Vitamin B12 Deficiency and the Nervous System: Beyond Metabolic Decompensation-Comparing Biological Models and Gaining New Insights into Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms.

Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is a micronutrient and acts as a cofactor for fundamental biochemical reactions: the synthesis of succinyl-CoA from methylmalonyl-CoA and biotin, and the synthesis of methionine from folic acid and homocysteine. VitB12 deficiency can determine a wide range of diseases, including nervous system impairments. Although clinical evidence shows a direct role of VitB12 in neuronal homeostasis, the molecular mechanisms are yet to be characterized in depth. Earlier investigations focused on exploring the biochemical shifts resulting from a deficiency in the function of VitB12 as a coenzyme, while more recent studies propose a broader mechanism, encompassing changes at the molecular/cellular levels. Here, we explore existing study models employed to investigate the role of VitB12 in the nervous system, including the challenges inherent in replicating deficiency/supplementation in experimental settings. Moreover, we discuss the potential biochemical alterations and ensuing mechanisms that might be modified at the molecular/cellular level (such as epigenetic modifications or changes in lysosomal activity). We also address the role of VitB12 deficiency in initiating processes that contribute to nervous system deterioration, including ROS accumulation, inflammation, and demyelination. Consequently, a complex biological landscape emerges, requiring further investigative efforts to grasp the intricacies involved and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Trimetazidine Improves Mitochondrial Dysfunction in SOD1G93A Cellular Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis through Autophagy Activation.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is considered the prototype of motor neuron disease, characterized by motor neuron loss and muscle waste. A well-established pathogenic hallmark of ALS is mitochondrial failure, leading to bioenergetic deficits. So far, pharmacological interventions for the disease have proven ineffective. Trimetazidine (TMZ) is described as a metabolic modulator acting on different cellular pathways. Its efficacy in enhancing muscular and cardiovascular performance has been widely described, although its molecular target remains elusive. We addressed the molecular mechanisms underlying TMZ action on neuronal experimental paradigms. To this aim, we treated murine SOD1G93A-model-derived primary cultures of cortical and spinal enriched motor neurons, as well as a murine motor-neuron-like cell line overexpressing SOD1G93A, with TMZ. We first characterized the bioenergetic profile of the cell cultures, demonstrating significant mitochondrial dysfunction that is reversed by acute TMZ treatments. We then investigated the effect of TMZ in promoting autophagy processes and its impact on mitochondrial morphology. Finally, we demonstrated the effectiveness of TMZ in terms of the mitochondrial functionality of ALS-rpatient-derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In summary, our results emphasize the concept that targeting mitochondrial dysfunction may represent an effective therapeutic strategy for ALS. The findings demonstrate that TMZ enhances mitochondrial performance in motor neuron cells by activating autophagy processes, particularly mitophagy. Although further investigations are needed to elucidate the precise molecular pathways involved, these results hold critical implications for the development of more effective and specific derivatives of TMZ for ALS treatment.

The Rift Valley fever (RVF) vaccine candidate 40Fp8 shows an extreme attenuation in IFNARKO mice following intranasal inoculation.

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an important zoonotic viral disease affecting several species of domestic and wild ruminants, causing major economic losses and dozens of human deaths in various geographical areas of Africa, where it is endemic. Although it is not present in Europe, there is a risk of its introduction and spread linked to globalisation and climate change. At present, the only measure that could help to prevent the disease is vaccination of flocks in areas at risk of RVF. Available live attenuated vaccines are an effective means of controlling the disease, but their use is often questioned due to residual virulence, particularly in susceptible hosts such as pregnant sheep. On the other hand, no vaccine is currently licensed for use in humans. The development of safe and effective vaccines is therefore a major area of research. In previous studies, we selected under selective mutagenic pressure a highly attenuated RVFV 56/74 virus variant called 40Fp8. This virus showed an extremely attenuated phenotype in both wild-type and immunodeficient A129 (IFNARKO) mice, yet was still able to induce protective immunity after a single inoculation, thus supporting its use as a safe, live attenuated vaccine. To further investigate its safety, in this work we have analysed the attenuation level of 40Fp8 in immunosuppressed mice (A129) when administered by the intranasal route, and compared it with other attenuated RVF viruses that are the basis of vaccines in use or in development. Our results show that 40Fp8 has a much higher attenuated level than these other viruses and confirm its potential as a candidate for safe RVF vaccine development.

Caspase-dependent apoptosis in Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency iPSCs and derived motor neurons

Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency (RTD) is a rare genetic, childhood-onset disease. This pathology has a relevant neurological involvement, being characterized by motor symptoms, ponto-bulbar paralysis and sensorineural deafness. Such clinical presentation is associated with muscle weakness and motor neuron (MN) degeneration, so that RTD is considered part of the MN disease spectrum. Based on previous findings demonstrating energy dysmetabolism and mitochondrial impairment in RTD induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPSCs) and iPSC-derived MNs, here we address the involvement of intrinsic apoptotic pathways in disease pathogenesis using these patient-specific in vitro models by combined ultrastructural and confocal analyses. We show impaired neuronal survival of RTD iPSCs and MNs. Focused Ion Beam/Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB/SEM) documents severe alterations in patients' cells, including deranged mitochondrial ultrastructure, and altered plasma membrane and nuclear organization. Occurrence of aberrantly activated apoptosis is confirmed by immunofluorescence and TUNEL assays. Overall, our work provides evidence of a role played by mitochondrial dysfunction in RTD, and identifies neuronal apoptosis as a contributing event in disease pathogenesis, indicating intrinsic apoptosis pathways as possible relevant targets for more effective therapeutical approaches.

Nasal tau immunotherapy clears intracellular tau pathology and improves cognitive functions in aged tauopathy mice.

Pathological tau aggregates cause cognitive decline in neurodegenerative tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). These aggregates are prevalent within intracellular compartments. Current tau immunotherapies have shown limited efficacy in clearing intracellular tau aggregates and improving cognition in clinical trials. In this study, we developed toxic tau conformation-specific monoclonal antibody-2 (TTCM2), which selectively recognized pathological tau aggregates in brain tissues from patients with AD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). TTCM2 potently inhibited tau-seeding activity, an essential mechanism underlying tauopathy progression. To effectively target intracellular tau aggregates and ensure rapid delivery to the brain, TTCM2 was loaded in micelles (TTCM2-ms) and administered through the intranasal route. We found that intranasally administered TTCM2-ms efficiently entered the brain in hTau-tauopathy mice, targeting pathological tau in intracellular compartments. Moreover, a single intranasal dose of TTCM2-ms effectively cleared pathological tau, elevated synaptic proteins, and improved cognitive functions in aged tauopathy mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that TTCM2-ms cleared intracellular, synaptic, and seed-competent tau aggregates through tripartite motif-containing 21 (TRIM21), an intracellular antibody receptor and E3 ubiquitin ligase known to facilitate proteasomal degradation of cytosolic antibody-bound proteins. TRIM21 was found to be essential for TTCM2-ms-mediated clearance of tau pathology. Our study collectively provides evidence of the effectiveness of nasal tau immunotherapy in targeting and clearing intracellular tau pathology through TRIM21 and enhancing cognition in aged tauopathy mice. This study could be valuable in designing effective tau immunotherapies for AD and other tauopathies.

Co-expression of VP2, NS1 and NS2-Nt proteins by an MVA viral vector induces complete protection against bluetongue virus.

Introduction: Bluetongue (BT), caused by bluetongue virus (BTV), is an important arthropod-borne livestock disease listed by the World Organization for Animal Health. Live-attenuated and inactivated vaccines have permitted to control BT but they do not simultaneously protect against the myriad of BTV serotypes. Recently, we identified the highly conserved BTV nonstructural protein NS1 and the N-terminal region of NS2 as antigens capable of conferring multiserotype protection against BTV. Methods: Here, we designed Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) viral vectors that expressed BTV-4 proteins VP2 or VP7 along with NS1 and NS2-Nt as well as MVAs that expressed proteins VP2, VP7 or NS1 and NS2-Nt. Results: Immunization of IFNAR(-/-) mice with two doses of MVA-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt protected mice from BTV-4M infection by the induction of an antigen-specific T cell immune response. Despite rMVA expressing VP7 alone were not protective in the IFNAR(-/-) mouse model, inclusion of VP7 in the vaccine formulation amplified the cell-mediated response induced by NS1 and NS2-Nt. Expression of VP2 elicited protective non-cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) in immunized animals and improved the protection observed in the MVA-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt immunized mice when these three BTV antigens were co-expressed. Moreover, vaccines candidates co-expressing VP2 or VP7 along with NS1 and NS2-Nt provided multiserotype protection. We assessed protective efficacy of both vaccine candidates in sheep against virulent challenge with BTV-4M. Discussion: Immunization with MVA-VP7-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt partially dumped viral replication and clinical disease whereas administration of MVA-VP2-NS1-2A-NS2-Nt promoted a complete protection, preventing viraemia and the pathology produced by BTV infection.

Safety and Efficacy upon Infection in Sheep with Rift Valley Fever Virus ZH548-rA2, a Triple Mutant Rescued Virus.

The introduction of three single nucleotide mutations into the genome of the virulent RVFV ZH548 strain allows for the rescue of a fully attenuated virus in mice (ZH548-rA2). These mutations are located in the viral genes encoding the RdRp and the non-structural protein NSs. This paper shows the results obtained after the subcutaneous inoculation of ZH548-rA2 in adult sheep and the subsequent challenge with the parental virus (ZH548-rC1). Inoculation with the ZH548-rA2 virus caused no detectable clinical or pathological effect in sheep, whereas inoculation of the parental rC1 virus caused lesions compatible with viral infection characterised by the presence of scattered hepatic necrosis. Viral infection was confirmed via immunohistochemistry, with hepatocytes within the necrotic foci appearing as the main cells immunolabelled against viral antigen. Furthermore, the inoculation of sheep with the rA2 virus prevented the liver damage expected after rC1 virus inoculation, suggesting a protective efficacy in sheep which correlated with the induction of both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.

Comparative analysis of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) corn and rice strains microbiota revealed minor changes across life cycle and strain endosymbiont association.

Background: Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW) is a pest that poses a significant threat to corn production worldwide, causing millions of dollars in losses. The species has evolved into two strains (corn and rice) that differ in their genetics, reproductive isolation, and resistance to insecticides and Bacillus thuringiensis endotoxins. The microbiota plays an important role in insects' physiology, nutrient acquisition, and response to chemical and biological controls. Several studies have been carried out on FAW microbiota from larvae guts using laboratory or field samples and a couple of studies have analyzed the corn strain microbiota across its life cycle. This investigation reveals the first comparison between corn strain (CS) and rice strain (RS) of FAW during different developmental insect stages and, more importantly, endosymbiont detection in both strains, highlighting the importance of studying both FAW populations and samples from different stages. Methods: The composition of microbiota during the life cycle of the FAW corn and rice strains was analyzed through high-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene using the MiSeq system. Additionally, culture-dependent techniques were used to isolate gut bacteria and the Transcribed Internal Spacer-ITS, 16S rRNA, and gyrB genes were examined to enhance bacterial identification. Results: Richness, diversity, and bacterial composition changed significantly across the life cycle of FAW. Most diversity was observed in eggs and males. Differences in gut microbiota diversity between CS and RS were minor. However, Leuconostoc, A2, Klebsiella, Lachnoclostridium, Spiroplasma, and Mucispirilum were mainly associated with RS and Colidextribacter, Pelomonas, Weissella, and Arsenophonus to CS, suggesting that FAW strains differ in several genera according to the host plant. Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the dominant phyla during FAW metamorphosis. Illeobacterium, Ralstonia, and Burkholderia exhibited similar abundancies in both strains. Enterococcus was identified as a conserved taxon across the entire FAW life cycle. Microbiota core communities mainly consisted of Enterococcus and Illeobacterium. A positive correlation was found between Spiroplasma with RS (sampled from eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults) and Arsenophonus (sampled from eggs, larvae, and adults) with CS. Enterococcus mundtii was predominant in all developmental stages. Previous studies have suggested its importance in FAW response to B. thuringensis. Our results are relevant for the characterization of FAW corn and rice strains microbiota to develop new strategies for their control. Detection of Arsenophonus in CS and Spiroplasma in RS are promising for the improvement of this pest management, as these bacteria induce male killing and larvae fitness reduction in other Lepidoptera species.

Vulnerability interactive geographic viewer against COVID-19 at the block level in Colombia: Analytical tool based on machine learning techniques.

To mitigate the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, different countries have developed computational tools and dashboards that generate value for decision-making in public health. We aimed to build an interactive geographic viewer for vulnerability to COVID-19 at the block level in Colombia to identify the location of populations that, because of sociodemographic characteristics and health conditions, could have more complications from COVID-19 infections. The vulnerability levels of the different blocks of 1,102 municipal capitals were calculated. Additionally, the institutions that provide health services and hotels were georeferenced, and changes in people's mobility dynamics in large cities were identified.

Unveiling the dynamics of sexual crimes in Colombia based on complaints over a decade / Desvelando la dinámica de los delitos sexuales en Colombia a partir de las denuncias de más de una década / Revelando a dinâmica de crimes sexuais na Colômbia, com sede em reclamações ao longo de uma década

The aim of this article was to analyse the dynamics of sexual offense reports in Colombia over the period between 2010 and 2022. For this, a mixed methodology was applied in the following phases: first, the Colombian National Police registry ­which included 286 604 sexual crimes reported in the aforementioned period­ was analysed. Then, a causal loop diagram of System Dynamics was designed to highlight the role of reporting sexual crimes in the Colombian Penal System. The main findings of this article include that 85.73 % of the complaints are mostly associated with women and 68 % of the victims are minors or adolescents of both sexes. It must be noted that Colombian legislation divides these crimes into those that are aggravated by violence and those that are not. It was also found that when the victim was a woman, the crimes occurred in a higher proportion with the aggravating factor of violence. It can also be concluded that during the COVID-19 pandemic confinement, there was a decrease in the number of sexual offense reports due to its negative effect on the possibility of adult women reporting crimes. In addition, it was found that it is imperative to direct the criminal policies towards the general positive prevention of sexual crimes, without instrumentalising individuals, and aimed at completing a detailed follow-up of complaints.

El objetivo de este artículo fue analizar la dinámica de las denuncias por delitos sexuales en Colombia en el periodo comprendido entre 2010 y 2022. Para ello, se aplicó una metodología mixta en las siguientes fases: primero, se analizó el registro de la Policía Nacional de Colombia -que incluyó 286 604 delitos sexuales denunciados en el periodo mencionado-. Luego, se diseñó un diagrama de bucle causal de Dinámica de Sistemas para resaltar el papel de la denuncia de delitos sexuales en el Sistema Penal Colombiano. Entre los principales hallazgos de este artículo se destaca que el 85.73 % de las denuncias están asociadas mayoritariamente a mujeres y el 68 % de las víctimas son menores de edad o adolescentes de ambos sexos. Es de anotar que la legislación colombiana divide estos delitos en agravados por violencia y no agravados por violencia. También se encontró que cuando la víctima es mujer, los delitos se presentan en mayor proporción con el agravante de violencia. También se puede concluir que durante el encierro pandémico COVID-19, hubo una disminución en el número de denuncias de delitos sexuales debido a su efecto negativo en la posibilidad de que las mujeres adultas denuncien delitos. Además, se constató que es imperativo orientar las políticas criminales hacia la prevención general positiva de los delitos sexuales, sin instrumentalizar a los individuos, y dirigidas a completar un seguimiento detallado de las denuncias.

O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a dinâmica das denúncias de crimes sexuais na Colômbia no período entre 2010 e 2022. Para isso, foi aplicada uma metodologia mista nas seguintes fases: primeiro, foi analisado o registro da Polícia Nacional da Colômbia, que incluía 286 604 crimes sexuais denunciados no período mencionado. Em seguida, foi elaborado um diagrama de loop causal do System Dynamics para destacar o papel da denúncia de crimes sexuais no sistema penal colombiano. As principais conclusões desse artigo incluem que 85.73 % das denúncias estão associadas principalmente a mulheres e 68 % das vítimas são menores ou adolescentes de ambos os sexos. Deve-se observar que a legislação colombiana divide esses crimes entre aqueles que são agravados pela violência e aqueles que não são. Também foi constatado que, quando a vítima era mulher, os crimes ocorreram em uma proporção maior com o agravante de violência. Também se pode concluir que, durante o confinamento da pandemia da COVID-19, houve uma diminuição no número de denúncias de crimes sexuais devido ao seu efeito negativo sobre a possibilidade de mulheres adultas denunciarem crimes. Além disso, constatou-se que é imprescindível direcionar as políticas criminais para a prevenção geral positiva dos crimes sexuais, sem instrumentalizar os indivíduos, e visando à conclusão de um acompanhamento detalhado das denúncias.

Peace Building, information technologies, and creative citizens: the case of Caminos de Paz, school audiovisual in Cauca (Colombia) / Construcción de paz, tecnologías de la información y ciudadanías creativas: el caso de la escuela audiovisual caminos de paz en cauca (colombia)

RESUMEN Este artículo muestra los resultados de la primera fase de implementación de una escuela de comunicación audiovisual, la cual es mediada por tecnologías digitales de la información. Para ello identificamos dos tipos de narrativas. En primer lugar, una sobre los impactos benéficos en el acceso y apropiación de tecnología, y en valores derivados de procesos colaborativos llevados a cabo por los estudiantes para fortalecerse como colectivo social. En segundo lugar, otras que conforman un primer corpus de contenidos, con los cuales la escuela busca narrarse y representarse como caso exitoso de construcción de paz en la región. Nuestra tesis consiste en que dichas narrativas evidencian que los procesos de apropiación de tecnologías de información y comunicación digital llevados a cabo por este grupo de beneficiarios fortalecen procesos de comunicación comunitaria y de ciudadanías creativas, sustentadas en los valores que emergen en medio de relaciones e interacciones colaborativas.

ABSTRACT This paper shows the results of the first phase of a school of audiovisual communication, wich is mediated by information technology. For it, we identified two types of narratives. Firstly, one about the beneficial impacts in the technology access and appropriation, and in values, derivated from collaborative processes carried out by students to strengthen as social collective. Secondly, others that form a first corpus of contents, with wich the school wants to narrate and represent itself as successful case of peace buiding in the region. Our thesis is that such narratives show that the processes of appropriation of information and digital communication technologies strengthen processes of comunity communication and creative citizenships, based on values emerged among collaborative relations and interactions.

Estado de salud oral de pacientes hospitalizados con trastornos mentales: Revisión sistemática de la literatura / Oral Health Status of Hospitalized Patients with Mental Disorders: Systematic Review of the Literature

RESUMEN De acuerdo a la literatura, los pacientes hospitalizados con trastornos mentales (TM), tienen mayor riesgo a desarrollar caries y enfermedad periodontal que la población general, asociado a la dificultad motora para hacerse una adecuada higiene oral, a los efectos adversos que ocasionan los medicamentos para el control de los síntomas psiquiátricos y a la falta de cuidado oral y atención clínica. El objetivo era realizar una revisión sistemática de la literatura sobre el estado de salud oral de pacientes hospitalizados con TM. Se hizo una búsqueda sistemática de la literatura en PubMed, de acuerdo con la metodología de la declaración PRISMA, a través de los descriptores en salud MeSh "Dental Caries" y "Mental Disorders" a febrero de 2017. De acuerdo a los diferentes filtros que fueron aplicados, se obtuvieron 14 artículos que describieron el estado de salud oral -mediante el índice COP-D (dientes con caries, dientes con restauraciones, dientes perdidos y dientes con extracción mandatoria)- de pacientes hospitalizados con TM. Se debe promover el reconocimiento de la importancia de la salud oral por parte de los profesionales de la salud, cuidadores y familiares; se debe explorar la cavidad oral para determinar el estado de salud además de instruir a los pacientes y personal de apoyo en higiene oral; las instituciones de salud mental deben establecer un programa de intervención para eliminar focos infecciosos orales y luego implementar un programa preventivo multidisciplinario para mantener la salud oral de acuerdo al diagnóstico del TM.

ABSTRACT According to the literature, hospitalized patients with mental disorders have a higher risk of developing cavities and periodontal disease than the general population, associated with the motor difficulty to perform adequate oral hygiene, to the adverse effects caused by drugs for the control of psychiatric symptoms, as well as the lack of oral care and clinical care. The aim was to carry out a systematic review of the literature on the oral health status of hospitalized patients with mental disorders (MD). A systematic search of the literature was carried out in PubMed, according to the PRISMA statement methodology, through the MeSh health descriptors "Dental Caries" and "Mental Disorders" in February 2017. According to the different filters that were applied, 14 articles describing the oral health status were obtained - through the DMF-T index (teeth with cavities, teeth with restorations, missing teeth and teeth with necessary extraction)- of hospitalized patients with MD. The recognition of the importance of oral health by health professionals, carers and family members should be promoted; the oral cavity should be explored to determine the state of health in addition to instructing patients and support personnel in oral hygiene; mental health institutions should establish an intervention programme to eliminate oral infectious sites and then implement a multidisciplinary preventive programme to maintain oral health according to the MD diagnosis.

Estrés académico asociado a proteína C-reactiva y síndrome metabólico en estudiantes de medicina / Academic stress associated with C - reactive protein and metabolic syndrome in medical students

Introducción: El estrés académico resulta de la confrontación de un individuo con las demandas del medio universitario, lo cual puede producir cambios a nivel neuro-endocrino-inmunológico y generar un estado de inflamación crónica en donde los niveles de proteína C-reactiva aumentan. Objetivo: Determinar los niveles de estrés académico y proteína C-reactiva en estudiantes de medicina y su posible asociación con síndrome metabólico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte longitudinal que determinó el estrés académico en 68 estudiantes de medicina (41 mujeres y 27 hombres). Se obtuvo información sociodemográfica y clínica de cada estudiante. Se aplicó un cuestionario para la evaluación del estrés académico y se obtuvieron dos muestras de sangre para realizar dos pruebas de proteína C-reactiva de alta sensibilidad en dos tiempos diferentes. Resultados: Pese a que se observaron niveles altos de estrés académico y proteína C-reactiva, no hubo una asociación directa; sin embargo, se encontraron relaciones significativas entre proteína C-reactiva y las variables clínicas, además de un riesgo alto de desarrollar síndrome metabólico. Conclusiones: Se observaron altos niveles de estrés académico asociado a las demandas y exigencias de un programa de medicina con acreditación de alta calidad. Los altos niveles de proteína C-reactiva fueron asociados a los altos niveles de obesidad abdominal, lo que hace que un número significativo de estudiantes se encuentre en riesgo de desarrollar enfermedades cardiovasculares y diabetes mellitus tipo 2, sobre todo aquellos en los que se detectó prehipertensión. No se encontró una relación significativa entre el estrés académico y los niveles de proteína C-reactiva(AU)

Introduction: Academic stress results from the confrontation of an individual with the demands of the university environment, which can produce changes at the neuro-endocrine-immunological level and generate a state of chronic inflammation where the levels of C-reactive protein increase. Objective: To determine the levels of academic stress and C-reactive protein in medical students and their possible association with metabolic syndrome. Methods: A longitudinal descriptive observational study was conducted to determine academic stress in 68 medical students (41 women and 27 men). Sociodemographic and clinical information was obtained from each student. A questionnaire was applied to assess academic stress and two blood samples were obtained to perform two high-sensitivity C-reactive protein tests at two different times. Results: Although high levels of academic stress and C-reactive protein were observed, there was no direct association; however, significant relationships were found between C-reactive protein and clinical variables, in addition to a high risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Conclusions: High levels of academic stress associated with the demands and requirements of a medicine program with high quality accreditation were observed. High levels of C-reactive protein were associated with high levels of abdominal obesity, which means that a significant number of students are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially those in whom prehypertension was detected. No significant relationship was found between academic stress and C-reactive protein levels(AU)

Aislamiento y caracterización de bacterias productoras de biopolimeros a partir de efluentes industriales / Isolated and characterization of biopolymer producing bacteria from industrial effluents

RESUMEN Se realizó una caracterización físico-química de los efluentes procedentes de industrias del sector educación, metalmecánico, lácteos y confitería de la ciudad de Manizales, Caldas; posteriormente se obtuvieron aislamientos, en medios diferenciales suplementados, de bacterias con potencial para la producción de biopolímeros a los cuales se les aplicó pruebas para la caracterización morfológica, bioquímica y molecular. Los parámetros físico químicos obtenidos de los efluentes industriales demuestran diferencias entre ellos, ya que cada industria genera diferentes residuos aportando una determinada contaminación al efluente, se obtuvieron 73 aislamientos productores de exopolisacáridos (EPS) y 101 productores de polihidroxialcanoatos (PHA), con características morfológicas y bioquímicas variables. El estudio muestra que los efluentes industriales son una gran fuente de bacterias de interés para la producción de diversos polímeros microbianos; principalmente aquellos que producen polímeros tipo biopoliésteres intracelulares como PHA, debido a su variabilidad físico-química y nutricional permitiendo que los microorganismos se adapten a diversas características medioambientales y de composición.

ABSTRACT A physical-chemical characterization of effluents from industries in the education, metal-mechanic, dairy and confectionery sectors of the city of Manizales, Caldas; Later isolates were obtained, in differential media supplemented, from bacteria with potential for the production of biopolymers to which they were applied tests for morphological, biochemical and molecular characterization. The physical chemical parameters obtained from the industrial effluents show a difference between them, since each industry generates different waste contributing a certain contamination to the effluent, 73 isolates producing exopolysaccharides (EPS) and 101 producers of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) were obtained, with morphological characteristics and variable biochemistry. The study shows that industrial effluents are a great source of bacteria of interest for the production of various microbial polymers; mainly those that produce polymers like intracellular biopolyesters such as PHA, due to their physical-chemical and nutritional variability allowing the microorganisms to adapt to diverse environmental and compositional characteristics.

A propósito del bicentenario de la independencia de Colombia: las prácticas de lectura de Antonio Nariño y el desarrollo de una vacuna presuntamente efectiva contra la viruela / With regard to the bicentennial of the independence of Colombia: Reading practices of Antonio Nariño and the development of a presumably effective vaccine against smallpox

Introducción. La historia social de la cultura escrita reflexiona sobre los hábitos y prácticas que permiten apropiarse de los textos mediante la lectura y la escritura. De allí, que la biblioteca de un individuo permita comprender sus hábitos de lectura, su manera de imaginar la naturaleza, su relación con el poder político y religioso, y su vinculación con la sociedad. Objetivo. Interpretar las prácticas de lectura de Antonio Nariño a partir de los libros de Medicina de su biblioteca, para aproximarse a la manera en que desarrolló una vacuna presuntamente efectiva contra la viruela. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo una descripción bibliográfica de los documentos "Confiscación y embargo de bienes de Nariño" y "Papeles, libros y bienes de Sebastián López Ruiz en poder de Nariño" del Archivo Nariño de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Resultados. De los 39 libros sobre Medicina (siete tratados de Cirugía, 12 compendios del ejercicio práctico, 11 manuales de enfermedades, siete compendios de temáticas médicas y dos libros sobre partos), tres eran tratados sobre la viruela. Conclusión. El ejercicio médico-científico de Antonio Nariño refleja sus prácticas de lectura y de escritura, sus habilidades y sus competencias, y permite reconocer sus actitudes culturales y sociales ante la promoción de la noción de salud pública. El estudio de Nariño como médico autodidacta permitió relacionar las técnicas de producción científica (desarrollo de la vacuna) y la materialidad cultural (situación actual), a partir de los textos de Medicina de su biblioteca.

Introduction: The social history of written culture reflects the reading and writing habits and practices that allow us to appropriate the texts to build our sense of community. Hence, the library of individuals reflects their reading habits, their way of imagining nature, their relationship with political and religious power, and their involvement with society. Objective: To interpret Antonio Nariño's reading practices by means of the medical books in his library to approach the way he developed a presumably effective vaccine against smallpox. Materials and methods: We made a bibliographic description of the documents "Confiscación y embargo de bienes de Nariño" and "Papeles, libros y bienes de Sebastián López Ruiz en poder de Nariño" from the Nariño Archive of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Results: Out of the 39 books about Medicine (seven treatises on surgery, 12 compendia of practical exercise, 11 disease manuals, seven compendia of medical topics, and two books on childbirth) three were smallpox treatises. Conclusion: Antonio Nariño's medical and scientific practice reflects his reading and writing habits, his skills and competences, and his cultural attitudes, which promoted the notion of public health. The study of Nariño as a self-taught physician allowed for relating the scientific production techniques (development of the vaccine) and the cultural materiality (state of the art) based on the medical texts in his library.

Antagonism of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria against the causal agent of the vascular wilting of tomato / Antagonismo de rizobacterias promotoras del crecimiento vegetal contra el agente causal de la marchitez vascular del tomate

ABSTRACT Use of biotechnological potential of native microorganisms as bio-inputs is having a great impact on agricultural systems. Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), in addition to their beneficial effect on plant growth and on the availability of soil elements, also have an antagonistic effect against different pathogens. In this study, growth promotion mechanisms with emphasis on the antagonism of PGPR isolated from sugarcane and tomato crops were evaluated. Antagonism against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp lycopersici (Fol) was determined by dual tests, inhibition of germination and production of chitinases and endoglucanases. 52 isolates were evaluated and according to their results in dual tests 10 were selected for further analysis. Isolate GIBI127 showed the best percentage of Inhibition Germination (IG) of Fol (59.29%). Then, a selection index was calculated using results from gi, dual tests and growth promotion mechanisms to select five best isolates. Finally, these bacteria were evaluated for chitinases and endoglucanases production using Miller's method. As a result, strain GIBI419 (Burkholderia cepacia) showed a higher production of these enzymes. Selected isolates have antagonistic potential along with plant growth promotion characteristics, which can be used for the development of microbial inoculants which allow the establishment of agricultural systems for tomato cultivation that are sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

RESUMEN El uso del potencial biotecnológico de microorganismos nativos como bioinsumos está teniendo un gran impacto en los sistemas agrícolas. Las rizobacterias promotoras del crecimiento vegetal (PGPR), además de su efecto benéfico en el crecimiento de las plantas y de facilitar la disponibilidad de elementos del suelo, también tienen un efecto antagónico frente a diferentes patógenos. En este estudio se evaluaron mecanismos de promoción del crecimiento con énfasis en el antagonismo de bacterias PGPR aisladas de cultivos de caña de azúcar y tomate. El antagonismo contra Fusarium oxysporum f.sp lycopersici (Fol) se determinó mediante pruebas duales, inhibición de la germinación y producción de quitinasas y endoglucanasas. Se evaluaron 52 aislamientos y según sus resultados en pruebas duales se seleccionaron 10 para su posterior análisis. El aislado GIBI127 mostró el mejor porcentaje de Inhibición de la Germinación (IG) de Fol (59,29%). Luego, se calculó un índice de selección utilizando los resultados de IG, pruebas duales y mecanismos de promoción del crecimiento para seleccionar los cinco mejores aislamientos. Finalmente, estas bacterias fueron evaluadas en la producción de quitinasas y endoglucanasas utilizando el método de Miller. Como resultado, se evidenció la cepa GIBI419 (Burkholderia cepacia) como la de mayor producción de estas enzimas. Los aislados seleccionados tienen un potencial antagónico junto con características de promoción del crecimiento de las plantas, que pueden usarse para el desarrollo de inoculantes microbianos que permitan el establecimiento de sistemas agrícolas para el cultivo de tomate que sean sostenibles, eficientes y amigables con el medio ambiente.

Caracterización bibliométrica de las revistas odontológicas colombianas indexadas en la segunda actualización del Publindex 2014 / Bibliometric characterization of colombian dental journals indexed in the second update of 2014 Publindex

Aim: To characterize the Colombian jo- urnals of dentistry indexed in the second update of Publindex 2014 from the biblio- metric point of view, to describe the ten- dencies of the publications in the thematic areas of dentistry. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional documentary study that carried out a bibliometric analysis of the scientific articles published in seven dental journals (Revista de la Facultad de Odon- tología de la Universidad de Antioquia, CES Odontología, Universitas Odonto- logica, Revista Nacional de Odontología, Acta Odontológica Colombiana, Revista Odontos Odontologia Integral y Revista Colombiana de Investigación en Odonto- logía) recognized and categorized in the second update of Publindex 2014. Results: A total of 1587 publications (of which 62% were original articles derived from research) were identified in a A2 category (360), two in B category (636) and four in C category (332). Conclusions: The bibliometric analysis of the eight journals evidences that the Revista de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Antioquia and the Re- vista CES Odontología, being the oldest, are the journals that have best adapted to Publindex guidelines, the only journals included in SciELO and the two journals with the highest index h5 ­five and seven respectively­ of Google Scholar

Objetivo: Caracterizar las revistas odonto- lógicas colombianas indexadas en la segun- da actualización del Publindex 2014 desde el punto de vista bibliométrico para descri- bir las tendencias de las publicaciones en cuanto a las áreas temáticas odontológicas. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo documental de corte transversal que realizó un análisis bibliométrico de los artículos científicos publicados en siete revistas odontológicas (Revista de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Antio- quia, CES Odontología, Universitas Odon- tologica, Revista Nacional de Odontología, Acta Odontológica Colombiana, Revista Odontos Odontología Integral y Revista Colombiana de Investigación en Odonto- logía) reconocidas y categorizadas en la segunda actualización del Publindex 2014. Resultados: Se identificaron un total de 1587 publicaciones (de los cuales el 62% fueron artículos originales derivados de investigación) distribuidos en una revista categoría A2 (360), en dos revistas catego- ría B (636) y en cuatro revistas categoría C (332). Conclusiones: El análisis bibliométrico de las ocho revistas evidencia que la Revista de la Facultad de Odontología de la Uni- versidad de Antioquia y la Revista CES Odontología, siendo las más antiguas, son las revistas que mejor se han adaptado a los lineamientos del Publindex, las únicas revistas incluidas en SciELO y las dos revistas con el índice h5 mas alto ­cinco y siete respectivamente­de Google Scholar.

Investigaciones de la Escuela de Odontología de la Universidad del Valle presentadas en los encuentros de la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología (ACFO) a 2016: Perfil bibliométrico / Research of the school of dentistry at Universidad del Valle presented in the Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología (ACFO) meetings to 2016: Bibliometric profile

Objective: To establish the bibliometric profile on the research work in the School of Dentistry of the Universidad del Valle (Cali, Colombia) presented at the research meetings of the Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología (ACFO) 1990-2016. Materials and methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study was carried out through a bibliometric analysis. The target population was the research carried out by the School of Dentistry of the University of the Valle that were presented at the ACFO meetings between the years 1990-2016; developed in two phases, the first identified the papers presented at the meetings; in the second phase were determined which of those works derived in articles published in scientific journals. Results: We found 184 papers that were presented at the ACFO research meetings, of which 104 have been published in scientific journals (84 in national journals and 20 in international journals). The research groups with greater recognition and categorization of Colciencias supported the articles that were published in the magazines of greater impact. Thematic areas on which research, dissemination and publication have been carried out are maxillofacial surgery and pathology, and periodontics and implantology, while those of lesser research are orthodontics and endodontics. Conclusions: The research process in the School of Dentistry of the Universidad del Valle, according to the number of papers presented and the number of articles published, has presented a considerable increase since 1999, with the association of teachers with master's and doctoral studies, in addition of the consolidation of the research groups.

Objetivo: Establecer el perfil bibliométrico de las investigaciones de la Escuela de Odontología de la Universidad del Valle (Cali, Colombia) presentadas en los en- cuentros de investigación de la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología (ACFO). Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo que en una primera instancia identificó las investigaciones realizadas en la Escuela de Odontología de la Universi- dad del Valle que fueron presentadas en los encuentros de la ACFO entre los años 1993-2016; y que en una segunda fase verificó cuales de esos trabajos de grado fueron publicados en una revista científica. Resultados: 184 trabajos de investigación han sido presentados en el encuentro de investigaciones de la ACFO, de los cuales 108 han sido publicados en revistas cien- tíficas, 84 nacionales y 20 internacionales. Los artículos que fueron publicados en las revistas de mayor impacto contaron con el respaldo de los grupos de investigación con mayor reconocimiento y categorización de Colciencias. Las áreas temáticas de las que más se ha hecho investigación, divulgación y publicación son cirugía maxilofacial y patología, y periodoncia e implantología. Conclusiónes: El proceso de investigación en la Escuela de Odontología de la Uni- versidad del Valle, de acuerdo al número de ponencias presentadas y al número de artículos publicados, ha presentado un considerable aumento desde 1999, con la vinculación de profesores con estudios de maestría y doctorado, además de la con- solidación de los grupos de investigación

Embriogénesis no zigótica en Passiflora maliformis Nonzygotic / Embryogenesis in Passiflora maliformis

La importancia económica, ecológica y medicinal de las pasifloras ha fomentado el desarrollo de investigaciones multidisciplinarias en estas plantas. En cultivo in vitro, la embriogénesis no zigótica representa una alternativa para regeneración de plantas; no obstante, esta técnica ha presentado dificultades en la reproducibilidad de los protocolos, así como formación de ciertos embriones y plántulas anormales en algunas especies. En este estudio se evaluó la capacidad morfogénica de embriones zigóticos maduros (EZM) de Passiflora maliformis L para desarrollar embriones no zigóticos (ENZ), y posterior regeneración de plántulas. Se ensayó una etapa de inducción en la que se probaron 12 tratamientos en medio MS+VitB5 suplementado con 2,4-D, KIN y BA adicionados solos o combinados y, otra, de expresión en MS, MS con Carbón activado (CA) o MS con reguladores de crecimiento (RC) en concentraciones reducidas a 1/10 parte de las adicionadas en la etapa inducción. Altos porcentajes, 70%, de regenerantes fueron obtenidos en el medio suplementado con 1 mgL-1 BA y transferidos a medio de expresión MS, así como en el medio con 1 mgL-1 BA + 3 mgL-1 2,4-D, y transferidos a medio de expresión con CA, 60%. El 70% de las plántulas regeneradas se desarrollaron exitosamente en invernadero. Este trabajo es el primero que aborda la expresión del potencial embriogénico de EZM de P. maliformis induciendo exitosamente respuestas embriogénicas no zigóticas a través de rutas directas e indirectas; los resultados obtenidos son aplicables al conocimiento de la embriogénesis no zigótica en otras pasifloras, con fines de mejoramiento y uso comercial.

The economic, ecological and medical significance of passion fruits has encouraged the development of multidisciplinary research in this group. In vitro culture, non-zygotic embryogenesis represents an alternative for plant regeneration; however, this technique has presented difficulties in the reproducibility of protocols as well as the development of certain embryos and abnormal plantlets in some species. We assessed in Passiflora maliformis L the morphogenic capacity in the mature zygotic embryos (MZE) to develop nonzygotic embryos (NZE), and subsequent plantlets regeneration. We tested an induction stage with 12 treatments in MS + VitB5 medium supplemented with 2,4-D, KIN and BA added alone or combined and, another with a MS, MS with Activated Charcoal (AC) or MS with growth regulators (GR) in 1/10 concentrations reduced to 1/10 of those added in the induction stage. We obtained high percentages, 70%, of regenerants in the medium supplemented with 1 mgL-1 BA and transferred to the MS expression medium, as well as in the medium with 1 mgL-1 BA + 3 mgL-1 2,4-D, and transferred to the expression medium with AC, 60%. 70% of the regenerated seedlings were successfully grown in the greenhouse. This is the first research that addresses the expression of the MZE embryogenic potential in P. maliformis, inducing a successfully embryogenic non-zygotic responses through direct and indirect routes; the obtained results are relevant to the knowledge of non-zygotic embryogenesis in other passion fruits, for breeding and commercial uses.

Frecuencia y variabilidad de la morfología dental de molares temporales y permanentes en un grupo de mestizos caucasoides de Popayán (Cauca, Colombia) / Frequency and variability of dental morphology of temporal and permanent molars in a group of Caucasoid mestizos from Popayán (Cauca, Colombia)

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia y variabilidad de la morfología dental en molares temporales y permanentes de un grupo de mestizos caucasoides de Popayán (Cauca, Colombia), con el fin de generar nuevos marcadores grupales que permitan comparar las diferentes poblaciones colombianas y mundiales a partir de nueve rasgos morfológicos dentales coronales (RMDC). Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal cuantitativo que determinó la frecuencia y variabilidad de nueve RMDC (cúspide de Carabelli, reducción del hipocono, metaconulo, patrón cuspídeo, número de cúspides, pliegue acodado, protostílido, cúspide 6 y cúspide 7) mediante la metodología ASUDAS en 101 individuos autoreconocidos como mestizos caucasoides (59 femeninos y 42 masculinos), con edades comprendidas entre los 10 y los 17 años. Resultados: Se identificaron frecuencias significativas de reducción del hipocono (89,9%), Patrón cuspídeo en Y (81,6%) y número de cúspides (92,7%); y bajas frecuencias de metacónulo (0,2%), protostílido (0,6%) y cúspide 6 (0,2%). No se encontró dimorfismo sexual y asimetría bilateral en los RMDC estudiados. Conclusiones: La muestra estudiada se caracteriza por presentar una morfología dental propia de poblaciones mestizas colombianas que se incluyen en el complejo dental caucasoide (cúspide Carabelli, reducción del hipocono y número de cúspides); sin embargo, debido a los procesos etnohistóricos de la región geográfica donde se ubican, presentan influencia de grupos indígenas (patrón cuspídeo) incluidos en el complejo dental mongoloide. Palabras clave: Antropología dental, morfología dental, dientes molares, rasgos morfológicos dentales coronales, mestizos caucasoides

Objective: To determine the frequency and variability of dental morphology in temporary and permanent molars of a group of Caucasoid mestizos from Popayán (Cauca, Colombia), in order to generate new group markers that allow comparing the different Colombian and world populations from nine coronal dental morphological features (NMDT). Materials and methods: quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study that determined the frequency and variability of nine NMDT (Carabelli trait, hypocone reduction, metaconule, cusp pattern, cusp number, defleckting wrinkle, protostilyd, cusp 6 and cusp 7) using the ASUDAS methodology In 101 self-described individuals as Caucasoid mestizos (59 females and 42 males), aged between 10 and 17 years. Results: Significant reduction frequencies of the hypoconus (89.9%), cusp pattern in Y (81.6%) and number of cusps (92.7%) were identified; And low frequencies of metacele (0.2%), protostilyd (0.6%) and cusp 6 (0.2%). No sexual dimorphism and bilateral asymmetry were found in the NMDT studied. Conclusions: The sample studied is characterized by a dental morphology characteristic of Colombian mestizo populations that are included in the Caucasoid dental complex (Carabelli cusp, reduction of the hipocono and number of cusps). However, due to the ethnohistorical processes of the geographic region where they are located, they are influenced by indigenous groups (cuspid expression) included in the mongoloid dental complex