Enhancing Concrete Durability and Strength with Fly Ash, Steel Slag, and Rice Husk Ash for Marine Environments.

The effect of an alternative source of silica, based on class F fly ash mixed with blast furnace slag and activated by rice husk ash (RHA), to produce concrete exposed to marine environments was evaluated. Four mixtures activated by the combination of 85% NaOH 14M + 15% RHA were manufactured to achieve a liquid/solid ratio of 0.20. Fly ash was incorporated into the steel slag mixture at addition percentages of 20, 40, 60, and 80%, and evaluated at 28, 900, and 1800 days for pore and chloride ion absorption. In general, including rice husk ash in the mixture of fly ash and steel slag significantly affected mechanical performance because it was possible to obtain concrete with high mechanical resistance. Concerning the durability evaluation, the effect of the activator generated by rice husk ash was observed, and the increase in steel slag added to the cementitious samples improved the capacity of the material to resist the penetration and diffusion of chloride ions.

The Wnt signaling pathway in major depressive disorder: A systematic review of human studies.

Despite uncertainty about the specific molecular mechanisms driving major depressive disorder (MDD), the Wnt signaling pathway stands out as a potentially influential factor in the pathogenesis of MDD. Known for its role in intercellular communication, cell proliferation, and fate, Wnt signaling has been implicated in diverse biological phenomena associated with MDD, spanning neurodevelopmental to neurodegenerative processes. In this systematic review, we summarize the functional differences in protein and gene expression of the Wnt signaling pathway, and targeted genetic association studies, to provide an integrated synthesis of available human data examining Wnt signaling in MDD. Thirty-three studies evaluating protein expression (n = 15), gene expression (n = 9), or genetic associations (n = 9) were included. Only fifteen demonstrated a consistently low overall risk of bias in selection, comparability, and exposure. We found conflicting observations of limited and distinct Wnt signaling components across diverse tissue sources. These data do not demonstrate involvement of Wnt signaling dysregulation in MDD. Given the well-established role of Wnt signaling in antidepressant response, we propose that a more targeted and functional assessment of Wnt signaling is needed to understand its role in depression pathophysiology. Future studies should include more components, assess multiple tissues concurrently, and follow a standardized approach.

Impact of health insurance on the use of oral health services in the Peruvian population 2015-2019.

BACKGROUND: The high treatment cost of oral diseases is a barrier for accessing oral health services (OHS), particularly in low-income countries. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of health insurance on the use of OHS in the Peruvian population from 2015 to 2019. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, longitudinal study of secondary data using the National Household Survey (ENAHO) 2015-2019 panel databases, which collected information from the same participants during each of the five years. The dependent variable was the use of OHS in the three months prior to the survey (yes/no). The independent variable was health insurance affiliation (four years or less/all five years). Both were measured by survey questions. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) Poisson regression models with robust standard errors were used to estimate the relative risk (RR) associated with use of OHS. RESULTS: We included 4064 individuals distributed in 1847 households, who responded to the survey during each of the five years. The adjusted GEE model showed that those who had health insurance during all five years without interruption were more likely to attend OHS than those who had insurance for four years or less (adjusted relative risk [aRR]: 1.30; 95%CI: 1.13-1.50). In addition, we carried out a sensitivity analysis by recategorizing the independent variable into three categories (never/some years/ all five years), which also showed (aRR: 1.45; 95%CI: 1.11-1.89) that participants with health insurance during all five years were more likely to have used OHS than those who never had insurance. CONCLUSION: Therefore, in the Peruvian context, health insurance affiliation was associated with greater use of OHS. The panel data used derives from a subsample of consecutive nationally representative samples, which may have led to a loss of representativeness. Furthermore, the data was collected between 2015 and 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and insurance conditions may have changed.

Antarctic marine sediment as a source of filamentous fungi-derived antimicrobial and antitumor compounds of pharmaceutical interest.

Antarctica harbors a microbial diversity still poorly explored and of inestimable biotechnological value. Cold-adapted microorganisms can produce a diverse range of metabolites stable at low temperatures, making these compounds industrially interesting for biotechnological use. The present work investigated the biotechnological potential for antimicrobial and antitumor activity of filamentous fungi and bacteria isolated from marine sediment samples collected at Deception Island, Antarctica. A total of 89 microbial isolates were recovered from marine sediments and submitted to an initial screening for L-glutaminase with antitumoral activity and for antimicrobial metabolites. The isolates Pseudogymnoascus sp. FDG01, Pseudogymnoascus sp. FDG02, and Penicillium sp. FAD33 showed potential antiproliferative action against human pancreatic carcinoma cells while showing no toxic effect on non-tumor cells. The microbial extracts from unidentified three bacteria and four filamentous fungi showed antibacterial activity against at least one tested pathogenic bacterial strain. The isolate FDG01 inhibited four bacterial species, while the isolate FDG01 was active against Micrococcus luteus in the minimal inhibitory concentration of 0.015625 µg mL -1. The results pave the way for further optimization of enzyme production and characterization of enzymes and metabolites found and reaffirm Antarctic marine environments as a wealthy source of compounds potentially applicable in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry.

Changes in the expression of genes encoding xanthophyl acyltransferases during the postharvest ripening of avocado (Persea americana) fruit.

BACKGROUND: Avocado fruit is rich in xanthophylls, which have been related to positive effects on human health. Xanthophyl acetyltransferases (XATs) are enzymes catalyzing the esterification of carboxylic acids to the hydroxyl group of the xanthophyll molecule. This esterification is thought to increase the lipophilic nature of the xanthophyll and its stability in a lipophilic environment. Studies on XATs in fruits are very scarce, and no studies had been carried out in avocado fruit during postharvest. The objective of this work was to investigate the changes in the expression of genes encoding XAT, during avocado fruit ripening. RESULTS: Avocado fruits were obtained from a local market and stored at 15 °C for 8 days. The fruit respiration rate, ethylene production, and fruit peel's color space parameters (L*, a*, b*) were measured during storage. Fruit mesocarp samples were taken after 1, 3, 5, and 7 days of storage and frozen with liquid nitrogen. Total RNA was extracted from fruit mesocarp, and the quantification of the two genes designated as COGE_ID: 936743791 and COGE_ID: 936800185 encoding XATs was performed with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction using actin as a reference gene. The presence of a climacteric peak and large changes in color were recorded during postharvest. The two genes studied showed a large expression after 3 days of fruit storage. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that during the last stages of ripening in avocado fruit there was an active esterification of xanthophylls with carboxylic acids, which suggests the presence of esterified xanthophylls in the fruit mesocarp. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Geographical approach analysis of the impact of air pollution on newborn intrauterine growth and cord blood DNA damage in Mexico City.

BACKGROUND: Few epidemiologic studies have focused on the specific source of ambient air pollution and adverse health effects in early life. Here, we investigated whether air pollutants from different emission sources were associated with decreased birth anthropometry parameters and increased DNA adduct formation in mother-child pairs residing in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA). METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 190 pregnant women recruited during their last trimester of pregnancy from two hospitals at MCMA, and a Modeling Emissions Inventory (MEI) to calculate exposure to ambient air pollutants from different emissions sources (area, point, mobile, and natural) for two geographical buffers 250 and 750 m radii around the participants households. RESULTS: Contaminants were positively correlated with umbilical cord blood (UCB) adducts, but not with maternal blood (MB) adducts. PM10 emissions (area and point sources, overall emissions), PM2.5 (point sources), volatile organic compounds (VOC), total organic compounds (TOC) from point sources were positively correlated with UCB adducts. Air pollutants emitted from natural sources were correlated with a decrease in MB and UCB adducts. PM10 and PM2.5 were correlated (p < 0.05) with a decrease in birth weight (BW), birth length (BL) and gestational age at term (GA). In multivariate analyses adjusted for potential confounders, PM10 was associated with an increase in UCB adducts. PM10 and PM2.5 from overall emissions were associated with a decrease in BW, BL and GA at term. IMPACT: Results suggested higher susceptibility of newborns compared to mothers to damage related to ambient air pollution. PMs are associated with birth anthropometry parameters and DNA damage in adjusted models, highlighting the need for more strict regulation of PM emissions.

Factores de predicción relevantes en la supervivencia de pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido / Relevants predictions factors in the survival of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome

Introducción: Los pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido desarrollan morbilidad y mortalidad significativas a pesar del tratamiento actual. Es imperativo, identificar factores pronósticos y medidas terapéuticas para prevenir estas complicaciones. Objetivo: Determinar los factores relevantes en la predicción de la supervivencia en los pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal analítico de una cohorte histórica de personas con síndrome antifosfolípido, diagnosticados, según los criterios de Sapporo/Sydney y colaboradores en la consulta de enfermedades autoinmunes sistémicas del Hospital Universitario Clínico-Quirúrgico «Arnaldo Milián Castro», Villa Clara, del año 2000 al 2015. Se estudiaron variables demográficas y clínicas. En cada caso se determinó el tiempo de supervivencia con relación al evento muerte. Se aplicó el método de Kaplan Meier para calcular la supervivencia global y determinar las variables predictoras de la mortalidad. Según el estudio de los estadígrafos de comparación interestratos(Log-Rank) se demostró la significación estadística con la prueba de Chi cuadrado de homogeneidad. Resultados: De los 128 pacientes estudiados, 118 fueron femeninos y 10 masculinos (111 de piel blanca y 17 no blancos). La supervivencia global fue de 67,1 % con una media de 13,37 años. Las variables más relevantes que aportaron a la mortalidad en relación con menor supervivencia fueron: leucopenia, linfopenia, color de la piel no blanca, y el no uso de aspirina, con medias de supervivencia de 8,83; 8,17; 10,72; 12,10 años, respectivamente. Conclusiones: La identificación temprana de los factores pronósticos de supervivencia permite implementar estrategias oportunas e individualizadas en pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido.

Introduction: patients with antiphospholipid syndrome develop significant morbidity and mortality despite current treatment. Identifying prognostic factors and therapeutic measures to prevent these complications is indispensable. Objective: to determine relevant factors in the prediction of survival in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome. Methods: a longitudinal analytical study was carried out on cohorts with antiphospholipid syndrome who were diagnosed according to the Sapporo-Sydney criteria and collaborators in the systemic autoimmune disease consultation at "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical and Surgical University Hospital in Villa Clara from 2000 to 2015. Demographic and clinical variables were studied. The survival time in relation to the death event was determined in each case. The Kaplan - Meier method was applied to calculate overall survival and determine the predictor variables for mortality. According to the study of inter-strata comparison statistics (Log-Rank), statistical significance was demonstrated with the Chi-square test of homogeneity. Results: a number of 118 patients were female and 10 male from the 128 studied (111 white-skinned and 17 non-white). Overall survival was 67.1% with a mean of 13.37 years. The most relevant variables that contributed to mortality in relation to lower survival were leukopenia, lymphopenia, non-white skin color and non-use of aspirin, with mean survival of 8.83; 8.17; 10.72; 12.10 years, respectively. Conclusions: the early identification of survival prognostic factors allows us the implementation of timely and individualized strategies in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.

GPS tracking analyses reveal finely-tuned shorebird space use and movement patterns throughout the non-breeding season in high-latitude austral intertidal areas.

BACKGROUND: Long-distance migratory birds spend most of their annual cycle in non-breeding areas. During this period birds must meet their daily nutritional needs and acquire additional energy intake to deal with future events of the annual cycle. Therefore, patterns of space use and movement may emerge as an efficient strategy to maintain a trade-off between acquisition and conservation of energy during the non-breeding season. However, there is still a paucity of research addressing this issue, especially in trans-hemispheric migratory birds. METHODS: Using GPS-tracking data and a recently developed continuous-time stochastic process modeling framework, we analyzed fine-scale movements in a non-breeding population of Hudsonian godwits (Limosa haemastica), a gregarious long-distance migratory shorebird. Specifically, we evaluated if these extreme migrants exhibit restricted, shared, and periodic patterns of space use on one of their main non-breeding grounds in southern South America. Finally, via a generalized additive model, we tested if the observed patterns were consistent within a circadian cycle. RESULTS: Overall, godwits showed finely-tuned range-residence and periodic movements (each 24-72 h), being similar between day and night. Remarkably, range-resident individuals segregated spatially into three groups. In contrast, a smaller fraction of godwits displayed unpredictable and irregular movements, adding functional connectivity within the population. CONCLUSIONS: In coastal non-breeding areas where resource availability is highly predictable due to tidal cycles, range-resident strategies during both the day and night are the common pattern in a long-distance shorebird population. Alternative patterns exhibited by a fraction of non-resident godwits provide functional connectivity and suggest that the exploratory tendency may be essential for information acquisition and associated with individual traits. The methodological approach we have used contributes to elucidate how the composition of movement phases operates during the non-breeding season in migratory species and can be replicated in non-migratory species as well. Finally, our results highlight the importance of considering movement as a continuum within the annual cycle.

Phenolic Content and Bioactivity as Geographical Classifiers of Propolis from Stingless Bees in Southeastern Mexico.

Propolis collected by stingless bees is a valuable biocultural resource and a source of bioactive compounds. Methodologies to establish both the geographic origin and the potential pharmacological activity of propolis of stingless bees are required to regulate their sustainable use. The aim of this study was to classify Melipona beecheii propolis according to its phenolic compound content and potential pharmacological activity, using in vitro assays and statistical methodologies of multivariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and principal component analysis. Propolis samples were collected from seven states in southeastern Mexico. Total phenolic content and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically, and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities were evaluated. Both total phenolic content and flavonoids, and in vitro bioactivity potential of propolis extracts showed significant variations. Multivariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and principal component analysis enabled us to distinguish and classify propolis produced by M. beecheii according to similarity in terms of total phenolic content, in vitro bioactivity potential, and geographical origin. This strategy could be used to establish regulations for sustainable use, marketing, and industrial applications.

HTLV-1 uveitis in Colombia, an underrecognized complication of a hitherto neglected condition: a case series.

Three Colombian patients with chronic HTLV-1 infection and severe intermediate and/or posterior uveitis are described. In one case, retinal ablation was necessary due to extensive peripheral degeneration, while the other two were successfully managed with local anti-inflammatory therapy. Gradual resolution of ocular findings was observed in all three patients on follow-up. Uveitis is a rarely recognized late complication of this infection, which represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians in endemic countries. The real extension of HTLV-1 prevalence in Colombia and the frequency of its ophthalmologic complications remain to be determined.

Enfermedades de origen laboral en docentes escolares: una revisión sistemática / Occupational Diseases in School Teachers: A Systematic review

Introducción. La docencia es una de las principales profesiones vinculadas con el desarrollo de una sociedad; como cualquier labor, se encuentra expuesta a diferentes factores de riesgo que pueden generar una enfermedad de origen laboral. Objetivo. Identificar y caracterizar la literatura actual que presente las principales enfermedades de los docentes escolares como consecuencia de su trabajo y/o las condiciones laborales. Materiales y Métodos. Revisión sistemática con búsqueda en las bases de datos Academic Search Complete (EBSCOHOST), APA - PSYCNET, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), MEDLINE (PubMed), SCOPUS y Open Grey. Se realiza selección pareada independiente bajo criterios de inclusión y análisis de forma narrativa, incluyendo generalidades, información de la enfermedad y desenlaces en docentes. Resultados. Se incluyeron 47 estudios, de los cuales el 25,5 % fueron publicados en 2015; Brasil fue el país con mayor aporte temático. La mayoría de los estudios agrupó a los docentes escolares sin distinción de su ciclo (primaria, bachillerato y media). Las principales enfermedades identificadas fueron trastornos de la voz 51,1 %, musculoesqueléticos 23,4 % y psicosociales 21,3 %. Adicionalmente, se identificó que al menos el 50 % de los reportes por país estuvieron relacionados con trastornos de la voz; Brasil e India fueron los países de mayor representatividad. Conclusiones. Las principales enfermedades laborales docentes fueron las relacionadas con trastornos de la voz, musculoesqueléticos y psicosociales; a su vez, estas se relacionan con riesgos físicos, condiciones de seguridad, riesgos biomecánicos y psicosociales en el contexto escolar.

Introduction. Teaching is one of the main professions linked to the development of a society, and like any other labor it is exposed to different risk factors that can generate an occupational disease. Objective. To identify and characterize the current literature on the main illnesses suffered by schoolteachers as a result of their work and/or working conditions. Methodology. Systematic review with search in the databases Academic Search Complete (EBSCOHOST), APA - PSYCNET, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), MEDLINE (PubMed), SCOPUS and Open Grey. We performed independent paired selection under inclusion criteria and narrative analysis including generalities, disease information and outcomes in teachers. Results. Forty-seven studies were included, 25.5% of which were published in 2015, and Brazil was the country with the largest thematic contribution. Most of the studies grouped schoolteachers regardless of their cycle (primary, secondary and high school). The main illnesses identified were voice disorders 51.1%, musculoskeletal disorders 23.4% and psychosocial disorders 21.3%. In addition, it was found that at least 50% of the reports per country were related to voice disorders, with Brazil and India being the most representative. Conclusions. The main occupational illnesses identified were related to voice, musculoskeletal and psychosocial disorders; these in turn are related to physical, safety, biomechanical and psychosocial risks in the school context.

Royal jelly extracellular vesicles promote wound healing by modulating underlying cellular responses.

Apis mellifera royal jelly (RJ) is a well-known remedy in traditional medicine around the world and its versatile effects range from antibacterial to anti-inflammatory properties and pro-regenerative properties. As a glandular product, RJ has been shown to contain a substantial number of extracellular vesicles (EVs), and, in this study, we aimed to investigate the extent of involvement of RJEVs in wound healing-associated effects. Molecular analysis of RJEVs verified the presence of exosomal markers such as CD63 and syntenin, and cargo molecules MRJP1, defensin-1, and jellein-3. Furthermore, RJEVs were demonstrated to modulate mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation and secretome, as well as decrease LPS-induced inflammation in macrophages by blocking the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. In vivo studies confirmed antibacterial effects of RJEVs and demonstrated an acceleration of wound healing in a splinted mouse model. This study suggests that RJEVs play a crucial role in the known effects of RJ by modulating the inflammatory phase and cellular response in wound healing. Transfer of RJ into the clinics has been impeded by the high complexity of the raw material. Isolating EVs from the raw RJ decreases the complexity while allowing standardization and quality control, bringing a natural nano-therapy one step closer to the clinics.

Weight changes in adults with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies.

BACKGROUND: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and obesity are bidirectionally related, but the amount of weight-gain secondary to MDD is unknown. We aimed to estimate the adjusted effect of MDD on weight-change in prospective studies compared to individuals without MDD. METHODS: Scopus/MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Web of Science and Cochrane were systematically searched for prospective observational studies of participants with a diagnosis of MDD. We included studies that conducted regression analyses on weight-variables. We searched for weight-variables reported at baseline, follow-up, and regression analyses. A meta-analysis of the odds ratios reported in logistic regression models was performed using the generic inverse weight variance method. RESULTS: Eight studies were included with a total of 60,443 subjects; 56.8 % with MDD. Weight-variables included weight, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, and obesity incidence. In three follow-up reports, weight-variables increased more in participants with MDD and its subphenotypes than in control subjects, except for one MDD subphenotype. Meta-analysis of three eligible studies (n = 21,935) showed a significantly greater likelihood of incident obesity in participants with MDD (OR:1.48, 95%CI 1.03-2.13). MDD subphenotype reports might suggest a greater risk for atypical MDD. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity in weight related variables, follow-ups, and regression models; scarcity of follow-up data; and limited studies eligible for meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Despite previous associations between MDD and obesity, current prospective evidence on MDD related weight-change is scarce and heterogeneous. Our findings suggest a need to standardize weight-change assessment in MDD trials. Moreover, careful weight tracking and management should be incorporated in clinical settings. PROSPERO registration CRD42020214427.

Exploring the recovery of a large wetland using black-necked swan blood parameters and body condition 16 years after a pollution-induced disturbance.

Resilience theory has taken center stage in tackling the challenge of wetland recovery on a fast-changing planet. Because of waterbirds' enormous dependence on wetlands, their numbers have long been used as surrogates for wetland recovery over time. However, immigration of individuals can mask actual recoveries at a given wetland. One alternative to expanding the knowledge of wetland recovery is the use of physiological parameters from aquatic organism populations. We explored the variations in the physiological parameters of black-necked swan (BNS) before, during, and after a 16-year period of a pollution-induced disturbance that originated in a pulp-mill wastewater discharge. This disturbance triggered the precipitation of iron (Fe) in the water column of the Río Cruces Wetland in southern Chile, one of the main sites for the global population of BNS Cygnus melancoryphus. We compared our recent (2019) original data (body mass index [BMI], hematocrit, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, blood enzymes, and metabolites) with available datasets from the site obtained before the pollution-induced disturbance (2003) and immediately after the disturbance (2004). Results indicate that, 16 years after the pollution-induced disturbance, some important parameters of animal physiology did not return to their pre-disturbance state. For instance, BMI, triglycerides, and glucose were significantly higher in 2019 than in 2004, right after the disturbance. By contrast, the hemoglobin concentration was significantly lower in 2019 than in 2003 and 2004, and uric acid was 42% higher in 2019 than in 2004. Our results demonstrate that, despite higher BNS numbers with larger body weights present in 2019, the Río Cruces wetland has only partially recovered. We suggest that the impact of megadrought and wetland disappearance far from the site results in high rate of swan immigration, casting uncertainty about using the number of swans alone as honest indicators of wetland recovery after a pollution disturbance. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:663-675. © 2023 SETAC.

Riesgo cardiovascular en docentes profesionales de la salud. Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra, 2021-2022

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, causando 2 millones de fallecimientos anuales; 80 % de ellos en países con ingresos bajos o medianos. Objetivo: Relacionar el nivel de riesgo cardiovascular, profesión y dualidad laboral en docentes de la Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra, 2021-2022. Material y Métodos: Estudio no experimental, relacional de corte transversal, cuyo universo estuvo constituido por 96 docentes de la Facultad Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Técnica del Norte. En la investigación se estimaron niveles individuales de riego cardiovascular, obtenidos a través de la escala de evaluación de riesgo de Framingham adaptada de REGICOR; se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables en las cualitativas se aplicó media, desviación estándar, frecuencias y porcentajes. Se evaluó la asociación entre variables usando la prueba estadística de Chi Cuadrado, con intervalo de confianza 95 % y un valor de p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: Predominó el sexo femenino (79,2 %) y la dualidad laboral (57,3 %) entre los docentes estudiados, el promedio de colesterol total superó los límites deseados (202,57 mg/dl) y el colesterol HDL prevaleció con valores inferiores a los normales, predominó el nivel de riesgo cardiovascular bajo. Conclusiones: Se demostró que existe asociación estadísticamente significativa entre el nivel de riesgo cardiovascular y la profesión de los docentes de la Facultad Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Técnica del Norte. La diferencia en el número de docentes con nivel de riesgo cardiovascular bajo y medio fue mayor entre los que practican dualidad laboral.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world, causing 2 million deaths annually; 80 % of them in low- or middle-income countries. Objective: To relate the level of cardiovascular risk, profession, and labor duality in professors from the Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra, 2021-2022. Material and Methods: Non-experimental, relational, cross-sectional study, whose universe consisted of 96 professors from the Faculty of Health Sciences of the Universidad Técnica del Norte. The individual levels of RCVC, which were obtained through the Framingham risk assessment scale adapted from REGICOR, were estimated; a descriptive analysis of the variables was carried out; mean, standard deviation, as well as frequencies and percentages were applied in the qualitative ones. The association between variables was evaluated using the chi-square statistical test, with 95 % confidence interval and a p value ≤ 0.05. Results: The female sex (79.2 %) and labor duality (57.3 %) prevailed among the professors studied; the average of total cholesterol exceeded the desired limits (202.57 mg/dl), HDL cholesterol prevailed with values ​​lower than normal and the low level of cardiovascular risk prevailed. Conclusions: It was demonstrated that there is a statistically significant association between the level of cardiovascular risk and the profession of the educators from the Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra. The difference in the number of professors with a low and medium level of cardiovascular risk was greater among those who practice labor duality.

[Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment]. / Variabilidad de la hemoglobina y hematocrito determinados en equipo de gases sanguíneos.

Background: Usually hemoglobin and hematocrit are obtained from peripheral venous blood samples processed in equipment for hematic biometry. These parameters can also be determined from arterial samples processed on blood gas equipment. Its variability when using arterial samples and this equipment is unknown, in addition, if the lack of knowledge of this variability affects clinical decisions. Objective: To know the variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit from arterial blood samples processed in blood gas equipment. Material and methods: Analytic cross design. Consecutive subjects with stable cardiopulmonary disease were blindly studied. The samples were obtained at the same time for analysis in both equipments. Variability was analyzed with Bland-Altman descriptive statistic and its magnitude with the intraclass correlation coefficient. Results: Two hundred of blood samples from 50 patients were studied, 31 (62%) women, age 62 ± 14 years old, body mass index 30.11 ± 5.69 Kg/m2. The main comparison was peripheral venous blood sample processed in laboratory equipment (SYSMEX) vs. arterial sample on blood gas equipment (GEM). The mean difference (bias) and intraclass correlation coefficient for hemoglobin were: 0.12 (-1.45, 1.23) and 0.95 (0.91, 0.97); for the hematocrit -4.4 (-0.4, 8.54), and 0.72 (0.51, 0.84). Conclusions: The mean difference and bias for hemoglobin was close to 0; the hematocrit was higher. Hemoglobin from arterial samples processed in blood gas equipment can be used to make clinical decisions.

Introducción: usualmente, la hemoglobina y el hematocrito se obtienen de sangre venosa periférica procesada en equipo convencional para biometría hemática, también pueden ser determinados de muestras arteriales procesadas en equipos para gases sanguíneos. Se desconoce su variabilidad al utilizar muestras arteriales y equipos para gases sanguíneos, además, si esta variabilidad pudiera afectar las decisiones clínicas. Objetivo: conocer la variabilidad de la hemoglobina y hematocrito de muestras sanguíneas arteriales procesadas en equipo de gases sanguíneos. Material y métodos: diseño transversal analítico. Se estudiaron de forma ciega sujetos consecutivos con enfermedad cardiopulmonar estable. Las muestras sanguíneas se adquirieron al mismo tiempo para su análisis en ambos equipos. La variabilidad se analizó con el estadístico descriptivo de Bland-Altman y su magnitud con el coeficiente de correlación intraclase. Resultados: se analizaron 200 muestras sanguíneas de 50 pacientes, 31 (62%) mujeres, edad grupal 62 ± 14 años, índice de masa corporal 30.11 ± 5.69 Kg/m2. La principal comparación: muestra sanguínea venosa periférica procesada en equipo del laboratorio (SYSMEX) frente a muestra arterial en equipo de gases sanguíneos (GEM). La diferencia media (sesgo) y el coeficiente de correlación intraclase de la hemoglobina fueron: 0.12 (-1.45, 1.23) y 0.95 (0.91, 0.97); hematocrito -4.4 (-0.4, 8.54) y 0.72 (0.51, 0.84). Conclusiones: la diferencia media y sesgo de la hemoglobina fue cercana a 0; la del hematocrito fue mayor. La hemoglobina de muestras arteriales procesadas en equipos de gases sanguíneos son útiles para tomar decisiones clínicas.

Impact of germination time on protein solubility and anti-inflammatory properties of Pisum sativum L grains.

During germination processes take place that modify the major components of the grain, such is the case of proteins that are hydrolyzed to generate peptides that can lead to the generation of bioactivity. The objective of the present work was to germinate grains of Pisum sativum to evaluate the effect on the soluble protein content and the anti-inflammatory activity. The grains were subjected to 10 days of germination at 24 °C and relative humidity of 75%. Sprouts were lyophilized, milled, and phenolic compounds were extracted to avoid interferences. Soluble protein content varied significantly during the 10 days of germination. In vitro assays indicate that sprouts protein inhibits thermal denaturation of proteins, protease activity, and stabilize cell membranes. The IC50 values indicate that after germination the bioactivity increased between 1.4 and 3.5 times, with respect to the ungerminated grains. Results indicated that Pisum sativum sprouts may constitute promising health-promoting foods.

Use of discrete event simulation and genetic algorithms to estimate the necessary resources to respond in a timely manner in the Medical Emergency System in Bogotá. / Uso de simulación de eventos discretos y algoritmos genéticos para estimar los recursos necesarios para responder oportunamente en el sistema de emergencias médicas en Bogotá.

Introduction: Bogotá has a Medical Emergency System of public and private ambulances that respond to health incidents. However, its sufficiency in quantity, type and location of the resources demanded is not known. Objective: Based on the data from the Medical Emergency System of Bogotá, Colombia, we first sought to characterize the prehospital re- sponse in cardiac arrest and determine with the model which is the least number of resources necessary to respond within eight minutes, taking into account their location, number, and type. Methods: A database of incidents reported in administrative records of the district health authority of Bogotá (2014 to 2017) was obtained. Based on this information, a hybrid model based on discrete event simulation and genetic algorithms was designed to establish the amount, type and geographic location of resources according to the frequencies and typology of the events. Results: From the database, Bogotá presented 938 671 ambulances dispatches in the period. 47.4% high priority, 18.9% medium and 33.74% low. 92% of these corresponded to 15 of 43 medical emergency codes. The response times recorded were longer than expected, especially in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (median 19 minutes). In the proposed model, the best scenario required at least 281 ambulances, medicalized and basic in a 3:1 ratio, respectively, to respond in adequate time. Conclusions: Results suggest the need for an increase in the resources that respond to these incidents to bring these response times to the needs of our population.

Introducción: Bogotá cuenta con un sistema de emergencias médicas de ambulancias públicas y privadas que responden a incidentes de salud. No se conoce, sin embargo, su suficiencia en cantidad, tipo y ubicación de recursos demandados. Objetivos: A partir de los datos del sistema de emergencias médicas de Bogotá, Colombia, se buscó primero caracterizar la respuesta pre hospitalaria en paro cardiaco. Luego, con el modelo se buscó determinar cuál sería el menor número de recursos necesarios para responder antes de ocho minutos, teniendo en cuenta su ubicación, número y tipo. Métodos: Se obtuvo una base de datos de incidentes reportados en registros administrativos de la autoridad sanitaria distrital de Bogotá (de 2014 a 2017). A partir de esa información, se diseñó un modelo híbrido basado en la simulación de eventos discretos y algoritmos genéticos para establecer la cantidad, tipo y ubicación geográfica de recursos, conforme a frecuencias y tipología de los eventos. Resultados: De la base de datos, Bogotá presentó 938 671 envíos de ambulancias en el período. El 47,4% de prioridad alta, 18,9% media y 33,74% baja. El 92% de estos correspondieron a 15 de 43 códigos de emergencias médicas. Los tiempos de respuesta registrados fueron mayores a lo esperado, especialmente en paro cardiaco extra hospitalario (mediana de 19 minutos). En el modelo planteado, el mejor escenario requirió al menos 281 ambulancias, medicalizadas y básicas en proporción de 3:1 respectivamente para responder en tiempos adecuados. Conclusiones: Los resultados sugieren la necesidad de incrementar los recursos que responden a estos incidentes para acercar estos tiempos de respuesta a las necesidades de nuestra población.

Uso de simulación de eventos discretos y algoritmos genéticos para estimar los recursos necesarios para responder oportunamente en el sistema de emergencias médicas en Bogotá / Use of discrete event simulation and genetic algorithms to estimate the necessary resources to respond in a timely manner in the Medical Emergency System in Bogotá

INTRODUCCIÓN: Bogotá cuenta con un sistema de emergencias médicas de ambulancias públicas y privadas que responden a incidentes de salud. No se conoce, sin embargo, su suficiencia en cantidad, tipo y ubicación de recursos demandados. OBJETIVOS: A partir de los datos del sistema de emergencias médicas de Bogotá, Colombia, se buscó primero caracterizar la respuesta pre hospitalaria en paro cardiaco. Luego, con el modelo se buscó determinar cuál sería el menor número de recursos necesarios para responder antes de ocho minutos, teniendo en cuenta su ubicación, número y tipo. MÉTODOS: Se obtuvo una base de datos de incidentes reportados en registros administrativos de la autoridad sanitaria distrital de Bogotá (de 2014 a 2017). A partir de esa información, se diseñó un modelo híbrido basado en la simulación de eventos discretos y algoritmos genéticos para establecer la cantidad, tipo y ubicación geográfica de recursos, conforme a frecuencias y tipología de los eventos. RESULTADOS: De la base de datos, Bogotá presentó 938 671 envíos de ambulancias en el período. El 47,4% de prioridad alta, 18,9% media y 33,74% baja. El 92% de estos correspondieron a 15 de 43 códigos de emergencias médicas. Los tiempos de respuesta registrados fueron mayores a lo esperado, especialmente en paro cardiaco extra hospitalario (mediana de 19 minutos). En el modelo planteado, el mejor escenario requirió al menos 281 ambulancias, medicalizadas y básicas en proporción de 3:1 respectivamente para responder en tiempos adecuados. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados sugieren la necesidad de incrementar los recursos que responden a estos incidentes para acercar estos tiempos de respuesta a las necesidades de nuestra población.

INTRODUCTION: Bogotá has a Medical Emergency System of public and private ambulances that respond to health incidents. However, its sufficiency in quantity, type and location of the resources demanded is not known. OBJECTIVE: Based on the data from the Medical Emergency System of Bogotá, Colombia, we first sought to characterize the prehospital response in cardiac arrest and determine with the model which is the least number of resources necessary to respond within eight minutes, taking into account their location, number, and type. METHODS: A database of incidents reported in administrative records of the district health authority of Bogotá (2014 to 2017) was obtained. Based on this information, a hybrid model based on discrete event simulation and genetic algorithms was designed to establish the amount, type and geographic location of resources according to the frequencies and typology of the events. RESULTS: From the database, Bogotá presented 938 671 ambulances dispatches in the period. 47.4% high priority, 18.9% medium and 33.74% low. 92% of these corresponded to 15 of 43 medical emergency codes. The response times recorded were longer than expected, especially in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (median 19 minutes). In the proposed model, the best scenario required at least 281 ambulances, medicalized and basic in a 3:1 ratio, respectively, to respond in adequate time. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest the need for an increase in the resources that respond to these incidents to bring these response times to the needs of our population.

Antioxidant and antihypertensive activity of Gouda cheese at different stages of ripening.

In Mexico, local ripened cheeses such as Chihuahua, Ranchero, and Cotija are produced, being consumed in great quantities together with imported cheeses. Proteolysis that takes place during ripening generates bioactive peptides; in this way the cheese acquires potential as a functional food. The ripening process of Gouda cheese was studied based on its bromatological and sensorial properties, bioactivity, and peptide profile. Ripened cheese met bromatological standard parameters and showed higher overall acceptability. After 90 days, bioactivity reached maximum values for radical scavenging (6.6%), ferric reducing power (11.2%), metal chelating effect (49%), and angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory activity (66.2%). Eight peptides were identified, four from αS1-casein, f(1-9, 1-13, 1-14, and 25-36), and four from ß-casein, f(11-28, 60-63, 193-209, and 197-205). Ripening of Gouda cheese results in a product with functional potential due to the presence of peptides with biological activity. Additionally, the methodology proposed in this work could be used by the dairy industry to monitor the manufacturing process and ripening of other types of cheeses.