HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 genes in patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus in Guatemala.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that impacts connective tissue and can affect various organs and systems within the body. One important aspect of this disease is the role of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system, a protein complex that plays a role in the immune response. Specifically, the HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 genes have been implicated in the development of SLE. In order to better understand this relationship in the Guatemalan population, a study was conducted with the objective of characterizing the allelic and haplotype profiles of the HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1 loci in 50 patients diagnosed with SLE who were receiving treatment at a hospital in Guatemala. Allele and haplotype frequencies were determined and compared to 127 healthy Guatemalan subjects as a control group. The results of the analysis showed a reduction in the frequencies of HLA-DQB1*03 and HLA-DRB1*14 in SLE patients, which could suggest a protective effect on the development of the disease. In contrast, a risk association was found between HLA-DRB1*07, HLA-DRB1*08, HLA-DQB1*02 and HLA-DQB1*06 in SLE patients. Finally, we observed an additional protective associated of haplotype HLA-DRB1*04∼DQB1*03 with SLE patients, while haplotypes HLA-DRB1*07∼DQB1*02 and DRB1*08-DQB1*06 showed a risk association.

Exposure to urban ambient particles (PM2.5) before pregnancy affects the expression of endometrial receptive markers to embryo implantation in mice: Preliminary results.

Air pollution (AP) is one of the main recent concerns in reproductive healthy due to its potential to promote negative outcomes during pregnancy and male and female fertility. Several studies have demonstrated that AP exposure has been linked to increased embryonic implantation failures, alterations in embryonic, fetal and placental development. For a well-succeeded implantation, both competent blastocyst and receptive endometrium are required. Based on the lack of data about the effect of AP in endometrial receptivity, this study aimed to evaluate he particulate matter (PM) exposure impact on uterine receptive markers in mice and associate the alterations to increased implantation failures due to AP. For this study, ten dams per group were exposed for 39 days to either filter (F) or polluted air (CAP). At fourth gestational day (GD4), females were euthanized. Morphological, ultrastructural, immunohistochemical and molecular analysis of uterine and ovarian samples were performed. CAP-exposed females presented a reduced number of corpus luteum; glands and epithelial cells were increased with pinopodes formation impairment. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed decreased LIF protein levels. These preliminary data suggests that PM exposure may exert negative effects on endometrial receptivity by affecting crucial parameters to embryonic implantation as uterine morphological differentiation, corpus luteum quantity and LIF expression during implantation window.

Liver transplantation in Latin America: reality and challenges.

Healthcare systems in Latin America are broadly heterogeneous, but all of them are burdened by a dramatic rise in liver disease. Some challenges that these countries face include an increase in patients requiring a transplant, insufficient rates of organ donation, delayed referral, and inequitable or suboptimal access to liver transplant programs and post-transplant care. This could be improved by expanding the donor pool through the implementation of education programs for citizens and referring physicians, as well as the inclusion of extended criteria donors, living donors and split liver transplantation. Addressing these shortcomings will require national shifts aimed at improving infrastructure, increasing awareness of organ donation, training medical personnel, and providing equitable access to care for all patients.

Expanding the application of graphene vertical devices to dual femtomolar detection of SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain in serum and saliva.

The emergence of the graphene-based hybrid electrical-electrochemical vertical device (EEVD) has introduced a promising nanostructured biosensor tailored for point-of-care applications. In this study, we present an innovative EEVD capable of simultaneously detecting the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in both serum and saliva. The foundation of the EEVD lies in a poly-neutral red-graphene heterojunction, which has been enhanced with a bioconjugate of gold nanoparticles and antibodies. The biodevice demonstrates a remarkable limit of detection, registering at the femtomolar scale (2.86 fmol L-1 or 0.1 pg mL-1). Its sensitivity is characterized by a 6.1 mV/decade response, and its operational range spans 10-12 to 10-7 g mL-1 in both serum and saliva samples. With a 20.0 µL of biological samples and a rapid processing time of under 10 min, the EEVD achieves the feat of dual antigen detection. The tests achieved 100.0% specificity, accuracy, and sensitivity in saliva, and 100.0% specificity, 88.9% accuracy, and 80.0% sensitivity in serum. This study highlights the EEVD as a low-cost solution of rapid viral detection during the crucial initial phases of COVID-19 infections.

CRISPR-Cas-Based Biomonitoring for Marine Environments: Toward CRISPR RNA Design Optimization Via Deep Learning.

Almost all of Earth's oceans are now impacted by multiple anthropogenic stressors, including the spread of nonindigenous species, harmful algal blooms, and pathogens. Early detection is critical to manage these stressors effectively and to protect marine systems and the ecosystem services they provide. Molecular tools have emerged as a promising solution for marine biomonitoring. One of the latest advancements involves utilizing CRISPR-Cas technology to build programmable, rapid, ultrasensitive, and specific diagnostics. CRISPR-based diagnostics (CRISPR-Dx) has the potential to allow robust, reliable, and cost-effective biomonitoring in near real time. However, several challenges must be overcome before CRISPR-Dx can be established as a mainstream tool for marine biomonitoring. A critical unmet challenge is the need to design, optimize, and experimentally validate CRISPR-Dx assays. Artificial intelligence has recently been presented as a potential approach to tackle this challenge. This perspective synthesizes recent advances in CRISPR-Dx and machine learning modeling approaches, showcasing CRISPR-Dx potential to progress as a rising molecular tool candidate for marine biomonitoring applications.

Relación entre el desempeño motor real evaluado con pruebas orientadas al proceso y el desempeño motor real evaluado con pruebas orientadas al producto: un metaanálisis / Relationship between process- and product-oriented assessments of actual motor performance: a meta-analysis

Jiménez-Díaz, J., Chaves-Castro, K. y Carpio-Rivera, E. (2023). Relación entre el desempeño motor real evaluado con pruebas orientadas al proceso y el desempeño motor real evaluado con pruebas orientadas al producto: un metaanálisis. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. El desempeño motor suele ser evaluado de dos formas; la primera se enfoca en cómo se realiza la destreza, mientras que la segunda registra el resultado obtenido después de la ejecución; ambas son ampliamente usadas, sin embargo, la relación entre ellas no está clara. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la relación entre los resultados de las pruebas orientadas al proceso o al producto utilizadas para medir el desempeño motor real y examinar posibles variables moderadoras por medio de la técnica meta-analítica. Para resumir los resultados, se utilizó el modelo de efectos aleatorios (REML) y se calculó el tamaño de efecto (TE) de correlación. Un total de siete estudios cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad, se obtuvo un total de 37 TE. Se encontró que existe una relación significativa y positiva entre el desempeño evaluado por medio de proceso y producto (TE = 0.466; IC95% = 0.391,0.541; p < .001; n = 37; Q = 78.68; p < .001; I2 = 60.17%). Como posibles variables moderadoras se analizó la edad y el tipo de destreza. Los resultados sugieren que existe una relación entre el desempeño motor real evaluado por medio de pruebas orientadas al proceso y al producto, la edad y el tipo de destreza no influyen en dicha relación.

Jiménez-Díaz, J., Chaves-Castro, K. y Carpio-Rivera, E. (2023). Relationship between process- and product-oriented assessments of actual motor performance: a meta-analysis. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. Motor performance is often assessed in two different ways. The first of them focuses on how the skill is carried out, whereas the second records the product obtained after execution. While both are widely used, the relationship between them is not clear. The objective of the present study is to determine the relationship between the results of process- or product-oriented tests that are used to measure actual motor performance, and to examine possible moderating variables through the meta-analytic technique. In order to sum up the products, the random effect model (REML) was used and the effect size (TE) of the correlation was calculated. A total seven studies met the criteria for eligibility, and a total 37 TE were obtained. It was found that a significant and positive relationship exists between process- and product-evaluated performance (TE = 0.466; IC95% = 0.391, 0.541; p < .001; n = 37; Q = 78.68; p < .001; I2 = 60.17%). Age and skill type were analyzed as possible moderating variables. The results suggest that a relationship exists between process- and product-oriented assessments of actual motor performance, while age and the type of skill have no influence on that relationship.

Jiménez-Díaz, J., Chaves-Castro, K. y Carpio-Rivera, E. (2023). Relação entre o desempenho motor real, avaliado por testes orientados a processos e a produtos: uma metanálise. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. O desempenho motor é geralmente avaliado de duas maneiras; a primeira se concentra em como a destreza é realizada, enquanto a segunda registra o resultado obtido após a execução; ambas são amplamente utilizadas, no entanto, a relação entre elas não é clara. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a relação entre os resultados de testes orientados a processos ou a produtos usados para medir o desempenho motor real e examinar possíveis variáveis moderadoras por meio da técnica metanalítica. Para resumir os resultados, foi utilizado o modelo de efeitos aleatórios (REML) e calculado o tamanho do efeito (TDE) da correlação. Um total de sete estudos cumpriram os critérios de elegibilidade, resultando em um total de 37 TDEs. Foi encontrada uma relação significativa e positiva entre o desempenho avaliado por processo e produto (TDE = 0,466; IC95% = 0,391, 0,541; p < 0,001; n = 37; Q = 78,68; p < 0,001; I2 = 60,17%). A idade e o tipo de habilidade foram analisados como possíveis variáveis moderadoras. Os resultados sugerem que existe uma relação entre o desempenho motor real, avaliado por testes orientados a processos e a produtos, idade e tipo de habilidade não influenciam esta relação.

Electrochemical magneto-immunoassay for detection of zika virus antibody in human serum.

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a flavivirus transmitted by infected Aedes genus mosquitoes. An infected person may be asymptomatic or present symptoms such as fever, arthralgia, and in pregnancy it may lead to neurological disorders in the fetus, such as microcephaly. Based on the high dissemination potential of ZIVK and its similar antigen composition to other arboviruses, new approaches for selective virus detection are urgently needed. This work reports the development of an electrochemical immunoassay for detection of anti-ZIKV antibodies, using magnetic beads functionalized with recombinant protein derived from the non-structural protein 1 (ΔNS1-ZIKV) and anti-IgG antibodies labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme. The magneto-immunoassay uses disposable microfluidic devices for detection of anti-ZIKV in serum samples. A linear response was obtained for a wide concentration range from 0.01 to 9.80 × 105 pg mL-1 (r2 = 0.982), with a limit of detection of 0.48 pg mL-1. The proposed immunoassay proved to be highly efficient for the detection of anti-ZIKV antibodies in serum, offering promising perspectives for the development of fast, simple, and affordable point-of-care diagnosis devices for ZIKV.

Low-dimensionality carbon-based biosensors: the new era of emerging technologies in bioanalytical chemistry.

Since the last decade, carbon nanomaterials have had a notable impact on different fields such as bioimaging, drug delivery, artificial tissue engineering, and biosensors. This is due to their good compatibility toward a wide range of chemical to biological molecules, low toxicity, and tunable properties. Especially for biosensor technology, the characteristic features of each dimensionality of carbon-based materials may influence the performance and viability of their use. Surface area, porous network, hybridization, functionalization, synthesis route, the combination of dimensionalities, purity levels, and the mechanisms underlying carbon nanomaterial interactions influence their applications in bioanalytical chemistry. Efforts are being made to fully understand how nanomaterials can influence biological interactions, to develop commercially viable biosensors, and to gain knowledge on the biomolecular processes associated with carbon. Here, we present a comprehensive review highlighting the characteristic features of the dimensionality of carbon-based materials in biosensing.

From research to market: correlation between publications, patent filings, and investments in development and production of technological innovations in biosensors.

As the global population grows and science and technology development evolve, fulfilling basic human needs has been even more linked to technological solutions. In this review, we present an overview of the biosensor market and discuss the factors that make certain countries more competitive than others in terms of technology and innovation and how this is reflected in the trends in publication and patent filling. Additionally, we expose briefly how the COVID-19 pandemic acts as a catalyst for the integration of research and development, business, and innovation sectors to bring solutions and ideas that have been predicted as tendencies for the future.

Electrochemical magneto-immunoassay for detection of zika virus antibody in human serum

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a flavivirus transmitted by infected Aedes genus mosquitoes. An infected person may be asymptomatic or present symptoms such as fever, arthralgia, and in pregnancy it may lead to neurological disorders in the fetus, such as microcephaly. Based on the high dissemination potential of ZIVK and its similar antigen composition to other arboviruses, new approaches for selective virus detection are urgently needed. This work reports the development of an electrochemical immunoassay for detection of anti-ZIKV antibodies, using magnetic beads functionalized with recombinant protein derived from the non-structural protein 1 (ΔNS1-ZIKV) and anti-IgG antibodies labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme. The magneto-immunoassay uses disposable microfluidic devices for detection of anti-ZIKV in serum samples. A linear response was obtained for a wide concentration range from 0.01 to 9.80 × 105 pg mL−1 (r2 = 0.982), with a limit of detection of 0.48 pg mL−1. The proposed immunoassay proved to be highly efficient for the detection of anti-ZIKV antibodies in serum, offering promising perspectives for the development of fast, simple, and affordable point-of-care diagnosis devices for ZIKV.

Os reflexos do passado sobre a enfermagem atual brasileira: lutas, conquistas, desafios e perspectivas / Reflections of the past on current brazilian nursing: fights, achievements, challenges and perspectives / Reflexiones del pasado sobre la enfermería brasileña actual: luchas, logros, desafíos y perspectivas

Objetivo: realizar uma análise histórica dos fatos que transcorreram na enfermagem e estabelecer um padrão sócio-histórico da participação feminina na profissão e dos paradigmas enfrentados até a atualidade no Brasil. Método: estudo teórico, reflexivo, fundamentado nos achados da literatura sobre a evolução histórica da enfermagem. Resultados: a prática profissional atual ainda apresenta os ecos das conjunturas vivenciadas no passado pela relação da mulher com o progresso da assistência à saúde. Além do papel feminino na estruturação da enfermagem, a íntima conexão entre a construção social da mulher e os estereótipos projetados sobre essa profissão, ainda impõe maiores dificuldades na luta pelo reconhecimento da enfermagem como ciência. Conclusão: o modo de constituição da profissão contribuiu para que a enfermagem fosse vinculada à sexualização e ao machismo. Entretanto, a mesma tornou-se uma profissão com base científica e técnica. Rebaixar mulheres e reduzi-las ao seu corpo é discrepante das conquistas femininas atuais.

Objectives: to study the history of nursing in Brazil and to establish a historical and social pattern of female participation in the profession. The study also looked at the current situation. Method: theoretical, reflective study, based on findings in the literature on the historical evolution of nursing. Results: current professional practice still echoes the circumstances experienced in the past by women's relationship with the progress of health care. In addition to the female role in the structuring of nursing, the intimate connection between the social construction of women and the stereotypes projected on this profession, still imposes greater difficulties in the fight for the recognition of nursing as a science. Conclusion: the way in which the profession was constituted contributed for nursing to be linked to sexualization and machismo. However, it has become a profession with a scientific and technical basis. Demeaning women and reducing them to their bodies is at odds with current female achievements.

Objetivos:realizar un análisis histórico de los hechos que transcurrieron en la enfermeria y establecer un padron socio-histórico de la participación feminina en la profesión y de los paradigmas encarados hasta la actualidad en Brasil. Método: estudio teórico, reflexivo, basado en los hallazgos de la literatura sobre la evolución histórica de la enfermería. Resultados:: la práctica profesional actual todavía se hace eco de las circunstancias vividas en el pasado por la relación de las mujeres con el progreso de la atención a la salud. Además del papel femenino en la estructuración de la enfermería, la íntima conexión entre la construcción social de la mujer y los estereotipos proyectados sobre esta profesión, aún impone mayores dificultades en la lucha por el reconocimiento de la enfermería como ciencia. Conclusión: la forma en que se constituyó la profesión contribuyó a que la enfermería se vincule a la sexualización y al machismo. Sin embargo, se ha convertido en una profesión con una base científica y técnica. Degradar a las mujeres y reducirlas a sus cuerpos está reñido con los logros femeninos actuales.

Práctica mental, física o combinada en el desempeño y aprendizaje motor: una respuesta meta-analítica / Mental, physical or combined practice in motor performance and learning: a meta-analytical response

Jiménez Díaz, J., Morera-Castro, M., Chaves-Castro, K., Portuguez-Molina, P., Araya-Vargas, G. y Salazar, W. (2022). Práctica mental, física o combinada en el desempeño y aprendizaje motor: una respuesta meta-analítica. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-37. En el proceso de adquisición de destrezas motrices la práctica es un elemento fundamental por que facilita el aprendizaje; esta práctica puede ser de dos tipos: física o mental. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el tamaño de efecto de la práctica física (PF), práctica mental (PM) y la práctica combinada (PC) a lo largo del proceso de adquisición y retención en el desempeño de las destrezas motrices, utilizando el enfoque meta-analítico y el análisis de posibles variables moderadoras. Se utilizó el modelo de efectos aleatorios para calcular el tamaño de efecto (TE). Se incluyeron 24 estudios y se obtuvo un total de 150 TE, separados en cuatro grupos. En la fase de adquisición se encontró que la PF (TE = 1.75; n = 36; IC = 0.96,3.55; Q = 113; I2 = 92%), la PM (TE = 0.80; n = 36; IC = 0.50,1.09; Q = 108; I 2= 74%) y la PC (TE = 1.78; n = 22; IC = 1.39,2.18; Q = 167; I2 = 79%) mejoraron su desempeño; además, el grupo control (GC) mejoró el desempeño en la adquisición (TE = 0.18; n = 22; IC = 0.02,0.35; Q = 19; I 2= 0%). Una metarregresión indicó que solo la práctica física, mental y combinada predicen significativamente el TE. En la fase de retención, ni la PF (TE = -0.97; n = 9; IC = -0.41,0.02; Q = 12; I2 = 29%), la PM (TE = 0.62; n = 6; IC = -0.19,1.45; Q = 22; I2 = 83%), la PC (TE = -0.01; n = 14; IC = -0.26,0.25; Q = 23; I2 = 46%), ni el GC (TE = -0.15; n = 5; IC = -0.75,0.44; Q = 11; I2 = 66%) presentaron un cambio significativo. Se analizaron las posibles variables moderadoras. Los resultados sugieren que los tres tipos de práctica mejoran en el desempeño en la fase de adquisición; mientras que, en la etapa de retención, favorecen a mantener lo aprendido. La PM, no reemplaza la PF; no obstante, bajo algunas condiciones, se puede complementar la PF con PM.

Jiménez Díaz, J., Morera-Castro, M., Chaves-Castro, K., Portuguez-Molina, P., Araya-Vargas, G. y Salazar, W. (2022). Mental, physical or combined practice in motor performance and learning: a meta-analytical response. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-37. Practice is a key element in the process of acquiring motor skills, because it facilitates learning. This practice can be of either of two types—physical or mental. The objective of the present study is to determine the extent of effect of physical practice (PF), mental practice (PM) and combined practice (PC) throughout the process of acquisition and retention in the performance of motor skills, using a meta-analytical approach and the analysis of possible moderating variables. The random effect model was used to calculate the extent of the effect (TE). A total 24 studies were included, and a total of 150 TE was obtained, separated in four groups. In the phase of acquisition, it was found that the PF (TE = 1.75; n = 36; IC = 0.96,3.55; Q = 113; I2 = 92%), the PM (TE = 0.80; n = 36; IC = 0.50,1.09; Q = 108; I2 = 74%) and the PC (TE = 1.78; n = 22; IC = 1.39,2.18; Q = 167; I2 = 79%) improved their performance; in addition, the control group (GC) improved the performance in acquisition (TE = 0.18; n = 22; IC = 0.02,0.35; Q = 19; I2 = 0%). A meta-regression indicated that only physical, mental and combined practice significantly predict the TE. In the retention phase, neither the PF (TE = -0.97; n = 9; IC = -0.41,0.02; Q = 12; I2 = 29%), the PM (TE = 0.62; n = 6; IC = -0.19,1.45; Q = 22; I2 = 83%), the PC (TE = -0.01; n = 14; IC = -0.26,0.25; Q = 23; I2 = 46%) or the GC (TE = -0.15; n = 5; IC = -0.75,0.44; Q = 11; I2 = 66%) showed a significant change. Possible moderating variables were analyzed. The results suggest that the three types of practice improve performance in the acquisition phase, while in the retention phase they help to keep what has been learned. The PM does not replace PF; however, PF can be complemented with PM under some conditions.

Jiménez Díaz, J., Morera-Castro, M., Chaves-Castro, K., Portuguez-Molina, P., Araya-Vargas, G. y Salazar, W. (2022). Prática mental, física ou combinada no desempenho e na aprendizagem motora: uma resposta metanalítica. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-37. No processo de aquisição de destrezas motoras, a prática é um elemento fundamental porque facilita o aprendizado; esta prática pode ser de dois tipos: física ou mental. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar o tamanho do efeito da prática física (PF), da prática mental (PM) e da prática combinada (PC) durante todo o processo de aquisição e retenção do desempenho das destrezas motoras, usando a abordagem metanalítica e a análise de possíveis variáveis moderadoras. Foi utilizado o modelo de efeitos aleatórios para calcular o tamanho do efeito (TDE). Vinte e quatro estudos foram incluídos e obtidos um total de 150 TDEs, separados em quatro grupos. Na fase de aquisição, PF (TDE = 1,75; n = 36; IC = 0,96,3,55; Q = 113; I2= 92%), PM (TDE = 0,80; n = 36; IC = 0,50,1,09; Q = 108; I 2= 74%) e CP(TDE = 1,78; n = 22; IC = 1,39,2,18; Q = 167; I 2 = 79%) melhoraram seu desempenho; além disso, o grupo de controle (GC) melhorou seu desempenho na aquisição(TDE = 0,18; n = 22; IC = 0,02,0,35; Q = 19; I 2= 0%). Uma meta-regressão indicou que apenas a prática física, mental e combinada prediz significativamente o TDE. Na fase de retenção, nem PF (TDE = -0,97; n = 9; IC = -0,41,0,02; Q = 12; I2= 29%), PM (TDE = 0,62; n = 6; IC = -0,19,1,45; Q = 22; I2 = 83%), PC (TDE = -0,01; n = 14; IC = -0,26,0,25; Q = 23; I2 = 46%), nem o GC (TDE = -0,15; n = 5; IC = -0,75,0,44; Q = 11; I2= 66%) apresentou uma mudança significativa. Foram analisadas as possíveis variáveis moderadoras. Os resultados indicam que os três tipos de prática melhoram o desempenho na fase de aquisição, enquanto na fase de retenção, eles melhoram a retenção do que foi aprendido. A PM não substitui a PF; no entanto, sob algumas condições, a PF pode ser complementada com a PM.

Computational design of vaccine immunogens.

Computational protein engineering has enabled the rational design of customized proteins, which has propelled both sequence-based and structure-based immunogen engineering and delivery. By discerning antigenic determinants of viral pathogens, computational methods have been implemented to successfully engineer representative viral strains able to elicit broadly neutralizing responses or present antigenic sites of viruses for focused immune responses. Combined with improvements in customizable nanoparticle design, immunogens are multivalently displayed to enhance immune responses. These rationally designed immunogens offer unique and powerful approaches to engineer vaccines for pathogens, which have eluded traditional approaches.

HLA molecular study of patients in a public kidney transplant program in Guatemala.

Guatemala is a country located in Central America, and while it is one of the most populated countries in the region, the genetic diversity of the population has been poorly analyzed. Currently, there are no analyses of the distribution of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system alleles in mixed ancestry (i.e., ladino) populations in Guatemala. The HLA system exhibits the most extensive polymorphism in the human genome and has been extensively analyzed in a large number of studies related to disease association, transplantation, and population genetics (with particular importance in the understanding of diversity in the human population). Here, we present HLA typing data from 127 samples of unrelated individuals from the kidney transplant program of the San Juan de Dios General Hospital (Guatemala City) using a PCR-SSOP-based (PCR-sequence specific oligonucleotide probes) typing method. We found 16 haplotypes that accounted for 39.76 % of the total haplotype diversity, of which thirteen have been reported previously in Native American populations and three have been reported in European populations. The analyses showed no deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and admixture estimates calculated with k = 3 ancestral components showed that Native American was the most represented component, followed by the European component. The African component was less prominent in the Guatemala mixed ancestry sample in comparison to samples from other countries in Central America. The HLA-based admixture results for Central America showed a continuum in the distribution of Native American, European and African ancestries throughout the region, which is consistent with the complex demographic history of the region.

Scaffolding protein functional sites using deep learning.

The binding and catalytic functions of proteins are generally mediated by a small number of functional residues held in place by the overall protein structure. Here, we describe deep learning approaches for scaffolding such functional sites without needing to prespecify the fold or secondary structure of the scaffold. The first approach, "constrained hallucination," optimizes sequences such that their predicted structures contain the desired functional site. The second approach, "inpainting," starts from the functional site and fills in additional sequence and structure to create a viable protein scaffold in a single forward pass through a specifically trained RoseTTAFold network. We use these two methods to design candidate immunogens, receptor traps, metalloproteins, enzymes, and protein-binding proteins and validate the designs using a combination of in silico and experimental tests.

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies pre- and post-vaccination behavior in health workers from a Guatemalan cancer center.

INTRODUCTION: The study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies allows asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 to be identified, and post-infection and post-vaccination immunity status to be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: To know the behavior of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies before and after vaccination in workers of a cancer center. METHODS: Prior to the application of the vaccine, the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies (n = 171) was analyzed by evaluating anti-N IgG antibodies; post-vaccination, after receiving the second dose, anti-S IgG antibodies were evaluated (n = 60). RESULTS: Prior to vaccination, IgG antibodies were present in 18.71% of participants; they were detected in 65.22% of those with prior history of COVID-19 diagnosis and in 11.49% of those without it. The positions with the highest prevalence were nurses (28.26%), paramedics (27.59%) and administrative workers (27.78%), p < 0.01. Anosmia, ageusia and chest tightness were associated with the presence of IgG (p < 0.05). Post-vaccination, all participants developed IgG antibodies; people with a previous COVID-19 diagnosis had higher titers: 10,277 vs. 6,819 AU/mL, p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS: The study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies allowed asymptomatic health workers to be identified. A high percentage of participants with prior COVID-19 diagnosis had antibodies. All participants developed IgG antibodies after vaccination, with higher titers being identified in those with previous infection.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El estudio de anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 permite identificar individuos asintomáticos con COVID-19 y evaluar la inmunidad posinfección y posvacunación. OBJETIVO: Conocer el comportamiento de los anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 pre y posvacunación en trabajadores de un centro oncológico. MÉTODOS: Antes de aplicar la vacuna se analizaron los anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 (n = 171) con la evaluación de IgG anti-N; después de la segunda dosis se evaluó IgG anti-S (n = 60). RESULTADOS: Prevacunación, los anticuerpos IgG estaban presentes en 18.71 % de los participantes; se detectaron en 65.22 % de aquellos con antecedente de diagnóstico de COVID-19 y en 11.49 % de aquellos sin antecedentes. Los profesiones con mayor prevalencia fueron enfermeros (28.26 %), paramédicos (27.59 %) y administrativos (27.78 %), p < 0.01. La anosmia, ageusia y opresión en el pecho se asociaron a la presencia de IgG (p < 0.05). Posvacunación, todos los participantes desarrollaron IgG; las personas con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19 presentaron mayores títulos: 10 277 versus 6819 UA/mL, p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONES: El estudio de anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 permitió identificar a trabajadores de salud asintomáticos. Un alto porcentaje de los participantes con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19 presentó anticuerpos. Todos los participantes desarrollaron anticuerpos IgG posvacunación; las personas con infección previa presentaron una cuantificación más alta de títulos.

Comportamiento de anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 en trabajadores de salud pre y posvacunación en un centro oncológico de Guatemala / Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies pre- and post-vaccination behavior in health workers from a Guatemalan cancer center

Resumen Introducción: El estudio de anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 permite identificar individuos asintomáticos con COVID-19 y evaluar la inmunidad posinfección y posvacunación. Objetivo: Conocer el comportamiento de los anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 pre y posvacunación en trabajadores de un centro oncológico. Métodos: Antes de aplicar la vacuna se analizaron los anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 (n = 171) con la evaluación de IgG anti-N; después de la segunda dosis se evaluó IgG anti-S (n = 60). Resultados: Prevacunación, los anticuerpos IgG estaban presentes en 18.71 % de los participantes; se detectaron en 65.22 % de aquellos con antecedente de diagnóstico de COVID-19 y en 11.49 % de aquellos sin antecedentes. Los profesiones con mayor prevalencia fueron enfermeros (28.26 %), paramédicos (27.59 %) y administrativos (27.78 %), p < 0.01. La anosmia, ageusia y opresión en el pecho se asociaron a la presencia de IgG (p < 0.05). Posvacunación, todos los participantes desarrollaron IgG; las personas con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19 presentaron mayores títulos: 10 277 versus 6819 UA/mL, p < 0.001. Conclusiones: El estudio de anticuerpos IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 permitió identificar a trabajadores de salud asintomáticos. Un alto porcentaje de los participantes con diagnóstico previo de COVID-19 presentó anticuerpos. Todos los participantes desarrollaron anticuerpos IgG posvacunación; las personas con infección previa presentaron una cuantificación más alta de títulos.

Abstract Introduction: The study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies allows asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 to be identified, and post-infection and post-vaccination immunity status to be evaluated. Objective: To know the behavior of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies before and after vaccination in workers of a cancer center. Methods: Prior to the application of the vaccine, the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies (n = 171) was analyzed by evaluating anti-N IgG antibodies; post-vaccination, after receiving the second dose, anti-S IgG antibodies were evaluated (n = 60). Results: Prior to vaccination, IgG antibodies were present in 18.71% of participants; they were detected in 65.22% of those with prior history of COVID-19 diagnosis and in 11.49% of those without it. The positions with the highest prevalence were nurses (28.26%), paramedics (27.59%) and administrative workers (27.78%), p < 0.01. Anosmia, ageusia and chest tightness were associated with the presence of IgG (p < 0.05). Post-vaccination, all participants developed IgG antibodies; people with a previous COVID-19 diagnosis had higher titers: 10,277 vs. 6,819 AU/mL, p < 0.001. Conclusions: The study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG allowed asymptomatic health workers to be identified. A high percentage of participants with prior COVID-19 diagnosis had antibodies. All participants developed IgG after vaccination, with higher titers being identified in those with previous infection.

Serum Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 4 Levels in Adolescents: Effect of Insulin Resistance.

Background: Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) is an adipokine that plays a causative role in obesity and diabetes. In a stratified cross-sectional study with adolescents, we explored whether changes in FABP4 are already present in lean adolescents, provided they display elements of insulin resistance (IR). Methods: Adolescents were divided in four groups according to body mass index and homeostasis model assessment-IR. Results: In metabolically unhealthy lean (MUL) adolescents (MUL, lean with IR), FABP4 was 33% higher than in healthy counterparts (metabolically healthy lean [MHL]). Obese adolescents without IR (metabolically healthy obesity [MHO]) had 50% higher levels of FABP4 than their lean counterparts (MHL), while levels of FABP4 in obese adolescents with IR (metabolically unhealthy obese [MUO]) were 220% higher than those of MUL adolescents. The differences were significant at least with P < 0.005. MUO > MHO > MUL. Our data demonstrate that the known FABP4 defect in adults with obesity also occurs in youth and even in lean adolescents, suggesting an early association between impaired glucose metabolism and FABP4 irrespective of body weight. FABP4 was more sensitive in discerning each of our 4 subgroups than either adiponectin or leptin. Moreover, evidence for a putative early adiponectin resistance in MUL suggests a combined defect in these adolescents that call for early detection and prevention of the metabolic disturbance that should stay away from concentrating only in subjects with obesity. Conclusions: Our data may serve to draw the considerable attention that is currently paid to FABP4 to the adolescent population, irrespective of the presence of obesity. Further studies with larger cohorts and analyses of visceral and liver fat are warranted.