[Comparison of serum uric acid and liver enzyme levels in adolescents with obesity and with metabolic syndrome]. / Comparación de los niveles séricos de ácido úrico y enzimas hepáticas entre adolescentes con obesidad y con síndrome metabólico.

INTRODUCTION: a relationship has been observed between elevated levels of liver enzymes and uric acid with the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in the pediatric population. OBJECTIVE: to compare serum liver enzyme and uric acid levels between adolescents with and without MS. METHODS: a cross-sectional study was carried out in adolescents with obesity between 10 and 18 years old. Somatometric data, serum insulin, lipid profile, uric acid levels and liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase [AST], alanine aminotransferase [ALT] and gamma-glutamyl transferase [GGT]) were analyzed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Student's t test or the Chi-square test was used to evaluate differences between groups. RESULTS: a total of 1095 adolescents with obesity were included (444 with MS and 651 without MS). The group with MS had a higher BMI (with MS 2.28 vs without MS 2.11 p < 0.001), with no difference in body fat (42.9 % vs 42.9 %, p = 0.978). The MS group had significantly higher levels of AST (34.4 vs. 29.5, p = 0.013), ALT (42.2 vs. 34.6, p = 0.003), and uric acid (6.17 vs. 5.74, p = 0.002). comparison to the group without MS. The proportion of ALT (40.5 % vs 29.5 %, p = 0.029) and altered uric acid (58.1 % vs. 45.6 %, p = 0.019) was higher in the MS group. CONCLUSIONS: serum levels of ALT, AST and uric acid in adolescents with obesity and MS were higher compared to those without MS. Altered ALT was a risk factor for SM.

Spinal cord stimulation attenuates paclitaxel-induced gait impairment and mechanical hypersensitivity via peripheral neuroprotective mechanisms in tumor-bearing rats.

BACKGROUND: Taxanes such as paclitaxel (PTX) induce dose-dependent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), which is associated with debilitating chronic pain and gait impairment. Increased macrophage-related proinflammatory activities have been reported to mediate the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain. While spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used for a number of pain conditions, the mechanisms supporting its use for CIPN remain to be elucidated. Thus, we aimed to examine whether SCS can attenuate Schwann cell-mediated and macrophage-mediated neuroinflammation in the sciatic nerve of Rowlette Nude (RNU) rats with PTX-induced gait impairment and mechanical hypersensitivity. METHODS: Adult male tumor-bearing RNU rats were used for this study examining PTX treatment and SCS. Gait and mechanical hypersensitivity were assessed weekly. Cytokines, gene expression, macrophage infiltration and polarization, nerve morphology and Schwann cells were examined in sciatic nerves using multiplex immunoassay, bulk RNA sequencing, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry techniques. RESULTS: SCS (50 Hz, 0.2 milliseconds, 80% motor threshold) attenuated the development of mechanical hypersensitivity (20.93±0.80 vs 12.23±2.71 grams, p<0.0096) and temporal gait impairment [swing (90.41±7.03 vs 117.27±9.71%, p<0.0076), and single stance times (94.92±3.62 vs 112.75±7.27%, p<0.0245)] induced by PTX (SCS+PTX+Tumor vs Sham SCS+PTX+Tumor). SCS also attenuated the reduction in Schwann cells, myelin thickness and increased the concentration of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10. Bulk RNA sequencing revealed differential gene expression after SCS, with 607 (59.2%) genes upregulated while 418 (40.8%) genes were downregulated. Notably, genes related to anti-inflammatory cytokines and neuronal growth were upregulated, while genes related to proinflammatory-promoting genes, increased M2γ polarization and decreased macrophage infiltration and Schwann cell loss were downregulated. CONCLUSION: SCS may attenuate PTX-induced pain and temporal gait impairment, which may be partly attributed to decreases in Schwann cell loss and macrophage-mediated neuroinflammation in sciatic nerves.

Estandarización de requerimientos mínimos para la formación de centro de detección temprana de cáncer de pulmón en América Latina / Standardization of Minimum Requirements for the Formation of an Early Detection Center for Lung Cancer in Latin America

Introducción: El cáncer de pulmón (CP) es una enfermedad con gran impacto a nivel mundial en el número de muertes y en costos en salud. La alta incidencia y mortalidad de esta enfermedad asociada al diagnóstico tardío, y la mejoría del pronóstico ante una detección temprana, determinan que sea una patología pasible de beneficiarse mediante detección temprana. La tomografía de baja dosis de radiación (TCBD) demostró ser un método que se pue- de realizar periódicamente a un grupo de personas con alto riesgo de desarrollar CP y así reducir la mortalidad por esta enfermedad. Sin embargo, este beneficio es tal cuan- do se encuentra desarrollado bajo un programa organizado y con participación multi- disciplinaria especializada en cáncer de pulmón. Métodos: Se plantea determinar lineamientos básicos para el desarrollo de la detección temprana de cáncer de pulmón en América Latina para que pueda ser realizada en forma uniforme, con el menor riesgo y el máximo beneficio esperado. Se analizaron las principales publicaciones referidas a este tema, contemplando la diversidad de atención y acceso de América Latina. Resultado: Se desarrollan requerimientos mínimos para la implementación de un pro- grama. Discusión: El número de programas en la región es escaso y depende más de esfuerzos individuales que de políticas generales de salud. Consideramos que estos lineamien- tos pueden servir de apoyo para el desarrollo de más programas en la región y de for- ma más homogénea.

Introduction: Lung cancer (LC) is a disease with a great impact worldwide in the number of deaths and health costs. The high incidence and mortality of this disease associated with late diagnosis and the improved prognosis with early detection determine that it is a pathology that can benefit from early detection. Low radiation dose tomography (LDCT) demonstrated a method that can be performed periodically to a group of people at high risk of developing CP and thus reduce mortality from this disease. However, this benefit is such when it is developed under an organized program with multidisciplinary participation specialized in lung cancer. Methods: It is proposed to determine basic guidelines for the development of early de- tection of lung cancer in Latin America so that it can be carried out uniformly, with the lowest risk and the maximum expected benefit. The main publications referring to this topic were analyzed, considering the diversity of care and access in Latin America. Result: Minimum requirements are developed for the implementation of a program. Discussion: The number of programs in the region is small and depends more on individual efforts than on general health policies. We consider that these guidelines can serve as support for the development of more programs in the region and in a more ho- mogeneous way.

Optimizing biodegradable plastics: Molecular dynamics insights into starch plasticization with glycerol and oleic acid.

Petroleum-based plastics dominate everyday life, necessitating the exploration of natural polymers as alternatives. Starch, abundant and biodegradable, is a promising raw material. However, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying starch plasticization has proven challenging. To address this, we employ molecular dynamics simulations, focusing on amylose as a model. Our comprehensive evaluation revealed that chain size affects solubility, temperature influenced diffusivity and elastic properties, and oleic acid expressed potential as an alternative plasticizer. Furthermore, blending glycerol or oleic acid with water suggested the enhancement amylose's elasticity. These findings contribute to the design of sustainable and improved biodegradable plastics.

Clinical and socio-demographic factors associated with dental extractions in a clinical sample.

The objective of the present study was to identify the reasons for dental extractions in patients seeking dental care in a university dental clinic in Mexico. This is a cross-sectional study that assessed 284 consecutive patients at the School of Dentistry, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico between August 2017 and November 2018. In total, 505 extractions were performed. The dependent variable was the reason for extraction: 0) dental caries and ensuing sequels (reference category); 1) periodontal disease and ensuing sequels; and 2) other reasons. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and clinical variables were included as independent variables. The analysis was done with multinomial logistic regression (Stata 14.0). Out of all extractions, 63.6% (n=321) were due to dental caries and ensuing sequels; 22.0% (n=111) were due to periodontal disease and ensuing sequels; 5.3% (n=27) endodontic failure; 5.1% (n=26) prosthetic indications; 1.6% (n=8) orthodontic indications; and the rest (2.4%) were due to other reasons. In the multivariate model extractions due to periodontal disease vs dental caries were associated with occasionally smoking tobacco (Odds Ratio, OR=3.90) or daily tobacco use (OR=3.19); the tooth to be extracted having been previously restored (OR=2.35); extracted anterior as opposed to posterior teeth (OR =2.63); and patients with multiple extractions (OR=2.68). In the case of extractions due to "other reasons", no variable was significant. Dental caries and periodontal disease were the main reasons for dental extraction in this sample. Several variables, mostly clinical, were associated with extractions for periodontal reasons.

Evaluating the Effect of Iron(III) in the Preparation of a Conductive Porous Composite Using a Biomass Waste-Based Starch Template.

In this work, the effect of iron(III) in the preparation of a conductive porous composite using a biomass waste-based starch template was evaluated. Biopolymers are obtained from natural sources, for instance, starch from potato waste, and its conversion into value-added products is highly significant in a circular economy. The biomass starch-based conductive cryogel was polymerized via chemical oxidation of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) using iron(III) p-toluenesulfonate as a strategy to functionalize porous biopolymers. Thermal, spectrophotometric, physical, and chemical properties of the starch template, starch/iron(III), and the conductive polymer composites were evaluated. The impedance data of the conductive polymer deposited onto the starch template confirmed that at a longer soaking time, the electrical performance of the composite was improved, slightly modifying its microstructure. The functionalization of porous cryogels and aerogels using polysaccharides as raw materials is of great interest for applications in electronic, environmental, and biological fields.

In Vitro Evaluation of the Antifungal Effect of AgNPs on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici.

The application of nanomaterials in the agri-food industry can lead us to the formulation of new sustainable and effective pesticides for the control of fungi such as Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol). This is a fungal plant pathogen for the tomato plant. In this work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by a green methodology from Geranium leaf extract as a reducing agent. The poisoned food technique was used to determine the percentage of inhibition of Fol mycelial growth by the action of AgNPs. They were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM-2100, Tokyo, Japan) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS, DU 730 Beckman Coulter, Brea, CA, USA). Five different concentrations of AgNPs (10, 20, 40, 75, and 150 mg/L) were evaluated in vitro in order to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) as well as the behavior of their antifungal activity in tomato fruit. Nanoparticles with spherical morphology and average diameters of 38.5 ± 18.5 nm were obtained. The maximum percentage of inhibition on the mycelial growth of Fol was 94.6 ± 0.1%, which was obtained using the AgNPs concentration of 150 mg/L and it was determined that the MIC corresponds to 75 mg/L. On the other hand, in a qualitative way, it was possible to observe an external inhibitory effect in the tomato fruit from the concentration of 10 mg/L. Finally, we can conclude that AgNPs are a viable alternative for alternative formulations applied in the agri-food industry as pesticide solutions.

Spinal Cord Stimulation Increases Chemoefficacy and Prevents Paclitaxel-Induced Pain via CX3CL1.

INTRODUCTION: Despite increasing utilization of spinal cord stimulation (SCS), its effects on chemoefficacy, cancer progression, and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) pain remain unclear. Up to 30% of adults who are cancer survivors may suffer from CIPN, and there are currently no effective preventative treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Through a combination of bioluminescent imaging, behavioral, biochemical, and immunohistochemical approaches, we investigated the role of SCS and paclitaxel (PTX) on tumor growth and PTX-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) pain development in T-cell-deficient male rats (Crl:NIH-Foxn1rnu) with xenograft human non-small cell lung cancer. We hypothesized that SCS can prevent CIPN pain and enhance chemoefficacy partially by modulating macrophages, fractalkine (CX3CL1), and inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS: We show that preemptive SCS enhanced the antitumor efficacy of PTX and prevented PIPN pain. Without SCS, rats with and without tumors developed robust PIPN pain-related mechanical hypersensitivity, but only those with tumors developed cold hypersensitivity, suggesting T-cell dependence for different PIPN pain modalities. SCS increased soluble CX3CL1 and macrophages and decreased neuronal and nonneuronal insoluble CX3CL1 expression and inflammation in dorsal root ganglia. CONCLUSION: Collectively, our findings suggest that preemptive SCS is a promising strategy to increase chemoefficacy and prevent PIPN pain via CX3CL1-macrophage modulation.

Nursing training and its association with burnout syndrome among Mexican undergraduate students / Formación académica en enfermería y su asociación con el síndrome de burnout en estudiantes Mexicanos de pregrado

Abstract Introduction Previous data suggest that healthcare students, such as nursing students, might have a differential risk of presenting burnout syndrome caused by the stress they are subjected to. However, the evidence is still scarce and inconclusive. Objective To evaluate the association between nursing training and burnout syndrome among undergraduate students in Hidalgo, Mexico. Method A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 566 undergraduate students (56% were nursing students and the rest were non-healthcare students). Burnout syndrome was identified using the Spanish version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey, consisting of subscales: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished academic efficacy. The association between the variables of interest was evaluated using logistic regression models adjusted for confounders. Results In the depersonalization subscale, nursing students, compared with non-healthcare students, had an adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) of moderate/high burnout syndrome of 2.08 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.34, 3.22]). In addition, the association was stronger among students in the third and fourth school years (aOR = 3.58; 95% CI = [1.62, 7.89]) compared with those in the first and second school years (aOR = 1.20; 95% CI = [.71, 2.03]). Discussion and conclusion It is necessary that universities provide nursing students with tools that allow them to cope with stressful situations during their academic training and their future life as health professionals.

Resumen Introducción Datos previos sugieren que los estudiantes del cuidado a la salud, como es el caso de enfermería, podrían tener un riesgo diferencial de presentar síndrome de burnout debido al estrés al que están sometidos, no obstante, la evidencia aun es escaza y no concluyente. Objetivo Evaluar la asociación entre la formación académica en enfermería con el síndrome de burnout en estudiantes universitarios de Hidalgo, México. Método Estudio trasversal analítico realizado en una muestra de 566 estudiantes universitarios (56% eran estudiantes de enfermería y el resto de las áreas diferentes a la salud). Para determinar la presencia de síndrome de burnout se utilizó la versión en español de la escala Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey, conformada por las subescalas: agotamiento, eficacia académica y despersonalización. La asociación entre las variables de interés se evalúo mediante modelos de regresión logística ajustados por confusores. Resultados En la subescala de despersonalización los estudiantes de enfermería tuvieron mayores posibilidades de presentar síndrome de burnout medio/alto en comparación con los de las otras formaciones académicas (razón de momios ajustada [RMa] = 2.08; intervalo de confianza [IC] al 95% = [1.34, 3.22]). Además, la asociación fue más fuerte entre aquellos que cursaban el tercer y cuarto año escolar (RMa = 3.58; IC 95% = [1.62, 7.89]) a diferencia de los que cursaban los primeros dos años escolares (RMa = 1.20; IC 95% = [.71, 2.03]). Discusión y conclusión Es importante que las universidades brinden a los estudiantes de enfermería herramientas que les permitan sobrellevar las situaciones estresantes durante su formación académica y su futura vida profesional.

Role of the nonribosomal peptide synthetase siderophore enzyme (Rfs) of Mucor lusitanicus in controlling the growth of fungal phytopathogens.

Dimorphic species of Mucor, which are cosmopolitan fungi belonging to subphylum Mucoromycotina, are metabolically versatile. Some species of Mucor are sources of biotechnological products, such as biodiesel from Mucor circinelloides and expression of heterologous proteins from Mucor lusitanicus. Furthermore, Mucor lusitanicus has been described as a model for understanding mucormycosis infections. However, little is known regarding the relationship between Mucor lusitanicus and other soil inhabitants. In this study, we investigated the potential use of Mucor lusitanicus as a biocontrol agent against fungal phytopathogens, namely Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, Fusarium solani, and Alternaria solani, which destroy economically important crops. Results showed that aerobic cell-free supernatants of the culture broth (SS) from Mucor lusitanicus inhibited the growth of the fungal phytopathogens in culture, soil, and tomato fruits. The SS obtained from a strain of Mucor lusitanicus carrying the deletion of rfs gene, which encodes an enzyme involved in the synthesis of siderophore rhizoferrin, had a decreased inhibitory effect against the growth of the phytopathogens. Contrarily, this inhibitory effect was more evident with the SS from an rfs-overexpressing strain compared to the wild-type. This study provides a framework for the potential biotechnological use of the molecules secreted from Mucor lusitanicus in the biocontrol of fungal phytopathogens.

Impacto de una maniobra educativa sobre el conocimiento y actitud de la autoexploración testicular / Impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge of testicular self-examination and attitudes toward it

Introducción: Se ha descrito que la autoexploración testicular se realiza en un bajo porcentaje de los adolescentes. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de una maniobra educativa a corto y largo plazo (6 meses) sobre el conocimiento y la actitud de los adolescentes varones en la autoexploración testicular. Métodos: Se realizó un cuasiexperimento, antes y después en adolescentes varones. Se validó un cuestionario para evaluar el conocimiento y la actitud (conciencia, intenciones y comportamiento) sobre la autoexploración testicular. La maniobra educativa consistió en una charla informativa de manera grupal que incluía esquemas y folletos. Se les aplicó el cuestionario antes y después de la maniobra educativa. Se citaron a los 6 meses posteriores y se les dio nuevamente la charla aplicándose un cuestionario antes y después de la misma. Resultados: Se incluyeron 139 adolescentes con una mediana para la edad de 14 años. El conocimiento (18,3% vs. 78,9% p=0,02) y la actitud (5,6% vs. 53,5% p=0,02) mejoraron posteriormente a la primera charla informativa. A los 6 meses de seguimiento (n=98) el conocimiento no se modificó (87,0% vs. 93,0% p=0,671); sin embargo, la actitud mejoró tras la segunda charla (58,0% vs. 78,0% p=0,009). Conclusión: Una maniobra educativa sobre la autoexploración testicular mejoró la proporción de una adecuada actitud (5,6% vs. 53,5%) y conocimiento (18,3% vs. 78,9%) en los adolescentes. El reforzamiento de la maniobra a los 6 meses mejora la proporción de adolescentes con una adecuada actitud (53,5% vs. 86,4%). (AU)

Introduction: There is evidence that the percentage of adolescents that practice testicular self-examination is low. Objective: To assess the short-term and long-term (6 months) impact in male adolescents of an educational intervention on the knowledge of testicular self-examination and attitude toward it. Methods: We conducted a quasi-experimental pre-test post-test study in male adolescents. A questionnaire was validated to assess knowledge on testicular self-examination and attitudes towards it (awareness, intentions, and behaviour). The educational intervention was group-based and consisted in an instructional talk with the aid of diagrams and brochures. The questionnaire was administered before and after the intervention. A follow-up was scheduled 6 months later, and the talk was delivered again, with administration of the questionnaire before and after. Results: The study included 139 adolescents with a median age of 14 years. We found an improvement in knowledge (18.3% vs. 78.9%; P=.02) and attitude (5.6% vs. 53.5%; P=.02) after the initial intervention. At the 6-month follow-up (n=98), there was no change in knowledge (87.0% vs. 93.0%; P=.671), but attitude improved after the second intervention (58.0% vs. 78.0%; P=.009). Conclusion: An educational intervention on testicular self-examination improved the proportion of adolescents with an adequate attitude (5.6% vs. 53.5%) and adequate knowledge (18.3% vs. 78.9%). The repetition of the intervention at 6 months increased the proportion of adolescents with an adequate attitude (53.5% vs. 86.4%). (AU)

Impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge of testicular self-examination and attitudes toward it.

INTRODUCTION: There is evidence that the percentage of adolescents that practice testicular self-examination is low. OBJECTIVE: To assess the short-term and long-term (6 months) impact in male adolescents of an educational intervention on the knowledge of testicular self-examination and attitude toward it. METHODS: We conducted a quasi-experimental pre-test post-test study in male adolescents. A questionnaire was validated to assess knowledge on testicular self-examination and attitudes towards it (awareness, intentions, and behaviour). The educational intervention was group-based and consisted in an instructional talk with the aid of diagrams and brochures. The questionnaire was administered before and after the intervention. A follow-up was scheduled 6 months later, and the talk was delivered again, with administration of the questionnaire before and after. RESULTS: The study included 139 adolescents with a median age of 14 years. We found an improvement in knowledge (18.3% vs 78.9%; P = 0.02) and attitude (5.6% vs 53.5%; P = 0.02) after the initial intervention. At the 6-month follow-up (n=98), there was no change in knowledge (87.0% vs 93.0%; P = 0.671), but attitude improved after the second intervention (58.0% vs 78.0%; P = 0.009). CONCLUSION: An educational intervention on testicular self-examination improved the proportion of adolescents with an adequate attitude (5.6% vs 53.5%) and adequate knowledge (18.3% vs 78.9%). The repetition of the intervention at 6 months increased the proportion of adolescents with an adequate attitude (53.5% vs 86.4%).

Clinical and socio-demographic factors associated with dental extractions in a clinical sample

Abstract The objective of the present study was to identify the reasons for dental extractions in patients seeking dental care in a university dental clinic in Mexico. This is a cross-sectional study that assessed 284 consecutive patients at the School of Dentistry, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico between August 2017 and November 2018. In total, 505 extractions were performed. The dependent variable was the reason for extraction: 0) dental caries and ensuing sequels (reference category); 1) periodontal disease and ensuing sequels; and 2) other reasons. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and clinical variables were included as independent variables. The analysis was done with multinomial logistic regression (Stata 14.0). Out of all extractions, 63.6% (n=321) were due to dental caries and ensuing sequels; 22.0% (n=111) were due to periodontal disease and ensuing sequels; 5.3% (n=27) endodontic failure; 5.1% (n=26) prosthetic indications; 1.6% (n=8) orthodontic indications; and the rest (2.4%) were due to other reasons. In the multivariate model extractions due to periodontal disease vs dental caries were associated with occasionally smoking tobacco (Odds Ratio, OR=3.90) or daily tobacco use (OR=3.19); the tooth to be extracted having been previously restored (OR=2.35); extracted anterior as opposed to posterior teeth (OR =2.63); and patients with multiple extractions (OR=2.68). In the case of extractions due to "other reasons", no variable was significant. Dental caries and periodontal disease were the main reasons for dental extraction in this sample. Several variables, mostly clinical, were associated with extractions for periodontal reasons.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar os motivos das extrações dentárias em pacientes que procuram atendimento odontológico em uma clínica odontológica universitária no México. Este é um estudo transversal que avaliou 284 pacientes consecutivos na Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México entre agosto de 2017 e novembro de 2018. No total, foram realizadas 505 extrações. A variável dependente foi o motivo da extração: 0) cárie dentária e sequelas subsequentes (categoria de referência); 1) doença periodontal e sequelas subsequentes; e 2) outros motivos. Variáveis sociodemográficas, socioeconômicas e clínicas foram incluídas como variáveis independentes. A análise foi feita com regressão logística multinomial (Stata 14.0). De todas as extrações, 63,6% (n=321) foram devidas a cárie dentária e sequelas subsequentes; 22,0% (n=111) foram devidas a doença periodontal e sequelas subsequentes; 5,3% (n=27) a insucesso endodôntico; 5,1% (n=26) a indicações protéticas; 1,6% (n=8) a indicações ortodônticas; e o restante (2,4%) foi devido a outros motivos. No modelo multivariado, as extrações por doença periodontal vs. cárie dentária foram associadas ao tabagismo ocasional (Odds Ratio, OR=3,90) ou ao uso diário de tabaco (OR=3,19); ao fato de o dente a ser extraído ter sido restaurado anteriormente (OR=2,35); à extração de dentes anteriores em vez de posteriores (OR=2,63); e a pacientes com extrações múltiplas (OR=2,68). No caso de extrações devido a "outros motivos", nenhuma variável foi significativa. A cárie dentária e a doença periodontal foram os principais motivos de extração dentária nessa amostra. Diversas variáveis, principalmente clínicas, foram associadas às extrações por motivos periodontais.

Antifungal Activity of Mexican Propolis on Clinical Isolates of Candida Species.

Infections caused by micro-organisms of the genus Candida are becoming a growing health problem worldwide. These fungi are opportunistic commensals that can produce infections-clinically known as candidiasis-in immunocompromised individuals. The indiscriminate use of different anti-fungal treatments has triggered the resistance of Candida species to currently used therapies. In this sense, propolis has been shown to have potent antimicrobial properties and thus can be used as an approach for the inhibition of Candida species. Therefore, this work aims to evaluate the anti-Candida effects of a propolis extract obtained from the north of Mexico on clinical isolates of Candida species. Candida species were specifically identified from oral lesions, and both the qualitative and quantitative anti-Candida effects of the Mexican propolis were evaluated, as well as its inhibitory effect on C. albicans isolate's germ tube growth and chemical composition. Three Candida species were identified, and our results indicated that the inhibition halos of the propolis ranged from 7.6 to 21.43 mm, while that of the MFC and FC50 ranged from 0.312 to 1.25 and 0.014 to 0.244 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the propolis was found to inhibit germ tube formation (IC50 ranging from 0.030 to 1.291 mg/mL). Chemical composition analysis indicated the presence of flavonoids, including pinocembrin, baicalein, pinobanksin chalcone, rhamnetin, and biochanin A, in the Mexican propolis extract. In summary, our work shows that Mexican propolis presents significant anti-Candida effects related to its chemical composition, and also inhibits germ tube growth. Other Candida species virulence factors should be investigated in future research in order to determine the mechanisms associated with antifungal effects against them.

Adicción a redes sociales y procrastinación académica en universitarios de la selva peruana / Addiction to social networks and academic procrastination in university students in the Peruvian jungle

El abuso del uso de las redes sociales genera dificultades en los individuos para las relaciones interpersonales, laborales y académicas. Se desarrolló una investigación con el objetivo de determinar la relación entre adicción a redes sociales y la procrastinación académica en estudiantes de una universidad privada de la selva peruana, durante el segundo período académico de 2021. El diseño metodológico fue no experimental con alcance correlacional y corte transversal. La población estuvo compuesta por universitarios matriculados en el período académico 2021-II, a partir de la cual se seleccionaron 304 alumnos mediante muestreo no probabilístico por sujetos voluntarios. Los instrumentos aplicados fueron: el Cuestionario de Adicción a Redes Sociales y la Escala de Procrastinación Académica. El 78,6% de la muestra tenía edades entre 18 y 26 años y el 62,2% correspondió al sexo femenino. La mayoría estaba matriculada en la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud (50%) y el 27,6% cursaban el cuarto año. La distribución de los datos no resultó normal (p<0,05). Los valores globales de adicción a redes sociales y procrastinación académica no se correlacionaron estadísticamente (p>0,05). En las dos variables: adicción a las redes sociales y procrastinación, además de sus correspondientes dimensiones, la mayoría de los estudiantes involucrados se catalogaron en el nivel medio. No existió correlación estadística entre las dos variables principales del estudio; sin embargo, sí existió en lo referente a la adicción a las redes sociales en relación con la autorregulación académica y la postergación de actividades

The abuse of the use of social networks generates difficulties in people for interpersonal, work, and academic relationships. This research aimed to determine the relationship between addiction to social networks and academic procrastination in students at a private university from the Peruvian jungle, during the second academic period of 2021. The methodological design was non-experimental with a correlational scope, and cross-sectional. The population was constitu-ted by university students enrolled in the academic period 2021-II. 304 students were selected through non-probabilistic sampling by volunteer subjects. The instruments applied were the Social Network Addiction Questionnaire and the Academic Procrastination Scale. 78.6% of the sample were between 18 and 26 years of age and 62.2% were female. Most of them were enro-lled in the Faculty of Health Sciences (50%) and 27.6% were in their fourth year. The data distri-bution was not normal (p<0.05). The global values of addiction to social networks and academic procrastination were not statistically correlated (p>0.05). In the two variables (addiction to social networks and procrastination), most of the students involved were classified in the medium level. There was no statistical correlation between the two main variables of the study; however, it did exist in relation to addiction to social networks in relation to academic self-regu-lation and the postponement of activities.

Expression of bik cluster and production of bikaverin by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici grown using two alternate nitrogen sources / Expresión de bik cluster y producción de bikaverina por Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici cultivados utilizando dos fuentes alternativas de nitrógeno

The genus Fusarium can be utilized to produce a great variety of secondary metabolites under specific culture conditions, including pigments of increasing biotechnological interest, such as bikaverin. Such pigments are important due to the biological properties they possess, including antitumor and antibiotic activities, among others. In Fusarium fujikuroi, bik1–bik6 have been identified as the genes that are responsible for the synthesis of bikaverin. Therefore, in this study, we screened for the presence of bik genes and examined changes in mRNA levels of the bik genes under the influence of NH4NO3 (0.024, 0.048, 0.50, 1.0, and 4.60 g L−1) and NH4Cl (0.50 and 1.0 g L−1) as nitrogen sources for the phytopathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Our results indicated the presence of at least six bik (bik1–bik6) genes and showed increased mRNA levels for bik4, bik5, and bik6 in conditions where NH4NO3 was used at pH 3.0. The characteristic coloration of bikaverin was obtained in 10 out of 16 culture conditions, except when the fungus was grown with higher concentrations of NH4NO3 (1.0 and 4.60 g L−1). The pigment was chloroform-extracted from the culture conditions of NH4NO3 (0.024, 0.048, and 0.50 g L−1) and NH4Cl (0.50 and 1.0 g L−1) with 3 and 9 days of incubation. Analysis via visible spectroscopy and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry were used for the identification of bikaverin.(AU)

Continuous Noninvasive Remote Automated Blood Pressure Monitoring With Novel Wearable Technology: A Preliminary Validation Study.

BACKGROUND: Wearable continuous monitoring biosensor technologies have the potential to transform postoperative care with early detection of impending clinical deterioration. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to validate the accuracy of Cloud DX Vitaliti continuous vital signs monitor (CVSM) continuous noninvasive blood pressure (cNIBP) measurements in postsurgical patients. A secondary aim was to examine user acceptance of the Vitaliti CVSM with respect to comfort, ease of application, sustainability of positioning, and aesthetics. METHODS: Included participants were ≥18 years old and recovering from surgery in a cardiac intensive care unit (ICU). We targeted a maximum recruitment of 80 participants for verification and acceptance testing. We also oversampled to minimize the effect of unforeseen interruptions and other challenges to the study. Validation procedures were according to the International Standards Organization (ISO) 81060-2:2018 standards for wearable, cuffless blood pressure (BP) measuring devices. Baseline BP was determined from the gold-standard ICU arterial catheter. The Vitaliti CVSM was calibrated against the reference arterial catheter. In static (seated in bed) and supine positions, 3 cNIBP measurements, each 30 seconds, were taken for each patient with the Vitaliti CVSM and an invasive arterial catheter. At the conclusion of each test session, captured cNIBP measurements were extracted using MediCollector BEDSIDE data extraction software, and Vitaliti CVSM measurements were extracted to a secure laptop through a cable connection. The errors of these determinations were calculated. Participants were interviewed about device acceptability. RESULTS: The validation analysis included data for 20 patients. The average times from calibration to first measurement in the static position and to first measurement in the supine position were 133.85 seconds (2 minutes 14 seconds) and 535.15 seconds (8 minutes 55 seconds), respectively. The overall mean errors of determination for the static position were -0.621 (SD 4.640) mm Hg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 0.457 (SD 1.675) mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Errors of determination were slightly higher for the supine position, at 2.722 (SD 5.207) mm Hg for SBP and 2.650 (SD 3.221) mm Hg for DBP. The majority rated the Vitaliti CVSM as comfortable. This study was limited to evaluation of the device during a very short validation period after calibration (ie, that commenced within 2 minutes after calibration and lasted for a short duration of time). CONCLUSIONS: We found that the Cloud DX's Vitaliti CVSM demonstrated cNIBP measurement in compliance with ISO 81060-2:2018 standards in the context of evaluation that commenced within 2 minutes of device calibration; this device was also well-received by patients in a postsurgical ICU setting. Future studies will examine the accuracy of the Vitaliti CVSM in ambulatory contexts, with attention to assessment over a longer duration and the impact of excessive patient motion on data artifacts and signal quality. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03493867; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03493867.

Beyond Wellness Monitoring: Continuous Multiparameter Remote Automated Monitoring of Patients.

The pursuit of more efficient patient-friendly health systems and reductions in tertiary health services use has seen enormous growth in the application and study of remote patient monitoring systems for cardiovascular patient care. While there are many consumer-grade products available to monitor patient wellness, the regulation of these technologies varies considerably, with most products having little to no evaluation data. As the science and practice of virtual care continues to evolve, clinicians and researchers can benefit from an understanding of more comprehensive solutions capable of monitoring multiple biophysical parameters (eg, oxygen saturation, heart rate) continuously and simultaneously. These devices, herein referred to as continuous multiparameter remote automated monitoring (CM-RAM) devices, have the potential to revolutionise virtual patient care. Through seamless integration of multiple biophysical signals, CM-RAM technologies can allow for the acquisition of high-volume big data for the development of algorithms to facilitate early detection of negative changes in patient health status and timely clinician response. In this article, we review key principles, architecture, and components of CM-RAM technologies. Work to date in this field and related implications are also presented, including strategic priorities for advancing the science and practice of CM-RAM.

Expression of bik cluster and production of bikaverin by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici grown using two alternate nitrogen sources.

The genus Fusarium can be utilized to produce a great variety of secondary metabolites under specific culture conditions, including pigments of increasing biotechnological interest, such as bikaverin. Such pigments are important due to the biological properties they possess, including antitumor and antibiotic activities, among others. In Fusarium fujikuroi, bik1-bik6 have been identified as the genes that are responsible for the synthesis of bikaverin. Therefore, in this study, we screened for the presence of bik genes and examined changes in mRNA levels of the bik genes under the influence of NH4NO3 (0.024, 0.048, 0.50, 1.0, and 4.60 g L-1) and NH4Cl (0.50 and 1.0 g L-1) as nitrogen sources for the phytopathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Our results indicated the presence of at least six bik (bik1-bik6) genes and showed increased mRNA levels for bik4, bik5, and bik6 in conditions where NH4NO3 was used at pH 3.0. The characteristic coloration of bikaverin was obtained in 10 out of 16 culture conditions, except when the fungus was grown with higher concentrations of NH4NO3 (1.0 and 4.60 g L-1). The pigment was chloroform-extracted from the culture conditions of NH4NO3 (0.024, 0.048, and 0.50 g L-1) and NH4Cl (0.50 and 1.0 g L-1) with 3 and 9 days of incubation. Analysis via visible spectroscopy and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry were used for the identification of bikaverin.

Transcript pattern analysis of Arf-family genes in the phytopathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici reveals the role of Arl3 in the virulence.

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici is an important plant pathogen that has been used to understand the virulence mechanisms that soil inhabiting fungi exhibit during the infection process. In F. oxysporum many of the virulence factors are secreted, and the secretion process requires the formation of vesicles. Arf family members, represented by Arf (ADP- Ribosylation Factor), Arl (Arf-like), and Sar (Secretion-associated and Ras-related) proteins, are involved in the vesicle creation process. In this study we identified the Arf family members in F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, which includes seven putative proteins: Arf1, Arf3, Arl1 through Arl3, Arl8B, and Sar1. Quantification of the mRNA levels of each arf encoding gene revealed that the highest expression corresponds to arf1 in all tested conditions. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that no other Arf1 paralogue, such as Arf2 from yeast, is present in F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. The essential function suggested of Arf1 in F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici was corroborated experimentally when, after several attempts, it was impossible to obtain a knockout mutant in arf1. Moreover, arl3 mRNA levels increased significantly when plant tissue was added as a sole carbon source, suggesting that the product of these genes could play pivotal roles during plant infection, the corresponding mutant ∆arl3 was less virulent compared to the wild-type strain. These results describe the role of arl3 as a critical regulator of the virulence in F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and stablish a framework for the arf family members to be studied in deeper details in this phytopathogen.