Necrotizing external otitis: diagnostic clues in the emergency department.

PURPOSE: The assessment of necrotizing external otitis requires a high index of suspicion by the attending physician. The purpose of the study is to determine the accuracy of parameters available at the Emergency Department for the diagnosis of this pathology. METHODS: Retrospective diagnostic accuracy study. Patients consulting at the Emergency Department for longstanding ear swelling, severe otalgia, and failure to respond to topical treatment were included. Otoscopy, physical examination, CT appearance, and analytical results were tested for the diagnosis of necrotizing external otitis, using nuclear imaging as gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios and ROC curves were calculated. RESULTS: 24 patients were included; 13 cases were necrotizing external otitis, and 11 cases were other external ear pathologies. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels were significantly associated with necrotizing external otitis (AUC 0.92 p < 0.001, and 0.8 p < 0.001). Positive likelihood ratios were 10.15 for values of erythrocyte sedimentation rate over 26 mm/h, and 8.25 for C-reactive protein levels over 10 mg/L. Negative likelihood ratios were 0.08 and 0.28, respectively. These results were significant. The rest of clinical and radiological parameters were less accurate. CONCLUSIONS: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein are useful parameters in the evaluation of a case of longstanding otitis with clinical suspicion of necrotizing external otitis. If any of them is elevated, the probability of suffering this condition is significantly increased. If they are within normal ranges, an alternative diagnosis should be sought.

Fractura con hundimiento de cráneo intrauterina espontánea: reporte de dos casos / Spontaneous intrauterine depressed skull fracture: report of two cases

Las fracturas con hundimiento de cráneo intrauterinas representan una entidad poco frecuente, generalmente secundaria a traumatismos (previos o durante el nacimiento) o de etiología desconocida. Suelen requerir evaluación y seguimiento por el servicio de Neurocirugía Pediátrica. A la fecha, es controversial la necesidad de tratamiento quirúrgico y el momento oportuno para concretarlo. Se presentan dos casos clínicos de pacientes de término, nacidas porcesárea,condiagnósticoposnatalinmediatodehundimiento de cráneo de tipo ping-pong no traumático. Ambas pacientes presentaron examen neurológico normal. Se confirmó el diagnóstico a través de radiografía y tomografía de cráneo, sin observarse lesiones asociadas. Fueron valoradas por el servicio de Neurocirugía, que indicó corrección quirúrgica de la lesión en ambos casos, con buena evolución posterior.

Spontaneous intrauterine depressed skull fractures are a rare entity. They can appear secondarily to head trauma (before or during birth) or due to unknown etiology. They usually require a complete evaluation from pediatric neurosurgery specialists. Their optimal management, including timely surgical treatment remains controversial. We describe two cases delivered by cesarean section, with postnatal diagnosis of spontaneous intrauterine depressed skull fracture. Both had a normal neurological exam. A skull radiography and head CT were performed, and no associated lesions were found. Both cases required surgical correction, with positive results.

Caracterización de la infección por VIH/sida en el municipio Guantánamo / Characterization of HIV/AIDS infection in Guantanamo municipality / Caracterização da infecção pelo VIH/sida no município de Guantánamo

RESUMEN Introducción: En la provincia de Guantánamo la infección por VIH que causa el sida es un problema social, sin embargo, no se encuentran investigaciones descriptivas actualizadas al respecto. Objetivo: Caracterizar los pacientes con diagnóstico de infección por VIH/sida en el municipio Guantánamo en el período 2015-2019. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal en el municipio Guantánamo, donde el universo de estudio fue el total de pacientes del municipio Guantánamo (N=347) con el referido diagnóstico en el quinquenio mencionado. Se estudiaron las siguientes variables: edad, sexo, orientación sexual, vía de infección, grupo de pesquisa e incidencia por área de salud. Se utilizó la base de datos de la sección de VIH/sida y hepatitis del Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiologia y Microbiología de la provincia Guantánamo. Resultados: El 29,97 % de los pacientes tenía edad entre 25 a 34 años, eran del sexo masculino 272 (78,37 %). El 46,68 % eran heterosexuales. Fue más común la infección por vía sexual (99,71 %). La fuente de pesquisa más frecuente fue la captación (44,38 %) y la mayor incidencia se registró en el área de salud Caribe (0,54 x 1 000 habitantes). Conclusiones: La infección por el VIH es un problema de salud en el municipio de Guantánamo por el aumento del número de casos diagnosticados en el último quinquenio.

ABSTRACT Introduction: In Guantanamo province the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a social problem, however, there is currently no updated descriptive research on the subject. Objective: A full description of patients infective with HIV/AIDS in Guantanamo municipality from 2015 through 2019. Method: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in Guantanamo municipality. The total of patients infected with HIV/AIDS (N=347) were involved in the study. Variables used were: age, sex, sexual orientation, route of infection, screening and incidence group acting in each health area. Database used was the one implemented by the HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis department at the Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiología y Microbiología in Guantanamo province. Results: 29.97% of involved patients had average age between 25 and 34, 272 (78.37%) were male. 46.68% were heterosexual. Sexual transmission was the most common route of infection (99.71%). The most frequent source of screening was the catchment area (44.38%) and the highest incidence of infection was recorded in the Caribbean health area (0.54 x 1.000 inhabitants). Conclusions: HIV infection is a health problem in Guantánamo municipality due to the increase in the number of cases diagnosed in the last five years.

RESUMO Introdução: Na província de Guantánamo, a infecção pelo VIH que causa a sida é um problema social, entretanto, não existem pesquisas descritivas atualizadas a respeito. Objetivo: Caracterizar pacientes com diagnóstico de infecção pelo VIH/sida no município de Guantánamo no período 2015-2019. Método: Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal no município de Guantánamo, onde o universo de estudo foi o total de pacientes do município de Guantánamo (N=347) com o referido diagnóstico no referido período de cinco anos. Foram estudadas as seguintes variáveis: idade, sexo, orientação sexual, via de infecção, grupo de pesquisa e incidência por área de saúde. Foi utilizada a base de dados da seção de VIH/sida e hepatites do Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiologia e Microbiologia da província de Guantánamo. Resultados: 29,97% dos pacientes tinham entre 25 e 34 anos, 272 (78,37%) eram do sexo masculino. 46,68% eram heterossexuais. A infecção pela via sexual foi a mais comum (99,71%). A fonte de pesquisa mais frequente foi o recrutamento (44,38%) e a maior incidência foi registrada na área de saúde Caribe (0,54 x 1 000 habitantes). Conclusões: A infecção pelo VIH é um problema de saúde no município de Guantánamo devido ao aumento do número de casos diagnosticados nos últimos cinco anos.

Relevance of angiogenesis in autoimmune testis inflammation.

Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a useful model to study organ-specific autoimmunity and chronic testicular inflammation. This model reflects testicular pathological changes reported in immunological infertility in men. Progression of EAO in rodents is associated with a significantly increased percentage of testicular endothelial cells and interstitial testicular blood vessels, indicating an ongoing angiogenic process. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), the main regulator of physiological and pathological angiogenesis, can stimulate endothelial cell proliferation, chemotaxis and vascular permeability. The aim of this study was to explore the role of VEGFA in the pathogenesis of testicular inflammation. Our results found VEGFA expression in Leydig cells, endothelial cells and macrophages in testis of rats with autoimmune orchitis. VEGFA level was significantly higher in testicular fluid and serum of rats at the end of the immunization period, preceding testicular damage. VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 1 is expressed mainly in testicular endothelial cells, whereas VEGFR2 was detected in germ cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Both receptors were expressed in testicular interstitial cells. VEGFR2 increased after the immunization period in the testicular interstitium and VEGFR1 was downregulated in EAO testis. In-vivo-specific VEGFA inhibition by Bevacizumab prevented the increase in blood vessel number and reduced EAO incidence and severity. Our results unveil relevance of VEGFA-VEGFR axis during orchitis development, suggesting that VEGFA might be an early marker of testicular inflammation and Bevacizumab a therapeutic tool for treatment of testicular inflammation associated with subfertility and infertility.

Phosphorylation of PLK3 Is Controlled by Protein Phosphatase 6.

Polo-like kinases play essential roles in cell cycle control and mitosis. In contrast to other members of this kinase family, PLK3 has been reported to be activated upon cellular stress including DNA damage, hypoxia and osmotic stress. Here we knocked out PLK3 in human non-transformed RPE cells using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. Surprisingly, we find that loss of PLK3 does not impair stabilization of HIF1α after hypoxia, phosphorylation of the c-Jun after osmotic stress and dynamics of DNA damage response after exposure to ionizing radiation. Similarly, RNAi-mediated depletion of PLK3 did not impair stress response in human transformed cell lines. Exposure of cells to various forms of stress also did not affect kinase activity of purified EGFP-PLK3. We conclude that PLK3 is largely dispensable for stress response in human cells. Using mass spectrometry, we identify protein phosphatase 6 as a new interacting partner of PLK3. Polo box domain of PLK3 mediates the interaction with the PP6 complex. Finally, we find that PLK3 is phosphorylated at Thr219 in the T-loop and that PP6 constantly dephosphorylates this residue. However, in contrast to PLK1, phosphorylation of Thr219 does not upregulate enzymatic activity of PLK3, suggesting that activation of both kinases is regulated by distinct mechanisms.

Role of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase in testicular immune-privilege.

Male meiotic germ cell including the spermatozoa represent a great challenge to the immune system, as they appear long after the establishment of normal immune tolerance mechanisms. The capacity of the testes to tolerate autoantigenic germ cells as well as survival of allogeneic organ engrafted in the testicular interstitium have led to consider the testis an immunologically privileged site. Disruption of this immune privilege following trauma, tumor, or autoimmune orchitis often results in male infertility. Strong evidence indicates that indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) has been implicated in fetal and allograft tolerance, tumor immune resistance, and regulation of autoimmune diseases. IDO and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) catalyze the same rate-limiting step of tryptophan metabolism along a common pathway, which leads to tryptophan starvation and generation of catabolites collectively known as kynurenines. However, the relevance of tryptophan metabolism in testis pathophysiology has not yet been explored. Here we assessed the in vivo role of IDO/TDO in experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO), a model of autoimmune testicular inflammation and immunologically impaired spermatogenesis. EAO was induced in adult Wistar rats with testicular homogenate and adjuvants. Control (C) rats injected with saline and adjuvants and normal untreated rats (N) were also studied. mRNA expression of IDO decreased in whole testes and in isolated Sertoli cells during EAO. TDO and IDO localization and level of expression in the testis were analyzed by immunostaining and Western blot. TDO is expressed in granulomas from EAO rats, and similar protein levels were observed in N, C, and EAO groups. IDO was detected in mononuclear and endothelial cells and reduced IDO expression was detected in EAO group compared to N and C rats. This phenomenon was concomitant with a significant reduction of IDO activity in EAO testis measured by tryptophan and kynurenine concentrations (HPLC). Finally, in vivo inhibition of IDO with 1-methyl-tryptophan increased severity of the disease, demonstrating down regulation of IDO-based tolerance when testicular immune regulation was disrupted. We present evidence that an IDO-based mechanism is involved in testicular immune privilege.

Role of Late DMSA Renal Scan in Detecting High-Grade Vesicoureteral Reflux.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the performance of late dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal scans in identifying high-grade (III-V) vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children aged over 3 y with a febrile urinary tract infection (fUTI) history that has not been timely investigated. METHODS: In this retrospective study of diagnostic accuracy, the clinical records of children aged between 3 and 18 y with fUTI history evaluated consecutively at Nephrology Unit of Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde, Argentina between 2006 and 2016 were reviewed. Patients with previously diagnosed renal or urinary tract abnormalities or who underwent previous postnatal genitourinary imaging were excluded. Only those assessed by renal and bladder ultrasound (RBUS), voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) and late 6-mo DMSA scan were analyzed. The ability of the scintigraphy in identifying high-grade VUR was determined by comparing its findings with those of VCUG. RESULTS: In 122 children (median age 5.37 y, 88.5% girls) RBUS was abnormal in 53 (43.4%) and 58 (47.5%) had VUR (30 of high-grade). Abnormal DMSA scan findings (70 patients, 57.4%) were associated with all grade (p = 0.00001) and with high-grade VUR (p = 0.00001). Sensitivity, specificity, negative (NPV) and positive (PPV) predictive values of late DMSA scans for all grades VUR were 93.1%, 75%, 92.3% and 77.1%, respectively. Only 4 patients with low-grade VUR had normal scans. For high-grade VUR, sensitivity and NPV reached 100%. CONCLUSIONS: In older children, the normal late DMSA scan predicted the absence of high-grade VUR, obviating the need for a VCUG. This approach could be a possible strategy for children not studied at acute infection time.

La obesidad: un desafío para la Atención Primaria de Salud / Obesity: a challenge for Primary Health Care

La obesidad se considera en la actualidad una pandemia que constituye la base de diferentes problemas de salud que se enfrentan en la atención primaria, lo que nos motivó a realizar esta revisión bibliográfica con el objetivo de profundizar en algunos aspectos relacionados con la enfermedad y aportar así, el material revisado a la biblioteca del policlínico comunitario docente "Francisco Castro Ceruto" para futuros trabajos referentes al tema. El estudio realizado consistió en una búsqueda en revistas especializadas en el tema, se revisaron trabajos en idioma español e inglés y fueron incluidas investigaciones de diverso diseño de autores prestigiosos sobre la temática(AU)

Obesity is currently considered a pandemic that is the basis of different health problems that are faced in primary care, which motivated us to carry out this literature review with the aim of deeping into some aspects related to the disease and contributing to the revised material to the library of "Francisco Castro Ceruto" polyclinic for future work on the subject. The study consisted of a search in specialized journal on the subject, works in Spanish and English were reviewed and investigations of diverse design of prestigious authors on the subject were included(AU)

Diseño de una modalidad de superación profesional para el diagnóstico precoz del cáncer de mama / Design of a modality of professional improvement for the early diagnosis of breast cancer

Se realizó un estudio cualitativo de corte longitudinal durante los años 2015 y 2016 en el municipio El Salvador, Guantánamo, con el objetivo de diseñar un curso para disminuir la morbilidad por cáncer de mama, dirigidos a los enfermeros que laboran en la Atención Primaria de Salud perteneciente a dicho municipio. Se seleccionó una muestra de 30 enfermeros y se le aplicó un diagnóstico para identificar las necesidades formativas. Se diseñó el curso y se sometió a criterio del consejo científico del área. En la etapa diagnóstica se encontraron insuficiencias en relación con el tema del cáncer de mama. El curso sirvió para adquirir conocimientos, habilidades y preparar al personal de enfermería que labora en la Atención Primaria de Salud, para que realicen acciones de promoción, prevención que permitan disminuir los factores de riesgos, hacer diagnósticos más tempranos y mejorar la calidad de vida en las féminas(AU)

The professional overcoming of nursing staff in today's society is a challenge, so it is imperative to constantly prepare the staff who works in Primary Health Care to be able to promote favorable lifestyle changes in the Cuban population. To design a course to reduce morbidity due to breast cancer, aimed at nurses working in primary health care belonging to the municipality of El Salvador. Methods: A longitudinal qualitative study was carried out during the years 2015 and 2016 in the Municipality of El Salvador. A sample of 30 nurses was selected and a diagnosis was applied to identify training needs. The course was designed and submitted to the criteria of the scientific council of the area. Results: In the diagnostic stage, shortcomings were found in relation to the breast cancer issue. Conclusions: The course serves to acquire knowledge, skills and prepare nurses working in Primary Health Care, to carry out promotion, prevention actions that reduce risk factors, make diagnoses earlier and improve the quality of life in the females(AU)

Assisted Salvage of Ischemic Fasciocutaneous Flap Using Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: In-Situ Revascularization.

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have been shown to produce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and can increase perfusion in patients with critical limb ischemia. We will show that this concept can be applied to augment blood flow in zones of flap ischemia. We presented a case study of a 26-year-old man with a complex hand injury covered by a reverse radial perforator fasciocutaneous flap, which developed ischemic necrosis and was treated by debridement, transplantation of ASCs to enhance vascular support, and saline dressings. ASCs are found in the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), a heterogeneous collection of cells, including pericytes and endothelial cells, that is prepared from lipoaspirate using collagenase digestion followed by centrifugation. These were injected into the flap, the palmar tissues both subjacent and peripheral to the flap, and the skin-grafted donor site. The case was documented with photography, measurements at hand therapy, and follow-up angiography MRI. At 72 hours, new vessels appeared diffusely; at 1 week, the remaining tissues of flap were bleeding. The wound, 11 cm × 4 cm, contracted spontaneously and was healed at 21 days. The skin graft over the donor site demonstrated unusual suppleness and elasticity. 3D CT angiography disclosed a new layer of vascularity in the superficial tissues of the palm when compared with the normal side. The patient regained full composite flexion, pinch, opposition, and wrist extension. Application of ASCs into the supporting tissues surrounding the ischemic flap, and into the flap itself, constituted a form of in-situ revascularization (ISR) that was subjectively and objectively effective for this patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.

Validation of the Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality-of-Life Scale (PANQOL) for Spanish-Speaking Patients.

Objective To perform translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality-of-Life Scale (PANQOL) to the Spanish language. Study Design Prospective study. Setting Tertiary neurotologic referral center. Subjects and Methods PANQOL was translated and translated back, and a pretest trial was performed. The study included 27 individuals diagnosed with vestibular schwannoma. Inclusion criteria were adults with untreated vestibular schwannoma, diagnosed in the past 12 months. Feasibility, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, construct validity, and ceiling and floor effects were assessed for the present study. Results The mean overall score of the PANQOL was 69.21 (0-100 scale, lowest to highest quality of life). Cronbach's α was 0.87. Intraclass correlation coefficient was performed for each item, with an overall score of 0.92. The κ coefficient scores were between moderate and almost perfect in more than 92% of patients. Anxiety and energy domains of the PANQOL were correlated with both physical and mental components of the SF-12. Hearing, balance, and pain domains were correlated with the SF-12 physical component. Facial and general domains were not significantly correlated with any component of the SF-12. Furthermore, the overall score of the PANQOL was correlated with the physical component of the SF-12. Conclusion Feasibility, internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity outcomes in the current study support the validity of the Spanish version of the PANQOL.

Non-reconstructable peripheral vascular disease of the lower extremity in ten patients treated with adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction cells.

We present a series of ten patients with non-reconstructable peripheral vascular disease (PVD), secondary to arteriosclerosis (AS) and/or diabetes mellitus (DM), treated with local injection of non-expanded autologous, adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells for the purposes of enhancing neovascularization and chronic wound healing. Adipose tissue was surgically harvested and processed to yield the heterogeneous SVF cells for immediate point-of-care injection. The gastrocnemius muscles and ulcers or wounds where present were locally injected with the resulting SVF. Response to treatment was evaluated both clinically based on pain-free ambulation, wound healing capacity over time and ankle/brachial index (ABI) measurements, and by imaging using MRI-based angiography. All patients exhibited clinical improvement (reduction in rest pain and claudication and improvements in ABI), with imaging signs of neovascularization in the majority (5 of 6) of patients in whom the evaluation was feasible. Similarly, 5 of 6 chronic wounds healed without further surgical intervention. This series highlights the utility of non-expanded adipose-derived heterogeneous SVF cell population processed at the point-of-care, to treat patients with end-stage PVD as an alternative to palliation or amputation.

Changes in body size spectra of benthic caridean shrimps (Decapoda: Caridea) and snails (Gastropoda) as response to seasonal variability

AbstractEcologists have been largely interested in the description and understanding of the power scaling relationships between body size and abundance of organisms. Many studies have focused on estimating the exponents of these functions across taxonomic groups and spatial scales, to draw inferences about the processes underlying this pattern. The exponents of these functions usually approximate -3/4 at geographical scales, but they deviate from this value when smaller spatial extensions are considered. This has led to propose that body size-abundance relationships at small spatial scales may reflect the impact of environmental changes. This study tests this hypothesis by examining body size spectra of benthic shrimps (Decapoda: Caridea) and snails (Gastropoda) in the Tamiahua lagoon, a brackish body water located in the Eastern coast of Mexico. We measured water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen, salinity, pH, water temperature, sediment organic matter and chemical oxygen demand) and sampled benthic macrofauna during three different climatic conditions of the year (cold, dry and rainy season). Given the small size of most individuals in the benthic macrofaunal samples, we used body volume, instead of weight, to estimate their body size. Body size-abundance relationships of both taxonomic groups were described by tabulating data from each season into base-2 logarithmic body size bins. In both taxonomic groups, observed frequencies per body size class in each season were standardized to yield densities (i.e., individuals/m3). Nonlinear regression analyses were separately performed for each taxonomic group at each season to assess whether body size spectra followed power scaling functions. Additionally, for each taxonomic group, multiple regression analyses were used to determine whether these relationships varied among seasons. Our results indicated that, while body size-abundance relationships in both taxonomic groups followed power functions, the parameters defining the shape of these relationships varied among seasons. These variations in the parameters of the body size-abundance relationships seems to be related to changes in the abundance of individuals within the different body size classes, which seems to follow the seasonal changes that occur in the environmental conditions of the lagoon. Thus, we propose that these body size-abundance relationships are influenced by the frequency and intensity of environmental changes affecting this ecosystem. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (1): 33-44. Epub 2016 March 01.

ResumenLos ecólogos han estado muy interesados en describir y comprender las relaciones escalares de potencia entre el tamaño corporal y la abundancia de los organismos. Muchos estudios se han centrado en la estimación de los exponentes de estas funciones a través de grupos taxonómicos y escalas espaciales, para sacar conclusiones acerca de los procesos que subyacen a este patrón. Los exponentes de estas funciones generalmente se aproximan -3/4 a escalas geográficas, pero se apartan de este valor cuando se consideran extensiones espaciales más pequeñas. Esto ha llevado a proponer que las relaciones tamaño corporal-abundancia en pequeñas escalas espaciales puede reflejar el impacto de cambios ambientales. Este estudio pone a prueba esta hipótesis mediante el examen de los espectros de tamaño corporal de camarones bentónicos (Decapoda: Caridea) y caracoles (Gastropoda) en la laguna de Tamiahua, un cuerpo de agua salobre situado en la costa oriental de México. Medimos parámetros de calidad del agua (oxígeno disuelto, salinidad, pH, temperatura del agua, materia orgánica en los sedimentos y demanda química de oxígeno) y muestreamos la macrofauna bentónica en tres momentos del año que difieren en sus condiciones climáticas (estaciones fría, seca y de lluvias). Dado el pequeño tamaño de la mayoría de los individuos en las muestras de macrofauna bentónica, se utilizó el volumen del cuerpo, en lugar de peso, para estimar su tamaño corporal. Las relaciones tamaño corporalabundancia de ambos grupos taxonómicos fueron descritas ordenando los datos de cada estación en clases de tamaño corporal cuya amplitud estaba establecida por una escala logarítmica de base 2. En ambos grupos taxonómicos, las frecuencias observadas por clase de tamaño corporal en cada estación se estandarizaron a densidades de captura (es decir, individuos/m3). Análisis de regresión no-lineal se realizaron separadamente para cada grupo taxonómico en cada estación del año para evaluar si los espectros de tamaño corporal seguían funciones escalares de potencia. Además, para cada grupo taxonómico, se utilizaron análisis de regresión múltiple para determinar si estas relaciones variaban entre estaciones. Nuestros resultados indicaron que, mientras las relaciones tamaño corporal-abundancia en ambos grupos taxonómicos siguieron funciones potenciales, los parámetros que definen la forma de estas relaciones variaron entre estaciones. Estas variaciones en los parámetros de las relaciones tamaño corporal-abundancia parecen estar relacionadas con cambios en la abundancia de los individuos dentro de las diferentes clases de tamaño corporal, que parece seguir los cambios estacionales que se producen en las condiciones ambientales de la laguna. Por lo tanto, proponemos que estas relaciones tamaño corporalabundancia se ven influidas por la frecuencia e intensidad de los cambios ambientales que afectan este ecosistema.

Streptococcus bovis endocarditis: Update from a multicenter registry.

BACKGROUND: Infective endocarditis (IE) due to Streptococcus bovis has been classically associated with elderly patients, frequently involving >1 valve, with large vegetations and high embolic risk, which make it a high-risk group. Our aim is to analyze the current clinical profile and prognosis of S bovis IE episodes, in comparison to those episodes caused by viridans group streptococci and enterococci. METHODS: We analyzed 1242 consecutive episodes of IE prospectively recruited on an ongoing multipurpose database, of which 294 were streptococcal left-sided IE and comprised our study group. They were classified into 3 groups: group I (n = 47), episodes of IE due to S bovis; group II (n = 134), episodes due to viridans group streptococci; and group III (n = 113), those episodes due to enterococci. RESULTS: The incidence of enterococci IE has significantly increased in the last 2 decades (6.4% [1996-2004] vs 11.1% [2005-2013]; P = .005), whereas the incidence of IE due to S bovis and viridans streptococci have remained stable (4% and 10%, respectively). Gender distribution was similar in the 3 groups. Patients with S bovis and enterococci IE were older than those from group II. Nosocomial acquisition was more frequent in group III. Concerning comorbidity, diabetes mellitus (36.7% vs 9.2% vs 26.8%; P < .001) was more common in groups I and III. Chronic renal failure was more prevalent in patients from group III (4.2% vs 1.5% vs 19%; P < .001). Prosthetic valve IE was more frequent in enterococcal IE. Infection upon normal native valves was more frequent in S bovis IE. Colorectal tumors were found in 69% of patients from this group. Vegetation detection was similar in the 3 groups. However, vegetation size was smaller in S bovis IE. During hospitalization, in-hospital complications and in-hospital mortality were higher in enterococci episodes. CONCLUSIONS: S bovis IE accounts for 3.8% of all IE episodes in our cohort; it is associated with a high prevalence of colonic tumors, with predominance of benign lesions, and affects patients without preexisting valve disease. It is related to small vegetations and a low rate of in-hospital complications, including systemic embolisms. In-hospital mortality is similar to that of viridans group streptococci.

IL17A impairs blood-testis barrier integrity and induces testicular inflammation.

Experimental autoimmune orchitis is a useful model for studying testicular inflammation and germ/immune cell interactions. Th17 cells and their hallmark cytokine IL17A were reported to be involved in the development of autoimmune orchitis. The aim of the present work is to investigate the pathogenic role of IL17A in rat testis. In vitro experiments were performed in order to analyze effects of IL17A on Sertoli cell tight junctions. The addition of IL17A to normal rat Sertoli cell cultures induced a significant decline in transepithelial electrical resistance and a reduction of occludin expression and redistribution of occludin and claudin 11, altering the Sertoli cell tight junction barrier. Intratesticular injection of 1 µg of recombinant rat IL17A to Sprague-Dawley rats induced increased blood-testis barrier permeability, as shown by the presence of biotin tracer in the seminiferous tubule adluminal compartment, and delocalization of occludin and claudin 11. Results showed that IL17A induced focal inflammatory cell infiltration in the interstitium and germ cell sloughing in adjacent seminiferous tubules. Moreover, an increase in TUNEL+ apoptotic germ cells was also observed. Inflammatory ED1+ macrophages were the main population infiltrating the interstitium following IL17A injection. This correlated with an increase in mRNA expression of the monocyte chemoattractant protein Ccl2, its receptor Ccr2 and the vascular cell adhesion molecule Vcam1. Overall results suggest a relevant role of IL17A in the development of testicular inflammation, facilitating the recruitment of immune cells to the testicular interstitium and inducing impairment of blood-testis barrier function.

Impaired behavioural response to alarm substance in rainbow trout exposed to copper nanoparticles.

To date, studies of the toxicity of engineered nanoparticles (NPs) in fish have not fully considered effects on olfactory-mediated behaviours, despite their ecological importance. In this study the effects of copper NPs (Cu NPs) on the anti-predator behavioural responses of juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to trout alarm substance was investigated. Individual fish were exposed for 12h to a control (no added Cu), 50µgl(-1) of Cu as Cu NPs, or 50µgl(-1) Cu as CuSO4, after which fish behaviours were analyzed in 10min periods before and after the addition of the alarm substance stimulus. The response of control fish to deionised water (negative control, no alarm substance stimulus) was also analyzed. The alarm substance elicited a behavioural response in the control fish characterized by an immediate freeze response and the slower resumption of swimming activity compared to negative controls exposed to the sham deionised water stimuli. In fish exposed to Cu NPs, the behavioural response to alarm substance was eliminated, with no significant difference in behaviours compared to negative controls. In comparison, exposure to 50µgl(-1) Cu as CuSO4 decreased, but did not eliminate the response of fish to alarm substance, which indicated a significantly greater effect of Cu NPs on olfactory mediated behaviours than of the equivalent concentration of Cu as CuSO4. Measurement of total Cu concentrations in the tissues of fish demonstrated no significant accumulation of Cu from any treatment in gill, liver or brain, confirming the effects of Cu NPs, and to a lesser extent CuSO4, on behavioural responses were mostly associated with the interaction of the materials with the external surfaces of the fish. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that Cu as CuSO4 caused a pronounced depletion of ciliated sensory and non-sensory cells in the olfactory rosette surrounding the midline raphe, whereas Cu NPs had no impact on the structure of the rosette. However, exposure to Cu NPs caused a significant increase in the ratio of oxidized to reduced glutathione in brains of fish, indicating some systemic oxidative stress that was not observed in either controls or fish exposed to CuSO4. Overall, the study showed that the olfactory mediated behaviours of fish were potentially more sensitive to Cu NPs than CuSO4 and NPs elicited effects via a mechanism that is distinct from that of the metal salt.

Incidência dos hábitos de atividade física nos níveis plasmáticos de proteínas de estresse térmico numa amostra de população saudável / Incidence of physical activity habits in plasma levels of heat shock proteins in a healthy population sample

INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVO: A relação entre as proteínas de choque térmico (Hsp) e hábitos de atividade física não foram estudadas em profundidade, o que levanta a questão sobre o papel destas proteínas desempenham na saúde das pessoas. Com base nessa incerteza, este estudo visa determinar se os níveis plasmáticos dessas proteínas são modificados de acordo com os hábitos de atividade física. MÉTODOS: Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para estudar a concentração de Hsp, através do teste de ELISA e aplicação do Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) para determinar hábitos de atividade física. A análise estatística comparou a média de Hsp (variáveis ​​categóricas), utilizando-se ANOVA, a correlação (Spearman) foi estudada para variáveis ​​contínuas e um modelo de regressão linear múltipla foi desenvolvido para determinar o efeito de cada uma das variáveis ​​independentes sobre as concentrações de Hsp. RESULTADOS: Para esta amostra, não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas concentrações de Hsp entre sedentários e ativos, no entanto, observou-se como sujeitos tornam-se mais ativos se reduzem as concentrações Hsp. Não foi demonstrada correlação entre gasto de energia e os níveis de Hsp. Na população masculina foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre os níveis de Hsp e hábitos de atividade física (medido em três categorias). CONCLUSÃO: Mais pesquisas são propostas, pois o estudo sugere que a prática de atividade física regular atua como um fator protetor para a saúde, reduzindo a presença dessas proteínas no sangue.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The relationship between heat shock proteins (Hsp) and physical activity habits has not been studied in depth, which raises the question about the role these proteins play in health. Based on this uncertainty, this study aims to determine whether plasma levels of these proteins are modified according to the physical activity habits. METHOD: Twenty-four blood samples were taken to study the Hsp concentration, by ELISA test, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was applied to determine physical activity habits. In the statistical analysis, were compared the Hsp average (categorical variables), using ANOVA, the correlation (Spearman) was studied for the continuous variable, also a multiple linear regression was developed in order to establish the effect of each one of the independent variables on the Hsp concentrations. RESULTS: For the studied sample, not statistically differences were found in the concentrations of Hsp, between active and sedentary subjects; however it was noticed that as individuals become more active, the levels of Hsp are reduced. The correlation between energy expense and concentration of Hsp was not found. In the male population, significant differences between the concentration of Hsp and physical activity habits were found (measured in three categories). CONCLUSION: We propose to keep investigating, because in fact the study suggests that the regular practice of physical activity acts as protective factor, reducing the levels of these kinds of proteins in the blood.

Chemical and microbiological comparison of biodeterioration inColombian heritage constructions / Comparación química y microbiológica del biodeterioro en construcciones patrimoniales en Colombia

Se compararon química y microbiológicamente morterosde Bogotá, Villa de Leyva y Barichara. Las muestras seanalizaron por espectrometría de absorción y emisión atómica,espectroscopia infrarroja con transformada de Fourier,difracción de Rayos X, microscopía electrónica de barrido yespectroscopia por dispersión de energía. Se encontraron óxidosde silicio, aluminio, calcio, hierro, magnesio, yeso, weddellita,despuljosita, cuarzo, berlinita, carbonatos, mica, feldespatos,silicatos, sales de nitratos, sulfitos y compuestos orgánicos.A su vez, se hallaron partículas irregulares entre 10, 50 y 100µm y fibras de tipo orgánico de 20 µm. Se realizó el conteo deunidades formadoras de colonias por el método de dilucionespara identificar microorganismos fúngicos. Se identificaron lossiguientes géneros Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Fusarium,Mucor y Syncephalastrum. La muestra de Bogotá presentó el mayornúmero de UFC/mL y el mayor porcentaje de humedad relativa.La concentración de hongos en esta muestra, a diferencia delas de Villa de Leyva y de Barichara, causó la degradación de lamayoría de los metales identificados. Esta comparación químicay microbiológica propone un plan eficaz de intervención paraeliminar y prevenir el biodeterioro en apoyo a la conservación deobras patrimoniales...

Mortars from Bogotá, Villa de Leyvaand Barichara were compared chemically andmicrobiologically. We analyzed the samples using atomicabsorption and emission spectrometry, Fourier-transforminfrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanningelectron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy.Oxides of silicon, aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium,gypsum, weddellite, despujolsite, quartz, berlinite,carbonate, mica, feldspars, silicates, nitrate salts, sulfites,and organic compounds were identified. In addition,irregular particles between 10, 50 an 100 µm werefound, as well organic fibers of 20 µm. Was performeda CFU count using a dilution method to identify fungalmicroorganisms and found following genera Aspergillus,Penicillium, Alternaria, Fusarium, Mucor and Syncephalastrum.The mortar sample taken in Bogotá presented thehighest number of CFU/mL and the highest percentageof relative humidity. The concentration of fungi in thissample, unlike those from Villa de Leyva and Barichara,caused degradation in most of the metals identified.This chemical and microbiological comparison proposesan effective plan of action to eliminate and preventbiodeterioration in support of the conservation ofheritage constructions...

As amostras foram analisadas por espectrometria deemissão e espectroscopia de absorção atômica, infravermelhocom transformada de Fourier, difração de raios X, microscopiaeletrônica de varredura e espectroscopia de energia dispersiva.Foram identificados óxidos de silício, alumínio, cálcio, ferro,magnésio, gesso, weddellita, despuljosita, quartzo, berlinita,carbonato, mica, feldspato, silicatos, sais de nitratos, sulfitos, ecompostos orgânicos. Partículas irregulares entre os 10, 50 e 100µm foram encontradas bem como fibras de tipo orgânico de20 µm. Realizou-se uma contagem CFU usando um método dediluição para identificar microorganismos fúngicos e encontrousefungos dos gêneros Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Fusarium,Mucor e Syncephalastrum. A amostra de Bogotá apresentou o maiornúmero de UFC/mL e umidade relativa do ar. A maior presençade fungos desta amostra, ao contrário das amostras da Villa deLeyva e Barichara, causou degradação na maioria dos metaisidentificados. Esta comparação química e microbiológica podesugerir um plano de ação eficaz para a eliminação e prevenção dabiodegradação e assim preservar obras patrimoniais.Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias. PontificiaUniversidad Javeriana. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias. PontificiaUniversidad Javeriana. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias. PontificiaUniversidad Javeriana. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.Departamento de Arquitectura, Facultad de Arquitectura y Diseño.Pontificia Javeriana. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.Received: 15-12-2012 Accepted: 02-02-2013 Published on line: 28-02-2013 Edited by Alberto Acosta mUniversitas Scientiarum, Journal of the Faculty of Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, is licensed under the Creative Commons 2.5 of Colombia: Attribution - Noncommercial - No Derivative...

Loss of occludin expression and impairment of blood-testis barrier permeability in rats with autoimmune orchitis: effect of interleukin 6 on Sertoli cell tight junctions.

Inflammation of the male reproductive tract is accepted as being an important etiological factor of infertility. Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is characterized by interstitial lymphomononuclear cell infiltration and severe damage of seminiferous tubules with germ cells that undergo apoptosis and sloughing. Because the blood-testis barrier (BTB) is relevant for the protection of haploid germ cells against immune attack, the aim of this study was to analyze BTB permeability and the expression of tight junction proteins (occludin, claudin 11, and tight junction protein 1 [TJP1]) in rats during development of autoimmune orchitis. The role of IL6 as modulator of tight junction dynamics was also evaluated because intratesticular content of this cytokine is increased in EAO rats. Orchitis was induced in Sprague-Dawley adult rats by active immunization with testicular homogenate and adjuvants. Control rats (C) were injected with saline solution and adjuvants. Untreated (N) rats were also studied. Concomitant with early signs of germ cell sloughing, a reduced expression of occludin and delocalization of claudin 11 and TJP1 were detected in the testes of rats with EAO compared to C and N groups. The use of tracers showed increased BTB permeability in EAO rats. Intratesticular injection of IL6 induced focal testicular inflammation, which is associated with damaged seminiferous tubules. Rat Sertoli cells cultured in the presence of IL6 exhibited a redistribution of tight junction proteins and reduced transepithelial electrical resistance. These data indicate the possibility that IL6 might be involved in the downregulation of occludin expression and in the modulation of BTB permeability that occur in rats undergoing autoimmune orchitis.

Involvement of soluble Fas Ligand in germ cell apoptosis in testis of rats undergoing autoimmune orchitis.

Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a model of chronic inflammation and infertility useful for studying immune and germ cell (GC) interactions. EAO is characterized by severe damage of seminiferous tubules (STs) with GCs that undergo apoptosis and sloughing. Based on previous results showing that Fas-Fas Ligand (L) system is one of the main mediators of apoptosis in EAO, in the present work we studied the involvement of Fas and the soluble form of FasL (sFasL) in GC death induction. EAO was induced in rats by immunization with testis homogenate and adjuvants; control (C) rats were injected with adjuvants; a group of non-immunized normal (N) rats was also studied. Activation of Fas employing an anti-Fas antibody decreased viability (trypan blue exclusion test) and induced apoptosis (TUNEL) of GCs from STs of N and EAO rats, an effect more pronounced on GCs from EAO STs. By Western blot we detected an increase in sFasL content in the testicular fluid of rats with severe EAO compared to N and C rats. By intratesticular injection of FasL conjugated to Strep-Tag molecule (FasL-Strep, BioTAGnology) and its immunofluorescent localization, we demonstrated that sFasL is able to enter the adluminal compartment of the STs. Moreover, FasL-Strep induced GC apoptosis in testicular fragments of N rats. By flow cytometry, we detected an increase in the number of membrane FasL-expressing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in testis during EAO development but no expression of FasL by macrophages. Our results demonstrate that sFasL is locally produced in the chronically inflamed testis and that this molecule is able to enter the adluminal compartment of STs and induce apoptosis of Fas-bearing GCs.