Título del artículo:

Pharmacognostic, chemical and mucolytic activity study of malva pseudolavatera webb & berthel. And malva sylvestris l. (malvaceae) leaf extracts, grown in ecuador

Among the cultivated and/or native plant species of Ecuador, are those belonging to Malvaceae. Of these, the most traditionally used are Malva pseudolavatera Webb & Berthel. and Malva sylvestris L., which are grown and sold in indigenous markets. Various articles have been published for M. sylvestris about its chemical composition and pharmacological properties; however, M. pseudolavatera lacks references and is the most commercialized in Ecuador. Therefore, this work sets the following objective: To carry out a comparative study of the pharmacognostic, chemical and mucolytic activity of the species M. pseudolavatera and M. sylvestris. The species studied were collected in the province of Chimborazo. Extracts were obtained with different solvents: water, hexane and 80% ethanol. The aqueous extract was used to determine the mucolytic activity; the hexane and alcoholic extracts were analyzed by the coupled gas chromatography-mass spectrometry system. It was found that M. pseudolavatera has a very similar chemical composition to M. sylvestris; The presence of fatty acids, di and triterpenoids, phytosterols and abundant amino acids was detected. Both species showed an important mucolytic effect, the activity of M. pseudolavatera being higher than the highest doses tested. These studies provide scientific data that allow demonstrating the high potentiality of extracts from the leaves of two Malva species as sources of plant material for possible research and development of phytotherapeutic products with mucolytic and gastroprotective activity in correspondence with their uses in traditional Ecuadorian herbal medicine.

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Biodiversitas

Título del artículo:

Toxoplasma gondii in small ruminants in northeastern areas of Colombia: Seroprevalence and risk factors

Sheep and goats are susceptible to infections with Toxoplasma gondii and could play an important role in the transmission of the zoonotic parasite to human. We conducted a cross sectional study to estimate the seroprevalence and to assess the risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity in small ruminants under traditional husbandry systems. This study was carried out from November 2015 to April 2016 in randomly selected small ruminants (n = 1038) from 48 farms located in Colombia, in the departments of northern Cesar in the north and La Guajira in the south. An indirect ELISA was used to detect IgG antibodies to T. gondii in the animals. A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain information on putative risk factors. We conducted the association analyses by using univariable and multivariate logistic regression and report odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (C.I). The overall seroprevalence in small ruminants was 23.5% (C.I: 21–26.2%). Sheep showed a higher seroprevalence (25.1% C.I: 22.4–28.6%) than goats (18.4% C.I: 22.4–28.6%). The association analysis recognized as risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity farming pigs in addition to small ruminants (OR = 1.96 C.I: 1.414–2.743), the inexistence of manure heap (OR = 2.254 C.I: 1.480–3.433) and drinking water from locally aqueducts (OR = 1.489 C.I: 1.006–2.204). The results of the study confirmed that exposure to T. gondii is common in sheep and goats in dry Caribbean regions of Colombia.

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Parasite Epidemiology and Control

Título del artículo:

Methodological proposal for the construction and selection of digital high-precision elevation models

Digital Elevation Models improve accuracy in terrain analysis. This work compared different interpolation methods using statistical criteria in a topographic survey of 339 points raised with a total station in the “San Juan de Lagunillas” area (Venezuela). The existence of a significant trend process with spatial autocorrelation modeled by an isotropic Gaussian semivariogram was documented. The kriging allowed to obtain residuals less than a minimum tolerable error equal to 0.1 m. The residual kriging was the best evaluated in cross validation with exclusion (absolute mean error of 0.71 m). The disjunctive kriging showed a lower error average but a wider error range and the highest mean absolute error (12.8 m). The other kriging showed mean error variance greater than 1.3 m and absolute minimum errors greater than 0.85 m. Due to the high dependence on the model specification form, graphics are recommended for a better fit.

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Colombia Forestal

Título del artículo:

Endometrial and decidual stromal precursors show a different decidualization capacity

Endometrial stromal cells (EnSCs) and decidual stromal cells (DSCs) originate from fibroblastic precursors located around the vessels of the human nonpregnant endometrium and the pregnant endometrium (decidua), respectively. Under the effect of ovarian or pregnancy hormones, these precursors differentiate (decidualize), changing their morphology and secreting factors that appear to be essential for the normal development of pregnancy. However, the different physiological context - that is, non-pregnancy vs pregnancy - of those precursors (preEnSCs, preDSCs) might affect their phenotype and functions. In the present study, we established preEnSC and preDSC lines and compared the antigen phenotype and responses to decidualization factors in these two types of stromal cell line. Analyses with flow cytometry showed that preEnSCs and preDSCs exhibited a similar antigen phenotype compatible with that of bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. The response to decidualization in cultures with progesterone and cAMP was evaluated by analyzing changes in cell morphology by microscopy, prolactin and IL-15 secretion by enzyme immunoassay and the induction of apoptosis by flow cytometry. In all four analyses, preDSCs showed a significantly higher response than preEnSCs. The expression of progesterone receptor (PR), protein kinase A (PKA) and FOXO1 was studied with Western blotting. Both types of cells showed similar levels of PR and PKA, but the increase in PKA RI subunit expression in response to decidualization was again significantly greater in preDSCs. We conclude that preEnSCs and preDSCs are equivalent cells but differ in their ability to decidualize. Functional differences between them probably derive from factors in their different milieus.

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Reproduction

Título del artículo:

Evolution of the porous structure of cocoa beans during microwave drying

In this work, it was evaluated the morphological changes of the porous structure of the cocoa bean samples subjected to microwave drying. The use of microwaves (MWs) applied by ON-OFF on cocoa bean samples allowed to avoid both the burning and the roasting of the beans. During the MWs drying process, phenomena of breakage of cellular structure, coalescence and, pore plugging altered the average pore diameter, the pore volume, surface area, and Pore Size Distribution (PSD). When the results of sun-dried beans were compared with those of beans dried by MWs, it was concluded that the average pore diameter, the pore volume, the surface area and, PSD were also affected by the solar drying; however, the breakage of cellular structure did not occur.

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Drying Technology

Título del artículo:

A proposal for updating the Response Spectrum of San Jose de Cucuta, Colombia

An analysis of seismic signals captured in three stations of the network of accelerographs of the Colombian Geological Service (SGC, by its acronym in Spanish) was developed for the city of San Jose de Cucuta, Colombia. Earthquake Equivalent, Response Analysis (EERA) and DEGTRA4 software were used for analysis, processing and calculation of signal response spectra during the characterization and propagation modelling of the signal by profiles. For the accelerograms family, a normalization factor computed with respect to the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) was obtained by superposition against the typical design spectrum of the Colombian earthquake resistant code (NSR10). It was found that there is a band of frequencies above the maximum acceleration zone of the design spectrum of the current standard. This suggests a revision of the seismic threat of the city of Cucuta and the urgent need to develop the seismic microzoning, which would allow a substantial reduction of the seismic risk.

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IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering

Título del artículo:

Scientific reasoning skills and patterns of use of Information and Communication Technologies. the case of the students of the Universidad de Santander (Valledupar, Colombia)

This research establishes the relationship that has had the development of the skills of scientific reasoning and the patterns of use of tools and resources of information and communication technology (ICT). For that, it is necessary to use Lawson Test and to have into account ICT National Standards for students that USA International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) suggest. Also, this paper is tackled from a non-experimental design featuring a correlational - transectional range. The population consists of 2035 students from a higher education institution of the Colombian Caribbean coast. Besides, stratified random sampling is used defining, defining strata and a representative sample for academic programs. Personal survey was used to collect information. The existence of relationship between scientific reasoning skills and patterns of use of information and communication technology was confirmed.

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IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering

Título del artículo:

Bactericidal Effect of Entomopathogenic Bacterium Pseudomonas entomophila Against Xanthomonas citri Reduces Citrus Canker Disease Severity

The bacterium Pseudomonas entomophila has been recognized as an exceptional species within the Pseudomonas genus, capable of naturally infecting and killing insects from at least three different orders. P. entomophila ingestion leads to irreversible gut damage resulting from a global blockage of translation, which impairs both immune and tissue repair systems in the insect intestine. In this study we isolated a P. entomophila bacterial strain from soil samples which displayed a strong activity against Xanthomonas citri subsp, citri (Xcc), the etiological agent of citrus canker disease. The antagonism potential of isolated bacteria against Xcc and its ability to reduce citrus canker severity was assessed both ex planta and in planta. Our findings show that pathogenicity assays in Citrus x limonia by pressure infiltration and spray with a mixture of P. entomophila and Xcc leaded to a significant reduction in the number of canker lesions in high susceptible citrus leaves, at 21 days post-infection. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of antibacterial activity of P. entomophila against a phytopathogenic bacterium. Collective action of P. entomophila factors such as diketopiperazine production and the type 6 secretion system (T6SS) may be involved in this type of biological control of citrus canker. The results suggest that the P. entomophila strain could be a promising biocontrol agent acting directly against Xcc.

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Frontiers in Microbiology

Título del artículo:

Immobilization of Ib-M2 peptide on core@shell nanostructures based on SPION nanoparticles and their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7

Antimicrobial peptides arise as a very promising alternative for the treatment of infections generated by pathogenic microorganisms. The Ib-M2 antimicrobial peptide turns out to be a very promising candidate for these types of applications. However, it is required to evaluate immobilization systems that give peptides greater stability and activity in order to be used in biological systems. Given the above, this paper reports the preparation of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) coated with chitosan in order to immobilize the Ib-M2 antimicrobial peptide. Structural properties of SPIONs were studied by DLS, SEM, XRD, FT-IR, XPS and the magnetic properties were evaluated by vibrating-sample magnetometer technique. The antimicrobial activity of the Ib-M2/SPIONs@Chi bioconjugate obtained was evaluated against Escherichia coli O157:H7 by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Results show that the SPIONs obtained have particle size between 10 and 15 nm with a magnetite-type structure which was confirmed by FT-IR and XPS. Characterization of magnetic properties evidences a superparamagnetic behavior of nanoparticles obtained. MIC results showed that Ib-M2/SPIONs@Chi bioconjugate exhibit a comparable or higher activity against E. coli in comparison with the free Ib-M2 peptide. These results show that the bioconjugate obtained can be considered for use in biomedical applications.

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Applied Surface Science

Título del artículo:

Etiology of acute gastroenteritis among children less than 5 years of age in bucaramanga, colombia: A case-control study

Background Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children aged less than 5 years in low-and middle-income countries where limited access to potable water, poor sanitation, deficient hygiene, and food product contamination are prevalent. Research on the changing etiology of AGE and associated risk factors in Latin America, including Colombia, is essential to understand the epidemiology of these infections. The primary objectives of this study were to describe etiology of moderate to severe AGE in children less than 5 years of age from Bucaramanga, Colombia, a middle-income country in Latin Ameri-can, and to identify the presence of emerging E. coli pathotypes. Methodology/Principal findings This was a prospective, matched for age, case-control study to assess the etiology of moderate to severe AGE in children less than 5 years of age in Bucaramanga, Colombia, South America. We tested for 24 pathogens using locally available diagnostic testing, including stool culture, polymerase chain reaction, microscopy and enzyme-linked immunoassay. Adjusted attributable fractions were calculated to assess the association between AGE and each pathogen in this study population. The study included 861 participants, 431 cases and 430 controls. Enteric pathogens were detected in 71% of cases and in 54% of controls (p = <0.001). Co-infection was identified in 28% of cases and in 14% of controls (p = <0.001). The adjusted attributable fraction showed that Norovirus GII explained 14% (95% CI: 10–18%) of AGE, followed by rotavirus 9.3% (6.4–12%), adenovirus 3% (1–4%), astrovirus 2.9% (0.6–5%), enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) 2.4% (0.4–4%), Cryptosporidium sp. 2% (0.5–4%), Campylobacter sp. 2% (0.2–4%), and Salmonella sp.1.9% (0.3 to 3.5%). Except for Cryptosporidium, all parasite infections were not associated with AGE. Three emergent diarrheagenic E. coli pathotypes were identified in cases (0.7%), including an enteroaggre-gative/enterotoxigenic E.coli (EAEC/ETEC), an enteroaggregative/enteropathogenic E.coli (EAEC/EPEC), and an emergent enteroinvasive E. coli with a rare O96:H19. No deaths were reported among cases or controls. Conclusions/Significance Norovirus and rotavirus explained the major proportion of moderate to severe AGE in this study. Higher proportion of infection in cases, in the form of single infections or co-infections, showed association with AGE. Three novel E. coli pathotypes were identified among cases in this geographic region.

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PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases

Título del artículo:

Associations of outdoor fine particulate air pollution and cardiovascular disease in 157 436 individuals from 21 high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries (PURE): a prospective cohort study

Background: Most studies of long-term exposure to outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2·5) and cardiovascular disease are from high-income countries with relatively low PM2·5 concentrations. It is unclear whether risks are similar in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) and how outdoor PM2·5 contributes to the global burden of cardiovascular disease. In our analysis of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study, we aimed to investigate the association between long-term exposure to PM2·5 concentrations and cardiovascular disease in a large cohort of adults from 21 high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries. Methods: In this multinational, prospective cohort study, we studied 157 436 adults aged 35–70 years who were enrolled in the PURE study in countries with ambient PM2·5 estimates, for whom follow-up data were available. Cox proportional hazard frailty models were used to estimate the associations between long-term mean community outdoor PM2·5 concentrations and cardiovascular disease events (fatal and non-fatal), cardiovascular disease mortality, and other non-accidental mortality. Findings: Between Jan 1, 2003, and July 14, 2018, 157 436 adults from 747 communities in 21 high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries were enrolled and followed up, of whom 140 020 participants resided in LMICs. During a median follow-up period of 9·3 years (IQR 7·8–10·8; corresponding to 1·4 million person-years), we documented 9996 non-accidental deaths, of which 3219 were attributed to cardiovascular disease. 9152 (5·8%) of 157 436 participants had cardiovascular disease events (fatal and non-fatal incident cardiovascular disease), including 4083 myocardial infarctions and 4139 strokes. Mean 3-year PM2·5 at cohort baseline was 47·5 μg/m3 (range 6–140). In models adjusted for individual, household, and geographical factors, a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2·5 was associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease events (hazard ratio 1·05 [95% CI 1·03–1·07]), myocardial infarction (1·03 [1·00–1·05]), stroke (1·07 [1·04–1·10]), and cardiovascular disease mortality (1·03 [1·00–1·05]). Results were similar for LMICs and communities with high PM2·5 concentrations (>35 μg/m3). The population attributable fraction for PM2·5 in the PURE cohort was 13·9% (95% CI 8·8–18·6) for cardiovascular disease events, 8·4% (0·0–15·4) for myocardial infarction, 19·6% (13·0–25·8) for stroke, and 8·3% (0·0–15·2) for cardiovascular disease mortality. We identified no consistent associations between PM2·5 and risk for non-cardiovascular disease deaths. Interpretation: Long-term outdoor PM2·5 concentrations were associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease in adults aged 35–70 years. Air pollution is an important global risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a need exists to reduce air pollution concentrations, especially in LMICs, where air pollution levels are highest. Funding: Full funding sources are listed at the end of the paper (see Acknowledgments).

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The Lancet Planetary Health

Título del artículo:

Anatomical and histochemical alterations caused by powdery mildew on hydrangea mac-rophylla (Hydrangeaceae) leaves

Introduction: There are few studies concerning the morpho-anatomical and histochemical alterations caused by powdery mildew in H. macrophylla leaves in the scientific literature. Objective: To describe and analyze anatomical and histochemical aspects of this pathosystem. Methods: More than 90 leaves of H. macrophylla (both healthy and infected leaves by powdery mildew) were collected in the nursery El Jardín del Eden, Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia. To carry out the identification of the mycopatho-gen, sections were stained with Lactophenol Blue, and contrasted with specialized taxonomic keys. Transverse fragments 1 cm thick were fixed in a mixture of formalin, alcohol, and acetic acid. These were subsequently dehydrated using an ethanol series, clarified in Xylene, and finally embedded in Paraplast plus® to obtain 5 µm sections. Schiff’s periodic acid reaction (PAS) was used to detect structural and reserve polysaccharides, Ruthenium Red for pectins, Ponseau S and Lacmoid for callose, ferric chloride for polyphenols, Sudan Black for lipids and Uvitex 2B-Hematoxylin for chitin. The sections were observed using a Nikon 80i eclipse® pho-ton microscope, with Uvitex 2B-Hematoxylin-stained sections examined by epifluorescence using a UV-2A filter. For the observation and description of the samples by scanning electron microscopy, healthy and infected leaves were fixed and dehydrated in 100 % methanol, critical point dried, and coated with gold. Results: H. macrophylla leaves are isobilateral and homobaric, with adaxial and abaxial epidermis of a single cellular layer. The palisade parenchyma consists of a layer of short cells, while the spongy parenchyma forms 6 to 7 cellular layers. All vascular bundles in the leaf blade are closed collaterals. Abundant idioblasts with raphides may be observed in the mesophyll, and starch is the main reserve carbohydrate present in the tissues. The leaves are hypostomatic and exhibit a paracytic pattern of superficial stomata which possess large substomatal cavities. The morphological data observed indicate that the mycopathogen is related to the genus Erysiphe. The epidermal cells affected by the pathogen exhibit thickened walls, granular cytoplasm, and papillae or cell wall appositions in the outer periclinal walls. With the deterioration of the epidermis, the underlying tissues are affected and become necrotic. Histochemical test indicate that infected plants thicken and reinforce their epidermal cell walls with primary wall materials; primarily cutin, pectins, and callose. When stained with Sudan Black, the presence of dark-colored agglomerates in the cytoplasm of epidermal cells may be related to plant defense mechanisms; and those observed in mesophilic cells to the disorganization of membrane systems. Polyphenols accumulate in the cytoplasm of infected epidermal cells. The fungal material present in epidermal tissues was clearly differenti-ated when stained with fluorochrome to detect chitin. Conclusions: Species of the genus Erysiphe are causative agents of powdery mildew in H. macrophylla. Necrosis of the epidermal cells is observed in response to the mycopathogen, possibly due to hypersensitive response.

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Revista de Biologia Tropical

Título del artículo:

Towards the Hydrogen Economy in Paraguay: Green hydrogen production potential and end-uses

This study was conducted to estimate the potential for green H2 in Paraguay. A total production potential of 22.5 × 106 tons/year was obtained with a main contribution (93.34%) from solar photovoltaic. The greatest potential for producing H2 from solar and wind resources is in the Western region, and from hydro resources is in the Eastern region of the country. Two end-uses of green H2 were assessed: (1) automotive transportation, replacing gasoline and diesel; and (2) residential energy, replacing firewood and LPG for cooking in households across the country. In 16 of the 17 departments, green H2 is able to replace the overall consumption of gasoline and diesel, as well as firewood and LPG. Finally, energy service cost (mobility), environmental aspects and CO2 emissions were considered for three urban mobility technologies for the Metropolitan Area of Asunción. Results show that the mobility cost of fuel cell hybrid electric buses is still very high in comparison to diesel buses and battery electric buses. However, when a longer driving range is required, fuel cell hybrid electric buses could become a viable alternative in the long term. From an environmental point of view, green H2 used in fuel cell hybrid electric buses has the potential to save about 96% of CO2 emissions in comparison to diesel buses. It is concluded that the estimated green H2 production potential favors the incorporation of the Hydrogen Economy in Paraguay.

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International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Título del artículo:

The use of synthetic agonists of quorum sensing N- acyl homoserine lactone pathway improves the bioleaching ability in Acidithiobacillus and Pseudomonas bacteria

Metal solubilization from discarded electrical material and electronic devices (e-waste) using the bioleaching capabilities of bacterial cells is highly effective. However, gaps in understanding about the microbiological processes involved in the bioleaching reaction leads to less efficient metal solubilization in large-scale e-waste processing. In this study, bacterial species belonging to the genera Acidithiobacillus and Pseudomonas were used to leach copper and gold from discarded printed circuit boards (PCB). Through modulation of the cell-to-cell communication system in these bacteria, phenotypic traits directly involved in the bioleaching reaction were regulated in order to improve the metal solubilization. Addition of the long chain synthetic autoinducer molecule N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) of the quorum sensing pathway to the bioleaching reaction resulted in a significant enhancement of metal extraction from PCB. Factors such as: cell attachment to PCB, biofilm formation and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production were regulated by the quorum sensing system and could be directly related to the improvement of metal bioleaching. Bioleaching reactions using bacterial quorum sensing modulation could represent a valuable tool in overcoming limitations at the industrial level imposed by microbiological traits that lead to inefficient metal bioleaching from e-waste.

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PeerJ

Título del artículo:

Risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and mortality in South America: a PURE substudy

Aims: In a multinational South American cohort, we examined variations in CVD incidence and mortality rates between subpopulations stratified by country, by sex and by urban or rural location. We also examined the contributions of 12 modifiable risk factors to CVD development and to death. Methods and results: This prospective cohort study included 24 718 participants from 51 urban and 49 rural communities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. The mean follow-up was 10.3 years. The incidence of CVD and mortality rates were calculated for the overall cohort and in subpopulations. Hazard ratios and population attributable fractions (PAFs) for CVD and for death were examined for 12 common modifiable risk factors, grouped as metabolic (hypertension, diabetes, abdominal obesity, and high non-HDL cholesterol), behavioural (tobacco, alcohol, diet quality, and physical activity), and others (education, household air pollution, strength, and depression). Leading causes of death were CVD (31.1%), cancer (30.6%), and respiratory diseases (8.6%). The incidence of CVD (per 1000 person-years) only modestly varied between countries, with the highest incidence in Brazil (3.86) and the lowest in Argentina (3.07). There was a greater variation in mortality rates (per 1000 person-years) between countries, with the highest in Argentina (5.98) and the lowest in Chile (4.07). Men had a higher incidence of CVD (4.48 vs. 2.60 per 1000 person-years) and a higher mortality rate (6.33 vs. 3.96 per 1000 person-years) compared with women. Deaths were higher in rural compared to urban areas. Approximately 72% of the PAF for CVD and 69% of the PAF for deaths were attributable to 12 modifiable risk factors. For CVD, largest PAFs were due to hypertension (18.7%), abdominal obesity (15.4%), tobacco use (13.5%), low strength (5.6%), and diabetes (5.3%). For death, the largest PAFs were from tobacco use (14.4%), hypertension (12.0%), low education (10.5%), abdominal obesity (9.7%), and diabetes (5.5%). Conclusions: Cardiovascular disease, cancer, and respiratory diseases account for over two-thirds of deaths in South America. Men have consistently higher CVD and mortality rates than women. A large proportion of CVD and premature deaths could be averted by controlling metabolic risk factors and tobacco use, which are common leading risk factors for both outcomes in the region.

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European Heart Journal

Título del artículo:

Immobilization Systems of Antimicrobial Peptide Ib−M1 in Polymeric Nanoparticles Based on Alginate and Chitosan

The development of new strategies to reduce the use of traditional antibiotics has been a topic of global interest due to the resistance generated by multiresistant microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, as etiological agents of various diseases. Antimicrobial peptides are presented as an alternative for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by this type of microorganism. The Ib−M1 peptide meets the requirements to be used as an antimicrobial compound. However, it is necessary to use strategies that generate protection and resist the conditions encountered in a biological system. Therefore, in this study, we synthesized alginate and chitosan nanoparticles (Alg−Chi NPs) using the ionic gelation technique, which allows for the crosslinking of polymeric chains arranged in nanostructures by intermolecular interactions that can be either covalent or non-covalent. Such interactions can be achieved through the use of crosslinking agents that facilitate this binding. This technique allows for immobilization of the Ib−M1 peptide to form an Ib−M1/Alg−Chi bioconjugate. SEM, DLS, and FT-IR were used to determine the structural features of the nanoparticles. We evaluated the biological activity against E. coli ATCC 25922 and Vero mammalian cells, as well as the stability at various temperatures, pH, and proteases, of Ib−M1 and Ib−M1/Alg-Chi. The results showed agglomerates of nanoparticles with average sizes of 150 nm; an MIC of 12.5 µM, which was maintained in the bioconjugate; and cytotoxicity values close to 40%. Stability was maintained against pH and temperature; in proteases, it was only evidenced against pepsin in Ib−M1/Alg-Chi. The results are promising with respect to the use of Ib−M1 and Ib−M1/Alg−Chi as possible antimicrobial agents.

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Polymers

Título del artículo:

Muscular Strength in Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, accounting for approximately 32% of all deaths in 2019. There has been increasing interest in understanding the role of low muscular strength as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, given its association with other cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome. An inverse association between muscle strength, chronic disease, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular-related death has been reported. Recent clinical trials have consistently shown that resistance exercise, which increases strength, and potentially muscle mass, significantly improves the control of known cardiovascular disease risk factors and reduces the risk of all-cause death and cardiovascular mortality. In the present article, we review the growing body of evidence that supports the need for future research to evaluate the potential of handgrip strength as a screening tool for cardiovascular disease and its risk factors in the clinical medical setting, as part of routine care using an affordable handgrip strength device. Moreover, it is crucial to devise large-scale interventions driven by governmental health policies to educate the general population and healthcare professionals about the importance of muscular strengthening activities and to promote access to these activities to improve cardiometabolic health and reduce incidence of cardiovascular disease and mortality.

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Anatolian Journal of Cardiology

Título del artículo:

Theoretical model of territorial agro-industrial development through multi-focus research analytics

This study sought to propose a theoretical model by determining the incident factors of agro-industrial territorial development based on the existing scientific literature and the exploration of successful case studies in the sector worldwide. A systematic review of the literature was carried out, with a bibliometric analysis and content analysis, recognizing elements associated with the improvement of competitiveness and territorial development. The factors identified as incidents of agro-industrial territorial development are: the short supply chain, protection of agri-food products with territorial identity, family farming, local food systems and agribusiness. These factors were integrated into a theoretical model in order to analyze the systemic interaction of each of the factors to find the causes or reasons for territorial development where activation mechanisms can be identified, such as: relational, spatial and technological proximity, the institutional framework from the territory, the support of public policy and the promotion of inclusive and integrated businesses in the value chain.

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Journal of Rural Studies

Título del artículo:

Acute coronary syndromes following COVID-19 vaccine application: Kounis syndrome or chance?

Acerca de la revista donde se publicó este artículo:

Annals of Medicine and Surgery

Título del artículo:

Association of Sitting Time with Mortality and Cardiovascular Events in High-Income, Middle-Income, and Low-Income Countries

Importance: High amounts of sitting time are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality in high-income countries, but it is unknown whether risks also increase in low- and middle-income countries. Objective: To investigate the association of sitting time with mortality and major CVD in countries at different economic levels using data from the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology study. Design, Setting, and Participants: This population-based cohort study included participants aged 35 to 70 years recruited from January 1, 2003, and followed up until August 31, 2021, in 21 high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries with a median follow-up of 11.1 years. Exposures: Daily sitting time measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Main Outcomes and Measures: The composite of all-cause mortality and major CVD (defined as cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure). Results: Of 105677 participants, 61925 (58.6%) were women, and the mean (SD) age was 50.4 (9.6) years. During a median follow-up of 11.1 (IQR, 8.6-12.2) years, 6233 deaths and 5696 major cardiovascular events (2349 myocardial infarctions, 2966 strokes, 671 heart failure, and 1792 cardiovascular deaths) were documented. Compared with the reference group (<4 hours per day of sitting), higher sitting time (≥8 hours per day) was associated with an increased risk of the composite outcome (hazard ratio [HR], 1.19; 95% CI, 1.11-1.28; Pfor trend <.001), all-cause mortality (HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.10-1.31; Pfor trend <.001), and major CVD (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.10-1.34; Pfor trend <.001). When stratified by country income levels, the association of sitting time with the composite outcome was stronger in low-income and lower-middle-income countries (≥8 hours per day: HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.16-1.44) compared with high-income and upper-middle-income countries (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.98-1.19; P for interaction =.02). Compared with those who reported sitting time less than 4 hours per day and high physical activity level, participants who sat for 8 or more hours per day experienced a 17% to 50% higher associated risk of the composite outcome across physical activity levels; and the risk was attenuated along with increased physical activity levels. Conclusions and Relevance: High amounts of sitting time were associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality and CVD in economically diverse settings, especially in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. Reducing sedentary time along with increasing physical activity might be an important strategy for easing the global burden of premature deaths and CVD.

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JAMA Cardiology

Título del artículo:

Current and Future Frontiers of Molecularly Defined Oligodendrogliomas

Oligodendrogliomas are a subtype of adult diffuse glioma characterized by their better responsiveness to systemic chemotherapy than other high-grade glial tumors. The World Health Organization (WHO) 2021 brain tumor classification highlighted defining molecular markers, including 1p19q codeletion and IDH mutations which have become key in diagnosing and treating oligodendrogliomas. The management for patients with oligodendrogliomas includes observation or surgical resection potentially followed by radiation and chemotherapy with PCV (Procarbazine, Lomustine, and Vincristine) or Temozolomide. However, most of the available research about oligodendrogliomas includes a mix of histologically and molecularly diagnosed tumors. Even data driving our current management guidelines are based on post-hoc subgroup analyses of the 1p19q codeleted population in landmark prospective trials. Therefore, the optimal treatment paradigm for molecularly defined oligodendrogliomas is incompletely understood. Many questions remain open, such as the optimal timing of radiation and chemotherapy, the response to different chemotherapeutic agents, or what genetic factors influence responsiveness to these agents. Ultimately, oligodendrogliomas are still incurable and new therapies, such as targeting IDH mutations, are necessary. In this opinion piece, we present relevant literature in the field, discuss current challenges, and propose some studies that we think are necessary to answer these critical questions.

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Frontiers in Oncology

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A model of metformin mitochondrial metabolism in metachromatic leukodystrophy: first description of human Schwann cells transfected with CRISPR-Cas9

Metachromatic leukodystrophy is a neurological lysosomal deposit disease that affects public health despite its low incidence in the population. Currently, few reports are available on pathophysiological events related to enzyme deficiencies and subsequent sulfatide accumulation. This research aims to examine the use of metformin as an alternative treatment to counteract these effects. This was evaluated in human Schwann cells (HSCs) transfected or non-transfected with CRISPR-Cas9, and later treated with sulfatides and metformin. This resulted in transfected HSCs showing a significant increase in cell reactive oxygen species (ROS) production when exposed to 100 μM sulfatides (p = 0.0007), compared to non-transfected HSCs. Sulfatides at concentrations of 10 to 100 μM affected mitochondrial bioenergetics in transfected HSCs. Moreover, these analyses showed that transfected cells showed a decrease in basal and maximal respiration rates after exposure to 100 μM sulfatide. However, maximal and normal mitochondrial respiratory capacity decreased in cells treated with both sulfatide and metformin. This study has provided valuable insights into bioenergetic and mitochondrial effects of sulfatides in HSCs for the first time. Treatment with metformin (500 μM) restored the metabolic activity of these cells and decreased ROS production.

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Open Biology

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Psychological effects associated with preventive isolation by COVID-19 in early childhood in Colombia

Background: There are enough documented records worldwide to date on the number ofinfections and deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is foreseeable that there will be a worsening of psychological health in the entire population, however, there are few studies that have addressed the emotional and psychological effects that preventive isolation has caused in Colombia in early childhood so the objective of this study was to know these effects through a survey carried out with caregivers of children in Colombia from different social strata. M ethod: Cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative study that included 1 006 surveys conducted in the last quarter of 2020. Results: The study mainly showed three psychological dimensions that impacted early childhood in Colombia during social isolation due to COVID-19: changes in an emotional state, behavior problems, and results of difficulties associated with sleep. Conclusions: Our results shed light on the specific groups with a higher risk of emotional and psychological difficulties due to a state of preventive confinement. These results suggest the strengthening of affective relationships at home and psychosocial support by qualified personnel for the good integral development of early childhood.

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Gaceta Medica de Caracas

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Ebstein\'s anomaly in newborn

Introduction: Ebstein\'s anomaly is a rare malformation with mild to severe respiratory symptomatic presentation due to congenital heart defects manifested during childhood. Objective: To present the case in which the timely diagnosis of this disease allowed the comprehensive treatment of the patient. Case presentation: Full-term newborn, who at seven hours of birth presented decreased oxygen saturation, physical examination without cyanosis, pansystolic murmur in auscultation and cardiomegaly detected by chest X-rays. An echocardiogram was performed to diagnose the baby as a carrier of Ebstein\'s disease with mild manifestations. Once he had clinical improvement, he was discharged with an indication for assessment by pediatric cardiology. Conclusions: Ebstein\'s anomaly may begin in the neonatal period with symptoms of variable severity. Clinical suspicion allows for diagnostic confirmation and close follow-up, especially in severe cases.

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Revista Cubana de Pediatria

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Isolated Escherichia coli resistance genes in broiler chicken

Poultry production due to consumer demand has increased annually, which leads to the use of additives such as antibiotics to favor rearing conditions, this increases the deficiency in the composition of production animals\' intestinal microbiota and can generate microbiological and genetic changes; this microbiota can reach humans through food chain, generating a possible horizontal transfer of genes that encode resistance to antibiotics. The objective was to identify resistance profiles and the genes that encode it. Materials and methods: From 200 chickens, 35 strains of Escherichia coli with extended spectrum beta-lactamase resistance phenotype were isolated from healthy broilers, from production farms in Santander (Colombia). 83 % of the AmpC gene, 86 % of the blaCTXM gene, 54 % of the blaSHV gene and 57 % of the blaTEM gene were identified. Regarding the genes that code for resistance to quinolones, 94 % of the qnrB gene, 9 % of the qnrC gene and 0 % of the qnrA gene were identified. The coexistence of the genes that encode for resistance to antibiotics is a serious problem that requires vigilance, in view of this; control strategies must be generated to avoid the spread through the food chain, as well as strategies for the control of the use of antibiotics in the production.

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Revista Mexicana De Ciencias Pecuarias