Volatilome Analysis of Soursop Fruits for the Determination of Kairomone Components That Attract the Annonaceae Fruit Weevil (Optatus palmaris Pascoe).

Soursop possesses the largest fruit size of the Annona genus. However, this species is threatened by the Annonaceae fruit weevil (Optatus palmaris), which can cause the destruction of whole soursop fruits. Recently, the potential of semiochemicals for the management of this insect is highlighted, and its aggregation pheromone has been elucidated. This pheromone works well only when mixed with soursop volatiles. Thus, the aim of this research was to determine specific kairomone components to potentiate the aggregation pheromone of this Annonaceae fruit weevil. This task was carried out via volatilome analysis of soursop fruits, which was correlated with the biological activity of the identified volatiles. The GC-MS analysis of aroma collections of mature soursop fruits and flowers, determined using multivariate data analysis, confirmed a volatile differentiation between these organs. The volatile variation between fruits and flowers was reflected in weevils' preference for mature fruits instead of flowers. Moreover, weevils' response to soursop fruits increased with more mature fruits. This was correlated with volatile changes throughout the phenological stages of soursop fruits. The two volatiles most correlated with weevils' attraction were benzothiazole and (E)-ß-caryophyllene. These volatiles only evoked a response when mixed and potentiated the attraction of the aggregation pheromone. Thus, these two volatiles are active kairomone components with the potential for being used in combination with the aggregation pheromone of Annonaceae fruit weevils in field trials.

Aspectos psicosociales de los programas de salud de personas mayores con hipoacusia y su impacto en la adherencia al uso de audífonos: una revisión narrativa

Resumen El envejecimiento progresivo de la población mundial es una preocupación reconocida por la mayoría de las propuestas de políticas públicas en diversas áreas, incluida salud. La persona mayor pertenece a un grupo social vulnerable, que requiere ser considerado en las intervenciones y políticas de salud pública. Existe una considerable pérdida de las capacidades sensoriales y motrices que suponen una disminución de la autonomía, la que si se asocia a la realidad de las personas mayores con menos ingresos, dificulta un acceso oportuno a prestaciones de salud para poder enfrentar la discapacidad de manera apropiada. Las consecuencias de la pérdida de la capacidad auditiva en la persona mayor se manifiestan en problemas de la comprensión del habla, deterioro cognitivo y trastornos de la salud mental como ansiedad y depresión. Lamentablemente, las intervenciones para aumentar la adherencia de los usuarios al uso de audífonos no han mostrado muchos resultados favorables. Un correcto diagnóstico permite tener una orientación y rehabilitación adecuada a través de la generación de programas y estrategias enfocadas en la integración social, permitiendo que la calidad de vida se mantenga o mejore no solo en las personas con hipoacusia. Implementar un abordaje que busque tener un impacto positivo en la adherencia al uso de audífonos debe incluir y desarrollar programas de rehabilitación auditiva que consideren aspectos de contexto como vivienda, red de apoyo e integración social, entre otros.

Abstract Progressive aging of the world population is a concern recognized by most public policy proposals in various areas, including health. The elderly belongs to a vulnerable social group, which requires consideration in public health interventions and policies. There is a considerable loss of sensory and motor capacities that decreases autonomy, which if associated with lesser income in older adults, hinders timely access to health benefits and its possibility to face disability appropriately. The consequences of hearing loss in the elderly are manifested in problems of speech comprehension, cognitive deterioration, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, interventions to increase user adherence to hearing aid use have not shown many positive results. A correct diagnosis allows to have an adequate orientation and rehabilitation through the generation of programs and strategies focused on social integration, allowing the quality of life to be maintained or improved not only in people with hearing loss. Implementing an approach that seeks to have a positive impact on adherence to hearing aid use should include and develop auditory rehabilitation programs that consider contextual aspects such as housing, support network and social integration, among others.

Adherencia al uso de audífonos en adultos mayores con hipoacusia: Un ensayo clínico aleatorizado para evaluar un programa de rehabilitación auditiva

Resumen Introducción: La presbiacusia es una condición muy prevalente. Habitualmente se implementan audífonos como tratamiento, pero un problema es la baja adherencia exhibida que puede rondar un 50%. Objetivo: Evaluar si el programa de rehabilitación auditiva Active Communication Education (ACE) mejora la adherencia al uso del audífono. Material y Método: Se realizó un ensayo clínico aleatorizado controlado para evaluar la efectividad del programa ACE sumado a un refuerzo teleeducativo para mejorar la adherencia al uso del audífono. El proyecto fue aprobado por comité de ética y cada participante firmó consentimiento informado. La adherencia se evaluó por medio de la escala CIRUA y Dr. Yueh. Cada participante fue seguido en su domicilio en controles cada 3 meses hasta 1 año posterior a la intervención por encuestadores entrenados. Resultados: Se incluyeron 202 participantes, 101 en cada rama. La mediana de edad fue de 78 años y el 59,9% de la muestra fue de sexo femenino. El PTP promedio óseo fue de 48,59 dB y el aéreo fue de 55 dB. El grupo control tuvo adherencia de 65,91% y 62,30%. El grupo intervencional tuvo una adherencia de 78,41% y 72,28%. Hubo diferencias significativas en el porcentaje de adherencia entre grupo control y experimental según CIRUA (p = 0,027) y Yueh (p = 0,011). Conclusión: El programa de rehabilitación auditiva ACE es eficaz para mejorar la adherencia al uso del audífono en pacientes adultos mayores con hipoacusia. Este estudio representa uno de los mayores esfuerzos publicados para evaluar la efectividad de los programas de rehabilitación auditiva en adultos mayores con hipoacusia.

Abstract Introduction: Hearing loss associated with older adults is a very prevalent condition. Hearing aids are usually implemented as treatment, but there is low adherence exhibited, which can be around 50%. Aim: To assess whether the Active Communication Education (ACE) hearing rehabilitation program improves adherence to hearing aid use. Material and Method: A randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the ACE program added to a tele-educational reinforcement to improve adherence to hearing aid use. The project was approved by the ethics committee of the institution and each participant signed an informed consent. Adherence was evaluated using the CIRUA scale and Dr. Yueh scale. Each participant was followed at home in controls every 3 months up to 1 year after the intervention by trained interviewers. Results: 202 participants were included, 101 in each branch. The median age was 78 years and 59.9% of the sample was female. The average bone PTA was 48.59 dB and air PTA was 55 dB. Adherence in the control group was 65.91% and 62.30%. In the interventional group, adherence was 78.41% and 72.28%. There were significant differences in the percentage of adherence between the control and experimental groups according to CIRUA (p = 0.027) and Yueh (p = 0.011). Conclusion: The ACE auditory rehabilitation program improves adherence to hearing aid use in older adults with hearing loss. This study represents one of the largest published efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of auditory rehabilitation programs in older adults with hearing loss.

Resultados del primer registro nacional de fibrosis pulmonar idiopática en Chile / Results of the first national register of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: La FPI es la neumonía intersticial idiopática más común, con cifras de incidencia y prevalencia que varían en el mundo por la poco uniforme manera de recolectar casos en los diferentes estudios. No hay cifras publicadas sobre la epidemiología de la FPI en Chile ni Latinoamérica. Se hace relevante conocerlas por la carga sanitaria que representan los pacientes con FPI y por la aprobación reciente de drogas antifibróticas de alto costo. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar un registro de pacientes con FPI atendidos por neumólogos chilenos de diversos regiones del país, con los medios diagnósticos que habitualmente utilizan en la vida real. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizó una encuesta electrónica en línea diseñada por el grupo de enfermedades pulmonares difusas del Instituto Nacional del Tórax para registro de pacientes con diagnóstico de FPI según criterios ATS/ERS/JRS/ALAT desde junio de 2015 a junio de 2017. RESULTADOS: 40 de los 200 neumólogos invitados enviaron casos de FPI de las 13 regiones del país, completando un total de 700 pacientes. 2/3 eran casos antiguos, un número similar de hombres y mujeres, 73% tienen patrón definitivo de UIP (Usual Interstitial Pneumonia) en tomografía axial computarizada, la mayoría eran pacientes sobre 60 años y en solo 16% se solicitó biopsia para diagnóstico. CONCLUSIONES: Un registro de 700 casos representa un número muy importante de pacientes con FPI en Chile que nos permite acercarnos a la caracterización de la cohorte y a fortalecer una red de especialistas dedicados al cuidado de estos pacientes y sus familias.

INTRODUCTION: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is the most common idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, with incidence and prevalence figures varying worldwide because of the inconsistent way of collecting cases in different studies. There are no published figures on the epidemiology of IPF in Chile or Latin America. It is relevant to know them because of the health burden of patients with IPF and the recent approval for treatment purposes of high cost antifibrotic drugs. The objective of this study was to develop a clinical registry of patients with IPF treated by Chilean pulmonologists from different regions of the country, using the diagnostic means they usually use in real life. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An online electronic survey was designed by the group of diffuse pulmonary diseases of the "Instituto Nacional del Tórax" to register patients with diagnosis of IPF from June 2015 to June 2017 according to ATS/ERS/JRS/ALAT criteria. RESULTS: 40 of the 200 invited pulmonologists sent IPF cases from the country's 13 regions, completing a total of 700 patients. 2/3 were old cases, a similar number of men and women, 73% had definitive UIP pattern in CT, the majority were patients over 60 years old and in only 16% biopsy was requested for diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: A register of 700 cases represents a very important number of patients with IPF in Chile that allows us to approach the characterization of the cohort and to strengthen a network of specialists dedicated to the care of these patients and their families.

[Treatment with bisphosphonates improves the quality of life in patients with diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta]. / El tratamiento con bifosfonatos mejora la calidad de vida en pacientes con diagnóstico de osteogénesis imperfecta.

INTRODUCTION: Osteogenesis imperfeta (OI) is defined as a heterogeneous group of hereditary diseases, which present with the presence of bone fragility, frequent fractures, bone deformities and short stature. Treatment with biphosfonates in patients with diagnosis of OI has shown a decrease in the frecuency of fractures, as well as an improvement in vertebral bone density. There is little evidence on quality of life in patients diagnosed with OI treated with bisphosphonates, Therefore this study evaluated the quality of life of patients diagnosed with OI after treatment with bisphosphonates. MATERIAL AND METHODS: It is a prospective, deliberate intervention, self-controlled clinical trial. Nine patients with ages between two and thirteen ages and diagnosed with OI were treated with Zolendronic, a quality of life measurement was performed in the patients before and after the application. For measuring the quality of life in the patients we used the PedsQL 4.0 quality of life survey that was applied to both children and parents. RESULTS: In the quality of life survey performed on the parents, an increase was observed in the four dimensions evaluated. In the survey made on the children two dimensions showed a significant increase. The number of fractures decreased after the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: There is a correlation between the decrease in the number of fractures and the perception that both parents and children have in the quality of life after treatment with bisphosphonates.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La osteogénesis imperfecta (OI) es un grupo heterogéneo de enfermedades hereditarias, las cuales cursan con la presencia de fragilidad ósea, fracturas frecuentes, deformidades óseas y talla baja. El tratamiento con bifosfonatos en los pacientes con diagnóstico de OI ha demostrado un decremento en la frecuencia de fracturas, así como una mejoría en la densidad ósea vertebral. Existe poca evidencia sobre la calidad de vida en pacientes con OI posterior al tratamiento con bifosfonatos. ¿Los bifosfonatos mejoran la calidad de vida de los pacientes con OI? MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se trata de un ensayo prospectivo, de intervención deliberada, ensayo clínico autocontrolado. Nueve pacientes que se encontraban entre las edades de dos y 13 años con diagnóstico de OI fueron tratados con ácido zolendrónico. Se realizó una medición de la calidad de vida en los pacientes previa y posteriormente. Para la medición de la calidad de vida de los pacientes utilizamos la encuesta de calidad de vida PedsQL 4.0 que fue aplicada tanto a los niños como a los padres. RESULTADOS: En la encuesta de calidad de vida efectuada a los padres se observó un incremento en las cuatro dimensiones evaluadas. En la encuesta realizada a los niños se apreció un aumento en dos dimensiones. El número de fracturas disminuyó posterior al tratamiento. CONCLUSIONES: Existe una correlación entre la disminución del número de fracturas y la percepción que tienen tanto los padres como los niños en la calidad de vida posterior al tratamiento con bifosfonatos.

Biomechanical and functional effects of shoulder kinesio taping® on cerebral palsy children interacting with virtual objects.

The reaching of objects is usually practiced by CP children in conventional or Virtual Reality-based therapies to enhance motor skill performance. Recently, Kinesio Taping® method has been studied to increase mechanical stability and improve functional movement of the upper limb; however, its influence on CP children´s upper limb motion has been rarely quantified due to lack of sensory measurement. Therefore, in this paper, we evaluate the biomechanical and functional effects of applying shoulder Kinesio Taping® on CP children in the reaching-transporting of virtual objects, by using a low-cost tracking device, exact robust differentiation of data and a simple nonlinear biomechanical dynamic model of the trunk and arm.

Anillo vascular completo por doble arco aórtico simétrico, una malformación cardiovascular infrecuente / Complete vascular ring by double symmetrical aortic arch, an infrequent cardiovascular malformation

Resumen Introducción: El doble arco aórtico (DAA) es una malformación cardiovascular infrecuente caracterizada por la persistencia de ambos arcos aórticos posterior al nacimiento. Puede presentarse con rama derecha dominante (70-73%), izquierda o simétrica. Su forma anatómica produce compresión de estructuras mediastínicas como la tráquea y esófago. Caso clínico: Lactante menor hombre de 3 meses, con antecedente de estridor desde nacimiento. Ingresó a nuestro centro por neumonía grave con necesidad de ventilación mecánica prolongada. Evaluado por otorrinolaringología, se realizó revisión de vía aérea, observando estenosis en los últimos 5 anillos traqueales con colapso dinámico de la tráquea. La tomografía computada de tórax demostró DAA completo con emergencias de troncos supraaórticos de ambos arcos de forma simétrica. Se decidió tratamiento quirúrgico a la brevedad. Se abordó por toracotomía anterolateral izquierda, se realizó control vascular y sección del arco aórtico izquierdo distal a emergencia de subclavia, con plastía de aorta y arteria subclavia izquierda, liberado el arco aórtico se realizó pexia y disección de tejido fibrótico que rodeaba tráquea y esófago. Paciente evolucionó favorablemente, con resolución de cuadro respiratorio y ausencia estridor. Fibrobroncoscopía posoperatoria no observó compresión traqueal. El alta hospitalaria fue al 14° día posoperatorio. Actualmente, a seis meses de seguimiento, se encuentra asintomático respiratorio y cardiovascular. Discusión: El DAA puede afectar al 0,03% de la población pediátrica. Usualmente es sintomático con manifestaciones obstructivas como estridor o disfagia por compresión de estructuras mediastínicas, por lo que requiere alta sospecha clínica para su confirmación imagenológica y posterior tratamiento quirúrgico.

Introduction: The double aortic arch (DAA) is an uncommon cardiovascular malformation, characterized by the persistence of both aortic arches after birth. It can be presented with right dominant branch (70-73%), left or symmetrical. It's anatomical shape produces compression of mediastinal structures such as the trachea and esophagus. Clinic case: Infant man 3 months old, with a history of stridor since birth. He was admitted to our center due to severe pneumonia with the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Evaluated by otorhinolaryngology, who performed airway revision observing stenosis in the last 5 tracheal rings with dynamic trachea collapse. Chest computed tomography showed complete DAA with emergence of supraaortic trunks of both arches symmetrically. Surgical treatment was decided as soon as possible. It was approached by left anterolateral thoracotomy, vascular control and left aortic arch section distal to subclavian emergency was performed, with aortic and left subclavian artery plasty, aortic arch was released to perform pexia and dissection of fibrotic tissue surrounding the trachea and esophagus. Patient evolved favorably, with resolution of respiratory symptoms and absence of stridor. Postoperative fiberoptic bronchoscopy did not observe tracheal compression. He was discharged on the 14th postoperative day. Currently at six months of follow-up, he is asymptomatic respiratory and cardiovascular. Discussion: AAD can affect 0.03% of the pediatric population. It is usually symptomatic with obstructive manifestations such as stridor or dysphagia due to compression of mediastinal structures, which requires high clinical suspicion for its imaging confirmation and subsequent surgical treatment.

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens (Sw) DC / Atividade antifúngica e antioxidante de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens (Sw) DC

Abstract In recent years, natural products with antifungal and antioxidant activities are being increasingly researched for a more sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used for the same purpose. The plant pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata is a causative agent of diseases in citrus, leading to huge economic losses. Antioxidants are important for the production of medicines for various diseases that may be related to the presence of free radicals, such as cancer, and in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging agent and the food industry as preservatives. This study evaluated the antifungal and antioxidant potential of extracts of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens, a tree species that occurs in the Brazilian Cerrado. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by an assay of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging method, and the antifungal activity was assessed through the evaluation of mycelial growth. Majority of the extracts exhibited a strong antioxidant activity, especially the acetonic extract (4A). The antioxidant activity may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the extracts showed no inhibitory activity of mycelial growth of the fungus tested, with the exception of dichloromethanic extract (2B), which had an inhibitory effect (10.2%) at the end of testing.

Resumo A busca de produtos naturais com atividades antifúngica e antioxidante tem crescido nos últimos anos como alternativa mais sustentável para os produtos químicos atualmente usados para estas funções. O fungo fitopatogênico Alternaria alternata é agente causador de doenças nos citros, levando a grandes perdas econômicas. Substâncias antioxidantes são importantes tanto para a produção de medicamentos para diversas doenças que podem estar relacionadas à presença de radicais livres, como o câncer, bem como para a indústria cosmética, como agentes anti-envelhecimento e para a indústria alimentícia, como conservantes. Este trabalho avaliou o potencial antifúngico dos extratos de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens , uma espécie arbórea que ocorre no cerrado brasileiro. O potencial antioxidante foi analisado por meio de ensaio da capacidade sequestrante do radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl e o antifúngico, por meio da avaliação do crescimento micelial. A maioria dos extratos apresentou atividade antioxidante muito forte, especialmente o extrato acetônico (4A). A atividade antioxidante pode ser relacionada a presença de compostos fenólicos. Por outro lado, os extratos não apresentaram atividade inibitória do crescimento micelial do fungo testado, com exceção do extrato diclorometânico (2B), que foi o único que teve efeito inibitório (10,2%) ao final do teste.

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens (Sw.) DC.

In recent years, natural products with antifungal and antioxidant activities are being increasingly researched for a more sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used for the same purpose. The plant pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata is a causative agent of diseases in citrus, leading to huge economic losses. Antioxidants are important for the production of medicines for various diseases that may be related to the presence of free radicals, such as cancer, and in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging agent and the food industry as preservatives. This study evaluated the antifungal and antioxidant potential of extracts of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens, a tree species that occurs in the Brazilian Cerrado. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by an assay of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging method, and the antifungal activity was assessed through the evaluation of mycelial growth. Majority of the extracts exhibited a strong antioxidant activity, especially the acetonic extract (4A). The antioxidant activity may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the extracts showed no inhibitory activity of mycelial growth of the fungus tested, with the exception of dichloromethanic extract (2B), which had an inhibitory effect (10.2%) at the end of testing.

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens (Sw. ) DC / Atividade antifúngica e antioxidante de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens (Sw. )DC

In recent years, natural products with antifungal and antioxidant activities are being increasingly researched for a more sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used for the same purpose. The plant pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata is a causative agent of diseases in citrus, leading to huge economic losses. Antioxidants are important for the production of medicines for various diseases that may be related to the presence of free radicals, such as cancer, and in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging agent and the food industry as preservatives. This study evaluated the antifungal and antioxidant potential of extracts of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens, a tree species that occurs in the Brazilian Cerrado. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by an assay of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging method, and the antifungal activity was assessed through the evaluation of mycelial growth. Majority of the extracts exhibited a strong antioxidant activity, especially the acetonic extract (4A). The antioxidant activity may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the extracts showed no inhibitory activity of mycelial growth of the fungus tested, with the exception of dichloromethanic extract (2B), which had an inhibitory effect (10.2%) at the end of testing.(AU)

A busca de produtos naturais com atividades antifúngica e antioxidante tem crescido nos últimos anos como alternativa mais sustentável para os produtos químicos atualmente usados para estas funções. O fungo fitopatogênico Alternaria alternata é agente causador de doenças nos citros, levando a grandes perdas econômicas. Substâncias antioxidantes são importantes tanto para a produção de medicamentos para diversas doenças que podem estar relacionadas à presença de radicais livres, como o câncer, bem como para a indústria cosmética, como agentes anti-envelhecimento e para a indústria alimentícia, como conservantes. Este trabalho avaliou o potencial antifúngico dos extratos de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens , uma espécie arbórea que ocorre no cerrado brasileiro. O potencial antioxidante foi analisado por meio de ensaio da capacidade sequestrante do radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl e o antifúngico, por meio da avaliação do crescimento micelial. A maioria dos extratos apresentou atividade antioxidante muito forte, especialmente o extrato acetônico (4A). A atividade antioxidante pode ser relacionada a presença de compostos fenólicos. Por outro lado, os extratos não apresentaram atividade inibitória do crescimento micelial do fungo testado, com exceção do extrato diclorometânico (2B), que foi o único que teve efeito inibitório (10,2%) ao final do teste.(AU)

Work scheme to isolate the different micro-organisms found in hydrogen-producing reactors: a study of effectiveness by pyrosequencing analysis.

AIM: The aim of this research was to create a work scheme for the isolation of the different micro-organisms commonly found in hydrogen-producing reactors and to test its effectiveness. METHODS AND RESULTS: Methods were selected to isolate anaerobic spore-forming fermenters, anaerobic fermenters that do not form spores, facultative aerobic fermenters and lactic acid bacteria. The methods were tested in two samples taken from a hydrogen-producing reactor fed with cheese whey. 16S rRNA gene sequences from isolates were compared with pyrosequencing analysis from the same samples. The isolates represented more than 88% of the abundance detected by pyrosequencing. Organisms from the genera Clostridium, Rahnella, Megasphaera, Lactobacillus, Propionibacterium, Bifidobacterium, Chryseobacterium and Acetobacter were isolated. Hydrogen-producing capacity was confirmed for the Clostridium, Rahnella and Megasphaera isolates. Coculture experiments indicate that Megasphaera prevented the total inhibition of Clostridium by Lactobacillus. CONCLUSION: The work scheme proposed was effective to isolate most of the micro-organisms detected by pyrosequencing analysis. Physiological studies suggested a key role of Megasphaera. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: We showed the high culturability of the microbial communities from hydrogen-producing bioreactors. The isolates can be used to perform physiological studies to understand the H2 -producing process.

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens (Sw.) DC.

Abstract In recent years, natural products with antifungal and antioxidant activities are being increasingly researched for a more sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used for the same purpose. The plant pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata is a causative agent of diseases in citrus, leading to huge economic losses. Antioxidants are important for the production of medicines for various diseases that may be related to the presence of free radicals, such as cancer, and in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging agent and the food industry as preservatives. This study evaluated the antifungal and antioxidant potential of extracts of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens, a tree species that occurs in the Brazilian Cerrado. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by an assay of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging method, and the antifungal activity was assessed through the evaluation of mycelial growth. Majority of the extracts exhibited a strong antioxidant activity, especially the acetonic extract (4A). The antioxidant activity may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the extracts showed no inhibitory activity of mycelial growth of the fungus tested, with the exception of dichloromethanic extract (2B), which had an inhibitory effect (10.2%) at the end of testing.

Resumo A busca de produtos naturais com atividades antifúngica e antioxidante tem crescido nos últimos anos como alternativa mais sustentável para os produtos químicos atualmente usados para estas funções. O fungo fitopatogênico Alternaria alternata é agente causador de doenças nos citros, levando a grandes perdas econômicas. Substâncias antioxidantes são importantes tanto para a produção de medicamentos para diversas doenças que podem estar relacionadas à presença de radicais livres, como o câncer, bem como para a indústria cosmética, como agentes anti-envelhecimento e para a indústria alimentícia, como conservantes. Este trabalho avaliou o potencial antifúngico dos extratos de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens , uma espécie arbórea que ocorre no cerrado brasileiro. O potencial antioxidante foi analisado por meio de ensaio da capacidade sequestrante do radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl e o antifúngico, por meio da avaliação do crescimento micelial. A maioria dos extratos apresentou atividade antioxidante muito forte, especialmente o extrato acetônico (4A). A atividade antioxidante pode ser relacionada a presença de compostos fenólicos. Por outro lado, os extratos não apresentaram atividade inibitória do crescimento micelial do fungo testado, com exceção do extrato diclorometânico (2B), que foi o único que teve efeito inibitório (10,2%) ao final do teste.

Indicadores de envejecimiento demográfico del estado carabobo ,venezuela . Periodo 1990-2011 / Indicators demographic aging of carabobo state . venezuela . period 1990-2011

El envejecimiento poblacional ha tenido un repunte en el siglo XXI. Dentro del país se destaca el Estado Carabobo con el cuarto lugar con mayor volumen de adultos de 65 años según el censo poblacional del año 2011. El objetivo general es analizar indicadores demográficos del Estado Carabobo. Se realizó una investigación descriptiva y documental, basada, en los Censos de Población de los años 1990, 2001 y 2011, del Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE); así como de boletines con estimaciones del INE. Para procesar la información se utilizaron técnicas de estadística descriptiva y el Programa Excel de Microsoft 2007. Resultados: El grupo de 65 y más años aumento de 3.40 % a 5.60 %. Predomina el sexo femenino en todos los censos. La razón de dependencia total se redujo de 66,9 a 46,1. El índice de envejecimiento incremento de 9.21 a 21.33 mayores de 64 años por cada 100 menores de 15 años. La edad mediana asciende de 21 años a 27 años entre los censos 1990 - 2011. Conclusiones Los indicadores demográficos del Estado Carabobo, reflejan que viene transitando un proceso de envejecimiento demográfico, encontrándose actualmente en la definición de población madura, ya que los mayores de 64 años están en el 5,66 % de la población total. Se evidencia el fenómeno de feminización de la vejez. Se observa el aumento de las personas en edad de trabajar ubicando en el presente el bono demográfico.

Population aging has had a rebound in the XXI century. Within the country, Carabobo State stands out with the fourth highest volume of adults of 65 years old, according to the population census during 2011. The overall objective is to analyze demographic aging indicators from Carabobo State. Method: A descriptive and documentary research, based on the Population Censuses in 1990, 2001 and 2011, the National Statistics Institute (INE) was performed; as well as bulletins with estimations from the INE. To process the information, techniques of descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel program 2007 were used. Results: The 65 years old group and over, increased from 3.40% to 5.60%. Females predominate in all censuses. The total dependency ratio was reduced from 66.9 to 46.1. The aging index increased from 9.21 to 21.33 over 64 years for every 100 children under 15 years. The median age rises from 21 years to 27 years between the censuses 1990 - 2011. Conclusions The demographic indicators of Carabobo State reflect that a process of demographic aging is coming journeying, and it is currently in the definition of mature population, since people over 64 years are in the 5.66% of the overall population. The phenomenon of feminization of old age is evident. The increase of people’s working age is observed placing the demographic bonus nowadays.

Microbial fuel cell coupled to biohydrogen reactor: a feasible technology to increase energy yield from cheese whey.

An important pollutant produced during the cheese making process is cheese whey which is a liquid by-product with high content of organic matter, composed mainly by lactose and proteins. Hydrogen can be produced from cheese whey by dark fermentation but, organic matter is not completely removed producing an effluent rich in volatile fatty acids. Here we demonstrate that this effluent can be further used to produce energy in microbial fuel cells. Moreover, current production was not feasible when using raw cheese whey directly to feed the microbial fuel cell. A maximal power density of 439 mW/m2 was obtained from the reactor effluent which was 1000 times more than when using raw cheese whey as substrate. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that potential electroactive populations (Geobacter, Pseudomonas and Thauera) were enriched on anodes of MFCs fed with reactor effluent while fermentative populations (Clostridium and Lactobacillus) were predominant on the MFC anode fed directly with raw cheese whey. This result was further demonstrated using culture techniques. A total of 45 strains were isolated belonging to 10 different genera including known electrogenic populations like Geobacter (in MFC with reactor effluent) and known fermentative populations like Lactobacillus (in MFC with cheese whey). Our results show that microbial fuel cells are an attractive technology to gain extra energy from cheese whey as a second stage process during raw cheese whey treatment by dark fermentation process.

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens (Sw.) DC

Abstract In recent years, natural products with antifungal and antioxidant activities are being increasingly researched for a more sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used for the same purpose. The plant pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata is a causative agent of diseases in citrus, leading to huge economic losses. Antioxidants are important for the production of medicines for various diseases that may be related to the presence of free radicals, such as cancer, and in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging agent and the food industry as preservatives. This study evaluated the antifungal and antioxidant potential of extracts of mature leaves of Myrcia splendens, a tree species that occurs in the Brazilian Cerrado. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by an assay of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging method, and the antifungal activity was assessed through the evaluation of mycelial growth. Majority of the extracts exhibited a strong antioxidant activity, especially the acetonic extract (4A). The antioxidant activity may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the extracts showed no inhibitory activity of mycelial growth of the fungus tested, with the exception of dichloromethanic extract (2B), which had an inhibitory effect (10.2%) at the end of testing.

Resumo A busca de produtos naturais com atividades antifúngica e antioxidante tem crescido nos últimos anos como alternativa mais sustentável para os produtos químicos atualmente usados para estas funções. O fungo fitopatogênico Alternaria alternata é agente causador de doenças nos citros, levando a grandes perdas econômicas. Substâncias antioxidantes são importantes tanto para a produção de medicamentos para diversas doenças que podem estar relacionadas à presença de radicais livres, como o câncer, bem como para a indústria cosmética, como agentes anti-envelhecimento e para a indústria alimentícia, como conservantes. Este trabalho avaliou o potencial antifúngico dos extratos de folhas maduras de Myrcia splendens , uma espécie arbórea que ocorre no cerrado brasileiro. O potencial antioxidante foi analisado por meio de ensaio da capacidade sequestrante do radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl e o antifúngico, por meio da avaliação do crescimento micelial. A maioria dos extratos apresentou atividade antioxidante muito forte, especialmente o extrato acetônico (4A). A atividade antioxidante pode ser relacionada a presença de compostos fenólicos. Por outro lado, os extratos não apresentaram atividade inibitória do crescimento micelial do fungo testado, com exceção do extrato diclorometânico (2B), que foi o único que teve efeito inibitório (10,2%) ao final do teste.

Enmascaramiento clínico: una revisión de la literatura / Clinical masking: a literature review

Son diversos los métodos planteados para aplicar enmascaramiento, de esta forma es necesario revisar la literatura en búsqueda de consenso. Se revisaron críticamente los métodos utilizados y recomendados por la literatura y sociedades internacionales, en torno a la aplicación de enmascaramiento. Se consultó entre agosto y noviembre de 2015 en PUBMED, SciELO y Google Scholar por estudios acerca de métodos de enmascaramiento utilizados en audiometría. También se revisaron las guías de organizaciones internacionales y lo publicado en libros relacionados con el área de audiología. El método de "La Meseta" es el más referenciado, siendo modificado posteriormente. Existen variaciones en criterios de atenuación interaural, necesidad de enmascaramiento, enmascaramiento inicial, incrementos para obtener la meseta y niveles del efecto de oclusión. Se concluye que la literatura muestra diferencias al momento de decidir cuándo enmascarar y cómo hacerlo. No obstante, se puede establecer criterios comunes en relación a los niveles de atenuación interaural, cuándo enmascarar, valores de efecto de oclusión y metodología. El método de "La Meseta" sigue siendo el más recomendado. La modificación realizada por Yacullo es la más referenciada y recomendada en la literatura actual.

Adequate use of masking is key in the correct diagnosis of hearing loss. Various methods are suggested regarding the application of clinical masking, hence the need to review literature in order to reach a consensus. To critically review the specialized literature and international societies' recommendations regarding clinical masking. From August to November 2015, PUBMED, SciELO and Google Scholar articles on clinical masking methods used in tonal audiometries were consulted, as well as international organization guidelines, and literature in the area of Audiology. Hood's plateau method, later revised, received the most references. The modified versions consider the number of increments needed to determine the true threshold, and the occlusion effect. Optimized methods show the variations regarding interaural attenuation, need for masking, initial masking level, increments to reach "The Plateau", and the occlusion effect. Literature shows differences regarding when and how to use masking; however, common criteria can be established with reference to the levels of interaural attenuation, when to use masking, occlusion effect values and methodology. The plateau method proposed by Hood is still the most recommended. Yacullo's optimization is currently the one with the most references and recommendations in specialized literature.

Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary Sjögren's syndrome treated with Infliximab: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Human T lymphocytes infiltrating tissues in autoimmune diseases are known to express somatostatin receptors amongst other activation markers. In this study, we evaluated whether somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) using a radiolabelled somatostatin analogue ((99m)Tc-EDDA/tricine-HYNIC-tyr(3)-octreotide ((99m)Tc-EDDA/HYNIC-TOC)) is able to detect the presence of immune-mediated processes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary Sjögren's syndrome. We also aimed to evaluate whether positivity to SRS was predictive of therapeutic response and if SRS could be used for monitoring the efficacy of immunomodulatory treatment. METHODS: Eighteen patients with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary Sjögren's syndrome not responding to conventional treatment were recruited for treatment with infliximab, a monoclonal antibody against TNF-α. All patients had complete blood cell count, renal and liver function tests, measurements of ESR, CRP, ANA, ENA, and anti-dsDNA antibodies, functional salivary gland scintigraphy, labial biopsy, and ophthalmologic assessment with Schirmer's test and tear film break-up time (BUT). Diagnosis was made according to the revised criteria of the American-European Consensus Group. All patients underwent SRS at baseline and after 3-6 months of therapy with infliximab. Eleven out of 18 had repeat SRS images. Images of the salivary glands and major joints were acquired 3 h after injection of 370 MBq of (99m)Tc-EDDA/HYNIC-TOC. Image analysis was performed semi-quantitatively. RESULTS: All patients showed uptake of (99m)Tc-EDDA/HYNIC-TOC in the joints. Salivary glands also showed variable radiopharmaceutical uptake in 12 out of 18 patients, but all patients showed presence of lymphocytic infiltration at labial salivary gland biopsy. All patients, who repeated the study after treatment, showed significant reduction of somatostatin uptake in the joints but not in the salivary glands. CONCLUSIONS: SRS using (99m)Tc-EDDA/HYNIC-TOC may be a useful imaging tool to assess disease activity and extent in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and may help to detect secondary Sjögren's syndrome. It may also aid therapy decision-making with anti-TNFα antibodies in the joints but not in salivary glands.

Prevalencia y causas de hipoacusia en una muestra de escolares de la zona sur de Santiago / Prevalence and causes of hearing loss in a sample of school children in the south area of Santiago

Introducción: La prevalencia de hipoacusia infantil aumenta con la edad, ya que se agregan hipoacusia de conducción y sensorioneurales de inicio tardío, estimándose en hasta 9%. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de hipoacusia en una muestra de escolares. Material y método: Estudio de corte transversal. Se consideraron cuatro escuelas de la comuna de San Bernardo y dos de Lo Espejo. Resultados: Fueron incluidos 196 escolares. La edad promedio fue 9,5 años. Fueron evaluadas 106 mujeres (54%) y 90 hombres (46%). Se observaron 11 casos (5,6%) de hipoacusia leve en oído derecho, y 9 casos (4,52%) de hipoacusia en oído izquierdo (8 leves, y 1 moderada). Seis casos fueron de hipoacusia bilateral, 5 de hipoacusia unilateral en oído derecho, y 3 de hipoacusia unilateral en oído izquierdo. Todas fueron de tipo conductiva. Las causas de hipoacusia fueron otitis media con efusión, tapón de cerumen, y otitis media crónica. Hubo un caso de agenesia de conducto auditivo. Conclusiones: La hipoacusia es una condición frecuente en etapa escolar, siendo principalmente conductiva. La prevalencia se encuentra dentro de lo esperado. Debido a las consecuencias asociadas a la hipoacusia en esta etapa, es importante implementar un programa de tamizaje auditivo en escolares en nuestro país.

Introduction: The prevalence of hearing loss in childhood increases with age, as conductive hearing loss or late onset sensorineural hearing lossare added, estimated at up to 9%. Aim: To determine the prevalence of hearing loss in a school sample. Material and method: Cross sectional study. 4 schools of San Bernardo and 2 of Lo Espejo were included. Results: We included 196 children. Mean age was 9.5 years. We evaluated 106 women (54%) and 90 men (46%). 11 cases (5.6%) of mild hearing loss in the right ear, and 9 cases (4.52%) of hearing loss in the left ear (8 in mild range, and 1 in moderate range) were observed. Six cases were bilateral hearing loss, unilateral hearing loss 5 in the right ear, and 3 of unilateral hearing loss in the left ear. All were conductive type. Causes of hearing loss wereotitis media with effusion, earwax, and chronic otitis media. There was 1 case of agenesis of the ear canal. Conclusion: Hearing loss is a common condition in school children, being primarily conductive. The prevalence is within expected. Beause of the consecuences of the hearing loss in this age group, it is important to implement a hearing screening program in schools in our country.

Adaptación transcultural al español de los instrumentos de tamizaje auditivo para escolares TEAP y ABEL / Transcultural adaptation to Spanish of the hearing screening questionnaires TEAP and ABEL

Introducción: La hipoacusia es una condición prevalente que tiene consecuencias en el desarrollo de los individuos. Cada vez cobran mayor importancia los programas de tamizaje de hipoacusia. Una estrategia involucra la utilización de cuestionarios de tamizaje de hipoacusia. Objetivos: Realizar la adaptación transcultural al español de los instrumentos de tamizaje auditivos ABEL y TEAP. Material y método: Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal de validación de cuestionario en escolares de cuarto básico. Se utilizó la teoría clásica de tests, que incluye validez de criterio, confiabilidad test-retest y consistencia interna. Resultados: Fueron evaluados 100 escolares de San Bernardo. Cincuenta y dos por ciento de la muestra fueron mujeres. El promedio (DE) de edad fue 9,75 (± 0,78) años. Hubo tres casos de hipoacusia bilateral y dos de hipoacusia unilateral. La consistencia interna del test ABEL fue de 0,73. La consistencia interna del test TEAP fue de 0,82. La confiabilidad test-retest del ABEL fue 0,86 y del TEAP fue 0,86. No hubo diferencia entre los puntajes del ABEL ni del TEAP entre niños con hipoacusia y sin hipoacusia. Conclusión: Sería de utilidad utilizar cuestionarios para el tamizaje de hipoacusia en escolares. Estos resultados permiten plantear un programa formal de tamizaje basado en cuestionarios de hipoacusia.

Introduction: Hearinglossis a prevalent condition that has consequences for children's development. As a result, screening programs for hearing loss are of increasing importance. One screening strategy involves the use of questionnaires for people with hearing loss. Aim: Transcultural adaptation to Spanish of the hearing screening in struments ABEL and the TEAP. Material and method: A cross-sectional questionnaire validation study in fourth grade school children was conducted. Classical test theory, including criterion validity, test-retest reliability and internal consistency was used. Results: A total of 100 school children in San Bernardo were evaluated. 52% of the sample were girls. The mean (SD) age was 9.75 (± 0.78) years. There were three cases of bilateral hearing loss and two cases of unilateral hearing loss. The internal consistency of the test was 0.73 for ABEL. The internal consistency was 0.82 for TEAP. The test-retest reliability was 0.86 for ABEL and for TEAP was 0.86. There was no difference between the scores of ABEL or TEAP between the children with hearing loss and those without hearing loss. Conclusions: It would be helpful to use questionnaires to screen for hearing loss in school. These results support a formal screening program based on questionnaires of hearing loss.

Patología vestibular y su asociación con enfermedades metabólicas / Vestibular pathology and its association with metabolic disease

Introducción: Se describen asociaciones entre vértigo e hipoacusia con distintas patologías metabólicas, en especial con el Síndrome Metabóico (SM). Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre vértigo y enfermedades metabólicas. Material y método: Estudio realizado entre octubre 2011 a marzo 2012 en pacientes con vértigo del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Sótero del Río. Completaron una encuesta epidemiológica, se realizó VIII par, se midió presión arterial (PA), circunferencia de cintura (CC), peso y talla. Se les solicitó glicemia y perfil lipídico. Los datos fueron comparados con aquellos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud del año 2010 (ENS). Resultados: Se obtuvo un N =31 pacientes con edad promedio de 59,4 años. Setenta por ciento presentó SM. La PA, la CC, índice de masa corporal, colesterol total, LDL y triglicéridos fueron mayores en los pacientes con vértigo. El 35,48% de los pacientes presentó una alteración en el VIII par en el área vestibular y 38,7% en el audiograma. Sólo se encontró relación estadísticamente significativa entre DM2 e hipoacusia. Conclusiones: No se pudo demostrar relación estadísticamente significativa entre alteraciones vestibulares del VIII par y las patologías estudiadas, sin embargo hay que considerar que el número de pacientes fue pequeño y que faltó realizar prueba calórica mínima o usar video-óculo-nistagmógrafo. Los resultados apoyan la hipótesis de que las enfermedades metabólicas son más prevalentes en pacientes con vértigo y que podrían tener un rol en el origen de esta patología, en especial en pacientes con vértigo de causa no precisada.

Introduction: There have been reports of vertigo and/or hypoacusia associated with metabolic diseases, specially metabolic syndrome (MS). Aim: To evaluate association between vertigo and metabolic disorders. Material and method: Study between October 2011 and March 2012 of patients consulting for vertigo in the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery service in Hospital Sótero del Río. All patients recruited filled an epidemiological survey, a VIII nerve testing was performed, blood pressure, waist circumference, weight and height were measured. Serum glucose and lipid profile were indicated. Data obtained was compared to that presented in a national health survey. Results: Data of N =31 patients of an average age of 59,4 years old. A 70% prevalence of MS was found. Blood pressure, waist circumference and body mass index, total colesterol, LDL and triglycerides were higher in vertigo patients. In the VIII nerve test, 35,8% of patients had a vestibular alteration and 38,7% had an audiogram alteration. Only DM2 showed statistical association with bilateral sensoneural hearing loss. Conclusions: It was not possible to demostrate statistical relation between vestibular alterations in VIII nerve test and studied comorbilities, however it is necessary to consider the small sample and that minimum caloric test and video-oculo-nistagmography were not performed. Results support the hypothesis that metabolic diseases affect the hearing organ and may have a role in pathogenesis of vertigo, specially in patients with vertigo of unknown cause.