Impaired Quality of Life in Patients with Post-Surgical Hypoparathyroidism.

BACKGROUND: Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by chronic hypocalcemia with low or abnormal parathyroid hormone levels. Thyroid surgery remains a predominant cause of hypoparathyroidism, often preventable by partial thyroidectomy. Although hypoparathyroidism can impair quality of life (QOL), data remain limited for Latin America. We aimed to characterize clinical manifestations and QOL in patients with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism. METHODS: This case-control study included patients (>18 years) who underwent total thyroidectomy (TT) for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism (Group 1, Cases) and those with DTC who underwent TT without postsurgical hypoparathyroidism (Group 2, Controls). Clinical records were collected, and the SF-36v2 QOL survey and a structured symptom survey were applied. A logistic multivariate regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: This study included 106 subjects (Group 1, N=41; Group 2, N=65). Group 1 patients were younger, had a higher frequency of lymph node resection, and more frequently received Ι-131 than Group 2 patients (p<0.05). In the SF-36v2 survey, Group 1 had fewer physical-functioning scores (odds ratio, 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-11.7) and lower scores in mental and physical components than Group 2 and national records. Commonly reported symptoms include paresthesia, daily fatigue, and memory alterations. Treatment adherence rates were 56% and 71% for calcium and calcitriol, respectively. Furthermore, 24% of patients experienced one or more hypoparathyroidism drug-related adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism had an impaired QOL, a high frequency of disease-associated symptoms, and limited treatment adherence. These results should be considered when deciding the best surgical alternative for DTC.

Lobectomy in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer: experience of a Chilean tertiary center.

PURPOSE: Thyroid lobectomy (TL) is an appropriate treatment for up to 4 cm intrathyroidal differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). There is scarce data regarding TL outside first-world centers. Our aim is to report a cohort of patients with DTC treated with TL in Chile. METHODS: We included DTC patients treated with TL, followed for at least 6 months, characterized their clinicopathological features and classified their risk of recurrence and response to treatment. RESULTS: Eighty-two patients followed for a median of 2.3 years (0.5-7.0). Seventy-three (89%) patients had papillary, 8 (9.8%) follicular and 1 (1.2%) high-grade DTC. The risk of recurrence was low in 56 (68.3%) and intermediate in 26 (31.7%). Eight (9.8%) patients required early completion thyroidectomy and radioiodine. At last follow-up, 52 (70.3%) had excellent, 19 (25.7%) had indeterminate, and 1 (1.4%) had structural incomplete response. CONCLUSION: In a developing country, TL is an adequate option for appropriately selected DTC patients.

Active surveillance is a feasible and safe strategy in selected patients with papillary thyroid cancer and suspicious cervical lymph nodes detected after thyroidectomy.

Objective: After initial treatment, up to 30% of patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) have incomplete response, mainly cervical lymph node (LN) disease. Previous studies have suggested that active surveillance (AS) is a possible option for these patients. Our aim was to report the results of AS in patients with PTC and cervical LN disease. Materials and methods: In this retrospective observational study, we included adult patients treated and followed for PTC, who presented with cervical LN disease and were managed with AS. Growth was defined as an increase ≥ 3mm in either diameter. Results: We included 32 patients: 27 (84.4%) women, age of 39 ± 14 years, all initially treated with total thyroidectomy, and 22 (69%) with therapeutic neck dissection. Cervical LN disease was diagnosed 1 year (0.3-12.6) after initial management, with a diameter of 9.0 mm (6.0-19.0). After a median AS of 4.3 years (0.6-14.1), 4 (12.5%) patients had LNgrowth: 2 (50%) of whom were surgically removed, 1 (25%) was effectively treated with radiotherapy, and 1 (25%) had a scheduled surgery. Tg increase was the only predictive factor of LN growth evaluated as both the delta Tg (p < 0.0366) and percentage of Tg change (p < 0.0140). None of the included patients died, had local complications due to LN growth or salvage therapy, or developed distant metastases during follow-up. Conclusion: In selected patients with PTC and suspicious cervical LNs diagnosed after initial treatment, AS is a feasible and safe strategy as it allows effective identification and treatment of the minority of patients who progress.

In Vivo, In Vitro and In Silico Anticancer Activity of Ilama Leaves: An Edible and Medicinal Plant in Mexico.

Ilama leaves are an important source of secondary metabolites with promising anticancer properties. Cancer is a disease that affects a great number of people worldwide. This work aimed to investigate the in vivo, in vitro and in silico anticancer properties of three acyclic terpenoids (geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate) isolated from petroleum ether extract of ilama leaves. Their cytotoxic activity against U-937 cells was assessed using flow cytometry to determine the type of cell death and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Also, a morphological analysis of the lymph nodes and a molecular docking study using three proteins related with cancer as targets, namely, Bcl-2, Mcl-1 and VEGFR-2, were performed. The flow cytometry and histomorphological analysis revealed that geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate induced the death of U-937 cells by late apoptosis and necrosis. Geranylgeraniol and phytol induced a significant increase in ROS production. The molecular docking studies showed that geranylgeraniol had more affinity for Bcl-2 and VEGFR-2. In the case of farnesyl acetate, it showed the best affinity for Mcl-1. This study provides information that supports the anticancer potential of geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate as compounds for the treatment of cancer, particularly with the potential to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Casiopeina III-ia: A Copper Compound with Potential Use for Treatment of Infections Caused by Leishmania mexicana.

INTRODUCTION: Casiopeina III-ia (CasIII-ia) is a mixed chelate copper (II) compound capable of interacting with free radicals generated in the respiratory chain through redox reactions, producing toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) that compromise the viability of cancer cells, bacteria and protozoa. Due to its remarkable effect on protozoa, this study evaluated the effect of CasIII-ia on Leishmania mexicana amastigotes and its potential use as a treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis in the murine model. METHODS: We analyzed the leishmanicidal effect of CasIII-ia on L. mexicana amastigotes and on their survival in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Furthermore, we evaluated the production of ROS in treated parasites and the efficacy of CasIII-ia in the treatment of mice infected with L. mexicana. RESULTS: Our results show that CasIII-ia reduces parasite viability in a dose-dependent manner that correlates with increased ROS production. A decrease in the size of footpad lesions and in parasite loads was observed in infected mice treated with the intraperitoneal administration of CasIII-ia. CONCLUSIONS: We propose CasIII-ia as a potential drug for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Eosinophils of patients with localized and diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis: Differential response to Leishmania mexicana, with insights into mechanisms of damage inflicted upon the parasites by eosinophils.

Eosinophils are mainly associated with parasitic infections and allergic manifestations. They produce many biologically active substances that contribute to the destruction of pathogens through the degranulation of microbicidal components and inflammatory tissue effects. In leishmaniasis, eosinophils have been found within inflammatory infiltrate with protective immunity against the parasite. We analyzed the responses of eosinophils from patients with localized (LCL) and diffuse (DCL) cutaneous leishmaniasis, as well as from healthy subjects, when exposed to Leishmania mexicana. All DCL patients exhibited blood eosinophilia, along with elevated eosinophil counts in non-ulcerated nodules. In contrast, only LCL patients with prolonged disease progression showed eosinophils in their blood and cutaneous ulcers. Eosinophils from DCL patients secreted significantly higher levels of IL-6, IL-8, and IL-13, compared to eosinophils from LCL patients. Additionally, DCL patients displayed higher serum levels of anti-Leishmania IgG antibodies. We also demonstrated that eosinophils from both LCL and DCL patients responded to L. mexicana promastigotes with a robust oxidative burst, which was equally intense in both patient groups and significantly higher than in healthy subjects. Coincubation of eosinophils (from donors with eosinophilia) with L. mexicana promastigotes in vitro revealed various mechanisms of parasite damage associated with different patterns of granule exocytosis: 1) localized degranulation on the parasite surface, 2) the release of cytoplasmic membrane-bound "degranulation sacs" containing granules, 3) release of eosinophil extracellular traps containing DNA and granules with major basic protein. In conclusion, eosinophils damage L. mexicana parasites through the release of granules via diverse mechanisms. However, despite DCL patients having abundant eosinophils in their blood and tissues, their apparent inability to provide protection may be linked to the release of cytokines and chemokines that promote a Th2 immune response and disease progression in these patients.

Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Outcomes of 2542 Patients with Spinal Schwannomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to systematically analyze the data on the clinical features, surgical treatment, and outcomes of spinal schwannomas. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search of bibliographic databases from January 1, 2001, to May 31, 2021, yielded 4489 studies. Twenty-six articles were included in our final qualitative systematic review and quantitative meta-analysis. RESULTS: Analysis of 2542 adult patients' data from 26 included studies showed that 53.5% were male, and the mean age ranged from 35.8 to 57.1 years. The most common tumor location was the cervical spine (34.2%), followed by the thoracic spine (26.2%) and the lumbar spine (18.5%). Symptom severity was the most common indicator for surgical treatment, with the most common symptoms being segmental back pain, sensory/motor deficits, and urinary dysfunction. Among all patients analyzed, 93.8% were treated with gross total resection, which was associated with better prognosis and less chance of recurrence than subtotal resection. The posterior approach was the most common (87.4% of patients). The average operative time was 4.53 hours (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.18-6.48); the average intraoperative blood loss was 451.88 mL (95% CI, 169.60-1203.95). The pooled follow-up duration was 40.6 months (95% CI, 31.04-53.07). The schwannoma recurrence rate was 5.3%. Complications were particularly low and included cerebrospinal fluid leakage, wound infection, and the sensory-motor deficits. Most of the patients experienced complete recovery or significant improvement of preoperative neurological deficits and pain symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis suggests that segmental back pain, sensory/motor deficits, and urinary dysfunction are the most common symptoms of spinal schwannomas. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice with overall good reported outcomes and particularly low complication rates. gross total resection offers the best prognosis with the slightest chance of tumor recurrence and minimal risk of complications.

Active surveillance is a feasible and safe strategy in selected patients with papillary thyroid cancer and suspicious cervical lymph nodes detected after thyroidectomy

ABSTRACT Objective: After initial treatment, up to 30% of patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) have incomplete response, mainly cervical lymph node (LN) disease. Previous studies have suggested that active surveillance (AS) is a possible option for these patients. Our aim was to report the results of AS in patients with PTC and cervical LN disease. Materials and methods: In this retrospective observational study, we included adult patients treated and followed for PTC, who presented with cervical LN disease and were managed with AS. Growth was defined as an increase ≥ 3mm in either diameter. Results: We included 32 patients: 27 (84.4%) women, age of 39 ± 14 years, all initially treated with total thyroidectomy, and 22 (69%) with therapeutic neck dissection. Cervical LN disease was diagnosed 1 year (0.3-12.6) after initial management, with a diameter of 9.0 mm (6.0-19.0). After a median AS of 4.3 years (0.6-14.1), 4 (12.5%) patients had LN growth: 2 (50%) of whom were surgically removed, 1 (25%) was effectively treated with radiotherapy, and 1 (25%) had a scheduled surgery. Tg increase was the only predictive factor of LN growth evaluated as both the delta Tg (p < 0.0366) and percentage of Tg change (p < 0.0140). None of the included patients died, had local complications due to LN growth or salvage therapy, or developed distant metastases during follow-up. Conclusions: In selected patients with PTC and suspicious cervical LNs diagnosed after initial treatment, AS is a feasible and safe strategy as it allows effective identification and treatment of the minority of patients who progress.

La escleroterapia como opción terapéutica en el manejo del síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay / Sclerotherapy as a therapeutic option in the management of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome

Introducción: El síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay es una enfermedad congénita poco frecuente, caracterizada por una tríada clásica, que consiste en una malformación capilar cutánea, hipertrofia del tejido blando y/u óseo en extremidades, y malformaciones venosas, resultantes en venas varicosas u otras malformaciones del sistema venoso profundo. Objetivo: Presentar la escleroterapia como opción terapéutica en el manejo del síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay. Métodos: Paciente femenina de 27 años, color de piel blanca, con antecedentes de diagnóstico de Síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay desde los tres años de edad, el cual se manifestó como un nevus desde su nacimiento, localizado en la región glútea izquierda, aumento de tamaño de la extremidad y presencia de dilataciones venosas desde la infancia temprana. Resultados: Se empleó, como tratamiento de las várices, la escleroterapia con espuma. Conclusiones: Se logró eliminar los trayectos varicosos, mejorando la estética y funcionabilidad de la extremidad(AU)

Introduction: Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome is a rare congenital disease characterized by a classic triad consisting of a cutaneous capillary malformation, hypertrophy of soft tissue and/or bone in the limbs, and venous malformations, resulting in varicose veins or other malformations of the deep venous system. Objective: To present sclerotherapy as a therapeutic option in the management of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. Methods: It is presented the case of a 27-year-old female patient, with white skin, a history of diagnosis of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome since she was three years old, which manifested as a nevus from birth, located in the left gluteal region, increased size of the limb and presence of venous dilations since early childhood. Results: Foam sclerotherapy was used as a treatment for varicose veins. Conclusions: Varicose tracts were eliminated, which improved the aesthetics and functionality of the limb(AU)

Quistes renales en aneurisma de la aorta abdominal diagnosticada por ecografía Doppler / Renal Cysts in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Diagnosed by Doppler Ultrasound

Introducción: La relación de la presencia de quistes renales y aneurisma de la aorta abdominal es una duda por aclarar, y no se cuenta con literatura al respecto. Objetivo: Estimar la relación entre la presencia de quistes renales y aneurisma de aorta abdominal en pacientes atendidos en el Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte longitudinal en el período de 2021-2022 en pacientes con diagnóstico clínico y ecográfico de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal. El universo lo conformaron pacientes que asistieron al Departamento de Ultrasonido Doppler con diagnóstico clínico de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal. La muestra estuvo constituida por 152 pacientes; se utilizaron la prueba de Chi cuadrado y el método de estimación del riesgo mediante el cálculo del odds ratio. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 70,1 ± 5,6 años; el sexo masculino predominó con 27 casos con quiste de un total de 41; el dolor abdominal resultó la manifestación clínica más frecuente (99 casos); y el tabaquismo (97 pacientes) el factor de riesgo cardiovascular que más se presentó. En cuanto a las características ecográficas, predominaron: el aneurisma de la arteria infrarrenal (107 casos), el diámetro muy pequeño con 17 casos y odds ratio de 4,53 se considera de riesgo al igual que toma bilateral de las arterias iliacas con odds ratio de 7,56 (5 casos). Conclusiones: La presencia de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal es independiente de padecer o no quistes renales. Estas dos patologías solo se relacionaron en cuanto a la toma bilateral y diámetro muy pequeño del aneurisma(AU)

Introduction: The relation between the presence of renal cysts and abdominal aortic aneurysm is a question to be clarified, and there is no literature on the subject. Objective: To estimate the relation between the presence of renal cysts and abdominal aortic aneurysm in patients treated at the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery. Methods: A descriptive longitudinal study was conducted in the period 2021-2022 in patients with a clinical and ultrasound diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The universe was made up of patients who attended the Doppler Ultrasound Department with a clinical diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The sample consisted of 152 patients. The Chi-square test and the risk estimation method were used to calculate the odds ratio. Results: The mean age was 70.1 ± 5.6 years; males predominated, with 27 cases with cysts out of a total of 41; abdominal pain was the most frequent clinical manifestation (99 cases); and the cardiovascular risk factor that occurred the most was smoking (97 patients). The predominant ultrasound characteristics were: infrarenal artery aneurysm (107 cases) and very small diameter with 17 cases and odds ratio of 4.53; it was considered risky, as it was the bilateral intake of the iliac arteries, with an odds ratio of 7.56 (5 cases). Conclusions: The presence of abdominal aortic aneurysm is independent of whether or not renal cysts are present. These two pathologies were only related in terms of bilateral intake and very small diameter of the aneurysm(AU)

Identification and Profiling Analysis of microRNAs in Guava Fruit (Psidium guajava L.) and Their Role during Ripening.

The guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a climacteric fruit with an accelerated post-harvest overripening. miRNAs are small RNA sequences that function as gene regulators in eukaryotes and are essential for their survival and development. In this study, miRNA libraries were constructed, sequenced and analyzed from the breaker and ripe stages of guava fruit cv. Siglo XXI. One hundred and seventy-four mature miRNA sequences from 28 miRNA families were identified. The taxonomic distribution of the guava miRNAs showed a high level of conservation among the dicotyledonous plants. Most of the predicted miRNA target genes were transcription factors and genes involved in the metabolism of phytohormones such as abscisic acid, auxins, and ethylene, as revealed through an ontology enrichment analysis. The miRNA families miR168, miR169, miR396, miR397, and miR482 were classified as being directly associated with maturation, whereas the miRNA families miR160, miR165, miR167, miR3930, miR395, miR398, and miR535 were classified as being indirectly associated. With this study, we intended to increase our knowledge and understanding of the regulatory process involved in the ripening process, thereby providing valuable information for future research on the ripening of guava fruit.

A Comparative Study of HA/DBM Compounds Derived from Bovine and Porcine for Bone Regeneration.

This comparative study investigated the tissue regeneration and inflammatory response induced by xenografts comprised of hydroxyapatite (HA) and demineralized bone matrix (DBM) extracted from porcine (P) and bovine (B) sources. First, extraction of HA and DBM was independently conducted, followed by chemical and morphological characterization. Second, mixtures of HA/DBM were prepared in 50/50 and 60/40 concentrations, and the chemical, morphological, and mechanical properties were evaluated. A rat calvarial defect model was used to evaluate the tissue regeneration and inflammatory responses at 3 and 6 months. The commercial allograft DBM Puros® was used as a clinical reference. Different variables related to tissue regeneration were evaluated, including tissue thickness regeneration (%), amount of regenerated bone area (%), and amount of regenerated collagen area (%). The inflammatory response was evaluated by quantifying the blood vessel area. Overall, tissue regeneration from porcine grafts was superior to bovine. After 3 months of implantation, the tissue thickness regeneration in the 50/50P compound and the commercial DBM was significantly higher (~99%) than in the bovine materials (~23%). The 50/50P and DBM produced higher tissue regeneration than the naturally healed controls. Similar trends were observed for the regenerated bone and collagen areas. The blood vessel area was correlated with tissue regeneration in the first 3 months of evaluation. After 6 months of implantation, HA/DBM compounds showed less regenerated collagen than the DBM-only xenografts. In addition, all animal-derived xenografts improved tissue regeneration compared with the naturally healed defects. No clinical complications associated with any implanted compound were noted.

Clinical and histopathological features of follicular thyroid cancer in Chile

ABSTRACT Objective: Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is less frequent but has a worse prognosis than papillary carcinoma. The available evidence on pre-operative characteristics of FTC is controversial. Our objective was to characterize the clinical, ultrasound and histopathological presentation of FTC patients treated Chile. Subjects and methods: Retrospective analysis of 97 patients treated for FTC in 6 large centers in Chile. We analyzed their ultrasonographic features and classified the nodules according to ATA risk of malignancy and TI-RADS score, as well as the cytological findings according to the Bethesda system. We described their clinical and histopathological findings at diagnosis and classified their risk of recurrence and mortality according to ATA 2015 recurrence risk category and the eighth edition of the AJCC/UICC staging system, respectively. Results: Median age was 48 years and 73.2% were females. The median diameter was 38.8 mm; only 9.5% of them were microtumors. According to ATA risk of malignancy, 86% of the nodules were low or intermediate suspicious, while 78% were category 3 or 4A nodules according to the TI-RADS. Regarding the Bethesda system, 65.9% had indeterminate cytology (20.6% category III and 45.3% category IV). At histological examination, most were minimally-invasive and angio-invasive tumors with less than 4 foci (54.7% and 28.4% respectively). More than 90% of FTC were unifocal and there was no lymphovascular or extrathyroidal invasion or lymph node involvement. Four patients (4.1%) had distant metastases at diagnosis. Most patients (95%) had stage I or II disease according to the AJCC/UICC staging system, while the risk of recurrence was low at 51.5% when using the ATA risk of recurrence scale. Conclusions: At diagnosis, most FTCs were nodules of low or intermediate suspicion at ultrasound, nearly two thirds had indeterminate cytology according to the Bethesda system, and nearly 50% of them were of low risk of recurrence.

Clinical and histopathological features of follicular thyroid cancer in Chile.

Objective: Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is less frequent but has a worse prognosis than papillary carcinoma. The available evidence on pre-operative characteristics of FTC is controversial. Our objective was to characterize the clinical, ultrasound and histopathological presentation of FTC patients treated Chile. Subjects and methods: Retrospective analysis of 97 patients treated for FTC in 6 large centers in Chile. We analyzed their ultrasonographic features and classified the nodules according to ATA risk of malignancy and TI-RADS score, as well as the cytological findings according to the Bethesda system. We described their clinical and histopathological findings at diagnosis and classified their risk of recurrence and mortality according to ATA 2015 recurrence risk category and the eighth edition of the AJCC/UICC staging system, respectively. Results: Median age was 48 years and 73.2% were females. The median diameter was 38.8 mm; only 9.5% of them were microtumors. According to ATA risk of malignancy, 86% of the nodules were low or intermediate suspicious, while 78% were category 3 or 4A nodules according to the TI-RADS. Regarding the Bethesda system, 65.9% had indeterminate cytology (20.6% category III and 45.3% category IV). At histological examination, most were minimally-invasive and angio-invasive tumors with less than 4 foci (54.7% and 28.4% respectively). More than 90% of FTC were unifocal and there was no lymphovascular or extrathyroidal invasion or lymph node involvement. Four patients (4.1%) had distant metastases at diagnosis. Most patients (95%) had stage I or II disease according to the AJCC/UICC staging system, while the risk of recurrence was low at 51.5% when using the ATA risk of recurrence scale. Conclusion: At diagnosis, most FTCs were nodules of low or intermediate suspicion at ultrasound, nearly two thirds had indeterminate cytology according to the Bethesda system, and nearly 50% of them were of low risk of recurrence.

Leishmania mexicana Lipophosphoglycan Activates Dermal γδ T Cells with Participation of TLR2.

PURPOSE: Leishmania transmission by sand flies is detected by dermal cells that recognize ligands, such as lipophosphoglycan (LPG) on the promastigote glycocalyx. Resident dermal cells include γδ T cells, that recognize antigens by TCR or innate receptors, such as TLRs. We analyzed the response of dermal γδ T cells to Leishmania mexicana infections or inoculation of LPG, and whether parasite LPG activates γδ T cells through TLR2. METHODS: We stimulated γδ T cells with LPG and analyzed colocalization of LPG and TLR2 by confocal microscopy. Activation of TLR2 was evaluated by IκBα phosphorylation. BALB/c mice were inoculated with L. mexicana or LPG in the dermis of earlobes, and LPG+ TLR2+ γδ T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. TNF+ γδ T cells were examined in earlobe dermis by confocal microscopy. RESULTS: Stimulation with purified LPG showed activation of TLR2 with IκBα phosphorylation in γδ T cells. Inoculation of L. mexicana parasites or LPG into earlobe dermis showed co-expression of LPG+ and TLR2+ in γδ T cells, demonstrating their interaction during infections. A subset of γδ T cells (LPG+ and TLR2-) provided evidence that additional receptors recognize LPG. Inoculation of LPG enhanced overall γδ T cell numbers, including those expressing TNF, whereas infection with the parasite mostly enhanced γδ T cells expressing TNF. CONCLUSION: L. mexicana LPG is a ligand recognized by TLR2 on γδ-T cells leading to their activation, although contribution of other receptors cannot be ruled out and need to be analyzed to elucidate their contribution during Leishmania infections.

Mapas delictivos y análisis espacial de la criminalidad ambiental: México 2006-2018 / Crime Maps and Spatial Analysis of Environmental Crime: Mexico 2006-2018 / Mapas do Crime e Análise Espacial do Crime Ambiental: México 2006-2018

Entre los distintos problemas de seguridad pública en México, los delitos ambientales han ocupado un lugar periférico en las agendas de gobierno, la estadística nacional y en las investigaciones académicas. Estos factores han derivado en que no existan estudios sobre la prevalencia de delitos ambientales en el país, ni de su distribución territorial, por lo tanto, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo ex-plorar la distribución geográfica de delitos ambientales en el país, así como la identificación de paraísos verdes de la delincuencia ambiental en México. Para ello se analizaron las cifras de delitos ambienta-les reportadas por la Fiscalía General de la República en el periodo 2006-2018 y se cotejaron espacialmente con variables ambientales, económicas y sociales. Los hallazgos muestran que los paraísos verdes de criminalidad ambiental se concentran en estados de las regiones noroeste, occidente, centro y sur del país, por lo que las estrategias de actuación institucional y de políticas públicas pueden orientarse en estas regiones y estados.

Among the various public security problems in Mexico, environmental crime has occupied a peripheral place in government agendas, national statistics and academic research. These factors have meant that there are no studies on the prevalence of environmental crime in the country, nor on its territorial distribution. Therefore, this article aims to explore the geographical distribution of environmental crime in the country, as well as the identification of green havens of environmental crime in Mexico. To this end, the figures on environmental crime reported by the Attorney General's Office for the period 2006-2018 were analysed and spatially matched with environmental, economic and social variables. The findings show that the green havens of environmental crime are concentrated in states in the northwestern, western, central and southern regions of the country, so that strategies for institutional action and public policies can be oriented towards these regions and states.

Entre os vários problemas de segurança pública no México, o crime ambiental tem ocupado um lugar periférico nas agendas governamentais, nas estatísticas nacionais e nas pesquisas acadêmicas. Estes fatores fizeram com que não existam estudos sobre a prevalência de crimes ambientais no país, nem sobre sua distribuição territorial. Portanto, este artigo visa explorar a distribuição geográfica dos crimes ambientais no país, assim como a identificação de paraísos verdes de crimes ambientais no México. Para este fim, os números sobre crimes ambientais relatados pela Procuradoria Geral da República para o período 2006-2018 foram analisados e espacialmente combinados com variáveis ambientais, econômicas e sociais. Os resultados mostram que os paraísos verdes do crime ambiental estão concentrados nos estados das regiões noroeste, oeste, centro e sul do país, de modo que as estratégias de ação institucional e políticas públicas possam ser orientadas para essas regiões e estados.

Different Markov chains modulate visual stimuli processing in a Go-Go experiment in 2D, 3D, and augmented reality.

The introduction of Augmented Reality (AR) has attracted several developments, although the people's experience of AR has not been clearly studied or contrasted with the human experience in 2D and 3D environments. Here, the directional task was applied in 2D, 3D, and AR using simplified stimulus in video games to determine whether there is a difference in human answer reaction time prediction using context stimulus. Testing of the directional task adapted was also done. Research question: Are the main differences between 2D, 3D, and AR able to be predicted using Markov chains? Methods: A computer was fitted with a digital acquisition card in order to record, test and validate the reaction time (RT) of participants attached to the arranged RT for the theory of Markov chain probability. A Markov chain analysis was performed on the participants' data. Subsequently, the way certain factors influenced participants RT amongst the three tasks time on the accuracy of the participants was sought in the three tasks (environments) were statistically tested using ANOVA. Results: Markov chains of order 1 and 2 successfully reproduced the average reaction time by participants in 3D and AR tasks, having only 2D tasks with the variance predicted with the current state. Moreover, a clear explanation of delayed RT in every environment was done. Mood and coffee did not show significant differences in RTs on a simplified videogame. Gender differences were found in 3D, where endogenous directional goals are in 3D, but no gender differences appeared in AR where exogenous AR buttons can explain the larger RT that compensate for the gender difference. Our results suggest that unconscious preparation of selective choices is not restricted to current motor preparation. Instead, decisions in different environments and gender evolve from the dynamics of preceding cognitive activity can fit and improve neurocomputational models.

Características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la COVID-19 en personas con diabetes / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in people with diabetes

Introducción: En diciembre de 2019, el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), causante de la enfermedad conocida como COVID-19, fue identificado en Wuhan, China. La diabetes es una de las comorbilidades más frecuentes en personas con COVID-19, al reportar una prevalencia entre 7 por ciento y 30 por ciento. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la COVID-19 en personas con diabetes. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo-retrospectivo de corte transversal en 54 personas con diabetes mellitus, egresados de la Sala "Elpidio Sosa", perteneciente al Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular, con el diagnóstico de COVID-19 confirmado por PCR-RT durante los meses desde enero hasta octubre de 2021. Se procedió a la revisión de las historias clínicas y se obtuvieron las variables grupos de edad, sexo, color de la piel, comorbilidades asociadas en las personas diabéticas y manifestaciones clínicas de la COVID-19. Resultados: Predominaron las personas del grupo de edad 70 años y más con 19 casos para un 35,2 por ciento, fundamentalmente del sexo femenino (64,8 por ciento) y color de la piel blanca (72,2 por ciento). Las comorbilidades asociadas más frecuentes fueron la hipertensión arterial con 40 casos (74,07 por ciento) y la cardiopatía isquémica (12 pacientes) para un 22,2 por ciento. Sobresalieron como manifestaciones clínicas de la COVID-19, la tos seca (51,85 por ciento), la fiebre (29,6 por ciento) y el decaimiento (25,9 por ciento). Conclusiones: Prevalecieron las personas diabéticas con manifestaciones clínicas floridas de la COVID-19 y múltiples comorbilidades asociadas(AU)

Introduction: In December 2019, the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the disease known as COVID-19, was identified in Wuhan, China. Diabetes is one of the most frequent comorbidities in people with COVID-19, reporting a prevalence between 7% and 30%. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in people with diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-retrospective study was conducted in 54 people with diabetes mellitus discharged from "Elpidio Sosa" Room, belonging to the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, with the diagnosis of COVID-19 confirmed by PCR-RT from January to October 2021. The medical records were reviewed and the following variables were obtained: age groups, sex, skin color, associated comorbidities in diabetic people and clinical manifestations of COVID-19. Results: People aged 70 years and over predominated with 19 cases for 35.2 percent, mainly female (64.8 percent) and white skin color (72.2 percent). The most frequent associated comorbidities were arterial hypertension with 40 cases (74.07 percent) and ischemic heart disease (12 patients) for 22.2 percent. Dry cough (51.85 percent), fever (29.6 percent) and decay (25.9 percent) stood out as clinical manifestations of COVID-19. Conclusions: Diabetic people with varied clinical manifestations of COVID-19 and multiple associated comorbidities prevailed(AU)

Caracterización clínica y epidemiológica de pacientes con trombosis venosa profunda y cáncer / Clinical and epidemiological characterization of patients with deep vein thrombosis and cancer

Introducción: La enfermedad tromboembólica venosa es un trastorno en el que se forma un trombo en el interior de las venas, que bloquea el flujo sanguíneo y produce diferentes sintomatologías en función de su localización. Objetivos: Definir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de los pacientes con trombosis venosa profunda y cáncer. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de los pacientes que ingresaron en el Servicio de Flebolinfología del Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular, con el diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda y cáncer, durante el período entre enero y diciembre de 2018. Se estudiaron las siguientes variables: grupos de edad, sexo, diagnóstico al ingreso, factores de riesgo, tipos de cáncer y localización de la trombosis según Eco-Doppler. Resultados: El grupo de edad predominante fue 60-69 años (30,8 por ciento) y prevaleció el sexo femenino (61,5 por ciento). Sobresalió la localización del cáncer en las mamas y la próstata con tres casos cada uno (23,1 por ciento). El factor de riesgo predominante resultó la edad (38,4 por ciento), seguido por la presencia de metástasis (23,1 por ciento). Como sector predominante, según Eco-Doppler, se halló el femoropoplíteo (58,8 por ciento). Conclusiones: La trombosis venosa profunda afecta en gran medida a los pacientes con cáncer. Los más afectados tienen entre 60 y 69 años. Los factores de riesgo predominantes fueron la edad y la presencia de metástasis; y la localización más frecuente, los miembros inferiores, en específico, a nivel del sector femoropoplíteo(AU)

Introduction: Venous thromboembolic disease is a disorder in which a thrombus forms inside the veins, which blocks blood flow and produces different symptoms depending on its location. Objectives: To define the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with deep vein thrombosis and cancer. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective study of patients admitted in the Phlebolymphology Service of the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, with the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and cancer, was conducted during the period between January and December 2018. The following variables were studied: age groups, sex, diagnosis upon admission, risk factors, types of cancer and location of thrombosis according to Eco-Doppler. Results: The predominant age group was 60-69 years (30.8 percent) and the female sex prevailed (61.5 percent). The location of cancer in the breasts and prostate stood out with three cases each (23.1 percent). The predominant risk factor was age (38.4 percent), followed by the presence of metastases (23.1 percent). As the predominant sector, according to Eco-Doppler, it was found the femoro-popliteal (58.8 percent). Conclusions: Deep vein thrombosis greatly affects cancer patients. The most affected are between 60 and 69 years old. The predominant risk factors were age and the presence of metastases; and the most frequent location, the lower limbs, specifically, at the level of the femoro-popliteal sector(AU)

The Chemical, Microbiological and Volatile Composition of Kefir-like Beverages Produced from Red Table Grape Juice in Repeated 24-h Fed-Batch Subcultures.

The aim of this work was to study the production of kefir-like beverages via the fed-batch fermentation of red table grape juice at initial pHs of 3.99 (fermentation A) and 5.99 (fermentation B) with kefir grains during 4 repeated 24-h fed-batch subcultures. All kefir-like beverages (KLB) were characterized by low alcoholic grade (≤3.6%, v/v) and lactic and acetic acid concentrations. The beverages obtained from fermentation B had lower concentrations of sugars and higher microbial counts than the KLB obtained in fermentation A. Additionally, the KLB samples from fermentation B were the most aromatic and had the highest contents of alcohols, esters, aldehydes and organic acids, in contrast with the nonfermented juice and KLB from fermentation A. These results indicate the possibility of obtaining red table grape KLB with their own distinctive aromatic characteristics and high content in probiotic viable cells, contributing to the valorization of this fruit.