Insecticidal activity of two organic extracts from Libidibia coriaria (Jacq.) Schltdl. fruits against Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith.

This study describes the chemical characterisation of two extracts (ethyl acetate, EtOAc-E and hexanic, Hx-E) from Libidibia coriaria fruits and their insecticidal properties on Spodoptera frugiperda. The HPLC analysis in EtOAct-E revealed the presence of ellagic acid and phenolic compounds. The CG-MS analysis in Hx-E revealed the presence of Hexadecanoic acid, 11-Methylheptacosane, Dodecanoic acid and Nonacosane as major compounds. The application of both extracts was performed on the dorsal part of each larva via aspersion. The larval mortality, relative growth and emergence percentage of adults were evaluated. The Hx-E caused a 93.33% mortality at 100 mg/mL at 24 h post-application. A minor relative growth with both EtOAc-E (12.64 mg) and Hx-E (7.90 mg) was observed compared with their respective negative controls (methanol = 25.05 mg and tween20 = 24.53 mg). The lowest emergence percentage of adults with the Hx-E (25%) at 50 mg/mL was observed. Libidibia coriaria fruits exhibit insecticidal properties against S. frugiperda.

Crinoidea y Asteroidea (Echinodermata) del talud de la península de Yucatán, de la Colección Nacional de Equinodermos de México / Crinoidea and Asteroidea (Echinodermata) from the slope of the Yucatan Peninsula, Colección Nacional de Equinodermos, Mexico

Resumen Introducción: Las especies de las clases Crinoidea y Asteroidea se distribuyen en gran variedad de hábitats en todos los océanos desde la zona intermareal hasta grandes profundidades, existen pocos registros en aguas mexicanas, a profundidades superiores a los 200 m, los escasos registros existentes datan de documentos históricos de la literatura especializada y los ejemplares se resguardan en colecciones científicas extranjeras. Objetivo: Contribuir a la recopilación de información de los ejemplares resguardados en la Colección Nacional de Equinodermos (CNE) del Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología (ICML), UNAM y proveer un inventario de las especies de crinoideos y asteroideos que habitan en zonas profundas del talud de la Península de Yucatán, México. Métodos: Del año 2005 al 2014 se recolectaron ejemplares de crinoideos y asteriodeos en cuatro cruceros en el B/O "Justo Sierra" BIOREPES 1 y 2 y COBERPES 2 y 6. Se realizaron arrastres con red camaronera en 80 estaciones de muestreo. Resultados: El listado taxonómico comprende 1146 ejemplares, de los cuales 204 son crinoideos del orden Comatulida, distribuidos en tres familias tres géneros y tres especies y 942 asteroideos distribuidos en seis órdenes, 11 familias, 21 géneros y 28 especies. Se obtuvieron los registros nuevos para la CNE: Democrinus rawsonii y Atelecrinus balanoides en crinoideos. Astropecten alligator, Hymenaster modestus, Calyptraster personatus, Pteraster militarioides militarioides, Sclerasterias contorta en asteroideos. Con esta información se incrementan los registros de crinoideos y asteroideos (de profundidad mayor a 200 m) para los estados de Yucatán (16) y Quintana Roo (16).

Abstract Introduction: The species of the Crinoidea and Asteroidea classes are distributed in a wide variety of habitats in all oceans from the intertidal zone to great depths, there are few Mexican records in depths greater than 200 m, the few existing records date from historical documents in the specialized literature and the specimens are kept in foreign scientific collections. Objective: Contribute to the collection of information on the specimens kept in the Colección Nacional de Equinodermos (CNE) of Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología (ICML), UNAM and provide an inventory of the species of crinoids and asteroids that inhabit deep areas of the slope of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Methods: From 2005 to 2014, specimens of crinoids and asterioids were collected through four cruises in the B/O "Justo Sierra" BIOREPES 1 and 2 and COBERPES 2 and 6, shrimp net trawls were carried out at 80 sampling stations. Results: The taxonomic list includes 1146 specimens, of which 204 crinoids are of the order Comatulida, distributed in three families, three genera and three species and 942 asteroids distributed in six orders, 11 families, 21 genera and 28 species. New records were obtained for CNE: Democrinus rawsonii and Atelecrinus balanoides in crinoids. Astropecten alligator, Hymenaster modestus, Calyptraster personatus, Pteraster militarioides militarioides, Sclerasterias contorta in asteroids. With this information, the records of crinoids and asteroids (deeper than 200 m) increase for the states of Yucatan (16) and Quintana Roo (16).

Systematic profiling of subtelomeric silencing factors in budding yeast.

Subtelomeric gene silencing is the negative transcriptional regulation of genes located close to telomeres. This phenomenon occurs in a variety of eukaryotes with salient physiological implications, such as cell adherence, virulence, immune-system escape, and ageing. The process has been widely studied in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, where genes involved in this process have been identified mostly on a gene-by-gene basis. Here, we introduce a quantitative approach to study gene silencing, that couples the classical URA3 reporter with GFP monitoring, amenable to high-throughput flow cytometry analysis. This dual silencing reporter was integrated into several subtelomeric loci in the genome, where it showed a gradual range of silencing effects. By crossing strains with this dual reporter at the COS12 and YFR057W subtelomeric query loci with gene-deletion mutants, we carried out a large-scale forward screen for potential silencing factors. The approach was replicable and allowed accurate detection of expression changes. Results of our comprehensive screen suggest that the main players influencing subtelomeric silencing were previously known, but additional potential factors underlying chromatin conformation are involved. We validate and report the novel silencing factor LGE1, a protein with unknown molecular function required for histone H2B ubiquitination. Our strategy can be readily combined with other reporters and gene perturbation collections, making it a versatile tool to study gene silencing at a genome-wide scale.

Cirugía micrográfica de Mohs en carcinomas cutáneos: siete años de experiencia en Uruguay / Mohs micrographic surgery in skin cancer: 7 years' experience in uruguay / Cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs em carcinomas cutáneos: 7 anos de experiência no Uruguai

Introducción: la cirugía micrográfica de Mohs es una técnica para la exéresis de cánceres de piel con la ventaja del examen histológico del 100% de los márgenes quirúrgicos, logrando así la tasa de curación más alta con la máxima preservación de tejido sano circundante. Objetivo: realizar una descripción clínico-epidemiológica de 7 años de experiencia en Uruguay. Método: análisis descriptivo de pacientes operados por un mismo cirujano de Mohs registrando datos clínicos, tumorales y quirúrgicos. Resultados: se estudiaron 641 cirugías. 54,9% fueron realizadas en hombres y 45,1% en mujeres. La edad media fue de 69 años. El 68,2% correspondió a carcinoma basocelular y 31,8% a carcinoma espinocelular. El 79,4% se encontraba en cabeza y cuello. El 87,8% de los tumores fueron primarios y un 11,1% recidivas. El tipo más frecuente de cierre fue el cierre simple con 48,7% seguido de los colgajos con un 31,7%. Conclusiones: la cirugía de Mohs es un procedimiento seguro y eficaz, y nuestros resultados coinciden con lo descrito en centros de referencia internacional. Este trabajo describe 7 años de experiencia en Uruguay de la técnica de CMM, siendo el mayor a nivel nacional.

Introduction: Mohs micrographic surgery is a technique for skin cancer exeresis involving the advantage of 100% of surgical margins histological exam, which leads to highest healing rates with the maximum preservation of the surrounding healthy tissue. Objective: to conduct a clinical and epidemiological description of a 7 years' experience in Uruguay. Method: descriptive analysis of patients operated by the same Mohs surgeon who recorded clinical, tumor and surgical data. Results: 641 surgeries were included in the study. 54.9% of surgeries were performed in men and 45.1% in women. Average age was 69 years old. 68.2% of cases corresponded to basal cell carcinoma and 31.8% to squamous cell carcinoma. 79.4% were located in the head and neck, 87.8% of tumors were primary and 11.1% were cases of relapse. The most frequent type of closure was simple in 48.7% of cases, followed by flaps in 31.7%. Conclusions: Mohs surgery is a safe an effective procedure, and the results of the study agree with what is described in international reference centers. The study describes a 7 years' experience in Uruguay of Mohs micrographic surgery, being it the largest research conducted in Uruguay.

Introdução: a cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs é uma técnica de excisão de cânceres de pele com a vantagem do exame histológico de 100% das margens cirúrgicas, alcançando assim a maior taxa de cura com a máxima preservação do tecido saudável circundante. Objetivo: realizar uma descrição clínico-epidemiológica de 7 anos de experiência no Uruguai. Método: análise descritiva de pacientes operados pelo mesmo cirurgião com experiência na técnica de Mohs registrando dados clínicos, tumorais e cirúrgicos. Resultados: foram estudadas 641 cirurgias. 54,9% foram realizados em homens e 45,1% em mulheres. A média de idade foi de 69 anos. 68,2% corresponderam a carcinoma basocelular e 31,8% a carcinoma espinocelular. 79,4% estavam na cabeça e pescoço. 87,8% dos tumores eram primários e 11,1% recidivas. O tipo de fechamento mais frequente foi o fechamento simples (48,7%) seguido do fechamento com retalhos com (31,7%). Conclusões: a cirurgia de Mohs é um procedimento seguro e eficaz, e nossos resultados coincidem com os descritos em centros de referência internacionais. Este trabalho descreve 7 anos de experiência no Uruguai da técnica CMM, sendo a maior a nível nacional.

Two alpha isopropylmalate synthase isozymes with similar kinetic properties are extant in the yeast Lachancea kluyveri.

The first committed step in the leucine biosynthetic pathway is catalyzed by α-isopropylmalate synthase (α-IPMS, EC 2.3.3.13), which in the Saccaromycotina subphylum of Ascomycete yeasts is frequently encoded by duplicated genes. Following a gene duplication event, the two copies may be preserved presumably because the encoded proteins diverge in either functional properties and/or cellular localization. The genome of the petite-negative budding yeast Lachancea kluyveri includes two SAKL0E10472 (LkLEU4) and SAKL0F05170 g (LkLEU4BIS) paralogous genes, which are homologous to other yeast α-IPMS sequences. Here, we investigate whether these paralogous genes encode functional α-IPMS isozymes and whether their functions have diverged. Molecular phylogeny suggested that the LkLeu4 isozyme is located in the mitochondria and LkLeu4BIS in the cytosol. Comparison of growth rates, leucine intracellular pools and mRNA levels, indicate that the LkLeu4 isozyme is the predominant α-IPMS enzyme during growth on glucose as carbon source. Determination of the kinetic parameters indicates that the isozymes have similar affinities for the substrates and for the feedback inhibitor leucine. Thus, the diversification of the physiological roles of the genes LkLEU4 and LkLEU4BIS involves preferential transcription of the LkLEU4 gene during growth on glucose and different subcellular localization, although ligand interactions have not diverged.

Comparación de las tinciones con hematoxilina y eosina versus azul de toluidina en la evaluación de los carcinomas cutáneos durante la cirugía micrográfica de Mohs / Comparative study of toluidine blue and hematoxylin and eosin staining in evaluating skin-carcinoma during Mohs micrographic surgery / Comparação da coloração de hematoxilina e eosina versus azul de toluidina na avaliação de carcinomas cutâneos durante a cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs

Resumen: Introducción: la cirugía micrográfica de Mohs es una técnica quirúrgica especializada para el tratamiento del cáncer de piel no melanoma. La histopatología cumple un rol fundamental, y la elección de la tinción es un punto de controversia. Objetivos: comparar el rendimiento de las tinciones de hematoxilina y eosina (HyE) versus azul de toluidina (AT) durante la cirugía. Método: estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal a partir de noviembre de 2017 hasta mayo de 2018. Se incluyeron las láminas empleadas durante la cirugía en el período mencionado. Estas fueron analizadas por el cirujano de Mohs, tres residentes y una dermopatóloga. Se valoró el rendimiento de ambas tinciones, teniendo en cuenta las características celulares y los elementos del estroma. Resultados: se estudiaron 23 tumores (16 carcinomas basocelulares y 7 carcinomas espinocelulares). Al observarse al microscopio óptico tanto con la tinción de AT como con HyE no se encontraron diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos en lo global, sólo en algunas características, especialmente con la HyE. Conclusiones: es el primer trabajo en Uruguay que compara la eficacia de las dos tinciones durante la cirugía micrográfica de Mohs. Como conclusión tanto la tinción de HyE como el AT son muy buenas técnicas para el diagnóstico de carcinomas cutáneos.

Abstract: Introduction: Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized surgical technique used to treat nonmelanoma carcinoma. Histopathology plays a vital role in the diagnosis of this condition, and the choice staining method is controversial. Objective: to compare results in the use of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) versus Toluidine blue (TB) staining during surgery. Method: observational, descriptive and transversal study conducted from November, 2017 until May, 2018 of the slides used during surgeries in the selected period. Slides were analysed by the Mohs surgeon, 3 residents and a dermopathologist to evaluate the results of both staining methods, in consideration of cell features and stromal elements. Results: 23 tumors were analysed (16 Basal Cell carcinomas and 7 Squamous Cell Carcinoma). Microscopic observation of slides prepared with Toluidine blue and hematoxylin and eosin stains did not show significant global differences between both groups, except in terms of a few characteristics, in particular with hematoxylin and eosin stains. Conclusions: this was the first study in Uruguay to evaluate the effectiveness of both staining methods during Mohs micrographic surgery, and it concluded that both Toluidine blue and hematoxylin and eosin stains are very good techniques in evaluating skin-cancer.

Resumo: Introdução: a cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs é uma técnica cirúrgica especializada para o tratamento do câncer de pele não melanoma. A histopatologia desempenha um papel fundamental, onde a escolha da coloração é um ponto de controvérsia. Objetivos: comparar o desempenho das colorações de hematoxilina e eosina versus azul de toluidina durante a cirurgia. Método: estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal de novembro de 2017 a maio de 2018. Foram incluídas as lâminas utilizadas durante as cirurgias no referido período. Estas foram analisadas pelo cirurgião especializado na técnica de Mohs, 3 residentes e um dermatopatologista onde foi avaliado o desempenho de ambas as colorações, levando em consideração as características celulares e os elementos do estroma. Resultados: foram estudados 23 tumores (16 carcinomas basocelulares e 7 carcinomas espinocelulares). Quando observados ao microscópio de luz para coloração AT e H&E, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre os dois grupos em geral, apenas em algumas características, especialmente com o H&E. Conclusões: é o primeiro estudo no Uruguai que compara a eficácia dos 2 corantes durante a cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs. Em conclusão, tanto a coloração com hematoxilina e eosina quanto com azul de toluidina são técnicas muito boas para o diagnóstico de carcinomas de pele.

Alanine Represses γ-Aminobutyric Acid Utilization and Induces Alanine Transaminase Required for Mitochondrial Function in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) shunt constitutes a conserved metabolic route generating nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and regulating stress response in most organisms. Here we show that in the presence of GABA, Saccharomyces cerevisiae produces glutamate and alanine through the irreversible action of Uga1 transaminase. Alanine induces expression of alanine transaminase (ALT1) gene. In an alt1Δ mutant grown on GABA, alanine accumulation leads to repression of the GAD1, UGA1, and UGA2 genes, involved in the GABA shunt, which could result in growth impairment. Induced ALT1 expression and negative modulation of the GABA shunt by alanine constitute a novel regulatory circuit controlling both alanine biosynthesis and catabolism. Consistent with this, the GABA shunt and the production of NADPH are repressed in a wild-type strain grown in alanine, as compared to those detected in the wild-type strain grown on GABA. We also show that heat shock induces alanine biosynthesis and ALT1, UGA1, UGA2, and GAD1 gene expression, whereas an uga1Δ mutant shows heat sensitivity and reduced NADPH pools, as compared with those observed in the wild-type strain. Additionally, an alt1Δ mutant shows an unexpected alanine-independent phenotype, displaying null expression of mitochondrial COX2, COX3, and ATP6 genes and a notable decrease in mitochondrial/nuclear DNA ratio, as compared to a wild-type strain, which results in a petite phenotype. Our results uncover a new negative role of alanine in stress defense, repressing the transcription of the GABA shunt genes, and support a novel Alt1 moonlighting function related to the maintenance of mitochondrial DNA integrity and mitochondrial gene expression.

Expansion of the genus Massinium (Holothuroidea: Thyonidae) to the American continent and description of a new species / Expansión del género Massinium (Holothuroidea: Thyonidae) al continente americano y descripción de una nueva especie

Introduction: The genus Massinium includes 11 species, most from the Indo Pacific Ocean, and had not previously being reported from the American continent. Objective: To present the new record of the genus Massinium and describe a new species of this genus. Methods: Material collection was done by SCUBA-diving to depths of a maximum of 9 m. Results: Massinium ocumichoensis sp. nov. is described from seven specimens that extends the range of the genus to the American continent (Guerrero, Michoacan and Jalisco, Mexico). The new species lives in sandy-rocky substrata, from 2 to 16 m deep. It is distinguished from its congeneric species by a combination of morphological characters: mid-dorsal slightly bigger pseudobuttons (40-60 μm), and tables in the body wall. A taxonomic key for distinguishing the species of Massinium is provided. Conclusions: The geographic range of the genus Massinium is extended to the Mexican Pacific with M. ocumichoensis sp. nov.

Introducción : El género Massinium incluye 11 especies, la mayoría del Océano Indo-Pacífico, y no se había reportado previamente en el continente americano. Objetivo: Presentar el nuevo registro del género Massinium y describir una nueva especie de este. Métodos: La recolección de material se realizó mediante buceo a una profundidad máxima de 9 m. Resultados: Massinium ocumichoensis sp. nov. se describe a partir de siete ejemplares que extiende el rango de distribución del género al Continente Americano (Guerrero, Michoacán y Jalisco, México). La nueva especie vive en sustratos arenosos-rocosos, de 2 a 16 m de profundidad. Se distingue de sus especies congenéricas por una combinación de caracteres morfológicos: pseudobotones de la zona dorsal media ligeramente más grandes (40-60 μm) y tablas en la pared del cuerpo. Se proporciona una clave taxonómica para distinguir las especies de Massinium. Conclusiones: El rango geográfico del género Massinium se extiende al Pacífico mexicano con M. ocumichoensis sp. nov.

Biodiversidad de ofiuroideos (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) del talud de la Península de Yucatán, México / Biodiversity of ophiuroids (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) from the slope of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Introduction: The Ophiuroidea class is the most diverse of the Phylum Echinodermata, with 2 064 described species, which can be found from intertidal zones to abyssal depths, but the fauna of Yucatan peninsula needs more study. Objective: To describe the diversity of ophiuroids in the Yucatan continental slope. Methods: Information was compiled from four oceanographic surveys carried out in August 2005, June 2007 (BIOREPES 1 and 2: BRP1 and BRP2), April 2011 and August 2014 (COBERPES 2 and 6: CBP2 and CBP6). The specimens were obtained by trawling with a shrimp net in soft substrates and with a skimmer-type trawl dredge at a depth range of 200 to 1 071 m off the states of Yucatán and Quintana Roo, Mexico. Results: We found members of two superorders, five orders, six suborders, five superfamilies, 18 families, 28 genera and 43 species. Conclusions: The northeast zone Yucatan Peninsula has at least 43 species, of which 19 are new records for the area.

Introducción: La clase Ophiuroidea es la más diversa del Phylum Echinodermata, con 2 064 especies descritas, que se pueden encontrar desde zonas intermareales hasta profundidades abisales, pero la fauna de la península de Yucatán necesita más estudio. Objetivo: Describir la diversidad de ofiuroideos en el talud continental de Yucatán. Métodos: Se recopiló información de cuatro estudios oceanográficos llevados a cabo en agosto de 2005, junio de 2007 (BIOREPES 1 y 2: BRP1 y BRP2), abril de 2011 y agosto de 2014 (COBERPES 2 y 6: CBP2 y CBP6). Los especímenes se obtuvieron mediante la pesca de arrastre con una red camaronera en sustratos blandos y con una draga de arrastre tipo skimmer en un rango de profundidad de 200 a 1 071 m frente a los estados de Yucatán y Quintana Roo, México. Resultados: Encontramos miembros de dos superórdenes, cinco órdenes, seis subórdenes, cinco superfamilias, 18 familias, 28 géneros y 43 especies. Conclusiones: La zona noreste de la Península de Yucatán tiene al menos 43 especies, de las cuales 19 son nuevos registros para el área.

Ontogenetic variation of the odontophore of Luidia superba (Asteroidea: Paxillosida) and its taxonomic implications / Variación ontogenética del odontóforo de Luidia superba (Asteroidea: Paxillosida) y sus implicaciones taxonómicas

Introduction: The sea star odontophore is the structure positioned between the paired oral ossicles, with which they articulate through proximal and distal processes. The internal anatomy structures may be used as taxonomic characters for a precise differentiation between species, so it is necessary to describe the structures variation throughout growth. Objective: To describe the odontophore shape and variation of Luidia superba A. H. Clark, 1917 from specimens of the Gulf of California deposited in the Echinoderm National Collection, ICML UNAM. Methods: A total of 735 specimens were examined to describe the external characters, from which 55 selected specimens, within a range of R = 14 mm and R = 210 mm, were dissected to extract the odontophores and analyzed with geometric morphometrics. Results: Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) images of the odontophores showing the variations in shape throughout growth are presented. Differences in shape between size groups were confirmed with a Canonical Variables Analysis (P < 0.05). Conclusions: There are three main groups in this size ranges where specialization of the stereom can be observed through the ontogenetic series; the variation in shape of the odontophore shown here is a precedent for the use of internal anatomy as new taxonomic characters of identification.

Introducción: El odontóforo es la estructura posicionada entre las placas orales pareadas con las que se articula a través de procesos proximales y distales. Las estructuras de la anatomía interna se pueden usar como caracteres taxonómicos para la diferenciación más precisa entre especies, por lo que es necesario describir la variación de las estructuras a lo largo del crecimiento. Objetivo: Describir la forma y la variación del odontóforo de Luidia superba A. H. Clark, 1917 de ejemplares del Golfo de California depositados en la Colección Nacional de Equinodermos, ICML UNAM. Métodos: Se revisaron un total de 735 ejemplares para describir los caracteres externos y de las cuales se seleccionaron 55 ejemplares, dentro de un intervalo de R = 14 mm a R = 210 mm, de los cuales se extrajeron los odontóforos y fueron analizados utilizando morfometría geométrica. Resultados: Se presentan imágenes de microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB) de los odontóforos que muestran las variaciones de la forma durante el crecimiento. Se confirmaron diferencias significativas de la forma entre los grupos de tallas mediante un CVA (p< 0.05). Conclusiones: Se observa especialización del estereoma a lo largo de la serie ontogenética; la variación en la forma del odontóforo aquí mostrada es precedente para el uso de estructuras de la anatomía interna como nuevos caracteres de identificación.

In Kluyveromyces lactis a Pair of Paralogous Isozymes Catalyze the First Committed Step of Leucine Biosynthesis in Either the Mitochondria or the Cytosol.

Divergence of paralogous pairs, resulting from gene duplication, plays an important role in the evolution of specialized or novel gene functions. Analysis of selected duplicated pairs has elucidated some of the mechanisms underlying the functional diversification of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) paralogous genes. Similar studies of the orthologous pairs extant in pre-whole genome duplication yeast species, such as Kluyveromyces lactis (K. lactis) remain to be addressed. The genome of K. lactis, an aerobic yeast, includes gene pairs generated by sporadic duplications. The genome of this organism comprises the KlLEU4 and KlLEU4BIS paralogous pair, annotated as putative α-isopropylmalate synthases (α-IPMSs), considered to be the orthologs of the S. cerevisiae ScLEU4/ScLEU9 paralogous genes. The enzymes encoded by the latter two genes are mitochondrially located, differing in their sensitivity to leucine allosteric inhibition resulting in ScLeu4-ScLeu4 and ScLeu4-ScLeu9 sensitive dimers and ScLeu9-ScLeu9 relatively resistant homodimers. Previous work has shown that, in a Scleu4Δ mutant, ScLEU9 expression is increased and assembly of ScLeu9-ScLeu9 leucine resistant homodimers results in loss of feedback regulation of leucine biosynthesis, leading to leucine accumulation and decreased growth rate. Here we report that: (i) K. lactis harbors a sporadic gene duplication, comprising the KlLEU4, syntenic with S. cerevisiae ScLEU4 and ScLEU9, and the non-syntenic KlLEU4BIS, arising from a pre-WGD event. (ii) That both, KlLEU4 and KlLEU4BIS encode leucine sensitive α-IPMSs isozymes, located in the mitochondria (KlLeu4) and the cytosol (KlLeu4BIS), respectively. (iii) That both, KlLEU4 or KlLEU4BIS complement the Scleu4Δ Scleu9Δ leucine auxotrophic phenotype and revert the enhanced ScLEU9 transcription observed in a Scleu4Δ ScLEU9 mutant. The Scleu4Δ ScLEU9 growth mutant phenotype is only fully complemented when transformed with the syntenic KlLEU4 mitochondrial isoform. KlLEU4 and KlLEU4BIS underwent a different diversification pathways than that leading to ScLEU4/ScLEU9. KlLEU4 could be considered as the functional ortholog of ScLEU4, since its encoded isozyme can complement both the Scleu4Δ Scleu9Δ leucine auxotrophy and the Scleu4Δ ScLEU9 complex phenotype.

Serological and molecular study of Hepatitis E virus in pediatric patients in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Cases of viral hepatitis reported in Mexico are typically identified as hepatitis A, B and C. However, unspecified cases are reported annually. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emergent agent that causes a self-limiting infection that can evolve to chronic in immunosuppressed individuals. In Mexico, HEV genotype 2 is considered endemic, though it's the prevalence is not well known. Therefore, the present study was designed to determine the prevalence of HEV among patients at the "Hospital Infantil de Mexico Federico Gomez". MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 99 patients, anti-HEV antibody (IgG and IgM) were detected by indirect ELISA and viral genome was identified using RT-PCR technique. Two PCR products of positive cases were sequenced. RESULTS: ELISA results were positive in 3% and 6%, for IgG and IgM respectively, 54.5% prevalence was found by PCR. Low lymphocyte count (p<0.05) and malnutrition (p<0.005) were significant factors for high PCR prevalence and could increase the possibility of infection. Two samples were sequenced and confirmed the presence of HEV genotype 3. CONCLUSIONS: This report reveals the incidence of HEV in pediatric patients in Mexico. Moreover, the identification of HEV genotype 3 in human samples suggests a potential zoonotic risk that requires further research.

Retos del sistema general de seguridad social y salud: prospectiva para el desarrollo social en la Costa Atlántico de Colombia / Challenges of the general system of social security and health: Prospective for social development in the Atlantic Coast of Colombia

Introducción: Concepción interdisciplinaria de la gestión del sistema de salud en el contexto latinoamericano, de acuerdo con lo establecido por la Organización Mundial de la Salud/ Organización Panamericana de la Salud. El artículo propone una estrategia prospectiva de desarrollo social en la Costa Atlántica de Colombia, para afianzar el funcionamiento, desde lo preventivo y asistencial, del Sistema General de Seguridad Social y Salud colombiano. Objetivo: Definir, desde una visión prospectiva para el desarrollo social colectivo, los retos del Sistema General de Seguridad Social y Salud colombiano. Método: Estudio exploratorio, fundamentado en el análisis teórico conceptual que permite derivar el sistema de relaciones de las categorías: gerencia del sistema de salud y desarrollo social colectivo. Se aplica la prospectiva estratégica, mediante el componente empírico-analítico, a través del cual se visualizan escenarios futuros que direccionen el desarrollo del sistema de salud a partir de la interacción entre sus actores representativos. Resultados: Se determinaron debilidades relacionadas con la gestión integral del Sistema General de Seguridad Social y Salud colombiano, específicamente en la Costa Atlántica. En esta región del país el escaso uso de técnicas prospectivas debilita la estrategia gerencial y minimiza la posibilidad de asumir retos y prever incertidumbres en uno de los sistemas que, a través de la efectividad de servicios de salud y calidad de vida, supone un indicador de desarrollo social colectivo. Conclusiones: Necesidad de visionar retos y escenarios para modelar la gestión del Sistema General de Seguridad Social y Salud en la Costa Atlántica de Colombia para afianzar la equidad, la inclusión y la calidad de vida e incrementar los estándares de gestión de la salud en colectivos y comunidades vulneradas(AU)

Introduction: There is an interdisciplinary basis conceived for the management of the health system in the Latin American context, in accordance with the provisions of WHO/PAHO and that is linked with related disciplines, such as management and education. This article proposes a prospective strategy of social development in the Atlantic Coast of Colombia to consolidate its functioning from the preventive and welfare perspectives in the Colombian's General System of Social Security and Health (SGSSS, by its acronym in Spanish). Objective: To define the challenges of the SGSSS from a prospective point of view for the collective social development. Method: An exploratory study, based on the conceptual, theoretical analysis to derive the relations´ system of the following categories: management of the health system, and collective social development. Strategic prospective is used by the empirical-analytical component to visualize future scenarios of probable occurrence that address the development of the health system from the interaction between its representative actors. Results: The weaknesses identified were related to the comprehensive management of the Colombian SGSSS, specifically on the Atlantic Coast, where the limited use of prospective techniques weakens the management strategy and minimizes the possibility of assuming challenges and anticipating uncertainties in one of the systems that through the effectiveness of health services and quality of life warrants responding to collective social development. Conclusions: There is a need to view challenges and scenarios for modeling the management of the SGSSS on the Atlantic Coast of Colombia to strengthen the equity, inclusion and quality of life, and to increase the standards of health management in vulnerable groups and communities(AU)

Whole-Genome Duplication and Yeast's Fruitful Way of Life.

Studies on the fate of Saccharomyces cerevisiae paralogous gene pairs that arose through a whole-genome duplication event have shown diversification of retained duplicated genes. Paralogous functional specialization often results in improved function and/or novel function that could contribute to the adaptation of the organism to a new lifestyle. Here, we analyze and discuss particular case studies of paralogous functional diversification that could have played a role in the acquisition of yeast fermentative metabolism.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) E6 Oncoprotein Regulates CD40 Expression via the AT-Hook Transcription Factor AKNA.

Persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the main requisite for cervical cancer development. Normally, HPV is limited to the site of infection and regulates a plethora of cellular elements to avoid the immune surveillance by inducing an anti-inflammatory state, allowing the progress through the viral cycle and the carcinogenic process. Recent findings suggest that the AT-hook transcriptional factor AKNA could play a role in the development of cervical cancer. AKNA is strongly related to the expression of co-stimulatory molecules such CD40/CD40L to achieve an anti-tumoral immune response. To date, there is no evidence demonstrating the effect of the HPV E6 oncoprotein on the AT-hook factor AKNA. In this work, minimal expression of AKNA in cervical carcinoma compared to normal tissue was found. We show the ability of E6 from high-risk HPVs 16 and 18 to interact with and down-regulate AKNA as well as its co-stimulatory molecule CD40 in a proteasome dependent manner. We also found that p53 interacts with AKNA and promotes AKNA expression. Our results indicate that the de-regulation of CD40 and AKNA is induced by the HPV E6 oncoprotein, and this event involves the action of p53 suggesting that the axis E6/p53A/AKNA might play an important role in the de-regulation of the immune system during the carcinogenic process induced by HR-HPV.

Phylogenetic Analysis and Characterization of the Complete Hepatitis E Virus Genome (Zoonotic Genotype 3) in Swine Samples from Mexico.

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging public health problem with an estimated 20 million infections each year. In Mexico, Orthohepevirus A, genotype 2, has been reported in humans, but genotype 3 has only been reported in swine (zoonotic). No diagnostic tests are publicly available in Mexico, and only partial sequences have been reported from swine samples. Hence, research is necessary to determine circulating strains, understand the features and dynamics of infection on pig farms, determine how to implement surveillance programs, and to assess public health risks. In this study, a next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach was applied to obtain a complete genome of swine HEV. Liver, feces, and bile samples were taken at slaughterhouses and a farm in Mexico. RT-PCR was used to determine positive samples and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Of the 64 slaughterhouse samples, one bile sample was positive (B1r) (1.56%). Of 21 sample pools from farm animals, 14 were positive (66.66%), representing all stages of production. A complete sequence strain MXCDg3_B1c|_2016 was obtained from the bile of a domestic swine in the fattening stage. In addition, two partial sequences-MXCDg3_H2cons|_2016 (1473 nt) and MXCDg3_C3Acons|_2016 (4777 nt)-were obtained from sampled farm animals. Comparison with all reported genome HEV sequences showed similarity to genotype 3 subgenotype a (G3a), which has been previously reported in acute cases of human hepatitis in the US, Colombia, China, and Japan.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Differential Functionalization of Presumed ScALT1 and ScALT2 Alanine Transaminases Has Been Driven by Diversification of Pyridoxal Phosphate Interactions.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae arose from an interspecies hybridization (allopolyploidiza-tion), followed by Whole Genome Duplication. Diversification analysis of ScAlt1/ScAlt2 indicated that while ScAlt1 is an alanine transaminase, ScAlt2 lost this activity, constituting an example in which one of the members of the gene pair lacks the apparent ancestral physiological role. This paper analyzes structural organization and pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) binding properties of ScAlt1 and ScAlt2 indicating functional diversification could have determined loss of ScAlt2 alanine transaminase activity and thus its role in alanine metabolism. It was found that ScAlt1 and ScAlt2 are dimeric enzymes harboring 67% identity and intact conservation of the catalytic residues, with very similar structures. However, tertiary structure analysis indicated that ScAlt2 has a more open conformation than that of ScAlt1 so that under physiological conditions, while PLP interaction with ScAlt1 allows the formation of two tautomeric PLP isomers (enolimine and ketoenamine) ScAlt2 preferentially forms the ketoenamine PLP tautomer, indicating a modified polarity of the active sites which affect the interaction of PLP with these proteins, that could result in lack of alanine transaminase activity in ScAlt2. The fact that ScAlt2 forms a catalytically active Schiff base with PLP and its position in an independent clade in "sensu strictu" yeasts suggests this protein has a yet undiscovered physiological function.