Progress and challenges in valorisation of biomass waste from ornamental trees pruning through pyrolysis processes. Prospects in the bioenergy sector.

Nowadays, the scarcity of energy resources is promoting the search for alternative energy sources, boosting interest in the use of forest lignocellulosic residue in the energy sector. In this study, the focus is on the energy recovery from two lignocellulosic residues originated during the pruning of ornamental trees (Horse Chestnut, CI, and False Acacia, FA). Both conventional and flash pyrolysis techniques were applied. The experimental pyrolysis variables were obtained from the study of the thermal behaviour of the pruning residues in thermogravimetric analysis. It was carried out under 5 heating rates and kinetic parameters were estimated using Flynn-Wall-Ozawa method. Results denoted higher maximum mass loss rate values for the same release temperature regions under FA experiments. Also, FA samples had lower final residues for the processes. However, activation energy values were so close for both species. FA was also linked to the faster reactions according frequency factor outcomes. Conventional pyrolysis of pruning residues was carried out in a horizontal oven of original design at a heating rate of 25 °C/min, at 750 °C and 60 min of permanence at that temperature; flash pyrolysis was tested in that oven at 750 and 850 °C. In these pyrolysis processes, three fractions were obtained: bio-char, bio-oil and gas. The physicochemical attributes of the bio-chars suggested their potential utility as biofuels (28.4-29.8 MJ/kg), adsorbent precursors or soil additives. Conventional pyrolysis bio-oils had a dominant monoaromatic hydrocarbons nature, with phenols being the most abundant (≥60%), while flash bio-oils contain mainly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Conventional pyrolysis gases contained up to 60 vol% of CO2; flash pyrolysis gases had high combustible gas content (CO, CH4, H2) and a low CO2 content (<25 vol%). As a result, their calorific value (18.06 MJ/kg) exhibited a threefold increase compared to the gas produced through conventional pyrolysis (6.04 MJ/kg).

Role of the placenta in developmental programming: Observations from models using large animals.

Developmental programming, which proposes that "insults" or "stressors" during intrauterine or postnatal development can have not only immediate but also long-term consequences for healthy and productivity, has emerged as a major biological principle, and based on studies in many animal species also seems to be a universal phenomenon. In eutherians, the placenta appears to be programmed during its development, which has consequences for fetal growth and development throughout pregnancy, and likewise has long-term consequences for postnatal development, leading to programming of organ function of the offspring even into adulthood. This review summarizes our current understanding of the placenta's role in developmental programming, the mechanisms involved, and the challenges remaining.

Clinical validation of an automatic classification algorithm applied on cleavage stage embryos: analysis for blastulation, euploidy, implantation, and live-birth potential.

STUDY QUESTION: Is a commercially available embryo assessment algorithm for early embryo evaluation based on the automatic annotation of morphokinetic timings a useful tool for embryo selection in IVF cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER: The classification provided by the algorithm was shown to be significantly predictive, especially when combined with conventional morphological evaluation, for development to blastocyst, implantation, and live birth, but not for euploidy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: The gold standard for embryo selection is still morphological evaluation conducted by embryologists. Since the introduction of time-lapse technology to embryo culture, many algorithms for embryo selection have been developed based on embryo morphokinetics, providing complementary information to morphological evaluation. However, manual annotations of developmental events and application of algorithms can be time-consuming and subjective processes. The introduction of automation to morphokinetic annotations is a promising approach that can potentially reduce subjectivity in the embryo selection process and improve the workflow in IVF laboratories. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This observational, retrospective cohort study was performed in a single IVF clinic between 2018 and 2021 and included 3736 embryos from oocyte donation cycles (423 cycles) and 1291 embryos from autologous cycles with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A, 185 cycles). Embryos were classified on Day 3 with a score from 1 (best) to 5 (worst) by the automatic embryo assessment algorithm. The performance of the embryo classification model for blastocyst development, implantation, live birth, and euploidy prediction was assessed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: All embryos were monitored by a time-lapse system with an automatic cell-tracking and embryo assessment software during culture. The embryo assessment algorithm was applied on Day 3, resulting in embryo classification from 1 to 5 (from highest to lowest developmental potential) depending on four parameters: P2 (t3-t2), P3 (t4-t3), oocyte age, and number of cells. There were 959 embryos selected for transfer on Day 5 or 6 based on conventional morphological evaluation. The blastocyst development, implantation, live birth, and euploidy rates (for embryos subjected to PGT-A) were compared between the different scores. The correlation of the algorithm scoring with the occurrence of those outcomes was quantified by generalized estimating equations (GEEs). Finally, the performance of the GEE model using the embryo assessment algorithm as the predictor was compared to that using conventional morphological evaluation, as well as to a model using a combination of both classification systems. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The blastocyst rate was higher with lower the scores generated by the embryo assessment algorithm. A GEE model confirmed the positive association between lower embryo score and higher odds of blastulation (odds ratio (OR) (1 vs 5 score) = 15.849; P < 0.001). This association was consistent in both oocyte donation and autologous embryos subjected to PGT-A. The automatic embryo classification results were also statistically associated with implantation and live birth. The OR of Score 1 vs 5 was 2.920 (95% CI 1.440-5.925; P = 0.003; E = 2.81) for implantation and 3.317 (95% CI 1.615-6.814; P = 0.001; E = 3.04) for live birth. However, this association was not found in embryos subjected to PGT-A. The highest performance was achieved when combining the automatic embryo scoring and traditional morphological classification (AUC for implantation potential = 0.629; AUC for live-birth potential = 0.636). Again, no association was found between the embryo classification and euploidy status in embryos subjected to PGT-A (OR (1 vs 5) = 0.755 (95% CI 0.255-0.981); P = 0.489; E = 1.57). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The retrospective nature of this study may be a reason for caution, although the large sample size reinforced the ability of the model for embryo selection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Time-lapse technology with automated embryo assessment can be used together with conventional morphological evaluation to increase the accuracy of embryo selection process and improve the success rates of assisted reproduction cycles. To our knowledge, this is the largest embryo dataset analysed with this embryo assessment algorithm. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This research was supported by Agencia Valenciana de Innovació and European Social Fund (ACIF/2019/264 and CIBEFP/2021/13). In the last 5 years, M.M. received speaker fees from Vitrolife, Merck, Ferring, Gideon Richter, Angelini, and Theramex, and B.A.-R. received speaker fees from Merck. The remaining authors have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Características clínico-epidemiológicas de sepsis neonatal temprana en un hospital público, Lima, Perú

Objetivo: Determinar características clínico-epidemiológicas de neonatos con sepsis neonatal temprana en hospital público, Lima-Perú, 2016-2017. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo. Se consideró todos los neonatos nacidos vivos en el Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo diagnosticados con sepsis neonatal temprana el 2016-2017, excepto historias clínicas incompletas, totalizando 303. Se estudiaron variables maternas (edad, educación, estado civil, control prenatal, RPM, tipo de parto, infección urinaria, corioamnionitis, anemia) y neonatales (sexo, edad gestacional, peso, Apgar 1/5 minutos, clínica, hemocultivo, agente aislado, tratamiento y sensibilidad antibiótica). El programa Excel se usó para el procesamiento de datos; SPSSv25 para el análisis descriptivo. Se calculó incidencia de sepsis neonatal temprana. Resultados: Incidencia de sepsis neonatal temprana en 67,08/1000 nacidos vivos en el 2016 y 12,785 en el 2017, la cual fue confirmada en 2,98 (2016) y 4,7 (2017). 45 % de madres sin control prenatal adecuado o sin controles; la cuarta parte presentó anemia, infección urinaria, antecedente de aborto. Clínica de neonatos: taquipnea (52,80 %), taquicardia (17,50 %), hipotonía (18,20 %), fiebre (9,20 %); tratamiento ampicilina-amikacina en sepsis probable (86,54 %) y sepsis confirmada (85 %). Se aisló gérmenes en 8,40 % de casos, mayoría Gram positivos; Staphylococcus coagulasa-negativa, el más frecuente, resistente a clindamicina, oxacilina, ampicilina, cefotaxima, gentamicina y sensible a linezolid, vancomicina. Burkholderia gladioli, única bacteria Gram negativa encontrada, sensible a levofloxacino, ciprofloxacino, ceftriaxona, pero resistente a gentamicina y amikacina. Conclusiones: Clínica de sepsis neonatal temprana caracterizada por taquipnea, taquicardia, hipotonía y fiebre. Bacterias Gram positivas las más aisladas; predominó Staphylococcus coagulasa-negativa.

Objective: To determine the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of newborns with early-onset neonatal sepsis in a public hospital in Lima, Peru, 2016-2017. Materials and methods: An observational, retrospective study of 303 newborns born in Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo, diagnosed with early-onset neonatal sepsis (2016-2017) and with complete medical records. Maternal variables: age, education, marital status, prenatal care, PROM, type of delivery, UTI, chorioamnionitis, anemia; neonatal variables: sex, gestational age, weight, Apgar, clinical signs, hemoculture, isolated organism, treatment, antibiotic sensitivity. Data processed in Excel and analyzed in SPSS Statistics V25. The incidence of early-onset neonatal sepsis was determined. Results: Incidence of early-onset neonatal sepsis: 67.08/1,000 (2016) and 127.85/1,000 (2017) live births. Incidence of confirmed early-onset neonatal sepsis: 2.98 (2016) and 4.7 (2017). Out of all mothers, 45 % received no adequate prenatal checkup or no checkups; 25 % presented anemia, UTI, history of abortion. Newborns had tachypnea (52.80 %), tachycardia (17.50 %), hypotonia (18.20 %), fever (9.20 %). The therapy included ampicillin-amikacin for probable (86.54 %) and confirmed (85 %) sepsis. Germs, mostly gram positive, were isolated from 8.4 % of the newborns. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most common bacteria, resistant to clindamycin, oxacillin, ampicillin, cefotaxime, gentamicin, and sensitive to linezolid, vancomycin. Burkholderia gladioli was the only identified gramnegative organism, sensitive to levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone but resistant to gentamicin, amikacin. Conclusions: The clinical presentation of neonatal sepsis included tachypnea, tachycardia, hypotonia and fever. Grampositive bacteria were the most commonly isolated species, prevailing coagulase-negative Staphylococci.

Food industrial biowaste-based magnetic activated carbons as sustainable adsorbents for anthropogenic mercury emissions.

Bio-derived magnetic activated carbons from industrial chestnut shell waste have been obtained through a novel, optimized and sustainable methodology where impregnation, pyrolysis, acid washing or other intermediate steps commonly used in the activation process were eliminated saving time, energy and costs. The resulting materials (MACs) were obtained at 220-800 °C showed interesting properties: textural (SBET up to 568 m2 g-1) and magnetic (different iron species developed), depending on the activation temperature employed. Data showed outstanding results when MACs were tested for Hg removal in pollution emissions at 150 °C in lab-scale device. In MACs obtained at 500-600 °C, where the highest concentration of magnetite was found, the best Hg adsorption capacity was achieved, while it decreased when metallic iron or iron carbides were present (MACs obtained at 800 °C). Moreover, the difference of Hg0 removal/adsorption in N2+O2 and Simulated Flue Gas atmosphere between MACs obtained at 500 and 600 °C pointed out the influence on Hg removal of additional parameters, as surface chemistry and the existence of sulfur or chloride. The determination of Hg species in post-retention solids confirmed the mercury oxidation by high-valence iron ions (Fe3+) and the involvement of physisorption and chemisorption processes for the gas-solid interaction mechanism.

Human microbiome and metabolic health: An overview of systematic reviews.

To summarize the microbiome's role in metabolic disorders (insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD], and metabolic syndrome), systematic reviews on observational or interventional studies (prebiotics/probiotics/synbiotics/transplant) were searched in MEDLINE and Embase until September 2020. The 87 selected systematic reviews included 57 meta-analyses. Methodological quality (AMSTAR2) was moderate in 62%, 12% low, and 26% critically low. Observational studies on obesity (10 reviews) reported less gut bacterial diversity with higher Fusobacterium, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bacteroides fragilis, and Staphylococcus aureus, whereas lower Methanobrevibacter, Lactobacillus plantarum, Akkermansia muciniphila, and Bifidobacterium animalis compared with nonobese. For diabetes (n = 1), the same was found for Fusobacterium and A. muciniphila, whereas higher Ruminococcus and lower Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Bacteroides vulgatus, and several Bifidobacterium spp. For NAFLD (n = 2), lower Firmicutes, Rikenellaceae, Ruminococcaceae, whereas higher Escherichia and Lactobacillus were detected. Discriminating bacteria overlapped between metabolic disorders, those with high abundance being often involved in inflammation, whereas those with low abundance being used as probiotics. Meta-analyses (n = 54) on interventional studies reported 522 associations: 54% was statistically significant with intermediate effect size and moderate between-study heterogeneity. Meta-evidence was highest for probiotics and lowest for fecal transplant. Future avenues include better methodological quality/comparability, testing functional differences, new intervention strategies, and considerating other body habitats and kingdoms.

Electrochemical genosensor for Klotho detection based on aliphatic and aromatic thiols self-assembled monolayers.

Changes in expression of Klotho gene are associated with chronic kidney disease and its potential as early biomarker is being studied. We report, for the first time, the detection of Klotho gene by a biosensor platform. Self-assembled mixed monolayers (SAMs) as DNA immobilization method in screen-printed gold electrodes and a sandwich format detection were used in the development of an electrochemical genosensor for the detection of a 100-mer DNA fragment, copy of the partial region of the mRNA Klotho gene. The use of different binary and ternary SAMs based on aliphatic (mercaptohexanol, MCH, and hexanedithiol, HDT) and aromatic (mercaptophenylacetic acid, MPAA) thiol diluents and capture probe (CP) as sensing phases was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Multiple configurations were studied, changing the order of component addition and comparing co-immobilization and two-step immobilization processes. The procedure for binary SAM preparation consisting of sequential addition of a thiol diluent followed by CP was found to have the least detrimental impact on electrochemical performance. The signal-to-blank ratios increased considerably in the case of thioaromatic binary DNA monolayers, MPPA/CP, compared to the values obtained for aliphatic SAMs. Ternary monolayers formed by MCH and HDT rendered good fractional coverage levels and generated more reversible redox reactions at the surface, mostly when CP was firstly immobilized, CP/HDT/MCH. A significant reduction of the blank and non-specific (non-complementary sequence) signals was obtained with this ternary SAM, compared to binary SAMs and an increase of 2.42-fold of the S/B ratio (10 nM of target) compared with MPAA/CP SAMs. A linear response in the range of 5·10-10 to 5·10-8 M was obtained with CP/HDT/MCH monolayer, with a detection limit of 0.5 nM and RSD of 8.10%.

New transgenic models of Parkinson's disease using genome editing technology. / Nuevos modelos transgénicos para el estudio de la enfermedad de Parkinson basados en sistemas de edición con nucleasas.

INTRODUCTION: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. It is characterised by selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which results in dopamine depletion, leading to a number of motor and non-motor symptoms. DEVELOPMENT: In recent years, the development of new animal models using nuclease-based genome-editing technology (ZFN, TALEN, and CRISPR/Cas9 nucleases) has enabled the introduction of custom-made modifications into the genome to replicate key features of PD, leading to significant advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. CONCLUSIONS: We review the most recent studies on this new generation of in vitro and in vivo PD models, which replicate the most relevant symptoms of the disease and enable better understanding of the aetiology and mechanisms of PD. This may be helpful in the future development of effective treatments to halt or slow disease progression.

Detection of Approximal Caries Lesions in Adults: A Cross-sectional Study.

Detection and management of posterior approximal caries lesions are still problematic. Inspection of approximal surfaces is challenging, and bitewing radiographs are used when direct vision is not possible. Unfortunately, there is no definite radiographic appearance to identify lesion cavitation with absolute certainty. Many lesions detected radiographically within the outer half of dentin are not cavitated, often resulting in unnecessary restorative treatment. Our study compared radiographic depth of approximal caries lesions with presence of cavitation in adults using visual inspection following temporary tooth separation (TTS). We conducted this observational descriptive cross-sectional study at two dental schools in two cities in Chile. Clinicians were unaware of radiographic depths of lesions and examined 147 participants (57.3% female and 42.7% male) following TTS. Using the common classification system that consists of E0 (no lesion), E1 (lesion within the outer half of enamel), E2 (lesion within the inner half of enamel), D1 (lesion within the outer third of dentin), D2 (lesion within the middle third of dentin), and D3 (lesion within the inner third of dentin), a trained dentist evaluated all the processed films. Cavitation was detected in only three sites (0.22%) within the E0 category, seven sites (3.41%) in E1, five sites (14.8%) in E2, four sites (14.8%) in D1, six sites (50%) in D2, and eight sites (61.5%) in D3. Considering that restorative treatment should be indicated strictly for cavitated lesions, our findings support indication for restorative treatment for D3 lesions and the rationale for TTS for D1-D2 caries lesions to allow direct visual inspection to determine whether there is surface cavitation.

Hydrochars from industrial macroalgae "Gelidium Sesquipedale" biomass wastes.

Macroalgae wastes from the Agar-Agar industry were used as a feedstock to obtain hydrochars by means of hydrothermal carbonization. The effect of temperature (200 °C and 230 °C) and time (2 h and 6 h) on the yield, higher heating value (HHV) and chemical-morphological-textural properties of the hydrochars was studied. The carbon content and the higher heating value were observed to increase with the hydrothermal carbonization. The hydrochars yields (up to 60%) were much higher than yields obtained using conventional char (27.5-33.5%). The hydrochar obtained at 230 °C and after 6 h showed a HHV of 23.25 MJ/kg, which is similar to that of lignite HHV. The H/C and O/C atomic ratios decreased as a consequence of the dehydration and decarboxilation reactions. Hydrothermal carbonization barely changed the vegetal structure of the macroalgae waste. The hydrochars were found to be essentially meso-macroporous with average pore sizes of up to 110.5 nm.

Sewage biogas efficient purification by means of lignocellulosic waste-based activated carbons.

The present paper evaluates the efficiency of sustainable activated carbons obtained from the valorization of lignocellulosic waste in removing siloxanes and volatile organic compounds for the purification of anaerobic digester biogas. Pyrolized and non-pyrolized lignocellulosic residues generated in food and wood industries were used as precursor materials to obtain experimental adsorbents by a chemical activation process using several activating agents. The highest porosity was obtained by non-pyrolized residue activated by K2CO3 at 900 °C. The performance of the experimental materials was compared with that of commercial activated carbons in gas adsorption tests of siloxanes (octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane and hexamethyldisiloxane) and volatile organic compounds (toluene and limonene). The waste-based activated carbons developed in this work proved to be more efficient for the removal of both siloxanes and VOCs than the commercial samples in most of the conditions tested. Adsorption capacities correlated with porosity, while the more relevant pore size depends on the adsorbate.

18F-FDG PET/contrast enhanced CT in the standard follow-up of patients with lymphoma. / 18F-FDG PET/TC con contraste intravenoso en el seguimiento estandarizado de pacientes con linfoma.

AIM: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG PET/contrast enhanced computed tomography (ceCT) in the detection of asymptomatic recurrences in patients with lymphoma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients with lymphoma and clinical complete remission underwent 18F-FDG PET/ceCT for standard follow-up.18F-FDG PET and ceCT were evaluated blindly by two independent observers, and classified as positive or negative for recurrence. Additionally a combined evaluation of both techniques was performed. The final diagnosis was established by histopathological analysis or a clinical follow-up longer than 6 months. Statistical diagnostic parameters and concordance levels between both diagnostic techniques were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 114 explorations on 90 patients were analyzed. Only 4 patients were diagnosed as asymptomatic recurrence during the follow-up. 18F-FDG PET/ceCT, 18F-FDG PET and ceCT showed an association with the final diagnosis (p=0.002 and χ2=11.96; p<0.001 and χ2=15.60; p=0.001 and χ2=11.96, respectively). The concordance between 18F-FDG PET and ceCT was moderate/high and significant (kappa=0.672; p<0.001). A sensitivity and specificity of 50% and 88% was obtained for the 18F-FDG PET/ceCT civ, 50% and 93% for the 18F-FDG PET, and 50% and 91% for the ceCT. CONCLUSION: The combined use of 18F-FDG PET/ceCT did not offer any advantage compared to any isolated diagnostic technique in the detection of asymptomatic lymphoma recurrence.

Tromboprofilaxis en pacientes médicos y quirúrgicos: resultados de un estudio multicéntrico realizado en hospitales de la Ciudad de México / Thromboprophylaxis in medical and surgical patients: results of a multicenter study in hospitals of Mexico City

Resumen: ANTECEDENTES: la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa es una complicación que puede manifestarse durante o después de la hospitalización. Existen pocos antecedentes en nuestro país que evalúan el comportamiento médico en este tema. OBJETIVO: conocer la prescripción relacionada con el tipo, duración y posibles causas de la omisión de tromboprofilaxis en pacientes hospitalizados. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: estudio descriptivo, transversal y no probabilístico en el que de septiembre a noviembre de 2016 se evaluaron médicos de Medicina Interna, Cirugía General, Terapia Intensiva y Urgencias. Se recolectaron datos por cuestionario y presentación de resultados a través de estadística descriptiva. También se evaluó la duración de la prescripción y la dosis administrada. RESULTADOS: se encuestaron 556 médicos adscritos, 14 jefes de servicio y 234 residentes total: 804 de siete hospitales de la Ciudad de México pertenecientes al sistema de salud. El 30% refirió que su hospital cuenta con un programa de tromboprofilaxis; 97.7% la considera segura y 1.2%, riesgosa. El 96% respondió que prescribe tromboprofilaxis en sus pacientes; 592 74% utilizan alguna escala de previsión clínica de enfermedad tromboembólica venosa. El 71% recomienda heparina de bajo peso molecular para tromboprofilaxis y 0.74% administra anticoagulantes orales de nueva generación. CONCLUSIONES: la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa es potencialmente prevenible; sin embargo, la prescripción muestra oportunidades de mejoría en aspectos de farmacología.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolic disease VTE is a complication that may occur during or after hospitalization. There are few antecedents in our country that evaluate the medical behavior in this subject. OBJECTIVE: To know the prescription related to type, duration and possible causes for omission of thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized patients. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A descriptive, transversal and non-probabilistic study was done, in which from September to November 2016 physicians of Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Intensive Care and Urgency were evaluated through a data collection by questionnaire and presentation of results through descriptive statistics. We also evaluated duration of prescription and dose administered. RESULTS: A total of 556 seconded physicians, 14 service heads, and 234 residents 804 in total were surveyed in seven hospitals in Mexico City belonging to the health system. Thirty percent reported that their hospital has a thromboprophylaxis program; 97.7% consider it safe and 1.2% risky; 96% responded that they prescribe thromboprophylaxis in their patients; 592 73.6% used some clinical prediction scale for VTE; 71% recommended low molecular weight heparin for thrombo prophylaxis and 0.74% administered new generation oral anticoagulants. CONCLUSIONS: Venous thromboembolic disease is potentially preventable; however, prescription shows opportunities for improvement in aspects of pharmacology.

Association Between Body Mass Index and Caries Lesions in Preschool Children in Santiago, Chile / Asociación entre Lesiones de Caries y Estado Nutricional en Niños Preescolares de la Región Metropolitana

ABSTRACT: The objective of the study was to determine the association between caries prevalence and body mass index (BMI) in preschool children in Santiago, Chile. Children aged 2 and 3 years old (n = 342) attending 16 nursery schools in Santiago, Chile were examined to record the status of dental caries using the modified criteria of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II) (International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) Coordinating Committee, 2005). BMI was calculated for each of the subjects and their nutritional state was classified as underweight, normal-weight, overweight and obesity according to the WHO. The caries prevalence (ICDAS 2-6 > 0) of the children was 45.9 % (IC 95 % 40.50 - 51.21). Data showed that none of the preschoolers were underweight. 39.1 % were classified as normal-weight (IC 95 % 33.98 - 44.38), 34.8 % as overweight (IC 95 % 29.72 - 39.86) and 26 % as obese (IC 95 % 21.34 - 30.96). Normal-weight children had a prevalence of 51.5 % of ICDAS 2-6 lesions and prevalence of 28.3 % of ICDAS 5-6 lesions. Children with overweight had prevalence of 51.4 % ICDAS 2-6 lesions and of 19.3 % ICDAS 5-6 lesions, and obese children of 39.5 % and 25.8 % respectively. Subjects with normal-weight presented a mean of ICDAS 2-6 caries lesions significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the rest of the children. In conclusion, normal-weight preschool children presented a higher prevalence of caries lesions than those with overweight and obesity. Iso-BMI was found to be associated with lower dental caries and severity. Future studies should address which specific factors related to overweight in children might be protective against dental caries.

RESUMEN: La caries dental es una enfermedad crónica multifactorial que afecta a niños denominada Caries Temprana de la Infancia (CTI). Su etiología es multifactorial y se asocia a determinantes biológicos, conductuales y sociodemográficos. Entre estos, se ha planteado la obesidad como presunto factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de caries en población infantil. El objetivo de este estudio fue establecer si existía o no asociación entre la presencia de lesiones de caries y el estado nutricional en una muestra de 342 preescolares entre 1 y 4 años de edad, que asisten a jardines infantiles de la Fundación INTEGRA, en la Región Metropolitana de Santiago. Se realizaron exámenes clínicos dentales y medición de la talla y peso. Se calculó IMC para cada uno de los sujetos y su estado nutricional fue clasificado como por debajo del peso adecuado, peso normal o normopeso, sobrepeso y obesidad según los gráficos y tablas de la OMS. La prevalencia total de lesiones de caries (ICDAS II = 2 -6) fue de 45,9 % (IC 95 % 40,59 - 51,21). El estado nutricional de la muestra completa fue de 0 % bajo el peso normal, 134 (39,1 %) niños presentaron peso normal (IC 95 % 33,98 - 44,38), 119 niños (34,8 %) presentaron sobrepeso (IC 95 % 29,72 - 39,86) y a 89 (26 %) niños se les diagnosticó obesidad (IC 95 % 21,34 - 30,96). Los sujetos con normopeso presentaron un promedio de lesiones de caries (ICDAS II = 2 - 6) significativamente mayor (p < 0,05). Por lo tanto, se puede concluir que los preescolares con peso normal presentaron mayor número de lesiones de caries de acuerdo al criterio ICDAS II, que aquellos preescolares con sobrepeso y obesidad.

Shoulder kinetics and ultrasonography changes after performing a high-intensity task in spinal cord injury subjects and healthy controls.

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1038/sc.2015.140.

Draft Genome Sequence of Enterococcus casseliflavus PAVET15 Obtained from the Oviduct Infection of the Cattle Tick (Rhipicephalus microplus) in Jiutepec, Morelos, Mexico.

Enterococcus spp. are Gram-positive lactic acid-producing bacteria found in the intestinal tracts of animals, like mammals, birds, and arthropods. Enterococcus spp. may cause oportunistic infections in vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. We report here the draft genome sequence of Enterococcus casseliflavus PAVET15 containing 3,722,480 bp, with 80 contigs, an N50 of 179,476 bp, and 41.93% G+C content.

Origen alto de la arteria radial (Arteria braquirradial superficial): Presentación de 3 casos / High origin of the radial artery (superficial brachialarterial artery): Presentation of 3 cases

Se presentan tres casos de nacimiento alto de la arteria radial, todos en el miembro derecho, uno a nivel del tercio superior de la arteria braquial, el segundo caso a nivel del tercio medio de la misma y en el tercer caso el nacimiento de la arteria radial se produce a nivel de la arteria axilar. En todos los casos tienen un trayecto superficial en el brazo y antebrazo. En la mano forman el arco palmar arterial profundo de manera habitual. Estos casos representan el 7,5% de los 40 miembros disecados. El origen alto de la arteria radial es la variante más frecuente dentro de las anomalías del árbol arterial del miembro superior. Su importancia radica en el aumento de los procedimientos percutáneos sobre la arteria radial en cateterismos coronarios y en el cada vez más utilizado colgajo radial en las cirugías reconstructivas. Su trayecto superficial favorece los traumatismos y la confusión con venas, situación que puede ocasionar inyecciones medicamentosas accidentales en estas arterias con sus graves consecuencias.

We present three cases of high birth of the radial artery, all on the right limbone at the upper third of the brachial artery, the second at the middle third of the artery, and in the third case the radial artery arises at the level of the axillary artery. In all cases they have a superficial path in the arm and forearm. In the hand they form the deep arterial arch of the palmar in the usual way. These cases represent 7.5% of the 40 dissected members. The high birth of the radial artery is the most frequent variant within the arterial tree anomalies of the upper limb. Its importance lies in the increase of the percutaneous procedures on the radial artery in coronary catheterisms and in the increasingly used radial flap in the reconstructive surgeries. Its superficial pathway favors trauma and confusion with veins, a situation that can cause accidental drug injections in these arteries with their serious consequences.

Electrochemical detection of magnetically-entrapped DNA sequences from complex samples by multiplexed enzymatic labelling: Application to a transgenic food/feed quantitative survey.

Monitoring of genetically modified organisms in food and feed demands molecular techniques that deliver accurate quantitative results. Electrochemical DNA detection has been widely described in this field, yet most reports convey qualitative data and application in processed food and feed samples is limited. Herein, the applicability of an electrochemical multiplex assay for DNA quantification in complex samples is assessed. The method consists of the simultaneous magnetic entrapment via sandwich hybridisation of two DNA sequences (event-specific and taxon-specific) onto the surface of magnetic microparticles, followed by bienzymatic labelling. As proof-of-concept, we report its application in a transgenic food/feed survey where relative quantification (two-target approach) of Roundup Ready Soybean® (RRS) was performed in food and feed. Quantitative coupling to end-point PCR was performed and calibration was achieved from 22 and 243 DNA copies spanning two orders of magnitude for the event and taxon-specific sequences, respectively. We collected a total of 33 soybean-containing samples acquired in local supermarkets, four out of which were found to contain undeclared presence of genetically modified soybean. A real-time PCR method was used to verify these findings. High correlation was found between results, indicating the suitability of the proposed multiplex method for food and feed monitoring.

IgE-Api m 4 Is Useful for Identifying a Particular Phenotype of Bee Venom Allergy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Different clinical behaviors have been identified in patients allergic to bee venom. Compound-resolved diagnosis could be an appropriate tool for investigating these differences. The aims of this study were to analyze whether specific IgE to Api m 4 (sIgE-Api m 4) can identify a particular kind of bee venom allergy and to describe response to bee venom immunotherapy (bVIT). METHODS: Prospective study of 31 patients allergic to bee venom who were assigned to phenotype group A (sIgE-Api m 4 <0.98 kU/L), treated with native aqueous (NA) extract, or phenotype group B (sIgE-Api m 4 ≥0.98 kU/L), treated with purified aqueous (PA) extract. Sex, age, cardiovascular risk, severity of preceding sting reaction, exposure to beekeeping, and immunological data (intradermal test, sIgE/sIgG4-Apis-nApi m 1, and sIgE-rApi m 2-Api m 4 were analyzed. Systemic reactions (SRs) during bVIT build-up were analyzed. Immunological and sting challenge outcomes were evaluated in each group after 1 and 2 years of bVIT. RESULTS: Phenotype B patients had more severe reactions (P=.049) and higher skin sensitivity (P=.011), baseline sIgE-Apis (P=.0004), sIgE-nApi m 1 (P=.0004), and sIgG4-Apis (P=.027) than phenotype A patients. Furthermore, 41% of patients in group B experienced SRs during the build-up phase with NA; the sting challenge success rate in this group was 82%. There were no significant reductions in serial intradermal test results, but an intense reduction in sIgE-nApi m 1 (P=.013) and sIgE-Api m 4 (P=.004) was observed after the first year of bVIT. CONCLUSION: Use of IgE-Api m 4 as the only discrimination criterion demonstrated differences in bee venom allergy. Further investigation with larger populations is necessary.

[Medication reconciliation at hospital admission: Results and identification of target patients]. / Conciliación de la medicación al ingreso: resultados e identificación de pacientes diana.

OBJECTIVE: To quantify and to classify the discrepancies between the admission treatment and the usual patient treatment. To determine the variables that predict those patients that will have more benefit from medication reconciliation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective medication reconciliation study was conducted in the Vascular Surgery Unit from March 2014 to December 2014. When the patients were admitted to the Vascular Surgery Unit, they were informed about the study and asked to prepare information about their chronic treatment. The pharmacist then checked their clinical records, outpatient prescriptions, and also interviewed the patient, obtaining the best pharmacotherapeutic history available. The discrepancies with the admission treatment were written into the patient electronic clinical records. Finally, the physician classified the discrepancies, and changed the treatment, if needed. The statistical analysis included a comparison between patients with and without a non-justified discrepancy (NJD). The statistically different characteristics were used to plot Receiver Operating Characteristic curves, in order to determine the sensitivity and the specificity of these variables to select patients with discrepancies. RESULTS: A total of 380 patients were included. There were 845 non-justified, 600 justified non-documented, and 439 justified documented discrepancies. At least one NJD was identified in 293 patients (77%), with 65 patients (17%) having only justified discrepancies, and 22 patients (6%) having no discrepancies. NJD were: different dose, route or schedule (51%), omission (39%), wrong drug (8%) and commission (2%). The variables associated with discrepancies were number of chronic medications drugs and provider of information. CONCLUSIONS: In most studies, omission is the most frequent error. In contrast, in our study the most frequent error is different dose, route, or schedule. The variable that allows selecting patients at higher risk of discrepancies is the number of chronic drugs. This risk is also increased if the patients are not the manager of their own medication.