Benthic sediment as stores and sources of bacteria and viruses in streams: A comparison of baseflow vs. stormflow longitudinal transport and residence times.

The presence of bacteria and viruses in freshwater represents a global health risk. The substantial spatial and temporal variability of microbes leads to difficulties in quantifying the risks associated with their presence in freshwater. Fine particles, including bacteria and viruses are transported and accumulated into shallow streambed (i.e., benthic) sediment, delaying the downstream transmission during baseflow conditions but contributing to their resuspension and transport downstream during stormflow events. Direct measurements of pathogen accumulation in benthic sediments are rare. Until now, the dynamic role of benthic sediment as both a store and source of microbes, has not been quantified. In this study, we analyze microbial abundance in benthic sediment along a 1 km reach of an intermittent Mediterranean stream receiving inputs from the effluent of a wastewater treatment plant, a known point source of microbes in streams. We sampled benthic sediment during a summer drought when the wastewater effluent constituted 100 % of the stream flow, and thus, large accumulation and persistence of pathogens along the streambed was expected. We measured the abundance of total bacteria, Escherichia coli (as a fecal indicator), and presence of enteric rotavirus (RoV) and norovirus (NoV). The abundance of E. coli, based on qPCR detection, was high (4.99∙102 gc /cm2) along the first 100 m downstream of the wastewater effluent input and in general decreased with distance from the source, with presence of RoV and NoV along the study reach. A particle tracking model was applied, that uses stream water velocity as an input, and accounts for microbial exchange into, immobilization, degradation, and resuspension out of benthic sediment during baseflow and stormflow. Rates of exchange into benthic sediment were 3 orders of magnitude higher during stormflow, but residence times were proportionately lower, resulting in increased longitudinal connectivity from up to downstream during stormflow. Model simulations demonstrated mechanistically how the rates of exchange into and out of the benthic sediment resulted in benthic sediment to act as a store during baseflow and a source during stormflow.

La presencia de receptores Fc de IgG activadores en macrófagos agrava el desarrollo de aneurisma aórtico abdominal experimental / The presence of activating IgG Fc receptors in macrophages aggravates the development of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm

Introducción: El aneurisma aórtico abdominal (AAA) es una afección degenerativa y multifactorial caracterizada por una dilatación progresiva de la aorta y activación crónica de inflamación, actividad proteolítica y estrés oxidativo en la pared vascular. La respuesta inmune dependiente de anticuerpos IgG frente a antígenos expuestos en el vaso dañado está implicada en la formación y progresión del AAA, aunque los mecanismos no son del todo conocidos. En este trabajo analizamos la funcionalidad de los receptores Fc de IgG (FcγR), en particular los expresados por el monocito/macrófago, en el desarrollo del AAA experimental. Métodos: En el modelo de AAA inducido por perfusión aórtica de elastasa se examinaron, mediante histología y PCR cuantitativa, las aortas abdominales de ratones de fenotipo salvaje y de ratones deficientes en FcγR, sin y con transferencia adoptiva de macrófagos. In vitro, macrófagos murinos se transfectaron con ARN de interferencia de FcγRIV/CD16.2 o se trataron con un inhibidor de la cinasa Syk antes de la estimulación con inmunocomplejos de IgG. Resultados: La transferencia adoptiva de macrófagos a ratones deficientes en FcγR incrementó su susceptibilidad al desarrollo de AAA. En los ratones que recibieron macrófagos con FcγR funcionales se observó un mayor incremento del diámetro aórtico y del contenido de macrófagos y linfocitos B, así como un aumento en la expresión de la quimiocina CCL2, las citocinas TNF-α e IL-17, la metaloproteinasa MMP2, la enzima prooxidante NADPH oxidasa-2 y las isoformas FcγRIII/CD16 y FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, tanto el silenciamiento génico de FcγRIV/CD16.2 como la inhibición de Syk en macrófagos redujeron la producción de citocinas y anión superóxido inducida por inmunocomplejos...(AU)

Introduction: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multifactorial, degenerative disease characterized by progressive aortic dilation and chronic activation of inflammation, proteolytic activity, and oxidative stress in the aortic wall. The immune response triggered by antibodies against antigens present in the vascular wall participates in the formation and progression of AAA through mechanisms not completely understood. This work analyses the function of specific IgG receptors (FcγR), especially those expressed by monocytes/macrophages, in the development of experimental AAA. Methods: In the elastase-induced AAA model, the abdominal aortas from wildtype and FcγR deficient mice with/without macrophage adoptive transfer were analysed by histology and quantitative PCR. In vitro, mouse macrophages were transfected with RNA interference of FcγRIV/CD16.2 or treated with Syk kinase inhibitor before stimulation with IgG immune complexes. Results: Macrophage adoptive transfer in FcγR deficient mice increased the susceptibility to AAA development. Mice receiving macrophages with functional FcγR exhibited higher aortic diameter increase, higher content of macrophages and B lymphocytes, and upregulated expression of chemokine CCL2, cytokines (TNF-α and IL-17), metalloproteinase MMP2, prooxidant enzyme NADPH oxidase-2, and the isoforms FcγRIII/CD16 and FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, both FcγRIV/CD16.2 gene silencing and Syk inhibition reduced cytokines and reactive oxygen species production induced by immune complexes in macrophages. Conclusions: Activation of macrophage FcγR contributes to AAA development by inducing mediators of inflammation, proteolysis, and oxidative stress. Modulation of FcγR or effector molecules may represent a potential target for AAA treatment.

Valoración del uso de redes sociales y otros factores asociados al rendimiento académico de estudiantes del nivel medio de una institución educativa

Introducción: En pandemia SARS-CoV-2 se utilizaron plataformas digitales para enseñanza-aprendizaje, en pos-pandemia posiblemente continuó la adherencia a redes sociales (RS) afectando el rendimiento académico. Objetivos: evaluar asociación del rendimiento académico con factores como uso de RS, aspectos sociodemográficos, actividades no académicas, prácticas alimentarias, motivación personal y fatiga en estudiantes del 1°al 3° curso (nivel medio) del Colegio Defensores del Chaco (Luque-Central). Materiales y Métodos: diseño transversal, correlacional y descriptivo realizado durante primer semestre del 2023 con muestra probabilística de 175 estudiantes, ambos sexos, sanos. Para uso de RS y otros datos se utilizó una encuesta digital auto aplicada previo consentimiento informado. Para rendimiento académico se usó calificación en Lengua y Literatura. Resultados: Edad promedio fue 16?0,9 años. Fueron mujeres 47,4%(n=83); 98,9%(n=173) utilizaba RS. 72% usaba Instagram, WhatsApp 71,4%, TikTok 56,6%, Facebook 13,1% y Twitter 8,6%. 100% utilizaba teléfono móvil para RS. El promedio de calificaciones 3,6 ? 13; 34,9% (n=61) obtuvo calificación 5,22,9% (n=40) 4,12% (n=21) 3; 34%(n=42) 2 y 6,3%(n=11) calificación 1. 40,6%(n=71) usaba RS 1-3 horas/día, 26,3%(n=46) 4-6 horas/día, 20,6%(n=36) ≥7horas/día <1hora/día; sin diferencias de calificaciones según tiempo en RS (Kruskall-Wallis; p=0,64). 3,2 ?1,3DE fue el promedio de calificaciones para varones y 3,9?1,3 DE para mujeres (Student p=0,002). Sin diferencias en calificaciones entre quienes no trabajan y aquellos que si (3,6?1,3DE vs 3,1?1,4DE; Student p=0,05). Como otras actividades recreativas, 43,4%(n=76) realizaba tareas hogareñas, 20%(n=70) actividad física (gimnasio/deportes), 1 estudiante lectura, sin diferencia en calificaciones según actividad física (Student p=0,42). El 64%(n=112) no cumplía recomendaciones de cantidad/día de comidas, 36%(n=63) si lo hacía; sin diferencias en calificaciones (p=0,05) tampoco según motivación (ANOVA p=0,11). 2 (1,1%) refirieron no estar fatigados en aula. Conclusiones: No hubo diferencias en el rendimiento académico según tiempo de acceso a redes sociales, factor laboral, la motivación, frecuencia de alimentación o actividad física. Las mujeres tuvieron mejor rendimiento académico que los varones.

Introduction: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, digital platforms were used for teaching and learning; during the post-pandemic period, continued use of social networks (SN) possibly occurred, affecting academic performance. Objectives: to evaluate the association of academic performance with factors such as SN use, sociodemographic aspects, non-academic activities, eating practices, personal motivation and fatigue in students from 10th to 12th grade (high school) at the Defensores del Chaco School (Luque-Central). Materials and Methods: this was a cross-sectional, correlational and descriptive study carried out during the first semester of 2023 with a probabilistic sample of 175 healthy students of both sexes. For the use of SN and other data, a self-applied digital survey was used with prior informed consent. For academic performance, the grade in Language and Literature was used. Results: Average age was 16±0.9 years. 47.4% (n=83) were women; 98.9% (n=173) used SN. 72% used Instagram®, 71.4% used WhatsApp®, 56.6% TikTok, 13.1% Facebook and 8.6% Twitter. 100% used a mobile phone for SN. The grade point average was 3.6±1.3; 34.9% (n=61) obtained a grade of 5 (highest), 22.9%(n=40) 4, 12%(n=21) 3; 24%(n=42) 2 and 6.3%(n=11) obtained a 1 (lowest). 40.6%(n=71) used SN 1-3 hours/day, 26.3%(n=46) 4- 6 hours/day, 20.6%(n=36) ≥7 hours/day, 12.6%(n=22) <1 hour/day; with no differences in grades observed according to SN time usage (Kruskall-Wallis; p=0.64). 3.2±1.3SD was the average grade for boys and 3.9±1.3 SD for girls (Student' T, p=0.002). No differences in grades between those who do not work and those who do (3.6±1.3SD vs 3.1±1.4SD; Student p=0.05) were observed. As for other recreational activities, 43.4% (n=76) performed household chores, 20% (n=70) physical activity (gym/sports), 1 student reading, with no difference in grades according to physical activity (Student p=0, 42). 64% (n=112) did not meet recommendations for amount/day of meals, 36% (n=63) did, with no differences in grades (p=0.05) observed according to amount/day of meals nor according to motivation (ANOVA p=0.11). 2 (1.1%) reported not being fatigued in the classroom. Conclusions: There were no differences in academic performance according to SN usage time, work, motivation, frequency of eating or physical activity. Girls had a better academic performance than boys.

Menarquia en adolescentes de zona urbana y periurbana de encarnación y su asociación con estado nutricional y menarquia materna. Año 2022

Introducción: La menarquia es un indicador de maduración sexual que se produce entre los 10-15 años. Factores genéticos y ambientales intervienen en la edad de aparición de la menarquia. Objetivos: Determinar la edad de menarquia y su asociación con el estado nutricional y la menarquia materna en adolescentes del 6° grado de instituciones educativas seleccionadas de zona urbana y periurbana de Encarnación. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo con componente analítico en adolescentes sin patología endócrina de base, con consentimiento escrito. Se evaluó presencia de menarquia, edad de inicio, estado nutricional, circunferencia abdominal (CA), menarca materna. Resultados: Fueron incluidas 112 adolescentes (urbana 51, periurbana 61), edad promedio 12 años. El 77,7%(n=87) refirió menarca, más frecuente en zona urbana (90,2%, vs 67%c2 p=0,003). Edad promedio de menarquia fue 11,1±0,7 años (urbana 11,4±0,5 vs 10,7±0,8, p=0,0001) y fue menor que la materna con 12,8±1,4 años (p=0,0001). El 16,1% tenía obesidad (23% en zona periurbana versus 7,8% en urbana c2 p=0,002), el 0,9% tuvo desnutrición y un 30,4% sobrepeso. Las adolescentes con obesidad tuvieron menarca a los 10,6±0,9 años vs 11,1±0,7 años en el resto (T Student p=0,03). El 13,4%(n=15) tuvo CA aumentada, y en ellas la edad de menarca fue menor (10,6±0,7 años, p=0,03). Conclusión: Dos tercios de las adolescentes refirió menarquia, aquellas de zona periurbana, con obesidad o circunferencia abdominal aumentada mostraron menor promedio de edad de inicio.

Introduction: Menarche is an indicator of sexual maturation that occurs between 10-15 years of age. Genetic and environmental factors affect the age of onset of menarche. Objectives: To determine the age of menarche and its association with nutritional status and maternal menarche in 6th grade adolescents from selected educational institutions in urban and peri-urban areas of Encarnación. Materials and methods: This was an observational, descriptive study with an analytical component in adolescents without underlying endocrine pathology; written consent was obtained. The presence of menarche, age at onset, nutritional status, abdominal circumference (AC), and maternal menarche were evaluated. Results: 112 adolescents (51 urban, 61 peri-urban) were included, the average age 12 years. 77.7% (n=87) reported menarche, more frequently in urban areas (90.2%, vs 67%, p=0.003). Mean age at menarche was 11.1 ± 0.7 years (urban 11.4 ± 0.5 vs 10.7 ± 0.8, p = 0.0001) and was lower than the maternal age with 12.8 ± 1, 4 years (p=0.0001). 16.1% were obese (23% in peri-urban areas versus 7.8% in urban areas, p=0.002), 0.9% were undernourished and 30.4% were overweight. Adolescents with obesity had menarche at 10.6±0.9 years vs. 11.1±0.7 years in the rest (Student's T, p=0.03). 13.4% (n=15) had increased AC, and in these, the age of menarche was lower (10.6±0.7 years, p=0.03). Conclusion: Two thirds of the adolescents reported menarche, those from the peri-urban area, with obesity or increased abdominal circumference, showed a lower average age of onset.

The presence of activating IgG Fc receptors in macrophages aggravates the development of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm. / La presencia de receptores Fc de IgG activadores en macrófagos agrava el desarrollo de aneurisma aórtico abdominal experimental.

INTRODUCTION: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multifactorial, degenerative disease characterized by progressive aortic dilation and chronic activation of inflammation, proteolytic activity, and oxidative stress in the aortic wall. The immune response triggered by antibodies against antigens present in the vascular wall participates in the formation and progression of AAA through mechanisms not completely understood. This work analyses the function of specific IgG receptors (FcγR), especially those expressed by monocytes/macrophages, in the development of experimental AAA. METHODS: In the elastase-induced AAA model, the abdominal aortas from wildtype and FcγR deficient mice with/without macrophage adoptive transfer were analysed by histology and quantitative PCR. In vitro, mouse macrophages were transfected with RNA interference of FcγRIV/CD16.2 or treated with Syk kinase inhibitor before stimulation with IgG immune complexes. RESULTS: Macrophage adoptive transfer in FcγR deficient mice increased the susceptibility to AAA development. Mice receiving macrophages with functional FcγR exhibited higher aortic diameter increase, higher content of macrophages and B lymphocytes, and upregulated expression of chemokine CCL2, cytokines (TNF-α and IL-17), metalloproteinase MMP2, prooxidant enzyme NADPH oxidase-2, and the isoforms FcγRIII/CD16 and FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, both FcγRIV/CD16.2 gene silencing and Syk inhibition reduced cytokines and reactive oxygen species production induced by immune complexes in macrophages. CONCLUSIONS: Activation of macrophage FcγR contributes to AAA development by inducing mediators of inflammation, proteolysis, and oxidative stress. Modulation of FcγR or effector molecules may represent a potential target for AAA treatment.

Disminución de la práctica de lactancia materna en lactantes ingresados a un programa alimentario: causas y factores asociados

RESUMEN Introducción: La lactancia materna (LM), entre otros beneficios, previene la desnutrición. Por ello es importante conocer las razones de no amamantamiento en niños ingresados a un programa alimentario. Objetivos: determinar si la práctica de la lactancia materna disminuye en lactantes una vez ingresados a un programa de apoyo nutricional, en seis hospitales de referencia del Gran Asunción. Materiales y métodos : estudio observacional y descriptivo de corte trasversal realizado con niños de 6 a 24 meses, ingresados a un programa alimentario entre mayo del 2016 y abril del 2017, en seis hospitales de referencia seleccionados. Los datos se recolectaron en junio y julio del 2017.Se aplicó un cuestionario semi estructurado mediante entrevista directa. Se indagó acerca de datos sociodemográficos y prácticas de LM. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva en el análisis de datos. El protocolo fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética institucional. Resultados: Se analizaron los datos de 39 participantes (21 del sexo femenino), con 18±4 meses de edad al ingreso al programa, 8 (20,5%) de ellos con diagnóstico de desnutrición. Al ingresar al programa 24 (61,5%) niños practicaban LM de los cuales 18(46,2%) abandonaron, siendo las causas principales que el niño no subía de peso, la recomendación del personal de salud, la percepción de poca producción de leche materna y el trabajo materno. Conclusión: Se evidencia disminución de la práctica de la lactancia materna en niños ingresados a un programa de apoyo nutricional a pesar de la indicación del personal de salud. Es necesario fortalecer la consejería a las madres que amamantan.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Breastfeeding (BF), among other benefits, prevents malnutrition. Therefore, it is important to know the reasons for not breastfeeding in children admitted to a feeding program. Objectives: To determine if the practice of breastfeeding decreases in infants once admitted to a nutritional support program, in six referral hospitals in Greater Asunción. Materials and methods: This was an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study carried out with children aged 6 to 24 months, admitted to a feeding program between May 2016 and April 2017, at six selected referral hospitals. The data were collected in June and July 2017. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied through direct interviewing. Sociodemographic data and BF practices were inquired about. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis. The protocol was approved by the institutional Ethics Committee. Results: The data of 39 participants (21 female) with 18±4 months of age at admission to the program were analyzed, 8 (20.5%) of them diagnosed with malnutrition. Upon entering the program, 24 (61.5%) children practiced BF, of which 18 (46.2%) dropped out, the main causes being that the child did not gain weight, because of the recommendation of healthcare personnel, the perception of low breast milk production and maternal work. Conclusion: There is evidence of a decrease in the practice of breastfeeding in children admitted to a nutritional support program despite encouragement by healthcare personnel. It is necessary to strengthen counseling for mothers who breastfeed.

Stream Hydrology Controls the Longitudinal Bioreactive Footprint of Urban-Sourced Fine Particles.

The relevance of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents in fluvial networks is increasing as urbanization grows in catchments. Urban-sourced fine particles from WWTP effluents deposit and accumulate in the streambed sediment of receiving streams over time and can fuel respiration rates, which can thus potentially increase rates of biogeochemical reactions and CO2 emissions to the atmosphere. We aimed to provide a quantitative assessment of the influence of WWTP-sourced fine particles deposited in the streambed sediment on stream metabolic activity for 1 year in an intermittent Mediterranean stream. More nutrient-rich and metabolically active fine particle standing stocks were observed downstream of the WWTP, propagating to the end of the 820 m study reach, especially during the dry period (i.e., when the dilution capacity of the stream to WWTP inputs is <40%). Based on the longitudinal patterns of fine particle standing stocks and their metabolic activity, we estimated that the in-stream bioreactive capacity associated with these fine particles could potentially lead to substantial carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere (3.1 g C/m2/d). We show the importance of incorporating fine particle standing stocks downstream of point source inputs, particularly WWTPs in intermittent streams, into carbon budgets.

Prácticas y conocimientos sobre lactancia materna de pediatras, ginecólogos y enfermeras de 3 servicios de salud de San Lorenzo y Asunción

RESUMEN Introducción: En la implementación de estrategias en salud, como la de lactancia materna, los recursos humanos son indispensables para lograr el éxito de estas. Objetivo: Evaluar las prácticas personales y los conocimientos sobre lactancia materna (LM) en el país, de profesionales de la salud de tres Servicios de Salud de referencia de la capital y de San Lorenzo-Paraguay. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, realizado con 147 profesionales de la salud de tres hospitales materno-infantiles de referencia. Fueron recolectados datos sociodemográficos, de prácticas y conocimientos sobre la lactancia materna (LM) a través de encuesta auto administrada. Se contó con aprobación de Comité de Ética. Resultados: el 65,3% (n=96) de los participantes tenían hijos, de los cuales 95,8% (n=91) fue alimentado con LM y el 81,3% (n=78) hizo LM exclusiva con mediana de duración de 6 meses. El 36,1% (n=53) recibió capacitación sobre LM. El 61,9% (n=91) conoce concepto de LM exclusiva, 41,5% (n=61) identificó beneficios de la LM y 47,6% (n=70) riesgos ante su no consumo. El 81,6% (n=120) conoce sobre apego precoz. El 72,1% (n=106) conoce las contraindicaciones de LM. El 87,1% (n=128) conoce las posibles complicaciones, el 67,3% (n=99) tiene conocimientos para prevenir las complicaciones. Conclusión: Dos tercios del personal de salud maneja conceptos sobre LM, solo 4 de cada 10 profesionales conoce los beneficios de la LM y los riesgos de la lactancia artificial. La mayoría sabe de las complicaciones de la LM, pero no como prevenirlas.

ABSTRACT Introduction: In health strategy implementation, such as breastfeeding, human resources are essential in order to achieve success. Objective: To evaluate the personal practices and knowledge about breastfeeding (BF) of healthcare professionals from three reference Health Services in the Capital city and San Lorenzo, Paraguay. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out with 147 healthcare professionals from three reference hospitals for mothers and children. Sociodemographic data, practices and knowledge about breastfeeding (BF) were collected through a self-administered survey. It was approved by the Ethics Committee. Results: 65.3% (n=96) of the participants had children, of whom 95.8% (n=91) were breastfed and 81.3% (n=78) exclusively breastfed with a median duration of 6 months. 36.1% (n=53) received training on BF. 61.9% (n=91) know the concept of exclusive BF, 41.5% (n=61) identified benefits of BF and 47.6% (n=70) idenridiws risks due to non-consumption of breast milk. 81.6% (n=120) know about early attachment. 72.1% (n=106) know the contraindications for BF. 87.1% (n=128) know the possible complications, 67.3% (n=99) have knowledge to prevent complications. Conclusion: Two thirds of healthcare personnel have adequate concepts about BF, only 4 out of 10 professionals know the benefits of BF and the risks of artificial feeding. Most know about the complications of BF, but not how to prevent them.

Shifting stoichiometry: Long-term trends in stream-dissolved organic matter reveal altered C:N ratios due to history of atmospheric acid deposition.

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrogen (DON) are important energy and nutrient sources for aquatic ecosystems. In many northern temperate, freshwater systems DOC has increased in the past 50 years. Less is known about how changes in DOC may vary across latitudes, and whether changes in DON track those of DOC. Here, we present long-term DOC and DON data from 74 streams distributed across seven sites in biomes ranging from the tropics to northern boreal forests with varying histories of atmospheric acid deposition. For each stream, we examined the temporal trends of DOC and DON concentrations and DOC:DON molar ratios. While some sites displayed consistent positive or negative trends in stream DOC and DON concentrations, changes in direction or magnitude were inconsistent at regional or local scales. DON trends did not always track those of DOC, though DOC:DON ratios increased over time for ~30% of streams. Our results indicate that the dissolved organic matter (DOM) pool is experiencing fundamental changes due to the recovery from atmospheric acid deposition. Changes in DOC:DON stoichiometry point to a shifting energy-nutrient balance in many aquatic ecosystems. Sustained changes in the character of DOM can have major implications for stream metabolism, biogeochemical processes, food webs, and drinking water quality (including disinfection by-products). Understanding regional and global variation in DOC and DON concentrations is important for developing realistic models and watershed management protocols to effectively target mitigation efforts aimed at bringing DOM flux and nutrient enrichment under control.

Towards women-inclusive ecology: Representation, behavior, and perception of women at an international conference.

Conferences are ideal platforms for studying gender gaps in science because they are important cultural events that reflect barriers to women in academia. Here, we explored women's participation in ecology conferences by analyzing female representation, behavior, and personal experience at the 1st Meeting of the Iberian Society of Ecology (SIBECOL). The conference had 722 attendees, 576 contributions, and 27 scientific sessions. The gender of attendees and presenters was balanced (48/52% women/men), yet only 29% of the contributions had a woman as last author. Moreover, men presented most of the keynote talks (67%) and convened most of the sessions. Our results also showed that only 32% of the questions were asked by women, yet the number of questions raised by women increased when the speaker or the convener was a woman. Finally, the post-conference survey revealed that attendees had a good experience and did not perceive the event as a threatening context for women. Yet, differences in the responses between genders suggest that women tended to have a worse experience than their male counterparts. Although our results showed clear gender biases, most of the participants of the conference failed to detect it. Overall, we highlight the challenge of increasing women's scientific leadership, visibility and interaction in scientific conferences and we suggest several recommendations for creating inclusive meetings, thereby promoting equal opportunities for all participants.

Alergias alimentarias en pediatría: frecuencia, características clínicas y alergenos más frecuentes en pacientes de un consultorio pediátrico de alergia de referencia

RESUMEN Introducción: Las alergias alimentarias constituyen una patología cada vez más frecuente en la infancia. Es importante conocer sus características para su prevención y mejor abordaje terapéutico. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia, las características clínicas y los tipos de alimentos desencadenantes de las alergias alimentarias más frecuentes, en pacientes pediátricos en un consultorio de referencia, entre marzo 2016-marzo de 2019. Materiales y Métodos: estudio transversal, descriptivo, observacional con datos secundarios de fichas clínicas de pacientes de menores de 18 años. Se estudiaron edad, sexo, manifestaciones clínicas y tipo de alergeno alimentario desencadenante, detectado por RAST. Resultados: La mediana de edad de diagnóstico fue de 10 meses, fueron lactantes 52(73%) pacientes, 10(14%) fueron prescolares y el resto escolares y adolescentes; 43(60%) fueron varones. Las lesiones cutáneas estuvieron presentes (aisladas o combinadas con otros síntomas) en 46 casos (64%); los síntomas respiratorios en 38 casos (53%); gastrointestinales en 30 casos (42,2%). La leche fue el alergeno alimentario detectado en 52 (73%) pacientes, el huevo en 33 (46%), el trigo en 7(9,8%), la soja en 6(8,5%), el gluten en 5(7%); las golosinas, el maní, el maíz y los embutidos en 2 (2,8%) niños y finalmente la sandía, el tomate y los condimentos en 1(1,4%) caso. Se registró un único alérgeno en 46 casos (64,7%), dos alérgenos en 16 casos (22,5%), tres alérgenos en 5 casos (7%), y más de tres alérgenos en 4 casos (5,6%). Conclusiones: Los lactantes son los más afectados por las alergias alimentarias siendo más prevalentes los síntomas cutáneos y digestivos. La proteína de leche de vaca es el alergeno más frecuente seguido por el huevo.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Food allergies are an increasingly frequent pathology in childhood. In order to prevent them and to offer a better therapeutic approach, it is important to characterize them. Objective: To determine the frequency, clinical characteristics and types of foods that trigger the most frequent food allergies, in pediatric patients at a referral clinic, between March 2016-March 2019. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study with secondary data from clinical records of patients under 18 years of age. Age, sex, clinical manifestations and type of triggering food allergen, detected by RAST, were studied. Results: The median age of diagnosis was 10 months, 52 (73%) patients were infants, 10 (14%) were preschool and the rest were schoolchildren and adolescents; 43 (60%) were male. Skin lesions were present (isolated or combined with other symptoms) in 46 cases (64%); respiratory symptoms in 38 cases (53%); gastrointestinal in 30 cases (42.2%). Milk was the food allergen detected in 52 (73%) patients, egg in 33 (46%), wheat in 7 (9.8%), soy in 6 (8.5%), gluten in 5 (7%); sweets, peanuts, corn and sausages in 2 (2.8%) children and finally watermelon, tomato and condiments in 1 (1.4%) case. A single allergen was recorded in 46 cases (64.7%), two allergens in 16 cases (22.5%), three allergens in 5 cases (7%), and more than three allergens in 4 cases (5.6%). Conclusions: Infants are the most affected by food allergies, skin and digestive symptoms are more prevalent. Cow's milk protein is the most common allergen followed by eggs.

Fcγ receptor activation mediates vascular inflammation and abdominal aortic aneurysm development.

BACKGROUND: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a degenerative vascular pathology characterized by permanent dilation of the aorta, is considered a chronic inflammatory disease involving innate/adaptive immunity. However, the functional role of antibody-dependent immune response against antigens present in the damaged vessel remains unresolved. We hypothesized that engagement of immunoglobulin G (IgG) Fc receptors (FcγR) by immune complexes (IC) in the aortic wall contributes to AAA development. We therefore evaluated FcγR expression in AAA lesions and analysed whether inhibition of FcγR signaling molecules (γ-chain and Syk kinase) influences AAA formation in mice. METHODS: FcγR gene/protein expression was assessed in human and mouse AAA tissues. Experimental AAA was induced by aortic elastase perfusion in wild-type (WT) mice and γ-chain knockout (γKO) mice (devoid of activating FcγR) in combination with macrophage adoptive transfer or Syk inhibitor treatment. To verify the mechanisms of FcγR in vitro, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and macrophages were stimulated with IgG IC. RESULTS: FcγR overexpression was detected in adventitia and media layers of human and mouse AAA. Elastase-perfused γKO mice exhibited a decrease in AAA incidence, aortic dilation, elastin degradation, and VSMC loss. This was associated with (1) reduced infiltrating leukocytes and immune deposits in AAA lesions, (2) inflammatory genes and metalloproteinases downregulation, (3) redox balance restoration, and (4) converse phenotype of anti-inflammatory macrophage M2 and contractile VSMC. Adoptive transfer of FcγR-expressing macrophages aggravated aneurysm in γKO mice. In vitro, FcγR deficiency attenuated inflammatory gene expression, oxidative stress, and phenotypic switch triggered by IC. Additionally, Syk inhibition prevented IC-mediated cell responses, reduced inflammation, and mitigated AAA formation. CONCLUSION: Our findings provide insight into the role and mechanisms mediating IgG-FcγR-associated inflammation and aortic wall injury in AAA, which might represent therapeutic targets against AAA disease.

Cyclic mimetics of kinase-inhibitory region of Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling 1: Progress toward novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics.

Herein we investigated the structural and cellular effects ensuing from the cyclization of a potent inhibitor of JAK2 as mimetic of SOCS1 protein, named PS5. The introduction of un-natural residues and a lactam internal bridge, within SOCS1-KIR motif, produced candidates that showed high affinity toward JAK2 catalytic domain. By combining CD, NMR and computational studies, we obtained valuable models of the interactions of two peptidomimetics of SOCS1 to deepen their functional behaviors. Notably, when assayed for their biological cell responses mimicking SOCS1 activity, the internal cyclic PS5 analogues demonstrated able to inhibit JAK-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1 and to reduce cytokine-induced proinflammatory gene expression, oxidative stress generation and cell migration. The present study well inserts in the field of low-molecular-weight proteomimetics with improved longtime cellular effects and adds a new piece to the puzzled way for the conversion of bioactive peptides into drugs.

Protective effect of suppressor of cytokine signalling 1-based therapy in experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multifactorial disease characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and proteolytic activity in the aortic wall. Targeting JAK/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway is a promising strategy for chronic inflammatory diseases. We investigated the vasculo-protective role of suppressor of cytokine signalling-1 (SOCS1), the negative JAK/STAT regulator, in experimental AAA. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: A synthetic, cell permeable peptide (S1) mimic of SOCS1 kinase inhibitory domain to suppress STAT activation was evaluated in the well-established mouse model of elastase-induced AAA by monitoring changes in aortic diameter, cellular composition and gene expression in abdominal aorta. S1 function was further evaluated in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and macrophages exposed to elastase or elastin-derived peptides. KEY RESULTS: S1 peptide prevented AAA development, evidenced by reduced incidence of AAA, aortic dilation and elastin degradation, partial restoration of medial VSMC and decreased inflammatory cells and oxidative stress in AAA tissue. Mechanistically, S1 suppressed STAT1/3 activation in aorta, down-regulated cytokines, metalloproteinases and altered the expression of cell differentiation markers by favouring anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage and contractile VSMC phenotypes. In vitro, S1 suppressed the expression of inflammatory and oxidative genes, reduced cell migration and reversed the phenotypic switch of macrophages and VSMC. By contrast, SOCS1 silencing promoted inflammatory response. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: This preclinical study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of SOCS1-derived peptide to halt AAA progression by suppressing JAK/STAT-mediated inflammation and aortic dilation. S1 peptide may therefore be a valuable option for the treatment of AAA.

Evaluación de la cobertura de la merienda escolar en 4 departamentos de Paraguay. Años 2016-2018

RESUMEN Introducción: La merienda escolar contribuye con la nutrición y rendimiento escolar, es importante conocer su alcance. Objetivo: Evaluar la merienda escolar en Concepción, Cordillera, Paraguarí y Central, en cuanto implementación y cobertura. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo de licitaciones para merienda escolar entre 2016-2018 en Concepción, Cordillera, Paraguarí y Central. Fueron caracterizadas las instituciones incluidas, días cubiertos del calendario escolar (180 días) y cantidad de beneficiarios. Resultados: Fueron incluidas 15 licitaciones. En Concepción 90% fueron instituciones públicas, 6% privadas, 3% sin datos; Cordillera 88% fueron públicas, 8% privadas, 4% sin datos; Paraguarí 91% fueron públicas, 3% privadas, resto sin datos; Central 12% fueron privadas 11% sin datos, resto públicas. En Concepción fueron 30.112 beneficiarios en 2016/2017 y 27.514 en 2018, en Cordillera aumentó de 37.167 (2017) a 44.375 (2018); en Paraguarí varió de 30.339 (2016) a 29.761 (2018), en Central fueron 180.535 beneficiarios en 2017-2018. En Concepción en 2016/2017 se planificó merienda para 80 días, 133 días en 2018, en Cordillera 160 días en 2017, 117 días en 2018; en Paraguarí en 2016 fueron 122 días, 110 en 2017 y 117 días en 2018; en Central fueron 216 días en 2017-2018.Los beneficiarios cubiertos según Registro Único de Estudiantes al 2018 fue 78,5% en Concepción, 87% en Cordillera, 90% en Paraguarí, 75% en Central. Conclusiones: En provisión de merienda escolar, la mayoría fueron instituciones públicas, hubo descenso de beneficiarios en el 2018 excepto Cordillera. 2/3 de los beneficiarios registrados fueron incluidos y se proveyó durante poco más de la mitad del año escolar.

ABSTRAC Introduction: The school meal contributes to nutrition and school performance, it is important to know its reach. Objective: To evaluate school meals in Concepción, Cordillera, Paraguarí and Central, in terms of implementation and reach. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, observational study of awarded contracts for school meals between 2016-2018 in Concepción, Cordillera, Paraguarí and Central. We characterized the included institutions, covered days of the school calendar (180 days) and number of beneficiaries. Results: 15 contracts were included. In Concepción, 90% of schools were public institutions, 6% private, 3% without data; in Cordillera 88% were public, 8% private, 4% without data; in Paraguarí 91% were public, 3% private, the rest without data; in Central 12% were private, 11% without data, the rest public. In Concepción there were 30,112 beneficiaries in 2016/2017 and 27,514 in 2018, in Cordillera it increased from 37,167 (2017) to 44,375 (2018); in Paraguarí it varied from 30,339 (2016) to 29,761 (2018), in Central there were 180,535 beneficiaries in 2017-2018. In Concepción in 2016/2017 meals were planned for 80 days, 133 days in 2018, in Cordillera 160 days in 2017, 117 days in 2018; in Paraguarí in 2016 there were 122 days, 110 in 2017 and 117 days in 2018; In Central there were 216 days in 2017-2018. The beneficiaries covered according to the Single Student Registry in 2018 were 78.5% in Concepción, 87% in Cordillera, 90% in Paraguarí, 75% in Central. Conclusions: In the provision of school meals, the majority of schools were public institutions, there was a decrease in beneficiaries in 2018 except in Cordillera. 2/3 of the registered beneficiaries were included and meals were provided for just over half the school year.

Desprendimiento seroso de retina agudo inducido por cirugía en posición prono / Acute serous detachment of retina after surgery in prone position

Resumen La posición en decúbito prono es utilizada en cirugía para acceder a diferentes estructuras anatómicas del paciente. Esta posición puede asociarse a pérdida visual postoperatoria en el 0,05 a 1 % de las complicaciones reportadas. El desprendimiento seroso de retina es la separación de la retina neurosensorial del epitelio pigmentario de la retina por acumulación de líquido, sin daño estructural, como resultado de cambios en la permeabilidad y perfusión de la coroides. Se presenta el caso de una mujer con indicación de extracción de prótesis glútea bilateral mediante cirugía en decúbito prono. Se identificó un desplazamiento del cojín posicionado en la cara y la cabecera no correspondía con la estructura ósea de la paciente. En sala de recuperación la paciente refirió pérdida visual en ojo izquierdo, por lo cual fue evaluada inmediatamente por Oftalmología encontrando una presión intraocular bilateral normal; un examen de fondo de ojo izquierdo evidenció múltiples áreas de desprendimiento de la retina. La tomografía con coherencia óptica confirmó la presencia de fluido subretiniano. Fue tratada con nepafenaco y prednisolona tópicas y evaluada a las 72 horas y a la semana, con resolución total del cuadro y agudeza visual corregida de 20/20. No existen reportes en la literatura de desprendimiento seroso de retina posterior a cirugía en prono. Al evaluar el caso se asumió que la incorrecta posición del cojín y el tamaño inadecuado de la cabecera fueron factores que podrían haber contribuido a estasis venoso del flujo coroideo aumentando súbitamente la presión hidrostática en la coroides, lo que provocó el desprendimiento seroso de retina.

Abstract Prone position is used in surgery to access different anatomical structures of the patient. This position can be associated with postoperative visual loss in 0.05 to 1 % of complications. Serous retinal detachment is the separation of the neurosensory retina from the retinal pigment epithelium by fluid accumulation without structural damage. This is the result of changes in the permeability and perfusion of the choroid. This is the case of a woman with an indication for removal of a bilateral gluteal prosthesis by surgery in the prone position. A displacement of the cushion positioned on the face was identified and the headboard did not correspond to the bone structure of the patient. In the recovery room, the patient reported visual loss in the left eye, which was immediately evaluated by Ophthalmology, finding a normal bilateral intraocular pressure. The left eye fundus examination revealed multiple areas of retinal detachment. Optical coherence tomography confirmed the presence of subretinal fluid. She was treated with topical nepafenac and prednisolone, and evaluated at 72 hours and a week, with total resolution of the condition and corrected visual acuity of 20/20. There are no reports in the literature of serous retinal detachment after prone surgery. When evaluating the case, it was assumed that the incorrect position of the cushion and the inadequate size of the bedside are factors that could have contributed to venous stasis of the choroidal flow, suddenly increasing the hydrostatic pressure in the choroid that caused the serous retinal detachment.

Effect of Three Emergent Macrophyte Species on Nutrient Retention in Aquatic Environments under Excess Nutrient Loading.

Emergent macrophyte species selection is critical for the effectiveness of nature-based engineered solutions aiming to address excess nutrient concentrations in freshwater ecosystems. Yet, the mechanisms with which macrophytes enhance nutrient retention need to be further understood. Here, we compared nutrient retention among 12 artificial flumes fed with effluents from a wastewater treatment plant and subjected to four treatments: absence of macrophytes (control) and presence of three different macrophyte species (Iris pseudacorus L., Phragmites australis L., and Schoenoplectus lacustris L.). We estimated the net and gross nutrient uptake based on the longitudinal profiles of ambient concentrations and on pulse injections of ammonium (NH4+) and soluble reactive phosphorus. Further, we investigated the influence of subsurface hydrological retention, attributed to the architectural differences in the roots of these macrophytes, on nutrient retention. Results showed a species-specific effect of macrophytes on nutrient retention and confirmed root-associated subsurface hydrological retention as a driving factor. Schoenoplectus showed both high net and gross NH4+ uptake, thereby being the most effective species to address N loading, compared to Iris and Phragmites. This work contributes to improve our mechanistic understanding of the role of emergent macrophytes on nutrient retention in aquatic environments.

Antioxidant Effects of PS5, a Peptidomimetic of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1, in Experimental Atherosclerosis.

The chronic activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway is linked to oxidative stress, inflammation and cell proliferation. Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins negatively regulate the JAK/STAT, and SOCS1 possesses a small kinase inhibitory region (KIR) involved in the inhibition of JAK kinases. Several studies showed that KIR-SOCS1 mimetics can be considered valuable therapeutics in several disorders (e.g., diabetes, neurological disorders and atherosclerosis). Herein, we investigated the antioxidant and atheroprotective effects of PS5, a peptidomimetic of KIR-SOCS1, both in vitro (vascular smooth muscle cells and macrophages) and in vivo (atherosclerosis mouse model) by analyzing gene expression, intracellular O2•- production and atheroma plaque progression and composition. PS5 was revealed to be able to attenuate NADPH oxidase (NOX1 and NOX4) and pro-inflammatory gene expression, to upregulate antioxidant genes and to reduce atheroma plaque size, lipid content and monocyte/macrophage accumulation. These findings confirm that KIR-SOCS1-based drugs could be excellent antioxidant agents to contrast atherosclerosis.

Targeting NF-κB by the Cell-Permeable NEMO-Binding Domain Peptide Improves Albuminuria and Renal Lesions in an Experimental Model of Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a multifactorial disease characterized by hyperglycemia and close interaction of hemodynamic, metabolic and inflammatory factors. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) is a principal matchmaker linking hyperglycemia and inflammation. The present work investigates the cell-permeable peptide containing the inhibitor of kappa B kinase γ (IKKγ)/NF-κB essential modulator (NEMO)-binding domain (NBD) as therapeutic option to modulate inflammation in a preclinical model of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with DN. Black and tan, brachyuric obese/obese mice were randomized into 4 interventions groups: Active NBD peptide (10 and 6 µg/g body weight); Inactive mutant peptide (10 µg/g); and vehicle control. In vivo/ex vivo fluorescence imaging revealed efficient delivery of NBD peptide, systemic biodistribution and selective renal metabolization. In vivo administration of active NBD peptide improved albuminuria (>40% reduction on average) and kidney damage, decreased podocyte loss and basement membrane thickness, and modulated the expression of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers. In vitro, NBD blocked IKK-mediated NF-κB induction and target gene expression in mesangial cells exposed to diabetic-like milieu. These results constitute the first nephroprotective effect of NBD peptide in a T2D mouse model that recapitulates the kidney lesions observed in DN patients. Targeting IKK-dependent NF-κB activation could be a therapeutic strategy to combat kidney inflammation in DN.