Medullary bundles in Caryophyllales: form, function, and evolution.

The occurrence of conducting vascular tissue in the pith (CVTP) of tracheophytes is noteworthy. Medullary bundles, one of the remarkable examples of CVTP, evolved multiple times across angiosperms, notably in the Caryophyllales. Yet, information on the occurrence of medullary bundles is fragmented, hampering our understanding of their structure-function relationships, and evolutionary implications. Using three plastid molecular markers (matK, rbcL, and rps16 intron), a phylogeny is constructed for 561 species of Caryophyllales, and anatomical data are assembled for 856 species across 40 families to investigate the diversity of medullary bundles, their function, evolution, and diversification dynamics. Additionally, correlated evolution between medullary bundles and successive cambia was tested. Medullary bundles are ancestrally absent in Caryophyllales and evolved in core and noncore families. They are structurally diverse (e.g. number, arrangement, and types of bundles) and functionally active throughout the plant's lifespan, providing increased hydraulic conductivity, especially in herbaceous plants. Acquisition of medullary bundles does not explain diversification rate heterogeneity but is correlated to a higher diversification rate. Disparate developmental pathways were found leading to rampant convergent evolution of CVTP in Caryophyllales. These findings indicate the diversification of medullary bundles and vascular tissues as another central theme for functional and comparative molecular studies in Caryophyllales.

Advances of Nanotechnology in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising technology in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), specifically in the implementation of diagnosis and treatment strategies. Nanotechnology-based approaches, such as nanoparticle-based contrast agents and nanoscale imaging techniques, have shown great potential for enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of HCC detection. These approaches provide high-resolution imaging and allow for the detection of molecular markers and alterations in cellular morphology associated with HCC. In terms of treatment, nanotechnology has revolutionized HCC therapy by enabling targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing off-target effects. Nanoparticle-based drug carriers can be functionalized with ligands specific to HCC cells, allowing for selective accumulation of therapeutic agents at the tumor site. Furthermore, nanotechnology can facilitate combination therapy by co-encapsulating multiple drugs within a single nanoparticle, allowing for synergistic effects and overcoming drug resistance. This review aims to provide an overview of recent advances in nanotechnology-based approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Further research is needed to optimize the design and functionality of nanoparticles, improve their biocompatibility and stability, and evaluate their long-term safety and efficacy. Nonetheless, the integration of nanotechnology in HCC management holds great promise and may lead to improved patient outcomes in the future.

Plastome phylogenomics reveals an early Pliocene North- and Central America colonization by long-distance dispersal from South America of a highly diverse bromeliad lineage.

Understanding the spatial and temporal frameworks of species diversification is fundamental in evolutionary biology. Assessing the geographic origin and dispersal history of highly diverse lineages of rapid diversification can be hindered by the lack of appropriately sampled, resolved, and strongly supported phylogenetic contexts. The use of currently available cost-efficient sequencing strategies allows for the generation of a substantial amount of sequence data for dense taxonomic samplings, which together with well-curated geographic information and biogeographic models allow us to formally test the mode and tempo of dispersal events occurring in quick succession. Here, we assess the spatial and temporal frameworks for the origin and dispersal history of the expanded clade K, a highly diverse Tillandsia subgenus Tillandsia (Bromeliaceae, Poales) lineage hypothesized to have undergone a rapid radiation across the Neotropics. We assembled full plastomes from Hyb-Seq data for a dense taxon sampling of the expanded clade K plus a careful selection of outgroup species and used them to estimate a time- calibrated phylogenetic framework. This dated phylogenetic hypothesis was then used to perform biogeographic model tests and ancestral area reconstructions based on a comprehensive compilation of geographic information. The expanded clade K colonized North and Central America, specifically the Mexican transition zone and the Mesoamerican dominion, by long-distance dispersal from South America at least 4.86 Mya, when most of the Mexican highlands were already formed. Several dispersal events occurred subsequently northward to the southern Nearctic region, eastward to the Caribbean, and southward to the Pacific dominion during the last 2.8 Mya, a period characterized by pronounced climate fluctuations, derived from glacial-interglacial climate oscillations, and substantial volcanic activity, mainly in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Our taxon sampling design allowed us to calibrate for the first time several nodes, not only within the expanded clade K focal group but also in other Tillandsioideae lineages. We expect that this dated phylogenetic framework will facilitate future macroevolutionary studies and provide reference age estimates to perform secondary calibrations for other Tillandsioideae lineages.

Mexican Ancestral Foods (Theobroma cacao, Opuntia ficus indica, Persea americana and Phaseolus vulgaris) Supplementation on Anthropometric, Lipid and Glycemic Control Variables in Obese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Diet containing Mexican ancestral foods such as cocoa, nopal, avocado, and common bean have been individually reported to have beneficial effects on obesity and comorbidities. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis on the effect of Mexican ancestral foods on the anthropometric, lipid, and glycemic control variables in obese patients was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Data were analyzed using a random-effects model. Results: We selected 4664 articles from an initial search, of which only fifteen studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. Data for 1670 participants were analyzed: 843 in the intervention group and 827 in the control group. A significant reduction in body mass index (mean difference: -0.80 (-1.31 to -0.30)) (95% confidence interval), p = 0.002, heterogeneity I2 = 92% was showed after the ingestion of cocoa, nopal, avocado, or common bean. The mean difference for body weight was -0.57 (-1.93 to 0.79), waist of circumference: -0.16 (-2.54 to -2.21), total cholesterol: -5.04 (-11.5 to 1.08), triglycerides: -10.11 (-27.87 to 7.64), fasting glucose: -0.81 (-5.81 to 4.19), and insulin: -0.15 (-0.80 to 0.50). Mexican ancestral food supplementation seems to improve anthropometric, lipid, and glycemic control variables in obesity; however, more randomized controlled trials are needed to have further decisive evidence about dosage and method of supplementation and to increase the sample size.

Moringa oleifera Improves MAFLD by Inducing Epigenetic Modifications.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of diseases from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Here, we investigated the hepatoprotective role of Moringa oleifera aqueous extract on hepatic miRNAs, genes and protein expression, as well as histological and biochemical parameters in an experimental model of NASH. METHODS: Male C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high fat diet (HFD, 60% lipids, 42 gr/L sugar in water) for 16 weeks. Moringa extract was administered via gavage during the final 8 weeks. Insulin Tolerance Test (ITT) and HOMA-IR were calculated. Serum levels of insulin, resistin, leptin and PAI-1 and hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-103-3p, miR-122-5p, miR-34a-5p and SIRT1, AMPKα and SREBP1c protein were evaluated. Alpha-SMA immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome and sirius red staining were made. Hepatic transcriptome was analyzed using microarrays. RESULTS: Animals treated with Moringa extract improved ITT and decreased SREBP1c hepatic protein, while SIRT1 increased. Hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-103-3p and miR-122-5p, miR34a-5p was downregulated. Hepatic histologic analysis showed in Moringa group (HF + MO) a significant decrease in inflammatory nodules, macro steatosis, fibrosis, collagen and αSMA reactivity. Analysis of hepatic transcriptome showed down expression of mRNAs implicated in DNA response to damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid biosynthesis and insulin resistance. Moringa reduced insulin resistance, de novo lipogenesis, hepatic inflammation and ER stress. CONCLUSIONS: Moringa prevented progression of liver damage in a model of NASH and improved biochemical, histological and hepatic expression of genes and miRNAs implicated in MAFLD/NASH development.

New plastome structural rearrangements discovered in core Tillandsioideae (Bromeliaceae) support recently adopted taxonomy.

Full plastome sequences for land plants have become readily accessible thanks to the development of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques and powerful bioinformatic tools. Despite this vast amount of genomic data, some lineages remain understudied. Full plastome sequences from the highly diverse (>1,500 spp.) subfamily Tillandsioideae (Bromeliaceae, Poales) have been published for only three (i.e., Guzmania, Tillandsia, and Vriesea) out of 22 currently recognized genera. Here, we focus on core Tillandsioideae, a clade within subfamily Tillandsioideae, and explore the contribution of individual plastid markers and data categories to inform deep divergences of a plastome phylogeny. We generated 37 high quality plastome assemblies and performed a comparative analysis in terms of plastome structure, size, gene content and order, GC content, as well as number and type of repeat motifs. Using the obtained phylogenetic context, we reconstructed the evolution of these plastome attributes and assessed if significant shifts on the evolutionary traits' rates have occurred in the evolution of the core Tillandsioideae. Our results agree with previously published phylogenetic hypotheses based on plastid data, providing stronger statistical support for some recalcitrant nodes. However, phylogenetic discordance with previously published nuclear marker-based hypotheses was found. Several plastid markers that have been consistently used to address phylogenetic relationships within Tillandsioideae were highly informative for the retrieved plastome phylogeny and further loci are here identified as promising additional markers for future studies. New lineage-specific plastome rearrangements were found to support recently adopted taxonomic groups, including large inversions, as well as expansions and contractions of the inverted repeats. Evolutionary trait rate shifts associated with changes in size and GC content of the plastome regions were found across the phylogeny of core Tillandsioideae.

Localized Phylogenetic Discordance Among Nuclear Loci Due to Incomplete Lineage Sorting and Introgression in the Family of Cotton and Cacao (Malvaceae).

The economically important cotton and cacao family (Malvaceae sensu lato) have long been recognized as a monophyletic group. However, the relationships among some subfamilies are still unclear as discordant phylogenetic hypotheses keep arising when different sources of molecular data are analyzed. Phylogenetic discordance has previously been hypothesized to be the result of both introgression and incomplete lineage sorting (ILS), but the extent and source of discordance have not yet been evaluated in the context of loci derived from massive sequencing strategies and for a wide representation of the family. Furthermore, no formal methods have been applied to evaluate if the detected phylogenetic discordance among phylogenomic datasets influences phylogenetic dating estimates of the concordant relationships. The objective of this research was to generate a phylogenetic hypothesis of Malvaceae from nuclear genes, specifically we aimed to (1) investigate the presence of major discordance among hundreds of nuclear gene histories of Malvaceae; (2) evaluate the potential source of discordance; and (3) examine whether discordance and loci heterogeneity influence on time estimates of the origin and diversification of subfamilies. Our study is based on a comprehensive dataset representing 96 genera of the nine subfamilies and 268 nuclear loci. Both concatenated and coalescence-based approaches were followed for phylogenetic inference. Using branch lengths and topology, we located the placement of introgression events to directly evaluate whether discordance is due to introgression rather than ILS. To estimate divergence times, concordance and molecular rate were considered. We filtered loci based on congruence with the species tree and then obtained the molecular rate of each locus to distribute them into three different sets corresponding to shared molecular rate ranges. Bayesian dating was performed for each of the different sets of loci with the same parameters and calibrations. Phylogenomic discordance was detected between methods, as well as gene histories. At deep coalescent times, we found discordance in the position of five subclades probably due to ILS and a relatively small proportion of introgression. Divergence time estimation with each set of loci generated overlapping clade ages, indicating that, even with different molecular rate and gene histories, calibrations generally provide a strong prior.

[Post-covid syndrome after icu admission. Parameters related to a better physical recovery after 4 months.] / Síndrome pos-COVID tras ingreso en UCI. Parámetros relacionados con una mejor recuperación física a los 4 meses.

OBJECTIVE: Post-COVID syndrome can impact against every sphere of daily live. The objective of this work was to detect the factors correlated with a better or worse physical recovery four months after hospital discharge from a hospitalization in ICU due to COVID-19. METHODS: Prospective descriptive study of 125 patients valued by the Rehabilitation Service during hospitalization in ICU, from March 12th to December 31st, 2020. Data from 76 patients was analysed with clinical follow up after 1, 2 and 4 months of hospital discharge. Variables on personal, hospitalary, functional symptoms/signals and physical recovery were analysed with mean ± standard deviation, counting (percentage), T-student test and Fisher test. RESULTS: After one month, fatigue was observed in 60 (80%) patients and dyspnoea in 47 (62%). After two months, fatigue in 37 (55%), dyspnoea in 25 (33%), shoulder pain in 33 (43%), average QuickDASH was 22.7 (11.3-50), Sit-to-Stand Test in 30 seconds 11.5 (10-13) and 6-minute walk test 390 meters (326-445). In the fourth month, 25 (53%) had returned to work and had an average of the physical recovery of 79.1%±18.3%. There was no correlation between physical recovery ≥75% and the first month data, but there certainly was a correlation between some second month variables, such as fatigue (p=0.001), dyspnoea (p=0.035), QuickDASH (p=0.001) and 6-minute walk test (p=0.021). CONCLUSIONS: Symptoms (fatigue and dyspnoea) and functional scales (QuickDASH and 6-minute walk test) after 2 months predict a better/worsen physical recovery after 4 months of hospital discharge.

OBJETIVO: El síndrome pos-COVID puede impactar en todas las esferas de la vida diaria. El objetivo de este trabajo fue detectar qué factores se relacionan con una mejor/peor recuperación física a los 4 meses del alta hospitalaria tras ingreso en UCI por la COVID-19. METODOS: Estudio prospectivo de una cohorte de 125 pacientes valorados por Rehabilitación durante su ingreso en UCI, del 12 marzo al 31 diciembre del 2020. Las variables personales, hospitalarias, síntomas/signos funcionales y de recuperación física de los 76 pacientes que continuaron seguimiento al mes, 2 y 4 meses del alta hospitalaria fueron analizadas mediante media ± desviación estándar, contaje (porcentaje), test t-student y test de Fisher. RESULTADOS: En el primer mes, aquejaban fatiga 60 (80%) pacientes y disnea 47 (62%). En el segundo mes referían fatiga 37 (55%), disnea 25 (33%), dolor de hombro 33 (43%), la media de QuickDASH fue 22,7 (11,3-50), de sit to stand test en 30 segundos 11,5 (10-13) y de test 6 minutos marcha 390 metros (326-445). En el cuarto mes, se habían reincorporado laboralmente 25 (53%) y la media de recuperación física fue 79,1%±18,3%. No hay relación entre una recuperación física ≥75% y variables del primer mes, pero sí con variables del segundo mes, como la fatiga (p=0,001), disnea (p=0,035), QuickDASH (p=0,001) y Test 6 minutos marcha (p=0,021). CONCLUSIONES: Los síntomas (fatiga y disnea) y el QuickDASH y test 6 minutos marcha a los 2 meses predicen una mejor/peor recuperación física a los 4 meses tras el alta hospitalaria.

Síndrome pos-COVID tras ingreso en UCI. Parámetros relacionados con una mejor recuperación física a los 4 meses / Post-COVID syndrome after ICU admission. Parameters related to a better physical recovery after 4 months

Fundamentos: El síndrome pos-COVID puede impactar en todas las esferas de la vida diaria. El objetivo de este trabajo fue detectar qué factores se relacionan con una mejor/peor recuperación física a los 4 meses del alta hospitalaria tras ingreso en UCI por la COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio prospectivo de una cohorte de 125 pacientes valorados por Rehabilitación durante su ingreso en UCI, del 12 marzo al 31 diciembre del 2020. Las variables personales, hospitalarias, síntomas/signos funcionales y de recuperación física de los 76 pacientes que continuaron seguimiento al mes, 2 y 4 meses del alta hospitalaria fueron analizadas mediante media ± desviación estándar, contaje (porcentaje), test t-student y test de Fisher. Resultados: En el primer mes, aquejaban fatiga 60 (80%) pacientes y disnea 47 (62%). En el segundo mes referían fatiga 37 (55%), disnea 25 (33%), dolor de hombro 33 (43%), la media de QuickDASH fue 22,7 (11,3-50), de sit to stand test en 30 segundos 11,5 (10-13) y de test 6 minutos marcha 390 metros (326-445). En el cuarto mes, se habían reincorporado laboralmente 25 (53%) y la media de recuperación física fue 79,1%±18,3%. No hay relación entre una recuperación física ≥75% y variables del primer mes, pero sí con variables del segundo mes, como la fatiga (p=0,001), disnea (p=0,035), QuickDASH (p=0,001) y Test 6 minutos marcha (p=0,021). Conclusiones: Los síntomas (fatiga y disnea) y el QuickDASH y test 6 minutos marcha a los 2 meses predicen una mejor/peor recuperación física a los 4 meses tras el alta hospitalaria.(AU)

Background: Post-COVID syndrome can impact against every sphere of daily live. The objective of this work was to detect the factors correlated with a better or worse physical recovery four months after hospital discharge from a hospitalization in ICU due to COVID-19. Methods: Prospective descriptive study of 125 patients valued by the Rehabilitation Service during hospitalization in ICU, from March 12th to December 31st, 2020. Data from 76 patients was analysed with clinical follow up after 1, 2 and 4 months of hospital discharge. Variables on personal, hospitalary, functional symptoms/signals and physical recovery were analysed with mean ± standard deviation, counting (percentage), T-student test and Fisher test. Results: After one month, fatigue was observed in 60 (80%) patients and dyspnoea in 47 (62%). After two months, fatigue in 37 (55%), dyspnoea in 25 (33%), shoulder pain in 33 (43%), average QuickDASH was 22.7 (11.3-50), Sit-to-Stand Test in 30 seconds 11.5 (10-13) and 6-minute walk test 390 meters (326-445). In the fourth month, 25 (53%) had returned to work and had an average of the physical recovery of 79.1%±18.3%. There was no correlation between physical recovery ≥75% and the first month data, but there certainly was a correlation between some second month variables, such as fatigue (p=0.001), dyspnoea (p=0.035), QuickDASH (p=0.001) and 6-minute walk test (p=0.021). Conclusions: Symptoms (fatigue and dyspnoea) and functional scales (QuickDASH and 6-minute walk test) after 2 months predict a better/worsen physical recovery after 4 months of hospital discharge.(AU)

Linking the evolution of development of stem vascular system in Nyctaginaceae and its correlation to habit and species diversification.

BACKGROUND: Alternative patterns of secondary growth in stems of Nyctaginaceae is present in all growth habits of the family and have been known for a long time. However, the interpretation of types of cambial variants have been controversial, given that different authors have given them different developmental interpretations. The different growth habits coupled with an enormous stem anatomical diversity offers the unique opportunity to investigate the evolution of complex developments, to address how these anatomies shifted within habits, and how the acquisition of novel cambial variants and habit transitions impacted the diversification of the family. METHODS: We integrated developmental data with a phylogenetic framework to investigate the diversity and evolution of stem anatomy in Nyctaginaceae using phylogenetic comparative methods, reconstructing ancestral states, and examining whether anatomical shifts correspond to species diversification rate shifts in the family. RESULTS: Two types of cambial variants, interxylary phloem and successive cambia, were recorded in Nyctaginaceae, which result from four different ontogenies. These ontogenetic trajectories depart from two distinct primary vascular structures (regular or polycyclic eustele) yet, they contain shared developmental stages which generate stem morphologies with deconstructed boundaries of morphological categories (continuum morphology). Unlike our a priori hypotheses, interxylary phloem is reconstructed as the ancestral character for the family, with three ontogenies characterized as successive cambia evolving in few taxa. Cambial variants are not contingent on habits, and their transitions are independent from species diversification. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that multiple developmental mechanisms, such as heterochrony and heterotopy, generate the transitions between interxylary phloem and successive cambia. Intermediate between these two extremes are present in Nyctaginaceae, suggesting a continuum morphology across the family as a generator of anatomical diversity.

Pirfenidone modifies hepatic miRNAs expression in a model of MAFLD/NASH.

miRNAs are involved in the development of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We aimed to evaluate modifications by prolonged-release pirfenidone (PR-PFD) on key hepatic miRNAs expression in a MAFLD/NASH model. First, male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned into groups and fed with conventional diet (CVD) or high fat and carbohydrate diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. At the end of the eighth week, HFD mice were divided in two and only one half was treated with 300 mg/kg/day of PR-PFD mixed with food. Hepatic expression of miRNAs and target genes that participate in inflammation and lipid metabolism was determined by qRT-PCR and transcriptome by microarrays. Increased hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-122-5p and miR-103-3p in MAFLD/NASH animals was reduced with PR-PFD. Transcriptome analysis showed that 52 genes involved in lipid and collagen biosynthesis and inflammatory response were downregulated in PR-PFD group. The expression of Il1b, Tnfa, Il6, Tgfb1, Col1a1, and Srebf1 were decreased in PR-PFD treated animals. MAFLD/NASH animals compared to CVD group showed modifications in gene metabolic pathways implicated in lipid metabolic process, inflammatory response and insulin resistance; PR-PFD reversed these modifications.

An Update in Epigenetics in Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is characterized by hepatic steatosis accompanied by one of three features: overweight or obesity, T2DM, or lean or normal weight with evidence of metabolic dysregulation. It is distinguished by excessive fat accumulation in hepatocytes, and a decrease in the liver's ability to oxidize fats, the accumulation of ectopic fat, and the activation of proinflammatory pathways. Chronic damage will keep this pathophysiologic cycle active causing progression from hepatic steatosis to cirrhosis and eventually, hepatocarcinoma. Epigenetics affecting gene expression without altering DNA sequence allows us to study MAFLD pathophysiology from a different perspective, in which DNA methylation processes, histone modifications, and miRNAs expression have been closely associated with MAFLD progression. However, these considerations also faced us with the circumstance that modifying those epigenetics patterns might lead to MAFLD regression. Currently, epigenetics is an area of great interest because it could provide new insights in therapeutic targets and non-invasive biomarkers. This review comprises an update on the role of epigenetic patterns, as well as innovative therapeutic targets and biomarkers in MAFLD.

[RELATION BETWEEN THE BODY COMPOSITION AND THE SPORTS PRACTICE IN TEENAGERS]. / RELACIÓN ENTRE LA COMPOSICIÓN CORPORAL Y LA PRÁCTICA DEPORTIVA EN ADOLESCENTES.

INTRODUCTION: knowing precisely body composition is important in assessing the nutritional status of adolescents in order to evaluate how it affects the sport practice in this group. OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the influence of regular physical exercise in a group of adolescents in their body composition. METHODOLOGY: 77 male adolescents between 12 and 13 years were evaluated. Weight, height, triceps skinfold (PCT), wrist perimeter, the relaxed arm and umbilical waist were evaluated. The body fat percentage (% BF) was estimated using different equations (Siri, Siri modified, Lohman, Johnston, Deurenberg BMI, body fat percentage from ICT). Electrical bioimpedance equipment was also used. RESULTS: no significant differences in BMI between the two groups were found. The prevalence of overweight and obesity varied by percentile tables used. Differences in the PCT and the percentage of body fat between groups were significants; it was higher in non-athletes (p < 0.05). No significant differences between the values of body fat were obtained by modified equations Siri, Lohman and bioimpedance, in none of the two groups studied. DISCUSSION: the % BF was higher in the group of non-athletes, as well as the value of PCT to the same value of BMI. It was determined that the collective athlete got a better nutritional status than the non-athletic collective. Regardless of the method used, results should be interpreted with caution in assessing body composition of adolescents.

Introducción: conocer de forma precisa la composición corporal es importante para evaluar el estado nutricional de los adolescentes para así valorar cómo influye la práctica deportiva en este colectivo. Objetivos: evaluar en un grupo de adolescentes la influencia de la práctica regular de ejercicio físico sobre su composición corporal. Métodos: se evaluaron 77 adolescentes varones entre 12 y 13 años. Se midió: peso, altura, pliegue cutáneo tricipital (PCT), perímetro de la muñeca y del brazo relajado y cintura umbilical. El porcentaje de grasa corporal (%GC) se estimó utilizando diferentes ecuaciones (Siri, Siri modificado, Lohman, Johnston, Deurenberg IMC, porcentaje de grasa a partir del ICT). También se usó un equipo de bioimpedancia eléctrica. Resultados: no se encontraron diferencias significativas en el IMC entre ambos colectivos. La prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad varió según las tablas de percentiles utilizadas. Hubo diferencias significativas en el PCT entre ambos grupos, siendo mayor en los no deportistas (p < 0,05), así como en el porcentaje de grasa corporal. No se observaron diferencias significativas entre los valores de grasa corporal obtenidos por las ecuaciones de Siri modificado, Lohman y bioimpedancia en ninguno de los dos colectivos estudiados. Discusión: el %GC fue mayor entre el colectivo de no deportistas, así como el valor de PCT a un mismo valor de IMC. Se determinó que el colectivo deportista obtuvo un mejor estado nutricional que el colectivo no deportista. Independientemente del método utilizado, los resultados deben interpretarse con cautela al evaluar la composición corporal de los adolescentes.

Utilidad de la ultrasonografía en el diagnóstico de dolor de codo secundario a plica sinovial / Utility of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of elbow´s pain secondary to synovial plica

Introducción: El dolor en el epicóndilo lateral del codo es uno de los síntomas clínicos más frecuentes en la extremidad superior. La presencia de la plica sinovial como causa de chasquido doloroso en el codo fue descrito por primera vez por Clarke. Esta plica es una estructura anatómica normal, remanente del desarrollo embriológico de la membrana articular sinovial, pero cuando ésta se encuentra engrosada, es una causa potencial de dolor de codo. Caso clínico: Se presenta el caso clínico de un varón de 42 años, médico traumatólogo, sin antecedente de interés, con dominancia derecha, que practica de forma habitual el pádel y el golf. Diagnosticado de epicondilitis pero sin respuesta al tratamiento conservador durante 9 meses y tras estudio mediante ecografía y RM se objetiva la presencia de una plica sinovial en el codo, que mediante artroscopia se extirpó con buenos resultados. Discusión: La plica sinovial en el codo suele estar infradiagnosticada por tratarse de una entidad poco conocida para el clínico, lo que dificulta el diagnóstico diferencial. Además debido a las características del proceso, que produce escasos signos subjetivos y objetivos, suele etiquetarse erróneamente como epicondilitis lateral rebelde al tratamiento. Para conseguir los mejores resultados en el alivio del dolor y la recuperación de la funcionalidad articular, se debe descartar patología asociada y el tratamiento quirúrgico debe ir acompañado de una rehabilitación específica. Conclusión: La presencia de plica sinovial en el codo es una causa de dolor de codo habitualmente mal diagnosticada. La ultrasonografía es una herramienta útil para el diagnóstico de esta entidad (AU)

Introduction: Lateral elbow pain is one of the most common pain syndromes of the upper extremity. The presence of synovial fold or radial fringe as the cause of painful snapping elbow was first described by Clarke. This plica is a normal anatomic structure, embryological development like remaining articular synovial membrane, but when it is thickened, is a potential cause elbow pain. Case report: The case of a 42 year old male, orthopedic doctor has no history of interest, right dominance, practicing regularly paddle, tennis and golf. He was diagnosed as radial epicondylitis, but with no response to the conservatory management. Ultrasound and MR imaging found the presence of synovial fold in the elbow. This fold was removed arthroscopically, and resulting in pain relief. Discussion: The synovial fold in the elbow is often under diagnosed because it is a little known, making it difficult differential diagnosis. Also due to the characteristics of the process that produces few subjective and objective signs, often erroneous labeled as lateral epicondylitis resistant to treatment. For best results in relieving pain and recovery of joint function, exclude associated pathology and surgical treatment should be accompanied by a specific rehabilitation. Conclusion: The presence of synovial plica in the elbow is one of the most under-diagnosed causes of a painful elbow. The ultrasound is a useful tool for the diagnosis of this entity (AU)

La calidad percibida en la gestión enfermera de la demanda urgente en un centro Atención primaria / Perceived quality in nursing management of urgent demands in a primary care center

Resumen:

Objetivo: evaluar la calidad percibida de la gestión enfermera en la demanda urgente en un centro de Atención Primaria de Valladolid. Método: estudio descriptivo trasversal. Se realizó una encuesta de satisfacción a 135 usuarios y a los profesionales del centro de salud para valorar la consulta de demanda urgente. Resultados: la satisfacción media de los usuarios fue de 5,59 (Likert 1-7). Los profesionales se muestran satisfechos, con una nota media de 5,60 (enfermeras) y 6,14 (médicos) sobre 7. Conclusiones: la gestión enfermera en la demanda urgente ha supuesto una mejora asistencial. Los usuarios aprecian particularmente la rapidez de la atención y el trato recibido. Los profesionales coinciden en que este sistema de atención permite identificar rápidamente una situación de urgencia. Para conseguir un servicio más eficiente se requiere una mayor protocolización de las actuaciones y mejor coordinación entre los profesionales del centro de salud.

Relación entre la composición corporal y la práctica deportiva en adolescentes / Relation between the body composition and the sports practice in teenagers

Introducción: conocer de forma precisa la composición corporal es importante para evaluar el estado nutricional de los adolescentes para así valorar cómo influye la práctica deportiva en este colectivo. Objetivos: evaluar en un grupo de adolescentes la influencia de la práctica regular de ejercicio físico sobre su composición corporal. Métodos: se evaluaron 77 adolescentes varones entre 12 y 13 años. Se midió: peso, altura, pliegue cutáneo tricipital (PCT), perímetro de la muñeca y del brazo relajado y cintura umbilical. El porcentaje de grasa corporal (%GC) se estimó utilizando diferentes ecuaciones (Siri, Siri modificado, Lohman, Johnston, Deurenberg IMC, porcentaje de grasa a partir del ICT). También se usó un equipo de bioimpedancia eléctrica. Resultados: no se encontraron diferencias significativas en el IMC entre ambos colectivos. La prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad varió según las tablas de percentiles utilizadas. Hubo diferencias significativas en el PCT entre ambos grupos, siendo mayor en los no deportistas (p<0,05), así como en el porcentaje de grasa corporal. No se observaron diferencias significativas entre los valores de grasa corporal obtenidos por las ecuaciones de Siri modificado, Lohman y bioimpedancia en ninguno de los dos colectivos estudiados. Discusión: el %GC fue mayor entre el colectivo de no deportistas, así como el valor de PCT a un mismo valor de IMC. Se determinó que el colectivo deportista obtuvo un mejor estado nutricional que el colectivo no deportista. Independientemente del método utilizado, los resultados deben interpretarse con cautela al evaluar la composición corporal de los adolescentes (AU)

Introduction: knowing precisely body composition is important in assessing the nutritional status of adolescents in order to evaluate how it affects the sport practice in this group. Objectives: to evaluate the influence of regular physical exercise in a group of adolescents in their body composition. Methodology: 77 male adolescents between 12 and 13 years were evaluated. Weight, height, triceps skinfold (PCT), wrist perimeter, the relaxed arm and umbilical waist were evaluated. The body fat percentage (% BF) was estimated using different equations (Siri, Siri modified, Lohman, Johnston, Deurenberg BMI, body fat percentage from ICT). Electrical bioimpedance equipment was also used. Results: no significant differences in BMI between the two groups were found. The prevalence of overweight and obesity varied by percentile tables used. Differences in the PCT and the percentage of body fat between groups were significants; it was higher in non-athletes (p<0.05). No significant differences between the values of body fat were obtained by modified equations Siri, Lohman and bioimpedance, in none of the two groups studied. Discussion: the % BF was higher in the group of non-athletes, as well as the value of PCT to the same value of BMI. It was determined that the collective athlete got a better nutritional status than the non-athletic collective. Regardless of the method used, results should be interpreted with caution in assessing body composition of adolescents (AU)

Calidad de vida de los profesionales en el modelo de gestión clínica de Asturias / Professional quality of life in the clinical governance model of Asturias (Spain)

Objetivo: Analizar la calidad de vida profesional en el modelo de gestión clínica de Asturias y comprobar si hay diferencias en los centros donde el modelo lleva implantado más tiempo o en función del ámbito asistencial (atención primaria o especializada). Métodos: Se aplicó el CVP-35 (35 preguntas), anónimo y autocumplimentado, con tres preguntas adicionales. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo, univariado y bivariado, de las preguntas por separado y según las subescalas "Apoyo directivo" (AD), "Cargas de trabajo" (CT) y "Motivación intrínseca" (MI), siendo las principales variables independientes el ámbito asistencial y el tiempo como unidad o área de gestión clínica. Resultados: De la población de estudio, 2572 profesionales, respondieron 1395 (54%) (el 67% en primaria y 51% en especializada). El 87% llevaba 5 años o más en su puesto. Para el 33% era su primer año en gestión clínica. El ítem con mayor puntuación fue la capacitación para el trabajo (8,39 ± 1,42) y el más bajo los conflictos con los compañeros (3,23 ± 2,2). Primaria obtiene resultados más altos en AD y calidad de vida en el trabajo, y especializada en CT. Respecto a la gestión clínica, las mejores puntuaciones se obtienen en las de 3 años y las peores en las de primer año. Las diferencias son especialmente favorables a la gestión clínica en especializada: las que más tiempo llevan perciben menos CT y más MI y calidad de vida. Conclusiones: Llevar más tiempo en el modelo de gestión clínica se asocia con mejores percepciones en la calidad de vida profesional, sobre todo en atención especializada (AU)

Objective: To evaluate professional quality of life in our clinical governance model by comparing differences according to the time since the model's implementation (1-3 years) and the setting (primary or hospital care). Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed. The 35-item, anonymous, self-administered Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire, with three additional questions, was applied. A minimum sample size for each clinical governance unit/area (CGU/CGA) was calculated. Descriptive, univariate and bivariate analyses were performed using the 35 items separately. The subscales of "management support", "workload" and "intrinsic motivation" were used as dependant variables, and the setting and time since implementation of the CGU/CGA as independent variables. Results: Of the study population of 2572 professionals, 1395 (54%) responded (67% in primary care and 51% in hospital care). A total of 87% had been working for 5 years or more in their positions. Thirty-three percent had worked for less than a year in clinical governance. The item with the highest score was job training (8.39 ± 1.42) and that with the lowest was conflicts with peers (3.23 ± 2.2). Primary healthcare professionals showed better results in management support and quality of life at work and hospital professionals in workload. The clinical governance model obtained the best scores at 3 years and the worst at 1 year. These differences were especially favorable for clinical governance in hospitals: professionals working longer perceived a lower workload and more intrinsic motivation and quality of life. Conclusions: A longer time working in the clinical governance model was associated with better perception of professional quality of life, especially in hospital care (AU)

[Professional quality of life in the clinical governance model of Asturias (Spain)]. / Calidad de vida de los profesionales en el modelo de gestión clínica de Asturias.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate professional quality of life in our clinical governance model by comparing differences according to the time since the model's implementation (1-3 years) and the setting (primary or hospital care). METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed. The 35-item, anonymous, self-administered Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire, with three additional questions, was applied. A minimum sample size for each clinical governance unit/area (CGU/CGA) was calculated. Descriptive, univariate and bivariate analyses were performed using the 35 items separately. The subscales of « management support ¼, « workload ¼ and « intrinsic motivation ¼ were used as dependant variables, and the setting and time since implementation of the CGU/CGA as independent variables. RESULTS: Of the study population of 2572 professionals, 1395 (54%) responded (67% in primary care and 51% in hospital care). A total of 87% had been working for 5 years or more in their positions. Thirty-three percent had worked for less than a year in clinical governance. The item with the highest score was job training (8.39 ± 1.42) and that with the lowest was conflicts with peers (3.23 ± 2.2). Primary healthcare professionals showed better results in management support and quality of life at work and hospital professionals in workload. The clinical governance model obtained the best scores at 3 years and the worst at 1 year. These differences were especially favorable for clinical governance in hospitals: professionals working longer perceived a lower workload and more intrinsic motivation and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: A longer time working in the clinical governance model was associated with better perception of professional quality of life, especially in hospital care.

Interferometric fiber optic sensors for biomedical applications of optoacoustic imaging.

We present a non-metallic interferometric silica optical fiber ultrasonic wideband sensor for optoacoustic imaging applications. The ultrasonic sensitivity of this sensor has been characterized over the frequency range from 1 to 10 MHz. A comparative analysis has been carried out between this sensor and an array of piezoelectric transducers using optoacoustic signals generated from an optical absorbent embedded in a tissue mimicking phantom. Also, a two dimensional reconstructed image of the phantom using the fiber interferometric sensor is presented and compared to the image obtained using the Laser Optoacoustic Imaging System, LOIS-64B. The feasibility of our fiber optic based sensor for wideband ultrasonic detection is demonstrated.