Effect in variation of the cationic precursor temperature on the electrical and crystalline properties of MnS growth by SILAR.

The crystallographic, optical, and electrical properties of manganese sulfide thin films depend on the control of the temperature precursors in the synthesis process, as shown by the results of this work. MnS thin films were deposited on glass substrates using the SILAR method and over an additional layer of CdS synthesized by chemical bath deposition (CBD) to acquire a p-n heterojunction. SILAR is an inexpensive method performed with a homemade robot in this case. Temperature in the solution precursors varied from 20 to 80 °C in four experiments. The morphology and structure of MnS and FTO/CdS/MnS thin films were studied through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD); the results indicate that materials showed a polycrystalline behavior, a diffraction peak of α- MnS cubic phase was observed with lattice constants values, ranging from 4.74 to 4.75 Å. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy showed a signal corresponding to the transversal optical phonons of MnS at a wavenumber near 300 cm-1. UV-vis spectroscopy showed optical bandgap values of 3.94, 4.0, 4.09, and 4.26 eV for thin films obtained at 20°, 40°, 60°, and 80 °C. respectively. Results indicated 80 °C as an optimal cationic precursor process temperature, achieving optical transmittance T% and good film quality according to SEM and GIXRD for the synthetization of MnS. The current-voltage (I-V) characterization in the heterojunction showed a characteristic diode curve with an open circuit voltage (VOC) of 300 mV under illumination, which indicated that the manganese sulfide behaves as p-type material contributing with positive charge carriers, while CdS behaves as n-type material.

Integrative analysis of new Clinostomum metacercariae (Digenea, Clinostomidae) using COI mtDNA and morphology rises the number of lineages found in South American freshwater fishes.

Clinostomidae is a diverse family of digenean parasitizing fish-eating birds as adults and fishes as metacercariae. The species composition, within the genus Clinostomum has been steadily increasing in recent years. In Argentina, four named species of Clinostomum have been documented, accompanied by four metacercariae representing distinct genetic lineages whose adults have not been identified. This study focused on examining clinostomids in three fish species - Australoheros scitulus (ASI), Cichlasoma dimerus (CDIM), and Pimelodella laticeps (PLA) - at various localities in Argentina. We conducted both morphological and molecular characterizations of the Clinostomum metacercariae collected from these fish species. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using COI mtDNA were performed to determine the placement of these metacercariae within the clinostomid phylogenetic tree. Clinostomum ASC represents a distinct lineage, morphologically distinguishable from other sequenced metacercariae due to its body shape (widest anteriorly and becoming slender towards the posterior end); this lineage was found to be closely related to C. caffarae. While Clinostomum CDIM and Clinostomum PLA exhibited morphological differences, they clustered together genetically with metacercariae reported in previous studies as Clinostomum L3 and Clinostomum CVI. This outcome, coupled with a low genetic distance (0 to 3%), suggests that they are conspecific with metacercariae found in fish across Mexico, Costa Rica, and Argentina. In light of the extensive diversity of fish species in Argentine freshwater ecosystems (over 500 species), and considering the relatively constrained extent of prior investigations, the anticipation of unearthing additional Clinostomum species or lineages is plausible.

Competencia clínica del personal de enfermería para el manejo de la hipotensión arterial intradialítica en el servicio de hemodiálisis del Centro Médico Naval / Clinical competence of nursing staff for the management of intradialytic hypotension in the hemodialysis service of the Naval Medical Center

Introducción: el correcto manejo de la hipotensión arterial durante la hemodiálisis es fundamental en la formación y trabajo del personal de enfermería nefrológica del Centro Médico Naval. El personal debe tener conocimientos suficientes sobre la hipotensión y sus factores asociados que le ayuden a predecirla y actuar de manera preventiva, así como con habilidades instrumentales para llevar a cabo medidas en la práctica. Objetivo: analizar la competencia clínica del personal de enfermería en el servicio de hemodiálisis del Centro Médico Naval con respecto a su formación académica y experiencia profesional en el manejo de la hipotensión arterial intradialítica. Metodología: estudio prospectivo, descriptivo y observacional. Se emplearon dos instrumentos: una adaptación del Cuestionario de conocimientos para el manejo de hemodiálisis de Miller y la Guía de observación de habilidades instrumentales en el personal de enfermería de Murillo. Resultados: se contó con una muestra de doce enfermeros pertenecientes al servicio de hemodiálisis. El 33.3% mostró un nivel regular de competencia clínica y 66.7% un nivel bueno. En promedio, la competencia clínica se ubicó en 78%. Discusión: los resultados obtenidos difieren de los reportados en otras investigaciones, tanto por el año de aplicación como de los sujetos evaluados. Limitaciones: se contó con una muestra baja debido a que el personal del servicio no es numeroso. Conclusiones: es necesario reforzar los conocimientos del personal sobre el tema. Sin embargo, se observó que las habilidades instrumentales fueron excelentes en todos los casos. No se observa relación con el nivel de estudios o la experiencia profesional.

Introduction: the correct management of arterial hypotension during hemodialysis is fundamental in the training and work of the nephrological nursing staff at the Naval Medical Center. The staff must have sufficient knowledge about hypotension and its associated factors to help them predict it and act preventively, as well as instrumental skills to carry out measures in practice. Objective: to analyze the clinical competence of the nursing staff in the hemodialysis service of the Naval Medical Center concerning their academic training and profesional experience in the management of intradialytic arterial hypotension. Methodology: a prospective, descriptive, and observational study. Two instruments were used: an adaptation of Miller's Hemodialysis Management Knowledge Questionnaire and Murillo's Guide to Observation of Instrumental Skills in Nursing Personnel. Results: There was a sample of twelve nurses belonging to the hemodialysis service. 33.3% percent showed a fair level of clinical competence and 66.7% a good level. On average, clinical competence was 78%. Discussion: the results obtained differ from those reported in other studies, in terms of both the year of application and the subjects evaluated. Limitations: there was a low sample size due to the small number of service personnel. Conclusions: it is necessary to reinforce the knowledge of the personnel on the subject. However, it was observed that instrumental skills were excellent in all cases. No relationship was observed with the level of studies or professional experience.

Preparation and physicochemical characterization of deep eutectic solvents and ionic liquids for the potential absorption and biodegradation of styrene vapors.

Styrene emissions can be treated by physicochemical, biological, or physicochemical/biological means. Due to its low solubility in water an alternative to eliminate styrene emissions from air is the use of two-phase partitioning bioreactors (TPPBs) which comprised a hydrophobic non-aqueous phase (NAP) which can improve mass transfer of styrene. This study was devoted to prepare and evaluate the main physicochemical characteristics of novel NAPs such as Ionic liquids (ILs), Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADEs) as well as their toxicity and biodegradability to treat styrene vapors. Absorption experiments of styrene showed that the best NAPs were the DESs formed with Tetrabutylammonium bromide and decanoic acid and the ILs [C6mim][FAP], [C4mim] [NTf2] and [C4mim] [PF6], since they presented a styrene partition coefficient between 0.0015 and 0.0041. Finally, the IL [C6mim][FAP] was used as a NAP in a TPPB batch process given its high styrene affinity, low solubility in water and non-biodegradability; styrene mineralization was three times higher in the TPPB compared with the control. ILs are potential adjuvant phases in biological degradation systems, as well as other solvents like DESs and NADESs.

Influencia de variables del manejo de catéteres venosos tunelizados en hemodiálisis sobre la tasa de bacteriemia: estudio analítico observacional / Influence of management variables of tunneled venous catheters in hemodialysis on the bacteremia rate: observational analytical study

RESUMEN Introducción: La infección relacionada con catéter venoso central (CVC) es la complicación más frecuente y grave en los pacientes en hemodiálisis, asociada a una elevada mortalidad y morbilidad. En España, se ha publicado una incidencia de bacteriemia de 0.9 a 2 episodios por catéter y año. Diversas variables se han relacionado con la tasa de bacteriemia asociada a CVC, tales como disfunciones del catéter, la formación y experiencia del personal de enfermería, el número de sesiones de hemodiálisis y la duración de las mismas. El objetivo del presente estudio es analizar la influencia de las variables citadas en la aparición de bacteriemias, en pacientes portadores de catéteres en una unidad de hemodiálisis de un hospital de tercer nivel en España. Material y métodos: Estudio analítico, observacional y retrospectivo en el que se obtuvieron los datos relativos a la formación recibida y experiencia del personal de enfermería, el número y duración de sesiones de hemodiálisis por paciente y disfunciones de CVC. Se contabilizaron las bacteriemias acontecidas en un año, a través de la base de datos de la unidad, y se analizó la posible relación de tales variables en la tasa de bacteriemia. Resultados: Sobre un total de 41 catéteres tunelizados en 35 pacientes, observados durante 365 días, se obtuvo una tasa de incidencia de 1.45/1000 días de catéter, no habiendo encontrada relación estadísticamente significativa con la formación del personal de enfermería (p=0.330), experiencia (p=0.668), número de disfunciones y manipulaciones de catéter (p=0.718; p=0.118). Se objetivó relación inversa con el número y duración de sesiones (p=0.02). Conclusiones: Es preciso seguir analizando la relación entre las variables mencionadas y la tasa de bacteriemias. Abordarlo desde un punto de vista multicéntrico o aumentar el tiempo de observación de forma prospectiva pueden ser aspectos a tener en cuenta para determinar las variables que parecen tener una relación directa con la infección de CVC, que en otros contextos se ha llegado a evidenciar.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Central venous catheter (CVC)-related infection is the most frequent and serious complication in hemodialysis patients, associated with high mortality and morbidity. In Spain, an incidence of bacteremia of 0.9 to 2 episodes per catheter and year has been published. Variables have been related to the rate of bacteremia associated with CVC, such as catheter malfunctions, the training and experience of the nursing, the number of hemodialysis sessions and their duration. The objective of the present study is to analyze the influence of the aforementioned variables on the appearance of bacteremia in patients with catheters in a hemodialysis unit of a tertiary care hospital in Spain. Methods: Analytical, observational, and retrospective study in which data on the training received and experience of the nursing staff, the number and duration of hemodialysis sessions per patient and CVC dysfunctions were obtained. The bacteremia's that occurred in a year were counted, through the unit's database, and the possible relationship of such variables in the rate of bacteremia was analyzed. Results: On a total of 41 tunneled catheters in 35 patients, observed for 365 days, an incidence rate of 1.45/1000 catheter days was obtained, not having found a statistically significant relationship with the training of nursing staff (p = 0.330), experience (p=0.668), number of dysfunctions and manipulations of catheter (p=0.718; p=0.118). An inverse relationship was observed with the number and duration of sessions (p=0.02). Conclusions: It is necessary to continue analyzing the relationship between the mentioned variables and the rate of bacteremia. Approaching it from a multicenter point of view or increasing the observation time prospectively may be aspects to consider to determine the variables that seem to have a direct relationship with CVC infection, which has been shown in other contexts.

Consensus of experts from the Spanish Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics Society and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology for the genotyping of DPYD in cancer patients who are candidates for treatment with fluoropyrimidines.

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and oral fluoropyrimidines, such as capecitabine, are widely used in the treatment of cancer, especially gastrointestinal tumors and breast cancer, but their administration can produce serious and even lethal toxicity. This toxicity is often related to the partial or complete deficiency of the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme, which causes a reduction in clearance and a longer half-life of 5-FU. It is advisable to determine if a DPD deficiency exists before administering these drugs by genotyping DPYD gene polymorphisms. The objective of this consensus of experts, in which representatives from the Spanish Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics Society and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology participated, is to establish clear recommendations for the implementation of genotype and/or phenotype testing for DPD deficiency in patients who are candidates to receive fluoropyrimidines. The genotyping of DPYD previous to treatment classifies individuals as normal, intermediate, or poor metabolizers. Normal metabolizers do not require changes in the initial dose, intermediate metabolizers should start treatment with fluoropyrimidines at doses reduced to 50%, and poor metabolizers are contraindicated for fluoropyrimidines.

Synthesis, optical and thermoluminescence properties of thulium-doped KMgF3 fluoroperovskite.

KMgF3 fluoroperovskite doped with thulium at different concentrations were synthesized by the solid-state reaction method. The phase composition and the thermal stability up to 600 °C of the polycrystals were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The KMgF3 at 1.0 mol% of Tm polycrystals showed the best thermal stability and did not present another phase. The gamma radiation (0.1-10 kGy) effect in thulium-doped KMgF3 produced the F color centers, and their aggregates such as F2, and F3 centers. The F centers, and the potassium vacancies (VK-) in the fluoroperosvkites were analyzed by the optical absorption and emission measurements. Optical absorption at 275 nm and 443 nm were assigned to F and F2, respectively, in undoped KMgF3. Tm-doped fluoroperovskite shows the optical absorption bands at 277, 393, 432, and 577 nm, which were ascribed to the F, F3, F2 and VK- centers, respectively. When the F band for undoped polycrystals was excited at 275 nm, a clear emission associated with F2 and F3 centers was observed. In the case of Tm-doped, an enhancement of the blue emission at 457 nm occurred and a UV band (354 nm) was observed upon exciting the F band. The blue emission of thulium was overlapped with the F3 color center band. The emission bands at 457 and 354 nm were ascribed to 1D2 - 3F4 and 1D2 - 3H6 transitions of Tm in KMgF3. The optical absorption and glow curves were investigated too. The glow curves were assisted by the color centers, vacancies, and thulium impurity. Thermal bleaching shows that the F center was the main participant to give rise to the TL intensity of the glow curves. Thulium acts as a deep electron trap in the bandgap of the KMgF3 fluoroperovskites forming TL peak at the higher temperature, from 430 to 408 °C. The absorption, emission, and thermoluminescence glow peaks of the undoped and Tm-doped KMgF3 were compared.

Seroprevalence and Trends of HTLV-1/2 among Blood Donors of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, 2012-2017.

OBJECTIVE: Being a Caribbean country, the Dominican Republic is considered endemic for HTLV-1. Viral screening in blood banks is recommended for this blood borne infection. The purpose of this work is to analyze the seroprevalence and trends of HTLV-1/2 in the Dominican Republic blood donors; it is focused on Santo Domingo, the capital of the country, which has the largest blood donation activity. We also aim at comparing our findings with published data from neighboring countries. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study of 10 blood centers of Santo Domingo, which reported HTLV and the other blood-transmitted infections in full. They represent more than 40% of the province's blood donations. Annual seroprevalence of HTLV-1/2, period prevalence (2012-2017), and time trend were determined. RESULTS: A total of 352,960 blood donations were evaluated. The HTLV-1/2 period prevalence was 0.26% (929/352,960)(95% CI: 0.24-0.28%). We also found a marked predominance of replacement donation (90.4%) in comparison to voluntary contributions (9.6%). Therefore, this blood donor study may provide clues on the general prevalence of the infection. CONCLUSIONS: Seroprevalence of HTLV-1/2 in blood donors of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, showed a relatively low and steady trend in the studied period.

Associations of feed efficiency with circulating IGF-1 and leptin, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of feed efficiency classifications on live animal measurements, circulating IGF-1 and leptin concentrations, and carcass, non-carcass and meat quality traits of lambs. One-hundred and two lambs approximately 70 days-old with initial live weight of 24.6 ± 3.71 kg (mean ± SD) were individually fed for 56 days to determine residual feed intake (RFI) and residual feed intake and gain (RIG). Lambs were then classified as phenotypically Low-, Medium- or High-RFI and Low-, Medium- or High-RIG phenotypes. Circulating leptin and IGF-1 concentrations were higher in more efficient lambs (Low-RFI or High-RIG). Variation in RFI and RIG did not affect meat redness or tenderness, but High-RIG lambs had darker meat. These findings show that the phenotypically more efficient Low-RFI and High-RIG lambs produced carcasses with similar characteristics and meat quality as the less efficient High-RFI and Low-RIG lambs but have a strategic advantage of lower feed intake to achieve similar production outcomes.

Weight adjustment equation for hair sheep raised in warm conditions.

To estimate the nutritional requirements of hair sheep, knowledge about the animal's weight and its relationships with growth performances is essential. A study was carried with the objective to establish the relationships between BW, fasting BW (FBW), empty BW (EBW), average daily gain (ADG) and empty BW gain (EBWG) for hair sheep in growing and finishing phases in Brazilian conditions. Databases were obtained from 32 studies, for a total of 1145 observations; there were 3 sex classes (non-castrated male, castrated male and female) and 2 feeding systems (pasture and feedlot). The most representative breeds in the database were Santa Ines (n = 473), Morada Nova (n = 70) and Brazilian Somali (n = 47). The other animals in the database were crossbreeds (n = 555). The FBW (kg), EBW and EBWG (kg/day) were estimated according to linear regression. A random coefficient model was adopted, considering the study as a random effect and including the possibility of covariance between the slope and the intercept. The coefficients obtained from the linear regression of the FBW against the BW, EBW against the FBW and EBWG against the ADG did not differ between sex class (P > 0.05) and genotype (P > 0.05). The equations generated to estimate FBW from the BW, EBW from the FBW and EBWG from the ADG are as follows: FBW = -0.5470 (±0.2025) + 0.9313(±0.019) × BW, EBW = -1.4944 (±0.3639) + 0.8816 (±0.018) × FBW and EBWG = 0.906 (±0.019) × ADG, respectively. The low mean squared error values found in the cross-validation confirmed the reliability of these equations. Considering a sheep with a BW of 30 kg and a 100 g ADG, the estimated FBW, EBW and EBWG calculated using the generated equations are 27, 22.65 and 0.090 kg, respectively. In conclusion, the generated equations can be used in growing hair sheep. The validation procedure applied to the generated equations showed that its use for hair sheep seems to be appropriate.

[Characteristics of YouTube videos in Spanish about the influenza vaccine]. / Características de los vídeos de YouTube en castellano sobre la vacuna antigripal.

BACKGROUND: To analyze the characteristics of YouTube videos in Spanish about the influenza vaccine. METHODS: In April 2019, a search was conducted on YouTube with the term vacuna gripe. We studied the association between the type of author, and country of publication, and the rest of the variables (tone of the message, type of publication, and vaccination recommendations according to the Spanish Ministry of Health, among others) with univariate analysis and a multiple logistic regression model. RESULTS: In total, 208 videos were assessed; 51.0% had been published from Spain and Mexico, and 79.8% of the videos supported the use of influenza vaccines. The main topics discussed in the videos were whether the vaccine should be considered the most effective method to prevent influenza (64.4%) and recommendations concerning the vaccination of people over 65 years old (43.3%). The variables type of authorship (healthcare professionals) and country of publication (Spain) were associated with a positive attitude towards vaccination (OR: 2.91; 95%CI: 1.12-7.53 and OR: 0.31; 95%CI: 0.15-0.65, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The existing information on YouTube about the influenza vaccine is not generally very complete, and it varies depending on the authorship of the videos and the country of publication. It would be advisable for healthcare professionals to publish videos promoting vaccination based on the guidelines from the Spanish Ministry of Health, and it is necessary to promote those videos for Spanish users who search for reliable information about this vaccine on YouTube.

Splenic volume as a biomarker of hepatic damage after chemotherapy in patients with resected colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).

BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy-associated liver injury (CALI) is a matter of concern for hepatobiliary surgeons as it can entail postoperative liver failure after an extensive hepatectomy. Recent studies have taken special interest in liver function parameters which can correlate with CALI to decrease this adverse event. Therefore, the current study investigates the usefulness of splenic volume as a biomarker of CALI through a portal hypertension mechanism, in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). STUDY DESIGN: We carried out a study in patients with CRLM operated on between 2009 and 2014 in our center. All samples of healthy liver were graded for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and sinusoidal obstructive syndrome. Computarized tomography scans for spleen volumetry were analyzed for each patient at CRLM diagnosis, after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 1 and 6 months after resection. RESULTS: A group of 65 consecutive patients with CRLM of large bowel adenocarcinoma submitted to liver resection were included. Patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a greater spleen volume increase than those who did not receive treatment (p = 0.053), finding a statistically significant spleen growth in patients with NAFLD (p = 0.036). There was no correlation between spleen enlargement and postoperative complications or average stay. However, survival was decreased in patients with spleen growth and CALI. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy for liver metastasis surgery have a greater splenic volume increase, which correlates with NAFLD and a lower survival.

Effect of photoperiod on ovarian maturation in Cheirodon interruptus (Teleostei: Characidae) / Efeito do fotoperíodo na maturação dos ovários em Cheirodon interruptus (Teleostei: Characidae)

Abstract Cheirodon interruptus is a ubiquitous small characid that inhabits the Pampean region and commonly used as bait. Its vast market is supplied from the wild population causing a significant environmental impact. In this study, we assess the effect of photoperiod on ovarian maturation in order to evaluate its potential as a tool to manipulate reproduction under artificial conditions. Four treatments in triplicate (light: dark, L: D) were tested: 24L: 0D, 12L: 12D, 0L: 24D and a progressive photoperiod corresponding to the daily photoperiod increments in wild during winter-spring transition, accelerated three times. The experiment was conducted for 45 days. Gonadosomatic index (GSI), oocyte mean diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions, plasma estradiol concentrations (E2), condition factor (Kn) and standard length were estimated. Values of mean GSI, oocyte diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions and E2 concentration were maximum in the progressive treatment indicating vitellogenesis stimulation. In turn the same parameters were minimum in the 24L: 0D, revealing the vitellogenesis inhibition. This study showed that photoperiodic regime play an important role in the onset of ovarian maturation in C. interruptus.

Resumo Cheirodon interruptus é um pequeno caracídeo amplamente distribuído na região Pampeana e comumente usado como isca. Seu vasto mercado se abastece de populações silvestres causando um impacto ambiental significativo. Neste estudo, investigamos o efeito do fotoperíodo no amadurecimento do ovário para avaliar o potencial deste fator como ferramenta para manipular a reprodução em condições artificiais. Quatro tratamentos foram testados por triplicado (luz: escuro, L: D): 24L: 0D, 12L: 12D, 0L: 24D e um fotoperíodo progressivo que simula as mudanças das horas luz na natureza e na transição de inverno a primavera, acelerado três vezes. O experimento se realizou durante 45 dias. O índice gonadossomático (GSI), o diâmetro médio dos ovócitos, a proporção de ovócitos vitelogênicos, as concentrações plasmáticas de estradiol (E2), o fator de condição (Kn) e o comprimento padrão foram estimados. Os valores médios de GSI, o diâmetro dos ovócitos, as proporções de ovócitos vitelogênicos e a concentração de E2 foram maximizados no fotoperíodo progressivo, indicando estimulação de vitelogênesis. Por outro lado, esses mesmos parâmetros resultaram mínimos no tratamento 24L: 0D, revelando um efeito inibidor da vitelogênesis. Este estudo mostrou que as variações de fotoperíodo exercem um papel importante no início vitelogênesis reprodutiva em C. interruptus .

Technical position on milk and its derivatives in adult health and disease from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología and the Asociación Mexicana de Gerontología y Geriatría. / Posición técnica sobre la leche y derivados lácteos en la salud y en la enfermedad del adulto de la Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología y la Asociación Mexicana de Gerontología y Geriatría.

Milk is a liquid food that possesses an important quantity of highly bioavailable macronutrients. In addition, it is readily accessible, as well as relatively inexpensive. Given that the knowledge of physicians about nutrition and food composition is deficient, in general, many of the dietary interventions recommended in diverse clinical settings lack a scientific basis. The aim of the present review was to produce a technical opinion that serves as a frame of reference to best sustain recommendations for consuming milk and dairy products as daily nutrition in the adult and older adult. The effects of milk and dairy products during the pediatric stage are not addressed in the present work. The Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología and the Asociación Mexicana de Gerontología y Geriatría jointly discussed and analyzed topics dealing with the legal designation of milk, the classification and nutritional profile of cow's milk, its nutritional characteristics, its consumption in the adult, intolerance to cow's milk, and associations of milk consumption with digestive tract alterations and other conditions. Finally, certain aspects of milk consumption in the older adult and its relation to overall health are briefly discussed.

Liver Donations and Transplants in the State of Paraná, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The increase in the waiting list for a liver and the high mortality rate of patients with terminal liver disease represent serious public health problems in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To analyze donations and liver transplants in the State of Paraná, Brazil. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was carried out with data from 3931 reports of deaths due to brain death and 8146 solid organ transplants made available by the State Transplant System of Paraná between 2011 and 2016. The data related to donation and liver transplantation were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inference. RESULTS: A total of 751 (28.9%) liver donations were carried out. Of these, the greatest chance of effectiveness occurred in patients younger than 50 years OR: 1.94 (CI: 1.60-2.34; P < .01) and male OR: 1.27 (CI: 1.06-1.52; P < .01). A total of 720 (8.8%) liver transplants were performed, most of which were funded by the Unified Health System. There was a significant increase in donations and liver transplants over the years. CONCLUSION: Donor numbers and liver transplants increased in the State but did not meet the need for the waiting list within the analyzed period.

Ionic Liquid-Stabilized Titania Quantum Dots Applied in Adhesive Resin.

Quantum dots (QDs; 1 to 10 nm) were recently synthesized by sol-gel and used as nonagglomerated nanoparticles in adhesive resin. The sol-gel process presented a low yield and resulted in a liquid product without stability. In this study, an imidazolium ionic liquid (IL; 1- n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, BMI.BF4) was used as stabilizing agent to synthesize titanium dioxide QDs (TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4) via a chemical route. The product was isolated as powder after washing, centrifuging, and drying. An experimental adhesive resin was formulated by mixing methacrylate monomers and a photoinitiator system. The TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder was incorporated at 2.5 (G2.5%) and 5 (G5%) wt% in the adhesive resin, and one group remained without TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder as the control (Gctrl). The TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder was analyzed by micro-Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, and transmission electron microscopy. The dispersion of TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder was analyzed in the polymerized adhesive resin with transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The adhesive resins were evaluated for immediate and long-term antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity, polymerization behavior, degree of conversion, softening in solvent, immediate and long-term microtensile bond strength, and fracture pattern. The TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder showed peaks of anatase and rutile and 26 wt% of BMI.BF4. TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 presented a minimum size of 1.19 nm, a maximum size of 7.11 nm, and a mean ± SD size of 3.54 ± 1.08 nm. TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 was dispersed in the adhesive resin without agglomeration, presenting intermittent luminescence by blinking. The addition of any tested concentration of TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 powder provided immediate and long-term antibacterial activity without cytotoxic effect against the pulp fibroblasts. Furthermore, compared with Gctrl, G2.5% showed reliable polymerization behavior and degree of conversion without differences for softening in solvent with maintenance of bond adhesion to tooth immediately and over time. Thus, the incorporation of 2.5 wt% of TiO2QDs/BMI.BF4 in adhesive resin showed reliable physical, chemical, and biological properties.

Microfiltración apical entre tres cementos utilizados en obturación retrógrada / Apical microfiltration between three cements used in retrograde obturation

Objetivo: Determinar la microfiltración apical de tres cementos utilizados en obturación retrógrada. Métodos: 45 piezas unirradiculares estandarizadas a 16 mm de longitud se instrumentaron con sistema ProTaper ® manual e irrigaron con NaClO al 5,25%. Las muestras fueron obturadas con cono principal ProTaper ® F3 y accesorios Denstply ® #A y #B; se realizó la recesión apical de 3 mm, posteriormente se desobturó 3 mm con ultrasonido (Satelec Acteon) con punta s12/70D; se dividió la muestra en tres grupos para realizar obturación retrógrada con diferentes cementos de obturación cada uno. Las muestras se incubaron a 37 °C por 3 días; se cubrieron con barniz de uñas excepto 2 mm apicales para ser sumergidas en azul de metileno al 1% por 48 horas, se lavaron y reali- zaron un corte longitudinal con disco de diamante #2 para su análisis en el estereomi- croscopio (EduBlue ED 1402S), con la ayuda de un micrómetro (Stainless Hardened) se obtuvieron diferentes valores de cada grupo, mismos que fueron analizados por medio de la comparación de medias y pruebas paramétricas. Resultados: La valoración media de la microfiltración que produce la obturación retrógrada indica que: el MTA ® presentó un valor de 87,33 ± 9,61 µm (14,57%), seguido del Biodentine ® con 136 ± 12,42 µm (22,69%), con respecto al IRM ® con mayor cantidad de microfiltración con un valor de 376 ± 12,98 µm (62,74%). Conclusiones: Al comparar las medias y porcentajes de la microfiltración apical que presentan los cementos IRM ® , Biodentine ® y MTA ® , se evidenció que el MTA ® presentó el menor valor de microfiltración

Objective: To determine the apical microfiltration of three cements used in retrograde obturation. Methods: 45 monoradicular pieces standardized to 16 mm in length were instrumented with manual ProTaper ® system and irrigated with 5.25% NaClO. The samples were sealed with ProTaper ® F3 main cone and Denstply ® accessories #A and #B; an apical recession of 3 mm was performed, subsequently a 3 mm of obturation was removed with ultrasound (Satelec Acteon) using tip s12/70D; the samples were divided into three groups to perform retrograde filling, each with different sealing cements. The samples were incubated at 37°C for 3 days; then covered with nail varnish except 2 mm apical to be immersed in 1% methylene blue for 48 hours, washed and longitudinally cut with #2 diamond disc for analysis in the stereo microscope (EduBlue ED 1402S), with the help of a micrometer (Stainless Hardened); different values of each group were obtained, then analyzed through comparison of means and parametric tests. Results: The average evaluation of the microfiltration produced by the retrograde filling indicates that: the MTA ® presented a value of 87.33 ± 9.61 µm (14.57%), followed by the Bio- dentine ® with 136 ± 12.42 µm ( 22.69%), compared to the IRM ® with the highest amount of microfiltration with a value of 376 ± 12.98 µm (62.74%). Conclusions: When comparing the means and percentages of the apical microfiltration of the IRM ® , Biodentine ® and MTA ® cements; it was evident that the MTA ® showed the lowest microfiltration value.

The polymorphisms of genes associated with the profile of fatty acids of sheep / Os polimorfismos de genes associados ao perfil de ácidos graxos de ovinos

The present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of polymorphisms in Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGTA-1 and 2), Fatty acid synthase (FASN), Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) genes and the Thioesterase domain of FASN (TE-FASN) gene that may be related to the lipid profile. In the experiment, a total of 84 sheep from different genetic groups were used. For the evaluation of the polymorphism of the genes, PCR-Single Strand Conformation Polymorphism (SSCP) technique and subsequent sequencing were used. In DGAT-2 gene, four genotypes were identified with the presence of 6 polymorphisms, with two (c.229T> C; c.255T> C) that resulted into the exchange of phenylalanine by leucine. In FASN gene, two genotypes were identified. In TE-FASN gene, three genotypes and 17 polymorphisms were identified. DGAT-1 and SCD genes did not reveal the occurrence of polymorphism. There was difference in relation to C14: 0, C18: 0 fatty acids and Δ9-desaturase C18 for DGAT-2 gene and of C18: 2ω6t for TE-FASN. There were differences among the genetic groups for C10: 0, C12: 0, C17: 0, C18: 2ω6t, C18: 3ω3, C20: 2, total of ω3, ω3/ω6 and atherogenicity index. There is occurrence of polymorphism of DGAT-2 and TE-FASN genes and these should be further studied in sheep since they revealed influence of the genotypes on the fatty acid profile.(AU)

O presente estudo teve o objetivo de avaliar a ocorrência de polimorfismos nos genes Diacilglicerol aciltransferase (DGTA1 e 2), Ácido graxo sintase (FASN), Estearoil-CoA dessaturase (SCD) e o Domínio da tioesterase do gene FASN (TE-FASN), que possam estar relacionados ao perfil lipídico. No experimento, foram utilizados um total de 84 ovinos de diferentes grupos genéticos. Para avaliação do polimorfismo dos genes, foi utilizada a técnica de polimorfismo de conformação de cadeia simples (PCR-SSCP) e posterior sequenciamento. No gene DGAT-2, foram identificados quatro genótipos com a presença de seis polimorfismos, com dois (c.229T>C; c.255T>C) que resultaram na troca da fenilalanina por leucina. No gene FASN, foram identificados dois genótipos. No gene TE-FASN, foram identificados três genótipos e 17 polimorfismos. Os genes DGAT-1 e SCD não revelaram a ocorrência de polimorfismo. Houve diferença em relação aos ácidos graxos C14:0, C18:0 e ∆9-desaturaseC18 para o gene DGAT-2 e de C18:2ω6t para TE-FASN. Houve diferença entre os grupos genéticos para C10:0, C12:0, C17:0, C18:2ω6t, C18:3ω3, C20:2, total de ω3, ω3/ω6 e índice de aterogenicidade. Há ocorrência de polimorfismo dos genes DGAT-2 e TE-FASN, e estes devem ser mais estudados em ovinos, pois revelaram influência dos genótipos sobre o perfil de ácidos graxos.(AU)

The polymorphisms of genes associated with the profile of fatty acids of sheep / Os polimorfismos de genes associados ao perfil de ácidos graxos de ovinos

The present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of polymorphisms in Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGTA-1 and 2), Fatty acid synthase (FASN), Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) genes and the Thioesterase domain of FASN (TE-FASN) gene that may be related to the lipid profile. In the experiment, a total of 84 sheep from different genetic groups were used. For the evaluation of the polymorphism of the genes, PCR-Single Strand Conformation Polymorphism (SSCP) technique and subsequent sequencing were used. In DGAT-2 gene, four genotypes were identified with the presence of 6 polymorphisms, with two (c.229T> C; c.255T> C) that resulted into the exchange of phenylalanine by leucine. In FASN gene, two genotypes were identified. In TE-FASN gene, three genotypes and 17 polymorphisms were identified. DGAT-1 and SCD genes did not reveal the occurrence of polymorphism. There was difference in relation to C14: 0, C18: 0 fatty acids and Δ9-desaturase C18 for DGAT-2 gene and of C18: 2ω6t for TE-FASN. There were differences among the genetic groups for C10: 0, C12: 0, C17: 0, C18: 2ω6t, C18: 3ω3, C20: 2, total of ω3, ω3/ω6 and atherogenicity index. There is occurrence of polymorphism of DGAT-2 and TE-FASN genes and these should be further studied in sheep since they revealed influence of the genotypes on the fatty acid profile.(AU)

O presente estudo teve o objetivo de avaliar a ocorrência de polimorfismos nos genes Diacilglicerol aciltransferase (DGTA1 e 2), Ácido graxo sintase (FASN), Estearoil-CoA dessaturase (SCD) e o Domínio da tioesterase do gene FASN (TE-FASN), que possam estar relacionados ao perfil lipídico. No experimento, foram utilizados um total de 84 ovinos de diferentes grupos genéticos. Para avaliação do polimorfismo dos genes, foi utilizada a técnica de polimorfismo de conformação de cadeia simples (PCR-SSCP) e posterior sequenciamento. No gene DGAT-2, foram identificados quatro genótipos com a presença de seis polimorfismos, com dois (c.229T>C; c.255T>C) que resultaram na troca da fenilalanina por leucina. No gene FASN, foram identificados dois genótipos. No gene TE-FASN, foram identificados três genótipos e 17 polimorfismos. Os genes DGAT-1 e SCD não revelaram a ocorrência de polimorfismo. Houve diferença em relação aos ácidos graxos C14:0, C18:0 e ∆9-desaturaseC18 para o gene DGAT-2 e de C18:2ω6t para TE-FASN. Houve diferença entre os grupos genéticos para C10:0, C12:0, C17:0, C18:2ω6t, C18:3ω3, C20:2, total de ω3, ω3/ω6 e índice de aterogenicidade. Há ocorrência de polimorfismo dos genes DGAT-2 e TE-FASN, e estes devem ser mais estudados em ovinos, pois revelaram influência dos genótipos sobre o perfil de ácidos graxos.(AU)

Effect of photoperiod on ovarian maturation in Cheirodon interruptus (Teleostei: Characidae).

Cheirodon interruptus is a ubiquitous small characid that inhabits the Pampean region and commonly used as bait. Its vast market is supplied from the wild population causing a significant environmental impact. In this study, we assess the effect of photoperiod on ovarian maturation in order to evaluate its potential as a tool to manipulate reproduction under artificial conditions. Four treatments in triplicate (light: dark, L: D) were tested: 24L: 0D, 12L: 12D, 0L: 24D and a progressive photoperiod corresponding to the daily photoperiod increments in wild during winter-spring transition, accelerated three times. The experiment was conducted for 45 days. Gonadosomatic index (GSI), oocyte mean diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions, plasma estradiol concentrations (E2), condition factor (Kn) and standard length were estimated. Values of mean GSI, oocyte diameter, vitellogenic oocyte proportions and E2 concentration were maximum in the progressive treatment indicating vitellogenesis stimulation. In turn the same parameters were minimum in the 24L: 0D, revealing the vitellogenesis inhibition. This study showed that photoperiodic regime play an important role in the onset of ovarian maturation in C. interruptus.