Prevalencia del estreñimiento en una población de pacientes oncológicos, en seguimiento por el equipo de cuidados paliativos / Prevalence of constipation in a cancer patient population followed up by a palliative care team

Objetivos: Determinar la prevalencia del estreñimiento en una población de pacientes oncológicos en seguimiento por el equipo de cuidados paliativos. Describir los tratamientos utilizados para el estreñimiento; comparar la frecuencia de estreñimiento según el tratamiento opioide.Material y métodos: Estudio epidemiológico, observacional y transversal. Realizado íntegramente en el Hospital Universitario Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV) de Lleida. Se utilizó un cuestionario heteroadministrado para entrevistar a pacientes en régimen ambulatorio y hospitalario, con diagnóstico de enfermedad oncológica avanzada, y en seguimiento por el equipo de cuidados paliativos durante un mínimo de 5 días.Variables: La prevalencia de estreñimiento se valoró mediante la aplicación de los criterios Roma IV. Por otra parte, se registraron variables correspondientes a las características basales de los pacientes y a su enfermedad, así como los distintos tratamientos utilizados para combatir el estreñimiento y los fármacos opioides. Para la descripción de variables cualitativas, se utilizaron las frecuencias absoluta y relativa, y para las cuantitativas la media y la desviación típica; para la comparación de las mismas se utilizó el test de Chi cuadrado y la t de Student cuando procedía, con un nivel de significación de 0,05.Resultados: De los 100 pacientes incluidos, 98 fueron aptos para el análisis. Un 19,4 % cumplía los criterios Roma IV de estreñimiento en el momento de la valoración. La proporción de pacientes con diagnóstico de estreñimiento fue mayor en régimen hospitalario sin que esta variable alcanzara la significación estadística. No se detectaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la prevalencia de estreñimiento entre los distintos tratamientos opioides. El 53,1 % de los pacientes seguía tratamiento habitual con algún laxante, siendo el más frecuente el hidróxido de magnesio (48,1 %), y solo un 11,5 % recibía tratamiento con más de un laxante...(AU)

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of constipation in oncological patients under follow-up by a palliative care team. To describe the treatments used for constipation, comparing the frequency of constipation according to opioid therapy status.Material and methods: An epidemiological, observational, cross-sectional study. It was completely carried out at the Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital (HUAV) in Lleida. A researcher-administered questionnaire was used to interview outpatients and inpatients diagnosed with advanced cancer disease, and followed up by a palliative care team for a minimum of 5 days.Variables: The prevalence of constipation was assessed by applying the Rome IV criteria. On the other hand, variables corresponding to the baseline characteristics of the patients and their disease were recorded, as were the different treatments used to combat constipation and the use of opioid drugs. Concerning qualitative variables, the absolute and relative frequencies were used; for quantitative variables, the mean and standard deviation were used. For comparisons, the chi-square test and Student’s t-test were used when appropriate, with a significance level of 0.05.Results: Of all 100 patients included, 98 were eligible for the analysis; 19.4 % met the Roma IV criteria for constipation at the time of assessment. No statistically significant differences were detected in the prevalence of constipation between different opioid treatments. Even though the proportion of constipated patients was higher among inpatients, this was not statistically significant. In all, 53.1 % of patients were on regular treatment with some laxative, the most frequent being magnesium hydroxide (48.1 %), and only 11.5 % received treatment with more than one laxative.Conclusions: Taking into consideration all the previous information, constipation continues to be a symptom with a non-negligible prevalence among patients with advanced cancer disease..(AU)

Insulinoma Associated with MEN1 Syndrome: A Case of Persistent Hypoglycemia in School-aged Child.

Insulinoma is a rare cause of non-ketotic hypoglycemia both in adults and in children. Pediatric patients account for approximately 5% of all cases, mostly due to isolated benign lesions, but it can also be part of a multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 syndrome (MEN1). We report the case of a patient with multiple hospitalizations related to hypoglycemia and neuroglycopenia symptoms, with multiple studies demonstrating the presence of an insulinoma as part of the spectrum of MEN1 syndrome. The primary significance of our report is to underscore that insulinoma can present as the initial manifestation of MEN1 syndrome in 10% of pediatric patients. Furthermore, we describe a likely pathogenic variant in the MEN1 gene not previously reported in the literature. Our report highlights the importance of the convergence of clinical, biochemical and molecular investigations in establishing a precise diagnosis, prognosis, and appropriate follow-up for pediatric patients with hypoglycemia.

Sarcoidosis: experience in a Mexican ophthalmological clinic.

BACKGROUND: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder in which patients frequently develop ocular manifestations that precede systemic involvement, sometimes it even presents as an ocular isolated form of the disease. The purpose of this study is to report the ocular and systemic manifestations of sarcoidosis in a series of Mexican patients, as there is a low incidence of the disease in this population. METHODS: A retrospective case series of patients with positive classification criteria for sarcoidosis who attended Asociacion Para Evitar la Ceguera en Mexico, IAP between 2011 and 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to report the clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings and treatment. Numerical results were presented using median values and first and third quartiles for distribution. RESULTS: Fourteen patients were included in this study, 10 of them had definite ocular sarcoidosis (biopsy-proven), 4 had presumed ocular sarcoidosis. The median age of onset was 52 (34; 67), with a predominance of female patients (71.4%). Ten patients (71.4%) debuted with ocular manifestations. The most common forms of ocular involvement were bilateral anterior uveitis (50%) and panuveitis (28.6%). Median follow-up was 24 (13-49) months. CONCLUSIONS: Sarcoidosis is a rare, underdiagnosed condition in Mexico and ocular involvement can be an early manifestation of the disease. Ophthalmologists should be alert to the signs of ocular sarcoidosis and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to screen for systemic involvement if suspicion is high.

Case report: A novel SON mutation in a Colombian patient with ZTTK syndrome.

Zhu-Tokita-Takenouchi-Kim syndrome is a multisystem disorder resulting from haploinsufficiency in the SON gene, which is characterized by developmental delay/intellectual disability, seizures, facial dysmorphism, short stature, and congenital malformations, primarily in the central nervous system, along with ophthalmic, dental, pulmonary, cardiologic, renal, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal anomalies. In this study, we describe the first Colombian patient with ZTT harboring a novel mutation that has not been previously reported and review the clinical and molecular features of previously reported patients in the literature.

Espectroscopía visible y del infrarrojo cercano para el análisis de nutrientes en tejido vegetal de caña de azúcar para producción de panela

La espectroscopía de reflectancia en el infrarrojo cercano (NIRS) es una tecnología rápida, multiparamétrica, amigable con el ambiente, de bajo costo y gran exactitud, para el análisis de diversos componentes en alimentos, en suelo y en agricultura. El objetivo del presente estudio fue construir modelos de calibración NIRS, para la predicción de nutrientes en tejido vegetal de caña de azúcar, para producción de panela, cultivada en la región de la Hoya del río Suárez. Un total de 416 muestras de tejido fueron escaneadas en el segmento espectral Vis-NIR. El análisis quimiométrico, se realizó con el software WinISI V4.10, aplicando la regresión de mínimos cuadrados parciales modificados, junto a una validación cruzada. Se evaluaron cuatro modelos con diferentes tratamientos matemáticos y el rendimiento de las calibraciones, se hizo por medio de la validación externa, analizando las medidas de bondad de ajuste, como el coeficiente de determinación de la predicción, el error estándar de la predicción ajustado por el sesgo y la desviación predictiva residual. Los resultados muestran que el modelo de calibración para N presentó el mayor poder predictivo. Para macronutrientes, las calibraciones, con mayor poder predictivo, fueron P y K y para micronutrientes, el modelo para B, mientras que para Cu presentó el más bajo poder predictivo. Se encontraron modelos adecuados para la predicción de los contenidos de N, Ca y P; para los demás nutrientes, se recomienda ampliar el conjunto de calibración.

Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) is a fast, multiparametric, environmentally friendly, low-cost, and highly accurate technology for the analysis of components in food, soil, and agriculture. The purpose of this study was to generate NIRS calibration models for the prediction of nutrients in plant tissue of sugarcane to panela production cultivated in the Hoya del Río Suárez region. A total of 416 tissue samples were scanned in Vis-NIR spectral segment. Chemometric analysis was performed with the WinISI V4.10 software applying modified partial least squares regression with cross-validation. Four models with different mathematical treatments were evaluated, and the performance of calibrations was made through external validation analyzing the goodness-of-fit measures as prediction determination coefficient, standard error of the bias-adjusted prediction, and residual predictive deviation. The results showed that the calibration model for N had the highest predictive power. For macronutrients, the calibrations with the best predictive power were for P and K, and micronutrients for B, while Cu presented the lowest predictive power. Adequate models were found for the prediction of N, Ca, and P. In the case of the other nutrients, it is recommended to expand the calibration set.

Use of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy on feces to estimate digestibility and dry matter intake of dietary nutritional characteristics under grazing conditions in Colombian creole steers.

Digestibility and intake are parameters difficult and expensive to estimate under grazing conditions; therefore, the aim of this study was to develop near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) calibrations applied to feces (F-NIRS) and evaluate their accuracy to predict dry matter digestibility (DMD) and dry matter intake (DMI) of Colombian creole cattle. Five digestibility trials using creole steers were conducted; indigestible neutral detergent fiber (iNDF) was used as internal marker and Cr2O3 and TiO2 as external markers. A total of 249 forage and 396 fecal samples from individual animals were collected, dried, and grinded for conventional chemical analysis. For spectral analysis, fecal samples were pooled across collection periods (77 samples). Chemometric analysis was performed using WinISI V4.10 software applying the modified partial least squares method. Cross-validation was performed to avoid overfitting the models. The goodness-of-fit statistics considered were the coefficient of determination in cross-validation and prediction sets (R2cv and r2, respectively) and the ratio performance deviation (RPD). Fecal NIRS calibrations developed for forage and supplement DMD showed a satisfactory fit (R2cv =0.87 and RPD=2.77 and R2cv=0.92 and RPD=3.50, respectively). The accuracy of fecal output equations using chromium (Cr) and titanium (Ti) was similar in terms of R2cv (0.92) and RPD (3.63 vs. 3.57). Total DMI equations using Ti performed better compared to Cr (R2cv = 0.82 vs. 0.78; RPD=2.41 vs. 2.17, respectively). The F-NIRS models were validated using a completely independent set of fecal samples showing a moderate fit (r2>0.8 and RPD>2.0). This study showed that F-NIRS is a feasible tool to predict DMD and DMI of creole steers under grazing conditions. However, previous to socialization, this requires an improvement in accuracy of the calibrated equations related to grazing animals in different production contexts.

Guía de práctica clínica para el manejo de la neumonía adquirida en la comunidad / Clinical Practice Guideline for the management of community-acquired pneumonia

Resumen La neumonía sigue siendo una de las principales causas de consulta y de hospitalización a la que, además de su un alto impacto en términos de morbilidad y mortalidad, se suma la actual problemática de resistencia a los antimicrobianos, por lo que establecer directrices que permitan su adecuado diagnóstico y tratamiento es de gran importancia para obtener mejores desenlaces clínicos y promover un uso racional de antibióticos en estos pacientes. La presente guía de práctica clínica (GPC) contiene recomendaciones basadas en la evidencia para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la neumonía adquirida en la comunidad en adultos, las cuales fueron realizadas mediante el proceso de adaptación de GPC basadas en la evidencia para el contexto colombiano.

Abstract Pneumonia continues to be one of the main causes of consultation and hospitalization to which, besides its high impact on morbidity and mortality, the current problem of antimicrobial resistance is added; thus, establishing guidelines that allow its adequate diagnosis and treatment is of great importance to obtain better clinical outcomes and promote a rational use of antibiotics in these patients. This clinical practice guideline (CPG) contains evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia in adult population; these recommendations were made by means of the process of adaptation of evidence-based CPGs for the Colombian context.

Light Interception, Photosynthetic Performance, and Yield of Oil Palm Interspecific OxG Hybrid (Elaeis oleifera (Kunth) Cortés x Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) under Three Planting Densities.

Environmental conditions are crucial for crops' growth, development, and productivity. One of the most important physiological factors associated with the production of crops is the use of solar radiation for the photosynthesis process, which determines the amount of assimilates available for crop growth and yield. Three age classes (4, 6, and 14 years) and three planting densities (143, 128, and 115 palms ha-1) were evaluated in a commercial interspecific Elaeis Oleifera x Elaeis guineensis hybrid Coari x La Mé. The light interception patterns and the photosynthetic performance were determined. Measurements were taken of the leaf area, the number of leaves, and incident and photosynthetically transmitted active radiation. Also, photosynthetic rates, light, and yield were measured. The canopy extinction coefficient (Kc) was estimated using the Monsi and Saeki model. Under the evaluated conditions, the average Kc value for 4-year-old palms was 0.44; for the 6-year-old group of palms, the average value was 0.40, and 0.32 for the 14-year-old palms, with coefficients of determination (R2) greater than 0.8. A pattern associated with the age of the crop was observed, where the Kc decreased in groups of adult palms. The results showed increased Kc as the planting density decreased. No statistically significant differences were observed between planting densities or ages in the light and CO2 curves regarding photosynthesis. The leaf level in which the measurement was made influenced photosynthesis. Thus, the highest values of the photosynthesis parameters were observed in leaf 17. The crop yield tended to stabilize 8 years after planting under 143 and 128 palms per hectare, but 14 years after planting, the Fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production was still growing under 115 palms per hectare. The results showed that, up to year 14 after planting, the highest cumulative yield was achieved with 115 palms per hectare. This was partly caused by a sharp decline in production observed under 128 palms per hectare, which could indicate that in the long production cycle of the OxG hybrids, the 115-palms-per-hectare planting density would result in higher cumulative FFB production. Furthermore, the results showed that the optimum planting density for the hybrids of the present study would be 120 palms ha-1, corresponding to a planting distance of 9.8 m between plants.

Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Management of Episodic Dyspnea in Advanced Lung Cancer Outpatients: A Multicenter Nationwide Study-The INSPIRA-DOS Study.

Background: Episodic dyspnea (ED) is a common problem in patients with advanced lung cancer (LC). However, the prevalence of ED and other related aspects in this patient population is not known. Objectives: To assess and describe the prevalence, clinical features, treatment, and risk factors for ED in outpatients with advanced LC. Design: Multicenter cross-sectional study. Subjects: Consecutive sample of adult outpatients with advanced LC. Measurements: We assessed background dyspnea (BD), the characteristics, triggers, and management of ED. Potential ED risk factors were assessed through multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 366 patients were surveyed. Overall, the prevalence of ED was 31.9% (90% in patients reporting BD). Patients reported a median of one episode per day (interquartile range [IQR]: 1-2), with a median intensity of 7/10 (IQR: 5-8.25). ED triggers were identified in 89.9% of patients. ED was significantly associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p = 0.011), pulmonary vascular disease (p = 0.003), cachexia (p = 0.002), and palliative care (p < 0.001). Continuous oxygen use was associated with higher risk of ED (odds ratio: 9.89; p < 0.001). Opioids were used by 44% patients with ED. Conclusions: ED is highly prevalent and severe in outpatients with advanced LC experiencing BD. The association between intrathoracic comorbidities and oxygen therapy points to alveolar oxygen exchange failure having a potential etiopathogenic role in ED in this population. Further studies are needed to better characterize ED in LC to better inform treatments and trial protocols.

Identification of non-volatile compounds that impact consumer liking of strawberry preserves: Untargeted LC-MS analysis.

Non-volatile compounds that impact the acceptability of strawberry preserves were investigated by untargeted LC-MS flavoromics analysis. Chemical profiles for fifteen strawberry preserves were modeled against consumer liking scores by orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) with good fit (R2Y = 0.995) and predictive ability (Q2 = 0.918). Four chemical compounds predictive of acceptability were identified, by accurate MS and NMR, as secoisolariciresinol monoglucoside, (+)-isolariciresinol monoglucoside, 1-hexanoyl-phloroglucinol-2-O-ß-d-glucoside, and the novel compound decanoic acid-4-O-ß-d-glucoside. Sensory recombination testing of preserve samples with added levels of the four predictive LC-MS compounds indicated perceivable sensory changes in the flavor profile. Female consumers significantly preferred the recombination preserve with added levels of both predictive GC-MS and LC-MS compounds as compared to the control preserve, demonstrating the applicability of the approach for understanding product liking.

Identification of volatile compounds correlated with consumer acceptability of strawberry preserves: Untargeted GC-MS analysis.

Volatile compounds that impact the acceptability of strawberry preserves were investigated by untargeted GC-MS flavoromics analysis. Chemical profiles for fifteen strawberry preserves were modeled against consumer liking scores by orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) with good fit (R2Y = 0.998) and predictive ability (Q2 = 0.853). Ten highly predictive compounds were selected, nine of which were identified, and eight of which were quantified using tandem mass spectrometry. Sensory recombination difference testing revealed that the addition of predictive compounds to an average-liked preserve at levels found in the most-liked preserve induced a perceptible difference to frequent consumers of strawberry jams. One of the highly predictive compounds was identified (MS and synthesis) as a novel linalool oxide product 2-methyl-2-vinyl-tetrahydrofuran with a fruity, herbal-minty, piney aroma and a low odor threshold value.

Case report: Craniofrontonasal syndrome caused by a novel variant in the EFNB1 gene in a Colombian woman.

Craniofrontonasal Syndrome is a very rare dominant X-linked genetic disorder characterized by symptoms such as hypertelorism, craniosynostosis, eye alterations, bifid nose tip, and longitudinal ridging and splitting of nails. Heterozygous females are usually the patients severely affected. To date, clinical or genetic data have not been published for these patients in Colombia. Here we report a female proband with coronal craniosynostosis, hypertelorism, strabismus, rotational nystagmus, high-arched palate, dental crowding, scoliosis, severe pectus excavatum, unilateral breast hypoplasia, and brachydactyly; diagnosed with Craniofrontonasal Syndrome with the novel heterozygous variant c.374A>C (p.Glu125Ala) in the EFNB1 gene. So far, she has been treated with physical therapy and surgical correction of the bifid nose and an umbilical hernia. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with this rare genetic disorder in Colombia, expanding its mutational spectrum and highlighting the importance of genetic evaluation of patients with craniosynostosis and facial dysmorphism.

Musculoskeletal disorders due to chikungunya virus: A real experience in a rheumatology department in Neiva, Huila.

BACKGROUND: Chikungunya (CHIKV), is an endemic RNA virus in some regions of Asia and Africa. In Colombia in 2014, its spread started explosively and quickly. The presentation of CHIKV is a febrile condition, with musculoskeletal symptoms, which can progress to erosive arthropathy and polyarticular deformity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate symptomatic and serological behaviour in patients suffering from CHIKV infection in Neiva, Huila who attend the Rheumatology clinic, and to describe the comorbidities associated with the chronic phase of the disease. METHODS: An observational, longitudinal and retrospective analysis of data collected in 410 patients afflicted with the CHIKV virus, with symptoms lasting more than 3 months, who persisted with musculoskeletal and joint symptoms. The patients were classified according to their commitment in post-viral arthralgias, polyarthritis post viral, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) post CHIKV, Spondyloarthritis postCHIKV, and soft tissue rheumatism. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 24). A descriptive analysis was carried out to evaluate quantitative variables such as the mean (standard deviation), and categorical variables such as frequency (%). The categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square equation. As a statistical significance, a p less than .05 was considered. RESULTS: Of the 410 patients, 89.23% were women, with polyarticular involvement in 92.26% of the cases. Of the patients, 49.83% had osteoarthritis. At the time of the evaluation in the Rheumatology clinic, 46.3% of the cases presented persistent non-inflammatory arthralgias, and 53.7% of the patients underwent arthritis on physical examination, of which, remarkably, 20.3% met the criteria for rheumatoid arthritis postCHIKV. CONCLUSIONS: The development of musculoskeletal symptoms after CHIKV infection is a very serious public health problem, with persistent complications and long-term morbidity risk in real life. The presence of net postviral arthritis is noteworthy, however the development of postCHIKV rheumatoid arthritis usually requires more advanced pharmacological measures, including, in some cases, transition to biological therapy. The presence of symptoms of venous insufficiency in the lower limbs that developed with CHIKV infection was an incidental finding that requires a more precise study.

Desórdenes musculoesqueléticos crónicos por virus Chikungunya: experiencia real en la consulta de reumatología en Neiva, Huila / Musculoskeletal disorders due to Chikungunya virus: A real experience in a rheumatology department in Neiva, Huila

Introducción: Chikungunya (CHIKV) es un virus RNA endémico en algunas regiones de Asia y África. En Colombia en el año 2014 inicia su dispersión de manera explosiva y rápida. La presentación del CHIKV es una condición febril con síntomas musculoesqueléticos que pueden progresar a artropatía erosiva y deformidad poliarticular. El propósito de este estudio es evaluar en pacientes aquejados por la infección por CHIKV en Neiva, Huila que acuden a la consulta de Reumatología, el comportamiento sintomático y serológico, y describir comorbilidades asociadas a la fase crónica de la enfermedad. Métodos: Se realizó un análisis observacional, longitudinal y retrospectivo, de datos recolectados en 410 pacientes aquejados por el virus CHIKV con síntomas de más de tres meses de duración que persistían con afecciones musculoesqueléticas y articulares. Los pacientes fueron clasificados según su compromiso en: artralgias postvirales, poliartritis postviral, artritis reumatoide (AR) postCHIKV, espondiloartritis postCHIKV y reumatismo de tejidos blandos. El análisis estadístico fue realizado usando SPSS software (versión 24). Se llevó a cabo análisis descriptivo para evaluar variables cuantitativas como la media (desviación estándar) y variables categóricas como la frecuencia (%). Las variables categóricas fueron comparadas usando la ecuación X2. Como significancia estadística se consideró una p < 0,05. Resultados: De los 410 pacientes, 89,23% fueron mujeres, con compromiso poliarticular en 92,26% de los casos. El 49,83% de los pacientes presentaban de base osteoartritis. Al momento de la evaluación en la consulta de Reumatología, 46,3% de los pacientes cursaron con artralgias no inflamatorias persistentes y 53,7% de los casos presentaban artritis al examen físico, de los cuales, de manera remarcable 20,3% cumplieron criterios para AR postCHIKV.(AU)

Background: Chikungunya (CHIKV), is an endemic RNA virus in some regions of Asia and Africa. In Colombia in 2014, its spread starts explosively and quickly. The presentation of CHIKV is a febrile condition, with musculoskeletal symptoms, which can progress to erosive arthropathy and polyarticular deformity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate in patients suffering from CHIKV infection in Neiva, Huila who attend the Rheumatology clinic, the symptomatic and serological behavior, and to describe comorbidities associated to the chronic phase of the disease. Methods: An observational, longitudinal and retrospective analysis of data collected in 410 patients afflicted with the CHIKV virus, with symptoms lasting more than 3 months, who persisted with musculoskeletal and joint symptoms. The patients were classified according to their commitment in post-viral arthralgias, polyarthritis post viral, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) post CHIKV, Spondyloarthritis postCHIKV, and soft tissue rheumatism. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 24). A descriptive analysis was carried out to evaluate quantitative variables such as the mean (standard deviation), and categorical variables such as frequency (%). The categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square equation. As a statistical significance, a p less than .05 was considered. Results: Of the 410 patients, 89.23% were women, with polyarticular involvement in 92.26% of the cases. Of the patients, 49.83% had osteoarthritis. At the time of the evaluation in the Rheumatology clinic, 46.3% of the cases presented persistent non-inflammatory arthralgias, and 53.7% of the patients underwent arthritis on physical examination, of which, remarkably, 20.3% met the criteria for rheumatoid arthritis postCHIKV.(AU)

Evaluation of possible biomarkers for caries risk in children 6 to 12 years of age.

Background: Electrolytes, proteins, and other salivary molecules play an important role in tooth integrity and can serve as biomarkers associated with caries. Objective: To determine the concentration of potential biomarkers in children without caries (CF) and children with caries (CA). Methods: Unstimulated saliva was collected, and the biomarkers quantified in duplicate, using commercial Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits to determine IgA, fibronectin, cathelicidin LL-37, and statherin levels, as well as colorimetric tests to detect formate and phosphate. Results: Significantly higher concentrations of statherin was detected in the CF group (Median: 94,734.6; IQR: 92,934.6-95,113.7) compared to the CA2 group (90,875.0; IQR: 83,580.2-94,633.4) (p = 0.03). Slightly higher median IgA (48,250.0; IQR: 31,461.9-67,418.8) and LL-37 levels (56.1; IQR 43.6-116.2) and a lower concentration of formate were detected in the CF group (0.02; IQR 0.0034-0.15) compared to the group with caries (IgA: 37,776.42; IQR: 33,383.9-44,128.5; LL-37: 46.3; IQR: 40.1011-67.7; formate: 0.10; IQR: 0.01-0.18), but these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: The fact that these compounds have been identified as good markers for caries among European adults highlights the difficulty of identifying universal biomarkers that are applicable to all ages or to different populations.

Slipstreaming Mother Machine: A Microfluidic Device for Single-Cell Dynamic Imaging of Yeast.

The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is one of the most basic model organisms for studies of aging and other phenomena such as division strategies. These organisms have been typically studied with the use of microfluidic devices to keep cells trapped while under a flow of fresh media. However, all of the existing devices trap cells mechanically, subjecting them to pressures that may affect cell physiology. There is evidence mechanical pressure affects growth rate and the movement of intracellular components, so it is quite possible that it affects other physiological aspects such as aging. To allow studies with the lowest influence of mechanical pressure, we designed and fabricated a device that takes advantage of the slipstreaming effect. In slipstreaming, moving fluids that encounter a barrier flow around it forming a pressure gradient behind it. We trap mother cells in this region and force daughter cells to be in the negative pressure gradient region so that they are taken away by the flow. Additionally, this device can be fabricated using low resolution lithography techniques, which makes it less expensive than devices that require photolithography masks with resolution under 5 µm. With this device, it is possible to measure some of the most interesting aspects of yeast dynamics such as growth rates and Replicative Life Span. This device should allow future studies to eliminate pressure bias as well as extending the range of labs that can do these types of measurements.

Musculoskeletal Disorders due to Chikungunya Virus: A Real Experience in a Rheumatology Department in Neiva, Huila. / Desórdenes musculoesqueléticos crónicos por virus Chikungunya: experiencia real en la consulta de reumatología en Neiva, Huila.

BACKGROUND: Chikungunya (CHIKV), is an endemic RNA virus in some regions of Asia and Africa. In Colombia in 2014, its spread starts explosively and quickly. The presentation of CHIKV is a febrile condition, with musculoskeletal symptoms, which can progress to erosive arthropathy and polyarticular deformity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate in patients suffering from CHIKV infection in Neiva, Huila who attend the Rheumatology clinic, the symptomatic and serological behavior, and to describe comorbidities associated to the chronic phase of the disease. METHODS: An observational, longitudinal and retrospective analysis of data collected in 410 patients afflicted with the CHIKV virus, with symptoms lasting more than 3 months, who persisted with musculoskeletal and joint symptoms. The patients were classified according to their commitment in post-viral arthralgias, polyarthritis post viral, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) post CHIKV, Spondyloarthritis postCHIKV, and soft tissue rheumatism. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 24). A descriptive analysis was carried out to evaluate quantitative variables such as the mean (standard deviation), and categorical variables such as frequency (%). The categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square equation. As a statistical significance, a p less than .05 was considered. RESULTS: Of the 410 patients, 89.23% were women, with polyarticular involvement in 92.26% of the cases. Of the patients, 49.83% had osteoarthritis. At the time of the evaluation in the Rheumatology clinic, 46.3% of the cases presented persistent non-inflammatory arthralgias, and 53.7% of the patients underwent arthritis on physical examination, of which, remarkably, 20.3% met the criteria for rheumatoid arthritis postCHIKV. CONCLUSIONS: The development of musculoskeletal symptoms after CHIKV infection is a very serious public health problem, with persistent complications and long-term morbidity risk in real life. The presence of net postviral arthritis is noteworthy, however the development of postCHIKV rheumatoid arthritis usually requires more advanced pharmacological measures, including, in some cases, transition to biological therapy. The presence of symptoms of venous insufficiency in the lower limbs that developed with CHIKV infection was an incidental finding that requires a more precise study.

Bovine Decellularized Amniotic Membrane: Extracellular Matrix as Scaffold for Mammalian Skin.

Decellularized membranes (DM) were obtained from bovine amniotic membranes (BAM) using four different decellularization protocols, based on physical, chemical, and mechanical treatment. The new material was used as a biological scaffold for in vitro skin cell culture. The DM were characterized using hematoxylin-eosin assay, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The in vitro cytotoxicity of DM was evaluated using MTT. The efficacy of decellularization process was assessed through DNA quantification and electrophoresis. All the used protocols showed a high effectiveness in terms of elimination of native cells, confirmed by DNA extraction and quantification, electrophoresis, and SEM, although protocol IV removes the cellular contents and preserve the native extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture which it can be considered as the most effective in terms of decellularization. FTIR-ATR and DSC on the other hand, revealed the effects of decellularization on the biochemical composition of the matrices. There was no cytotoxicity and the biological matrices obtained were a source of collagen for recellularization. The matrices of protocols I, II, and III were degraded at day 21 of cell culture, forming a gel. The biocompatibility in vitro was demonstrated; hence these matrices may be deemed as potential scaffold for epithelial tissue regeneration.

Presence of Streptococcus dentisani in the dental plaque of children from different Colombian cities.

Streptococcus dentisani has been identified as an oral cavity probiotic due to its beneficial characteristics. One of its beneficial features is the production of bacteriocins, which inhibit the growth of cariogenic bacteria, and another is its buffering capacity through the production of ammonium from arginine. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of S. dentisani in the dental plaque of Colombian children and whether the presence of this bacterium is related to oral health and other conditions. Dental plaque and information on diet and oral hygiene habits were collected from children between 6 and 12 years of age from four Colombian cities, divided into caries-free children (International Caries Detection and Assessment System [ICDAS] 0, Decayed Missing Filled Teeth index [DMFT] 0), children with ICDAS 1 and 2, and children with ICDAS >3. Plaque DNA was extracted and quantified, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed using specific primers. This bacterium was identified in all samples, with a median of 0.46 cells/ng DNA (interquartile range [IQR] 0.13-1.02), without finding significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). In caries-free children, a median of 0.45 cells/ng DNA (IQR 0.14-1.23) was found. In children with ICDAS 1 and 2, the median was 0.49 cells/ng DNA (IQR 0.11-0.97), and in children with ICDAS >3, the median was 0.35 cells/ng DNA (IQR 0.12-1.07). However, statistically significant differences were found in the origin of children (P < 0.01), the use of fluoride-containing products (P < 0.01), and the frequency of food intake (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the presence of S. dentisani was quantified in children from four Colombian cities, without finding significant differences in oral health status. Nevertheless, three conditions showed a possible relationship with S. dentisani.

Characterization of odour-active volatiles and sensory analyses of roasted oak (Quercus humboldtii Bonpl) acorns, a coffee substitute / Caracterización de los compuestos activos olfativamente y análisis sensorial de los frutos tostados del roble (Quercus humboldtii Bonpl), como una bebida sustituta de café

Background: Oak acorns are roasted and grounded to produce a powder that is used to prepare a coffee substitute beverage. Objective: To identify the odour-active volatiles of the powder derived from roasted acorns of Quercus humboldtii and to perform a quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) of its appearance, odour, and taste. Methods: The odour-active volatiles of roasted oak acorn powder were extracted by SDE and analyzed by GC/MS and olfactory analyses (GC/O). Sensorial analyses of this beverage were done by QDA (Quantitative Descriptive Analysis). Results: Nineteen compounds were identified, showing acid, buttery/caramel, smoke/roasted, and fruity odour notes, which are common to those of roasted coffee. Ketones, aldehydes, aliphatic acids, furanic alcohols and pyrazines were identified as relevant for this coffee substitute beverage. The major volatile compounds were furfural, 5-methyl furfural, furfuryl alcohol, and 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, some of them related to the sugar breakdown by heating. Odour attributes characterized by QDA, were in agreement with those detected by GC-O (Gas Chromatography coupled to Olfactometry), but some off-taste notes were detected. Conclusions: The results of molecular sensory approach confirmed that this product resembles coffee; however, QDA analyses showed the presence of undesirable taste. More studies are needed in order to improve the taste quality of this coffee substitute.

Antecedentes: los frutos del roble se tuestan y muelen para producir un polvo que es empleado en la preparación de una bebida sustituta del café. Objetivos: identificar los compuestos volátiles activos olfativamente presentes en el polvo proveniente de los frutos tostados de Quercus humboldtii; así como llevar a cabo un análisis cuantitativo descriptivo (QDA) de la apariencia, olor y sabor de este polvo. Métodos: os compuestos volátiles activos olfativamente del polvo de los frutos tostados del roble se extrajeron por DES y se analizaron por CG-EM y análisis olfativo (CG-O). La caracterización sensorial de esta bebida sustituta de café fue realizada mediante el empleo de QDA. Resultados: se identificaron diecinueve compuestos y se evidenció la presencia de notas de olor como manteca/caramelo, ahumado/tostado y frutal, similares a las encontradas en el café tostado. Los componentes mayoritarios identificados para este sustituto de café fueron cetonas, aldehídos, ácidos alifáticos, alcoholes furánicos y pirazinas. Los compuestos mayoritarios detectados fueron furfural, 5-metil furfural, alcohol furfurílico y 3-hidroxi-2-butanona, algunos de ellos relacionados con la descomposición térmica de azúcares. Los atributos de olor caracterizados por QDA fueron similares a los detectados por CG-O, aunque se detectaron algunas notas de sabor desagradable. Conclusiones: los resultados del molecular sensory approach confirmaron que este producto se parece al café; sin embargo el QDA mostró la presencia de un sabor desagradable. Estudios adicionales son necesarios para mejorar la calidad del sabor de este sustituto de café.