Removal of Azo Dyes from Water Using Natural Luffa cylindrica as a Non-Conventional Adsorbent.

Reducing high concentrations of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, drugs, and dyes from water is an emerging necessity. We evaluated the use of Luffa cylindrica (Lc) as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to remove azo dye mixture (ADM) from water. The capacity of Lc at three different doses (2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 g/L) was evaluated using three concentrations of azo dyes (0.125, 0.250, and 0.500 g/L). The removal percent (R%), maximum adsorption capacity (Qm), isotherm and kinetics adsorption models, and pH influence were evaluated, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed. The maximum R% was 70.8% for 10.0 g L-1Lc and 0.125 g L-1 ADM. The Qm of Lc was 161.29 mg g-1. Adsorption by Lc obeys a Langmuir isotherm and occurs through the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Statistical analysis showed that the adsorbent dose, the azo dye concentration, and contact time significantly influenced R% and the adsorption capacity. These findings indicate that Lc could be used as a natural non-conventional adsorbent to reduce ADM in water, and it has a potential application in the pretreatment of wastewaters.

Inhibition of corrosion on API 5L X52 pipeline steel in acid media by Tradescantia spathacea.

The concentration effect of Tradescantia spathacea (T. spathacea) as corrosion inhibitor of API 5L X52 steel in 0.5 M of H2SO4 was studied here through electrochemical and gravimetric techniques. To achieve it, samples of the material were prepared to be submitted to each of the tests. Results from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that there was an optimum concentration of the inhibitor in which is reached the maximum inhibition efficiency, displaying the best inhibition characteristics for this system with a maximum inhibition of 89% by using 400 ppm. However, the efficiency decreased until 40% when the temperature was increased to 60°C. Potentiodynamic polarization curves (PDP) revealed that some of the present compounds of T. spathacea may affect anodic and cathodic process, so it can be classified as a mix-type corrosion inhibitor for API 5L X52 in sulfuric acid. Also, this compound followed an adsorption mechanism; this can be described through a Frumkin isotherm with an adsorption standard free energy difference (ΔG°) of -56.59 kJmol-1. Metal surface was studied through scanning electron microscope, results revealed that by adding inhibitor, the metal surface is protected; also, they evidenced low damages compared with the surface with no inhibitor. Finally, Tradescantia spathacea inhibited the corrosion process with 82% efficiency.

Comfort with LGB people and attitudes toward same-sex parenting in Continental American Hispanic Nations.

Negative attitudes toward Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual (LGB) individuals leads to a perceived inability of LGB individuals to foster 'appropriate' family relationships, inciting negative attitudes specifically toward same-sex parenting. Intergroup and interpersonal relationships play a critical role in fostering attitudes toward others wherein type of contact, frequency, degree of closeness in the relationship, and the positivity/negativity of interactions are potential mediator of these relations, Moreover, the mechanism behind co-constructing positive relationships with sexual and gender minorities is comfort with contact with LGB individuals. The present study explored the effects of interpersonal contact and the mediator role of comfort with LGB people in explaining attitudes toward same-sex parenting in Spanish-speaking countries in North, Central, and South America. These countries are of particular interest given the dearth of research in the region on attitudes toward same-sex parenting as well as the varying degrees of acceptance of and protections for same-sex parented families. A non-probabilistic sample of 1955 heterosexual cisgender participants from 14 countries was asked to complete a series of sociodemographic questions, a questionnaire about their interpersonal contact/comfort experiences with LGB people, and the Attitudes Toward Gay and Lesbian Parenting Scale. Results showed that comfort was vital in fostering accepting attitudes toward Same-Sex Parenting across countries. Findings also suggested that comfort with LGB people has a particularly powerful influence in regions with less legal and cultural acceptance of LGB individuals. Policies are not enough to instill widespread change: we must encourage, facilitate, and supervise the formation of relationships with LGB people.

Physiotherapy intervention in Smith-Magenis syndrome: A case report based on exercise therapy for postural control and balance.

Key Clinical Message: This case report aims to raise a physiotherapy intervention for subjects with SMS. The basis is an active work, based on postural control and balance training. Physiotherapists can play an important role in the management of these subjects. Abstract: Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a genetic alteration that encompasses a series of psychophysical repercussions that interferes with postural control and the autonomous functionality of the subjects who suffer from it. In this study, a clinical case of an 18-year-old adolescent with a genetic diagnosis of an SMS mutation is presented. This work proposes a physiotherapy intervention, adapted to the individual conditions and agreed upon with his family. The goal would be to analyze the effectiveness of postural control and balance training in a subject with SMS. A physiotherapy intervention based on postural control and balance was proposed. This approach is combined with the strengthening and readaptation of the antigravity muscles, through strength training, mobilization exercises, gait and transfers reeducation. An initial assessment was carried out. The interventions were developed at the home of the clinical case. The main variables were balance and postural control. For this, the following measurement scales and tests were used: Face Scale, Gross Motor Function Scale, Berg Balance Scale, Romberg Test, Barthel Index, and Functional Assessment of Sitting (SATco scale). After the intervention, the case presented under observation greater postural control in the transfers, less imbalances, and introduced new positions during their development, which allow more functional and autonomous movement. This was also extrapolated to gait, which was optimized in its development. This observation was not reflexed in test scores, which remained the same than the initial assessment. The intervention had a positive effect on the development of trunk control, transfers, and gait.

[Malignant mesothelioma in Colombia: burden of disease, overview, and subnational sociodemographic index, 2015-2020Mesotelioma maligno na Colômbia: carga de morbidade, visão geral e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, entre 2015 e 2020]. / Mesotelioma maligno en Colombia: carga de enfermedad, panorama general e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, 2015-2020.

Objective: Establish the disease burden of malignant mesothelioma (MM) in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and its association with the subnational sociodemographic development index (SDI) and with asbestos sites. Methods: Mixed ecological study of the Colombian population diagnosed with MM (according to ICD-10) from 2015 to 2020. The global burden of disease (GBD) was estimated using the methodology proposed by Murray and Lopez, based on prevalence and mortality data obtained from official sources. The subnational (departmental level) SDI was estimated as a measure of socioeconomic development. Linear regressions were established with the GBD, SDI, and documented asbestos sites. Results: The estimated GBD of MM in Colombia during 2015-2020 was 51.71 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1 000 000 inhabitants (15 375.79 total DALYs), with predominance in people over 50 years of age (91.1%) and males (66.4%).Bogotá and Valle del Cauca were the departments with the highest number of adjusted DALYs. Bogotá had the highest SDI and Guainía and Cesar had the lowest. There was evidence of an association between DALYs and SDI, explaining 22.8% of DALYs. Conclusion: Malignant mesothelioma is the cause of a large number of DALYs, predominantly in the departments with greater socioeconomic development and with companies that used to use asbestos. However, possible underdiagnosis of MM limits analysis of the information.

Objetivo: Estabelecer o ônus da doença por mesotelioma maligno (MM) na Colômbia entre 2015 e 2020 e sua associação ao índice sociodemográfico subnacional (ISS) e locais de amianto. Métodos: Estudo ecológico misto na população colombiana diagnosticada com MM, de acordo com a CID-10 durante 2015 a 2020. A carga global da doença (CGD) foi estimada usando a metodologia proposta por Murray e López com base na prevalência e na mortalidade obtidas de fontes oficiais. O SDI subnacional (nível departamental) foi estimado como uma medida de desenvolvimento socioeconômico e foram estabelecidas regressões lineares com CGD, SDI e localizações documentadas de amianto. Resultados: A estimativa de CGD por MM na Colômbia entre 2015-2020 foi de 51,71 anos de vida ajustados por incapacidade (AVAI) por 1 000 000 de habitantes (15 375,79 AVAI totais), com predominância em pessoas com mais de 50 anos (91,1%) e do sexo masculino (66,4%).Com relação aos departamentos, Bogotá e Valle del Cauca tiveram o maior número de AVAI ajustados, enquanto Bogotá teve o maior SDI, e Guainía e Cesar, o menor. Houve uma associação entre os AVAI e o SDI, sendo que o SDI foi responsável por 22,8% dos AVAI. Conclusões: O MM é a causa de um grande número de AVAI, predominantemente em departamentos com maior desenvolvimento socioeconômico e com a presença de empresas que usavam amianto; no entanto, o possível subdiagnóstico do MM limita a análise das informações.

Mesotelioma maligno en Colombia: carga de enfermedad, panorama general e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, 2015-2020 / Malignant mesothelioma in Colombia: burden of disease, overview, and subnational sociodemographic index, 2015–2020 / Mesotelioma maligno na Colômbia: carga de morbidade, visão geral e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, entre 2015 e 2020

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Establecer la carga de enfermedad por mesotelioma maligno (MM) en Colombia entre 2015 y 2020 y su asociación con el índice sociodemográfico (SDI) subnacional y las localizaciones de asbesto. Métodos. Estudio ecológico mixto en la población colombiana con diagnóstico de MM según la CIE-10 durante 2015 a 2020. La carga global de enfermedad (GBD, por su sigla en inglés) se estimó por medio de la metodología propuesta de Murray y López a partir de la prevalencia y mortalidad obtenida de fuentes ofi- ciales. Se estimó el SDI (por su sigla en inglés) subnacional (nivel departamental) como medida de desarrollo socioeconómico y se establecieron regresiones lineales con la GBD, el SDI y las localizaciones documentadas de asbesto. Resultados. La GBD estimada por MM en Colombia durante 2015-2020 fue de 51,71 años de vida ajustados por discapacidad (AVAD) por cada 1 000 000 de habitantes (15 375,79 AVAD totales), con predominio en personas mayores de 50 años (91,1%) y de sexo masculino (66,4%). A nivel departamental, Bogotá y Valle del Cauca presentaron la mayor cantidad de AVAD ajustados; mientras que Bogotá tuvo el SDI más alto, y Guainía y Cesar el más bajo. Se evidenció una asociación entre los AVAD y el SDI, donde este último explicó 22,8% de los casos de AVAD. Conclusión. El MM es causa de una gran cantidad de AVAD, con predominio en los departamentos con mayor desarrollo socioeconómico, y con presencia de empresas que solían utilizar asbesto; no obstante, el posible subdiagnóstico de MM limita el análisis de la información.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. Establish the disease burden of malignant mesothelioma (MM) in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and its association with the subnational sociodemographic development index (SDI) and with asbestos sites. Methods. Mixed ecological study of the Colombian population diagnosed with MM (according to ICD-10) from 2015 to 2020. The global burden of disease (GBD) was estimated using the methodology proposed by Murray and Lopez, based on prevalence and mortality data obtained from official sources. The subnational (departmental level) SDI was estimated as a measure of socioeconomic development. Linear regressions were established with the GBD, SDI, and documented asbestos sites. Results. The estimated GBD of MM in Colombia during 2015–2020 was 51.71 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1 000 000 inhabitants (15 375.79 total DALYs), with predominance in people over 50 years of age (91.1%) and males (66.4%). Bogotá and Valle del Cauca were the departments with the highest number of adjusted DALYs. Bogotá had the highest SDI and Guainía and Cesar had the lowest. There was evidence of an association between DALYs and SDI, explaining 22.8% of DALYs. Conclusion. Malignant mesothelioma is the cause of a large number of DALYs, predominantly in the depart- ments with greater socioeconomic development and with companies that used to use asbestos. However, possible underdiagnosis of MM limits analysis of the information.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Estabelecer o ônus da doença por mesotelioma maligno (MM) na Colômbia entre 2015 e 2020 e sua associação ao índice sociodemográfico subnacional (ISS) e locais de amianto. Métodos. Estudo ecológico misto na população colombiana diagnosticada com MM, de acordo com a CID- 10 durante 2015 a 2020. A carga global da doença (CGD) foi estimada usando a metodologia proposta por Murray e López com base na prevalência e na mortalidade obtidas de fontes oficiais. O SDI subnacional (nível departamental) foi estimado como uma medida de desenvolvimento socioeconômico e foram estabelecidas regressões lineares com CGD, SDI e localizações documentadas de amianto. Resultados. A estimativa de CGD por MM na Colômbia entre 2015-2020 foi de 51,71 anos de vida ajustados por incapacidade (AVAI) por 1 000 000 de habitantes (15 375,79 AVAI totais), com predominância em pessoas com mais de 50 anos (91,1%) e do sexo masculino (66,4%). Com relação aos departamentos, Bogotá e Valle del Cauca tiveram o maior número de AVAI ajustados, enquanto Bogotá teve o maior SDI, e Guainía e Cesar, o menor. Houve uma associação entre os AVAI e o SDI, sendo que o SDI foi responsável por 22,8% dos AVAI. Conclusões. O MM é a causa de um grande número de AVAI, predominantemente em departamentos com maior desenvolvimento socioeconômico e com a presença de empresas que usavam amianto; no entanto, o possível subdiagnóstico do MM limita a análise das informações.

Effectiveness of Cyanoacrylate in the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Systematic Review.

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of cyanoacrylate to other treatments or placebo in the management of dentin hypersensitivity (DH). Materials and Methods: The present review was organized based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The search aimed to answer the following question: is cyanoacrylate effective in the treatment of DH when compared to other treatments or placebo? The following databases were used: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, BVS, Web of Science, Cochrane, Clinicaltrials.gov, Portal Periódicos Capes, Google Scholar, and manual search. The evaluation process started with the information collected from the selected articles according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT). Results: Two randomized and five nonrandomized clinical trials were analyzed in the qualitative synthesis. The studies presented different cyanoacrylate formulations, different scales for evaluating pain, and different methods for provoking a painful stimulus. Cyanoacrylate-based products reduce DH in shorter follow-up periods and this reduction persisted throughout the study. The results varied according to the methods used to stimulate the pain. Only two articles showed a low risk of bias and a high level of scientific evidence. Conclusion: Although there is a limited number of studies in the scientific literature with appropriate methodological quality, the available evidence proves the effectiveness of cyanoacrylate in the treatment of DH. Clinical Relevance. Cyanoacrylate is easy to access, effective, easily applicable, and a low-cost product with satisfactory results.

Effect of Insulin Resistance on Abdominal Obesity, Liver Fat Infiltration, and Body Mass Index in Youngsters.

AIM: Evaluate insulin resistance (IR) as a mediator of the effect of body fat distribution on liver fat infiltration and stiffness (LSt) in young adults using structural equation modeling (SEM). METHODS: We invited 500 first year students from two universities and evaluated their family history to determine the risk for cardiometabolic disease. Of these, 174 students (age 19 ± 1 years) were assessed for total body fat percentage (BF%), LSt, fat infiltration (Coefficient attenuated parameter CAP), and serum biochemical analysis. We performed a mediation analysis using two different structural equation models to determine the relationship between BMI, BF%, abdominal obesity (AO), IR, LSt, and fat infiltration using standardized ß coefficients. The symbol "->" means "explains/causes". RESULTS: Model#1 supported that mediation analysis and had a better fit than the direct effect. AO->IR (b = 0.62, p = 0.005), AO->CAP (b = 0.63, p <0.001), and CAP->IR (b = 0.23, p = 0.007), with negligible effect of BMI on CAP and IR. Model#2 showed direct effect of BMI on LSt was a better fit than mediation. BMI->LSt (b = 0.17, p = 0.05) but no effect AO->LSt. Interestingly, LSt->IR (b = 0.18, p = 0.001), but bi-directional IR->LSt (b = 0.23, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: AO and BMI in young adults have differential phenotypic effects on liver CAP and LSt. Visceral fat had a direct effect on IR and CAP. Meanwhile, BMI was associated with LSt. Our findings shed light on the complex interplay of factors influencing liver stiffness, particularly in young individuals. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying these associations and their implications for liver health.

Rapid maxillary expansion and its consequences on the nasal and oropharyngeal anatomy and breathing function of children and adolescents: An umbrella review.

OBJECTIVE: To identify, qualify, and summarize the evidence from different systematic reviews about the outcomes of Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) on upper airway dimensions and breathing function in young patients. METHODS: A literature search (from 2000 to December 2022) was conducted through PubMed (MEDLINE), the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Dentistry & Oral Science Source. The authors conducted the following umbrella review phases: research question, study selection criteria (systematic reviews involving randomized clinical trials and longitudinal observational designs), data extraction, and critical appraisal (bias risk assessment) of selected articles through the ROBIS tool. RESULTS: The initial search yielded 65 potential references. After screening titles and summaries, and the elimination of duplicated publications, 15 articles were eligible for the evaluation of the full-text document. Finally, 11 systematic reviews (5 combined with meta-analysis) were selected, reporting 132 single studies; 38 of them were unrepeatable. Risk-of-bias assessment showed an average global moderate/high quality among the included studies. There was high heterogeneity between the systematic reviews' (and meta-analyses') methodologies used. CONCLUSIONS: The present umbrella review concludes that significant and stable increases in the nasal and oropharyngeal space volumes and a decrease in airway resistance of growing children and adolescents, occur immediately after RME and at 3, 6- and 12-months follow-up.

Effect of Temperature, Water Activity and Incubation Time on Trichothecene Production by Fusarium cerealis Isolated from Durum Wheat Grains.

Fusarium cerealis is a causal agent of Fusarium Head Blight in wheat, and it produces both deoxynivalenol (DON) and nivalenol (NIV). Nevertheless, the effect of environmental factors on the growth and mycotoxin production of this species has not been studied so far. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of environmental factors on the growth and mycotoxin production of F. cerealis strains. All strains were able to grow in a wide range of water activity (aW) and temperatures, but their mycotoxin production was influenced by strain and environmental factors. NIV was produced at high aW and temperatures, while optimal conditions for DON production were observed at low aW. Interestingly, some strains were able to simultaneously produce both toxins, which could pose a more significant risk for grain contamination.

Composite resin reinforced with silk nanoparticles from Bombyx mori cocoon for dental applications.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the mechanical performance of Z350 resin composite modified with Bombyx mori cocoons silk nanoparticles for dental applications. Four experimental groups were analyzed G0% = Filtek Z350 resin composite (control); G1% = Filtek Z350 with 1% of silk nanoparticles; G3% = Filtek Z350 with 3% of silk nanoparticles; G5% = Filtek Z350 with 5% of silk nanoparticles. It was employed scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, 3-point flexural strength test, Knoop hardness test, and surface roughness. From 3-point flexural strength tests the control group presented the best results G0% = 113.33 MPa (±23.73). The higher flexural modulus was shown by groups G3% = 29.150 GPa (±5.191) and G5% = 34.101 GPa (±7.940), which are statistically similar. The Knoop microhardness test has shown statistical difference only among the G3% group between the top 80.78 (± 3.00) and bottom 68.80 (±3.62) and no difference between the groups. The roughness test presented no statistical difference between the groups. The incorporation of silk nanoparticles reduced the flexural strength of Z350 resin composite. The surface roughness and microhardness tests showed no changes in any of the groups studied.

Composite resin reinforced with silk nanoparticles from Bombyx mori cocoon for dental applications

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the mechanical performance of Z350 resin composite modified with Bombyx mori cocoons silk nanoparticles for dental applications. Four experimental groups were analyzed G0% = Filtek Z350 resin composite (control); G1% = Filtek Z350 with 1% of silk nanoparticles; G3% = Filtek Z350 with 3% of silk nanoparticles; G5% = Filtek Z350 with 5% of silk nanoparticles. It was employed scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, 3-point flexural strength test, Knoop hardness test, and surface roughness. From 3-point flexural strength tests the control group presented the best results G0% = 113.33 MPa (±23.73). The higher flexural modulus was shown by groups G3% = 29.150 GPa (±5.191) and G5% = 34.101 GPa (±7.940), which are statistically similar. The Knoop microhardness test has shown statistical difference only among the G3% group between the top 80.78 (± 3.00) and bottom 68.80 (±3.62) and no difference between the groups. The roughness test presented no statistical difference between the groups. The incorporation of silk nanoparticles reduced the flexural strength of Z350 resin composite. The surface roughness and microhardness tests showed no changes in any of the groups studied.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho mecânico da resina composta Z350 modificada com nanopartículas de seda Bombyx mori cocoons para aplicações odontológicas. Quatro grupos experimentais foram analisados: G0%) Resina Z350 apenas (grupo controle); G1%) Reforço com 1% de nanopartículas de seda; G3%) Reforço com 3% de nanopartículas de seda; e G5%) Reforço com 5% de nanopartículas de seda. Foi empregado microscopia eletrônica de varredura, espectroscopia de energia dispersiva de raios X, difração de raios X, teste de resistência à flexão de 3 pontos, teste de dureza Knoop e rugosidade superficial. Nos testes de resistência à flexão de 3 pontos o grupo controle apresentou melhores resultados G0% = 0.113 GPa (±0.024). O maior módulo de flexão foi demonstrado pelos grupos G3% = 29.151GPa (±5.191) e G5% = 34.102 GPa (±7.94), que são estatisticamente semelhantes. O teste de microdureza Knoop mostrou diferença estatística apenas entre o grupo G3% entre os 80.78 superiores (± 3.00) e os 68.80 inferiores (±3.62). Não há diferença entre os grupos. O teste de rugosidade não apresentou diferença estatística entre os grupos. A incorporação de nanopartículas de seda reduziu a resistência à flexão da resina composta Z350. Os testes de rugosidade superficial e microdureza não apresentaram alterações em nenhum dos grupos estudados.

Novel Finding of Urinary Erythropoietin as an Early Biomarker of Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity.

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat a great variety of solid tumors. Its dose is commonly limited by its nephrotoxicity, manifested as acute kidney injury (AKI). Erythropoietin (Epo) is a glycoprotein hormone that regulates the production of red blood cells. This study was performed to evaluate the presence of endogenous Epo in male Wistar rat urine and to analyse changes in urinary Epo levels in response to cisplatin- induced AKI. Dose-dependent studies and time-dependent experiments were performed to evaluate changes in urea nitrogen and creatinine in plasma as well as Epo, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity, creatinine and total proteins in urine at 2 days post-dosing. Rats received 2, 5 or 10 mg/kg b.w., i.p. of cisplatin. At 5 mg/kg b.w., i.p. cisplatin, significant increases in urinary Epo were detected. Significant increases in urea nitrogen and creatinine in plasma, NGAL, AP, proteins, and Epo were observed in urine from rats that received 10 mg/kg b.w., i.p. of cisplatin. In the time-dependent experiments, rats were injected with a dose of 5 mg/kg b.w., i.p. of cisplatin, and sampling occurred 2, 4, and 14 days post-dosing. In these animals, there were significant increases in urea nitrogen and creatinine in plasma and total proteins, AP activity, Epo, and NGAL in urine on day 4. Urinary Epo was also detected on day 2. Taken together, these findings provide weight of evidence for urinary Epo as a promising early biomarker of cisplatin-induced AKI in male rats.

Renal tubular response to titanium dioxide nanoparticles exposure.

Titatinum dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) are frequently used in several areas. Titanium alloys are employed in orthopedic and odontological surgery (such as hip, knee, and teeth implants). To evaluate the potential acute toxic effects of titanium pieces implantations and in other sources that allow the systemic delivery of titanium, parenteral routes of TiO2-NPs administration should be taken into account. The present study evaluated the impact of subcutaneous administration of TiO2-NPs on renal function and structure in rats. Animals were exposed to a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w., s.c. and sacrificed after 48 h. Titanium levels were detected in urine (135 ± 6 ηg/mL) and in renal tissue (502 ± 40 ηg/g) employing inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. An increase in alkaline phosphatase activity, total protein levels, and glucose concentrations was observed in urine from treated rats suggesting injury in proximal tubule cells. In parallel, histopathological studies showed tubular dilatation and cellular desquamation in these nephron segments. In summary, this study demonstrates that subcutaneous administration of TiO2-NPs causes acute nephrotoxicity evidenced by functional and histological alterations in proximal tubule cells. This fact deserves to be mainly considered when humans are exposed directly or indirectly to TiO2-NPs sources that cause the systemic delivery of titanium.

Donor heart selection: Evidence-based guidelines for providers.

The proposed donor heart selection guidelines provide evidence-based and expert-consensus recommendations for the selection of donor hearts following brain death. These recommendations were compiled by an international panel of experts based on an extensive literature review.

Attitudes Toward Lesbians, Gay Men, and Their Rights in a Sample of Ecuadorian Cisgender Men and Women.

Since 1997, Ecuador has undergone a series of changes to ensure family rights to sexual minorities. However, there is still limited research regarding attitudes toward them. This study focused on the attitudes toward lesbians (L), gay men (G), and their rights. A sample of 318 cisgender Ecuadorians who responded to an online survey was recruited. Analyses indicated that men, heterosexuals, who practice their religion, attend more frequently to religious services, and identify as conservative showed higher levels of prejudice against LG as well as less support toward their rights. Further, participants who did not have LG acquaintances, friends, family members, and those who did not know any LG parented family showed less support toward these populations. Multiple regression analyses indicated that believing that a person's sexual orientation is learned significantly predicted the attitudes measured in our study. Implications of these findings to help reduce prejudice against LG individuals are discussed.

Mesotelioma maligno en Colombia: carga de enfermedad, panorama general e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, 2015-2020 / Malignant mesothelioma in Colombia: burden of disease, overview, and subnational sociodemographic index, 2015-2020 / Mesotelioma maligno na Colômbia: carga de morbidade, visão geral e índice sociodemográfico subnacional, entre 2015 e 2020

RESUMEN Objetivo. Establecer la carga de enfermedad por mesotelioma maligno (MM) en Colombia entre 2015 y 2020 y su asociación con el índice sociodemográfico (SDI) subnacional y las localizaciones de asbesto. Métodos. Estudio ecológico mixto en la población colombiana con diagnóstico de MM según la CIE-10 durante 2015 a 2020. La carga global de enfermedad (GBD, por su sigla en inglés) se estimó por medio de la metodología propuesta de Murray y López a partir de la prevalencia y mortalidad obtenida de fuentes oficiales. Se estimó el SDI (por su sigla en inglés) subnacional (nivel departamental) como medida de desarrollo socioeconómico y se establecieron regresiones lineales con la GBD, el SDI y las localizaciones documentadas de asbesto. Resultados. La GBD estimada por MM en Colombia durante 2015-2020 fue de 51,71 años de vida ajustados por discapacidad (AVAD) por cada 1 000 000 de habitantes (15 375,79 AVAD totales), con predominio en personas mayores de 50 años (91,1%) y de sexo masculino (66,4%). A nivel departamental, Bogotá y Valle del Cauca presentaron la mayor cantidad de AVAD ajustados; mientras que Bogotá tuvo el SDI más alto, y Guainía y Cesar el más bajo. Se evidenció una asociación entre los AVAD y el SDI, donde este último explicó 22,8% de los casos de AVAD. Conclusión. El MM es causa de una gran cantidad de AVAD, con predominio en los departamentos con mayor desarrollo socioeconómico, y con presencia de empresas que solían utilizar asbesto; no obstante, el posible subdiagnóstico de MM limita el análisis de la información.

ABSTRACT Objective. Establish the disease burden of malignant mesothelioma (MM) in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and its association with the subnational sociodemographic development index (SDI) and with asbestos sites. Methods. Mixed ecological study of the Colombian population diagnosed with MM (according to ICD-10) from 2015 to 2020. The global burden of disease (GBD) was estimated using the methodology proposed by Murray and Lopez, based on prevalence and mortality data obtained from official sources. The subnational (departmental level) SDI was estimated as a measure of socioeconomic development. Linear regressions were established with the GBD, SDI, and documented asbestos sites. Results. The estimated GBD of MM in Colombia during 2015-2020 was 51.71 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1 000 000 inhabitants (15 375.79 total DALYs), with predominance in people over 50 years of age (91.1%) and males (66.4%). Bogotá and Valle del Cauca were the departments with the highest number of adjusted DALYs. Bogotá had the highest SDI and Guainía and Cesar had the lowest. There was evidence of an association between DALYs and SDI, explaining 22.8% of DALYs. Conclusion. Malignant mesothelioma is the cause of a large number of DALYs, predominantly in the departments with greater socioeconomic development and with companies that used to use asbestos. However, possible underdiagnosis of MM limits analysis of the information.

RESUMO Objetivo. Estabelecer o ônus da doença por mesotelioma maligno (MM) na Colômbia entre 2015 e 2020 e sua associação ao índice sociodemográfico subnacional (ISS) e locais de amianto. Métodos. Estudo ecológico misto na população colombiana diagnosticada com MM, de acordo com a CID-10 durante 2015 a 2020. A carga global da doença (CGD) foi estimada usando a metodologia proposta por Murray e López com base na prevalência e na mortalidade obtidas de fontes oficiais. O SDI subnacional (nível departamental) foi estimado como uma medida de desenvolvimento socioeconômico e foram estabelecidas regressões lineares com CGD, SDI e localizações documentadas de amianto. Resultados. A estimativa de CGD por MM na Colômbia entre 2015-2020 foi de 51,71 anos de vida ajustados por incapacidade (AVAI) por 1 000 000 de habitantes (15 375,79 AVAI totais), com predominância em pessoas com mais de 50 anos (91,1%) e do sexo masculino (66,4%). Com relação aos departamentos, Bogotá e Valle del Cauca tiveram o maior número de AVAI ajustados, enquanto Bogotá teve o maior SDI, e Guainía e Cesar, o menor. Houve uma associação entre os AVAI e o SDI, sendo que o SDI foi responsável por 22,8% dos AVAI. Conclusões. O MM é a causa de um grande número de AVAI, predominantemente em departamentos com maior desenvolvimento socioeconômico e com a presença de empresas que usavam amianto; no entanto, o possível subdiagnóstico do MM limita a análise das informações.

HPV Prevalence and Predictive Biomarkers for Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Mexican Patients.

BACKGROUND: Worldwide prevalence of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OPSCC) has increased, affecting mostly young males. OPSCC associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection exhibits particular characteristics in terms of response to treatment, hence HPV has been proposed as a prognostic factor. The impact of HPV positivity and associated biomarkers on OPSCC in the Mexican population has not been addressed. Therefore, the analysis of OPSCC prognostic markers in the Mexican population is necessary. METHODS: Retrolective study in Mexican OPSCC patients, where HPV prevalence, p16 and EGFR levels were assessed using INNO-LiPA and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: We found an HPV prevalence of 57.6% in OPSCC cases treated at a reference center in Mexico. HPV and p16 positivity, as well as EGFR, associate with better outcomes in OPSCC patients, and they also promote reduced death risk. Notably, HPV presence and p16 positivity showed a significant association with disease-free survival (DFS), with a HR of 0.15 (p = 0.006) and a HR of 0.17 (p = 0.012), respectively, indicating a possible role as predictive biomarkers in Mexican OPSCC patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reflect the clinical utility of p16 analysis to improve overall survival (OS) and to predict recurrence in oropharyngeal cancer. These results position p16 and HPV as predictive biomarkers for OPSCC.

ERK1/2 signalling dynamics promote neural differentiation by regulating chromatin accessibility and the polycomb repressive complex.

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) is a neural inducer in many vertebrate embryos, but how it regulates chromatin organization to coordinate the activation of neural genes is unclear. Moreover, for differentiation to progress, FGF signalling must decline. Why these signalling dynamics are required has not been determined. Here, we show that dephosphorylation of the FGF effector kinase ERK1/2 rapidly increases chromatin accessibility at neural genes in mouse embryos, and, using ATAC-seq in human embryonic stem cell derived spinal cord precursors, we demonstrate that this occurs genome-wide across neural genes. Importantly, ERK1/2 inhibition induces precocious neural gene transcription, and this involves dissociation of the polycomb repressive complex from key gene loci. This takes place independently of subsequent loss of the repressive histone mark H3K27me3 and transcriptional onset. Transient ERK1/2 inhibition is sufficient for the dissociation of the repressive complex, and this is not reversed on resumption of ERK1/2 signalling. Moreover, genomic footprinting of sites identified by ATAC-seq together with ChIP-seq for polycomb protein Ring1B revealed that ERK1/2 inhibition promotes the occupancy of neural transcription factors (TFs) at non-polycomb as well as polycomb associated sites. Together, these findings indicate that ERK1/2 signalling decline promotes global changes in chromatin accessibility and TF binding at neural genes by directing polycomb and other regulators and appears to serve as a gating mechanism that provides directionality to the process of differentiation.