Temporal fenestration in a Procolophon trigoniceps specimen (Procolophonoidea) from the Lower Triassic of Brazil.

The parareptiles diversified widely during the Permian and persisted in Pangean ecosystems until the end of the Triassic. However, most parareptiles succumbed to the Permian-Triassic extinction, leading to the exclusive survival of procolophonoids. Procolophonoidea stands out as one of the most diverse parareptile clades, with about 40 species across Pangean land masses. The Early Triassic species Procolophon trigoniceps is known from South Africa, Antarctica, and Brazil. The majority of cranial materials of this procolophonoid are described as anapsid in temporal morphology, however, some skulls discovered in South Africa were found to exhibit temporal fenestration. Once thought to have systematic significance for the genus Procolophon, temporal fenestration was lately proposed to be an anomalous or pathological feature in P. trigoniceps. In this study, we describe new cranial material of P. trigoniceps from the Sanga do Cabral Formation of Brazil that clearly displays temporal fenestration. Aside from the fenestra, the specimen closely resembles more complete Brazilian P. trigoniceps skulls. The recurrent presence of the feature and the varying morphologies exhibited by the temporal fenestrae of P. trigoniceps may substantiate its characterization as an anomalous trait within the species. Furthermore, the occurrence of temporal fenestration in P. trigoniceps specimens from both South America and South Africa underscores parallels between these two Early Triassic ecosystems.

Papiloma humano según la percepción de estudiantes universitarios / Human papilloma according to the perception of university students

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el conocimiento sobre el Virus del Papiloma Humano (VPH) en estudiantes universitarios de la ciudad de Guayaquil, Se realizó una investigación con alcance descriptivo y transaccional, con una población constituida por 3000 estudiantes universitarios, y una muestra probabilística de 332. La técnica empleada fué la encuesta y el instrumento de recolección de la información, un cuestionario con 15 preguntas. El conocimiento de esta enfermedad se determinó mediante una escala de valoración en las siguientes categorías: Insuficiente: de 1-3; Regular: 4-6; Bueno: 7-9; Muy Bueno; 10-12 y Excelente: 13-15. Se realizó la prueba de Kolmogorov- Smirnov para determinar la normalidad de la distribución de datos y la prueba del Chi-cuadrado para la comprobación de las hipótesis planteadas, los datos se procesaron con el paquete estadístico SPSS 21,0. Se concluye que existe una asociación significativa entre el grado de conocimiento del papiloma humano con la edad y el sexo de los estudiantes universitarios(AU)

The objective of the present study was to determine the knowledge about the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in university students in the city of Guayaquil. An investigation with a descriptive and cross-sectional scope was carried out, with a population made up of 3000 university students, and a probabilistic sample of 332. The technique used was the survey and the data collection instrument, a questionnaire with 15 questions. Knowledge of this disease was determined using an assessment scale in the following categories: Insufficient: 1-3; Regular: 4-6; Good: 7-9; Very good; 10-12 and Excellent: 13-15. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was performed to determine the normality of the data distribution and the Chi-square test to verify the hypotheses proposed, the data was processed with the SPSS 25.0 statistical package. It is concluded that there is a significant association between the degree of knowledge of the human papilloma with the age and sex of university students(AU)

Digging deeper into colonial palaeontological practices in modern day Mexico and Brazil.

Scientific practices stemming from colonialism, whereby middle- and low-income countries supply data for high-income countries and the contributions of local expertise are devalued, are still prevalent today in the field of palaeontology. In response to these unjust practices, countries such as Mexico and Brazil adopted protective laws and regulations during the twentieth century to preserve their palaeontological heritage. However, scientific colonialism is still reflected in many publications describing fossil specimens recovered from these countries. Here, we present examples of 'palaeontological colonialism' from publications on Jurassic-Cretaceous fossils from NE Mexico and NE Brazil spanning the last three decades. Common issues that we identified in these publications are the absence of both fieldwork and export permit declarations and the lack of local experts among authorships. In Mexico, access to many fossil specimens is restricted on account of these specimens being housed in private collections, whereas a high number of studies on Brazilian fossils are based on specimens illegally reposited in foreign collections, particularly in Germany and Japan. Finally, we outline and discuss the wider academic and social impacts of these research practices, and propose exhaustive recommendations to scientists, journals, museums, research institutions and government and funding agencies in order to overcome these practices.

Platelets modulate CD4+ T-cell function in COVID-19 through a PD-L1 dependent mechanism.

Severe COVID-19 is associated with a systemic inflammatory response and progressive CD4+ T-cell lymphopenia and dysfunction. We evaluated whether platelets might contribute to CD4+ T-cell dysfunction in COVID-19. We observed a high frequency of CD4+ T cell-platelet aggregates in COVID-19 inpatients that inversely correlated with lymphocyte counts. Platelets from COVID-19 inpatients but not from healthy donors (HD) inhibited the upregulation of CD25 expression and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α production by CD4+ T cells. In addition, interferon (IFN)-γ production was increased by platelets from HD but not from COVID-19 inpatients. A high expression of PD-L1 was found in platelets from COVID-19 patients to be inversely correlated with IFN-γ production by activated CD4+ T cells cocultured with platelets. We also found that a PD-L1-blocking antibody significantly restored platelets' ability to stimulate IFN-γ production by CD4+ T cells. Our study suggests that platelets might contribute to disease progression in COVID-19 not only by promoting thrombotic and inflammatory events, but also by affecting CD4+ T cells functionality.

Associations between occupation, leprosy disability and other sociodemographic factors in an endemic area of Brazil.

BACKGROUND: In Brazil, new leprosy cases with grade-2 disability (G2D) have been increasing. Physical disability has been associated with experienced stigmatization, psychological distress, and social restriction. OBJECTIVES: To identify factors associated with leprosy disability in an endemic area of Brazil focusing on occupational and other sociodemographic factors. METHODS: Between July and December 2015, adult patients with multibacillary leprosy who attended a clinic in Belo Horizonte, Brazil were enrolled. Social, clinical, and demographic factors were collected from an administered questionnaire and medical charts. Occupations were categorized as manual vs non-manual. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were performed to study associated factors with disability (Grade 1 disability (G1D) and G2D combined). FINDINGS: Seventy-three patients were enrolled with 48 (65.8%) presenting with either G1D or G2D at the time of enrollment. Twenty-nine (39.7%) had G2D. About half of the patients (n = 36, 49%) reported a manual labor occupation and reactions were common (n = 53, 73%). On univariate analyses, older age (p = 0.048) and low education (p = 0.007) were associated with disability. On multivariable analyses, only low education (primary or less) was associated with disability (OR = 6.34, 95% CI 1.37, 29.26). Greater distance from clinic, income, smoking, marital status, and occupation were not associated. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Low education was associated with leprosy disability, consistent with prior studies, and therefore should be a focus for disability reduction programs. While the sample size of this study may have limited detection of associations between disability and social determinants tested, half of the patients reported a manual job, highlighting the need for more extensive studies on associations between occupation, disability, and related injuries.

Análisis multivariado HJ-Biplot de la ocurrencia de Helicobacter pylori como riesgo para cáncer gástrico, en la ciudadela el Cristo de Consuelo, Milagro Ecuador / HJ-Biplot multivariate analysis of the occurrence of Helicobacter pylori as a risk for gastric cancer, in the citadel of El Cristo de Consuelo, Milagro Ecuador

El Helicobacter pylori, es el causante del mayor número de úlceras y cáncer gástrico a nivel mundial. Población de 15 a 20 años, de escasos recursos y con mayor precariedad en el funcionamiento de los servicios públicos como es el agua potable son altamente vulnerables. Por lo que se planteó como objetivo, realizar un análisis multivariado HJ-Biplot de la ocurrencia de H. pylori como riesgo para cáncer gástrico, en la ciudadela el Cristo de Consuelo, Milagro Ecuador. Estudio epidemiológico transversal, descriptiva y de tipo observacional, contó con una población finita de 230 personas. Técnicas de recolección de datos: la encuesta, la observación directa y la detección de H. pylori en las muestras de heces. El análisis de las muestras biológicas se realizó mediante el método de Elisa en muestras de suero y heces. A los datos obtenidos se les aplicó el método de análisis multivariado bidireccional llamado HJ-Biplot, reflejándose en las variables las relaciones de las composiciones químicas, físicas y biológicas. Los resultados conforman dos grupos de puntos de muestra que coinciden satisfactoriamente con las estaciones de la región. Con este estudio se demuestra que los métodos estadísticos multivariantes son valiosos para interpretar conjuntos de datos complejos, concretamente, para la red de prevalencia de cáncer gástrico causado por el bacilo H. pylori, ha ido en aumento en los últimos años tanto en el Ecuador como en el resto del mundo. Es necesario que se establezcan los mecanismos de control de los agentes causantes de la propagación de este bacilo lo que incidirá en la disminución en la tasa de crecimiento del cáncer gástrico(AU)

Helicobacter pylori is the cause of the highest number of ulcers and gastric cancer worldwide. Population aged 15 to 20 years, with limited resources and with greater precariousness in the operation of public services such as drinking water, are highly vulnerable. Therefore, the objective was to carry out a multivariate HJ-Biplot analysis of the occurrence of H. pylori as a risk for gastric cancer, in the citadel of Cristo de Consuelo, Milagro Ecuador. Cross-sectional, descriptive and observational epidemiological study, had a finite population of 230 people. Data collection techniques: survey, direct observation and detection of H. pylori in stool samples. Analysis of biological samples was performed using the Elisa method in samples of serum and feces. The obtained data were applied the method of bi-directional multivariate analysis called HJ-Biplot, reflecting in the variables the relationships of the chemical, physical and biological compositions. The results form two groups of sample points that successfully coincide with the stations in the region. This study shows that multivariate statistical methods are valuable for interpreting complex data sets, specifically for the prevalence network of gastric cancer caused by the H. pylori bacillus, which has been increasing in recent years both in Ecuador and in the rest of the world. it is necessary to establish the control mechanisms of the agents that cause the spread of this bacillus, which will affect the decrease in the growth rate of gastric cáncer(AU)

Resistencia a insecticidas en Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) de Tapachula, Chiapas, México / Insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) populations from Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico

Resumen: Objetivo: Determinar la resistencia a insecticidas en Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus de Tapachula, Chiapas, México. Material y métodos: Se utilizaron ovitrampas para obtener huevos de mosquitos Aedes y se realizaron pruebas de susceptibilidad (CDC) y ensayos enzimáticos con la primera generación. Resultados: Aedes aegypti mostró resistencia a deltametrina, permetrina, malatión, clorpirifos, temefos y a bendiocarb (CARB), mientras que Aedes albopictus a malatión y en menor grado a cloripirifos, temefos, permetrina y deltametrina. Ambas especies mostraron altos niveles de enzimas como citocomo P450 y glutatión S-tranferasa, mientras que los niveles de esterasas variaron por especie y sitio muestreado. Se detectó acetilcolinesterasa insensible a insecticidas en ambas especies. Conclusión: En un hábitat urbano de Tapachula, Chiapas, México donde se aplica control con insecticidas Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus sólo son susceptibles al propoxur.

Abstract: Objective: To determine the insecticide resistance status of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus from Tapachula, México. Materials and methods: Mosquito eggs were collected with the use of ovitraps and CDC susceptibility bioassays and biochemical assays were conducted to determine resistance levels and resistance mechanisms, respectively. Results: Ae. aegypti showed resistance to deltamethrin and permethrin (PYRs), malathion, chlorpyrifos and temephos (OP), and to bendiocarb (CARB), while Ae. albopictus showed resistance to malathion and to a lesser intensity to chlorypirifos, temephos, permethrin and deltamethrin. Both species showed high levels of P450 and GSTs, while levels of esterases varied by species and collection site. Altered acethilcholinesterase was detected in both species. Conclusion: In an urban habitat from Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico where vector control using insecticides takes place, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus are only susceptible to propoxur.

[Insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) populations from Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico]. / Resistencia a insecticidas en Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) de Tapachula, Chiapas, México.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the insecticide resistance status of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus from Tapachula, México. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mosquito eggs were collected with the use of ovitraps and CDC susceptibility bioassays and biochemical assays were conducted to determine resistance levels and resistance mechanisms, respectively. RESULTS: Ae. aegypti showed resistance to deltamethrin and permethrin (PYRs), malathion, chlorpyrifos and temephos (OP), and to bendiocarb (CARB), while Ae. albopictus showed resistance to malathion and to a lesser intensity to chlorypirifos, temephos, permethrin and deltamethrin. Both species showed high levels of P450 and GSTs, while levels of esterases varied by species and collection site. Altered acethilcholinesterase was detected in both species. CONCLUSIONS: In an urban habitat from Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico where vector control using insecticides takes place, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus are only susceptible to propoxur.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la resistencia a insecticidas en Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus de Tapachula, Chiapas, México. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizaron ovitrampas para obtener huevos de mosquitos Aedes y se realizaron pruebas de susceptibilidad (CDC) y ensayos enzimáticos con la primera generación. RESULTADOS: Aedes aegypti mostró resistencia a deltametrina, permetrina, malatión, clorpirifos, temefos y a bendiocarb (CARB), mientras que Aedes albopictus a malatión y en menor grado a cloripirifos, temefos, permetrina y deltametrina. Ambas especies mostraron altos niveles de enzimas como citocomo P450 y glutatión S-tranferasa, mientras que los niveles de esterasas variaron por especie y sitio muestreado. Se detectó acetilcolinesterasa insensible a insecticidas en ambas especies. CONCLUSIONES: En un hábitat urbano de Tapachula, Chiapas, México donde se aplica control con insecticidas Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus sólo son susceptibles al propoxur.

Captorhinid reptiles from the lower Permian Pedra de Fogo Formation, Piauí, Brazil: the earliest herbivorous tetrapods in Gondwana.

The Pedra de Fogo Formation in the Parnaíba Basin of northeastern Brazil hosts a recently discovered lacustrine fauna and provides the only known record of the Captorhinidae in South America. Here, new captorhinid remains from this unit are described. Two partial mandibles, including one formerly ascribed to the genus Captorhinus, are here referred to Captorhinikos sp. a genus previously described from North America. The natural mould of a large mandible probably represents a new taxon within the captorhinid subclade Moradisaurinae, and a small skull roof is regarded as Captorhinidae indet. Captorhinids are generally considered to have been herbivores or omnivores. The Pedra de Fogo captorhinids likely played an important ecological role as primary consumers in the palaeoenvironment of this geological unit, which is also known for its extensive record of petrified forests. The new finds reinforce the close relationships between the continental faunas of palaeotropical western Gondwana and palaeoequatorial North America during the Cisuralian.

Neumonía grave en la comunidad: ¿cuándo pensar en SAMR-AC? / Severe community pneumonia: when to think about CA-MRSA

ntroducción: Aunque la incidencia de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC) por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMR-AC) es inferior al 10%, por su elevada mortalidad debe considerarse en los pacientes graves.Objetivo: Identificar factores de riesgo asociados con SAMR-AC en pacientes con NAC grave. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, que analizó pacientes con NAC con diagnóstico etiológico ingresados en terapia intensiva en un hospital público entre 2006 y 2017.Resultados: Se incluyeron 250 episodios de NAC, 53 por SAMR-AC y 197 por otros agentes. Los pacientes con SAMR fueron más jóvenes (35,6±13,4 vs 43,1±12,4, p<0,001) y mostraron mayores tasas de infecciones de piel y estructuras relacionadas (IPER) (58,4% vs 2,0%, p<0,001), empiema (15,9% vs 5,0%, p=0,006), compromiso radiológico bilateral (81,1% vs 36,0%, p<0,001), promedio de score APACHE II basal (16,7±3,8 vs 13,2±4,3, p<0,001) y requerimiento de ventilación mecánica (VM) (33,9 vs 17,6 p=0,009). La tasa de mortalidad fue significativamente mayor para los pacientes con SAMR-AC (35,8% vs 11,1%, p<0,001). Las variables que se asociaron con SAMR-AC fueron IPER (OR 67,99, IC 5% 21,94-210,65), compromiso radiológico bilateral (OR 7,63, IC 95% 3,67-16,11), scoreAPACHE II ≥ 15 (OR 4,37, IC 95% 2,08-9,16), edad ≤ 35 años RESUMENTRABAJO COMPLETO(OR 3,60, IC 95% 1,77-7,29), empiema (OR 3,32, IC 95% 1,24-8,10) y VM (OR 2,85, IC 95% 1,36-5,86). Conclusión: En pacientes con NAC grave, la presencia de IPER, compromiso radiológico bilateral, score APACHE II ≥ 15, edad ≤ 35 años, empiema y VM se asociaron significativamente con mayor probabilidad de infección por SAMR-AC

ntroduction: Despite the incidence of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) due to community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) being less than 10%, its presence should be considered in critical patients because of its high rate of mortality.Objectives: To identify risk factors associated with CA-MRSA in patients with severe CAP.Materials and method: A retrospective, observational study analysed episodes of etiological diagnosis in patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit in a public hospital between 2006 and 2017.Results: 250 episodes of NAC were included, among which 53 were caused by SAMR-AC and 197 by other agents. Patients with MRSA were the youngest (35.6±13.4 vs 43.1±12.4, p<0.001), and showed higher rates of skin and skin-structure infections (SSSI) (58.4% vs 2.0%, p<0.001), empyema (15.9% vs 5.0%, p=0.006), bilateral radiological compromise (81.1% vs 36.0%, p<0.001), average base-line APACHE II score (16.7±3.8 vs 13.2±4.3, p<0.001) and mechanical ventilation requirement rate (MV) (33.9 vs 17.6 p=0.009). The mortality rate was significantly higher than the one in CA-MRSA patients (35.8% vs 11.1%, p<0.001). The variables associated with CA-MRSA were SSSI (OR 67.99, IC 5% 21.94-210.65), bilateral radiological compromise (OR 7.63, IC 95% 3.67-16.11), APACHE II score ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, IC 95% 2.08-9.16), age ≤35 years (OR 3.60, IC 95% 1.77-7,29), empyema (OR 3.32, IC 95% 1.24-8.10) and MV (OR 2.85, IC 95% 1.36-5.86).Conclusion: The presence of SSSI, bilateral radiological compromise, APACHE II score ≥ 15, age ≤35 years, empyema and MV in patients with severe CAP was largely associated with higher probability of CA-MRSA infection

Herbivore-Induced Volatiles from Maize Plants Attract Chelonus insularis, an Egg-Larval Parasitoid of the Fall Armyworm.

Chelonus insularis (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is an egg-larval endoparasitoid that attacks several lepidopteran species, including the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, as one of its main hosts. In this study, we identified the volatiles emitted by maize plants undamaged and damaged by S. frugiperda larvae that were attractive to virgin C. insularis females. In a Y-glass tube olfactometer, parasitoid females were more attracted to activated charcoal extracts than Porapak Q maize extracts. Chemical analysis of activated charcoal extracts from maize plants damaged by S. frugiperda larvae by gas chromatography coupled with electroantennography (GC-EAD) showed that the antennae of virgin female wasps consistently responded to three compounds, identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) as α-pinene, α-longipinene and α-copaene. These compounds are constitutively released by maize plants but induction via herbivory affects their emissions. α-Longipinene and α-copaene were more abundant in damaged maize plants than in healthy ones, whereas α-pinene was produced in higher amounts in healthy maize plants than in damaged ones. Female parasitoids were not attracted to EAD-active compounds when evaluated singly; however, they were attracted to the binary blend α-pinene + α-copaene, which was the most attractive blend, even more attractive than the tertiary blend (α-pinene + α-longipinene + α-copaene) and the damaged maize plant extracts. We conclude that C. insularis is attracted to a blend of herbivore-induced volatiles emitted by maize plants.

Análisis factorial exploratorio como método multivariante para validación de datos académicos en plataformas virtuales / Exploratory factorial analysis as a multivariate method for the validation of academic data in virtual platforms / Análise fatorial exploratória como método multivariado para a validação de dados acadêmicos em plataformas virtuais

Resumen Introducción: El trabajo se establece como un resultado de investigación en el cual se realiza una revisión bibliográfica sobre la temática planteada. Objetivo: Caracterizar los materiales de clase que utiliza dos universidades una pública y una privad para la identificación de tipos de tecnologías. Materiales y Método: Se considera que el estudio es no-experimental y se espera la participaron todos los estudiantes matriculados en el primer semestre 2017, se cumple con los criterios de inclusión: a) edad mínima de 18 años; b) matriculados en sus respectivas universidades; La muestra aleatoria piloto contenía 98 participantes de un total de 2150 estudiantes de las dos universidades. Resultados: Mediante la aplicación de varias técnicas estadísticas como el análisis: Factorial Exploratorio, alfa de Cronbach clásico. Se analizó el comportamiento de las respuestas al cuestionario de 21 ítems, que tiene un formato de escala tipo Likert, definidas en 4 dimensiones. Se comprobó la inexistencia de diferencias estadísticamente significativas, en tres ítems del estudio. Conclusiones: Se ha analizado la validez y fiabilidad de dicho cuestionario a través de un análisis factorial de componentes principales con rotación Varimax. Se concluye que bastaría con introducir adaptaciones en la relación de dimensiones propuestas en este cuestionario que tuviera en cuenta las especificidades de cada material de estudio.

Abstract Introduction: The work is established as a result of research in which a bibliographic review is made on the subject matter proposed. Objective: Characterize the class materials used by two universities, one public and one private for the identification of types of technologies. Materials and Method: The study is considered non-experimental and it is expected that all students enrolled in the first semester of 2017 will participate, complying with the inclusion criteria: a) minimum age of 18; b) enrolled in their respective universities; The pilot random sample contained 98 participants out of a total of 2150 students from the two universities. Results: Through the application of several statistical techniques such as the analysis: Exploratory Factorial, classic Cronbach's alpha. The behavior of the responses to the 21-item questionnaire, which has a Likert-type scale format, was analyzed, defined in 4 dimensions. The absence of statistically significant differences was verified in three items of the study. Conclusions: The validity and reliability of this questionnaire was analyzed through a factorial analysis of principal components with Varimax rotation. It is concluded that it would be enough to introduce adaptations in the list of dimensions proposed in this questionnaire that took into account the specificities of each study material.

Resumo Introdução: O trabalho é estabelecido como resultado de uma pesquisa em que é feita uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o assunto proposto. Objetivo: caracterizando os materiais de aula utilizados por duas universidades, uma pública e outra privada para a identificação de tipos de tecnologias. Materiais e Método: O estudo é considerado não experimental e espera-se que todos os alunos matriculados no primeiro semestre de 2017 participem, obedecendo aos critérios de inclusão: a) idade mínima de 18 anos; b) matriculados em suas respectivas universidades; A amostra aleatória piloto continha 98 participantes de um total de 2150 estudantes das duas universidades. Resultados: Através da aplicação de diversas técnicas estatísticas, como a análise: Fatorial Exploratório, clássico Alfa de Cronbach. Analisou-se o comportamento das respostas ao questionário de 21 itens, que possui formato de escala tipo Likert, definido em 4 dimensões. A ausência de diferenças estatisticamente significantes foi verificada em três itens do estudo. Conclusão: A validade e confiabilidade deste questionário foram analisadas através de uma análise fatorial de componentes principais com rotação Varimax. Conclui-se que seria suficiente introduzir adaptações na lista de dimensões proposta neste questionário que levasse em consideração as especificidades de cada material de estudo.

Life quality protection rights for elderly people. communities of posorja and puna / Protección de los derechos de calidad de vida para adultos mayores. comunidades de posorja y puna / Proteção dos direitos à qualidade de vida para idosos. as comunidades de posorja e puna

Abstract Background: The present article aims to measure the extent to which the physical and recreational needs of elderly persons in the communities of Posorja and Puna are being met. Nowadays, it is known that physical activity is beneficial for the elderly, as it helps to diminish illness and all kinds of diseases. Method: The population in this study is comprised on 378 elderly persons between 65 and 90 years of age: 200 belong to the community of Posorja and 178, to the community of Puna in Guayas Province. The tools used for this research include, among others, the ADL Test (Activities of Daily Living), which evaluates the degree of self-care and mobility; the Lawton and Brody Scale, which is an appropriate instrument to evaluate the level of independence and skills; and the MMT (Mini Mental Test), which evaluates cognitive functions such as memory, language, praxis and attention. They all are essential to detecting and diagnosing Alzheimer´s disease. Results: Various statistical techniques were used to obtain the results, such as descriptive analysis, contingency tables and main components. Conclusions: The population between 65 and 90 years of age was analyzed and it accounted for 35.9% of the total population back in 2010, which means there was a variation. Nowadays, it represents 56.6% of the obtained sample. This generational group refers to the elderly, who should be favored by public policies that are intended to improve health programs, generate recreational areas, and create senior care centers. Generally, the demographic dynamics of Posorja show a structured pyramid, with an expanding population, a large amount of young people and adults who contribute to the economic dynamics and productivity of the area. The questionnaire could be adapted and contain the specifications required to suit the true dimensions of this population.

Resumen Antecedentes: este artículo tiene como propósito medir el grado en que se satisfacen las necesidades físicas y recreativas de los adultos mayores en las comunidades de Posorja y Puna. Hoy en día, se sabe que la actividad física es beneficiosa para los ancianos, ya que ayuda para disminuir dolencias y todo tipo de enfermedades. Método: La población en este estudio está compuesta por 378 personas mayores entre 65 y 90 años de edad: 200 pertenecen a la comunidad de Posorja y 178 a la comunidad de Puna en la provincia de Guayas. Las herramientas utilizadas para esta investigación se incluyen, entre otros, la Prueba ADL (Actividades de la vida diaria), que evalúa el grado de autocuidado y movilidad; la Escala de Lawton y Brody, que es un instrumento apropiado para evaluar el nivel de independencia y habilidades; y la MMT (Mini prueba mental), que evalúa las funciones cognitivas, como la memoria, el lenguaje, la praxis y la atención. Todos son esenciales para detectar y diagnosticar la enfermedad de Alzheimer. Resultados: Se utilizaron diversas técnicas estadísticas para obtener los resultados, como el análisis descriptivo, tablas de contingencia y componentes principales. Conclusiones: Se analizó la población entre 65 y 90 años de edad que representó el 35.9% de la población total en 2010, lo que significa que hubo una variación. Hoy en día, representa el 56.6% de la muestra obtenida. Este grupo generacional se refiere a las personas mayores, que deberían ser favorecidos por las políticas públicas que se pretenden para mejorar los programas de salud, generar áreas recreativas y crear centros de cuidado para adultos mayores. En general, la dinámica demográfica de Posorja muestra una pirámide estructurada, con una población en expansión, una gran cantidad de jóvenes y adultos que contribuyen a la dinámica económica y productividad del área. El cuestionario podría modificarse y contener las especificaciones requeridas para adaptarse a las verdaderas dimensiones de esta población.

Resumo Contexto: O presente artigo visa analisar em que medida as necessidades físicas e recreacionais dos idosos das comunidades de Posorja e Puna, no Equador, estão sendo atendidas. Atualmente, sabe-se que a atividade física é benéfica para os idosos, já que ajuda a diminuir enfermidades e todos os tipos de doenças. Metodologia: Neste estudo, a população é composta por 378 pessoas idosas com idades entre 65 e 90 anos - 200 pertencem à comunidade de Posorja e 178 à comunidade de Puna, na província de Gayas. As ferramentas utilizadas nesta pesquisa incluem, entre outras, o Teste ADL (Activities of Daily Living), que avalia o grau de autocuidado e mobilidade; a Escala de Lawton e Brody, que é um instrumento apropriado para avaliar o nível de independência e as habilidades; e o MEEM (Miniexame do Estado Mental), que avalia funções cognitivas, como a memória, a linguagem, a práxis e a atenção. Todas elas são essenciais para detectar e diagnosticar a Doença de Alzheimer. Resultados: Várias técnicas estatísticas foram usadas para obter os resultados, tais como análise descritiva, tabelas de contingência e principais componentes. Conclusões: A população entre 65 e 90 anos foi analisada e somava 35,9% da população total em 2010, o que significa que houve uma variação. Atualmente, essa população representa 56,6% da amostra obtida. Esse grupo geracional se refere aos idosos, que deveriam ser favorecidos por políticas públicas que visam melhorar programas de saúde, gerar espaços recreacionais e abrir centros especializados no cuidado de idosos. Em geral, as dinâmicas demográficas de Posorja mostram uma pirâmide estruturada com uma população em expansão, uma grande quantidade de jovens e adultos que contribuem para as dinâmicas econômicas e para a produtividade da região. O questionário poderia ser adaptado para conter as especificações requeridas para adequar-se às verdadeiras dimensões dessa população.

Factores de riesgo asociados a infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente en pacientes con neumonía adquirida en la comunidad asistidos en terapia intensiva / RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH METHICILLIN STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS RESISTANT IN PATIENTS WITH ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA IN THE COMMUNITY, ASSISTED AT INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Introducción: La incidencia creciente de infecciones invasivas por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMR-AC) obliga a considerar a este patógeno como posible agente etiológico de la neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC). Es importante reconocer variables específicas que se asocien con un mayor riesgo de padecer esta enfermedad, a fin de mejorar la terapia antibiótica empírica y limitar el tratamiento anti-SAMR. Objetivos: Identificar factores de riesgo asociados a SARM-AC en pacientes con NAC hospitalizados en Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI). Materiales y métodos: Se analizaron de manera retrospectiva todos los episodios de NAC ingresados en la UCI de un hospital público entre los años 2006 y 2014 en los que se logró identificar el agente etiológico. Se dividió a la población en dos grupos según el agente causal: SAMR-AC (NAC-S) o no SAMR-AC (NAC- no S). Se compararon diferentes variables demográficas, epidemiológicas y clínicas entre ambos grupos (análisis univariado). Para identificar factores de riesgo asociados con NAC por SAMR-AC se realizó análisis de regresión logística de las variables que resultaron significativamente diferentes en el análisis univariado. Para valorar diferencias entre ambos grupos se utilizó estadística descriptiva, test de Fisher y análisis de regresión logística. Se utilizó el software EPIcalc-2000. Se consideró significativo un valor de p<0.05. Resultados: Se incluyeron 239 episodios de NAC, de las cuales 39 fueron causadas por SAMR-AC, y 200 por otros agentes, con la siguiente distribución:niae 6 (3%), H1N1 5 (2,5%), Mycoplasma pneunoniae 4 (2%), Moraxella catharralis 3 (1,5%), SAMS 3 (1,5%), otros 6 (3%). Los pacientes del grupo NAC-S fueron significativamente más jóvenes (edad promedio 35.7 años ± 13.0 vs 43.2 ±12.4, p<0.0001), tuvieron en menor proporción infección por virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) (23.1% vs 56.0%, p<0.0001) y presentaron con mayor frecuencia requerimiento de ventilación mecánica (VM) en las primeras 24 horas (38.5% vs 18.0%, p=0.008). Los pacientes del grupo NAC-S mostraron un promedio de score de APACHE II significativamente mayor al ingreso (17.0 ±5.3 vs 13.3 ±4.4, p<0.0001). La mortalidad fue significativamente más elevada en el grupo de NAC-S (35.9% vs 11.0%, p=0.0002). En el resto de las variables analizadas no se observaron diferencias significativas. El análisis de regresión logística mostró que las variables que se asociaron con NAC-S fueron edad ≤35 años (OR 3.60, IC 95% 1.77-7.29), score de APACHE II ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, IC 95% 2.08-9.16) y requerimiento de VM (OR 2.85, IC 95% 1.36-5.86). En cambio, la infección por VIH fue una variable que se asoció con menor probabilidad de desarrollar NAC-S (OR 0.24, IC 95% 0.11-0.52). Conclusión: En los pacientes con NAC que ingresan en una UCI, la edad ≤35 años, el score de APACHE II ≥ 15 y la necesidad de VM se asociaron significativamente con mayor probabilidad de infección por SAMR-AC Streptococcus pneumoniae 113 (56,5%); Haemophillus influenzae 39 (19,5%), Chlamydia psitacii 13 (6,5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8 (4%), Klebsiella pneumo

Risk factors associated with methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus community acquired pneumonia in patients assisted at Intensive Care Units Introduction: The increasing incidence of invasive infections by Community Acquired methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) makes it necessary to consider this pathogen as a possible etiological agent in Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP). It is important to recognize specific variables that are associated with an increased risk of this disease, in order to improve empirical antibiotic therapy and to limit anti-MRSA treatment. Objectives: To identify risk factors associated with CA-MRSA in patients with CAP hospitalized in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Material and methods: We analyse retrospectively all CAP episodes admitted to the ICU of a public hospital between 2006 and 2014 in which the etiologic agent was identified. The population was divided in two groups, according the etiological agent: CA-MRSA (CAP-MRSA) o not CA-MRSA (CAP-no MRSA). Different demographic, epidemiological and clinical variables were compared between both groups (univariate analysis). Logistic regression analysis of variables that were significantly different in the univariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with CAP by CA-MRSA. Descriptive statistic was used, Fisher´s test was performed to assess differences between both groups and logistic regression test was made to know risks factors associated. EPIcalc-2000 software was used. A value of p <0.05 was considered significant. Results: 239 CAP episodes were includes; 39 were caused by CA-MRSA and 200 by others agents. The etiological distribution was: Streptococcus pneumoniae 113 (56,5%); Haemophillus influenzae 39 (19,5%), Chlamydia psitacii 13 (6,5%), Pseudomona aeruginosa 8 (4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 6 (3%), H1N1 5 (2,5%), Mycoplasma pneunoniae 4 (2%), Moraxella catharralis 3 (1,5%), MSSA 3 (1,5%), others 6 (3%). Patients in the CAP-MRSA group were significant younger (mean age 35.7 years old ± 13.0 vs 43.2 ±12.4, p<0.0001), had a lower proportion of HIV infections (23.1% vs 56.0%, p<0.0001) and needed of mechanical ventilation (MV) in the first 24 hours with higher frequency (38.5% vs 18.0%, p=0.008). Patients in the CAP-MRSA showed a significantly higher APACHE II score on admission (17.0 ±5.3 vs 13.3 ±4.4, p<0.0001). Mortality rate was significantly higher in CAP-MRSA group (35.9% vs 11.0%, p=0.0002). In the other analysed variables, no significant range differences were observed. Logistic regression analysis showed that the variables that were associated with CAP by MRSA were age ≤35 years (OR 3.60, 95% CI 1.77-7.29), APACHE II score ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, CI 95% 2.08-9.16) and MV requirement (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.36-5.86). HIV infection was associated with lower probability to have CAP-MSA (OR 0.24, CI 95% 0.11-0.52). Conclusion: In patients with CAP who entered an ICU, age ≤35 years, APACHE II score ≥15 and the need for MV were significantly associated with a greater likelihood of CAP-MRSA infection.

New Permian fauna from tropical Gondwana.

Terrestrial vertebrates are first known to colonize high-latitude regions during the middle Permian (Guadalupian) about 270 million years ago, following the Pennsylvanian Gondwanan continental glaciation. However, despite over 150 years of study in these areas, the biogeographic origins of these rich communities of land-dwelling vertebrates remain obscure. Here we report on a new early Permian continental tetrapod fauna from South America in tropical Western Gondwana that sheds new light on patterns of tetrapod distribution. Northeastern Brazil hosted an extensive lacustrine system inhabited by a unique community of temnospondyl amphibians and reptiles that considerably expand the known temporal and geographic ranges of key subgroups. Our findings demonstrate that tetrapod groups common in later Permian and Triassic temperate communities were already present in tropical Gondwana by the early Permian (Cisuralian). This new fauna constitutes a new biogeographic province with North American affinities and clearly demonstrates that tetrapod dispersal into Gondwana was already underway at the beginning of the Permian.

Tiarajudens eccentricus and Anomocephalus africanus, two bizarre anomodonts (Synapsida, Therapsida) with dental occlusion from the Permian of Gondwana.

Anomodontia was a highly successful tetrapod clade during the Permian and the Triassic. New morphological information regarding two bizarre basal anomodonts is provided and their palaeoecological significance is explored. The osteology of the recently discovered Tiarajudens eccentricus Cisneros et al. 2011, from the Brazilian Permian, is described in detail. The taxon exhibits unusual postcranial features, including the presence of gastralia. Additional preparation and computed tomography scans of the holotype of Anomocephalus africanus Modesto et al. 1999 discovered in the Karoo Basin of South Africa allow a reappraisal of this genus. Anomocephalus is similar to Tiarajudens with regard to several traits, including a battery of large, transversally expanded, palatal teeth. Molariform teeth are present in the mandible of the African taxon, providing additional insight into the function of the earliest tooth-occlusion mechanism known in therapsids. At least two waves of tooth replacement can be recognized in the palate of Anomocephalus. The outsized, blade-like caniniforms of the herbivorous Tiarajudens allow several non-exclusive ecological interpretations, among which we favour intraspecific display or combat. This behaviour was an alternative to the head-butting practised by the contemporary dinocephalians. Combat specializations that are considered typical of Cenozoic herbivores likely evolved during the Middle Permian, at the time the first communities with diverse, abundant tetrapod herbivores were being assembled.

Spectroscopic analysis and X-ray diffraction of trunk fossils from the Parnaíba Basin, Northeast Brazil.

The Parnaiba Sedimentary Basin is of the Paleozoic age and is located in Northeast Brazil, covering the states of Piauí, Maranhão and Tocantins and a small part of Ceará and Pará. In this work we applied several chemical analytical techniques to characterize trunk fossils found in the Parnaíba Sedimentary Basin, collected from four different sites, and discuss their fossilization process. We performed a study of the trunk fossils through X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy, infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The analysis allow us to identify the different compositions which are present in the trunk fossils: kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4), hematite (Fe2O3) and quartz (SiO2). Based in these results we were able to identify that the main fossilization mechanism of the trunk fossil was silicification. Furthermore, through Raman spectroscopy, we have observed the presence of carbonaceous materials in the Permian fossils, as evidenced by the D and G Raman bands. The relative intensities and bandwidths of the D and G bands indicated that the carbon has a low crystallinity. Thus, most of trunk fossils analyzed were permineralized and not petrified, because there is the presence of carbon that characterizes the partial decomposition of the organic matter in some trunks.

CFD study to determine the optimal configuration of aerators in a full-scale waste stabilization pond.

Aerated lagoons (ALs) are important variants of the pond wastewater treatment technology that have not received much attention in the literature. The hydraulic behaviour of ALs and especially the Facultative aerated lagoons (FALs) is very complex since the aeration in these systems is designed for oxygen transfer but not necessarily to create complete mixing. In this work, the energy expenditure of the aerators was studied by means of a scenario analysis. 3D CFD models (one phase and multiphase) of a 3 ha FAL in a waste stabilization pond system in Cuenca (Ecuador) were built for different configurations of aerators. The thrust produced by the aerators was modelled by an external momentum source applied as velocity vectors into the pond fluid. The predictions of a single phase model were in satisfactory agreement with experimental results. Subsequently, a scenario analysis assessing several aeration schemes with different numbers of aerators in operation were tested with respect to velocity profiles and residence time distribution (RTD) curves. This analysis showed that the aeration scheme with all 10 aerators switched on produces a similar hydraulic behaviour compared to using only 6 or 8 aerators. The current operational schemes comprise of switching off some aerators during the peak hours of the day and operating all 10 aerators during night. This current practice could be economically replaced by continuously operating 4 or 6 aerators without significantly affecting the overall mixing. Furthermore, a continuous mixing regime minimises the sediment oxygen demand enhancing the oxygen levels in the pond.

Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquirido en la comunidad: una nueva amenaza / Community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus: A new threat

Objetivos: Conocer la frecuencia de Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMR-AC) en neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC); examinar sus características clínicas - evolutivas y analizar factores de riesgo. Pacientes, material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, observacional, realizado en una unidad de cuidados intensivos respiratorios entre 2006 y 2012. Resultados: Se evaluaron 180 pacientes con NAC con diagnóstico etiológico. Etiologías más frecuentes: Streptococcus pneumoniae (50.5%), Haemophillus influenzae (18.3%) ySAMR-AC (12.2%, 22 casos). La neumonía por SAMR-AC se presentó en individuos jóvenes, mayoritariamente hombres. En el 81.8% de los casos el foco primario fue infección de piel y estructuras relacionadas (IPER), 95.4% presentó criterios clínicos de sepsis, 72.7% tuvo compromiso radiológico bilateral y 45.5% desarrolló derrame pleural. El 40.9% requirió ventilación mecánica y el 45.4% utilizó drogas vasoactivas. El 81.8% de los pacientes no alcanzó criterios de estabilidad clínica al cabo de la primer semana y la mortalidad fue del 36.3%, significativamente superior al resto de los microorganismos (8.8%, p<0,001). Los factores clínicos asociados con mayor riesgo de SAMR-AC fueron la presencia de IPER concomitante, compromiso radiológico bilateral, presencia de criterios clínicos de sepsis, edad inferior a 30 años y requerimiento de drogas vasoactivas. Los factores que se asociaron con mortalidad en NAC fueron la etiología por SAMR-AC y el compromiso radiológico bilateral. Conclusiones: La neumonía por SAMR-AC es una patología emergente, asociada a elevada morbimortalidad. Debe ser considerada en pacientes jóvenes, con presencia concomitante de IPER, compromiso radiológico bilateral, criterios clínicos de sepsis o necesidad de drogas vasoactivas.

Objectives: To know the incidence of Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) caused by Methicillin Resistant Sthaphylococcus aureus (MRSA), to examine their clinical and developmental characteristics and to analyze risk factors. Materials and Methods: Retrospective, descriptive and observational study carried out at a Respiratory Intensive Care Unit, between 2006 and 2012. Results: 180 patients with etiologic diagnosis of CAP were evaluated. The most common causes were Streptococcus pneumoniae (50.5%), Haemophillus influenzae (18.3%) and MRSA (12.2%, 22 cases). Community Acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) pneumonia was present in young people, especially in male. In 81.8% of the cases, skin and related structure infections (SRSI) were the primary focus, 95.4% presented clinical criteria of sepsis, 72.7% had bilateral radiology involvement and 45.5% developed pleural effusion. 40.9% needed mechanical ventilation and 45.4% used vasoactive drugs. Clinical stability at the first week was not reached in 81.8% and mortality rate was 36.6%, significantly higher than for pneumonia caused by other microorganisms (8.8% p<0,001). Clinical factors related with high risk of CA-MRSA pneumonia were the concomitant presence of SRSI, bilateral radiology involvement, clinical criteria of sepsis, age <30 years old and need for vasoactive drugs. Factors related to CAP mortality were CA-MRSA aetiology and bilateral radiology involvement. Conclusions: CA-MRSA pneumonia is an emergent disease with high morbidity and mortality. It must be considered in young patients, with SRSI, bilateral radiology involvement, clinical criteria of sepsis or intake of vasoactive drugs.