase chain reaction sequence with specific indicators. Results: HLA-A*02, -A*24, -B*35 and -DRB1*04 alleles showed the highest minimum allele frequency (>10%). In addition, HLA-A*24-B*35-DRB1*04 was the most frequent extended haplotype in both donors and recipients (7.38% and 6.76%, respectively). Our experimental evidence showed that the maximum chance of finding at least one HLA allele-matched kidney is 20.3% for a patient with the most frequent extended haplotype, whereas for patients with rare or non-common haplotypes this probability is rather unlikely. Discussion: In terms of probability, the chance of finding an HLA matched kidney donor/recipients in our region is low. This is due, at least in part, to the higher number of alleles and a the lower donation rate. Therefore, to define the HLA profile of a population is important for establishing transplantation programs and alternative strategies in the kidney donation and allocation processes.

Introducción: en Colombia, el trasplante renal es el más común, sin embargo, un gran número de personas trasplantadas no tiene la compatibilidad HLA deseada. Esta compatibilidad es importante en la supervivencia del trasplante; pacientes con HLA-compatible tienen un menor chance de rechazo o desarrollo de la enfermedad injerto frente a hospedero. Objetivo: determinar la probabilidad de encontrar compatibilidad HLA receptor-donante acorde con las frecuencias en población colombiana de HLA−A, −B y −DRB1. Materiales y métodos: el estudio incluyó 484 individuos no relacionados (61 donantes y 423 receptores) con registro de HLA. Los alelos HLA fueron determinados por reacción en cadena de la polimerasa con iniciadores específicos. Resultados: los alelos HLA-A*02, -A*24, -B*35 y -DRB1*04 tuvieron la frecuencia alélica mínima más alta (>10%). El alelo extendido HLA-A*24-B*35-DRB1*04 fue el más frecuente, en donantes y receptores (7,38% y 6,76%, respectivamente). Nuestro análisis mostró que el máximo chance de encontrar un riñón con un alelo HLA compatible es de 20,3% para un paciente con el haplotipo extendido más frecuente, mientras para pacientes con haplotipos raros o no comunes esta probabilidad es mínima. Conclusión: en términos de probabilidad, el chance de encontrar en nuestra región, un riñón con compatibilidad HLA entre donante/receptor es baja. Por lo menos, en parte, es debido al alto número de alelos y a la baja tasa de donación. Por lo tanto, determinar el perfil de HLA de una población es importante para establecer programas de trasplante y estrategias alternativas en donación de riñones y procesos de asignación.

Introdução: Na Colômbia, o transplante renal é o mais comum, no entanto, um grande número de pessoas transplantadas não tem a compatibilidade HLA desejada. Esta compatibilidade é importante na supervivência do transplante; pacientes com HLA-compatível têm uma menor chance de rejeição ou desenvolvimento da enfermidade enxerto versus hospedeiro. Objetivo: determinar a probabilidade de encontrar compatibilidade HLA receptor-doador conforme às frequências em população colombiana de HLA-A, -B e -DRB1. Materiais e métodos: O estudo incluiu 484 indivíduos não relacionados (61 doadores e 423 receptores) com registro de HLA. Os alelos HLA-A*02, -A*24, -B*35 e -DRB1*04 tiveram a frequência alélica mínima mais alta (>10%). Resultados: O alelo estendido HLA-A*24-B*35-DRB1*04 foi o mais frequente, em doadores e receptores (7,38% e 6,76%, respectivamente). Nossa análise mostrou que a máxima chance de encontrar um rim com um alelo HLA compatível é de 20,3% para um paciente com o haplótipo estendido mais frequente, enquanto para pacientes com haplótipos raros ou não comuns esta probabilidade é mínima. Conclusões: em termos de probabilidade, a chance de encontrar em nossa região, um rim com compatibilidade HLA entre doador/receptor é baixa. Pelo menos em parte, é devido ao alto número de alelos e à baixa taxa de doação. Pelo tanto, determinar o perfil de HLA de uma população é importante para estabelecer programas de transplante e estratégias alternativas em doação de rins e processos de atribuição.

Genetic Affiliation of Pre-Hispanic and Contemporary Mayas Through Maternal Linage.

Maya civilization developed in Mesoamerica and encompassed the Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala, Belize, part of the Mexican states of Tabasco and Chiapas, and the western parts of Honduras and El Salvador. This civilization persisted approximately 3,000 years and was one of the most advanced of its time, possessing the only known full writing system at the time, as well as art, sophisticated architecture, and mathematical and astronomical systems. This civilization reached the apex of its power and influence during the Preclassic period, from 2000 BCE to 250 CE. Genetic variation in the pre-Hispanic Mayas from archaeological sites in the Mexican states of Yucatan, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, and Tabasco and their relationship with the contemporary communities in these regions have not been previously studied. Consequently, the principal aim of this study was to determine mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation in the pre-Hispanic Maya population and to assess the relationship of these individuals with contemporary Mesoamerican Maya and populations from Asia, Beringia, and North, Central, and South America. Our results revealed interactions and gene flow between populations in the different archaeological sites assessed in this study. The mtDNA haplogroup frequency in the pre-Hispanic Maya population (60.53%, 34.21%, and 5.26% for haplogroups A, C, and D, respectively) was similar to that of most Mexican and Guatemalan Maya populations, with haplogroup A exhibiting the highest frequency. Haplogroup B most likely arrived independently and mixed with populations carrying haplogroups A and C based on its absence in the pre-Hispanic Mexican Maya populations and low frequencies in most Mexican and Guatemalan Maya populations, although this also may be due to drift. Maya and Ciboneys sharing haplotype H10 belonged to haplogroup C1 and haplotype H4 of haplogroup D, suggesting shared regional haplotypes. This may indicate a shared genetic ancestry, suggesting more regional interaction between populations in the circum-Caribbean region than previously demonstrated. Haplotype sharing between the pre-Hispanic Maya and the indigenous populations from Asia, the Aleutian Islands, and North, Central, and South America provides evidence for gene flow from the ancestral Amerindian population of the pre-Hispanic Maya to Central and South America.

Lack of autoantibody induction by mercury exposure in artisanal gold mining settings in Colombia: Findings and a review of the epidemiology literature.

Mercury (Hg) has been implicated as an immunotoxicant in experimental animal models, but its role in the induction of human autoimmunity remains unclear due to contradictory findings. Therefore, it has been claimed that it is important to examine other populations in order to clarify the role of Hg in these diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate whether occupational Hg exposure due to artisanal gold mining is associated with the prevalence of autoimmune biomarkers. A cross-sectional study was conducted comparing Hg-exposed gold miners (n = 164) with a control population (n = 127). Hair, blood, and 24-h urine samples were collected for measures of Hg levels, as well as of anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) and rheumatoid factor (RF). Participants were clinically evaluated by a general practice physician, a rheumatologist, and a toxicologist. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) were found between Hg-exposed and non-exposed groups for all Hg biomarkers tested: blood (7.03 versus 2.46 µg Hg/L), urine (3.96 versus 1.48 µg Hg/g creatinine), and hair (0.79 versus 0.39 µg Hg/g). No difference was observed in ANA (cut-off titre of 1:80; PR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.45-1.90) and RF (cut-off = 30 IU/mL; PR = 0.062, 95% CI = 0.03-1.08) status between the groups. In conclusion, the findings here do not support the hypothesis that Hg exposure due to artisanal gold mining activities had a significant impact on autoantibodies as biomarkers of autoimmune diseases. In a review context, the epidemiological findings were interpreted in light of the conflicting data in the literature about how Hg exposure was linked to development of autoantibodies. Validation of these findings in prospective studies is needed to firmly establish the role of Hg in development of autoimmunity in human populations.

Monitoring and control interface based on virtual sensors.

In this article, a toolbox based on a monitoring and control interface (MCI) is presented and applied in a heat exchanger. The MCI was programed in order to realize sensor fault detection and isolation and fault tolerance using virtual sensors. The virtual sensors were designed from model-based high-gain observers. To develop the control task, different kinds of control laws were included in the monitoring and control interface. These control laws are PID, MPC and a non-linear model-based control law. The MCI helps to maintain the heat exchanger under operation, even if a temperature outlet sensor fault occurs; in the case of outlet temperature sensor failure, the MCI will display an alarm. The monitoring and control interface is used as a practical tool to support electronic engineering students with heat transfer and control concepts to be applied in a double-pipe heat exchanger pilot plant. The method aims to teach the students through the observation and manipulation of the main variables of the process and by the interaction with the monitoring and control interface (MCI) developed in LabVIEW©. The MCI provides the electronic engineering students with the knowledge of heat exchanger behavior, since the interface is provided with a thermodynamic model that approximates the temperatures and the physical properties of the fluid (density and heat capacity). An advantage of the interface is the easy manipulation of the actuator for an automatic or manual operation. Another advantage of the monitoring and control interface is that all algorithms can be manipulated and modified by the users.

A DNA microarray-based assay to detect dual infection with two dengue virus serotypes.

Here; we have described and tested a microarray based-method for the screening of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes. This DNA microarray assay is specific and sensitive and can detect dual infections with two dengue virus serotypes and single-serotype infections. Other methodologies may underestimate samples containing more than one serotype. This technology can be used to discriminate between the four DENV serotypes. Single-stranded DNA targets were covalently attached to glass slides and hybridised with specific labelled probes. DENV isolates and dengue samples were used to evaluate microarray performance. Our results demonstrate that the probes hybridized specifically to DENV serotypes; with no detection of unspecific signals. This finding provides evidence that specific probes can effectively identify single and double infections in DENV samples.

Mercury concentrations in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Lake Chapala, Mexico: a lakewide survey.

Previous studies, based on limited data, found elevated levels of mercury in carp in Lake Chapala, Mexico. The extent of mercury contamination in carp throughout the Lake has not been determined. In order to obtain reliable information about total mercury concentration in carp (Cyprinus carpio), 262 fish from 27 sites (approximately 10 fish per site) throughout the lake were analyzed. Results were expressed as the mean and median of the results at each site. Only one of the samples exceeded Mexican National Standard (1.0 ppm) for mercury in fish flesh. We discuss these results in comparison to World Health Organization (WHO), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) criteria; many of our samples exceed these criteria based on Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) or Reference Dose (RfD). ANOVA of four groups of mercury results clustered by distance from the Lerma showed statistically significant differences (P = 0.0071) between the group closest to, versus farthest from, the Lerma River.

Gene flow pattern among Aedes aegypti populations in Mexico.

Patterns of gene flow vary greatly among Aedes aegypti populations throughout Mexico. The populations are panmictic along the Pacific coast, isolated by distance in northeast Mexico, and exhibit moderate gene flow across the Yucatan peninsula. Nine Ae. aegypti collections from 6 cities in Oaxaca, Mexico, were taken to examine the local patterns of gene flow. Genetic variation was examined in a 387-bp region of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 4 mitochondrial gene (ND4) using single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis, and 3 haplotypes were detected. Cluster analysis on the linearized FST genetic distances failed to group collections in geographic proximity. Regression analysis of linear or road distances on linearized F(ST) indicated that proximal collections were as diverse as distant collections across an approximately 800-km range. The geographical distribution of the Mexican mosquito haplotype frequencies was determined for the ND4 sequences from 524 individuals from Oaxaca (this study) and 2,043 individuals from our previous studies. Herein, we report on yet another pattern dominated by genetic drift among 9 Ae. aegypti collections from 6 cities in Oaxaca, Mexico, and compare it to those reported in other regions of Mexico. Molecular analysis of variance showed that there was as much genetic variation among collections 4 km apart as there was among all collections. The numbers of haplotypes and the amount of genetic diversity among the collections from Oaxaca were much lower than detected in previous studies in other regions of Mexico and may reflect the effects of control efforts or adaptations to the altitudinal limits (1,500 m) of the species in Mexico. The geographical distribution of mosquito haplotypes in Mexico is also reported. Furthermore, based on the distribution of the mosquito haplotypes in America, we suggest that mosquito dispersion is very efficient, most likely due to commercial transportation.