Simplified acute physiology score II and Mannheim peritonitis index are associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with abdominal sepsis admitted to ICU.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the association and interaction of laboratory parameters, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPSII), Modified Shock Index (MSI), and Mannheim Peritonitis Index (MPI) with in-hospital mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a single-center case-control study. Adult patients with abdominal sepsis were included from May 2015 to May 2020. Baseline characteristics, laboratory parameters, SAPSII, MSI, and MPI scores at admission were collected. A principal component (PC) analysis was applied to evaluate variable interactions. In-hospital mortality risk was determined through logistic regression models. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-seven patients were identified, 60 of which were included for analyses. Non-survivors (48.4%) had a higher frequency of hypertension, lactate and MPI, and lower BE and alactic BE levels. Eight PCs were obtained, PC1 being a linear combination of pH, AG, cAG, alactic BE, bicarbonate, and BE. MPI (OR = 9.87, 95% CI: 3.07-36.61, p = 0.0002), SAPSII (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01-1.14, p = 0.01), and PC1 (OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.12-4.76, p = 0.04) were significantly associated with mortality in univariate analysis, while MPI (OR = 10.1, 95% CI: 3.03-40.06, p = 0.0003) and SAPSII (OR = 1.07, CI95%: 1.01-1.14, p = 0.02) remained significant after adjusting for age and sex. CONCLUSION: MPI and SAPSII were associated with mortality, although the interaction of laboratory parameters was not.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la asociación e interacción de los parámetros de laboratorio, SAPSII, MSI y MPI con la mortalidad intrahospitalaria. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Nosotros realizamos un estudio de casos y controles de pacientes adultos con sepsis abdominal desde mayo 2015 a mayo 2020. Recolectamos las características basales, parámetros de laboratorio, SAPSII, MSI y MPI al ingreso. Se aplicó un Análisis de Componentes Principales. El riesgo de mortalidad intrahospitalaria se determinó mediante modelos de regresión logística. RESULTADOS: Identificamos 127 pacientes, 60 de los cuales se incluyeron. Los no supervivientes (48,4%) tuvieron mayor frecuencia de HAS, lactato y MPI, y menores niveles de EB y EB aláctico. Se obtuvieron ocho Componentes Principales (PC), siendo PC1 una combinación lineal de pH, AG, cAG, EB aláctico, bicarbonato y EB. MPI (OR = 9.87, IC95%: 3.07-36.61, p = 0.0002), SAPSII (OR = 1.07, IC95%: 1.01-1.14, p = 0.01) y PC1 (OR = 2.13, IC95%: 1.12-4.76, p = 0.04) se asociaron significativamente con la mortalidad en el análisis univariado, mientras que MPI (OR = 10.1, IC95%: 3.03-40.06, p = 0.0003) y SAPSII (OR = 1.07, IC 95%: 1.01-1.14, p = 0.02) permanecieron significativos después del ajuste por edad y sexo. CONCLUSIONES: MPI y SAPSII se asociaron con mortalidad, aunque la interacción de los parámetros de laboratorio no lo hizo.

Saturación de oxígeno y lactato sérico venoso-arterial del posoperatorio de cirugía cardiaca / Venous-arterial oxygen saturation and serum lactate in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery

Resumen Introducción: La saturación de oxígeno y el lactato son marcadores de hipoxia tisular, se obtienen de muestra venosa mezclada en arteria pulmonar o venosa central. Se desconoce el comportamiento simultáneo de estos parámetros en el postoperatorio de cirugía cardiaca. Objetivo: Caracterizar la saturación de oxígeno y lactato del circuito venoso-arterial del paciente postoperado de cirugía cardiaca. Métodos: Diseño transversal analítico. En pacientes consecutivos postoperados de cirugía cardiaca se obtuvieron lactato sérico y saturación de oxígeno del circuito venoso-arterial. Las variables se informaron con mediana (percentiles 25 y 75). Se analizaron con ANOVA de Kruskal-Wallis y ajuste respectivo, correlación de Spearman, el estadístico descriptivo de Bland-Altman y coeficiente de correlación intraclase (intervalo de confianza al 95%). Una p < 0.05 se consideró significativa. Resultados: Se estudiaron 244 muestras sanguíneas de 61 pacientes. Mujeres 30 (49%). Saturación de oxígeno y lactato fueron: arterial 98 (95.3, 99.4)% y 1.7 (1,1, 2.1); venosa periférica 85 (75.4, 94)% y 1.9 (1.35, 2.3); venosa central 68.8 (58.74, 70.2)% y 1.8 (1.3, 2.3); venosa central mezclada 66.8 (61.2, 73.1)% y 1.8 (1.3, 2.2), p < 0.05. El mejor coeficiente de correlación intraclase para la saturación de oxígeno fue de vena central a vena central mezclada: 0.856 (0.760, 0.914); del lactato: 0.954 (0.923, 0.972). Conclusiones: La saturación de oxígeno difiere en el circuito venoso-arterial a diferencia del lactato, donde son similares. Los mejores valores del coeficiente de correlación intraclase para el lactato y la saturación de oxígeno fueron los obtenidos en vena central y vena central mezclada.

Abstract Introduction: Oxygen saturation and lactate are markers of tissue hypoxia; they are obtained from central venous and mixed venous sample of the pulmonary artery. The simultaneous behavior of these parameters in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery is unknown. Objective: To characterize the lactate and oxygen saturation of the venous-arterial circuit of the postoperative patient from cardiac surgery. Methods: Design: Analytical cross-sectional. In consecutive patients after cardiac surgery, serum lactate and oxygen saturation of the venous-arterial circuit were obtained. The variables were reported with median (25.75 percentiles). They were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and respective adjustment, Spearman correlation, the descriptive Bland-Altman statistic and intraclass correlation coefficient (95% confidence interval). A p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: 244 blood samples from 61 patients were studied. Women 30 (49%). (Oxygen saturation) [lactate] were: arterial 98 (95.3, 99.4%) and 1.7 (1.1, 2.1); peripheral venous 85 (75.4, 94%) and [1.9 (1.35, 2.3)]; central venous 68.8 (58.74, 70.2%) and 1.8 (1.3, 2.3); mixed central venous 66.8 (61.2, 73.1%) and 1.8 (1.3, 2.2), p < 0.05. The best intraclass correlation coefficient for oxygen saturation were from central vein to mixed central vein 0.856 (0.760,0.914); and lactate: 0.954 (0.923, 0.972). Conclusions: The oxygen saturation differs in the venous-arterial circuit unlike lactate where they are similar. The best values of the intraclass correlation coefficient for lactate and oxygen saturation were those obtained in central vein and mixed central vein.

Venous-arterial oxygen saturation and serum lactate in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Oxygen saturation and lactate are markers of tissue hypoxia; they are obtained from central venous and mixed venous sample of the pulmonary artery. The simultaneous behavior of these parameters in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery is unknown. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the lactate and oxygen saturation of the venous-arterial circuit of the postoperative patient from cardiac surgery. METHODS: Design: Analytical cross-sectional. In consecutive patients after cardiac surgery, serum lactate and oxygen saturation of the venous-arterial circuit were obtained. The variables were reported with median (25.75 percentiles). They were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and respective adjustment, Spearman correlation, the descriptive Bland-Altman statistic and intraclass correlation coefficient (95% confidence interval). A p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: 244 blood samples from 61 patients were studied. Women 30 (49%). (Oxygen saturation) [lactate] were: arterial 98 (95.3, 99.4%) and 1.7 (1.1, 2.1); peripheral venous 85 (75.4, 94%) and [1.9 (1.35, 2.3)]; central venous 68.8 (58.74, 70.2%) and 1.8 (1.3, 2.3); mixed central venous 66.8 (61.2, 73.1%) and 1.8 (1.3, 2.2), p < 0.05. The best intraclass correlation coefficient for oxygen saturation were from central vein to mixed central vein 0.856 (0.760,0.914); and lactate: 0.954 (0.923, 0.972). CONCLUSIONS: The oxygen saturation differs in the venous-arterial circuit unlike lactate where they are similar. The best values of the intraclass correlation coefficient for lactate and oxygen saturation were those obtained in central vein and mixed central vein.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La saturación de oxígeno y el lactato son marcadores de hipoxia tisular, se obtienen de muestra venosa mezclada en arteria pulmonar o venosa central. Se desconoce el comportamiento simultáneo de estos parámetros en el postoperatorio de cirugía cardiaca. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar la saturación de oxígeno y lactato del circuito venoso-arterial del paciente postoperado de cirugía cardiaca. MÉTODOS: Diseño transversal analítico. En pacientes consecutivos postoperados de cirugía cardiaca se obtuvieron lactato sérico y saturación de oxígeno del circuito venoso-arterial. Las variables se informaron con mediana (percentiles 25 y 75). Se analizaron con ANOVA de Kruskal-Wallis y ajuste respectivo, correlación de Spearman, el estadístico descriptivo de Bland-Altman y coeficiente de correlación intraclase (intervalo de confianza al 95%). Una p < 0.05 se consideró significativa. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 244 muestras sanguíneas de 61 pacientes. Mujeres 30 (49%). Saturación de oxígeno y lactato fueron: arterial 98 (95.3, 99.4)% y 1.7 (1,1, 2.1); venosa periférica 85 (75.4, 94)% y 1.9 (1.35, 2.3); venosa central 68.8 (58.74, 70.2)% y 1.8 (1.3, 2.3); venosa central mezclada 66.8 (61.2, 73.1)% y 1.8 (1.3, 2.2), p < 0.05. El mejor coeficiente de correlación intraclase para la saturación de oxígeno fue de vena central a vena central mezclada: 0.856 (0.760, 0.914); del lactato: 0.954 (0.923, 0.972). CONCLUSIONES: La saturación de oxígeno difiere en el circuito venoso-arterial a diferencia del lactato, donde son similares. Los mejores valores del coeficiente de correlación intraclase para el lactato y la saturación de oxígeno fueron los obtenidos en vena central y vena central mezclada.

Decúbito prono prolongado: una estrategia no ventilatoria en neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 / Prono position: a non-ventilatory strategy in patients with severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 / Posição prona prolongada: uma estratégia não ventilatória em pneumonia grave devido a SARS-CoV-2

Resumen: Introducción: La neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) ocasiona hipoxemia severa, por lo anterior, las guías para el manejo de pacientes adultos críticamente enfermos con COVID-19 recomiendan el uso de la posición decúbito prono para mejorar la oxigenación. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte, prospectivo, descriptivo y analítico. Pacientes ingresados a la unidad de cuidados intensivos en el periodo comprendido entre el 18 de abril de 2020 y el 18 de agosto de 2021 con ventilación mecánica invasiva (VMI) secundaria a neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 confirmados. Resultados: En el periodo comprendido se incluyeron 110 pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Del total, 88 pacientes se incluyeron en el grupo de mejoría sostenida al retiro del prono y 22 en el grupo de mejoría no sostenida al retiro del prono. Se observó que la disminución del porcentaje de la PaO2/FiO2 al retiro del prono es útil para predecir mortalidad con ABC de 0.740 con IC95% de (0.646-0.834) y p = 0.001. Conclusión: La disminución > 50% de la PaO2/FiO2 al retiro de la posición decúbito prono prolongado o mejoría no sostenida es un predictor de mortalidad en los pacientes con neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract: Introduction: Severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) causes severe hypoxemia, therefore, the guidelines for the management of critically ill adult patients with COVID-19 recommend the use of the prone position to improve oxygenation. Material and methods: A prospective, descriptive and analytical cohort study. Patients admitted to the intensive care unit in the period from April 18, 2020 to August 18, 2021 with confirmed IMV secondary to severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. Results: In the period covered, 110 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included. Of the total, 88 patients were included in the group with sustained improvement at prone withdrawal and 22 in the group with non-sustained improvement at prone withdrawal. It was observed that the% Decrease in PaO2/FiO2 upon prone removal is useful to predict mortality with AUC of 0.740 with 95% CI of (0.646-0.834) and p = 0.001. Conclusion: A > 50% decrease in PaO2/FiO2 upon removal from prolonged prone position or unsustained improvement is a predictor of mortality in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia.

Resumo: Introdução: A pneumonia grave por SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) causa hipoxemia grave, portanto, as diretrizes para o manejo de pacientes adultos criticamente doentes com COVID-19 recomendam o uso da posição prona para melhorar a oxigenação. Material e métodos: Estudo de coorte, prospectivo, descritivo e analítico. Pacientes admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva no período entre 18 de abril de 2020 e 18 de agosto de 2021 com VMI secundária a pneumonia grave por SARS-CoV-2 confirmadas. Resultados: No período abrangido, incluíram-se 110 pacientes que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Do total, 88 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo melhora sustentada na retirada da posição prona e 22 no grupo melhora não sustentada na retirada da posição prona. Observou-se que a % de diminuição da PaO2/FiO2 na retirada da pronação é útil para predizer mortalidade com ABC de 0.740 com IC de 95% de (0.646-0.834) e p = 0.001. Conclusão: Uma diminuição > 50% na PaO2/FiO2 após a retirada da posição prona prolongada ou melhora não sustentada é um preditor de mortalidade em pacientes com pneumonia grave por SARS-CoV-2.

Fasciola hepatica Gastrodermal Cells Selectively Release Extracellular Vesicles via a Novel Atypical Secretory Mechanism.

The liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, is an obligate blood-feeder, and the gastrodermal cells of the parasite form the interface with the host's blood. Despite their importance in the host-parasite interaction, in-depth proteomic analysis of the gastrodermal cells is lacking. Here, we used laser microdissection of F. hepatica tissue sections to generate unique and biologically exclusive tissue fractions of the gastrodermal cells and tegument for analysis by mass spectrometry. A total of 226 gastrodermal cell proteins were identified, with proteases that degrade haemoglobin being the most abundant. Other detected proteins included those such as proton pumps and anticoagulants which maintain a microenvironment that facilitates digestion. By comparing the gastrodermal cell proteome and the 102 proteins identified in the laser microdissected tegument with previously published tegument proteomic datasets, we showed that one-quarter of proteins (removed by freeze-thaw extraction) or one-third of proteins (removed by detergent extraction) previously identified as tegumental were instead derived from the gastrodermal cells. Comparative analysis of the laser microdissected gastrodermal cells, tegument, and F. hepatica secretome revealed that the gastrodermal cells are the principal source of secreted proteins, as well as showed that both the gastrodermal cells and the tegument are likely to release subpopulations of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Microscopical examination of the gut caeca from flukes fixed immediately after their removal from the host bile ducts showed that selected gastrodermal cells underwent a progressive thinning of the apical plasma membrane which ruptured to release secretory vesicles en masse into the gut lumen. Our findings suggest that gut-derived EVs are released via a novel atypical secretory route and highlight the importance of the gastrodermal cells in nutrient acquisition and possible immunomodulation by the parasite.

El índice de anaerobiosis predice mortalidad en neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 / The anaerobiosis index predicts mortality in patients with severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 / O índice de anaerobiose prevê a mortalidade em pneumonia grave devido a SARS-CoV-2

Resumen: Introducción: Detectar y corregir el metabolismo anaerobio es indispensable en el paciente críticamente enfermo; desafortunadamente, no existe un estándar de oro. Los pacientes con neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) presentan hipoxemia severa, aumentando el metabolismo anaerobio. El lactato y la diferencia de presión venoarterial de dióxido de carbono/diferencia del contenido arteriovenoso de oxígeno (Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2) son útiles en este contexto. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte, prospectivo, descriptivo y analítico, que incluyó pacientes ingresados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI) en el periodo comprendido entre el 18 de abril de 2020 al 18 de enero de 2021 con neumonía grave (definida por el inicio de ventilación mecánica invasiva) por SARS-CoV-2 confirmados. Resultados: En el periodo comprendido se incluyeron 91 pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Del total, 39 pacientes se incluyeron en el grupo de supervivientes y 52 en el grupo de no supervivientes. Se puede observar que la Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2, o índice de anaerobiosis, tiene OR de 4.4, IC de 95% 1.51-13.04, p = 0.006 en el análisis multivariable. Conclusión: El incremento de la Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2, o índice de anaerobiosis, > 1.4 mmHg/mL está relacionado con 4.44 veces más riesgo de muerte en los pacientes con neumonía grave (intubados) por SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract: Introduction: Detecting and correcting anaerobic metabolism is essential in the critically ill patient, unfortunately, there is no gold standard. Patients with severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) present severe hypoxemia, increasing anaerobic metabolism. Lactate and the venoarterial carbon dioxide pressure difference/arteriovenous oxygen content difference (Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2) are useful in this context. Material and methods: Prospective, descriptive and analytical cohort study that included patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the period from April 18, 2020 to January 18, 2021 with severe pneumonia (defined by the start of invasive mechanical ventilation) by SARS-CoV-2 confirmed. Results: In the period covered, 91 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included. Of the total, 39 patients were included in the survivors group and 52 in the non-survivors group. It can be seen that the Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2 also called anaerobiosis index has OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.51-13.04, p = 0.006 in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: The increase in the Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2 also called anaerobiosis index > 1.4 mmHg/mL is associated with a 4.44 times higher risk of death in patients with severe pneumonia (intubated) due to SARS-CoV-2.

Resumo: Introdução: Detectar e corrigir o metabolismo anaeróbio é essencial no paciente crítico, infelizmente, não existe um «padrão ouro¼. Pacientes com pneumonia grave por SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) apresentam hipoxemia grave, aumentando o metabolismo anaeróbio. O lactato e a diferença de pressão venoarterial de dióxido de carbono/diferença do conteúdo arteriovenoso de oxigênio (Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2) são úteis neste cenário. Material e métodos: Estudo de coorte, prospectivo, descritivo e analítico que incluiu pacientes internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) no período de 18 de abril de 2020 a 18 de janeiro de 2021 com pneumonia grave (definida pelo início da ventilação mecânica invasiva) por SARS-CoV-2 confirmados. Resultados: No período compreendido, foram incluídos 91 pacientes que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Do total, 39 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo sobrevivente e 52 no grupo não sobrevivente. Pode-se observar que o Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2 ou índice de anaerobiose tem OR 4.4, IC 95% 1.51-13.04, p = 0.006 na análise multivariada. Conclusão: Um aumento em Δp(v-a)CO2/ΔC(a-v)O2 ou índice de anaerobiose > 1.4 mmHg/mL está associado a um aumento de 4.44 vezes no risco de morte em pacientes com pneumonia grave (entubados) por SARS-CoV-2.

Glycosylated hemoglobin as a predictor of mortality in severe pneumonia by COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: Determine whether the levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measured on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) are associated with mortality in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia with invasive mechanical ventilation. DESIGN: Cohort study, retrospective, observational. A single center. PLACE: ICU of a second-level care hospital. PATIENTS: Severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia confirmed with IMV since admission to the ICU. INTERVENTIONS: none. RESULTS: A total of 56 patients with severe pneumonia, confirmed with SARS-CoV-2, all with IMV. The group with HbA1c <6.5% included 32 (57.14%) patients and the group with HbA1c ≥6.5% included 24 (42.86%) patients and the mortality rate in ICU was 43.8% and 70.8%, respectively, with p = 0.04. Predictors of mortality at 28 days in ICU were DHL >500 U/L, OR 3.65 (95% CI 1.18-11.29), HbA1c ≥6.5%, OR 3.12 (95% CI 1.01-9.6), SAH, OR 3.12 (95% CI 1.01-9.5), use of vasopressor, OR 0.2 (95% CI 0.05-0.73), diabetes was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The 28-day probability of survival in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia with IMV in the ICU is lower when the HbA1c level is ≥6.5% on admission.

Role of Fasciola hepatica Small RNAs in the Interaction With the Mammalian Host.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression being involved in many different biological processes and play a key role in developmental timing. Additionally, recent studies have shown that miRNAs released from parasites are capable of regulating the expression of host genes. In the present work, we studied the expression patterns of ncRNAs of various intra-mammalian life-cycle stages of the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, as well as those packaged into extracellular vesicles and shed by the adult fluke. The miRNA expression profile of the intra-mammalian stages shows important variations, despite a set of predominant miRNAs that are highly expressed across all stages. No substantial variations in miRNA expression between dormant and activated metacercariae were detected, suggesting that they might not be central players in regulating fluke gene expression during this crucial step in the invasion of the definitive host. We generated a curated pipeline for the prediction of putative target genes that reports only sites conserved between three different prediction approaches. This pipeline was tested against an iso-seq curated database of the 3' UTR regions of F. hepatica genes to detect miRNA regulation networks within liver fluke. Several functions related to the host immune response or modulation were enriched among the targets of the most highly expressed parasite miRNAs, stressing that they might be key players during the establishment and maintenance of infection. Additionally, we detected fragments derived from the processing of tRNAs, in all developmental stages analyzed, and documented the presence of novel long tRNA fragments enriched in vesicles. We confirmed the presence of at least 5 putative vault RNAs (vtRNAs), that are expressed across different stages and enriched in vesicles. The presence of tRNA fragments and vtRNAs in vesicles raise the possibility that they could be involved in the host-parasite interaction.

Índices de oxigenación en los pacientes neuroquirúrgicos utilizando dos estrategias ventilatorias en el perioperatorio / Index of oxygenation in neurosurgical patients using two ventilatory strategies on the perioperatory / Índices de oxigenação em pacientes neurocirúrgicos utilizando duas estratégias ventilatórias no perioperatório

Resumen: Introducción: La comorbilidad pulmonar postoperatoria dependerá de factores relacionados con el paciente, modificables y no modificables, pero definitivamente los parámetros ventilatorios intraoperatorios tienen un rol fundamental. Existen índices de oxigenación (IO) que pueden resultar útiles en la evaluación del grado de lesión pulmonar. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo, descriptivo, analítico, de casos y controles. Pacientes que requirieron intervención neuroquirúrgica (urgente o electiva) y ventilación mecánica invasiva para el procedimiento. Durante el periodo comprendido entre el 1o de enero de 2018 al 31 de diciembre de 2018. Los pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión se asignaron uno a uno para pertenecer al grupo Vt Intermedio (> 8 a < 10 mL/kg peso predicho) o al grupo Vt Bajo (6-8 mL/kg peso predicho). La PEEP fue determinada a consideración del médico (anestesiólogo). Resultados: En el periodo considerado se incluyeron 60 pacientes, los cuales cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Del total, 30 pacientes se incluyeron en el grupo Vt Intermedio (VtI) y 30 pacientes en el grupo Vt Bajo (VtB). La modalidad ventilatoria más utilizada fue asisto-control-volumen (ACV) con 96.7% para VtI y 100% para VtB con p = 0.3. El Vt por peso predicho en el grupo de VtI tuvo una media de 8.9 mL/kg y en el grupo de VtB una media de 7.1 mL/kg con una p = 0.001. La escala de coma de Glasgow (ECG) posterior a la extubación fue de 14.3 puntos y 14.4 puntos para VtI y VtB sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa. Conclusión: Utilizar volumen corriente intermedio (> 8 a < 10 mL/kg peso predicho) en los pacientes neuroquirúrgicos ocasiona alteración de los índices de oxigenación: PaO2/FiO2 y PaO2/PAO2. El nivel de PEEP durante el perioperatorio de los pacientes neuroquirúrgicos no ocasiona diferencia significativa en la escala de coma de Glasgow.

Abstract: Introduction: Postoperative pulmonary comorbidity will depend on factors related to the patient, modifiable and non-modifiable, but intraoperative ventilatory parameters definitely play a fundamental role. There are oxygenation indices (OI) that may be useful in assessing the degree of lung injury. Material and methods: Prospective, descriptive, analytical, case-control study. Patients who required neurosurgical intervention (urgent or elective) and invasive mechanical ventilation for the procedure. During the period from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were assigned 1 to 1 to belong to the Intermediate Tidal Volumen group (ItV) (> 8 to < 10 mL/kg predicted weight) or to the Low Tidal Volumen group (LtV) (6-8 mL/kg predicted weight). PEEP was determined for the doctor's consideration (anesthesiologist). Results: In the period considered, 60 patients were included who met the inclusion criteria. Of the total, 30 patients were included in the ItV group and 30 patients in the LtV group. The most commonly used ventilatory modality was asysto-control-volume (ACV) with 96.7% for ItV and 100% for LtV with p = 0.3. The predicted weight tV in the ItV group had an average of 8.9 mL/kg and in the LtV group an average of 7.1 mL/kg with a p = 0.001 The Glasgow coma scale (GCE) after extubation was of 14.3 points and 14.4 points for ItV and LtV without statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Using intermediate tidal volume (> 8 to < 10 mL/kg predicted weight) in neurosurgical patients, causes alteration of oxygenation rates: PaO2/FiO2 and PaO2/PAO2. The level of PEEP during the perioperative period of neurosurgical patients does not cause a significant difference in the Glasgow coma scale.

Resumo: Introdução: A comorbidade pulmonar pós-operatória vai depender de fatores relacionados ao paciente, modificáveis e não modificáveis, mas os parâmetros ventilatórios intra-operatórios certamente têm papel fundamental. Existem índices de oxigenação (IO) que podem ser úteis na avaliação do grau de lesão pulmonar. Material e métodos: Estudo prospectivo, descritivo, analítico, caso-controle. Pacientes que necessitaram de intervenção neurocirúrgica (urgente ou eletiva) e ventilação mecânica invasiva para o procedimento. Durante o período de 1o de janeiro de 2018 a 31 de dezembro de 2018. Os pacientes que preencheram os critérios de inclusão foram designados de 1 a 1 para pertencer ao grupo Vt Intermediário (> 8 a < 10 mL/kg de peso previsto) ou para o grupo Vt Baixo (6-8 mL/kg de peso previsto). A PEEP foi determinada por consideração do médico (anestesiologista). Resultados: No período considerado, foram incluídos 60 pacientes que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Do total, 30 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo Vt Intermediário (VtI) e 30 pacientes no grupo Vt Baixo (VtB). A modalidade ventilatória mais utilizada foi o volume assistido-controlado (VAC) com 96.7% para VtI e 100% para VtB com p = 0.3. O Vt previsto em peso no grupo VtI teve média de 8.9 mL/kg e no grupo VtB média de 7.1 mL/kg com p = 0.001. A escala de coma de Glasgow (ECG) após a extubação foi de 14.3 pontos e 14.4 pontos para VtI e VtB sem diferença estatisticamente significativa. Conclusão: O uso de volume corrente intermediário (> 8 a < 10 mL/kg de peso previsto) em pacientes neurocirúrgicos causa alteração nos índices de oxigenação: PaO2/FiO2 e PaO2/PAO2. O nível de PEEP durante o período perioperatório de pacientes neurocirúrgicos não causa diferença significativa na escala de coma de Glasgow.

Helminth genome analysis reveals conservation of extracellular vesicle biogenesis pathways but divergence of RNA loading machinery between phyla.

A comparative genomics approach was used to determine whether established extracellular vesicle biogenesis pathways are conserved in helminths. This revealed conservation of membrane and cytoskeletal organising proteins as well as the endosomal sorting complex required for transport previously described in mammalian cells. Domain level analysis of this complex in helminths, however, indicated that some species may rely on atypical proteins to support subunit interactions and cargo recruitment. Interestingly, helminths displayed phylum level divergence of proteins associated with loading RNA into extracellular vesicles. These findings provide a framework for functional studies of helminth extracellular vesicle biogenesis and cargo sorting.

The cellular and molecular origins of extracellular vesicles released by the helminth pathogen, Fasciola hepatica.

Parasitic helminths secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) which have potent immunomodulatory effects. Whilst the cargo of EVs has been characterised for many species, we know little about the mechanisms that govern their biogenesis and release. Using antibodies raised against a panel of Fasciola hepatica EV (FhEV) marker proteins, we have identified multiple sites of EV production in the parasite. Discrete immunofluorescence patterns were observed within the gastrodermal cells and tegumental syncytium for different marker proteins whilst the protonephridial (excretory) system and parenchymal-type 2 cells were identified as additional sites of production (or transit) of FhEVs. Ligation was used to mechanically block the oral sucker, excretory pore, or both, to determine the effect on FhEV release from live adult flukes in vitro. This revealed that FhEVs are predominately derived from the gut, whilst the tegument releases EVs to a lesser extent. The data also suggest that the protonephridial system contributes to the small (120 K) EV sub-population. Sphingomyelinase (SMase) activity is a key driver of EV biogenesis in mammalian cells and we have previously identified SMases in FhEVs by mass spectrometry. SMase activity associated with isolated FhEVs was susceptible to the chemical inhibitor GW4869 and treatment of adult flukes with GW4869 led to a significant reduction in 120 K EV release in vitro, suggesting that a ceramide-dependent mechanism could drive 120 K EV formation. In contrast, the release of the larger 15 K EVs was only moderately impacted, indicating that they form independently of SMase activity. Ultrastructural observation of GW4869-treated F. hepatica tissue showed severe disruption to the parenchyma and vacuolation of the tegument, gastrodermal cells and epithelial lining of the excretory ducts. This work establishes that targeted disruption of EV biogenesis and release in helminths is possible, and provides proof-of-concept for future studies investigating EV secretion as a target for parasite control.

Isolation of Secreted and Tegumental Surface Proteins from Fasciola hepatica.

Proteins secreted by, or displayed on the surface tegument of, trematodes have key functions in the host-parasite interaction. As such, they are often leading targets for diagnostic tests or vaccine candidates. Here we describe methods for the isolation and analysis of soluble secreted proteins (i.e., the secretome) released during in vitro culture of adult Fasciola hepatica. We also describe two methods for the enrichment of proteins displayed on the outer tegumental surface of F. hepatica. These approaches enable downstream identification of the isolated proteins by mass spectrometry-based proteomics.

Factores asociados con la mortalidad en el adulto mayor con choque séptico / Factors associated with mortality in the elderly adult with septic shock / Fatores associados à mortalidade no idoso com choque séptico

Resumen: Introducción: Se estima que para el año 2050, a nivel mundial y por primera vez en la historia, la población anciana será mayor que la población joven. Con respecto a este grupo de edad, se calcula que la incidencia de choque séptico es 13 veces más común en los pacientes mayores de 65 años, por lo que conocer los factores de riesgo asociados con mortalidad en esta población es indispensable para la terapéutica. Material y métodos: Estudio ambispectivo, longitudinal, descriptivo y analítico en el que se incluyeron a pacientes con diagnóstico de choque séptico según el consenso Sepsis-3 ingresados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos del primero de junio de 2015 al 31 de junio de 2019. Se clasificaron los grupos en: < 65 y > 65 años, y se incluyeron variables demográficas, hemodinámicas (índice de choque modificado, SvcO2, Δp (v-a) CO2 /Δp (a-v) O2, BNP, vasopresor), respiratorias (PaO2 /FiO2), metabólicas (pH, HCO3- DB) y renales, para compararlas entre ambos grupos. El grupo > 65 años se subclasificó de acuerdo con el desenlace en vivos y no vivos, para identificar a las variables con valor estadístico para el mismo; se utilizó estadística descriptiva, χ2 y prueba exacta de Fisher y t de Student y U de Mann-Whitney de acuerdo con el caso. Se consideró significancia un valor de p ≤ 0.05 y se empleó el programa SPSS en su versión 20. Resultados: Un total de 118 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. De ellos, 78 pacientes se designaron al grupo < 65 años y 40 pacientes al grupo > 65 años. La mortalidad en el grupo > 65 años fue de 67.5% en comparación con 36% en el grupo < 65 años; con p = 0.001. En el grupo > 65 años, 27 pacientes fallecieron. Las variables hemodinámicas y respiratorias no tuvieron significancia estadística, a diferencia del pH (p = 0.037), base (p = 0.041) y norepinefrina (p = 0.03). Conclusión: Los pacientes > 65 años de edad tienen una mayor gravedad y comorbilidad respecto a los pacientes más jóvenes. Las variables hemodinámicas y respiratorias no influyen en el desenlace; la acidosis metabólica grave es un factor de riesgo para mortalidad en los pacientes > 65 años.

Abstract: Introduction: By 2050 the elderly population worldwide for the first time in history will be greater than the young population. The incidence of septic shock is 13 times more common in patients > 65 years, knowing the risk factors associated with mortality in this population is essential for therapeutics. Material and methods: Ambispective, longitudinal, descriptive, analytical study. Patients with a diagnosis of septic shock according to the consensus Sepsis-3 admitted to the ICU from June 1, 2015 to June 31, 2019. They were classified in the groups: 65 years, demographic, hemodynamic variables were included (index modified shock, SvcO2, Δp (va) CO2 /Δp (av) O2, BNP, vasopressor), respiratory (PaO2 /FiO2), metabolic (pH, HCO3- DB) and renal to compare them between both groups; the group > 65 years was subclassified according to the outcome in living and non-living to identify the variables with statistical value for it; descriptive statistics, χ2 and exact test of Fisher and t-Student and U-Mann-Whitney were used according to the case. A value of p ≤ 0.05 was considered significance and the program was used SPSS in version 20. Results: 118 patients met the inclusion criteria. 78 patients in the group 65 years. Mortality in > 65 years was 67.5% versus 36% in 65 years, 27 patients died. The hemodynamic and respiratory variables had no statistical significance; unlike pH (p = 0.037), base (p = 0.041) and norepinephrine (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Patients > 65 years of age have greater severity and comorbidity compared to younger patients. The hemodynamic and respiratory variables do not influence the outcome; severe metabolic acidosis is a risk factor for mortality in patients > 65 years.

Resumo: Introdução: Até 2050, a população idosa em todo o mundo pela primeira vez na história será maior que a população jovem. A incidência de choque séptico é 13 vezes mais comum em pacientes > 65 anos, sabendo que os fatores de risco associados à mortalidade nessa população são essenciais para a terapêutica. Material e métodos: Estudo ambispectico, longitudinal, descritivo e analítico. Pacientes com diagnóstico de choque séptico segundo o consenso Sepsis-3 admitidos na UTI de 1o de junho de 2015 a 31 de junho de 2019. Eles foram classificados nos grupos: < 65 e > 65 anos. Foram incluídas variáveis demográficas, hemodinâmicas (índice de choque modificado, SvcO2, Δp (v-a) CO2 /Δp (a-v) O2, BNP, vasopressor), respiratórios (PaO2 /FiO2), metabólicos (pH, HCO3-DB) e renais para compará-los entre os dois grupos; o grupo > 65 anos foi subclassificado de acordo com o desfecho em sobreviver e não sobreviver para identificar as variáveis com valor estatístico para ele. Foram utilizados estatística descritiva, χ2 e teste exato de Fisher e T-Student e U-Mann-Whitney de acordo com o caso. Um valor de p ≤ 0.05 foi considerado significativo, foi utilizado o SPPSS20. Resultados: 118 pacientes preencheram os critérios de inclusão. 78 pacientes no grupo < 65 anos e 40 pacientes no grupo > 65 anos. A mortalidade em > 65 anos foi de 67.5% versus 36% em < 65 anos com p = 0.001. No grupo > 65 anos, 27 pacientes morreram. As variáveis hemodinâmicas e respiratórias não apresentaram significância estatística; diferentemente do pH (p = 0.037), base (p = 0.041) e noradrenalina (p = 0.03). Conclusão: Pacientes com idade > 65 anos apresentam maior gravidade e comorbidade que pacientes mais jovens. As variáveis hemodinâmicas e respiratórias não influenciam o resultado; A acidose metabólica grave é um fator de risco para mortalidade em pacientes > 65 anos.

Surface molecules of extracellular vesicles secreted by the helminth pathogen Fasciola hepatica direct their internalisation by host cells.

Helminth parasites secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can be internalised by host immune cells resulting in modulation of host immunity. While the molecular cargo of EVs have been characterised in many parasites, little is known about the surface-exposed molecules that participate in ligand-receptor interactions with the host cell surface to initiate vesicle docking and subsequent internalisation. Using a membrane-impermeable biotin reagent to capture proteins displayed on the outer membrane surface of two EV sub-populations (termed 15k and 120k EVs) released by adult F. hepatica, we describe 380 surface proteins including an array of virulence factors, membrane transport proteins and molecules involved in EV biogenesis/trafficking. Proteomics and immunohistochemical analysis show that the 120k EVs have an endosomal origin and may be released from the parasite via the protonephridial (excretory) system whilst the larger 15k EVs are released from the gastrodermal epithelial cells that line the fluke gut. A parallel lectin microarray strategy was used to profile the topology of major surface oligosaccharides of intact fluorogenically-labelled EVs as they would be displayed to the host. Lectin profiles corresponding to glycoconjugates exposed on the surface of the 15 K and 120K EV sub-populations are practically identical but are distinct from those of the parasite surface tegument, although all are predominated by high mannose sugars. We found that while the F. hepatica EVs were resistant to exo- and endo-glycosidases, the glyco-amidase PNGase F drastically remodelled the surface oligosaccharides and blocked the uptake of EVs by host macrophages. In contrast, pre-treatment with antibodies obtained from infected hosts, or purified antibodies raised against the extracellular domains of specific EV surface proteins (DM9-containing protein, CD63 receptor and myoferlin), significantly enhanced their cellular internalisation. This work highlights the diversity of EV biogenesis and trafficking pathways used by F. hepatica and sheds light on the molecular interaction between parasite EVs and host cells.

[Asociación del estado hormonal con el riesgo cardiovascular evaluado por Globorisk en mujeres mexicanas].

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality worldwide. In women, its incidence increases at the sixth decade of life, coinciding with postmenopause. Whether this effect is due to menopause-related hormonal changes is not known. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differences in cardiovascular risk in pre- and postmenopausal women by means of the Globorisk risk scale, the triglyceride/high-density lipoproteins cholesterol (Tg/HDL-C) ratio and metabolic syndrome (MS) criteria. METHOD: Cross-sectional study that included 408 women from 40 to 60 years of age; anthropometric measurements and biochemical determinations were performed. The participants were classified as premenopausal and postmenopausal. Cardiovascular risk was assessed using the MS criteria, the Globorisk risk calculator and the Tg/HDL-C ratio. RESULTS: Postmenopausal women showed a significant increase in waist circumference, total cholesterol and triglycerides in comparison with premenopausal women. Significant associations were found between hormonal state and Globorisk measured cardiovascular risk (OR = 2.50; 95 % CI = 1.67-3.74) and the Tg/HDL-C ratio (OR = 1.66; 95 % CI = 1.09-2.52). CONCLUSION: Cardiovascular risk factors have a higher prevalence in postmenopause. The Globorisk scale and Tg/HDL-C ratio identify cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La enfermedad cardiovascular es la principal causa de mortalidad en el mundo. En la mujer se incrementa en la sexta década de la vida, coincidiendo con la posmenopausia. Se desconoce si este efecto se debe a cambios hormonales relacionados con la menopausia. OBJETIVO: Evaluar diferencias del riesgo cardiovascular en mujeres pre y posmenopáusicas mediante la escala de riesgo Globorisk, el índice triglicéridos/c-HDL (Tg/c-HDL) y los criterios de síndrome metabólico (SM). MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal que incluyó a 408 mujeres de 40 a 60 años; se realizaron mediciones antropométricas y bioquímicas. Las participantes se clasificaron en premenopáusicas y posmenopáusicas. El riesgo cardiovascular se evaluó utilizando los criterios de SM, calculadora de riesgo Globorisk y el índice Tg/c-HDL. RESULTADOS: Las mujeres en etapa posmenopáusica presentaron incremento significativo en la circunferencia de cintura, de colesterol total y triglicéridos, en comparación con las mujeres premenopáusicas. Se encontraron asociaciones significativas del estado hormonal con el riesgo cardiovascular evaluado por Globorisk (RM = 2.50, IC 95 % = 1.67-3.74) y con el índice Tg/c-HDL (RM = 1.66, IC 95 % = 1.09-2.52). CONCLUSIÓN: Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular tienen mayor prevalencia en la posmenopausia. La escala Globorisk y el índice Tg/c-HDL identifican el riesgo cardiovascular en la mujer posmenopáusica.

Evaluación ecocardiográfica de la función ventricular derecha para la detección temprana de la cardiotoxicidad inducida por antraciclinas / Avaliação ecocardiográfica da função ventricular direita para a detecção precoce de cardiotoxicidade induzida por antraciclinas / Echocardiographic evaluation of right ventricular function for the early detection of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity

Las enfermedades cardiovasculares y el cáncer son las principales causas de muerte. Actualmente, existe un importante progreso en la oncología en cuanto a su diagnóstico precoz y su correspondiente tratamiento, como a la mejora de la sobrevida y de la calidad de vida debido al uso de tratamientos antineoplásicos combinados. Al mismo tiempo, se han incrementado los efectos adversos cardiológicos de dichos tratamientos, dando origen a una nueva cohorte de pacientes, quienes alcanzarán una supervivencia suficiente como para padecer complicaciones cardíacas derivadas del tratamiento oncológico. Este trasfondo clínico hace que la cardiotoxicidad derivada del tratamiento oncológico (quimioterapia y radioterapia) se transforme en una de sus principales complicaciones, por lo cual una respuesta multidisciplinaria que asocie el conocimiento de los oncólogos e internistas al de los cardiólogos será cada vez más necesaria para el mejor manejo de una población crónica en crecimiento constante. La ecografía ha sido validada como el método diagnóstico que proporciona mayor precisión en el cálculo de la fracción de eyección, siendo el método de elección para la evaluación inicial y el seguimiento de los pacientes tratados oncológicamente. La detección temprana de alteraciones cardiovasculares en pacientes tratados con quimioterapia presenta el beneficio de obtener terapias alternativas, disminuyendo así la incidencia de cardiotoxicidad y su morbilidad y mortalidad asociadas.

Cardiovascular diseases and cancer are the leading causes of death. Currently, there is an important progress in oncology regarding early diagnosis and its corresponding treatment, as well as the improvement of survival and quality of life due to the use of combined antineoplastic treatments. At the same time, the cardiological adverse effects of these treatments have been increased, creating a new cohort of patients who will experience sufficient survival to develop the cardiac complications derived from oncological treatment. This clinical background makes the cardiotoxicity derived from oncologic treatment (chemotherapy and radiotherapy) become one of its main complications, so a multidisciplinary response that associates the knowledge of oncologists and internists with that of cardiologists will be increasingly necessary for the best management of a chronic population in constant growth. Ultrasonography has been validated as the diagnostic method that provides greater accuracy in the calculation of ejection fraction, being the method of choice for the initial evaluation and follow-up of patients treated oncologically. The early detection of cardiovascular alterations in patients treated with chemotherapy has the benefit of obtaining alternate therapies, thereby decreasing the incidence of cardiotoxicity and its associated morbidity and mortality.

As doenças cardiovasculares e o câncer são as principais causas de morte. Atualmente, há um importante progresso em oncologia em relação ao diagnóstico precoce e seu correspondente tratamento, bem como a melhoria da sobrevida e qualidade de vida devido à utilização de tratamentos antineoplásicos combinados. Ao mesmo tempo, os efeitos adversos cardiológicos destes tratamentos foram aumentados, criando uma nova coorte de pacientes que alcançaram uma sobrevivência suficiente para desenvolver as complicações cardíacas derivadas do tratamento oncológico. Este contexto clínico faz que a cardiotoxicidade derivada do tratamento oncológico (quimioterapia e radioterapia) se torne uma de suas principais complicações, portanto, uma resposta multidisciplinar que associe o conhecimento de oncologistas e internistas com os cardiologistas será cada vez mais necessária para o melhor manejo de uma população crônica em constante crescimento. A ultrassonografia foi validada como o método de diagnóstico que fornece maior precisão no cálculo da fração de ejeção, sendo o método de escolha para avaliação inicial e seguimento de pacientes tratados oncologicamente. A detecção precoce de alterações cardiovasculares em pacientes tratados com quimioterapia tem o benefício de obter terapias alternativas, diminuindo assim a incidência de cardiotoxicidade e sua morbidade e mortalidade associadas.

Understanding the Limiting Factors of Solvent-Annealed Small-Molecule Bulk-Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells from a Chemical Perspective.

A detailed account of the limiting factors of solvent-annealed bulk-heterojunction small-molecule organic solar cells is given. This account is based on the extensive characterisation of solar cell devices made from a library of five diketopyrolopyrole (DPP) donor dyes. Their chemical structure is designed in such a way as to provide insights into the energetics of solar cell active layer micro-structure formation. Numerous chemical and physical properties of the active layers are assessed and inter-related such as light absorption, molecular packing in the solid state, crystal-forming properties in thin films, charge carrier mobility and charge carrier recombination kinetics. A myriad of characterisation techniques are used such as UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, XRD, AFM and photo-induced transient measurements, which provide information on the optical properties of the active layers, morphology and recombination kinetics. Consequently, a mechanism for the solvent-vapour-annealing-assisted formation of crystalline domains of donor molecules in the active layer is proposed, and the micro-structural features are related to the J-V characteristics of the devices. According to this model, the crystalline phase in which the donor crystallise in the active layer is the key determinant to direct the formation of the micro-structure.

Schistosoma bovis-host interplay: Proteomics for knowing and acting.

Schistosoma bovis is a parasite of ruminants that causes significant economic losses to farmers throughout Africa, Southwestern Asia and the Mediterranean. Additionally, recent studies have reported its zoonotic potential through the formation of S. bovis×Schistosoma haematobium hybrids. As observed in the Schistosoma species infecting humans, it is assumed that S. bovis has also evolved host regulatory molecules that ensure its long-term survival in the bloodstream of its host. Since these molecules could be potential targets for the development of new drugs and anti-schistosome vaccines, their identification and functional characterization were undertaken. With this aim in mind, the molecular interface between S. bovis and its vertebrate host was subjected to a series of proteomic studies, which started with the analysis of the proteomes of the S. bovis moieties exposed to the host, namely, the excretory/secretory products and the tegument surface. Thus, a wealth of novel molecular information of S. bovis was obtained, which in turn allowed the identification of several parasite proteins with fibrinolytic and anticoagulant activities that could be used by S. bovis to regulate the host defensive systems. Following on, the host interface was investigated by studying the proteome of the host vascular endothelium surface at two points along the infection: in the lung vessels during the schistosomula migration and in the portal vein after the parasites have reached adulthood and sexual maturity. These studies have provided original data regarding the proteomes of the endothelial cell surface of pulmonary vasculature and portal vein in S. bovis-infected animals, and have shown significant changes in these proteomes associated with infection. This review compiles current information and the analyses of all the proteomic data from S. bovis and the S. bovis-host interface, including the molecular and functional characterization of S. bovis proteins that were found to participate in the regulation of the host coagulation and fibrinolysis systems.

Extracellular Vesicle Biogenesis in Helminths: More than One Route to the Surface?

The recent discovery that parasites release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can transfer a range of effector molecules to host cells has made us re-think our understanding of the host-parasite interface. In this opinion article we consider how recent proteomics and transcriptomics studies, together with ultrastructural observations, suggest that more than one mechanism of EV biogenesis can occur in helminths. We propose that distinct EV subtypes have roles in immune modulation and repair of drug-induced damage, and put forward the case for targeting EV biogenesis pathways to achieve parasite control. In doing so we raise a number of outstanding research questions that must be addressed before this can happen.