Self-Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 from Saliva Samples at Home: Isothermal Amplification Enabled by Do-It-Yourself Portable Incubators and Laminated Poly-ethyl Sulfonate Membranes.

COVID-19 made explicit the need for rethinking the way in which we conduct testing for epidemic emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the dependence on centralized lab facilities and resource-intensive methodologies (e.g., RT-qPCR methods) greatly limited the deployment of widespread testing efforts in many developed and underdeveloped countries. Here, we illustrate the development of a simple and portable diagnostic kit that enables self-diagnosis of COVID-19 at home from saliva samples. We describe the development of a do-it-yourself (DIY) incubator for Eppendorf tubes that can be used to conduct SARS-CoV-2 detection with competitive sensitivity and selectivity from saliva at home. In a proof-of-concept experiment, we assembled Eppendorf-tube incubators at our home shop, prepared a single-tube mix of reagents and LAMP primers in our lab, and deployed these COVID-19 detection kits using urban delivery systems (i.e., Rappifavor or Uber) to more than 15 different locations in Monterrey, México. This straightforward strategy enabled rapid and cost-effective at-home molecular diagnostics of SARS-CoV-2 from real saliva samples with a high sensitivity (100%) and high selectivity (87%).

Keratoconus Frequency and Associated Risk Factors Among Patients Younger Than 18 Years With Significant Refractive Errors.

INTRODUCTION: Keratoconus is an ectatic corneal disorder that causes low vision secondary to high myopia, irregular astigmatism, and loss of corneal transparency. In children, the disease behaves aggressively, progresses rapidly, is diagnosed at advanced stages, and presents an increased risk for corneal transplantation; however, only few studies in children have been conducted. PURPOSE: The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of keratoconus in patients younger than 18 years who underwent the Pentacam study because of high myopia or high astigmatism in the oblique axis, analyze topographic criteria and classify them into severity groups, and identify associated risk factors. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational cross-sectional study in which Pentacam examinations were analyzed. Frequency of keratoconus was determined and patients were classified according to visual acuity and severity scales. Medical records were reviewed to identify associated risk factors. RESULTS: Four hundred twenty-six patients younger than 18 years were included, 40 (9.4%) had keratoconus according to Pentacam criteria. The mean age at diagnosis was 14.9 years, with male predilection (75%). Atopy was the only statistically significant risk factor, present in 85%. Family history was present in 7.5%. There were no differences in the distribution in groups according to visual acuity or Amsler-Krumeich scale. Most frequent ABCD classification was A2 (35.6%), B4 (47.9%), and C0 (35.6%), posterior curvature radius being a significant severity criterion. CONCLUSIONS: The study found that frequency of keratoconus in children is higher than previously reported. Atopy has a clear and possible causal association. Early detection should be sought to reduce the risk of progression. Pentacam is a fundamental tool for early diagnosis using simple criteria.

Sistema de procedimientos para la formación interdisciplinar de la habilidad diagnosticar en residentes de dermatología / A System of Procedures for the Interdisciplinary Training of the Dill To Diagnose in Dermatology Residents

Introducción: En las prácticas de laboratorio se adquiere la habilidad que permite corroborar el diagnóstico de las enfermedades de la piel y anejos después de un diagnóstico presuntivo, con la utilización del método clínico. Esto se respalda en las exigencias establecidas en los documentos normativos de ese proceso formativo. Objetivo: Proponer un sistema de procedimientos para la formación interdisciplinar de la habilidad "diagnosticar enfermedades dermatológicas en los residentes de dermatología, a partir de insuficiencias detectadas en el programa de la especialidad. Métodos: La investigación fue cualitativa, con un estudio descriptivo en el Hospital Provincial General Docente Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola, de Ciego de Ávila, desde 2018 hasta 2022. Se trabajó con toda la población conformada por 16 residentes de primer año en dermatología. Se utilizaron métodos de nivel teórico, empírico y estadístico. Resultados: En el sistema de procedimientos propuesto, se concretan fortalezas y debilidades, objetivo general, orientaciones metodológicas, precisión de los objetivos específicos y sistema de acciones para cada procedimiento, y sistema de control y evaluación de la efectividad de las acciones realizadas. La demostración de la formación de la habilidad diagnosticar, a través de un caso clínico real, reveló como esencial la consecutividad lógica de las acciones del residente desde la atención médica del caso y la formulación del diagnóstico presuntivo hasta el establecimiento del diagnóstico corroborativo en los laboratorios de anatomía patológica, microbiología y parasitología médica. Conclusiones: Se aporta un sistema de procedimientos que posibilita la formación de la habilidad "diagnosticar enfermedades dermatológicas en los residentes, con carácter secuencial, interdisciplinar e investigativo(AU)

Introduction: Laboratory practices provide the ability that allows corroborating the diagnosis of skin and adnexal diseases after a presumptive diagnosis, with the use of the clinical method. This is supported by the requirements established in the standardization documents of this training process. Objective: To propose a system of procedures for the interdisciplinary training of the skill to diagnose dermatological diseases in Dermatology residents, based on insufficiencies detected in the specialty program. Methods: The research was qualitative and consisted in a descriptive study carried out in Hospital General Docente Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola, of Ciego de Avila, from 2018 to 2022. The work was done with the entire population made up of 16 first-year residents in Dermatology. Theoretical, empirical and statistical methods were used. Results: In the proposed system of procedures, strengths and weaknesses are specified, together with general objective, methodological guidelines, precision of specific objectives and system of actions for each procedure, as well as system of control and evaluation of the effectiveness of the actions. Demonstrating the received formation for the diagnostic skill, through a real clinical case, revealed as essential the logical consecutivity of the resident's actions from the medical attention of the case and the formulation of the presumptive diagnosis to the establishment of the corroborative diagnosis in the laboratories of pathological anatomy, microbiology and medical parasitology. Conclusions: A system of procedures is provided that makes possible the formation of the skill to diagnose dermatological diseases in residents, with sequential, interdisciplinary and investigative character(AU)

Nitrogen-functionalized graphene quantum dot incorporated GelMA microgels as fluorescent 3D-tissue Constructs.

Biopolymer microgels present many opportunities in biomedicine and tissue engineering. To understand their in vivo behavior in therapeutic interventions, long-term monitoring is critical, which is usually achieved by incorporating fluorescent materials within the hydrogel matrix. Current research is limited due to issues concerning the biocompatibility and instability of the conventional fluorescent species, which also tend to adversely affect the bio-functionality of the hydrogels. Here, we introduce a microfluidic-based approach to generate nitrogen-functionalized graphene quantum dot (NGQD) incorporated gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel microspheres, capable of long-term monitoring while preserving or enhancing the other favorable features of 3D cell encapsulation. A multilayer droplet-based microfluidic device was designed and fabricated to make monodisperse NGQD-loaded GelMA hydrogel microspheres encapsulating skeletal muscle cells (C2C12). Control over the sizes of microspheres could be achieved by tuning the flow rates in the microfluidic device. Skeletal muscle cells encapsulated in these microgels exhibited high cell viability from day 1 (82.9 ± 6.50%) to day 10 (92.1 ± 3.90%). The NGQD-loaded GelMA microgels encapsulating the cells demonstrated higher metabolic activity compared to the GelMA microgels. Presence of sarcomeric α-actin was verified by immunofluorescence staining on day 10. A fluorescence signal was observed from the NGQD-loaded microgels during the entire period of the study. The investigation reveals the advantages of integrating NGQDs in microgels for non-invasive imaging and monitoring of cell-laden microspheres and presents new opportunities for future therapeutic applications.

3D-Printed Tumor-on-Chip for the Culture of Colorectal Cancer Microspheres: Mass Transport Characterization and Anti-Cancer Drug Assays.

Tumor-on-chips have become an effective resource in cancer research. However, their widespread use remains limited due to issues related to their practicality in fabrication and use. To address some of these limitations, we introduce a 3D-printed chip, which is large enough to host ~1 cm3 of tissue and fosters well-mixed conditions in the liquid niche, while still enabling the formation of the concentration profiles that occur in real tissues due to diffusive transport. We compared the mass transport performance in its rhomboidal culture chamber when empty, when filled with GelMA/alginate hydrogel microbeads, or when occupied with a monolithic piece of hydrogel with a central channel, allowing communication between the inlet and outlet. We show that our chip filled with hydrogel microspheres in the culture chamber promotes adequate mixing and enhanced distribution of culture media. In proof-of-concept pharmacological assays, we biofabricated hydrogel microspheres containing embedded Caco2 cells, which developed into microtumors. Microtumors cultured in the device developed throughout the 10-day culture showing >75% of viability. Microtumors subjected to 5-fluorouracil treatment displayed <20% cell survival and lower VEGF-A and E-cadherin expression than untreated controls. Overall, our tumor-on-chip device proved suitable for studying cancer biology and performing drug response assays.

Placing biofabrication into the context of human disease modeling.

The field of biofabrication has seen tremendous advances in the past decade. More recently, the emerging role of biofabrication in allowing faithful generation of models of human tissues in their healthy and diseased states has been demonstrated and has rapidly expanded. These biomimetic models are potentially widely applicable in a range of research and translational areas including but not limited to fundamental biology studies as well as screening of chemical compounds, such as therapeutic agents. The United States Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act 2.0, which now no longer requires animal tests before approving human drug trials, will likely further boost the field in the years to come. This Special Issue, with a collection of 11 excellent research articles, thus focuses on showcasing the latest developments of biofabrication towards human disease modeling, spanning from 3D (bo)printing to organ-on-a-chip as well as their integration.

Supplementation of GelMA with Minimally Processed Tissue Promotes the Formation of Densely Packed Skeletal-Muscle-Like Tissues.

We present a simple and cost-effective strategy for developing gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels supplemented with minimally processed tissue (MPT) to fabricate densely packed skeletal-muscle-like tissues. MPT powder was prepared from skeletal muscle by freeze-drying, grinding, and sieving. Cell-culture experiments showed that the incorporation of 0.5-2.0% (w/v) MPT into GelMA hydrogels enhances the proliferation of murine myoblasts (C2C12 cells) compared to proliferation in pristine GelMA hydrogels and GelMA supplemented with decellularized skeletal-muscle tissues (DCTs). MPT-supplemented constructs also preserved their three-dimensional (3D) integrity for 28 days. By contrast, analogous pristine GelMA constructs only maintained their structure for 14 days or less. C2C12 cells embedded in MPT-supplemented constructs exhibited a higher degree of cell alignment and reached a significantly higher density than cells loaded in pristine GelMA constructs. Our results suggest that the addition of MPT incorporates a rich source of biochemical and topological cues, such as growth factors, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and structurally preserved proteins (e.g., collagen). In addition, GelMA supplemented with MPT showed suitable rheological properties for use as bioinks for extrusion bioprinting. We envision that this simple and cost-effective strategy of hydrogel supplementation will evolve into an exciting spectrum of applications for tissue engineers, primarily in the biofabrication of relevant microtissues for in vitro models and cultured meat and ultimately for the biofabrication of transplant materials using autologous MPT.

Cuidado de la vida y salud pública / Life care and public health

Entre los días 17 y 19 de noviembre de 2022 se realizó el 18° Coloquio de Investigación en Salud Pública en el Centro de Estudios en Salud de la Universidad de Nariño (CESUN) de la Universidad de Nariño. Este es un evento anual que se lleva a cabo por iniciativa del Doctorado Interfacultades en Salud Pública de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, pero cada vez más participan escuelas de formación de investigadores(as) en el campo de la salud pública de todo el país y, recientemente, algunas de México.

Concepción didáctica del proceso formativo interdisciplinar de la habilidad diagnosticar enfermedades para residentes de Dermatología / Didactic Concept of the Interdisciplinary Formation Process of the Diagnostic Ability of Dermatology Residents

Fundamento: El estudio teórico, el diagnóstico realizado y la experiencia de los investigadores, posibilitan formular como problema de la presente investigación: limitaciones en el desarrollo de la habilidad diagnosticar enfermedades dermatológicas en los residentes de la especialidad de Dermatología del Hospital General Provincial Docente "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" de Ciego de Ávila. Objetivo: Elaborar una concepción didáctica del proceso de formación interdisciplinar de la habilidad diagnosticar enfermedades dermatológicas en los residentes de la especialidad de Dermatología, a partir de la caracterización del estado actual de esta habilidad. Metodología: Se realizó una investigación educativa con un componente descriptivo en el Hospital General Provincial Docente "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" de Ciego de Ávila, en los cursos escolares desde 2016 al 2020. La población de estudio fueron los 16 residentes de 1.er año que matricularon la especialidad de Dermatología en el período de estudio. Se emplearon métodos del nivel teórico y empírico. Resultados: La caracterización realizada reveló limitaciones en el desarrollo de la habilidad diagnosticar enfermedades dermatológicas en los laboratorios de Anatomía Patológica, Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, por los residentes (100 %). La concepción didáctica del proceso de formación interdisciplinar de la habilidad diagnosticar orienta el proceso desde las actividades docentes-atencionales y prácticas de laboratorio en una consecutividad lógica y sistematización desde las diferentes formas de enseñanza y tipologías de clase. Integra la interdisciplinariedad y la utilización del método investigativo establecido en las ideas rectoras. Conclusiones: La concepción didáctica como aporte de la investigación resuelve la contradicción dialéctica entre la aplicación del método clínico y los procedimientos en la práctica de laboratorio que se da en ese proceso formativo y constituye un soporte didáctico que respalda las actividades prácticas en los laboratorios para cumplir con los objetivos del Plan de estudio de la especialidad.

Background: The theoretical study, the diagnosis conducted and the experience of the researchers make possible to formulate the problem of the present research: limitations in the development of the ability to diagnose dermatological diseases in residents of the Specialty of Dermatology of the General Provincial Teaching Hospital "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" of Ciego de Avila. Objective: To elaborate a didactic conception of the interdisciplinary training process of the ability to diagnose dermatological diseases in residents of the specialty of Dermatology, based on the characterization of the current state of that ability. Methodology: An educational research with a descriptive component was conducted at the Provincial General Teaching Hospital "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" of Ciego de Avila, in the 2016-2020 school years. The study population consisted of the 16 first-year dermatology residents who enrolled in the specialty during the study period. Results: The characterization conducted showed limitations in the development of the ability to diagnose dermatological diseases in anatomic pathology laboratories, Microbiology and Medical Parasitology, by residents (100%). The didactic conception of the interdisciplinary training process of diagnostic ability focuses on teaching and learning activities and laboratory practices in a logical consecutiveness and systematization from the different forms of teaching and class typologies. It integrates the interdisciplinary and the use of the research method that is established in the guiding ideas. Conclusions: The didactic conception, as a research contribution, resolves the dialectic contradiction between the application of the clinical method and the procedures in laboratory practice that occurs in this formative process which is a didactic support that backs up the practical activities in the laboratories in order to achieve the objectives of the study plan of the specialty.

Structural and biological engineering of 3D hydrogels for wound healing.

Chronic wounds have become one of the most important issues for healthcare systems and are a leading cause of death worldwide. Wound dressings are necessary to facilitate wound treatment. Engineering wound dressings may substantially reduce healing time, reduce the risk of recurrent infections, and reduce the disability and costs associated. In the path of engineering of an ideal wound dressing, hydrogels have played a leading role. Hydrogels are 3D hydrophilic polymeric structures that can provide a protective barrier, mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM), and provide a humid environment. Due to their advantages, hydrogels (with different architectural, physical, mechanical, and biological properties) have been extensively explored as wound dressing platforms. Here we describe recent studies on hydrogels for wound healing applications with a strong focus on the interplay between the fabrication method used and the architectural, mechanical, and biological performance achieved. Moreover, we review different categories of additives which can enhance wound regeneration using 3D hydrogel dressings. Hydrogel engineering for wound healing applications promises the generation of smart solutions to solve this pressing problem, enabling key functionalities such as bacterial growth inhibition, enhanced re-epithelialization, vascularization, improved recovery of the tissue functionality, and overall, accelerated and effective wound healing.

Recovering Osteoblast Functionality on TiO2 Nanotube Surfaces Under Diabetic Conditions.

Introduction: Titanium (Ti) and its alloys (eg, Ti6Al4V) are exceptional treatments for replacing or repairing bones and damaged surrounding tissues. Although Ti-based implants exhibit excellent osteoconductive performance under healthy conditions, the effectiveness and successful clinical achievements are negatively altered in diabetic patients. Concernedly, diabetes mellitus (DM) contributes to osteoblastic dysfunctionality, altering efficient osseointegration. This work investigates the beneficial osteogenic activity conducted by nanostructured TiO2 under detrimental microenvironment conditions, simulated by human diabetic serum. Methods: We evaluated the bone-forming functional properties of osteoblasts on synthesized TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) by anodization and Ti6Al4V non-modified alloy surfaces under detrimental diabetic conditions. To simulate the detrimental environment, MC3T3E-1 preosteoblasts were cultured under human diabetic serum (DS) of two diagnosed and metabolically controlled patients. Normal human serum (HS) was used to mimic health conditions and fetal bovine serum (FBS) as the control culture environment. We characterized the matrix mineralization under the detrimental conditions on the control alloy and the NTs. Moreover, we applied immunofluorescence of osteoblasts differentiation markers on the NTs to understand the bone-expression stimulated by the biochemical medium conditions. Results: The diabetic conditions depressed the initial osteoblast growth ability, as evidenced by altered early cell adhesion and reduced proliferation. Nonetheless, after three days, the diabetic damage was suppressed by the NTs, enhancing the osteoblast activity. Therefore, the osteogenic markers of bone formation and the differentiation of osteoblasts were reactivated by the nanoconfigured surfaces. Far more importantly, collagen secretion and bone-matrix mineralization were stimulated and conducted to levels similar to those of the control of FBS conditions, in comparison to the control alloy, which was not able to reach similar levels of bone functionality than the NTs. Conclusion: Our study brings knowledge for the potential application of nanostructured biomaterials to work as an integrative platform under the detrimental metabolic status present in diabetic conditions.

Neuron(s)-on-a-chip: A review of the design and use of microfluidic systems for neural tissue culture.

Neuron-on-chip (NoC) systems-microfluidic devices in which neurons are cultured-have become a promising alternative to replace or minimize the use of animal models and have greatly facilitated in vitro research. Here, we review and discuss current developments in neuron-on-chip platforms, with a particular emphasis on existing biological models, culturing techniques, biomaterials, and topologies. We also discuss how the architecture, flow, and gradients affect neuronal growth, differentiation, and development. Finally, we discuss some of the most recent applications of NoCs in fundamental research (i.e., studies on the effects of electrical, mechanical/topological, or chemical stimuli) and in disease modeling.

[Evaluation of the use of nasal bridle in clinical practice]. / Evaluación del uso de la brida nasal en la práctica habitual.

Introduction: Introduction: the nasal bridle (NB) is one of the strategies to avoid the displacement of tubes for enteral nutrition (EN) used during a nutritional intervention. Objectives: to review the efficacy and safety of NB placement in a patient population requiring EN by tube feeding. To analyze their clinical characteristics and identify complications related to this procedure. Methods: a retrospective observational study in usual clinical practice including patients admitted to a second-level hospital with EN catheters who required the use of a commercial NB-CORGRIP NG/NI TFEEDING TUBE RETENTION SYSTEM. Results: 51 patients with a mean age of 73 years (37-96) were analyzed; 64.7 % were men. Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) was the fundamental indication for placement of an EN tube (54.9 %) followed by refusal to ingest (17.6 %), and orotracheal intubation (7.8 %), among others. NB was withdrawn in 7.8 % of cases due to change in digestive access (gastrostomy), in 21.6 % because of transition to the oral route, and in 9.8 % due to ignorance on how to use it. We found significant differences between accidental removal and self-withdrawal of probes before and after BN placement (2.59 ± 1.512 vs 0.24 ± 0.596; p < 0.05). No related complications were recorded except for only one case of skin ulcer. Conclusions: NB is a safe and effective retention system for the prevention of probe displacement and withdrawal in patients with a wide variety of pathologies. Training health professionals is essential for proper use.

Introducción: Introducción: la brida nasal (BN) es una de las estrategias para evitar el desplazamiento de las sondas para nutrición enteral (NE) utilizadas en el curso de una intervención nutricional. Objetivos: revisar la eficacia y la seguridad de la colocación de la BN en una población de pacientes que precisan NE por sonda. Analizar sus características clínicas e identificar las complicaciones relacionadas con este procedimiento. Métodos: estudio observacional, retrospectivo en condiciones de práctica clínica habitual, incluyendo pacientes ingresados en un hospital de segundo nivel, portadores de sonda para NE, que hayan precisado la utilización de un sistema comercial CORGRIP NG/NI TFEEDING TUBE RETENTION SYSTEM de BN. Resultados: se analizan 51 pacientes con una edad media de 73 años (37-96); el 64,7 % eran varones. La disfagia orofaringea (DOF) fue la indicación fundamental para la colocación de la sonda de NE (54,9 %), seguida del rechazo de la ingesta (17,6 %) y la intubación orotraqueal (7,8 %), entre otras. La BN fue retirada en el 7,8 % de los casos por cambio de acceso digestivo (gastrostomía), en el 21,6 % por paso a la vía oral y en el 9,8 % por desconocimiento de su manejo. Evidenciamos diferencias significativas entre los arrancamientos accidentales y las autorretiradas de las sondas antes y después de la colocación de la BN (2,59 ± 1,512 vs. 0,24 ± 0,596; p < 0,05). No se registraron complicaciones relacionadas salvo un caso de úlcera cutánea. Conclusiones: la BN es un sistema de retención seguro y eficaz en la prevención de desplazamientos y retiradas de la sonda en los pacientes con amplia variedad de patologías. Formar a los profesionales sanitarios es imprescindible para su adecuada utilización.

Critical Consciousness for Connectivity: Decoding Social Isolation Experienced by Latinx and LGBTQ+ Youth Using a Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Health Equity.

Systemic oppression creates a context in which Latinx LGBTQ+ youth experience social isolation. Social isolation has been associated with mental and physical health disparities, including disproportionate levels of depression, substance use, self-harm, and attempted suicide. These disparities are often magnified in rural and suburban areas with fewer identity-affirming spaces. This community-engaged study reports on the formative process of developing a Latinx LGBTQ+ telenovela (soap opera) allyship intervention based on critical consciousness theory. We conducted eight focus groups with community advisory boards, which included Latinx LGBTQ+ youth (n = 12), health and social service providers serving LGBTQ+ youth (n = 10), 4-H Latinx alumni youth (n = 12), and 4-H Latinx parents (n = 8). We interviewed nine Latinx LGBTQ+ youth enrolled in a film-making workshop. As a result of our multi-stakeholder approach, we: (1) described how stakeholders reflected on and decoded intersectional isolation on the individual, community, and structural levels; and (2) identified ways that stakeholders suggested taking action by improving access to resources to address social isolation, provide culturally competent healthcare, and co-create an enabling social environment. Our study indicated the importance of tapping into core values and intersectional identities to build solidarity among and within marginalized groups to dismantle oppressive systems.

Gelatin-methacryloyl hydrogels containing turnip mosaic virus for fabrication of nanostructured materials for tissue engineering.

Current tissue engineering techniques frequently rely on hydrogels to support cell growth, as these materials strongly mimic the extracellular matrix. However, hydrogels often need ad hoc customization to generate specific tissue constructs. One popular strategy for hydrogel functionalization is to add nanoparticles to them. Here, we present a plant viral nanoparticle the turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), as a promising additive for gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels for the engineering of mammalian tissues. TuMV is a flexuous, elongated, tubular protein nanoparticle (700-750 nm long and 12-15 nm wide) and is incapable of infecting mammalian cells. These flexuous nanoparticles spontaneously form entangled nanomeshes in aqueous environments, and we hypothesized that this nanomesh structure could serve as a nanoscaffold for cells. Human fibroblasts loaded into GelMA-TuMV hydrogels exhibited similar metabolic activity to that of cells loaded in pristine GelMA hydrogels. However, cells cultured in GelMA-TuMV formed clusters and assumed an elongated morphology in contrast to the homogeneous and confluent cultures seen on GelMA surfaces, suggesting that the nanoscaffold material per se did not favor cell adhesion. We also covalently conjugated TuMV particles with epidermal growth factor (EGF) using a straightforward reaction scheme based on a Staudinger reaction. BJ cells cultured on the functionalized scaffolds increased their confluency by approximately 30% compared to growth with unconjugated EGF. We also provide examples of the use of GelMA-TuMV hydrogels in different biofabrication scenarios, include casting, flow-based-manufacture of filaments, and bioprinting. We envision TuMV as a versatile nanobiomaterial that can be useful for tissue engineering.

Evaluación del uso de la brida nasal en la práctica habitual / Evaluation of the use of nasal bridle in clinical practice

Introducción: la brida nasal (BN) es una de las estrategias para evitar el desplazamiento de las sondas para nutrición enteral (NE) utilizadas en el curso de una intervención nutricional. Objetivos: revisar la eficacia y la seguridad de la colocación de la BN en una población de pacientes que precisan NE por sonda. Analizar sus características clínicas e identificar las complicaciones relacionadas con este procedimiento. Métodos: estudio observacional, retrospectivo en condiciones de práctica clínica habitual, incluyendo pacientes ingresados en un hospital de segundo nivel, portadores de sonda para NE, que hayan precisado la utilización de un sistema comercial CORGRIP NG/NI TFEEDING TUBE RETENTION SYSTEM de BN. Resultados: se analizan 51 pacientes con una edad media de 73 años (37-96); el 64,7 % eran varones. La disfagia orofaringea (DOF) fue la indicación fundamental para la colocación de la sonda de NE (54,9 %), seguida del rechazo de la ingesta (17,6 %) y la intubación orotraqueal (7,8 %), entre otras. La BN fue retirada en el 7,8 % de los casos por cambio de acceso digestivo (gastrostomía), en el 21,6 % por paso a la vía oral y en el 9,8 % por desconocimiento de su manejo. Evidenciamos diferencias significativas entre los arrancamientos accidentales y las autorretiradas de las sondas antes y después de la colocación de la BN (2,59 ± 1,512 vs. 0,24 ± 0,596; p < 0,05). No se registraron complicaciones relacionadas salvo un caso de úlcera cutánea. Conclusiones: la BN es un sistema de retención seguro y eficaz en la prevención de desplazamientos y retiradas de la sonda en los pacientes con amplia variedad de patologías. Formar a los profesionales sanitarios es imprescindible para su adecuada utilización. (AU)

Introduction: the nasal bridle (NB) is one of the strategies to avoid the displacement of tubes for enteral nutrition (EN) used during a nutritional intervention. Objectives: to review the efficacy and safety of NB placement in a patient population requiring EN by tube feeding. To analyze their clinical characteristics and identify complications related to this procedure. Methods: a retrospective observational study in usual clinical practice including patients admitted to a second-level hospital with EN catheters who required the use of a commercial NB—CORGRIP NG/NI TFEEDING TUBE RETENTION SYSTEM. Results: 51 patients with a mean age of 73 years (37-96) were analyzed; 64.7 % were men. Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) was the fundamental indication for placement of an EN tube (54.9 %) followed by refusal to ingest (17.6 %), and orotracheal intubation (7.8 %), among others. NB was withdrawn in 7.8 % of cases due to change in digestive access (gastrostomy), in 21.6 % because of transition to the oral route, and in 9.8 % due to ignorance on how to use it. We found significant differences between accidental removal and self-withdrawal of probes before and after BN placement (2.59 ± 1.512 vs 0.24 ± 0.596; p < 0.05). No related complications were recorded except for only one case of skin ulcer. Conclusions: NB is a safe and effective retention system for the prevention of probe displacement and withdrawal in patients with a wide variety of pathologies. Training health professionals is essential for proper use. (AU)

Análisis diferencial de variables psicológicas relacionadas con el compromiso para la práctica deportiva en universitarios durante el confinamiento por la COVID-19 / Differential Analysis of Psychological Variables Related to the Commitment to Sport Practice in University Students During Confinement by COVID-19

En la actualidad los componentes psicológicos han alcanzado una importancia muy notable en la adquisición de comportamientos saludables. Por lo tanto, este estudio analiza las diferencias entre variables psicológicas que se relacionan con la práctica deportiva en estudiantes universitarios durante el confinamiento causado por la COVID-19. El estudio tuvo una muestra de 1239 participantes (765 varones y 474 mujeres), de edades comprendidas entre los 16 y 45 años (M = 21,44; DT = 3,94). Se utilizó un cuestionario que incluyó la Behavioral Regulation in Sport Questionnaire (BRSQ), la Escala de las Necesidades Psicológicas Básicas en el Ejercicio; la Escala de Autoeficacia para la Actividad Física; y la Escala de Grado de Compromiso Deportivo. Los resultados más relevantes muestran diferencias significativas (p<0,01) en favor del género masculino en casi todas las variables psicológicas excepto en la desmotivación, así mismo en lo que respecta a la motivación controlada y desmotivación, se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las localidades pequeñas y grandes, siendo los valores más altos en las primeras (p<0,05 y <0,01). Se discuten los resultados con objeto de determinar las diferencias en cuanto a qué componentes psicológicos permitirían plantear intervenciones que sean más efectivas para lograr la práctica regular de actividades deportivas así como su compromiso y adherencia, mediante el uso de estrategias que vayan encaminadas a fomentar la motivación autónoma de los universitarios y contrarrestar los efectos de la motivación controlada y la desmotivación. (AU)

Nowadays, psychological components have attained a very notable importance in the acquisition of healthy behaviours. Therefore, this study analyses the differences between psychological variables that are related to sports practice in university students during the confinement caused by COVID-19. The study had a sample of 1239 participants (765 males and 474 females), aged 16-45 years (M = 21.44, SD = 3.94). A questionnaire, which included the Behavioural Regulation in Sport Questionnaire (BRSQ), the Basic Psychological Needs in Exercise Scale; the Physical Activity Self-Efficacy Scale; and the Degree of Sport Commitment Scale, was used. The most relevant results show significant differences (p<0.01) in favour of the male gender in almost all psychological variables except demotivation. Likewise, with regard to controlled motivation and demotivation, significant differences were found between small and large localities, with higher values in the former (p<0.05 and <0.01). The results are discussed in order to determine the differences in terms of which psychological components would allow for interventions that might be more effective in achieving regular sport practice, commitment, and adherence through the use of strategies aimed at fostering autonomous motivation in university students and counteracting the effects of controlled motivation and demotivation. (AU)

One-Step Bioprinting of Multi-Channel Hydrogel Filaments Using Chaotic Advection: Fabrication of Pre-Vascularized Muscle-Like Tissues.

The biofabrication of living constructs containing hollow channels is critical for manufacturing thick tissues. However, current technologies are limited in their effectiveness in the fabrication of channels with diameters smaller than hundreds of micrometers. It is demonstrated that the co-extrusion of cell-laden hydrogels and sacrificial materials through printheads containing Kenics static mixing elements enables the continuous and one-step fabrication of thin hydrogel filaments (1 mm in diameter) containing dozens of hollow microchannels with widths as small as a single cell. Pre-vascularized skeletal muscle-like filaments are bioprinted by loading murine myoblasts (C2C12 cells) in gelatin methacryloyl - alginate hydrogels and using hydroxyethyl cellulose as a sacrificial material. Higher viability and metabolic activity are observed in filaments with hollow multi-channels than in solid constructs. The presence of hollow channels promotes the expression of Ki67 (a proliferation biomarker), mitigates the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha , and markedly enhances cell alignment (i.e., 82% of muscle myofibrils aligned (in ±10°) to the main direction of the microchannels after seven days of culture). The emergence of sarcomeric α-actin is verified through immunofluorescence and gene expression. Overall, this work presents an effective and practical tool for the fabrication of pre-vascularized engineered tissues.

Polyphenols and Flavonoids Composition, Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Andean Baccharis macrantha Extracts.

This study examined the leaves of Baccharis macrantha to obtain extracts of Baccharis macrantha (EBM) and to determine the total flavonoid content (TFC) and the total polyphenol content (TPC). The main objective of this work was to quantify TPC and TFC of extracts of B. macrantha from Ecuador and evaluate its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. The extraction method was optimized with solvents, ethanol, and methanol, at temperatures of 30-60 °C and extraction times of 5-20 min. The optimal TFC extraction conditions were at EtOH25% at 50 °C for 10 min. The optimal TPC extraction conditions were at EtOH50% at 50 °C for 10 min. EBM was characterized by TLC and HPLC with three standards: gallic acid, catechin, and quercetin. EBM-EtOH25% and EBM-EtOH50% obtained at 50 °C for 10 min were used to identify quercetin and evaluate biologicals activities. Quercetin was detected in EBM (EtOH25% and EtOH50%). EBM anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated with the red blood cell stabilization (RBC) method. The RBC model showed values of 49.72% of protection lysis RBC to EBM-EtOH25% and 50.71% of protection lysis RBC to EBM-EtOH50%. The EBM in vitro inhibition of lipid peroxidation showed a protection of 77.00% (EtOH25%) and 73.11% (EtOH50%) when the TBARs method was used. EBM-EtOH25% and EtOH50% showed high antioxidant activity. EBM-EtOH25% presented values of ABTS (1172 µmol TE/g EBM), DPPH (836 µmol TE/g, EBM), and FRAP (85.70 µmol TE/g, EBM).

nurP28, a New-to-Nature Zein-Derived Peptide, Enhances the Therapeutic Effect of Docetaxel in Breast Cancer Monolayers and Spheroids.

The development of novel cancer therapeutic strategies has garnered increasing interest in cancer research. Among the therapeutic choices, chemosensitizers have shown exciting prospects. Peptides are an attractive alternative among the molecules that may be used as chemosensitizers. We rationally designed a new-to-nature peptide, nurP28, derived from the 22-kDa α-zein protein sequence (entry Q00919_MAIZE). The resultant sequence of the nurP28 peptide after the addition of arginine residues was LALLALLRLRRRATTAFIIP, and we added acetyl and amide groups at the N- and C-terminus, respectively, for capping. We evaluated the cytotoxicity of the nurP28 peptide alone and in combination with docetaxel in fibroblast monolayers and breast cancer monolayers and spheroids. Our results indicated that nurP28 is not cytotoxic to human fibroblasts or cancer cells. Nevertheless, when combined with 1 µM docetaxel, 3 ng/mL nurP28 induced equivalent (in MCF7 monolayers) and higher (in MCF7 spheroids) cytotoxic effects than 10-fold higher doses of docetaxel alone. These findings suggest that nurP28 may act as a chemosensitizer in breast cancer treatment. This study describes the enhancing "anti-cancer" effects of nurP28 in breast cancer 2D and 3D cultures treated with docetaxel. Further studies should explore the mechanisms underlying these effects and assess the clinical potential of our findings using animal models.