Neurobehavioral Characterization of Perinatal Oxycodone-Exposed Offspring in Early Adolescence.

The opioid epidemic has received considerable attention, but the impact on perinatal opioid-exposed (POE) offspring remains underexplored. This study addresses the emerging public health challenge of understanding and treating POE children. We examined two scenarios using preclinical models: offspring exposed to oxycodone (OXY) in utero (IUO) and acute postnatal OXY (PNO). We hypothesized exposure to OXY during pregnancy primes offspring for neurodevelopmental deficits and severity of deficits is dependent on timing of exposure. Notable findings include reduced head size and brain weight in offspring. Molecular analyses revealed significantly lower levels of inflammasome-specific genes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) highlighted the enrichment of genes associated with mitochondrial and synapse dysfunction in POE offspring. Western blot analysis validated IPA predictions of mitochondrial dysfunction in PFC-derived synaptosomes. Behavioral studies identified significant social deficits in POE offspring. This study presents the first comparative analysis of acute PNO- and IUO-offspring during early adolescence finding acute PNO-offspring have considerably greater deficits. The striking difference in deficit severity in acute PNO-offspring suggests that exposure to opioids in late pregnancy pose the greatest risk for offspring well-being.

Patients 75 years or older with primary glenohumeral arthritis and an intact rotator cuff show similar clinical improvement after reverse or anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The optimal management of primary glenohumeral arthritis (GHOA) in the elderly is an ongoing topic of debate. The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcomes and complications in patients aged 75 years or older treated with anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) or reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for primary GHOA with an intact rotator cuff. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on a prospectively maintained database which was queried for patients 75 years of age or older who underwent TSA or RSA for primary GHOA with an intact rotator cuff at a single institution between 2012 and 2021 with minimum 2-year follow-up. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including Visual Analog Scale for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and Subjective Shoulder Value, as well as active range of motion including forward flexion, external rotation, internal rotation, were collected preoperatively and postoperatively. Complications, reoperations, and satisfaction were also recorded. The percentage of patients achieving clinically significant improvement was evaluated with the minimally clinical important difference, substantial clinical benefit, and patient acceptable symptomatic state for each PRO. RESULTS: One-hundred and 4 patients were available for analysis, including 67 TSA patients and 37 RSAs with a mean follow-up of 39.4 months. Preoperative baseline characteristics, PROs, and range of motion were similar between groups. RSA was more commonly performed for eccentric glenoid wear (Walch B2/B3, 62% vs. 22%; P < .001). While clinical outcomes improved comparably in both groups, the TSA cohort showed significantly greater improvement in external rotation (36° vs. 26°; P = .013). Both cohorts had low revision (3% for TSA vs. 0% for RSA) and complication (7% for TSA vs. 5% for RSA; P = .677) rates. Satisfaction was similar in both groups (93% for TSA vs. 92% for RSA; P = .900). Clinically significant improvement was comparable between groups based on the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (minimally clinical important difference, 93% for TSA vs. 100% for RSA; substantial clinical benefit, 82% vs. 95%; patient acceptable symptomatic state, 67% vs. 78%; P > .05). CONCLUSION: In this retrospective small sample size comparison study, TSA and RSA provide similar short-term clinical outcomes for patients 75 years and older with primary GHOA and an intact rotator cuff. Complication and revision rates are comparably low at short-term follow-up. Our data suggests that advanced age alone should not be used as a decision-making tool for TSA vs. RSA in the setting of primary GHOA with an intact rotator cuff.

Developmental outcomes with perinatal exposure (DOPE) to prescription opioids.

Researchers have found considerable evidence in the past 20 years that perinatal opioid exposure leads to an increased risk of developmental disorders in offspring that persist into adulthood. The use of opioids to treat pain concerning pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum complications has been rising. As a result, communities have reported a 300-400 % increase in Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS). NOWS represents the initial stage of several behavioral, phenotypic, and synaptic deficits. This review article summarizes the Developmental Outcomes of Perinatal Exposure (DOPE) to prescription opioids. Moreover, we also seek to connect these findings to clinical research that describes DOPE at multiple stages of life. Since specific mechanisms that underlie DOPE remain unclear, this article aims to provide a framework for conceptualizing across all ages and highlight the implications they may have for longevity.

Human health risk assessment for consumption of microplastics and plasticizing substances through marine species.

A special characteristic of MP (microplastics) in the ocean is they may act as carriers of additives specific to the plastic materials used in their manufacture, such as plasticizers, among which Bisphenol-A (BPA), bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dybuthyl phthalate (DBP). Both MP as the plasticizers were searched in composite samples of mangrove cockle (Anadara tuberculosa), Stolzmann's weakfish (Cynoscion stolzmanni) and arched swimming crab (Callinectes arcuatus). Extraction of MP was done through physical-chemical techniques and identification was carried out employing the techniques of light microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy; the sizes of MP obtained were between 0.5 µm and 106 µm, the following average results being obtained: for Arched swimming crab 4.0 ± 1.0 MP/g; mangrove cockle 3.3 ± 2.9 MP/g; and for Stolzmann's weakfish, the average was 2.4 ± 1.3 MP/g; the most observed shapes were fibers and irregular segments; the most identified MP was polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Regarding extraction and quantification of plasticizers, the extraction stage was carried out using QuEChERS tubes; and the identification and quantification with gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Regarding the plasticizing substances, DEHP was found in detectable levels in all the samples; BPA was found in 84% of the composite samples analyzed; DBP was found in 50% of them, of the analyzed samples 34% were positive for the 3 analytes. The dietary exposure of people to plasticizers was calculated and for BPA the exposure obtained was compared with respect to the TDI (tolerable intake dose) for pregnant women and the new TDI proposed by EFSA in 2021 according to the estrogenic effect of this substance in the fetus. The objective of the work was to determine if a relationship could be established between both PM and plasticizers, which gave a positive relationship.

Impact of Adolescent Nicotine Exposure in Pre- and Post-natal Oxycodone Exposed Offspring.

Perinatal exposure to prescription opioids pose a critical public health risk. Notably, research has found significant neurodevelopmental and behavioral deficits between in utero (IUO) and postnatal (PNO) oxycodone-exposed offspring but there is a notable gap in knowledge regarding the interaction of these groups to other drug exposure, particularly nicotine exposure. Nicotine's widespread use represents a ubiquitous clinical interaction that current research does not address. Children often experiment with drugs and risky behavior; therefore, adolescence is a key timepoint to characterize. This study employed an integrated systems approach to investigate escalating nicotine exposure in adolescence and subsequent nicotine withdrawal in the IUO- and PNO-offspring. Western blot analysis found synaptic protein alterations, especially upregulation of synaptophysin in IUO-withdrawal animals. RT-qPCR further validated immune dysfunction in the central nervous system (CNS). Peripheral nicotine metabolism was consistent with increased catabolism of nicotine concerning IUO animals. Lastly, behavioral assays found subtle deficits to withdrawal in nociception and anxiety-like behavior. This study showed, for the first time, the vulnerabilities of PNO- and IUO-exposed groups concerning nicotine use during early adolescence and withdrawal. Graphical Abstract.

An Integrated Systems Approach to Decode the Impact of Adolescent Nicotine Exposure in Utero and Postnatally Oxycodone Exposed Offspring.

Perinatal exposure to prescription opioids pose a critical public health risk. Notably, research has found significant neurodevelopmental and behavioral deficits between in utero (IUO) and postnatal (PNO) oxycodone-exposed offspring but there is a notable gap in knowledge regarding the interaction of these groups to other drug exposure, particularly nicotine exposure. Nicotine's widespread use represents a ubiquitous clinical interaction that current research does not address. Children often experiment with drugs and risky behavior; therefore, adolescence is a key timepoint to characterize. This study employed an integrated systems approach to investigate escalating nicotine exposure in adolescence and subsequent nicotine withdrawal in the IUO- and PNO-offspring. Western blot analysis found alterations of the blood-brain barrier (B.B.B.) and synaptic proteins. RT-qPCR further validated immune dysfunction in the central nervous system (CNS) consistent with compromised B.B.B. Peripheral nicotine metabolism was consistent with increased catabolism of nicotine concerning PNO & IUO, a predictor of greater addiction risk. Lastly, behavioral assays found subtle deficits to withdrawal in nociception and anxiety-like behavior. This study showed, for the first time, the vulnerabilities of PNO- and IUO-exposed groups concerning nicotine use during early adolescence and withdrawal.

Diabetes mellitus y su influencia en la sexualidad de pacientes varones / Diabetes mellitus and its influence on the sexuality of male patients

RESUMEN Objetivo Estudiar cómo la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 ha influenciado la sexualidad de 54 varones mellitus que acudieron a consulta a dos hospitales de Taxco, Guerrero. Materiales y Métodos Se aplicó una encuesta a un total de 54 hombres que acudieron a consulta a dos hospitales de Taxco, Guerrero, México. Se consideró a hombres con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, con vida sexual activa, con más de 5 años de evolución de la enfermedad, y que acudieron a consulta periódica. Los casos se eligieron tomando en cuenta los planteamientos sobre muestras por conveniencia. El trabajo fue cuantitativo no probabilístico. El cuestionario de encuesta incluyó 15 variables. Resultados Entre los hallazgos alentadores y positivos se destaca que el 76% de los casos manifestó que nunca ha tenido una disminución en el desempeño sexual, y el 80% de los casos expresó nunca haber presentado dolor o molestia después del coito. Sobre los porcentajes adversos y negativos, el 33% manifestó haber tenido siempre un cambió (de manera nociva o dañina) en el interés ante la sexualidad. Conclusiones Diversos autores destacan cómo la diabetes mellitus es una enfermedad epidémica en México, y que provoca incapacidad, mortalidad prematura, y afecta de manera grave la sexualidad de pacientes. En el presente estudio las respuestas indican, tanto hallazgos positivos, como también, un impacto adverso y negativo en la sexualidad de algunos varones encuestados.

ABSTRACT Objective To study and analyze how type 2 diabetes mellitus has influenced the sexuality of male patients. Material and Methods A survey was applied to a total of 54 men who attended in two hospitals in Taxco, Guerrero, México. Men with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with an active sexual life, with more than 5 years of evolution of the disease, and who attended periodic consultations were considered. The cases were chosen taking into account the approaches on convenience samples. The work was quantitative, not probabilistic. The survey questionnaire included 15 variables. Results Among the findings encouraging and positive, it is highlighted that 76% of the cases reported never having had a decrease in sexual performance. Likewise, and 80% of the cases expressed never having presented pain or discomfort after inter-course. Regarding the adverse and negative percentages, the 33% stated that they had always had a change (in a harmful way) in their interest in sexuality. Conclusions Several authors highlight how diabetes mellitus is an epidemic disease in Mexico, which can cause disability and premature mortality, and seriously affect the sexuality of patients. In the present study the responses indicate both positive findings, as well as an adverse and negative impact on the sexuality of some male respondents.

Movilidad y turismo sexual en la ciudad de Taxco, México / Mobility and sex tourism in the city of Taxco, México

RESUMEN Objetivo a) estudiar la movilidad y el turismo sexual que realizan trabajadores de taxis de la ciudad de Taxco, Guerrero, México y b) analizar los datos de casos confirmados del Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH) y Síndrome de Inmunodeficiencia Adquirida (SIDA) en el municipio de Taxco, del año 2006 al 2016. Materiales y Métodos El estudio fue de tipo cualitativo no probabilístico. Se diseñó un cuestionario de entrevista de preguntas abiertas, y se aplicó a 30 trabajadores de taxis en la ciudad de Taxco, Guerrero, México. También se entrevistó a cinco médicos especialistas (informantes clave anónimos). Resultados El 60% (18 casos) del grupo entrevistado manifestó haber contratado sexo-servidoras. Las ciudades a donde se acudió en mayor medida para dicha actividad fueron Jojutla (Estado de Morelos), Iguala y Taxco (Estado de Guerrero) y Ciudad de México. Se registró un total de 72 casos confirmados de VIH y sida en los 10 años considerados. Conclusiones La ciudad de Jojutla fue el lugar más visitado en cuestión de movilidad con motivo de contratar dicho sexoservicio. En lo anterior influyeron determinantemente tanto los bajos precios, como la corta edad de sexoservidoras que lo frecuentaban. Finalmente, las afirmaciones de especialistas en salud entrevistados confrontan los datos estadísticos oficiales sobre casos de VIH/sida.

ABSTRACT Objective (a) To study the mobility and sex tourism carried out by taxi workers in the city of Taxco, Guerrero, México. (b) To analyze the data of confirmed cases of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in the municipality of Taxco, from 2006 to 2016. Material and Methods The study was qualitative, non-probabilistic. An open-ended interview questionnaire was designed and applied to 30 taxi workers in the city. Five specialist physicians (anonymous key informants) were interviewed. Results The findings show how 60% (18 cases) of the interviewed group stated that they had hired sex workers. The cities that were most attended for such activity were Jojutla (State of Morelos), Iguala and Taxco (State of Guerrero), and México City. A total of 72 confirmed cases of HIV and AIDS were registered in the 10 years considered. Conclusions The city of Jojutla was the most visited place in terms of mobility for the purpose of hiring this sex service. Both the low prices, to the young age of the sex workers who frequented it had a decisive influence on the above. Finally, the statements of health specialists interviewed confront the official statistical data on HIV/AIDS cases.

Plantas medicinales empleadas en comunidades del Estado de Guerrero (México) / Medicinal plants used in communities of the Estado de Guerrero, México

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar, a) las plantas medicinales de uso cotidiano, b) las enfermedades que se atienden con dichos remedios y c), las dosis que se emplean en las comunidades de Taxco el Viejo, Tecalpulco, Mexcaltepec, Hueymatla e Iguala, en México. Metodología La investigación fue de corte cualitativo. Se utilizaron planteamientos de etnografía y conceptos referentes al muestreo por conveniencia. Se recopiló información sobre el empleo de herbolaria en las localidades de Taxco el Viejo, Tecalpulco, Mexcaltepec, Hueymatla e Iguala. Se diseñó un cuestionario de entrevista con interrogantes sobre las características de las principales plantas curativas empleadas, las enfermedades más comunes que se atienden, así como las dosis y partes usadas. Se entrevistó a cinco informantes clave por cada comunidad. En total, fueron veinticinco informantes que se tomaron en cuenta, originarios de las poblaciones citadas. Resultados Se registraron aproximadamente 35 hierbas curativas que se utilizan de manera cotidiana en Taxco el Viejo, 50 plantas en Tecalpulco, 41 en Mexcaltepec, 36 en Hueymatla y 29 en Iguala; Asimismo, diversas enfermedades que se atienden con estas plantas y sus dosis específicas. Conclusiones Existe una amplia variedad de plantas curativas de uso común que emplean los informantes clave en las localidades mencionadas. Asimismo, se confirmó cómo actualmente la herbolaria es una alternativa viable en el tratamiento de afecciones comunes y una de las disyuntivas prioritarias en la atención de la salud.

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze a) the medicinal plants of daily use, b) the diseases that are trea-ted with said remedies and c), the doses that are used in the communities of Taxco el Viejo, Tecalpulco, Mexcaltepec, Hueymatla and Iguala. These localities are located in the Estado de Guerrero, Mexico. Methodology The research was qualitative. Ethnographic approaches and concepts related to convenience sampling were used. Information was collected on the use of herbalism in the localities of Taxco el Viejo, Tecalpulco, Mexcaltepec, Hueymatla, and Iguala. An interview questionnaire was designed with questions related to the characteristics of the main healing plants used, the most common diseases treated, as well as the doses and parts used. Five key informants were interviewed for each community. In total, there were twenty-five informants that were taken into account, originating from the mentioned populations. Results Approximately 35 healing herbs that are used daily in Taxco el Viejo, 50 plants in Tecalpulco, 41 in Mexcaltepec, 36 in Hueymatla, and 29 in Iguala were registered. Likewise, they highlighted various diseases that are treated with this alternative, and their specific doses. Conclusions There is a wide variety of healing plants in common use used by key informants in the mentioned localities. Likewise, it was confirmed how currently herbal medicine is a viable alternative in the treatment of common conditions, and one of the priority dilemmas in health care.

Impacto de la diabetes en la sexualidad de pacientes mujeres / Impact of diabetes on the sexuality of female patients

RESUMEN Objetivo Estudiar el impacto de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en la sexualidad de pacientes mujeres. Se analiza el efecto que ha tenido la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en la sexualidad de 93 mujeres que recibieron consulta en dos hospitales de la comunidad de Taxco, Guerrero. Metodología Se aplicó una encuesta de 15 variables a un total de 93 pacientes mujeres que acudieron a consulta a dos hospitales de Gobierno en la ciudad de Taxco, Guerrero, México. Se contempló a mujeres con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, con vida sexual activa, con más de cinco años de evolución de la enfermedad. Los casos se eligieron tomando en cuenta el concepto de muestras por conveniencia. El diseño fue cuantitativo, no probabilístico. Resultados La diabetes tuvo un impacto desfavorable en la sexualidad de una proporción importante de las mujeres consideradas. Respecto a los porcentajes negativos, se documentó cómo el 32% de las mujeres nunca tuvieron deseo de tener relaciones sexuales. El 25% del universo manifestó que siempre hubo un cambio de interés por las relaciones después el diagnóstico (de forma perjudicial y adversa). El 17% confirmó siempre presentar irritación vaginal. Y el 42% de las pacientes manifestaron nunca experimentar orgasmos. Finalmente, para el 23% de las mujeres nunca fue satisfactoria la frecuencia de dichas relaciones. Conclusiones Se destacan hallazgos nocivos en algunas de las variables que ratifican cómo la diabetes ha tenido un impacto dañino en la sexualidad de un porcentaje importante de las mujeres encuestadas.

ABSTRACT Objective To study the impact that type 2 diabetes mellitus has had on the sexuality of 93 women. This work analyzes the effect that type 2 diabetes mellitus has had on the sexuality of 93 female patients who received consultations in two hospitals in the city of Taxco, Guerrero. Methodology A survey of 15 variables was applied to a total of 93 female patients who attended in two Hospitals in the city of Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico. Women with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with an active sexual life, with more than 5 years of evolution of the disease, and who attended periodic consultations were considered. The cases were chosen keeping the concept of convenience samples in mind. The design was quantitative, not probabilistic. Results The diabetes had an unfavorable impact on the sexuality of a significant pro-portion of the women considered. Regarding the negative percentages, it was documented how 32% of the women never had a desire to have sexual intercourse. The 25% of the universe stated that there was always a change in interest in relationships after the diagnosis (in adverse way). The 17% always confirmed having vaginal irritation or dryness. And 42% patients reported never experiencing orgasms. Finally, for 23% of the women the frequency of such relationships was never satisfactory. Conclusions They highlighted harmful findings in some of the variables, which confirm how diabetes has had a harmful impact on the sexuality of a significant percentage of the women surveyed.

Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Substance Abuse and HIV-Related Neurological Pathologies.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a broad, heterogeneous class of membranous lipid-bilayer vesicles that facilitate intercellular communication throughout the body. As important carriers of various types of cargo, including proteins, lipids, DNA fragments, and a variety of small noncoding RNAs, including miRNAs, mRNAs, and siRNAs, EVs may play an important role in the development of addiction and other neurological pathologies, particularly those related to HIV. In this review, we summarize the findings of EV studies in the context of methamphetamine (METH), cocaine, nicotine, opioid, and alcohol use disorders, highlighting important EV cargoes that may contribute to addiction. Additionally, as HIV and substance abuse are often comorbid, we discuss the potential role of EVs in the intersection of substance abuse and HIV. Taken together, the studies presented in this comprehensive review shed light on the potential role of EVs in the exacerbation of substance use and HIV. As a subject of growing interest, EVs may continue to provide information about mechanisms and pathogenesis in substance use disorders and CNS pathologies, perhaps allowing for exploration into potential therapeutic options.

Long-Term Effectiveness of Polymerized-Type I Collagen Intra-Articular Injections in Patients with Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation in a Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: Polymerized-type I collagen (polymerized-collagen) is a downregulator of inflammation and a tissue regenerator. The aim was to evaluate the effect of intra-articular injections (IAIs) of polymerized-collagen among patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) in delaying or preventing joint replacement surgery. Patients and Methods. This was a cohort study of 309 patients with knee OA. Patients with mild-to-moderate disease were treated weekly with IAIs of 2 mL of polymerized-collagen for six weeks (n = 309). Follow-up was for 6-60 months. The primary endpoints included the following determinations: (1) therapeutic effect; (2) survival from total knee replacement surgery (TKR); (3) Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and pain (visual analogue scale, VAS). Clinical improvement was defined as a decrease in pain exceeding 20 mm on the VAS and the achievement of at least 20% improvement from baseline with respect to the WOMAC score. Radiographic analysis was performed at baseline and 60 months. The joint space width in the medial, lateral, and patellofemoral compartments was calculated. RESULTS: Patients who received IAIs of polymerized-collagen had a statistically significant improvement in the primary criteria (p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of the therapeutic effect demonstrated 98.8% survival at 60 months with TKR as the endpoint. There was no significant reduction in joint space in any compartment based on the analyzed radiographs. No serious adverse events were recorded. CONCLUSION: Polymerized-collagen increased the time to TKR by at least 60 months, modifying the disease course, improving functional disability, and decreasing pain.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel imidazo[1,2-a]pyridinecarboxamides as potent anti-tuberculosis agents.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious disease that has been plaguing the human race for centuries. The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of TB has been detrimental to the fight against tuberculosis with very few safe therapeutic options available. As part of an ongoing effort to identify potent anti-tuberculosis agents, we synthesized and screened a series of novel imidazo[1,2-a]pyridinecarboxamide derivatives for their anti-tuberculosis properties. These compounds were designed based on reported anti-tuberculosis properties of the indolecarboxamides (I2Cs) and imidazo[1,2-a]pyridinecarboxamides (IPAs). In this series, we identified compounds 15 and 16 with excellent anti-TB activity against H37Rv strain of tuberculosis (MIC = 0.10-0.19 µM); these compounds were further screened against selected clinical isolates of Mtb. Compounds 15 and 16 showed excellent activities against multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains of TB (MIC range: 0.05-1.5 µM) with excellent selectivity indices. In addition, preliminary ADME studies on compound 16 showed favorable pharmacokinetic properties.

Observed ozone over the Chesapeake Bay land-water interface: The Hart-Miller Island Pilot Project.

Enhanced ozone concentrations at land-water interfaces create National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) compliance issues across the United States. The northern Chesapeake Bay experiences higher ozone at sites adjacent to the Bay, creating ozone compliance concerns for the state of Maryland. Accordingly, the Maryland Department of the Environment sited an ozone monitor at Hart-Miller Island (HMI) within the northern Chesapeake Bay (NCB) and gathered a continuous ozone and meteorological record over 278 days within the 2016 and 2017 ozone seasons. The representative water site was the highest ozone monitor in the state 28% of all days and 75% when any ozone monitor in the state experienced ozone above the 2015 ozone NAAQS (70 ppbv), known as an exceedance day. In total, 24 exceedance days were observed at HMI. Numerical ozone predictions produced by an operational version of the Community Multi-scale Air Quality (CMAQ) model forecast 52 such days with a high bias of 15.5% in daily maximum ozone concentration during the same period. Trajectory modeling indicated over 70% of exceedance days possessed northwesterly transport over the Baltimore area, with HYSPLIT trajectories descending at least 500 m in greater than 80% of cases toward the NCB surface. These trajectories possessed a button-hook pattern during descent to create southerly surface winds at HMI that may impact coastal sites, creating ozone events at Maryland monitors such as Edgewood. Consequently, the NCB was influenced by the residual layer and from both regional long-range transport and locally sourced ozone precursors. Changes in local meteorology and emissions had a significant impact on over-water ozone concentrations and forecasts. Results of the multi-season ozone pilot study over the Chesapeake Bay provided a conceptual model of high ozone development over water downwind of a large urban center and guidance for future study of the NCB area. Implications: Multi-seasonal observations of surface ozone and meteorology over the water of the northern Chesapeake Bay showed specific conditions leading to degraded air quality. The novel data set collected offers a deeper understanding of over-water ozone magnitude, occurrence, and transport across the land-water interface and comparison to air quality models not before possible.

Medición de parámetros asociados al síndrome metabólico en alumnos de enfermería en Taxco, México / Measurement of parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in nursing students from Taxco, México / Medição de parâmetros associados à síndrome metabólica em estudantes de enfermagem em Taxco, México

RESUMEN Objetivo Medir los parámetros relacionados con el síndrome metabólico (historias clínicas, medidas antropométricas y muestras bioquímicas) de 50 estudiantes de enfermería. Material y Métodos En esta obra participaron bajo su consentimiento informado, 50 alumnos del primer año de la Licenciatura en Enfermería en la Unidad Académica No. 4 de la Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, México. Se elaboraron historias clínicas, se registraron variables antropométricas (peso, índice de masa corporal, y medición de cintura), se tomaron muestras bioquímicas (colesterol HDL, triglicéridos y glucosa), y se anotó la tensión arterial del grupo en cuestión. Finalmente, se utilizó estadística descriptiva para explicar los resultados. Resultados Se encontraron tres parámetros que sobrepasaron los límites estándares normales establecidos; mismos que se encuentran asociados al síndrome metabólico. Éstos parámetros fueron el índice de masa corporal con sobrepeso y obesidad en el 62% del universo (31 casos), las medidas de la cintura altos en el 52% del total (26 estudiantes), y el colesterol HDL bajo en el 72% de los casos (36 alumnos). Conclusiones Finalmente, los resultados analizados confirman cómo el 26% (13 estudiantes) presentaron el síndrome metabólico, ya que registraron tres o más parámetros de forma conjunta fuera del rango permitido o normal. Estos alumnos pueden encontrarse en riesgo de contraer, a mediano y largo plazo, afecciones crónicas graves relacionadas con dicho síndrome, tales como las enfermedades cardiovasculares, y/o diabetes.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective To measure the parameters and results related to metabolic syndrome (clinical records, anthropometric measurements and biochemical samples) in the group of students in question. Material and Methods Fifty first-year students of the Bachelor of Nursing at the Academic Unit No. 4 of the Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, México, participated in this study and provided their informed consent. Medical records were prepared, while anthropometric variables (weight, body mass index and waist measurement) were recorded. Biochemical samples (HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose) and blood pressure were taken. Finally, descriptive statistics were used to explain the results. Results Regarding the findings, three parameters exceeded the normal standards limits. These parameters were associated with metabolic syndrome and included overweight and obesity in 62% of the sample (n=31), high waist measurements in 52% (n=26), and low HDL cholesterol in 72% (n=36). Conclusions The analyzed results confirm that 26% (13 students) of the sample presented with metabolic syndrome, as they had three or more parameters above the normal range. These students may be at medium- and long-term risk for serious chronic conditions related to the metabolic syndrome, such as cardiovascular diseases and/or diabetes.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivo Medir os parâmetros relacionados à síndrome metabólica (prontuários, medidas antropométricas e amostras bioquímicas) de 50 estudantes de enfermagem. Material e métodos Neste trabalho, com seu consentimento informado, participaram 50 estudantes do primeiro ano do Curso de Enfermagem da Unidade Acadêmica nº 4 da Universidade Autônoma de Guerrero, México. Foram elaborados históricos médicos, anotadas as variáveis ​​antropométricas (peso, índice de massa corporal e medida da cintura), colhidas amostras bioquímicas (colesterol HDL, triglicerídeos e glicose) e anotada a pressão arterial do grupo em questão. Por fim, a estatística descritiva foi utilizada para explicar os resultados. Resultados Foram encontrados três parâmetros que ultrapassaram os limites do padrão normal estabelecido; os mesmos que estão associados à síndrome metabólica. Esses parâmetros foram índice de massa corporal sobrepeso e obesidade em 62% do universo (31 casos), medidas de cintura alta em 52% do total (26 alunos) e baixo colesterol HDL em 72% dos os casos (36 alunos). Conclusões Por fim, os resultados analisados ​​confirmam como 26% (13 alunos) apresentaram a síndrome metabólica, pois registraram três ou mais parâmetros juntos fora da faixa permitida ou normal. Esses alunos podem estar sob risco de contrair, a médio e longo prazo, condições crônicas graves relacionadas a essa síndrome, como doenças cardiovasculares e / ou diabetes.(AU)

[Measurement of parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in nursing students from Taxco, México]. / Medición de parámetros asociados al síndrome metabólico en alumnos de enfermería en Taxco, México.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the parameters and results related to metabolic syndrome (clinical records, anthropometric measurements and biochemical samples) in the group of students in question. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifty first-year students of the Bachelor of Nursing at the Academic Unit No. 4 of the Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, México, participated in this study and provided their informed consent. Medical records were prepared, while anthropometric variables (weight, body mass index and waist measurement) were recorded. Biochemical samples (HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose) and blood pressure were taken. Finally, descriptive statistics were used to explain the results. RESULTS: Regarding the findings, three parameters exceeded the normal standards limits. These parameters were associated with metabolic syndrome and included overweight and obesity in 62% of the sample (n=31), high waist measurements in 52% (n=26), and low HDL cholesterol in 72% (n=36). CONCLUSIONS: The analyzed results confirm that 26% (13 students) of the sample presented with metabolic syndrome, as they had three or more parameters above the normal range. These students may be at medium- and long-term risk for serious chronic conditions related to the metabolic syndrome, such as cardiovascular diseases and/or diabetes.

OBJETIVO: Medir los parámetros relacionados con el síndrome metabólico (historias clínicas, medidas antropométricas y muestras bioquímicas) de 50 estudiantes de enfermería. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: En esta obra participaron bajo su consentimiento informado, 50 alumnos del primer año de la Licenciatura en Enfermería en la Unidad Académica No. 4 de la Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, México. Se elaboraron historias clínicas, se registraron variables antropométricas (peso, índice de masa corporal, y medición de cintura), se tomaron muestras bioquímicas (colesterol HDL, triglicéridos y glucosa), y se anotó la tensión arterial del grupo en cuestión. Finalmente, se utilizó estadística descriptiva para explicar los resultados. RESULTADOS: Se encontraron tres parámetros que sobrepasaron los límites estándares normales establecidos; mismos que se encuentran asociados al síndrome metabólico. Éstos parámetros fueron el índice de masa corporal con sobrepeso y obesidad en el 62% del universo (31 casos), las medidas de la cintura altos en el 52% del total (26 estudiantes), y el colesterol HDL bajo en el 72% de los casos (36 alumnos). CONCLUSIONES: Finalmente, los resultados analizados confirman cómo el 26% (13 estudiantes) presentaron el síndrome metabólico, ya que registraron tres o más parámetros de forma conjunta fuera del rango permitido o normal. Estos alumnos pueden encontrarse en riesgo de contraer, a mediano y largo plazo, afecciones crónicas graves relacionadas con dicho síndrome, tales como las enfermedades cardiovasculares, y/o diabetes.

Evaluation of an electronic nose for odorant and process monitoring of alkaline-stabilized biosolids production.

Electronic noses have been widely used in the food industry to monitor process performance and quality control, but use in wastewater and biosolids treatment has not been fully explored. Therefore, we examined the feasibility of an electronic nose to discriminate between treatment conditions of alkaline stabilized biosolids and compared its performance with quantitative analysis of key odorants. Seven lime treatments (0-30% w/w) were prepared and the resultant off-gas was monitored by GC-MS and by an electronic nose equipped with ten metal oxide sensors. A pattern recognition model was created using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and principal component analysis (PCA) of the electronic nose data. In general, LDA performed better than PCA. LDA showed clear discrimination when single tests were evaluated, but when the full data set was included, discrimination between treatments was reduced. Frequency of accurate recognition was tested by three algorithms with Euclidan and Mahalanobis performing at 81% accuracy and discriminant function analysis at 70%. Concentrations of target compounds by GC-MS were in agreement with those reported in literature and helped to elucidate the behavior of the pattern recognition via comparison of individual sensor responses to different biosolids treatment conditions. Results indicated that the electronic nose can discriminate between lime percentages, thus providing the opportunity to create classes of under-dosed and over-dosed relative to regulatory requirements. Full scale application will require careful evaluation to maintain accuracy under variable process and environmental conditions.

Intracanal irrigants for pulpectomy in primary teeth: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the findings on the clinical efficacy of intracanal irrigants employed during pulpectomy of primary teeth. METHODS: A systematic search was performed in electronic databases and peer-reviewed paediatric dentistry journals to find relevant studies. Titles, abstracts, and full-text papers were located, screened, and assessed independently by two reviewers, and a meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS: The search identified a total of 775 records; 46 were selected and reviewed in full text. After screening, seven studies met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Three studies compared the 2% chlorhexidine and saline solutions, but no analysis could be performed because of the heterogeneity between these; two of the studies reported non-comparative methodologies and results when compared, and were not analysed. Finally, two studies compared a mixture of tetracycline isomer, an acid, and a detergent (MTDA) or oxidative potential water (OPW) to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), without showing significant heterogeneity; therefore, their combined outcomes were included. Both fixed and random mixed models resulted in a non-significant weighted mean difference between treatments, according to a forest plot. CONCLUSIONS: More studies are required with adequate quality, as well as a full-result report, including summary measurements of both response variables and effect size, to determine the most effective irrigant agents for use in pulpectomies.