Subfunctionalization of NRC3 altered the genetic structure of the Nicotiana NRC network.

Nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat (NLR) proteins play crucial roles in immunity against pathogens in both animals and plants. In solanaceous plants, activation of several sensor NLRs triggers their helper NLRs, known as NLR-required for cell death (NRC), to form resistosome complexes to initiate immune responses. While the sensor NLRs and downstream NRC helpers display diverse genetic compatibility, molecular evolutionary events leading to the complex network architecture remained elusive. Here, we showed that solanaceous NRC3 variants underwent subfunctionalization after the divergence of Solanum and Nicotiana, altering the genetic architecture of the NRC network in Nicotiana. Natural solanaceous NRC3 variants form three allelic groups displaying distinct compatibilities with the sensor NLR Rpi-blb2. Ancestral sequence reconstruction and analyses of natural and chimeric variants identified six key amino acids involved in sensor-helper compatibility. These residues are positioned on multiple surfaces of the resting NRC3 homodimer, collectively contributing to their compatibility with Rpi-blb2. Upon activation, Rpi-blb2-compatible NRC3 variants form membrane-associated punctate and high molecular weight complexes, and confer resistance to the late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans. Our findings revealed how mutations in NRC alleles lead to subfunctionalization, altering sensor-helper compatibility and contributing to the increased complexity of the NRC network.

Molecular Evaluation of the mRNA Expression of the ERG11, ERG3, CgCDR1, and CgSNQ2 Genes Linked to Fluconazole Resistance in Candida glabrata in a Colombian Population.

INTRODUCTION: The study of Candida glabrata genes associated with fluconazole resistance, from a molecular perspective, increases the understanding of the phenomenon with a view to its clinical applicability. OBJECTIVE: We sought to establish the predictive molecular profile of fluconazole resistance in Candida glabrata by analyzing the ERG11, ERG3, CgCDR1, and CgSNQ2 genes. METHOD: Expression was quantified using RT-qPCR. Metrics were obtained through molecular docking and Fisher discriminant functions. Additionally, a predictive classification was made against the susceptibility of C. glabrata to fluconazole. RESULTS: The relative expression of the ERG3, CgCDR1, and CgSNQ2 genes was higher in the fluconazole-resistant strains than in the fluconazole-susceptible, dose-dependent strains. The gene with the highest relative expression in the fluconazole-exposed strains was CgCDR1, and in both the resistant and susceptible, dose-dependent strains exposed to fluconazole, this was also the case. The molecular docking model generated a median number of contacts between fluconazole and ERG11 that was lower than the median number of contacts between fluconazole and ERG3, -CgCDR1, and -CgSNQ2. The predicted classification through the multivariate model for fluconazole susceptibility achieved an accuracy of 73.5%. CONCLUSION: The resistant strains had significant expression levels of genes encoding efflux pumps and the ERG3 gene. Molecular analysis makes the identification of a low affinity between fluconazole and its pharmacological target possible, which may explain the lower intrinsic susceptibility of the fungus to fluconazole.

Assessment of Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities of Liposomes Loaded with Curcumin and Lippia origanoides Essential Oil.

(1) Introduction: Curcumin and Lippia origanoides essential oils have a broad spectrum of biological activities; however, their physicochemical instability, low solubility, and high volatility limit their therapeutic use. Encapsulation in liposomes has been reported as a feasible approach to increase the physicochemical stability of active substances, protect them from interactions with the environment, modulate their release, reduce their volatility, improve their bioactivity, and reduce their toxicity. To date, there are no reports on the co-encapsulation of curcumin and Lippia origanoides essential oils in liposomes. Therefore, the objective of this work is to prepare and physiochemical characterize liposomes loaded with the mixture of these compounds and to evaluate different in vitro biological activities. (2) Methods: Liposomes were produced using the thin-layer method and physiochemical characteristics were calculated. The antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of both encapsulated and non-encapsulated compounds were evaluated. (3) Results: Empty and loaded nanometric-sized liposomes were obtained that are monodisperse and have a negative zeta potential. They inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and did not exhibit cytotoxic activity against mammalian cells. (4) Conclusions: Encapsulation in liposomes was demonstrated to be a promising strategy for natural compounds possessing antimicrobial activity.

Predictive model of suicide risk in Colombian university students: quantitative analysis of associated factors.

Introduction: The risk of suicide and completed suicides among young university students presents critical challenges to mental and public health in Colombia and worldwide. Employing a quantifiable approach to comprehend the factors associated with these challenges can aid in visualizing the path towards anticipating and controlling this phenomenon. Objective: Develop a predictive model for suicidal behavior in university students, utilizing predictive analytics. Method: We conducted an observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, and analytical research study at the University of Manizales, with a focus on predictive applicability. Data from 2,436 undergraduate students were obtained from the research initiative "Building the Future: World Mental Health Surveys International College Students." Results: The top ten predictor variables that generated the highest scores (ranking coefficients) for the sum of factors were as follows: history of sexual abuse (13.21), family history of suicide (11.68), medication (8.39), type of student (7.4), origin other than Manizales (5.86), exposure to cannabis (4.27), exposure to alcohol (4.42), history of physical abuse (3.53), religiosity (2.9), and having someone in the family who makes you feel important (3.09). Discussion: Suicide involves complex factors within psychiatric, medical, and societal contexts. Integrated detection and intervention systems involving individuals, families, and governments are crucial for addressing these factors. Universities also play a role in promoting coping strategies and raising awareness of risks. The predictive accuracy of over 80% in identifying suicide risk underscores its significance. Conclusion: The risk factors related to suicidal behavior align with the findings in specialized literature and research in the field. Identifying variables with higher predictive value enables us to take appropriate actions for detecting cases and designing and implementing prevention strategies.

Reduced ossification caused by 3D simulated microgravity exposure is short-term in larval zebrafish.

Understanding how skeletal tissues respond to microgravity is ever more important with the increased interest in human space travel. Here, we exposed larval Danio rerio at 3.5 dpf to simulated microgravity (SMG) using a 3D mode of rotation in a ground-based experiment and then studied different cellular, molecular, and morphological bone responses both immediately after exposure and one week later. Our results indicate an overall decrease in ossification in several developing skeletal elements immediately after SMG exposure with the exception of the otoliths, however ossification returns to normal levels seven days after exposure. Coincident with the reduction in overall ossification tnfsf11 (RANKL) expression is highly elevated after 24 h of SMG exposure and also returns to normal levels seven days after exposure. We also show that genes associated with osteoblasts are unaffected immediately after SMG exposure. Thus, the observed reduction in ossification is primarily the result of a high level of bone resorption. This study sheds insight into the nuances of how osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the skeleton of a vertebrate organism respond to an external environmental disturbance, in this case simulated microgravity.

Teaching Zebrafish Development in a STEM-Based Science Camp for Middle School Students.

Zebrafish have been used as an education tool for students of all ages and can be used in many learning environments to teach different fields of science. In this study, we focus on the biology of zebrafish. We describe an educational program within a weeklong science camp for students between 12 and 14 years old. The methodology described is based on running annual science camps over an 11-year period. In these camps, students learnt about the developmental stages of zebrafish, as well as general zebrafish biology, husbandry, ecology, behavior, and reproduction. This article describes how to provide students and educators with an educational program to explore, discover, and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of biological understanding through active and visual learning. We describe the methodology, the evaluation, revisions to our program over time, and future directions for expansion.

Ansiedad y estrategias de afrontamiento en personas privadas de la libertad en Barranquilla, Colombia / Anxiety and coping strategies in persons deprived of liberty in Barranquilla, Colombia / Ansiedade e estratégias de enfrentamento em pessoas privadas de liberdade em Barranquilla, Colômbia

El presente estudio tuvo como propósito principal determinar la relación entre la ansiedad y las estrategias de afrontamiento empleadas por personas privadas de la libertad (PPL) en el EPMSC Establecimiento de Reclusión Especial Barranquilla-Cárcel del Bosque. Para ello se siguió una ruta de investigación cuantitativa, de diseño no experimental, transversal y de alcance correlacional. La muestra estuvo conformada por 98 PPL, en edades entre 19 y 73 años, a quienes se aplicaron los instrumentos Escala de Valoración de la Ansiedad de Hamilton y Escala de Estrategias de Afrontamiento de Coping Modificada. Los resultados señalan niveles moderados de ansiedad, siendo los PPL más jóvenes (19-27 años) los que presentan mayor ansiedad psíquica; las personas mayores de 50 años tienden más a buscar solución a los problemas. Se concluye que a mayores niveles de ansiedad mayor relación con la estrategia de afrontamiento reacción agresiva.

The main purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between anxiety and the coping strategies employed by persons deprived of liberty (PPL) in the EPMSC Establecimiento de Reclusión Especial Barranquilla-Cárcel del Bosque. For this purpose, a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional and correlational research route was followed. The sample consisted of 98 PPL, aged between 19 and 73 years, who were administered the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and the Modified Coping Strategies Scale of Coping Modified. The results indicate moderate levels of anxiety, with younger PPL (19-27 years old) showing higher levels of psychological anxiety; people over 50 years old tend more to seek solutions to problems. It is concluded that the higher the level of anxiety, the greater the relationship with the coping strategy aggressive reaction.

O principal objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a relação entre ansiedade e estratégias de enfrentamento usadas por pessoas privadas de liberdade (PPL) no EPMSC Establecimiento de Reclusión Especial Barranquilla-Cárcel del Bosque. Para isso, foi seguido um roteiro de pesquisa quantitativo, não experimental, transversal e correlacional. A amostra consistiu em 98 PPL, com idades entre 19 e 73 anos, que receberam a Escala de Avaliação de Ansiedade de Hamilton e a Escala de Estratégias de Enfrentamento Modificada de Enfrentamento Modificada. Os resultados indicam níveis moderados de ansiedade, sendo que as PPL mais jovens (19 a 27 anos) apresentam níveis mais altos de ansiedade psicológica; as pessoas com mais de 50 anos tendem a buscar mais soluções para os problemas. Conclui-se que quanto maior o nível de ansiedade, maior a relação com a estratégia de enfrentamento reação agressiva.

Estimated Incidence of Hospitalizations and Deaths Attributable to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections Among Adults in Germany Between 2015 and 2019.

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) burden in adults is underestimated mainly due to unspecific symptoms and limited standard-of-care testing. We estimated the population-based incidence of hospitalization and mortality attributable to RSV among adults with and without risk factors in Germany. METHODS: Weekly counts of hospitalizations and deaths for respiratory, cardiovascular, and cardiorespiratory diseases were obtained (Statutory Health Insurance database, 2015-2019). A quasi-Poisson regression model was fitted to estimate the number of hospitalizations and deaths attributable to RSV as a function of periodic and aperiodic time trends, and viral activity while allowing for potential overdispersion. Weekly counts of RSV and influenza hospitalizations in children < 2 years and adults ≥ 60 years, respectively, were used as viral activity indicators. Models were stratified by age group and risk status (defined as presence of selected comorbidities). RESULTS: Population-based RSV-attributable hospitalization incidence rates were high among adults ≥ 60 years: respiratory hospitalizations (236-363 per 100,000 person-years) and cardiorespiratory hospitalizations (584-912 per 100,000 person-years). RSV accounted for 2-3% of all cardiorespiratory hospitalizations in this age group. The increase in cardiorespiratory hospitalization risk associated with underlying risk factors was greater in 18-44 year old persons (five to sixfold higher) than in ≥ 75 year old persons (two to threefold higher). CONCLUSIONS: This is a first model-based study to comprehensively assess adult RSV burden in Germany. Estimated cardiorespiratory RSV hospitalization rates increased with age and were substantially higher in people with risk factors compared to those without risk factors. Our study indicates that RSV, like other respiratory viruses, contributes to both respiratory and cardiovascular hospitalizations. Effective prevention strategies are needed, especially among older adults ≥ 60 years and among adults with underlying risk factors.

Classical monocytes-low expressing HLA-DR is associated with higher mortality rate in SARS-CoV-2+ young patients with severe pneumonia.

Aims: This study aimed to investigate whether monocyte dysregulation and hyperinflammation serve as predictive markers for mortality in young patients with SARS-CoV-2 severe pneumonia. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary-level public University Hospital in Colombia. Forty young adults (18-50 years of age) with severe pneumonia and SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by qPCR, were enrroled. Serum cytokines and the monocyte phenotype profile, including PDL1/HLA-DR expression, were determined during the first 24 h of hospitalization. Routine laboratory parameters were measured throughout patient follow-up until either death or hospital discharge. We also included a cohort of twenty-five healthy control subjects. Key findings: Elevated levels of IL-10, IL-8, and IL-6 cytokines emerged as robust predictors of mortality in young adults with severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 infected. A descriptive analysis revealed a cumulative mortality rate of 30 % in unvaccinated and ICU-admitted patients. Patients who died had significantly lower expression of HLA-DR on their classical monocytes subsets (CD14+CD16-) than survivors and healthy controls. Lower expression of HLA-DR was associated with greater clinical severity (APACHE≥12) and bacterial coinfection (relative risk 2.5 95%CI [1.18-5.74]). Notably, the expression of HLA-DR in 27.5 % of CD14+/CD16- monocytes was associated with a significantly lower probability of survival. Significance: The early reduction in HLA-DR expression within classical monocytes emerged as an independent predictor of mortality, irrespective of comorbidities. Together with PD-L1 expression and cytokine alterations, these findings support the notion that monocyte immunosuppression plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis and mortality of young patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. These findings hold significant implications for risk assessment and therapeutic strategies in managing critically ill young adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Identification and production of novel potential pathogen-specific biomarkers for diagnosis of histoplasmosis.

IMPORTANCE: Histoplasmosis is considered one of the most important mycoses due to the increasing number of individuals susceptible to develop severe clinical forms, particularly those with HIV/AIDS or receiving immunosuppressive biological therapies, the high mortality rates reported when antifungal treatment is not initiated in a timely manner, and the limitations of conventional diagnostic methods. In this context, there is a clear need to improve the capacity of diagnostic tools to specifically detect the fungal pathogen, regardless of the patient's clinical condition or the presence of other co-infections. The proposed novel pathogen-specific biomarkers have the potential to be used in immunodiagnostic platforms and antifungal treatment monitoring in histoplasmosis. In addition, the bioinformatics strategy used in this study could be applied to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers in other models of fungal infection of public health importance.

What are the factors associated with catastrophic health expenditure in Colombia? A multi-level analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Target 3.8 of the Sustainable Development Goals calls for the guaranteeing of universal health service coverage without generating financial risks for households and individuals. In Colombia, there is no up-to-date information on the proportion of households that suffer catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), nor about how these expenses are associated with the place of residence. To contribute to an understanding of these issues, this study analyses the differences in the levels of CHE among Colombian households, and their association with the province and area (urban or rural) of residence. METHODS: This is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study using the 2016-2017 National Household Budget Survey, the household and population Census 2018, and the Register of Health Providers 2017. We used the definition of CHE proposed by the World Health Organization, with a threshold of 20%. We estimated the percentage of households facing CHE, and its intensity, and estimated a multi-level logistic regression model, using as the dependent variable the question of whether a household experienced CHE, and the province as a second level, where explanatory variables related to the province were included. RESULTS: We found differences in CHE levels according to the province of residence. At the national level, 1.77% of households experienced CHE, and households in the provinces of Boyacá (5.04%), Nariño (4.04%), Cauca (3.82%), and Chocó (3.78%) faced the highest CHE. For most households with CHE in these provinces, spending on medicines and medical consultations represented close to 50% of their out-of-pocket spending. The multi-level logistic regression model indicated that there are significant variations in CHE attributed to the provinces under study, where the contextual variables of hospital-bed density (AOR = 0.91; 95% CI 0.86-0.96) and incidence of multi-dimensional poverty (AOR = 1.13; 95% CI 1.01-1.30) were factors associated with CHE. For an urban household, 6.58% of the CHE variation is attributed to the province in question, while for a rural household the corresponding variation is 1.56%. CONCLUSIONS: The geographical location of the household is a key factor when studying CHE in Colombia, where rural households present higher levels of CHE, mainly in the delivery of medicines and medical consultations. The findings reveal the need to analyse financial protection at the local level and establish policies to protect households, especially poor households, from CHE.

Effects of simulated microgravity and vibration on osteoblast and osteoclast activity in cultured zebrafish scales.

Zebrafish cultured scales have been used effectively to study cellular and molecular responses of bone cells. In order to expose zebrafish scales to simulated microgravity (SMG) and/or vibration, we first determined via apoptosis staining whether cells of the scale survive in culture for two days and hence, we restricted our analyses to two-day durations. Next, we measured the effects of SMG and vibration on cell death, osteoclast tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, and osteoblast alkaline phosphatase activity and on the number of Runx2a positive cells. We found that during the SMG treatment, osteoclast tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity increased on average, while the number of Runx2a positive cells decreased significantly. In contrast, SMG exposure caused a decrease in osteoblast activity. The vibration treatment showed an increase, on average, in the osteoblast alkaline phosphatase activity. This study demonstrates the effect of SMG and vibration on zebrafish scales and the effects of SMG on bone cells. We also show that zebrafish scales can be used to examine the effects of SMG on bone maintenance.

Caracterización de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia / Characterization of Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus in Children who Required Surgical Management at a Hospital in Santander, Colombia / Caracterização das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia

Introducción. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características sociodemográficas, tratamiento y complicaciones pre y posquirúrgicas de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero distal en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia. Metodología. Se trata de un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con 58 pacientes que cumplieron los siguientes criterios de inclusión: edad entre 3 a 14 años, fracturas supracondíleas de manejo quirúrgico; como criterios de exclusión se tomó: antecedente de enfermedad ósea o neurológica previa y fracturas de más de 7 días de evolución. Para las variables continuas se usó medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, las categóricas en porcentajes y frecuencias absolutas. Resultados. La edad media de presentación fue de 6.2 años, el principal mecanismo de trauma fue caídas de altura con un 96.5%. El 65.5% provenía de zonas urbanas. El 13.8% se asoció con fracturas de antebrazo, y el 3.4% de epitróclea. La fijación se realizó en un 75% con técnica cruzada y un 17.2% se asoció con lesión iatrogénica del nervio ulnar. Discusión. En el estudio no se informaron lesiones vasculares; sin embargo, se documentó una alta prevalencia de lesión neurológica con la fijación medial, similar a lo descrito en la literatura (1.4%-17.7%); algunos autores describen técnicas que disminuyen estas lesiones hasta en un 0%. Conclusión. Las características sociodemográficas de nuestra población coinciden con la estadística publicada mundialmente; la principal complicación fue la lesión iatrogénica nervio ulnar, que se puede disminuir con un uso racional del pin medial y con el empleo de técnicas que busquen rechazar directamente el nervio. Palabras clave: Fracturas del Húmero; Fijación Interna de Fracturas; Clavos Ortopédicos; Codo; Niño; Nervio Cubital.

Introduction. The objective of this study was to describe sociodemographic characteristic, treatment, and pre- and post-surgical complications of supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children who required surgical management at a hospital in Santander, Colombia. Methodology. This was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study involving 58 patients who met inclusion criteria: age between 3 and 14 years old, supracondylar fractures with surgical management; exclusion criteria include previous bone or neurological illness and fractures with more than 7 days of evolution. Central tendency and dispersion measures were used for continuous variables, and categorical variables in percentages and absolute frequencies. Results. The average age at presentation was 6.2 years old, the main mechanism of trauma was fall from height (96.5%). 65.5% came from urban zones. The 13.8% were associated with forearm fractures, and 3.4% with epitrochlear fractures. Pinning was performed at 75% with crossed technique and 17.2% were associated with iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury. Discussion. Study didn't inform vascular injuries. However, a high prevalence of neurological injury with medial pinning was documented, similar to that describe in the literature (1.4%-17.7%); some author described techniques that reduce these lesions by 0%. Conclusion. The sociodemographic characteristics of our population match with worldwide published statistics; the main complication was iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury, which can be reduced with the rational use of medial pin and with the application of techniques that seek to directly spare the nerve. Keywords: Humeral Fractures; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Bone Nails; Elbow; Child; Ulnar Nerve.

Introdução. O objetivo do estudo foi descrever as características sociodemográficas, o tratamento e as complicações pré e pós-cirúrgicas das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero distal em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia. Metodologia. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal com 58 pacientes que atenderam aos seguintes critérios de inclusão: idade entre 3 e 14 anos, fraturas supracondilianas tratadas cirurgicamente. Os critérios de exclusão foram: histórico de doença óssea ou neurológica prévia e fraturas com duração superior a 7 dias de evolução. Para variáveis contínuas foram utilizadas medidas de tendência central e dispersão, as categóricas em percentuais e frequências absolutas. Resultados. A média de idade de apresentação foi de 6.2 anos, o principal mecanismo de trauma foi a queda de altura com 96.5%. 65.5% vieram de áreas urbanas. 13.8% estavam associados a fraturas de antebraço e 3.4% a epitróclea. A fixação foi realizada em 75% com técnica cruzada e 17.2% esteve associada à lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar. Discussão. Nenhuma lesão vascular foi relatada no estudo. No entanto, foi documentada alta prevalência de lesão neurológica com fixação medial, semelhante à descrita na literatura (1.4%-17.7%). Alguns autores descrevem técnicas que reduzem essas lesões em até 0%. Conclusão. As características sociodemográficas da nossa população coincidem com as estatísticas publicadas mundialmente. A principal complicação foi a lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar, que pode ser reduzida com o uso racional do pino medial e com o uso de técnicas que buscam rejeitar diretamente o nervo. Palavras-chave: Fraturas do Úmero; Fixação Interna de Fraturas; Pinos Ortopédicos; Cotovelo; Criança; Nervo Ulnar

HERV-K (HML-2) insertion polymorphisms in the 8q24.13 region and their potential etiological associations with acute myeloid leukemia.

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are LTR retrotransposons that are present in the human genome. Among them, members of the HERV-K (HML-2) group are suspected to play a role in the development of different types of cancer, including lung, ovarian, and prostate cancer, as well as leukemia. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an important disease that causes 1% of cancer deaths in the United States and has a survival rate of 28.7%. Here, we describe a method for assessing the statistical association between HERV-K (HML-2) transposable element insertion polymorphisms (or TIPs) and AML, using whole-genome sequencing and read mapping using TIP_finder software. Our results suggest that 101 polymorphisms involving HERV-K (HML-2) elements were correlated with AML, with a percentage between 44.4 to 56.6%, most of which (70) were located in the region from 8q24.13 to 8q24.21. Moreover, it was found that the TRIB1, LRATD2, POU5F1B, MYC, PCAT1, PVT1, and CCDC26 genes could be displaced or fragmented by TIPs. Furthermore, a general method was devised to facilitate analysis of the correlation between transposable element insertions and specific diseases. Finally, although the relationship between HERV-K (HML-2) TIPs and AML remains unclear, the data reported in this study indicate a statistical correlation, as supported by the χ2 test with p-values < 0.05.

Morphological and molecular confirmation of Ornithodoros hasei (Schulze, 1935) (Acari: Argasidae) in Colombia.

A large number of tick species are proven vectors for the transmission of bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. Soft ticks (Acari: Argasidae) in South America have been found to be the most frequent carriers of borreliae of the relapsing fever group (RFG); however, there are several information gaps specially on the taxonomy and distribution of some tick species. Here, we used light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and PCR amplification of a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene to evaluate 174 larvae of Ornithodoros (Argasidae) collected from three bat species (Eptesicus orinocensis, Molossus rufus and Noctilio albiventris) in the Orinoquia Region of Colombia. The morphological and molecular results confirmed that all the analyzed larvae corresponded to Ornithodoros hasei. Comparisons of mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequences showed low genetic divergence (0% - 0.3%) between larvae of the Department of Arauca in the Orinoquia Region and higher genetic divergence (3.4 - 4.7%) in sequences from other American countries. Our work represents the most recent collection of this species in Colombia and provides a molecular evaluation for the first time. Moreover, a new association of O. hasei with bats such as E. orinocensis is documented. Considering the wide distribution of O. hasei in the American Continent, and its putative role as vector for Borrelia, integrative studies that involve morphological, morphometric, molecular data and experimental crosses are needed to determine if the higher genetic distances are associated with cryptic speciation, as detected in other tick complexes, or represent genetic divergences among geographically different populations of O. hasei.

Evaluation of new Toxocara canis chimeric antigens as an alternative to conventional TES-Ag for anti-Toxocara antibodies detection.

Human toxocariasis is one of the neglected helminthiases and it is caused by the zoonotic roundworm species Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. Diagnosis of human toxocariasis is based on the combination of clinical, parasitological, and epidemiological criteria, as well as serology tests that detect anti-Toxocara antibodies. Notwithstanding, due to the absence of pathognomonic symptoms and signs of the disease, serology is the key evidence to support a conclusive diagnosis. TES-ELISA is the most widely used serological test for diagnosis. However, cross-reaction of TES antigens with antibodies produced to other helminth antigens is a major drawback for its application in countries with high parasitic prevalence. T. canis recombinant antigens have been described as an alternative to native TES for diagnosis. Nevertheless, the selection of antigenic proteins is a complex process that requires validation. In this paper, we developed an eGFP carrier-based system to express and purify blocks of recombinant polypeptides of T. canis antigenic proteins. Intense cross-reaction polypeptides were detected by Immunoblot and avoided to finally produce a chimeric prototype protein. Additionally, a control chimeric protein that harbors the complete tested proteins was produced. Purified chimeric antigens were tested in ELISA and Immunoblot assays with 310 sera samples of negative and positive control individuals. Our results showed that chimeric rCHITC0 and rCHITC1 antigens (with sensitivities of 62% 58%, 38% and 16% in IB-rCHITC0, ELISA-rCHITC0, ELISA-rCHITC1 and IB-rCHITC1 respectively for OLMS) can perform better in terms of specificity (being 91%, 89%, 87% and 76% for ELISA-rCHITC1, IB-rCHITC1, ELISA-rCHITC0 and IB-rCHITC0 respectively for OLMS) than T. canis TES-ELISA (with 61% specificity), giving a higher signal with serum samples of infected individuals as well the possibility to discriminate false positive cases with other parasitic infections. Our data suggest that T. canis chimeric proteins, represent candidate antigens for phase II studies.

Bacteria related to tick-borne pathogen assemblages in Ornithodoros cf. hasei (Acari: Argasidae) and blood of the wild mammal hosts in the Orinoquia region, Colombia.

Interest in research on soft ticks has increased in recent decades, leading to valuable insight into their role as disease vectors. The use of metagenomics-based analyses have helped to elucidate ecological factors involved in pathogen, vector, and host dynamics. To understand the main bacterial assemblages present in Ornithodoros cf. hasei and its mammalian hosts, 84 ticks and 13 blood samples from bat hosts (Chiroptera) were selected, and the 16S rRNA gene V4 region was sequenced in five pools (each one related to each host-tick pairing). Bacterial taxonomic assignment analyses were performed by comparing operational taxonomic units (OTUs) shared between ticks and their host blood. This analysis showed the presence of Proteobacteria (38.8%), Enterobacteriaceae (25%), Firmicutes (12.3%), and Actinobacteria (10.9%) within blood samples, and Rickettsiaceae (39%), Firmicutes (25%), Actinobacteria (13.1%), and Proteobacteria (9%) within ticks. Species related to potentially pathogenic genera were detected in ticks, such as Borrelia sp., Bartonella tamiae, Ehrlichia sp. and Rickettsia-like endosymbiont, and the presence of these organisms was found in all analyzed bat species (Cynomops planirostris, Molossus pretiosus, Noctilio albiventris), and O. cf. hasei. About 41-48.6% of bacterial OTUs (genera and species) were shared between ticks and the blood of bat hosts. Targeted metagenomic screening techniques allowed the detection of tick-associated pathogens for O. cf. hasei and small mammals for the first time, enabling future research on many of these pathogens.

Mis-Dis Information in COVID-19 Health Crisis: A Narrative Review.

BACKGROUND: In this narrative review, we address the COVID-19 pandemic mis-dis information crisis in which healthcare systems have been pushed to their limits, with collapses occurring worldwide. The context of uncertainty has resulted in skepticism, confusion, and general malaise among the population. Informing the public has been one of the major challenges during this pandemic. Misinformation is defined as false information shared by people who have no intention of misleading others. Disinformation is defined as false information deliberately created and disseminated with malicious intentions. OBJECTIVE: To reach a consensus and critical review about mis-dis information in COVID-19 crisis. METHODS: A database search was conducted in PsychINFO, MedLine (Pubmed), Cochrane (Wiley), Embase and CinAhl. Databases used the MeSH-compliant keywords of COVID-19, 2019-nCoV, Coronavirus 2019, SARS-CoV-2, misinformation, disinformation, information, vaccines, vaccination, origin, target, spread, communication. RESULTS: Both misinformation and disinformation can affect the population's confidence in vaccines (development, safety, and efficacy of vaccines, as well as denial of the severity of SARS-CoV infection). Institutions should take into account that a great part of the success of the intervention to combat a pandemic has a relationship with the power to stop the misinformation and disinformation processes. The response should be well-structured and addressed from different key points: central level and community level, with official and centralized communication channels. The approach should be multifactorial and enhanced by the collaboration of social media companies to stop misleading information, and trustworthy people both working or not working in the health care systems to boost the power of the message. CONCLUSIONS: The response should be well-structured and addressed from different key points: central level and community level, with official and clearly centralized communication channels. The approach should be multifactorial and enhanced from the collaboration of social media companies to stop misleading information, and trustworthy people both working and not working in the health care systems to boost the power of a message based on scientific evidence.

Birth weight and its relationship with endothelial function and pattern of endothelium-derived microparticles during childhood: New insight about early vascular damage.

AIMS: To investigate whether a specific endothelium-derived microparticles (EMPs) phenotype could be associated with birth weight and microvascular endothelial function in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 95 children aged 6-14 years were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure measurement, microvascular endothelial function testing, and biochemical profile analyses were performed. Standardized flow cytometry methods were used to identify and quantify the circulating CD144+, CD31+/annexin V+, and CD62E+ EMPs. KEY FINDINGS: The circulating number of CD31+/annexin V+ EMPs and CD144+ EMP levels were correlated with birth weight, systolic blood pressure, microvascular endothelial function, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level. In the multivariable logistic regression models, we identified strong evidence of a higher risk of microvascular endothelial dysfunction among children with low birth weight (LBW) and increased levels of both CD31+/annexin V+ EMPs and LDL-C; LBW and elevated LDL-C levels were independent predictors of high circulating numbers of CD31+/annexin V+ and CD144+ > 75th percentile EMPs. SIGNIFICANCE: Our data provide evidence that children with LBW values showed greater numbers of circulating CD31+/annexin V+ and CD144+ EMPs. In addition, LBW and high levels of CD31+/annexin V+ and LDL-C were significant risk factors for the presence of microvascular endothelial dysfunction.

High circulating levels of CD62E+ and CD31+/Annexin V+ endothelium-derived microparticles in children with overweight/obesity: Evidence of early vascular damage.

BACKGROUND: Obesity perturbs endothelium integrity, leading to endothelial activation, which predisposes the release of endothelium-derived microparticles (EMP). We measured the CD31+/annexin V+ and CD62E+ EMP levels to improve our understanding of their contribution to endothelial damage in children with overweight/obesity. SUBJECT AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 107 children with normal weight and 35 children with overweight/obesity were evaluated. Anthropometric measurement, blood pressure, biochemical profile was performed. Standardized flow cytometry methods were used to identify and quantify circulating CD31+/annexin V+ and CD62E+ EMP. RESULTS: Children with overweight/obesity had significantly higher circulating levels of CD31+/annexin V+ (750 [600]) and CD62E+ (1400 [700]) EMP than those with normal weight (P < 0.001 for both). We found that EMP levels were positively correlated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), and triglycerides. The multivariable logistic regression model revealed that the risks of having high EMP levels (> 75th percentile) were high in children with both large waist circumference and elevated LDLc level. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves demonstrated that the LDLc levels showed significantly greater discrimination than waist circumference for both CD31+/annexin V+ (P = 0.031) as CD62E+ EMPs (P = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS: Children with overweight/obesity have high circulating CD31+/annexin V+ and CD62E+ EMP levels, which may be an early sign of endothelial apoptosis and inflammatory activation in response to injury. These EMP levels were positively associated with several cardiometabolic risk factors. Our data underscore the negative influence of high-risk metabolic profiles on endothelial integrity in the early stages of childhood obesity.