MicroRNA-1307-3p contributes to breast cancer progression through PRM2.

BACKGROUND: Despite advances in screening and therapy, breast cancer (BC) remains the predominant cancer in women globally. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) is pivotal in carcinogenesis across various cancers, including BC. Evidence indicates that miR-1307-3p is upregulated in BC tumors, yet its target genes are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore how miR-1307-3p regulates BC proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis and to identify potential target genes. METHODS: Basal miR-1307-3p levels were quantified in BC cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, as well as MCF-10A using quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-qPCR). The impact of miR-1307-3p inhibition on BC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis was assessed. Nine miRNA-target prediction databases identified potential miR-1307-3p targets. Target expression was validated using RT-qPCR, Western blot, and dual-luciferase reporter assays. MiR-1307-3p was overexpressed in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 compared to MCF-10A. RESULTS: Inhibiting miR-1307-3p significantly reduced BC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Bioinformatics analysis identified 17 potential miR-1307-3p targets, with protamine 2 (PRM2) overexpression confirmed via Western blot and dual-luciferase assays. CONCLUSION: MiR-1307-3p overexpression in BC promotes proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. PRM2 emerges as a novel miR-1307-3p target in BC.

Synergistic Enhancement of Chemotherapy-Induced Cell Death and Antitumor Efficacy against Tumoral T-Cell Lymphoblasts by IMMUNEPOTENT CRP.

T-cell malignancies, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL), present significant challenges to treatment due to their aggressive nature and chemoresistance. Chemotherapies remain a mainstay for their management, but the aggressiveness of these cancers and their associated toxicities pose limitations. Immunepotent CRP (ICRP), a bovine dialyzable leukocyte extract, has shown promise in inducing cytotoxicity against various cancer types, including hematological cancers. In this study, we investigated the combined effect of ICRP with a panel of chemotherapies on cell line models of T-ALL and T-LBL (CEM and L5178Y-R cells, respectively) and its impact on immune system cells (peripheral blood mononuclear cells, splenic and bone marrow cells). Our findings demonstrate that combining ICRP with chemotherapies enhances cytotoxicity against tumoral T-cell lymphoblasts. ICRP + Cyclophosphamide (CTX) cytotoxicity is induced through a caspase-, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-, and calcium-dependent mechanism involving the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, an increase in ROS production, and caspase activation. Low doses of ICRP in combination with CTX spare non-tumoral immune cells, overcome the bone marrow-induced resistance to CTX cell death, and improves the CTX antitumor effect in vivo in syngeneic Balb/c mice challenged with L5178Y-R. This led to a reduction in tumor volume and a decrease in Ki-67 proliferation marker expression and the granulocyte/lymphocyte ratio. These results set the basis for further research into the clinical application of ICRP in combination with chemotherapeutic regimens for improving outcomes in T-cell malignancies.

Persistent Food Insecurity and Material Hardships: A Latent Class Analysis of Experiences among Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants in Urban Colombia.

The causes and conditions of displacement often increase the vulnerability of migrant and refugee populations to food insecurity, alongside other material hardships. We aimed to examine the multidimensional aspects and patterns of food insecurity and other material hardships in a cross-sectional sample of 6221 Venezuelan refugees and migrants in urban Colombia using a latent class analysis. Using multinomial and logistic regression models, we investigated the demographic and migratory experiences associated with identified classes and how class membership is associated with multiple health outcomes among Venezuelan refugees and migrants, respectively. Approximately two thirds of the sample was comprised cisgender women, and the participants had a median age of 32 years (IQR: 26-41). Four heterogeneous classes of food insecurity and material hardships emerged: Class 1-low food insecurity and material hardship; Class 2-high food insecurity and material hardship; Class 3-high income hardship with insufficient food intake; and Class 4-income hardship with food affordability challenges. Class 2 reflected the most severe food insecurity and material hardships and had the highest class membership; Venezuelans with an irregular migration status were almost 1.5 times more likely to belong to this class. Food insecurity and material hardship class membership was independently associated with self-rated health, mental health symptoms, and recent violence victimization and marginally associated with infectious disease outcomes (laboratory-confirmed HIV and/or syphilis infection). Social safety nets, social protection, and other interventions that reduce and prevent material hardships and food insecurity among refugees and migrants, alongside the host community, may improve public health, support development, and reduce healthcare costs. In the long term, regularization and social policies for migrants aimed at enhancing refugees' and migrants' social and economic inclusion may contribute to improving food security in this population.

Temporal variation of the PM2.5/PM10 ratio and its association with meteorological factors in a South American megacity: Metropolitan Area of Lima-Callao, Peru.

The Metropolitan Area of Lima-Callao (MALC) is a South American megacity that has suffered a serious deterioration in air quality due to high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Studies on the behavior of the PM2.5/PM10 ratio and its temporal variability in relation to meteorological parameters are still very limited. The objective of this study was to analyze the temporal trends of the PM2.5/PM10 ratio, its temporal variability, and its association with meteorological variables over a period of 5 years (2015-2019). For this, the Theil-Sen estimator, bivariate polar plots, and correlation analysis were used. The regions of highest mean concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were identified at eastern Lima (ATE station-41.2 µg/m3) and southern Lima (VMT station-126.7 µg/m3), respectively. The lowest concentrations were recorded in downtown Lima (CDM station-16.8 µg/m3 and 34.0 µg/m3, respectively). The highest average PM2.5/PM10 ratio was found at the CDM station (0.55) and the lowest at the VMT station (0.27), indicating a predominance of emissions from the vehicular fleet within central Lima and a greater emission of coarse particles by resuspension in southern Lima. The temporal progression of the ratio of PM2.5/PM10 showed positive and highly significant trends in northern and central Lima with values of 0.03 and 0.1 units of PM2.5/PM10 per year, respectively. In the southern region of Lima, the trend was also significant, showcasing a value of 0.02 units of PM2.5/PM10 per year. At the hourly and monthly level, the PM2.5/PM10 ratio presented a negative and significant correlation with wind speed and air temperature, and a positive and significant correlation with relative humidity. These findings offer insights into identifying the sources of PM pollution and are useful for implementing regulations to reduce air emissions considering both anthropogenic sources and meteorological dispersion patterns.

The impact of policy and policy communication on COVID-19 vaccination inequalities among Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Colombia: a comparative cross-sectional interrupted time-series analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Equitable access to vaccines for migrants and refugees is necessary to ensure their right to health and to achieve public health goals of reducing vaccine-preventable illness. Public health policies require regulatory frameworks and communication to effect uptake of effective vaccines among the target population. In Colombia, the National COVID-19 Vaccination Plan implicitly included Venezuelan refugees and migrants; however, initial communication of the policy indicated that vaccine availability was restricted to people with regular migration status. We estimated the impact of a public announcement, which clarified access for refugees and migrants, on vaccination coverage among Venezuelans living in Colombia. METHODS: Between 30 July 2021 and 5 February 2022, 6221 adult Venezuelans participated in a cross-sectional, population-based health survey. We used a comparative cross-sectional time-series analysis to estimate the effect of the October 2021 announcement on the average biweekly change in COVID-19 vaccine coverage of Venezuelans with regular and irregular migration status. RESULTS: 71% of Venezuelans had an irregular status. The baseline (preannouncement) vaccine coverage was lower among people with an irregular status but increased at similar rates as those with a regular status. After the announcement, there was a level change of 14.49% (95% CI: 1.57 to 27.42, p=0.03) in vaccination rates among individuals with irregular migration status with a 4.61% increase in vaccination rate per biweekly period (95% CI: 1.71 to 7.51, p=0.004). By February 2022, there was a 26.2% relative increase in vaccinations among individuals with irregular migration status compared with what was expected without the announcement. CONCLUSION: While there was no policy change, communication clarifying the policy drastically reduced vaccination inequalities across migration status. Lessons can be translated from the COVID-19 pandemic into more effective global, regional and local public health emergency preparedness and response to displacement.

Syphilis prevalence and correlates of infection among Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Colombia: findings of a cross-sectional biobehavioral survey.

Background: Population-based estimates of syphilis prevalence are critical to informing public health response. We aimed to measure syphilis prevalence among Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Colombia to inform public health programming. Methods: Between July 2021 and February 2022, we surveyed 6221 adult Venezuelan refugees and migrants in four cities in Colombia using respondent-driven sampling (RDS). Participants completed a survey and dual-rapid HIV/treponemal syphilis screening. Confirmatory laboratory-based rapid plasma reagin testing was conducted on whole blood samples. Active syphilis infection was defined as RPR titer ≥ 1:8 and no self-reported syphilis treatment. We used multivariable regression models to identify associations with active syphilis infection among subgroups by gender and history of pregnancy (cisgender men n = 2123, cisgender women n = 4044, transgender/nonbinary people n = 47, pregnant women n = 150). Findings: Population (RDS-weighted) prevalence of laboratory-confirmed syphilis was 5.1% (95% CI: 4.6-5.6). Syphilis prevalence was 5.8% (weighted) among men; lifetime sexually transmitted infections (STI) diagnosis, same-sex relationships, HIV infection, and partner number were independently associated with syphilis infection. Syphilis prevalence was 4.6% (weighted) in women; correlates of infection included: lifetime STI diagnosis, food insecurity, current engagement in sex work, current pregnancy, any unsafe night in Colombia, irregular migration status, and no healthcare utilization in Colombia. 14.9% (unweighted) of transgender participants had syphilis infection; correlates of infection included partner number and HIV infection. The prevalence of syphilis was 9.0% (weighted) among pregnant women, which was associated with lifetime STI diagnosis. Interpretation: Syphilis among Venezuelans in Colombia is high. Correlates of infection are distinct among demographic groups, spanning sexual and social vulnerabilities, suggesting tailored public health strategies. Funding: US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Factores asociados a sobrevida a un año en pacientes postoperados de glioblastoma.

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with one-year survival in postoperative glioblastoma patients at a hospital in northeastern Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Nested case-control study. Patients operated on for glioblastoma between 2016-2019 were included. Information about clinical and surgical factors was obtained, survival was calculated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Descriptive analysis was performed with medians and ranges, and inferential analysis with χ2, Fisher and Student t test, odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. A value of p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Sixty-two patients with glioblastoma were included, 27 (43.5%) women and 35 (56.5%) men, median age 56 years (range: 6-83). Median survival was 3.6 months (1-52), 45 (72.6%) survived less than 12 months. The factors associated with a higher survival were administration of adjuvant treatment (p < 0.001), better functional status (p = 0.001), and absence of post-surgical complications (p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS: Most patients with glioblastoma survive less than 12 months and the factors most strongly associated with longer survival are administration of adjuvant treatment, better functional status of the patient and absence of post-surgical complications.

OBJETIVO: Identificar los factores asociados a la sobrevida a un año en pacientes postoperados de glioblastoma en un hospital del noreste de México. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte. Se incluyeron pacientes operados de glioblastoma entre 2016 y 2019. Se obtuvo la información sobre factores clínicos y quirúrgicos, se calculó la sobrevida mediante análisis de Kaplan-Meier. El análisis descriptivo se realizó con medianas y rangos, y el inferencial con prueba de χ2, Fisher, t de Student, razón de momios e intervalo de confianza al 95%. Se consideró significativo un valor de p < 0.05. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 62 pacientes con glioblastoma, 27 (43.5%) mujeres y 35 (56.5%) hombres, mediana de edad de 56 años (rango: 6-83). La mediana de sobrevida fue de 3.6 meses (1-52), 45 (72.6%) sobrevivieron menos de 12 meses. Los factores asociados a mayor sobrevida fueron: administración de tratamiento adyuvante (p < 0.001), mejor estado funcional (p = 0.001) y ausencia de complicaciones posquirúrgicas (p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONES: La mayoría de los pacientes con glioblastoma sobreviven menos de 12 meses y los factores más fuertemente asociados a mayor sobrevida son administración de tratamiento adyuvante, mejor estado funcional del paciente y ausencia de complicaciones posquirúrgicas.

p16INK4a and pRb expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma with and without infection by EBV or different genotypes of HPV: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) represents one of the principal tumors of the head and neck. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are considered risk factors for the development and the clinical prognosis of LSCC. High levels of p16INK4a are suggested as a surrogate marker of HPV or EBV infection in some head and neck tumors but in LSCC is still controversial. Furthermore, pRb expression may be considered an additional biomarker but it has not been clearly defined. This work aimed to compare the expression of pRb and p16INK4a as possible biomarkers in tumor tissues with and without infection by EBV or different genotypes of HPV from patients with LSCC. METHODS: Tumor samples from 103 patients with LSCC were previously investigated for the presence and genotypes of HPV using the INNO-LiPA line probe assay and for the infection of EBV by qPCR. p16 INK4a and pRb expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Of the 103 tumor samples, expression of p16INK4a was positive in 55 (53.4%) and of this, 32 (56.1%) were positive for HPV whereas 11 (39.3%) were EBV positive but both without a significantly difference (p > 0.05). pRb expression was positive in 78 (75.7%) and a higher frequency of this expression was observed in HPV negative samples (87.0%) (p = 0.021) and in high-risk HPV negative samples (85.2%) (p = 0.010). No difference was observed when comparing pRb expression and EBV infection status (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results support the suggestion that p16INK4a is not a reliable surrogate marker for identifying HPV or EBV infection in LSCC. On the other hand, most of our samples had pRb expression, which was more frequent in tumors without HPV, suggesting that pRb could indicate HPV negativity. However, more studies with a larger number of cases are required, including controls without LSCC and evaluating other molecular markers to determine the real role of p16INK4a and pRb in LSCC.

HIV infection and engagement in the care continuum among migrants and refugees from Venezuela in Colombia: a cross-sectional, biobehavioural survey.

BACKGROUND: Venezuela has experienced substantial human displacement since 2015. To inform HIV programmes and treatment distribution, we aimed to estimate HIV prevalence and associated indicators among migrants and refugees from Venezuela residing in Colombia, the largest receiving country. METHODS: We conducted a biobehavioural, cross-sectional survey using respondent-driven sampling among Venezuelan people aged 18 years or older who had arrived in Colombia since 2015 and resided in four cities (ie, Bogotá, Soacha, Soledad, and Barranquilla). Participants completed sociobehavioural questionnaires and rapid HIV and syphilis screening with laboratory-based confirmatory testing, CD4 cell counts, and viral load quantification. Policies related to migration status affect access to insurance and HIV services in Colombia, as in many receiving countries, so we provided legal assistance and navigation support to participants with HIV for sustained access to treatment. Population-based estimates were weighted for the complex sampling design. Penalised multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify correlates of viral suppression (HIV-1 RNA <1000 copies per mL). FINDINGS: Between July 30, 2021, and Feb 5, 2022, 6506 participants were recruited through respondent-driven sampling, of whom 6221 were enrolled. 4046 (65·1%) of 6217 were cisgender women, 2124 (34·2%) of 6217 were cisgender men, and 47 (0·8%) of 6217 were transgender or non-binary people. 71 (1·1%) of all 6221 participants had laboratory-confirmed HIV infection, resulting in a weighted population HIV prevalence of 0·9% (95% CI 0·6-1·4). Among participants living with HIV, 34 (47·9%) of 71 had been previously diagnosed with HIV and 25 (35·7%) of 70 had viral suppression. Individuals with irregular migration status compared with individuals with regular migration status (adjusted odds ratio 0·3, 95% CI 0·1-0·9) and with a most recent HIV test in Colombia compared with a most recent test in Venezuela (0·2, 0·1-0·8) were less likely to have suppressed viral loads. INTERPRETATION: HIV prevalence among migrants and refugees from Venezuela in Colombia suggests the HIV epidemic is close to being generalised, which could be addressed by the inclusion of migrants and refugees from Venezuela in local HIV services, improved access to and navigation support for HIV testing and care, and coordination with humanitarian programmes. There is an association between migration status and viral suppression, conferring both clinical and epidemiological implications. Therefore, legal support and access to insurance might lead to early detection of HIV and timely treatment for people with irregular migration status. FUNDING: US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. TRANSLATION: For the Spanish translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

EGFR and p38MAPK Contribute to the Apoptotic Effect of the Recombinant Lectin from Tepary Bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) in Colon Cancer Cells.

Previous works showed that a Tepary bean lectin fraction (TBLF) induced apoptosis on colon cancer cells and inhibited early colonic tumorigenesis. One Tepary bean (TB) lectin was expressed in Pichia pastoris (rTBL-1), exhibiting similarities to one native lectin, where its molecular structure and in silico recognition of cancer-type N-glycoconjugates were confirmed. This work aimed to determine whether rTBL-1 retained its bioactive properties and if its apoptotic effect was related to EGFR pathways by studying its cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells. Similar apoptotic effects of rTBL-1 with respect to TBLF were observed for cleaved PARP-1 and caspase 3, and cell cycle G0/G1 arrest and decreased S phase were observed for both treatments. Apoptosis induction on SW-480 cells was confirmed by testing HA2X, p53 phosphorylation, nuclear fragmentation, and apoptotic bodies. rTBL-1 increased EGFR phosphorylation but also its degradation by the lysosomal route. Phospho-p38 increased in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, matching apoptotic markers, and STAT1 showed activation after rTBL-1 treatment. The results show that part of the rTBL-1 mechanism of action is related to p38 MAPK signaling. Future work will focus further on the target molecules of this recombinant lectin against colon cancer.

Dairy goats fed sunflower hay intercropped with chickpea in small-scale systems. Part II: Cheese yield and composition, sensory analysis, and economic performance / Cabras lecheras alimentadas con heno de girasol intercalado con garbanzo en sistemas de pequeña escala. Parte II: Rendimiento y composición del queso, análisis sensorial y desempeño económico / Cabras leiteiras alimentadas com feno de girassol consorciado com grão de bico em sistemas de pequena escala. Parte II: Rendimento e composição do queijo, análise sensorial e desempenho econômico

Abstract Background: Goat production has grown worldwide as a way to improve the quality of rural life and reduce the environmental footprint; nevertheless, there is a need to increase productivity through improved feeding strategies. The market demands healthier products with organoleptic characteristics similar to the traditional ones; thus, it is necessary to evaluate the effect of new forages for goats and its acceptance by consumers. Chemical and organoleptic composition of goat milk vary according to the diet which, in turn, affects the characteristics of cheese. Cheese texture, taste and smell are the most important sensory attributes for consumers. Objective: To evaluate the effect of substituting corn straw with sunflower hay associated with chickpea for dairy goats on yield, chemical composition and sensory acceptability of cheese, as well profitability. Methods: Twenty-eight Saanen dairy goats were randomly assigned to two treatments in a 30-day experiment on a small farm. The daily ration per goat in the MZST treatment (control treatment) consisted of alfalfa hay (200 g/goat/day) and concentrate (400 g/goat/day) plus 600 g/goat/day (50% of the ration) of corn straw. The SFCP treatment substituted corn straw with sunflower-chickpea hay; it had the same alfalfa and concentrate content, but with no corn straw and was added with 600 g/goat/day of sunflower-chickpea hay. The yield, composition and sensory evaluation of fresh cheese made with milk from each treatment were recorded, and the feeding costs and returns evaluated. Variables for the chemical composition of cheese were analyzed following a completely randomized design. Results: Significant differences were observed in cheese yield and all chemical composition variables. According to sensory evaluation, SFCP cheese had significantly higher scores for texture and odor but lower for taste and overall acceptability compared to MZST. In terms of profitability, SFCP increased feed costs by 5% but resulted in higher margins over feed costs of 12 and 24% for milk and cheese, respectively, compared to MZST. Conclusion: In spite of favorable performance and economic returns of MZST treatment (control treatment), the organoleptic characteristics of the cheese reduced its general acceptance.

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Resumo Antecedentes: A produção de caprinos em todo o mundo tem crescido como forma de melhorar a qualidade de vida rural e reduzir a pegada ambiental; pero há uma necessidade de aumentar a produtividade através de estratégias de alimentação melhoradas. A crescente procura dos consumidores por produtos mais saudáveis mas com características organolépticas semelhantes aos tradicionais, tornou necessário desenvolver estratégias para satisfazer esta necessidade, pelo que é necessário avaliar o efeito de novas forrageiras nas dietas na sua aceitação pelos consumidores. A composição química e organoléptica do leite de cabra varia de acordo com a dieta, o que por sua vez afeta as características do queijo de leite de cabra. Entre os atributos sensoriais mais importantes para os consumidores estão textura, sabor e cheiro. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da substituição da palha de milho por feno de girassol associada ao grão-de-bico na alimentação de cabras leiteiras, em termos de rendimento, composição química e aceitabilidade sensorial do queijo, bem como desempenho econômico. Métodos: Vinte e oito cabras leiteiras Saanen foram distribuídas aleatoriamente em dois tratamentos em um experimento de 30 dias em uma fazenda de pequena escala. A ração diária por cabra no tratamento MZST (tratamento controle) consistia em feno de alfafa (200 g/cabra/dia) e concentrado (400 g/cabra/dia) mais 600 g/cabra/dia (50% da ração) de a palha de milho e o tratamento SFCP (tratamento substituiu o feno de girassol-grão moído) continham os mesmos teores de alfafa e concentrado, mas com 600 g/cabra/dia de feno de girassol-grão. O rendimento, a composição e a avaliação sensorial dos queijos in natura feitos com leite de cada tratamento foram registrados e os custos de alimentação e retornos avaliados. As variáveis de composição química dos queijos foram analisadas seguindo um delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Resultados: Houve diferenças significativas no rendimento do queijo e para todas as variáveis de composição química. A avaliação sensorial mostrou que o queijo SFCP teve pontuações significativamente mais altas para textura e odor, mas significativamente mais baixas para sabor e aceitabilidade geral em comparação com o MZST. Em termos econômicos, o SFCP aumentou os custos com alimentação em 5%, mas resultou em margens mais altas sobre os custos com alimentação de 12 e 24% para leite e queijo, respectivamente, em comparação com o MZST. Conclusão: Apesar do desempenho favorável e do retorno econômico com o tratamento MZST (tratamento controle), mudanças nas características organolépticas do queijo reduziram sua aceitação geral.

Qualitative assessment of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on migration, access to healthcare, and social wellbeing among Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Colombia.

Background: Colombia hosts a large number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees who are uniquely vulnerable and have been markedly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is necessary to understand their experiences to inform future policy decisions both in Colombia and during disease outbreaks in other humanitarian contexts in the future. As part of a larger study focused on HIV among Venezuelans residing in Colombia, qualitative interviews were conducted to understand this population's experiences and access to healthcare. Methods: Interviews were conducted with Venezuelan migrants and refugees as well as stakeholders such as care providers, humanitarian workers, and government officials. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using thematic content analysis. Select quotes were translated and edited for length and/or clarity. Results: Venezuelan migrants and refugees reported high levels of housing instability, job instability, increased barriers to accessing healthcare, and complications in engaging in the HIV care continuum, among other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stakeholders reported complications in provision of care and obtaining medicines, difficulty maintaining contact with patients, increased discrimination and xenophobia targeting Venezuelan migrants and refugees, increased housing instability among Venezuelan migrants and refugees, and other impacts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the unique impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic among Venezuelans residing in Colombia by both compounding extant vulnerabilities and introducing new challenges, such as high rates of eviction. Colombia has enacted increasingly inclusive migration policies for Venezuelan refugees and migrants within the country; findings from this study underscore the necessity for such policies both in and outside of the Colombian context.

Dairy goats fed sunflower hay intercropped with chickpea in small-scale systems. Part I: Animal performance / Cabras lecheras alimentadas con heno de girasol intercalado con garbanzo en sistemas de pequeña escala. Parte I: Desempeño animal / Cabras leiteiras alimentadas com feno de girassol consorciado com grão de bico em sistemas de pequena escala. Parte I: Desempenho dos animais

Abstract Background: Small-scale livestock systems provide quality food for a growing demand of animal protein worldwide. Although these systems help to improve rural living standards and reduce the environmental footprint new feeding strategies should be tested to improve animal productivity. Sunflower -which is native to México- and chickpea -also common in the study area- may be used as feed alternatives for dairy goats. Objective: To evaluate the effect of substituting corn straw with sunflower-chickpea hay on yield and nutrient composition of goat milk. Methods: In this participatory study, a total of 28 multiparous Saanen dairy goats were randomly assigned to two treatments (14 goats each) during a 30-day experiment in a small farm. Two weeks prior to the experiment all goats received an adaptation diet. One treatment (MZST) received a conventional diet of lucerne hay (200 g/goat/day) and concentrate (400 g/goat/day), plus 600 g/goat/day (50% of the ration) of corn straw. The second treatment (SFCPT) contained the same lucerne and concentrate content with 600 g/goat/day of sunflower-chickpea hay. Milk yield and composition, and live weight and body condition of the goats were recorded for each treatment. Results: SFCPT significantly increased milk yield, protein, and solids content, but no difference was observed in milk fat. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation of goats with sunflower and chickpea hay increases milk production, protein, and total solids content compared with corn hay.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los sistemas de producción animal en pequeña escala proveen alimentos de calidad para una demanda mundial creciente de proteina animal. Aunque estos sistemas ayudan a mejorar la calidad de vida rural y reducen la huella ambiental, se deben buscar nuevas estrategias de alimentación para incrementar la productividad animal. El girasol -originario de México- y el garbanzo -común en la zona de estudio- pueden usarse como alternativa para la alimentación de cabras lecheras. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de sustituir el heno de maíz con heno de girasol y garbanzo sobre el rendimiento y composición nutricional de la leche de cabra. Métodos: En este estudio participtivo, un total de 28 cabras multíparas lecheras Saanen fueron asignadas aleatoriamente a dos tratamientos (14 cabras a cada uno) durante 30 días en una finca pequeña. Dos semanas antes del experimento todas las cabras recibieron una dieta de adaptación. Un tratamiento (MZST) recibió una dieta convencional de heno de alfalfa (200g/cabra/día) y concentrado (400 g/cabra/día), más 600 g/cabra/día (50% de la ración) de heno de maíz. El segundo tratamiento (SFCPT) tuvo el mismo contenido de alfalfa y concentrado, pero con 600 g/cabra/día de heno de girasol-garbanzo. Se registraron los rendimientos y composición de leche, peso vivo y condición corporal de las cabras para cada tratamiento. Resultados: SFCPT incrementó significativamente el rendimiento de leche, y contenido de proteína y sólidos, pero no hubo diferencias en contenido de grasa. Conclusión: La suplementacion dietaria de cabras con heno de girasol y garbanzo aumenta la producción de leche y su contenido de proteína y sólidos totales en comparacion con el heno de maiz.

Resumo Antecedentes: Os sistemas de produção animal em pequena escala têm um papel importante no fornecimento de alimentos de qualidade para atender uma demanda mundial crescente desses produtos, para melhorar a subsistência rural e para reduzir a pegada ambiental. Há uma necessidade, porem, de aumentar a produtividade através de estratégias de alimentação melhoradas. O girassol é nativo do México e o grão-de-bico é uma cultura comum na área de estudo que podem representar uma alternativa na alimentação de caprinos leiteiros. Objectivo: Avaliar através de investigação participativa na exploração o efeito da substituição da palha de milho tradicionalmente utilizada na alimentação de cabras leiteiras por uma forragem alternativa adaptada à região, mas não utilizada até o momento, em termos de rendimento, composição química de leite fresco de cabras. Métodos: Vinte e oito cabras leiteiras Saanen multipares foram designadas aleatoriamente a dois tratamentos (14 cabras/tratamento), em um experimento de 30 dias numa fazenda de pequena escala. Duas semanas antes do experimento, todos os caprinos receberam uma dieta de adaptação. Um tratamento (MZST) recebeu a dieta convencional de feno de alfalfa (200 g/caprino/dia) e concentrado (400 g/caprino/dia) mais 600 g/caprino/dia (50% da ração) de palha de milho. O segundo tratamento (SFCPT) tinha a mesma proporção de alfalfa e concentrado, mas com 600 g/caprino/dia de feno de girassol e grão-de-bico. O rendimento e composição do leite, o peso vivo e a condição corporal das cabras foram registrados de cada tratamento. Resultados: SFCPT aumentou significativamente o rendimento do leite e o conteúdo de proteínas e sólidos, mas não houve diferença no conteúdo de gordura láctea. Conclusão: O tratamento com girassol e feno de grão de bico aumentou a produção de leite, o teor de proteína e os sólidos totais.

Characterisation and sensory appraisal of fresh 'molido' cheese from cows fed different levels of sunflower silage inclusion in small-scale dairy systems.

Small-scale dairy systems require feeding strategies to improve their productivity and sustainability. These systems in central Mexico mostly sell their milk to local artisan cheese makers. Cow diets influence milk and dairy products composition; therefore, the objective was to evaluate the effect on physicochemical characteristics, sensory appraisal, and economic performance of cheese made with milk from cows fed different levels of sunflower silage (SFSL). Treatments were the inclusion of SFSL in the forage DM component of diets (T0 = 0% SFSL; T20 = 20%; T40 = 40%; and, T60 = 60%). Physicochemical composition was analysed by analysis of variance in a completely randomised design and the sensory assessment of the cheese was with a hedonistic five-point scale and the results were analysed by means of descriptive statistics and a radar graph. Partial budgets were used for economic analyses. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) for all physicochemical variables (moisture content, cheese yield, protein, fat content, and pH) of the cheese, with higher values for yield, protein, and fat content in the treatments that included SFSL. Sensory assessment values were in the average perception range of judges. Treatments that included SFSL had lower production costs, higher margins over costs, and higher returns/costs ratios. The inclusion of sunflower silage at 40 and 60% of the forage component of diets for dairy cows in small-scale dairy systems had positive effects. Yields of cheese as well as protein and fat content were higher. There were positive sensory attributes that meant acceptance by consumers, lower production costs, and higher incomes from cheese making.

Salud mental intergeneracional / Intergenerational mental health

La salud mental en distintas generaciones relacionadas entre sí es tema de creciente interés general y científico. El propósito de esta revisión narrativa, necesariamente limitada, es actualizar el conocimiento científico existente, para lo cual se ha seleccionado un total de 72 estudios cualificados de investigación. Los resultados muestran pruebas adecuadas de que la información genética heredable va acompañada de marcas epigenéticas. La combinación de modificaciones genéticas y epigenéticas es importante para determinar la diversidad fenotípica de los progenitores y sus descendientes, y también puede generar múltiples estados psicopatológicos. La llamada programación fetal es un delicado proceso adaptativo de crecimiento prenatal que puede presentar interferencias mórbidas. Existen hipótesis sobre los mecanismos epigenéticos por medio de los cuales las experiencias pre y posnatales programan la reactividad del niño ante situaciones de estrés y promueven el desarrollo de fenotipos adaptativos. Los patrones y procesos del distanciamiento intergeneracional entre familias son sumamente complejos, por lo que es difícil puntualizar conclusiones válidas sobre la salud mental entre generaciones vinculadas. Puede afirmarse, sin embargo, que trastornos mentales graves afectan con frecuencia a múltiples generaciones. La información y el conocimiento sobre este fenómeno requieren, sin duda, de numerosas investigaciones de alta calidad.

SUMMARY Mental health in different related generations is a matter of increasing general and scientific interest. The purpose of this narrative review, necessarily limited, is to update the corresponding scientific knowledge, by selecting a total of 72 qualified research studies. The results show appropriate evidence that inheritable genetic information is accompanied by epigenetic marks. The combination of genetic and epigenetic modifications is important to determine the phenotypic diversity of the progenitors and their descendants, and it also may generate multiple psychopathological states. The so-called fetal programming is a delicate adaptive process of prenatal growth that may be morbidly interfered with. There are hypotheses about epigenetic mechanisms through which prenatal and postnatal experiences program the child's reactivity to stress and promote the development of adaptative phenotypes. The intergenerational distancing patterns and processes among families are very complex, so it is difficult to draw valid conclusions about mental health among linked generations. It can be stated, however, that severe mental disorders often affect multiple generations. Information and knowledge about this phenomenon undoubtedly requires abundant high quality research.

Molecular epidemiology and drug resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a tertiary care hospital in northeastern Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB) is a re-emerging disease considered a public health concern. In the present study, we analyzed the epidemiology and drug resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains isolated from patients with pulmonary TB. METHODOLOGY: Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates (n = 190) were obtained from patients with pulmonary TB admitted to Dr. José Eleuterio González University Hospital (UH). Each M. tuberculosis isolate was analyzed by spoligotyping (spacer oligonucleotide typing) and MIRU-VNTR (Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units-Variable Number Tandem Repeat). Drug resistance was evaluated using the Anyplex™ II MTB/MDR/XDR assay. RESULTS: The predominant spoligotypes observed were X1 (SIT 119, n = 46), T1 (SIT 53, n = 40), H3 (SIT 50, n = 13), Beijing (SIT 1, n = 11), and EAI2-Manila (SIT 19, n = 8). MIRU-VNTR analysis showed that the locus QUB-26 had the highest allelic variability. The observed drug resistance included monoresistance to rifampicin (2.6%; n = 5), isoniazid (3.2%; n = 6), and fluoroquinolones (1.6%; n = 3) as well as multidrug resistance (5.3%; n = 10). All of the Beijing strains were susceptible. Regarding comorbidities, 13.7% (26/190) of the patients were co-infected with TB and HIV (TB+HIV+), and 31.6% (55/190) had TB along with diabetes (TB + diabetes). CONCLUSIONS: The most prevalent lineages were X1 (SIT 119; 24.3%) and T1 (SIT 53; 21%). An alarming proportion (12.6%) of M. tuberculosis isolates presented drug resistance. To effectively manage TB, continuous surveillance of regional strain dissemination, drug resistance profiles, and TB-associated comorbidities is crucial.

Neuro-psicopatología y procrastinación

Introducción: La procrastinación es un fenómeno omnipresente, polifacético y problemático. Abordaremos el mejor conocimiento científico publicado al respecto, que es limitado y de calidad más bien reducida. Método: Para este estudio original de revisión, se han examinado de forma no sistemática varias importantes bases de datos bibliométricas, sin pretensiones de exhaustividad. La metodología en muchas de las investigaciones consultadas es deficiente. Se ha pretendido que el resultado obtenido de las fuentes primarias fuera sintético, y se han evitado las más especulativas. Resultados: En relación con la clínica neuro-psicopatológica, internalizar la conducta se relaciona con el neuroticismo, y externalizarla con la impulsividad. La procrastinación aumenta con la afectividad negativa y, a menudo, ocurre en ciertos trastornos mentales en los que suele constituir una forma permanente de comportamiento. Pocos estudios han investigado los correlatos neurales de la procrastinación. Esta puede ser, además de voluntaria, consecuencia indirecta de rasgos perfeccionistas de la personalidad, entre otros. En general, la mejora de las habilidades para regular las emociones probablemente sea muy eficaz para reducir el comportamiento procrastinador. En relación con el sueño nocturno, su postergación habitual parece relacionada también con las características de la personalidad. Conclusiones: Se plantea por el autor la hipótesis de que cualquier intervención específica, sea o no sanitaria, que mejore la concienciación de la propia tendencia pasiva procrastinadora propiciará su reducción. Pero si se buscara influir específicamente sobre la salud mental del sujeto, la intervención tendrá que practicarse exclusiva o preferentemente por facultativos clínicos adecuados.

Introduction: Procrastination is a ubiquitous, multifaceted and problematic phenomenon. This paper will address the best scientific understanding published on this subject, although it is limited and of poor quality. Method: For this original revision study, we have examined various relevant bibliometric databases in a non-systematic way and with no claim to being comprehensive. The methodology used in much of the research consulted is quite deficient. Our objective has been to provide synthetic results from primary sources and have therefore avoided the most speculative ones. Results: With regard to the neuropsychopathological clinical features of procrastination, internalizing this behaviour is related to neuroticism, and externalizing it is linked to impulsivity. Procrastination increases with negative affectivity, and it often occurs in certain mental disorders, where it tends to constitute a permanent behaviour. Few studies have researched the neural correlations of procrastination. It can be can be voluntary and also an indirect consequence of perfectionist traits of personality, among others. In general, improving one's ability to regulate emotions might be very effective in reducing procrastinating behaviour. In relation to bedtime, its continued postponement seems to also be tied to personality traits. Conclusions: The author proposes the hypothesis that any specific intervention, whether medical or not, that improves awareness of one's own passive tendency to procrastinate will favour its reduction. However, if the intention is to influence somebody's mental health specifically, then the intervention should be conducted exclusively or preferably by properly qualified physicians.

Water footprint of small-scale dairy farms in the central coast of Peru.

Worldwide, dairy sector consumes 19% of the water in the livestock sector. However, in Latin America, the amount of water used in this sector is unknown, especially in arid zones. On the other hand, water footprint (WF) is a methodology to estimate the use of water to produce a product. The aim of this work was to estimate the WF of dairy production in the arid zone of the Peruvian central coast. Data from five dairy farms were used. The WF was calculated in its three dimensions: green water, blue water and grey water. In addition, the WF was measured for categories: feed, drinking and service. To measure the WF of feed production, the CROPWAT software was used, whilst the NRC (2001) equations were used to estimate the drinking water. The reference unit was cubic metres per kilogram of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM). In average, 99% of the WF comes from feed production, followed by drinking water (0.4%). From the three dimensions of the WF, green water is responsible of 60% of the WF, followed by the blue water (30%). Imported water represented 63% of the WF. In general, WF of dairy production in these systems was 0.66 m3/kg FPCM. In conclusion, feed production, as the main source of WF from which most is imported, shows the possibility of reducing the WF of these systems by prioritizing and optimizing water consumption by crops using local resources with lower water requirements.

Emoción, subjetividad, memoria y salud mental / Emotion, subjectivity, memory and mental health

RESUMEN Se intenta esclarecer las diferentes estrategias que utilizan la psicología clínica y la psiquiatría para modificar esquemas emocionales y conductuales inadecuados, inadaptados o psicopatológicos. Se revisa la literatura científica, internacional y relevante en relación al tema, investigación original, narrativa y cualitativa, con componentes integradores, agregativos e interpretativos. Para la emocionalidad son fundamentales la respuesta fisiológica, tan vinculada a la genómica, y la vivencia de los sentimientos y pensamientos. Las que pueden considerarse como lógica y memoria afectivas de trabajo muestran que, por lo general, las preferencias e intenciones son las que deciden o determinan y la racionalidad la que explica. Gracias al rol de la estría terminal, la estructura subcortical amigdalina es capaz de desencadenar todo tipo de respuesta emocional. En síntesis, la verdad o certeza en entornos múltiples será solo una opinión y no algo incuestionable. La anatomofisiología, creencias, cultura y actitudes personales están interrelacionados y se influyen mutuamente de manera continua.

SUMMARY Clinical psychology and psychiatry use different strategies to modify inadequate, maladjusted or psychopathological emotional and behavioral schemas. This study is based on related relevant international scientific literature, an original narrative qualitative research with integrating, aggregational and interpretative components. The physiological response, so linked to genomics, and the experience of thoughts and feelings are fundamental for emotionality. Affective logic and work memory express well that preferences and intentions generally decide and then rationality, explains. Thanks to the role of terminal stria, the subcortical amygdala structure is able to trigger any type of emotional response. In short, truth or certainty in multiple environments will only be an opinion and not something unquestionable. The anatomophysiology, beliefs, culture and personal attitudes are interrelated and influence themselves mutually on a continuous basis.

Factors affecting the lactation curve parameters of crossbred dairy ewes in a flock of the highlands of Mexico.

Sheep milk production is incipient in Mexico with scarce knowledge on the performance of dairy ewes from different breeds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of breed (Awassi (Aw), East Friesian (EF) and other (Ot)), parity number (1, 2 and 3 or more (+ 3)), litter size (1 and 2 or more (+ 2)) and lambing season (spring-summer (SS) and autumn-winter (AW)) on day of peak yield (DP), peak yield (PY), persistency (P), total milk yield (TMY), 305-day milk yield (TMY305d), 150-day milk yield (TMY150d) and lactation length (LL) of crossbred dairy ewes in a flock of the central highlands of Mexico. A total of 4312 weekly milk yield records collected from 2014 to 2015 were used to model 133 lactations using a random regression model with a fifth-order orthogonal polynomial. Flock mean values of curve parameters were 42 days at DP, 1.2 kg/day at PY, - 3.5 g/day of P, 190 kg TMY, 189 kg TMY305, 124 kg TMY150 and 269 days of LL. Multiparous ewes had significantly higher (P < 0.05) PY and TMY than primiparous ewes. Ewes that lambed in AW had 15% higher PY and produced 14% more TMY than ewes that lambed in SS (P < 0.05). Correlations among curve parameters were significant except for the correlation between PY and LL and between P and TMY150d. TMY was strongly correlated with LL (0.91). Predominantly Awassi crossbred ewes had lower curve parameter values than predominantly East Friesian and other crossbred ewes.