Testing for concordance between predicted species richness, past prioritization, and marine protected area designations in the western Indian Ocean.

Scientific advances in environmental data coverage and machine learning algorithms have improved the ability to make large-scale predictions where data are missing. These advances allowed us to develop a spatially resolved proxy for predicting numbers of tropical nearshore marine taxa. A diverse marine environmental spatial database was used to model numbers of taxa from ∼1000 field sites, and the predictions were applied to all 7039 6.25-km2 reef cells in 9 ecoregions and 11 nations of the western Indian Ocean. Our proxy for total numbers of taxa was based on the positive correlation (r2 = 0.24) of numbers of taxa of hard corals and 5 highly diverse reef fish families. Environmental relationships indicated that the number of fish species was largely influenced by biomass, nearness to people, governance, connectivity, and productivity and that coral taxa were influenced mostly by physicochemical environmental variability. At spatial delineations of province, ecoregion, nation, and strength of spatial clustering, we compared areas of conservation priority based on our total species proxy with those identified in 3 previous priority-setting reports and with the protected area database. Our method identified 119 locations that fit 3 numbers of taxa (hard coral, fish, and their combination) and 4 spatial delineations (nation, ecoregion, province, and reef clustering) criteria. Previous publications on priority setting identified 91 priority locations of which 6 were identified by all reports. We identified 12 locations that fit our 12 criteria and corresponded with 3 previously identified locations, 65 that aligned with at least 1 past report, and 28 that were new locations. Only 34% of the 208 marine protected areas in this province overlapped with identified locations with high numbers of predicted taxa. Differences occurred because past priorities were frequently based on unquantified perceptions of remoteness and preselected priority taxa. Our environment-species proxy and modeling approach can be considered among other important criteria for making conservation decisions.

Evaluación de la concordancia entre la riqueza de especies pronosticada, priorizaciones pasadas y la designación de áreas marinas protegidas en el oeste del Océano Índico Resumen Los avances científicos en la cobertura de datos ambientales y los algoritmos de aprendizaje automatizado han mejorado la capacidad de predecir a gran escala cuando hacen falta datos. Estos avances nos permiten desarrollar un representante con resolución espacial para predecir la cantidad de taxones marinos en las costas tropicales. Usamos una base de datos espaciales de diversos ambientes marinos para modelar la cantidad de taxones a partir de ∼1000 sitios de campo y aplicamos las predicciones a las 7039 celdas arrecifales de 6.25­km2 en nueve ecorregiones y once países del oeste del Océano Índico. Nuestro representante para la cantidad total de taxones se basó en la correlación positiva (r2=0.24) de la cantidad de taxones de corales duros y cinco familias de peces arrecifales con diversidad alta. Las relaciones ambientales indicaron que el número de especies de peces estuvo influenciado principalmente por la biomasa, la cercanía a las personas, la gestión, la conectividad y la productividad y que los taxones de coral estuvieron influenciados principalmente por la variabilidad ambiental fisicoquímica. Comparamos la prioridad de las áreas de conservación a nivel de las delimitaciones espaciales de provincia, ecorregión, nación y fuerza del agrupamiento espacial basado en nuestro total de especies representantes con aquellas especies identificadas en tres reportes previos de establecimiento de prioridades y con la base de datos de áreas protegidas. Con nuestro método identificamos 119 localidades aptas para tres cantidades de taxones (corales duros, peces y su combinación) y cuatro criterios de delimitación espacial (nación, ecorregión, provincia y grupo de arrecifes). Las publicaciones previas sobre el establecimiento de prioridades identificaron 91 localidades prioritarias de las cuales seis fueron identificadas por todos los reportes. Identificamos doce localidades que se ajustan a nuestros doce criterios y se correspondieron con tres localidades identificadas previamente, 65 que se alinearon con al menos un reporte anterior y 28 que eran nuevas localidades. Sólo 34% de las 208 áreas marinas protegidas en esta provincia se traslaparon con localidades identificadas con un gran número de taxones pronosticados. Hubo diferencias porque en el pasado se priorizaba frecuentemente con base en las percepciones no cuantificadas de lo remoto y prioritario de los taxones preseleccionados. Nuestra especie representante del ambiente y nuestra estrategia de modelo pueden considerarse entre otros criterios importantes para tomar decisiones de conservación.

Epidemiology of environmental factors related to beta-catenin pathway and its impact on the development and progression of colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex disease, determined by genetic, environmental and lifestyle-associated risk factors. Genetic (inherited) factors have great influence on its development; however, most cases of CRC are sporadic and gradually develop over several years. The main environmental risk factors are associated with b-catenin signaling pathway, including obesity, lack of physical activity, consumption of red and processed meats, alcoholism, and smoking. The pathway is related to cell homeostasis regulation and cell self-renewal during embryogenesis and adulthood. The main recommendation for preventing the development of CRC is to reduce the risk factors, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and grains, exercise regularly and limit the consumption of both alcohol and tobacco. However, family history and the presence of a hereditary syndrome increase the risk, which is why carrying out periodic examinations to detect CRC is suggested, using development predictors such as biochemical and molecular markers, which are discussed in this work.

El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es una enfermedad compleja determinada por factores de riesgo genéticos, ambientales y de estilo de vida. Los factores genéticos (hereditarios) tienen gran influencia en su desarrollo, sin embargo, la mayoría de los casos de CCR son esporádicos y se desarrollan gradualmente a lo largo de varios años. Los principales factores ambientales de riesgo están asociados a la vía de señalización de ß-catenina, entre ellos obesidad, falta de actividad física, consumo de carnes rojas y procesadas, alcoholismo y tabaquismo. La vía está relacionada con la regulación de la homeostasis celular, autorrenovación celular durante la embriogénesis y edad adulta. La principal recomendación para evitar el desarrollo del CCR es reducir los factores de riesgo, aumentar el consumo de frutas, verduras y granos, hacer ejercicio de manera rutinaria y limitar el consumo tanto de alcohol como de tabaco. Dado que los antecedentes familiares y la presencia de un síndrome hereditario aumentan el riesgo, se sugiere hacer exámenes periódicos para detectar CCR y emplear predictores del desarrollo como los marcadores bioquímicos y moleculares, los cuales se presentan en este trabajo.

Growth characterization and predictive behavior of Eurotium species in a feedstuff matrix.

Animal feeds are characterized by low water activity values. Nevertheless, fungal contamination with Eurotium species are quite common, causing nutritional depletion, spoilage and economic losses. The aim of this work was to assess Eurotium amstelodami, E. chevalieri, E. repens and E. rubrum growth in a feed matrix at different conditions of water activity (0.71-0.97) and temperature (5, 15, 25, 30 and 37°C). It was found that Eurotium species are able to grow in a wide range of water activity and temperature in a short period of time (7 days) and faster than in synthetic media. Rosso and probabilistic models were applied in order to determine the limiting and optimum growth conditions as well as growth probability at certain combinations of environmental factors. Both models provided an accurate fit to the cardinal parameters and good performance for growth/no growth cases. This is the first report assessing the growth parameters of Eurotium species directly in animal feed. Data obtained in the present study is useful to predict and avoid Eurotium species growth in animal feed.

Correlation between ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms and environmental factors during cattle manure composting.

Cattle manure composting was performed in an aerated vessel. Community structure and diversity of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) were investigated using polymerase chain reaction and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) techniques targeting the ammonia monooxygenase alpha subunit (amoA) gene and the correlation between AOB and AOA communities and environmental factors was explored. Thirteen (13) AOB sequences were obtained, which were closely related to Nitrosomonas spp., Nitrosomonas eutropha, and Nitrosospira spp. and uncultured bacteria, among which Nitrosomonas spp. were predominant. Excessively high temperature and high ammonium concentration were not favorable for AOB growth. Five AOA sequences, belonging to CandidatusNitrososphaera gargensis and to an uncultured archaeon, were obtained. During composting, community diversity of AOB and AOA fluctuated, with AOA showing a higher Shannon-Wiener index. The AOB community changed more dramatically in the mesophilic stage and the early thermophilic stage, whereas the most obvious AOA community succession occurred in the late thermophilic stage, the cooling stage and the maturity stage. Water content, total nitrogen (TN) and ammonium concentration were more relevant to the AOB community structure, while higher correlations were observed between ammonia, nitrate and TN and the AOA community. AOB community diversity was negatively correlated with pH (r = -0.938, p < 0.01) and water content (r = -0.765, p < 0.05), while positively correlated with TN (r = 0.894, p < 0.01). AOA community diversity was negatively correlated with ammonium concentration (r = -0.901, p < 0.01). Ammonium concentration played an important role in the succession of AOB and AOA communities during composting.

[Epigenetics in allergic diseases and asthma]. / Epigenética en enfermedades alérgicas y asma.

Allergic diseases and asthma are the result of complex interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic disease among children. In this article we review some environmental factors like: allergen exposition, tobacco, bacteria, microbial components, diet, obesity and stress, which influences during intrauterine and infancy life in the epigenetic regulation of asthma and allergic diseases. The review has been done in three models: in-vitro, animal and human.

Socio-economic and environmental effects influencing the development of leprosy in Bahia, north-eastern Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate spatial clusters and possible associations between relative risks of leprosy with socio-economic and environmental factors, taking into account diagnosed cases in children under 15 years old. METHODS: An ecological study was conceived using data aggregated by municipality to identify possible spatial clusters of leprosy from 2005 to 2011. Relative risks were calculated accounting for the respective covariate gender. The second stage of the analysis consisted of verifying possible associations between the relative risks of leprosy as a dependent variable, and socio-economic and environmental variables as independent. This was performed using a multivariate regression analysis according to a previously defined conceptual framework. RESULTS: Overall rates have decreased from 0.88/10 000 in 2005 to 0.52 in 2011. Spatial scan statistics identified 4 high-risk and 6 low-risk clusters. In the regression model, after allowing for spatial dependence, relative risks were associated with higher percentage of water bodies, higher Gini index, higher percentage of urban population, larger average number of dwellers by permanent residence and smaller percentage of residents born in Bahia. CONCLUSIONS: Although relative risks of leprosy in Bahia have been decreasing, they remain very high. The association between relative risks of leprosy and water bodies in the proposed geographic scale indicates that hypothesis linking M. leprae and humid environments cannot be discarded. Socio-economic conditions such as inequality, a greater number of dwellers by residence and migration are derived from the urbanisation process carried out in this State. Precarious settlements and poor living conditions in the cities would favour the continuity of leprosy transmission.

Application of GIS and spatiotemporal analyses in viral infection modelling using multiple datasets - A case study on the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic.

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE: Viral and infectious diseases such as COVID-19 continue to pose a significant public health threat. In order to create an early warning system for new pandemics or emerging versions of the virus, it is imperative to study its epidemiology. In this study, we created a geospatial model to predict the weekly contagion and lethality rates of COVID-19 in Ireland. METHODS: More than forty parameters including atmospheric pollutants, metrological variables, sociodemographic factors, and lockdown phases were introduced as input variables to the model. The significant parameters in predicting the number of new cases and the death toll were identified. QGIS software was employed to process input data, and a principal component regression (PCR) model was developed using the statistical add-on XLSTAT. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The developed models were able to predict more than half of the variations in contagion and lethality rates. This indicates that the proposed model can serve to help prediction systems for the identification of future high-risk conditions. Nevertheless, there are additional parameters that could be included in future models, such as the number of deaths in care homes, the percentage of contagion and mortality among health workers, and the degree of compliance with social distancing.

Risk factors for the incidence of dengue virus infection in preschool children.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the seroincidence of dengue in children living in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil and to evaluate the factors associated. METHODS: A prospective serological survey was carried out in a sample of children 0-3 years of age. A multilevel logistic model was used to identify the determinants of seroincidence. RESULTS: The seroprevalence of dengue was 26.6% in the 625 children evaluated. A second survey detected an incidence of 33.2%. Multilevel logistic regression showed a statistically significant association between the seroincidence of dengue and age and the premises index. CONCLUSION: In Salvador, the dengue virus is in active circulation during early childhood; consequently, children have heterotypic antibodies and run a high risk of developing dengue haemorrhagic fever, because the sequence and intensity of the three dengue virus serotypes currently circulating in this city are very similar to those that were circulating in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2008. Therefore, the authors strongly recommend that the health authorities in cities with a similar epidemiological scenario be aware of this risk and implement improvements in health care, particularly targeting the paediatric age groups. In addition, information should be provided to the population and actions should be implemented to combat this vector.

Epidemiología de los factores ambientales relacionados con la vía β-catenina y su impacto en el desarrollo y progresión del cáncer colorrectal / Epidemiology of environmental factors related to beta-catenin pathway and its impact on the development and progression of colorectal cancer

Resumen El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es una enfermedad compleja determinada por factores de riesgo genéticos, ambientales y de estilo de vida. Los factores genéticos (hereditarios) tienen gran influencia en su desarrollo, sin embargo, la mayoría de los casos de CCR son esporádicos y se desarrollan gradualmente a lo largo de varios años. Los principales factores ambientales de riesgo están asociados a la vía de señalización de β-catenina, entre ellos obesidad, falta de actividad física, consumo de carnes rojas y procesadas, alcoholismo y tabaquismo. La vía está relacionada con la regulación de la homeostasis celular, autorrenovación celular durante la embriogénesis y edad adulta. La principal recomendación para evitar el desarrollo del CCR es reducir los factores de riesgo, aumentar el consumo de frutas, verduras y granos, hacer ejercicio de manera rutinaria y limitar el consumo tanto de alcohol como de tabaco. Dado que los antecedentes familiares y la presencia de un síndrome hereditario aumentan el riesgo, se sugiere hacer exámenes periódicos para detectar CCR y emplear predictores del desarrollo como los marcadores bioquímicos y moleculares, los cuales se presentan en este trabajo.

Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex disease, determined by genetic, environmental and lifestyle-associated risk factors. Genetic (inherited) factors have great influence on its development; however, most cases of CRC are sporadic and gradually develop over several years. The main environmental risk factors are associated with β-catenin signaling pathway, including obesity, lack of physical activity, consumption of red and processed meats, alcoholism, and smoking. The pathway is related to cell homeostasis regulation and cell self-renewal during embryogenesis and adulthood. The main recommendation for preventing the development of CRC is to reduce the risk factors, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and grains, exercise regularly and limit the consumption of both alcohol and tobacco. However, family history and the presence of a hereditary syndrome increase the risk, which is why carrying out periodic examinations to detect CRC is suggested, using development predictors such as biochemical and molecular markers, which are discussed in this work.

Genetics, environment, and asthma associated with celiac disease in the extended family of an affected child. / Genética, ambiente y asma asociados a enfermedad celiaca en la familia extendida de un niño afectado.

INTRODUCTION: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune enteropathy associated with gluten ingestion. In extended families of celiac patients that live in close proximity of one another, shared genetic and environmental factors can predispose them to CD. AIM: The aim of this study was to provide evidence about the genetic and environmental factors involved in the development of CD in the extended family of a pediatric patient. METHODS: The medical history, environmental conditions, and participant weight, height, and peripheral blood samples were evaluated. The HLA-DQ2/DQ8 haplotypes were genotyped through qPCR testing and the IgA anti-gliadin and anti-transglutaminase antibodies were quantified using the ELISA test. RESULTS: Twelve close-living maternal relatives of the index case participated in the study. Eight of them presented with the HLA-DQ2 haplotype, inherited from the grandfather, and 7/12 and 9/12 were positive for IgA anti-gliadin and IgA anti-transglutaminase antibodies, respectively. The main intestinal symptoms stated by the participants were abdominal bloating, excess flatulence, constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux. The most frequent extra-intestinal symptoms were fatigue, stress, and anxiety. In addition, 6/13 participants had bronchial asthma. CONCLUSION: The extended family living in close proximity of one another shared a genetic predisposition, environmental conditions, and asthma, which could have predisposed them to celiac disease.

Aprendizaje automático aplicado a la predicción de diabetes mellitus, utilizando información socioeconómica y ambiental de usuarios del sistema de salud

Objetivo: Se propuso aplicar modelos basados en técnicas de aprendizaje automático como apoyo para el diagnóstico temprano de la diabetes mellitus, utilizando variables de datos ambientales, sociales, económicos y sanitarios, sin la dependencia de la toma de muestras clínicas. Metodología: Se utilizaron datos de 10 889 usuarios afiliados al régimen subsidiado de salud de la zona suroccidental en Colombia, diagnosticados con hipertensión y agrupados en usuarios sin (74,3 %) y con (25,7 %) diabetes mellitus. Se entrenaron modelos supervisados utilizando k vecinos más cercanos, árboles de decisión y bosques aleatorios, así como modelos basados en ensambles, aplicados a la base de datos antes y después de balancear el número de casos en cada grupo de diagnóstico. Se evalúo el rendimiento de los algoritmos mediante la división de la base de datos en datos de entreno y de prueba (70/30, respectivamente), y se utilizaron métricas de exactitud, sensibilidad, especificidad y área bajo la curva. Resultados: Los valores de sensibilidad aumentaron considerablemente al utilizar datos balanceados, pasando de valores máximos del 17,1 % (datos sin balancear) a valores de hasta 57,4 % (datos balanceados). El valor más alto de área bajo la curva (0,61) fue obtenido con los modelos de ensambles, al aplicar un balance en el número de datos por cada grupo y al codificar las variables categóricas. Las variables de mayor peso estuvieron asociadas con aspectos hereditarios (24,65 %) y con el grupo étnico (5.59 %), además de la dificultad visual, el bajo consumo de agua, una dieta baja en frutas y verduras, y el consumo de sal y azúcar. Conclusiones: Aunque los modelos predictivos, utilizando información socioeconómica y ambiental de las personas, surgen como una herramienta para el diagnóstico temprano de la diabetes mellitus, estos aún deben ser mejorados en su capacidad predictiva.

Objective: The objective was to apply models based on machine learning techniques to support the early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, using environmental, social, economic and health data variables, without dependence on clinical sample collection. Methodology: Data from 10,889 users affiliated with the subsidized health system in the southwestern area of Colombia, diagnosed with hypertension and grouped into users without (74.3%) and with (25.7%) diabetes mellitus, were used. Supervised models were trained using k-nearest neighbors, decision trees, and random forests, as well as ensemble-based models, applied to the database before and after balancing the number of cases in each diagnostic group. The performance of the algorithms was evaluated by dividing the database into training and test data (70/30, respectively), and metrics of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve were used. Results: Sensitivity values increased significantly when using balanced data, going from maximum values of 17.1% (unbalanced data) to values as high as 57.4% (balanced data). The highest value of area under the curve (0.61) was obtained with the ensemble models, by applying a balance in the amount of data for each group and by coding the categorical variables. The variables with the greatest weight were associated with hereditary aspects (24.65%) and with the ethnic group (5.59%), in addition to visual difficulty, low water consumption, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and the consumption of salt and sugar. Conclusions: Although predictive models, using people's socioeconomic and environmental information, emerge as a tool for the early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, their predictive capacity still needs to be improved.

Objetivo: Propôs-se aplicar modelos baseados em técnicas de aprendizagem automática como apoio para o diagnóstico precoce da diabetes mellitus, utilizando variáveis de dados ambientais, sociais, econômicos e sanitários, sem a dependência da coleta de amostras clínicas. Metodologia: Usaram-se dados de 10.889 usuários filiados ao regime subsidiado de saúde da zona sudoeste da Colômbia, diagnosticados com hipertensão e agrupados em usuários sem (74,3%) e com (25,7%) diabetes mellitus. Foram treinados modelos supervisionados utilizando k vizinhos mais próximos, árvores de decisão e florestas aleatórias, assim como modelos baseados em montagens, aplicados à base de dados antes de depois de equilibrar o número de casos em cada grupo de diagnóstico. Avaliou-se o desempenho dos algoritmos por meio da divisão da base de dados de treino e teste (70/30, respectivamente), e utilizaram-se métricas de exatidão, sensibilidade, especificidade e área sob a curva. Resultados: Os valores de sensibilidade aumentaram de maneira significativa ao utilizar dados equilibrados, passando de valores máximos de 17,1% (dados sem equilibrar) a valores de até 57,4% (dados equilibrados). O valor mais elevado de área sob a curva (0,61) foi obtido com os modelos de montagens, ao aplicar um balanço no número de dados por cada grupo e codificar as variáveis categóricas. As variáveis de maior peso estiveram associadas com fatores hereditários (24,65%) e com o grupo étnico (5,59%), além da dificuldade visual, o baixo consumo de água, um regime baixo em frutas e vegetais e o consumo de sal e açúcar. Conclusões: Embora os modelos preditivos, utilizando informação socioeconômica e ambiental das pessoas, surgem como uma ferramenta para o diagnóstico precoce da diabetes mellitus, ainda devem ser melhorados em sua capacidade preditiva.

Chironomidae y su relación con variables fisicoquímicas en tres quebradas del río Combeima (Tolima, Colombia) / Chironomidae and its relationship with physicochemical variables in three streams of the Combeima river (Tolima, Colombia)

Introducción: Los quironómidos forman parte de los macroinvertebrados esenciales en la tipificación de hábitats acuáticos, ya que albergan especies sensibles a la contaminación, mientras que otras son indicadoras de ambientes bien conservados. Son organismos claves por su abundancia, diversidad, y capacidad de respuesta a diversas presiones naturales y antropogénicas. Objetivo: Determinar las relaciones entre los géneros de la familia Chironomidae y la calidad fisicoquímica del agua. Materiales y métodos: Se realizaron seis muestreos en tres quebradas del río Combeima (Las Perlas, La Plata y Cay; Tolima, Colombia). Resultados: Se registraron 15594 larvas distribuidas en tres subfamilias y 20 géneros. El análisis de correspondencia canónica (ACC) mostró que Cardiocladius, Polypedilum, Thienemannimyia, Cricotopus y Alotanypus se relacionaron con procesos de oxidoreducción, mientras que Chironomus, Larsia, Cladotanytarsus, Onconeura, Riethia, Paratanytarsus y Endotribelos se asociaron con procesos de mineralización. Adicionalmente, se evaluó la relación de los índices de calidad del agua (ICA, ICOMO, ICOSUS e ICOTRO) con los géneros de Chironomidae. Alotanypus y Cricotopus, presentaron asociación con los índices ICOSUS e ICOTRO, mientras que Cardiocladius, Thienemannimyia y Polypedilum, se asociaron con ICOMO; Saetheria, Riethia, Larsia, Endotribelos, Cladotanytarsus, Paratanytarsus, Onconeura y Dicrotendipes se asociaron con ICOMI. Respecto al ICA, los géneros que se asociaron fueron Chironomus, Rheocricotopus, Parametriocnemus, Pentaneura y Corynoneura; contrario a Cryptochironomus que se separa de cualquier asociación. Conclusión: Los resultados revelan que no solo la presencia de materia orgánica facilita el establecimiento de la familia Chironomidae en los cuerpos de agua, sino también las características geomorfológicas propias de las quebradas analizadas.

Introduction: Chironomids are part of the essential macroinvertebrates in the typification of aquatic habitats, since they harbor species sensitive to pollution, while others are indicators of well-preserved environments. They are key organisms due to their abundance, diversity, and ability to respond to various natural and anthropogenic pressures. Objective: To determine the relationships between the genera of the Chironomidae family and the physicochemical water quality. Materials and methods: Six sampling events were realized in three streams of the Combeima River Basin (Las Perlas, La Plata, and Cay; Tolima, Colombia). A total of 15,594 larvae distributed in three subfamilies and 20 genera were recorded. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that Cardiocladius, Polypedilum, Thienemannimyia, Cricotopus and Alotanypus were related to oxidation-reduction processes, while Chironomus, Larsia, Cladotanytarsus, Onconeura, Riethia, Paratanytarsus, and Endotribelos were associated with mineralization processes. Additionally, the relationship of the water quality indices (ICA, ICOMO, ICOSUS and ICOTRO) with the genera of Chironomidae was evaluated. Alotanypus and Cricotopus presented association with the ICOSUS and ICOTRO indices, while Cardiocladius, Thienemannimyia and Polypedilum were associated with ICOMO; Saetheria, Riethia, Larsia, Endotribelos, Cladotanytarsus, Paratanytarsus, Onconeura, and Dicrotendipes partnered with ICOMI. Regarding the WQI, the genera that were associated were Chironomus, Rheocricotopus, Parametriocnemus, Pentaneura and Corynoneura; contrary to Cryptochironomus which separates itself from any association. Conclusion: The results reveal that not only the presence of organic matter facilitates the establishment of the Chironomidae family in the water bodies, but also the geomorphological characteristics of the analyzed streams.

Estado de salud y frecuencia de factores predisponentes para covid-19 grave, población universitaria / Health status and frequency of predisposing factors for severe COVID-19, university population

INTRODUCCIÓN: La COVID-19 ha provocado diversas consecuencias en el mundo, actualmente se siguen estudiando sus factores predisponentes y consecuencias. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el estado de salud y la frecuencia de los factores de riesgo para COVID-19 grave en estudiantes, docentes y administrativos universitarios. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, se aplicó un cuestionario virtual. Se recopiló información epidemiológica personal y del entorno cercano, grupo sanguíneo, hacinamiento en administrativos, peso y talla. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvo la información de 209 docentes, 103 administrativos y 1556 estudiantes. En docentes el 49.52% tiene alguna enfermedad crónica, el 29% tuvo COVID-19. En administrativos, el 56.31% tiene alguna enfermedad crónica, el 29% tuvo COVID-19. En estudiantes el 30% tiene enfermedad crónica, el 24.42% tuvo COVID-19. La mayoría de los docentes tiene sobrepeso, principalmente el sexo masculino desde los 51 años. El 50% del personal administrativo presenta sobrepeso, en igual proporción en ambos sexos y a partir de 41 años. En estudiantes la mayoría tiene un estado nutricional normal, el 27,9% presenta sobrepeso, siendo mayor en el sexo femenino y en el grupo de 20 a 25 años de edad. CONCLUSIONES: Son factores frecuentes en docentes y administrativos la edad, enfermedad crónica, grupo sanguíneo diferente de 0Rh positivo y sobrepeso.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 has caused various consequences in the world, its predisposing factors and consequences are currently being studied. The objective of this study was to determine the state of health and the frequency of risk factors for severe COVID-19 in university students, teachers, and administrators. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study, a virtual questionnaire was applied. Personal epidemiological information and information about the immediate environment, blood group, overcrowding in administrative offices, weight and height were collected. RESULTS: Information was obtained from 209 teachers, 103 administrators and 1556 students. In teachers, 49.52% have some chronic disease, 29% had COVID-19. In administrative, 56.31% have some chronic disease, 29% had COVID-19. In students, 30% have a chronic disease, 24.42% had COVID-19. Most of the teachers are overweight, mainly the male sex from the age of 51. 50% of the administrative staff is overweight, in equal proportion in both sexes and from 41 years of age. In students, the majority have a normal nutritional status, 27.9% are overweight, being higher in the female sex and in the group of 20 to 25 years of age. CONCLUSIONS: Frequent factors in teachers and administrators are age, chronic illness, blood group other than 0Rh positive, and overweight

Factores ambientales que inhiben la práctica de la actividad física. Percepción del entorno / Environmental factors inhibiting the practice of physical activity. Perception of the environment

Investigaciones acerca de obesidad, sedentarismo,sobrepeso y de la insurgencia de enfermedades crónicas ycardiovasculares se centraban primordialmente en factoresbiológicos y conductuales. Más recientemente, autores se estánponiendo de acuerdo en que el entorno social y físico puedetener también un papel relevante. Algunos aspectos del entornopueden promover o desfavorecer la actividad física. En estarevisión, se da una visión general de lo que se sabe actualmentesobre la relación entre el entorno físico y la actividad física en lapoblación y como la desigualdad de oportunidades para realizarejercicios físicos en el área que rodea a la vivienda familiar seconvierte en un factor que influye en la realización de actividadfísica y la salud. Se detalla así mismo, la relación entre factoresambientales y la actividad física que pueden variar según elámbito de la actividad, llegando a tener un impacto desigualen los diferentes espacios. Un espacio puede ser saludable obeneficioso para la sociedad al andar para trasladarse de un sitio aotro, pero perjudicial a la hora de realizar alguna actividad físicaen las calles. Para organizaciones como la OMS, la percepciónde la población relacionada con su entorno y estilos de vida,es un elemento que contribuye no solo a generar acciones quemejoren la calidad de vida sino a fomentar entornos saludablesque permitan la incorporación de las niñas, las mujeres, laspersonas mayores, los grupos desfavorecidos y las personas condiscapacidad o enfermedades crónicas, a programas y lugaresseguros, asequibles y apropiados(AU)

Research on obesity, sedentary lifestyles, overweightand the emergence of chronic and cardiovascular diseases hasfocused primarily on biological and behavioral factors. Morerecently, authors are agreeing that the social and physicalenvironment may also play a role. Some aspects of theenvironment may promote or discourage physical activity.In this review, an overview is given of what is currentlyknown about the relationship between the physical environmentand physical activity in the population and how unequalopportunities for physical exercise in the area surrounding thefamily home becomes a factor influencing physical activity andhealth. It also details the relationship between environmentalfactors and physical activity that may vary according to the area of activity, having an unequal impact in different spaces.A space can be healthy or beneficial for society when walkingto move from one place to another, but detrimental whenperforming physical activity in the streets. For organizationssuch as WHO, the perception of the population related to theirenvironment and lifestyles is an element that contributes notonly to generate actions that improve the quality of life but alsoto promote healthy environments that allow the incorporationof girls, women, the elderly, disadvantaged groups and peoplewith disabilities or chronic diseases, to safe, affordable andappropriate programs and places(AU)

Factores sociales y ambientales relacionados con el asma bronquial en niños de los consultorios 1 y 2 de Caonao, Cienfuegos

RESUMEN Fundamento el asma bronquial es un importante problema de salud y causa frecuente de morbimortalidad. En su génesis influyen factores humanos, sociales, ambientales y económicos. Objetivo: identificar factores sociales y ambientales relacionados con la severidad del asma bronquial en niños, atendiendo a sus características clínicas y demográficas. Métodos se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal en 46 niños con asma bronquial pertenecientes a los consultorios médicos 1 y 2 del policlínico Área VIII de Cienfuegos, durante el período de noviembre 2019 a mayo de 2020. Se utilizaron variables sociales y demográficas. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino; las edades entre 13-16 y 17-19 años fueron las más afectadas, en ambos grupos con antecedentes familiares de asma. Estuvieron expuestos al hábito de fumar de familiares 31 infantes y se relacionó con las crisis moderadas persistentes. La mayoría de los niños necesitó tratamiento farmacológico. Predominó el hacinamiento que influyó en la aparición de infecciones respiratorias. Prevalecieron las familias moderadamente funcionales, hubo un predominio de las viviendas clasificadas de regulares. Conclusiones: existe relación directa entre la severidad de las manifestaciones clínicas del asma y los factores de riesgo que las condicionan. Se requiere de un trabajo educativo sistemático para su prevención.

ABSTRACT Background: bronchial asthma is an important health problem and a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. Human, social, environmental and economic factors influence its genesis. Objective: to identify social and environmental factors related to the severity of bronchial asthma in children, based on their clinical and demographic characteristics. Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 46 children with bronchial asthma belonging to medical offices 1 and 2 of the Area VIII polyclinic in Cienfuegos, from November 2019 to May 2020. Social and demographic variables were used. Results: the male sex predominated; ages between 13-16 and 17-19 years old were the most affected, in both groups with a family history of asthma. 31 infants were exposed to the smoking habit of family members and it was related to persistent moderate crises. Most of the children required pharmacological treatment. Overcrowding prevailed, which influenced the appearance of respiratory infections. Moderately functional families prevailed, there was a predominance of dwellings classified as regular. Conclusions: bronchial asthma requires systematic educational work for its prevention. There is a direct relationship between the severity of the clinical manifestations and the risk factors that condition it.

Validación del instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años / Validation of the instrument to measure environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age

La neumonía es una infección respiratoria que afecta a los pulmones y puede llevar a la muerte. Los niños menores de 5 años pueden adquirir la enfermedad a través de bacterias, virus y hongos, lo cual puede generarse por ciertos factores ambientales no propicios. Objetivos: Validar el instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años que acuden a consulta externa del hospital Martin Icaza del Cantón Babahoyo, julio - diciembre 2020; determinar la confiabilidad del instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años. Materiales y métodos: Se utiliza un diseño no experimental, con enfoque mixto, método deductivo, de tipo transversal, de campo, prospectivo. Se aplicó un plan piloto con el fin de identificar la validez, coherencia y pertinencia del instrumento, y a su vez determinar la confiabilidad del mismo con base al criterio de expertos. El componente cuantitativo constó de un plan piloto a 16 padres, donde 8 niños padecían neumonía, mientras los 8 restantes no; en tanto que la entrevista se realizó a dos representantes de niños con neumonía. Resultados: La validación de los instrumentos vino dada por tres profesionales que fueron seleccionados por su experiencia y prestigio, estos calificaron la validez, pertinencia y coherencia donde se obtuvo la ponderación de muy confiable. Los resultados mostraron que la enfermedad se transmite por contacto con personas que padecen estas enfermedades (62.5%), los principales síntomas son la tos, fiebre y dolor de garganta (50.0%), las personas viven con 4 o 5 personas en la misma casa (56.3%) y poseen animales (75.0%). Se identificó efectos emocionales negativos, tales como desesperación, ansiedad, tristeza, depresión e impotencia. Conclusión: El instrumento analizado es válido, coherente y pertinente, siendo muy confiable para su aplicación(AU)

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that affects the lungs and can lead to death. Children under 5 years of age can acquire the disease through bacteria, viruses and fungi, which can be generated by certain unfavorable environmental factors. Objectives: To validate the instrument to measure the environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age who attend the outpatient clinic of the Martin Icaza hospital in Babahoyo Canton, July - December 2020; determine the reliability of the instrument to measure the environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age. Materials and methods: A non-experimental design is used, with a mixed approach, deductive method, cross-sectional, field, prospective. A pilot plan was applied in order to identify the validity, coherence and relevance of the instrument, and in turn determine its reliability based on expert criteria. The quantitative component consisted of a pilot plan for 16 parents, where 8 children suffered from pneumonia, while the remaining 8 did not; while the interview was conducted with two representatives of children with pneumonia. Results: The validation of the instruments was given by three professionals who were selected for their experience and prestige, they qualified the validity, relevance and coherence where the weighting of very reliable was obtained. The results showed that the disease is transmitted by contact with people suffering from these diseases (62.5%), the main symptoms are cough, fever and sore throat (50.0%), people live with 4 or 5 people in the same house (56.3%) and own animals (75.0%). Negative emotional effects were identified, such as despair, anxiety, sadness, depression and helplessness. Conclusion: The analyzed instrument is valid, coherent and pertinent, being very reliable for its application(AU)

Instrumento para identificar barreras ambientales percibidas por personas mayores en el contexto cubano / An Instrument for Identifying Environmental Barriers Perceived by Elderly People in the Cuban Context

Introducción: El envejecimiento de la población cubana trae aparejado un aumento de la discapacidad. En este sentido la Clasificación Internacional del Funcionamiento, de la Discapacidad y la Salud recomienda el diseño de instrumentos de medición que identifiquen los factores ambientales que afectan la funcionalidad. Objetivo: Describir las propiedades psicométricas de un instrumento de medición diseñado para identificar barreras ambientales percibidas por las personas mayores en el contexto cubano en cuanto a la validez de apariencia, de contenido y constructo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de desarrollo tecnológico. Se consultó a un grupo de expertos para la validación de apariencia y contenido, y se calculó el coeficiente de validez de contenido insesgado y corregido. Para la validez de constructo se calculó el análisis factorial de los componentes principales. Resultados: El coeficiente de validez de contenido insesgado y el corregido mostraron cifras superiores a 0,80, considerado como bueno. El análisis factorial arrojó siete factores que explican las dimensiones exploradas en la definición que se pretende medir. Conclusiones: El instrumento diseñado mostró un alto acuerdo entre los expertos en cuanto a la validez de apariencia y contenido. Los indicadores evidenciaron que el instrumento tiene una estructura multidimensional que se corresponde con el constructo que se pretende medir(AU)

Introduction: The aging of the Cuban population brings about an increase in disability. In this sense, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health recommends the design of measurement instruments to identify environmental factors affecting functionality. Objective: To describe, in terms of face, content and construct validity, the psychometric properties of a measurement instrument designed to identify environmental barriers perceived by elderly people in the Cuban context. Methods: A technological development study was carried out. A group of experts was consulted for the face and content validation, while the unbiased and corrected content validity coefficient was calculated. For construct validity, principal component factor analysis was calculated. Results: The unbiased and corrected content validity coefficient showed figures above 0.80, considered as good. Factor analysis yielded seven factors that explain the dimensions explored in the definition intended to be measured. Conclusions: The designed instrument showed high agreement among the experts in terms of face and content validity. The indicators showed that the instrument has a multidimensional structure that corresponds to the construct that it is intended to measure(AU)

Diversidad de aves en un gradiente altitudinal en la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Manantlán, México / Diversity of birds along an elevation gradient in the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, Mexico

Resumen Introducción: México concentra alrededor del 11 % de las especies de aves del mundo, de las cuales el 20 % son endémicas del país, concentrándose el mayor número en la región occidental. Objetivo: Analizar la composición, diversidad y distribución de la avifauna a lo largo de un gradiente altitudinal en el occidente de México. Métodos: La investigación se realizó en la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Manantlán. Registramos especies de aves vistas o escuchadas en 28 puntos de conteo fijos a lo largo de un gradiente de elevación de 1 000 m. La comparación de la riqueza y la completitud del muestreo se determinaron con curvas de interpolación y extrapolación. Las franjas se compararon con un Procedimiento no Paramétrico de Permutación Multirespuesta. Se usaron correlaciones y ordenaciones indirectas para analizar cambios en la riqueza y abundancia. Resultados: Registramos 129 especies (estimado: 96 % de completitud): 19 endémicas de México, 13 en alguna categoría de riesgo y 21 consideradas indicadoras. La elevación determinó la distribución y abundancia de las especies, y las franjas altitudinales más bajas, tuvieron los valores más altos de riqueza y abundancia. Conclusión: La mayor riqueza y abundancia de especies se registró a menor altitud, con un cambio significativo en la composición y tipo de especies indicadoras por franja.

Abstract Introduction: Mexico concentrates around 11 % of the world's bird species, of which 20 % are endemic to the country, with the highest number concentrated in the Western region. Objective: To analyze composition, diversity and avifaunal distribution along an elevation gradient in Western Mexico. Methods: The research was done in the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve. We recorded seen or heard bird species in 28 fixed count points along a 1 000 m elevation gradient. Comparative richness and sampling completeness were determined with interpolation and extrapolation curves. Belts were compared with Non-Parametric Multi-Response Permutation. Correlations and indirect ordinations were used to analyze changes in richness and abundance. Results: We recorded 129 species (estimate: 96 % completeness): 19 endemics to Mexico, 13 in some risk category, and 21 considered indicators. Elevation determined the distribution and abundance of species, and the lower elevational bands, had the highest richness and abundance values. Conclusion: The highest species richness and abundance were recorded at lower elevations, with a significant change in composition and type of indicator species by belt. The numbers of endemic and at-risk species remained constant with elevation.

Bio-environmental factors associated with myopia: An updated review. / Los factores bioambientales asociados a la miopía: una revisión actualizada.

Experimental studies in animals, as well as observational and intervention studies in humans, seem to support the premise that the development of juvenile myopia is promoted by a combination of the effect of genetic and environmental factors, with a complex interaction between them. The very rapid increase in myopia rates in some parts of the world, such as Southeast Asia, supports a significant environmental effect. Several lines of evidence suggest that humans might respond to various external factors, such as increased activity in near vision, increased educational pressure, decreased exposure to sunlight outdoors, dietary changes (including increased intake of carbohydrates), as well as low light levels indoors. All these factors could be associated with a higher prevalence of myopia.

Factores asociados al desarrollo de anomalías congénitas en la población neonatal atendida en un hospital de alta complejidad en Colombia: estudio de casos y controles / Associated factors with the development of congenital anomalies in the neonatal population attended in a highly complex hospital in Colombia: case-control study

INTRODUCCIÓN: Los defectos congénitos son un grupo de alteraciones con gran heterogeneidad clínica y etiológica. Su prevalencia en los países en vías de desarrollo alcanza aproximadamente un 7%. En Colombia, un 17% de los niños menores de 1 año mueren a causa de anomalías congénitas. OBJETIVO: Determinar los factores de riesgo asociados a anomalías congénitas en neonatos del Departamento del Cauca atendidos en un hospital de alta complejidad. MÉTODO: Estudio de casos y controles en el Hospital Universitario San José, de Popayán, Colombia. Se incluyeron 174 recién nacidos, con una distribución 1:1 para 87 casos y 87 controles, entre julio de 2018 y julio de 2019. Las variables de interés fueron registradas en un instrumento semiestructurado diseñado por los investigadores. Los datos obtenidos fueron analizados usando métodos de estadística descriptiva, prueba exacta de Fisher y modelos de regresión logística binomial (odds ratio [OR] con intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]). RESULTADOS: Las anomalías congénitas más frecuentes fueron del sistema cardiovascular (40,23%), renales (24,14%) y del sistema nervioso central (13,79%). Las variables que se asociaron a anomalías congénitas fueron la educación de la madre (OR: 2,40; IC95%: 1,23-4,68), la educación del padre (OR: 2,93; IC95%: 1,44-5,93), el antecedente de cesárea (OR: 3,3; IC95%: 1,76-6,42), la hemorragia en el primer trimestre (OR: 6,15; IC95%: 1,32-28,63) y el antecedente de malformación en un embarazo previo (OR: 4,05; IC95%: 1,08-15,07). CONCLUSIONES: De acuerdo con los resultados del presente estudio, para tratar de reducir la incidencia de las anomalías congénitas se deben intervenir los factores de riesgo modificables, como la educación de los padres, tratar oportunamente las patologías maternas asociadas al sangrado del primer trimestre y realizar consejería genética a los padres con antecedente de anomalías congénitas en embarazos previos. Lo anterior podría lograrse al mejorar la calidad y la adherencia al control prenatal.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital defects are a group of alterations with great clinical and etiological heterogeneity. The prevalence in developing countries is approximately 7%. In Colombia, 17% of children under 1 year of age die from congenital anomalies. OBJECTIVE: To determine the risk factors associated with congenital anomalies in neonates from the Department of Cauca treated in a highly complex hospital. METHOD: Case-control study at the San José de Popayan University Hospital, Colombia. 174 newborns entered the study, with a 1: 1 distribution for 87 cases and 87 controls, between July 2018 and July 2019. The variables of interest were recorded in a semi-structured instrument designed by the researchers. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, Fishers exact test and binomial logistic regression models (OR with 95% CI). RESULTS: The most frequent congenital anomalies were those of the cardiovascular system (40.23%), renal (24.14%) and central nervous system (13.79%). The variables associated with congenital anomalies were mothers education (OR 2.40; 95% CI: 1.23-4.68), fathers education (OR 2.93 95% CI: 1.44-5.93), history of cesarean section (OR 3.3 CI 95%: 1.76-6.42), first trimester bleeding (OR 6.15 95% CI: 1.32-28.63); history of malformation (OR: 4,05; 95% CI: 1.08-15.07). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of the present study and to try to reduce the incidence of congenital anomalies, modifiable risk factors should be intervened, such as parental education, timely treatment of maternal pathologies associated with 1-trimester bleeding and perform genetic counseling to parents with a history of congenital anomalies in previous pregnancies. This could be achieved by improving quality and adherence to prenatal care.