Enzymatic biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients with depressive disorders. A systematic review.

Oxidative stress (OS) results from the imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the body's antioxidant mechanisms and is associated with various diseases, including depression. Antioxidants protect cells by neutralizing free radicals and include enzymatic components such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). The concentration of these biomarkers can quantify OS. This research aimed to gather available information published in the last ten years about the concentration of enzymatic OS biomarkers in samples from patients with depressive disorders. METHOD: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, including original scientific articles that evaluated enzymatic OS biomarkers in participants with depressive disorders, using the keywords and boolean operators "superoxide dismutase" OR "catalase" OR "glutathione" AND "depress*" in the databases PubMed, SAGE Journals, DOAJ, Scielo, Dialnet, and Redalyc. RESULTS: The initial search showed 614 results, with only 28 articles meeting the selection criteria. It was observed that all evaluated oxidative stress enzymatic markers showed a significant increase or decrease in patients with depressive disorders, due to a wide variability in the depressive disorders studied, the type of biological sample analyzed, and the techniques used. CONCLUSION: There is evidence of the relationship between enzymatic OS biomarkers and depressive disorders, but additional studies are needed to clarify the nature of this relationship, particularly considering the different types of depressive disorders.

Positive impact of Distintivo Soludable on implementation of sun protection policies and practices in schools of Andalusia, Spain.

The incidence of skin cancer is increasing worldwide even though its main risk factor is preventable. This study evaluated the impact of the Distintivo Soludable pilot intervention on implementation of photoprotection policies and practices in preschool and primary schools in Andalusia, Spain. We completed two rounds of a Sun Protection Policies and Practices Survey (SPPPS) nine months apart. At baseline, 67 Andalusian schools earned a median score of 3/12 points (range 0-8; IQR: 2). Ten schools involved in Distintivo Soludable intervention group significantly increased their scores from 4 to 7.5/12 points (p = 0.014). We also detected a modest positive effect in 57 control group schools, an increase from 2 to 3 points (p = 0.002). This pilot study demonstrated that the main achievement of the Distintivo Soludable intervention was implementation of organizational policies regarding sun protection, an essential starting point for establishing positive attitudes toward sun protection in school communities.

The art of modeling gene regulatory circuits.

The amazing complexity of gene regulatory circuits, and biological systems in general, makes mathematical modeling an essential tool to frame and develop our understanding of their properties. Here, we present some fundamental considerations to develop and analyze a model of a gene regulatory circuit of interest, either representing a natural, synthetic, or theoretical system. A mathematical model allows us to effectively evaluate the logical implications of our hypotheses. Using our models to systematically perform in silico experiments, we can then propose specific follow-up assessments of the biological system as well as to reformulate the original assumptions, enriching both our knowledge and our understanding of the system. We want to invite the community working on different aspects of gene regulatory circuits to explore the power and benefits of mathematical modeling in their system.

Development of a Questionnaire on Knowledge, Habits, and Attitudes on Sexually Transmitted Infections in Teenagers and Young Adults. / [Artículo traducido] Generación de un cuestionario sobre conocimientos, hábitos y actitudes sobre infecciones de transmisión sexual en adolescentes y adultos jóvenes.

Communication with teenagers who are significantly affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is essential for the sake of prevention. The aim of this study is to develop a specific questionnaire for surveying the degree of knowledge, behavior, and attitudes of current teenagers and young adults on STIs to come up with the proper training tools. We conducted the study following the Delphi method, a 2-round critical assessment score (from 1 to 9) of all domains and items. Only domains and items with median scores ≥8 were selected. A total of 8 panelists were involved in this survey. After establishing a median score ≥8, a total of 14 domains and 40 items were eventually selected. This is the first questionnaire ever conducted to study the knowledge, habits, and attitudes of contemporary teenagers and young adults on STIs, and stands as a valuable tool for future training on STI prevention in teenagers and young adults.

Development of a Questionnaire on Knowledge, Habits, and Attitudes on Sexually Transmitted Infections in Teenagers and Young Adults.

Communication with teenagers who are significantly affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is essential for the sake of prevention. The aim of this study is to develop a specific questionnaire for surveying the degree of knowledge, behavior, and attitudes of current teenagers and young adults on STIs to come up with the proper training tools. We conducted the study following the Delphi method, a 2-round critical assessment score (from 1 to 9) of all domains and items. Only domains and items with median scores ≥8 were selected. A total of 8 panelists were involved in this survey. After establishing a median score ≥8, a total of 14 domains and 40 items were eventually selected. This is the first questionnaire ever conducted to study the knowledge, habits, and attitudes of contemporary teenagers and young adults on STIs, and stands as a valuable tool for future training on STI prevention in teenagers and young adults.

Reconfigurable frequency multipliers based on graphene field-effect transistors.

Run-time device-level reconfigurability has the potential to boost the performance and functionality of numerous circuits beyond the limits imposed by the integration density. The key ingredient for the implementation of reconfigurable electronics lies in ambipolarity, which is easily accessible in a substantial number of two-dimensional materials, either by contact engineering or architecture device-level design. In this work, we showcase graphene as an optimal solution to implement high-frequency reconfigurable electronics. We propose and analyze a split-gate graphene field-effect transistor, demonstrating its capability to perform as a dynamically tunable frequency multiplier. The study is based on a physically based numerical simulator validated and tested against experiments. The proposed architecture is evaluated in terms of its performance as a tunable frequency multiplier, able to switch between doubler, tripler or quadrupler operation modes. Different material and device parameters are analyzed, and their impact is assessed in terms of the reconfigurable graphene frequency multiplier performance.

Sun exposure practices, attitudes and knowledge among students and teachers at a University School of Health Sciences in Ecuador.

Skin cancer incidence is increasing worldwide. Late adolescence and young adulthood are fundamental stages of life to acquire good sun exposure practices, regarding both personal involvement in skin cancer prevention and being a role model for others, especially in a health education environment. This descriptive cross-sectional study is based on the validated CHACES questionnaire to study sun exposure and photoprotection behavior among students and teachers at the School of Health Sciences in the National University of Chimborazo, Riobamba (Ecuador). University members (814 students (89.8 %) and 93 teachers (10.2 %)) were studied, with a predominance of females and light-skin phototypes in both groups. Similar results were obtained regarding sun exposure, with higher recreative exposure in the teachers' group and higher occupational exposure in students. However, students significantly showed lower avoiding midday sun (41.9 % vs 60.9 %), and lower use of sunglasses (10.1 % vs. 41.6 %). Attitudes towards the sun and photoprotection knowledge issues were also equivalent between students and teachers (6.1/10 vs 6.2/10). Students' sunburn rate last year reaches 88.4 % and 52.7 % in teachers (p < 0.001). Using a multivariable logistic regression model, we identified risk factors associated with a greater risk of sunburn in our population. This study highlights areas to be improved regarding knowledge, attitudes and, especially, practices of photoprotection, among students and teachers at the University of Chimborazo. These results point out that awareness-raising campaigns should be implemented to reduce sunburns, morbidity and mortality of skin cancer in this environment.

Source code and simulation data for the prediction of the electrodeposition mechanism of nanostructured metallic coatings.

This data article presents a simulation model based on quantum mechanics and energy potentials for obtaining simulation data that allows, from the perspective of materials informatics, the prediction of the electrodeposition mechanism for forming nanostructured metallic coatings. The development of the research is divided into two parts i) the formulation (Quantum mechanical model and Corrected model for electron prediction; using a modified Schrödinger equation) and ii) the implementation of the theoretical prediction model (Discretization of the model). For the simulation process, the finite element method (FEM) was used considering the equation of electric potential and electroneutrality with and without the inclusion of quantum leap. We also provide the code to perform QM simulations in CUDA®, and COMSOL® software, the simulation parameters, and data for two metallic arrangements of chromium nanoparticles (CrNPs) electrodeposited on commercial steel substrate. (CrNPs-AISI 1020 steel and CrNPs-A618 steel). Data collection shows the direct relationship between applied potential (VDC), current (A), concentration (ppm), and time (s) for the homogeneous formation of the coating during the electrodeposition process, as estimated by the theoretical model developed. Their potential reuse data is done to establish the precision of the theoretical model in predicting the formation and growth of nanostructured surface coatings with metallic nanoparticles to give surface-mechanical properties.

Metabarcoding Used for the First Time to Identify Prey of Wild Totoaba macdonaldi.

Totoaba macdonaldi is an endangered endemic fish of the Gulf of California. Overexploitation resulted in the Mexican government banning the fishing of this species in 1975, and it being listed as endangered. However, the species is still subject to illegal fishing. Despite its conservation status, little is known about totoaba biology. The present study aimed to implement, for the first time, a metabarcoding protocol to describe the totoaba diet. Four wild totoaba individuals, seized by Mexican law enforcement agents, were dissected, and their stomach contents were collected. Three representative amplicon libraries were generated for cephalopods, chordates, and eukaryotes. After sequencing, 18 different taxa were identified, of which 11 species were recognized as prey. The totoaba were found to have consumed Pacific anchovy (Cetengraulis mysticetus), flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), bigeye croaker (Micropogonias megalops), northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax), ocean whitefish (Caulolatilus princeps), milkfish (Chanos chanos), and Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax). Members of the Euphausiidae family (krill) were also identified. This study identified up to four times more species in much fewer samples than previous studies based on morphological recognition, thus confirming metabarcoding as an effective method for studying the feeding habits of this species and one providing the tools required for further analysis of the totoaba diet.

Online physical exercise intervention in older adults during lockdown: Can we improve the recipe?

BACKGROUND: Recorded and live online physical exercise (PE) interventions are known to provide health benefits. However, the effects of prioritizing the number of live or recorded sessions remain unclear. AIMS: To explore which recorded-live sessions ratio leads to the best implementation and benefits in older adults. METHODS: Forty-six community-dwelling adults (> 60y.o.) were randomized into two groups completing a 12-week online PE intervention. Each group had a different ratio of live-recorded online sessions as follows: Live-Recorded-Live sessions (LRL; n = 22) vs. Recorded-Live-Recorded sessions (RLR; n = 24). RESULTS: Drop-out rates did not reach significance (LRL:14% vs. RLR: 29%, p = 0.20), and adherence was similar (> 85%) between groups. Both groups reported similar levels of satisfaction (> 70%), enjoyment (> 75%), and perceived exertion (> 60%). Both groups increased physical health and functional capacities, with greater improvements in muscle power (LRL: LRL: + 35 ± 16.1% vs. RLR: + 7 ± 13.9%; p = 0.010) and endurance (LRL: + 34.7 ± 15.4 vs. RLR: + 27.0 ± 26.5, p < 0.001) in the LRL group. DISCUSSION: Both online PE intervention modalities were adapted to the participants' capacities and led to a high level of enjoyment and retention. The greater physical improvements observed in the LRL group are likely due to the higher presence of the instructor compared to the RLR group. Indeed, participants received likely more feedback to appropriately adjust postures and movements, increasing the quality of the exercises. CONCLUSION: When creating online PE interventions containing both recorded and live sessions, priority should be given to maximizing the number of live sessions and not the number of recorded sessions.

Genetic profile in patients with complicated acute aortic syndrome: the GEN-AOR study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Genetic testing is becoming increasingly important for diagnosis and personalized treatments in aortopathies. Here, we aimed to genetically diagnose a group of acute aortic syndrome (AAS) patients consecutively admitted to an intensive care unit and to explore the clinical usefulness of AAS-associated variants during treatment decision-making and family traceability. METHODS: We applied targeted next-generation sequencing, covering 42 aortic diseases genes in AAS patients with no signs consistent with syndromic conditions. Detected variants were segregated by Sanger sequencing in available family members. Demographic features, risk factors and clinical symptoms were statistically analyzed by Fisher or Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact tests, to assess their relationship with genetic results. RESULTS: Analysis of next-generation sequencing data in 73 AAS patients led to the detection of 34 heterozygous candidate variants in 14 different genes in 32 patients. Family screening was performed in 31 relatives belonging to 9 families. We found 13 relatives harboring the family variant, of which 10 showed a genotype compatible with the occurrence of AAS. Statistical tests revealed that the factors associated with a positive genetic diagnosis were the absence of hypertension, lower age, family history of AAS and absence of pain. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings broaden the spectrum of the genetic background for AAS. In addition, both index patients and studied relatives benefited from the results obtained, establishing the most appropriate level of surveillance for each group. Finally, this strategy could be reinforced by the use of stastistically significant clinical features as a predictive tool for the hereditary character of AAS. CLINICALTRIALS: gov (Identifier: NCT04751058).

Experimental study of an asymmetric valveless pump to elucidate insights into strategies for pediatric extravascular flow augmentation.

Asymmetric pumping is a sub-category of valveless pumping in which a flexible tube is rhythmically compressed in the transverse symmetry plane. Due to the resulting asymmetry between the suction and discharge pipes, a net pumping head is achieved. Asymmetric pumping is regarded as one of the main mechanisms responsible for the Liebau effect in addition to impedance pumping. However, there remains a paucity of research surrounding the governing parameters of asymmetric pumping. Here, we conducted an experimental study of the performance of an asymmetric pump, with an aim to assess its potential for extravascular flow augmentation. A custom flexible latex tube and experimental platform were developed for this purpose. We tested various tube thicknesses and pinching frequencies. Our results demonstrate that the performance is within the range of physiological requirements for pediatric circulatory devices (~ 1 L/min and < 30 mmHg). We conclude that due to the absence of reverse flow and its mechanical simplicity, pure asymmetric pumping is promising for selected cardiovascular applications with less complexity than other valveless techniques.

Considering equity in priority setting using transmission models: Recommendations and data needs.

OBJECTIVES: Disease transmission models are used in impact assessment and economic evaluations of infectious disease prevention and treatment strategies, prominently so in the COVID-19 response. These models rarely consider dimensions of equity relating to the differential health burden between individuals and groups. We describe concepts and approaches which are useful when considering equity in the priority setting process, and outline the technical choices concerning model structure, outputs, and data requirements needed to use transmission models in analyses of health equity. METHODS: We reviewed the literature on equity concepts and approaches to their application in economic evaluation and undertook a technical consultation on how equity can be incorporated in priority setting for infectious disease control. The technical consultation brought together health economists with an interest in equity-informative economic evaluation, ethicists specialising in public health, mathematical modellers from various disease backgrounds, and representatives of global health funding and technical assistance organisations, to formulate key areas of consensus and recommendations. RESULTS: We provide a series of recommendations for applying the Reference Case for Economic Evaluation in Global Health to infectious disease interventions, comprising guidance on 1) the specification of equity concepts; 2) choice of evaluation framework; 3) model structure; and 4) data needs. We present available conceptual and analytical choices, for example how correlation between different equity- and disease-relevant strata should be considered dependent on available data, and outline how assumptions and data limitations can be reported transparently by noting key factors for consideration. CONCLUSIONS: Current developments in economic evaluations in global health provide a wide range of methodologies to incorporate equity into economic evaluations. Those employing infectious disease models need to use these frameworks more in priority setting to accurately represent health inequities. We provide guidance on the technical approaches to support this goal and ultimately, to achieve more equitable health policies.

Fluctuation and change of serum urate levels and flares in gout: results from the NOR-Gout study.

A gout attack may evolve after a purine-rich diet or alcohol and after starting urate-lowering therapy (ULT). The relationships between fluctuation and change in serum urate (SU) with the occurrence of flares were investigated in this study. In the prospective NOR-Gout study, gout patients with increased SU and a recent flare were treated to target with ULT over 1 year, with follow-up at year 2 with SU and flare as outcomes. SU and flares were assessed at both monthly and 3-monthly intervals until target SU was reached. Fluctuation over periods and changes in SU between two time points were assessed and compared in patients with and without flares. At year 1, 186 patients completed follow-up (88.2%) and 173 (82.0%) at year 2. Mean age (SD) at baseline was 56.4 (13.7) years, disease duration was 7.8 (7.6) years, and 95.3% were men. The first-year SU fluctuation and change were related to flare occurrence during year 1 (both p < 0.05). High fluctuation with an absolute sum of all SU changes during the first 9 months was related to flares over 3-month periods (all p < 0.05), and high fluctuation during the first 3 months was related to flares in months 3-6 (p = 0.04). Monthly and high SU changes or again reaching higher SU levels > 360 µmol/l were not related to flares. Fluctuation and change in SU were related to flare occurrence during the first year of ULT, while changes between visits and reaching SU levels > 360 µmol/L were not related to flares. Key Points • Urate-lowering therapy seeks to achieve a treatment target and prevent gout flares, and changes in serum urate are related to gout flares. • Fluctuation and changes in serum urate were associated with gout flares, suggesting that fluctuation in serum urate is unfavourable during gout treatment. • During urate-lowering therapy in gout in clinical practice, fluctuation of serum urate, for example, due to lack of adherence, should be observed and avoided.

[Patient participation through active listening. About the remodeling of an extractions service]. / Participación del paciente a través de la escucha activa. A propósito de la remodelación de un servicio de extracciones.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: From listening to patients there arises the possibility of improving both the care and the health infrastructure that users frequent. Our purpose of study was to explore the perception of users about the means and the care received involved in a hospital service through active listening, and to evaluate the satisfaction perceived after the opening of the renovated area. METHODS: A mixed methodology evaluative investigation was carried out within the context of the Extraction Service of the Costa del Sol Hospital, using qualitative methodology to assess the perception of users, and quantitative methodology through a satisfaction survey to identify the change after remodeling of the area. RESULTS: Through a qualitative approach, improvements have been identified in terms of the internal and external infrastructure of the center, highlighting the need to personalize spaces depending on the profile of the patient attended. In evaluating the impact after remodeling the area, patients have a higher overall satisfaction both from the healthcare professionals who attend them and from the healthcare center. CONCLUSIONS: Through the use of a mixed methodology, useful information has been incorporated for a project to improve a hospital infrastructure, and a subsequent evaluation of the positive impact on the satisfaction perceived by users after remodeling.

Impact on the incidence of gastrointestinal perforation during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Costa del Sol healthcare system area.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Gastrointestinal perforation is a surgical emergency that is associated with a high mortality rate and requires special care. During the pandemic, there has been competition with COVID-19 patients for health resources, especially ICU bed availability. The primary aim of our study was to compare the incidence of gastrointestinal perforation during the COVID-19 pandemic, with cases registered before the pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, observational, single center, cohort study was conducted that included patients that underwent emergency surgery for gastrointestinal perforation in the periods during the pandemic (6 months) and before the pandemic (12 months). Sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, duration of hospital and ICU stay, status at discharge, and perforation site were compared. RESULTS: The study included 67 subjects (33 in the pre-pandemic period and 34 in the pandemic period). There were no significant differences regarding sex, age, or comorbidity. The perforation rate per emergency intervention was 4-times higher during the pandemic. There was an increase in the number of patients that were foreigners (4 [11%]) and nonresidents (6 [17%]). ICU admissions decreased (6 [19%]) but ICU stay increased to 137 h. Hospital stay increased by 5 days and delay in care increased 4.5 h. The number of deaths was higher (from 5 [15.2%] to 10 [29.4%]). Four patients with perforations were positive for COVID-19, were admitted to the ICU, and died. CONCLUSIONS: During the COVID-19 pandemic there was an increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal perforations at our healthcare system area; symptoms were more advanced, and mortality was higher.

[Impact on the incidence of gastrointestinal perforation during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Costa del Sol healthcare system area]. / Impacto en la incidencia de perforación gastrointestinal durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en el área sanitaria Costa del Sol.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Gastrointestinal perforation is a surgical emergency that is associated with a high mortality rate and requires special care. During the pandemic, there has been competition with COVID-19 patients for health resources, especially ICU bed availability. The primary aim of our study was to compare the incidence of gastrointestinal perforation during the COVID-19 pandemic, with cases registered before the pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, observational, single center, cohort study was conducted that included patients that underwent emergency surgery for gastrointestinal perforation in the periods during the pandemic (6 months) and before the pandemic (12 months). Sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, duration of hospital and ICU stay, status at discharge, and perforation site were compared. RESULTS: The study included 67 subjects (33 in the pre-pandemic period and 34 in the pandemic period). There were no significant differences regarding sex, age, or comorbidity. The perforation rate per emergency intervention was 4-times higher during the pandemic. There was an increase in the number of patients that were foreigners (4 [11%]) and nonresidents (6, [17%]). ICU admissions decreased (6 [19%]) but ICU stay increased to 137 h. Hospital stay increased by 5 days and delay in care increased 4.5 h. The number of deaths was higher (from 5 [15.2%] to 10 [29.4%]). Four patients with perforations were positive for COVID-19, were admitted to the ICU, and died. CONCLUSIONS: During the COVID-19 pandemic there was an increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal perforations at our healthcare system area; symptoms were more advanced, and mortality was higher.

Waterborne Antifouling Paints Containing Nanometric Copper and Silver against Marine Bacillus Species.

Due to the concern to find an alternative to reduce the colonization (microfouling and macrofouling) or the biocorrosion of surfaces submerged for long periods in water, we evaluated the antifouling activity of a commercial paint added with silver nanoparticles (AgNP's) and copper nanoparticles (CuNP's), beside copper-soybean chelate, by electrolytic synthesis, using them in low concentrations (6.94E - 04 mg Ag g-1 paint, 9.07E - 03 mg Cu g-1 paint, and 1.14E - 02 mg Cu g-1 paint, respectively). The test for paint samples was carried out by JIS Z2801-ISO 22196 for periods of initial time, 6 months, and 12 months, against three bacterial strains of marine origin, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus altitudinis. It was possible to demonstrate, according to the standard, that the sample with the greatest antimicrobial activity was the copper-soybean chelate against two of the three strains studied (B. pumilus with R = 2.11 and B. subtilis with R = 2.41), which represents more than 99% of bacterial inhibition. Therefore, we considered a novel option for inhibiting bacterial growth with nanoparticles as antifouling additives.