Brain atlas of the annual Garcialebias charrua fish.

Annual fish have become attractive study models for a wide range of disciplines, including neurobiology. These fish have developed different survival strategies. As a result, their nervous system is under considerable selective pressure when facing extreme environmental situations. Fish from the Austrolebias group exhibit rapid neurogenesis in different brain regions, possibly as a result of the demanding conditions of a changing habitat. Knowledge of cerebral histology is essential for detecting ontogenic, anatomical, or cytoarchitectonic changes in the brain during the short lifespan of these fish, such as those reflecting functional adaptive plasticity in different systems, including sensory structures. The generation of an atlas of Garcialebias charrua (previously known as Austrolebias charrua) establishes its anatomical basis as a representative of a large group of fish that share similarities in their way of life. In this work, we present a detailed study of both gross anatomy and microscopic anatomy obtained through serial sections stained with the Nissl technique in three orientations: transverse, horizontal, and parasagittal planes. This atlas includes accurate drawings of the entire adult brain of the male fish Garcialebias charrua, showing dorsal, ventral, and lateral views, including where emergence and origin of cranial nerves. This brain atlas allows us to understand histoarchitecture as well as the location of neural structures that change during adult neurogenesis, enabling comparisons within the genus. Simultaneously, this atlas constitutes a valuable tool for comparing the brains of other fish species with different behaviors and neuroecologies.

Late-adolescent onset of prefrontal endocannabinoid control of hippocampal and amygdalar inputs and its impact on trace-fear conditioning behavior.

Prefrontal cortex (PFC) maturation during adolescence is characterized by structural and functional changes, which involve the remodeling of GABA and glutamatergic synapses, as well as changes in the endocannabinoid system. Yet, the way PFC endocannabinoid signaling interacts with local GABA and glutamatergic function to impact its processing of afferent transmission during the adolescent transition to adulthood remains unknown. Here we combined PFC local field potential recordings with local manipulations of 2-AG and anandamide levels to assess how PFC endocannabinoid signaling is recruited to modulate ventral hippocampal and basolateral amygdalar inputs in vivo in adolescent and adult male rats. We found that the PFC endocannabinoid signaling does not fully emerge until late-adolescence/young adulthood. Once present, both 2-AG and anandamide can be recruited in the PFC to limit the impact of hippocampal drive through a CB1R-mediated mechanism whereas basolateral amygdalar inputs are only inhibited by 2-AG. Similarly, the behavioral effects of increasing 2-AG and anandamide in the PFC do not emerge until late-adolescence/young adulthood. Using a trace fear conditioning paradigm, we found that elevating PFC 2-AG levels preferentially reduced freezing behavior during acquisition without affecting its extinction. In contrast, increasing anandamide levels in the PFC selectively disrupted the extinction of trace fear memory without affecting its acquisition. Collectively, these results indicate a protracted recruitment of PFC endocannabinoid signaling, which becomes online in late adolescence/young adulthood as revealed by its impact on hippocampal and amygdalar-evoked local field potential responses and trace fear memory behavior.

Etiologies of Mild and Moderate Diarrheal Illness among Children in Consuelo, Dominican Republic.

Since the rotavirus vaccine was included in the Dominican Republic's national immunization schedule in 2012, the microbiologic etiologies of acute gastroenteritis have not been described. This study aimed to determine the contribution of rotavirus as an etiology of acute gastroenteritis over a 12-month period in children under 5 years of age in both an inpatient and an outpatient setting in Consuelo, Dominican Republic. All children who were seen at Niños Primeros en Salud clinic or admitted to Hospital Municipal Dr. Angel Ponce Pinedo for acute gastroenteritis during January 2021-April 2022 were enrolled in the study. Stools were evaluated for rotavirus, enteric parasites, and pathogenic bacteria. Pathogen detection was compared between outpatients and inpatients and on the basis of child's vaccination status. From 181 children enrolled, 170 stool samples were collected, 28 (16.5%) from inpatients and 142 (83.5%) from outpatients. Rotavirus was the most commonly detected pathogen and was proportionately more common among hospitalized children, with nine (32.1%) cases among hospitalized children and 16 (11.3%) among outpatient children. (Pearson χ2 = 8.1, P = 0.004). Among patients with a positive rotavirus result, vaccination rate was lower among moderate (hospitalized) (three of six; 50%) compared with mild (outpatient) diarrhea patients (12 of 15; 80%). Giardia lamblia (10%) was the next most prevalent pathogen detected in both inpatients and outpatients using standard laboratory measures. Despite the availability of rotavirus vaccination, rotavirus remains a common cause of gastrointestinal illness among children under 5 years of age in our cohort. Incomplete vaccination status was associated with hospitalization for gastrointestinal illness.

Near-term pregnant women in the Dominican Republic experience high rates of Group B Streptococcus rectovaginal colonization with virulent strains.

Maternal colonization with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is an important cause of stillbirth, prematurity, and serious infection and death in infants worldwide. Resource constraints limit prevention strategies in many regions. Maternal GBS vaccines in development could be a more accessible prevention strategy, but data on geographic variations in GBS clones are needed to guide development of a broadly effective vaccine. In the Dominican Republic (DR), limited data suggest that pregnant women experience GBS colonization at rates among the highest globally. We aimed to determine the prevalence of maternal rectovaginal GBS colonization and describe clonal characteristics of colonizing strains in the DR. A cross-sectional study assessed rectovaginal GBS colonization in 350 near-term pregnant women presenting for routine prenatal care at an urban tertiary center in the DR. Rectovaginal samples were tested with chromogenic Strep B Carrot Broth and cultured for confirmatory whole-genome sequencing. In a secondary analysis, participants' demographics and histories were assessed for association with GBS colonization. Rectovaginal GBS colonization occurred in 26.6% of women. Serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, IV, and V were detected, with no one serotype predominating; serotype III was identified most frequently (21.5%). Virulent and emerging strains were common, including CC17 (15.1%) and ST1010 (17.2%). In this first characterization of maternal GBS serotypes in the DR, we found high rates of rectovaginal colonization including with virulent and emerging GBS strains. The serotypes observed here are all targeted by candidate hexavalent GBS vaccines, suggesting effective protection in the DR.

Factors Associated With Initiating Breastfeeding and Continuing it for At Least 4 Months in Consuelo, a Rural Town in the Dominican Republic.

Objective. We assessed the proportion of and factors associated with mothers initiating and continuing breastfeeding (BF) for ≥4 months in a rural town of the Dominican Republic. Methods. A survey was administered to 190 mothers of children cared for at a free clinic in Consuelo. Modified bivariate and multivariable Poisson regressions were utilized in data analysis. Results. BF was initiated in 89.5% of cases and continued ≥4 months in 81.7% of cases. Maternal education beyond secondary school [adjusted RR = 1.13, 95% CI: (1.04-1.24), 0.010], and visiting both public and private antenatal clinics [adjusted RR = 1.25; 95% CI: (1.10-1.37), 0.010] were associated with BF initiation. Public and private antenatal clinic attendance [adjusted RR = 1.01, 95% CI: (0.45-2.23), 0.020], Cesarean section [adjusted RR = 0.81, 95% CI: (0.68-0.98), 0.026], number of biological children [adjusted RR = 0.95, 95% CI: (0.90-1.00), 0.032] and maternal employment [adjusted RR = 0.89, 95% CI: (0.79-0.99), 0.048] were associated with BF continuation. Conclusions. These results provide valuable insights for targeting specific populations in future breastfeeding education interventions.

Endothelial Cell APOE3 Regulates Neurovascular, Neuronal, and Behavioral Function.

BACKGROUND: Specialized brain endothelial cells and human APOE3 are independently important for neurovascular function, yet whether APOE3 expression by endothelial cells contributes to brain function is currently unknown. In the present study, we determined whether the loss of endothelial cell APOE3 impacts brain vascular and neural function. METHODS: We developed APOE3fl/fl/Cdh5(PAC)-CreERT2+/- (APOE3Cre+/-) and APOE3fl/fl/Cdh5(PAC)-CreERT2-/- (APOE3Cre-/-, control) mice and induced endothelial cell APOE3 knockdown with tamoxifen at ≈4 to 5 weeks of age. Neurovascular and neuronal function were evaluated by biochemistry, immunohistochemistry, behavioral testing, and electrophysiology at 9 months of age. RESULTS: We found that the loss of endothelial APOE3 expression was sufficient to cause neurovascular dysfunction including higher permeability and lower vessel coverage in tandem with deficits in spatial memory and fear memory extinction and a disruption of cortical excitatory/inhibitory balance. CONCLUSIONS: Our data collectively support the novel concept that endothelial APOE3 plays a critical role in the regulation of the neurovasculature, neural circuit function, and behavior.

Morphological evidence of the protective effects of a synthetic chalcone against the striatal myelin damage induced by glutaric acid.

Ultrastructural features of striatal white matter and cells in an in vivo model of glutaric acidemia type I created by intracerebral injection of glutaric acid (GA) were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry. To test if the white matter damage observed in this model could be prevented, we administered the synthetic chemopreventive molecule CH38 ((E)-3-(4-methylthiophenyl)-1-phenyl-2-propen-1-one) to newborn rats, previous to an intracerebroventricular injection of GA. The study was done when striatal myelination was incipient and when it was already established (at 12 and 45 days post-injection [DPI], respectively). Results obtained indicate that that the ultrastructure of astrocytes and neurons did not appear significantly affected by the GA bolus. Instead, in oligodendrocytes, the most prominent GA-dependent injury defects included endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and nuclear envelope swelling at 12 DPI. Altered and reduced immunoreactivities against heavy neurofilament (NF), proteolipid protein (PLP), and myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) together with axonal bundle fragmentation and decreased myelin were also found at both ages analyzed. CH38 by itself did not affect striatal cells or axonal packages. However, the group of rats that received CH38 before GA did not show evidence neither of ER stress nor nuclear envelope dilation in oligodendrocytes, and axonal bundles appeared less fragmented. In this group, labeling of NF and PLP was similar to the controls. These results suggest that the CH38 molecule is a candidate drug to prevent or decrease the neural damage elicited by a pathological increase of GA in the brain. Optimization of the treatments and identification of the mechanisms underlying CH38 protective effects will open new therapeutic windows to protect myelin, which is a vulnerable target of numerous nervous system diseases.

Neuroblastoma intracraneal en una niña / Intracranial neuroblastoma in a girl I: en

Se describe el caso clínico de una niña de 13 meses de edad, quien fue asistida en el Servicio de Neurocirugía del Hospital Infantil Sur Dr. Antonio María Béguez César de Santiago de Cuba, y posteriormente en el Servicio de Oncología de la institución, remitida del área de salud por presentar proptosis, exoftalmos del ojo derecho y aumento del perímetro craneal. Luego de realizados el examen clínico y los estudios complementarios pertinentes, incluidos resonancia magnética simple y contrastada de cráneo, estudio histopatológico, así como aspiración y biopsia bilateral de médula ósea, se confirmó que se trataba de un neuroblastoma parameníngeo con infiltración medular (estadio IV), sin evidencia de tumor primario. La evolución luego de la quimioterapia fue satisfactoria.

The case report of a 13 months girl is described who was assisted in the Neurosurgery Service of Antonio María Béguez Cesar Southern Children Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, and later on in the Oncology Service of the institution, referred from the health area due to proptosis, exophthalmos of the right eye and increase of the cranial perimeter. After the clinical exam and the pertinent complementary studies, including simple and contrasted magnetic resonance of skull, histopatologic study, as well as aspiration and bilateral biopsy of bone marrow, the presence of a parameningeal neuroblastoma with medullary infiltration (stage IV), without evidence of primary tumor was confirmed. The evolution after the chemotherapeutic treatment was satisfactory.

Caracterización del síndrome coronario agudo en pacientes octogenarios

Introducción: La edad representa uno de los mayores predictores de riesgo de complicaciones cardiovasculares en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo. La prevalencia de este síndrome en el grupo de los pacientes octogenarios es elevada. Métodos: Estudio prospectivo de cohortes analítico de todos los pacientes ingresados en la unidad de cuidados coronarios intensivos del Hospital Universitario "Comandante Manuel Fajardo" de la Habana, entre el año 2016 y el 2020. Objetivo: Caracterizar la población de pacientes octogenarios con síndrome coronario agudo y las posibles asociaciones entre la ocurrencia de complicaciones intrahospitalarias no letales y los factores de riesgo cardiovasculares. Resultados: Prevaleció el sexo femenino (64,2 %), los antecedentes de hipertensión arterial (89,7 %), cardiopatía isquémica (66,7 %), y el tabaquismo (32 %). Se encontraron asociaciones estadísticas significativas entre el tipo de síndrome coronario agudo y la presencia de complicaciones cardiovasculares de cualquier tipo (p=0,006); el aumento de la creatinina se asoció con la presencia de complicaciones hemodinámicas (Mdn=97; Rango=97,52; p=0,012), así como también la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo mostró una asociación muy significativa con la presencia de complicaciones cardiovasculares de cualquier tipo (Mdn=59; Rango=63,3; p<0,001) y hemodinámicas (Rango=55,2; p<0,001). Conclusiones: Se caracterizó la población de pacientes octogenarios con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST se asoció con un aumento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares intrahospitalarias, de la misma manera que sucedió con el valor de la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo.

Introduction: Age represents one of the greatest predictors of risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The prevalence of this syndrome in the group of octogenarian patients is high. Objective: To characterize the population of octogenarian patients with acute coronary syndrome and the possible associations between the occurrence of non-lethal intrahospital complications and cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: This is a prospective analytical cohort study of all patients admitted to the intensive coronary care unit of Manuel Fajardo University Hospital in Havana, from 2016 to 2020. Results: The female sex (64.2%), a history of arterial hypertension (89.7%), ischemic heart disease (66.7%), and smoking habits (32%) outweighed. Significant statistical associations were found between the type of acute coronary syndrome and the presence of cardiovascular complications of any type (p=0.006); the increase in creatinine was associated with the presence of hemodynamic complications (Mdn=97; Range=97.52; p=0.012), as well as the left ventricular ejection fraction showed a highly significant association with the presence of cardiovascular complications of any type (Mdn=59; Range=63.3; p<0.001) and hemodynamic (Range=55.2; p<0.001). Conclusions: The octogenarian population of patients with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome was characterized and was associated with an increase in in-hospital cardiovascular complications, in the same way that it happened with the value of the left ventricular ejection fraction.

Plasticity of cell proliferation in the retina of Austrolebias charrua fish under light and darkness conditions.

Austrolebias annual fishes exhibit cell proliferation and neurogenesis throughout life. They withstand extreme environmental changes as their habitat dries out, pressuring nervous system to adapt. Their visual system is challenged to adjust as the water becomes turbid. Therefore, this study focused on how change in photic environment can lead to an increased cell proliferation in the retina. We administered 5-chloro-2'- deoxyuridine (CldU) and 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine (IdU) at different temporal windows to detect cell proliferation in natural light and permanent darkness. Stem/progenitor cells were recognized as IdU+/CldU + nuclei co-labeled with Sox2, Pax6 or BLBP found in the ciliary marginal zone (CMZ). The expression pattern of BLBP + glial cells and ultrastructural analysis indicates that CMZ has different cell progenitors. In darkness, the number of dividing cells significantly increased, compared to light conditions. Surprisingly, CMZ IdU+/CldU + cell number was similar under light and darkness, suggesting a stable pool of stem/progenitor cells possibly responsible for retinal growth. Therefore, darkness stimulated cell progenitors outside the CMZ, where Müller glia play a crucial role to generate rod precursors and other cell types that might integrate rod-dependent circuits to allow darkness adaptation. Thus, the Austrolebias fish retina shows great plasticity, with cell proliferation rates significantly higher than that of brain visual areas.

Experiencia de la COVID-19: dedicación y amor, acompañados de angustia, nostalgia y dolor

El ejemplo de Cuba en el aspecto de la prevención, organización de los servicios, control y seguimiento constante (con información pública diaria) de la evolución de la pandemia de COVID-19 a nivel poblacional califica de sobresaliente durante todos los meses de batalla. A pesar de los esfuerzos realizados por el Ministerio de Salud Pública, y el trabajo digno y heroico de los profesionales de la salud en coordinación con otros sectores, al igual que ha ocurrido en diferentes momentos en la mayoría de los países del mundo, en Cuba se vivió en los meses de julio y agosto de 2021 el periodo más complejo en la lucha contra la pandemia, con una alta incidencia de la variante Delta, cuando, en un contexto marcado por la insuficiente financiación y el incremento en el mercado internacional del costo de los insumos, el país sintió la escasez de medicamentos y otros materiales necesarios para la atención a pacientes. Describir la experiencia de los médicos de la Atención Primaria de Salud en torno a la tensa situación de esos momentos es el objetivo de este trabajo.

The example of Cuba in the aspect of prevention, organization of services, control and constant monitoring (with daily public information) of the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic at the population level is described as outstanding during all the months of battle. Despite the efforts made by the Ministry of Public Health, and the dignified and heroic work of health professionals in coordination with other sectors, as has happened at different times in most countries of the world, in Cuba The most complex period in the fight against the pandemic was experienced in the months of July and August 2021, with a high incidence of the Delta variant, when, in a context marked by insufficient financing and the increase in the international market of the cost of supplies, the country felt the shortage of medicines and other materials necessary for patient care. Describing the experience of Primary Health Care doctors around the tense situation of those moments is the objective of this work.

Calidad de vida en pacientes mayores de 75 años con síndrome coronario agudo

Introducción: La oclusión parcial o total de una arteria coronaria epicárdica es la génesis más frecuente de los síndromes coronarios agudos. Con la intención de medir el impacto de las enfermedades y el tratamiento en el funcionamiento diario, bienestar físico, emocional y social de cada persona se introduce el término calidad de vida relacionada con la salud. Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad de vida en pacientes mayores de 75 años con síndrome coronario agudo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional de corte prospectivo con componente analítico en 82 pacientes con diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo que recibieron el intervencionismo coronario percutáneo, mayores de 75 años, ingresados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos coronarios del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico "Comandante Manuel Fajardo" en el período comprendido entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2019. Resultados: La mediana para la edad fue de 80 años con rango intercuartílico de (77-82), no existió diferencias significativas en cuento al sexo, prevaleció la hipertensión arterial (80,5 %) y los antecedentes de infarto agudo de miocardio (41,5 %). En sentido general las medianas y los rangos en los pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST fueron superiores a los que presentaron síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST. Las mujeres presentaron una peor función social que los hombres. Conclusiones: Se evaluó la calidad de vida en pacientes mayores de 75 años con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST, tuvieron peores puntuaciones en las diferentes dimensiones de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud, las mujeres presentaron una peor función social en comparación con los hombres.

Introduction: Partial or total occlusion of an epicardial coronary artery is the most frequent genesis of acute coronary syndromes. With the intention of measuring the impact of disease and treatment on the daily functioning, physical, emotional and social well-being of each person, the term health-related quality of life is introduced. Objective: To evaluate the quality of life in patients over 75 years of age with acute coronary syndrome. Methods: A prospective observational study with an analytical component was conducted in 82 patients with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome who received percutaneous coronary interventionism, over 75 years of age, admitted to the coronary intensive care unit of the Clinical-Surgical Hospital "Comandante Manuel Fajardo" from January 2015 to December 2019. Results: The average age was 80 years with an interquartile range of (77-82), there were no significant differences in terms of gender, hypertension (80.5%) and a history of acute myocardial infarction (41.5%) prevailed. In general, the averages and ranges in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome were higher than those with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. Women had worse social function than men. Conclusions: Quality of life was assessed in patients older than 75 years with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. They had worse scores in the different dimensions of health-related quality of life, women presented worse social function compared to men.

Derechos del residente: reflexiones sobre factores que los afectan

RESUMEN La formación de especialistas constituye modalidad académica de posgrado. Es importante considerar los derechos que corresponden a los residentes en su etapa de formación, porque habitualmente se insiste y se reclama más el cumplimiento de los deberes. Al analizar y evaluar los aspectos metodológicos comprendidos en el Reglamento de la Residencia quedan bien definidas las obligaciones que demanda el proceso docente y a su vez los derechos que posee el personal en formación. En este trabajo se declaran las deficiencias presentes para desarrollar un proceso docente de calidad, fundamentalmente en el nivel primario de atención que cuenta con menor número de profesores con categoría docente superior y con menor número de especialistas de segundo grado y doctores en ciencia, lo que repercute negativamente en la conducción y asesoramiento del proceso docente de posgrado. Se llama a incrementar las potencialidades del claustro ante la necesidad de formar un capital humano con la calidad requerida.

ABSTRACT The specialists training constitutes the academic modality of the postgraduate course. It is important to consider the rights that correspond to residents in their training stage, because compliance with duties is usually insisted on and demanded more. When analyzing and evaluating the methodological aspects included in the Residency Regulations, the obligations demanded by the teaching process and, in turn, the rights held by the staff in training are well defined. In this work, the current deficiencies to develop a quality teaching process are declared, essentially in the primary level of attention that has a smaller number of teachers with higher teaching category and with a smaller number of second-grade specialists and doctors in science, which has a negative impact on the management and advice of the postgraduate teaching process. Finally, it is encourage increasing the potential of the staff to train human capital with the required quality.

Colocalization Analysis of Peripheral Myelin Protein-22 and Lamin-B1 in the Schwann Cell Nuclei of Wt and TrJ Mice.

Myelination of the peripheral nervous system requires Schwann cells (SC) differentiation into the myelinating phenotype. The peripheral myelin protein-22 (PMP22) is an integral membrane glycoprotein, expressed in SC. It was initially described as a growth arrest-specific (gas3) gene product, up-regulated by serum starvation. PMP22 mutations were pathognomonic for human hereditary peripheral neuropathies, including the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Trembler-J (TrJ) is a heterozygous mouse model carrying the same pmp22 point mutation as a CMT1E variant. Mutations in lamina genes have been related to a type of peripheral (CMT2B1) or central (autosomal dominant leukodystrophy) neuropathy. We explore the presence of PMP22 and Lamin B1 in Wt and TrJ SC nuclei of sciatic nerves and the colocalization of PMP22 concerning the silent heterochromatin (HC: DAPI-dark counterstaining), the transcriptionally active euchromatin (EC), and the nuclear lamina (H3K4m3 and Lamin B1 immunostaining, respectively). The results revealed that the number of TrJ SC nuclei in sciatic nerves was greater, and the SC volumes were smaller than those of Wt. The myelin protein PMP22 and Lamin B1 were detected in Wt and TrJ SC nuclei and predominantly in peripheral nuclear regions. The level of PMP22 was higher, and those of Lamin B1 lower in TrJ than in Wt mice. The level of PMP22 was higher, and those of Lamin B1 lower in TrJ than in Wt mice. PMP22 colocalized more with Lamin B1 and with the transcriptionally competent EC, than the silent HC with differences between Wt and TrJ genotypes. The results are discussed regarding the probable nuclear role of PMP22 and the relationship with TrJ neuropathy.

Thermal degradation characteristics and gasification kinetics of camel manure using thermogravimetric analysis.

In this work, the sustainable valorisation of camel manure has been studied using thermogravimetric analysis. The gasification tests were performed from ambient conditions to 950 °C at 10, 20, and 50 °C/min under an O2 environment. The TGA data were applied to determine the kinetics of the O2 gasification. Single-heating rate models (Arrhenius and Coats-Redfern) and multi-heating rate models (Distributed activation energy, Friedman, Flynn-Wall-Ozawa, Starink, and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose) were applied to estimate the kinetics of the process. Between the two single-heating rate models, the Coats-Redfern method fitted best with the experimental data. Among the multi-heating rate models, the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa model fitted best with the experimental results. The kinetic parameters-frequency factor, activation energy, and order of reaction were estimated using the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa model (the best-fitting model) and the estimated kinetic parameters were used to calculate the thermodynamic properties-Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy. The information on these kinetic and thermodynamic properties can be useful for the design of gasifiers and for optimising the O2 gasification operating conditions.

Prefrontal α7nAChR Signaling Differentially Modulates Afferent Drive and Trace Fear Conditioning Behavior in Adolescent and Adult Rats.

Increased level of kynurenic acid is thought to contribute to the development of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia through an α7nAChR-mediated mechanism in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). However, it remains unclear to what extent disruption of PFC α7nAChR signaling impacts afferent transmission and its modulation of behavior. Using male rats, we found that PFC infusion of methyllycaconitine (MLA; α7nAChR antagonist) shifts ventral hippocampal-induced local field potential (LFP) suppression to LFP facilitation, an effect only observed in adults. Hippocampal stimulation can also elicit a GluN2B-mediated LFP potentiation (when PFC GABAAR is blocked) that is insensitive to MLA. Conversely, PFC infusion of MLA diminished the gain of amygdalar transmission, which is already enabled by postnatal day (P)30. Behaviorally, the impact of prefrontal MLA on trace fear-conditioning and extinction was also age related. While freezing behavior during conditioning was reduced by MLA only in adults, it elicited opposite effects in adolescent and adult rats during extinction as revealed by the level of reduced and increased freezing response, respectively. We next asked whether the late-adolescent onset of α7nAChR modulation of hippocampal inputs contributes to the age-dependent effect of MLA during extinction. Data revealed that the increased freezing behavior elicited by MLA in adult rats could be driven by a dysregulation of the GluN2B transmission in the PFC. Collectively, these results indicate that distinct neural circuits are recruited during the extinction of trace fear memory in adolescents and adults, likely because of the late-adolescent maturation of the ventral hippocampal-PFC functional connectivity and its modulation by α7nAChR signaling.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Abnormal elevation of the astrocyte-derived metabolite kynurenic acid in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to impair cognitive functions in schizophrenia through an α7nAChR-mediated mechanism. Here, we found that prefrontal α7nAChR signaling is recruited to control the gain of hippocampal and amygdalar afferent transmission in an input-specific, age-related manner during the adolescent transition to adulthood. Behaviorally, prefrontal α7nAChR modulation of trace fear memory was also age-related, likely because of the late-adolescent maturation of the ventral hippocampal pathway and its recruitment of PFC GABAergic transmission enabled by local α7nAChR signaling. Collectively, these results reveal that distinct α7nAChR-sensitive neural circuits contribute to regulate behavior responses in adolescents and adults, particularly those requiring proper integration of hippocampal and amygdalar inputs by the PFC.

Comportamiento de las genodermatosis en el municipio de San Juan y Martínez / Behavior of genodermatoses in San Juan y Martinez municipality

RESUMEN Introducción: las enfermedades genéticas y defectos congénitos constituyen la segunda causa de muerte en menores de un año, conociendo que estas enfermedades pueden ser de origen cromosómico, multifactorial y monogénicas. En esta última se incluyen las genodermatosis, donde el diagnóstico precoz influye en el pronóstico de vida del paciente que la contrae. Objetivo: caracterizar el comportamiento de las genodermatosis en el municipio de San Juan y Martínez en el período 2018-2019. Métodos: se realizó una investigación descriptiva y transversal, con un universo de 476 pacientes con enfermedades genéticas y una muestra de 40 pacientes con genodermatosis. Se trabajó con las variables: edad, sexo, color de la piel, antecedentes familiares, tipo de genodermatosis y tipo de patrones de herencia, mediante la obtención de datos por la revisión de historias clínicas. Resultados: se obtuvo que el 83,3 % pertenecían al sexo masculino, predominó el color de la piel blanca con un 78 %, 29 pacientes no tuvieron antecedentes patológicos familiares, predominaron las ictiosis con un 27,5 %, y el patrón de herencia más frecuente fue el autosómico dominante con un 70 %. Conclusiones: las enfermedades genéticas cada día ganan un lugar mayor en la sociedad, por lo que se deben intensificar las acciones preventivas desde la atención primaria de salud, para así contrarrestar su incidencia y mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes.

ABSTRACT Introduction: genetic diseases and congenital defects constitute the second cause of death only in the child of one year; these diseases can be of chromosomal, multifactorial and monogenetic origin. Genodermatoses are included in the last one, where the early diagnosis influences on the prognosis of life of the genetic carrier. Objective: to characterize the behavior of genodermatoses in San Juan y Martinez municipality in the period 2018-2019. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional research was conducted, with a target group comprising 476 patients with genetic diseases and a sample of 40 patients with genodermatoses; working with the variables of age, sex, color of skin, family history, type of genodermatosis and type of hereditary patterns, through the collection of data for the review of clinical histories. Results: it was recorded that 83,3 % belonged to male sex, white skin color prevailed (78 %), 29 patients had no family history, ichthyosis (27,5 %) predominated, and autosomal dominant hereditary pattern was the most frequent (70 %). Conclusions: genetic diseases are gaining a greater position in society every day, as a result preventive actions must be taken, starting from the Primary Health Care in order to counteract its incidence and improve the quality of life of the patients.

Bloqueo de rama enmascarado / Masquerading bundle branch block

RESUMEN El bloqueo de rama enmascarado es una forma poco frecuente de bloqueo bifascicular de la cual se desconoce su mecanismo con exactitud. Es más frecuente encontrarlo en pacientes de edad avanzada o aquellos con una cardiopatía estructural como: enfermedad coronaria, hipertrofia ventricular, miocardiopatías, miocarditis chagásica y degeneración idiopática del sistema excitoconductor del corazón. Su diagnóstico electrocardiográfico se obtiene por la presencia de ondas R altas y anchas en V1 (patrón de bloqueo de rama derecha), desviación del eje eléctrico a la izquierda (entre -80 y -120 grados) y una onda S inferior a 1 mm o ausente en DI y aVL. Su presencia denota un factor de mal pronóstico en los pacientes.

ABSTRACT Masquerading bundle branch block is a rare form of bifascicular block, whose exact mechanism is unknown. It is more frequently found in elderly patients or those with structural heart disease such as: coronary artery disease, ventricular hypertrophy, cardiomyopathies, Chagas myocarditis and idiopathic degeneration of the cardiac conduction system. Its electrocardiographic diagnosis is obtained by the presence of high and wide R waves in V1 (right bundle branch block pattern), left axis deviation (between -80 and -120 degrees) and an S wave of less than 1 mm or absent in I and aVL leads. Its presence denotes a poor prognostic factor in patients.

Factores de riesgo maternos asociados al bajo peso al nacer en San Juan y Martínez / Maternal risk factors associated with low birth weight in San Juan and Martinez municipality

RESUMEN Introducción: se considera bajo peso al nacer a todo recién nacido que al momento del parto tenga un peso inferior a los 2500g, cualquiera que sea la causa y sin tener en cuenta la duración de la gestación. Objetivos: identificar los factores de riesgo maternos asociados con el bajo peso al nacer. Métodos: se realizó una investigación descriptiva, longitudinal prospectiva, a las 31 madres cuyo producto de la concepción fue bajo peso, en el municipio San Juan y Martínez, en el período comprendido de 2018-2019, a las cuales se les aplicó una encuesta para identificar los principales factores de riesgo que contribuyeron en su incidencia. Resultados: el grupo de edad más representativo fue el de 21-35 con el 74 %, hubo una inadecuada ganancia de peso para un 42 %, con un predominio de la nuliparidad para un 64 %, mayor en las adolescentes. Las afecciones asociadas al embarazo estuvieron presentes en un 88 % y las enfermedades propias del embarazo en un 84 % de las madres durante la gestación. El 82 % no tuvo planificación de su embarazo. Conclusiones: los factores de riesgos más influyentes constituyeron: la ganancia inadecuada de peso durante la gestación con peso inicial adecuado, la nuliparidad, las afecciones asociadas al embarazo como: la infección vaginal, hipertensión arterial, anemia durante el embarazo, el parto pretérmino, la no planificación del embarazo y la no utilización del ácido fólico en tiempo preconcepcional.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Low birth weight is considered to be any newborn baby weighing less than 2500g at the time of delivery, whatever the cause and regardless of the length of gestation. Objectives: to identify maternal risk factors associated with low birth weight. Methods: a descriptive, prospective, longitudinal study was conducted on 31 mothers whose product of conception was low birth weight in San Juan y Martinez municipality during the period 2018-2019. A survey was applied to identify the main risk factors that contributed to this incidence. Results: the most representative age group was 21-35 with 74 %, there was an inadequate weight gain for the 42 % of them, there was a predominance of nulliparity for 64% of adolescents, pregnancy-related diseases were present in 88 %, and pre-existing conditions in the 84% of mothers during pregnancy; 82% did not plan the pregnancy. Conclusions: the most influential risk factors were inadequate weight gain during pregnancy with adequate initial weight, nulliparity, pregnancy-related diseases such as vaginal infections, high blood pressure, anemia during pregnancy, preterm.

Non-isothermal drying of bio-wastes: Kinetic analysis and determination of effective moisture diffusivity.

A macro-thermogravimetric analysis (macro-TGA) was applied to analyse the non-isothermal drying of different bio-wastes (quince solid waste, grape marc and pumpkin shell from different enterprises located in San Juan Province, Argentina). The experimental data were obtained at three heating rates (5, 10 and 15 K/min) and two different initial moisture contents (30 and 50% w/w). These data were fitted using the Coats-Redfern and Sharp methods. The D2 model showed the best fitting for all experiments when using the Coats-Redfern method. It is assumed that drying occurs on the solid boundary. The predicted Ea values ranged from 43.60 to 64.50 kJ/mol for the three bio-wastes under the different experimental conditions. The Ea value slightly increases with the increase in heating rate because the wastes require more energy to undergo drying. Deff increases moderately with temperature at the beginning of the dehydration process; then, this increasing behaviour is significant due to the loss of continuous moisture channels. Otherwise, Deff increases with the initial moisture content, showing that the humidity of the samples did not reach the saturation content.