Evaluación de la función renal para la detección y seguimiento de la enfermedad renal crónica. Documento multidisciplinario de consenso 2021. Especial atención sobre situaciones clínicas específicas / Evaluation of renal function for the detection and follow-up of chronic kidney disease. Multidisciplinaryconsensus document 2021. Special attention to specific clinical situations

Resumen El filtrado glomerular (FG) se considera el mejor índice para evaluar la función renal en la práctica clínica. Recientemente, ha ganado popularidad la utilización de ecuaciones que estiman el FG, en distintas poblaciones, a partir de los niveles séricos de algunos biomarcadores. Sin embargo, no todas las fórmulas han sido validadas en los diversos escenarios clínicos probables. Las sociedades participantes: Sociedad Argentina de Nefrología, Asociación Bioquímica Argentina, Fundación Bioquímica Argentina y Confederación Unificada Bioquímica de la República Argentina, integradas por nefrólogos y bioquímicos, realizaron un consenso actualizado sobre la utilización del FG como herramienta de detección de la enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) en la Argentina. Se analizó la bibliografía existente y, teniendo en cuenta aspectos de nuestra realidad sanitaria, se establecieron sugerencias para su utilización. Se actualizaron las indicaciones del uso del FG medido. En sucesivos capítulos se puso foco en distintos estados del FG en diversas poblaciones y situaciones. En los estados de reducción del FG, se mencionaron tanto los fisiológicos propios del envejecimiento, como los determinados por situaciones patológicas, por ejemplo, el observado en la ERC avanzada o el determinado en aquellos pacientes que recibieron un trasplante renal. Se revisaron, por otro lado, las situaciones de incremento del FG, como las observadas en el embarazo o en la obesidad. Se refirieron, asimismo, las limitaciones de la estimación del FG, se reconoció su valor en situaciones de la práctica clínica habitual, o en contextos epidemiológicos definidos y se sugirieron las ecuaciones más adecuadas para su utilización en cada caso.

Abstract The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered the best index to assess the renal function in clinical practice. Recently, the use of equations to estimate GFR in different populations, based on the serum levels of some biomarkers, has gained popularity. However, not all the equations have been validated in the various likely clinical scenarios. Thus, the participating societies, i.e. the Argentine Society of Nephrology, the Argentine Association of Biochemistry, the Argentine Foundation of Biochemistry, and the Unified Confederation of Biochemistry of Argentina, composed of nephrologists and biochemists, have established an updated consensus on the use of the GFR as a tool for the detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Argentina. The consensus was established on the basis of the analysis of the existing literature and taking into account aspects of the health situation in Argentina. Suggestions for the use of the GFR were made, and the indications for its use were updated. The successive chapters of the consensus consider different values of the GFR in different populations and situations. The different situations considered and reviewed include cases of a decrease in the GFR, such as the physiological one related to aging and that related to pathological situations, as observed in advanced CKD or in patients who have received a kidney transplant, as well as cases of an increase in the GRF, such as that observed in pregnancy or obesity. The consensus also mentions the advantages and limitations of the estimation of the GFR in situations of usual clinical practice or in specific epidemiological contexts, and the most appropriate equations for its use in each case is suggested.

Resumo A filtração glomerular (FG) é considerada o melhor índice para avaliar a função renal na prática clínica. Recentemente, a utilização de equações que calculam a FG, em diferentes populações, ganhou popularidade a partir dos níveis séricos de alguns biomarcadores. Entretanto, nem todas as fórmulas têm sido validadas nos diversos cenários clínicos prováveis. As sociedades participantes: Sociedade Argentina de Nefrologia, Associação Bioquímica Argentina, Fundação Bioquímica Argentina e Confederação Unificada Bioquímica da República Argentina, integradas por nefrologistas e bioquímicos, realizaram um consenso atualizado sobre a utilização da FG, como ferramenta de detecção da doença renal crônica (DRC) na Argentina. Foi analisada a bibliografia existente e, considerando aspectos da nossa realidade sanitária, foram estabelecidas sugestões para sua utilização. Foram atualizadas as indicações do uso da FG medida. Em sucessivos capítulos se colocou o foco em diferentes estados da FG em populações e situações diversas. Nos estados de redução da FG, foram mencionados tanto os fisiológicos próprios do envelhecimento, quanto os determinados por situações patológicas, por exemplo, aquele observado na DRC avançada ou o determinado naqueles pacientes que receberam um transplante renal. Por outra parte, foram revistas as situações de aumento da FG como as observadas na gravidez ou na obesidade. Foram referidas, também, as limitações da estimativa da FG, foi reconhecido o seu valor em situações da prática clínica habitual, ou em contextos epidemiológicos definidos e se sugeriram equações mais adequadas para sua utilização em cada caso.

Digital asthenopia: blue-blocking lenses and + 0,40D additional power in the near zone, for eye strain, accommodation and convergence functions / Astenopia digital: avaliação de lentes com filtro de luz azul e poder adicional de +0,40D na zona de perto, para fadiga visual e nas funções de convergência e acomodação

ABSTRACT Purpose Evaluate blue-violet light filter and additional power of +0.40 D in the near zone ophthalmic lenses, on convergence, accommodative functions, and symptoms of digital asthenopia (DA). Methods Randomized study in cross-over design conducted on 49 volunteers (age, 29 ± 5.5 years; male: female, 18:31). Each subject wore test (+0.40 D in the near zone) and control lenses (regular single vision) for 4 weeks in randomized order. Both lenses had a selective blue-violet light filter. A baseline measurement was taken with the subjects' current updated glasses. Accommodation amplitude (AA) and near point of convergence (NPC) were measured binocularly with the RAF ruler. DA was evaluated by a questionnaire. Results No significant difference (p=.52) was found for AA comparing baseline (11.50±1.88 D), test (11.61± 1.62 D), and control SV lenses (11.88±1.50 D). No significant difference was found for NPC (p=.94), between baseline (6.50 ± 2.89cm), test (6.71± 3.49) and control SV lenses (6.82± 3.50 cm). No significant difference was found comparing test and control SV lenses in symptoms of DA (p=0.20). Conclusions The +0.40 D lenses have no negative impact on convergence or loss of accommodation power. The +0.40 D and control SV lenses had a similar impact on attenuating symptoms of DA.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos do uso de lentes oftálmicas com filtro seletivo de luz azul-violeta, sem e com poder adicional de + 0,4D na zona de perto nas funções de acomodação e convergência e para sintomas de astenopia digital (AD). Métodos Ensaio clínico controlado, randomizado e mascarado, com 49 voluntários (idade, 29 ± 5,5 anos; masculino: feminino, 18: 31). Cada participante usou lentes de teste (+0,40 D na zona de perto) e controle (visão simples), por 4 semanas de forma randomizada. Ambas as lentes tinham filtro seletivo de luz azul-violeta. A medição inicial (baseline) foi feita com os óculos atualizados de cada participante. A amplitude de acomodação (AA) e o ponto de convergência próximo (PPC) foram medidos binocularmente com a régua RAF. A AD foi avaliada por um questionário. Resultados Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante (p=0,52) para as medidas de AA comparando as lentes baseline (11,50±1,88 D), teste (11,61±1,62 D) e controle VS (11,88±1,50 D). Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada para a medida do PPC (p=0,94), entre as lentes baseline (6,50 ± 2,89cm), teste (6,71±3,49) e controle VS (6,82±3,50 cm). Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada comparando lentes teste de VS e controle nos sintomas de AD (p=0,20). Conclusões As lentes com +0,40 D não têm impacto negativo na convergência ou na perda de acomodação. As lentes +0,40 D e controle VS, tiveram impacto semelhante na redução dos sintomas de AD.

Efecto de la temperatura y concentración de microplásticos en la tasa de filtración del mejillón Semimytilus algosus (Mytiloida: Mytilidae) / Effect of temperature and microplastic concentration on the filtration rate of the mussel Semimytilus algosus (Myiloida: Mytilidae)

Resumen Introducción: La presencia de microplásticos (MPs, partículas menores a 5 mm) y el incremento de la temperatura en los océanos, vienen generando perturbaciones en la vida marina, que se pueden relacionar con alteraciones en el metabolismo de organismos filtradores, como los mitílidos. Objetivo: Se evalúa el efecto de diferentes temperaturas y concentraciones de MPs sobre la tasa de filtración (TF) de Semimytilus algosus. Métodos: Una muestra de organismos (N = 72) fue expuesta a cuatro temperaturas (17, 20, 23 y 26 °C), y un testigo sin microplásticos (MPs0) y dos concentraciones de MPs (< 125 µm) de 0.125 mg/l (MPs1) y 0.250 mg/l (MPs2), todos en combinación con la microalga Isochrysis galbana (1x106 cel/ml/día) por 21 días. Resultados: A medida que aumentó la concentración de MPs, se redujo la TF de S. algosus. Respecto a la temperatura, durante el día 7 se observó una mayor TF a 23 °C en todos los tratamientos, y para los días 14 y 21 se obtuvieron los menores valores de TF a 23 y 26 °C. La acción conjunta del incremento de temperatura y MPs, afectó negativamente la TF de S. algosus, donde ambos factores ocasionaron el descenso de la TF para todos los tiempos de evaluación. No se registró mortalidad a 17 °C para ningún tratamiento, y en el caso de mitílidos expuestos a MPs1 y temperaturas de 20 y 26 °C se presentó la mayor mortalidad (67 %). Conclusiones: El estudio demuestra el efecto adverso del incremento de temperatura y MPs sobre la TF de S. algosus.

Abstract Introduction: The presence of microplastics (MPs, particles smaller than 5 mm) and the increase in temperature in the oceans, have been generating disturbances in marine life, which can be related to alterations in the metabolism of filter-feeders, such as Mythilids. Objective: The effect of different temperatures and concentrations of MPs on the filtration rate (TF) of Semimytilus algosus is evaluated. Methods: A sample of organisms (N = 72) was exposed to four temperatures (17, 20, 23 and 26 °C), and a control without microplastics (MPs0) and two concentrations of MPs (< 125 µm) of 0.125 mg/l (MPs1) and 0.250 mg/l (MPs2), all in combination with Isochrysis galbana microalgae (1x106 cells/ml/day) for 21 days. Results: As the concentration of MPs increased, the TF of S. algosus decreased. Regarding temperature, during day 7 a higher TF was observed at 23 °C in all treatments, and during days 14 and 21 the lowest TF values were obtained at 23 and 26 °C. The joint action of the increase in temperature and MPs, negatively affected the TF of S. algosus, where both factors caused the decrease in TF for all evaluation times. No mortality was recorded at 17 °C for any treatment, and in the case of mytylids exposed to MPs1 at 20 °C and 26 °C, the highest mortality (67 %) occurred. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the adverse effect of the increase in temperature and MPs on the TF of S. algosus.

Metodología para evaluar el nivel de protección respiratoria de mascarillas y respiradores ante partículas similares a las que transmiten el SARS-CoV-2 / Methodology for evaluating the level of respiratory protection of masks and respirators against particles similar to those that transmit SARS-CoV-2

RESUMEN Objetivo: Desarrollar una metodología para evaluar el nivel de protección respiratoria de respiradores, mascarillas quirúrgicas y mascarillas comunitarias que usa la población peruana, usando partículas de un tamaño similar a las que contienen al virus activo del SARS-CoV-2. Materiales y métodos: Se ha determinado una relación lineal directa entre el logaritmo de la concentración de partículas suspendidas en aire y el tiempo transcurrido; por lo cual es posible comparar la cantidad de partículas internas y externas a la mascarilla o respirador en un mismo periodo y conocer el porcentaje de protección respiratoria de cada muestra evaluada. Resultados: Se ha logrado implementar una metodología para evaluar el nivel de protección respiratoria ante aerosoles menores a 5,0 µm. Asimismo, el empleo de accesorios como ligas o ajustadores detrás de cabeza y nuca, y el uso de clips nasales robustos, incrementan significativamente el nivel de protección respiratoria ante partículas con alta probabilidad de contener al SARS-CoV-2. Conclusiones: Se observa una concordancia entre los valores de protección respiratoria obtenidos y los esperados, considerando el nivel de filtración del material empleado de cada mascarilla quirúrgica o respirador, y su nivel de ajuste. Se observó un incremento significativo en los niveles de protección respiratoria.

ABSTRACT Objective: To develop a methodology for evaluating the level of respiratory protection provided by respirators, surgical masks and community face masks used by the Peruvian population; protection was evaluated against particles of a size similar to those containing active SARS-CoV-2 virus. Materials and methods: A direct linear relationship has been determined between the logarithm of the concentration of airborne particles and the elapsed time; thus, it is possible to compare the quantity of particles inside and outside of the mask or respirator in the same time period, as well as to obtain the percentage of respiratory protection for each evaluated sample. Results: A methodology was established to evaluate the level of respiratory protection against aerosols smaller than 5.0 μm. Also, the use of accessories such as rubber bands or adjusters behind the head and neck, and the use of robust nasal clips, significantly increased the level of respiratory protection against particles with a high probability of containing SARS-CoV-2. Conclusions: We found concordance between the obtained respiratory protection values and those expected, considering the filtration level of the material used for each surgical mask or respirator, as well as the tightness. A significant increase in the levels of respiratory protection was observed.

Evaluación del daño renal por cadmio en población expuesta a contaminación por éste en agricultores de Quila-Quila, Potosí / Evaluation of kidney damage by cadmium in a population exposed to its contamination in farmers from Quila-Quila, Potosí

El cadmio es un metal pesado presente en desechos mineros y otros, y tiene efectos deletéreos en la salud humana especialmente en el riñón en el que destruye células tubulares. En una investigación de la calidad del lecho de los ríos que reciben aguas residuales en el norte de Potosí, Bolivia, se reportó presencia de cadmio en papas regadas con esa agua en Quila-quila, una población rural de la zona. OBJETIVO: de este trabajo fue el de identificar posibles daños del cadmio en la salud de los pobladores de Quila-quila. MÉTODOS: para ello se realizó revisión clínica y análisis laboratorial clínico y químico de sangre y orina de los pobladores de Quila-quila, y se calculó la tasa de filtración glomerular (TFG) y se correlacionó ésta con indicadores de lesión glomerular. RESULTADOS: se encontraron niveles elevados de cadmio en sangre en algunas personas, y una correlación de la TFG con la concentración de cadmio en sangre y con indicadores de lesión de membrana glomerular. CONCLUSIONES: en conclusión, los pobladores de Quila-quila estuvieron contaminados por cadmio, el cual produjo lesión renal leve.

Cadmium is a heavy metal present in mining and other wastes, and has deleterious effects on human health especially in the kidney in which it destroys tubular cells. In an investigation of the quality of the river beds that receive wastewater in the north of Potosí, Bolivia, the presence of cadmium was reported in potatoes watered with these water in Quila-quila, a rural town in the area. OBJECTIVE: of this work was to identify possible damage from cadmium to the health of the inhabitants of Quila-quila. METHODS: for this, clinical review and clinical and chemical laboratory analysis of blood and urine from the inhabitants of Quila-quila, and the filtration rate was calculated glomerular (GFR) and this was correlated with indicators of glomerular injury. RESULTS: elevated levels of cadmium were found in the blood in some people, and a correlation of GFR with blood cadmium concentration and indicators of membrane injury glomerular. CONCLUSIONS: in conclusion, the inhabitants of Quila-quila were contaminated by cadmium, which caused mild kidney damage.

Método de filtrado de CO2 para cirugía laparoscópica en tiempos de pandemia de COVID-19 / Carbon dioxide filtering system for laparoscopic surgery in times of COVID-19 pandemic

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la pandemia de COVID-19 presentó nuevos desafíos en el manejo de la patología quirúrgica laparoscópica. Objetivos: presentar el sistema de filtrado de bajo costo utilizado para la laparoscopia durante la pandemia en nuestro Servicio de Cirugía. Material y métodos: se realizó búsqueda bibliográfica y se diseñó un protocolo y sistema de filtrado para evacuar el CO2 contenido en el neumoperitoneo para evitar el contagio por el virus SARS-CoV-2. Resultados: se pone en práctica el empleo de un sistema de filtrado del neumoperitoneo en época de pandemia, el cual es de bajo costo y armado sencillo con materiales disponibles habitualmente en las áreas quirúrgicas. Conclusiones: la cirugía laparoscópica es factible durante la pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 utilizando un método sencillo y económico de filtrado del neumoperitoneo.

ABSTRACT Background: Background: the COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to new challenges in the management of laparoscopic surgery. Objectives: the aim of this study is to present a low-cost filtering system used for laparoscopic surgery during the pandemic in our Department of Surgery. Material and methods : a bibliographic search was conducted and a protocol and filtering system were designed to evacuate the pneumoperitoneum avoiding contact with the SARS-CoV-2. Results: this low-cost filtering system to evacuate the pneumoperitoneum during the pandemic is easy to assemble using materials that are usually available at the operating room. Conclusions: laparoscopic surgery is feasible during the COVID-19 pandemic using a simple, low-cost carbon dioxide filtering system.

Correlación de cistatina "C" y creatinina sérica frente al filtrado glomerular en pacientes con nefropatía diabética / Correlation cystatin "C" and serum creatinine regarding to glomerular filtration in patients with diabetic nephropathy

INTRODUCCIÓN. La Nefropatía Diabética es una complicación vascular crónica que ori-gina una serie de alteraciones funcionales y estructurales de manera principal a nivel glomerular. La cistatina C y la creatinina sérica son marcadores de la función renal. OBJE-TIVO. Correlacionar las pruebas de la función renal cistatina C y la creatinina sérica frente al filtrado glomerular en pacientes con Nefropatía Diabética. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Estudio descriptivo, transversal. De una población de 418 se seleccionó una muestra de 124 datos de Historias Clínicas. Se analizaron los datos de resultados de medición de la cistatina C y creatinina sérica frente al filtrado glomerular de pacientes con Nefropatía Diabética en el período de junio a diciembre de 2017. RESULTADOS. Frecuencia de edad de 36 a 93 años, media: 69 años, desviación estándar 10,76; un 56% (69; 124) del sexo femenino y 44% (54; 124) del sexo masculino. La cistatina C vs la creatinina sérica frente al filtrado glomerular presentaron una correlación de 92% (114; 124) y 66% (81; 124) de forma respectiva, se obtuvo una mayor correlación con la cistatina C y una estrecha sig-nificancia bilateral de 0,000. El daño renal más frecuente fue del estadío II en pacientes de 66 a 75 años. CONCLUSIÓN. La cistatina C y la creatinina sérica mostraron una alta correlación con el filtrado glomerular en pacientes con Nefropatía Diabética, la principal fue la cistatina C que detectó cambios precoces en el filtrado.

INTRODUCTION. Diabetic Nephropathy is a chronic vascular complication that causes a series of functional and structural alterations, mainly at the glomerular level. Cystatin C and serum creatinine are markers of kidney function. OBJECTIVE. To correlate the tests of renal function cystatin C and serum creatinine against glomerular filtration in patients with Diabetic Nephropathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Descriptive, cross-sectional study. From a population of 418, a sample of 124 data from Medical Records was selected. The data from the measurement results of cystatin C and serum creatinine were analyzed against glomerular filtration of patients with Diabetic Nephropathy in the period from june to december 2017. RESULTS. Frequency of age from 36 to 93 years, means: 69 years, standard deviation 10,76; 56% (69; 124) of the female sex and 44% (54; 124) of the male sex. Cystatin C vs serum creatinine versus glomerular filtration showed a correlation of 92% (114; 124) and 66% (81; 124), respectively, was obtained, a higher correlation was obtained with cystatin C and a close bilateral significance of 0,000. The most frequent kidney damage was stage II in patients aged 66 to 75 years. CONCLUSION. Cystatin C and serum creatinine showed a high correlation with glomerular filtration in patients with Diabetic Nephropathy, the main one being cystatin C, which detected early changes in the filtrate.

Métodos de desinfección y reutilización de mascarillas con filtro respirador durante la pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 / Decontamination methods and reuse of filtering facepiece respirators during SARS-CoV-2 outbreak

El SARS-CoV-2 es un tipo de coronavirus con un alto grado de contagio entre pacientes y personal de salud, por lo que ha provocado la emergencia sanitaria más grande de los últimos años. Los equipos de protección personal (EPP) tienen como indicación un único uso, sin embargo, la escasez de estos ha llevado a buscar métodos para descontaminarlos y reutilizarlos, asegurando su disponibilidad. La evidencia presenta múltiples procedimientos para descontaminar mascarillas con filtro respirador tipo N95 (MFR N95), pero el método ideal debe inactivar al patógeno, asegurar la integridad del filtro respirador, el ajuste de la mascarilla y la salud del personal que la utilizará. La descontaminación con peróxido de hidrógeno vaporizado, irradiación germicida ultravioleta e incubación con calor húmedo se presentan como los métodos más eficaces contra distintos patógenos. Ante la creciente demanda de EPP y MFR N95, se sugiere realizar más estudios clínicos, que evalúen la eficacia de los métodos de descontaminación específicamente contra SARS-CoV-2 y se generen protocolos que permitan reutilizar con total seguridad este vital elemento para el personal de salud.

SARS-CoV-2 is a type of coronavirus with a high risk of contagion among patients and health care workers (HCW), being the cause of the largest health emergency in recent years. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are indicated for a single use. However, shortage has led to research new methods to decontaminate and reuse them, ensuring its availability. Evidence presents multiple procedures to decontaminate Filtering Facepiece Respirators type N95 (FFR), despite this, the ideal treatment should inactivate the pathogen, to ensure filter integrity, mask adjustments and the safety of who use this elements. Decontamination methods as vaporized hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation and moist heat are the most effective procedures against different pathogens. Facing the rising demand of PPE and FFR, it's suggested to conduct researches to evaluate decontamination methods efficacy, and specifically against SARS-CoV-2, to generate protocols in ways to let to HCW reuse FFR N95 totally safe.

Release of formaldehyde during the biofiltration of methanol vapors in a peat biofilter inoculated with Pichia pastoris GS115

Background: Methanol can be effectively removed from air by biofiltration. However, formaldehyde is one of the first metabolic intermediates in the consumption of methanol in methylotrophic microorganisms, and it can be released out of the cell constituting a secondary emission. Results: The total removal of methanol was achieved up to input loads of 263 g m−3 h−1 and the maximum elimination capacity of the system was obtained at an empty bed residence times of 90 s and reached 330 g m− 3 h−1 at an input methanol load of 414 g m−3 h−1 and 80% of removal efficiency. Formaldehyde was detected inside the biofilter when the input methanol load was above 212 g m−3 h−1 . Biomass in the filter bed was able to degrade the formaldehyde generated, but with the increase of the methanol input load, the unconsumed formaldehyde was released outside the biofilter. The maximum concentration registered at the output of the system was 3.98 g m−3 when the methanol load was 672 g m−3 h−1 in an empty bed residence times of 60 s. Conclusions: Formaldehyde is produced inside a biofilter when methanol is treated in a biofiltration system inoculated with Pichia pastoris. Biomass present in the reactor is capable of degrading the formaldehyde generated as the concentration of methanol decreases. However, high methanol loads can lead to the generation and release of formaldehyde into the environment

Efeito do processo de microfiltração na qualidade de salmoura para queijos / Effect of the microfiltration process in the quality of brine for cheeses

No processo de fabricação de queijos a salga é uma etapa de grande importância, um dos métodos mais utilizados é a imersão em salmoura. Pensando no custo benefício e qualidade do produto vem sendo utilizado o sistema de microfiltração para regeneração de salmoura permanente, que consiste na filtragem através de membranas, permitindo o uso contínuo da salmoura. Diante disso, realizou-se uma avaliação da eficiência do tratamento de salmoura, utilizada na fabricação dos queijos tipo mussarela, provolone, prato e parmesão, através do sistema de microfiltração. Foram coletadas amostras de salmoura e realizadas análises físico-químicas e microbiológicas para monitoramento diário durante o período de três meses. Os resultados obtidos foram satisfatórios podendo observar que não houve variação significativa das análises físico-químicas e que os efeitos são benéficos na estabilidade das análises microbiológicas.

Evaluación de la remoción de arsénico en agua superficial utilizando filtros domiciliarios / Evaluation of the arsenic removal in superficial waters using home filters

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar filtros domiciliarios para remover arsénico presente en agua proveniente del río Sama. El sistema estuvo compuesto de un filtro tradicional de arena y un filtro con el material adsorbente de hierro cerovalente estabilizado en quitosano. La evaluación del sistema fue por un período de 12 semanas en 18 puntos de uso; las primeras ocho semanas se determinó la concentración de arsénico del agua filtrada empleando tiras reactivas, y las cuatro últimas fueron a través de espectrometría de absorción atómica (EAA-FIAS). Durante las primeras ocho semanas se redujo la concentración de arsénico en el rango de 0,005 y 0,025 mg/L, y durante las cuatro últimas en el rango de 0,001 y 0,052 mg/L, a partir de una concentración promedio de 0,51 mg/L. Se demostró que el sistema de filtración es eficiente para remover arsénico a condiciones naturales.

ABSTRACT The objective of the study was to evaluate home filters to remove arsenic present in waters coming from the Sama river. The system consisted of a traditional sand filter and a filter with the adsorbent zerovalent iron material stabilized in quitosan. The evaluation of the system lasted for a period of 12 weeks in 18 points of usage; the first eight weeks the arsenic concentration of the filtered water was determined using reactive strips, and the last four assessment was made through atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). During the first eight weeks the arsenic concentration was reduced in a range of 0.005 and 0.025 mg/L, and during the last four weeks in the range of 0.001 and 0.052 mg/L, from an average concentration of 0.51 mg/L. This research showed that the filtration system is efficient to remove arsenic to natural conditions

Effect of the air filtration system replacement on embryo quality in the assisted reproduction laboratory / Efeito da troca do sistema de filtragem do ar na qualidade embrionária no laboratório de reprodução assistida

Abstract Improving infrastructural conditions of the in vitro fertilization laboratory, such as the air quality, has profound positive effects on embryo culture. Poor environmental conditions reduce the rate of embryo formation and, therefore, of pregnancy. This review article presents important publications regarding the impact of air quality in human reproduction laboratories on embryo quality, pregnancy success, and live births. The studies demonstrate that the replacing the air filtration system improves significantly the environmental air quality, and, consequently, improves laboratory parameters, such as the fertilization rate, the number of blastocysts, the embryo implantation rate, and the number of live births. On the other hand, improving air quality decreases the number of abortions. Therefore, environmental parameters that improve embryo quality and increase healthy child birth ratesmust be themain targets for the assisted reproduction laboratory quality control.

Resumo Melhorar as condições de infraestrutura do laboratório de fertilização in vitro, com influência na qualidade do ar, tem efeitos positivos profundos na qualidade do embrião. As más condições ambientais do ar reduzem a taxa de sucesso na formação de embriões e a taxa de gravidez. Este artigo de revisão apresenta importantes publicações sobre o impacto da qualidade do ar dentro do laboratório de reprodução humana na qualidade do embrião, no sucesso de gravidez e no número de nascidos vivos. Os estudos demonstram que a troca do sistema de filtração de ar melhora significativamente a qualidade do ar ambiente, e consequentemente, melhora os parâmetros laboratoriais, tais como a taxa de fertilização, o número de blastocistos, a taxa de implantação e o número de nascidos vivos. Por outro lado,amelhora da qualidade do ar diminui o número de abortos. Portanto, os parâmetros ambientais que melhoram a qualidade do embrião e aumentam as taxas de nascimentos de crianças saudáveis devem ser os principais alvos para o controle de qualidade do laboratório de reprodução assistida.

Biofiltration of trimethylamine in biotrickling filter inoculated with Aminobacter aminovorans

Background: Trimethylamine (TMA) is the main responsible for the odor associated with rotting fish and other annoying odors generated in many industrial activities. Biofiltration has proved to be efficient for treating odorous gaseous emissions. The main objective of this work was to determine the removal capacity of TMA of a biotrickling filter inoculated with Aminobacter aminovorans and to evaluate the effect of H2S on its performance. Results: The maximumspecific growth rate ofA. aminovorans in a liquid culture was 0.15 h -1 , witha TMAto biomass yield of 0.10 (g g -1) and a specific consumption rate of 0.062 g·g-1·h-1 . The initial specific consumption rate of TMA was highly influenced by the presence of H2S in liquid culture at concentrations of 20 and 69 ppm in heading space oftheflasks.ABTF inoculatedwithA. aminovorans showedremoval efficiencieshigher than98%ina range ofloading rate of 0.2 to 8 g·m-3·h-1 at empty bed residence time (EBRT) of 85 and 180 s. No effect on the elimination capacity and efficiency was detected when H2S was added at 20 and 50 ppm to the inlet gaseous emission, though the fraction of A. aminovorans measured by qPCR in the biofilm decreased. Conclusions:Abiotrickling filter inoculated with A. aminovorans can remove efficiently the TMA in a gaseous stream. The elimination capacity of TMA can be negatively affected by H2S, but its effect is not notorious when it is forming part of a biofilm, due to its high specific consumption rate of TMA.

Tipo de derivación urinaria en el paciente llevado a cistectomía radical, participación del urólogo y tasa de filtración de la anastomosis intestinal / Type of urinary diversion in the patient led to a radical cystectomy, participation of the urologist, and filtration rate of intestinal anastomosis

Objetivo Conocer la prevalencia de cistectomías radicales que se realizan en centros especializados en Colombia, definiendo tipo de derivación intestinal, participantes en su creación, segmento intestinal utilizado y tasa de filtración. Materiales y métodos Se realizó una encuesta a instituciones de salud colombianas que realizan cistectomías radicales de manera rutinaria, se analizaron variables como número de procedimientos por año, segmento intestinal utilizado, tipo de especialidad participante en la anastomosis intestinal y la tasa de filtración de esta. Resultados Quince instituciones colombianas respondieron la encuesta, el número de cistectomías realizadas por año fue: 5/15 (33,3%) más de 15 cirugías al año, 4/15(26,6%) entre 11 y 15 procedimientos al año, 3/15 (20%) entre 5 y 10 y otro 3/15 (20%) entre 1 y 5 cistectomías al año. El 93,3% de las instituciones realizan Bricker como derivación más común; solo una institución (6,7%) lleva a cabo ureterostomías cutáneas. Con respecto a los participantes en la creación de la anastomosis de las 14 instituciones, en 9 (64,2%) es realizada por cirujano general, en 4 (28,5%) la lleva a cabo un urólogo y en una (7,4%) la derivación es realizada por coloproctólogo. La gran mayoría de los centros tiene una incidencia baja de filtración intestinal. Conclusiones En la gran mayoría de las instituciones colombianas el cirujano general y en menor medida el urólogo participan en la creación de la anastomosis intestinal como parte del protocolo de la institución. La filtración es una complicación poco frecuente pero con alta morbimortalidad. Se requiere de entrenamiento por parte del urólogo en formación para lograr mejores resultados.

Objective To determine the prevalence of radical cystectomies that are performed in specialist centres in Colombia, defining the type of intestinal derivation, participants in its creation, intestinal segment used, and filtration rate. Materials and methods A survey was conducted in Colombian health institutions that routinely perform radical cystectomies. An analysis was made of the variables, such as number of procedures per year, intestinal segment used, specialty participating in the intestinal anastomosis, and the rate of filtration. Results A total of 15 health institutions responded to the survey. The number of cystectomies performed per year was; 5/15 (33.3%) with greater than 15 surgeries per year, 4/15 (26.6%) with between 11 and 15 procedures per year, 3/15 (20%) between 5­10/year, and another 3/15 (20%) between 1­5 cystectomies per year. Most (93.3%) of the institutions performed a Bricker as the most common derivation, with only one institution (6.7%) performing cutaneous ureterostomies. As regards the participants in the creation of the anastomosis of the 14 institutions, 9 (64.2%) were performed by a general surgeon, by a urologist in 4 (28.5%), and a coloproctologist performed the shunt in one (7.4%). The vast majority of centres have a low incidence of intestinal filtration. Conclusions In the great majority of Colombian institutions, the general surgeon, and to a lesser extent the urologist, participate in the creation of intestinal anastomosis as part of the protocol of the institution. Filtration is a rare complication, but with a high morbidity and mortality. Training by the urologist during training is required to achieve better results.

Characterization of a hyperthermophilic sulphur-oxidizing biofilm produced by archaea isolated from a hot spring

Background: Sulphur-oxidizing microorganisms are widely used in the biofiltration of total reduced sulphur compounds (odorous and neurotoxic) produced by industries such as the cellulose and petrochemical industries, which include high-temperature process steps. Some hyperthermophilic microorganisms have the capability to oxidize these compounds at high temperatures (N60°C), and archaea of this group, for example, Sulfolobus metallicus, are commonly used in biofiltration technology. Results: In this study, a hyperthermophilic sulphur-oxidizing strain of archaea was isolated from a hot spring (Chillán, Chile) and designated as M1. It was identified as archaea of the genus Sulfolobus (99% homology with S. solfataricus 16S rDNA). Biofilms of this culture grown on polyethylene rings showed an elemental sulphur oxidation rate of 95.15 ± 15.39 mg S l-1 d-1, higher than the rate exhibited by the biofilm of the sulphur-oxidizing archaea S. metallicus (56.8 ± 10.91 mg l-1 d-1). Conclusions: The results suggest that the culture M1 is useful for the biofiltration of total reduced sulphur gases at high temperatures and for other biotechnological applications.

Production, purification and characterization of recombinant human antithrombin III by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Background: Antithrombin III (ATIII) is a protein that inhibits abnormal blood clots (or coagulation) by breaking down thrombin and factor Xa. ATIII helps to keep a healthy balance between hemorrhage and coagulation. The present work demonstrated the production, purification and characterization of recombinant human antithrombin (rhAT) from yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae BY4741 was demonstrated. After expression of rhAT by S. cerevisiae, the biomass and rhAT concentration were analyzed through fed-batch fermentation process. Results: In fed-batch fermentation, the biomass (maximum cell dry weight of 11.2 g/L) and rhAT concentration (312 mg/L) of the expressed rhAT were achieved at 84 h of cultivation time. The maximum cell lysis efficiency (99.89%) was found at 8 s sonication pulse and 7 mL lysis buffer volume. The rhAT protein solution was concentrated and partially purified using cross-flow filtration with the recovery yield and purity of 95 and 94%, respectively. The concentrated solution was further purified by the single step ion exchange chromatography with the recovery yield and purity of 55 and >98%, respectively. The purified rhAT was characterized by various analytical techniques, such as RP-HPLC, FT-IR, CD, SDS-PAGE, western blotting, and Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis. The biological activity of rhAT was analyzed as heparin cofactor to meet the therapeutic grade applications. Conclusions: The simple, cost-effective and economically viable nature of the process used in the present study for the production of rhAT will be highly beneficial for the healthcare sector. This may also be used to produce other value-added therapeutic recombinant proteins expressed in S. cerevisiae, with greater effectiveness and ease.

Evaluación del tratamiento de agua para consumo humano mediante filtros Lifestraw® y Olla Cerámica / Evaluation of drinking-water treatment by Lifestraw® and Ceramic-pot filters

Objetivo Evaluar la eficiencia de dos sistemas de filtración casera: LifeStraw® family (FM) y Filtro de Olla Cerámica (FOC) en el tratamiento del agua para consumo humano bajo condiciones controladas de laboratorio y en términos de remoción de Turbiedad y E.coli. Métodos Ambos sistemas se operaron durante 6 meses tratando diariamente 7,5 litros de sustrato sintético. La turbiedad del sustrato se ajustó con Caolín y la concentración de E.coli con la réplica de la cepa ATCC 95922. Los resultados obtenidos en términos de remoción de turbiedad y E. coli fueron evaluados con un análisis de varianza (ANOVA) y considerando aspectos operativos y de mantenimiento. Resultados La turbiedad del sustrato sintético presentó un promedio 32,3 ± 2,8 UNT y la concentración de E. coli 3,9 x105 UFC/100mL. Ambos sistemas de filtración disminuyeron la turbiedad a niveles menores de 2 UNT y lograron la inactivación del 100 % de E.coli. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la remoción de turbiedad siendo más eficiente el FM (99,2 % ± 0,4) que el FOC (97,6 % ± 1.14). Conclusiones Los dos sistemas de filtración son adecuados para el tratamiento del agua a nivel casero, cumpliendo con la reglamentación Colombiana. El FM resultó más eficiente en remoción de turbiedad y tasa de filtración; Sin embargo, cuando se tienen en cuenta aspectos como aceptabilidad social operación, mantenimiento y vida útil, el filtro de olla cerámica parece más apropiado especialmente en áreas rurales.(AU)

Objective To evaluate under laboratory conditions, the removal efficiency of turbidity and E. coli of two household water filters: LifeStraw® family (MF) and ceramic pot filter (CPF). Methods The two systems were operated over 6 months using two identical control units per system, treating 7.5 L/d of a synthetic substrate used as raw water. The turbidity of the substrate was adjusted with Kaolinite and the E. coli concentration, with a replica of the ATCC 95922 strain. The differences of effluent quality of the systems, in terms of turbidity and E. coli, were evaluated with Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Operative and maintenance aspects, that could limit or enhance the use of the systems, were also considered in the evaluation. Results The water synthetic substrate quality had an average of 32.2 ± 2.8 NTU for turbidity and 3,9x105 UFC/100 mL for E. coli. Both systems reduce the turbidity to values below 2 NTU with an inactivation of 100 % of E. coli. Statistical differences were found between the systems in terms of turbidity removal, MF being more efficient than the CPF (99,2 ± 0.4 % and 97.6 % ± 1.14, respectively). Conclusions Both systems are suitable for household water supply treatment, acheiving the water quality standards established by Colombian regulations. The MF was more efficient for suspended solids removal and filtration rate, but when economic, operative, and maintenance aspects along with social acceptability and lifespan are considered, the CPF seems more suitable, especially in rural areas.(AU)

Application of the BacT/ALERTR 3D system for sterility testing of injectable products

Sterility testing as described in the pharmacopoeia compendia requires a 14-day incubation period to obtain an analytical result. Alternative methods that could be applied to evaluating product sterility are especially interesting due to the possibility of reducing this incubation period and thus the associated costs. The aims of this study were to evaluate the performance of the BacT/ALERT^R 3D system in detecting microorganisms in large-volume parenteral solutions that were intentionally contaminated and to compare this system to pharmacopoeia sterility testing using the membrane filtration method. The results indicated that there were no significant differences between the methods regarding the ability to detect microbial contamination; however, detection with the BacT/ALERT^R 3D system was faster compared to the pharmacopoeia method. Therefore, the BacT/ALERT^R 3D system is a viable alternative for assessing the sterility of injectable products.

Cistatina C como prueba de rutinapara evaluar la función renal en pacientes pediátricos / Cystatin C as a routine test to evaluate kidney function in pediatric patients

Numerosos estudios han demostrado que los niveles plasmáticos de cistatina C tienen más exactitud que los de creatinina en la estimación de la tasa de filtración glomerular (eTFG). Sin embargo, no se utiliza como prueba rutinaria en el diagnóstico de patologías renales pediátricas. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la TFG para cistatina C en pacientes pediátricos mexicanos con y sin exposición a factores de riesgo para presentar Insuficiencia Renal Aguda (IRA) y corroborar las ventajas de emplear este marcador en el diagnóstico oportuno de patologías renales en relación con la creatinina. Se analizaron 106 muestras para estimar la TFG. Se cuantificó la concentración de creatinina y cistatina C, sustituyendo los valores en las fórmulas MDRD v-4 y Filler y Lepage, respectivamente. Se compararon las concentraciones tanto de creatinina como de cistatina entre los grupos de estudio por medio de U de Mann Whitney. Asimismo, se evaluó la correlación entre estos dos metabolitos divididos por presencia o no de factores de riesgo para presentar la enfermedad renal. Se observó una correlación entre las concentraciones de creatinina y cistatina C sérica, tanto en el grupo de pacientes sin factores de riesgo para IRA (r=0,936, p<0,001) como en los que sí presentaron factores de riesgo para IRA (r=0,952, p<0,001).El grupo con factores de riesgo mostró concentraciones mayores tanto de cistatina como de creatinina, así como de eTFG para ambos metabolitos. La cistatina C muestra una buena correlación con la creatinina. Por otro lado,la cistatina alterada identificó a un mayor número de pacientes con factores de riesgo para IRA, por lo cual se propone su uso como prueba de escrutinio en pacientes pediátricos...