Tic-Tac: A Translational Approach in Mechanisms Associated with Irregular Heartbeat and Sinus Rhythm Restoration in Atrial Fibrillation Patients.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac condition predominantly affecting older adults, characterized by irregular heartbeat rhythm. The condition often leads to significant disability and increased mortality rates. Traditionally, two therapeutic strategies have been employed for its treatment: heart rate control and rhythm control. Recent clinical studies have emphasized the critical role of early restoration of sinus rhythm in improving patient outcomes. The persistence of the irregular rhythm allows for the progression and structural remodeling of the atria, eventually leading to irreversible stages, as observed clinically when AF becomes permanent. Cardioversion to sinus rhythm alters this progression pattern through mechanisms that are still being studied. In this review, we provide an in-depth analysis of the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for maintaining AF and how they are modified during sinus rhythm restoration using existing therapeutic strategies at different stages of clinical investigation. Moreover, we explore potential future therapeutic approaches, including the promising prospect of gene therapy.

Cancer History Avoids the Increase of Senescence Markers in Peripheral Cells of Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impaired Patients.

Epidemiological studies show that having a history of cancer protects from the development of Alzheimer's Disease (AD), and vice versa, AD protects from cancer. The mechanism of this mutual protection is unknown. We have reported that the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of amnestic cognitive impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) patients have increased susceptibility to oxidative cell death compared to control subjects, and from the opposite standpoint a cancer history is associated with increased resistance to oxidative stress cell death in PBMCs, even in those subjects who have cancer history and aMCI (Ca + aMCI). Cellular senescence is a regulator of susceptibility to cell death and has been related to the pathophysiology of AD and cancer. Recently, we showed that cellular senescence markers can be tracked in PBMCs of aMCI patients, so we here investigated whether these senescence markers are dependent on having a history of cancer. Senescence-associated ßeta-galactosidase (SA-ß-Gal) activity, G0-G1 phase cell-cycle arrest, p16 and p53 were analyzed by flow cytometry; phosphorylated H2A histone family member X (γH2AX) by immunofluorescence; IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA by qPCR; and plasmatic levels by ELISA. Senescence markers that were elevated in PBMCs of aMCI patients, such as SA-ß-Gal, Go-G1 arrested cells, IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA expression, and IL-8 plasmatic levels, were decreased in PBMCs of Ca + aMCI patients to levels similar to those of controls or of cancer survivors without cognitive impairment, suggesting that cancer in the past leaves a fingerprint that can be peripherally traceable in PBMC samples. These results support the hypothesis that the senescence process might be involved in the inverse association between cancer and AD.

Systemic oxidative stress associates with disease severity and outcome in patients with new-onset or worsening heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress may be a key pathophysiological mediator in the development and progression of heart failure (HF). The role of serum-free thiol concentrations, as a marker of systemic oxidative stress, in HF remains largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between serum-free thiol concentrations and disease severity and clinical outcome in patients with new-onset or worsening HF. METHODS: Serum-free thiol concentrations were determined by colorimetric detection in 3802 patients from the BIOlogy Study to TAilored Treatment in Chronic Heart Failure (BIOSTAT-CHF). Associations between free thiol concentrations and clinical characteristics and outcomes, including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and a composite of HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality during a 2-years follow-up, were reported. RESULTS: Lower serum-free thiol concentrations were associated with more advanced HF, as indicated by worse NYHA class, higher plasma NT-proBNP (P < 0.001 for both) and with higher rates of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) per standard deviation (SD) decrease in free thiols: 1.253, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.171-1.341, P < 0.001), cardiovascular mortality (HR per SD: 1.182, 95% CI: 1.086-1.288, P < 0.001), and the composite outcome (HR per SD: 1.058, 95% CI: 1.001-1.118, P = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with new-onset or worsening HF, a lower serum-free thiol concentration, indicative of higher oxidative stress, is associated with increased HF severity and poorer prognosis. Our results do not prove causality, but our findings may be used as rationale for future (mechanistic) studies on serum-free thiol modulation in heart failure. Associations of serum-free thiol concentrations with heart failure severity and outcomes.

A partially averaged system to model neuron responses to interferential current stimulation.

The interferential current (IFC) therapy is a noninvasive electrical neurostimulation technique intended to activate deep neurons using surface electrodes. In IFC, two independent kilohertz-frequency currents purportedly intersect where an interference field is generated. However, the effects of IFC on neurons within and outside the interference field are not completely understood, and it is unclear whether this technique can reliable activate deep target neurons without side effects. In recent years, realistic computational models of IFC have been introduced to quantify the effects of IFC on brain cells, but they are often complex and computationally costly. Here, we introduce a simplified model of IFC based on the FitzHugh-Nagumo (FHN) model of a neuron. By considering a modified averaging method, we obtain a non-autonomous approximated system, with explicit representation of relevant IFC parameters. For this approximated system we determine conditions under which it reliably approximates the complete FHN system under IFC stimulation, and we mathematically prove its ability to predict nonspiking states. In addition, we perform numerical simulations that show that the interference effect is observed only for a narrow set of IFC parameters and, in particular, for a beat frequency no higher than about 100 [Hz]. Our novel model tailored to the IFC technique contributes to the understanding of neurostimulation modalities using this type of signals, and can have implications in the design of noninvasive electrical stimulation therapies.

Senescence Markers in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease.

Recent studies suggest that cellular senescence plays a role in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) pathogenesis. We hypothesize that cellular senescence markers might be tracked in the peripheral tissues of AD patients. Senescence hallmarks, including altered metabolism, cell-cycle arrest, DNA damage response (DDR) and senescence secretory associated phenotype (SASP), were measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy controls (HC), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and AD patients. Senescence-associated ßeta-galactosidase (SA-ß-Gal) activity, G0-G1 phase cell-cycle arrest, p16 and p53 were analyzed by flow cytometry, while IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA were analyzed by qPCR, and phosphorylated H2A histone family member X (γH2AX) was analyzed by immunofluorescence. Senescent cells in the brain tissue were determined with lipofuscin staining. An increase in the number of senescent cells was observed in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of advanced AD patients. PBMCs of aMCI patients, but not in AD, showed increased SA-ß-Gal compared with HCs. aMCI PBMCs also had increased IL-6 and IL8 mRNA expression and number of cells arrested at G0-G1, which were absent in AD. Instead, AD PBMCs had significantly increased p16 and p53 expression and decreased γH2Ax activity compared with HC. This study reports that several markers of cellular senescence can be measured in PBMCs of aMCI and AD patients.

Influencia del control orientado del balón con la planta del pie en el futsal infantil / Influência do controlo orientado da bola com a sola do pé no futsal infantil / Influence of oriented control of the ball with the sole of the foot in children's futsal

RESUMEN La investigación se desarrolló en niños de 1012 años de edad del combinado deportivo "Pueblo Nuevo" del municipio de Holguín. Tuvo como con el objetivo demostrar la influencia que tiene la técnica control orientado del balón con la planta del pie en los practicantes de Futsal, categoría infantil del combinado "Pueblo Nuevo" de Holguín, para desarrollar el juego rápido. Se utilizaron métodos y técnicas de nivel teórico y empírico; dentro de estos últimos se trabajó con la observación, la entrevista, la encuesta y la medición, que permitieron elevar el rigor científico de los elementos analizados procesados. Los resultados obtenidos permitieron demostrar por qué es de vital importancia utilizar durante el juego la técnica control orientado del balón con la planta del pie en el juego de futsal y, específicamente, desarrollarla desde edades tempranas. La investigación, además, realiza un análisis de esta técnica, atendiendo a las reglas y sistemas de juegos, basada en la revisión y análisis de investigaciones anteriores, en la observación directa en los entrenamientos y juegos de la categoría infantil del combinado deportivo "Pueblo Nuevo" del municipio de Holguín.

RESUMO A investigação foi realizada com crianças de 10-12 anos do complexo desportivo "Pueblo Nuevo", no município de Holguín. O seu objectivo era demonstrar a influência da técnica de controlo orientado da bola com a sola do pé em jogadores de futsal, categoria infantil da equipa "Pueblo Nuevo" em Holguín, a fim de desenvolver um jogo rápido. Foram utilizados métodos e técnicas teóricos e empíricos; dentro destes últimos, a observação, entrevista, inquérito e medição foram utilizados para aumentar o rigor científico dos elementos analisados processados. Os resultados obtidos permitiram demonstrar porque é de importância vital utilizar a técnica do controlo orientado da bola com a planta do pé no futsal durante o jogo e, especificamente, desenvolvê-la desde uma idade precoce. A investigação realiza também uma análise desta técnica, tendo em conta as regras e sistemas dos jogos, com base na revisão e análise de investigações anteriores, na observação direta em sessões de treino e jogos na categoria infantil da equipa desportiva "Pueblo Nuevo" no município de Holguín.

ABSTRACT The research began with children 10-12 years of age from the "Pueblo Nuevo" sports complex in the municipality of Holguín. It had as the objective: to demonstrate the influence that the oriented control technique of the ball with the sole of the foot has on Indoor football practitioners, a children's category of the Holguín "Pueblo Nuevo" team, to develop fast play. Theoretical and empirical methods and techniques were used; within the latter, observation, interview, survey and measurement were worked on, which allowed raising the scientific rigor of the elements analyzed and processed. The results obtained allowed to demonstrate why it is vitally important to use the oriented control technique of the ball with the sole of the foot during the game in the game of indoor football and, specifically, to develop it from an early age. The research, in addition, performs an analysis of this technique, taking into account the rules and game systems, based on the review and analysis of previous research, on direct observation in the training and games of the children's category of the sports team " Pueblo Nuevo ". " of the municipality of Holguin.

Both younger and elderly patients in pain are willing to undergo knee replacement despite the COVID-19 pandemic: a study on surgical waiting lists.

PURPOSE: To identify factors influencing patient's availability to re-schedule primary total knee replacement (TKR) or revision (RKR) surgery after the lockdown (March-May 2020) during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A prospective cohort study through a telephone survey was performed in 156 patients (143 for primary and 13 for revision) included in the TKR and RKR surgical waiting list before March 2020. Contact of each patient with COVID-19, stress and anxiety, perceived pain, and function were obtained in the interviews, and also the preference of each patient to have re-scheduled surgery (early or late). Finally, we registered their response (acceptance or refusal) when surgery was effectively re-scheduled. RESULTS: 88 out of 156 patients waiting for knee replacement (76/143 of those waiting for TKR, 12/13 of those waiting for RKR) declared themselves ready for surgery in less than 1 month. When re-scheduled, 115 patients underwent surgery and 41 refused. Significantly different preferences were found for age (more prone to surgery if under 65), revision surgery (more readily available), pain (7.9 ± 1.7/10 in NRS in those undergoing surgery, 5.6 ± 2.3/10 in those refusing, p = 0.000), or COVID-19 diagnosis, but not other close contact with COVID-19, comorbidities, stress, or anxiety. A logistic regression model confirmed that revision surgery (OR 9.33), perceived severe pain (OR 5.21), and age under 65 years (OR 5.82) were significantly associated with patient preference. The probability of patients over 65 to prefer early surgery reached 60% only with pain at or above 9/10. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical timing preferences for knee replacement vary between patients older than 65 years (immediate surgery only when pain is intense) and younger patients (immediate surgery no matter the amount of pain). Even if COVID-19 severely stroke our population, the need for knee replacement stood in the young population and even in the aged population at risk for COVID when pain was important.

New Opportunities in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: From Bench to Bedside and Back.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a growing public health problem in nearly 50% of patients with heart failure. Therefore, research on new strategies for its diagnosis and management has become imperative in recent years. Few drugs have successfully improved clinical outcomes in this population. Therefore, numerous attempts are being made to find new pharmacological interventions that target the main mechanisms responsible for this disease. In recent years, pathological mechanisms such as cardiac fibrosis and inflammation, alterations in calcium handling, NO pathway disturbance, and neurohumoral or mechanic impairment have been evaluated as new pharmacological targets showing promising results in preliminary studies. This review aims to analyze the new strategies and mechanical devices, along with their initial results in pre-clinical and different phases of ongoing clinical trials for HFpEF patients. Understanding new mechanisms to generate interventions will allow us to create methods to prevent the adverse outcomes of this silent pandemic.

Cnidarian hair cell development illuminates an ancient role for the class IV POU transcription factor in defining mechanoreceptor identity.

Although specialized mechanosensory cells are found across animal phylogeny, early evolutionary histories of mechanoreceptor development remain enigmatic. Cnidaria (e.g. sea anemones and jellyfishes) is the sister group to well-studied Bilateria (e.g. flies and vertebrates), and has two mechanosensory cell types - a lineage-specific sensory effector known as the cnidocyte, and a classical mechanosensory neuron referred to as the hair cell. While developmental genetics of cnidocytes is increasingly understood, genes essential for cnidarian hair cell development are unknown. Here, we show that the class IV POU homeodomain transcription factor (POU-IV) - an indispensable regulator of mechanosensory cell differentiation in Bilateria and cnidocyte differentiation in Cnidaria - controls hair cell development in the sea anemone cnidarian Nematostella vectensis. N. vectensis POU-IV is postmitotically expressed in tentacular hair cells, and is necessary for development of the apical mechanosensory apparatus, but not of neurites, in hair cells. Moreover, it binds to deeply conserved DNA recognition elements, and turns on a unique set of effector genes - including the transmembrane receptor-encoding gene polycystin 1 - specifically in hair cells. Our results suggest that POU-IV directs differentiation of cnidarian hair cells and cnidocytes via distinct gene regulatory mechanisms, and support an evolutionarily ancient role for POU-IV in defining the mature state of mechanosensory neurons.

Actividad científica estudiantil: su dinamismo en el proceso docente educativo en la universidad médica avileña / Student scientific activity: its dynamism in the educational teaching process at Ciego de Avila medical university

RESUMEN Fundamento: la actividad científica estudiantil es un elemento fundamental en la organización del proceso docente educativo. Objetivo: describir los resultados alcanzados en la actividad científica estudiantil en la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Ciego de Ávila, en el periodo 2016-2020. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal en la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Ciego de Ávila durante el período 2016-2020. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos y empíricos. Se consultaron los documentos constitutivos del Grupo Científico Estudiantil y los programas científicos de los eventos estudiantiles (de carácter provincial y nacional) y los convocados por Sociedades Científicas de la Salud, donde se registraron trabajos realizados por estudiantes o con participación en estos. Se revisaron además las relatorías donde constaban los premiados. Resultados: en el periodo estudiado se inscribieron en eventos a nivel provincial 1165 trabajos. En eventos nacionales se obtuvieron un total de 100 premios, 23 de ellos en los fórums científico estudiantiles nacionales de ciencias médicas. Se otorgaron a instancias nacionales tres reconocimientos a tres estudiantes de la institución por la actividad científica desarrollada y se obtuvo un premio en el Concurso Nacional Premio Anual de Salud en la categoría estudiantil, recién incorporada. Se creó la revista científica estudiantil Ciencimed. Conclusiones: en la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Ciego de Ávila se han alcanzado importantes resultados en el trabajo conjunto entre los grupos científicos y la institución para el desarrollo de la actividad científica estudiantil. No obstante, se debe trabajar en función de ampliar la representatividad de cada carrera.

ABSTRACT Background: student scientific activity is a fundamental element in the organization of the teaching-learning process. Objective: to describe the results achieved in the student scientific activity at Ciego de Ávila University of Medical Sciences from 2016 to 2020. Methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the University of Medical Sciences of Ciego de Ávila from 2016-2020. Theoretical and empirical methods were used. The constitutive documents of the Student Scientific Group and the scientific programs of the student´s events (provincial and national) and those convened by Scientific Health Societies were consulted, where work carried out by students or with their participation were recorded. The reports containing the winners were also reviewed. Results: in the period studied, 1,165 works were enrolled in events at the provincial level. In national events, a total of 100 awards were obtained, 23 of them in the national student scientific forum of medical sciences. Three recognitions were awarded by national authorities to three students of the institution for their scientific activity developed and a prize was obtained in the National Annual Health Prize Competition in the newly incorporated student category. The student scientific journal Ciencimed was created. Conclusions: at Ciego de Ávila University of Medical Sciences important results have been achieved in the joint work between scientific groups and the institution for the development of student scientific activity. However, work should be done to expand the representativeness of each degree.

Surrogate Endpoints in Oncology: Overview of Systematic Reviews and Their Use for Health Decision Making in Mexico.

OBJECTIVES: The use of surrogate endpoints (SEs) for cancer drug approval in health systems is common. The objectives of this study were to identify systematic reviews (SRs) that evaluated the correlation of SEs with overall survival (OS) in cancer drugs to analyze the applications of approved cancer drugs with SEs in Mexico and to apply the validation framework proposed by the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). METHODS: An overview of SRs was conducted according to Cochrane Collaboration methodology. Applications for approved cancer drugs with SEs in Mexico were analyzed. The IQWiG validation framework was applied to evaluate the SEs identified in the overview and in the applications in Mexico. RESULTS: A total of 85 SRs that assessed 192 SEs for different types of cancer were selected. According to the IQWiG model, only 2.5% of the SEs analyzed in the overview and only one of the applications in Mexico could be used as surrogates for OS because the reliability (methodological quality) of the SRs and the strength of the correlation of SEs with OS was mostly low (92%) and low (correlation coefficient r ≤ 0.7; 50.5%), respectively. Of the total number of cancer drugs approved in Mexico, 19.4% used SEs. CONCLUSIONS: Most SEs for different types of cancer could not be used as surrogates for OS according to the IQWiG model, and their use for the approval of cancer drugs in Mexico is generally not justified.

Causas de resistencia al uso de la cofia en alumnas de las licenciaturas de enfermería / Causes of resistance to the use of the cap in students of nursing degrees

Introducción: En su devenir en la historia, la profesión de enfermería ha adoptado y construido símbolos que le representan socialmente. Los más comunes son el uniforme blanco, la capa, la lampara y la cofia. Objetivo: Conocer las causas de resistencia en el uso de la cofia en estudiantes de la licenciatura de enfermería y en enfermería obstétrica. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, la unidad de análisis fueron estudiantes de las licenciaturas en enfermería. La muestra fue de 80 estudiantes del sexo femenino Se aplico un cuestionario, que consta de los siguientes apartados: datos generales y uso y resistencia de la cofia. Resultados: Las estudiantes refieren que el 71% usa la cofia como parte del uniforme, 61% por imposición y solo el 15% la usa como símbolo. El 95% considera que no es útil su uso para el rol de enfermería. El 96% de los estudiantes considera que el uso de la cofia es un factor de riesgo porque puede ser un fomite. Conclusiones: La principal causa de resistencia del uso de la cofia es que no le ven utilidad y la consideran un factor de riesgo para la Infecciones asociadas en la atención a la salud. Sin embargo, no debemos de perder de vista los factores sociohistóricos y las necesidades de cada época y contexto geográfico.

Aplicaciones de la impresión 3D en cirugía plástica reconstructiva / Use of 3D printing in reconstructive plastic surgery

Resumen La impresión 3D es una tecnología interesante en constante evolución. También conocida como manufactura aditiva, consiste en la conversión de diseños digitales a modelos físicos mediante la adición de capas sucesivas de material. En años recientes, y tras el vencimiento de múltiples patentes, diversos campos de las ciencias de la salud se han interesado en sus posibles usos, siendo la cirugía plástica una de las especialidades médicas que más ha aprovechado sus ventajas y aplicaciones, en especial la capacidad de crear dispositivos altamente personalizados a costos accesibles. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, el objetivo del presente artículo es describir los usos de la impresión 3D en cirugía plástica reconstructiva a partir de una revisión de la literatura. Las principales aplicaciones de la impresión 3D descritas en la literatura incluyen su capacidad para crear modelos anatómicos basados en estudios de imagen de pacientes, que a su vez permiten planificar procedimientos quirúrgicos, fabricar implantes y prótesis personalizadas, crear instrumental quirúrgico para usos específicos y usar biotintas en ingeniería tisular. La impresión 3D es una tecnología prometedora con el potencial de implementar cambios positivos en la práctica de la cirugía plástica reconstructiva en el corto y mediano plazo.

Abstract 3D printing is an interesting technology in constant evolution. Also known as additive manufacturing, it consists of the conversion of digital designs into physical models by successively adding material layer by layer. In recent years, and after the expiration of multiple patents, several fields of health sciences have approached this type of technology, plastic surgery being one of the medical specialties that has taken advantage of its benefits and applications, especially the ability to create highly customized devices at low costs. With this in mind, the objective of this work is to describe the uses of 3D printing in reconstructive plastic surgery based on a literature review. The main applications of 3D printing described in the literature include its ability to create anatomical models based on patient imaging studies, which in turn allow planning surgical procedures, manufacturing custom implants and prostheses, creating surgical or instrumental simulators, and using bioinks in tissue engineering. 3D printing is a promising technology with the potential to cause positive changes in the field of reconstructive plastic surgery in the short and medium term.

The masked seducers: Lek courtship behavior in the wrinkle-faced bat Centurio senex (Phyllostomidae).

Centurio senex is an iconic bat characterized by a facial morphology deviating far from all other New World Leaf Nosed Bats (Phyllostomidae). The species has a bizarrely wrinkled face and lacks the characteristic nose leaf. Throughout its distribution from Mexico to Northern South America the species is most of the time rarely captured and only scarce information on its behavior and natural history is available. Centurio senex is frugivorous and one of the few bats documented to consume also hard seeds. Interestingly, the species shows a distinct sexual dimorphism: Adult males have more pronounced facial wrinkles than females and a fold of skin under the chin that can be raised in style of a face mask. We report the first observations on echolocation and mating behavior of Centurio senex, including synchronized audio and video recordings from an aggregation of males in Costa Rica. Over a period of 6 weeks we located a total of 53 perches, where during the first half of the night males were hanging with raised facial masks at a mean height of 2.35 m. Most of the time, the males moved just their wing tips, and spontaneously vocalized in the ultrasound range. Approaches of other individuals resulted in the perching male beating its wings and emitting a very loud, low frequency whistling call. Following such an encounter we recorded a copulation event. The observed aggregation of adult C. senex males is consistent with lek courtship, a behavior described from only few other bat species.

Queratoplastia endotelial de la membrana de Descemet y biomecánica corneal / Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty and corneal biomechanics

OBJETIVO: Estudiar el comportamiento de las propiedades biomecánicas de la córnea en la DMEK (Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty). MÉTODO: Estudio observacional longitudinal prospectivo; 21 ojos pre- y post-DMEK. Seguimiento de 3 meses con el analizador Scheimpflug dinámico (Corvis ST, Oculus; Wetzlar, Alemania). Se midieron los siguientes parámetros: PIOnc: presión intraocular (PIO) no corregida, PIOb: PIO corregida mediante biomecánica, amplitud de deflexión máxima (DefA), CCT: paquimetría corneal central, velocidad de aplanación 1 y 2, peak distance, HC deformation amplitude: amplitud de deformación en máxima concavidad, radio cóncavo inverso integrado, DAR 1 y 2: amplitud de deformación a 1mm y 2mm del ápex corneal, respectivamente. ARTh: relación paquimétrica de Ambrosio, SP1: parámetro de rigidez, CBI: corvis biomechanical index y el radio máximo inverso. Se realizaron las medidas de forma preoperatoria y postoperatoria con un seguimiento de 3 meses y se compararon con una prueba t para muestras emparejada. RESULTADOS: Se produjo una disminución significativa de la PIOnc de 1,54 ± 3 mmHg (p < 0,05), aumento significativo de la PIOb posquirúrgica de 3,79 ± 3,18 mmHg (p < 0,001), una disminución significativa paquimétrica de 164,4 ± 91,35μm (p < 0,001) tras la intervención. Todos los parámetros dinámicos del analizador Scheimpflug cambiaron significativamente después de la cirugía (p < 0,05), excepto las variable ARTh y CBI. CONCLUSIONES: Las variables indican un descenso en la resistencia de la córnea post-DMEK, con un aumento de la PIOb, al menos los primeros 3 meses tras la cirugía. Este hallazgo es especialmente relevante en el seguimiento de los pacientes con coexistencia de glaucoma

OBJECTIVE: To study the behaviour of the biomechanical properties of the cornea in DMEK (Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty). METHOD: Prospective longitudinal observational study. 21 pre and post-DMEK eyes. 3-month follow-up with the dynamic Scheimpflug Analyzer (Corvis ST, Oculus; Wetzlar, Germany). The following parameters were measured: IOPnc: non-corrected intraocular pressure (IOP), IOPb: IOP corrected by biomechanics, maximum deflection amplitude (DefA), CCT: central corneal pachymetry, flattening speed 1 and 2, peak distance, HC deformation amplitude: deformation amplitude in maximum concavity, integrated inverse concave radius, DAR 1 and 2: deformation amplitude at 1mm and 2mm from the corneal apex, respectively. ARTh: Ambrosial pachymetric ratio, SP1: stiffness parameter, CBI: Corvis Biomechanical index and the maximum inverse radius. Pre-operative and post-operative measurements were performed with a 3-month follow-up and compared with a paired sample t-test. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in the IOPnc of 1.54 ± 3 mmHg (p < 0.05), a significant increase in the post-surgical IOPb of 3.79 ± 3.18 mmHg (p < 0.001), a significant pachymetric decrease of 164.4 ± 91.35 μm (p < 0.001) after the intervention. All dynamic parameters of the Scheimpflug analyzer changed significantly after surgery (p < 0.05), except the ARTh and IWC variables. CONCLUSIONS: Variables indicate a decrease in corneal strength post-DMEK, with an increase in IOPb, at least the first 3 months after surgery. This finding is especially relevant in the follow-up of patients with coexisting glaucoma

Variation in plant belowground resource allocation across heterogeneous landscapes: implications for post-fire resprouting.

PREMISE: Resource availability affects biomass allocation in ways that could influence plant responses to disturbance such as fire. This is important because fire also varies across landscapes in ways that are correlated to resource availability. We hypothesized that plants growing in landscape microsites with a shortage of nutrients and water allocate more biomass and resources to belowground structures (and thus promote traits that enhance post-fire resprouting ability) than plants in more mesic sites. METHODS: We selected sites in three contrasting topographies (3 gullies, 3 midslopes, and 3 ridges) that supported different vegetation types and fire regimes, in Jalisco, Mexico. At each site, we measured soil nutrient and water content and light availability. Then we sampled biomass and root starch allocation in three post-fire resprouting shrubs that grow across a wide range of microenvironmental conditions. RESULTS: The ridges showed the highest values of solar radiation and the lowest of soil N and water content. Overall, we found a significant tendency for higher root-to-shoot (R/S) ratios, greater fine root biomass, and higher root starch content, in individuals growing in ridges or midslopes compared to the values of the plants living in gullies. CONCLUSIONS: Plants located in open canopy sites, characterized by a shortage of nutrients and water, tend to allocate more biomass belowground than plants in wet and fertile sites. Thus, plants in wet and fertile forests should be more vulnerable to increased disturbance such as wildfires.

Propuesta metodológica para la enseñanza del control orientado con la planta de pie en el futsal / Proposta metodológica para o ensino do controlo orientado com a base de pés no futsal / Methodological proposal for the teaching of the control guided with the sole of foot in indoor soccer

Resumen La investigación pretende colocar una herramienta de trabajo para los profesores y entrenadores que enseñan el futsal en la etapa inicial o formativa, específicamente en la edad infantil. El documento describe los elementos más esenciales del movimiento o gesto técnico, pasos metodológicos sencillos a seguir y los errores más comunes que pueden aparecer durante su ejecución. Esta surge por la necesidad de contribuir al proceso de enseñanza del control orientado del balón con la planta de pie en el futsal y describe como objetivo proponer una metodología que contribuya a la enseñanza del control orientado del balón con la planta del pie en el futsal categoría infantil de Holguín. La investigación, además, está basada en la revisión y análisis de investigaciones anteriores, principalmente en el fútbol y adaptadas al futsal, atendiendo a sus características específicas, en la observación directa en los entrenamientos, juegos de la categoría infantil en el municipio Holguín, el procesamiento de entrevistas y encuestas a entrenadores, profesores y practicantes. Por tanto, aporta una opción de enseñanza de la técnica control orientado del balón a niños que se inician en el deporte de futsal que como practicantes sistemáticos podrán aprender esta técnica con mayor facilidad.

Resumo A investigação visa fornecer uma ferramenta para professores e treinadores que ensinam futsal na fase inicial ou formativa, especificamente em crianças. O documento descreve os elementos mais essenciais do movimento ou gesto técnico, os passos metodológicos simples a seguir e os erros mais comuns que podem surgir durante a sua execução. Surge da necessidade de contribuir para o processo de ensino do controlo com a base do pé no futsal e descreve o objectivo de propor uma metodologia que contribua para o ensino do controlo com a base do pé na categoria de futsal infantil de Holguín. A investigação baseia-se também na revisão e análise de pesquisas anteriores, principalmente no futebol e adaptadas ao futsal de acordo com as suas características específicas, na observação direta de sessões de treinamento e jogos da categoria de crianças no município de Holguín, e no processamento de entrevistas e inquéritos a treinadores, professores e praticantes. Por conseguinte, proporciona uma opção de ensino da técnica do controlo da bola às crianças que estão a começar no desporto de Futsal e que, como praticantes sistemáticos, serão capazes de aprender mais facilmente esta técnica.

Abstract The work aims to provide a working tool for teachers and coaches who teach indoor soccer in the initial or training stage, specifically at the child's age. The document describes the most essential elements of the movement or technical gesture, simple methodological steps to follow, and the most common errors that can appear during its execution. The research arises for the need to contribute to the process of teaching the orientated control of the ball with the sole of the foot in indoor soccer and states as objective: To propose a methodology that contributes to the teaching of the orientated control of the ball with the sole of the foot in the indoor soccer infantile category of Holguín. Besides, it is based on the review and analysis of previous researches principally in soccer and adapted to the indoor soccer attending to its specific characteristics, in the direct observation in the trainings and games of the infantile category in the municipality Holguín, as well as, the processing of interviews and surveys to trainers, teachers and practitioners. Therefore, it provides an option for teaching the technique of ball control oriented to children who are initiated in indoor soccer, who as systematic practitioners can learn this technique easier.

Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty and corneal biomechanics. / Queratoplastia endotelial de la membrana de Descemet y biomecánica corneal.

OBJECTIVE: To study the behaviour of the biomechanical properties of the cornea in DMEK (Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty). METHOD: Prospective longitudinal observational study. 21 pre and post-DMEK eyes. 3-month follow-up with the dynamic Scheimpflug Analyzer (Corvis ST, Oculus; Wetzlar, Germany). The following parameters were measured: IOPnc: non-corrected intraocular pressure (IOP), IOPb: IOP corrected by biomechanics, maximum deflection amplitude (DefA), CCT: central corneal pachymetry, flattening speed 1 and 2, peak distance, HC deformation amplitude: deformation amplitude in maximum concavity, integrated inverse concave radius, DAR 1 and 2: deformation amplitude at 1mm and 2mm from the corneal apex, respectively. ARTh: Ambrosial pachymetric ratio, SP1: stiffness parameter, CBI: Corvis Biomechanical index and the maximum inverse radius. Pre-operative and post-operative measurements were performed with a 3-month follow-up and compared with a paired sample t-test. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in the IOPnc of 1.54±3mmHg (p<0.05), a significant increase in the post-surgical IOPb of 3.79±3.18mmHg (p<0.001), a significant pachymetric decrease of 164.4±91.35µm (p<0.001) after the intervention. All dynamic parameters of the Scheimpflug analyzer changed significantly after surgery (p<0.05), except the ARTh and IWC variables. CONCLUSIONS: Variables indicate a decrease in corneal strength post-DMEK, with an increase in IOPb, at least the first 3 months after surgery. This finding is especially relevant in the follow-up of patients with coexisting glaucoma.

Outcomes of abdominal wall reconstruction in patients with the combination of complex midline and lateral incisional hernias.

BACKGROUND: The best treatment for the combined defects of midline and lateral incisional hernia is not known. The aim of our multicenter study was to evaluate the operative and patient-reported outcomes using a modified posterior component separation in patients who present with the combination of midline and lateral incisional hernia. METHODS: We identified patients from a prospective, multicenter database who underwent operative repairs of a midline and lateral incisional hernia at 4 centers with minimum 2-year follow-up. Hernias were divided into a main hernia based on the larger size and associated abdominal wall hernias. Outcomes reported were short- and long-term complications, including recurrence, pain, and bulging. Quality of life was assessed with the European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias Quality of Life score. RESULTS: Fifty-eight patients were identified. Almost 70% of patients presented with a midline defect as the main incisional hernia. The operative technique was a transversus abdominis release in 26 patients (45%), a modification of transversus abdominis release 27 (47%), a reverse transversus abdominis release in 3 (5%), and a primary, lateral retromuscular preperitoneal approach in 2 (3%). Surgical site occurrences occurred in 22 patients (38%), with only 8 patients (14%) requiring procedural intervention. During a mean follow-up of 30.1 ± 14.4 months, 2 (3%) cases of recurrence were diagnosed and required reoperation. There were also 4 (7%) patients with asymptomatic but visible bulging. The European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias Quality of Life score showed a statistically significant decrease in the 3 domains (pain, restriction, and cosmetic) in the postoperative score compared with the preoperative score. CONCLUSION: The different techniques of posterior component separation in the treatment of combined midline and lateral incisional hernia show acceptable results, despite the associated high complexity. Patient-reported outcomes after measurement of the European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias Quality of Life score demonstrated a clinically important improvement in quality of life and pain.

Nanoscale Perovskite-Sensitized Solar Cell Revisited: Dye-Cell or Perovskite-Cell?

A general and straightforward way of preparing few-nanometer-sized well-separated MAPbIx Br3-x (MA=methylammonium) perovskite photosensitizers on the surface of an approximately 1 µm thick mesoporous TiO2 photoanode was suggested through a two-step sequential deposition of low-concentrated lead halides (0.10-0.30 m PbI2 or PbBr2 ) and methylammonium iodide/bromide (MAI/MABr). When those nanoscale MAPbIx Br3-x perovskites were incorporated as a photosensitizer in typical solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells (ss-DSSCs), it could be verified clearly by the capacitance analysis that nano-particulate MAPbI3 perovskites play the same role as that of a typical dye sensitizer (MK-2 molecule) although their size, composition, and structure are different.