An overview of COVID-19 related to fungal infections: what do we know after the first year of pandemic?

In 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by CoV-2 virus became a pandemic worldwide, being the fast spread of the disease due to the movement of infected people from one country to another, from one continent to another, or within the same country. Associated comorbidities are important factors that predispose to any fungal coinfections. Because of the importance of fungal infections in COVID-19 patients, the aim of this work was to collect data of the more encountered mycoses related to patients undergoing this disease. Aspergillosis was the first COVID-19-related fungal infection reported, being A. fumigatus the most frequent species for CAPA. Other fungal infections related include mainly candidiasis and mucormycosis, being Rhizopus spp. the more prevalent species found. Influenza-associated pulmonary aspergillosis is well documented; thus, similar complications are expected in severe forms of COVID-19 pneumonia. Therefore, in patients with COVID-19, it is important to take special attention to the surveillance and suspicion of fungal coinfections that might worsen the patient's prognosis.

The ASIP gene in the llama (Lama glama): Alternative transcripts, expression and relation with color phenotypes.

The Agouti gene (ASIP) is one of the most important genes for coat color determination in mammals. It has a complex structure with several promoters and alternative non-coding first exons that are transcribed into mRNAs with different 5'UTR. These mRNA isoforms regulate the temporal and spatial expression of the gene, producing diverse pigmentation patterns. Here, we studied ASIP transcriptional variants and their expression in the skin of llamas with different coat color phenotypes. We also described the ASIP locus, including promoter usage and the splicing events that originate each transcript variant. Using 5'RACE-PCR we isolated seven ASIP transcripts with alternative 5'UTR, where exons 1A, 1A', 1C, 1D, and a novel non-coding exon 1A" were identified. Additionally, new alternative spliced forms were found. The diversity of ASIP 5'UTRs is originated by a complex pattern of alternative promoter usage, multiple transcription start sites and splicing events that include exon skipping and alternative 3' splicing site selection. We found that ASIP was highly expressed in llamas with white and brown phenotypes while black animals presented very low expression. The main responsible for this difference was a fusion transcript between ASIP and NCOA6 genes, which was present in the skin of white and brown llamas but not in the black ones. The rest of ASIP transcripts presented very low expression in the skin, indicating that the main regulation point for ASIP gene expression is at the transcriptional level. Nevertheless, the characteristics of the 5'UTRs sequences suggest that alternative transcripts could be regulated differently at the protein synthesis level.

Can Wolf Spider Mothers Detect Insecticides in the Environment? Does the Silk of the Egg-Sac Protect Juveniles from Insecticides?

The use of pesticides for plague control in agroecosystems generates a threat to wildlife and a major problem for human health. Pesticide compounds are also an important source of water and atmosphere contamination. Although insecticides are effective on their target organisms, they often affect organisms that are not their target. The aim of the present study was to research the effects of 3 types of neurotoxic insecticides-a pyrethroid (cypermethrin), a neonicotinoid (imidacloprid), and an organophosphate (chlorpyrifos)-on behavioral and physiological parameters of Pardosa saltans spider (Lycosidae). Our study analyzed for the first time the exploratory behavior of the spider mothers in the presence of these 3 insecticides on their egg-sacs and also on the ground. We also evaluated the oxidative stress effects on the juveniles hatched in the egg-sac protected by silk in relation to variations in detoxification enzymes (catalase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase) and lipid peroxidation (reactive oxygen species [ROS]). The results show that these insecticides are repellents for mothers (cypermethrin is the most repellent), and maternal behavior is modified after detection of an insecticide on their egg-sac but mothers do not abandon their egg-sacs. These neurotoxic insecticides affect the juveniles inside their egg-sac. Cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos caused more oxidative stress in juveniles than did imidacloprid. The ROS generated by these insecticides seemed to be adequately eliminated by the juveniles' antioxidant systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2861-2873. © 2021 SETAC.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Triple Immunosuppressive Therapy Evaluated by AC Biosusceptometry and Electrogastrography in Rats.

BACKGROUND: Triple immunosuppressive therapy is associated with several gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects induced by the triple immunosuppressive therapy on the gastrointestinal tract of rats. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three experimental groups: Control: filtered water; TAC + MPS + PRED: treated with Tacrolimus plus Mycophenolate Sodium plus Prednisone; and CSA + AZA + PRED: treated with Cyclosporine plus Azathioprine plus Prednisone. The treatment was done for 14 days by gavage. Gastric emptying and contractility were evaluated by the Alternating Current Biosusceptometry (ACB) and Electrogastrography (EGG). Histological, biochemical and hematological analyses were also performed. RESULTS: Gastric emptying time was slower in the CSA + AZA + PRED group in comparison with control (p<0.01) and TAC + MPS + PRED groups (p<0.001). Animals treated with TAC + MPS + PRED showed accelerated gastric emptying (p<0.05) compared to control. The amplitude of gastric contractions in both immunosuppressed groups was higher than observed in the control. The frequency of gastric contractions for the CSA + AZA + PRED group was also increased (p<0.01). Results obtained by EGG were similar to those recorded with the ACB. The thickness of the circular layer from stomach muscle decreased in both immunosuppressed groups, while the longitudinal layer was reduced only in the CSA + AZA + PRED group. CONCLUSION: Triple immunosuppressive therapy alters gastric motility, compromises the muscular layers and the association between CSA, AZA, and PRED provokes the major alterations in the structure and gastric function. Specific gastrointestinal side effects resulting from different immunosuppressive therapies still need to be elucidated in order to provide more effective and personalized therapy for patients.

Vitellogenesis in spiders: first analysis of protein changes in different reproductive stages of Polybetes pythagoricus.

Vitellogenesis represents one of the most vital processes of oviparous species during which various proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids are synthesized and stored inside the developing oocytes. Through analyzing protein changes in the midgut diverticula, hemolymph, and ovaries of females throughout the different vitellogenic stages of the spider Polybetes pythagoricus, we determined the origin of the different proteins involved in the formation of lipovitellins (LVs) along with the existence of a linkage between the hemocyanin and this vital process. An increase in the total protein content of the midgut diverticula, hemolymph, and ovary occurred throughout vitellogenesis followed by a decrease in those levels after laying. The presence of hemocyanin in egg and in LV2, as well as its accumulation in the ovary throughout the vitellogenesis process, was determined. Considering that all biologic processes depend on the correct structure and function of proteins, this study establishes, for the first time for the Order Araneae, the coexistence of three different origins of vitellogenesis-related proteins: one predominantly ovarian involving peptides of 120, 75, 46, and 30 kDa; another extraovarian one originated from the midgut diverticula and represented by a 170 kDa peptide, and a third hemolymphatic one, represented by the 67 kDa peptide.

MPT64 patch test for the diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis: a randomised controlled trial in Peru.

SETTING: There remains a lack of effective and inexpensive diagnostic tools for active tuberculosis (TB) disease. Testing immune responses to proteins secreted by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, such as MPT64, may be a diagnostic option. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a patch test using MPT64 for the diagnosis of active TB disease. DESIGN: This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective study in Lima, Peru, involved 55 healthy controls and 457 symptomatic individuals referred for routine TB testing by the National TB Control Programme. All subjects underwent a comprehensive diagnostic workup, and received an active patch on one arm and a placebo patch on the opposite arm, which were read after 4 days. RESULTS: Eighty-one (18%) of the symptomatic participants were classified as having definite TB, while an additional 98 (21%) had probable TB. The patch tests performed the same in both groups, with a sensitivity of 27% and specificity of 74%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.495 (95%CI 0.425-0.565). CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to existing literature, the MPT64 patch was not sensitive and specific to detect active TB. Given the potential of the test, understanding possible differences in the protein source or underlying genetic factors should be explored further.

Política de formación médica para la atención primaria de salud en Chile, crisis y desafíos / In search of a Medical Education for Chile

El presente ensayo pretende realizar un análisis crítico de la formación médica actual a la luz de los requerimientos de la atención de salud para responder a las necesidades de la población.(AU)

Características antropométricas maternas y del lactante, correlacionado a la concentración proteica del calostro y leche madura: un estudio longitudinal / Anthropometric characteristics of the mother and the infant, correlated to the protein concentration of colostrum and mature milk: a longitudinal study

Objetivo: Determinar las características antropométricas maternas y del lactante correlacionados a la concentración proteica del calostro y la leche madura en el Hospital "El Carmen", Huancayo. Método: Estudio analítico, longitudinal, correlacional; Muestra: 35 (madres y lactantes), quienes cumplían criterios de selección. Instrumento: ficha de recolección de datos consignando las medidas antropométricas maternas, del lactante y resultados de concentración proteica del calostro y leche madura; medición de variables en dos fases (Al parto y cuarto mes post- parto). Se utilizó correlación R de Spearman, Pearson y regresión logística multivariada. Resultados: La mediana de edad de las madres fue de 20 años, el IMC promedio pre- gestacional fue 23,55, mediana pre- parto fue de 26,71, y cuarto mes post- parto fue de 24,42; En los lactantes el sexo predominante fue el femenino 54,29%, la mediana del peso al nacer fue 3.030 kg y a los 4 meses tuvieron un peso promedio de 6,580 kg. El análisis bivariado mostró significancia estadística entre la concentración de proteínas del calostro y peso al cuarto mes (p=0.0119) y la concentración de proteínas de leche madura con respecto a la talla del lactante al cuarto mes (p=0.0041). El análisis multivariado para el peso del recién nacido, tiene relación con el Índice de Masa Corporal Pre- gestacional (p<0.011), R2 :0.481. Conclusión: Las características antropométricas de la madre y del lactante están correlacionados a la concentración proteica del calostro y leche madura Palabras clave: Índice de masa corporal, Recién nacido, Peso al nacer, Leche Materna, Proteínas.

Objective: To determine maternal and infant anthropometric characteristics correlated to protein concentration of colostrum and mature milk in the Hospital "El Carmen", Huancayo Method: analytical, correlational longitudinal study; Shows: 35 (mothers and infants) who met the selection criteria. Instrument: data collection sheet consigning maternal anthropometric measurements, infant and results of protein concentration of colostrum and mature milk; measurement variables in two phases (Al childbirth and fourth month postpartum). Spearman correlation R, Pearson and multivariate logistic regression was used. Results: The median age of the mothers was 20 years, mean BMI was pre- gestational 23.55, median pre- delivery was 26.71, and fourth month postpartum was 24.42; In infants the predominant female sex was 54.29%, the median birth weight was 3,030 kg and at 4 months had an average weight of 6,580 kg. The bivariate analysis showed statistical significance between protein concentration of colostrum and fourth month weight (p = 0.0119) and the protein concentration of mature milk with respect to the size of the infant to four months (p = 0.0041). Multivariate for birth weight, analysis is related to the gestational Body Mass Index Pre (p <0.011), R2: 0.481. Conclusion: The anthropometric characteristics of the mother and infant are correlated to protein concentration of colostrum and mature milk Keywords: Body mass index, Newborn, Birth weight, Breast Milk, Proteins.

[Perceptions of faculty members and students about undergraduate training in primary health care]. / Educación médica para la Atención Primaria de Salud: visión de los docentes y estudiantes.

BACKGROUND: It is unknown if medical education is preparing physicians to successfully work at primary health care settings. AIM: To explore what are the perceptions of faculty members and students about the type of physician needed and if medical education is coherent with the practice of primary health care. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifteen semi-structured interviews to key informants from faculty members and ten focus groups with students were carried out. RESULTS: Important influences of role modelling and hidden curriculum were found, especially in relation to the type of physician needed, generalist or specialist, and in relation to the places where the clinical practices were done. Although primary health care was declared in the profiles, most of clinical practices were done at hospitals and supervised by specialists. Working at primary health care is seen as a temporary work, not valued by professionals nor by the society. CONCLUSIONS: Medical Schools are not preparing professionals for primary health care but for hospital care and specialized medicine.

Educación médica para la Atención Primaria de Salud: visión de los docentes y estudiantes / Perceptions of faculty members and students about undergraduate training in primary health care

BACKGROUND: It is unknown if medical education is preparing physicians to successfully work at primary health care settings. AIM: To explore what are the perceptions of faculty members and students about the type of physician needed and if medical education is coherent with the practice of primary health care. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifteen semi-structured interviews to key informants from faculty members and ten focus groups with students were carried out. RESULTS: Important influences of role modelling and hidden curriculum were found, especially in relation to the type of physician needed, generalist or specialist, and in relation to the places where the clinical practices were done. Although primary health care was declared in the profiles, most of clinical practices were done at hospitals and supervised by specialists. Working at primary health care is seen as a temporary work, not valued by professionals nor by the society. CONCLUSIONS: Medical Schools are not preparing professionals for primary health care but for hospital care and specialized medicine.

Factores de riesgo asociados a hígado graso de origen no alcohólico en una población del Caribe Colombiano / Risk Factors Associated with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Colombian Caribbean Population

La enfermedad hepática grasa no alcohólica NAFLD (Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) es un problema de salud, así lo demuestran las diversas investigaciones alrededor del mundo, donde se evidencia una alta prevalencia de la patología. El objetivo del estudio piloto fue describir en términos de variables demográficas, epidemiológicas y bioquímicas la relación de factores de riesgo asociados a NAFLD de una muestra de pacientes que acudieron a la sección de Hígado y vías biliares del Hospital Universitario del Caribe (Cartagena, Colombia). El estudio piloto fue descriptivo prospectivo, fueron revisadas historias clínicas para análisis de variables epidemiológicas-demográficas y valorados por medición espectrofotométrica la actividad enzimática de transaminasas para la relación De Ritis (AST/ALT), niveles de colesterol y triglicéridos. Los resultados sugieren que la población subdividida en obesos, diabetes mellitus, hipertensos/obesos, diabetes/obesos y principalmente del género femenino presenta mayor riesgo de padecer hígado graso, con lo que amerita un estudio bioquímico molecular y un diagnóstico definitivo de NAFLD en la población de estudio.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a health problem that has been demonstrated by research from everywhere around the world where the disease's prevalence appears to be high. The aim of this pilot study was to describe the relationship of risk factors associated with NAFLD in terms of demographic, epidemiological and biochemical variables. Patients included in the study were drawn from people who came to the liver and biliary tract section of the Hospital Universitario del Caribe in Cartagena, Colombia. This was a prospective and descriptive pilot study that reviewed medical records for analysis of epidemiological and demographic variables. It assessed spectrophotometric measurement of transaminases for determination of De Ritis ratios (AST/ALT), and relationship to levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. The results suggest that risks of developing NAFLD were higher among women, among patients who were obese, among patients who had diabetes mellitus, among patients who had hypertension and obesity, and among patients who had diabetes combined with obesity. Patients at risk merit biochemical molecular study and a definitive diagnosis.

Serology and longevity of immunity against Echinococcus granulosus in sheep and llama induced by an oil-based EG95 vaccine.

An oil-based formulation of the EG95 vaccine to protect grazing animals against infection with Echinococcus granulosus was formulated in Argentina. The efficacy of the vaccine was monitored by serology in sheep and llama (Lama glama) and was compared to the serology in sheep previously published using a QuilA-adjuvanted vaccine. Long-term efficacy was also tested in sheep by challenging with E. granulosus eggs of the G1 strain 4 years after the beginning of the trial. The serological results for both sheep and llama were similar to those described previously, except that there was a more rapid response after the first vaccination. A third vaccination given after 1 year resulted in a transient boost in serology that lasted for about 12 months, which was similar to results previously described. Sheep challenged after 4 years with three vaccinations presented 84·2% reduction of live cysts counts compared with control group, and after a fourth vaccination prior to challenge, this reduction was 94·7%. The oil-based vaccine appeared to be bio-equivalent to the QuilA vaccine.

Genetic diversity and conservation status of managed vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) populations in Argentina.

The vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) was indiscriminately hunted for more than 400 years and, by the end of 1960s, it was seriously endangered. At that time, a captive breeding program was initiated in Argentina by the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) with the aim of preserving the species. Nowadays, vicuñas are managed in captivity and in the wild to obtain their valuable fiber. The current genetic status of Argentinean vicuña populations is virtually unknown. Using mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers, we assessed levels of genetic diversity of vicuña populations managed in the wild and compared it with a captive population from INTA. Furthermore, we examined levels of genetic structure and evidence for historical bottlenecks. Overall, all populations revealed high genetic variability with no signs of inbreeding. Levels of genetic diversity between captive and wild populations were not significantly different, although the captive population showed the lowest estimates of allelic richness, number of mitochondrial haplotypes, and haplotype diversity. Significant genetic differentiation at microsatellite markers was found between free-living populations from Jujuy and Catamarca provinces. Moreover, microsatellite data also revealed genetic structure within the Catamarca management area. Genetic signatures of past bottlenecks were detected in wild populations by the Garza Williamson test. Results from this study are discussed in relation to the conservation and management of the species.

Molecular characterisation of Porcine rubulavirus (PorPV) isolates from different outbreaks in Mexico.

Since the report of the initial outbreak of Porcine rubulavirus (PorPV) infection in pigs, only one full-length genome from 1984 (PorPV-LPMV/1984) has been characterised. To investigate the overall genetic variation, full-length gene nucleotide sequences of current PorPV isolates were obtained from different clinical cases of infected swine. Genome organisation and sequence analysis of the encoded proteins (NP, P, F, M, HN and L) revealed high sequence conservation of the NP protein and the expression of the P and V proteins in all PorPV isolates. The V protein of one isolate displayed a mutation that has been implicated to antagonise the antiviral immune responses of the host. The M protein indicated a variation in a short region that could affect the electrostatic charge and the interaction with the membrane. One PorPV isolate recovered from the lungs showed a mutation at the cleavage site (HRKKR) of the F protein that could represent an important factor to determine the tissue tropism and pathogenicity of this virus. The HN protein showed high sequence identity through the years (up to 2013). Additionally, a number of sequence motifs of very high amino acid conservation among the PorPV isolates important for polymerase activity of the L protein have been identified. In summary, genetic comparisons and phylogenetic analyses indicated that three different genetic variants of PorPV are currently spreading within the swine population, and a new generation of circulating virus with different characteristics has begun to emerge.

Effect of energy sources on the apparent total tract digestibility and excretion of nutrients by bovine cattle / Efecto de fuentes energéticas sobre la digestibilidad aparente total y excreción de nutrientes por bovinos

Objective. To evaluate the effect of three energy sources on the intake, total apparent digestibility and excretion of nutrients in cattle diet. Materials and methods. Six ruminally cannulated cows (730 ± 70 kg) were distributed into three treatments in a replicated 3x3 Latin square experimental design, where: (I) Control: Low ether extract diet (3.50% EE); (II) Soybean: High ether extract diet (5.30% EE) with inclusion of 15% soybean and (III) Citrus pulp: Low ether extract diet (3.00% EE) and high pectin involvement with inclusion of 15% citrus pulp. To determine the digestibility of DM and its fractions, chromic oxide was used as a marker. Nutrient excretion was calculated from the digestibility coefficient of each fraction. Results. The soybean treatment reduced (p<0.05) dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen-free extract and organic matter intake and increased ether extract intake. There was no effect (p>0.05) of the energy source on the digestibility coefficients of DM, CP, NDF, EE, NFE or OM. The TDN value was higher for the soybean treatment. The excretion of DM, NFE and OM was lower (p<0.05) for the soybean treatment. All energy sources influenced the excretion of crude protein. Conclusions. The energy sources used did not affect the digestibility of the diets and are indicated as high potential sources to be used in cattle.

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de tres fuentes energéticas sobre el consumo, la digestibilidad aparente total y la excreción de nutrientes de la dieta en bovinos. Materiales y métodos. Seis vacas (730±70 kg) canuladas en rumen fueron distribuidas en tres tratamientos, en un diseño experimental cuadrado latino 3x3 replicado, a saber: (I) Control: Dieta de bajo extracto etéreo (3.50% de EE); (II) Soya: Dieta de alto extracto etéreo (5.30% de EE) con inclusión de 15% de grano de soya y (III) Pulpa Cítrica: Dieta de bajo extracto etéreo (3.00% de EE) y alta participación de pectina con inclusión de 15% de pulpa cítrica. Para determinar la digestibilidad de la MS y sus fracciones, fue utilizado el marcador de óxido de cromo. La excreción de nutrientes, fue calculada a partir de los coeficientes de digestibilidad de cada fracción. Resultados. El tratamiento con soya redujo (p<0.05) el consumo de materia seca, proteína bruta, extracto no nitrogenado y materia orgánica, de igual manera, incrementó el consumo de extracto etéreo. No no se observó efecto (p˃0.05) de fuente energética para los coeficientes de digestibilidad de la MS, PB, FDN, EE, ENN y MO. El valor de NDT fue mayor para el tratamiento con soya. La excreción de MS, ENN y MO fue menor (p<0.05) para el tratamiento con soya. Todas las fuentes energéticas influyeron en la excreción de proteína bruta. Conclusiones. Las fuentes energéticas utilizadas, no afectaron la digestibilidad de las dietas, y estan indicadas como fuentes de elevado potencial en la alimentación de bovinos.

El imaginario social y los factores socioculturales que intervienen en las parasitosis de llamas en suripujio / The social imaginary and the sociocultural factors that intervene in parasitic diseases of llamas in suripujio

INTRODUCCIÓN La hidatidosis y la sarcocistosis, conocidas popularmente como "bolsitas de agua" y "arrocillo", son parasitosis que afectan la producción pecuaria. Es importante recabar información actualizada con respecto a su implicancia en la salud individual, familiar, comunitaria y animal de los pequeños productores, y evaluar su relación con la economía social de subsistencia. OBJETIVOS Identificar y describir el imaginario social de los pequeños productores de la comunidad puneña de Suripujio, indagando acerca de la salud y los factores socioculturales que inciden en la ocurrencia de hidatidosis y sarcocistosis en los rodeos de llamas desde la perspectiva de la Educación para la Salud. MÉTODOS Se realizó una investigación-acción participativa de tipo exploratorio en la comunidad jujeña de Suripujio. Se empleó una metodología cualitativa para la obtención de datos. Se abordaron dos parasitosis que afectan la producción pecuaria hidatidosis y sarcocistosis. Se apuntó a rescatar los significados que los productores de llamas le otorgan a sus actividades pecuarias desde la perspectiva de la Educación para la Salud. RESULTADOS Los componentes con mayor incidencia en los graves problemas sanitarios y bromatológicos que presentan las parasitosis de la carne de llama están relacionados con el medio ambiente y los estilos de vida. DISCUSIÓN Se rescata el valor que la comunidad le proporciona a la salud animal en menor medida que a la salud individual y comunitaria. Es necesario identificar las apreciaciones locales con respecto al concepto de salud-enfermedad para crear acciones significativas y aspectos de sensibilización colectiva que puedan influir en los procesos de fortalecimiento de la salud comunitaria.

Prevalencia de ansiedad y depresión entre los estudiantes de medicina de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile / Anxiety and depression prevalence in medical students of the Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile

Objective: To determine prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among medical students at the School of Medicine of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and its relationship with other psychosocial variables. Method: A prevalence study was done using an anonymous and voluntary survey among medical students from the 1st to the 7th year of studies that was applied after informed consent was signed. Psychosocial variables were studied and Goldberg Questionnaire (GHQ-12 items) was applied along with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI21 items). Results: 74 percent answered the questionnaire. 39 percent presented a positive Goldberg test and 21 percent presented a positive BDI. Presence of emotional symptoms was associated to women and to having recently suffered a personal event. Twelve percent of all students were under professional treatment, but of those with a positive BDI, only 47 percent were under treatment. Men and those who finance their studies through a student's loan or a scholarship were at higher risk of being untreated. Discussion: Prevalence of symptoms associated to mental problems was higher among medical students than the one found in the general population, although comparison must be treated cautiously given the different instruments used in each study. Medicine schools should be aware of these issues and be prepared to identify and help those students in need of support.

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de síntomas y patología ansiosa y/o depresiva entre los estudiantes de medicina de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile y la relación de éstos con otras variables psicosociales. Método: Se realizó un estudio de prevalencia utilizando como instrumento una encuesta anónima y voluntaria a los alumnos de pregrado de 1º a 7º año de medicina la que se aplicó previo consentimiento informado. Se midieron variables psicosociales, se aplicó el Test de Goldberg (GHQ) de 12 ítemes y el Inventario de Beck de depresión (BDI) de 21 ítemes. Resultados: Respondió un 74 por ciento de los alumnos. Un 39 por ciento presentó GHQ positivo y 25 por ciento tuvo BDI positivo. La presencia de síntomas emocionales se asoció positivamente con sexo femenino y con presencia de acontecimientos personales recientes. 12 por ciento de los estudiantes está en tratamiento profesional actual, pero sólo un 47,2 por ciento de quienes tienen BDIpositivo lo están. Los hombres y quienes financian sus estudios con beca o créditos están en mayor riesgo de no tomar tratamiento. Discusión: La prevalencia de síntomas de trastornos mentales entre los estudiantes de medicina es mayor que lo encontrado en la población general del grupo etáreo, aunque los distintos instrumentos usados hacen que los estudios no sean estrictamente comparables. No es posible establecer las causas de este hallazgo. Las Escuelas de Medicina deben estar concientes de estos riesgos y hacer un esfuerzo por identificar y dar facilidades para que se atiendan quienes lo requieren.

High density flux of Co nanoparticles produced by a simple gas aggregation apparatus.

Gas aggregation is a well known method used to produce clusters of different materials with good size control, reduced dispersion, and precise stoichiometry. The cost of these systems is relatively high and they are generally dedicated apparatuses. Furthermore, the usual sample production speed of these systems is not as fast as physical vapor deposition devices posing a problem when thick samples are needed. In this paper we describe the development of a multipurpose gas aggregation system constructed as an adaptation to a magnetron sputtering system. The cost of this adaptation is negligible and its installation and operation are both remarkably simple. The gas flow for flux in the range of 60-130 SCCM (SCCM denotes cubic centimeter per minute at STP) is able to completely collimate all the sputtered material, producing spherical nanoparticles. Co nanoparticles were produced and characterized using electron microscopy techniques and Rutherford back-scattering analysis. The size of the particles is around 10 nm with around 75 nm/min of deposition rate at the center of a Gaussian profile nanoparticle beam.