Effect of Mucuna pruriens seed extract on depression-like behavior derived from mild traumatic brain injury in rats.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a severe health problem for which there is no specific treatment, leading to neurological or neuropsychological consequences. One of the most described disorders, even after mild TBI (mTBI), is depression, related to mechanisms involving reactive oxygen species (ROS). The Mucuna pruriens (M. pruriens) plant has various antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. Purpose: There is insufficient evidence of M. pruriens use for the treatment of neurobehavioral and depressive impairments induced by TBI and of the mechanisms underlying this effect, so we aimed to evaluate the ability of shortterm administration of M. pruriens extract to prevent neurobehavioral impairment and depression-like behaviors in a murine model of mTBI as well as evaluate the role of oxidative stress. Methods: Male Wistar rats underwent mTBI or sham surgery. Immediately after, they were treated with vehicle or M. pruriens extract (50 mg/kg ip/day for five days). We evaluated neurobehavioral recovery using the Neurobehavioral Severity Scale-Revised (NSS-R) and the immobility time in the forced swimming test 3, 7, 15, 30, and 60 days after mTBI. In addition, lipid peroxidation (LP) and GSH concentrations were determined in some brain areas (motor cortex, striatum, midbrain, and nucleus accumbens). Results: M. pruriens extract did not decrease neurobehavioral impairment caused by mTBI. Nevertheless, it prevented depression-like behaviors starting three days after mTBI, reduced LP, and increased GSH in some brain areas. Conclusions: M. pruriens may prevent depression-like behaviors and reduce oxidative stress by decreasing LP and increasing concentrations of antioxidant compounds.

The Anatomy, Histology, and Function of the Major Pelvic Ganglion.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the pelvic plexus and its regulation across various mammalian species, including rats, cats, dogs, and pigs. The pelvic and hypogastric nerves play crucial roles in regulating pelvic functions such as micturition, defecation, and erection. The anatomical organization of these nerves varies, forming either well-defined ganglia or complex plexuses. Despite these variations, the neurons within these structures are consistently regulated by key neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and acetylcholine. These neurons also possess receptors for testosterone and prolactin, particularly in rats, indicating the significant role of these hormones in neuronal function and development. Moreover, neuropeptides such as vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), substance P, neuropeptide Y (NPY), somatostatin (SOM), galanin (GAL), and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are co-released with neurotransmitters to modulate pelvic functions. This review highlights the complex interplay between neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and hormones in regulating pelvic physiology and emphasizes the importance of hormonal regulation in maintaining the functionality and health of the pelvic plexus across different species.

Dysregulation of the dopaminergic system secondary to traumatic brain injury: implications for mood and anxiety disorders.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a public health issue with a high mortality rate and severe neurological and psychiatric consequences. Mood and anxiety disorders are some of the most frequently reported. Primary and secondary damage can cause a loss of neurons and glial cells, leading to dysfunction of neuronal circuits, which can induce imbalances in many neurotransmitter systems. Monoaminergic systems, especially the dopaminergic system, are some of the most involved in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric and cognitive symptoms after TBI. In this work, we summarize the studies carried out in patients who have suffered TBI and describe alterations in the dopaminergic system, highlighting (1) dysfunction of the dopaminergic neuronal circuits caused by TBI, where modifications are shown in the dopamine transporter (DAT) and alterations in the expression of dopamine receptor 2 (D2R) in brain areas with dopaminergic innervation, thus establishing a hypodopaminergic state and (2) variations in the concentration of dopamine and its metabolites in biological fluids of post-TBI patients, such as elevated dopamine (DA) and alterations in homovanillic acid (HVA). On the other hand, we show a large number of reports of alterations in the dopaminergic system after a TBI in animal models, in which modifications in the levels of DA, DAT, and HVA have been reported, as well as alterations in the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). We also describe the biological pathways, neuronal circuits, and molecular mechanisms potentially involved in mood and anxiety disorders that occur after TBI and are associated with alterations of the dopaminergic system in clinical studies and animal models. We describe the changes that occur in the clinical picture of post-TBI patients, such as alterations in mood and anxiety associated with DAT activity in the striatum, the relationship between post-TBI major depressive disorders (MDD) with lower availability of the DA receptors D2R and D3R in the caudate and thalamus, as well as a decrease in the volume of the substantia nigra (SN) associated with anxiety symptoms. With these findings, we discuss the possible relationship between the disorders caused by alterations in the dopaminergic system in patients with TBI.

Efficacy of pain management strategies in adults with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A Systematic Review.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness. Presence of pain in ALS patients is heterogeneously reported in studies, and mostly underrepresented in symptom scales. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic modalities for pain management in patients with ALS. A systematic review was conducted in four databases; PubMed, Scopus, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane-Ovid. Five randomized controlled clinical trials were included regarding pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management interventions in adult patients with confirmed diagnosis of ALS in whom pain was objectively evaluated. Risk of bias assessment was evaluated using the RoB2.0 tool. Eligible studies were reported as a descriptive analysis. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO ID: CRD42024495009. Five clinical trials regarding pain management strategies in ALS were eligible for analysis. Two out of five were non-pharmacological approaches whilst the remaining three provided pharmacological therapies. Of these, Mexiletine was efficient in terms of pain relief, particularly between 600 and 900 mg per day, whereas Mecasin showed no pain relief at both, high and low doses. Non-pharmacological therapies, such as exercise and osteopathic manual treatment also lacked efficacy in regard to pain management. Clinical trials focusing on pain management strategies for ALS patients are limited. Medical professionals, understandably focused on immediate life-threatening aspects, may inadvertently sideline the nuanced and intricate dimension of pain experienced by patients with ALS.

COVID-19: Medical education from the point of view of medical students using the participatory Delphi method.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a transformation of medical training. Although there were obvious medical education and social interaction challenges, e-learning presented some advantages, which may have generated medical curricula innovation and adjustments to novel technological methodologies. This study aims to generate consensuses among medical students regarding medical education provided during the pandemic in the resource-limited context of a Global South university. METHODS: The implementation of a participatory Delphi method included a recruitment campaign, training, constitution of Delphi panels and questions, and development of the Delphi exercises. Students from the second to the sixth year of medicine of a university in Quito, Ecuador, constituted two Delphi panels, developed questions about the education received during the pandemic, and answered them over 3.5 rounds. FINDINGS: Twenty-two medical students participated in the Delphi exercises about their perception of medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis consisted of a total of 22 Delphi questions divided into five distinct categories: adaptations and innovations, curriculum and assessment changes, virtual clinical practice, time management, and mental health. The authors established high, medium, and low consensuses for analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Consensuses were reached based on students' academic year and focused on the changes in lecture delivery, the usage of new technologies, patient care skills, the impact of the educational routine, and the mental health of the COVID-19 pandemic. The way the pandemic affected medical education in the Global South set the stage for the need for a comprehensive review of tools, skills, and curricula for students from culturally diverse backgrounds. This study offers a highly replicable methodology to generate consensuses and introduce students to academic research.

Alzheimer's Disease: Cellular and Pharmacological Aspects.

Alzheimer's disease was described more than 100 years ago and despite the fact that several molecules are being tested for its treatment, which are in phase III trials, the disease continues to progress. The main problem is that these molecules function properly in healthy neurons, while neuronal pathology includes plasma membrane disruption, malfunction of various organelles, and hyperphosphorylation of Tau and amyloid plaques. The main objective of this article is the discussion of a neuronal restoration therapy, where molecules designed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease would probably be more effective, and the quality of life of people would be better.

Multinational evaluation of genetic diversity indicators for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Under the recently adopted Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, 196 Parties committed to reporting the status of genetic diversity for all species. To facilitate reporting, three genetic diversity indicators were developed, two of which focus on processes contributing to genetic diversity conservation: maintaining genetically distinct populations and ensuring populations are large enough to maintain genetic diversity. The major advantage of these indicators is that they can be estimated with or without DNA-based data. However, demonstrating their feasibility requires addressing the methodological challenges of using data gathered from diverse sources, across diverse taxonomic groups, and for countries of varying socio-economic status and biodiversity levels. Here, we assess the genetic indicators for 919 taxa, representing 5271 populations across nine countries, including megadiverse countries and developing economies. Eighty-three percent of the taxa assessed had data available to calculate at least one indicator. Our results show that although the majority of species maintain most populations, 58% of species have populations too small to maintain genetic diversity. Moreover, genetic indicator values suggest that IUCN Red List status and other initiatives fail to assess genetic status, highlighting the critical importance of genetic indicators.

Local adaptation of Pinus leiophylla under climate and land use change models in the Avocado Belt of Michoacán.

Climate change and land use change are two main drivers of global biodiversity decline, decreasing the genetic diversity that populations harbour and altering patterns of local adaptation. Landscape genomics allows measuring the effect of these anthropogenic disturbances on the adaptation of populations. However, both factors have rarely been considered simultaneously. Based on a set of 3660 SNPs from which 130 were identified as outliers by a genome-environment association analysis (LFMM), we modelled the spatial turnover of allele frequencies in 19 localities of Pinus leiophylla across the Avocado Belt in Michoacán state, Mexico. Then, we evaluated the effect of climate change and land use change scenarios, in addition to evaluating assisted gene flow strategies and connectivity metrics across the landscape to identify priority conservation areas for the species. We found that localities in the centre-east of the Avocado Belt would be more vulnerable to climate change, while localities in the western area are more threatened by land conversion to avocado orchards. Assisted gene flow actions could aid in mitigating both threats. Connectivity patterns among forest patches will also be modified by future habitat loss, with central and eastern parts of the Avocado Belt maintaining the highest connectivity. These results suggest that areas with the highest priority for conservation are in the eastern part of the Avocado Belt, including the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. This work is useful as a framework that incorporates distinct layers of information to provide a more robust representation of the response of tree populations to anthropogenic disturbances.

Co-creation process of an intervention to implement a multiparameter point-of-care testing device in a primary healthcare setting for non-communicable diseases in Peru.

BACKGROUND: Point-of-care testing (POCT) devices are diagnostic tools that can provide quick and accurate results within minutes, making them suitable for diagnosing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, these devices are not widely implemented in healthcare systems and for this reason is relevant to understand the implementation process. AIM: To describe the process and define a strategy to implement a multiparameter POCT device for diagnosing and managing NCDs in one region of Peru. METHODS: A descriptive and non-experimental study, using the participatory methodologies of co-creation process. It was conducted in one region of Peru (Tumbes) to design an intervention for implementing a multiparameter POCT device. Two co-creation sessions were conducted involving five groups: community members, primary healthcare workers, these groups in both rural and urban settings, and regional decision-makers. These sessions included activities to understand patient journeys in receiving care for NCDs, identify facilitators and barriers to POCT devices usage, and define an implementation strategy for POCT devices in both rural and urban settings of Tumbes. The research team analysed the data and summarized key topics for discussion after each session. RESULTS: A total of 78 participants were enrolled across the five groups. Among community members: 22.2% had only diabetes, 24.1% had only hypertension, and 18.5% had both diagnoses. In the patient journey, community members mentioned that it took at least three days to receive a diagnosis and treatment for an NCD. Most of the participants agreed that the POCT devices would be beneficial for their communities, but they also identified some concerns. The strategy for POCT devices implementation included healthcare workers training, POCT devices must be placed in the laboratory area and must be able to perform tests for glucose, glycated haemoglobin, cholesterol, and creatinine. Advertising about POCT devices should be displayed at the healthcare centres and the municipality using billboards and flyers. CONCLUSIONS: The co-creation process was useful to develop strategies for the implementation of multiparameter POCT devices for NCDs, involving the participation of different groups of stakeholders guided by moderators in both, rural and urban, settings in Peru.

Actividades enzimáticas séricas de la ceruplasmina y la mieloperoxidasa en diabéticos tipo 2

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 se caracteriza por la hiperglucemia debido a la insuficiente producción de insulina de las células β. La mieloperoxidasa promueve el estrés oxidativo durante la inflamación y la ceruloplasmina se considera su inhibidor endógeno. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre la ceruloplasmina y la mieloperoxidasa, determinadas simultáneamente en el suero de pacientes diabéticos tipo 2. Métodos: Se estudiaron 362 pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 y 110 sujetos sanos. La actividad sérica de la ceruloplasmina se determinó por el método de Siotto; y el de la mieloperoxidasa, por el de Kraeisz. Resultados: El 72 % de los pacientes diabéticos tenían hiperglucemia y el 77 % presentaba obesidad abdominal. Las actividades de ambas enzimas se incrementaron significativamente en relación con el grupo control. El coeficiente de correlación de la actividad enzimática resultó bajo. El cociente RMPO/CP de los pacientes diabéticos superó el de los controles. La ceruloplasmina no inhibió la mieloperoxidasa. Conclusiones: Predominó la mieloperoxidasa, por tanto, no se manifestó el efecto inhibitorio de la ceruloplasmina. La elevada actividad de la mieloperoxidasa se asocia con un agravamiento del cuadro clínico del paciente diabético.

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin production by β cells. Myeloperoxidase promotes oxidative stress during inflammation and ceruloplasmin is considered its endogenous inhibitor. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between ceruloplasmin and myeloperoxidase, determined simultaneously in the serum of type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: A total of 362 type 2 diabetic patients and 110 healthy subjects were studied. Serum ceruloplasmin activity was determined by the Siotto KM method and myeloperoxidase by the Kraeisz JE method. Results: 72% of diabetic patients had hyperglycemia and 77% had abdominal obesity. The activities of both enzymes were significantly increased relative to the control group. The correlation coefficient of enzyme activity was low. The ORMO/CP ratio of diabetic patients exceeded that of controls. Ceruloplasmin did not inhibit myeloperoxidase. Conclusions: Myeloperoxidase predominated, therefore, the inhibitory effect of ceruloplasmin was not manifested. The high activity of myeloperoxidase was associated with a worsening of the clinical picture of the diabetic patient.

Dificultades y vulnerabilidades de la niñez migrante durante la pandemia por covid-19 / Difficulties and vulnerabilities for migrant children in Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic / Perspectivas das crianças migrantes no Chile durante a pandemia da Covid-19

(analítico) Considerando la necesidad de escuchar a niños y niñas migrantes, examinamos desde su mirada las dificultades y vulnerabilidades a las que ellos, ellas y sus familias se enfrentaron durante las cuarentenas, en la pandemia por covid-19 en Chile; durante ellas mantuvieron clases a distancia, en línea o por guías de trabajo. Hicimos entrevistas semiestructuradas con guión temático -utilizando técnicas gráficas- a 37 niños y niñas migrantes de Latinoamérica, y realizamos análisis de contenido. Evidenciamos que las familias migrantes, desde la mirada de los niños y niñas, se han visto expuestas a dificultades y preocupaciones (dada la distancia física entre familiares), vulnerabilidades económicas, falta de redes familiares y dificultades en la organización del trabajo productivo y reproductivo; en cada caso desde los puntos de vista objetivo y subjetivo.

(analytical) After identifying the need to listen to migrant children regarding the vulnerability they and their families faced during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile, we sought to examine the difficulties and vulnerabilities faced by their families from their point of view. Semistructured interviews with thematic scripts and graphic support were conducted with 37 children whose families had migrated from other countries in Latin America. Content analysis was carried out using the data collected during these interviews. According to these children, it was evident that migrant families faced a number of difficulties and vulnerabilities during the pandemic that included: physical distance between family members; economic vulnerabilities; lack of family support networks; and difficulties with accessing work. These vulnerabilities were evidenced using both objective and subjective points of view.

(analítico) Considerando a necessidade de ouvir a voz das crianças migrantes a respeito das vulnerabilidades enfrentadas por suas famílias durante o período de aulas online durante a pandemia da Covid-19 no Chile, procuramos examinar as dificuldades e vulnerabilidades enfrentadas por suas famílias a partir de seu ponto de vista. Foram realizadas entrevistas semi-estruturadas com roteiros temáticos, utilizando técnicas gráficas, com 37 crianças migrantes latino-americanas, e foi realizada uma análise de conteúdo. Tornou-se evidente que as famílias migrantes, do ponto de vista das crianças, foram expostas a dificuldades e preocupações, dada a distância física entre os membros da família; vulnerabilidades econômicas e falta de redes familiares; e dificuldades na organização do trabalho produtivo e reprodutivo. As vulnerabilidades são evidentes de um ponto de vista objetivo e subjetivo.

Adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes en adolescentes tras la pandemia por la COVID-19 / Smartphone addiction in adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic

Introducción: La pandemia por la COVID-19 trajo consigo cambios en el comportamiento humano y afecciones psíquicas que afectan la salud mental. Objetivo: Estimar la adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes en adolescentes mujeres tras la pandemia por la COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado en noviembre y diciembre del 2022, en una institución educativa pública de Ica, Perú. Participaron 581 adolescentes que respondieron a un cuestionario con variables generales y la Escala de Adicción a los Teléfonos Inteligentes. Se aplicó un análisis estadístico descriptivo y multivariado mediante modelos lineales generalizados de la familia Poisson para evaluar la asociación entre las variables. Resultados: De las participantes, el 21,7 por ciento reveló adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes y el 48,7 por ciento se encuentra en riesgo alto de dependencia. Los conflictos familiares en el hogar (razón de prevalencia ajustada - RPa= 1,41; intervalo de confianza -IC 95 por ciento: 1,00-1,99) y los sentimientos de vergüenza (RPa= 1,44; IC 95 por ciento: 1,01-2,03), se asociaron a mayor adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes. No obstante, el sentimiento de tristeza, ansiedad o depresión y el hecho de sentirse rechazado por la sociedad presentaron asociación, no ajustada. Conclusiones: La adición a los teléfonos inteligentes y el riesgo de padecer este trastorno es alto en las adolescentes; existen variables generales susceptibles de ser modificadas que podrían mermar dicha afección comportamental inducida o potenciada por la pandemia de la COVID-19(AU)

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it changes in human behavior and psychic conditions that affect mental health. Objective: Estimate smartphone addiction in female adolescents after COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Cross-sectional study, conducted during November to December 2022, in a public educational institution in Ica, Peru. A total of 581 adolescents participated and answered a questionnaire with general variables and the Smartphone Addiction Scale. A descriptive and multivariate statistical analysis was applied using Poisson family generalized linear models to evaluate the association between variables. Results: Of the participants, 21.7 percent revealed addiction to smartphones and 48.7 percent were at high risk of dependence on these devices. Family conflicts at home (adjusted prevalence ratio-RPa = 1.41; 95 percent confidence interval-CI: 1.00-1.99) and feelings of shame (RPa = 1.44; 95 percent CI: 1.01-2.03), were associated with higher smartphone addiction. However, feelings of sadness, anxiety or depression and feeling rejected by society showed an unadjusted association. Conclusions: Smartphone addiction and risk for this disorder is high in adolescent girls; there are general variables amenable to modification that could diminish such a behavioral condition induced or potentiated by the COVID-19 pandemic(AU)

Implementation of a salt substitute intervention using social marketing in resourced-limited communities in Peru: a process evaluation study.

Objective: This study aimed to conduct a process evaluation of a salt substitute trial conducted in Peru. Methods: Through semi-structured interviews of intervention participants, we documented and analyzed process evaluation variables as defined by the Medical Research Council Framework. This study was a stepped wedge trial conducted in Tumbes, Peru in 2014. The intervention was a community-wide replacement of regular salt (100% sodium) with "Salt Liz" (75% sodium and 25% potassium) using social marketing strategies to promote the adoption and continued use of the salt substitute in daily life. The components of the social marketing campaign included entertainment educational activities and local product promoters ("Amigas de Liz"). Another component of the intervention was the Salt Liz spoon to help guide the amount of salt that families should consume. The process evaluation variables measured were the context, mechanism of action, and implementation outcomes (acceptability, fidelity and adoption, perceptions, and feedback). Results: In total, 60 women were interviewed, 20 with hypertension and 40 without hypertension. Regarding context, common characteristics across the four villages included residents who primarily ate their meals at home and women who were responsible for household food preparation. As the mechanism of action, most participants did not notice a difference in the flavor between regular salt and Salt Liz; those that did notice a difference took around 2 weeks to become accustomed to the taste of the salt substitute. In terms of implementation outcomes, the Salt Liz was accepted by villagers and factors explaining this acceptability included that it was perceived as a "high quality" salt and as having a positive effect on one's health. Participants recognized that the Salt Liz is healthier than regular salt and that it can help prevent or control hypertension. However, most participants could not accurately recall how the compositions of the Salt Liz and regular salt differed and the role they play in hypertension. Although the use of the Salt Liz was far-reaching at the community level, the use of the Salt Liz spoon was poor. Educational entertainment activities were well-received, and most participants enjoyed them despite not always being active participants but rather sideline observers. Conclusion: This process evaluation identifies key intervention components that enabled a successful trial. Seeking and incorporating feedback from the target population helps deepen the understanding of contextual factors that influence an intervention's success. Furthermore, feedback received can aid the development of the intervention product. Some factors that can be improved for future interventions are acknowledged. Clinical trial registration: NCT01960972.

[Food quality in pre-school and school children in Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic]. / Calidad de la alimentación en preescolares y escolares en Chile durante la pandemia de COVID-19.

Introduction: Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic can affect the quality of food and nutrition of preschoolers and schoolchildren through an increase in food insecurity of families, by measures such as confinement and closure of educational establishments, which affects the daily structure, feeding schedules, and quality of food. Objectives: analyze the overall food quality of preschool and school children in Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: five hundred and fifty-one schoolchildren (22.5 % boys and 77.5 % girls) from five Chilean cities distributed in northern, central, and southern macro zones participated in a convenience sampling. The Global Food Quality Index was applied. The data were analyzed in the IBM SPSSV24 statistical program. Differences in proportions were analyzed employing crossed tables. Results: schoolchildren from rural areas presented lower eating quality than their urban peers (p = .005). Schoolchildren who eat with the whole family had better indicators of eating quality than those who ate alone (p = .002). In nine out of 12 dietary components, evaluated females present higher compliance with dietary recommendations. Conclusions: further research is needed on changes in dietary intake and dietary quality of children and their families during the pandemic. This will allow us to analyze the impact of the pandemic on eating behavior and its possible consequences.

Introducción: Introducción: La pandemia por COVID-19 puede afectar en la calidad de la alimentación y la nutrición de preescolares y escolares a través de un incremento de la inseguridad alimentaria de las familias, por medidas como el confinamiento y cierre de establecimientos educacionales, lo que afecta la estructura diaria, horarios de alimentación y calidad de la alimentación. Objetivo: analizar la calidad global de la alimentación de preescolares y escolares en Chile durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: en un muestreo por conveniencia participaron 551 escolares (22,5 % niños y 77,5 % niñas) de cinco ciudades de Chile distribuidas en macrozonas norte, centro y sur. Se aplicó el índice de calidad global de la alimentación. Los datos fueron analizados en el programa estadístico IBM SPSSV24. Se analizaron diferencias de proporciones a través de tablas cruzadas. Resultados: escolares de zonas rurales presentaron menor calidad de la alimentación que pares de zonas urbanas (p = ,005). Escolares que comen con toda la familia presentan mejores indicadores de calidad de la alimentación que aquellos que lo hacen solos (p = ,002). En nueve de 12 componentes de la alimentación evaluados, las mujeres presentan mayor cumplimiento de recomendaciones alimentarias. Conclusiones: se requieren más investigaciones sobre los cambios de ingesta dietética y calidad de la alimentación de los niños y niñas y sus familias durante la pandemia. Esto permitirá analizar el impacto de la pandemia en la conducta alimentaria y sus posibles consecuencias.

Botulismo del lactante: estudio descriptivo en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Infant botulism: a descriptive study in a pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción. El botulismo del lactante (BL) es la forma más frecuente de botulismo humano en Argentina. El objetivo es describir aspectos esenciales del diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con BL internados en el servicio de terapia intensiva pediátrica (STIP). Métodos. Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se utilizó la base de datos del STIP con diagnóstico de BL en el período 2005-2020. Se registraron variables demográficas, métodos de diagnóstico, días de asistencia respiratoria mecánica convencional (ARMC), de ventilación no invasiva (VNI), estadía en STIP, mortalidad al alta hospitalaria. Resultados. Se registraron 21 pacientes con BL; 14 pacientes fueron varones, con una mediana de edad de 5 meses (RIC 2-6 m). El diagnóstico se realizó mediante técnica de bioensayo y se detectó la toxina en suero en 12 pacientes. Uno solo no requirió ARMC; 1 paciente fue traqueostomizado; 18 pacientes recibieron antibióticos; 5 recibieron VNI. Ningún paciente recibió antitoxina y no hubo fallecidos. La mediana de estadía hospitalaria fue 66 días (RI: 42-76); de internación en STIP, 48 días (RI: 29-78); y de ARMC, 37 días (RI: 26-64). La demora en la confirmación diagnóstica fue 15,8 ± 4,8 días. Conclusiones. La totalidad de los pacientes fueron diagnosticados con la técnica de bioensayo, que generó un tiempo de demora diagnóstica que excede los lapsos recomendados para la administración del tratamiento específico. Ningún paciente recibió tratamiento específico. El BL presentó baja mortalidad, pero tiempos de ARM e internación prolongados, que se asocian a infecciones sobreagregadas y uso frecuente de antibióticos.

Introduction. Infant botulism (IB) is the most common form of human botulism in Argentina. Our objective was to describe the main aspects of diagnosis and management of patients with IB admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Methods. Observational, descriptive, and retrospective study. The PICU database with IB diagnosis in 2005­2020 period was used. Demographic variables, diagnostic methods, days of conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), length of stay in the PICU and mortality upon hospital discharge were recorded. Results. In total, 21 patients with IB were recorded; 14 were male, their median age was 5 months (IQR: 2­6 m). Diagnosis was made by bioassay, and the toxin was identified in the serum of 12 patients. Only 1 patient did not require CMV; 1 patient had a tracheostomy; 18 patients received antibiotics; 5 received NIV. No patient was administered antitoxin and no patient died. The median length of stay in the hospital was 66 days (IQR: 42­76); in the PICU, 48 days (IQR: 29­78); and the median use of CMV, 37 days (IQR: 26­64). The delay until diagnostic confirmation was 15.8 ± 4.8 days. Conclusions. All patients were diagnosed using the bioassay technique, which resulted in a diagnostic delay that exceeds the recommended period for the administration of a specific treatment. No patient received a specific treatment. IB was related to a low mortality, but also to prolonged use of MV and length of hospital stay, which were associated with cross infections and frequent antibiotic use.

Elimination of Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Pathological Microbiota with Photodynamic Therapy in Women from Mexico City with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia I.

Cervical carcinoma (CC) is the second cause of cancer death in Mexican women. It starts with premalignant lesions known as Intraepithelial Cervical Neoplasia (CIN) that can develop due to infection by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and other microorganisms. Current CIN therapy involves invasive methods that affect cervix integrity and fertility; we propose the use of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a strategy with few side effects. In this work, the effectiveness of PDT for CIN I, HPV and pathogenic vaginal microbiota elimination in 29 women of Mexico City with CIN I, CIN I + HPV and HPV diagnosis was determined. After 6 months of PDT application, HPV infection was eliminated in 100% of the patients (P < 0.01), CIN I + HPV in 64.3% (P < 0.01) and CIN I in 57.2% (P > 0.05). PDT also eliminated pathogenic microorganisms: Chlamydia trachomatis in 81% of the women (P < 0.001) and Candida albicans in 80% (P < 0.05), without affecting normal microbiota since Lactobacillus iners was eliminated only in 5.8% of patients and the opportunistic Gardnerella vaginalis in 20%. These results show that PDT was highly effective in eradicating HPV and pathogenic microorganisms, suggesting that PDT is a promising therapy for cervical infections.

Infant botulism: a descriptive study in a pediatric intensive care unit. / Botulismo del lactante: estudio descriptivo en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos.

Introduction. Infant botulism (IB) is the most common form of human botulism in Argentina. Our objective was to describe the main aspects of diagnosis and management of patients with IB admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Methods. Observational, descriptive, and retrospective study. The PICU database with IB diagnosis in 2005-2020 period was used. Demographic variables, diagnostic methods, days of conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), length of stay in the PICU and mortality upon hospital discharge were recorded. Results. In total, 21 patients with IB were recorded; 14 were male, their median age was 5 months (IQR: 2-6 m). Diagnosis was made by bioassay, and the toxin was identified in the serum of 12 patients. Only 1 patient did not require CMV; 1 patient had a tracheostomy; 18 patients received antibiotics; 5 received NIV. No patient was administered antitoxin and no patient died. The median length of stay in the hospital was 66 days (IQR: 42-76); in the PICU, 48 days (IQR: 29-78); and the median use of CMV, 37 days (IQR: 26-64). The delay until diagnostic confirmation was 15.8 ± 4.8 days. Conclusions. All patients were diagnosed using the bioassay technique, which resulted in a diagnostic delay that exceeds the recommended period for the administration of a specific treatment. No patient received a specific treatment. IB was related to a low mortality, but also to prolonged use o  MV and length of hospital stay, which were associated with cross infections and frequent antibiotic use.

Introducción. El botulismo del lactante (BL) es la forma más frecuente de botulismo humano en Argentina. El objetivo es describir aspectos esenciales del diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con BL internados en el servicio de terapia intensiva pediátrica (STIP). Métodos. Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se utilizó la base de datos del STIP con diagnóstico de BL en el período 2005-2020. Se registraron variables demográficas, métodos de diagnóstico, días de asistencia respiratoria mecánica convencional (ARMC), de ventilación no invasiva (VNI), estadía en STIP, mortalidad al alta hospitalaria. Resultados. Se registraron 21 pacientes con BL; 14 pacientes fueron varones, con una mediana de edad de 5 meses (RIC 2-6 m). El diagnóstico se realizó mediante técnica de bioensayo y se detectó la toxina en suero en 12 pacientes. Uno solo no requirió ARMC; 1 paciente fue traqueostomizado; 18 pacientes recibieron antibióticos; 5 recibieron VNI. Ningún paciente recibió antitoxina y no hubo fallecidos. La mediana de estadía hospitalaria fue 66 días (RI: 42-76); de internación en STIP, 48 días (RI: 29-78); y de ARMC, 37 días (RI: 26-64). La demora en la confirmación diagnóstica fue 15,8 ± 4,8 días. Conclusiones. La totalidad de los pacientes fueron diagnosticados con la técnica de bioensayo, que generó un tiempo de demora diagnóstica que excede los lapsos recomendados para la administración del tratamiento específico. Ningún paciente recibió tratamiento específico. El BL presentó baja mortalidad, pero tiempos de ARM e internación prolongados, que se asocian a infecciones sobreagregadas y uso frecuente de antibióticos.

Manual para la preparación en temas de investigación experimental en las ciencias básicas biomédicas / Manual for training on experimental research topics in basic biomedical sciences

Fundamento: los contenidos referentes a los temas de investigación experimental en las diferentes especialidades de las ciencias básicas biomédicas son de elevada complejidad, y la literatura relacionada se encuentra de manera dispersa y escasa. Objetivo: diseñar un manual para la preparación en temas de investigación experimental de los residentes de las ciencias básicas biomédicas. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal desde septiembre-2012 hasta junio-2019 en la Unidad de Investigaciones Biomédicas de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Villa Clara. Se emplearon los métodos teóricos: analítico-sintético, inductivo-deductivo, sistémico-estructural y modelación; empírico: análisis documental. Se seleccionaron 11 expertos para la valoración del manual en cuanto a su pertinencia, autenticidad, actualidad, estructura metodológica, cientificidad y posible generalización. Resultados: se diseñó un material de procedimientos que facilita la consulta de los residentes para su preparación en temas de investigación experimental con modelos biológicos. Está conformado por un prólogo, tres capítulos y un acápite para la literatura consultada, en los que la temática es abordada de forma didáctica con actualización de los aspectos conceptuales, teóricos e históricos. Contiene fotografías tomadas por los propios autores y un lenguaje sencillo, que facilitan la comprensión de procedimientos que se adaptan por primera vez a las condiciones de los centros experimentales de Cuba. Conclusiones: el manual diseñado propicia la preparación requerida en temas de investigación experimental en los especialistas en formación, como aspecto significativo en la educación de los residentes de las ciencias básicas biomédicas, acorde con las exigencias de la enseñanza médica superior.

Background: the contents referring to experimental research topics in the different specialties of basic biomedical sciences are highly complex, and the related literature is scattered and scarce. Objective: to design a manual for the training of residents of basic biomedical sciences in experimental research topics. Methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out from September-2012 to June-2019 at the Biomedical Research Unit of Villa Clara University of Medical Sciences. Theoretical methods were used: analytical-synthetic, inductive-deductive, systemic-structural and modeling; empirical ones: documentary analysis. Eleven experts were selected to assess the manual in terms of its relevance, authenticity, timeliness, methodological structure, scientificity, and possible generalization. Results: a procedure material was designed that facilitates the consultation of the residents for their training in experimental research topics with biological models. It is made up of a prologue, three chapters and a section for the literature consulted, in which the subject is addressed in a didactic way with updating of the conceptual, theoretical and historical aspects. It contains photographs taken by the authors themselves and simple language, which facilitate the understanding of procedures that are adapted for the first time to the conditions of the experimental centers in Cuba. Conclusions: the designed manual promotes the preparation required in experimental research topics in training specialists, as a meaningful aspect in the education of residents of basic biomedical sciences, in accordance with the requirements of higher medical education.

La experimentación en la formación de especialistas en Bioquímica Clínica / Experimentation in the training of specialists in Clinical Biochemistry

Fundamento: la bioquímica es una ciencia experimental, por lo que la Bioquímica Clínica es muy apropiada para la creación de habilidades de trabajo experimental, en la carrera de Medicina. Objetivo: diseñar actividades prácticas para el módulo Proteínas, a fin de contribuir a la adquisición de las habilidades experimentales en la formación de los especialistas desde la Bioquímica Clínica. Métodos: se realizó una investigación cualitativa transversal observacional en la Facultad de Medicina, durante el año 2019. Los métodos teóricos utilizados fueron el analítico-sintético y el inductivo-deductivo; y empírico: el análisis documental; además, los métodos de diseño inverso para la planificación de las actividades prácticas, y el de aprendizaje por indagación en el desarrollo de los seminarios y de las actividades prácticas. Resultados: se diseñaron las actividades, teniendo en cuenta las unidades didácticas, habilidades experimentales a crear y las actividades prácticas de laboratorio. Se brindaron tareas específicas para desarrollar el pensamiento crítico, la resolución de problemas y la evaluación de situaciones complejas. Para su correcta aplicación se elaboraron guías y se orientó la bibliografía, lo cual facilitó el trabajo independiente. Conclusiones: las actividades prácticas diseñadas para el módulo Proteínas contribuyeron a que los residentes de Bioquímica Clínica adquirieran las habilidades del trabajo experimental, imprescindible para alcanzar la competencia profesional en la docencia, la investigación y la asistencia médica.

Background: biochemistry is an experimental science, so Clinical Biochemistry is very appropriate for the creation of experimental work skills in the Medicine career. Objective: design practical activities for the Proteins module, in order to contribute to the acquisition of experimental skills in the training of specialists from Clinical Biochemistry. Methods: a qualitative cross-sectional observational research was carried out at the Faculty of Medicine during 2019. The theoretical methods used were analytical-synthetic and inductive-deductive; and empirical ones: documentary analysis; In addition, reverse design methods for planning practical activities, and inquiry learning in the development of seminars and practical activities. Results: the activities were designed, taking into account the teaching units, experimental skills to be created and the practical laboratory activities. Specific tasks were provided to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and evaluating complex situations. For its correct application, guides were prepared and the bibliography was oriented, which facilitated independent work. Conclusions: the practical activities designed for the Proteins module contributed to the Clinical Biochemistry residents acquiring the skills of experimental work, essential to achieve professional competence in teaching, research and medical care.

Formación investigativa en profesionales de ciencias médicas y especialidades afines en vínculo docencia-investigación-sociedad / Research training for professionals in medical sciences and related specialties in the teaching-research-society link

Fundamento: la formación investigativa es fundamental en el proceso enseñanza aprendizaje. Tiene como finalidad generar científicos que respondan a las necesidades sociales del siglo XXI. Objetivo: caracterizar la formación investigativa en profesionales de las ciencias médicas y especialidades afines incorporados a proyectos sobre la temática diabetes y embarazo en la línea de investigación "Estudios en biomodelos experimentales de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles" y en estrecho vínculo docencia-universidad-sociedad. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal del proceso de formación investigativa de los estudiantes de pregrado y posgrado vinculados a proyectos sobre diabetes y embarazo, desde la Unidad de Investigaciones Biomédicas de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Villa Clara, en el periodo comprendido entre los años 2012 y 2022. Se emplearon métodos del nivel teórico y empírico. La información resultante del análisis documental se procesó cualitativamente y se presentó como explicación descriptiva. Resultados: a través de la incorporación de 16 estudiantes de pregrado y posgrado a nueve proyectos de investigación, se estableció un equipo de trabajo con una adecuada pirámide investigativa. Los resultados científicos generaron dos trabajos de diploma, 10 tesis de especialidades médicas, dos maestrías y dos doctorados que fueron difundidos en 14 revistas arbitradas. Se desarrollaron competencias y valores durante el proceso de formación investigativa. Conclusiones: la formación investigativa del equipo de investigación sobre diabetes y embarazo se caracterizó por la integración de sus miembros a proyectos, obtención y divulgación de resultados científicos, y formación de competencias y valores que han permitido consolidar la relación docencia-investigación-sociedad.

Background: research training is essential in the teaching-learning process. Its purpose is to generate scientists who respond to the social needs of the 21st century. Objective: to characterize the research training of professionals in the medical sciences and related specialties incorporated into projects on the subject of diabetes and pregnancy in the research line "Studies in experimental bio-models of chronic non-transmissible diseases" and in a close relationship among teaching-university-society. Methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study of the research training process of undergraduate and postgraduate students linked to projects on diabetes and pregnancy was carried out, from the Biomedical Research Unit of Villa Clara University of Medical Sciences, from 2012 to 2022. Methods of the theoretical and empirical level were used. The information resulting from the documentary analysis was qualitatively processed and presented as a descriptive explanation. Results: through the incorporation of 16 undergraduate and graduate students to nine research projects, a working team was established with an adequate research pyramid. The scientific results generated two diploma papers, 10 medical specialty theses, two master's degrees, and two doctorates that were published in 14 peer-reviewed journals. Competences and values were developed during the investigative training process. Conclusions: the investigative training of the research team on diabetes and pregnancy was characterized by the integration of its members into projects, the obtaining and dissemination of scientific results, and the formation of skills and values that have allowed the consolidation of the teaching-research-society relationship.