Engineered Metal Oxide Nanoparticles as Fungicides for Plant Disease Control.

Metal oxide nanoparticles are considered to be good alternatives as fungicides for plant disease control. To date, numerous metal oxide nanoparticles have been produced and evaluated as promising antifungal agents. Consequently, a detailed and critical review on the use of mono-, bi-, and tri-metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi is presented. Among the studied metal oxide nanoparticles, mono-metal oxide nanoparticles-particularly ZnO nanoparticles, followed by CuO nanoparticles -are the most investigated for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Limited studies have investigated the use of bi- and tri-metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Therefore, more studies on these nanoparticles are required. Most of the evaluations have been carried out under in vitro conditions. Thus, it is necessary to develop more detailed studies under in vivo conditions. Interestingly, biological synthesis of nanoparticles has been established as a good alternative to produce metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Although there have been great advances in the use of metal oxide nanoparticles as novel antifungal agents for sustainable agriculture, there are still areas that require further improvement.

A Comparative DFT Study on Process Control Agents in the Mechanochemical Synthesis of PbTe.

A process control agent is an organic additive used to regulate the balance between fracturing and mechanical kneading, which control the size of the as-milled particles. Tributyl phosphate (TBP) is evaluated to act as surface modifier of PbTe, and it is compared with the results obtained using formaldehyde (CH2O). In order to elucidate the nature of the interaction between TBP and the PbTe surface, global and local descriptors were calculated via the density functional theory. First, TBP and CH2O molecules are structurally optimized. Then, vertical ionization energies as well as vertical electron affinities are calculated to elucidate how both molecules behave energetically against removal and electron gain, respectively. The results were compared with those obtained from the electrostatic potential mapped on the van der Waals isosurface. It is inferred that the theoretical insights are useful to propose adsorption modes of TBP and CH2O on the PbTe surface, which are usable to rationalize the facets exposed by PbTe after the surface treatment. The optimized structures of the compound systems showed a close correlation between the surface energy shift (Δγ) and the PbTe facets exhibited. Finally, a Wulff construction was built to compare the usage of TBP and CH2O molecules in PbTe morphology.

Role of Defect Engineering and Surface Functionalization in the Design of Carbon Nanotube-Based Nitrogen Oxide Sensors.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are among the main atmospheric pollutants; therefore, it is important to monitor and detect their presence in the atmosphere. To this end, low-dimensional carbon structures have been widely used as NOx sensors for their outstanding properties. In particular, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been widely used as toxic-gas sensors owing to their high specific surface area and excellent mechanical properties. Although pristine CNTs have shown promising performance for NOx detection, several strategies have been developed such as surface functionalization and defect engineering to improve the NOx sensing of pristine CNT-based sensors. Through these strategies, the sensing properties of modified CNTs toward NOx gases have been substantially improved. Therefore, in this review, we have analyzed the defect engineering and surface functionalization strategies used in the last decade to modify the sensitivity and the selectivity of CNTs to NOx. First, the different types of surface functionalization and defect engineering were reviewed. Thereafter, we analyzed experimental, theoretical, and coupled experimental-theoretical studies on CNTs modified through surface functionalization and defect engineering to improve the sensitivity and selectivity to NOx. Finally, we presented the conclusions and the future directions of modified CNTs as NOx sensors.

Oriented-Attachment- and Defect-Dependent PbTe Quantum Dots Growth: Shape Transformations Supported by Experimental Insights and DFT Calculations.

High-resolution transmission electron microscopy results reveal that oriented-attachment- and defect-dependent mechanisms rule the size and shape evolution of the monodispersed PbTe quantum dots (QDs). The former is characterized by the growth of quasi-cubic PbTe QDs, which depends on both the geometric constraints imposed by the {200} facets and the defect-free lattice, while the latter one is a defect-dependent mechanism which gives way to the formation of decahedral PbTe QDs (∼6 nm). Experimentally, formaldehyde is an important parameter for the mechanochemical synthesis of monodispersed PbTe QDs, which has not been studied until now. In a theoretical context, Fukui functions reveal that Pb surface atoms are the most reactive sites toward nucleophilic attacks, and the Lowdin charge analysis shows that formaldehyde molecules tend to donate their electron pairs to Pb atoms. Besides, formaldehyde-molecule-on-PbTe adsorption energies (-4.46 to -21.16 kcal mol-1) agree with ligand-surface polar electrostatic interactions. Based on dispersion-corrected density functional theory calculations, PbTe QDs exhibited decahedral and faceted shapes. According to modified Wulff constructions, the decahedral shape is a result of (111) facets (Δγ = -2.79 meV Å-2), whereas the faceted and rounded shapes are due to the interaction of (100), (110), and (111) facets.

Effect of Silk Fibroin on Cell Viability in Electrospun Scaffolds of Polyethylene Oxide.

In this study, a coating from electrospun silk fibroin was performed with the aim to modify the surface of breast implants. We evaluated the effect of fibroin on polymeric matrices of poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) to enhance cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation of HaCaT human keratinocytes to enhance the healing process on breast prosthesis implantation. We electrospun six blends of fibroin and PEO at different concentrations. These scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. We obtained diverse network conformations at different combinations to examine the regulation of cell adhesion and proliferation by modifying the microstructure of the matrix to be applied as a potential scaffold for coating breast implants. The key contribution of this work is the solution it provides to enhance the healing process on prosthesis implantation considering that the use of these PEO⁻fibroin scaffolds reduced (p < 0.05) the amount of pyknotic nuclei. Therefore, viability of HaCaT human keratinocytes on PEO⁻fibroin matrices was significantly improved (p < 0.001). These findings provide a rational strategy to coat breast implants improving biocompatibility.

Fármacos antihipertensivos en la lactancia / Antihypertensive drugs in breastfeeding

Existe vasta literatura en el manejo de la hipertensión arterial durante el embarazo en todas sus variantes, sin embargoexiste poca información del manejo de la paciente hipertensa en el posparto cuando está en periodo de lactancia .Los trastornos hipertensivos son comunes en las mujeres embarazadas y mujeres en el periodo de lactancia, por lo tantoexiste la necesidad de conocer cuáles medicamentos son seguros en pacientes cuyo infante está alimentándose de laforma más apropiada durante los primeros meses de vida. En esta revisión se hace énfasis en los fármacos comúnmenteutilizados para el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial, el paso de los mismos hacia la leche materna, y el perfil de seguridadque estos presentan en términos de afectación al lactante.Muchas mujeres en el periodo de lactancia requieren tratamiento para hipertensión arterial, la mayoría de la evidenciaque hay viene de reportes de caso o estudios con cantidades pequeñas de pacientes en los cuales las dosis, tiempos demedición y técnicas de medición varían significativamente. Sin embargo, con la información disponible es posible obtenerun perfil de los fármacos más apropiados para utilizar en la mujer hipertensa en periodo de lactancia, en esto se enfocaesta revisión, de tal manera que los clínicos puedan elegir oportunamente qué opción de drogas presentan mayor seguridady eficacia.

Vast literature exists on the management of hypertension during pregnancy in all its variations, but there is littleinformation on the management of the hypertensive post partum breast-feeding patient.Hypertensive disorders are common in pregnant women and breast-feeding women, there is a need to know whatmedications are safe for the infant, especially during the first months of life. In this review we focus on the mostcommonly used antihypertensive drugs, the passage thereof into breast milk, and the safety profile they present in termsof affection to the infant.Many women giving breastfeeding require treatment for hypertension; most of the existing evidence is case reportsor studies with small numbers of patients in whom the dose, time of measurement and measurement techniques varysignificantly. However, with the available information is possible to obtain a profile of the most appropriate drugs for usein nursing women, this review focuses on this so that clinicians can choose which option provides more security andefficacy.

Screening for hazardous drinking in migrant workers in southeastern Spain.

OBJECTIVES: Despite the great impact the migration has had in economic, social and health-related fields, and the repercussions of alcohol consumption on them, few data exist concerning the extent of alcohol consumption in migrant workers. The aims of this study were to identify workers with a hazardous drinking problem by means of a self-reported questionnaire (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-AUDIT) and a biomarker (carbohydrate-deficient transferrin-CDT) and to ascertain associated risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a random sample of 385 migrant workers, undergoing a routine health examination as part of occupational health services. RESULTS: The results showed that 13.8% (n=53) of the workers were screened as positive with the AUDIT (≥8) and/or CDT (>2.6) and identified as hazardous drinkers and that 53.8% (n=207) were teetotallers. Being a man (OR: 2.0), working in the construction industry (OR: 2.8) or agriculture (OR: 2.2), being resident in Spain for more than 7 years (OR: 2.3) and sharing a house with friends were the factors most closely associated with hazardous drinking. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention-orientated programs, adjusted to the characteristics of each country and the origin of the migrants themselves, should be instituted to modify the drinking habits of migrant workers considered at risk.

Paro cardiaco en el embarazo / Heart failure in pregnancy

El paro cardíaco en el embarazo presenta un escenario único en el que están incluidos dos pacientes: la madre y el feto.El manejo de este escenario requiere de un equipo multidisciplinario incluyendo especialistas en anestesia, obstetricia,neonatología, cardiología y en ocasiones cirugía cardíaca. Los protocolos de soporte vital básico y soporte cardíaco avanzadodeben ser implementados, sin embargo, dados los cambios anatómicos y fisiológicos que ocurren en el embarazo,algunas modificaciones en los algoritmos son fundamentales. La evidencia existente acerca del manejo del paro cardíacoen el embarazo es relativamente insuficiente, sin estudios randomizados, por lo tanto las recomendaciones son basadasen pequeños estudios de cohorte y reportes de casos, además de la opinión de los expertos. En esta revisión hablaremosdel paro cardíaco en el embarazo, sus implicaciones y el manejo adecuado por parte del equipo multidisciplinario, ademásdel tiempo en el que se debe realizar la cesárea en caso de no retorno de circulación espontánea.

Cardiac arrest in pregnancy presents a unique scenario involving two patients: the mother and fetus. Management ofthis scenario requires a multidisciplinary team including specialists in anesthesia, obstetrics, neonatology, cardiology andcardiac surgery sometimes. The protocols for basic life support and advanced cardiac life support should be implemented,however, given the anatomical and physiological changes that occur in pregnancy, some modifications in the algorithmsare fundamental. Existing evidence about the management of cardiac arrest in pregnancy is relatively insufficient,lacking randomized trials, so the recommendations are based on small cohort studies and case reports, as well as expertopinion. In this review we discuss cardiac arrest in pregnancy, its implications and appropriate management by themultidisciplinary team, and the time in which they must perform caesarean section in case of no return of spontaneouscirculation (ROSC).

Use of urokinase in percutaneous drainage of large breast abscesses.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate intracavitary urokinase therapy versus irrigation with a saline solution in percutaneous drainage of large breast abscesses. METHODS: A prospective randomized study was conducted in 19 nonlactating women (median age, 35.7 years) with breast abscesses of greater than 3 cm. Percutaneous drainage with an ultrasound-guided catheter was performed in group A patients (saline solution) and group B patients (urokinase). Postdrainage care and ultrasound-guided drainage control were performed on an outpatient basis. The Student t test, Fisher exact test, chi(2) test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Percutaneous drainage with saline or urokinase irrigation was successful in all cases. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups A and B for clinical parameters and sonographic characteristics of the abscesses. However, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups for the average drainage times (P < 0.012), which were 3.8 days for the urokinase group and 5.3 days for the saline group. A recurrence was observed in 1 saline group patient who had a diagnosis of a chronic abscess, which was resolved with intracavitary urokinase irrigation. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous drainage of large breast abscesses in nonlactating women with intracavitary urokinase irrigation is a simple and safe procedure. It reduces the treatment time and improves the clinical course of patients more than conventional drainage with saline irrigation.

Ultrasound therapy in rectus sheath hematoma.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Ultrasound (US) is one of the most common modalities used in intervention for musculoskeletal disorders, although its effectiveness is debated. The purpose of this case report is to describe the intervention, including the use of US, in the management of a large rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) in a patient receiving anticoagulant therapy. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a 62-year-old woman with RSH who was receiving oral anticoagulant therapy and had a history of bouts of coughing. Computed tomographic scans verified the diagnosis of RSH. The report describes the patient examination, management, intervention, and outcomes. OUTCOMES: The intervention, including the use of US therapy, may have enabled a rapid resolution of the hematoma. DISCUSSION: This case report illustrates how US may be a useful modality for complementary management of RSH, helping the reabsorption of the hematoma.

Percutaneous management of breast abscesses. An experience of 39 cases.

This is a review of our experience with percutaneous drainage by means of needle aspiration or catheter drainage of breast abscesses under ultrasound (US) guidance, and a suggested management algorithm. A retrospective study of the 39 patients (36 women, 3 men; mean age: 28.9 years) with breast abscesses who were treated by percutaneous US-guided procedures over a period of 13 years (1989 to 2002) was carried out. Of the 36 women, 34 were nonlactating and two lactating. Needle aspiration was used in the cases of fluid collections < or = 3 cm and catheter drainage in fluid collections of > 3 cm. Postdrainage care and US evolutive controls were carried out on an outpatient basis. Fine-needle aspiration cytology was performed in masses unresolved after postdrainage. Mammography was performed in patients over 30 years old. In all cases, US examination revealed images of fluid collection. A single needle aspiration was sufficient in 19 cases; 3 patients needed a second aspiration to resolve the breast abscess. A total of 15 cases were resolved by means of percutaneous catheter drainage. In 2 of the 17 patients who underwent catheter drainage, the mass persisted postdrainage; histologic findings showed a chronic abscess requiring surgical intervention in one and a breast carcinoma in the second. Mean follow-up was 8.4 months. Recurrence of breast abscess occurred in 4 patients, and these were resolved by surgical excision. Percutaneous drainage procedures in breast abscesses are a safe and effective alternative to incision and drainage. Needle aspiration is employed in cases of small abscesses and catheter drainage in abscesses larger than 3 cm. Although, in chronic abscesses, the treatment of choice is surgical excision, percutaneous drainage remains as an intermediate therapeutic option.

An alternative approach to the treatment of mammary duct fistulas: a combination of microwave and ultrasound.

Between 1994 and 1999, 11 women with recurrent mammary duct fistula underwent nonsurgical treatment with microwave and ultrasound. An initial ultrasonographic examination was performed during the recurrence of mammary duct fistula, and in ten cases it revealed a small superficial periareolar anechoic, hypoechoic, or heterogenic lesion with poorly defined edges and without posterior reinforcement (marked distal sound enhancement). Findings indicated an extraglandular inflammatory process; duct ectasia was not seen in any of the 11 patients. A combination of microwave and ultrasound was administered on an outpatient basis for 20 days. Clinical improvement was rapid after the first few sessions of treatment. In nine of the 11 patients there has been no recurrence during more than 2 years of follow-up. The two current episodes were resolved by a second application of the same treatment. In one of those patients (with recurrence at 6 months) an infiltration of steroids was also administered, and this patient is without recurrence after 23 months' follow-up.

Percutaneous endoscopy of an intracystic papilloma of the breast.

We present a new endoscopic procedure for the evaluation of intracystic papilloma of the breast. We suggest that the method is a potential alternative to open surgery.

Angina postinfarto: definición, clasificación, fisiopatología y terapia no tradicional / Postinfarction angina: Definition, classification, physiopathology and no traditional therapy

Es necesario estratificar en grupos de riesgos, luego de un infarto agudo del miocardio, para identificar a aquéllos con más posibilidad de tener otro infarto, muerte súbita o arritmias ventriculares letales. La angina postinfarto (API) es un evento clínico frecuente que identifica a la persona susceptible de tener alguna de estas situaciones con alta mortalidad.Se define como la angina que inicia 24 horas después de la angina que provocó el infarto del miocardio; es temprana durante los primeros 10 días; y tardía hasta 2 meses después. La incidencia varía entre 20 por ciento y 60 por ciento. Es más frecuente en presencia de angina pre-infarto y de infarto del miocardio no. Q. Se desarrolló hasta en el 85 por ciento cuando hubo angina reciente pre-infarto. Los episodios de angina postinfarto se clasifican en 2 tipos : isquemia en la zona del infarto (40 por ciento) e isquemia a distancia (60 por ciento). La enfermedad de tres vasos se encuentra en un 86 por ciento, siendo más frecuente en la isquemia en la zona del infarto. Las lesiones excéntricas tipo II se observan enel 71 por ciento de los casos de API. Las lesiones coronarias por angioscopías sontres: trombo, irregularidad intimal o endotelial, o superficie irregular y la placa xantomatosa. La mortalidad al mes es de 44 por ciento en la isquemia a distancia y del 15 por ciento en la isquemia en la zona del infarto; al año es del 31 por cinto y del 37 por ciento respectivamente. La angioplastía es un procedimiento efectivo que alivia la isquemia miocárdica, pero se asocia a altas tasas de oclusiones agudas y re-estenosis. Se reserva ese procedimiento para los casos cuyos síntomas no pueden controlarse con medicamentos, o aquéllos con anatomía compleja y enfermedad multivasos, particularmente los que tienen muy alto riesgo operativo. A los 15 meses hay recurrencia de la angina, en un 29 por ciento apesar de que el procedimiento fuera exitoso. La cirugía coronaria no está contraindicada en el infarto del miocardio reciente; se recomienda luego de 4 semanas del infarto del miocardio, cuando la fracción de eyección es menor del 50 por ciento. La mortalidad operatoria es 3.5 veces mayor cuando hubo un infarto del miocardio no Q comparado con uno Q