Substance P/calcitonin gene-related peptide and their receptors expression in human periodontal ligament after root canal preparation with five different systems.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to quantify the effect of five different root canal preparation instruments on Substance P (SP), Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and their receptors expression in healthy human periodontal ligament. METHODOLOGY: STROBE guidelines were used to design a study using 60 periodontal ligament samples obtained from healthy lower premolars where extraction was indicated for orthodontic reasons. Prior to extraction 40 of these premolars were equally divided into four groups and root canals were prepared using different systems: Mtwo, Reciproc Blue, HyFlex EDM and Plex-V. Ten premolars were prepared with hand files and served as a positive control group. The remaining 10 premolars where extracted without treatment and served as a negative control group. All periodontal ligament samples were processed to measure the expression of SP, CGRP and their receptors by radioimmunoassay. Kruskal-Wallis and Duncan tests were performed to determine statistically significant differences between the groups for each variable. RESULTS: Greater expression of all the peptides measured were found in the hand-file preparation group, followed by the Reciproc Blue, Mtwo, HyFlex EDM and Plex-V groups. The lower SP, CGRP and their receptors values were for the intact teeth control group. Kruskal-Wallis test showed statistically significant differences amongst groups (p < .001). Dunn post-hoc tests showed statistically significant differences in SP, CGRP and their receptors expression between the intact teeth and the hand-file and Reciproc Blue groups. Hand-file group showed significant differences with the other groups, except with Reciproc Blue, where no differences were observed in any of the peptides measured. Finally, no differences were observed between Plex-V and HyFlex in any of the peptides measured. CONCLUSIONS: Root canal preparation with hand files and Reciproc Blue generates the highest expression of SP, CGRP, NK1 and CGRP1R in human periodontal ligament, whilst Plex-V and HyFlex maintain the basal expression of neuropeptides and their receptors. Mtwo showed intermediate results between Reciproc Blue and HyFlex.

Improvement in contraceptive knowledge after using an online educational resource.

OBJECTIVES: To measure the change in contraceptive knowledge after interaction with a web-based contraception education resource in an online cohort of potential users. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of reproductive-aged, biologically female respondents using Amazon Mechanical Turk. Respondents provided demographic characteristics and responded to 32 contraceptive knowledge questions. We assessed contraceptive knowledge before and after interaction with the resource and compared the number of correct answers using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify respondent characteristics associated with an increase in the number of correct answers. We calculated System Usability Scale scores to assess ease of use. RESULTS: A convenience sample of 789 respondents were included in our analysis. Prior to resource use, respondents had a median of 17/32 correct contraceptive knowledge responses (interquartile range [IQR] 12-22). The number of correct answers increased to 21/32 (IQR 12-26, p < 0.001) after viewing the resource; 556 (70.5%) had an increase contraceptive knowledge. In adjusted analyses, respondents who were never married (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.47, 95% CI 1.01-2.15), or thought decisions about birth control should be made by themselves (aOR 1.95, 95% CI 1.17-3.26) or in conjunction with a clinician (aOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.20-3.64) were more likely to have an increase in contraceptive knowledge. Respondents reported a median system usability score of 70 out of 100 (IQR 50-82.5). CONCLUSIONS: These results support the effectiveness and usability of this online contraception education resource among this sample of online respondents. The educational resource could effectively augment contraceptive counseling in the clinical setting. IMPLICATIONS: Use of an online contraception education resource improved contraceptive knowledge among reproductive-age users.

Potentially inappropriate prescriptions in geriatric patients hospitalized in the internal medicine department of a referral hospital in Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Potentially inappropriate prescription (PIP) constitutes a risk for the development of adverse effects of a drug that outweigh its benefits, which can be considered inappropriate medication use. OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of PIP in geriatric patients hospitalized at the internal medicine department of a referral hospital in Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive design, with simple allocation of medical records from patients older than 65 years hospitalized between January 2016 and August 2017. The STOPP/START criteria were applied to identify the number of PIPs, the number of prescribed medications, number and type of comorbidities, as well as days of hospital stay. RESULTS: A prevalence of PIP of 73.3% was identified, with main comorbidities being hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 1,885 prescribed medications were quantified; mean hospital stay was 6.3 days. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of PIP was identified in hospitalized geriatric patients, hence the importance of applying the STOPP/START criteria and of the role of the pharmacist for validating the prescription prior to drug administration.

ANTECEDENTES: Una prescripción potencialmente inapropiada (PPI) constituye un riesgo de presentar efectos adversos por un fármaco que superan los beneficios de este, pudiendo considerarse como uso inadecuado de medicamentos. OBJETIVO: Describir la prevalencia de prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas en pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados en el servicio de medicina interna de un hospital de referencia en México. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Diseño descriptivo transversal, con asignación simple de expedientes clínicos de pacientes hospitalizados mayores de 65 años, entre enero de 2016 y agosto de 2017. Se aplicaron los criterios STOPP y START para identificar el número de PPI, cantidad de medicamentos prescritos, presencia, cantidad y tipo de comorbilidades, así como días de estancia hospitalaria. RESULTADOS: Se encontró una prevalencia de 73.3 % de PPI y las principales comorbilidades fueron hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Se cuantificaron 1885 medicamentos prescritos; la estancia hospitalaria media fue de 6.3 días. CONCLUSIONES: Se identificó alta prevalencia de PPI en los pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados, de ahí la importancia de aplicar los criterios STOPP y START y del papel del farmacéutico en la validación de la prescripción antes de la administración de medicamentos.

Prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas en pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados en el servicio de medicina interna en un hospital de referencia en México / Potentially inappropriate prescriptions in geriatric patients hospitalized in the internal medicine department of a referral hospital in Mexico

Resumen Antecedentes: Una prescripción potencialmente inapropiada (PPI) constituye un riesgo de presentar efectos adversos por un fármaco que superan los beneficios de este, pudiendo considerarse como uso inadecuado de medicamentos. Objetivo: Describir la prevalencia de prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas en pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados en el servicio de medicina interna de un hospital de referencia en México. Material y métodos: Diseño descriptivo transversal, con asignación simple de expedientes clínicos de pacientes hospitalizados mayores de 65 años, entre enero de 2016 y agosto de 2017. Se aplicaron los criterios STOPP y START para identificar el número de PPI, cantidad de medicamentos prescritos, presencia, cantidad y tipo de comorbilidades, así como días de estancia hospitalaria. Resultados: Se encontró una prevalencia de 73.3 % de PPI y las principales comorbilidades fueron hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Se cuantificaron 1885 medicamentos prescritos; la estancia hospitalaria media fue de 6.3 días. Conclusiones: Se identificó alta prevalencia de PPI en los pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados, de ahí la importancia de aplicar los criterios STOPP y START y del papel del farmacéutico en la validación de la prescripción antes de la administración de medicamentos.

Abstract Background: Potentially inappropriate prescription (PIP) constitutes a risk for the development of adverse effects of a drug that outweigh its benefits, which can be considered inappropriate medication use. Objective: To describe the prevalence of PIP in geriatric patients hospitalized at the internal medicine department of a referral hospital in Mexico. Material and methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive design, with simple allocation of medical records from patients older than 65 years hospitalized between January 2016 and August 2017. The STOPP/START criteria were applied to identify the number of PIPs, the number of prescribed medications, number and type of comorbidities, as well as days of hospital stay. Results: A prevalence of PIP of 73.3% was identified, with main comorbidities being hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 1,885 prescribed medications were quantified; mean hospital stay was 6.3 days. Conclusions: A high prevalence of PIP was identified in hospitalized geriatric patients, hence the importance of applying the STOPP/START criteria and of the role of the pharmacist for validating the prescription prior to drug administration.

Quality of care in patients with inflammatory bowel disease from a public health center in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic diseases that demand continuous interaction between patients and healthcare providers. Quality of care (QoC) is a factor that contributes to a patient's adherence to treatment and its success. AIM: To evaluate QoC in patients from a single IBD reference center. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 133 patients from a single Brazilian IBD public health center. QoC was evaluated through the QoC Through the Eyes of Patients with IBD (QUOTE-IBD) questionnaire (based on patient perspectives), which measures eight dimensions of care. We compared QoC among patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and analyzed the clinical and psychological factors associated with QoC satisfaction. Clinical evaluations assessed disease characteristics, quality of life, anxiety, and depression levels. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients with Crohn's disease and 64 with ulcerative colitis were interviewed. The mean age was 37.26 years ± 13.05 years, and 63.91% of the patients were women. The mean duration of the disease was 8.44 years ± 7.59 years, where most patients were in remission (70.31% of patients with ulcerative colitis and 62.32% with Crohn's disease). The total QoC score of the sample was 8.61 years ± 1.31 points, indicating that the QoC provided by the center was unsatisfactory. According to univariate logistic regression, patients with Crohn's disease had higher satisfaction rates than those with ulcerative colitis [odds ratio (OR): 2.746; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.360-5.541; P = 0.0048] and patients on infliximab (OR: 2.175; 95%CI: 1.037-4.562; P = 0.0398). CONCLUSION: Patients from the IBD public center reported good doctor-patient relationships, but had problems related to the healthcare structure. Evaluation of healthcare centers is of paramount to improve QoC for the patients involved.

Cáncer de pulmón, tendencias desde la perspectiva del cuidado / Lung cancer, trends from a care perspective / Cancro do pulmão, tendências de uma perspectiva de cuidados

Objetivo: identificar las tendencias de investigación sobre el cáncer de pulmón durante los últimos cinco años, desde la perspectiva del cuidado de enfermería. Método: revisión bibliométrica y exploratoria realizada a partir de la base de datos de web of science. Se utilizaron los descriptores, lung neoplasm and nursing care con aplicación de filtros, obteniendo un total de 62 artículos publicados entre los años 2017-2021. El análisis bibliométrico fue realizado mediante bibliometrix con el total de los documentos obtenidos; para el análisis exploratorio se utilizaron 30 artículos que describen las principales tendencias temáticas identificadas en la estructura conceptual. Resultados: los indicadores bibliométricos muestran un promedio de publicación de 12 artículos por año, predominaron las publicaciones con enfoque cuantitativo (66,7 %) y de nivel de evidencia baja (56,7 %). El mayor número de artículos publicados por fuente y autor fue de 4. Los resultados exploratorios muestran cinco temáticas relevantes relacionadas con: el diagnóstico del cáncer de pulmón, síntomas, cuidado paliativo, calidad de vida y práctica avanzada de enfermería. Conclusión: se logra identificar publicaciones que enfatizan las temáticas mencionadas, con un nivel de evidencia bajo y con escasas intervenciones realizadas por parte de enfermería. Los estudios se enfocan en el control de síntomas y cuidados en el fin de vida.

Objective: identify trends in lung cancer research over the past five years from a nursing care perspective. Method: bibliometric and exploratory review based on the web of science database. The descriptors, lung neoplasm and nursing care were used with application of filters, obtaining a total of 62 articles published between the years 2017-2021. The bibliometric analysis was performed using bibliometrix with the total number of documents obtained; 30 articles describing the main thematic trends identified in the conceptual structure were used for the exploratory analysis. Results: bibliometric indicators show an average publication rate of 12 articles per year, with a predominance of publications with a quantitative approach (66.7 %) and a low level of evidence (56.7 %). The highest number of articles published per source and author was 4. The exploratory results show five relevant topics related to: lung cancer diagnosis, symptoms, palliative care, quality of life and advanced nursing practice. Conclusion: it is possible to identify publications that emphasize the aforementioned topics, with a low level of evidence and with few interventions carried out by nurses. The studies focus on symptom control and end-of-life care.

Objectivo: identificar tendências na investigação do cancro do pulmão ao longo dos últimos cinco anos, numa perspectiva de cuidados de enfermagem. Método: revisão bibliométrica e exploratória realizada utilizando a teia de dados científicos. Os descritores, neoplasma pulmonar e cuidados de enfermagem foram utilizados com a aplicação de filtros, obtendo um total de 62 artigos publicados entre 2017-2021. A análise bibliométrica foi realizada utilizando a bibliometria com o número total de documentos obtidos; 30 artigos descrevendo as principais tendências temáticas identificadas na estrutura conceptual foram utilizados para a análise exploratória. Resultados: os indicadores bibliométricos mostram uma taxa média de publicação de 12 artigos por ano, com uma predominância de publicações com uma abordagem quantitativa (66,7 %) e um baixo nível de evidência (56,7 %). O maior número de artigos publicados por fonte e autor foi de 4. Os resultados exploratórios mostram cinco tópicos relevantes relacionados com: diagnóstico do cancro do pulmão, sintomas, cuidados paliativos, qualidade de vida e prática avançada de enfermagem. Conclusão: conseguimos identificar publicações que enfatizam os tópicos acima mencionados, com um baixo nível de evidência e com poucas intervenções realizadas por enfermeiros. Os estudos centram-se no controlo dos sintomas e nos cuidados de fim de vida.

Patient and counselor satisfaction with structured contraceptive counseling by health center staff in federally qualified health centers.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize patient and counselor satisfaction with structured, tier-based contraceptive counseling provided by a nonclinician. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a planned secondary analysis of patient and counselor surveys from a study that enrolled women in 2 contraceptive care programs. All participants received structured contraceptive counseling from trained staff members. Women and counselors completed a confidential post-visit survey regarding satisfaction with counseling and medical mistrust. We used univariate and multivariable regressions to examine differences in high satisfaction with counseling (top score), perceived counselor influence, and perceived counselor judgment by participant characteristics. RESULTS: Nine hundred forty-two participants completed surveys; most reported they felt respected (100.0%), trusted the counseling information (99.5%), and that counseling helped them choose a contraceptive method (83.8%). Black race, high school education, public insurance, an income below the federal poverty level, and enrollment site were associated with high medical mistrust. Participants with high medical mistrust were less likely to be highly satisfied with counseling (adjusted relative risk (RR) 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-0.82), more likely to perceive influence (RR 1.77; 95% CI 1.37-2.28), and more likely to perceive judgment (adjusted odds ratio 8.91; 95% CI 3.61-22.01). Mostly, counselors felt they were able to answer participant questions (98.8%), establish good rapport (95.9%), and that participants understood the information presented (98.0%). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, participants were satisfied with tier-based contraceptive counseling delivered by nonclinician staff members. Those with high levels of medical mistrust were less likely to be satisfied. The majority of women found the information beneficial in contraceptive decision making. IMPLICATIONS: Overall, women reported high satisfaction with tier-based contraceptive counseling delivered by a nonclinician in 3 federally qualified health centers. However, women with high medical mistrust were less likely to report high levels of satisfaction and more likely to report perceived influence or judgment from the counselor.

Effectiveness of Cymbopogon citratus Oil Encapsulated in Chitosan on Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Isolated from Capsicum annuum.

One of the principal etiological agents associated with losses in horticultural crops is the fungus Colletotrichum sp. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effectiveness of the essential oil (EO) from Cymbopogon citratus in chitosan supports for the control of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides isolated from sweet pepper plants. METHODS: The extraction and phytochemical analysis of the EO of C. citratus were performed along with its encapsulation in chitosan-agar in order to compare it with other techniques and determine its effect on C. gloeosporioides. RESULTS: The EO from the citral chemotype (58%) encapsulated in the chitosan-agar, with an 83% encapsulation efficiency in mass percentage, resulted in the total inhibition of mycelial growth at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1370 ppm. This concentration was effective in controlling the disease under greenhouse conditions. The effectivity of the capsules containing EO was superior to that of other controls using EO evaluated in vitro. The capsules demonstrated an effective period of 51 days, with an additional 30 days of effectiveness after a reinfection cycle, thus providing similar results to the control with Trichoderma sp. CONCLUSIONS: Chitosan capsules present a promising strategy in the use of C. citratus EO on C. gloeosporioides, and they are highly effective and stable under in vitro and field conditions.

Assessment of cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of two components of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil.

BACKGROUND: There is a continuing search for compuounds to improve the chemical plaque inhibitory action of oral hygiene products. Although the antibacterial effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) and essential oils components, citral/myrcene, have been described, there is contradictory information regarding their cytotoxic effects in host tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic activity of the major components of the oil C. citratus, citral and myrcene on human periodontal ligament fibroblast (HPLF) cultures and their antimicrobial effect on different bacterial species present in supragingival biofilm. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cytotoxicity of the compounds to HPLF was determined by MTT assay. Antimicrobial activity was tested against reference strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus rhamnosus and for S. mutans clinical strains by broth microdilution assay. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Games-Howell post-hoc multiple comparison or unpaired t tests were used for inter- and intragroup comparisons. RESULTS: Overall, all of the compounds under study showed a cytotoxic effect to HPLF which varied in a dose-dependant manner. Whilst myrcene did not show bacteriostatic activity at tested concentrations, both citral and CHX exhibited bacteriostatic/bactericidal effects to all strains at specific concentrations, being CHX most effective to inhibit bacterial growth at lower concentrations than what observed for citral. CONCLUSIONS: Based on these findings, it would possible to conclude that whereas myrcene might be ineffective to control bacterial growth, citral could have a promising antimicrobial activity against dental colonizers with low cytotoxicity, and may be useful for preventing the onset and progression of oral diseases. Key words:Antimicrobial activity, citral, cytotoxicity, chlorhexidine, myrcene.

Essential oils biological activity of the shrub Lippia alba (Verbenaceae)

Introduction: Lippia alba is an aromatic species belonging to the Verbenaceae family. Its essential oils have been used in different industries, because of its biological properties. Objective: Identify the perspectives of the biotechnological applications of Lippia alba essential oils. Methodology: A scoping review was conducted on the biological activity of Lippia alba essential oils registered until October, 2018 in EBSCO, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, SciELO, and Lilacs databases. Results: Chemotypes I and III have been reported for different biological activities from the evaluations performed on microorganisms, fish, arthropods, small mammals, and cell lines; fundamentally associated with antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, antioxidant, and sedative effects, among others. Records focused mainly on the health, fishing industry, and agrifood sectors. Conclusion: Studies on the effect of essential oil are promising, but do not reflect a continuity of the research toward prototypes or finished commercial products. Research groups must unify evaluation methodologies and include in all studies the relationship between phytochemical and biological activity for the meta-analyses to be possible. Likewise, they must join efforts through the National System for Agricultural Innovation (SNIA, for the term in Spanish) to generate finished products that impact upon society and facilitate progress in the country's bio-economy.

Introducción: Lippia alba es una especie aromática perteneciente a la familia Verbenaceae, cuyos aceites esenciales han sido empleados en diferentes industrias dada sus propiedades biológicas. Objetivo: Identificar las perspectivas de aplicación biotecnológica de los aceites esenciales de Lippia alba. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática exploratoria de la literatura sobre la actividad biológica de aceites esenciales de Lippia alba registrada hasta octubre 2018 en las bases de datos EBSCO, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, SciELO, y Lilacs. Resultados: Los quimiotipos I y III han sido reportados para diferentes actividades biológicas a partir de evaluaciones realizadas en microorganismos, peces, artrópodos, pequeños mamíferos, y líneas celulares; fundamentalmente asociadas con efectos antibacterial, antifúngico, citotóxico, antioxidante y sedante, entre otros. Los registros se enfocaron principalmente a los sectores salud, industria pesquera y agroalimentaria. Conclusión: Los estudios sobre el efecto del aceite esencial son promisorios, pero no reflejan una continuidad de la investigación hacia prototipos o productos comerciales acabados. Los grupos de investigación deben unificar metodologías de evaluación e incluir en todos los estudios la relación entre fitoquímica-actividad biológica, para que los metaanálisis sean posibles. De igual manera, deben aunar esfuerzos por medio del Sistema Nacional de Innovación Agropecuaria (SNIA), para generar productos acabados que impacten en la sociedad y faciliten el avance de la bioeconomía del país.

Efecto del glifosato sobre la microbiota, calidad del suelo y cultivo de frijol biofortificado en el departamento del Cesar, Colombia / Effect of glyphosate on microbiota, soil quality and biofortified bean crop in Codazzi, department of Cesar, Colombia

Resumen Las estrategias en seguridad alimentaria con cultivos de alto contenido nutricionaldeben enmarcarse en prácticas agrícolas sostenibles, orientadas a la conservación del suelo, elalto rendimiento y la inocuidad. Esta última característica implica la producción de alimentos sintrazas detectables de agroquímicos, los que podrían amenazar la salud del consumidor. Se des-arrolló un estudio con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto del herbicida glifosato sobre la fertilidadquímica y microbiológica del suelo, así como su residualidad en la semilla de frijol biofortificadocultivado en el departamento de Cesar, Colombia. La metodología comprendió un análisis corre-lacional de indicadores de calidad de suelo, rendimiento del cultivo y residualidad en los granos.Los tratamientos evaluados incluyeron la aplicación o no de glifosato, el uso de coberturas sin-téticas (mulch) o naturales, frente al control manual de las malezas. Se hallaron diferenciasde rendimiento y de la respuesta de los indicadores químicos y microbiológicos en función deltratamiento y las condiciones iniciales de la rizósfera de frijol. La aplicación del herbicida glifo-sato en suelo sin mulch generó una disminución del 29% en el rendimiento, asociada a la mayorprevalencia de plagas y enfermedades fúngicas. En ninguno de los tratamientos con aplicaciónde glifosato se observó residualidad de este herbicida en semillas, pero sí de otras moléculasderivadas de insecticidas usados en el sistema local de producción. De este estudio se concluyóque en lotes de frijol biofortificado con alta presión de la maleza Cyperus rotundus (coquito), se recomienda el uso del herbicida glifosato acompañado de mulch como alternativa para mantener la productividad en el tiempo. Esto constituye un sistema de protección frente al efectonegativo del herbicida sobre ambos, el sistema radical de la planta y la microbiota del suelo.© 2019 Asociacion Argentina de Microbiologıa. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. Este es un artıculo Open Access bajo la licencia CC BY-NC-ND (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Abstract Strategies aimed at achieving food safety in crops of high nutritional value shouldbe carried out through sustainable agricultural practices aimed at soil conservation, high yieldand food safety. This latter characteristic implies food production without detectable tracesof agrochemicals that threaten health. The objective of this study was to assess the effect ofthe herbicide glyphosate on the chemical and biological fertility of the soil and to determineits residual activity on biofortified bean seeds in Codazzi, Department of Cesar, Colombia. Themethod included a correlational analysis of soil quality, crop yield and residuality in bean grains.The treatments included glyphosate application and synthetic and natural mulches, comparedto manual control. The results showed differences in the response of chemical, microbiologicaland yield indicators between treatments and the initial conditions of the bean rhizosphere. Theuse of the herbicide glyphosate in mulch-free soil generates yield losses of 29% associated witha higher incidence of pests and fungal diseases; in all treatments, no glyphosate residualitywas detected in seeds; however, residuality was detected in other molecules derived frominsecticides associated with the local production system. In conclusion, in plots with high weedpressure by Cyperus rotundus, the use of mulch is recommended as an alternative to maintainbean productivity over time; by offering protection against the effect of the herbicide on boththe root system of the plant and the soil microbiota of the biofortified bean crop.© 2019 Asociaci´on Argentina de Microbiolog´ıa. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. This is anopen access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Hydrodynamics-based liver transfection achieves gene silencing of CB1 using short hairpin RNA plasmid in cirrhotic rats.

BACKGROUND: There is a correlation between the endocannabinoid system and hepatic fibrosis based on the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors; where CB1 has profibrogenic effects. Gene therapy with a plasmid carrying a shRNA for CB1 delivered by hydrodynamic injection has the advantage of hepatic tropism, avoiding possible undesirable effects of CB1 pharmacological inhibition. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate hydrodynamics-based liver transfection in an experimental model of liver cirrhosis of a plasmid with the sequence of a shRNA for CB1 and its antifibrogenic effects. METHODS: Three shRNA (21pb) were designed for blocking CB1 mRNA at positions 877, 1232 and 1501 (pshCB1-A, B, C). Sequences were cloned in the pENTR™/U6. Safety was evaluated monitoring CB1 expression in brain tissue. The silencing effect was determined in rat HSC primary culture and CCl4 cirrhosis model. Hydrodynamic injection in cirrhotic liver was through iliac vein and with a dose of 3mg/kg plasmid. Serum levels of liver enzymes, mRNA levels of TGF-ß1, Col IA1 and α-SMA and the percentage of fibrotic tissue were analyzed. RESULTS: Hydrodynamic injection allows efficient CB1 silencing in cirrhotic livers and pshCB1-B (position 1232) demonstrated the main CB1-silencing. Using this plasmid, mRNA level of fibrogenic molecules and fibrotic tissue considerably decrease in cirrhotic animals. Brain expression of CB1 remained unaltered. CONCLUSION: Hydrodynamics allows a hepatotropic and secure transfection in cirrhotic animals. The sequence of the shCB1-B carried in a plasmid or any other vector has the potential to be used as therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis.

[Effect of glyphosate on microbiota, soil quality and biofortified bean crop in Codazzi, department of Cesar, Colombia]. / Efecto del glifosato sobre la microbiota, calidad del suelo y cultivo de frijol biofortificado en el departamento del Cesar, Colombia.

Strategies aimed at achieving food safety in crops of high nutritional value should be carried out through sustainable agricultural practices aimed at soil conservation, high yield and food safety. This latter characteristic implies food production without detectable traces of agrochemicals that threaten health. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of the herbicide glyphosate on the chemical and biological fertility of the soil and to determine its residual activity on biofortified bean seeds in Codazzi, Department of Cesar, Colombia. The method included a correlational analysis of soil quality, crop yield and residuality in bean grains. The treatments included glyphosate application and synthetic and natural mulches, compared to manual control. The results showed differences in the response of chemical, microbiological and yield indicators between treatments and the initial conditions of the bean rhizosphere. The use of the herbicide glyphosate in mulch-free soil generates yield losses of 29% associated with a higher incidence of pests and fungal diseases; in all treatments, no glyphosate residuality was detected in seeds; however, residuality was detected in other molecules derived from insecticides associated with the local production system. In conclusion, in plots with high weed pressure by Cyperus rotundus, the use of mulch is recommended as an alternative to maintain bean productivity over time; by offering protection against the effect of the herbicide on both the root system of the plant and the soil microbiota of the biofortified bean crop.

Primera aproximación al uso de la ocupación del tapir (Tapirella bairdii Gill, 1865) como indicador de la integridad ecológica en la Reserva de la Biosfera Maya, Guatemala / First approach to the use of Baird's Tapir (Tapirella bairdii Gill, 1865) occupancy as an indi¬cator of ecological integrity in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, Guatemala

La Reserva de la Biosfera Maya (RBM) es un área protegida de relevancia nacional, regional y mundial por la diversidad biológica asociada y los beneficios que se obtienen de esta. En su plan maestro se plantea el conjunto de elementos de conservación a partir de los cuales se orientan estrategias y se evalúa la efectividad de manejo de dicha reserva, entre los cuales se incluye a Tapirella bairdii (tapir), por lo que es importante contar con un monitoreo de esta especie como una herramienta para la administración de esta reserva. En el 2015 se inició el desarrollo de un protocolo de monitoreo basado en la estimación de la probabilidad de ocupación y el presente estudio constituye la continuación de esta iniciativa a través de la implementación de las temporadas de muestreo en 2017 y 2018. Se registró la presencia del tapir en cinco zonas núcleo de la RBM empleando trampas cámara y se estimó la probabilidad de ocupación. Los valores estimados sugieren una rela¬ción de la ocupación con la integridad ecológica, en la cual hay una mayor ocupación en áreas con menor perturbación. Se generaron modelos con cinco covariables relacionadas con amenazas potenciales, sin embargo fue el modelo nulo el que se seleccionó de acuerdo al criterio definido. Los resultados sugieren que la integridad ecológica en las áreas de estudio está siendo afectada como consecuencia de las presiones antrópicas por lo que es necesario el fortalecimiento de aquellas con menores valores de ocupación

The Maya Biosphere Reserve (MBR) is a protected area of national, regional and global relevance due to the associated bio¬logical diversity and the benefits obtained from it. In its master plan, a set of conservation elements are selected, on which strategies are oriented and the management effectiveness is evaluated, among which Tapirella bairdii (Baird's tapir) is included, so it is important to have a monitoring of this species as a tool for the management of this reserve. In 2015, the development of a monitoring protocol based on the estimation of the probability of occupancy started and the present study constitutes the continuation of this initiative through the implementation of the sampling seasons in 2017 and 2018. It was registered the presence of the tapir in five core areas of the MBR using camera traps and the probability of occupancy was estimated. The estimated values in the study areas suggest a relationship of occupancy with the ecological integrity, in which there is a greater occupancy in areas with less disturbance. Models with five covariates related to potential threats were generated, however it was the null model that was selected according to the defined criteria. The results indicate that ecological integrity in the study areas is being affected as a result of the anthropic pressures, so it is necessary to strengthen those with lower occupancy values

[Avances recientes en dermatología comunitaria 2016-2017. Teledermatología, un modelo de enseñanza y asistencia en atención primaria a la salud].

INTRODUCTION: Community dermatology (CD) is integrated by dermatologists, epidemiologists and interested people. It has 27 years of experience at the Guerrero State. Due to unsafety issues, the teaching and medical attention model had to be changed from presential to virtual trough telemedicine. METHOD: Transversal, descriptive, observational and analytic study, in which results from teaching-learning of the health personal that was capacitated throughout the telemedicine network at the Guerrero State were evaluated, during nine courses that reached 35 telemedicine centers. RESULTS: 2465 health workers were capacitated in basic dermatology, which were evaluated in their general knowledge of dermatology before and after every course. The utility of this modality of teaching was statistically evaluated with a random simple in 611 attendees with satisfactory results. DISCUSSION: Teaching through telemedicine network, represents an improvement for CD by reaching a higher number of attendees to several reception centers simultaneously, minimizing transportation expenses and improving the safety of the participants at the activities, with the advantage of allowing continuity of the CD purposes.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La dermatología comunitaria (DC) está integrada por dermatólogos, epidemiólogos y personal afín. Tiene 27 años de existencia en el Estado de Guerrero. Por condiciones de inseguridad se cambió el modelo presencial de enseñanza y atención dermatológica a la forma virtual, a través de teledermatología. OBJETIVO: Determinar la utilidad de la capacitación y enseñanza virtual a través de la telemedicina en DC. MÉTODO: Estudio transversal, descriptivo, observacional y analítico, en el que se evaluaron los resultados de la enseñanza-aprendizaje en el personal de salud capacitado por la red de telemedicina mediante nueve cursos que llegaron a 35 centros de telemedicina en el Estado de Guerrero. RESULTADOS: Se capacitó en dermatología básica a 2465 trabajadores de la salud, evaluando sus conocimientos antes y después de cada curso. Se validó estadísticamente la utilidad de esta modalidad de enseñanza con una muestra al azar de 611 asistentes, con resultados satisfactorios. DISCUSIÓN: La enseñanza a través de la red de telemedicina representa un avance en DC al llegar a un mayor número de asistentes en varios centros de recepción en forma simultánea, minimizando los gastos de transporte y salvaguardando la integridad de los participantes, con la ventaja de dar continuidad a los propósitos de DC.

Antimicrobial activity of Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae) on Streptococcus mutans biofilm and its cytotoxic effects

Resumen La caries dental, es una patología de origen multifactorial y actualmente los productos naturales son un tratamiento alternativo eficiente. El trabajo buscó evaluar la actividad antimicrobiana del aceite esencial de tres sustancias (Cymbopogon citratus y los componentes citral y mirceno) contra Streptococcus mutans ATCC UA159, así como su citotoxicidad sobre queratinocitos y fibroblastos humanos. A través de Microscopía Electrónica de Barrido, se observó la morfología típica de S. mutans, y una formación característica de polisacáridos, con una disposición más estructurada a las 48 h. El efecto de viabilidad bacteriana contra S. mutans en biofilms se evaluó a través de la exposición a las tres sustancias mediante el uso de la técnica de alto rendimiento MBEC, a concentraciones de 1, 0.1 y 0.01 μg/ml y clorhexidina como control positivo. La citotoxicidad de los compuestos se evaluó sobre queratinocitos y fibroblastos, mediante la técnica de reducción de MTT, utilizando 0.5 mM de H2O2 como control de muerte celular (control negativo) y etanol 1 % como control del vehículo (control positivo). Las tres sustancias evaluadas, tuvieron efectos sobre la viabilidad bacteriana de S. mutans con una mortalidad entre 74 y 96 %, sin diferencia significativa entre ellos (P > 0.393); adicionalmente, no fue evidente la citotoxicidad sobre queratinocitos y fibroblastos en un tratamiento de 24 h. Las sustancias evaluadas mostraron efectos antimicrobianos significativos; por lo tanto, estos deben estudiarse más a fondo como posibles coadyuvantes para prevenir la caries dental que causa efectos adversos menores.(AU)

Abstract Dental caries is a pathology of multifactorial origin and currently natural products are an efficient alternative treatment. The work sought to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the three substances (Cymbopogon citratus essential oil and the citral and myrcene components) against Streptococcus mutans ATCC UA159, as well as their cytotoxicity on keratinocytes and human fibroblasts. Through Scanning electron microscopy, the typical morphology of S. mutans was observed and, a characteristic formation of polysaccharides, with more structured arrangement at 48 h. The bacterial viability effect against S. mutans on biofilms was evaluated through exposure to the three substances by using the MBEC technique-high-throughput at concentrations of 1, 0.1, and 0.01 µg/mL and chlorhexidine as positive control. The cytotoxicity of the compounds was evaluated on keratinocytes and fibroblasts through the MTT reduction technique, using 0.5 mM H2O2 as cell-death control (negative control) and ethanol 1 % as vehicle control (positive control). The three substances evaluated had effects on the bacterial viability of S. mutans with mortality between 74 and 96 %, without significant difference among them (P > 0.393); additionally, no cytotoxicity was evident on keratinocytes and fibroblasts in a 24 h treatment. The substances evaluated showed significant antimicrobial effects; hence, these should be studied further as potential co-adjuvants to prevent dental caries that cause minor adverse effects.(AU)

Efectividad de Beauveria bassiana (Baubassil®) sobre la garrapata común del ganado bovino Rhipicephalus microplus en el Departamento de la Guajira, Colombia / Effectiveness of Beauveria bassiana (Baubassil®) on the common cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus in the Department of Guajira, Colombia

Se evaluó la efectividad de Baubassil® (Beauveria bassiana) sobre la garrapata Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. En la fase in vitro, se determinaron la temperatura óptima de germinación del hongo mediante microcultivos a 25, 30 y 35° C, y la mortalidad de las garrapatas. En campo, en un diseño aleatorio, se utilizaron 30 vacas cebuinas; 15 vacas se trataron con Baubassil® una vez por semana con 1 x 10(6) conidias/ml y un grupo control se dejó sin tratamiento. Se observó que a temperaturas de 25, 30 y 35 °C, la germinación del entomopató-geno fue del 97,5, el 94,7 y el 6,3%, respectivamente. En los animales tratados con Baubassil® se obtuvo una efectividad corregida del 96,8%. En el Caribe Seco, Baubassil® constituiría una alternativa de control del ectoparásito, pues no existen registros anteriores en La Guajira del control sostenible de esta garrapata.

The effectiveness of Baubassil® (Beauveria bassiana) on the tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus was evaluated. In the in vitro phase, the optimal germination temperature of the fungus was determined by microcultures at 25, 30 and 35 °C and the mortality of ticks. In the field, in a randomized design, 30 cebuine cows; 15 cows were treated with Baubassil® once a week at a 1 x 10(6) conidia/ml, and a control group was left untreated. It was observed that at temperatures of 25, 30 and 35 °C, germination of the entomopathogen was 97.5, 94.7 and 6.3%, respectively. In animals treated with Baubassil® obtained a corrected effectiveness of 96.8% on ticks in the fifth week of application. The use of Baubassil® would be a valid alternative for controlling the cattle tick under the agroecological conditions of the Dry Caribbean.

[Effectiveness of Beauveria bassiana (Baubassil®) on the common cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus in the Department of Guajira, Colombia]. / Efectividad de Beauveria bassiana (Baubassil®) sobre la garrapata común del ganado bovino Rhipicephalus microplus en el Departamento de la Guajira, Colombia.

The effectiveness of Baubassil®(Beauveria bassiana) on the tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus was evaluated. In the in vitro phase, the optimal germination temperature of the fungus was determined by microcultures at 25, 30 and 35°C and the mortality of ticks. In the field, in a randomized design, 30 cebuine cows; 15 cows were treated with Baubassil® once a week at a 1×106 conidia/ml, and a control group was left untreated. It was observed that at temperatures of 25, 30 and 35°C, germination of the entomopathogen was 97.5, 94.7 and 6.3%, respectively. In animals treated with Baubassil® obtained a corrected effectiveness of 96.8% on ticks in the fifth week of application. The use of Baubassil® would be a valid alternative for controlling the cattle tick under the agroecological conditions of the Dry Caribbean.

Vigilancia tecnológica de plantas aromáticas: de la investigación a la consolidación de la agrocadena colombiana / Technological monitoring of aromatic plants: from research to the consolidation of the Colombian agro-chain

El sector de plantas aromáticas, medicinales y condimentarias reúne una amplia variedad de especies nativas e introducidas con potencial agroindustrial. Para contribuir al diagnóstico tecnológico del sector en Colombia y brindar elementos de planificación estratégica hacia mejores niveles de desarrollo e internacionalización, se priorizaron ciertas especies aromáticas en este artículo y se planteó una vigilancia tecnología del 2004 al 2014. Se hizo una búsqueda de artículos científicos y patentes en ocho bases de datos en el ámbito nacional, iberoamericano y mundial según temáticas priorizadas. Los datos se procesaron mediante Microsoft Excel, EndNote, Vantage Point (2014) y Thomson Data Analyzer. A nivel nacional, la temática más registrada fue el material de siembra y el mejoramiento genético, mientras que en Iberoamérica y el mundo, fue el efecto biocida. Los países líderes en investigaciones sobre las aromáticas vigiladas fueron Brasil, Colombia y Cuba. A nivel internacional, los líderes en producción científica en PubMed y Scopus fueron India, EE. UU., Brasil y Colombia. La tendencia mundial de patentes es creciente, y su principal enfoque es "Necesidades corrientes de la vida". En conclusión, la vigilancia tecnológica ofreció una visión global de avances y tendencias en investigación y desarrollo tecnológico en áreas temáticas vinculadas con las plantas aromáticas. Además, se identificaron posibles aliados investigativos y fluctuación de la producción científica a través del tiempo.

Comportamientos sexuales en mayores de 18 años con diagnóstico VIH/SIDA en tres ciudades de Colombia 2011 / Comportamentos sexuais em mais de 18 anos com diagnóstico de HIV / AIDS em três cidades na Colômbia 2011 / Sexual behaviors in over 18 years old with a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in three cities of Colombia 2011

Objetivo: Describir los comportamientos sexuales en personas VIH positivas en tres ciudades de Colombia antes y después de conocer el diagnóstico e identificar cambios en estos comportamientos. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, de corte trasversal, en el que participaron 85 individuos de tres ciudades colombianas, entrevistados durante el año 2011. Se cumplió con los parámetros éticos para investigaciones con personas. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el software SPSS 18.0. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas al comparar el comportamiento sexual antes y después de conocer el diagnóstico VIH positivo. el 23% de los entrevistados manifestó no haber iniciado actividades sexuales después del diagnóstico, el 62.5% empezó a usar el condón en todas sus relaciones sexuales. Las relaciones sexuales con personas VIH positivo aumentaron a un 35.4%. Las infecciones de transmisión sexual disminuyeron a un 12.3%. El consumo de alcohol previo al inicio de relaciones sexuales disminuyó a un 31.8%. Conclusiones: Se encontraron cambios en los comportamientos de riesgo de las personas después de recibir el diagnóstico; sin embargo, dichas modificaciones no son suficientes por tratarse de la trasmisión de una infección mortal y de elevados costos socioeconómicos.

Objective: To describe sexual behaviors of HIV positive patients in three cities of Colombia, before and after learning diagnosis and to identify changes. Methodology: Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with participation of 85 individuals from three cities of Colombia who were interviewed during 2011. Ethical standards for research involving individuals were met during the study. The SPSS software version 18.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Significant differences were found when comparing their sexual behavior before and after knowing HIV positive diagnosis, 23.0% of respondents said that they had not resumed sexual activity, 62.5% of the patients began to use the condom in all sexual relations. Sex with HIV-positive people increased a 35.4%. Sexually transmitted infections were reduced to a 12.3%. The consumption of alcohol prior to the onset of sexual intercourse decreased to 31.8%. Conclusions: Changes were found regarding risky behaviors of people after knowing the diagnosis; however, such modifications are not enough regarding the transmission of a deadly infection and with high social and economic costs.

Objetivo: Descrever o comportamento sexual em pessoas HIV-positivas em três cidades na Colômbia antes e depois de conhecer o diagnóstico e identificar mudanças no esses comportamentos. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo de transversal, em que 85 indivíduos participaram em três cidades colombianas, entrevistado em 2011. Eles se conheceram os padrões éticos para a investigação com as pessoas. Para análise estatística foi utilizado SPSS 18.0 software. Resultados: Diferenças significativas na comparação entre o comportamento sexual foram encontrados antes e depois de aprender sobre o diagnóstico de HIV positivo. 23% dos entrevistados disseram que a atividade sexual não ter iniciado após o diagnóstico, 62,5% começaram a usar preservativos em todas as relações sexuais. Sexo com pessoas HIV positivas aumentou para 35,4%. infecções sexualmente transmissíveis diminuiu para 12,3%. O consumo de álcool antes do início do sexo diminuiu para 31,8%. Conclusões: foram encontradas alterações nos comportamentos de risco de pessoas depois de receber o diagnóstico; No entanto, estas alterações não são suficientes, porque é a transmissão de uma infecção fatal e custos socioeconómicos elevados.