Entamoeba histolytica: In Silico and In Vitro Oligomerization of EhHSTF5 Enhances Its Binding to the HSE of the EhPgp5 Gene Promoter.

Throughout its lifecycle, Entamoeba histolytica encounters a variety of stressful conditions. This parasite possesses Heat Shock Response Elements (HSEs) which are crucial for regulating the expression of various genes, aiding in its adaptation and survival. These HSEs are regulated by Heat Shock Transcription Factors (EhHSTFs). Our research has identified seven such factors in the parasite, designated as EhHSTF1 through to EhHSTF7. Significantly, under heat shock conditions and in the presence of the antiamoebic compound emetine, EhHSTF5, EhHSTF6, and EhHSTF7 show overexpression, highlighting their essential role in gene response to these stressors. Currently, only EhHSTF7 has been confirmed to recognize the HSE as a promoter of the EhPgp5 gene (HSE_EhPgp5), leaving the binding potential of the other EhHSTFs to HSEs yet to be explored. Consequently, our study aimed to examine, both in vitro and in silico, the oligomerization, and binding capabilities of the recombinant EhHSTF5 protein (rEhHSTF5) to HSE_EhPgp5. The in vitro results indicate that the oligomerization of rEhHSTF5 is concentration-dependent, with its dimeric conformation showing a higher affinity for HSE_EhPgp5 than its monomeric state. In silico analysis suggests that the alpha 3 α-helix (α3-helix) of the DNA-binding domain (DBD5) of EhHSTF5 is crucial in binding to the major groove of HSE, primarily through hydrogen bonding and salt-bridge interactions. In summary, our results highlight the importance of oligomerization in enhancing the affinity of rEhHSTF5 for HSE_EhPgp5 and demonstrate its ability to specifically recognize structural motifs within HSE_EhPgp5. These insights significantly contribute to our understanding of one of the potential molecular mechanisms employed by this parasite to efficiently respond to various stressors, thereby enabling successful adaptation and survival within its host environment.

Pérdida significativa como factor del alcoholismo / Perda significativa como fator de alcoolism / Significant loss as a factor in alcoholism

La relación de la pérdida significativa de un ser queridoy el alcoholismo ha minimizado las implicaciones sobremecanismos de afrontamientos para generar conductassaludables. Este artículo se basa en entrevistas semiestructuradasa profundidad en hombres de entre 30 y 70 años, conmás de 10 años en Alcohólicos Anónimos del Estado deTamaulipas, México. El objetivo fue reflexionar sobre lossignificados de la pérdida significativa de un ser querido yel alcoholismo. En la búsqueda del significado, se explicaque un factor que lleva al alcoholismo no es una sola pérdidasignificativa de personas queridas, sino un cúmulo tambiende pérdidas materiales y no materiales, se reflejaron recursoslimitados para afrontar las pérdidas, la relación entre lapérdida significativa con el alcoholismo fue mediado pordos principales aspectos, las creencias sobre los efectos queproduce el consumo de alcohol como formas de escapar de larealidad y las influencia de la familia al inicio del consumode alcohol. Por otra parte, la presencia de lo espiritual, laconciencia y las emociones que experimentan durante suproceso de duelo y alcoholismo, los llevó a identificar elproblema de la adicción, que permitió influir en el procesode rehabilitación.(AU)

A relação entre a perda significativa de um ente querido e oalcoolismo tem minimizado as implicações nos mecanismosde enfrentamento para gerar comportamentos saudáveis.Este artigo é baseado em entrevistas semiestruturadas emprofundidade com homens entre 30 e 70 anos, com mais de10 anos em Alcoólicos Anônimos no Estado de Tamaulipas,México. O objetivo foi refletir sobre os significados da perdasignificativa de um ente querido e do alcoolismo. Na buscade sentido, explica-se que um fator que leva ao alcoolismonão é uma única perda significativa de entes queridos, mastambém um acúmulo de perdas materiais e imateriais,recursos limitados foram refletidos para enfrentar as perdas,a relação entre a perda significativa com o alcoolismo foimediada por dois aspectos principais, as crenças sobre osefeitos que o consumo de álcool produz como formas defuga da realidade e a influência da família no início doconsumo de álcool. Por outro lado, a presença do espiritual,da consciência e das emoções que vivenciam durante oprocesso de luto e alcoolismo, levaram-nos a identificar oproblema da dependência, o que lhes permitiu influenciaro processo de reabilitação.(AU)

The relationship between the significant loss of a lovedone and alcoholism has minimized the implications oncoping mechanisms to generate healthy behaviors. Thisarticle is based on in-depth semi-structured interviews withmen between the ages of 30 and 70, with more than 10years in Alcoholics Anonymous in the State of Tamaulipas,Mexico. The objective was to reflect on the meanings of the significant loss of a loved one and alcoholism. In thesearch for meaning, it is explained that a factor that leadsto alcoholism is not a single significant loss of loved ones,but also an accumulation of material and non-materiallosses, limited resources were reflected to face the losses,the relationship between the loss significant with alcoholismwas mediated by two main aspects, beliefs about the effectsthat alcohol consumption produces as ways of escapingfrom reality and the influence of the family at the beginningof alcohol consumption. On the other hand, the presenceof the spiritual, the conscience and the emotions that theyexperience during their mourning process and alcoholism,led them to identify the problem of addiction, which allowedthem to influence the rehabilitation process.(AU)

PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome: Clinical and genetic characterization in pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to provide a full characterization of a cohort of 11 pediatric patients diagnosed with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eleven patients with genetic diagnostic of PHTS were recruited between February 2019 and April 2023. Clinical, imaging, demographic, and genetic data were retrospectively collected from their hospital medical history. RESULTS: Regarding clinical manifestations, macrocephaly was the leading sign, present in all patients. Frontal bossing was the most frequent dysmorphism. Neurological issues were present in most patients. Dental malformations were described for the first time, being present in 27% of the patients. Brain MRI showed anomalies in 57% of the patients. No tumoral lesions were present at the time of the study. Regarding genetics, 72% of the alterations were in the tensin-type C2 domain of PTEN protein. We identified four PTEN genetic alterations for the first time. CONCLUSIONS: PTEN mutations appear with a wide variety of clinical signs and symptoms, sometimes associated with phenotypes which do not fit classical clinical diagnostic criteria for PHTS. We recommend carrying out a genetic study to establish an early diagnosis in children with significant macrocephaly. This facilitates personalized monitoring and enables anticipation of potential PHTS-related complications.

Bacteriologic Conditions of the Apical Root Canal System of Teeth with and without Posttreatment Apical Periodontitis: A Correlative Multianalytical Approach.

INTRODUCTION: This study used a correlative multianalytical approach to investigate the bacteriologic conditions in the apical root canal system of treated teeth with or without apical periodontitis and their correlation with the technical quality of the previous root canal obturation and the presence and volume of apical periodontitis lesions. METHODS: Root apexes were obtained from recently extracted root canal-treated teeth with (n = 23) and without (n = 22) apical periodontitis lesions as demonstrated by cone-beam computed tomographic examination. The root apexes were sectioned and subjected to micro-computed tomographic (micro-CT) scanning. The specimens were cryopulverized, and DNA extracted from the powder was used as a template in real-time polymerase chain reaction assays to quantify total bacteria and members of the Streptococcus genus and Actinobacteria phylum. The bacteriologic findings were compared between the 2 groups and also evaluated for associations with cone-beam computed tomographic and micro-computed tomographic data. RESULTS: Bacteria were detected in all apical canal samples except 1. The mean counts of total bacteria, streptococci, and actinobacteria did not differ significantly between teeth with or without apical periodontitis (P > .05). Streptococcus levels were significantly lower by 80% in the apical canals of teeth with small lesions compared with those without lesions (P < .05). The limit of filling >2 mm short was significantly associated with more total bacterial counts compared with canals filled 0-2 mm short (P < .05). An adequate coronal restoration was significantly associated with lesser counts of Streptococcus (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Comparable bacterial loads were observed in the apical canal system of treated teeth with and without apical periodontitis, suggesting that factors other than only the total bacterial levels may also influence the development and progression of apical periodontitis. Bacteria were found in the apical canal in virtually all cases with a high prevalence of streptococci and actinobacteria. Streptococci counts were significantly higher in the apical canal of teeth with inadequate restorations and teeth with no lesions. Underfilled canals showed higher bacterial counts.

The Role of Maternal Depression Symptoms and Maternal Attachment in Predicting Exclusive Breastfeeding: A Multisite Prospective Study.

Background: Previous research shows that 61% of children younger than 6 months in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are not exclusively breastfed. Although data on the role of pre- and postnatal depression on breastfeeding exclusivity is mixed, fetomaternal attachment might foster breastfeeding exclusivity. Thus, we tested the potential mediating role of fetomaternal attachment and postnatal depression in the relationship between maternal prenatal depression and exclusive breastfeeding. Materials and Methods: Data were collected as part of a prospective, cross-cultural project, Evidence for Better Lives Study, which enrolled 1208 expectant mothers, in their third trimester of pregnancy across eight sites, from LMICs. Of the whole sample, 1185 women (mean age = 28.32, standard deviation [SD] = 5.77) completed Computer-Aided Personal Interviews on prenatal depressive symptoms, fetomaternal attachment, and socioeconomic status. A total of 1054 women provided follow-up data at 3-6 months after birth, about postnatal depressive symptoms, exclusive breastfeeding, and infant health indicators. Path analysis was used to assess parallel mediation. Results: In the whole sample, the effect of prenatal depression on breastfeeding exclusivity was completely mediated by postnatal depression, whereas fetomaternal attachment did not mediate the relationship. The full mediation effect was replicated individually in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Conclusions: The study results indicate that prenatal depression symptoms contributed to the development of depressive symptoms after birth, negatively affecting the probability of exclusive breastfeeding. Future research should explore this in early prevention interventions, increasing the chances of healthy child development in LMICs. Considering the mixed results around the sites, it is important to better understand the relationship between maternal depression, fetomaternal attachment and breastfeeding behavior in each site's socio-cultural context.

LGBTQ Utilization of a Statewide Tobacco Quitline: Engagement and Quitting Behavior, 2010-2022.

INTRODUCTION: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) individuals use tobacco at disproportionately high rates but are as likely as straight tobacco users to want to quit and to use quitlines. Little is known about the demographics and geographic distribution of LGBTQ quitline participants, their engagement with services, or their long-term outcomes. AIMS AND METHODS: Californians (N = 333 429) who enrolled in a statewide quitline 2010-2022 were asked about their sexual and gender minority (SGM) status and other baseline characteristics. All were offered telephone counseling. A subset (n = 19 431) was followed up at seven months. Data were analyzed in 2023 by SGM status (LGBTQ vs. straight) and county type (rural vs. urban). RESULTS: Overall, 7.0% of participants were LGBTQ, including 7.4% and 5.4% of urban and rural participants, respectively. LGBTQ participants were younger than straight participants but had similar cigarette consumption. Fewer LGBTQ participants reported a physical health condition (42.1% vs. 48.4%) but more reported a behavioral health condition (71.1% vs. 54.5%; both p's < .001). Among both LGBTQ and straight participants, nearly 9 in 10 chose counseling and both groups completed nearly three sessions on average. The groups had equivalent 30-day abstinence rates (24.5% vs. 23.2%; p = .263). Similar patterns were seen in urban and rural subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: LGBTQ tobacco users engaged with and appeared to benefit from a statewide quitline even though it was not LGBTQ community-based. A quitline with staff trained in LGBTQ cultural competence can help address the high prevalence of tobacco use in the LGBTQ community and reach members wherever they live. IMPLICATIONS: This study describes how participants of a statewide tobacco quitline broke down by sexual orientation and gender. It compares participants both by SGM status and by type of county to provide a more complete picture of quitline participation both in urban areas where LGBTQ community-based cessation programs may exist and in rural areas where they generally do not. To our knowledge, it is the first study to compare LGBTQ and straight participants on their use of quitline services and quitting aids, satisfaction with services received, and rates of attempting quitting and achieving prolonged abstinence from smoking.

Influencia correctiva de la actividad física en la inclusión de los educandos con trastornos de la conducta

La Educación Física, el deporte y la recreación constituyen herramientas efectivas en la educación para corregir o compensar los modos de actuación de los educandos con trastornos en la conducta, manifestaciones que muchas veces son motivo de exclusión por parte del grupo de coetáneos, docentes y/o la comunidad donde reside. Ante las exigencias actuales de crear escuelas verdaderamente inclusivas en su funcionamiento, no siempre se encuentran en las aulas los profesionales competentes que garanticen una educación de calidad y equidad, capaz de aprovechar los beneficios de la actividad física y el deporte, tanto en el desarrollo social como en el psicológico; debido a su impacto en la construcción de las identidades individuales y colectivas, los educandos sienten la necesidad de su participación, la satisfacción con la tarea desarrollada y pueden valorar sus resultados, lo que permite la formación de actitudes y valores positivos hacia las diferentes esferas de la vida social. Es por ello que el siguiente artículo tiene como objetivo diseñar un sistema de talleres que contribuyan a la preparación de los docentes para la inclusión de escolares con trastornos de la conducta desde la actividad física y deportes. Para ello se utilizaron métodos como el histórico-lógico, el análisis documental, la entrevista y la observación científica, los que permitieron constatar el estado actual de la preparación de dichos profesionales y plantear desde la vía científica una respuesta de solución que promueva nuevos modos de actuación profesional.

A Educação Física, o esporte e a recreação constituem ferramentas eficazes na educação para corrigir ou compensar o comportamento dos alunos com distúrbios comportamentais, manifestações que muitas vezes são motivo de exclusão por parte do grupo de pares, professores e/ou da comunidade onde reside. Dadas as atuais exigências de criação de escolas verdadeiramente inclusivas no seu funcionamento, nem sempre se encontram profissionais competentes que garantam uma educação de qualidade e equidade, capazes de aproveitar os benefícios da atividade física e do desporto, tanto no desenvolvimento social como nas salas de aula. nas salas de aula, como no psicológico; Pelo seu impacto na construção de identidades individuais e coletivas, os alunos sentem necessidade da sua participação, satisfação com a tarefa realizada e podem valorizar os seus resultados, o que permite a formação de atitudes e valores positivos perante as diferentes esferas da vida social. vida. É por isso que o artigo a seguir tem como objetivo desenhar um sistema de oficinas que contribua para a preparação de professores para a inclusão de escolares com distúrbios comportamentais por meio da atividade física e esportiva. Para isso, foram utilizados métodos como histórico-lógico, análise documental, entrevistas e observação científica, que permitiram verificar o estado atual da preparação destes profissionais e propor, numa perspectiva científica, uma resposta de solução que promova novas formas de atuação profissional.

Physical Education, sports and recreation constitute effective tools in education to correct or compensate for the behavior of students with behavioral disorders, manifestations that are often a reason for exclusion by the group of peers, teachers and/or or the community where you reside. Given the current demands to create schools that are truly inclusive in their operation, competent professionals who guarantee quality and equity education, capable of taking advantage of the benefits of physical activity and sport, both in social development and in the classrooms, are not always found in the classrooms. as in the psychological; Due to its impact on the construction of individual and collective identities, students feel the need for their participation, satisfaction with the task carried out and can value their results, which allows the formation of positive attitudes and values towards the different spheres of social life. That is why the following article aims to design a system of workshops that contribute to the preparation of teachers for the inclusion of schoolchildren with behavioral disorders through physical activity and sports. To do this, methods such as historical-logical, documentary analysis, interviews and scientific observation were used, which made it possible to verify the current state of the preparation of these professionals and propose, from a scientific perspective, a solution response that promotes new ways of professional performance.

Novel Approaches in Chronic Renal Failure without Renal Replacement Therapy: A Review.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by renal parenchymal damage leading to a reduction in the glomerular filtration rate. The inflammatory response plays a pivotal role in the tissue damage contributing to renal failure. Current therapeutic options encompass dietary control, mineral salt regulation, and management of blood pressure, blood glucose, and fatty acid levels. However, they do not effectively halt the progression of renal damage. This review critically examines novel therapeutic avenues aimed at ameliorating inflammation, mitigating extracellular matrix accumulation, and fostering renal tissue regeneration in the context of CKD. Understanding the mechanisms sustaining a proinflammatory and profibrotic state may offer the potential for targeted pharmacological interventions. This, in turn, could pave the way for combination therapies capable of reversing renal damage in CKD. The non-replacement phase of CKD currently faces a dearth of efficacious therapeutic options. Future directions encompass exploring vaptans as diuretics to inhibit water absorption, investigating antifibrotic agents, antioxidants, and exploring regenerative treatment modalities, such as stem cell therapy and novel probiotics. Moreover, this review identifies pharmaceutical agents capable of mitigating renal parenchymal damage attributed to CKD, targeting molecular-level signaling pathways (TGF-ß, Smad, and Nrf2) that predominate in the inflammatory processes of renal fibrogenic cells.

Determinants for COVID-19 vaccination intention in Mexico.

This investigation aims to determine the predictors that have the most significant influence over COVID-19 vaccination intention for the population of 18 years or above in Mexico. This will be done through a comprehensive theoretical model comprising: the theory of planned behaviour, the health belief model, and the model of goal-directed behaviour. An exploratory, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was carried out. The structured questionnaire was applied to 1085 adults in the first trimester of 2021 through Google Forms in social media groups. The data analysis was carried out through partial least square structural equation modelling. Positive anticipated emotions, desire, subjective norms, attitude, and perceived behavioural control were the most significant predictors of intention. The model that combines the theoretical perspectives explains mostly the vaccination intention. The study can be a valuable theoretical perspective for understanding similar behavioural intentions related to health risks. The results are also valuable for public health decision-makers to design strategies that promote vaccination.

The Gal/GalNac lectin as a possible acetylcholine receptor in Entamoeba histolytica.

Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) is a protozoan responsible for intestinal amebiasis in at least 500 million people per year, although only 10% of those infected show severe symptoms. It is known that E. histolytica captures molecules released during the host immune response through membrane receptors that favor its pathogenetic mechanisms for the establishment of amebic invasion. It has been suggested that E. histolytica interacts with acetylcholine (ACh) through its membrane. This promotes the increase of virulence factors and diverse mechanisms carried out by the amoeba to produce damage. The aim of this study is to identify a membrane receptor in E. histolytica trophozoites for ACh. Methods included identification by colocalization for the ACh and Gal/GalNAc lectin binding site by immunofluorescence, western blot, bioinformatic analysis, and quantification of the relative expression of Ras 5 and Rab 7 GTPases by RT-qPCR. Results show that the Gal/GalNAc lectin acts as a possible binding site for ACh and this binding may occur through the 150 kDa intermediate subunit. At the same time, this interaction activates the GTPases, Ras, and Rab, which are involved in the proliferation, and reorganization of the amoebic cytoskeleton and vesicular trafficking. In conclusion, ACh is captured by the parasite, and the interaction promotes the activation of signaling pathways involved in pathogenicity mechanisms, contributing to disease and the establishment of invasive amebiasis.

Prediction of adverse neonatal outcome at admission for early-onset preeclampsia with severe features.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia remains the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Consequently, research has focused on validating tools to predict maternal outcomes regarding clinical and biochemical features from the maternal compartment. However, preeclampsia also leads to neonatal complications due to placental insufficiency and prematurity, being the early-onset type associated with the poorest outcome. Hence, it is imperative to study whether these existing tools can predict adverse neonatal outcome. OBJECTIVE: To assess the predictive value for adverse neonatal outcome of Doppler ultrasound, angiogenic factors and multi-parametric risk-score models in women with early-onset severe preeclampsia. STUDY DESIGN: This is a prospective cohort study of consecutive singleton pregnancies complicated by early-onset (developed before 34 week's gestation) severe preeclampsia. RESULTS: 63 women with early-onset severe preeclampsia, 18 (28.6%) presented an adverse neonatal outcome. Placental growth factor (PlGF) showed the best discrimination between neonatal outcomes among angiogenic factors. PREP-L score is a multi-parametric risk-score for the prediction of complications in early-onset preeclampsia which includes maternal characteristics and clinical and analytical data obtained at admission. Good predictive values for the prediction of neonatal complications were found with the combination of PREP-L score with advanced Doppler (AUC ROC 0.9 95% CI 0.82-0.98]) and with PlGF levels (AUC ROC 0.91 [95% CI 0.84-0.98]). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of maternal risk scoring (PREP-L score) with angiogenic factors or fetal Doppler ultrasound at the time of diagnosis of early-onset preeclampsia with severe features performs well in predicting adverse neonatal outcome.

The impact of road traffic context on secondary task engagement while driving.

Introduction: Driver distraction has been recognized for a long time as a significant road safety issue. It has been consistently reported that drivers spend considerable time engaged in activities that are secondary to the driving task. The temporary diversion of attention from safety-critical driving tasks has often been associated with various adverse driving outcomes, from minor driving errors to serious motor vehicle crashes. This study explores the role of the driving context on a driver's decision to engage in secondary activities non-critical to the driving task. Method: The study utilises the Naturalistic Engagement in Secondary Tasks (NEST) dataset, a complementary dataset derived from the SHRP2 naturalistic dataset, the most extensive naturalistic study to date. An initial exploratory analysis is conducted to identify patterns of secondary task engagements in relation to context variables. Maximum likelihood Chi-square tests were applied to test for differences in engagement between types of driver distraction for the selected contextual variables. Pearson residual graphs were employed as a supplementary method to visually depict the residuals that constitute the chi-square statistic.Lastly, a two-step cluster analysis was conducted to identify common execution scenarios among secondary tasks. Results: The exploratory analysis revealed interesting behavioral trends among drivers, with higher engagement rates in left curves compared to right curves, while driving uphill compared to driving downhill, in low-density traffic scenarios compared to high-density traffic scenarios, and during afternoon periods compared to morning periods. Significant differences in engagement were found among secondary tasks in relation to locality, speed, and roadway design. The clustering analysis showed no significant associations between driving scenarios of similar characteristics and the type of secondary activity executed. Discussion: Overall, the findings confirm that the road traffic environment can influence how car drivers engage in distracted driving behavior.

COVID-19, social identity, and socially responsible food consumption between generations.

Introduction: The objective of the research was to analyze the effect of COVID-19 with the predictors of the health belief model (perceived severity, perceived benefits, and cue to action) on the social identity of the consumer and the social identity of the socially responsible food consumption among four generation groups of adults based on the stimulus-organism-response model. Methods: The study had a quantitative approach explanatory design and a cross-sectional temporal dimension. A total of 834 questionnaires were collected from adults in the metropolitan area of Mexico City, and the data were analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling. Results: The results indicated that perceived severity, perceived benefits, and cue to action positively and significantly influenced social identity, and this positively and significantly influenced socially responsible consumption. In addition, identity was found to be a variable that had a total mediation effect between perceived severity and socially responsible consumption, perceived benefits and socially responsible consumption, and cue to action and socially responsible consumption. While the perceived barriers only had a direct effect on socially responsible consumption. Likewise, a difference was found between generation X and Y, generation Z and X, and generation Y and X in the relationship between cue to action, belonging to a social network group, and social identity. Discussion: In this sense, these results allow us to consider that when environmental stimuli (predictors of the health belief model) affect the organism (social identity), it will respond with socially responsible food consumption. This type of consumption is explained through social identity and is modified according to the age of the consumers due to the effects of social networks.

Molecular and Antioxidant Characterization of Opuntia robusta Fruit Extract and Its Protective Effect against Diclofenac-Induced Acute Liver Injury in an In Vivo Rat Model.

A molecular characterization of the main phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of Opuntia robusta (OR) fruit extract was carried out, as well as an evaluation of its hepatoprotective effect against diclofenac (DF)-induced acute liver injury was evaluated. Phenols, flavonoids and betalains were quantified, and antioxidant characterization was performed by means of the ABTS•+, DPPH and FRAP assays. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS was used to identify the main biocompounds present in OR fruit extract was carried out via. In the in vivo model, groups of rats were treated prophylactically with the OR fruit extract, betanin and N-acteylcysteine followed by a single dose of DF. Biochemical markers of oxidative stress (MDA and GSH) and relative gene expression of the inducible antioxidant response (Nrf2, Sod2, Hmox1, Nqo1 and Gclc), cell death (Casp3) and DNA repair (Gadd45a) were analyzed. Western blot analysis was performed to measure protein levels of Nrf2 and immunohistochemical analysis was used to assess caspase-3 activity in the experimental groups. In our study, the OR fruit extract showed strong antioxidant and cytoprotective capacity due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as betalain and phenols. We conclude that OR fruit extract or selected components can be used clinically to support patients with acute liver injury.

Percentage of change and increment of the glucose level after a normal oral tolerance curve between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.

AIM: To determine the percentage of change and increment in glucose levels after a normal oral glucose tolerance test between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. METHODS: We studied 3510 pregnant women who attended their obstetric delivery at a tertiary care hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico in 2018, according to characteristics and risk 1647 (47%) patients were screened for diabetes diagnosis using the oral glucose tolerance test, 501 patients reported normal values between their 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, only 400 patients had their fasting glucose level measured on the same day of their obstetric delivery, to be compared. RESULTS: Average age was 30 years, with an average of 25.3 weeks of pregnancy. The fasting serum glucose levels taken after 28 weeks of pregnancy and before the obstetrical delivery showed an increase of 1.1 mmol/L in women who develop gestational diabetes mellitus, in contrast to women who did not develop gestational diabetes mellitus after 28 weeks their blood glucose only increased on average 0.4 mmol/L. The incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in the study population during 2018 was 32.7%. Patients who developed gestational diabetes mellitus after a normal oral glucose tolerance test had greater body mass index before the pregnancy and newborns had a higher weight than babies born to mothers without gestational diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSION: Changes in glucose levels after the oral tolerance test of normal glucose require strict monitoring, in that it was demonstrated that 3% of patients developed gestational diabetes mellitus after week 28 of gestation.

Regulation of MMP-2 by IL-8 in Vascular Endothelial Cells: Probable Mechanism for Endothelial Dysfunction in Women with Preeclampsia.

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) in preeclampsia (PE) results from the convergence of oxidative stress, inflammation, and alterations in extracellular matrix components, affecting vascular tone and permeability. The molecular network leading to ED includes IL-8 and MMP-2. In vitro, IL-8 regulates the concentration and activity of MMP-2 in the trophoblast; this interaction has not been studied in endothelial cells during PE. We isolated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) from women with healthy pregnancies (NP, n = 15) and PE (n = 15). We quantified the intracellular concentration of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species with colorimetric assays, IL-8 with ELISA, and MMP-2 with zymography and using an ELISA-type system. An IL-8 inhibition assay was used to study the influence of this cytokine on MMP-2 concentration and activity. HUVECs from women with PE showed significantly higher oxidative stress than NP. IL-8 and MMP-2 were found to be significantly elevated in PE HUVECs compared to NP. Inhibition of IL-8 in HUVECs from women with PE significantly decreased the concentration of MMP-2. We demonstrate that IL-8 is involved in the mechanisms of MMP-2 expression in HUVECs from women with PE. Our findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating the ED distinctive of PE.

Assessment of Potential Probiotic and Synbiotic Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria Grown In Vitro with Starch-Based Soluble Corn Fiber or Inulin.

This research is aimed to search for suitable probiotic plus prebiotic combinations for food applications. Sixteen bacteria were tested for resistance to low pH, bile salts and antibiotics, and their adhesion to Caco-2 cells, in order to select potential probiotics. Then, two bacteria were selected to study short chain fatty acids production in a starch-based soluble corn fiber or inulin media. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum V3 and L. acidophilus La3 manifested the best probiotic features with a remarkable adhesion ability (23.9% and 17.3%, respectively). Structural differences between fibers have an impact on how each one is metabolized, both in their capacity of being easily fermented and in the short chain fatty acids profile obtained: L. acidophilus La3 in inulin fermentation yielded the highest total short chain fatty acids (85.7 mMol/L), and, in starch-based soluble corn fiber fermentation, yielded the highest butyric acid content (0.31 mMol/L). This study provides valuable information for future design of synbiotics for food applications.

Valoración de prácticas sociales que hacen uso de especies animales no humanas

Introducción: Los científicos han explorado las capacidades intelectuales de los animales, su importancia para la salud física y emocional de los humanos, su uso como sujetos en la investigación biomédica y psicológica, pero se ha prestado poca atención a las valoraciones que hacen las personas del común sobre estas prácticas sociales. El objetivo de esta investigación fue presentar los resultados sobre las valoraciones de prácticas de divertimiento, producción industrial, investigación biológica y psicológica, que involucran animales, a partir de las dimensiones: ética, legal, las capacidades intelectuales, los beneficios para la salud física y emocional de las personas y la preocupación por su bienestar. Método: Se construyó un instrumento online a partir una frase mapa compuesto por 28 ítems, que exploran la evaluación de 255 personas, hombres y mujeres sobre estas prácticas, bajo la condición de tener o no mascota. Las respuestas se analizaron mediante un análisis de escalamiento multidimensional. Resultados: Queda en evidencia la preocupación de las personas por las condiciones en que se usan los animales, en particular, de quienes tienen o han tenido mascota. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos se discuten a partir del soporte de las facetas incluidas en la frase mapa y la propuesta para nuevos estudios sobre prácticas sociales que involucre animales en la población general.

Introduction: Scientifics have explored the intellectual capacities of animals, their importance for the physical and emotional health of humans, its use as subjects for biomedical and psychological research. However, little attention has been involved to studying how lay people think about these types of social practices. The objective of this research was to present the results of the evaluations of social practices involving animals in entertainment, industrial production, biological and psychological research. The practices were evaluated on the following dimensions: ethics, legal, intellectual capacities, benefits for the physical and emotional health of people; and concern for their well-being. Method: An instrument based on a mapping sentence and composed of 28 items was responded online by 255 people, men and women with the condition of having a pet or not. Item responses were analyzed using multidimensional scaling analysis. Results: It is evident people's concern for the conditions in which the animals are used particularly in people that have or has have pets. Conclusions: The findings are discussed on the evidence that support the mapping sentence, and on the proposal for new studies on social practices involving lay people.

Factores asociados con el agotamiento psicológico en odontólogos especialistas colombianos / Factors Associated With Burnout Syndrome in Colombian Dental Specialists

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar los factores asociados con el agotamiento psicológico (AP) en odontólogos especialistas que laboraban en la ciudad de Bucaramanga y su área metropolitana. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico de corte transversal en el que se aplicó la versión validada del cuestionario Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) a 117 especialistas del área de odontología. Se analizaron los puntajes obtenidos en las 3 dimensiones del instrumento, las características sociodemográficas, los aspectos del entorno laboral y profesional y los hábitos. En el análisis bivariado, se utilizó el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman, la prueba de la U de Mann Whitney o Kruskal-Wallis y en el ánalisis multivariado, se realizó una regresión logística. Un valor de p<0,05 se consideró estadísticamente significativo. Cada participante aceptó su inclusión en el estudio tras el proceso de consentimiento informado. Resultados: El promedio de edad fue 44,0 ± 7,8 años y el 57,3% eran mujeres. El 3,4, el 4,3 y el 4,3% de los participantes tenían altos grados de agotamiento emocional, despersonaliza ción y falta de realización personal respectivamente. El consumo de cigarrillo presentó una asociación directa con las dimensiones despersonalización (p = 0,031) y falta de realización personal (p = 0,025). De otra parte, tener 10 años o más de egresado del posgrado evidenció una asociación inversa en estas 2 dimensiones (p = 0,049 y p = 0,045 respectivamente). Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que el AP no es un problema frecuente en los odontó logos especialistas que laboran en Bucaramanga y su área metropolitana; sin embargo, es importante tener en cuenta que se observó relación del AP con el hábito de fumar y los años de egresado de la especialidad.

ABSTRACT Objective: To establish the factors associated with burnout syndrome in dental specialists working in the city of Bucaramanga and its metropolitan area. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which the validated version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) questionnaire was applied to 117 dental specialists. The variables analysed were the scores obtained in the three dimensions of the instrument - sociodemographic and job-related characteristics, professional environment, and habits. Spearman's correlation coefficient and the Mann Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis U test were used in the bivariate analysis, and a logistic regression was perfor med in the multivariate analysis. A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Each participant accepted their inclusion in the study after the Informed Consent process was done. Results: The average age was 44.0 ± 7.8 years, and 57.3% were women. It was observed that 3.4%, 4.3% and 4.3% of respondents scored highly in emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and lack of personal achievement, respectively. Cigarette smoking presented a direct association with the dimensions of depersonalisation (p = 0.031) and lack of personal achie vement (p = 0.025). On the other hand, having completed the postgraduate degree 10 years or more ago showed a negative association in these two dimensions (p = 0.049 and p = 0.045, respectively). Conclusions: The results suggest that burnout syndrome is not a frequent problem in dental specialists who work in Bucaramanga and its metropolitan area. However, it is important to keep in mind that a relationship was observed between the syndrome and smoking, and the years after graduating in the specialty.

Factors associated with burnout syndrome in Colombian dental specialists.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the factors associated with burnout syndrome in dental specialists working in the city of Bucaramanga and its metropolitan area. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which the validated version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) questionnaire was applied to 117 dental specialists. The variables analysed were the scores obtained in the three dimensions of the instrument - sociodemographic and job-related characteristics, professional environment, and habits. Spearman's correlation coefficient and the Mann Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis U test were used in the bivariate analysis, and a logistic regression was performed in the multivariate analysis. A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Each participant accepted their inclusion in the study after the Informed Consent process was done. RESULTS: The average age was 44.0 ± 7.8 years, and 57.3% were women. It was observed that 3.4%, 4.3% and 4.3% of respondents scored highly in emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and lack of personal achievement, respectively. Cigarette smoking presented a direct association with the dimensions of depersonalisation (p = 0.031) and lack of personal achievement (p = 0.025). On the other hand, having completed the postgraduate degree 10 years or more ago showed a negative association in these two dimensions (p = 0.049 and p = 0.045, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that burnout syndrome is not a frequent problem in dental specialists who work in Bucaramanga and its metropolitan area. However, it is important to keep in mind that a relationship was observed between the syndrome and smoking, and the years after graduating in the specialty.