Effect of NiAl alloy microparticles deposited in flexible SERS substrates on the limit of detection of rhodamine B molecules.

Flexible-SERS (FSERS) substrates were fabricated by depositing Ni64Al36(NiAl)-alloy-microparticles and/or spherical Ag-NPs (sizes of 10-40 nm) on recycled plastics, which had an aluminum layer on their surface. First, FSERS substrates made of Al + Ag-NPs and an area of 1 cm2 were used to detect rhodamine B (RhB) molecules. The limit-of-detection (LOD) for RhB was 8.35 × 10-22 moles (∼503 molecules), and the enhancement factor (EF) was 3.11 × 1015. After adding NiAl-microparticles to the substrate, the LOD decreased to 8.35 × 10-24 moles (∼5 molecules) and the EF was increased to 2.05 × 1017. Such EF values were calculated with respect to substrates made only with Al + NiAl-alloy (without Ag-NPs), which did not show any Raman signal. Other FSERS substrates were made with graphene-layer + Ag-NPs or graphene-layer + NiAl-alloy + Ag-Nps, and the best LOD and EF values were 8.35 × 10-22 moles and 6.89 × 1015, respectively. Overall, combining the Ag-NPs and NiAl-alloy microparticles allowed for the zeptomole detection of RhB. This was possible due to the formation of Ag aggregates around the alloy microparticles, which enhanced the number of hotspots. If no alloy is present in the FSERS substrates, the detection of RhB is lowered. Overall, we presented a low-cost FSERS substrate that does not require expensive Au films or Au-NPs (as previously reported) to detect RhB at the zeptomole level.

Self-prediction of performance to detect changes of impaired self-awareness during neurorehabilitation. / Autopredicción del rendimiento para detectar cambios en la autoconciencia de déficits durante el proceso neurorrehabilitador.

TITLE: Autopredicción del rendimiento para detectar cambios en la autoconciencia de déficits durante el proceso neurorrehabilitador.

Genomic tools for early selection among Thoroughbreds and Polo Argentino horses for practicing polo.

The Polo Argentino (PA) horse is a recognized breed, developed originally by mixing crossbred and Thoroughbred (TB) horses to play polo. Early PA selection is difficult due to unreliable performance estimations. This study investigated the usefulness of genomic markers previously linked to morphological and functional traits as a tool for the early selection of PA. To this, we genotyped 520 PA and 30 TB horses using the Equine GGPArray (Illumina, n = 71,778 SNPs). Analyses included a genetic characterization of six genetic markers associated with behavioral (DRD4), muscular development (MSTN), and body size (LCORL, HMGA6, ZFAT, and LASP1) genes. Genetic differences in the DRD4, MSTN, and LCORL SNP were found between the two breeds, in the last two FST index between breeds was 0.13 and 0.6, respectively (p < 0.01). In DRD4, G allele was the more prevalent in PA (0.56 vs 0.45 in TB, p < 0.05), but no differences were observed between the genotypes associated with phenotypes. In MSTN, heterozygous genotypes were the most common in PA (48 %), with a significant decrease in AA (Hardy-Weinberg p < 0.05), suggesting a negative selection against it in polo horses. In body size, HMGA2 was monomorphic in all horses, while ZFAT and LASP1 SNP showed higher variability. Interestingly, 99 % of PA showed a TT genotype in LCORL (only 66 % in TB), demonstrating selection for smaller horses. Our results suggest that empirical selection in PA has generated an incipient genomic differentiation in discrete traits which could be used as a marker-assisted selection tool for early selection of polo horses.

[Chronology of Justo Gonzalo's research on brain dynamics]. / Cronología de la investigación sobre la dinámica cerebral de Justo Gonzalo.

INTRODUCTION: The Spanish neuroscientist Justo Gonzalo y Rodriguez-Leal (1910-1986) investigated the functional organisation of the cerebral cortex over more than four decades. His findings led him to formulate a neurophysiological theory based on the laws of nervous excitability, which he called brain dynamics. This paper presents in chronological order how the main ideas on which it is based arose. DEVELOPMENT: In 1939, Gonzalo observed the phenomena of dynamic action: asynchrony or disaggregation, facilitation and cerebral repercussion. This was followed by two principles: the cerebral effect of lesions according to their magnitude and position (1941), and spiral development of the sensory field (1947). At the same time, he characterised what he called the central syndrome of the cerebral cortex. In the 1950s he developed the concepts of the cortical gradient, similarity and allometry. In contrast to modular conceptions of the cerebral cortex, in which one region is responsible for one function, Gonzalo argued that 'cortical gradients provide the location of systems, while similarity and allometry reveal their functional mechanism.' CONCLUSIONS: The theory of brain dynamics was established in two stages. The first (between 1938 and 1950) had an important clinical foundation, involving the observation of new phenomena and the formulation of new concepts. The second (between 1950 and 1960) included the introduction of more far-reaching concepts, such as the functional cortical gradient, and allometry laws based on a change of scale. Today, various authors believe that the concept of the gradient is crucial for understanding how the brain is organised.

TITLE: Cronología de la investigación sobre la dinámica cerebral de Justo Gonzalo.Introducción. El neurocientífico español Justo Gonzalo y Rodríguez-Leal (1910-1986) investiga la organización funcional de la corteza cerebral durante más de cuatro décadas. Sus hallazgos le llevan a formular una teoría neurofisiológica basada en las leyes de la excitabilidad nerviosa, que denomina dinámica cerebral. En el presente trabajo se expone de forma cronológica cómo surgen las principales ideas sobre las que se articula.Desarrollo. En 1939 Gonzalo observa los denominados fenómenos de acción dinámica: desfasamiento, facilitación y repercusión cerebral. Le siguen dos principios: efecto cerebral de la lesión según la magnitud y posición (1941), y organización sensorial, según un desarrollo espiral (1947). Paralelamente, caracteriza lo que llama el síndrome central de la corteza cerebral. En la década de los cincuenta desarrolla los conceptos de gradiente cortical, similitud y alometría. En contraposición a las concepciones modulares de la corteza cerebral, en las que una región es responsable de una función, Gonzalo expresa que 'los gradientes corticales dan la localización de los sistemas mientras la similitud y alometría revelan su trama funcional'. Conclusiones. La teoría de dinámica cerebral se articula en dos etapas. La primera (de 1938 a 1950) se caracteriza por una importante base clínica con observación de nuevos fenómenos y formulación de nuevos conceptos. La segunda (de 1950 a 1960) incluye la introducción de conceptos de mayor alcance, como el gradiente funcional cortical, y leyes de alometría que se basan en un cambio de escala. Actualmente, varios autores consideran que el concepto de gradiente es clave para entender la organización cerebral.

Neuropsychological performance and disease burden in individuals at risk of developing Huntington disease.

INTRODUCTION: Huntington disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder. Thanks to predictive diagnosis, incipient clinical characteristics have been described in the prodromal phase. OBJECTIVE: To compare performance in cognitive tasks of carriers (HDC) and non-carriers (non-HDC) of the huntingtin gene and to analyse the variability in performance as a function of disease burden and proximity to the manifest stage (age of symptom onset). METHOD: A sample of 146 participants in a predictive diagnosis of HD programme were divided into the HDC (41.1%) and non-HDC groups (58.9%). Mathematical formulae were used to calculate disease burden and proximity to the manifest stage in the HDC group; these parameters were correlated with neuropsychological performance. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between groups in performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Stroop-B, Symbol-Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and phonological fluency. In the HDC group, correlations were observed between disease burden and performance on the MMSE, Stroop-B, and SDMT. The group of patients close to the manifest stage scored lowest on the MMSE, Stroop-B, Stroop-C, SDMT, and semantic verbal fluency. According to the multivariate analysis of covariance, the MMSE effect shows statistically significant differences in disease burden and proximity to onset of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Members of the HDC group close to the manifest phase performed more poorly on tests assessing information processing speed and attention. Prefrontal cognitive dysfunction appears early, several years before the motor diagnosis of HD.

Sun exposure practices, attitudes and knowledge among students and teachers at a University School of Health Sciences in Ecuador.

Skin cancer incidence is increasing worldwide. Late adolescence and young adulthood are fundamental stages of life to acquire good sun exposure practices, regarding both personal involvement in skin cancer prevention and being a role model for others, especially in a health education environment. This descriptive cross-sectional study is based on the validated CHACES questionnaire to study sun exposure and photoprotection behavior among students and teachers at the School of Health Sciences in the National University of Chimborazo, Riobamba (Ecuador). University members (814 students (89.8 %) and 93 teachers (10.2 %)) were studied, with a predominance of females and light-skin phototypes in both groups. Similar results were obtained regarding sun exposure, with higher recreative exposure in the teachers' group and higher occupational exposure in students. However, students significantly showed lower avoiding midday sun (41.9 % vs 60.9 %), and lower use of sunglasses (10.1 % vs. 41.6 %). Attitudes towards the sun and photoprotection knowledge issues were also equivalent between students and teachers (6.1/10 vs 6.2/10). Students' sunburn rate last year reaches 88.4 % and 52.7 % in teachers (p < 0.001). Using a multivariable logistic regression model, we identified risk factors associated with a greater risk of sunburn in our population. This study highlights areas to be improved regarding knowledge, attitudes and, especially, practices of photoprotection, among students and teachers at the University of Chimborazo. These results point out that awareness-raising campaigns should be implemented to reduce sunburns, morbidity and mortality of skin cancer in this environment.

[Bibliographic review of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma treatment in lumbar disc herniation]. / Revisión bibliográfica de la eficacia del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas en hernia de disco lumbar.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product containing growth factors and proteins, widely employed in the clinical setting for tissue repair. Robust evidence in basic science literature has facilitated clinical research involving PRP for patients with disc disease and lumbar pain. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) has been identified as a significant contributor to lower back pain, with approximately 40% of patients under 30 and 90% of those over 50 experiencing lumbar pain showing MRI findings consistent with degenerative changes in intervertebral discs. Regenerative medicine within the disc has primarily been studied in patients with chronic, untreatable lumbar pain. Objective: to understand the available evidence regarding the efficacy of PRP in lumbar disc herniation. By understanding the scientific evidence supporting PRP as a lumbar disc herniation treatment, a research project can be developed, providing the theoretical foundation for implementing this therapy in the Mexican population. A search was conducted using PUBMED, ClinicalKey (Elsevier), Medscape, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Conclusions: despite promising results in several studies on intradiscal PRP injection, small sample sizes and non-standardized graft preparation procedures have hindered these research efforts.

El plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) es un producto sanguíneo autólogo que contiene factores de crecimiento y proteínas y se ha utilizado en todo el entorno clínico para la reparación de tejidos. La fuerte evidencia en la literatura de ciencias básicas ha permitido la investigación clínica que involucra PRP para pacientes con enfermedad del disco y dolor lumbar. La enfermedad degenerativa del disco (DDD) se ha establecido como un importante contribuyente a la causa del dolor lumbar: aproximadamente el 40% de los pacientes menores de 30 años y el 90% de los pacientes mayores de 50 años que tienen dolor lumbar también muestran hallazgos de imágenes de resonancia magnética (IRM) que son consistentes con cambios degenerativos dentro de los discos intervertebrales. La medicina regenerativa intradiscal se ha estudiado principalmente en pacientes con dolor lumbar crónico intratable. Objetivo: conocer la evidencia disponible sobre la eficacia del PRP en hernias de disco lumbar. Al conocer la evidencia científica disponible del PRP como tratamiento de hernia discal lumbar se podrá desarrollar un proyecto de investigación, lo cual sustentará las bases teóricas para realizar esta terapia en la población mexicana. Se realizó búsqueda en base de datos PUBMED, ClinicalKey (Elsevier), Medscape, Science Direct, Google Scholar. Conclusiones: aunque varias investigaciones han arrojado resultados prometedores con respecto a la inyección intradiscal de PRP los tamaños de muestra pequeños y los procedimientos de preparación de injertos no estandarizados obstaculizaron estos esfuerzos de investigación.

Resultados a largo plazo de la rehabilitación del piso pélvico en pacientes con incontinencia fecal / Long-term results of pelvic floor rehabilitation in patients with fecal incontinence

Resumen Introducción: La rehabilitación del piso pélvico es frecuentemente indicada a los pacientes con incontinencia fecal. Su efectividad a corto plazo ha sido demostrada. Sin embargo, sus resultados en el largo plazo son controversiales. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo es evaluar los resultados funcionales y calidad de vida a largo plazo de los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico. Materiales y Método: Estudio cuasi-experimental. Se incluyeron los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico entre 2007-2014 en nuestro centro, sin necesidad de cirugía. Se midió el puntaje funcional de Wexner y de calidad de vida (FIQLS) antes (T1) y después del tratamiento (T2). Se realizó encuesta vía correo electrónico para obtener dichos puntajes entre 3-10 años posterior al tratamiento (T3). Resultados: De 215 pacientes, 182 cumplían criterios de inclusión. 96 (52,8%) de ellos respondieron la encuesta en T3. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 4,5 (3-10) años. La edad promedio al tiempo del estudio fue de 60,8 ±13,1 años. 88,4% fueron mujeres. La mediana del puntaje funcional fue 16 (6-20) en T1 y 7 (0-18) en T2, p = 0,000. La calidad de vida mejoró significativamente en sus 4 dimensiones entre T1 y T2. En T3, ambos puntajes presentaron mejores promedios que en T1, p = 0,000. No hubo asociación entre el tiempo de seguimiento y el resultado funcional en T3. Conclusión: Los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico mejoran significativamente su funcionalidad y calidad de vida. El beneficio disminuye en el tiempo, pero persiste mejor que previo al tratamiento.

Introduction: Pelvic floor rehabilitation is often indicated as first-line therapy for patients with fecal incontinence. Its short-term effectiveness has been demonstrated in these patients. However, long-term results are controversial. Aim: Our objective is to evalúate long-term functionality and quality of life in patients with fecal incontinence treated with pelvic floor rehabilitation. Materials and Method: Quasi- experimental study conducted at a single tertiary care center. We included patients with fecal incontinence treated by pelvic floor rehabilitation at our center between 2007-2014 who did not require surgery. Wexner functional score and quality of life using FIQLS were measured pre (T1) and post-treatment (T2). Poste - riorly, an-e-mail survey was conducted to retrieve scores three to 10 years after treatment (T3). Results: Of the 215 patients, 182 met the inclusion criteria. 96 (52.8%) patients responded at T3 and were therefore included. The median follow-up period was of 4.5 years (3-10). The mean age at the time of the study was 60.8 ± 13.1 years and 88.4% were women. The median Wexner score was 16 (6-20) in T1 and 7 (0-18) in T2, (p = 0.000). Quality of life improved significantly in its four dimensions when comparing T1 and T2. In T3, Wexner and the quality of life scores were significantly lower than T2. However, in T3, both scales had better means than T1, (p = 0.000). There was no association between the follow-up time and the functional result in T3. Conclusions: Patients with fecal incontinence treated by pelvic floor rehabilitation improve their functionality and quality of life significantly. This benefit decreases over time but remains above its baseline.

Screening and detection of chromosomal copy number alterations in the domestic horse using SNP-array genotyping data.

Chromosomal abnormalities are a common cause of infertility in horses. However, they are difficult to detect using automated methods. Here, we propose a simple methodology based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-array data that allows us to detect the main chromosomal abnormalities in horses in a single procedure. As proof of concept, we were able to detect chromosomal abnormalities in 33 out of 268 individuals, including monosomies, chimerisms, and male and female sex-reversions, by analyzing the raw signal intensity produced by an SNP array-based genotyping platform. We also demonstrated that the procedure is not affected by the SNP density of the array employed or by the inbreeding level of the individuals. Finally, the methodology proposed in this study could be performed in an open bioinformatic environment, thus permitting its integration as a flexible screening tool in diagnostic laboratories and genomic breeding programs.

Contracción paradojal del puborrectal como causa de defecación obstructiva: resultados a corto plazo del tratamiento con biofeedback y rehabilitación pelviperineal / Puborectal paradoxical contraction as a cause of obstructive defecation: short-term outcomes of treatment with biofeedback and pelviperineal rehabilitation

Resumen Introducción: En pacientes constipados crónicos por obstrucción de salida, la contracción paradojal del puborrectal (CPP) o "anismo" es frecuente. El tratamiento con Biofeedback y rehabilitación pelviperineal presenta resultados exitosos entre el 40-90%. Objetivo: Evaluar el resultado del tratamiento con Biofeedback y rehabilitación pelviperineal en pacientes con CPP a corto plazo. Materiales y Método: Serie de casos. Datos obtenidos prospectivamente de la Unidad de Piso Pelviano. Se incluyó pacientes entre 2008 y 2015 que cumplían criterios de constipación crónica secundaria a CPP, confirmado por manometría anorrectal y/o defeco-resonancia. Se analizaron datos demográficos, frecuencia de evacuaciones, uso de laxantes, enemas, pujo, Score de Altomare y Score de constipación de Wexner pre y post-tratamiento. Resultados: 43 pacientes, de los cuales 39 son mujeres. Edad media de 40 años (rango: 14-84). Duración de síntomas fue ≥ 5 años en el 72,5%. Mediana de sesiones de Biofeedback de 8 (6-10). El 62,8% presenta ≤ 2 evacuaciones semanales y disminuye a un 29,3% post-tratamiento (p < 0,001). El 76,2% requiere laxantes orales y el 42,9% enemas, disminuyendo a 35,1% (p < 0,001) y 5,4% (p < 0,001) respectivamente post-tratamiento. Sensación de evacuación incompleta/fragmentada en todos los intentos mejoró de 67,4% a 14,6% (p < 0,001) y el pujo excesivo en más de la mitad de intentos mejoró de 76,1% a 10,8% (p < 0,001). Score de Wexner para constipación y Altomare mejoró de 18 a 7 (p < 0,001) y de 16 a 5 (p < 0,001) respectivamente. Conclusión: El biofeedback y la rehabilitación pelviperineal son efectivas en el tratamiento de la CPP.

Introduction: In patients with chronic constipation by obstructive defecation syndrome Paradoxical Puborectalis Contraction or "anismus" is important. Successful results for Biofeedback treatment and Pelviperineal Rehabilitation it described between 40-90%. Aim: To evaluate the outcome of biofeedback and pelviperineal rehabilitation in patients with CPP in the short-term. Materials and Method: Case series. Data was obtained from the prospective database of Pelvic Floor Unit of Universidad Católica de Chile. Patients with anismus were included between 2008 and 2015. Diagnostic criteria were chronic constipation patients by anismus with anorectal manometry and/or defecoresonancy that confirms this disorder and discards other causes of obstruted defecation síndrome. Demographic variables, frequency of bowel movements, use of laxatives, enemas, pushing, Altomare Score and Wexner constipation Score were analyzed pre and post-treatment. Results: Series of 43 patients, 39 of whom where women. Median age: 40 years (range: 14-84). Duration of symptoms ≥ 5 years in 72.5%. Median of Biofeedback sessions: 8 (range 6-10). Pre-treatment, 62.8% had ≤ 2 evacuations weekly and 29.3% post-treatment (p < 0.001). Oral laxatives were required in 76.2% and 42.9% enemas, decreasing to 35.1% (p < 0.001) and 5.4% (p < 0.001) post-treatment respectively. Feeling of incomplete/evacuation fragmented all the time improved from 67.4% to 14.6% (p < 0.001) and excessive pushing in more than half of time improved from 76.1% to 10.8% (p < 0.001). Wexner Score for and Altomare Score improved from 18 to 7 (p < 0.001) and 16 to 5 (p < 0.001) respectively. Conclusion: Adult with chronic constipation by anismus can be treated effectively with Biofeedback and Pelviperineal Rehabilitation.

Nicorandil Affects Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Function by Increasing Complex III Activity and ROS Production in Skeletal Muscle Mitochondria.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent potassium channels openers (KATP) protect skeletal muscle against function impairment through the activation of the mitochondrial KATP channels (mitoKATP). Previous reports suggest that modulators of the mitochondrial KATP channels have additional effects on isolated mitochondria. To determine whether the KATP channel opener nicorandil has non-specific effects that explain its protective effect through the mitochondrial function, chicken muscle mitochondria were isolated, and respiration rate was determined pollarographically. The activity of the electron transport chain (ETC) complexes (I-IV) was measured using a spectrophotometric method. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and lipid peroxidation were assessed using flow cytometry and thiobarbituric acid assay, respectively. Both KATP channel opener nicorandil and KATP channel blocker 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD) decreased mitochondrial respiration; nicorandil increased complex III activity and decreased complex IV activity. The effects of nicorandil on complex III were antagonized by 5-HD. Nicorandil increased ROS levels, effect reverted by either 5-HD or the antioxidant N-2-mercaptopropionyl glycine (MPG). None of these drugs affected lipid peroxidation levels. These findings suggest that KATP channel opener nicorandil increases mitochondrial ROS production from complex III. This results by partially blocking electron flow in the complex IV, setting electron carriers in a more reduced state, which is favored by the increase in complex III activity by nicorandil. Overall, our study showed that nicorandil like other mitochondrial KATP channel openers might not act through mitoKATP channel activation.

Quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis and its association with depressive symptoms and physical disability.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work was to evaluate the quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis and its association with depressive symptoms and physical health. METHOD: A total of 117 patients clinically diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) were studied. The MSQOL-54 scale was applied. The depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), while degree of physical disability was evaluated with the EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale). The results of these last two instruments were associated with MSQOL-54 to determine its influence on the perception of quality of life. RESULTS: We evaluated 65 women (56%) and 52 men (44%), with a mean age of 35 years, a mean age of 27 years at the time of diagnosis, and a mean evolution of 8 years. 88% of the patients showed the relapsing-remitting subtype; 42% had paid employment; 29% of the studied patients required help to perform daily activities; 75% took disease-modifying medications. They obtained on average a score of 3.62 ±â€¯2.30 on the EDSS and 11.5 ±â€¯9.21 on the BDI. The general average in MSQOL-54 was 64.67 ±â€¯17.52. CONCLUSIONS: Quality of life, in patients with multiple sclerosis is an issue that worries health personnel, it is essential to implement strategies for reducing the impact of the disease on patients' lives, mainly through the application of programs aimed to decrees depression and improve social support.

The cytokine profile of women with severe anxiety and depression during pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Controversial findings regarding the association between pro-inflammatory cytokines and depression have been reported in pregnant subjects. Scarce data about anxiety and its relationships with cytokines are available in pregnant women. To understand the association between anxiety and cytokines during pregnancy, we conducted the present study in women with or without depression. METHODS: Women exhibiting severe depression (SD) and severe anxiety (SA) during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy (n = 139) and control subjects exhibiting neither depression nor anxiety (n = 40) were assessed through the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Serum cytokines were measured by a multiplex bead-based assay. Correlation tests were used to analyze the data and comparisons between groups were performed. A general linear model of analysis of variance was constructed using the group as a dependent variable, interleukin concentrations as independent variables, and HDRS/HARS scores and gestational weeks as covariables. RESULTS: The highest levels of Th1- (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-2, IFN-γ), Th17- (IL-17A, IL-22), and Th2- (IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13) related cytokines were observed in women with SD + SA. The SA group showed higher concentrations of Th1- (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-2, IFN-γ) and Th2- (IL-4, and IL-10) related cytokines than the controls. Positive correlations were found between HDRS and IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α in the SA group (p < 0.03), and between HDRS and Th1- (IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α), Th2- (IL-9, IL-10, IL-13) and Th17- (IL-17A) cytokines (p < 0.05) in the SD + SA group. After controlling the correlation analysis by gestational weeks, the correlations that remained significant were: HDRS and IL-2, IL-6, IL-9, and IL-17A in the SD + SA group (p < 0.03). HARS scores correlated with IL-17A in the SA group and with IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-2 in the SD + SA group (p < 0.02). The linear model of analysis of variance showed that HDRS and HARS scores influenced cytokine concentrations; only IL-6 and TNF-α could be explained by the group. CONCLUSIONS: We found that the cytokine profiles differ when comparing pregnant subjects exhibiting SA with comorbid SD against those showing only SA without depression.

Flat Bands, Indirect Gaps, and Unconventional Spin-Wave Behavior Induced by a Periodic Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya Interaction.

Periodically patterned metamaterials are known for exhibiting wave properties similar to the ones observed in electronic band structures in crystal lattices. In particular, periodic ferromagnetic materials are characterized by the presence of bands and band gaps in their spin-wave spectrum at tunable GHz frequencies. Recently, the fabrication of magnets hosting Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions has been pursued with high interest since properties, such as the stabilization of chiral spin textures and nonreciprocal spin-wave propagation, emerge from this antisymmetric exchange coupling. In this context, to further engineer the magnon band structure, we propose the implementation of magnonic crystals with periodic Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions, which can be obtained, for instance, via patterning of periodic arrays of heavy metal wires on top of an ultrathin magnetic film. We demonstrate through theoretical calculations and micromagnetic simulations that such systems show an unusual evolution of the standing spin waves around the gaps. We also predict the emergence of indirect gaps and flat bands, effects that depend on the strength of the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction. Such phenomena, which have been previously observed in different systems, are observed here simultaneously, opening new routes towards engineered metamaterials for spin-wave-based devices.

Versión chilena de la Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit: traducción y adaptación transcultural / Chilean version of the Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit: a translation and cross-cultural adaptation

INTRODUCCIÓN: La Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit (FSS-ICU) es un instrumento válido y confiable para medir funcionamiento físico en unida-des de cuidados intensivos. Sin embargo, la traducción y adaptación trans-cultural de la FSS-ICU en Chile no ha sido publicada. OBJETIVO: Traducir y adaptar transculturalmente todos los documentos asociados de la FSS-ICU original para Chile. MÉTODO: Se utilizó como punto de partida la versión en español de la FSS-ICU, disponible en www.ImproveLTO.com. Esta versión se tradujo previamente junto a los desarrolladores originales de la FSS-ICU, siguiendo las recomen-daciones establecidas para este proceso. La versión de bolsillo chilena se desarrolló recientemente en base a la versión original en inglés. Se realizaron entrevistas cognitivas a kinesiólogos de la unidad de cuidados intensivos para evaluar la comprensión de la FSS-ICU y versión de bolsillo. Las adaptaciones se realizaron cuando el acuerdo entre los kinesiólogos fue inferior al 80%. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron las entrevistas cognitivas de la FSS-ICU en español (85 ítems) y versión de bolsillo (18 ítems) en 30 kinesiólogos chilenos provenientes de 18 diferentes hospitales (14 públicos y 4 privados). Durante las entrevistas se realizaron adaptaciones principalmente en las guías generales e instrucciones específicas para tres ítems de la FSS-ICU y dos ítems de la versión de bolsillo. Finalmente, se desarrollaron las preguntas frecuentes, la versión de bolsillo y la versión completa de la FSS-ICU. Todas las adaptaciones fueron aceptadas por los desarrolladores originales. CONCLUSIONES: La versión chilena de la FSS-ICU fue fácil de entender por los kinesiólogos. La FSS-ICU está disponible gratis para uso clínico e investigación no comercial en Chile.

BACKGROUND: The Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit (FSS-ICU) is a valid and reliable instrument to measure physical functioning in the intensive care unit setting. Translation and cross-cultural adaptation in Chile has not been published for the FSS-ICU. AIM: To translate and cross-culturally adapt all associated documents of the original FSS-ICU for Chile. METHOD: The Spanish version of FSS-ICU, available at www.ImproveLTO.com, was used as the starting point. This version was previously translated, with the original FSS-ICU developers, following established guidelines for this process. The Chilean pocket card version was newly developed based on the English version at www.ImproveLTO.com. Cognitive interviews were conducted for the adaptation of the FSS-ICU and pocket card version to assess understanding of relevant stakeholders (i.e., Chilean intensive care unit physiotherapists). Adaptations to the translation were made when agreement among the physiotherapists was less than 80%. RESULTS: Cognitive interviews of the Chilean FSS-ICU (85 items) and pocket card version (18 items) were performed with 30 Chilean physiotherapists from 18 hospitals (14 public and 4 private). During the interviews, modest adaptations mainly made in the general guidelines and specific instructions for three items of the FSS-ICU and two items of the pocket card. Finally, the frequently asked questions, pocket card and full version of the FSS-ICU were developed. The original developers accepted all adaptations. CONCLUSIONS: The Chilean version of the FSS-ICU was easy to understand by the physiotherapists. The FSS-ICU is freely available for non-commercial clinical and research use by Chilean Spanish-speakers.

Characterization of the animal by-product meal industry in Costa Rica: Manufacturing practices through the production chain and food safety.

Animal by-product rendering establishments are still relevant industries worldwide. Animal by-product meal safety is paramount to protect feed, animals, and the rest of the food chain from unwanted contamination. As microbiological contamination may arise from inadequate processing of slaughterhouse waste and deficiencies in good manufacturing practices within the rendering facilities, we conducted an overall establishment's inspection, including the product in several parts of the process.An evaluation of the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) was carried out, which included the location and access (i.e., admission) to the facilities, integrated pest management programs, physical condition of the facilities (e.g., infrastructure), equipments, vehicles and transportation, as well as critical control points (i.e., particle size and temperature set at 50 mm, 133°C at atmospheric pressure for 20 min, respectively) recommended by the OIE and the European Commission. The most sensitive points according to the evaluation are physical structure of the facilities (avg 42.2%), access to the facilities (avg 48.6%), and cleaning procedures (avg 51.4%).Also, indicator microorganisms (Salmonella spp., Clostridium spp., total coliforms, E. coli, E. coli O157:H7) were used to evaluate the safety in different parts of the animal meal production process. There was a prevalence of Salmonella spp. of 12.9, 14.3, and 33.3% in Meat and Bone Meal (MBM), poultry by-products, and fish meal, respectively. However, there were no significant differences (P = 0.73) in the prevalence between the different animal meals, according to the data collected.It was also observed that renderings associated with the poultry industry (i.e., 92.0%) obtained the best ratings overall, which reflects a satisfactory development of this sector and the integration of its production system as a whole.

Zika virus epidemiology: from Uganda to world pandemic, an update.

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is an emergent worldwide public health problem. Historically, 84 countries have reported vector-borne ZIKV transmission, 61 of which report on-going transmission. It is a Flavivirus transmitted through arthropods belonging to the Aedes genus. Since 2015, ZIKV infections have increased dramatically; with 1.3 million people infected during 2015 in Brazil alone. This paper's objective is to highlight the conjectural epidemiological points of the virus' dissemination. The digital archives Pubmed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane were searched for papers that assessed aspects of ZIKV transmission and epidemiology. The first isolation occurred in Uganda in 1947. Since then, important outbreaks were documented globally. Consequently, an emergent public health problem arose from a rapidly increasing incidence and its association with the development of neurological diseases such as microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Key factors in the successful containment of outbreaks include surveillance of mosquitos in the neighbourhood, an early mosquito control treatment, an assertive information campaign, and the involvement of the local population and healthcare workers. As such, while ZIKV seems to be spreading globally in a similar manner to other arboviruses, such as Dengue and Chikungunya viruses, it can also be rapidly contained due to the pre-existing availability of necessary resources and regulatory tools as control measures. This review aims to provide a description of those characteristics of ZIKV infection that may be useful in the construction of effective outbreak control strategies.

Smart Release Nano-formulation of Cytochrome C and Hyaluronic Acid Induces Apoptosis in Cancer Cells.

Herein we tested a nanosized cancer-cell targeted delivery system based on cytochrome c (Cyt c) and hyaluronic acid. Cyt c was chosen since it is a per se non-toxic protein but causes apoptosis when delivered to the cytoplasm of target cells. Hyaluronic acid was employed to create the nanosized delivery system with passive targeting capability in order to exploit the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect and active targeting capability of hyaluronic acid. In addition, our goal was to incorporate a smart release strategy to only promote protein release upon reaching its target. Nanoparticles were formed by a simple yet precise nanoprecipitation process based on desolvation. They were physically characterized to select precipitation conditions leading to adequate size, shape, protein bioactivity, and protein loading to produce a feasible targeted cancer treatment. We synthesized nanoparticles of around 500 nm diameter with a 60% protein loading and more than 80% of protein bioactivity. In vitro, cumulative release of 92% of Cyt c was observed after 8 h under conditions mimicking the reductive intracellular environment, while under non-denaturing conditions only 20% was released. The nanoparticles displayed a selective cytotoxic effect on cancer cells. After 6 h of incubation with the nanoparticles, hyaluronic acid receptor over expressing A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells showed a viability of ca. 20% at 0.16 mg/ml of Cyt c concentration. Only a negligible effect was observed on viability of COS-7 African green monkey kidney fibroblast, a normal cell line notoverexpressing the hyaluronic acid receptor. Confocal microscopy confirmed that the drug delivery system indeed delivered Cyt c to the cytoplasm of the target cells. We conclude that we were able to create a smart stimuli-responsive targeted drug delivery system with significant potential in cancer therapy.

Report on an anti-doping operation in Guadeloupe: High number of positive cases and inferences about doping habits.

Anti-doping controls in non-major events are relatively infrequent and athletes that compete only in these events are less likely to be controlled. The French Anti-Doping Agency carried out an anti-doping operation during a regional cycling competition in Guadeloupe. The urine and serum samples were analysed by the French anti-doping laboratory. Out of 42 athletes, 7 were positive for one or more substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Four serum samples contained continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (CERA) and one a recombinant erythropoietin. However, no traces were found in the corresponding urines. One of the athletes positive for CERA was also positive for growth hormone (GH), identified using the GH isoform test. The same serum was negative with the GH biomarkers test, probably because of the brief interval between injection and control (less than a day). The stimulants heptaminol and dimethylbutylamine, as well as the glucocorticoid prednisone and its metabolite prednisolone, were also found. Strikingly, 16.6% of the controlled athletes were using one or more prohibited drugs. These findings indicate that doping is widespread in athletes competing regionally and that CERA is still a popular drug for endurance sports. They underline the need for more controls, particularly blood sampling during non-major competitions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.