SERS study on the aggregation mechanisms resulting from the orientation of dipyridinic derivatives on gold nanoparticles.

In this work, was studied the adsorption and orientation of three dipyridinic derivatives 9,10-bis-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)anthracene (DPAC), 1,4-bis-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)naphthalene (DPNA-T) and 2,6-bis-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)naphthalene (DPNA-L) on gold nanoparticles, using Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS). Systematic modification in the shapes of the bifunctional systems (Cross-shape, T-shape and Linear-shape) shows changes significant in the preferential orientation of these analytes on the nanostructured gold surface. Additional data from UV-vis measurements and TEM images are in agreement with the Reaction Limited Colloid Aggregation (RLCA) mechanisms for DPAC and DPNA-T and Diffusion Limited Colloid Aggregation (DLCA) mechanisms for DPNA-L, showing that for the same analyte concentration, the aggregation mechanism depends on the molecular shape. These results allow us to rationalize the fundamental aspects involved in the development of devices based on plasmonic resonance with potential applications in the field of molecular electronics.

Variante patogénica en el gen PCDH19 en una paciente con epilepsia y discapacidad cognitiva / Pathogenic variant in the PCDH19 gene in a patient with epilepsy and cognitive disability

INTRODUCCIÓN: La asociación de casos familiares de epilepsia y discapacidad intelectual (DI) en mujeres fue reportada en 1971. El año 2008, se identificó el rol de variantes patogénicas del gen PCDH19 en algunas familias. La enfermedad se presenta con crisis febriles en cluster, DI y rasgos autistas. La mayoría se debe a variantes de novo, pero hay algunos casos heredados por un modo peculiar de transmisión ligada X. OBJETIVO: Comunicar el caso de una paciente con epilepsia portadora de una variante patogénica en el gen PCDH1 9, revisando la historia natural de la enfermedad y la evidencia disponible para su manejo. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente femenina, con antecedentes de embarazo y período perinatal normal. A los 6 meses, estando febril, presentó crisis focales motoras en cluster que repitieron a los 14, 18, 21 meses y 3 años siempre asociadas a fiebre, presentando incluso estatus epiléptico. Mantiene biterapia con topiramato y ácido valproico, completando 13 años sin crisis. El estudio del gen SCN1A no mostró anomalías y el estudio del gen PCDH19 reveló una variante patogénica en heterocigosis, "de novo". La paciente ha evolucionado con DI y alteraciones conductuales severas que requieren aten ción de salud mental. CONCLUSIONES: Las variantes patogénicas PCDH19 tienen expresión fenotípica variada. El diagnóstico genético debe sospecharse con la clínica. La morbilidad psiquiátrica a largo plazo puede ser incapacitante.

INTRODUCTION: The association of family cases of epilepsy and intellectual disability in women was reported in 1971. In 2008, the role of pathogenic variants of the PCDH19 gene in some families were identified. The disease presents with febrile seizure clusters, intellectual disability, and autistic features. Most cases are due to de novo variants, however, there are some inherited cases, with an atypical way of X-linked transmission. OBJECTIVE: To report the case of a patient with epilepsy carrier of a pathogenic variant of the PCDH19 gene, reviewing the natural history of this condition and the available evidence for its management. CLINICAL CASE: Female patient, with normal history of pregnancy and perinatal period. At 6 months, while febrile, she presented focal motor seizure clusters that repeated at 14, 18, 21 months and 3 years old, always associated with fever, even presenting status epilepticus. She is on therapy with topiramate and valproic acid, achieving 13 seizure-free years. The analysis of the SCN1A gene showed no abnormalities and the study of the PCDH19 gene revealed a de novo heterozygous pathogenic variant. The patient evolved with intellectual disability and severe behavioral disorders that require mental health team support. CONCLUSIONS: PCDH19 pathogenic variants have varied phenotypic expression. The genetic diagnosis should be guided with the clinical features. Long-term psychiatric morbidity can be disabling.

Pathogenic variant in the PCDH19 gene in a patient with epilepsy and cognitive disability. / Variante patogénica en el gen PCDH19 en una paciente con epilepsia y discapacidad cognitiva.

INTRODUCTION: The association of family cases of epilepsy and intellectual disability in women was reported in 1971. In 2008, the role of pathogenic variants of the PCDH19 gene in some families were identified. The disease presents with febrile seizure clusters, intellectual disability, and autistic features. Most cases are due to de novo variants, however, there are some inherited cases, with an atypical way of X-linked transmission. OBJECTIVE: To report the case of a patient with epilepsy carrier of a pathogenic variant of the PCDH19 gene, reviewing the natural history of this condition and the available evidence for its management. CLINICAL CASE: Female patient, with normal history of pregnancy and perinatal period. At 6 months, while febrile, she presented focal motor seizure clusters that repeated at 14, 18, 21 months and 3 years old, always associated with fever, even presenting status epilepticus. She is on therapy with topiramate and valproic acid, achieving 13 seizure-free years. The analysis of the SCN1A gene showed no abnormalities and the study of the PCDH19 gene revealed a de novo heterozygous pathogenic variant. The patient evolved with intellectual disability and severe behavioral disorders that require mental health team support. CONCLUSIONS: PCDH19 pathogenic variants have varied phenotypic expression. The genetic diagnosis should be guided with the clinical features. Long-term psychiatric morbidity can be disabling.

Aerobic Exercise Training and Nontraditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Hemodialysis Patients: Results from a Prospective Randomized Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have a high incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) which increases their morbidity and mortality. A sedentary lifestyle in CKD is directly linked to the onset of CVD. Physical activity can bring beneficial effects to CKD patients. AIMS: The aim of this study was assess the impact of aerobic training on nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors in CKD patients on hemodialysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective, controlled, and randomized clinical trial with analysis of intention to treat. Thirty patients underwent an exercise treadmill test, an arterial stiffness evaluation, echocardiography and analysis of endothelial reactivity, and carotid ultrasound and laboratorial tests, including analysis of serum aldosterone. The intervention group (IG) (n =15) underwent aerobic exercise during hemodialysis 3 times a week for 4 months. The control group (CG) (n =15) had no intervention. All of the patients were reassessed after 4 months. RESULTS: In the IG, there was a statistically significant improvement in flow-mediated vasodilation (FMV; p = 0.002) and a reduction in left ventricular hypertrophy (p = 0.006) and serum aldosterone (p = 0.016). There was an increase in C-reactive protein in the CG (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: This aerobic training protocol was able to improve endothelial function with enhanced FMV and reduce left ventricular hypertrophy and serum aldosterone, which could have a positive impact on the reduction of nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors in CKD patients on hemodialysis.

EOMES interacts with RUNX3 and BRG1 to promote innate memory cell formation through epigenetic reprogramming.

Memory CD8+ T cells have the ability to provide lifelong immunity against pathogens. Although memory features generally arise after challenge with a foreign antigen, naïve CD8 single positive (SP) thymocytes may acquire phenotypic and functional characteristics of memory cells in response to cytokines such as interleukin-4. This process is associated with the induction of the T-box transcription factor Eomesodermin (EOMES). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain ill-defined. Using epigenomic profiling, we show that these innate memory CD8SP cells acquire only a portion of the active enhancer repertoire of conventional memory cells. This reprograming is secondary to EOMES recruitment, mostly to RUNX3-bound enhancers. Furthermore, EOMES is found within chromatin-associated complexes containing BRG1 and promotes the recruitment of this chromatin remodelling factor. Also, the in vivo acquisition of EOMES-dependent program is BRG1-dependent. In conclusion, our results support a strong epigenetic basis for the EOMES-driven establishment of CD8+ T cell innate memory program.

1,2-Dihydroxyxanthone: Effect on A375-C5 Melanoma Cell Growth Associated with Interference with THP-1 Human Macrophage Activity.

Xanthones have been suggested as prospective candidates for cancer treatment. 1,2- dihydroxyxanthone (1,2-DHX) is known to interfere with the growth of several cancer cell lines. We investigated the effects of 1,2-DHX on the growth of the A375-C5 melanoma cell line and THP-1 human macrophage activity. 1,2-DHX showed a moderate growth inhibition of A375-C5 melanoma cells (concentration that causes a 50% inhibition of cell growth (GI50) = 55.0 ± 2.3 µM), but strongly interfered with THP-1 human macrophage activity. Supernatants from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated THP-1 macrophage cultures exposed to 1,2-DHX significantly increased growth inhibition of A375-C5 cells, when compared to supernatants from untreated LPS-stimulated macrophages or to direct treatment with 1,2-DHX only. 1,2-DHX decreased THP-1 secretion of interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), but stimulated tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) production. This xanthone also inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production by RAW 264.7 murine macrophages, possibly through inhibition of inducible NO synthase production. In conclusion, these findings suggest a potential impact of 1,2-DHX in melanoma treatment, not only due to a direct effect on cancer cells but also by modulation of macrophage activity.

Activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress sensor IRE1α by the vaccine adjuvant AS03 contributes to its immunostimulatory properties.

The oil-in-water emulsion Adjuvant System 03 (AS03) is one of the few adjuvants used in licensed vaccines. Previous work indicates that AS03 induces a local and transient inflammatory response that contributes to its adjuvant effect. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in its immunostimulatory properties are ill-defined. Upon intramuscular injection in mice, AS03 elicited a rapid and transient downregulation of lipid metabolism-related genes in the draining lymph node. In vitro, these modifications were associated with profound changes in lipid composition, alteration of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) morphology and activation of the unfolded protein response pathway. In vivo, treatment with a chemical chaperone or deletion of the ER stress sensor kinase IRE1α in myeloid cells decreased AS03-induced cytokine production and its capacity to elicit high affinity antigen-specific antibodies. In summary, our results indicate that IRE1α is a sensor for the metabolic changes induced by AS03 in monocytic cells and may constitute a canonical pathway that could be exploited for the design of novel vaccine adjuvants.

[Prevalence and susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from infected chronic wounds in adult patients]. / Prevalencia y perfil de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en bacterias aisladas de úlceras crónicas infectadas en adultos.

BACKGROUND: Chronic wounds are considered a public health problem that may be complicated by bacterial infections, mainly caused by resistant strains. AIM: To study the bacteria prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility in samples from adult patients with chronic wounds. METHODS: Patients treated at National Institute of Wounds Foundation between May and July 2014, with chronic ulcers in lower extremities with clinical inflammatory signs were recluted. Samples were cultured in aerobic and anaerobic atmosphere and species identification was performed by API (Biomerieux) galleries. The in vitro susceptibility was evaluated according to the Kirby Bauer method. RESULTS: From 73 patients, 46 had infected wounds most of them were venous ulcers (33) with prevalence in polymicrobial infections and 10 with foot-diabetes ulcers with prevalence in monomicrobial infections (p ≤ 0.05). Sixty-eight strains were isolated and Enterobacteriaceae were predominant in monomicrobial infection (p ≤ 0.05) and the other groups were slightly higher in polymicrobial infection. The main species were Staphylococcus aureus (24%) followed by P. aeruginosa (18%). Fifty strains (77%) were resistant or multi-resistance. We emphasize resistance of S. aureus to ciprofloxacin (50%) and cefoxitin (37.5%), thus identifying resistance to methicillin in the community (CA-SAMR), all of which are sensitive to cotrimoxazole. Enterobacteria showed sensitivity to amikacin (95.5%), P. aeruginosa showed resistance to ciprofloxacin (33.3%) with high sensitivity to gentamicin (91.7%) and amikacin (83.3%), while Acinetobacter spp showed resistance to ciprofloxacin and ceftazidime in 60%, with 100% sensitivity to imipenem. 50% Streptococcus ß hemolytic showed resistance to clindamycin and penicillin. CONCLUSION: These data provide epidemiological information on chronic wound infections, representing support for diagnosis, treatment and management of this pathology.

Influence of Intradialytic Aerobic Training in Cerebral Blood Flow and Cognitive Function in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Changes in cerebral blood flow may play an important role in cognitive impairment among hemodialysis (HD) patients. Physical activity has a promising role in delaying cognitive impairment in general population, but there are only a few studies in HD to confirm this finding. We aimed to evaluate the effects of intradialytic aerobic training on cerebral blood flow and cognitive impairment in HD. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, AND MEASUREMENTS: This is a pilot, controlled, randomized trial. Fifteen patients underwent intradialytic aerobic training 3 times a week for 4 months. The control group was comprised of another 15 patients. RESULTS: Trained patients had a statistically significant improvement of cognitive impairment and basilar maximum blood flow velocity. The proportion of arteries with increased flow velocity was statistically significant between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Intradialytic aerobic training improves cognitive impairment and cerebral blood flow of patients in HD, suggesting a possible mechanism improving cognitive impairment by physical training in HD. These data still need to be confirmed by major trials.

Percepciones ante la preparación al alta en pacientes médico-quirúrgicos de un hospital de alta complejidad / Perceptions in discharge preparation in medical-surgical patients of a high complexity hospital

Objetivo principal: Analizar la relación entre las percepciones de la calidad de educación al alta y la disposición de pacientes para ser dados de alta. Metodología: Se aplicaron la Escala de la Calidad de la Educación al alta (Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale - QDTS) y la Escala para ver si los pacientes están listos para el alta (Readiness Hospital Discharge Scale - RDHS), 1 a 2 horas previas al alta. Resultados principales: Los puntajes en la Escala de la Calidad de la Educación al alta explicaron el 22% de la varianza en las puntuaciones de la Escala de disposición para ser dado de alta. La forma en la que las enfermeras educaban fue un predictor más fuerte que el contenido mismo. Conclusión principal: La calidad percibida de la educación al alta podría ser un predictor de la disposición para ser dado de alta

Objective: Analyze the relationship between perceptions of the quality of discharge education and the readiness for discharge.Methods: The Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale (QDTS) and Readiness Hospital Discharge Scale (RDHS) were applied 1 to 2 hours prior to discharge. Results: Scores on the Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale explained 22% of the variance in the Readiness Hospital Discharge Scale. The way nurses delivery of education was a stronger predictor than the content itself. Conclusions: The perceived quality of discharge education may be a predictor of readiness for discharge

Prevalencia y perfil de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en bacterias aisladas de úlceras crónicas infectadas en adultos / Prevalence and susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from infected chronic wounds in adult patients

Resumen Introducción: Las úlceras crónicas son un problema de salud pública, agravándose por infecciones bacterianas causadas principalmente por agentes resistentes. Objetivo: Estudiar prevalencia y perfil de susceptibilidad en bacterias aisladas de úlceras crónicas en pacientes adultos. Pacientes y Métodos: Pacientes atendidos en la Fundación Instituto Nacional de Heridas entre mayo y julio de 2014, con úlceras crónicas en extremidades inferiores con signos inflamatorios clínicos. Las muestras fueron cultivadas en aerobiosis y anaerobiosis y para la identificación bacteriana se empleó el sistema de galerías API (Biomerieux). La susceptibilidad in vitro se evaluó según el método de Kirby Bauer. Resultados: Se reclutaron 73 pacientes, entre quienes 46 presentaron úlceras infectadas, diagnosticándose 33 úlceras venosas con predominio de infección polimicrobiana y 10 úlceras de pie diabético con predominio de infección monomicrobiana (p ≤ 0,05). Se aislaron 68 cepas de los 46 pacientes con úlcera infectada. Las enterobacterias predominaron en infección monomicrobiana (p ≤ 0,05) y los demás grupos bacterianos fueron levemente más frecuentes en infección polimicrobiana. La especie prevalente fue Staphylococcus aureus (24%) seguida de Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18%). Cincuenta cepas (77%) presentaron resistencia a uno o más antibacterianos. Destacamos resistencia de S. aureus a ciprofloxacina (50%) y cefoxitina (37,5%) identificándose así resistencia a meticilina en la comunidad (SARM-AC), siendo todas sensibles a cotrimoxazol. Las enterobacterias presentaron resistencia a sensibilidad a amikacina (95,5%), P. aeruginosa evidenció resistencia a ciprofloxacina (33,3%) con alta sensibilidad a gentamicina (91,7%) y amikacina (83,3%), mientras Acinetobacter spp presentó resistencia a ciprofloxacina y ceftazidima en 60%, con 100% de sensibilidad a imipenem. Streptococcus β hemolítico presentó 50% de resistencia a clindamicina y penicilina. Conclusión: Estos datos entregan información epidemiológica de infecciones de úlceras crónicas, representando un apoyo al diagnóstico, tratamiento y manejo de esta patología.

Background: Chronic wounds are considered a public health problem that may be complicated by bacterial infections, mainly caused by resistant strains. Aim: To study the bacteria prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility in samples from adult patients with chronic wounds. Methods: Patients treated at National Institute of Wounds Foundation between May and July 2014, with chronic ulcers in lower extremities with clinical inflammatory signs were recluted. Samples were cultured in aerobic and anaerobic atmosphere and species identification was performed by API (Biomerieux) galleries. The in vitro susceptibility was evaluated according to the Kirby Bauer method. Results: From 73 patients, 46 had infected wounds most of them were venous ulcers (33) with prevalence in polymicrobial infections and 10 with foot-diabetes ulcers with prevalence in monomicrobial infections (p ≤ 0.05). Sixty-eight strains were isolated and Enterobacteriaceae were predominant in monomicrobial infection (p ≤ 0.05) and the other groups were slightly higher in polymicrobial infection. The main species were Staphylococcus aureus (24%) followed by P. aeruginosa (18%). Fifty strains (77%) were resistant or multi-resistance. We emphasize resistance of S. aureus to ciprofloxacin (50%) and cefoxitin (37.5%), thus identifying resistance to methicillin in the community (CA-SAMR), all of which are sensitive to cotrimoxazole. Enterobacteria showed sensitivity to amikacin (95.5%), P. aeruginosa showed resistance to ciprofloxacin (33.3%) with high sensitivity to gentamicin (91.7%) and amikacin (83.3%), while Acinetobacter spp showed resistance to ciprofloxacin and ceftazidime in 60%, with 100% sensitivity to imipenem. 50% Streptococcus β hemolytic showed resistance to clindamycin and penicillin. Conclusion: These data provide epidemiological information on chronic wound infections, representing support for diagnosis, treatment and management of this pathology.

Antioxidant, phenolic and antifungal profiles of Acanthus mollis (Acanthaceae).

Acanthus mollis is used as ornamental and medicinal plant. The ethnopharmacology reports indicate that extracts have anti-inflammatory activity. Phytoconstituents profile was evaluated by estimating the content of anthraquinones, flavonoids and phenols. In addition, the antioxidant activity was evaluated using four methods: Hydrogen atoms transfer (TRAP, ORAC and DPPH assays), and single electron transfer (FRAP assay). Finally, antifungal activity was determined by the M27-A2 test. The results shown that ethanol extracts have the highest concentration of phenols, anthraquinones and flavonoids. Total antioxidant capacity, extracts of ethyl acetate and ethanol are those with the highest activity, which correlates strongly with the presence of phenols. The antifungal activity measured in various strains of Candida is concentrated in ethyl acetate extracts of flower and leaf ethanol, a phenomenon may be related to antioxidant activity.

Comportamiento antibacteriano de partículas de cobre frente a microorganismos obtenidos de úlceras crónicas infectadas y su relación con la resistencia a antimicrobianos de uso común / Antibacterial activity of copper salts against microorganisms isolated from chronic infected wounds

Background: The antimicrobial activity of copper (Cu+2) is recognized and used as an antimicrobial agent. Aim: To evaluate the antimicrobial activity of copper against microorganisms obtained from chronic cutaneous wound infections. Material and Methods: Five chemical products that contained copper particles in their composition were tested (zeolite, silica, acetate, nitrate and nanoparticle of copper). The antimicrobial activity against antibiotic resistant strains usually isolated from chronic cutaneous wound infections was determined for two of the products with better performance in copper release. Results: The minimal inhibitory and minimal bactericidal concentrations of copper acetate and nitrate were similar, fluctuating between 400-2,000 µg/ml. Conclusions: The studied copper salts show great potential to be used to control both gram positive and gram negative, antibiotic resistant bacteria isolated from wound infections.

Nuevos fármacos antiepilépticos en epilepsias de la infancia / New antiepileptic drugs for childhood epilepsies

La epilepsia es una enfermedad neurológica muy frecuente que afecta al 0,5 a 1% de todos los niños. La era moderna de los fármacos antiepilépticos (FAEs), que abarca los últimos 150 años, desde el uso del bromuro hasta el presente, ha visto la introducción de diversos fármacos eficaces y seguros que han proporcionado grandes beneficios a pacientes que sufren epilepsia. En Europa y Estados Unidos están aprobados aproximadamente 31 FAEs, 11 de los cuales han sido aprobados por la FDA en los últimos 20 años. El objetivo general que guía el uso de FAEs es alcanzar la libertad de crisis con mínimos efectos adversos. A pesar de la disponibilidad de nuevas opciones, la tasa de fracaso con el primer FAE usado en epilepsia recién diagnosticada mantiene cifras entre 20 a 40%, tanto por falta de eficacia o por efectos adversos intolerables. En esta revisión de nuevos FAEs, veremos que muchos se encuentran disponibles en el mercado hace más de 10 años, sin embargo aún no han sido registrados ni están disponibles para su uso en Chile. Para cada fármaco se presenta su historia y datos relevantes en relación a farmacocinética, dosificación, evidencias de su utilidad así como los principales efectos adversos reconocidos. La facilidad para acceder a nuevos FAEs, requiere que los clínicos consideren cuidadosamente las opciones evaluando todos estos aspectos. Aunque en pacientes pediátricos puede ser particularmente desafiante, hay una mayor urgencia en el control de crisis, dada la evidencia desde los estudios en animales que indican que el control precoz de las crisis mejora el pronóstico futuro. Palabras clave: fármacos antiepilépticos, anticonvulsivantes, epilepsia, tratamiento de la epilepsia, epilepsia en niños y adolescentes

Epilepsy is a common neurological disease that affects 0.5 to 1% of all children. The modern era of antiepileptic drugs (AED), that covers the last 150 years, from the use of the bromide until the present, has seen the introduction of various effective and safe drugs that have provided large benefits to patients that suffer epilepsy. In Europe and the United States there are approximately 31 approved AED, 11 of which have been approved by the FDA in the past 20 years. The general objective that guides the use of AED is to achieve freedom of crisis with minimal adverse effects. Despite the availability of new options, the failure rate with the first AED used in newly diagnosed epilepsy is still between 20 to 40%, either for lack of efficacy or intolerable adverse effects. In this review of new AED, we will see that there are many drugs that have been available for over 10 years, however they are still not registered or available in Chile. We present the history and relevant information for each drug, in regard to pharmacokinetics, dosage, evidence of its usefulness as well as the main recognized adverse effects. The ease of access to new AED, requires that the physician evaluates these aspects carefully. Although pediatric patients can

Aldosterone is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy in hemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVES: Patients with chronic kidney disease present a higher degree of left ventricular hypertrophy than expected for hypertension levels. In chronic kidney disease the plot between the quotient extracellular water/total body water and aldosterone is shifted up and to the right. There are few studies that verified the role of aldosterone in cardiac remodeling in this set of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum aldosterone and left ventricular mass index in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis. METHODS: The patients were submitted to clinical and laboratory evaluation, bioelectrical impedance, echocardiography and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The 27 patients included were divided into two groups according to aldosterone level and compared with each other. RESULTS: The group of patients with higher aldosterone levels had higher left ventricular mass index. These groups were heterogeneous with regard to ambulatory systolic blood pressure, body mass index, and aldosterone levels and homogeneous with regard to the quotient extracellular water/total body water, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers, beta blocker use and other clinical characteristics. The association between aldosterone levels and left ventricular mass index was adjusted to confounding variables by a multiple linear regression analysis in which aldosterone was independently associated with left ventricular mass index. CONCLUSION: The data presented are consistent with a pathogenic role of aldosterone in left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with chronic kidney dialysis in dialysis patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01128101.

[Antibacterial activity of copper salts against microorganisms isolated from chronic infected wounds]. / Comportamiento antibacteriano de partículas de cobre frente a microorganismos obtenidos de úlceras crónicas infectadas y su relación con la resistencia a antimicrobianos de uso común.

BACKGROUND: The antimicrobial activity of copper (Cu+2) is recognized and used as an antimicrobial agent. AIM: To evaluate the antimicrobial activity of copper against microorganisms obtained from chronic cutaneous wound infections. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Five chemical products that contained copper particles in their composition were tested (zeolite, silica, acetate, nitrate and nanoparticle of copper). The antimicrobial activity against antibiotic resistant strains usually isolated from chronic cutaneous wound infections was determined for two of the products with better performance in copper release. RESULTS: The minimal inhibitory and minimal bactericidal concentrations of copper acetate and nitrate were similar, fluctuating between 400-2,000 µg/ml. CONCLUSIONS: The studied copper salts show great potential to be used to control both gram positive and gram negative, antibiotic resistant bacteria isolated from wound infections.

Biopsychosocial characteristics of patients with neuropathic pain following spinal cord trauma injury. Case reports / Características biopsicossociais associadas a pacientes com dor neuropática por lesão medular traumática. Relato de casos

ABSTRACTBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:Spinal cord injury is a change in spinal canal structures and may induce motor, sensory, autonomic and psychoaffective changes. Trauma injury is the most prevalent. Neuropathic pain is more frequent in people with spinal cord injury and may be disabling. Pain development mechanism is poorly known being its management difficult for both patients and health professionals. This study aimed at identifying biopsychosocial characteristics associated to neuropathic pain in spinal cord trauma injury patients.CASE REPORTS:Sample was made up of 13 patients with spinal cord trauma injury and neuropathic pain, hospitalized for rehabilitation in a health institution. The following data collection tools were used: Douleur Neuropathique em 4 Questions Questionnaire and Brief Pain Inventory, in addition to demographic data. Most patients were male, mean age of 40 years, retired or unemployed. Most frequent cause of spinal cord injury was car accident, followed by firearm and falls. The thoracic segment was more commonly affected, with prevalence of incomplete injuries. Neuropathic pain onset was predominantly within six months after spinal cord injury. Pharmacological treatment was the most cited and considered very effective by 70% of those who use it. Cold and immobility were the most common factors worsening pain; physical activity and leisure were factors improving pain. Mood and general activities were those influenced the most by neuropathic pain.CONCLUSION:Spinal cord trauma injury dramatically changes patients’ lives, generating disastrous consequences for those suffering the injury, their families and for society. In this series, most patients were young males, victims of car accidents and with neuropathic pain negatively impacting mood and general activities.

RESUMOJUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS:A lesão medular é uma alteração nas estruturas do canal medular, podendo ocasionar dificuldades motoras, sensitivas, autonômicas e psicoafetivas. A lesão traumática possui maior prevalência. A dor neuropática é a mais frequente em pessoas com lesão medular, podendo assumir aspecto incapacitante na vida dessas pessoas. É pouco compreendido o mecanismo de desenvolvimento dessa dor sendo seu tratamento de difícil manuseio para o indivíduo e para os profissionais de saúde. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as características biopsicossociais associadas à dor neuropática em pessoas com lesão medular traumática.RELATO DOS CASOS:A amostra foi composta por 13 pacientes com lesão medular traumática e dor neuropática, internados para reabilitação em uma instituição de saúde. Foram utilizados os instrumentos de coleta de dados: Questionário Douleur Neuropathique em 4 Questions, Inventário Breve da Dor, acrescentando os dados demográficos. A maioria dos pacientes era do gênero masculino, idade média de 40 anos, aposentados ou desempregados. A causa predominante da lesão medular foi acidente de trânsito, seguido de arma de fogo e queda. O segmento torácico foi o mais acometido, com prevalência de lesões incompletas. Predominou o início da dor neuropática em até seis meses após a lesão medular. O tratamento farmacológico foi o mais citado e considerado muito efetivo por 70% dos que o utilizam. O frio e a imobilidade prevaleceram como fatores de piora da dor; a atividade física e o lazer como fatores que melhoraram a dor. O humor e a atividade geral foram os mais influenciados pela presença da dor neuropática.CONCLUSÃO:A lesão medular traumática altera drasticamente a vida do paciente acometido, gerando consequências desastrosas para quem sofreu a lesão, para seus familiares e para a sociedade. Nesta série, a maioria foram homens jovens, vítimas de acidentes de trânsito e com dor neuropática que impactava negativamente o humor e as suas atividades gerais.

Wide-genome QTL mapping of fruit quality traits in a tomato RIL population derived from the wild-relative species Solanum pimpinellifolium L.

KEY MESSAGE: QTL and candidate genes associated to fruit quality traits have been identified in a tomato genetic map derived from Solanum pimpinellifolium L., providing molecular tools for marker-assisted breeding. The study of genetic, physiological, and molecular pathways involved in fruit development and ripening has considered tomato as the model fleshy-fruited species par excellence. Fruit quality traits regarding organoleptic and nutritional properties are major goals for tomato breeding programs since they largely decide the acceptance of tomato in both fresh and processing markets. Here we report the genetic mapping of single-locus and epistatic quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated to the fruit size and content of sugars, acids, vitamins, and carotenoids from the characterization of a RIL population derived from the wild-relative Solanum pimpinellifolium TO-937. A genetic map composed of 353 molecular markers including 13 genes regulating fruit and developmental traits was generated, which spanned 1007 cM with an average distance between markers of 2.8 cM. Genetic analyses indicated that fruit quality traits analyzed in this work exhibited transgressive segregation and that additive and epistatic effects are the major genetic basis of fruit quality traits. Moreover, most mapped QTL showed environment interaction effects. FrW7.1 fruit size QTL co-localized with QTL involved in soluble solid, vitamin C, and glucose contents, dry weight/fresh weight, and most importantly with the Sucrose Phosphate Synthase gene, suggesting that polymorphisms in this gene could influence genetic variation in several fruit quality traits. In addition, 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase and Tocopherol cyclase genes were identified as candidate genes underlying QTL variation in beta-carotene and vitamin C. Together, our results provide useful genetic and molecular information regarding fruit quality and new chances for tomato breeding by implementing marker-assisted selection.

Increased antioxidant capacity in tomato by ectopic expression of the strawberry D-galacturonate reductase gene.

Increasing L-ascorbic acid (AsA, vitamin C) content in fruits is a common goal in current breeding programs due to its beneficial effect on human health. Attempts to increase AsA content by genetic engineering have resulted in variable success likely due to AsA's complex regulation. Here, we report the effect of ectopically expressing in tomato the D-galacturonate reductase (FaGalUR) gene from strawberry, involved in AsA biosynthesis, either under the control of the constitutive 35S or the tomato fruit-specific polygalucturonase (PG) promoters. Although transgenic lines showed a moderate increase on AsA content, complex changes in metabolites were found in transgenic fruits. Metabolomic analyses of ripe fruits identified a decrease in citrate, glutamate, asparagine, glucose, and fructose, accompanied by an increase of sucrose, galactinol, and chlorogenic acid. Significant metabolic changes also occurred in leaves of 35S-FaGalUR lines, which showed higher non-photochemical fluorescence quenching (NPQ), indicative of a higher constitutive photo-protective capacity. Overall, overexpression of FaGalUR increased total antioxidant capacity in fruits and the results suggest a tight control of AsA content, probably linked to a complex regulation of cellular redox state and metabolic adjustment.

Low concentrations of ethanol protect against synaptotoxicity induced by Aß in hippocampal neurons.

Epidemiological studies have reported a reduction in the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in individuals that ingest low amounts of alcohol. Also, it has been found that moderate consumption of ethanol might protect against ß-amyloid (Aß) toxicity. However, the mechanism underlying its potential neuroprotection is largely unknown. In the present study, we found that ethanol improved the cognitive processes of learning and memory in 3xTgAD mice. In addition, we found that a low concentration of ethanol (equivalent to moderate ethanol consumption) decreased the binding of Aß (1 and 5 µM) to neuronal membranes and, consequently, its synaptotoxic effect in rat hippocampal and cortical neurons under acute (30 minutes) and chronic (24 hours) incubation conditions. This effect appears to be exerted by a direct action of ethanol on Aß because electron microscopy studies showed that ethanol altered the degree of Aß aggregation. The action of ethanol on Aß also prevented the peptide from perforating the neuronal membrane, as assayed with patch clamp experiments. Taken together, these results contribute to elucidating the mechanism by which low concentrations of ethanol protect against toxicity induced by Aß oligomers in primary neuronal cultures. These results may also provide an explanation for the decrease in the risk of Alzheimer's disease in people who consume moderate doses of alcohol.