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Fungi belonging to the genus Pseudogymnoascus have garnered increasing attention in recent years. One of the members of the genus, P. destructans, has been identified as the causal agent of a severe bat disease. Simultaneously, the knowledge of Pseudogymnoascus species has expanded, in parallel with the increased availability of genome sequences. Moreover, Pseudogymnoascus exhibits great potential as a producer of specialized metabolites, displaying a diverse array of biological activities. Despite these significant advancements, the genetic landscape of Pseudogymnoascus remains largely unexplored due to the scarcity of suitable molecular tools for genetic manipulation. In this study, we successfully implemented RNAi-mediated gene silencing and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption in Pseudogymnoascus, using an Antarctic strain of Pseudogymnoascus verrucosus as a model. Both methods were applied to target azpA, a gene involved in red pigment biosynthesis. Silencing of the azpA gene to levels of 90% or higher eliminated red pigment production, resulting in transformants exhibiting a white phenotype. On the other hand, the CRISPR/Cas9 system led to a high percentage (73%) of transformants with a one-nucleotide insertion, thereby inactivating azpA and abolishing red pigment production, resulting in a white phenotype. The successful application of RNAi-mediated gene silencing and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption represents a significant advancement in Pseudogymnoascus research, opening avenues for comprehensive functional genetic investigations within this underexplored fungal genus.

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RESUMEN Objetivo : Evaluar el nivel de ansiedad dental (AD) y dolor dental (DD) en diferentes momentos en el tratamiento de conductos durante la pandemia por COVID-19. Materiales y métodos : Estudio observacional, descriptivo y longitudinal. La muestra estuvo constituida por 68 participantes de la Clínica Estomatológica del Hospital Militar Central (HMC), que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. El procedimiento consistió en el registro del nivel de AD y DD de los pacientes en distintos momentos del tratamiento de conductos mediante una escala visual analógica (EVA). Resultados : Antes del procedimiento, los participantes mostraron 3,66 ± 1,83 de AD y 4,54 ± 1,79 de DD; durante el procedimiento, obtuvieron valores de 3,13 ± 1,96 y 2,09 ± 1,39 de AD y 2,96 ± 1,57 y 1,82 ± 1,09 de DD; y al culminar el procedimiento, tuvieron 0,75 ± 0,74 de AD y 0,53 ± 0,72 de DD. Conclusiones : La AD y el DD estuvieron presentes antes de iniciar el tratamiento, pero, conforme se avanzaba con el procedimiento, sus niveles fueron disminuyendo.

ABSTRACT Objective : To evaluate the level of dental anxiety (DA) and dental pain (DD) at different times in root canal treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods : Observational, descriptive, and longitudinal study. The sample consisted of 68 participants from the Stomatology Clinic of the Hospital Militar Central (HMC), who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The procedure consisted of recording the level of AD and DD of the patients at different times during root canal treatment using a visual analog scale (VAS). Results : Before the procedure, participants showed 3.66±1.83 of AD and 4.54±1.79 of DD; during the procedure, they obtained values of 3.13±1.96 and 2.09±1.39 of AD and 2.96±1.57 and 1.82±1.09 of DD; and at the end of the procedure, they had 0.75±0.74 of AD and 0.53±0.72 of DD. Conclusions : AD and DD were found to be present before starting treatment, but as the procedure progressed their levels decreased.

RESUMO Objetivo : avaliar o nível de ansiedade dentária (AD) e dor dentária (DD) em diferentes momentos do tratamento de canal durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Materiais e métodos : Estudo observacional, descritivo e longitudinal. A amostra foi composta por 68 participantes da Clínica de Estomatologia do Hospital Militar Central (HMC), que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. O procedimento consistiu em registar o nível de DA e DD dos pacientes em diferentes momentos durante o tratamento do canal radicular, utilizando uma escala visual analógica (EVA). Resultados : antes do procedimento, os participantes apresentavam 3,66±1,83 de DA e 4,54±1,79 de DD; durante o procedimento, obtiveram valores de 3,13±1,96 e 2,09±1,39 de DA e 2,96±1,57 e 1,82±1,09 de DD; e, no final do procedimento, apresentavam 0,75±0,74 de DA e 0,53±0,72 de DD. Conclusões : A DA e a DD estavam presentes antes do início do tratamento, mas à medida que o procedimento avançava, os seus níveis diminuíram.

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INTRODUCTION: The association of APOL1 risk variants with cardiovascular risk and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in observational and clinical trials has had inconsistent results. We aim to assess the relationship between the presence of APOL1 risk variants and the CVD risk in Afro-descendant patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). METHODS: We performed an observational, cross-sectional study of Afro-descendant adult patients with ESRD who were on the waitlist for a kidney transplant. Associations of APOL1 genotypes (high-risk [HR] = 2 alleles; low-risk [LR] = 0 or 1 allele) with cardiovascular risk were the primary clinical endpoint. The relation was evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: We enrolled a total of 102 patients with ESRD; 37% (38 patients) had APOL1 HR status with two alleles in homozygous (G1/G1 = 21 and G2/G2 = 3) or compound heterozygote (G1/G2 = 14) form and 63% (64 patients) had APOL1 LR status. No significant association was found between HR APOL1 genotypes and high cardiovascular risk (in adjusted Colombia Framingham Risk Score). APOL1 HR versus LR variants were not independently associated with left ventricular hypertrophy or systolic dysfunction. No cardiovascular deaths occurred during the follow-up. CONCLUSION: In Afro-descendent patients with ESRD, APOL1 HR status is not associated with the increase in cardiovascular risk profile and metabolic disturbances.

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The regulation of fungal specialized metabolism is a complex process involving various regulators. Among these regulators, LaeA, a methyltransferase protein originally discovered in Aspergillus spp., plays a crucial role. Although the role of LaeA in specialized metabolism has been studied in different fungi, its function in Penicillium roqueforti remains unknown. In this study, we employed CRISPR-Cas9 technology to disrupt the laeA gene in P. roqueforti (PrlaeA) aiming to investigate its impact on the production of the specialized metabolites roquefortine C, mycophenolic acid, and andrastin A, as well as on asexual development, because they are processes that occur in the same temporal stages within the physiology of the fungus. Our results demonstrate a substantial reduction in the production of the three metabolites upon disruption of PrlaeA, suggesting a positive regulatory role of LaeA in their biosynthesis. These findings were further supported by qRT-PCR analysis, which revealed significant downregulation in the expression of genes associated with the biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) responsible for producing roquefortine C, mycophenolic acid, and andrastin A in the ΔPrlaeA strains compared with the wild-type P. roqueforti. Regarding asexual development, the disruption of PrlaeA led to a slight decrease in colony growth rate, while conidiation and conidial germination remained unaffected. Taken together, our results suggest that LaeA positively regulates the expression of the analyzed BGCs and the production of their corresponding metabolites in P. roqueforti, but it has little impact on asexual development.

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Penicillium rubens is a filamentous fungus of great biotechnological importance due to its role as an industrial producer of the antibiotic penicillin. However, despite its significance, our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms governing biological processes in this fungus is still limited. In fungi, zinc finger proteins containing a Zn(II)2Cys6 domain are particularly interesting regulators. Although the P. rubens genome harbors many genes encoding proteins with this domain, only two of them have been investigated thus far. In this study, we employed CRISPR-Cas9 technology to disrupt the pcz1 gene, which encodes a Zn(II)2Cys6 protein in P. rubens. The disruption of pcz1 resulted in a decrease in the production of penicillin in P. rubens. This decrease in penicillin production was accompanied by the downregulation of the expression of pcbAB, pcbC and penDE genes, which form the biosynthetic gene cluster responsible for penicillin production. Moreover, the disruption of pcz1 also impacts on asexual development, leading to decreased growth and conidiation, as well as enhanced conidial germination. Collectively, our results indicate that pcz1 acts as a positive regulator of penicillin production, growth, and conidiation, while functioning as a negative regulator of conidial germination in P. rubens. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report involving a gene encoding a Zn(II)2Cys6 protein in the regulation of penicillin biosynthesis in P. rubens.

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RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la distancia de la raíz a las tablas óseas y piso nasal de dientes anteriores maxilares con indicación de microcirugía apical. Material y métodos: La muestra fue de 44 imágenes tomográficas computarizadas de haz cónico previas al procedimiento de microcirugía apical; además, se seleccionaron 31 imágenes para la comparación con los dientes contralaterales sin indicación de microcirugía apical. Se midió la distancia de la raíz a las tablas óseas y al piso nasal. Resultados: La distancia de la superficie radicular a las tablas óseas vestibular y palatina a 3 mm del ápice fue de 0,98 ± 0,67 mm y 4,26 ± 2,97 mm para el incisivo central; 0,77 ± 0,50 mm y 2,12 ± 1,22 mm para el incisivo lateral; y 0,52 ± 0,63 mm y 5,31 ± 1,38 mm para el canino, respectivamente. La distancia más corta del ápice al piso nasal fue de 9,56 ± 2,88 mm para el incisivo central; 10,33 ± 2,97 mm para el incisivo lateral; y 5,73 ± 2,57 mm para el canino. Solo se encontró una distancia mayor, estadísticamente significativa, del ápice al piso nasal del incisivo lateral con indicación de microcirugía apical en comparación con el incisivo lateral sin indicación de microcirugía apical. Conclusiones: La distancia de la raíz a la tabla ósea vestibular es menor que la distancia de la misma a la tabla ósea palatina. El ápice más próximo al piso nasal fue del canino. Los dientes anteriores maxilares con y sin indicación de microcirugía apical mostraron distancias similares de la raíz a las tablas óseas y piso nasal.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the distance from the root to the bone tables and nasal floor of maxillary anterior teeth with indication for apical microsurgery. Material and methods : The sample consisted of 44 cone beam computed tomographic images prior to the apical microsurgery procedure; in addition, 31 images were selected for comparison with contralateral teeth without indication for apical microsurgery. The distance from the root to the bone tables and nasal floor was measured. Results: The distance from the root surface to the vestibular and palatal bone tables 3 mm from the apex was 0.98 ± 0.67 mm and 4.26 ± 2.97 mm for the central incisor; 0.77 ± 0.50 mm and 2.12 ± 1.22 mm for the lateral incisor; and 0.52 ± 0.63 mm and 5.31 ± 1.38 mm for the canine, respectively. The shortest distance from the apex to the nasal floor was 9.56 ± 2.88 mm for the central incisor, 10.33 ± 2.97 mm for the lateral incisor, and 5.73 ± 2.57 mm for the canine. A statistically significant greater distance from the apex to the nasal floor was found only for the lateral incisor with indication for apical microsurgery compared to the lateral incisor without indication for apical microsurgery. Conclusions: The distance from the root to the vestibular bone table is less than from the root to the palatal bone table. The apex closest to the nasal floor was that of the canine. Maxillary anterior teeth with and without indication for apical microsurgery showed similar distances from the root to the bone tables and nasal floor.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a distância da raiz às tábuas ósseas e ao assoalho nasal de dentes anteriores superiores com indicação de microcirurgia apical. Material e métodos: a amostra foi composta por 44 imagens de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico antes do procedimento de microcirurgia apical; além disso, 31 imagens foram selecionadas para comparação com dentes contralaterais sem indicação de microcirurgia apical. Foi medida a distância da raiz até as tábuas ósseas e o assoalho nasal. Resultados: a distância da superfície radicular às tábuas ósseas vestibular e palatina, a 3mm do ápice, foi de 0,98mm ± 0,67mm e 4,26mm ± 2,97mm para o incisivo central; 0,77mm ± 0,50mm e 2,12mm ± 1,22mm para o incisivo lateral; e 0,52mm ± 0,63mm e 5,31mm ± 1,38mm para o canino, respetivamente. A menor distância entre o ápice e o assoalho nasal foi de 9,56 ± 2,88 mm para o incisivo central; 10,33 ± 2,97 mm para o incisivo lateral; e 5,73 ± 2,57 mm para o canino. Uma distância estatisticamente significativa maior do ápice ao assoalho nasal foi encontrada apenas para o incisivo lateral com indicação de microcirurgia apical em comparação com o incisivo lateral sem indicação de microcirurgia apical. Conclusões: a distância da raiz até a tábua óssea vestibular é menor do que a distância da raiz até a tábua óssea palatina. O ápice mais próximo do assoalho nasal foi o do canino. Os dentes anteriores superiores com e sem indicação de microcirurgia apical apresentaram distâncias semelhantes da raiz às tábuas ósseas e ao assoalho nasal.

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Economic and social conditions have deteriorated worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Migration theory and international organizations indicate that these increasingly fragile social conditions represent powerful incentives to migrate. Normally, studies addressing international migration and COVID-19 focus on transit and destination countries, with substantially less literature centered on origin nations. Trying to close that gap, the present article aims to identify and quantify economic determinants that explain the intention of Salvadorians to migrate abroad. Using a probabilistic sample and a logistic model, a number of renowned economic variables for migration studies were used to investigate Salvadorian's intention to emigrate. Results demonstrated a stark reduction in migration intentions in 2020. Moreover, the risk of losing one's job is by far the most prominent factor explaining the intention to migrate. Other aspects, such as employment and salaries, also showed statistically significant values. Additionally, results report women being less likely to migrate and age to have a negligible effect. The text concludes by indicating some public initiatives that could be implemented to support people who choose to act upon their intentions and embark on emigration.

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Abstract Given the lack of studies focused on Honduran domestic workers abroad, this article aims to characterize Honduran women living in the U.S. employed in domestic occupations. For this purpose, I employed survey data on women living in five American states, and calculated descriptive and inferential statistics. Furthermore, I employed binary logistic regression modeling to analyze the determinants of domestic work participation. When compared with all other occupations, domestic female workers of Honduran origin present significant differences in age, number of dependents, asset ownership, savings, income, and bank account ownership. Similarly, age (95% CI 0.92-2.63, p = 0.94), savings (95% CI 0.01-0.97, p = 0.047), account ownership in Honduras (95% CI 0.88-71.05, p = 0.064), monthly income (95% CI 0.99-1.00, p = 0.096), and social security (95% CI 0.02-1.29, p = 0.086) seem to be the key determinants explaining domestic work participation. Engaging and promoting compliance with international legal instruments might provide a means to consolidate the rights of these populations. The article concludes by highlighting future lines of research regarding the migration and rights of Honduras and Central American women living in the U.S.

Resumo Em função da escassa literatura sobre o tema, o presente artigo visa caracterizar as mulheres hondurenhas empregadas em ocupações domésticas nos Estados Unidos. Com esse objetivo, empregam-se questionários preenchidos por mulheres morando em cinco estados desse país norte-americano. Para realizar tal caracterização, é utilizada estatística descritiva e inferencial. Adicionalmente, emprega-se regressão logística para analisar os determinantes da participação em empregos domésticos. Quando comparadas com todas as outras ocupações, as mulheres hondurenhas fazendo trabalhos domésticos possuem diferenças em termos de idade, número de dependentes, posse de bens, poupanças e existência de conta bancária. Similarmente, a análise dos determinantes estatísticos mostra que variáveis significativas incluem idade (95% IC 0,92-2,63 p = 0.94), poupanças (95% IC 0,01-0,97, p = 0.047), existência de conta bancária (95% IC 0,88-71,05, p = 0.064), renda mensal (95% IC 0,99-1.00, p = 0.096) e contribuição à previdência social (95% IC 0,02-1,29 p = 0.086). Promover a adoção de instrumentos de direito internacional pode representar uma alternativa para fomentar os direitos humanos desse grupo de pessoas. O artigo finaliza ressaltando possíveis linhas de pesquisa relacionadas à migração de mulheres hondurenhas e da América Central morando nos Estados Unidos.

Resumen En vista de la escasa literatura centrada en trabajadoras domésticas hondureñas en el extranjero, el presente artículo busca caracterizar a mujeres hondureñas empleadas en ocupaciones domésticas en Estados Unidos. Para ello, se utilizan encuestas aplicadas a mujeres hondureñas que viven en cinco estados del país norteamericano y se emplea estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Adicionalmente, se usa una regresión logística para analizar los determinantes de la participación en empleos domésticos. Cuando se compara con todas las otras ocupaciones, las mujeres hondureñas que trabajan en este rubro presentan diferencias en edad, número de dependientes, posesión de bienes, ahorros y posesión de cuenta bancaria. Similarmente, el análisis de determinantes muestra las variables significativas que incluyen edad (95 % IC 0,92-2,63 p= 0,94), ahorros (95 % IC 0,01-0,97, p= 0,047), cuenta bancaria (95 % IC 0,88-71,05, p= 0,064), ingreso mensual (95 % IC 0,99-1,00, p= 0,096) y seguro social (95 % IC 0,02-1,29 p= 0,086). Promover la adopción de instrumentos de derecho internacional puede ser una alternativa para fomentar los derechos humanos de esta población. El artículo termina mostrando líneas de investigación sobre migración para mujeres hondureñas y centroamericanas viviendo en Estados Unidos.

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Objective: This study sought to quantify the prevalence of food insecurity among Salvadorian households, to identify the determinants of food insecurity and to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food insecurity. Methods: A nationwide, representative random sample of 2358 households was used for this cross-sectional study. The Household Hunger Scale (HHS) was used to assess the prevalence of food insecurity during a 30-day period. For comparison, three items were used from the Household Food Insecurity Experience Scale (HFIES), which measures hunger occurring during a 12-month time frame. For determinant analysis, binary logistic regression was used for the HHS and ordered logistic regression for the HFIES. Results: The prevalence of food insecurity was 6.45% (152/2356) among Salvadorian households when the HHS was used, affecting 5.48% (129/2356) to a moderate degree and 0.98% (23/2356) to a severe degree. The prevalence significantly increased when the HFIES scale items were used, with 35.41% (835/2358) of households being affected, a figure closer to the national poverty level. Determinants of food insecurity according to the HHS included agricultural problems (P = 0.00, odds ratio [OR] =1.69), the household's prepandemic income (P = 0.00, OR = 0.48) and higher educational levels (i.e. having a secondary education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.31], technical [P = 0.03, OR = 0.24] or university education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.05]). When using the HFIES, the determinants were similar (i.e. income, agricultural problems, educational level). In more than 94% (744/785) of households, participants reported that food insecurity was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: When compared with other relevant international studies, the prevalence of food insecurity identified using the HHS - only 6.45% - was low for El Salvador. However, when using the HFIES scale, the prevalence rose to 35.41% of households. Some determinants align with previous studies, namely income, educational level and agricultural problems. The COVID-19 pandemic appeared to have direct effects on food insecurity.

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Contexto: los pacientes con trasplante de riñón parecen tener un riesgo particularmente alto de enfermedad grave por COVID-19 debido a la inmunosupresión y la presencia de comorbilidades. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas, paraclínicas y desenlaces de los pacientes trasplantados renales que presentan infección por SARS-COV-2 en un hospital de cuarto nivel en Cali, Colombia. Metodología: realizamos un estudio observacional de receptores de trasplante renal con infección por SARS-CoV-2 ingresados ​​en la Fundación Valle del Lili, de junio a diciembre del 2020. Para ser elegibles en el estudio, los pacientes debían presentar síntomas compatibles, RT-PCR positiva y manejo hospitalario. Se excluyó a los pacientes asintomáticos. Resultados: inscribimos a un total de 50 pacientes, donde el 64 % eran hombres y la edad media fue de 53,5 años (rango 46-60). Las comorbilidades fueron: 36 (70 %) con hipertensión, 16 (32 %) con diabetes mellitus y 5 (10 %) con obesidad y los regímenes inmunosupresores más comunes fueron: tacrolimus, micofenolato y prednisona. La mediana de tiempo desde el inicio de los síntomas hasta la RT-PCR positiva fue de siete días. Los síntomas iniciales más comunes fueron fiebre (64 %), fatiga (58%), tos (44%) y disnea (36%). Los niveles basales de proteína C reactiva (PCR) fueron de 6,43 mg/dl (3,25-11,22), la mediana del recuento de linfocitos fue de 785 mm3/uL (550-1230), el dímero D basal fue de 0,767 ug/ml (0,484-1153,5) y el nivel medio de ferritina fue de 1011 ng/ml (670-2145). El 40 % desarrolló lesión renal aguda (20 pacientes), de los cuales 11 pacientes necesitaron terapia de remplazo renal, 6 de los pacientes fallecieron (12 %), 4/6 por insuficiencia multiorgánica relacionada con la sepsis y 2/6 por el síndrome de dificultad respiratoria agudo (SDRA). Conclusiones: las complicaciones mayores como la lesión renal aguda, el síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda y la mortalidad relacionada con la infección por COVID-19 observadas en nuestro estudio son significativas, pero menos frecuentes que las reportadas en otros países.

Background: Patients with kidney transplants seem to be at particularly high risk for severe COVID19 disease due to their impaired immune responses and comorbidities. Purpose: This study aims to describe kidney transplant patients' clinical characteristics and outcomes with SARSCOV-2 infection in a fourth-level hospital in Cali, Colombia. Methodology: We performed an observational study of kidney transplant recipients with SARS-CoV2 infection admitted at Fundación Valle del Lili from June to December 2020. To be eligible for this study, patients have symptoms compatible, a positive RT-PCR and inpatient management. Asymptomatic patients were excluded. Results: We enrolled a total of 50 patients. 64% were male, and the median age was 53.5 years (range 46-60). The comorbidities were 36 (70%) hypertension, 16 (32%) diabetes mellitus, 5 (10%) obesity. The most common immunosuppressive regimen was tacrolimus, mycophenolate and prednisone. The median time from symptoms onset to the positive RT-PCR was 7 days. The most common initial symptom was fever (64%), and fatigue (58%), cough (44%) and dyspnea (36%). Baseline levels of CRP was 6.43 mg/dL (3.25-11.22). The median lymphocyte count was 785 mm3/uL (550-1230). Baseline D-Dimer was 0.767 ug/ml (0.484-1153.5), ferritin median level was 1011ng/ml (670-2145). Six of the patients died (12%), 4/6 were by sepsis-related multi-organ failure and 2/6 were by ARDS. Conclusions: Major complications such as acute kidney injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome and mortality related to COVID-19 infection observed in our study are lower than those reported in other countries.

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[ABSTRACT]. bjective. This study sought to quantify the prevalence of food insecurity among Salvadorian households, to identify the determinants of food insecurity and to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food insecurity. Methods. A nationwide, representative random sample of 2358 households was used for this cross-sectional study. The Household Hunger Scale (HHS) was used to assess the prevalence of food insecurity during a 30-day period. For comparison, three items were used from the Household Food Insecurity Experience Scale (HFIES), which measures hunger occurring during a 12-month time frame. For determinant analysis, binary logistic regression was used for the HHS and ordered logistic regression for the HFIES. Results. The prevalence of food insecurity was 6.45% (152/2356) among Salvadorian households when the HHS was used, affecting 5.48% (129/2356) to a moderate degree and 0.98% (23/2356) to a severe degree. The prevalence significantly increased when the HFIES scale items were used, with 35.41% (835/2358) of house- holds being affected, a figure closer to the national poverty level. Determinants of food insecurity according to the HHS included agricultural problems (P = 0.00, odds ratio [OR] =1.69), the household’s prepandemic income (P = 0.00, OR = 0.48) and higher educational levels (i.e. having a secondary education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.31], technical [P = 0.03, OR = 0.24] or university education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.05]). When using the HFIES, the determinants were similar (i.e. income, agricultural problems, educational level). In more than 94% (744/785) of households, participants reported that food insecurity was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions. When compared with other relevant international studies, the prevalence of food insecurity identified using the HHS – only 6.45% – was low for El Salvador. However, when using the HFIES scale, the prevalence rose to 35.41% of households. Some determinants align with previous studies, namely income, educational level and agricultural problems. The COVID-19 pandemic appeared to have direct effects on food insecurity

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Este estudio tuvo por objetivo cuantificar la prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria en los hogares salvadoreños, determinar cuáles son los determinantes de la inseguridad alimentaria y explorar los efectos de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la inseguridad alimentaria. Métodos. En este estudio transversal se utilizó una muestra aleatoria representativa a nivel nacional de 2 358 hogares. Se empleó la escala del hambre en el hogar (HHS, por su sigla en inglés) para evaluar la prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria en un período de 30 días. Para la comparación, se utilizaron tres indicadores de la escala de experiencia de inseguridad alimentaria en el hogar (HFIES, por su sigla en inglés), que mide el hambre durante un período de 12 meses. Para el análisis de los determinantes, se empleó la regresión logística binaria para HHS y la regresión logística ordenada para HFIES. Resultados. La prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria fue de 6,45% (152/2356) en los hogares salvador- eños al emplearse HHS, y afectó moderadamente a 5,48% (129/2356) y gravemente a 0,98% (23/2356). La prevalencia aumentó de forma considerable al utilizarse los indicadores de HFIES, con 35,41% (835/2358) de los hogares afectados, una cifra más cercana al nivel nacional de pobreza. Los determinantes de la inseguri- dad alimentaria según HHS incluyeron problemas agrícolas (P = 0,00, razón de posibilidades [OR] = 1,69), los ingresos familiares previos a la pandemia (P = 0,00, OR = 0,48) y niveles educativos superiores (educación secundaria [P = 0,00, OR = 0,31], formación técnica [P = 0,03, OR = 0,24] o universitaria [P = 0,00, OR = 0,05]). Con HFIES, los determinantes fueron similares (ingresos, problemas agrícolas, nivel educativo). En más de 94% (744/785) de los hogares, los participantes notificaron que la inseguridad alimentaria se agravó por la pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusiones. En comparación con otros estudios internacionales pertinentes, la prevalencia de la insegu- ridad alimentaria mediante HHS –de solo 6,45%– fue baja en El Salvador. Sin embargo, al utilizar HFIES, la prevalencia aumentó a 35,41% de los hogares. Algunos determinantes coinciden con estudios anteriores, como los ingresos, el nivel educativo y los problemas agrícolas. La pandemia de COVID-19 parece tener un impacto directo en la inseguridad alimentaria.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Este estudo procurou quantificar a prevalência de insegurança alimentar entre as famílias salvador- enhas, identificar os determinantes de insegurança alimentar e explorar o impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 sobre a insegurança alimentar. Métodos. Este estudo transversal foi realizado com uma amostra representativa nacional randomizada de 2358 domicílios. Usou-se a Household Hunger Scale (HHS) [escala de fome domiciliar] para avaliar a prevalência de insegurança alimentar durante um período de 30 dias. Para fins de comparação, usaram-se três itens da Household Food Insecurity Experience Scale (HFIES) [escala de experiência de insegurança alimentar domiciliar], que mede a fome durante um período de 12 meses. Para a análise de determinantes, usou-se a regressão logística binária com a HHS e a regressão logística ordenada com a HFIES. Resultados. A prevalência de insegurança alimentar nos domicílios salvadorenhos medida com a HHS foi de 6,45% (152/2356), sendo moderada em 5,48% (129/2356) e grave em 0,98% (23/2356). Quando se usaram os itens da HFIES, a prevalência aumentou consideravelmente, com 35,41% (835/2358) dos domicílios afetados – um número mais próximo do nível nacional de pobreza. Entre os determinantes da insegurança alimentar, de acordo com a HHS, estavam os problemas agrícolas (P = 0,00, razão de chances [RC] = 1,69), a renda familiar pré-pandemia (P = 0,00, RC = 0,48) e a maior escolaridade (ou seja, educação secundária [P = 0,00, RC = 0,31], técnica [P = 0,03, RC = 0,24] ou universitária [P = 0,00, RC = 0,05]). Com a HFIES, os determinantes foram semelhantes (ou seja, renda, problemas agrícolas e escolaridade). Em mais de 94% (744/785) dos domicílios, os participantes relataram exacerbação da insegurança alimentar pela pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusões. Em comparação com outros estudos internacionais pertinentes, a prevalência de insegurança alimentar identificada com uso da HHS – somente 6,45% – foi baixa em El Salvador. Entretanto, quando se usou a HFIES, a prevalência aumentou para 35,41% dos domicílios. Alguns determinantes coincidem com os de estudos anteriores, a saber, renda, escolaridade e problemas agrícolas. Aparentemente, a pandemia de COVID-19 teve efeitos diretos sobre a insegurança alimentar.

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OBJECTIVES: To identify and qualify the evidence of published studies evaluating whether rapid maxillary expansion (RME) treatment modifies the head and cervical posture in growing patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic database searches were conducted until January 2021 using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and LILACS. Grey literature was explored using ClinicalTrials, OpenGrey and Google Scholar. Trials involving participants who underwent RME were included. Risk of Bias (RoB) assessment was conducted using the Cochrane tool for randomized trials and the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) for non-randomized trials. The certainty level of evidence was evaluated through the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool (GRADE). RESULTS: Six clinical trials were included. The RoB scores had unclear and high risks of bias. Low certainty of evidence suggested that the effects following RME include a decrease in craniocervical angulation, as well as a very low certainty of evidence for a decrease in head elevation, an increase in cervical lordosis, and an increase in the inclination of the cervical spine. CONCLUSIONS: There is low and very low evidence that RME alters the head and cervical posture in growing patients. Further investigation regarding long-term effects, possible changes due to somatic growth, and clinical relevance is needed.

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Antecedentes: En Honduras aún se prioriza asegurar la aceptación del diagnóstico de Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH) y la adherencia al tratamiento del Terapia Anti Retroviral (TAR), provocando retraso en su inicio, consecuencias negativas y alto riesgo de muerte. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto del inicio temprano de TAR en pacientes con nuevos diagnósti- cos de VIH en el Hospital Nacional Mario Catarino Rivas (HNMCR). Pacientes y Métodos: Investigación analítica, observacional de casos y controles. Muestra: 62 casos que iniciaron TAR temprano, de enero a agosto del 2019 y 62 controles que iniciaron TAR en el 2018, fuera de la estrategia de inicios tempranos. Se tomaron datos de expedientes clínicos y se vacío la información en instrumento tipo cuestionario. Resultados: Se encontró más rápida vinculación al servicio y más inicios tempranos de TAR en el grupo casos (OR 19.6, IC 95% 7.2-53.0, p=0.000), una mayor captación en etapa temprana A1 (OR 3.45, IC 95% 1.36-8.59, p=0.006), un menor cambio de estadio clínico (OR 2.35, IC 95% 0.92-5.98, p= 0.070), mayor cumplimiento de evaluación psicológica (OR 8.15, IC 95% 3.42-19.4, p=0.000), menor riesgo de infecciones oportunistas (OR 3.01, IC 95% 1.34-6.74, p=0.006), menor riesgo de hospita- lización (OR 1.33, IC 95% 0.46-3.84, p=0.596), mayor tamizaje de IO (p=0.000). Conclusión /Recomendación: El inicio del TAR en los primeros 7 días posterior al diagnóstico aporta beneficios clínicos y profilácticos, mejorando la calidad de vida y disminuyendo la transmisibilidad del virus. Se recomienda protocolizar los inicios tempranos como estrategia de atención a los nuevos diagnósticos de VIH...(AU)

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Resumen El exceso de proteína en la dieta puede generar problemas productivos y reproductivos en rumiantes. La medición de la urea en la leche permite determinar la disponibilidad ruminal de energía y proteína, y, así, hacer ajustes en la dieta de ser necesario. El objetivo de este estudio fue cuantificar la concentración de urea en la leche en un hato que pastorea sistemas silvopastoriles multiestrato en alta densidad. Se evaluó un sistema doble propósito en El Cerrito, Valle del Cauca (Colombia). Los animales estuvieron divididos en tres grupos de alimentación (praderas con guinea-leucaena-algarrobo, estrella-leucaena-algarrobo, y estrella-algarrobo, respectivamente). Se recolectaron muestras de leche en el ordeño de la mañana y la tarde de cada animal seleccionado en cada grupo, a las cuales se les determinó la concentración de urea (Ureasa/ Berthelot). La concentración de urea en la leche del ordeño de la mañana y la tarde estuvo correlacionada positivamente (r = 0,86), la concentración promedio fue de 22,7±9,4 mg/dl. Sin embargo, entre grupos de alimentación varió (p < 0,001), fue mayor en el primer muestreo (p < 0,001), y también se observó una amplia variación entre los muestreos de una misma base forrajera. Los sistemas silvopastoriles multiestrato presentan adecuado balance entre la materia orgánica fermentable y la proteína degradable a nivel ruminal.

Abstract Excess of protein in the diet can lead to both productive and reproductive problems in ruminants. Measuring the urea in the milk allows determining the ruminant availability of energy and protein and, therefore, to do some adjustments to the diet whenever necessary. This study aims to quantify the urea concentration in the milk in a farm that takes care of high-density multi-layer silvopastoral systems. A system with dual purpose was evaluated in El Cerrito, Valle del Cauca (Colombia). The animals were divided into three feeding groups (prairies with guinea-leucaena-algarrobo, estrella-leucaena-algarrobo and estrella-algarrobo, respectively). Samples of milk were gathered during the morning and afternoon milking from the animal selected in each group, and then the urea concentration was determined (Urease/ Berthelot). The urea concentrations in the morning and afternoon milk were correlated positively (r = 0.86), the average concentration was 22.7+9.4 mg/dl. However, the values varied between the feeding groups (p < 0.001), it was higher in the first sample (p < 0.001). Likewise, a broad variation was observed between the samples inside the same foraging basis. Multi-layer silvopastoral systems show an appropriate balance between the fermentable organic matter and the degradable protein in the ruminants.

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Endoxylanases belonging to family 10 of the glycoside hydrolases (GH10) are versatile in the use of different substrates. Thus, an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying substrate specificities could be very useful in the engineering of GH10 endoxylanases for biotechnological purposes. Herein, we analyzed XynA, an endoxylanase that contains a (ß/α)8-barrel domain and an intrinsically disordered region (IDR) of 29 amino acids at its amino end. Enzyme activity assays revealed that the elimination of the IDR resulted in a mutant enzyme (XynAΔ29) in which two new activities emerged: the ability to release xylose from xylan, and the ability to hydrolyze p-nitrophenyl-ß-d-xylopyranoside (pNPXyl), a substrate that wild-type enzyme cannot hydrolyze. Circular dichroism and tryptophan fluorescence quenching by acrylamide showed changes in secondary structure and increased flexibility of XynAΔ29. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the emergence of the pNPXyl-hydrolyzing activity correlated with a dynamic behavior not previously observed in GH10 endoxylanases: a hinge-bending motion of two symmetric regions within the (ß/α)8-barrel domain, whose hinge point is the active cleft. The hinge-bending motion is more intense in XynAΔ29 than in XynA and promotes the formation of a wider active site that allows the accommodation and hydrolysis of pNPXyl. Our results open new avenues for the study of the relationship between IDRs, dynamics and activity of endoxylanases, and other enzymes containing (ß/α)8-barrel domain.

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ABSTRACT Objective. This study sought to quantify the prevalence of food insecurity among Salvadorian households, to identify the determinants of food insecurity and to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food insecurity. Methods. A nationwide, representative random sample of 2358 households was used for this cross-sectional study. The Household Hunger Scale (HHS) was used to assess the prevalence of food insecurity during a 30-day period. For comparison, three items were used from the Household Food Insecurity Experience Scale (HFIES), which measures hunger occurring during a 12-month time frame. For determinant analysis, binary logistic regression was used for the HHS and ordered logistic regression for the HFIES. Results. The prevalence of food insecurity was 6.45% (152/2356) among Salvadorian households when the HHS was used, affecting 5.48% (129/2356) to a moderate degree and 0.98% (23/2356) to a severe degree. The prevalence significantly increased when the HFIES scale items were used, with 35.41% (835/2358) of households being affected, a figure closer to the national poverty level. Determinants of food insecurity according to the HHS included agricultural problems (P = 0.00, odds ratio [OR] =1.69), the household's prepandemic income (P = 0.00, OR = 0.48) and higher educational levels (i.e. having a secondary education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.31], technical [P = 0.03, OR = 0.24] or university education [P = 0.00, OR = 0.05]). When using the HFIES, the determinants were similar (i.e. income, agricultural problems, educational level). In more than 94% (744/785) of households, participants reported that food insecurity was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions. When compared with other relevant international studies, the prevalence of food insecurity identified using the HHS - only 6.45% - was low for El Salvador. However, when using the HFIES scale, the prevalence rose to 35.41% of households. Some determinants align with previous studies, namely income, educational level and agricultural problems. The COVID-19 pandemic appeared to have direct effects on food insecurity

RESUMEN Objetivo. Este estudio tuvo por objetivo cuantificar la prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria en los hogares salvadoreños, determinar cuáles son los determinantes de la inseguridad alimentaria y explorar los efectos de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la inseguridad alimentaria. Métodos. En este estudio transversal se utilizó una muestra aleatoria representativa a nivel nacional de 2 358 hogares. Se empleó la escala del hambre en el hogar (HHS, por su sigla en inglés) para evaluar la prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria en un período de 30 días. Para la comparación, se utilizaron tres indicadores de la escala de experiencia de inseguridad alimentaria en el hogar (HFIES, por su sigla en inglés), que mide el hambre durante un período de 12 meses. Para el análisis de los determinantes, se empleó la regresión logística binaria para HHS y la regresión logística ordenada para HFIES. Resultados. La prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria fue de 6,45% (152/2356) en los hogares salvadoreños al emplearse HHS, y afectó moderadamente a 5,48% (129/2356) y gravemente a 0,98% (23/2356). La prevalencia aumentó de forma considerable al utilizarse los indicadores de HFIES, con 35,41% (835/2358) de los hogares afectados, una cifra más cercana al nivel nacional de pobreza. Los determinantes de la inseguridad alimentaria según HHS incluyeron problemas agrícolas (P = 0,00, razón de posibilidades [OR] = 1,69), los ingresos familiares previos a la pandemia (P = 0,00, OR = 0,48) y niveles educativos superiores (educación secundaria [P = 0,00, OR = 0,31], formación técnica [P = 0,03, OR = 0,24] o universitaria [P = 0,00, OR = 0,05]). Con HFIES, los determinantes fueron similares (ingresos, problemas agrícolas, nivel educativo). En más de 94% (744/785) de los hogares, los participantes notificaron que la inseguridad alimentaria se agravó por la pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusiones. En comparación con otros estudios internacionales pertinentes, la prevalencia de la inseguridad alimentaria mediante HHS -de solo 6,45%- fue baja en El Salvador. Sin embargo, al utilizar HFIES, la prevalencia aumentó a 35,41% de los hogares. Algunos determinantes coinciden con estudios anteriores, como los ingresos, el nivel educativo y los problemas agrícolas. La pandemia de COVID-19 parece tener un impacto directo en la inseguridad alimentaria.

RESUMO Objetivo. Este estudo procurou quantificar a prevalência de insegurança alimentar entre as famílias salvadorenhas, identificar os determinantes de insegurança alimentar e explorar o impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 sobre a insegurança alimentar. Métodos. Este estudo transversal foi realizado com uma amostra representativa nacional randomizada de 2358 domicílios. Usou-se a Household Hunger Scale (HHS) [escala de fome domiciliar] para avaliar a prevalência de insegurança alimentar durante um período de 30 dias. Para fins de comparação, usaram-se três itens da Household Food Insecurity Experience Scale (HFIES) [escala de experiência de insegurança alimentar domiciliar], que mede a fome durante um período de 12 meses. Para a análise de determinantes, usou-se a regressão logística binária com a HHS e a regressão logística ordenada com a HFIES. Resultados. A prevalência de insegurança alimentar nos domicílios salvadorenhos medida com a HHS foi de 6,45% (152/2356), sendo moderada em 5,48% (129/2356) e grave em 0,98% (23/2356). Quando se usaram os itens da HFIES, a prevalência aumentou consideravelmente, com 35,41% (835/2358) dos domicílios afetados - um número mais próximo do nível nacional de pobreza. Entre os determinantes da insegurança alimentar, de acordo com a HHS, estavam os problemas agrícolas (P = 0,00, razão de chances [RC] = 1,69), a renda familiar pré-pandemia (P = 0,00, RC = 0,48) e a maior escolaridade (ou seja, educação secundária [P = 0,00, RC = 0,31], técnica [P = 0,03, RC = 0,24] ou universitária [P = 0,00, RC = 0,05]). Com a HFIES, os determinantes foram semelhantes (ou seja, renda, problemas agrícolas e escolaridade). Em mais de 94% (744/785) dos domicílios, os participantes relataram exacerbação da insegurança alimentar pela pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusões. Em comparação com outros estudos internacionais pertinentes, a prevalência de insegurança alimentar identificada com uso da HHS - somente 6,45% - foi baixa em El Salvador. Entretanto, quando se usou a HFIES, a prevalência aumentou para 35,41% dos domicílios. Alguns determinantes coincidem com os de estudos anteriores, a saber, renda, escolaridade e problemas agrícolas. Aparentemente, a pandemia de COVID-19 teve efeitos diretos sobre a insegurança alimentar.

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The genus Pseudogymnoascus represents a diverse group of fungi widely distributed in different cold regions on Earth. Our current knowledge of the species of Pseudogymnoascus is still very limited. Currently, there are only 15 accepted species of Pseudogymnoascus that have been isolated from different environments in the Northern Hemisphere. In contrast, species of Pseudogymnoascus from the Southern Hemisphere have not yet been described. In this work, we characterized four fungal strains obtained from Antarctic marine sponges. Based on multilocus phylogenetic analyses and morphological characterizations we determined that these strains are new species, for which the names Pseudogymnoascus antarcticus sp. nov., Pseudogymnoascus australis sp. nov., Pseudogymnoascus griseus sp. nov., and Pseudogymnoascus lanuginosus sp. nov. are proposed. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the new species form distinct lineages separated from other species of Pseudogymnoascus with strong support. The new species do not form sexual structures and differ from the currently known species mainly in the shape and size of their conidia, the presence of chains of arthroconidia, and the appearance of their colonies. This is the first report of new species of Pseudogymnoascus not only from Antarctica but also from the Southern Hemisphere.

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OBJECTIVES: Describe and compare harmful periodontal effects as a consequence of maxillary expansion in adult patients with different types of anchorage devices in non-surgical expanders with skeletal anchorage and surgically assisted maxillary expansion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An exhaustive search was carried out on the electronic databases PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Cochrane and LILACS. Additionally, journal references and grey literature were searched without any restrictions. After the selection and extraction process; risk of bias was assessed by the ROB-1 Cochrane tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for randomized trials and cohort studies, respectively. RESULTS: Of 621 studies retrieved from the searches, six were finally included in this review. One of them presented a low risk bias, while five were excellent respective to selection, comparability and outcomes. Results showed that maxillary expansion in adults using non-surgical expanders (bone-borne or tooth-bone-borne with bicortical skeletal anchorage) produce less harmful periodontal effects, such as: alveolar bending with an average range from 0.92° to 2.32°, compared to surgically assisted maxillary expansion (tooth-borne) of 6.4°; dental inclination with an average range from 0.07° to 2.4°, compared to surgically assisted maxillary expansion (tooth-borne) with a range from 2.01° to 5.56°. CONCLUSIONS: Although limited, the current evidence seems to show that the bone-borne or tooth-bone-borne with bicortical skeletal anchorage produces fewer undesirable periodontal effects.

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Case Presentation. Distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) is characterized by impaired hydrogen ion secretion in the distal nephron resulting either from decreased net activity of the proton pump or from increased luminal membrane hydrogen ion permeability. Typical complications of dRTA include severe hypokalemia, normal anion gap metabolic acidosis, nephrolithiasis, and nephrocalcinosis. The patient is a 25-year-old woman in immediate puerperium with hypokalemia leading to paralysis, and the laboratory findings in this patients were concerning for dRTA. It is rare to encounter this entity during pregnancy, and the impact of this pathology is unknown.

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BACKGROUND: Many new cancer drugs are being approved by reputed regulatory authorities without evidence of overall survival benefit, quality of life improvement, and often based on clinical trials at high risk of bias. In recent years, most Latin American (LA) countries have reformed their marketing authorization (MA) rules to directly accept or abbreviate the approval process in case of earlier authorization by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food and Drug Administration, mainly. This study assessed the potential impact of decisions taken by EMA regarding the approval of new cancer drugs based on no evidence of overall survival or in potentially biased clinical trials in LA countries. DESIGN: Descriptive analysis. SETTING: Publicly accessible marketing authorization databases from LA regulators, European Public Assessment Report by EMA, and previous studies accessing EMA approvals of new cancer drugs 2009-2016. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES: Number of new cancer drugs approved by LA countries without evidence of overall survival (2009-2013), and without at least one clinical trial scored at low risk of bias, or with no trial supporting the marketing authorization at all (2014-2016). RESULTS: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama and Peru have publicly accessible and trustful MA databases and were included. Of the 17 cancer drugs approved by EMA (2009-2013) without evidence of OS benefit after a postmarketing median time of 5.4 years, 6 LA regulators approved more than 70% of them. Of the 13 drugs approved by EMA (2014-2016), either without supporting trial or with no trial at low risk of bias, Brazil approved 11, Chile 10, Peru 10, Argentina 10, Colombia 9, Ecuador 9, and Panama 8. CONCLUSIONS: LA countries keep approving new cancer drugs often based on poorly performed clinical trials measuring surrogate endpoints. EMA and other reputed regulators must be aware that their regulatory decisions might directly influence decisions regarding MA, health budgets and patient's care elsewhere.

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