Lean body mass and the cardiorespiratory phenotype: An ethnic-specific relationship in Hans Chinese women and men.

BACKGROUND: Lean body mass (LBM) and the functional capacity of cardiovascular (CV) and respiratory systems constitute a female-specific relationship in European-American individuals. Whether this recent finding be extrapolated to the world's largest ethnic group, that is, Hans Chinese (HC, a population characterized by low LBM), is unknown. METHODS: Healthy HC adults (n = 144, 50% ♀) closely matched by sex, age and physical activity were included. Total and regional (leg, arm and trunk) LBM and body composition were measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Cardiac structure, stiffness, central/peripheral haemodynamics and peak O2 consumption (VO2peak) were assessed via transthoracic echocardiography and pulmonary gas analyses at rest and during exercise up to peak effort. Regression analyses determined the sex-specific relationship of LBM with cardiac and aerobic phenotypes. RESULTS: Total and regional LBM were lower and body fat percentage higher in women compared with men (P < 0.001). In both sexes, total LBM positively associated with left ventricular (LV) mass and peak volumes (r ≥ 0.33, P ≤ 0.005) and negatively with LV end-systolic and central arterial stiffness (r ≥ -0.34, P ≤ 0.004). Total LBM strongly associated with VO2peak (r ≥ 0.60, P < 0.001) and peak cardiac output (r ≥ 0.40, P < 0.001) in women and men. Among regional LBM, leg LBM prominently associated with the arterio-venous O2 difference at peak exercise in both sexes (r ≥ 0.43, P < 0.001). Adjustment by adiposity or CV risk factors did not modify the results. CONCLUSIONS: LBM independently determines internal cardiac dimensions, ventricular mass, distensibility and the capacity to deliver and consume O2 in HC adults irrespective of sex.

The Chinese cardiorespiratory and circulatory system at work in women and men: a case-control study.

Background: The physiology of prominent prognostic factors in the cardiorespiratory system remains unchartered in the world's largest ethnic group: Hans Chinese (HC). This study assessed and contrasted the fundamental variables in HC and European-American (EA) individuals. Methods: Healthy HC and EA adults (n = 140, 43% ♀) closely matched by age, sex and physical activity were included. Body composition (DXA) and haematological variables (haemoglobin mass, blood volume (BV)) were measured at rest. Pulmonary O2 uptake (VO2) measurements along with cycle ergometry designed for accurate transthoracic echocardiography were implemented to assess cardiorespiratory structure/function up to peak effort. Findings: HC presented with higher body fat and lower lean body mass (LBM) percentage than EA irrespective of sex (P ≤ 0.014). BV did not differ whereas blood haemoglobin concentration was lower in HC compared with EA, particularly in females (P = 0.009). Myocardial diastolic and overall function at rest was enhanced in HC versus EA (P < 0.001). During exercise, heart volumes and output per unit of body size did not differ between ethnicities, whereas larger heart volumes per unit of LBM were found in HC versus EA in females (P ≤ 0.003). At high exercise intensities, VO2 (-16%) and the arteriovenous O2 difference (-28%) were markedly reduced in HC compared with EA in females (P ≤ 0.024). In males, no physiological difference between HC and EA was observed during exercise. Interpretation: Notwithstanding lower LBM, HC are characterised by similar BV and cardiac capacity but reduced peak VO2 than EA in females, partly explained by low ethnic-specific blood O2 carrying capacity. Funding: Early Career Scheme (106210224, to D.M.) and Seed Fund (104006024, to D.M.).

Control over the spatial correlation of perforations in silica thin films as a function of solution conditions.

A perforated silica layer with structural correlation is engineered using sol-gel chemistry, applied to large-scale flat and curved surfaces. The anion(s) used in the preparation give tailored spatial correlation, and control over perforation size and density. Surface structuration is rapidly and reproducibly created using water and salts as inexpensive and ecofriendly reagents.

Brucella abortus triggers the differential expression of immunomodulatory lncRNAs in infected murine macrophages.

Introduction: The lncRNAs (long non-coding RNAs) are the most diverse group of non-coding RNAs and are involved in most biological processes including the immune response. While some of them have been recognized for their influence on the regulation of inflammatory activity, little is known in the context of infection by Brucella abortus, a pathogen that presents significant challenges due to its ability to manipulate and evade the host immune system. This study focuses on characterize the expression profile of LincRNA-cox2, Lethe, lincRNA-EPS, Malat1 and Gas5 during infection of macrophages by B. abortus. Methods: Using public raw RNA-seq datasets we constructed for a lncRNA expression profile in macrophages Brucella-infected. In addition, from public RNA-seq raw datasets of RAW264.7 cells infected with B. abortus we constructed a transcriptomic profile of lncRNAs in order to know the expression of the five immunomodulating lncRNAs studied here at 8 and 24 h post-infection. Finally, we performed in vitro infection assays in RAW264.7 cells and peritoneal macrophages to detect by qPCR changes in the expression of these lncRNAs at first 12 hours post infection, a key stage in the infection cycle where Brucella modulates the immune response to survive. Results: Our results demonstrate that infection of macrophages with Brucella abortus, induces significant changes in the expression of LincRNA-Cox2, Lethe, LincRNA-EPS, Gas5, and Malat1. Discussion: The change in the expression profile of these immunomodulatory lncRNAs in response to infection, suggest a potential involvement in the immune evasion strategy employed by Brucella to facilitate its intracellular survival.

Natural killer T cells in allergic asthma: implications for the development of novel immunotherapeutical strategies.

Allergic asthma has emerged as a prevalent allergic disease worldwide, affecting most prominently both young individuals and lower-income populations in developing and developed countries. To devise effective and curative immunotherapy, it is crucial to comprehend the intricate nature of this condition, characterized by an immune response imbalance that favors a proinflammatory profile orchestrated by diverse subsets of immune cells. Although the involvement of Natural Killer T (NKT) cells in asthma pathology is frequently implied, their specific contributions to disease onset and progression remain incompletely understood. Given their remarkable ability to modulate the immune response through the rapid secretion of various cytokines, NKT cells represent a promising target for the development of effective immunotherapy against allergic asthma. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of NKT cells in the context of allergic asthma, along with novel therapeutic approaches that leverage the functional response of these cells.

Evaluation of the Humoral Response after Immunization with a Chimeric Subunit Vaccine against Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli in Pregnant Sows and Their Offspring.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) poses a significant public health risk due to its zoonotic potential and association with severe human diseases, such as hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. Ruminants are recognized as primary reservoirs for STEC, but swine also contribute to the epidemiology of this pathogen, highlighting the need for effective prevention strategies across species. Notably, a subgroup of STEC that produces Shiga toxin type 2e (Stx2e) causes edema disease (ED) in newborn piglets, economically affecting pig production. This study evaluates the immunogenicity of a chimeric protein-based vaccine candidate against STEC in pregnant sows and the subsequent transfer of immunity to their offspring. This vaccine candidate, which includes chimeric proteins displaying selected epitopes from the proteins Cah, OmpT, and Hes, was previously proven to be immunogenic in pregnant cows. Our analysis revealed a broad diversity of STEC serotypes within swine populations, with the cah and ompT genes being prevalent, validating them as suitable antigens for vaccine development. Although the hes gene was detected less frequently, the presence of at least one of these three genes in a significant proportion of STEC suggests the potential of this vaccine to target a wide range of strains. The vaccination of pregnant sows led to an increase in specific IgG and IgA antibodies against the chimeric proteins, indicating successful immunization. Additionally, our results demonstrated the effective passive transfer of maternal antibodies to piglets, providing them with immediate, albeit temporary, humoral immunity against STEC. These humoral responses demonstrate the immunogenicity of the vaccine candidate and are preliminary indicators of its potential efficacy. However, further research is needed to conclusively evaluate its impact on STEC colonization and shedding. This study highlights the potential of maternal vaccination to protect piglets from ED and contributes to the development of vaccination strategies to reduce the prevalence of STEC in various animal reservoirs.

Two centuries of vaccination: historical and conceptual approach and future perspectives.

Over the past two centuries, vaccines have been critical for the prevention of infectious diseases and are considered milestones in the medical and public health history. The World Health Organization estimates that vaccination currently prevents approximately 3.5-5 million deaths annually, attributed to diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles. Vaccination has been instrumental in eradicating important pathogens, including the smallpox virus and wild poliovirus types 2 and 3. This narrative review offers a detailed journey through the history and advancements in vaccinology, tailored for healthcare workers. It traces pivotal milestones, beginning with the variolation practices in the early 17th century, the development of the first smallpox vaccine, and the continuous evolution and innovation in vaccine development up to the present day. We also briefly review immunological principles underlying vaccination, as well as the main vaccine types, with a special mention of the recently introduced mRNA vaccine technology. Additionally, we discuss the broad benefits of vaccines, including their role in reducing morbidity and mortality, and in fostering socioeconomic development in communities. Finally, we address the issue of vaccine hesitancy and discuss effective strategies to promote vaccine acceptance. Research, collaboration, and the widespread acceptance and use of vaccines are imperative for the continued success of vaccination programs in controlling and ultimately eradicating infectious diseases.

Caracteristicas clinicas y epidemiologicas de lesiones cervicales no cariosas / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of non-carious cervical injuries / Características clínicas y epidemiológicas de lesões cervicais não cariosas

Las lesiones cervicales no cariosas consisten en la pérdida de estructura dentaria en la región cervical de la superficie vestibular de los elementos dentarios, no relacionados con caries. Objetivo: Verificar las características clínicas, epi-demiológicas y los factores de riesgo de lesiones cervicales no cariosas. Materiales y métodos: Fueron evaluados 300 elementos dentarios en 96 individuos adultos que fueron sometidos a entrevista y examen clínico intra-oral. Resultados: Se encontró una razón de prevalencia en la que 0,87 de los pacientes usan prótesis. Respecto a hábitos de higiene oral, 0,51 utilizan cepillo suave; 0,52 se cepillan tres veces por día y, 0,68 utilizan dirección de cepillado combinado. En los pacientes, se evaluó que 0,56 tenían antecedentes de trastornos gastrointestinales; el 40% toman medicamentos; 0,36 presentan desoclusión en guía canina. Con relación a las características de la lesión, 0,40 presentan tipo de contacto A; 43% con profundidad inferior a 1 mm; 0,13 son portadores de prótesis parcial removible. En cuanto a hábitos alimenticios 0,93 toman bebidas cítricas; 0,15 son fumadores. Referente a los hábitos parafuncionales, 0,35 aprietan los dientes; 0,36 son bruxistas; 0,10 muerden objetos. Estas lesiones presentan una mayor prevalencia en premolares 0,54. Conclusiones: Verificando las características clínicas y epidemiológicas, y los factores de riesgo de las lesiones cervicales no cariosas, se concluye que predominan en premolares, el factor determinante para el surgimiento de estas lesiones es multifactorial, predominando la inestabilidad oclusal, ingestión de bebidas cítricas, uso de prótesis, trastornos gastrointestinales y hábitos parafuncionales.

Non-carious cervical lesions result from the loss of tooth structure in the cervical region of the vestibular surface of the dental elements, not related to caries. With the objective to verify the clinical and epidemiological features and risk factors of these injuries were evaluated 300 dental elements on 96 adult patients that were subjected to interview and intraoral clinical examination. The results presented a prevalence ratio in which the 0,87 of patients evaluated are prosthetic users. In oral hygiene habits, 0,51 use soft brush, 0,52 brush three times a day and 0,68 use brushing direction combined. Was evaluated in these patients that 0,56 have a history of gastrointestinal pathologies; 40% made use of medications and 0,36 have disocclusion characteristics in canine guide. In relation to the characteristics of the lesion, 0,40 have type of contact, 43% with a depth less than 1 mm and 0,13 are retainers of removable partial denture. As for the eating habits, 0,93 con-sume citrus fruits and 0,15 are smokers. Regarding parafunctional habits, 0,35 clench your teeth; 0,36 have bruxism and 0,10 bite objects. These lesions showed a higher prevalence in premolars 0,54.Verified the clinical and epidemiological features and risk factors of non-carious cervical lesions, we conclude that the determining factor for the emergence of these lesions has shown characteristics multifactorial, with highest percentage for patients with occlusal instability, intake of acidic drinks, prosthesis, gastrointestinal diseases and parafunctional habits.

As lesões cervicais não cariosas residem da perda de estrutura dentária na região cervical da superfície vestibular dos elementos dentários, não relacionados com a lesão de cárie. Objetivo: verificar as características clinicas e epidemiológi-cas, e os fatores de risco destas lesões. Materiais e métodos: foram avaliados 300 elementos dentários em 96 indivíduos adultos que foram submetidos a entrevista e exame clinico intra-oral. Resultados: se encontrou uma razão de prevalência em que 0,87 dos pacientes avaliados são usuários de prótese. Em hábitos de higiene oral, 0,51 utilizam escova macia, 0,52 escovam três vezes ao dia e 0,68 utilizam direção de escovação combinada. Avaliou-se nos pacientes que, 0,56 apresentam histórico de patologias gastrointestinais; 40% faziam uso de medicamentos e 0,36 apresentam características de desoclusão em guia canino. Com relação as características da lesão, 0,40 apresentam tipo de contato A, 43% com profundidade menor que 1mm e 0,13 são retentores de prótese parcial removível. Quanto aos hábitos alimentares, 0,93 consomem bebidas cítricas e 0,15 são fumantes. Referente aos hábitos parafuncionais, 0,35 apertam os dentes; 0,36 possuem bruxismo e 0,10 mordem objetos. Estas lesões apresentaram uma maior prevalência em pré-molares 0,54. Verifi-cado as características clinicas e epidemiológicas, e os fatores de risco das lesões cervicais não cariosas, conclui-se que o fator determinante para o surgimento destas lesões demonstrou características multifatoriais, com maior percentual para pacientes com instabilidade oclusal dental, ingestão de bebidas ácidas, usuários de prótese, patologias gastrointestinais e hábitos parafuncionais.

Episodio Hipotonía-Hiporreactividad posterior a la inmunización con vacuna combinada con pertussis de células enteras. Reporte de un caso / Hypotonic-Hyporesponsive Episode after immunization with whole-cell pertussis combination vaccine. Clinical Case Report

Resumen Introducción: El Episodio Hipotonía-Hiporreactividad (EHH) es un efecto adverso tras la vacuna ción, asociado principalmente a vacunas anti-pertussis de células enteras. Se caracteriza por un inicio súbito de flacidez muscular, reducida respuesta a estímulos y palidez cutánea o cianosis. Aunque el EHH es infrecuente, está considerado como un efecto adverso severo. Objetivo: Reportar un caso de EHH posterior a la administración de la vacuna combinada pentavalente con: difteria, tétanos, pertussis celular, hepatitis B y Haemophilus influenzae tipo b (DTwP-HB-Hib), que está incluida en el Programa Nacional de Inmunizaciones (PNI) de Chile, con la finalidad de difundir esta infrecuente complicación de evolución benigna, auto-limitada y de carácter no recurrente. Caso clínico: Lactante de 6 meses de edad, 3 h post-vacunación con la tercera dosis de vacuna DTwP-HB-Hib, presentó compromiso del estado de conciencia interpretado como convulsión atónica y que finalmente se consideró como EHH. El lactante evolucionó favorablemente después de 2 h y fue dado de alta tras 24 h de vigilancia clínica; se cambió el esquema de inmunización del lactante con vacunas anti-per tussis acelulares como medida preventiva. Conclusiones: El desconocimiento sobre el EHH puede desalentar la inmunización infantil. Por lo tanto, es importante que el personal médico informe a los padres de los pacientes sobre este evento benigno, autolimitado y no recurrente. En estos casos, se re comienda continuar con el programa de inmunización del lactante con formulaciones que contengan componentes anti-pertussis acelulares.

Abstract Introduction: Hypotonic-Hyporesponsive Episode (HHE) is an adverse event after vaccination, mainly associated with whole-cell pertussis vaccines. It is characterized by a sudden onset of muscle flaccidity, reduced response to stimuli and pallor or cyanosis. Although the HHE is infrequent, it is considered a severe adverse event. Objective: To report a case of HHE following the administration of the whole-cell pertussis combination vaccine (DTwP-HB-Hib), which is included in National Im munization Program (PNI) of Chile, and to contributing to the knowledge of this adverse event in the country. Case report: A 6-month-old infant, 3 hours post-vaccination with the third dose of DTwP-HB-Hib vaccine, presented a decreased level of consciousness that was interpreted as atonic seizure but finally considered as EHH. The infant progressed favorably after 2 hours of clinical observation and was discharged 24 hours later. Parents were suggested to continue the immunization schedule of the infant with acellular pertussis vaccines as a preventive measure. Conclusions: The lack of knowledge about the EHH may discourage childhood immunization. Therefore, it is important for the medical staff to inform parents of the patients about this benign, self-limited and non-recurrent adverse event. In these cases, it is recommended to continue the immunization schedule of the infant with acellular pertussis vaccines.

Percepción de inseguridad, victimización y restricciones en la vida cotidiana en función del ciclo vital, en Morelos, México / Perception of insecurity, victimization and restrictions in daily life according to the life cycle, in Morelos, Mexico / Percepção da insegurança, vitimização e as limitações na vida diária baseada no ciclo vital, em Morelos, México

Resumen Los estudios sobre percepción de inseguridad, victimización y restricciones en la vida cotidiana en países con altos índices de criminalidad son escasos. Objetivo: examinar la percepción de inseguridad, victimización y variaciones de las rutinas en función de la edad. Método: se ha realizado una adaptación de la Encuesta Nacional sobre Victimización y Percepción de Inseguridad (ENVIPE). Participaron 8.170 sujetos de ambos sexos (49,9 % mujeres y 50,1 % hombres), de entre 12 y 75 años, residentes en el Estado de Morelos, seleccionados a partir de un muestreo probabilístico estratificado y proporcional. Respecto a la edad, se establecieron los siguientes intervalos en función de las distintas etapas del ciclo vital: [12-17 años] 24 %, [18-20 años] 8 %, [21-30 años] 14 %, [31 y 40 años] 14 %, [41 y 60 años] 20 % y [61 o más años] 20 %. Resultados: indicaron diferencias significativas en la percepción de inseguridad, victimización y restricciones en las actividades cotidianas en función de la edad. Los adolescentes informaron de mayor percepción de inseguridad y de menos restricciones en su vida cotidiana. También, los adolescentes y los mayores de 61 años presentaron una menor victimización. Conclusión: los adolescentes constituyen el grupo de mayor vulnerabilidad para la victimización, perciben mayor inseguridad y realizan menos cambios en sus rutinas para protegerse de la delincuencia. Finalmente, se discuten los resultados.

Abstract Studies on the perception of insecurity, victimization and restrictions in daily life in countries with high crime rates are scarce. Objective: examining the awareness of insecurity and victimization, and the routine variations taking place according to age. Method: an adaptation has been made of the National Survey on Victimization and Perception of Insecurity (ENVIPE). A total of 8,170 subjects of both sexes (49.9% women and 50.1% men), between 12 and 75 years old, residents in the State of Morelos, selected from a stratified and proportional probabilistic sampling. Regarding age, the following intervals were established depending on the different stages of the life cycle: [12-17 years] 24%, [18-20 years] 8%, [21-30 years] 14%, [31 and 40 years] 14%, [41 and 60 years] 20% and [61 or above] 20%. Results: Significant differences in the perception of insecurity, victimization and restrictions in daily activities based on age were shown. Adolescents reported greater insight with respect to insecurity and fewer restrictions in their daily lives. Also, adolescents and those over 61 years of age presented lower victimization. Conclusion: adolescents are the most vulnerable group for victimization; they perceive higher uncertainty and generally introduce fewer changes in their routines to protect themselves from crime. Finally, the results are discussed.

Resumo Os estudos sobre a percepção da insegurança, vitimização e as limitações na vida diária nos países com índices elevados de criminalidade são escassos. Objetivo: examinar a percepção da insegurança, vitimização e as variações das rotinas baseadas na idade. Método: uma adaptação da Escola Nacional sobre Vitimização e Percepção de Insegurança (ENVIPE) foi realizada. 8.170 sujeitos de ambos os sexos participaram (49.9% mulheres e 50.1% homens), entre e 75 anos, residentes no estado de Morelos, selecionados de uma amostra probabilística estratificada e proporcional. Com respeito à idade, os seguintes intervalos baseados nos diferentes estágios do ciclo vital forma estabelecidos: [12-17 anos] 24%, [18-20 anos] 8%, [21-30 anos] 14%, [31 e 40 anos] 14%, [41 e 60 anos] 20% e [61 ou mais anos] 20%. Resultados: indicaram diferenças significativas na percepção de insegurança, vitimização e as limitações nas atividades diárias baseadas na idade. Os adolescentes informaram uma maior percepção de insegurança e de menos limitações em sua vida diária. Também, os adolescentes e maiores de 61 anos apresentaram uma vitimização menor. Conclusão: os adolescentes constituem o grupo de maior vulnerabilidade para a vitimização, percebem maior insegurança e fazem menos mudanças em suas rotinas para proteger-se da delinquência. Finalmente, os resultados são discutidos.

Brote de diarrea por Shigella en Coto Brus, Costa Rica, de octubre a diciembre del 2001 / Outbreaks of diarrhea by Shigella in Coto Brus, Costa Rica of october to december of the 2001

Introducción: Coto Brus, cantón cafetalero localizado en la zona fronteriza con Panamá, reportó, en noviembre del 2001, dos defunciones en menores de un año por Shigella flexnnery, debido a un brote de diarrea. Se inició la investigación para determinar la magnitud y el mecanismo de transmisión del brote y recomendar acciones para prevenir nuevos casos. Métodos: Se revisaron 2862 hojas de consultas por diarrea en el Hospital de Coto Brus, de enero a noviembre del 2001, para caracterizar el brote. Se tomaron muestras de agua para el cultivo bacteriológico y coprocultivos. Para determinar el mecanismo de transmisión de Shigella, se realizó un estudio caso-control. Un caso fue toda persona de Coto Brus, referida al hospital del lugar por diarrea y que presentó un coprocultivo positivo por Shigella, del 1 al 15 diciembre del 2001. Se calcularon OR(IC95 por ciento) a variables sociolaborales y condiciones higiénicas. Resultados: De 29 coprocultivos enviados se aislaron 19 por Shigella Flexneri. Factores de riesgo como: no lavarse las manos antes de comer presentó un OR=4,80;IC(1.28-18,73), para recolectores de café el OR=4,17(1,09-16,73) y contactar con una persona con diarre OR=4,36(IC95 por ciento=1,08-18,27). Las muestras de agua no reportaron contaminación con el agente. La propagación persona a persona fue identificada como mecanismo de transmisión. Conclusiones: Deficientes condiciones de saneamiento en las fincas cafetaleras y las malas prácticas higiénicas facilitaron la transmisión de Shigella entre los recolectores de café. Se recomendó supervisar la actividad cafetalera por los Ministerios de Salud y Trabajo para garantizar condiciones de saneamiento básicas y promover prácticas higiénicas en los trabajadores durante la época de recolección de café.