Evidencias de validez de una escala de fortaleza mental en jugadores de deportes electrónicos de la Argentina / Validação de uma escala de força mental em jogadores de esportes eletrônicos CABA e GBA / Validation of a mental toughness scale in CABA and GBA esports players

La fortaleza mental es un importante constructo para los deportes siendo el Mental Toughness Index (MTI) uno de los instrumentos más usados a este respecto. En el último tiempo los juegos electrónicos crecieron de manera notoria y como en cualquier deporte la fortaleza mental es central para un desempeño exitoso. De este modo, el objetivo del presente estudio fue examinar las propiedades psicométricas del MTI en español ya que el mismo no está validado en dicho idioma. El único estudio existente en población española es uno con adultos mexicanos pero su objetivo era examinar su invarianza de medición con respecto a adultos atletas de los Estados Unidos. Para este fin, se conformó una muestra intencional, no probabilística de 550 jugadores de Esports (80% masculino) con una media de edad de 22 años (DE = 3.91) de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Al dividir la muestra en dos grupos en forma aleatoria, los resultados -tanto de análisis factoriales exploratorios como confirmatorios- arrojaron una estructura unifactorial similar a la postulada por los autores del cuestionario. La consistencia interna fue adecuada con un valor de .85. Se detectó la validez de constructo del cuestionario con la ansiedad y la motivación para los deportes por lo cual sería un instrumento con evidencia de propiedades para una rápida medición del constructo. (AU)

Mental toughness is an important construct for sports, and the Mental Toughness Index (MTI) is one of the most used instruments in this regard. Recently, electronic games have grown remarkably and, as in any sport, mental strength is essential for a successful performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the MTI in Spanish, since it has not been validated in that language. The only existing study in the Spanish population is one with Mexican adults, but its objective was to examine its measurement invariance with respect to adult athletes from the United States. For this purpose, an intentional, non-probabilistic sample of 550 esports players (80% male) with a mean age of 22 years (SD = 3.91) from Buenos Aires, Argentina was formed. By dividing the sample into two groups at random, the results -both from exploratory and confirmatory factorial analyzes-yielded a unifactorial structure similar to that postulated by the authors of the questionnaire. Internal consistency was adequate with a value of .85. The construct validity of the questionnaire with anxiety and motivation for sports was detected, for which it would be an instrument with evidence of properties for a rapid measurement of the construct. (AU)

A força mental é um construto importante para no contexto do desporto, sendo o Índice de Resistência Mental (MTI) um dos instrumentos mais utilizados neste contexto. Nos últimos tempos, os jogos eletrônicos cresceram consideravelmente e, como em qualquer desporto, a força mental é essencial para um bom desempenho. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi examinar as propriedades psicométricas do MTI em espanhol, uma vez que não foi validado nesta língua. O único estudo existente na população espanhola foi com com adultos mexicanos, mas seu objetivo foi analisar a invariância em função de atletas adultos dos Estados Unidos. Para isso, recolheu-se uma amostra intencional e não probabilística de 550 jogadores de e-sports (80% do sexo masculino) com idade média de 22 anos (DP = 3,91) de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Ao dividir a amostra em dois grupos ao acaso, os resultados -tanto da análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatóriaproduziram uma estrutura unifatorial semelhante à postulada pelosautores do questionário. A consistência interna foi adequada com valor de 0,85. Foi detectada a validadede constructo do questionário com ansiedade e motivação no desporto, o que demonstra que o instrumento apresenta propriedades psicométricas adequadas para a avaliação do constructo em estudo. (AU)

Description of a single centre cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis from the University Hospital of Buenos Aires and factors associated with lung function deterioration. A retrospective study / Descripción de una cohorte de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica del Hospital de la Universidad de Buenos Aires y factores asociados al deterioro de la función pulmonar. Un estudio retrospectivo

Introduction: Given the paucity of data in Latin America and especially in Argentina regarding the epidemiology of SSc, the prevalence of ILD, its course, and particularly the response to treatment, our objective was to evaluate a cohort of SSc patients evaluated in a single University Hospital in Buenos Aires. Patients/Methods: We included 152 patients with SSc, followed from disease onset to last pulmonary function test and with at least two PFT and up to 30 months between each. Results: Sixty-one percent had diffuse SSc (DSSc) and 32% limited SSc (LSSc). The only significant clinical differences between these groups were a higher initial mRodnan score and prevalence of ILD in the DSSc. These also had significantly more anti Scl-70 (Topoisomerase 1) antibodies compared to the LSSC group who had significantly more anti centromere antibodies. The DSSc group also had significantly more extensive damage on HRCT with no differences in terms of imaging patterns. Comparing patients with and without ILD by HRCT, those with ILD had significantly more extensive damage, significantly more anti Scl-70 antibodies, and significantly fewer anti centromere antibodies than those without ILD. Patients whose ILD progressed had a smoking history (OR 4.97) and prior immunosuppressive treatment (OR 15.6) (multivariate analysis). Overall disease duration was significantly shorter in those who progressed. Conclusions: Our SSc population had similar characteristics to those described elsewhere as well as prevalence of ILD and its progression. We found a shorter disease duration, smoking, and prior immunosuppressive treatment to be associated with ILD progression.(AU)

Introducción: La escasez de datos en Latinoamérica, y especialmente en Argentina, sobre la epidemiología de la esclerosis sistémica (SSc), la prevalencia de enfermedad pulmonar intersticial (EPID) y su progresión, llevó a evaluar una cohorte de pacientes con SSc atendidos en un hospital universitario de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Pacientes/Métodos: Incluimos 152 pacientes con SSc, seguidos desde el inicio de la enfermedad hasta el último examen funcional respiratorio (EFR) y con por lo menos dos EFR separados por un mínimo de 30 meses. Resultados: El 61% tenían enfermedad difusa (DSSc) y el 32%, limitada (LSSc). Aquellos con DSSc tuvieron significativamente un mayor índice modificado de Rodnan y prevalencia de EPID. Estos también tuvieron significativamente más anticuerpos anti-Scl-70 (topoisomerasa 1) comparados con LSSc, quienes tuvieron significativamente más anticuerpos anti-centrómero. Aquellos con DSSc mostraron significativamente más daño en la tomografía computada de alta resolución (TACAR), pero sin diferencias respecto a patrón de imágenes. Aquellos con EPID por TACAR tuvieron significativamente más daño, más anticuerpos anti Scl-70 y menos anticuerpos anti-centrómero que aquellos sin EPID. La progresión de EPID (análisis multivariado) se relacionó con consumo de tabaco (OR: 4,97) y uso previo de inmunosupresores (OR: 15,6). La duración de la enfermedad fue menor en los que progresaron. Conclusiones:Nuestra población de SSc tuvo características similares a lo descripto en el resto del mundo, así como la prevalencia y la progresión de EPID. Encontramos una menor duración de enfermedad, el consumo de tabaco y el uso previo de inmunosupresores asociados a la progresión de EPID.(AU)

Educación al alta en las unidades pediátricas de un hospital bonaerense de alta complejidad / Education at discharge in the Paediatric Units of a High-Complexity Hospital in Buenos Aires

Objetivo: describir el perfil de la educación al alta a pacientes pediátricos de un hospital privado de alta complejidad en Buenos Aires.Método: estudio descriptivo transversal. Los enfermeros y las enfermeras del Servicio de Pediatría General y de Terapia intensiva (de forma anónima y voluntaria) completaron un cuestionario digital sobre su antigüedad profesional y la educación brindada en el momento del alta a domicilio de pacientes pediátricos que la recibieron entre septiembre de 2022 y febrero de 2023. El cuestionario incluyó el tiempo, contenido, formato en que se educó, comprensión del paciente, ambiente adecuado, entrega de informe de alta. A través de las historias clínicas se recogieron la edad de los pacientes y las características de ingreso. Se realizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial.Resultados: se obtuvieron 150 encuestas de los 2.055 pacientes dados de alta. El promedio de edad de los pacientes fue de 5 años, el 69% con patología crónica. Las enfermeras dedicaron en promedio 16,6 minutos, el 94,6% de forma verbal, incluyendo aspectos relacionados con tratamiento farmacológico (71,8%) y signos de alerta (85%). En el 100% de las ocasiones se dio informe de alta. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas del tiempo de educación en función de la antigüedad de la enfermera (< 5 años 15,9 minutos; 5 a 10 años 11,3 minutos; >10 años 20,8 minutos; p<0,000).Conclusiones: se produjo una baja tasa de respuesta que pudo deberse, entre otras razones, a la falta de consenso en la definición del concepto de educación al alta. El promedio de tiempo empleado fue de 16 minutos y siempre incluyó el informe de alta.(AU)

Objective: to describe the profile of the education at discharge for paediatric patients at a private high-complexity hospital in Buenos Aires.Method: a cross-sectional descriptive study. The nurses from the General Paediatrics and Intensive Care Units completed an online questionnaire, anonymous and voluntarily, about their professional seniority and the education provided at discharge home to paediatric patients who received it from September 2022 to February 2023. The questionnaire included time, content format of the education, understanding by the patient, adequate setting, handing of a discharge report. The age of the patients and admission characteristics were collected through clinical records. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted.Results: in total, 150 surveys were collected out of the 2,055 patients discharged home. The average age of patients was 5 years, and 69% had a chronic condition. Nurses spent an average 16.6 minutes on this; 94.6% were verbal, including aspects related to pharmacological treatment (71.8%) and warning signs (85%). Discharge reports were provided in 100% of cases. Statistically significant differences were found in the time spent on education based on nurse seniority (< five years: 15.9 minutes; 5 to 10 years: 11.3 minutes; >10 years: 20.8 minutes; p<0.000).Conclusions: there was a low response rate, which could be due, among other reasons, to lack of consensus in the definition of education at discharge. The average time used was 16 minutes, and discharge reports were always included.(AU)

Validating indicators for monitoring availability and geographic distribution of emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmoNC) facilities: A study triangulating health system, facility, and geospatial data.

Availability of emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmONC) is a strong supply side measure of essential health system capacity that is closely and causally linked to maternal mortality reduction and fundamentally to achieving universal health coverage. The World Health Organization's indicator "Availability of EmONC facilities" was prioritized as a core indicator to prevent maternal death. The indicator focuses on whether there are sufficient emergency care facilities to meet the population need, but not all facilities designated as providing EmONC function as such. This study seeks to validate "Availability of EmONC" by comparing the value of the indicator after accounting for key aspects of facility functionality and an alternative measure of geographic distribution. This study takes place in four subnational geographic areas in Argentina, Ghana, and India using a census of all birthing facilities. Performance of EmONC in the 90 days prior to data collection was assessed by examining facility records. Data were collected on facility operating hours, staffing, and availability of essential medications. Population estimates were generated using ArcGIS software using WorldPop to estimate the total population, and the number of women of reproductive age (WRA), pregnancies and births in the study areas. In addition, we estimated the population within two-hours travel time of an EmONC facility by incorporating data on terrain from Open Street Map. Using these data sources, we calculated and compared the value of the indicator after incorporating data on facility performance and functionality while varying the reference population used. Further, we compared its value to the proportion of the population within two-hours travel time of an EmONC facility. Included in our study were 34 birthing facilities in Argentina, 51 in Ghana, and 282 in India. Facility performance of basic EmONC (BEmONC) and comprehensive EmONC (CEmONC) signal functions varied considerably. One facility (4.8%) in Ghana and no facility in India designated as BEmONC had performed all seven BEmONC signal functions. In Argentina, three (8.8%) CEmONC-designated facilities performed all nine CEmONC signal functions, all located in Buenos Aires Region V. Four CEmONC-designated facilities in Ghana (57.1%) and the three CEmONC-designated facilities in India (23.1%) evidenced full CEmONC performance. No sub-national study area in Argentina or India reached the target of 5 BEmONC-level facilities per 20,000 births after incorporating facility functionality yet 100% did in Argentina and 50% did in India when considering only facility designation. Demographic differences also accounted for important variation in the indicator's value. In Ghana, the total population in Tolon within 2 hours travel time of a designated EmONC facility was estimated at 99.6%; however, only 91.1% of women of reproductive age were within 2 hours travel time. Comparing the value of the indicator when calculated using different definitions reveals important inconsistencies, resulting in conflicting information about whether the threshold for sufficient coverage is met. This raises important questions related to the indicator's validity. To provide a valid measure of effective coverage of EmONC, the construct for measurement should extend beyond the most narrow definition of availability and account for functionality and geographic accessibility.

A global-temporal analysis on Phytophthora sojae resistance-gene efficacy.

Plant disease resistance genes are widely used in agriculture to reduce disease outbreaks and epidemics and ensure global food security. In soybean, Rps (Resistance to Phytophthora sojae) genes are used to manage Phytophthora sojae, a major oomycete pathogen that causes Phytophthora stem and root rot (PRR) worldwide. This study aims to identify temporal changes in P. sojae pathotype complexity, diversity, and Rps gene efficacy. Pathotype data was collected from 5121 isolates of P. sojae, derived from 29 surveys conducted between 1990 and 2019 across the United States, Argentina, Canada, and China. This systematic review shows a loss of efficacy of specific Rps genes utilized for disease management and a significant increase in the pathotype diversity of isolates over time. This study finds that the most widely deployed Rps genes used to manage PRR globally, Rps1a, Rps1c and Rps1k, are no longer effective for PRR management in the United States, Argentina, and Canada. This systematic review emphasizes the need to widely introduce new sources of resistance to P. sojae, such as Rps3a, Rps6, or Rps11, into commercial cultivars to effectively manage PRR going forward.

Sporotrichosis in Argentina: clinical and epidemiological analysis / Esporotricosis en Argentina: análisis clínico y epidemiológico

Introduction: Sporotrichosis is an implantation mycosis caused by Sporothrix spp. It is distributed worldwide and can be found in vegetation and soil. The most frequent route of infection is by trauma with elements contaminated with fungal propagules. Since domestic cats are the most affected animals and can transmit this infection to humans, sporotrichosis is considered a zoonosis. Clinical presentations include nodular lymphangitis, fixed cutaneous, pulmonary (rare), and disseminated (exceptional). Objectives: To analyze the epidemiology of sporotrichosis in Argentina during 2010 and 2022. To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment of cases diagnosed during this period. To know the circulating genotypes and to observe possible associations with the geographic location where the infection was acquired. Materials and methods: Analytical, retrospective, and observational study. We analyzed the medical records of patients with sporotrichosis from 12 health institutions in Argentina, between 2010 and 2022. Results: We present 54 cases in which the most frequent clinical form was nodular lymphangitis, and the treatment of choice was itraconazole. Conventional diagnosis was made in all cases. Culture of clinical samples was more sensitive than direct examination because it allowed the isolation of Sporothrix spp. in all 54 cases. Molecular identification was performed in 22 cases, with Sporothrix schenkii sensu stricto being the most frequently isolated species. Conclusions: This study allowed to know the epidemiology of this mycosis in Argentina, as well as the availability of diagnostic methods and the treatment of choice.

Introducción: La esporotricosis es una micosis de implantación causada por Sporothrix spp. Este se encuentra distribuido mundialmente y se puede encontrar en la vegetación y en el suelo. La ruta más frecuente de adquisición de la infección es por traumatismos con elementos contaminados con propágulos del hongo. Los gatos domésticos son los animales más afectados y pueden transmitirla a los humanos, por lo que es considerada una zoonosis. Las formas clínicas incluyen: la linfangítica nodular, la cutánea fija, la pulmonar (poco habitual) y la diseminada (excepcional). Objetivo: Analizar la epidemiología de la esporotricosis en Argentina entre los años 2010 y 2022. Describir la presentación clínica, los métodos de diagnóstico y el tratamiento de los casos diagnosticados en este período. Conocer los genotipos circulantes y observar su relación con el lugar geográfico de adquisición de la infección. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio analítico, retrospectivo y observacional, en el que se analizaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes con esporotricosis de 12 instituciones de salud de Argentina, entre los años 2010 y 2022. Resultados: Se presentan 54 casos en los que la forma clínica más frecuente fue la linfangítica nodular y el tratamiento de elección fue el itraconazol. En todos los casos se realizó diagnóstico convencional. El cultivo de las muestras clínicas resultó más sensible que el examen directo, ya que permitió el desarrollo de Sporothrix spp. en los 54 casos. En 22 casos se hizo identificación molecular y Sporothrix schenkii sensu stricto fue la especie más frecuentemente aislada. Conclusiones: Este estudio permitió conocer la epidemiología de esta micosis en Argentina, así como la disponibilidad de métodos diagnósticos y el tratamiento de elección.

[Statement of the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría on the prevention of non-communicable diseases: the need to strengthen knowledge and reinforce strategies]. / Declaración de la Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría sobre la prevención de enfermedades no transmisibles: la necesidad de fortalecer conocimientos y reforzar estrategias.

Research in recent decades has revealed that an adverse environment in the developmental stage can produce a greater susceptibility to phenotypes related to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, or neurobehavioral disorders, among other chronic noncommunicable diseases. These diseases, whose tendency is increasing especially in countries with high social vulnerability, cause premature deaths and constitute the first cause of death in adult life as well as a great cost to public health. Aware of the need to prevent these diseases from the first thousand days of life, the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría created the DOHaD Committee and formulated a statement for the prevention of NCDs, to which Latin American countries also adhered. We believe that the application of the declared strategies with interdisciplinary and intersectoral actions sustained over time will contribute to building health, reducing the burden of NCDs, and to greater wellbeing and productivity for the people.

Investigaciones de las últimas décadas revelaron que un ambiente adverso en la etapa de desarrollo puede producir una mayor susceptibilidad hacia fenotipos relacionados con enfermedad cardiovascular, diabetes, hipertensión, trastornos neuroconductuales y otras enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. Estas enfermedades, cuyo aumento ocurre especialmente en países con alta vulnerabilidad social, provocan muertes prematuras y constituyen la primera causa de muerte en la vida adulta, además de un elevado costo para la salud pública. Consciente de la necesidad de prevenir estas enfermedades desde los primeros mil días de vida, la Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría creó la Subcomisión DOHaD y formuló una declaración para la prevención de enfermedades no transmisibles a la que adhirieron otros países de Latinoamérica. La aplicación de las estrategias declaradas con acciones interdisciplinarias e intersectoriales sostenidas en el tiempo contribuirá a construir salud, a disminuir la carga de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles y al mayor bienestar y productividad para los pueblos.

Genetic diversity of rotavirus A in Argentina during 2019-2022: detection of G6 strains and insights regarding its dissemination.

One of the challenges associated with introducing a vaccine is monitoring its impact through clinical and molecular surveillance. The aims of this study were to analyze the genetic diversity of rotavirus A in Argentina between 2019 and 2022 and to assess the phylogenetic and phylodynamic features of the unusual G6 strains detected. A significant decline in the Wa-like genogroup strains was observed, and G6 strains were detected for the first time in Argentina, in association with P[8] and P[9]. Spatiotemporal analysis showed that the G6-lineage I strains detected recently in Argentina and Brazil might have emerged from European strains. This study provides recent evidence of the genetic diversity of rotaviruses in isolated cases. It is considered important to support continuous surveillance of rotavirus in the post-vaccine scenario, mainly to evaluate potential changes that may occur after the COVID-19 pandemic.

SRAP markers as an alternative tool for Alternaria classification.

Alternaria is one of the main fungal contaminants of cereal grains worldwide with the potential to produce mycotoxins hazardous to human and animal health. Many studies have been carried out to characterize Alternaria sp.-grp. using traditional morphology or polyphasic approach, but a good correlation between morphological sp.-grp., molecular, and chemotaxonomic groups has not always been achieved. For this reason, this study aimed to investigate the usefulness of a cheaper alternative tool, SRAP markers, in identifying Alternaria sp.-grps. obtained from Argentinean barley grains and to compare it with preliminary characterization using morphological traits, phylogeny, and metabolite profiles. Fifty-three Alternaria isolates from barley grains of the main producing regions of Argentina were analyzed with four combinations of SRAP markers. The UPGMA dendrogram, based on the Simple Matching similarity coefficient, revealed three distinct groups. SRAP markers allowed the separation of Alternaria from Infectoriae sections in agreement with the results of a polyphasic approach previously made. Besides, isolates of A. arborescens sp.-grp. were clustered in a separate group from isolates of A. tenuissima and A. alternata sp.-grp., which were grouped in the same cluster. SRAP markers are a recommended tool for classifying Alternaria isolates because of its simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness compared to other molecular markers.

[The aftermath of the pandemic in a hospital: covid-19 and death in Buenos Aires, Argentina]. / El paso de la pandemia en un hospital: covid-19 y muerte en Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The article explores the mutations in the practices of health professionals in the context of covid-19. It focuses on "the covid area" of a hospital in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, seeking to know the rearrangement of hospital space and routines, and the ways of communicating death. In a short period of time, adjustments in professional practices and attempts at new routines and rituals are observed. In the doctor/patient relationship and in the way of communicating a death, both "exceptional" actions (which violate routines) and attempts to recover care techniques linked to the paradigm of humanized medicine are condensed.

El artículo explora las mutaciones en las prácticas de los profesionales de la salud en el contexto de la covid-19. Se centra en "el área covid" de un hospital de la provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina, buscando conocer el reordenamiento del espacio y rutinas hospitalarias, y las formas de comunicar la muerte. En un período corto de tempo se observan ajustes en las prácticas profesionales e intentos de nuevas rutinas y rituales. En el vínculo médico/paciente y en la forma de comunicar una muerte se condensan tanto las acciones "excepcionales" (que vulneram rutinas) como intentos de recuperar técnicas de cuidado vinculados al paradigma de la medicina humanizada.

Functional feeding groups of Chironomidae (Diptera: Nematocera) and their spatial variation in an intermittent hill stream (Ventana Stream, Buenos Aires, Argentina).

The feeding habits of Chironomidae in hill streams in the pampean region have not been described. In this study, we analyzed the gut contents of this insect family with an aim at establishing their diet in an intermittent stream in the Ventania-Hill system. We sampled three sites with different habitat characteristics (i. e., altitude, substrate type, and current velocity). Of the total of nine taxa were recorded, the only one present at all sites was Corynoneura sp. 1. The food items found were detritus, diatoms, filamentous chlorophytes, euglenophytes, vascular plants, fungi, and animal remains. Most of the taxa could be classified as gathering collectors, with those having a higher proportion of detritus in the gut contents although the guts of Pentaneura nr. cinerea, Cricotopus sp. 1, and Onconeura analiae included high proportions of animal remains. No differences in the feeding habits were attributable to the location in the stream. This research contributes to our understanding of the trophic habits of Chironomidae in an intermittent hill stream system of South America.

Quality of care from the perspective of people obtaining abortion: a qualitative study in four countries.

OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study aimed to identify person-centred domains that would contribute to the definition and measurement of abortion quality of care based on the perceptions, experiences and priorities of people seeking abortion. METHODS: We conducted interviews with people seeking abortion aged 15-41 who obtained care in Argentina, Bangladesh, Ethiopia or Nigeria. Participants were recruited from hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, call centres and accompaniment models. We conducted thematic analysis and quantified key domains of quality identified by the participants. RESULTS: We identified six themes that contributed to high-quality abortion care from the clients' perspective, with particular focus on interpersonal dynamics. These themes emerged as participants described their abortion experience, reflected on their interactions with providers and defined good and bad care. The six themes included (1) kindness and respect, (2) information exchange, (3) emotional support, (4) attentive care throughout the process, (5) privacy and confidentiality and (6) prepared for and able to cope with pain. CONCLUSIONS: People seeking abortion across multiple country contexts and among various care models have confirmed the importance of interpersonal care in quality. These findings provide guidance on six priority areas which could be used to sharpen the definition of abortion quality, improve measurement, and design interventions to improve quality.

Unraveling the effect of land use on the bacterioplankton community composition from highly impacted shallow lakes at a regional scale.

Bacterioplankton communities play a crucial role in global biogeochemical processes and are highly sensitive to changes induced by natural and anthropogenic stressors in aquatic ecosystems. We assessed the influence of Land Use Land Cover (LULC), environmental, and geographic changes on the bacterioplankton structure in highly connected and impacted shallow lakes within the Salado River basin, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Additionally, we investigated how changes in LULC affected the limnological characteristics of these lakes at a regional scale. Our analysis revealed that the lakes were ordinated by sub-basins (upper and lower) depending on their LULC characteristics and limnological properties. In coincidence, the same ordination was observed when considering the Bacterioplankton Community Composition (BCC). Spatial and environmental predictors significantly explained the variation in BCC, although when combined with LULC the effect was also important. While the pure LULC effect did not explain a significant percentage of BCC variation, the presence of atrazine in water, an anthropogenic variable linked to LULC, directly influenced both the BCC and some Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) in particular. Our regional-scale approach contributes to understanding the complexity of factors driving bacterioplankton structure and how LULC pervasively affect these communities in highly impacted shallow lake ecosystems from the understudied Southern Hemisphere.

Perfil de carga de enfermedad por diabetes 2023: Argentina

El propósito fundamental de esta serie de perfiles nacionales de la carga de enfermedad por diabetes y de enfermedad renal crónica debida a diabetes es apoyar a los países de la Región de las Américas en el seguimiento de las estrategias puestas en marcha para enfrentar la diabetes. Esta primera versión de los perfiles, que abarca el período comprendido entre el 2000 y el 2019, muestra la tendencia de la mortalidad, los años de vida perdidos por muerte prematura, los años vividos con discapacidad y los años de vida ajustados por discapacidad de ambas enfermedad. Se han elaborado con los últimos datos disponibles de las estimaciones mundiales de salud de la Organización Mundial de la Salud y tiene como objetivo convertirse en una herramienta útil para llevar a cabo el monitoreo de las estrategias conexas.

[Analysis of BRAF and NRAS mutations in thyroid tumors in patients from Argentina]. / Análisis de mutaciones BRAF y NRAS de tumores tiroideos en pacientes de Argentina.

INTRODUCTION: Molecular alterations in follicular cells in the BRAF or NRAS genes have been reported to be associated with the process of carcinogenesis. Our aim was to determine the mutational frequency of BRAF and NRAS in fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens in our population. METHODS: The mutational status of BRAF (codon 600) and NRAS (codon 61) was analysed by qPCR in 193 FNA specimens from suspicious nodules and compared with pathological data of 115 patients. RESULTS: BRAF mutation was identified in 40 samples (74.1%) of FNAs classified as Bethesda VI (n = 54). In samples histologically diagnosed as classic papillary thyroid carcinoma (cPTC, n = 47), mutation was observed in 70% of cases, while in other subtypes the prevalence was lower (p = 0.013). In FNA specimens of follicular lesions (n = 36), positivity for NRAS was found in 50% of the follicular carcinomas (FTCs), but only in 6.7% of adenomas. Finally, there was a significant correlation between BRAF and PTC with lymph-node metastasis (p = 0.014) and increased relative risk of recurrence based on the Argentine Intersociety Consensus (RR = 6.77, p = 0.022). No significant differences were found between BRAF mutation and other features of aggressiveness in PTC. CONCLUSION: BRAF and NRAS mutations are observed in a significant number of PTCs and FTCs, in our population. There is a significant correlation between BRAF mutation and lymph-node metastasis.

Introducción: Se ha descrito que alteraciones moleculares de las células foliculares tiroideas en el gen BRAF o en NRAS están asociadas con el proceso de carcinogénesis. Nuestro objetivo fue conocer la frecuencia mutacional de BRAF y NRAS a partir de muestras de punción aspirativa con aguja fina (PAAF) en nuestra población. Métodos: Se analizó por qPCR el estado mutacional de BRAF (codón 600) y NRAS (codón 61) de 193 muestras obtenidas por PAAF de nódulos sospechosos y se comparó con los datos de la anatomía patológica de 115 pacientes. Resultados: La mutación BRAF se identificó en 40 muestras (74.1%) de las punciones categorizadas como Bethesda VI (n = 54). En las muestras que se correspondieron con carcinoma papilar de tiroides (CPT) variante clásica por histología (n = 47), el 70% presentó la mutación, mientras que en los otros subtipos la prevalencia fue más baja (p = 0.013). En muestras de lesión folicular (n = 36), el 50% de los carcinomas foliculares resultaron positivos para NRAS pero solo el 6.7% de los adenomas presentaron esta variación. La presencia de mutación BRAF y CPT se asociaron con metástasis en los ganglios linfáticos (p = 0.014) y mayor riesgo relativo de recurrencia según el Consenso Argentino Intersocietario (RR = 6.77, p = 0.022). No hubo diferencias significativas entre la mutación de BRAF y otras características de agresividad en CPT. Conclusión: La mutación de BRAF y NRAS se observa en un número significativo de CPT y carcinoma folicular, respectivamente, en nuestra población. La mutación BRAF se correlaciona significativamente con metástasis en los ganglios linfáticos.

[Characterization of the drug supply in Argentina]. / Caracterización de la oferta de medicamentos en la República Argentina.

INTRODUCTION: Knowing the characteristics of the pharmaceutical market allows obtaining sensitive information to understand the supply, demand and access of the population to medicines. In order to provide primary data regarding the marketing of drugs in Argentina, the following research was performed. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional quantitative-qualitative descriptive study of the Argentine pharmaceutical market, taking into account 30 years of official information provided by the National Regulatory Agency (ANMAT). RESULTS: Two hundred and sixteen laboratories (182 national) drug producers / importers, 53 distributors and 479 drugstores (wholesale drug distribution establishments) were identified. A high concentration of marketing was detected, grouping 90% in only 5 intermediaries. There are currently 6670 products/certificates in the country, an amount that fluctuated over the last 30 years. Six laboratories are owners of between 116 and 208 certificates; 84% of these products come from national laboratories, 5002 are mono-drugs, while 83% are marketed under a fancy name. The three main indications for which the registration of drugs in Argentina is intended are diseases of digestive system, nervous system and infectious diseases; 58% of the marketed products consist of oral formulations. DISCUSSION: Based on data provided by this study, it is possible to assert that the Argentinian pharmaceutical market has a majority share of national capital, with a great concentration in a few pharmaceutical companies and distributors. The products are mostly available as non-combined drugs, in their oral form, and available by their brand names.

Introducción: Conocer las características del mercado farmacéutico permite obtener información sensible para entender la oferta, la demanda y el acceso de la población a los medicamentos. Con el objetivo de aportar datos primarios respecto a la comercialización de fármacos en Argentina, se desarrolló la siguiente investigación. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo cuantitativo-cualitativo transversal del mercado farmacéutico argentino, tomando en cuenta 30 años de información oficial aportada por la Agencia Reguladora Nacional (ANMAT). Resultados: Se identificaron 216 laboratorios (182 nacionales) productores/importadores de medicamentos, 53 distribuidores y 479 droguerías (establecimientos de distribución de medicamentos al por mayor). Se detectó una alta concentración de la comercialización, agrupándose el 90% de la misma, en solo 5 intermediarios. En el país existen actualmente 6670 productos/certificados, cantidad que fluctuó a lo largo de los últimos 30 años. Seis laboratorios son dueños de entre 116 y 208 certificados. El 84% de estos productos provienen de laboratorios nacionales, 5002 son monofármacos, mientras que el 83% se comercializa bajo un nombre de fantasía. Las tres principales indicaciones a las que se destina el registro de medicamentos en la Argentina son enfermedades del aparato digestivo, sistema nervioso, e infecciosas; el 58% es comercializado como formulaciones orales. Discusión: el presente trabajo muestra que el mercado farmacéutico argentino tiene una participación mayoritaria de capitales nacionales, existiendo gran concentración en pocas empresas productoras y distribuidoras. Los productos son mayormente monodrogas comercializadas en forma oral y ofrecidas por su nombre de fantasía.

[Human rhinosporidiosis of the nasal cavity in Argentina]. / Rinosporidiosis humana de cavidad nasal en Argentina.

Rhinosporidiosis is an infectious pathology caused by the aquatic protist pathogen Rhinosporidium seeberi that inhabits the fresh water of lakes or lagoons and in the soil. It is extremely rare, being endemic in India and Sri Lanka, although cases have been seen in countries in Europe, Africa and South America. It predominates in young males and affects both humans and animals. It is characterized by the formation of uni- or bilateral reddish polyps, mainly in the nasal cavity. Presenting airway symptoms include obstruction, epistaxis, rhinorrhea and foreign body sensation. We report the case of a 22-year-old man from Argentina who presented with nasal ventilatory insufficiency, rhinorrhea and epistaxis. Rhinoscopy revealed a polypoid formation arising from the septal septum and occupying the entire right nostril. Microscopically, the polyp was covered by respiratory and squamous epithelium, and at the stromal level it evidenced a granulomatous chronic inflammatory process with the presence of abundant thick-walled cystic structures between 100 and 500 υm (sporangia), which contained abundant endospores inside. The periodic acid Schiff and Grocott techniques highlighted these structures. Given the clinical-epidemiological background and the morphological picture, the diagnosis of rhinosporidiosis was reached.

La rinosporidiosis es una enfermedad infecciosa causada por el patógeno protista acuático Rhinosporidium seeberi que habita en agua dulce de lagos o lagunas y el suelo. Es sumamente infrecuente, siendo endémica en India y Sri Lanka, aunque se han visto casos en países de Europa, áfrica y Sudamérica. Predomina en jóvenes de sexo masculino y afecta tanto a humanos como animales. Se caracteriza por la formación de pólipos rojizos uni o bilaterales, principalmente en cavidad nasal. Los síntomas de presentación en la vía aérea incluyen obstrucción, epistaxis, rinorrea y sensación de cuerpo extraño. Reportamos el caso de un varón de 22 años nativo de Argentina que se presentó a la consulta por insuficiencia ventilatoria nasal, rinorrea y epistaxis. La rinoscopía exhibió una formación polipoide que surgía del tabique septal y ocupaba toda la fosa nasal derecha. Microscópicamente el pólipo estaba revestido por epitelio de tipo respiratorio y pavimentoso y a nivel estromal evidenciaba proceso inflamatorio crónico granulomatoso con presencia de abundantes estructuras quísticas de pared gruesa de entre 100 y 500 υm (esporangios), que contenían en su interior abundantes endosporas. Las técnicas de ácido peryódico de Schiff y Grocott resaltaron dichas estructuras. Dado los antecedentes clínicoepidemiológicos y el cuadro morfológico se arribó al diagnóstico de rinosporidiosis.