Automatic Determination of the Non-Covalent Stable Conformations of the NO2-Pyrene Cluster in Full Dimensionality (81D) Using the vdW-TSSCDS Approach.

We present the detailed topographical characterisation (stationary points and minimum energy paths connecting them) of the full dimensional (81D) intermolecular potential energy surface associated with the non-covalent interactions between the NO2 radical and the pyrene (C16H10) molecule. The whole procedure is (quasi) fully automated. We have used our recent algorithm vdW-TSSCDS as implemented on the freely-available AutoMekin software package. To this end, a series of inexpensive classical trajectories using forces from a low-level (semi-empirical) theory are used to sample the configuration space of the system in the search for candidates to first order saddle points. These guess structures are determined by means of a graph-theory based algorithm using the concept of adjacency matrix. Low-level optimizations are followed by re-optimizations at a final high-level of theory (DFT and CCSD(T)-F12 in our case.). The resulting set of stationary points and paths connecting them constitutes the so-called reaction network. In the case of NO2-pyrene, this network exhibits four major basins which can be characterized by their point-group symmetry. A central one, of global C2 symmetry, comprises the global minimum (as well as all other permutationally related conformers) together with the corresponding C2v saddle points connecting them. This central basin is connected to three others of lower C1 symmetry. The latter can be distinguished by the projection of the position of the NO2 nitrogen atom on the pyrene plane in combination with the relative orientation of the oxygen pair pointing either inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards.

Morphochromatic spectrum through gonad development stages of the razor surgeonfish, Prionurus laticlavius (Valenciennes, 1846) (Actinopterygii: Acanthuriformes).

Gonad development stages (GDS) are a critical tool that can be easily applied in fisheries to visually discriminate mature from immature organisms and assess their reproductive condition. This study proposes a morphochromatic scale to define gonad development stages for razor surgeonfish (Prionurus laticlavius) based on morphological and structural assessments of the gonad, histologically validated using multivariate dummy matrices modeled through multiple linear regression analyses. Gonads of 271 specimens were photographed prior to preservation to describe their shape, size, color, and turgor for morphochromatic analysis. Later, gonads were processed using standard histological methods. An oocyte growth scale was designed based on oocyte diameter and follicular wall thickness for each stage. In addition, five morphochromatic gonad development stages were histologically validated: immature, developing, spawning capable, regressing, and regenerating. Morphochromatic variations were observed in the last three stages in both sexes. Results show that gonad morphology and structure of P. laticlavius are similar to those of other acanthurids, albeit with some asymmetric and morphological differences, as well as gonad morphochromatic in both sexes. These findings confirm that maturation is species-specific. Also, although not a critical character, gonad colouration was found to play a major role in distinguishing between gonad development stages along with shape, size, vascularity (females), and folds (males). Therefore, gonad colouration should not be entirely overlooked because doing so may lead to errors in determining sexual maturity stages.

Identifying wildlife road crossing mitigation sites using a multi-data approach - A case study from southwestern Costa Rica.

Roads are one of the most widespread structures that drive habitat loss and fragmentation. But they also restrict animal movement and drive landscape-level impacts on biodiversity. The South Pacific of Costa Rica is known for its high levels of biodiversity, but little has been done to reduce road impacts upon wildlife communities. To understand these impacts and advise on possible mitigation action, we used three key data approaches: 1. Camera traps, to survey wildlife activity along two major road sections that dissect the region's protected areas and biological corridors. Seventy-eight camera traps were deployed in secondary forest patches at different distances (between 200 m and 1 km) from the roads for six months and covariates were collected to explain the patterns found. 2. Citizen science data extracted from iNaturalist to identify roadkill "hotspots" along the roads. And 3. Circuitscape analysis, to assess how landscape structure could influence animal movement. Camera traps recorded 30 terrestrial species. Ocelots and agoutis displayed a negative effect of distance from protected area, while the Apex predators displayed a positive effect toward higher forest cover and vegetation density. Circuitscape analysis showed high connectivity throughout most of the area. Only a few locations showed higher flow (bottle neck locations), which coincided with roadkill "hotspots" identified through citizen science direct observations (70 observations of 21 species). Amalgamating data from the different analyses allow us to identify four key wildlife crossing locations (one of less priority) along the Inter-American Highway. We strongly recommend the placement of under/overpasses in these locations, with the aim to ensure wildlife safe movement and connectivity of wildlife populations in the region. Culvert modifications in the area could also be considered to incorporate wildlife underpasses at a reduced cost.

Multifunctionalized Carbon Dots as an Active Nanocarrier for Drug Delivery to the Glioblastoma Cell Line.

Nanoparticle-based nanocarriers represent a viable alternative to conventional direct administration in cancer cells. This advanced approach employs the use of nanotechnology to transport therapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, thereby reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells and enhancing the efficacy of treatment. By approving nanoparticle-based nanocarriers, the potential for targeted, effective treatment is greatly increased. The so-called carbon-based nanoparticles, or carbon dots, have been hydrothermally prepared and initiated by a polymerization process. We synthesized and characterized nanoparticles of 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, which showed biocompatibility with glioblastoma cells, and further, we tested them as a carrier for the drug riluzole. The obtained nanoparticles have been extensively characterized by techniques to obtain the exact composition of their surface by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, as well as cryo-transmission electron microscopy. We found that the surface of the synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) is covered mainly by sulfonated, carboxylic, and substituted amide groups. These functional groups make them suitable as carriers for drug delivery in cancer cells. Specifically, we have successfully utilized the NPs as a delivery system for the drug riluzole, which has shown efficacy in treating glioblastoma cancer cells. The effect of nanoparticles as carriers for the riluzole system on glioblastoma cells was studied using live-cell synchrotron-based FTIR microspectroscopy to monitor in situ biochemical changes. After applying nanoparticles as nanocarriers, we have observed changes in all biomacromolecules, including the nucleic acids and protein conformation. These findings provide a strong foundation for further exploration into the development of targeted treatments for glioblastoma.

Human local field potentials in motor and non-motor brain areas encode upcoming movement direction.

Limb movement direction can be inferred from local field potentials in motor cortex during movement execution. Yet, it remains unclear to what extent intended hand movements can be predicted from brain activity recorded during movement planning. Here, we set out to probe the directional-tuning of oscillatory features during motor planning and execution, using a machine learning framework on multi-site local field potentials (LFPs) in humans. We recorded intracranial EEG data from implanted epilepsy patients as they performed a four-direction delayed center-out motor task. Fronto-parietal LFP low-frequency power predicted hand-movement direction during planning while execution was largely mediated by higher frequency power and low-frequency phase in motor areas. By contrast, Phase-Amplitude Coupling showed uniform modulations across directions. Finally, multivariate classification led to an increase in overall decoding accuracy (>80%). The novel insights revealed here extend our understanding of the role of neural oscillations in encoding motor plans.

Remembering the Old Propensity Rules of the Electromagnetic Enhancement Mechanism of SERS: Reorientation of Pyridine on a Silver Electrode Induced by the Applied Potential.

Electrochemical SERS of pyridine adsorbed on a silver electrode has been analyzed by comparing the spectra to the calculated normal Raman and resonance Raman intensities of model systems of pyridine bonded to linear silver clusters with different densities of charge through the nitrogen (Ag-NPy) or flipped through the hydrogen in the para-position (Ag-HPy). The changes observed in the ν(CH) region of the SERS have been investigated for the first time and related to a molecular reorientation at negative surface excess of charge of the metal in such a way that the ν(CH) bands with the highest (mode 2) and lowest (mode 13) wavenumber dominate this spectral region at positive or negative electrode potentials, respectively. The calculations support that the ν(CH) region is dominated by a specific vibration depending on pyridine orientation and suggest that both species coexist in the SERS recorded at negative potentials. This conclusion is supported by the SERS of centrosymmetric pyrazine which do not show this behavior and remembers the predictions from the old propensity rules of the so-called electromagnetic mechanism of SERS.

Clinical Utility of Genetic Testing with Geographical Locations in ADPKD: Describing New Variants.

Background: Our study aims to comment on all ADPKD variants identified in our health area and explain how they are distributed geographically, to identify new variants, and relate the more frequent variants with their renal phenotype in terms of kidney survival. Materials and Methods: We identified patients suffering from ADPKD in a specialized consultation unit; genealogical trees were constructed from the proband. According to the ultrasound-defined modified Ravine-Pei criteria, relatives classified as at risk were offered participation in the genetic study. Socio-demographic, clinical, and genetic factors related to the impact of the variant on the survival of the kidney and the patient, such as age at RRT beginning and age of death, were recorded. Results: In 37 families, 33 new variants of the PKD1 gene were identified, which probably produce a truncated protein. These variants included 2 large deletions, 19 frameshifts, and 12 stop-codons, all of which had not been previously described in the databases. In 10 families, six new probably pathogenic variants in the PKD2 gene were identified. These included three substitutions; two deletions, one of which was intronic and not associated with any family; and one duplication. A total of 11 missense variants in the PKD1 gene were grouped in 14 families and classified as probably pathogenic. We found that 33 VUS were grouped into 18 families and were not described in the databases, while another 15 were without grouping, and there was only 1 in the PKD2 gene. Some of these variants were present in patients with a different pathogenic variant (described or not), and the variant was probably benign. Renal survival curves were compared to nonsense versus missense variants on the PKD1 gene to check if there were any differences. A group of 328 patients with a nonsense variant was compared with a group of 264 with a missense variant; mean renal survival for truncated variants was lower (53.1 ± 0.46 years versus non-truncated variant 59.1 ± 1.36 years; Log Rank, Breslow, and Tarone Ware, p < 0.05). Conclusions: To learn more about ADPKD, it is necessary to understand genetics. By describing new genetic variants, we are approaching creation of an accurate genetic map of the disease in our country, which could have prognostic and therapeutic implications in the future.

Radiation therapy for optic nerve sheath meningiomas: Local control and treatment related visual changes.

Objective: Our primary objective is to evaluate the local control of optic nerve sheath meningiomas (ONSMs) treated with ionizing radiation and related visual changes after treatment. Our secondary objective is to describe the clinical characteristics and perform an analysis of the treatment impact on the functional status of this group of patients. Methods: We present our series of 19 patients treated with ionizing radiation therapy at our radio-neurosurgery unit between 2016 and 2022. The setting, ophthalmological follow-up, morbidity, and survival are analyzed and discussed. Results: Patients were followed up, and the impact of treatment on local disease control, visual alterations of the affected eye, and functional status of the patient were analyzed. The progression-free survival (PFS) median was 60 months (95% CI 50.3-69.6 months). The estimated PFS rates at 48 and 66 months were 100% and 66%, respectively. At diagnosis, nine (47.3%) eyes were in amaurosis and ten (52.6%) with vision. Of the ten patients without amaurosis at the time of diagnosis, three (30%) maintained unchanged visual acuity, and seven (70%) had decreased visual acuity; three of them developed amaurosis during the first year after treatment (p = 0.018). Conclusions: Using ionizing radiation therapy is a successful treatment for the local control of ONSMs. This therapeutic modality can compromise the visual acuity of the affected eye and improve dyschromatopsia and campimetry defects. The life prognosis is good for these patients, with a zero mortality rate, but their vision prognosis is poor.

Evaluation of Systemic Inflammation Before and After Standard Anti-tuberculosis Treatment in Patients With Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Diabetes Mellitus.

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common comorbidity of active pulmonary tuberculosis (APTB) that increases the risk of treatment failure during anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy. Evaluating systemic inflammatory response could help determine differences in response to treatment between APTB patients and those with APTB and DM. Methodology To explore changes in systemic inflammation, measured by a set of inflammatory mediators in subjects with APTB and TBDM before and after six months of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, 30 APTB and nine TBDM subjects underwent cytokine testing, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-ß1) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, C-reactive protein by nephelometry, and sialic acid by colorimetric assay at baseline and following six months of standard anti-tuberculosis treatment. Sputum smear microscopy or molecular biology (Xpert MTB/RIF) was used for diagnosis, and sputum smear microscopy was performed monthly during the treatment of the patient with pulmonary tuberculosis to evaluate his evolution. Principal component analysis examined changes in the inflammatory status. Results Both groups showed negative sputum smear microscopy in the sixth month after starting anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy. TGF-ß1 was found to be significantly higher in subjects with TBDM before treatment compared to APTB patients (p<0.001), and systemic inflammation continued only in TBDM subjects after treatment (accumulation and persistence of inflammatory mediators like IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TGF-ß1, C-reactive protein, and sialic acid in blood). On the other hand, the mediators IFN-γ, C-reactive protein, and total sialic acid were found to be most influential in distinguishing pre- and post-treatment inflammatory response in subjects with APTB without DM. Conclusions Inflammatory mediators analyzed in combination, including IFN-γ, CRP, and total sialic acid, may be useful in evaluating the systemic inflammatory response in subjects with APTB and TBDM before and after anti-tuberculosis treatment. Determining these mediators revealed persistent systemic inflammation in TBDM subjects after six months of standard tuberculosis treatment, despite negative sputum smear microscopy results and good glycemic control. This suggests a need for inflammation-modulating therapies during tuberculosis control. Finally, monitoring sputum smear microscopy results alongside the determination of proposed inflammatory mediators (IFN-γ, CRP, and total sialic acid) are effective in evaluating the response to anti-tuberculosis treatment in APTB subjects without DM, warranting further investigation.

Systematic review and bioinformatics analysis of plasma and serum extracellular vesicles proteome in type 2 diabetes.

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a complex metabolic ailment marked by a global high prevalence and significant attention in primary healthcare settings due to its elevated morbidity and mortality rates. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of this disease remain subjects of ongoing investigation. Recent evidence underscores the pivotal role of the intricate intercellular communication network, wherein cell-derived vesicles, commonly referred to as extracellular vesicles (EVs), emerge as dynamic regulators of diabetes-related complications. Given that the protein cargo carried by EVs is contingent upon the metabolic conditions of the originating cells, particular proteins may serve as informative indicators for the risk of activating or inhibiting signaling pathways crucial to the progression of T2D complications. Methods: In this study, we conducted a systematic review to analyze the published evidence on the proteome of EVs from the plasma or serum of patients with T2D, both with and without complications (PROSPERO: CRD42023431464). Results: Nine eligible articles were systematically identified from the databases, and the proteins featured in these articles underwent Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. We identified changes in the level of 426 proteins, with CST6, CD55, HBA1, S100A8, and S100A9 reported to have high levels, while FGL1 exhibited low levels. Conclusion: These proteins are implicated in pathophysiological mechanisms such as inflammation, complement, and platelet activation, suggesting their potential as risk markers for T2D development and progression. Further studies are required to explore this topic in greater detail.

Ecoepidemiology of Chagas Disease in a Biological Corridor in Southeastern Mexico: A Promising Approach to Understand the Risk of Chagas Disease.

Ecoepidemiology is an emerging field that attempts to explain how biotic, environmental, and even social factors influence the dynamics of infectious diseases. Particularly in vector-borne diseases, the study under this approach offers us an overview of the pathogens, vectors, and hosts that coexist in a given region and their ecological determinants. As a result of this, risk predictions can be established in a changing environment and how it may impact human populations. This paper is aimed at evaluating some ecoepidemiological characteristics of Chagas disease in a natural reserve in southeastern Mexico that borders human settlements. We carry out a cross-sectional study in 2022 where we search insects manually and with light traps. We set traps for small mammals and bats and conducted interviews with the inhabitants living around the study site. We identified the presence of Triatoma dimidiata and T. huehuetenanguensis species with a percentage of TcI T. cruzi infection of 68.4% (95% CI: 66.9-69.9). Temperature and humidity were not determining factors for the probability of insect capture. Of the 108 wild mammals (Chiroptera, Rodentia, and Didelphimorphia), none was infected with T. cruzi. Knowledge about Chagas disease in nearby inhabitants is poor, and some characteristics were found on the periphery of dwellings that could offer a refuge for insect vectors. With this information, surveillance strategies can be generated in the study area that reduce the risk of transmission of T. cruzi parasite to humans, and it is expected to motivate the use of this field in future research.

Antimicrobial and antitumor activities of an alginate-based membrane loaded with bismuth nanoparticles and cetylpyridinium chloride.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the antitumor and antimicrobial properties of an alginate-based membrane (ABM) loaded with bismuth lipophilic nanoparticles (BisBAL NPs) and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) on clinically isolated bacteria and a pancreatic cancer cell line. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The BisBAL NP-CPC ABM was characterized using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial potential was measured using the disk-diffusion assay, and antibiofilm activity was determined through the live/dead assay and fluorescence microscopy. The antitumor activity was analyzed on the pancreatic cell line (Panc 03.27) using the MTT assay and live/dead assay with fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS: After a 24-h exposure (37°C, aerobic conditions), 5 µM BisBAL NP reduced the growth of K. pneumoniae by 77.9%, while 2.5 µM BisBAL NP inhibited the growth of Salmonella, E. faecalis and E. faecium by 82.9%, 82.6%, and 78%, respectively (p < 0.0001). The BisBAL NPs-CPC ABM (at a ratio of 10:1; 500 and 50 µM, respectively) inhibited the growth of all isolated bacteria, producing inhibition halos of 9.5, 11.2, 7, and 10.3 mm for K. pneumoniae, Salmonella, E. faecalis, and E. faecium, respectively, in contrast to the 6.5, 9.5, 8.5, and 9.8 mm obtained with 100 µM ceftriaxone (p < 0.0001). The BisBAL NPs-CPC ABM also reduced bacterial biofilms, with 81.4%, 74.5%, 97.1%, and 79.5% inhibition for K. pneumoniae, E. faecium, E. faecalis, and Salmonella, respectively. Furthermore, the BisBAL NPs-CPC ABM decreased Panc 03.27 cell growth by 76%, compared to 18% for drug-free ABM. GEM-ABM reduced tumoral growth by 73%. The live/dead assay confirmed that BisBAL NPs-CPC-ABM and GEM-ABM were cytotoxic for the turmoral Panc 03.27 cells. CONCLUSION: An alginate-based membrane loaded with BisBAL NP and CPC exhibits dual antimicrobial and antitumoral efficacy. Therefore, it could be applied in cancer treatment and to diminish the occurrence of surgical site infections.

Monocyte (THP-1) Response to Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized with Rumex hymenosepalus Root Extract.

The study, synthesis, and application of nanomaterials in medicine have grown exponentially in recent years. An example of this is the understanding of how nanomaterials activate or regulate the immune system, particularly macrophages. In this work, nanoparticles were synthesized using Rumex hymenosepalus as a reducing agent (AgRhNPs). According to thermogravimetric analysis, the metal content of nanoparticles is 55.5% by weight. The size of the particles ranges from 5-26 nm, with an average of 11 nm, and they possess an fcc crystalline structure. The presence of extract molecules on the nanomaterial was confirmed by UV-Vis and FTIR. It was found by UPLC-qTOF that the most abundant compounds in Rh extract are flavonols, flavones, isoflavones, chalcones, and anthocyanidins. The viability and apoptosis of the THP-1 cell line were evaluated for AgRhNPs, commercial nanoparticles (AgCNPs), and Rh extract. The results indicate a minimal cytotoxic and apoptotic effect at a concentration of 12.5 µg/mL for both nanoparticles and 25 µg/mL for Rh extract. The interaction of the THP-1 cell line and treatments was used to evaluate the polarization of monocyte subsets in conjunction with an evaluation of CCR2, Tie-2, and Arg-1 expression. The AgRhNPs nanoparticles and Rh extract neither exhibited cytotoxicity in the THP-1 monocyte cell line. Additionally, the treatments mentioned above exhibited anti-inflammatory effects by maintaining the classical monocyte phenotype CD14++CD16, reducing pro-inflammatory interleukin IL-6 production, and increasing IL-4 production.

Extended septal myectomy versus alcohol septal ablation: clinical results at a national referral centre.

OBJECTIVES: Extended septal myectomy and alcohol septal ablation are 2 invasive treatments for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Our goal was to compare which of these techniques achieved a higher reduction in gradients, improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class and reduction in medical treatment. METHODS: It is a single-centre observational and retrospective analysis. We used multivariable regression analyses to assess the association of ablation/myectomy with different outcomes. The odds ratio or coefficient along with the 95% confidence interval was estimated according to the group and adjusted for the corresponding preprocedural variables and EuroSCORE II. RESULTS: A total of 78 patients underwent septal myectomy, and 25 patients underwent alcohol septal ablation. Basal and Valsalva gradients after myectomy were reduced to a higher degree in comparison to ablation: 21.0 mmHg [P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval -30.7; -11.3], and 34.3 mmHg (P < 0.001, -49.1; -19.5) respectively. Those patients who received a myectomy had a lower probability of having moderate mitral regurgitation (odds ratio = 0.18, P = 0.054). Patients after septal myectomy were more likely to be NYHA functional class I (80.4%), whereas patients after ablation were more likely to be NYHA functional class III (48%). Both groups continued with beta-blocker therapy, but disopyramide could be discontinued after the myectomy in more cases (20%-36% vs 59%-1.3%; P < 0.001), and there was a tendency to discontinue calcium channel blockers (48%-16% vs 15.4-3.8%; P = 0.054). CONCLUSIONS: After adjustment using preprocedural gradients and EuroSCORE II, myectomy achieves greater reduction in left ventricular outflow tract gradients compared to septal ablation.

Spinal Ependymomas: An Updated WHO Classification and a Narrative Review.

Ependymomas are neuroepithelial tumors that develop from ependymal cells found in the brain parenchyma and can spread to any part of the spinal cord. Three to six percent of all malignancies affecting the central nervous system (CNS) are ependymomas. Even the most talented surgeons are challenged by spinal cord ependymomas; as a result, research into this clinical phenomenon should continue. Since 1979, the World Health Organization (WHO) has published a classification and grading system for CNS malignancies to ensure consistent diagnostic standards worldwide. The WHO prepared an update on these tumors, paying particular attention to molecular techniques to categorize the therapeutic management of each patient with greater accuracy and clarity. We thoroughly reviewed the literature on the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of spinal ependymomas since there has not been a recent review of these tumors. This included modifications to the 2021 WHO Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System.

Valoración del hábito de alimentación en el estilo de vida saludable adquirido en adultos españoles de 22 a 72 años de edad / Assessment of the eating habit in the health-related lifestyle among Spanish adults from 22 to 72 years of age

Introducción: los hábitos de alimentación constituyen uno de los factores predictores de salud principales dentro de los estilos de vida adqui-ridos. La evaluación de dichos hábitos va a ser fundamental para poder reafirmar las conductas saludables y reorientar aquellos hábitos quesupongan un riesgo.Objetivos: evaluar el hábito de alimentación dentro del estilo de vida saludable adquirido en adultos españoles de 22 a 72 años de edad.Métodos: a una muestra de 788 sujetos de edades comprendidas entre los 22 y los 72 años de edad se aplicó la Escala de Valoración delEstilo de Vida Saludable Adquirido (E-VEVSA), formada por 52 ítems y estructurada en siete dimensiones, entre las cuales se evaluó el hábitode alimentación saludable, que explicó una varianza de 8,67 % sobre el total de la escala (66,87 %) y un alfa de Cronbach de 0,794 para unalfa total de 0,894.Resultados: el 16 % de los adultos encuestados posee hábitos de alimentación saludables; el 68,3 %, tendente hacia la salud; y el 15,7 %, pocosaludables. Las pruebas de χ2 de Pearson muestran una asociación positiva y significativa de las mujeres con hábitos saludables de alimentacióny una mejora significativa con el transcurso de la edad. Los datos inferenciales (pruebas t de Student y ANOVA de un factor) confirman estasdiferencias en función del sexo y la edad.Conclusiones: es necesario promover programas preventivos para la mejora de los hábitos de alimentación en la población adulta, sobre todo,en el 15,7 % que posee un nivel poco saludable de la alimentación en su estilo de vida.(AU)

Introduction: eating habits are one of the main predictors of health within a person lifestyle. The assessment of these habits will be essentialto confirm health-related habits and orientate behaviors of risk for health.Objectives: to assess the eating habits within the health-related lifestyle among Spanish adults from 22 to 72 years of age.Methods: the Health-Related Lifestyle Assessment Scale (E-VEVSA) was applied to a sample of 788 subjects between the ages of 22 and 72.This scale is made up of 52 items and structured in seven dimensions, among which the healthy eating habit was evaluated, which explained avariance of 8.67 % of the total scale (66.87 %) and a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.794 for a total alpha of 0.894.Results: sixteen percent of the adults surveyed have healthy eating habits, 68.3 % tend towards health and 15.7 % are unhealthy. Pearson’sχ2 tests show a positive and significant association of women with healthy eating habits and a significant improvement with age. The inferentialdata (Student’s t-tests and one-factor ANOVA) confirm these differences according to gender and age.Conclusions: it is necessary to promote preventive programs to improve eating habits in the adult population, especially in the 15.7 % that havean unhealthy level of nutrition in their lifestyle.(AU)

Estrés laboral en los intensivistas de Uruguay / Work stress among intensivists in Uruguay / Estresse ocupacional em médicos intensivistas no Uruguai

Resumen: Introducción: el estrés laboral (EL) se genera por experiencias en el ambiente laboral y por el relacionamiento con otros individuos. En la medicina intensiva, el desarrollo de los factores de estrés se ha vinculado principalmente a la relación del médico con el paciente en estado crítico, su familia, el equipo de trabajo así como con la realización de maniobras invasivas. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo conocer el nivel de estrés, así como determinar los factores asociados al desarrollo de estrés laboral. Metodología: en 2018 se realizó una encuesta a los intensivistas. Los niveles de estrés se midieron con el Inventario de Estrés para Profesionales de la Salud de Wolfgang y la Escala de Síntomas de Estrés. Resultados: se analizaron 96 respuestas de médicos intensivistas. La experiencia de estos en medicina intensiva es de 11 (6-22,75) años. La carga laboral semanal en UCI es de 48 (36-60) horas, correspondiendo a trabajo nocturno 24 (12-24) horas. El nivel de estrés total fue de 53 (44-65) puntos. Al discriminar de acuerdo al nivel de severidad encontramos que 5% presenta estrés mínimo, 63% estrés moderado y 32% estrés severo. Una carga laboral semanal mayor de 40 horas se asoció con el desarrollo de EL severo. Asimismo se evidenciaron mayores puntajes de EL en los intensivistas más jóvenes. Conclusiones: los médicos intensivistas presentan frecuentemente niveles elevados de estrés. Identificamos factores asociados al desarrollo del mismo. Es fundamental diseñar estrategias tendientes a reducir el impacto del EL en la UCI.

Abstract: Introduction: Work Stress (WS) is generated by interactions and experiences with other people in the work environment. In the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), the physician´s relationship with critical patients, and with their families, the work team and performing invasive procedures, have been identified as stress development factors. This study aims to explore stress levels, and to define the factors associated to work stress. Methods: in 2018, an online survey was sent to physicians working in the ICU. Stress levels were assessed using Wolfgang's Health Professionals Stress Inventory (HPSI) and the Stress Symptom Scale. Results: 96 responses by intensive care physicians were analysed. Average work experience was 11 (6-22.75) years. Intensivists workload is 48 hours a week at the ICU (36-60), 24 (12-24) of which were night shift hours. The total stress level was 53 (44-65) points. Stress levels found were: 5% minimal, 63% moderate and 32% high. A weekly workload greater than 40 hours was associated to the development of severe WS. Higher WS scores were seen in younger physicians. Conclusions: physicians working in the ICU frequently showed high levels of WS. This study identified the factors associated to its development. A recommendation is made to design strategies and policies that reduce the impact of WS on ICU physicians.

Resumo: Introdução: o estresse ocupacional (EO) é gerado por experiências no ambiente de trabalho e pelo relacionamento com outras pessoas. Na Medicina Intensiva, o desenvolvimento dos fatores de estresse tem estado vinculado principalmente à relação do médico com o paciente crítico, sua família, a equipe de trabalho, bem como a realização de manobras invasivas. O objetivo deste estudo é conhecer o nível de estresse, bem como determinar os fatores associados ao desenvolvimento do estresse ocupacional. Metodologia: em 2018, foi realizada uma pesquisa com médicos intensivistas. Os níveis de estresse foram medidos com o Inventário de Estresse de Profissionais da Saúde de Wolfgang e o Inventário de Sintomas de Estresse. Resultados: foram analisadas 96 respostas de médicos intensivistas. A experiência dos entrevistados como intensivistas é de 11 (6 a 22,75) anos. A carga horária semanal de trabalho em UTI é de 48 (36-60) horas, correspondendo a 24 (12-24) horas de trabalho noturno. O nível de estresse total foi de 53 (44-65) pontos. Ao discriminar de acordo com o nível de gravidade, encontramos que 5% apresentam estresse mínimo, 63% estresse moderado e 32% estresse severo. Uma carga de trabalho semanal superior a 40 horas foi associada ao desenvolvimento de EO grave. Da mesma forma, maiores escores de EO foram observados nos intensivistas mais jovens. Conclusões: os médicos intensivistas frequentemente apresentam altos níveis de estresse. Identificamos fatores associados ao seu desenvolvimento. É fundamental traçar estratégias para reduzir o impacto do EO na UTI.

El consumo de tabaco, alcohol y otras drogas en adultos españoles / Consumption of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs in Spanish adults

The lifestyle is the result of a set of behavior patterns or sociocultural habits acquired over the years that determines the state of physical, mental and social health of people. The aim was to analyze the habit of consuming tobacco, alcohol and other illegal drugs in the acquired healthy lifestyle. Descriptive, epidemiological and cross-sectional study in 788 participants aged 22 to 77 years (49.5% men; 50.5% women) selected by non-probabilistic and intentional sampling. Subscale 4 Tobacco, alcohol and other drug consumption habits was used. of the Acquired Healthy Lifestyle Assessment Scale. The following classifications on consumption habits were made: a) tobacco (non-smoker, mild, moderate, high and very high risk), b) alcohol (no risk, prudent consumption, low, moderate and high risk), c) drugs (never, almost never, with some frequency, quite frequently and very frequently) and d) global (not at all healthy, unhealthy, tending towards health and healthy). The results showed that 27% of the participants need to improve their lifestyle by eliminating (or reducing) drug use, acquiring healthier habits. Regarding the differences according to sex, men, compared to women, presented a higher prevalence of unhealthy habits, especially alcohol. In relation to the differences according to the age group, the participants from 49 to 55 years old presented the highest prevalence of habits in the unhealthy or unhealthy levels, while the group from 56 to 72 years old showed the healthiest levels in relation to the habit of drug use.

El objetivo fue analizar el hábito de consumo de tabaco, alcohol y otras drogas ilegales en el estilo de vida saludable adquirido. Estudio descriptivo, epidemiológico y transversal en 788 participantes de 22 a 77 años de edad (49,5% varones; 50,5% mujeres) seleccionados mediante muestreo no probabilístico e intencional. Se empleó la sub-escala 4. Hábito de consumo de tabaco, alcohol y otras drogas de la Escala de Valoración del Estilo de Vida Saludable Adquirido. Se realizaron las siguientes clasificaciones sobre el hábito de consumo: a) tabaco (no fumador, leve, moderado, alto y muy alto riesgo), b) alcohol (ningún riesgo, consumo prudente, bajo, moderado y alto riesgo), c) drogas (nunca, casi nunca, con alguna frecuencia, con bastante frecuencia y con mucha frecuencia) y d) global (nada saludable, poco saludable, tendente hacia la salud y saludable). Los resultados mostraron que el 27% de los participantes necesita mejorar su estilo de vida eliminando (o reduciendo) el consumo de drogas, adquiriendo hábitos más saludables. Con respecto a las diferencias según sexo, los varones, en comparación con las mujeres, presentaron una mayor prevalencia de hábitos no saludables, sobre todo, de alcohol. En relación a las diferencias según el grupo de edad, los participantes de 49 a 55 años presentaron la mayor prevalencia de hábitos en los niveles poco o nada saludables, mientras que el grupo de 56 a 72 años mostró los niveles más saludables en relación al hábito de consumo de drogas.

Evaluación fisicoquímica y bacteriológica del agua del río chillón / Physicochemical and bacteriological evaluation of the Chillón river water

El agua es uno de los compuestos más importantes y abundantes del ecosistema. Todos los organismos vivos de la tierra necesitan agua para su supervivencia y crecimiento. Hasta ahora, sólo La Tierra es el único planeta que tiene alrededor del 70% de agua, pero de ella sólo un muy pequeño porcentaje (0,3%) es apta para el consumo humano. Adicionalmente, el aumento de la demanda de agua como consecuencia de la población crecimiento, agricultura y desarrollo industrial ha obligado a los ambientalistas a determinar las características químicas, físicas y biológicas de los recursos hídricos naturales. La calidad de los recursos hídricos depende en gran medida de parámetros físico-químicos y características biológicas. Evaluar el monitoreo de estos parámetros es esencial para identificar la magnitud y la fuente de cualquier carga contaminante. Estas características pueden identificar cierta condición para la ecología de los organismos vivos y sugerir estrategias apropiadas de conservación y manejo. La disponibilidad de agua de buena calidad es una característica indispensable para prevenir enfermedades y mejorar calidad de vida. En este artículo se evaluó la calidad del agua, desde el punto de vista fisicoquímico y bacteriológico del río Chillón ubicado a 130 km del sur de la ciudad de Lima, Perú. Los resultados concluyeron que el río Chillón, especialmente, aguas abajo, no cumple con los estándares de calidad establecidos según normativa. El cálculo de ICARHS fue de 35,40, lo que categoriza al río Chillón con aguas de pésima calidad. Con los resultados obtenidos, se recomienda a las autoridades e instituciones gubernamentales el apoyo a continuar con el monitoreo de aguas de los ríos como una herramienta eficaz para evaluar su estado ecológico, así como para la protección de su contaminación y de la salud humana(AU)

Water is one of the most important and abundant compounds in the ecosystem. All living organisms on earth need water for their survival and growth. Until now, only the Earth is the only planet that has about 70% water, but of it only a very small percentage (0.3%) is suitable for human consumption. Additionally, the increased demand for water as a result of population growth, agriculture, and industrial development has forced environmentalists to determine the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of natural water resources. The quality of water resources depends largely on physical-chemical parameters and biological characteristics. Evaluating the monitoring of these parameters is essential to identify the magnitude and source of any contaminant load. The availability of good quality water is an essential feature to prevent diseases and improve quality of life. In this article, the quality of the water was evaluated from the physicochemical and bacteriological point of view of the Chillón River located 130 km south of the city of Lima, Peru. The results concluded that the Chillón River, especially downstream, does not meet the quality standards established according to regulations. The ICARHS calculation was 35.40, which categorizes the Chillón River as having poor quality water. With the results obtained, it is recommended that government authorities and institutions support the continuation of river water monitoring as an effective tool to assess their ecological status, as well as to protect against contamination and human health(AU)