Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) in adults in the AWI-Gen Nairobi site study: Profiles and predictors / Grosor de la íntima-media carotídea (GIMc) en adultos en el estudio del sitio de AWI-Gen en Nairobi: perfiles y factores predictivos

Background: Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) is used as a marker of subclinical and asymptomatic atherosclerotic vascular disease. Increased CIMT is associated with future cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. There is limited data on the profile and correlates of CIMT in Africa. The aim of this study was to describe the profile and correlates of CIMT in apparently normal younger-age adults in an urban setting in Kenya. Methods: This study used population-based data collected from 2003 adults between the ages of 40 and 60 years in two slums of Nairobi as part of a genetic study. CIMT was measured using LOGIQ e (GE Healthcare, CT, USA) ultrasound on both left and right carotid arteries, whereby maximum, mean, and minimum values were recorded. Age- and sex-specific CIMT measurements were calculated and their association with basic sociodemographic, behavioral and body composition indicators were investigated. Results: The median (IQR) CIMT were 0.58 (0.51, 0.66) and 0.59 (0.53, 0.66) in men and women, respectively. About 16% of the study population had CIMT greater than 0.7mm, the cut off for higher CIMT. Nearly 60% had CIMT values ≥75th percentile. Age, current use of alcohol, systolic blood pressure, subcutaneous fat thickness, pulse rate and pulse pressure were found to be the main predictors of CIMT in our study population. Conclusion: This study provided population-based reference values and predictors for CIMT for an adult population living in urban poor settings in Kenya. Future studies need to consider biochemical and genetic predictors of CIMT in this population. (AU)

Antecedentes: El grosor de la íntima-media carotídea (GIMc) se utiliza como marcador de la aterosclerosis subclínica y asintomática. El incremento del GIMc está asociado a episodios cerebrovasculares y cardiovasculares futuros. Existen datos limitados sobre el perfil y la correlación del GIMc en África. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el perfil y la correlación del GIMc en adultos jóvenes aparentemente normales en un contexto urbano de Kenia. Métodos: Este estudio utilizó datos basados en población de 2.003 adultos con edades comprendidas entre 40 y 60 años en dos suburbios de Nairobi, como parte de un estudio genético. El GIMc se midió utilizando el ecógrafo LOGIQ E (GE Healthcare, CT, EE. UU.) en ambas carótidas, izquierda y derecha, donde se registraron los valores máximo, medio y mínimo. Se calcularon las medidas de GIMc específicas de la edad y el sexo, así como su asociación con los indicadores sociodemográficos, conductuales y corporales básicos. Resultados: Los valores medios (RIC) de GIMc fueron 0,58 (0,51, 0,66) y 0,59 (0,53, 0,66) en hombres y mujeres, respectivamente. Cerca del 16% de la población de estudio tuvo un GIMc superior a 0,7mm, siendo el punto de corte de GIMc elevado. Cerca del 60% reflejó valores de GIMc ≥percentil 75. La edad, el consumo actual de alcohol, la presión arterial sistólica, el grosor de la grasa subcutánea, la frecuencia cardiaca y la presión del pulso fueron los principales factores predictivos de GIMc en la población de nuestro estudio. Conclusión: Este estudio aportó valores de referencia basados en población y factores predictivos de GIMc para una población adulta en un entorno urbano de pocos recursos de Kenia. Los estudios futuros deberán considerar los factores predictivos bioquímicos y genéticos de GIMc en dicha población. (AU)

Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) in adults in the AWI-Gen Nairobi site study: Profiles and predictors.

BACKGROUND: Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) is used as a marker of subclinical and asymptomatic atherosclerotic vascular disease. Increased CIMT is associated with future cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. There is limited data on the profile and correlates of CIMT in Africa. The aim of this study was to describe the profile and correlates of CIMT in apparently normal younger-age adults in an urban setting in Kenya. METHODS: This study used population-based data collected from 2003 adults between the ages of 40 and 60 years in two slums of Nairobi as part of a genetic study. CIMT was measured using LOGIQ e (GE Healthcare, CT, USA) ultrasound on both left and right carotid arteries, whereby maximum, mean, and minimum values were recorded. Age- and sex-specific CIMT measurements were calculated and their association with basic sociodemographic, behavioral and body composition indicators were investigated. RESULTS: The median (IQR) CIMT were 0.58 (0.51, 0.66) and 0.59 (0.53, 0.66) in men and women, respectively. About 16% of the study population had CIMT greater than 0.7mm, the cut off for higher CIMT. Nearly 60% had CIMT values ≥75th percentile. Age, current use of alcohol, systolic blood pressure, subcutaneous fat thickness, pulse rate and pulse pressure were found to be the main predictors of CIMT in our study population. CONCLUSION: This study provided population-based reference values and predictors for CIMT for an adult population living in urban poor settings in Kenya. Future studies need to consider biochemical and genetic predictors of CIMT in this population.

Detection of microorganisms with antibacterial activities from different industrial wastes and GC-MS analysis of crude microbial extract / Detecção de microrganismos com atividades antibacterianas de diferentes resíduos industriais e análise por GC-MS do extrato microbiano bruto

Many soil microorganisms' i.e., bacteria and fungi produce secondary metabolites called antibiotics. These are used for the treatment of some of the bacterial, fungal and protozoal diseases of humans. There is a need for isolation of a broad spectrum of antibiotics from microorganisms due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. In the present study two antibiotic producing bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus cereus were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry of Hattar, Haripur Pakistan. Total 10 waste samples were collected from different industries (Marble, Ghee, Soap, Mineral, Steel, Poultry Feed, Pharmaceutical, Qarshi, Cosmetic and Glass). Thirty-three bacterial strains were isolated from industrial wastes of these ten different industries. Fourteen out of thirty-three bacterial strains exhibited antimicrobial activities against at least one of the test microbes considered in this study including Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. The bacteria were isolated by standard serial dilution spread plate technique. Morphological characterization of the isolates was done by Gram staining. Nine bacterial isolates out of fourteen were initially identified as B. cereus and five as K. pneumoniae through biochemical characterization. The antibacterial activities were tested by well diffusion method. Maximum number of antibiotic producing bacteria were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry based on the results of primary screening, the most potential isolates S9, S19, S20, S22 and S23 were selected for secondary screening. The maximum activity against E. coli and S. aureus was recorded by bacterial isolate S19 i.e zones of inhibition of 6.5mm and 9mm while S20 showed 7.5mm and 6mm zones respectively. Molecular identification was carried out on the basis of 16S rRNA sequence [...].

Muitos microrganismos do solo, ou seja, bactérias e fungos produzem metabólitos secundários chamados antibióticos. Eles são usados para tratamento de algumas doenças bacterianas, fúngicas e protozoárias em humanos. Há necessidade de isolamento de um amplo espectro de antibióticos de microrganismos devido ao surgimento de resistência aos antibióticos. No presente estudo, duas bactérias produtoras de antibióticos, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Bacillus cereus, foram isoladas da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola de Hattar, Haripur, Paquistão. Um total de 10 amostras de resíduos foi coletado de diferentes indústrias (mármore, ghee, sabão, mineral, aço, ração para aves, farmacêutica, Qarshi, cosmética e vidro). Trinta e três cepas bacterianas foram isoladas de resíduos industriais dessas dez diferentes indústrias. Quatorze das 33 cepas bacterianas exibiram atividades antimicrobianas contra pelo menos um dos micróbios de teste considerados neste estudo, incluindo Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus e Salmonella typhi. As bactérias foram isoladas pela técnica de placa de diluição em série padrão. A caracterização morfológica dos isolados foi feita por coloração de gram. Nove isolados bacterianos de 14 foram inicialmente identificados como B. cereus e cinco como K. pneumoniae por meio de caracterização bioquímica. As atividades antibacterianas foram testadas pelo método de difusão em poço. O número máximo de bactérias produtoras de antibióticos foi isolado da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola com base nos resultados da triagem primária, os isolados mais potenciais S9, S19, S20, S22 e S23 foram selecionados para a triagem secundária. A atividade máxima contra E. coli e S. aureus foi registrada pelo isolado bacteriano S19, ou seja, zonas de inibição de 6,5 mm e 9 mm, enquanto S20 mostrou zonas de 7,5 mm e 6 mm, respectivamente. A identificação molecular foi realizada com base na análise da sequência 16S [...].

Detection of microorganisms with antibacterial activities from different industrial wastes and GC-MS analysis of crude microbial extract

Abstract Many soil microorganisms i.e., bacteria and fungi produce secondary metabolites called antibiotics. These are used for the treatment of some of the bacterial, fungal and protozoal diseases of humans. There is a need for isolation of a broad spectrum of antibiotics from microorganisms due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. In the present study two antibiotic producing bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus cereus were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry of Hattar, Haripur Pakistan. Total 10 waste samples were collected from different industries (Marble, Ghee, Soap, Mineral, Steel, Poultry Feed, Pharmaceutical, Qarshi, Cosmetic and Glass). Thirty-three bacterial strains were isolated from industrial wastes of these ten different industries. Fourteen out of thirty-three bacterial strains exhibited antimicrobial activities against at least one of the test microbes considered in this study including Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. The bacteria were isolated by standard serial dilution spread plate technique. Morphological characterization of the isolates was done by Gram staining. Nine bacterial isolates out of fourteen were initially identified as B. cereus and five as K. pneumoniae through biochemical characterization. The antibacterial activities were tested by well diffusion method. Maximum number of antibiotic producing bacteria were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry based on the results of primary screening, the most potential isolates S9, S19, S20, S22 and S23 were selected for secondary screening. The maximum activity against E. coli and S. aureus was recorded by bacterial isolate S19 i.e zones of inhibition of 6.5mm and 9mm while S20 showed 7.5mm and 6mm zones respectively. Molecular identification was carried out on the basis of 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Finally, the isolates were identified as B. cereus accession number LC538271and K. pneumoniae accession number MT078679. Analysis of bacterial extract S20 through GC-MS indicated the presence of 8 compounds of diverse nature and structure. Present study suggests that wastes of pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry may have antibiotic producing bacteria. These bacteria could be utilized for the production of antibiotics. B. cereus and K. pneumoniae isolated from wastes of poultry feed and pharmaceutical industries have the potential to produce antibiotics and could be used to control the microbial growth.

Resumo Muitos microrganismos do solo, ou seja, bactérias e fungos produzem metabólitos secundários chamados antibióticos. Eles são usados para tratamento de algumas doenças bacterianas, fúngicas e protozoárias em humanos. Há necessidade de isolamento de um amplo espectro de antibióticos de microrganismos devido ao surgimento de resistência aos antibióticos. No presente estudo, duas bactérias produtoras de antibióticos, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Bacillus cereus, foram isoladas da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola de Hattar, Haripur, Paquistão. Um total de 10 amostras de resíduos foi coletado de diferentes indústrias (mármore, ghee, sabão, mineral, aço, ração para aves, farmacêutica, Qarshi, cosmética e vidro). Trinta e três cepas bacterianas foram isoladas de resíduos industriais dessas dez diferentes indústrias. Quatorze das 33 cepas bacterianas exibiram atividades antimicrobianas contra pelo menos um dos micróbios de teste considerados neste estudo, incluindo Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus e Salmonella typhi. As bactérias foram isoladas pela técnica de placa de diluição em série padrão. A caracterização morfológica dos isolados foi feita por coloração de gram. Nove isolados bacterianos de 14 foram inicialmente identificados como B. cereus e cinco como K. pneumoniae por meio de caracterização bioquímica. As atividades antibacterianas foram testadas pelo método de difusão em poço. O número máximo de bactérias produtoras de antibióticos foi isolado da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola com base nos resultados da triagem primária, os isolados mais potenciais S9, S19, S20, S22 e S23 foram selecionados para a triagem secundária. A atividade máxima contra E. coli e S. aureus foi registrada pelo isolado bacteriano S19, ou seja, zonas de inibição de 6,5 mm e 9 mm, enquanto S20 mostrou zonas de 7,5 mm e 6 mm, respectivamente. A identificação molecular foi realizada com base na análise da sequência 16S rRNA. Finalmente, os isolados foram identificados como B. cereus número de acesso LC538271 e K. pneumoniae número de acesso MT078679. A análise do extrato bacteriano S20 por meio de GC-MS indicou a presença de oito compostos de natureza e estrutura diversas. O presente estudo sugere que resíduos da indústria farmacêutica e de ração para aves podem conter bactérias produtoras de antibióticos. Essas bactérias podem ser utilizadas para a produção de antibióticos B. cereus e K. pneumoniae isolados de resíduos de rações de aves e indústrias farmacêuticas têm potencial para produzir antibióticos e podem ser usados para controlar o crescimento microbiano.

Detection of microorganisms with antibacterial activities from different industrial wastes and GC-MS analysis of crude microbial extract / Detecção de microrganismos com atividades antibacterianas de diferentes resíduos industriais e análise por GC-MS do extrato microbiano bruto

Abstract Many soil microorganisms' i.e., bacteria and fungi produce secondary metabolites called antibiotics. These are used for the treatment of some of the bacterial, fungal and protozoal diseases of humans. There is a need for isolation of a broad spectrum of antibiotics from microorganisms due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. In the present study two antibiotic producing bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus cereus were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry of Hattar, Haripur Pakistan. Total 10 waste samples were collected from different industries (Marble, Ghee, Soap, Mineral, Steel, Poultry Feed, Pharmaceutical, Qarshi, Cosmetic and Glass). Thirty-three bacterial strains were isolated from industrial wastes of these ten different industries. Fourteen out of thirty-three bacterial strains exhibited antimicrobial activities against at least one of the test microbes considered in this study including Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. The bacteria were isolated by standard serial dilution spread plate technique. Morphological characterization of the isolates was done by Gram staining. Nine bacterial isolates out of fourteen were initially identified as B. cereus and five as K. pneumoniae through biochemical characterization. The antibacterial activities were tested by well diffusion method. Maximum number of antibiotic producing bacteria were isolated from pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry based on the results of primary screening, the most potential isolates S9, S19, S20, S22 and S23 were selected for secondary screening. The maximum activity against E. coli and S. aureus was recorded by bacterial isolate S19 i.e zones of inhibition of 6.5mm and 9mm while S20 showed 7.5mm and 6mm zones respectively. Molecular identification was carried out on the basis of 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Finally, the isolates were identified as B. cereus accession number LC538271and K. pneumoniae accession number MT078679. Analysis of bacterial extract S20 through GC-MS indicated the presence of 8 compounds of diverse nature and structure. Present study suggests that wastes of pharmaceutical and poultry feed industry may have antibiotic producing bacteria. These bacteria could be utilized for the production of antibiotics. B. cereus and K. pneumoniae isolated from wastes of poultry feed and pharmaceutical industries have the potential to produce antibiotics and could be used to control the microbial growth.

Resumo Muitos microrganismos do solo, ou seja, bactérias e fungos produzem metabólitos secundários chamados antibióticos. Eles são usados ​​para tratamento de algumas doenças bacterianas, fúngicas e protozoárias em humanos. Há necessidade de isolamento de um amplo espectro de antibióticos de microrganismos devido ao surgimento de resistência aos antibióticos. No presente estudo, duas bactérias produtoras de antibióticos, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Bacillus cereus, foram isoladas da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola de Hattar, Haripur, Paquistão. Um total de 10 amostras de resíduos foi coletado de diferentes indústrias (mármore, ghee, sabão, mineral, aço, ração para aves, farmacêutica, Qarshi, cosmética e vidro). Trinta e três cepas bacterianas foram isoladas de resíduos industriais dessas dez diferentes indústrias. Quatorze das 33 cepas bacterianas exibiram atividades antimicrobianas contra pelo menos um dos micróbios de teste considerados neste estudo, incluindo Escherchia coli, Staphylococcus aureus e Salmonella typhi. As bactérias foram isoladas pela técnica de placa de diluição em série padrão. A caracterização morfológica dos isolados foi feita por coloração de gram. Nove isolados bacterianos de 14 foram inicialmente identificados como B. cereus e cinco como K. pneumoniae por meio de caracterização bioquímica. As atividades antibacterianas foram testadas pelo método de difusão em poço. O número máximo de bactérias produtoras de antibióticos foi isolado da indústria farmacêutica e de ração avícola com base nos resultados da triagem primária, os isolados mais potenciais S9, S19, S20, S22 e S23 foram selecionados para a triagem secundária. A atividade máxima contra E. coli e S. aureus foi registrada pelo isolado bacteriano S19, ou seja, zonas de inibição de 6,5 mm e 9 mm, enquanto S20 mostrou zonas de 7,5 mm e 6 mm, respectivamente. A identificação molecular foi realizada com base na análise da sequência 16S rRNA. Finalmente, os isolados foram identificados como B. cereus número de acesso LC538271 e K. pneumoniae número de acesso MT078679. A análise do extrato bacteriano S20 por meio de GC-MS indicou a presença de oito compostos de natureza e estrutura diversas. O presente estudo sugere que resíduos da indústria farmacêutica e de ração para aves podem conter bactérias produtoras de antibióticos. Essas bactérias podem ser utilizadas para a produção de antibióticos B. cereus e K. pneumoniae isolados de resíduos de rações de aves e indústrias farmacêuticas têm potencial para produzir antibióticos e podem ser usados ​​para controlar o crescimento microbiano.

Identification of potential plant species hyperaccumulating light rare earth elements (LREE) in a mining area in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Phytoextraction of rare earth elements (REE) from contaminated soils has gained importance during the last few decades. The Poços de Caldas municipality in Brazil is known for its mineral richness, including large reserves of REE. In this study, we report light REE (La, Ce, Sm, Pr, and Nd) in soils and plants collected in an area. Composite soil samples and plant individuals were collected, and total concentrations of LREE in soils were determined by wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF). The plant available LREE concentrations in soils were estimated upon the acetic acid method (F1 fractions) of the stepwise sequential extraction procedure, together with plant content that was analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The total sum concentrations of tested LREE in soils varied from 5.6 up to 37.9 g kg-1, the bioavailable fraction was ca. 1%, and a linear relationship was found between them. The only exception was Sm, whose availability was lesser and did not show a linear relationship. The concentration of LREE in non-accumulator plants varied from 1.3-950 mg kg-1 for Ce, La 1.1-99 mg kg-1, Sm 0.04-9.31 mg kg-1, Pr 0.1-24.1 mg kg-1, and Nd 0.55-81 mg kg-1. The concentration of LREE among shoots did not show a linear relation either with the available fraction or total content. The screening also revealed Christella dentata (Forssk.) Brownsey & Jermy, Thelypteridaceae family, as a promising hyperaccumulator species. The concentrations of LREE among shoots of six individuals of this species were in the ranges from 115 to 1872 mg kg-1 for Ce, La 190-703 mg kg-1, Sm 9-48 mg kg-1, Pr 32-144 mg kg-1, and Nd 105-478 mg kg-1.

Postacute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection-Lessons Learned From a Coordinated Health System Response.

Objective: To outline a consensus-designed process for triaging and managing patients with post-coronavirus disease (COVID-19) syndrome at Mayo Clinic. Patients and Methods: We convened a central multidisciplinary team including members from the departments of general internal medicine, occupational medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, psychology, allergy and immunology, infectious disease, pulmonology, neurology, cardiology, and pediatrics and otorhinolaryngology with membership from all Mayo Clinic sites in Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Results: Consensus recommendations were made for the best practice guidelines on triaging and managing patients. Several innovations were agreed upon, including a postacute sequelae of COVID-19-specific appointment request form for data collection, a bioregistry, a biorepository, and a postacute sequelae of COVID-19-specific treatment program. Conclusion: Given that each clinical site had individual clinical practices, these recommendations were implemented using different models, which may provide broad applicability to other clinical settings.

The use of total diet study for determination of natural radionuclides in foods of a high background radiation area.

The activity concentrations of 40K, 210Pb, 210Po, 226Ra, 228Ra, 228Th, 230Th, 232Th, 234U, and 238U were determined in 82 food samples, grouped into 20 food groups according to the Brazilian Total Diet, which reflects the dietary habits of a population, for the rural and urban areas of Poços de Caldas city, a High Background Radiation Area. The highest activity concentration found in the food samples was due to 40K being present in all types of food. Among the other radionuclides, high activity concentrations were found for 210Pb in beans and salt, 210Po in fish, 226Ra and 228Ra in nuts and seeds. The main food groups that contributed most to the effective dose, in urban and rural regions, were beans and beverages. The effective doses, due to the ingestion of the analysed food groups, were of 0.44 and 0.60 mSv y-1 and the lifetime cancer risks were 1.6 × 10-3 and 2.3 × 10-3 for the urban and rural Poços de Caldas population, respectively.

Qualidade microbiológica e perfil de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos em águas de poços artesianos em um município do noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul / Microbiological quality and sensitivity profile to antimicrobials in artesian well waters in a municipality in the northwest of Rio Grande do Sul

RESUMO A qualidade da água utilizada para consumo tem influência direta sobre a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas, demonstrando a necessidade de criação de mecanismos de controle e acompanhamento de potenciais contaminações. Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar e quantificar coliformes totais e Escherichia coli, bem como avaliar o seu perfil de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos em águas de poços artesianos da área rural de um município do noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram realizadas coletas e análises microbiológicas em amostras de 40 poços artesianos cadastrados no Sistema de Informação de Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano (SISAGUA). Os resultados mostraram que 85% das amostras apresentaram resultados positivos para coliformes totais e 22,5% foram identificadas como E. coli. Dos 8 antibióticos testados, apenas amoxicilina, ampicilina e nitrofurantoína apresentaram 100% de inibição do crescimento bacteriano. Conclui-se que a maioria dos poços analisados apresentou água fora dos padrões de qualidade para consumo, sendo necessárias ações corretivas do poder público como forma de prevenção de doenças infecciosas. Além disso, deve-se buscar racionalizar o tratamento farmacológico com antibióticos, em função de indicativos de resistência bacteriana apresentada pelas cepas isoladas neste estudo.

ABSTRACT The quality of water used for consumption has a direct influence on people's health and quality of life, demonstrating the need to create mechanisms to control and monitor potentials contaminations. This study aimed to determine and quantify total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and to evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility profile in waters from rural wells in a northwestern municipality of Rio Grande do Sul State. Microbiological collections and analyses were carried out in samples from 40 artesian wells, registered in the Water Quality Surveillance Information System for Human Consumption (Sistema de Informação de Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano - SISAGUA). The results show that 85% of the samples were positive for total coliforms and 22.5% were identified as E. coli. Of the eight antibiotics tested, only Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, and Nitrofurantoin showed 100% inhibition of bacterial growth. It is concluded that an important part of the analyzed wells did not present water with quality standards for consumption, requiring corrective actions by public authorities as a way of preventing infectious diseases. In addition, one must seek to rationalize the pharmacological treatment with antibiotics, due to indications of bacterial resistance presented by the strains isolated in this study.

Estimación del rendimiento máximo sostenible del recurso tiburón-cazón en México / Estimation of maximum sustainable yield of the shark resource from Mexico

Resumen En México, la captura del recurso pesquero tiburón-cazón (RTC) ocupa el décimo lugar de las 22 pesquerías más representativas del país, con un volumen anual promedio estimado en 29 772 T, y una derrama económica de 437 millones de pesos mexicanos. La captura máxima que se puede obtener sin agotar el recurso en ningún plazo, se denomina rendimiento máximo sostenible (RMS), y es uno de los principales puntos de referencia en la evaluación de pesquerías. El objetivo del presente estudio fue estimar el rendimiento máximo sostenible del recurso pesquero tiburón-cazón, agrupándolo en 26 regiones (México, océano Pacífico, golfo de México, 6 regiones de la NOM-029-PESC-2006 y 17 estados costeros). Se utilizaron series de tiempo de captura (STC), en toneladas por año de captura reportada (Cr) y captura total (Ct) (captura reportada + captura no reportada) del periodo de 1976 a 2014, y se aplicaron modelos empíricos que relacionan la captura máxima de la STC con el RMS. No hubo diferencias significativas entre los modelos. Con base en la Ct y el RMS estimados (T x 103) se evidencia una sobreexplotación del RTC en México (Ct = 51 417, RMS = 29 040), en el océano Pacífico (Ct = 38 654, RMS = 20 840) y en el golfo de México (Ct = 15 737, RMS = 14 540); en la Región 2 (golfo de California) (Ct = 22 664, RMS = 14 330) y Región 5 (línea costera de Tamaulipas, Veracruz y Tabasco) (Ct = 9 202, RMS = 8 510), y en la costa de los estados de Baja California (Ct = 5 781, RMS = 4 880) y Baja California Sur (Ct = 5 950, RMS = 5 510). Es necesario atender de forma urgente la problemática del aprovechamiento de este recurso pesquero en la república mexicana.

Abstract In Mexico, shark catch ranks 10th place out of the 22 most representative fisheries in the country, with an estimated annual average number of 29 772 T and an economic income of approximately MXN 437 million. The maximum sustainable yield (MSY), which means the maximum catch that can be obtained without the depletion of the fishing resource at any given time is one of the main points of reference in the evaluation of fisheries. In this study, the MSY of sharks in Mexico was estimated for 26 coastal areas (Mexico, Pacific ocean, gulf of Mexico, 6 regions of the NOM-029-PESC-2006 and 17 coastal States). Catch time series (CTS) were used in tons per year of reported catch (Rc) and total catch (Tc) (reported catch + non-reported catch) over the 1976 to 2014 period. In addition, empirical models that relate the maximum catch of the STM to the MSY were applied. There were no significant differences between the models applied. Based on the estimated Tc and MSY (T x 103) there is an over-exploitation of sharks in Mexico (Tc = 51 417, MSY = 29 040), in the Pacific ocean (Tc = 38 654, MSY = 20 840) and in the gulf of Mexico (Tc = 15 737, MSY = 14 540); in Regions 2 (gulf of California) (Tc = 22 664, MSY = 14 330) and 5 (coastal line of Tamaulipas, Veracruz and Tabasco) (Tc = 9 202, MSY = 8 510) and on the coast of the States of Baja California (Tc = 5 781, MSY = 4 880) and Baja California Sur (Tc = 5 950, MSY = 5 510). It is recommended to urgently address the problem of using this fishery resource in the Mexican Republic.

A 210Pb chronological study in sediments from poços de caldas alkaline massif (PCAM), Brazil.

The Constant Flux and Constant Sedimentation (CF:CS) of supported/excess 210Pb model was successfully used to study sediment profiles from Antas stream, located in the region of Poços de Caldas city, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Historical changes in the region were tracked from evaluating the sedimentation rate by the 210Pb method. In that site, Osamu Utsumi mine was the first mining-industrial complex for the production of concentrated uranium in Brazil. Four sediment testimonies were sampled along Antas stream in order to determine sedimentation rates using 210Pb as geochronometer. 210Pb and 238U activity concentrations were determined in sediment samples by alpha spectrometry, allowing to find the excess 210Pb present in the sediments. Additionally, the main oxides, organic matter, particles size and water composition were determined in order to assist the results interpretation from radionuclides data. The results allowed find one (profile PKS-4) or two (profiles PKS-1, PKS-2 and PKS-3) sedimentation rates, probably due to changes in the sediments input regime in the region. The sedimentation rates were in the range between 0.26 and 0.94 g/cm2.year, corresponding to the interval of linear sedimentation rate of 0.21 - 0.92 cm/year. The deposition year in the bottom of PKS-4 profile as estimated from the sedimentation rate coincided with the construction year of Bortolan dam (1956). Large touristic interventions carried out at Poços de Caldas city from 1920s coupled to unbridled urbanization, industrialization and demographic growth there in the second half of the twentieth century possibly caused the changes found in the sedimentation rates.

Psychological interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder in people living with HIV in Resource poor settings: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Post-traumatic stress disorder is pervasive in low- and middle-income countries. There is evidence to suggest that post-traumatic stress disorder is more common among people living with HIV than non-infected matched controls. We carried out a systematic review of interventions for adult post-traumatic stress disorder from resource poor settings with a focus on people living with HIV. METHODS: We included all studies that investigated interventions for adult post-traumatic stress disorder from resource poor settings with a focus on interventions that were either randomised controlled trials or observational cohort studies carried out from 1980 to May 2015. RESULTS: Of the 25 articles that were identified for full review, two independent reviewers identified seven studies that met our study inclusion criteria. All randomised controlled trials (RCT) (n = 6) used cognitive behavioural therapy-based interventions and focused on people living with HIV in resource poor settings. There was only one study focusing on the use of lay counsellors to address post-traumatic stress disorder but core competencies were not described. There were no intervention studies from Africa, only an observational cohort study from Rwanda. CONCLUSION: Rigorously evaluated interventions for adult post-traumatic stress disorder in people living with HIV are rare. Most were undertaken in resource poor settings located in high-income countries. There is a need for research on the development and implementation of appropriate interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder in people living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries.

Evaluation of syndromic management guidelines for treatment of sexually transmitted infections in South African women.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of three different guidelines for the management of vaginal discharge syndrome (VDS) for women living in a rural setting in South Africa. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a cross-sectional study in Mopani District, South Africa. The 2015 and 2008 guidelines of the South African Department of Health (DoH) and the most recent WHO guidelines were evaluated for adequate treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis infection. RESULTS: Of the 489 women included in this analysis, 35% presented with VDS according to the DoH and 30% per WHO definition of VDS. Fifty-six per cent of the women with VDS would be treated adequately for these STI when using the 2015 DoH guideline, whereas 76% (P = 0.01) and 64% (P = 0.35) would receive adequate treatment with the 2008 DoH and WHO guidelines, respectively. Of the symptomatic women who tested negative for all four STI, STI treatment would have been indicated for 36% as per 2015 DoH guideline vs. 69% (P < 0.001) per 2008 DoH and 67% (P < 0.001) per WHO guidelines. CONCLUSION: A considerable proportion of symptomatic women infected with these common curable STI would receive adequate treatment when using a syndromic management approach, and significant differences exist between the three guidelines. Many symptomatic women without these STI receive broad-spectrum antibiotics, so new approaches are needed to improve syndromic STI control.

Determinação do volume específico de Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids a partir de espessuras aparentes de fase livre em poços de monitoramento: análise de sensibilidade dos parâmetros envolvidos / Specific volume determination based on the apparent thickness of Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids free phase in monitoring wells: Sensitivity analysis of the parameters

RESUMO: No presente artigo apresenta- se e discute-se a implantação de um modelo (algoritmo) derivado de um modelo teórico que foi desenvolvido com o propósito de determinar o volume específico (isto é, o volume de produto presente em subsuperfície por unidade de área planimétrica do aquífero) de Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids (LNAPL), a partir de medidas de espessura de fase livre registradas em poços de monitoramento. Utilizando esse modelo, contabilizou- se o volume específico de óleo para um caso real de pluma de fase livre em um posto de abastecimento de combustíveis, localizado no estado do Paraná, Brasil. Por fim, foi realizada uma análise de sensibilidade dos principais parâmetros envolvidos, tomando- se como referência esse caso real. A estimativa de volume de óleo no meio poroso mostrou-se mais sensível aos parâmetros relacionados à massa específica aparente seca do solo, à distribuição do tamanho dos grãos e à porosidade do solo, seguindo essa ordem de relevância. Os parâmetros relacionados ao contaminante (massa específica do óleo e fatores de escala) foram os que menos impactaram nos resultados de volume específico de LNAPL no meio poroso, para as faixas de variação consideradas nesse trabalho. Os resultados obtidos apontam para a necessidade da medição de alguns parâmetros que não são usualmente medidos durante a etapa de investigação ambiental. Sugere-se, portanto, a inclusão da medição desses parâmetros na etapa de investigação ambiental de um sítio contaminado por LNAPL.

ABSTRACT: In the present article it is presented and discussed a model (algorithm) derived from a theoretical model developed to determine the specific volume (i.e. the volume of the product in the soil by planimetric unit area of the aquifer) of Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids (LNAPL) in the subsurface from free phase thickness measurements recorded in monitoring wells. Using this model the specific volume of oil was accounted for in a real case of a free phase plume at a gas station, located in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of key parameters involved was performed, using as reference this real case. The estimated volume of oil in the porous medium was more sensitive to the parameters related to dry bulk density, the grain size distribution and the porosity of the soil, in this order of relevance. Parameters related to the contaminant (oil density and scale factors) presented the least impact on the results of specific volume of LNAPL in porous media, for the variation ranges considered in this work. The results point to the need of measuring some parameters that are not usually measured during environmental field survey stage of a site contaminated by LNAPL.

Monitoramento da radioatividade alfa relacionada ao radônio-222 em águas de poços da região metropolitana de Curitiba (PR) / Alpha radioactivity monitoring related to radon-222 in water from wells in metropolitan area of Curitiba (PR), Brazil

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar os níveis de concentração de radônio 222Rn em águas de poços da região metropolitana de Curitiba, Paraná. O trabalho apresenta os resultados das concentrações das medidas feitas em águas de poços da região. As concentrações de 222Rn nas amostras das águas de poços foram medidas por meio do monitor de radônio AlphaGUARD. Os cálculos das concentrações de atividade iniciais de radônio na água foram feitos a partir da curva de decaimento do 222Rn e do equilíbrio secular entre o 222Rn e o 226Ra, observados depois de 30 dias. Os resultados indicaram que cerca de 70% dos valores das concentrações de 222Rn ficaram acima do valor recomendado pela USEPA, de 11,1 Bq.L-1, representando risco radiológico causado por este radionuclídeo. O estudo de caso apresentado mostrou que medidas prévias de radônio são recomendadas para que um projeto de construção seja implementado. No caso em questão, observa-se que as concentrações de radônio diminuem cerca de 56% na primeira caixa d'água e 83% na segunda em relação ao poço. Esse fato mostra que as ações para mitigação de radônio são viáveis e não exigem grandes modificações nos sistemas usuais da construção civil.

This research objective was to assess the level of randon-222 concentration in well water of the metropolitan region of Curitiba, Paraná. Current work presents the results of indoor 222Rn activity ground water samples from artesian wells from aquifers of the region. The studies of radon activity in water were performed using the radon detector AlphaGUARD. The calculations of initial radon activity in water were done considering the 222Rn decay correction as well as equilibrium level of 222Rn and 226Ra observed after 30 days of measurements. Obtained results show that about 70% of measured activity levels of 222Rn are higher than the recommended value of 11.1 Bq.L-1, which represent the risk for the human health associated with this radionuclide. The case study showed that previous measurements of radon are recommended for a construction project is implemented. In this case, it is observed that the radon concentrations decrease about 56% in the first water tank and 83% in the second water tank over the well. This fact shows that the actions for mitigation of radon are viable and do not require major modifications to the usual systems of construction.

Diagnostic ability of Physical Examination in aortic Valve stenosis / La capacidad diagnóstica del examen físico en la estenosis valvular aórtica

background: Physical examination is essential to detect aortic stenosis but there is scarce information currently available. Objectives: The goal of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic yield of physical examination, the interobserver agreement of clinical signs, and to establish a score to identify severe aortic stenosis. Methods: One-hundred patients were included in the study. Before echocardiographic evaluation, two cardiologists independently evaluated the clinical signs of the physical examination in aortic stenosis. Sensitivity, specificity, and inter-observer agreement were calculated, and the area under the curve was analyzed to develop a score for predicting severe aortic stenosis. results: The decreased intensity of the first heart sound and the crescendo-decrescendo shape of the murmur had sensitivity >90% and specificity <70%. The specificities of an absent second sound, a murmur that peaks later in systole and the presence of a parvus et tardus pulse were >95%, but the sensitivities were <50%. Inter-observer agreement was good for most criteria, except for murmur shape and intensity. The best area under the curve was achieved by the score composed of heart sounds of decreased or absent intensity, duration of the holosystolic murmur, parvus et tardus carotid pulse and a grade 3-4 systolic murmur. Conclusions: Physical examination findings have low sensitivity but good specificity. Inter-observer agreement of clinical signs of severity was moderately good. Correct identification of patients with severe aortic stenosis can be achieved using a simple score.

Prospective cohort study of a new vacuum delivery device to assist with complicated labour in low-resource settings.

OBJECTIVES: Currently available vacuum devices used to assist women undergoing complicated labour are unsuitable for use in low-resource settings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a new low-cost vacuum device, named Koohi Goth Vacuum Delivery System (KGVDS), designed for use in low-resource settings. METHODS: A hospital-based, multicentre, prospective cohort study with no control group was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan. After training, KGVDS devices were made available for use by labour room staff at their discretion when instrumental delivery was indicated. Women to whom KGVDS was applied were followed from the start of labour until discharge. Feasibility was assessed in terms of successful expulsion of the foetal head following application of KGVDS and ease of use ratings. Safety was assessed by observing maternal and newborn post-delivery outcomes prior to discharge. RESULTS: Koohi Goth Vacuum Delivery System was applied to 137 women requiring instrumental delivery, of whom 111 (81%; 95% CI = 74-88%) successfully expelled the foetal head assisted by KGVDS and 103 (75%) stated that they would agree to use KGVDS again. There were no serious maternal or neonatal injuries or infections related to KGVDS use. The mean score for 'ease of use' given by doctors and midwives using the device was 8 of 10. CONCLUSIONS: Koohi Goth Vacuum Delivery System was feasible and safe to use for assisting complicated deliveries in low-resource hospitals in this initial evaluation. Our results indicate that this new device may have the potential to improve birth outcomes in settings where most mortality occurs and that further evaluations should be conducted.

Uso de sugamadex em doença de Strumpell-Lorrain: relato de dois casos / Use of sugammadex in Strumpell-Lorrain disease: a report of two cases / Uso de sugamadex en enfermedad de Strumpell-Lorrain: relato de dos casos

CONTEÚDO: A doença de Strumpell-Lorrain, ou paraparesia espástica familiar (PEF), é uma doença hereditária neurológica rara, caracterizada principalmente por graus variáveis de rigidez e enfraquecimento dos músculos, com comprometimento cognitivo, surdez e ataxia nos casos mais graves. Descrevemos os casos de duas irmãs com PEF, agendadas para colecistectomia e colectomia subtotal, respectivamente. Também descrevemos o manejo anestésico em ambos os casos e revisamos a literatura sobre essa doença em relação à anestesia.

CONTENT: Strumpell-Lorrain disease - or familial spastic paraplegia (FSP) - is a rare hereditary neurological disorder, mainly characterized by variable degrees of stiffness and weakening of the muscles, with cognitive impairment, deafness, and ataxia in the more severe cases. We describe two female siblings with FSP programmed for cholecystectomy and subtotal colectomy, respectively, and also how we dealt with the anesthetic management in both cases and review the literature on this disease in relation to anesthesia.

CONTENIDO: La enfermedad de Strumpell-Lorrain, o paraparesia espástica familiar (PEF), es una enfermedad hereditaria neurológica rara, caracterizada principalmente por grados variables de rigidez y debilitamiento de los músculos, con el compromiso cognitivo, la sordera y la ataxia en los casos más graves. Describimos aquí dos casos de dos hermanas con PEF, citadas para colecistectomía y colectomía subtotal respectivamente. Describimos también el manejo anestésico en ambos casos y revisamos la literatura sobre esa enfermedad con relación a la anestesia.

Uso do solo em zonas de proteção de poços para abastecimento público na cidade de João Pessoa (PB) / The use of soil in areas of protection of wells to public water supply in João Pessoa city (PB), Brazil

Os aquíferos, em especial as ocorrências no meio urbano, são bastante susceptíveis à contaminação ou poluição devido à concentração de atividades incompatíveis com as áreas que deveriam receber restrição de uso do solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o uso do solo nos perímetros de proteção de captação de águas subterrâneas, destinados ao abastecimento público na cidade de João Pessoa (PB). A partir dos perímetros de proteção já delimitados, através de visitas de campo e observação de imagem de satélite, foi realizado o estudo do uso do solo nas suas áreas internas. Foi constatado o exercício de atividades proibidas ou condicionadas nas áreas que deveriam ser protegidas. A pesquisa feita demonstrou a necessidade de disciplinamento das atividades potencialmente poluidoras das águas subterrâneas e vem contribuir como um instrumento de utilidade para a construção de políticas para o disciplinamento das atividades no solo urbano.

The aquifers, especially those that occur in urban areas, are very susceptible to contamination or pollution due to the concentration of incompatible activities with the areas that should receive restriction on land use. The objective of this work was to analyze land use in the protected groundwater caption perimeter for the public supply in João Pessoa city (Brazil). From protection perimeters already defined, a study was made of the land use of internal areas through field visits, and observation of satellite image. The exercise of activities prohibited or constrained in the areas that should be protected was noted. The research demonstrated the need to regulate activities that potentially pollute the groundwater and contributes as a useful tool for building policies for the planning of activities on urban land.