Voltage-gated ion channels are expressed in the Malpighian tubules and anal papillae of the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti), and may regulate ion transport during salt and water imbalance.

Vectors of infectious disease include several species of Aedes mosquitoes. The life cycle of Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito, consists of a terrestrial adult and an aquatic larval life stage. Developing in coastal waters can expose larvae to fluctuating salinity, causing salt and water imbalance, which is addressed by two prime osmoregulatory organs - the Malpighian tubules (MTs) and anal papillae (AP). Voltage-gated ion channels (VGICs) have recently been implicated in the regulation of ion transport in the osmoregulatory epithelia of insects. In the current study, we: (i) generated MT transcriptomes of freshwater-acclimated and brackish water-exposed larvae of Ae. aegypti, (ii) detected expression of several voltage-gated Ca2+, K+, Na+ and non-ion-selective ion channels in the MTs and AP using transcriptomics, PCR and gel electrophoresis, (iii) demonstrated that mRNA abundance of many altered significantly following brackish water exposure, and (iv) immunolocalized CaV1, NALCN, TRP/Painless and KCNH8 in the MTs and AP of larvae using custom-made antibodies. We found CaV1 to be expressed in the apical membrane of MTs of both larvae and adults, and its inhibition to alter membrane potentials of this osmoregulatory epithelium. Our data demonstrate that multiple VGICs are expressed in osmoregulatory epithelia of Ae. aegypti and may play an important role in the autonomous regulation of ion transport.

The tubulin database: Linking mutations, modifications, ligands and local interactions.

Microtubules are polymeric filaments, constructed of α-ß tubulin heterodimers that underlie critical subcellular structures in eukaryotic organisms. Four homologous proteins (γ-, δ-, ε- and ζ-tubulin) additionally contribute to specialized microtubule functions. Although there is an immense volume of publicly available data pertaining to tubulins, it is difficult to assimilate all potentially relevant information across diverse organisms, isotypes, and categories of data. We previously assembled an extensive web-based catalogue of published missense mutations to tubulins with >1,500 entries that each document a specific substitution to a discrete tubulin, the species where the mutation was described and the associated phenotype with hyperlinks to the amino acid sequence and citation(s) for research. This report describes a significant update and expansion of our online resource (TubulinDB.bio.uci.edu) to nearly 18,000 entries. It now encompasses a cross-referenced catalog of post-translational modifications (PTMs) to tubulin drawn from public datasets, primary literature, and predictive algorithms. In addition, tubulin protein structures were used to define local interactions with bound ligands (GTP, GDP and diverse microtubule-targeting agents) and amino acids at the intradimer interface, within the microtubule lattice and with associated proteins. To effectively cross-reference these datasets, we established a universal tubulin numbering system to map entries into a common framework that accommodates specific insertions and deletions to tubulins. Indexing and cross-referencing permitted us to discern previously unappreciated patterns. We describe previously unlinked observations of loss of PTM sites in the context of cancer cells and tubulinopathies. Similarly, we expanded the set of clinical substitutions that may compromise MAP or microtubule-motor interactions by collecting tubulin missense mutations that alter amino acids at the interface with dynein and doublecortin. By expanding the database as a curated resource, we hope to relate model organism data to clinical findings of pathogenic tubulin variants. Ultimately, we aim to aid researchers in hypothesis generation and design of studies to dissect tubulin function.

Isovaleric Acidemia: A Case Report.

Isovaleric acidemia is an autosomal recessive disease of leucine metabolism. The clinical presentation is variable and three phenotypes are described, asymptomatic, acute neonatal, and chronic intermittent. Infections are the most important trigger for catabolic crises. Diagnosis is based on the detection of isovalerylglycine CoA in urine and elevated levels of isovaleryl (C5) carnitine in blood. Long-term treatment consists of prevention of catabolic state, dietary restriction, and supplementation with L-carnitine and/or L-glycine. We present the case of a three-year-old female patient with multiple episodes of decompensation since the age of two years. The episode in which she was diagnosed had encephalopathy, with no neurological sequelae. Currently, the patient continues with dietary restrictions and supplementation with good nutritional and growth results for her age.

[Transculturation and validation of a Questionnaire Factors Influencing Organ Donation]. / Transculturación y validación del cuestionario Factores que influyen en la Donación de Órganos.

Background: There are validated questionnaires in Spanish that evaluate the factors that influence organ donation, but they are not designed for the open population or do not delve into various aspects such as the one proposed. Objective: Validate an instrument to evaluate the factors that influence organ donation in Mexico. Material and methods: Phase 1: Development of the instrument. Translation into Spanish of the questionnaire "Factors Inffluencing Organ Donation in Qatar", adapted by experts in donation and clinimetry. Simultaneously, the definitive version of the questionnaire "Factors that Influence Organ Donation" (FIDO) and the questionnaire "International Donor Collaborative Project" were applied to patients, relatives and staff of a tertiary hospital in Puebla, Mexico. Mind a week after 200 respondents. Cronbach's Alpha (AC) (internal consistency), Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) (external consistency), and Phi (Phi) and Chi square Coefficient (concurrent validity in intention to donate) were obtained. Results: AC and ICC by domain: Knowledge 0.625 and 0.372; Attitudes 0.776 and 0.761; Beliefs 0.649 and 0.633; Intentions 0.126 and 0.123; Phi: 0.976, Chi square: 2.358 (p = 0.125). Conclusions: The FIDO questionnaire is valid and consistent to assess knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and intentions in organ donation in the general Mexican population.

Introducción: existen cuestionarios validados en español que evalúan los factores que influyen en la donación de órganos, pero no están diseñados para población abierta o no exploran aspectos diversos como el propuesto. Objetivo: validar un instrumento para evaluar los factores que influyen en la donación de órganos en México. Material y métodos: fase 1: Elaboración del instrumento. Traducción al español del cuestionario Factors Influencing Organ Donation in Qatar, adaptado por expertos en donación y clinimetría. Se realizaron pruebas piloto hasta lograr acuerdo en dos rondas consecutivas. Fase 2: Validez y consistencia. Simultáneamente se aplicó la versión definitiva del cuestionario Factores que Influyen en la Donación de Órganos (FIDO) y el cuestionario Proyecto Colaborativo Internacional Donante a pacientes, familiares y personal de un hospital de tercer nivel de Puebla, México. Se reaplicó telefónicamente una semana después a 200 respondientes. Se utilizó alfa de Cronbach (AC) (consistencia interna), coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI) (consistencia externa), y coeficiente de Phi (Phi) y Chi cuadrada (validez concurrente en intención de donar). Resultados: AC y CCI por dominio: Conocimiento 0.625 y 0.372; Actitudes 0.776 y 0.761; Creencias 0.649 y 0.633; Intenciones 0.126 y 0.123; Global 0.774 y 0.675, respectivamente (p = 0.000); Phi: 0.976, Chi cuadrada: 2.358 (p = 0.125). Conclusiones: el cuestionario FIDO es válido y consistente para explorar: conocimiento, actitudes, creencias e intenciones en donación de órganos en población general mexicana.

[Rapunzel syndrome: Radiological diagnosis]. / Síndrome de Rapunzel: diagnóstico radiológico.

Background: Rapunzel syndrome is a rare presentation of trichobezoar, secondary to the ingestion of hair known as trichophagia. This bezoar has been found mainly in women, it invades the stomach and extends to the small intestine. Clinically, patients present weight loss and chronic obstructive symptoms at the intestinal level. A case of Rapunzel syndrome is presented. Clinical case: A 13-year-old female presented with a weight loss of 10kg in two months, chronic constipation, predominantly nocturnal vomiting, and abdominal pain of seven days' duration. Physical examination revealed decreased peristalsis and a palpable mass in the epigastrium. Laboratories taken on admission: normal blood count, kidney function tests, and liver function tests. The abdominal X-ray showed opacity in the fundus, body and gastric antrum, the abdominal ultrasound showed non-specific findings in the epigastrium, later an abdominal tomography was performed with a swallow of water-soluble contrast medium and showed occupation in the gastric lumen. She underwent exploratory laparotomy and the finding was a trichobezoar in the stomach with extension to the duodenum and part of the jejunum, which was removed without complications. The evolution of the patient was favorable. Conclusions: For the diagnosis of Rapunzel Syndrome, the use of contrast imaging studies is necessary, and the treatment of choice is surgical.

Introducción: el síndrome de Rapunzel es una presentación poco frecuente de tricobezoar, secundario a la ingesta de cabello conocida como tricofagia. Este bezoar se ha encontrado principalmente en mujeres, invade estómago y se extiende a intestino delgado. Clínicamente, los pacientes presentan pérdida de peso y síntomas crónicos de tipo obstructivo a nivel intestinal. Se presenta un caso de síndrome de Rapunzel. Caso clínico: paciente mujer de 13 años que se presenta con pérdida de peso de 10 kg en dos meses, estreñimiento crónico, vómito de predominio nocturno y dolor abdominal de siete días de evolución. A la exploración física, se encontró peristalsis disminuida y masa palpable en epigastrio. Laboratorios tomados a su ingreso: biometría hemática, pruebas de función renal y hepáticas normales. La radiografía de abdomen mostró opacidad en fundus, cuerpo y antro gástrico, la ecografía de abdomen mostró hallazgos inespecíficos en epigastrio, posteriormente se realizó tomografía abdominal con trago de medio de contraste hidrosoluble y mostró ocupación en la luz gástrica. Se sometió a laparotomía exploradora y el hallazgo fue un tricobezoar en estómago con extensión a duodeno y parte de yeyuno, fue removido sin complicaciones. La evolución de la paciente fue favorable. Conclusiones: para el diagnóstico del síndrome de Rapunzel es necesario el uso de estudios de imagen contrastados y el tratamiento de elección es quirúrgico.

Funcionalidad antes y después de fisioterapia en pacientes post Covid-19

Introducción: El COVID-19 es una enfermedad que desde su aparición en 2019 ha representado un reto para los servicios sanitarios. Las secuelas son consecuencia de un deterioro de la calidad de vida, fatiga, disnea y dolor articular. Objetivo: Comparar parámetros funcionales físicos, respiratorios, cognitivos y de independencia funcional en pacientes post COVID-19, con secuelas respiratorias antes y después de un programa de terapia física y ocupacional respiratoria. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio comparativo, cuasiexperimental, prospectivo en pacientes ambulatorios egresados de hospitalización por COVID-19 en un Hospital de 3er nivel de atención del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social en Puebla, México durante 2020-2021. Se aplicaron escalas antes y después del programa de rehabilitación. Se utilizó estadística analítica. Resultados: Se incluyeron 116 pacientes, 57,7% hombres, edad media de 47,32 años (min. 20, máx. 79); 77 (66,3%) pacientes presentaron síntomas moderados en hospitalización. Se obtuvo un valor de p significativa (p <0,001). Conclusión: Se observa una mejoría significativa en los pacientes post COVID-19 tras recibir terapia física y ocupacional respiratoria.

Introduction. COVID-19 is a disease that since its emergence in 2019 has represented a challenge for healthcare services. The sequelae result from impaired quality of life, fatigue, dyspnea and joint pain. Objective. To compare physical, respiratory, cognitive and functional independence functional parameters in post-COVID-19 patients with respiratory sequelae before and after a respiratory physical and occupational therapy program. Methods. A comparative, quasi-experimental, prospective study was conducted in outpatients discharged from hospitalization for COVID-19 in a 3rd level of care Hospital of the Mexican Institute of Social Security in Puebla, Mexico during 2020-2021. Scales were applied before and after the rehabilitation program. Analytical statistics were used. Results. We included 116 patients, 57.7% men, mean age 47.32 years (min. 20, max. 79); 77 (66.3%) patients presented moderate symptoms in hospitalization. A significant p-value was obtained (p <0.001). Conclusion. Significant improvement is observed in post-COVID-19 patients after receiving respiratory physical and occupational therapy.

Use of clinical decision support for antibiotic stewardship in the emergency department and outpatient clinics: An interrupted time-series analysis.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of implementing clinical decision support (CDS) tools for outpatient antibiotic prescribing in the emergency department (ED) and clinic settings. Design: We performed a before-and-after, quasi-experimental study that employed an interrupted time-series analysis. Setting: The study institution was a quaternary, academic referral center in Northern California. Participants: We included prescriptions for patients in the ED and 21 primary-care clinics within the same health system. Intervention: We implemented a CDS tool for azithromycin on March 1, 2020, and a CDS tool for fluoroquinolones (FQs; ie, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin) on November 1, 2020. The CDS added friction to inappropriate ordering workflows while adding health information technology (HIT) features to easily perform recommended actions. The primary outcome was the number of monthly prescriptions for each antibiotic type, by implementation period (before vs after). Results: Immediately after azithromycin-CDS implementation, monthly rates of azithromycin prescribing decreased significantly in both the ED (-24%; 95% CI, -37% to -10%; P < .001) and outpatient clinics (-47%; 95% CI, -56% to -37%; P < .001). In the first month after FQ-CDS implementation in the clinics, there was no significant drop in ciprofloxacin prescriptions; however, there was a significant decrease in ciprofloxacin prescriptions over time (-5% per month; 95% CI, -6% to -3%; P < .001), suggesting a delayed effect of the CDS. Conclusion: Implementing CDS tools was associated with an immediate decrease in azithromycin prescriptions, in both the ED and clinics. CDS may serve as a valuable adjunct to existing antimicrobial stewardship programs.

[Pain after panretinal photocoagulation: 50-millisecond pulse versus conventional pulse]. / Dolor posterior a panfotocoagulación retiniana: impulso de 50 milisegundos frente a impulso convencional.

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive disfunction of blood vessels of the retina secondary to chronic hyperglycemia. There are several treatments, out of which panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) stands out. Objective: To compare the level of pain in patients undergoing PRP with different impulse. Material and methods: Comparative, cross-sectional study that compared the level of pain in patients undergoing PRP with a 50-millisecond pulse (group A) versus conventional 200 milliseconds pulse (group B). Mann-Whitney U test was used. Results: There were 26 patients, 12 (46.16%) female and 14 (53.84%) males. The median age was 58.73 ± 7.31 (40-75) years. 40 eyes were studied, 18 (45%) right and 22 (55%) left. The mean level of glycated hemoglobin was 8.15 ± 1.08 (6.5-12) %. The mean laser power was 297 ± 53.61 (200-380) and 214.5 ± 41.73 (170-320) milliwatts; the mean fluence was 18.85 ± 5.28 (12-28) J/cm2 and 65.9 ± 12.87 (52-98) J/cm2; the mean level of pain was 3.1 ± 1.33 (1-5) and 7.5 ± 1.23 (6-10) points for group A and B, respectively, and there was statistically significant difference (p ˂ 0.001) in the level of pain. There were no complications in any group. Conclusion: The application of retinal 50-millisecond pulse PRP causes less pain and side effects than 200-millisecond pulse PRP.

Introducción: la retinopatía diabética es una disfunción progresiva del sistema vascular de la retina que es secundaria a una hiperglucemia crónica. Hay varias opciones de tratamiento, entre las que destaca la panfotocoagulación. Objetivo: comparar el nivel de dolor en pacientes sometidos a panfotocoagulación retiniana con diferente impulso. Material y métodos: estudio comparativo, transversal, que comparó el nivel de dolor en pacientes sometidos a panfotocoagulación con impulso de 50 milisegundos (grupo A) frente a impulso convencional de 200 milisegundos (grupo B). Se utilizó U de Mann Whitney. Resultados: fueron 26 pacientes, 12 (46.16%) mujeres y 14 (53.84%) hombres. La edad mediana fue 58.73 ± 7.31 (40-75) años. Se estudiaron 40 ojos, 18 (45%) derechos y 22 (55%) izquierdos. El nivel medio de hemoglobina glucosilada fue 8.15 ± 1.08 (6.5-12)%. La potencia láser media fue 297 ± 53.61 (200-380) y 214.5 ± 41.73 (170-320) miliwatts, la fluencia media fue 18.85 ± 5.28 (12-28) J/cm2 y 65.9 ± 12.87 (52-98) J/cm2, el nivel medio de dolor fue 3.1 ± 1.33 (1-5) y 7.5 ± 1.23 (6-10) puntos para el grupo A y B, respectivamente y hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p ≤ 0.001) en el nivel de dolor. En ningún grupo hubo complicaciones. Conclusión: la aplicación de panfotocoagulación retiniana con impulso de 50 milisegundos provoca menos dolor y efectos secundarios que la panfotocoagulación con impulso de 200 milisegundos.

Disautonomía gastrointestinal como manifestación de mielitis transversa: Reporte de caso

La mielitis transversa, de origen inflamatorio, es una afectación rara de la médula espinal que afecta a uno o varios niveles. La etiología incluye esclerosis múltiple, causas infecciosas o trastornos del espectro de la neuromielitis óptica. Se presenta de forma aguda, con síntomas motores, sensoriales y/o disautonómicos como los gastrointestinales y urinarios. El diagnóstico se basa en la sintomatología, evolución y se confirma por punción lumbar, resonancia magnética nuclear y analítica sanguínea completa. Se presenta el caso clínico de una paciente con mielitis transversa, que debutó con sintomatología gastrointestinal, síntomas motores y confirmación diagnóstica con resonancia magnética nuclear.

Inflammatory transverse myelitis is a rare condition that affects one or more levels of the spinal cord. Its etiology includes multiple sclerosis, infectious causes, or disorders within the spectrum of neuromyelitis optica. It presents acutely with motor, sensory, and/or dysautonomic symptoms, such as those related to the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. Diagnosis is based on symptomatology, evolution, and is confirmed by lumbar puncture, magnetic resonance imaging, and complete blood analysis. We present a clinical case of a patient with transverse myelitis who presented with gastrointestinal symptoms, motor symptoms, and was diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging.

Calidad de vida con y sin cirugía conservadora de esfínteres por cáncer de recto

Introducción: El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es el tercer cáncer más frecuente y la segunda causa principal de muerte a nivel mundial con una incidencia 10,2%. El tratamiento del CCR ha cambiado durante los últimos 25 años. Se utilizan dos manejos quirúrgicos: la resección abdominoperineal (RAP) y la resección anterior baja (RAB) y la ultra baja (RAUB). La tasa de recidiva y la calidad de vida son similares. Objetivo: Comparar la calidad de vida de los pacientes con cáncer de recto tratados con resección abdominoperineal vs resecciones conservadoras de esfínteres: anterior baja y ultra baja en la UMAE Puebla. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio comparativo, observacional, transversal en pacientes con CCR atendidos durante 2015-2019 en un hospital de 3er nivel en Puebla. Se formaron dos grupos: los manejados con RAP y los manejados con RAB/RAUB. Se aplicó la escala EORT QLQ CR-29 y EuroQol. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva y U de Man-Whitney para comparaciones. Resultados: Se reclutaron 26 pacientes, 18 manejados con RAP y 8 con RAB/RAUB. Se registró una CV media en el grupo RAP de 73,72 (DE 16,92, mínimo 31,46, máximo 95,09) y en el grupo RAB/RAUB de 56,22 (DE 6,29, mínimo 47,51, máximo 68,96), con un valor de p=0,005. Conclusiones: No hay diferencia significativa en la calidad de vida de los pacientes con CCR operados por RAP, RAB y RAUB (abordaje no conservador y conservador).

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of death worldwide, with an incidence of 10.2%. The treatment of CRC has evolved over the past 25 years. Two surgical procedures are used: abdominoperineal resection (APR) and low anterior resection (LAR) and ultra-low anterior resection (ULAR). The recurrence rate and quality of life are similar between these approaches. Objective: To compare the quality of life of rectal cancer patients treated with abdominoperineal resection versus conservative sphincter-preserving surgeries: low anterior resection (LAR) and ultra-low anterior resection (ULAR) at UMAE of Puebla. Methods: A comparative, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted on CRC patients treated between 2015 and 2019 at a tertiary-level hospital in Puebla. Two groups were formed: those managed with APR and those managed with LAR/ULAR. The EORTC QLQ-CR29 scale and EuroQol were applied. Descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for comparisons. Results: A total of 26 patients were recruited, 18 with APR and 8 with LAR/ULAR. The mean quality of life score in the APR group was 73.72 (SD 16.92, minimum 31.46, maximum 95.09), and in the LAR/ULAR group was 56.22 (SD 6.29, minimum 47.51, maximum 68.96), with a p-value of 0.005. Conclusions: There is no significant difference in the quality of life of CRC patients operated with APR, LAR, and ULAR (non-conservative and conservative approaches).

Identification of Human Papillomavirus genotypes in juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis. Three-year experience in a concentration hospital in Puebla, Mexico / Identificación de genotipos de Virus del Papiloma Humano en papilomatosis laríngea juvenil. Experiencia de 3 años en un hospital de concentración en Puebla, México

Background: Juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis (JLP) is a chronic benign disease from viral etiology, whose clinical course can be aggressive. In Mexico, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes that cause this disease have been poorly studied. Objective: To identify the HPV genotypes in patients with JLP in a reference Hospital in Puebla, Mexico. Mehods: A retrospective descriptive study was performed in patients with JLP attended in a 3rd level care of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social in Puebla, México, from 2018 to 2021. Medical records were revised. In all patients, HPV identification was performed by polymerase chain reaction for genomes 6, 11, 16 and 18 using specific oligonucleotides. Descriptive statistics were applied. Results: 9 patients were included, 56% women, mean age 9.5 ±5.7 years; 7 patients were HPV-11 positive and 2 HPV-6. The mean age at diagnosis was 2.35 ±1.77 years, with an average of 12 ±11.56 surgical procedures; 5 patients were tracheostomy carriers, 4 had genotype 11; 8 patients were born vaginally, but no patient had maternal genital condylomatous lesions. In the patient born by cesarean section, transmission due to sexual abuse was documented. Conclusions: The most frequent genotypes in patients with JLP in the south-central region of Mexico are HPV-6 and HPV-11, the latter one is predominating.

Introducción: La papilomatosis laríngea juvenil (PLJ) es una enfermedad benigna crónica de etiología viral, que tiende a tomar un curso clínico agresivo. En México se han estudiado pobremente los genotipos del Virus del Papiloma Humano (VPH) que causan la enfermedad. Objetivo: Identificar los genotipos del VPH en los pacientes con PLJ en un hospital de concentración en Puebla, México. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo a los pacientes con papilomatosis laríngea juvenil atendidos en un hospital de 3er nivel de atención del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social en Puebla, México, en el periodo 2018-2021. Se realizó revisión de expedientes clínicos. En todos los pacientes se identificó el VPH por reacción en cadena de polimerasa para los genomas 6, 11, 16 y 18 utilizando oligonulceótidos específicos. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva. Resultados: Se incluyeron 9 pacientes, 56% mujeres, edad media 9.5 ±5.7 años; 7 pacientes registraron positividad al VPH-11 y 2 al VPH-6. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 2.35 ±1.77 años, con promedio de procedimientos quirúrgicos de 12 ±11.56; de los 5 pacientes portadores de traqueostomía, 4 fueron positivos a VPH-11; 8 pacientes nacieron por vía vaginal, sin embargo, en ningún caso se reportaron lesiones condilomatosas maternas. En el paciente nacido por cesárea, se documentó transmisión por abuso sexual. Conclusiones: Los genotipos más frecuentes en pacientes con PLJ en la región centro-sur de México son VPH-6 y VPH-11, predominando este último.

Adherencia terapéutica en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas del club de adultos mayores de un centro de salud, Ecuador / Therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases of the club of older adults of a health center, Ecuador

El objetivo de esta investigación fue la determinación de la adherencia terapéutica en pacientes con enfermedades crónicasdel club de adultos mayores de un centro de atención primaria de Riobamba – Ecuador, para lo cual participaron 25 pacientes previo consentimiento informado. Se empleó método subjetivo indirecto, basado en cuestionario dirigido a determinar características sociodemográficas de los pacientes, grado de adherencia terapéutica a través del test de Morisky Green y posibles factores influyentes en la adherencia, consideraron las 4 principales dimensiones establecidas por la OMS. Para análisis de resultados se utilizó SPSS-PC 24.5 Windows y niveles de significancia de 0,05 %. Los resultados mostraron un predominio de género femenino (80 %), un promedio de edad de 70,2 años y un grado de instrucción primaria en un 60 % de los pacientes. Se identificó que un 56 % de los pacientes padecían al menos dos enfermedades crónicas, resultando la hipertensión arterial la más prevalente (84 %); y un 64 % de ellos se administraban 2 a 3 medicamentos diarios. Se determinó que el 64 % de los adultos mayores eran inadherentes con el esquema terapéutico prescrito, encontrando que los factores socioeconómicos incidieron de manera totalitaria sobre los pacientes en estudio. Los factores relacionados con el equipo de salud, la terapia y los inherentes al paciente, incidieron en la adherencia terapéutica en menor proporción. (AU)

The objective of this investigation was the determination of therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases of theclub of older adults of a primary care center in Riobamba-Ecuador, for which 25 patients participated with prior informedconsent. An indirect subjective method was used, based on a questionnaire aimed at determining the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, degree of therapeutic adherence through the Morisky Green test and possible influencingfactors on adherence, considered the 4 main dimensions established by the WHO.SPSS-PC 24.5 for Windows and significance levels of 0.05 % were used for results analysis. The results showed a predo-minance of female gender (80 %), an average age of 70.2 years and a degree of primary education in 60 % of thepatients. It was identified that 56 % of the patients suffered from at least two chronic diseases, with hypertension beingthe most prevalent (84 %); and 64 % of them administered 2 to 3 medications daily. It was determined that 64 % ofolder adults were inadherent with the prescribed therapeutic scheme, finding that socioeconomic factors had a total impacton the study patients. Factors related to the health team, therapy, and those inherent to the patient, influenced therapeuticadherence in a lesser proportion. The economic insufficiency to pay for the medications and the high-cost diets prescribed,turned out to be the variable with the greatest impact on therapeutic non-adherence, finding a direct relationship withthe degree of primary education that the study patients had mostly. In addition, all the variables reported in the study ascauses of non-adherence to treatment require directing actions aimed at strengthening a health system based on healthpromotion and prevention, in order to increase the quality of life of patients. (AU)

Xanthogranulomatous appendicitis; a diagnostic challenge: Clinical Case / Apendicitis xantogranulomatosa; un desafío diagnóstico: Caso Clínico

Introduction: Xanthogranulomatous inflammation is a chronic inflammatory process, rarely located in the appendix. A case of xanthogranulomatous appendicitis is presented. Clinical case. A 77-year-old male presents with intermittent pain in the right hemiabdomen and hyperthermia of one month's evolution. Physical examination showed a tumor in the iliac fossa and right abdomen. He underwent surgery for a probable incarcerated right inguinal hernia, acute perforated appendicitis was found, with inflammation and adhesions, purulent fluid in the right hemiabdomen and abdominal wall dissection. The histopathological result was xanthogranulomatous appendicitis. The evolution of the patient was favorable. Conclusion. Xanthogranulomatous appendicitis simulates a typical picture of acute appendicitis. Histopathologically, pathologies such as Crohn's disease, malacoplakia and tuberculous appendicitis were ruled out.

Introducción. La inflamación xantogranulomatosa es un proceso inflamatorio crónico, rara vez se localiza en apéndice. Se presenta un caso de apendicitis xantogranulomatosa. Caso clínico. Masculino de 77 años, presenta con dolor intermitente en hemiabdomen derecho e hipertermia de un mes de evolución. La exploración física mostró tumoración en fosa iliaca y abdomen derecho. Se sometió a cirugía por probable hernia inguinal derecha incarcerada, se encontró apendicitis aguda perforada, con inflamación y adherencias, líquido purulento en hemiabdomen derecho y disección en pared abdominal. El resultado histopatológico fue apendicitis xantogranulomatosa.  La evolución del paciente fue favorable. Conclusión. La apendicitis xantogranulomatosa simula un cuadro típico de apendicitis aguda. Histopatológicamente se descartan patologías como enfermedad de Crohn, malacoplaquia y apendicitis tuberculosa.

Systematic Analysis of Clemastine, a Candidate Apicomplexan Parasite-Selective Tubulin-Targeting Agent.

Apicomplexan parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium spp., Babesia spp., and Cryptosporidium spp., cause significant morbidity and mortality. Existing treatments are problematic due to toxicity and the emergence of drug-resistant parasites. Because protozoan tubulin can be selectively disrupted by small molecules to inhibit parasite growth, we assembled an in vitro testing cascade to fully delineate effects of candidate tubulin-targeting drugs on Toxoplasma gondii and vertebrate host cells. Using this analysis, we evaluated clemastine, an antihistamine that has been previously shown to inhibit Plasmodium growth by competitively binding to the CCT/TRiC tubulin chaperone as a proof-of-concept. We concurrently analyzed astemizole, a distinct antihistamine that blocks heme detoxification in Plasmodium. Both drugs have EC50 values of ~2 µM and do not demonstrate cytotoxicity or vertebrate microtubule disruption at this concentration. Parasite subpellicular microtubules are shortened by treatment with either clemastine or astemizole but not after treatment with pyrimethamine, indicating that this effect is not a general response to antiparasitic drugs. Immunoblot quantification indicates that the total α-tubulin concentration of 0.02 pg/tachyzoite does not change with clemastine treatment. In conclusion, the testing cascade allows profiling of small-molecule effects on both parasite and vertebrate cell viability and microtubule integrity.

Supervivencia de personas seropositivas al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en un área de salud de Santiago de Cuba / Survival of seropositive people to the human immune deficiency virus in a health area of Santiago de Cuba

Introducción: La infección y el síndrome producido por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana constituyen las mayores problemáticas vividas a escala mundial. Objetivo: Estimar la supervivencia global de las personas seropositivas al virus de inmunodeficiencia humana, diagnosticadas en el área de salud perteneciente al Policlínico Josué País García de Santiago de Cuba. Método: Se realizó una investigación observacional, descriptiva, de serie de casos, de 26 personas seropositivas al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana, diagnosticadas desde enero de 1998 hasta diciembre de 2008, y residentes en la mencionada área de salud en el momento del diagnóstico. Las principales variables analizadas fueron: sexo, edad, etapa clínica al diagnóstico y adherencia a la terapia antirretroviral de alta eficacia. Resultados: En la casuística predominaron el sexo masculino, los homosexuales, los diagnósticos realizados durante el período de latencia clínica y los no adherentes al tratamiento; asimismo, se evidenció que la media de tiempo de supervivencia sobrepasó la mitad del tiempo máximo vivido por el total de los investigados y que variables como la edad, la etapa clínica al diagnóstico y la adherencia al tratamiento no tuvieron un nivel de significación estadística importante, teniendo en cuenta la probabilidad de sobrevivir durante el período de tiempo prefijado. La supervivencia global lograda fue de 92,3 %. Conclusión: El nivel de supervivencia global obtenido sobrepasó los estándares nacionales e internacionales.

Introduction: The infection and the syndrome provoked by the human immune deficiency virus constitute the greatest problems lived worldwide. Objective: To estimate the global survival from seropositive people to the human immune deficiency virus, diagnosed in the health area belonging to Josué País García Polyclinic in Santiago de Cuba. Method: An observational, descriptive, of serial cases investigation, of 26 seropositive people to the human immune deficiency virus was carried out, they were diagnosed from January, 1998 to December, 2008, and residents in the mentioned health area in the moment of the diagnosis. The main analyzed variables were: sex, age, clinical stage when diagnosed and adherence to the antiretroviral therapy of high effectiveness. Results: In the case material there was a prevalence of the male sex, homosexuals, the diagnoses carried out during the period of clinical latency and those no adherent to the treatment; also, it was evidenced that the mean time of survival surpassed half of the maximum time lived by the total of those investigated and that variables as age, clinical stage when diagnosed and adherence to the treatment didn't have an important level of statistical significance, taking into account the probability of surviving during the period of preset time. The achieved global survival was of 92.3 %. Conclusion: The obtained level of global survival surpassed the national and international standards.

One Year of Netarsudil and Latanoprost Fixed-Dose Combination for Elevated Intraocular Pressure: Phase 3, Randomized MERCURY-1 Study.

PURPOSE: A phase 3 trial (MERCURY-1) investigated efficacy and safety of a once-daily, fixed-dose combination (FDC) of netarsudil and latanoprost, compared with each active component, in reducing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). A planned 3-month analysis demonstrated the superiority of netarsudil/latanoprost FDC over its individual active components at every assessment. Herein, the 12-month efficacy and safety of netarsudil/latanoprost FDC are reported. DESIGN: Double-masked, randomized, active-controlled, parallel-group trial. PARTICIPANTS: Patients had unmedicated IOP >20 to <36 mmHg in both eyes at 8:00 am and met other standard criteria for OAG or OHT. METHODS: Randomization to once-daily netarsudil 0.02%/latanoprost 0.005% FDC (n = 238), netarsudil 0.02% only (n = 243), or latanoprost 0.005% only (n = 237). Patients instilled study drug into each eye between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: IOP was obtained at 8:00 am, 10:00 am, and 4:00 pm on day 1 (baseline); at weeks 2 and 6; and at months 3, 6, 9, and 12. Ocular and systemic safety were evaluated up to month 12. RESULTS: Netarsudil/latanoprost FDC maintained statistically superior IOP lowering compared to its components at every assessment for 12 months. Least squares mean diurnal IOP (± standard error) at month 12 was 16.2 ± 0.23 mmHg for netarsudil/latanoprost FDC, 17.9 ± 0.20 mmHg for netarsudil, and 17.6 ± 0.18 mmHg for latanoprost (P < 0.05 for netarsudil/latanoprost FDC versus each comparator). The safety profile of netarsudil/latanoprost FDC was consistent with its individual components. The proportion of patients who experienced at least 1 adverse event (AE) was 82.8% (197/238) in the netarsudil/latanoprost FDC group, 78.2% (190/243) in the netarsudil group, and 54.0% (128/237) in the latanoprost group. The most common AE was conjunctival hyperemia, mostly of mild severity, with an incidence of 63.0% in the netarsudil/latanoprost FDC treatment group compared with 51.4% in the netarsudil group and 21.9% in the latanoprost group. CONCLUSIONS: Results at 12 months revealed superior efficacy for netarsudil/latanoprost FDC compared with the individual components, netarsudil and latanoprost, at every time point assessed and an ocular tolerability profile similar to that of netarsudil alone.

Adherencia terapéutica en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas del club de adultos mayores de un centro de salud, Ecuador / Therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases of the club of older adults of a health center, Ecuador

El objetivo de esta investigación fue la determinación de la adherencia terapéutica en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas del club de adultos mayores de un centro de atención primaria de Riobamba - Ecuador, para lo cual participaron 25 pacientes previo consentimiento informado. Se empleó método subjetivo indirecto, basado en cuestionario dirigido a determinar características sociodemográficas de los pacientes, grado de adherencia terapéutica a través del test de Morisky Green y posibles factores influyentes en la adherencia, consideraron las 4 principales dimensiones establecidas por la OMS. Para análisis de resultados se utilizó SPSS-PC 24.5 Windows y niveles de significancia de 0,05 %. Los resultados mostraron un predominio de género femenino (80 %), un promedio de edad de 70,2 años y un grado de instrucción primaria en un 60 % de los pacientes. Se identificó que un 56 % de los pacientes padecían al menos dos enfermedades crónicas, resultando la hipertensión arterial la más prevalente (84 %); y un 64 % de ellos se administraban 2 a 3 medicamentos diarios. Se determinó que el 64 % de los adultos mayores eran in adherentes con el esquema terapéutico prescrito, encontrando que los factores socioeconómicos incidieron de manera totalitaria sobre los pacientes en estudio. Los factores relacionados con el equipo de salud, la terapia y los inherentes al paciente, incidieron en la adherencia terapéutica en menor proporción. La insuficiencia económica para costear los medicamentos y las dietas de elevado costo prescritas, resultó ser la variable con mayor impacto en la in adherencia terapéutica, encontrando relación directa con el grado de instrucción primaria que tenían mayoritariamente los pacientes en estudio. Además, todas las variables reportadas en el estudio como causas de la in adherencia al tratamiento exigen direccionar acciones orientadas a afianzar un sistema sanitario basado en la promoción y prevención de salud, a fin de aumentar la calidad de vida de los pacientes

The objective of this investigation was the determination of therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases of the club of older adults of a primary care center in Riobamba-Ecuador, for which 25 patients participated with prior informed consent. An indirect subjective method was used, based on a questionnaire aimed at determining the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, degree of therapeutic adherence through the Morisky Green test and possible influencing factors on adherence, considered the 4 main dimensions established by the WHO.SPSS-PC 24.5 for Windows and significance levels of 0.05 % were used for results analysis. The results showed a predominance of female gender (80 %), an average age of 70.2 years and a degree of primary education in 60 % of the patients. It was identified that 56 % of the patients suffered from at least two chronic diseases, with hypertension being the most prevalent (84 %); and 64 % of them administered 2 to 3 medications daily. It was determined that 64 % of older adults were in adherent with the prescribed therapeutic scheme, finding that socioeconomic factors had a total impact on the study patients. Factors related to the health team, therapy, and those inherent to the patient, influenced therapeutic adherence in a lesser proportion. The economic insufficiency to pay for the medications and the high-cost diets prescribed, turned out to be the variable with the greatest impact on therapeutic non-adherence, finding a direct relationship with the degree of primary education that the study patients had mostly. In addition, all the variables reported in the study as causes of non-adherence to treatment require directing actions aimed at strengthening a health system based on health promotion and prevention, in order to increase the quality of life of patients

N-Acylphosphatidylethanolamines and N-acylethanolamines increase in saliva upon food mastication: the influence of the individual nutritional status and fat type in food.

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the individual nutritional status on the salivary concentration of N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), including linoleoylethanolamide (LEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and their precursors N-acylphosphatidylethanolamines (NAPEs) upon mastication of biscuits containing different fats. Three types of biscuits were formulated with 10% extra-virgin olive oil (EVOB), 10% palm oil (PALMB) or 10% paraffin oil (0% lipids, CONB). Twenty-five healthy subjects, 12 normal weight (NW, 9 F, 30.4 ± 8.7 years) and 13 obese (OB, 8 F, 35.5 ± 10.7 years) participated in a randomized crossover study. Fasting subjects collected unstimulated saliva (US) and stimulated saliva by masticating a parafilm piece (PP), and CONB, EVOB and PALMB. NAPEs, LEA, OEA and PEA were quantified in saliva samples by liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry. The results showed that salivary NAPE and NAE concentrations in OB were higher than in NW in both US (NAPEs: 280.0 ± 45.4 ng mL-1vs. 121.8 ± 24.4 ng mL-1, p = 0.015; NAEs: 10.8 ± 1.4 ng mL-1vs. 4.8 ± 0.8 ng mL-1, p = 0.002, respectively) and PP (NAPEs: 259.8 ± 47.1 ng mL-1vs. 121.7 ± 16.9 ng mL-1, p = 0.049; NAEs: 6.1 ± 0.8 ng mL-1vs. 3.8 ± 0.4 ng mL-1, p = 0.03, respectively). NAPE and LEA levels were similar in US and PP, while the levels of OEA and PEA were lower in PP vs. US. Compared to PP, biscuit mastication increased the salivary NAPEs, LEA, OEA and overall NAEs in NW and OB. NAPEs increased in the order of EVOB = CONB > PALMB in NW and EVOB > CONB = PALMB in OB. LEA, OEA and overall NAEs increased similarly with all the biscuits in NW and in the order of EVOB > PALMB > CONB in OB. In contrast, the PEA concentration did not vary in saliva upon biscuit mastication in NW and neither with EVOB in OB, while it lowered with CONB and PALMB in OB. In conclusion, OB showed higher salivary levels of NAPEs and NAEs than NW. Mastication itself did not vary salivary NAPEs and LEA but reduced OEA, PEA and overall NAEs. Biscuit mastication increased salivary NAPEs and all NAEs, but PEA. Altogether, the data suggested that NAPEs and NAEs were released in saliva from biscuits at levels influenced by the individual nutritional status and biscuit type. These findings may have implications in molecular mechanisms underpinning gustatory processes in humans.

Perfil de mortalidad en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba durante 2017 / Mortality profile in Santiago de Cuba province during 2017

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de los 9 211 fallecidos por todas las causas en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba durante 2017, con vistas a describir el perfil de mortalidad en ese período. En la serie se observó un incremento de la mortalidad general con respecto a 2016; asimismo, como causas principales de muerte figuraron las enfermedades del corazón, los tumores malignos y las enfermedades cerebrovasculares. Los municipios que dominaron el perfil de mortalidad fueron Contramaestre, San Luis, Songo-La Maya, Santiago de Cuba y III Frente, principalmente por las enfermedades del corazón. Por otra parte, el mayor riesgo de morir por tumores malignos en las féminas obedeció a la localización en pulmón, mama e intestino, excepto en el recto; en los hombres, en próstata, pulmón y colon, respectivamente. Se recomienda dirigir las acciones en salud según el riesgo estratificado en esta provincia.

A descriptive and cross-sectional study of the 9 211 dead patients due to all causes was carried out in Santiago de Cuba province during 2017, with the aim of describing the mortality profile in that period. In the series an increment of the general mortality was observed when compared to 2016; also, as main causes of death there were heart diseases, malignant tumors and cerebrovascular diseases. The municipalities that prevailed in the mortality profile were Contramaestre, San Luis, Songo-La Maya, Santiago de Cuba and III Frente, mainly due to heart diseases. On the other hand, the greatest risk of dying due to malignant tumors in the female patients obeyed to the localization in lung, breast and intestine, except in the rectum; in the men, in prostate, lung and colon, respectively. It is recommended to direct the efforts in health according to the stratified risk in this province.

Formando mediadores de argumentação: uma experiência de estágio docência / Argumentation tutor's formation: a teacher-assistant experience / Formando mediadores de argumentación: una experiencia de pasantía docencia

Este relato de prática profissional aborda a experiência de estágio docência na formação de monitores para uma disciplina intensamente argumentativa do curso de Psicologia. Esta disciplina é fundada em princípios que visam utilizar a argumentação como auxílio para construção do conhecimento e, também, como forma de incentivo ao desenvolvimento cognitivo dos estudantes envolvidos. Para que esta disciplina seja possível é preciso o treinamento de estudantes para desempenhar o papel de monitor que por um lado participaram ativamente como mediadores da construção do conhecimento e também como aqueles que instauram o discurso argumentativo em sala de aula. Nossa experiência nos diz da importância do treinamento dos monitores como uma forma de incentivar o uso de princípios da psicologia educacional dentro da sala de aula no ensino superior abrindo uma porta para que a sala de aula se torne um ambiente desafiador e propício para o desenvolvimento de habilidades cognitivas.

This professional practice report addresses the experience of teaching a tutor's formation training for a highly argumentative Psychology course. This discipline is based on principles that aim to use argumentation as an aid to the construction of knowledge and also as a way of encouraging the cognitive development of the students involved. For this discipline to be possible it is necessary to train students to play the role of tutor who on the one hand actively participated as knowledge construction mediator and also as those who enables argumentative discourse in classroom. Our experience tells us about the importance of monitors training as a way to encourage the use of principles of educational psychology within the classroom in higher education by opening the door for the classroom to become a challenging and conducive environment for the development of cognitive skills.

Este relato de práctica profesional aborda la experiencia de pasantía docente para la formación de monitores en una asignatura intensamente argumentativa de un curso de Psicología. Esta asignatura está fundada en principios que buscan utilizar la argumentación como herramienta para construcción del conocimiento y, también, como forma de incentivo al desarrollo cognitivo de los estudiantes involucrados. Para que esta asignatura sea posible se hace necesario el entrenamiento de estudiantes para desempeñar el papel de monitor que por un lado participen activamente como mediadores de la construcción del conocimiento y, también, como aquellos que introducen el discurso argumentativo en el aula de clase. Nuestra experiencia muestra la importancia del entrenamiento de los monitores como una forma de incentivar el uso de principios de la psicología educativa dentro del aula de clase en la enseñanza universitaria abriendo una puerta para que el aula de clase se convierta en un ambiente desafiador y provechoso para el desarrollo de habilidades cognitivas.