Phenotypic Characterization of B-Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Human Peripheral Blood: A Cost-Effective Seven-Color One-Tube Protocol.

B cells are crucial components of the immune system, responsible for producing specific antibodies in response to infections and vaccines. Despite their uniform appearance, B cells display diverse surface molecules and functional properties, which are not yet fully understood. Apart from antibody production, B cells also play roles in antigen presentation and cytokine secretion, essential for initiating T-cell immune responses. Their significance as disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets has led to increased research focus. However, the lack of standardized protocols for B-cell identification and the variability in defining B-lymphocyte subpopulations pose some challenges. This paper proposes a B-cell identification panel throughout the evaluation of previous cytometry panels and nomenclature heterogeneity for B-cell subpopulations. Major subpopulations recognized in human peripheral blood include transitional, naive, switched memory, unswitched memory, double negative, and plasmablasts, characterized based on their functional and phenotypic features. We present a standardized flow cytometry protocol utilizing surface phenotypic markers (CD3, CD19, IgD, CD27, CD38, and CD24) to differentiate and analyze B-cell subpopulations. This practical and cost-effective panel can be used in various research and laboratory settings. The challenges of standardizing names and markers for classifying B-lymphocyte subpopulations are discussed, along with protocols utilizing multiple markers and gating strategies, allied with the importance of considering viability markers. In summary, this standardized protocol and panel provide a comprehensive approach to identifying B-cell subpopulations to enhance the reproducibility and comparability of B-cell subpopulation studies.

Experiência no uso das ferramentas de abordagem familiar por uma equipe da Estratégia Saúde da Família / Experiencia en el uso de herramientas de abordaje familiar por un equipo de Estrategia de Salud de la Familia / Family Health Strategy team's experience in the use of family approach tools

Problema: Experiência da intervenção de uma equipe multiprofissional da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) em uma família por meio das ferramentas de abordagem familiar. Entre os problemas identificados no caso estão a sobrecarga de trabalho da paciente índice, diagnóstico de Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) nos filhos dela, etilismo crônico do esposo e relacionamento hostil no ciclo familiar. Método: Estudo descritivo, qualitativo, de relato de experiência, desenvolvido em uma família da área de abrangência da equipe da ESF no segundo semestre de 2019, escolhida em razão da hiperutilização do serviço pela paciente índice. As ferramentas aplicadas foram o genograma, ecomapa, Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Outcome (FIRO), problem, roles, affect, communication, time in life, illness, coping with stress, environment/ecology (PRACTICE) e ciclo de vida familiar. Resultados: Com a aplicação das ferramentas foram identificadas as estruturas e modos de compartilhamento das relações familiares, os problemas de saúde presentes, os possíveis vínculos identificados e o estágio no ciclo de vida. Como modos de intervenção, a equipe propôs consultas de cuidado em saúde, assistência psicológica e escutas qualificadas. Além disso, por meio de reuniões intersetoriais, foi solucionado o problema escolar que afetava a condição de saúde da paciente. Conclusão: A aplicação das ferramentas foi um excelente método para realizar o estudo, pois permitiu uma visão global da família, além de identificar fragilidades a serem corrigidas ou minimizadas com recurso a intervenções pela equipe de saúde.

Problem: Intervention experience of a multidisciplinary team of the Family Health Strategy (ESF) through family approach tools. Among the problems identified in the case are the work overload of the index patient, diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in her children, husband's chronic alcoholism and hostile relationship within the family circle. Method: Descriptive and qualitative experience report. Developed by an ESF team in a family in the coverage area. Experience conducted in the second half of 2019. The tools applied were the genogram, ecomap, FIRO, PRACTICE and the family life cycle. The tools were chosen because of the index patient's frequent use of the ESF's services. Results: Through the application of the tools, the structures and ways of sharing family relationships, the health problems, the possible bonds identified and the stage in the life cycle were identified. As modes of intervention, the team proposed health care consultations, psychological assistance and qualified listening. In addition, through intersectional meetings, a school problem that affected the patient's health condition was solved. Conclusion: The application of the tools was an excellent method to carry out the study. It allowed a global view of the family, in addition to identifying weaknesses to be corrected or minimized, through interventions by the health team.

Problema: Experiencia de la intervención de un equipo multidisciplinario de la Estrategia Salud de la Familia (ESF) en una familia a través de herramientas de abordaje familiar. Entre los problemas identificados en el caso están la sobrecarga de trabajo de la paciente índice, diagnóstico de Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) en sus hijos, alcoholismo crónico del marido y relación hostil dentro del ciclo familiar. Método: Estudio descriptivo, cualitativo de relato de experiencia desarrollado en una familia de la zona de cobertura del equipo de la ESF en el segundo semestre de 2019. Las herramientas aplicadas fueron el genograma, ecomapa, F.I.R.O., P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. y el ciclo de vida familiar, elegido por la sobreutilización del paciente índice de los servicios de la ESF. Resultados: Mediante la aplicación de las herramientas se identificaron las estructuras y formas de compartir las relaciones familiares, los problemas de salud presentes, los posibles vínculos identificados y la etapa del ciclo de vida. Como modos de intervención, el equipo propuso la consulta de salud, la asistencia psicológica y la escucha cualificada. Además, a través de reuniones intersectoriales se solucionó un problema escolar que afectaba el estado de salud del paciente. Conclusión: La aplicación de las herramientas fue un método excelente para la realización del estudio, ya que permitió una visión global de la familia, además de identificar debilidades a ser corregidas o minimizadas, a través de intervenciones del equipo de salud.

Informação e prevenção não farmacológica da COVID-19 no território de uma unidade de saúde da família em Pernambuco / Information and non-pharmacological prevention of COVID-19 in the territory of a family health unit in Pernambuco / Información y prevención no farmacológica del COVID-19 en el territorio de una unidad de salud de la familia en Pernambuco

Introdução: O conhecimento da magnitude em que a população implementa medidas de proteção emitidas pelas autoridades de saúde pública é essencial na prevenção da doença do novo coronavírus (COVID-19). A eficácia de medidas não farmacológicas de prevenção e das políticas públicas destinadas a reduzir o contágio pela COVID-19 depende de quão bem os indivíduos são informados sobre as consequências da infecção e as medidas que devem adotar para reduzir sua propagação. O entendimento, as atitudes e as práticas das pessoas em relação à COVID-19 e sua prevenção são basilares para a compreensão da dinâmica epidemiológica, demandando a realização de pesquisas sobre o cumprimento de medidas não farmacológicas de prevenção do contágio em diversos territórios. Para isso, em 2020, medidas não farmacológicas contra a COVID-19 foram divulgadas por fontes diversas, estatais e privadas, para a maior parte da população brasileira, com a finalidade de orientar comportamentos para conter a crise sanitária. As equipes da Estratégia Saúde da Família têm um papel fundamental neste processo de educação em saúde, pois compreendem elementos socioculturais das suas comunidades, alcançando-as tanto em capilaridade quanto em adequação local da informação técnico-científica. Este artigo abrange uma pesquisa de campo, parte de um projeto multicêntrico nacional. Objetivo: Avaliar se a população do território de uma unidade da Estratégia Saúde da Família da cidade de Condado-PE entende e aplica as informações que recebeu sobre medidas não farmacológicas de prevenção em suas práticas de proteção contra a COVID-19. Mais especificamente, a pesquisa visou determinar que informações foram recebidas pelos respondentes, quais as suas fontes, o grau de confiabilidade atribuído a estas, além da adesão deles às medidas não farmacológicas e sua relação com variáveis sociodemográficas. Métodos: O modelo do estudo foi observacional e descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa, a partir da coleta de dados primários com 70 usuários por entrevista presencial com questionário estruturado. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram que a população recebeu vasta informação sobre prevenção da doença. Conclusão: Com níveis variados de confiabilidade das fontes, atribuindo importância relevante às medidas de prevenção e adotou a maioria delas, com exceção do isolamento social total.

Introduction: Knowledge of the magnitude to which the population implements protective measures issued by public health authorities is essential in preventing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The effectiveness of non-pharmacological prevention measures (NPM) and public policies aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19 depends on how well individuals are informed about the consequences of the infection and the measures they must adopt to reduce its spread. The understanding, attitudes, and practices of people in relation to COVID-19 and its prevention are fundamental for understanding the epidemiological dynamics, demanding research on compliance with NPM to prevent contagion in different territories. To this end, in 2020, NPM against COVID-19 were released by various sources, state and private, for most of the Brazilian population, with the aim of guiding behaviors to contain the health crisis. The Family Health Strategy (FHS) teams play a key role in this health education process, as they comprise sociocultural elements of their communities, reaching them both in capillarity and in local adequacy of technical-scientific information. This article covers field research, part of a national multicenter project. Objective: To evaluate whether the population of the territory of an FHS unit in the city of Condado, Pernambuco, understands and applies the information it received about NPM prevention in their practices to protect against COVID-19. More specifically, the research aimed to determine what information was received by the respondents, what are their sources, the degree of reliability attributed to these, in addition to their adherence to the NPM and their relationship with sociodemographic variables. Methods: The study model was observational and descriptive, with a quantitative approach, based on the collection of primary data with 70 users through face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire. Results: The results showed that the population received extensive information on disease prevention. Conclusion: With varying levels of reliability of the sources, attributing relevant importance to prevention measures and adopted most of them, with the exception of total social isolation.

El conocimiento de la magnitud con la que la población implementa las medidas de protección emitidas por las autoridades de salud pública es fundamental en la prevención de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). La efectividad de las medidas de prevención no farmacológicas (MFN) y de las políticas públicas dirigidas a reducir la propagación de la COVID-19 depende de qué tan bien se informe a las personas sobre las consecuencias de la infección y las medidas que deben adoptar para reducir su propagación. La comprensión, actitudes y prácticas de las personas con relación al COVID-19 y su prevención son fundamentales para comprender la dinámica epidemiológica, exigiendo investigaciones sobre el cumplimiento de las MNF para prevenir el contagio en diferentes territorios. Con ese fin, en 2020, MNF contra el COVID-19 fueron divulgados por diversas fuentes, estatales y privadas, para la mayoría de la población brasileña, con el objetivo de orientar comportamientos para contener la crisis sanitaria. Los equipos de la Estrategia de Salud de la Familia (ESF) juegan un papel fundamental en este proceso de educación en salud, ya que integran elementos socioculturales de sus comunidades, alcanzándolas tanto en la capilaridad como en la adecuación local de la información técnico-científica. Este artículo aborda una investigación de campo, parte de un proyecto multicéntrico nacional, con el objetivo de evaluar si la población del territorio de una unidad de la ESF en la ciudad de Condado-PE comprende y aplica la información recibida sobre la prevención de MNF en sus prácticas de protección contra el COVID -19. Más específicamente, la investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar qué información recibieron los encuestados, cuáles son sus fuentes, el grado de confiabilidad atribuido a estas, además de su adherencia al MNF y su relación con variables sociodemográficas. El modelo de estudio fue observacional y descriptivo, con enfoque cuantitativo, basado en la recolección de datos primarios con 70 usuarios a través de entrevistas cara a cara con un cuestionario estructurado. Los resultados mostraron que la población recibió amplia información sobre prevención de la enfermedad, con diversos niveles de confiabilidad de las fuentes, atribuyendo importancia relevante a las medidas de prevención y adoptando la mayoría de ellas, con excepción del aislamiento social total.

Representações sociais sobre o planejamento reprodutivo entre mulheres em gravidez não planejada / Social representations of reproductive planning among women with unplanned pregnancies / Representaciones sociales sobre la planificación reproductiva de las mujeres con embarazo no planificado

Objetivo: conhecer as representações sociais sobre o planejamento reprodutivo entre mulheres em gravidez não planejada na Estratégia Saúde da Família. Método: estudo qualitativo, orientado pela Teoria das Representações Sociais, realizado com 15 gestantes, entre abril e maio de 2019. Utilizou-se a entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados foram organizados por meio do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo, com auxílio do software DSCsoft©. Protocolo de pesquisa aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: as representações sociais das mulheres em gravidez não planejada evidenciadas pelo Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo foram representadas por oito ideias centrais, a saber: "eu não me preveni, nem ele", "nós nos prevenimos", "eu comprava", "pegava no posto", "construir uma família", "ter esse acesso", "estou por fora" e "eu sei que é disponível". Conclusão: as representações sociais nos discursos das mulheres em gravidez não planejada estavam pautadas no desconhecimento acerca do planejamento reprodutivo, dos anticoncepcionais disponíveis e seu uso correto.

Objective: to understand the social representations of reproductive planning among women with unplanned pregnancies in the Family Health Strategy. Method: qualitative study, guided by the Theory of Social Representations, carried out with 15 pregnant women between April and May 2019. Semi-structured interviews were used. The data was organized using the Discourse of the Collective Subject, with the aid of DSCsoft© software. Research protocol approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: the social representations of women with unplanned pregnancies as evidenced by the Collective Subject Discourse were represented by eight central ideas, namely: "I didn't prevent myself, nor did he", "we prevented ourselves", "I would buy it", "I would get it at the health center", "build a family", "have this access", "I am not aware" and "I know it is available". Conclusion: the social representations in the women's speeches about unplanned pregnancies were based on a lack of knowledge about reproductive planning, the contraceptives available and their correct use.

Objetivo: conocer las representaciones sociales sobre la planificación reproductiva de las mujeres con embarazo no planificado en la Estrategia Salud de la Familia. Método: estudio cualitativo, basado en la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales, realizado con 15 mujeres embarazadas, entre abril y mayo de 2019. Se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los datos fueron organizados mediante el Discurso del Sujeto Colectivo, con ayuda del software DSCsoft©. El protocolo de investigación fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación. Resultados: las representaciones sociales de las mujeres con embarazo no planificado reveladas por el Discurso del Sujeto Colectivo fueron representadas por ocho ideas centrales, a saber: "yo no me cuidé y él tampoco", "nos cuidamos", "yo los compraba", "los buscaba en el centro de salud", "construir una familia", "tener acceso", "no participo" y "sé que está disponible". Conclusión: las representaciones sociales en los discursos de las mujeres con embarazo no planificado se basaron en la falta de conocimiento sobre la planificación reproductiva, en los anticonceptivos disponibles y su uso correcto.

Bio-adsorption of Fe (II) by dry biomass of metal-tolerant haloarchaeon Haloferax alexandrinus GUSF-1.

Mining-associated activities result in iron pollution exceeding the acceptable limit of 0.3 mg L- 1 and are rampant in estuarine soil and water bodies that harbor halophilic microorganisms. Biotechnologies are underway to unveil the concentrations and recover the metals that skip existing physico-chemical methods. Concerning this, the present study describes for the first time the development of a bio-adsorption batch system using dried cells of Haloferax alexandrinus GUSF-1 for Fe (II) from saline water under microaerophilic conditions. A maximum of 99.5% Fe (II) was adsorbed at pH 6.0, 30 ºC in 3 h with 92% efficiency over three adsorption-desorption cycles with saturation and pseudo-second-order kinetics and heterogeneity of Freundlich model having KF of 1.38 mg g- 1 with the n value of 0.96. Adsorbed Fe (II) by the cells was detected by scanning electron microscopy. The involvement of the carboxyl, amino, hydroxyl, and phosphate groups of the cells in interaction with the metal ions was detected by infrared spectroscopy. Conclusively, the study is the first report of whole dried cells mediated metal adsorption by the haloarcheon Haloferax alexandrinus GUSF-1 which acts as promising candidate for metal clean-up strategy and bioremediation in hypersaline ecosystems.

Endovascular embolization combined with anterior cervical corpectomy for treatment of cervical spinal dural arteriovenous fistula.

Background: The two main treatments for spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) include microsurgical occlusion or endovascular embolization (i.e., the latter alone has high recurrence rates). Here, we combined both strategies to treat/obliterate a cervical SDAVF more effectively. Case Description: A 34-year-old male presented with a marked decline in mental status attributed to an infratentorial subarachnoid hemorrhage. The left vertebral angiogram revealed a ruptured, low cervical SDAVF. He underwent successful occlusion of the spinal fistula utilizing super selective catheterization and endovascular embolization (i.e., utilizing Onyx-18 for the obliteration of target arteries). Due to significant SDAVF accompanying vessel recruitment/complex angioarchitecture, we additionally performed a C5 anterior corpectomy/fusion to afford direct access and complete surgical SDAVF occlusion. Three and 6 months later, repeated angiograms confirmed no recurrent or residual SDAVF. Conclusion: We successfully treated a low cervical SDAVF using a combination of endovascular embolization and direct surgical occlusion through an anterior C5 corpectomy with a fusion approach.

E!Canasta: A card game to teach ATP synthesis and metabolic regulation in biochemistry classes.

Understanding ATP formation is essential for learning metabolism and is central to grasping metabolic processes as a whole. However, due to the high level of abstraction, the number of intermediate substrates, the connections, and integrated regulation, its comprehension often poses a challenge. This and the fact that traditional teaching methods struggle when dealing with highly abstract concepts, game-based strategies present a more concrete and dynamic alternative, which led to the creation of E!Canasta (card game). Developed based on Canasta and adapted in order to improve the learning of concepts, including some of pathway's regulation and integration, E!Canasta motivates students and promotes engagement in a fun activity. Students assemble a sequence of cards representing the glycolysis, acetyl-CoA, Krebs cycle, and electron transport chain, which correspond to the card suits. Strategically, some of the cards hold special feats that simulate some aspects of metabolic regulation and integration (to give or take away points). At the end of the game, points are added up for sequences and cards with positive or negative effects. The game was played with two classes of students enrolled in biochemistry as part of their graduations (86 players). Student perception on gameplay, motivation and understanding was measured through an anonymous Likert scale questionnaire, with very positive results in all questions. Statistically significant correlations were observed regarding the perceived comprehension of pathways and their regulation, and in linking motivation with a positive gaming experience, showcasing that E!Canasta demonstrates considerable educational potential, along with an enjoyable experience for learning ATP synthesis.

Contrasting regulation of leaf gas exchange of semi-arid tree species under repeated drought.

Predicting how plants respond to drought requires an understanding of how physiological mechanisms and drought response strategies occur, as these strategies underlie rates of gas exchange and productivity. We assessed the response of 11 plant traits to repeated experimental droughts in four co-occurring species of central Australia. The main goals of this study were to: (i) compare the response to drought between species; (ii) evaluate whether plants acclimated to repeated drought; and (iii) examine the degree of recovery in leaf gas exchange after cessation of drought. Our four species of study were two tree species and two shrub species, which field studies have shown to occupy different ecohydrological niches. The two tree species (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. and Corymbia opaca (D.J.Carr & S.G.M.Carr) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson) had large reductions in stomatal conductance (gs) values, declining by 90% in the second drought. By contrast, the shrub species (Acacia aptaneura Maslin & J.E.Reid and Hakea macrocarpa A.Cunn. ex R.Br.) had smaller reductions gs in the second drought of 52 and 65%, respectively. Only A. aptaneura showed a physiological acclimatation to drought due to small declines in gs versus á´ªpd (0.08 slope) during repeated droughts, meaning they maintained higher rates of gs compared with plants that only experienced one final drought (0.19 slope). All species in all treatments rapidly recovered leaf gas exchange and leaf mass per area following drought, displaying physiological plasticity to drought exposure. This research refines our understanding of plant physiological responses to recurrent water stress, which has implications for modelling of vegetation, carbon assimilation and water use in semi-arid environments under drought.

Cerebral abscess in Down syndrome: a systematic review on treatment and prognosis. Illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: No universal protocol exists for treating cerebral abscesses in Down syndrome. An illustrative case supplemented with a systematic literature review on brain abscesses in Down syndrome is presented, comprising a total of 16 cases. Preoperative infectious disease workups, cardiac examinations including echocardiography, as well as reported surgical and antibiotic treatments were correlated in the reported cohorts. OBSERVATIONS: Overall, 18.8% of cases (n = 3) had no reported cardiac evaluation. The majority of cases were treated surgically (n = 8), with aspiration (n = 3), drainage (n = 2), or other operations (n = 3); 25% (n = 4) were treated with antibiotics only. Strikingly, 25% of cases (n = 4) reported neither surgical nor antibiotic therapy, a significantly higher rate compared to 0%-3% of patients with brain abscess in other reported cohorts. Half of the patients (n = 8) who died either lacked a cardiac evaluation or had existing heart conditions. This mortality rate was about 4 times higher than the rates observed in other studies. LESSONS: Down syndrome patients with cerebral abscess have a high morbidity rate, mainly due to cardiac disease. Therefore, early diagnostic workup, including echocardiography, allows proactive management with an improved outcome. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE23394.

Índice cpod e fatores associados dos moradores de um município de pequen o porte no nordeste brasileiro / DMF index and associated factors of residents in a small municipality in Northeast Brazil / Índice CPO y factores asociados de los residentes de un pequeño municipio en el noreste de Brasil

Introdução:A atenção à Saúde Bucal no Brasil foi qualificada a partir da Política Nacional de Saúde Bucal (PNSB), através do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), fomentando ações de promoção, prevenção e recuperação da saúde bucal da população. A avaliação da prevalência de cárie dentária em determinada comunidade, para Estudos Epidemiológicos em Saúde Bucal, pode ser realizada por meio do índice CPOD, que fornece a quantidade média de dentes cariados, perdidos e obturados. Objetivo:O presente trabalho objetivouaferir o índice CPOD dos moradores de uma área coberta pela Equipe de Saúde Bucal (ESB) de um município de pequeno porte, caracterizar seu perfil socioeconômico, verificar seu comportamento quanto ao uso de serviços odontológicos e identificar fatores associados ao índice. Metodologia:Foi realizado um estudo de prevalência do tipo exploratório e descritivo com abordagem quantitativaem residentes de um município de pequeno porte com cobertura pela Equipe de Saúde Bucal. Foi utilizado um questionário de caracterização individual abordando identificação socioeconômica e comportamento relacionado à saúde bucal.Resultados:Na análise do CPOD, a média de dentes perdidos (5,44) foi maior que a dos dentes obturados (4,31) e cariados (1,34). Odesfecho CPOD foi associado positivamente com a idade e a necessidade do uso de prótese dentária.Conclusões:Observou-se uma média mais alta de dentes perdidos, seguida por dentes obturados, e uma média menor de dentes cariados. Verificamos que o índice CPOD individual foi mais elevado em pessoas com mais de 34 anos e naqueles que necessitavam de próteses dentárias (AU).

Introduction:Oral Health care in Brazil was qualified basedon the National Oral Health Policy (PNSB), through the Unified Health System (SUS), promoting actions to promote, prevent and recover the oral healthof the population. Assessing the prevalence of tooth decay in a community, for Epidemiological Studies inOral Health, can be conductedusing the DMFT index, which provides the average number of Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth. Objective:Thisstudy aimed to measure the DMFT index of residents of an area covered by anOral Health Team (ESB) of a small municipality, characterize their socioeconomic profile, verify their behavior regarding the use of dental services,and identify factors associated with this index. Methodology:An exploratory and descriptive prevalence study was conductedwith a quantitative approach in residents of a small municipality covered by the Oral Health Team. An individual characterization questionnaire addressing socioeconomic identification and behavior related to oral health was used. Results:The total samplewas of 283 individuals with an average of 34 years of age. In the DMFT analysis, the average number of missing teeth (5.44) was higher than that of filled (4.31) and decayed ones(1.34). The occurrence of a DMFTindexgreater than 11 was significantly higher in individuals over 34 years of age (p value 0.000) and in subjects who needed dental prosthesis (p value 0.001). Conclusions:A higher average of missing teeth was observed, followed by filled ones, and a lower average of decayed teeth. The DMFT outcome was positively associated with age and the need to use dental prostheses (AU).

Introducción:La atención a la salud bucal en Brasil ha sido calificada por la Política Nacionalde Saúde Bucal (PNSB), a través del Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), promoviendo acciones de promoción, prevención y recuperación de la salud bucal de la población. Para estudios epidemiológicos de salud bucal, la prevalencia de caries dental en una determinada comunidad puede ser evaluada utilizando el índice DMFT, que proporciona el número medio de dientes cariados, perdidos y obturados. Objetivo:El objetivo de este estudio fue medir el índice DMFT de los residentes de un área cubierta por el Equipo de Salud Bucal (ESB) de un pequeño municipio, caracterizar su perfil socioeconómico, verificar su comportamiento en cuanto al uso de servicios odontológicos e identificar factores asociados al índice. Metodología:Se realizó un estudio exploratorio y descriptivo de prevalencia con abordaje cuantitativo en residentes de un pequeño municipio cubierto por un Equipo de Salud Bucal. Se utilizó un cuestionario de caracterización individual que abordaba la identificación socioeconómica y el comportamiento relacionado conla salud bucodental. Resultados:La muestra total fue de 283 individuos con una edad media de 34 años. En el análisis de la DMFT, la media de dientes ausentes (5,44) fue superior a la de dientes obturados (4,31) y cariados (1,34). La incidencia de un DMFTsuperior a 11 fue significativamente mayor en los individuos de más de 34 años (valor p 0,000) y en los que necesitaban un tratamiento dental. Conclusiones:Hubo un mayor número medio de dientes ausentes, seguido de dientes obturados, y un menor número medio de dientes cariados. El resultado del DMFT se asoció positivamente con la edad y la necesidad de prótesis dentales (AU).

Desarrollo de habilidades motrices básicas en niños con trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad, en Educación Física

Se estudia el desarrollo de habilidades motrices básicas en niños con trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad y se planteó como objetivo diseñar y validar una estrategia didáctica inclusiva en una unidad educativa del Ecuador, con el empleo de una metodología mixta y pre experimental. Se utilizó un muestreo no probabilístico, intencional y estratificado, con criterio de inclusión, la muestra la conformaron cinco niños con trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad, en su grupo, clase, y su docente de Educación Física. La medición de las variables inclusión-atención del trastorno con enfoque educativo y el desarrollo de habilidades motrices básicas, se realizó mediante ocho indicadores, con el empleo de una guía de observación, el análisis documental, y apoyada en la técnica de tarjado simple para agrupar los datos observados. Como resultado se expone una estrategia didáctica inclusiva para el desarrollo de las habilidades motrices básicas, en niños con trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad, durante las clases de Educación Física, diseñada a través del enfoque sistémico estructural y funcional que mostró su efectividad en la práctica educativa, al comparar los resultados del pre- y postest, por medio de la prueba no paramétrica de los signos.

Estuda-se o desenvolvimento de habilidades motoras básicas em crianças com transtorno de déficit de atenção e hiperatividade e o objetivo foi desenhar e validar uma estratégia de ensino inclusiva em uma unidade educacional no Equador, utilizando uma metodologia mista e pré-experimental. Foi utilizada uma amostragem não probabilística, intencional e estratificada, com critérios de inclusão, a amostra foi composta por cinco crianças com transtorno de déficit de atenção e hiperatividade, em seu grupo, turma, e seu professor de Educação Física. A mensuração das variáveis ​​inclusão-atenção do transtorno com abordagem educativa e desenvolvimento de habilidades motoras básicas foi realizada por meio de oito indicadores, com uso de guia de observação, análise documental e apoiado na técnica de pontuação simples para agrupar os dados observados. Como resultado, apresenta-se uma estratégia didática inclusiva para o desenvolvimento de habilidades motoras básicas, em crianças com transtorno de déficit de atenção e hiperatividade, durante as aulas de Educação Física, desenhada através da abordagem sistêmica estrutural e funcional que mostrou sua eficácia na prática educativa, ao comparar os resultados do pré e pós-teste, por meio do teste não paramétrico de sinais.

The development of basic motor skills in children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder is studied and the objective was to design and validate an inclusive teaching strategy in an educational unit in Ecuador, using a mixed and pre-experimental methodology. An intentional and stratified non-probabilistic sampling was used, with inclusion criteria, the sample was made up of five children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, in their class group, and their Physical Education teacher. The measurement of the inclusion-attention variables of the disorder with an educational approach and the development of basic motor skills was carried out using eight indicators, with the use of an observation guide, documentary analysis, and supported by the simple scoring technique to group the observed data. As a result, an inclusive didactic strategy is presented for the development of basic motor skills in children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder during Physical Education classes, designed through the structural and functional systemic approach that showed its effectiveness in the educational practice, when comparing the results of the pre- and post-test, through the non-parametric test of signs.

Danza contemporánea y expresión corporal en la Educación Física inclusiva: una estrategia para estudiantes con múltiples discapacidades

La necesidad de buscar alternativas que permitan la inclusión de los estudiantes con diferentes discapacidades en la práctica de la Educación Física induce a que se utilice la danza contemporánea como expresión corporal, pues impacta en el desarrollo y mejora la calidad de vida, en lo físico y psicológico, al expresarse emociones y sentimientos a través del movimiento. El trabajo que se presenta tiene como finalidad diseñar una estrategia de inclusión para estudiantes con discapacidades múltiples donde la Educación Física utilice la danza contemporánea como expresión corporal en las aulas especializadas, en la unidad educativa "Dolores Cacuango" de la parroquia Pascuales, Guayas-Guayaquil. Para el estudio se aplicaron métodos científicos como la revisión documental, la entrevista, la encuesta y la observación para recopilar información acerca de los estudiantes con diferentes discapacidades, y de los docentes involucrados en las clases de Educación Física y su combinación con la danza contemporánea. Como resultados, se diseña una estrategia de inclusión para estudiantes con discapacidades múltiples donde la Educación Física utiliza la danza contemporánea como expresión corporal. Se concluyó que las dinámicas de las actividades danzarías propuestas en la estrategia, se fundamentaron sobre bases científicas, y en correspondencia con la relación entre actividad física, condición física y salud, para fortalecer los músculos, mejorar el equilibrio, la coordinación del movimiento, la inclusión a la sociedad, y el compartir un mismo proyecto humano.

A necessidade de buscar alternativas que permitam a inclusão de alunos com diferentes deficiências na prática da Educação Física leva à utilização da dança contemporânea como expressão corporal, uma vez que impacta o desenvolvimento e melhora a qualidade de vida, física e psicológica, quando as emoções e os sentimentos são expressos através do movimento. O objetivo do trabalho apresentado é desenhar uma estratégia de inclusão de alunos com deficiência múltipla onde a Educação Física utiliza a dança contemporânea como expressão corporal em salas de aula especializadas, na unidade educacional "Dolores Cacuango" da freguesia de Pascuales, Guayas-Guayaquil. Para o estudo foram aplicados métodos científicos como revisão documental, entrevista, levantamento e observação para coletar informações sobre alunos com diferentes deficiências e professores envolvidos nas aulas de Educação Física e sua combinação com a dança contemporânea. Como resultado, desenha-se uma estratégia de inclusão para alunos com deficiência múltipla onde a Educação Física utiliza a dança contemporânea como expressão corporal. Concluiu-se que a dinâmica das atividades de dança propostas na estratégia foram baseadas em bases científicas, e em correspondência com a relação entre atividade física, condição física e saúde, para fortalecer os músculos, melhorar o equilíbrio, a coordenação do movimento, a inclusão na sociedade, e compartilhando o mesmo projeto humano.

The need to look for alternatives that allow the inclusion of students with different disabilities in the practice of Physical Education leads to the use of contemporary dance as body expression, since it impacts development and improves the quality of life, physically and psychologically, when emotions and feelings are expressed through movement. The purpose of the work presented is to design an inclusion strategy for students with multiple disabilities where Physical Education uses contemporary dance as body expression in specialized classrooms, in the "Dolores Cacuango " educational unit of the Pascuales parish, Guayas-Guayaquil. For the study, scientific methods such as documentary review, interviews, surveys and observations were applied to collect information about students with different disabilities, and teachers involved in Physical Education classes and their combination with contemporary dance. As results, an inclusion strategy is designed for students with multiple disabilities where Physical Education uses contemporary dance as body expression. It was concluded that the dynamics of the dance activities proposed in the strategy were based on scientific bases, and in correspondence with the relationship between physical activity, physical condition and health, to strengthen muscles, improve balance, coordination of movement, inclusion in society, and sharing the same human project.

Conjunto de recomendaciones nutricionales para desarrollar estrategias dietéticas en atletas

Este estudio partió de una caracterización nutricional en atletas, atendidos desde el punto de vista académico y científico por la Universidad Técnica "Luis Vargas Torres", de Ecuador. Llamó la atención a entrenadores y profesores de este centro pedagógico deportivo que, a pesar de contar con las condiciones básicas adecuadas para la práctica del deporte, se mostraron resultados deportivos desfavorables. Entre los datos recogidos en el estudio exploratorio (encuesta a entrenadores y entrevista a directivos y profesores) se destacó el insuficiente régimen dietético nutricional recibido por los deportistas. Se planteó como objetivo proponer un conjunto de recomendaciones nutricionales que permita perfeccionar las estrategias dietéticas que necesitan los atletas para mantenerse en un estado óptimo en su práctica deportiva y su salud. El diagnóstico, se sustentó en la medición y análisis estadísticos como la correlación de intensidad (Sprints) e ingesta de carbohidratos y la correlación intensidad e ingesta de proteínas. Después de analizar los resultados, se diseñaron y establecieron un grupo de recomendaciones dietéticas enfocadas en mejorar la situación formativa deportiva. Se sugiere que futuras investigaciones profundicen en esta área, para validar y mejorar el marco analítico propuesto.

Este estudo partiu de uma caracterização nutricional em atletas, atendida do ponto de vista acadêmico e científico pela Universidade Técnica "Luis Vargas Torres", do Equador. Chamou a atenção dos treinadores e professores deste centro pedagógico desportivo que, apesar de apresentarem as condições básicas adequadas à prática desportiva, apresentavam resultados desportivos desfavoráveis. Dentre os dados coletados no estudo exploratório (pesquisa com treinadores e entrevistas com dirigentes e professores), destacou-se o insuficiente regime alimentar nutricional recebido pelos atletas. O objetivo foi propor um conjunto de recomendações nutricionais que permitissem aperfeiçoar as estratégias alimentares que os atletas necessitam para se manterem num estado óptimo na sua prática desportiva e saúde. O diagnóstico foi baseado em medidas e análises estatísticas como a correlação de intensidade (Sprints) e ingestão de carboidratos e a correlação de intensidade e ingestão de proteínas. Após a análise dos resultados, foi desenhado e estabelecido um conjunto de recomendações dietéticas focadas na melhoria da situação do treino desportivo. Sugere-se que pesquisas futuras se aprofundem nesta área, para validar e aprimorar o arcabouço analítico proposto.

This study is based on a nutritional characterization of athletes, attended from an academic and scientific point of view by the Luis Vargas Torres Technical University, of Ecuador. It draws the attention of coaches and teachers of this sports pedagogical center that, despite having the appropriate basic conditions for the practice of sports, unfavorable sports results are shown. Among the data collected in the exploratory study (survey of coaches and interviews with managers and teachers), the insufficient nutritional dietary regimen received by athletes was highlighted. The objective was to propose a set of nutritional recommendations that allow perfecting the dietary strategies that athletes need to remain in an optimal state in their sports practice and health. The diagnosis was based on measurement and statistical analysis such as the correlation of intensity (Sprints) and carbohydrate intake and the correlation of intensity and protein intake. After analyzing the results, a group of dietary recommendations focused on improving the sports training situation are designed and established. It is suggested that future research delve into this area, to validate and improve the proposed analytical framework.

Quality-by-design driven approach in the formulation of an anti-ulcer and gastro-protective oral suspension.

OBJECTIVE: This work aims to present a Quality-by-Design (QbD) step-by-step methodology to formulate anti-ulcer and gastro-protective oral suspensions. METHODS: Sucralfate was used as a drug model. The Quality Target Product Profile was established early during preformulation. Viscosity, resuspendability, pH, and density were assessed through the screening of several suspension platforms based on different prototype compositions. A compatibility study between the active pharmaceutical ingredient and the excipients was performed by thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. An Ishikawa fishbone diagram and Failure Mode and Effect Analysis were employed to identify the Critical Material Attributes (CMAs), Critical Process Parameters (CPPs), and Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs). CMAs' and CPPs' impact on identified CQAs was further assessed through a 22 full factorial experimental design at normal conditions after manufacture and one month at super-accelerated stress conditions. Results: The lead prototype exhibited no physicochemical incompatibilities. The risk assessment tools revealed that the concentration of the wetting agent and the total concentration of thickening agents represented critical factors for the quality profile of the preparation in terms of viscosity. The optimized formulation comprising 1.125 w/v% total concentration of Natrosol 250 HX and Avicel RC 591 exhibited an enhanced performance according to the established profile. CONCLUSIONS: The analytical and physicochemical tests showed the robustness and compliance of the final preparation with the quality profile. The proposed step-by-step methodology based on QbD, Design of Experiments, and Quality Risk Management presented in our research holds practical implications for local industries and formulation scientists involved in the development of oral suspensions.

Contrasting Phenological Patterns and Reproductive Strategies in Closely Related Monoecious Fig Tree Species.

Understanding the ecological and evolutionary aspects of mutualistic interactions is essential for predicting species responses to environmental changes. This study aimed to investigate the phenological patterns and reproductive strategies in two closely related fig tree species, Ficus citrifolia and Ficus eximia. We monitored 99 F. citrifolia and 21 F. eximia trees weekly from January 2006 to April 2011 in an area close to the southern edge of the tropical region in Brazil. Our results revealed contrasting phenological patterns between the two species, with F. citrifolia displaying an annual flowering pattern (1.4 episodes per tree per year) and F. eximia a supra-annual pattern (0.5 episodes per tree per year). We also found significant differences in reproductive strategies, with F. eximia producing more pistillate flowers and, consequently, more seeds and pollinating wasps per fig than F. citrifolia, likely as an adaptation to overcome limitations of low population density by maximizing the gene flow. As the shorter-lived organism, the fig wasp was found to influence critical processes associated with the success and stability of mutualism, such as fig development and ripening. Our findings emphasize the importance of understanding the intricate interactions between mutualistic partners and their adaptive responses to environmental conditions in shaping fig tree populations' reproductive strategies and genetic structure.

Phylogenetic variations in a novel family of hyperstable apple snail egg proteins: insights into structural stability and functional trends.

The relationship between protein stability and functional evolution is little explored in proteins purified from natural sources. Here, we investigated a novel family of egg proteins (Perivitellin-1, PV1) from Pomacea snails. Their remarkable stability and clade-related functions in most derived clades (Canaliculata and Bridgesii) make them excellent candidates for exploring this issue. To that aim, we studied PV1 (PpaPV1) from the most basal lineage, Flagellata. PpaPV1 displays unparalleled structural and kinetic stability, surpassing PV1s from derived clades, ranking among the most hyperstable proteins documented in nature. Its spectral features contribute to a pale egg coloration, exhibiting a milder glycan binding lectin activity with a narrower specificity than PV1s from the closely related Bridgesii clade. These findings provide evidence for substantial structural and functional changes throughout the genus' PV1 evolution. We observed that structural and kinetic stability decreased in a clade-related fashion and was associated with large variations in defensive traits. For instance, pale PpaPV1 lectin turns potent in the Bridgesii clade, adversely affecting gut morphology, while giving rise to brightly colored PV1s providing eggs with a conspicuous, probably warning signal in the Canaliculata clade. This work provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of PV1s from various apple snail species within a phylogenetic framework, offering insights into the interplay among their structural features, stability profiles and functional roles. More broadly, our work provides one of the first examples from natural evolution showing the crucial link among protein structure, stability and evolution of new functions.

Microplastic ingestion in marine mesozooplankton species associated with functional feeding traits.

Microplastic (MP, <5 mm) contamination in the ocean raises concern for zooplankton, as their prey and MPs fall within the same size range. This study aimed to evaluate the ingestion capacity of MPs among a diverse array of mesozooplankton taxonomic groups and species from the central Mexican Pacific, focusing on two functional traits: trophic group and feeding strategy. A total of 20 taxa belonging to eight taxonomic groups, 13 which were identified to species level, were exposed to microspheres (Ms) ranging in size from 38 to 53 µm, at a concentration of 100 Ms/mL. All experimental treatments were placed in 620 mL bottles and rotated on a plankton wheel for 2 h. The results demonstrate that the capacity to ingest MPs is closely related to the trophic group and the feeding strategy of each species, independent of taxonomic group. Omnivores and omnivore-herbivores which generate feeding currents were the most susceptible to MPs ingestion, while highly carnivorous species with active feeding strategies were the least prone. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating MP ingestion by zooplankton at the species level, due to the variability of feeding strategies within taxonomic groups, and the need for continued trait-based research at the species level. A more detailed understanding of zooplankton feeding behavior, especially in ecologically significant species, could enhance trait-based modeling at a biogeographic scale, predicting areas with the highest risk of MP ingestion by zooplankton communities and evaluating global impacts.

asMODiTS: An application of surrogate models to optimize Time Series symbolic discretization through archive-based training set update strategy.

The enhanced multi-objective symbolic discretization for time series (eMODiTS) uses an evolutionary process to identify the appropriate discretization scheme in the Time Series Classification (TSC) task. It discretizes using a unique alphabet cut for each word segment. However, this kind of scheme has a higher computational cost. Therefore, this study implemented surrogate models to minimize this cost. The general procedure is summarized below.•The K-nearest neighbor for regression, the support vector regression model, and the Ra- dial Basis Functions neural networks were implemented as surrogate models to estimate the objective values of eMODiTS, including the discretization process.•An archive-based update strategy was introduced to maintain diversity in the training set.•Finally, the model update process uses a hybrid (fixed and dynamic) approach for the surrogate model's evolution control.

Trophic plasticity of a tropical seabird revealed through DNA metabarcoding and stable isotope analyses.

DNA metabarcoding and stable isotope analysis have significantly advanced our understanding of marine trophic ecology, aiding systematic research on foraging habits and species conservation. In this study, we employed these methods to analyse faecal and blood samples, respectively, to compare the trophic ecology of two Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethonaethereus; Linnaeus, 1758) colonies on Mexican islands in the Pacific. Trophic patterns among different breeding stages were also examined at both colonies. Dietary analysis reveals a preference for epipelagic fish, cephalopods, and small crustaceans, with variations between colonies and breeding stages. Isotopic values (δ15N and δ13C) align with DNA metabarcoding results, with wider niches during incubation stages. Differences in diet are linked to environmental conditions and trophic plasticity among breeding stages, influenced by changing physiological requirements and prey availability. Variations in dietary profiles reflect contrasting environmental conditions affecting local prey availability.

Preparative Fractionation of Brazilian Red Propolis Extract Using Step-Gradient Counter-Current Chromatography.

Propolis is a resinous bee product with a very complex composition, which is dependent upon the plant sources that bees visit. Due to the promising antimicrobial activities of red Brazilian propolis, it is paramount to identify the compounds responsible for it, which, in most of the cases, are not commercially available. The aim of this study was to develop a quick and clean preparative-scale methodology for preparing fractions of red propolis directly from a complex crude ethanol extract by combining the extractive capacity of counter-current chromatography (CCC) with preparative HPLC. The CCC method development included step gradient elution for the removal of waxes (which can bind to and block HPLC columns), sample injection in a single solvent to improve stationary phase stability, and a change in the mobile phase flow pattern, resulting in the loading of 2.5 g of the Brazilian red propolis crude extract on a 912.5 mL Midi CCC column. Three compounds were subsequently isolated from the concentrated fractions by preparative HPLC and identified by NMR and high-resolution MS: red pigment, retusapurpurin A; the isoflavan 3(R)-7-O-methylvestitol; and the prenylated benzophenone isomers xanthochymol/isoxanthochymol. These compounds are markers of red propolis that contribute to its therapeutic properties, and the amount isolated allows for further biological activities testing and for their use as chromatographic standards.