A multi-orbital Hund's rules-based ionic Hamiltonian for transition metal atoms: high-order equation of motion method approach and Kondo resonances.

A multi-orbital ionic Hamiltonian is presented to analyze the many-body properties of the d-transition metal atoms. This Hamiltonian considers all the atomic states obeying the first Hund's rule and also includes all orbital degeneracy, as well as the interaction of the atom with a metal. We analyze the solution of this ionic Hamiltonian by means of the equation of Motion method up to the fourth order,V4, in the atom-metal interaction. Equations for the appropriate Green-functions for analyzing the chemical and transport properties of the system are given for different atom occupancies. In particular, we introduce a full analysis of the multi-orbital Hamiltonian including atomic configurations withN, N+ 1 andN- 1 electrons, and discuss its Kondo properties. The shellsd1,d2andd3are analyzed in detail and Kondo energies are deduced in all these cases showing good agreement with the conventional known results.

Assessment of sulfonamide contamination in aquatic environments: A first report for Argentina and environmental risk assessment.

The global surge in pharmaceutical consumption, driven by increasing population and the demand for animal proteins, leads to the discharge of diverse pollutants, including antibiotic residues, into water bodies. Sulfonamides, being water-soluble compounds, can readily enter surface run-off, posing potential risks to non-target species despite their low environmental concentrations. Latin America has implemented intensive production systems highly dependent on antimicrobials for productivity and animal health, yet there is a paucity of information regarding their concentration in the region. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of sulfonamides in water and sediment samples and assess their potential ecological risks through an environmental risk assessment. The Río de la Plata basin collects the waters of the Paraguay, Paraná, and Uruguay rivers, together with their tributaries and various wetlands, passing through the provinces in Argentina known for their significant animal husbandry production. Two sampling campaigns were carried out for sediment, while only one campaign was conducted for surface waters. The samples were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass-spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). None of the examined sulfonamide antibiotics were detected in the sediment samples from both sampling campaigns. In contrast, sulfadiazine (95 %), sulfamethoxazole (91 %), and sulfathiazole (73 %) were detected in the water samples. Sulfadiazine was found in the concentration range of 8 to 128 ng/L, while sulfamethoxazole and sulfathiazole were observed at concentrations ranging from 3.0 to 32.5 ng/L and 2.9 to 8.1 ng/L, respectively. Based on the environmental risk assessment conducted using the sulfonamide concentrations, most samples indicated a medium risk for aquatic biota, with only one sample surpassing the high-risk threshold. This study represents the first report presenting data on the presence of sulfonamide antibiotics in the aquatic environment of Argentina.

Shining light on the transcriptome: Molecular regulatory networks leading to a fast-growth phenotype by continuous light in an environmentally sensitive teleost (Atherinopsidae).

Photoperiod can profoundly affect the physiology of teleost fish, including accelerated growth here defined as "fast growth phenotypes". However, molecular regulatory networks (MRNs) and biological processes being affected by continuous illumination and which allow some teleost species evident plasticity to thrive under this condition are not yet clear. Therefore, to provide a broad perspective of such mechanisms, Chirostoma estor fish were raised and sampled for growth under a simulated control (LD) 12 h Light: 12 h Dark or a continuous illumination (LL) 24 h Light: 0 h Dark since fertilization. The experiment lasted 12 weeks after hatching (wah), the time at which fish were sampled for growth, length, and whole-body cortisol levels. Additionally, 3 heads of fish from each treatment were used to perform a de novo transcriptome analysis using Next-Generation Sequencing. Fish in LL developed the fast growth phenotype with significant differences visible at 4 wah and gained 66% more mass by 12 wah than LD fish. Cortisol levels under LL were below basal levels at all times compared to fish in LD, suggesting circadian dysregulation effects. A strong effect of LL was observed in samples with a generalized down-regulation of genes except for Reactive Oxygen Species responses, genome stability, and growth biological processes. To our knowledge, this work is the first study using a transcriptomic approach to understand environmentally sensitive MRNs that mediate phenotypic plasticity in fish submitted to continuous illumination. This study gives new insights into the plasticity mechanisms of teleost fish under constant illumination.

Bioengineering potato plants to produce benzylglucosinolate for improved broad-spectrum pest and disease resistance.

In traditional, small-scale agriculture in the Andes, potatoes are frequently co-cultivated with the Andean edible tuber Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as mashua, which is believed to exert a pest and disease protective role due to its content of the phenylalanine-derived benzylglucosinolate (BGLS). We bioengineered the production of BGLS in potato by consecutive generation of stable transgenic events with two polycistronic constructs encoding for expression of six BGLS biosynthetic genes from Arabidopsis thaliana. First, we integrated a polycistronic construct coding for the last three genes of the pathway (SUR1, UGT74B1 and SOT16) into potato driven by the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter. After identifying the single-insertion transgenic event with the highest transgene expression, we stacked a second polycistronic construct coding for the first three genes in the pathway (CYP79A2, CYP83B1 and GGP1) driven by the leaf-specific promoter of the rubisco small subunit from chrysanthemum. We obtained transgenic events producing as high as 5.18 pmol BGLS/mg fresh weight compared to the non-transgenic potato plant producing undetectable levels of BGLS. Preliminary bioassays suggest a possible activity against Phytophthora infestans, causing the late blight disease and Premnotrypes suturicallus, referred to as the Andean potato weevil. However, we observed altered leaf morphology, abnormally thick and curlier leaves, reduced growth and tuber production in five out of ten selected transgenic events, which indicates that the expression of BGLS biosynthetic genes has an undesirable impact on the potato. Optimization of the expression of the BGLS biosynthetic pathway in potato is required to avoid alterations of plant development.

Changes in the eye contour signs due to age among Mexican women: Comparison with women of other ethnic origins.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the changes in certain ocular signs because of age, among Mexican women and to compare these with those previously obtained on women of other ethnicities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Photographs were taken of the faces of 203 Mexican women of different ages, under standardized conditions. These photographs allowed us to focus and define nine ocular signs, which were then graded by 15 experts and dermatologists, using standardized scales provided by a reference Skin Aging Atlas. Hence, the same protocol, previously used on 3240 women of four other ethnic origins (Caucasian: 600; Chinese: 990; Japanese: 1010; Indian: 300; African: 340), allowed us to compare the results obtained on Mexican women. RESULTS: The severity of crow's feet wrinkles for Mexican women shows a more intense progression with age than those of women from other ancestries. The lower eyelid wrinkles of Mexican women, that show weak or erratic changes with time, were however found to have higher and significant severity at a young age. Pigmentation disorders of their ocular area were found less pronounced as compared to those of Asian or Indian women. Eye bags were observed with similar slight changes in all five ancestries. CONCLUSION: The present work confirms that the clinical signs of age for the female eye area develop differently depending on the ethnic origins of the volunteer.

OBJECTIF: D'évaluer les variations avec l'âge de signes cliniques de la zone des yeux pour des femmes mexicaines et de les comparer avec des données précédemment acquises pour des femmes d'autres origines ethniques. MATERIEL ET METHODES: 203 femmes mexicaines, d'âges différents, ont été photographiées sous des conditions standardisées pour analyser neuf signes cliniques relatifs à la zone des yeux. Ces derniers couvrent des clusters cliniques de Rides/Texture, de Désordres pigmentaires ou de Ptose/relâchement et ont été évalués dans leurs sévérités respectives suivant les échelles éditées dans les Atlas cliniques du Vieillissement de référence par un groupe de 15experts et dermatologues. Ce même protocole a été utilisé précédemment sur 3240 femmes de 4 origines différentes (caucasiennes :600 ; chinoises : 990 ; japonaises : 1010 ; indiennes : 300 ; africaines : 340) et nous permet de pouvoir comparer ces résultats aux données obtenues sur les femmes mexicaines. RESULTATS: La sévérité des rides de la patte d'oie pour les femmes mexicaines présente une progression plus rapide avec l'âge que celles observées dans les autres ethnicités. Les rides de la paupière inférieure des femmes mexicaines, présentant des variations faibles ou erratiques avec l'âge, ont cependant été scorées avec une sévérité significativement supérieure pour les âges les plus jeunes. Les désordres pigmentaires pour la zone des yeux ont été trouvés comme moins prononcés en comparaison des femmes d'origine asiatique ou indienne. Les poches sous les yeux ont été observées avec des évolutions similaires avec l'âge quelle que soit l'origine ethnique. CONCLUSION: Ces travaux confirment que les signes cliniques de la zone des yeux présentent différentes évolutions avec l'âge en fonction des origines ethniques.

A proposed extension to the elongated styloid process definition: A morphological study with high-resolution tomography computer.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the morphology and angulation of the styloid process (SP), analyzing results stratified by gender, side and age on asymptomatic patients. We retrospectively analyzed 99 high-resolution computed tomography study images from asymptomatic patients. The images were assessed intra-observatory by a head and neck expert radiologist. Data for length, morphology, and angulation in a coronal and sagittal plane were recorded and stratified by age and gender. Morphology was classified according to the Langlais modified by Guimares classification. The mean lengths were 31.67±0.97mm and 31.64±0.90mm for the right and left sides respectively. Using the Langlais modified by Guimares classification, the normal type was the most prevalent and without a statistically significant difference when comparing between genders. A total of 27.6% presented a morphologically elongated SP (>25mm of continuous process), 49.5% presented a radiologically elongated SP (>30mm), and a total of 9.59% had a longer length than the proposed≤45mm. The right transverse angle was greater in men than women, and a statistically significant difference was found (P=0.010). We show the morphological variability of the SP. Although our results are reported with the traditional definition, the high prevalence supports the need for a new definition of elongated SP and a normal angulation ranges.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and microvascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The effect of the sodium-glucose 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors on microvascular complications remains uncertain. We performed a systematic review to determine the efficacy of the SGLT-2 inhibitors on microvascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed using Ovid, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to May 2019. Randomized trials comparing SGLT-2 inhibitors with placebo or other medication for type 2 diabetes for ≥ 4 weeks were included. Diabetes-related microvascular complications such as nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, and peripheral vascular disease were evaluated. A random-effect model using mean differences for continuous outcomes and risk ratio for dichotomous outcomes was used to synthesize data. PROSPERO (CRD 42017076460). RESULTS: A total of 40 RCTs with overall moderate quality of evidence were included. SGLT-2 inhibitors reduced the risk of renal-replacement therapy (0.65; 95% CI 0.54-0.79), renal death (0.57; 95% CI 0.49-0.65), and progression of albuminuria (0.69; 95% CI 0.66-0.73). Conversely, they appeared ineffective in maintaining eGFR (0.33; 95% CI - 0.74 to 1.41) or reducing serum creatinine (- 0.07; 95% CI - 0.26 to 0.11), whereas urine albumin-creatinine ratio (- 23.4; 95% CI - 44.6 to - 2.2) was reduced. Risk of amputation was non-significant (1.30; 95% CI 0.93-1.83). No available data were found regarding neuropathy and retinopathy to perform a quantitative analysis. CONCLUSION: SGLT-2 inhibitors may reduce the risk of renal patient-important outcomes but fail to improve surrogate outcomes. Apparently, no increased risk of amputations was observed with these medications. No data were available regarding other microvascular complications.

Recuperação anestésica e analgesia residual da infusão continua intravenosa de fantanil, lidocaína, cetamina e fentanyl-lidocaína-cetamina associados à anesthesia total intravenosa com Propofol em cadelas submetidas à ovariossalpingo-histerectomia eletiva / Anesthetic recovery and residual analgesia of constant rate infusion intraoperative of fentanyl, lidocaine, ketamine or fentanyl-lidocaine-ketamine associated with total intravenous anesthesia with propofol in bitches submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy

Avaliou-se a recuperação anestésica e a analgesia residual da infusão contínua (IC) de fentanil (F), lidocaína (L), cetamina (K) e fentanil-lidocaína-cetamina (FLK), associados à anestesia total intravenosa com o propofol, em cadelas submetidas à ovariossalpingo-histerectomia. Foram utilizados 32 animais pré-medicados com acepromazina, distribuídos em quatro grupos de acordo com o tratamento analgésico: F: bolus de 0,0036mg/kg de fentanil e IC de 0,0036mg mg/kg/h; L: bolus de 3mg/kg de lidocaína e IC de 3mg/kg/h; K: bolus de 0,6mg/kg de cetamina e IC de 0,6mg/kg/h; e FLK: bolus e IC dos três fármacos nas doses supracitadas. Após o bolus do tratamento analgésico, foi realizada a indução e o início da IC do tratamento analgésico e do propofol. Para avaliação da recuperação anestésica, foram considerados os tempos de extubação, decúbito esternal, posição quadrupedal e os efeitos adversos. A avaliação da analgesia foi realizada por meio da escala visual analógica e modificada de Glasgow, durante seis horas. Os efeitos adversos observados foram vômito, sialorreia e tremor muscular. Receberam analgesia de resgate 100% dos animais do grupo F, 87,5% do K, 50% do L e 12,5% do FLK. O FLK demonstrou maior analgesia, e a recuperação anestésica foi semelhante em todos os grupos.(AU)

The anesthetic recovery and residual analgesia of continuous rate infusion (CRI) of fentanyl (F), lidocaine (L), ketamine (K) and fentanyl-lidocaine-ketamine (FLK) associated with total intravenous anesthesia with propofol in bitches submitted to ovariohysterectomy were evaluated. 32 animals were used, pre-medicated with acepromazine and distributed into four groups according to analgesic treatment: F loading dose (LD) of 0.0036mg/kg fentanyl, and CRI of 0.0036mg/kg/h, L: LD of 3mg/kg lidocaine, and CRI of 3mg/kg/h; K: LD of 0.6mg/kg ketamine, and CRI of 0.6mg/kg/h and FLK: LD and CRI of the three drugs in the above mentioned doses. After the LD of analgesic treatment, the induction was performed and the CRI of the analgesic treatment and propofol started. To evaluate the anesthetic recovery, the time of extubation, sternal decubitus, quadrupedal position and adverse effects were considered. The analgesia evaluation was performed using the visual scale and modified Glasgow for six hours. The adverse effects observed were vomiting, sialorrhea and muscle tremor. 100% of the animals in group F, 87.5% of K, 50% of L and 12.5% of FLK received rescue analgesia. FLK demonstrated greater analgesia, and anesthesia recovery was similar in all groups.(AU)

Método não invasivo para avaliação da movimentação embrionária de Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802) / Non-invasive method for evaluation of embrionic moviment of Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802)

This study aimed to evaluate the viability of using a non-invasive digital monitor to monitor heart rate (HR) and motility during the embryonic development of Pantanal alligator (Caiman yacare) using Egg Buddy ® , at different incubation temperatures. The collection of the eggs followed the Ranching system and egg identification, transportation, and incubation were performed with the required care; all eggs were incubated with 90% humidity at 29°C for the first 45 days. Thereafter, the incubation temperature was either maintained at 29°C, increased to 33°C or maintained at 29°C and embryos simultaneously treated with 4-aminopyridine on days 46, 47, 48, and 49 (29°C-4AP). Embryo movement was measured with a digital non-invasive monitor on days 30, 35, 42, 49, 56, and 60, at which point embryos were sacrificed. In the statistical analysis no differences were observed between the groups for the temperature (33°C and 29°C); for motility, a difference was observed at day 49 for the 29°C-4AP group. This revealed that the non-invasive evaluation method can be used to verify embryonic motility and HR effectively in Caiman yacare embryos.(AU)

Recuperação anestésica e analgesia residual da infusão continua intravenosa de fantanil, lidocaína, cetamina e fentanyl-lidocaína-cetamina associados à anesthesia total intravenosa com Propofol em cadelas submetidas à ovariossalpingo-histerectomia eletiva / Anesthetic recovery and residual analgesia of constant rate infusion intraoperative of fentanyl, lidocaine, ketamine or fentanyl-lidocaine-ketamine associated with total intravenous anesthesia with propofol in bitches submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy

Avaliou-se a recuperação anestésica e a analgesia residual da infusão contínua (IC) de fentanil (F), lidocaína (L), cetamina (K) e fentanil-lidocaína-cetamina (FLK), associados à anestesia total intravenosa com o propofol, em cadelas submetidas à ovariossalpingo-histerectomia. Foram utilizados 32 animais pré-medicados com acepromazina, distribuídos em quatro grupos de acordo com o tratamento analgésico: F: bolus de 0,0036mg/kg de fentanil e IC de 0,0036mg mg/kg/h; L: bolus de 3mg/kg de lidocaína e IC de 3mg/kg/h; K: bolus de 0,6mg/kg de cetamina e IC de 0,6mg/kg/h; e FLK: bolus e IC dos três fármacos nas doses supracitadas. Após o bolus do tratamento analgésico, foi realizada a indução e o início da IC do tratamento analgésico e do propofol. Para avaliação da recuperação anestésica, foram considerados os tempos de extubação, decúbito esternal, posição quadrupedal e os efeitos adversos. A avaliação da analgesia foi realizada por meio da escala visual analógica e modificada de Glasgow, durante seis horas. Os efeitos adversos observados foram vômito, sialorreia e tremor muscular. Receberam analgesia de resgate 100% dos animais do grupo F, 87,5% do K, 50% do L e 12,5% do FLK. O FLK demonstrou maior analgesia, e a recuperação anestésica foi semelhante em todos os grupos.(AU)

The anesthetic recovery and residual analgesia of continuous rate infusion (CRI) of fentanyl (F), lidocaine (L), ketamine (K) and fentanyl-lidocaine-ketamine (FLK) associated with total intravenous anesthesia with propofol in bitches submitted to ovariohysterectomy were evaluated. 32 animals were used, pre-medicated with acepromazine and distributed into four groups according to analgesic treatment: F loading dose (LD) of 0.0036mg/kg fentanyl, and CRI of 0.0036mg/kg/h, L: LD of 3mg/kg lidocaine, and CRI of 3mg/kg/h; K: LD of 0.6mg/kg ketamine, and CRI of 0.6mg/kg/h and FLK: LD and CRI of the three drugs in the above mentioned doses. After the LD of analgesic treatment, the induction was performed and the CRI of the analgesic treatment and propofol started. To evaluate the anesthetic recovery, the time of extubation, sternal decubitus, quadrupedal position and adverse effects were considered. The analgesia evaluation was performed using the visual scale and modified Glasgow for six hours. The adverse effects observed were vomiting, sialorrhea and muscle tremor. 100% of the animals in group F, 87.5% of K, 50% of L and 12.5% of FLK received rescue analgesia. FLK demonstrated greater analgesia, and anesthesia recovery was similar in all groups.(AU)

Método não invasivo para avaliação da movimentação embrionária de Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802) / Non-invasive method for evaluation of embrionic moviment of Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802)

This study aimed to evaluate the viability of using a non-invasive digital monitor to monitor heart rate (HR) and motility during the embryonic development of Pantanal alligator (Caiman yacare) using Egg Buddy ® , at different incubation temperatures. The collection of the eggs followed the Ranching system and egg identification, transportation, and incubation were performed with the required care; all eggs were incubated with 90% humidity at 29°C for the first 45 days. Thereafter, the incubation temperature was either maintained at 29°C, increased to 33°C or maintained at 29°C and embryos simultaneously treated with 4-aminopyridine on days 46, 47, 48, and 49 (29°C-4AP). Embryo movement was measured with a digital non-invasive monitor on days 30, 35, 42, 49, 56, and 60, at which point embryos were sacrificed. In the statistical analysis no differences were observed between the groups for the temperature (33°C and 29°C); for motility, a difference was observed at day 49 for the 29°C-4AP group. This revealed that the non-invasive evaluation method can be used to verify embryonic motility and HR effectively in Caiman yacare embryos.(AU)

Vivencias y expectativas de los actores sociales partícipes en evaluación del desarrollo psicomotor, en relación a las escalas EEDP y TEPSI utilizadas en la Araucanía, Chile, durante los años 2017-2018 / Vivências e expectativas dos acionistas sociais partícipes na avaliação do desenvolvimento do psicomotor, em relação às escalas EEDP e TEPSI usadas no Araucania, Chile, durante o ano 2017-2018 / Experiences and expectations of the social actors participating in the evaluation of psychomotor development, in relation to the EEDP and TEPSI scales used in la Araucania, Chile, in 2017-2018

Resumen: En Chile, la Escala de Evaluación del Desarrollo Psicomotor (EEDP) y Test de Desarrollo Psicomotor (TEPSI) son herramientas no actualizadas, que carecen de confiabilidad y validación internacional conocida; por ello se hace necesario analizar el proceso evaluativo desde los actores de salud y educación, Enfermeras y Educadoras de párvulos respectivamente. El objetivo fue develar las vivencias de estos actores sociales, partícipes en el proceso evaluativo del desarrollo psicomotor en menores de tres años, según determinantes sociales. Se trata de un estudio cualitativo exploratorio, basado en la fenomenología de Alfred Schütz, realizado en siete informantes claves, cinco enfermeras y dos educadoras de párvulos, por medio de la entrevista semiestructurada. El análisis se circunscribió a transcripción, codificación, agrupamiento en categorías y síntesis. Se develan las metacategorías: A: Dilemas e incertidumbres por nudos críticos y categorías intermedias: a) Brecha entre políticas públicas y realidad local, no favorece el desarrollo de los niños, b) Instrumentos desactualizados y descontextualizados, c) Mitos y expectativas de los padres frente a la evaluación, d) Instrumentos sin pertinencia social; y B: Expectativas y categorías intermedias: a) Actualización del marco político para un avance continuo y efectivo, b) Incorporación y empoderamiento de los padres en el proceso, c) Capacitación y perfeccionamiento de profesionales. Se concluye que es necesario la actualización de las estrategias evaluativas y disponer de instrumentos validados, actualizados, con pertinencia social y que consideren a los padres

Resumo: No Chile, as Escala de Avaliação do Desenvolvimento Psicomotor (EEDP) e Teste de Desenvolvimento Psicomotor (TEPSI) não são ferramentas atualizadas, que carecem de confiabilidade e validação internacionalmente conhecidas, por essa razão, é necessário analisar o processo de avaliação dos atores de saúde e educação, enfermeiros e educadoras de creches, respectivamente. Lo objetivo foi revelar as experiências dos atores sociais participantes, enfermeiros e educadoras de creches, no processo de avaliação do desenvolvimento psicomotor em crianças menores de 3 anos, segundo os determinantes sociais. Foi realizado um estudo qualitativo exploratório baseado na fenomenologia de Alfred Schütz, realizado em 7 informantes-chave, 5 enfermeiros e 2 educadoras de creches, por meio de entrevista semiestruturado. A análise foi limitada à transcrição; codificação; agrupamento em categorias e síntese. Dilemas e incertezas de nós críticos e categorias intermediárias: a) lacuna entre política pública e da realidade local, não favorece o desenvolvimento das crianças, b) instrumentos desatualizados e, c) Mitos descontextualizadas e expectativas dos metacategorias são revelados os pais na frente da avaliação, d) Instrumentos sem relevância social; e B: Expectativas e categorias intermediárias: a) Atualização do arcabouço político para o progresso contínuo e efetivo, b) Incorporação e empoderamento dos pais no processo, c) Treinamento e aperfeiçoamento dos profissionais. É necessário atualizar as estratégias de avaliação e validar instrumentos atualizados e de relevância social que considerem os pais

Abstract: In Chile, the Psychomotor Development Evaluation Scale (EEDP in Spanish) and the Psychomotor Development Test (TEPSI in Spanish) are outdated tools that lack international reliability and validation. It is necessary to analyze the evaluation process from the point of view of the health and education professionals, that is, nurses and early childhood educators. The purpose was to reveal the experiences of these actors in the evaluation process of psychomotor development in children under three years of age, according to social determinants. This is a qualitative exploratory study based on the Alfred Schütz phenomenology, carried out in seven key informants, five nurses and two educators, through semi-structured interviews. The analysis was limited to transcription, coding, grouping into categories and synthesis. The meta categories revealed are: A: Dilemmas and uncertainties by critical nodes and intermediate categories: a) The gap between public policies and local reality does not favor the development of children, b) Outdated and decontextualized instruments, c) Myths and expectations of the parents regarding the evaluation, d) Instruments without social relevance; and B: Expectations and intermediate categories: a) Political framework update for continuous and effective progress, b) Parents incorporation and empowerment in the process, c) Professionals training and improvement. It was concluded that it is necessary to update the evaluation strategies and have validated, updated and socially relevant instruments that include the parents

Validación del instrumento: Competencias del personal de enfermería en Salud Pública, en el contexto mexicano / Validation of instrument: Competencies among nursing personnel of public health in the Mexican context / Validação do instrumento: Competências do pessoal de enfermagem em Saúde Pública, no contexto mexicano

Introducción Cuando se utilicen cuestionarios desarrollados en otros países e idiomas en estudios científicos, además de traducirlos, es necesario su adaptación cultural y validación, el objetivo de esta investigación es contar con un instrumento válido y confiable para evaluar las competencias del personal de enfermería en salud pública, para aplicarlo en el contexto mexicano. Metodología El estudio fue de tipo descriptivo-transversal, multietápico, la población se integró en 3 grupos para las 3 diferentes etapas, en la primera, por un grupo de 10 expertos en investigación de la Facultad de Enfermería de Tampico, de la Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, México y 17 profesionales que laboran en el primer nivel de atención; en la segunda, 30 profesionales de enfermería y en la tercera 177 profesionales que trabajan en el campo de la salud pública, todos ellos de tres jurisdicciones del Sur de Tamaulipas, México, el muestreo fue por conveniencia. Resultados En cuanto a los tres procesos que se realizaron para la validación del instrumento, se mostraron resultados adecuados y satisfactorios para su aplicación, ya que en la prueba de V-Aiken se obtuvo un resultado cercano a 1, en el proceso semántico sólo se realizó modificación a una palabra; a través de la prueba piloto se obtuvo un resultado de 0.97 en el Alfa de Cronbach. Conclusiones El instrumento se considera válido para iniciar con la evaluación de las mencionadas competencias, para contar con un diagnóstico inicial de las áreas de oportunidad para personal de enfermería.

Introduction When using questionnaires developed in other countries and languages for scientific studies, besides the translation, it is necessary their cultural adaptation and validation. The objective of this work was to assure the use of an instrument which is valid and reliable while assessing the competencies among nursing personnel of public health in the Mexican context. Methodology This is a descriptive-transversal and multi-step study. The population was represented by 3 groups for 3 different stages. The first group was integrated by 10 experts in research from the Nursing Faculty of the University of Tamaulipas, Tampico, and 17 professionals working in the first level of attention. The second group was integrated by 30 professionals of nursing. The third group was integrated by 177 professionals working in the field of public health. All professionals were from three jurisdictions in the south of Tamaulipas, Mexico. The sampling process was by convenience. Results The three validation processes showed satisfactory results for the adaptation of the instrument. The V-Aiken test score was close to 1. Regarding the semantics, only one word was modified. The pilot test had a final Cronbach Alpha of 0.97. Conclusions The instrument was considered valid for the assessment of the herein referenced competencies.

Introdução Quando se utilizem questionários desenvolvidos em outros países e idiomas em estudos científicos, além de traduzi-los, é necessário sua adaptação cultural e validação, o objetivo desta pesquisa é contar com um instrumento válido e confiável para avaliar as competências do pessoal de enfermagem em saúde pública, para aplicá-lo no contexto mexicano. Metodologia O estudo foi de tipo descritivo-transversal, multietápico, a população integrou-se em 3 grupos para as 3 diferentes etapas, na primeira, por um grupo de 10 experientes na pesquisa da Faculdade de Enfermagem de Tampico, da Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, México e 17 profissionais que laboram no primeiro nível de atenção; na segunda, 30 profissionais de enfermagem e na terceira 177 profissionais que trabalham no campo da saúde pública, todos eles de três jurisdições do Sul de Tamaulipas, México, a amostra foi por conveniência. Resultados Em referência aos três processos que se realizaram para a validação do instrumento, mostraram-se resultados adequados e satisfatórios para sua aplicação, já que na prova de V-Aiken obteve-se um resultado próximo a 1, no processo semântico só se realizou modificação a una palavra; a través da prova piloto obteve-se um resultado de 0.97 na alfa de cronbach. Conclusões O instrumento considera-se válido para iniciar com a avaliação das mencionadas competências, para contar com um diagnóstico inicial das áreas de oportunidade para pessoal de enfermagem.

Phylodynamics of classical swine fever virus with emphasis on Ecuadorian strains.

Classic swine fever virus (CSFV) is a Pestivirus from the Flaviviridae family that affects pigs worldwide and is endemic in several Latin American countries. However, there are still some countries in the region, including Ecuador, for which CSFV molecular information is lacking. To better understand the epidemiology of CSFV in the Americas, sequences from CSFVs from Ecuador were generated and a phylodynamic analysis of the virus was performed. Sequences for the full-length glycoprotein E2 gene of twenty field isolates were obtained and, along with sequences from strains previously described in the Americas and from the most representative strains worldwide, were used to analyse the phylodynamics of the virus. Bayesian methods were used to test several molecular clock and demographic models. A calibrated ultrametric tree and a Bayesian skyline were constructed, and codons associated with positive selection involving immune scape were detected. The best model according to Bayes factors was the strict molecular clock and Bayesian skyline model, which shows that CSFV has an evolution rate of 3.2 × 10-4 substitutions per site per year. The model estimates the origin of CSFV in the mid-1500s. There is a strong spatial structure for CSFV in the Americas, indicating that the virus is moving mainly through neighbouring countries. The genetic diversity of CSFV has increased constantly since its appearance, with a slight decrease in mid-twentieth century, which coincides, with eradication campaigns in North America. Even though there is no evidence of strong directional evolution of the E2 gene in CSFV, codons 713, 761, 762 and 975 appear to be selected positively and could be related to virulence or pathogenesis. These results reveal how CSFV has spread and evolved since it first appeared in the Americas and provide important information for attaining the goal of eradication of this virus in Latin America.

Inhibition of proliferation and invasion in 2D and 3D models by 2-methoxyestradiol in human melanoma cells.

Despite the recent advances in the clinical management of melanoma, there remains a need for new pharmacological approaches to treat this cancer. 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME) is a metabolite of estrogen that has shown anti-tumor effects in many cancer types. In this study we show that 2ME treatment leads to growth inhibition in melanoma cells, an effect associated with entry into senescence, decreased pRb and Cyclin B1 expression, increased p21/Cip1 expression and G2/M cell cycle arrest. 2ME treatment also inhibits melanoma cell growth in colony formation assay, including cell lines with acquired resistance to BRAF and BRAF+MEK inhibitors. We further show that 2ME is effective against melanoma with different BRAF and NRAS mutational status. Moreover, 2ME induced the retraction of cytoplasmic projections in a 3D spheroid model and significantly decreased cell proliferation in a 3D skin reconstruct model. Together our studies bring new insights into the mechanism of action of 2ME allowing melanoma targeted therapy to be further refined. Continued progress in this area is expected to lead to improved anti-cancer treatments and the development of new and more effective clinical analogues.

Evolución clínica de pacientes con loxoscelismo sistémico y dermonecrótico en un hospital de tercer nivel / Clinical evolution of patients with systemic and dermonecrotic loxoscelism in a third level hospital

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: el loxoscelismo es una intoxicación por la mordedura de la araña Loxosceles reclusa, cuyo veneno contiene esfingomielinasa-D, causante de hemólisis y necrosis. Se reporta una serie de casos que describen su evolución clínica y respuesta al tratamiento. OBJETIVO: describir la evolución y características clínicas de pacientes con loxoscelismo sistémico y dermonecrótico, su respuesta al tratamiento y las complicaciones. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: estudio que incluyó el análisis descriptivo de pacientes tratados en el servicio de Medicina Interna, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad Dr. Antonio Fraga Mouret, Centro Médico Nacional La Raza, de 2010 a 2015. RESULTADOS: se atendieron ocho hombres (67%) y cuatro mujeres (33%), con edad media de 39.4 años (16-83 años). El sitio de mordedura en cinco casos (42%) fue el miembro pélvico izquierdo; cuatro casos en el miembro torácico derecho (33%), dos en la cara (17%) y uno en el miembro torácico izquierdo (9%). Nueve casos provenían del Estado de México, dos de la Ciudad de México y uno de Hidalgo. Manifestación clínica: flictenas (cinco casos), edema y eritema (tres), placa liveloide (tres) y necrosis (un caso). Nueve (75%) pacientes se trataron inicialmente en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Se reportaron las siguientes complicaciones sistémicas: renales (67%), pulmonares con administración de aminas (33%) y hematológicas (8%). Diez casos recibieron faboterápico, con media de 1.5 viales (0 a 4); cinco casos (42%) recibieron dapsona y cuatro de ellos (33%) padecieron metahemoglobinemia; once (92%) pacientes requirieron lavado-desbridación y 7 (58%) injerto cutáneo; cuatro pacientes (33%) tuvieron infección agregada de la herida. El promedio de estancia hospitalaria fue 16.2 días (3 a 40 días). CONCLUSIÓN: la evolución y pronóstico de esta afección depende de una sospecha inicial, diagnóstico y tratamiento oportunos. El loxoscelismo debe incluirse en los diagnósticos diferenciales de lesiones necróticas y progresivas, con o sin afección sistémica.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Loxoscelism is a poisoning caused by the bite of Loxosceles recluse spider, whose venom contains sphingomyelinaseD, causing hemolysis and necrosis. We report a case series describing their clinical course and response to treatment. OBJECTIVE: To describe the evolution and clinical characteristics of patients with systemic and dermonecrotic loxoscelism, their response to treatment and complications. PATIENTS AND METHOD: A descriptive analysis of patients treated in the Internal Medicine Service, Centro Médico Nacional La Raza, from 2010 to 2015. RESULTS: A total of 8 men (67%) and 4 women (33%) were included. Mean age was 39.4 years (16-83 years). Bite site was left pelvic limb in 5 cases (42%), 4 in the right forelimb (33%), 2 in the face (17%) and 1 in left forelimb (9%). Nine cases came from Estado de México, 2 from Mexico City and 1 from Hidalgo. Initial manifestations included blisters (five cases), edema and erythema (three cases), liveloide plate (three cases) and necrosis (one case). Nine (75%) patients were initially managed in ICU. Systemic complications were renal (67%), lung with use of amines (33%) and hematological (8%). Ten cases were treated with fabotherapy, with an average of 1.5 vials (0-4). Five cases (42%) received dapsone and 4 of them (33%) developed methemoglobinemia. Eleven (92%) required surgical washing and debridement and 7 (58%) skin graft; four patients (33%) had secondary wound infection. Average hospital stay was 16.2 days (3-40 days). CONCLUSIONS: The evolution and prognosis depends on initial suspicion early diagnosis and treatment. Loxoscelism should be included in the differential diagnosis of progressive necrotic lesions, with or without systemic involvement.

Targeting the hedgehog transcription factors GLI1 and GLI2 restores sensitivity to vemurafenib-resistant human melanoma cells.

BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) therapy for melanoma patients harboring the V600E mutation is initially highly effective, but almost all patients relapse within a few months. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underpinning BRAFi-based therapy is therefore an important issue. Here we identified a previously unsuspected mechanism of BRAFi resistance driven by elevated Hedgehog (Hh) pathway activation that is observed in a cohort of melanoma patients after vemurafenib treatment. Specifically, we demonstrate that melanoma cell lines, with acquired in vitro-induced vemurafenib resistance, show increased levels of glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 and 2 (GLI1/GLI2) compared with naïve cells. We also observed these findings in clinical melanoma specimens. Moreover, the increased expression of the transcription factors GLI1/GLI2 was independent of canonical Hh signaling and was instead correlated with the noncanonical Hh pathway, involving TGFß/SMAD (transforming growth factor-ß/Sma- and Mad-related family) signaling. Knockdown of GLI1 and GLI2 restored sensitivity to vemurafenib-resistant cells, an effect associated with both growth arrest and senescence. Treatment of vemurafenib-resistant cells with the GLI1/GLI2 inhibitor Gant61 led to decreased invasion of the melanoma cells in a three-dimensional skin reconstruct model and was associated with a decrease in metalloproteinase (MMP2/MMP9) expression and microphthalmia transcription factor upregulation. Gant61 monotherapy did not alter the drug sensitivity of naïve cells, but could reverse the resistance of melanoma cells chronically treated with vemurafenib. We further noted that alternating dosing schedules of Gant61 and vemurafenib prevented the onset of BRAFi resistance, suggesting that this could be a potential therapeutic strategy for the prevention of therapeutic escape. Our results suggest that targeting the Hh pathway in BRAFi-resistant melanoma may represent a viable therapeutic strategy to restore vemurafenib sensitivity, reducing or even inhibiting the acquired chemoresistance in melanoma patients.

Effect of embryo thermal stimulation on the serum levels of immunoglobulins and corticosterone, and organ histopathology of 1 day-old broilers

Embryo thermal stimulation has been studied as a means to promote epigenetic changes and to improve broiler health and performance. This study aimed at evaluating immunoglobulin (IgM, IgG, and IgA) titers, serum corticosterone levels, and organ integrity of day-old male Cobb(r) and Ross(r) broilers. Embryos were submitted to hot and cold stimuli (thermal stimulation) on days 14-18 of incubation. The thermal manipulation treatments did not affect immunoglobulin titers of 1 day-old Cobb(r) or Ross(r) chicks, and caused severe bursal lesions (scores 3 and 4) in both strains. However, serum corticosterone levels of Cobb(r) chicks were higher when embryos were submitted to hot stimulus (+1.39ºC) compared with cold stimulus (+36 ºC). Serum corticosterone levels of Ross(r) chicks were not affected by embryo temperature manipulation. The only effect of broiler breeder age was observed on IgM titers of Cobb(r) chicks, which were higher in chicks from 33-wk-old breeders. Further studies are needed to detect the optimal period of embryo thermal stimulation.(AU)

Effect of embryo thermal stimulation on the serum levels of immunoglobulins and corticosterone, and organ histopathology of 1 day-old broilers

Embryo thermal stimulation has been studied as a means to promote epigenetic changes and to improve broiler health and performance. This study aimed at evaluating immunoglobulin (IgM, IgG, and IgA) titers, serum corticosterone levels, and organ integrity of day-old male Cobb(r) and Ross(r) broilers. Embryos were submitted to hot and cold stimuli (thermal stimulation) on days 14-18 of incubation. The thermal manipulation treatments did not affect immunoglobulin titers of 1 day-old Cobb(r) or Ross(r) chicks, and caused severe bursal lesions (scores 3 and 4) in both strains. However, serum corticosterone levels of Cobb(r) chicks were higher when embryos were submitted to hot stimulus (+1.39ºC) compared with cold stimulus (+36 ºC). Serum corticosterone levels of Ross(r) chicks were not affected by embryo temperature manipulation. The only effect of broiler breeder age was observed on IgM titers of Cobb(r) chicks, which were higher in chicks from 33-wk-old breeders. Further studies are needed to detect the optimal period of embryo thermal stimulation.