Integrative DNA Methylation and Gene Expression Analysis in the Prefrontal Cortex of Mexicans Who Died by Suicide.

BACKGROUND: Suicide represents a major health concern, especially in developing countries. While many demographic risk factors have been proposed, the underlying molecular pathology of suicide remains poorly understood. A body of evidence suggests that aberrant DNA methylation and expression is involved. In this study, we examined DNA methylation profiles and concordant gene expression changes in the prefrontal cortex of Mexicans who died by suicide. METHODS: In collaboration with the coroner's office in Mexico City, brain samples of males who died by suicide (n = 35) and age-matched sudden death controls (n = 13) were collected. DNA and RNA were extracted from prefrontal cortex tissue and analyzed with the Infinium Methylation480k and the HumanHT-12 v4 Expression Beadchips, respectively. RESULTS: We report evidence of altered DNA methylation profiles at 4430 genomic regions together with 622 genes characterized by differential expression in cases vs controls. Seventy genes were found to have concordant methylation and expression changes. Metacore-enriched analysis identified 10 genes with biological relevance to psychiatric phenotypes and suicide (ADCY9, CRH, NFATC4, ABCC8, HMGA1, KAT2A, EPHA2, TRRAP, CD22, and CBLN1) and highlighted the association that ADCY9 has with various pathways, including signal transduction regulated by the cAMP-responsive element modulator, neurophysiological process regulated by the corticotrophin-releasing hormone, and synaptic plasticity. We therefore went on to validate the observed hypomethylation of ADCY9 in cases vs control through targeted bisulfite sequencing. CONCLUSION: Our study represents the first, to our knowledge, analysis of DNA methylation and gene expression associated with suicide in a Mexican population using postmortem brain, providing novel insights for convergent molecular alterations associated with suicide.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Altered Inflammatory Pathway in an Inducible Glial Cell Model of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1.

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), the most frequent inherited muscular dystrophy in adults, is caused by the CTG repeat expansion in the 3'UTR of the DMPK gene. Mutant DMPK RNA accumulates in nuclear foci altering diverse cellular functions including alternative splicing regulation. DM1 is a multisystemic condition, with debilitating central nervous system alterations. Although a defective neuroglia communication has been described as a contributor of the brain pathology in DM1, the specific cellular and molecular events potentially affected in glia cells have not been totally recognized. Thus, to study the effects of DM1 mutation on glial physiology, in this work, we have established an inducible DM1 model derived from the MIO-M1 cell line expressing 648 CUG repeats. This new model recreated the molecular hallmarks of DM1 elicited by a toxic RNA gain-of-function mechanism: accumulation of RNA foci colocalized with MBNL proteins and dysregulation of alternative splicing. By applying a microarray whole-transcriptome approach, we identified several gene changes associated with DM1 mutation in MIO-M1 cells, including the immune mediators CXCL10, CCL5, CXCL8, TNFAIP3, and TNFRSF9, as well as the microRNAs miR-222, miR-448, among others, as potential regulators. A gene ontology enrichment analyses revealed that inflammation and immune response emerged as major cellular deregulated processes in the MIO-M1 DM1 cells. Our findings indicate the involvement of an altered immune response in glia cells, opening new windows for the study of glia as potential contributor of the CNS symptoms in DM1.

Analysis of the dynamic aberrant landscape of DNA methylation and gene expression during arsenic-induced cell transformation.

Inorganic arsenic is a well-known carcinogen associated with several types of cancer, but the mechanisms involved in arsenic-induced carcinogenesis are not fully understood. Recent evidence points to epigenetic dysregulation as an important mechanism in this process; however, the effects of epigenetic alterations in gene expression have not been explored in depth. Using microarray data and applying a multivariate clustering analysis in a Gaussian mixture model, we describe the alterations in DNA methylation around the promoter region and the impact on gene expression in HaCaT cells during the transformation process caused by chronic exposure to arsenic. Using this clustering approach, the genes were grouped according to their methylation and expression status in the epigenetic landscape, and the changes that occurred during the cellular transformation were identified adequately. Thus, we present a valuable method for identifying epigenomic dysregulation.

Functional genomic analysis of the human receptive endometrium transcriptome upon administration of mifepristone at the time of follicle rupture.

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of progesterone withdrawal on gene transcription in receptive endometrium by the administration of a single dose of 50 mg of the anti-progesterone receptor mifepristone (MFP) at the time of follicle rupture (FR). Six volunteer ovulatory women were studied, taking endometrial biopsies of three control and three MFP-treated women on days LH+2 (C-LH+2) and LH+7 (T-MFP), respectively. The biopsies were prepared for RNA isolation or histological and immunohistochemistry studies. The genomic data from 14 women (C-LH+7) were included as a historical control. The functional genomic analysis of the differentially expressed genes showed that MFP interfered negatively with the bio-functions decidualization of uterus and implantation of blastocyst and embryo. The results of this study confirm but also give new information on how MFP affects endometrial gene expression when administered at the time of FR and the dose used in emergency contraception.

A single preovulatory administration of ulipristal acetate affects the decidualization process of the human endometrium during the receptive period of the menstrual cycle.

In order to get further information on the effects of ulipristal acetate (UPA) upon the process of decidualization of endometrium, a functional analysis of the differentially expressed genes in endometrium (DEG) from UPA treated-versus control-cycles of normal ovulatory women was performed. A list of 1183 endometrial DEG, from a previously published study by our group, was submitted to gene ontology, gene enrichment and ingenuity pathway analyses (IPA). This functional analysis showed that decidualization was a biological process overrepresented. Gene set enrichment analysis identified LIF, PRL, IL15 and STAT3 among the most down-regulated genes within the JAK STAT canonical pathway. IPA showed that decidualization of uterus was a bio-function predicted as inhibited by UPA. The results demonstrated that this selective progesterone receptor modulator, when administered during the periovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, may affect the molecular mechanisms leading to endometrial decidualization in response to progesterone during the period of maximum embryo receptivity.

Motivaciones que inciden en la participación de docentes en procesos de educación para la sexualidad / Motivations affecting the participation of teachers in sex education processes

Resumen Objetivos: Determinar las características de la motivación y comprender los significados que tiene, para los colectivos docentes, participar en procesos formativos en educación para la sexualidad. Metodología: Método mixto: etapa cuantitativa fundamentada en la teoría de Deci y Ryan, evaluó motivación interna, externa y desmotivación, utilizando el modelo de Rasch; etapa cualitativa con enfoque fenomenológico y aplicación de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Resultados: Participaron 104 docentes de siete instituciones educativas del municipio de Socorro - Santander. El análisis sobre ítems y docentes, según modelo Rasch, para los tres tipos de motivación, tuvo buenos resultados que permitieron identificar las características relacionadas, así como determinar que la motivación interna fue la que llevó a la mayoría de docentes a participar en el proceso formativo de educación para la sexualidad. Esto fue corroborado por las entrevistas, evidenciando que el colectivo docente interpretó dicho proceso como una oportunidad para mejorar su práctica docente y aumentar sus conocimientos en el tema. Conclusiones: La ubicación del 66% de docentes en lo alto de la escala de motivación interna permitió identificar la fuerza motivacional para asistir al proceso formativo. Atender a intereses y necesidades, así como reforzar la autonomía y la autodeterminación en grupos docentes que requieren capacitación en educación para la sexualidad, es una buena forma de lograr participación y compromiso estable y duradero como formadores en el área. De acuerdo con la búsqueda bibliográfica realizada, este estudio sobre la motivación y los procesos de capacitación docente en educación para la sexualidad es pionero.

Abstract Objectives: To determine the characteristics of motivation and to understand the significance for teachers, related to participation in sex education training processes. Methodology: Mixed method: quantitative phase based on the theory of Deci and Ryan, internal and external motivation, and demotivation were assessed using the Rasch model; qualitative stage, with a phenomenological approach, included the application of a semi-structured interview. Results: 104 teachers from seven educational institutions in Socorro-Santander participated in the study. Analysis of items and teachers, according to the Rasch model for the three types of motivation, had good results that allowed us to identify the related characteristics and to determine that internal motivation led, on the majority of teachers, to participate in the formative process of sex education. This was corroborated by the interviews, where teachers interpreted the process as an opportunity to improve their teaching practice and increase their knowledge on the subject. Conclusions: The allocation of 66% of teachers at the top of the internal motivation scale allowed us to identify the motivational force to attend the formative process. To respond to interests and needs, as well as to reinforce autonomy and self-determination in educational groups that require training in sex education, is a good way to achieve stable and lasting participation and commitment as trainers in the area. Based on our bibliographic search, this study on motivation and the processes of teacher training in sex education is a pioneer.

Motivación y logros en procesos de educación para la sexualidad con docentes / Motivation and achievement in education processes for teaching sexuality / Motivação e logros em processos de educação para a sexualidade com docentes

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar la motivación como elemento esencial en el proceso de capacitación sobre educación para la sexualidad de un grupo docente de educación básica y media y apreciar los cambios alcanzados por el colectivo. Materiales y métodos: Estudio con diseño mixto secuencial explicativo-cuantitativocualitativo con 81 docentes de dos instituciones públicas de Oiba y Simacota (Santander), quienes participaron de manera voluntaria en la investigación durante 2016. La etapa cuantitativa, diseño de corte transversal y enfoque empírico analítico no experimental, evaluó la motivación del colectivo antes de iniciar la capacitación. Se utilizó instrumento construido y validado previamente por el equipo investigador; se analizó mediante el modelo de Rasch y se establecieron relaciones significativas entre variables sociodemográficas y tipos de motivación. En la etapa cualitativa se utilizó el enfoque fenomenológico y la técnica del conversatorio para recabar lo esencial de la experiencia del colectivo y logros alcanzados. Resultados: Más de la mitad del grupo mostró motivación interna alta; la motivación externa se distribuyó en baja, media y alta y hubo un grupo desmotivado en nivel bajo. La confiabilidad de las personas en los tres grupos fue muy baja, lo cual puede sugerir que la muestra no fue la mejor para medir el constructo, aunque el instrumento (ítems) mostró buenas propiedades para evaluarlo. La etapa cualitativa corroboró motivación interna alta en el grupo, amplió la comprensión de los resultados cuantitativos e identificó cambios importantes en el colectivo. Conclusiones: Los testimonios que aportaron muchos de los asistentes evidenciaron cambios en relación con la educación para la sexualidad, lo cual era el objetivo a lograr.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate motivation as an essential element to the training process on education for the sexuality of an elementary and middle school group of teachers and to appreciate the changes achieved by the group. Materials and methods: Explanatory-quantitative-qualitative sequential mixed design study with 81 teachers from two public educational institutions of Oiba and Simacota, Department of Santander, who participated voluntarily in the research project during 2016. The quantitative stage, a cross-sectional design and non-experimental analytical empirical approach, evaluated the motivation of the group before starting the training. An instrument built and validated previously by the research team was used and it was analyzed using the Rasch model, establishing significant relationships between sociodemographic variables and types of motivation. In the qualitative stage, the phenomenological approach and the conversational technique were used to gather the essential of the experience lived by the group and achievements. Results: More than half of the group showed high internal motivation; the external motivation was distributed in low, medium and high and a demotivated group in a low-level was identified. The reliability of the individuals in the three groups was very low which may suggest that the sample was not the best to measure the construct, although the instrument (items) showed good properties to evaluate it. The qualitative stage corroborated high internal motivation in the group, expanded the understanding of quantitative results and identified important changes in the group. Conclusions: The testimonies contributed by many of the attendees evidenced changes in relation to the education for the sexuality, which was the objective to be achieved.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a motivação como elemento essencial no processo de capacitação sobre educação para a sexualidade de um grupo de professores de ensino fundamental e médio e apreciar os câmbios alcançados pelo coletivo. Materiais e métodos: Estudo com desenho misto seqüencial explicativo-quantitativo - qualitativo com 81 professores de duas instituições públicas de Oiba e Simacota em Santander- Colômbia, quem participaram de maneira voluntaria na pesquisa durante 2016. A etapa quantitativa, desenho de corte transversal e enfoque empírico analítico não experimental, avaliaram a motivação do coletivo antes de iniciar a capacitação. Utilizou se instrumento construído e validado previamente pela equipe pesquisador; analisou se mediante o modelo de Rasch e se estabeleceram relações significativas entre variáveis sóciodemográficas e tipos de motivação. Na etapa qualitativa se utilizou o enfoque fenomenológico e a técnica do dialogo para conseguir o essencial da experiência do coletivo e logros alcançados. Resultados: Mais da metade do grupo mostrou motivação interna alta; a motivação externa se distribuiu em baixa, media e alta e houve um grupo desmotivado no nível baixo. A confiabilidade das pessoas nos três grupos foi muito baixa, o qual pode sugerir que a amostra não foi à melhor para medir o constructo, porém o instrumento (itens) mostrou boas propriedades para avaliar-lo. A etapa qualitativa corroborou motivação interna alta no grupo, ampliou a compreensão dos resultados quantitativos e identificou câmbios importantes no coletivo. Conclusões: As testemunhas que aportaram muitos dos assistentes evidenciaram câmbios em relação com a educação para a sexualidade, o qual era o objetivo a lograr.

Ulipristal acetate administration at mid-cycle changes gene expression profiling of endometrial biopsies taken during the receptive period of the human menstrual cycle.

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of mid-cycle administration of Ulipristal acetate (UPA) on gene expression in endometrial biopsies taken during the receptive phase of the cycle. Fourteen healthy menstruating women were studied during 14 control non-treated and 12 treated cycles with a single dose of 30 mg UPA when follicle diameter reached 20 mm. Ovulation in both treated and control cycles was confirmed by serial determinations of serum LH, progesterone and vaginal ultrasound. An endometrial biopsy at day LH+7, in each cycle, was taken for RNA microarray and qPCR analysis or prepared for histological and immunohistochemistry studies. Functional analysis of differentially expressed genes showed the presence of changes compatible with a non-receptive endometrial phenotype, further confirmed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry. This study suggests the effects of UPA on endometrial receptivity, offering a plausible explanation for the higher contraceptive efficacy of this method compared to that of levonorgestrel.

The effects of levonorgestrel on FSH-stimulated primary rat granulosa cell cultures through gene expression profiling are associated to hormone and folliculogenesis processes.

Levonorgestrel (LNG), a synthetic progestin, is used in emergency contraception (EC). The mechanism is preventing or delaying ovulation at the level of the hypothalamic pituitary unit; however, little knowledge exists on LNG effects at the ovary. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of LNG on FSH-induced 17ß-estradiol (E2) production, including LNG-mediated changes on global gene expression in rat granulosa cells (GC). Isolated GC from female Wistar rats were incubated in vitro in the presence or absence of human FSH and progestins. At the end of incubations, culture media and cells were collected for E2 and mRNA quantitation. The results showed the ability of LNG to inhibit both hFSH-induced E2 production and aromatase gene expression. Microarray analysis revealed that LNG treatment affects GC functionality particularly that related to folliculogenesis and steroid metabolism. These results may offer additional evidence for the mechanisms of action of LNG as EC.

[Atypical mucocutaneous manifestations in neonates and infants with chikungunya fever in the municipalities of Cúcuta, Los Patios and Villa del Rosario, Norte de Santander, Colombia, 2014].

INTRODUCTION: Atypical clinical manifestations have been observed in newborns and infants suffering from fever caused by the chikungunya virus. Objective: To describe the cases of fever caused by the chikungunya virus in newborns and infants with atypical mucocutaneous lesions. Materials and methods: We reviewed the clinical records, as well as lab tests and histopathological results, of newborns and infants diagnosed with Chikungunya virus and atypical mucocutaneous lesions in three regional hospitals. Results: Out of 18 suspected cases of chikungunya virus in newborns and infants, 11 were positive and presented atypical mucocutaneous manifestations. Six of the eleven confirmed cases corresponded to children under five months of age. The most common symptoms were fever, skin rash, irritability, and diarrhea. Three of the patients were infected with both dengue and chikungunya viruses. The ulcers occurred in the scalp, abdomen, genital and perianal region. CONCLUSIONS: We report mucocutaneous manifestations in newborns and infants diagnosed with fever caused by the chikungunya virus in Colombia. The rapid development of ulcers is most likely due to the immune response to the virus. Special attention should be given to pregnant women presenting symptoms of chikungunya virus infection prior to delivery, and their offspring should be followed-up in order to monitor possible complications.

Manifestaciones mucocutáneas atípicas por fiebre por el virus del chikungunya en neonatos y lactantes de Cúcuta, Los Patios y Villa del Rosario, Norte de Santander, Colombia, 2014 / Atypical mucocutaneous manifestations in neonates and infants with chikungunya fever in the municipalities of Cúcuta, Los Patios and Villa del Rosario, Norte de Santander, Colombia, 2014

Introducción. Se han observado manifestaciones clínicas atípicas en recién nacidos y lactantes con fiebre por el virus del chikungunya. Objetivo. Describir los casos de fiebre causada por el virus del chikungunya en recién nacidos y lactantes con lesiones mucocutáneas atípicas. Materiales y métodos. Se revisaron las historias clínicas y los resultados de laboratorio y de patología en tres hospitales regionales de los casos de recién nacidos y lactantes diagnosticados con el virus del chikungunya que presentaban lesiones mucocutáneas atípicas; se hizo una búsqueda activa comunitaria en los barrios de residencia de los pacientes. Resultados. De 18 casos sospechosos de chikungunya en recién nacidos y lactantes, 11 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado presentaron manifestaciones mucocutáneas atípicas. Seis de los 11 casos confirmados eran niños menores de cinco meses de edad. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron: fiebre, eritema, irritabilidad y diarrea. Tres de los pacientes estaban infectados con dengue y chikungunya. Las úlceras se presentaron en cuero cabelludo, abdomen, región genital y perianal. En la búsqueda activa comunitaria se encontraron altas tasas de ataque de la enfermedad. Conclusiones. Se presenta un informe de las manifestaciones mucocutáneas en recién nacidos y lactantes diagnosticados con fiebre por el virus del chikungunya en Colombia. El rápido desarrollo de las úlceras se debe, probablemente, a la reacción inmunitaria al virus. Es necesario priorizar la atención de las mujeres embarazadas que presenten síntomas una semana antes del parto y hacerle seguimiento a los recién nacidos, para hacer el diagnóstico temprano del chikungunya y evitar complicaciones.

Introduction: Atypical clinical manifestations have been observed in newborns and infants suffering from fever caused by the chikungunya virus. Objective: To describe the cases of fever caused by the chikungunya virus in newborns and infants with atypical mucocutaneous lesions. Materials and methods: We reviewed the clinical records, as well as lab tests and histopathological results, of newborns and infants diagnosed with Chikungunya virus and atypical mucocutaneous lesions in three regional hospitals. Results: Out of 18 suspected cases of chikungunya virus in newborns and infants, 11 were positive and presented atypical mucocutaneous manifestations. Six of the eleven confirmed cases corresponded to children under five months of age. The most common symptoms were fever, skin rash, irritability, and diarrhea. Three of the patients were infected with both dengue and chikungunya viruses. The ulcers occurred in the scalp, abdomen, genital and perianal region. Conclusions: We report mucocutaneous manifestations in newborns and infants diagnosed with fever caused by the chikungunya virus in Colombia. The rapid development of ulcers is most likely due to the immune response to the virus. Special attention should be given to pregnant women presenting symptoms of chikungunya virus infection prior to delivery, and their offspring should be followed-up in order to monitor possible complications.

Diseño y validación de encuesta sobre motivación de docentes frente a procesos de educación para la sexualidad / Design and validation of a survey on motivation of teachers facing processes of sexuality education

Objetivo: Diseñar y validar encuesta, mediante el modelo de Rasch, para identificar motivaciones internas, externas o desmotivación en docentes de educación básica y media convocados a capacitación en educación para la sexualidad. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de corte transversal cuantitativo con enfoque empírico analítico no experimental para evaluar la encuesta y establecer calidad de los ítems, confiabilidad y validez; la encuesta fue elaborada a partir de la teoría de Deci y Ryan. Participaron 155 docentes de 12 colegios públicos de los municipios de Piedecuesta y El Socorro del departamento de Santander, Colombia. Resultados: Se aplicaron 51 encuestas iniciales y 104 finales. En la prueba inicial solo se logró analizar el componente de motivación externa y se observó un buen ajuste, unidimensionalidad, buena confiabilidad y separación para ítems de 0.97 y 5.76 respectivamente; En la segunda prueba los tres componentes (motivación interna, externa y desmotivación) mostraron ajuste a Rasch con unidimensionalidad, confiabilidad de ítems de 0.80, 0.97 y 0.89 y separación de 2.01, 5.78 y 2.83 respectivamente; no hubo ítems con funcionamiento diferencial por sexo. Conclusiones: Se dispone de encuesta validada y confiable para evaluar motivación docente frente a procesos de capacitación en educación para la sexualidad.

Objective: To design and validate a survey using the Rasch model with the aim of identifying internal and external motivation or discouragement in teachers of basic education and media invited to training in sexuality education. Materials and methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study with non-experimental analytical empirical approach was made in order to evaluate the survey and establish quality items, reliability and validity. The survey was developed from the theory of Deci and Ryan. 155 teachers of 12 public schools from the municipalities of Piedecuesta and El Socorro from the department of Santander, Colombia participated. Results: 51 initial surveys and 104 final ones were applied. In the initial test, it was only possible to analyze the component of external motivation and a good fit, unidimensionality, good reliability and separation for items of 0.97 and 5.76 respectively were observed. In the second test the three components (internal, external and discouragement) showed Rasch fit in terms of unidimensionality, reliability of items of 0.80, 0.97 and 0.89 and separation of 2.01, 5.78 and 2.83 respectively. There were no items with differential performance by sex. Conclusions: There is a validated and reliable survey to evaluate teachers' motivation in front of training processes for sexuality education.

Determinantes de la subestimación de la percepción de los padres sobre el peso de sus hijos en hogares infantiles del ICBF de Floridablanca, Colombia, 2012 / Determinants of underestimation of parents' perceptions of their child's weight in children's homes belonging to ICBF from Floridablanca, Colombia, 2012

Objective: To identify the factors determining the underestimation of the actual weight of the children by the father and mother of preschooler users of Children's homes (CH) of the Colombian Family Welfare Institute located in the municipality of Floridablanca, Colombia. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done in a random sample of 186 preschool children aged 3-6 years from 7 Floridablanca's CH. Researchers interviewed parents and measured weight and height of children, parents, and caregivers. The analysis was conducted by way of single and multiple binomial regression models. Results: Underestimating the weight of the children was 44.6%, 46.3%, 45% and 44.2% for the mother, father, grandparents and uncles, respectively. The underestimation was associated with the child' sex (mother: 1.59 95% CI 1.11-2.29 RP; father: PR2.00 95% CI 1.1-3.6), education (PR 1.42 95 1.05-1.92%), occupation (PR 1.05 95% CI 1.05-1.05) and obesity's history in the mother (PR 1.51 95% CI 1.10-2.08) and the current weight of the father (PR 2.31 95% CI 1.1 to 5.0). Conclusions: A high proportion of families of children do not perceive overweight and obesity. Issues such as the child's sex, occupation and education of the mother and obesity in both parents must be considered when we will educate parents on the recognition of obesity as a public health problem.

Objetivo: Identificar los factores determinantes de la subestimación del peso real de los niños por parte del padre y la madre de preescolares usuarios del programa de Hogares Infantiles (HI) del Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) localizados en el municipio de Floridablanca, Colombia. Sujetos y métodos. Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal en una muestra aleatoria de 186 preescolares de 3 a 6 años de 7 HI de Floridablanca. Se entrevistaron a los padres o cuidadores y se midió la talla de los niños, padres y cuidadores. El análisis se realizó mediante modelos de regresión binomial simple y múltiple. Resultados: La subestimación del peso de los niños fue de 44,6 %, 46,3 % 45 %, y 44,2 % para la madre, el padre, los abuelos y los tíos, respectivamente. La subestimación se asoció al sexo del niño (madre: RP 1,59 IC95 % 1,11-2,29; padre: RP 2,00 IC95 % 1,1-3,6), la escolaridad (RP 1,42 IC95% 1,05-1,92), ocupación (1,05 IC95 % 1,05-1,05) y antecedentes de obesidad de la madre (RP 1,51 IC95% 1,102,08) y con el peso actual del padre (RP 2,31 IC95% 1,1-5,0). Conclusiones: El sobrepeso y la obesidad no son percibidos por un elevado porcentaje de familiares de los niños. Aspectos como el sexo del niño, la ocupación y escolaridad de la madre y obesidad en ambos padres deben considerarse al momento de educar a los padres sobre el reconocimiento de la obesidad como un problema en salud pública.

Dehydroepiandrosterone has strong antifibrotic effects and is decreased in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an ageing-related lung disorder characterised by expansion of the myofibroblast population and aberrant lung remodelling. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid pro-hormone, decreases with age but an exaggerated decline has been associated with chronic degenerative diseases. We quantified the plasma levels of DHEA and its sulfated form (DHEA-S) in 137 IPF patients and 58 controls and examined the effects of DHEA on human lung fibroblasts. Plasma DHEA/DHEA-S was significantly decreased in male IPF patients (median (range) DHEA: 4.4 (0.2-29.2) versus 6.7 (2.1-15.2) ng · mL(-1), p<0.01; DHEA-S: 47 (15.0-211) versus 85.2 (37.6-247.0) µg · dL(-1), p<0.001), while in females only DHEA-S was significantly decreased (32.6 (15.0-303.0) versus 68.3 (16.4-171) µg · dL(-1), p<0.001). DHEA caused a decrease in fibroblast proliferation and an approximately two-fold increase in fibroblast apoptosis, probably through the intrinsic pathway with activation of caspase-9. This effect was accompanied by upregulation of several pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax and cyclin-dependent kinase-inhibitor CDNK1A) and downregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins, such as cellular inhibitor of apoptosis (c-IAP)1 and c-IAP2. DHEA also caused a significant decrease of transforming growth factor-ß1-induced collagen production and fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation, and inhibited platelet-derived growth factor-induced fibroblast migration. These findings demonstrate a disproportionate decrease of DHEA/DHEA-S in IPF patients and indicate that this molecule has multiple antifibrotic properties.

Linking childhood obesity to the built environment: a multi-level analysis of home and school neighbourhood factors associated with body mass index.

OBJECTIVES: This study examines environmental factors associated with BMI (body mass index) levels among adolescents with the aim of identifying potential interventions for reducing childhood obesity. METHODS: Students (n=1,048) aged 10-14 years at 28 schools in London, ON, completed a survey providing information on age, sex, height, weight, home address, etc., which was used to construct age-sex adjusted BMI z-scores. The presence of recreation opportunities, fast-food outlets and convenience stores was assessed using four areal units around each participant's home and school neighbourhood: "circular buffers" encompassing territory within a straight-line distance of 500 m and 1000 m; and "network buffers" of 500 m and 1000 m measured along the street network. School neighbourhoods were also assessed using school-specific "walksheds". Multilevel structural equation modeling techniques were employed to simultaneously test the effects of school-environment (Level 2) and home-environment (Level 1) predictors on BMI z-scores. RESULTS: Most participants (71%) had a normal BMI, 16.9% were overweight, 7.6% were obese, and 4.6% were considered underweight. Multilevel analyses indicated that built environment characteristics around children's homes and schools had a modest but significant effect on their BMI. The presence of public recreation opportunities within a 500 m network distance of home was associated with lower BMI z-scores (p<0.05), and fast-food outlets within the school walkshed was associated with higher BMI z-scores (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Interventions and policies that improve children's access to publicly provided recreation opportunities near home and that mitigate the concentration of fast-food outlets close to schools may be key to promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing childhood obesity.

Análise da situação sanitária da rede hemoterápica do Estado da Bahia / Analysis of the sanitary situation of the hemotherapy network of the State of Bahia

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a situação sanitária da rede de serviços hemoterápicos do Estado da Bahia, no período de 2010 a 2011, com o propósito de fornecer subsídios para as políticas públicas de sangue, bem como orientar as ações de vigilância sanitária no planejamento de suas atividades. Tratase de um estudo descritivo que caracteriza e analisa a situação de risco dos serviços hemoterápicos, estimada pelo Método de Avaliação de Risco Potencial ­ MARP, desenvolvida pela Gerencia de Sangue e Componentes - GESAC/ANVISA, que se fundamenta no risco potencial dos pontos críticos de controle do ciclo do sangue Essa metodologia classifica os serviços em cinco categorias de risco: Baixo Risco, Médio Baixo Risco, Médio Risco, Médio Alto Risco e Alto Risco. Inicialmente, a hemorrede, composta por 84 unidades hemoterápicas, foi caracterizada por número e tipo serviço, natureza jurídica, produção hemoterápica e distribuição geográfica nas macro e microrregiões do Estado da Bahia. Em seguida, foi realizada a análise da situação de risco de 78,5% do universo, destes, 18% classificados em Médio Alto Risco e 50% em Alto Risco. As não conformidades mais frequentes encontradas, que contribuem para essa situação foram as relacionadas a recursos humanos, área física, equipamentos e garantia de qualidade que abrange registros, treinamento e procedimentos escritos. Na análise dos resultados da problemática investigada ressaltou-se a dimensão legal, cotejando-se a situação encontrada com os respectivos instrumentos normativos; a dimensão técnica, considerando-se os requisitos de qualidade do ciclo do sangue e a dimensão político-institucional, face à Política Estadual de Saúde.

Expression profile of maize (Zea mays L.) embryonic axes during germination: translational regulation of ribosomal protein mRNAs.

Seed germination is a critical developmental period for plant propagation. Information regarding gene expression within this important period is relevant for understanding the main biochemical processes required for successful germination, particularly in maize, one of the most important cereals in the world. The present research focuses on the global microarray analysis of differential gene expression between quiescent and germinated maize embryo stages. This analysis revealed that a large number of mRNAs stored in the quiescent embryonic axes (QEAs) were differentially regulated during germination in the 24 h germinated embryonic axes (GEAs). These genes belong to 14 different functional categories and most of them correspond to metabolic processes, followed by transport, transcription and translation. Interestingly, the expression of mRNAs encoding ribosomal proteins [(r)-proteins], required for new ribosome formation during this fast-growing period, remains mostly unchanged throughout the germination process, suggesting that these genes are not regulated at the transcriptional level during this developmental period. To investigate this issue further, comparative microarray analyses on polysomal mRNAs from growth-stimulated and non-stimulated GEAs were performed. The results revealed that (r)-protein mRNAs accumulate to high levels in polysomes of the growth-stimulated tissues, indicating a translational control mechanism to account for the rapid (r)-protein synthesis observed within this period. Bioinformatic analysis of (r)-protein mRNAs showed that 5' TOP (tract of pyrimidines)-like sequences are present only in the 5'-untranslated region set of up-regulated (r)-protein mRNAs. This overall approach to the germination process allows an in-depth view of molecular changes, enabling a broader understanding of the regulatory mechanisms that occur during this process.

The hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated HCN2 channel transports ammonium in the distal nephron.

Recent studies have identified Rhesus proteins as important molecules for ammonia transport in acid-secreting intercalated cells in the distal nephron. Here, we provide evidence for an additional molecule that can mediate NH3/NH4 excretion, the subtype 2 of the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channel family (HCN2), in collecting ducts in rat renal cortex and medulla. Chronic metabolic acidosis in rats did not alter HCN2 protein expression but downregulated the relative abundance of HCN2 mRNA. Its cDNA was identical to the homolog from the brain and the protein was post-translationally modified by N-type glycosylation. Electrophysiological recordings in Xenopus oocytes injected with HCN2 cRNA found that potassium was transported better than ammonium, each of which was transported significantly better than sodium, criteria that are compatible with a role for HCN2 in ammonium transport. In microperfused rat outer medullary collecting duct segments, the initial rate of acidification, upon exposure to a basolateral ammonium chloride pulse, was higher in intercalated than in principal cells. A specific inhibitor of HCN2 (ZD7288) decreased acidification only in intercalated cells from control rats. In rats with chronic metabolic acidosis, the rate of acidification doubled in both intercalated and principal cells; however, ZD7288 had no significant inhibitory effect. Thus, HCN2 is a basolateral ammonium transport pathway of intercalated cells and may contribute to the renal regulation of body pH under basal conditions.

Prevalência dos Traumas Buco-faciais em Pacientes Atendidos no Hospital Walfredo Gurgel (Natal-Rio Grande do Norte) / Prevalência dos Traumas Buco-faciais em Pacientes Atendidos no Hospital Walfredo Gurgel (Natal-Rio Grande do Norte) Prevalence of Oral-facial Trauma in Patients Attended at Hospital Walfredo Gurgel (Natal- Rio Grande do Norte)

Objetivo: Conhecer o perfil socioeconômico e as causas dos traumas faciais dos pacientes atendidos nos meses de janeiro a abril do ano 2009, no Hospital Walfredo Gurgel. Metodologia: A coleta de dados foi realizada no banco de dados do hospital, no final foram obtidas informações sobre o perfil dos pacientes ou bem como os tipos e as causas dos traumas bucomaxilofaciais. Resultados: Os traumas acometem mais homens com uma média de 25 anos de idade e residentes na zona oeste de Natal - RN. A maioria dos traumas ocorreu em tecido mole na região oral (quando excluídos os casos não especificados) e foram causados por quedas. Conclusão: Políticas públicas precisam ser instauradas, a fim de se minimizar o número de traumas assim como o efeito desses na vida das pessoas.

Porpuse: The aim of this study is to get to know the socio-economic profile and the causes of facial trauma of the patients treated in the months January to April of 2009, in the hospital Walfredo Gurgel. Metodology: Data collection was performed on the database of the hospital, where information was obtained about the profile of patients, as well as the types and causes of maxillofacial trauma. Results: The results showed that the traumas affecting more men with a mean of 25 years of age and residents in western Natal-RN. Most injuries were soft tissue in the oral region (excluding the cases when not specified) and were caused by falls. Conclusion: Public policies need to be introduced in order to minimize the number of injuries and the effect these people's lives.

White adipose tissue genome wide-expression profiling and adipocyte metabolic functions after soy protein consumption in rats.

Obesity is associated with an increase in adipose tissue mass due to an imbalance between high dietary energy intake and low physical activity; however, the type of dietary protein may contribute to its development. The aim of the present work was to study the effect of soy protein versus casein on white adipose tissue genome profiling, and the metabolic functions of adipocytes in rats with diet-induced obesity. The results showed that rats fed a Soy Protein High-Fat (Soy HF) diet gained less weight and had lower serum leptin concentration than rats fed a Casein High-Fat (Cas HF) diet, despite similar energy intake. Histological studies indicated that rats fed the Soy HF diet had significantly smaller adipocytes than those fed the Cas HF diet, and this was associated with a lower triglyceride/DNA content. Fatty acid synthesis in isolated adipocytes was reduced by the amount of fat consumed but not by the type of protein ingested. Expression of genes of fatty acid oxidation increased in adipose tissue of rats fed Soy diets; microarray analysis revealed that Soy protein consumption modified the expression of 90 genes involved in metabolic functions and inflammatory response in adipose tissue. Network analysis showed that the expression of leptin was regulated by the type of dietary protein and it was identified as a central regulator of the expression of lipid metabolism genes in adipose tissue. Thus, soy maintains the size and metabolic functions of adipose tissue through biochemical adaptations, adipokine secretion, and global changes in gene expression.