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BACKGROUND: Albinism is a heterogeneous condition in which patients present complete absence, reduction, or normal pigmentation in skin, hair and eyes in addition to ocular defects. One of the heterogeneous forms of albinism is observed in Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) patients. HPS is characterized by albinism and hemorrhagic diathesis due to the absence of dense bodies in platelets. METHODS: In this report, we describe a case of a pair of Puerto Rican siblings with albinism that were clinically diagnosed with HPS during childhood. Since they did not harbor the founder changes in the HPS1 and HPS3 genes common in Puerto Ricans, as adults they wanted to know the type of albinism they had. We performed exome sequencing, validation by PCR, and cloning of PCR products followed by Sanger sequencing in the family members. RESULTS: We discovered no mutations that could explain an HPS diagnosis. Instead, we found the siblings were compound heterozygotes for 4 variants in the Tyrosinase gene: c.-301C>T, c.140G>A (rs61753180; p.G47D), c.575C>A (rs1042602; p.S192Y), and c.1205G>A (rs1126809; p.R402Q). Our results show that the correct diagnosis for the siblings is OCA1B. CONCLUSION: Our study shows the importance of molecular testing when diagnosing a rare genetic disorder, especially in populations were the disease prevalence is higher.

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Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has gained prominence worldwide as a powerful tool in public health. This study aimed to monitor the circulation of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) from wastewater samples collected during a six-year period and compare these results with clinical surveillance in the central region of Argentina. From 2017 to 2022, 1008 raw wastewater samples were analyzed, including four wastewater treatment plants from four cities (n=319), and 7 local neighborhood collector sewers in Córdoba city (n=689). Serum and/or stool samples from patients suspected of HEV infection were also analyzed (n=48). HEV molecular detection and viral load quantification were performed by real time RT-qPCR, and genetic characterization by two RT-Nested PCRs (targeting partial ORF-1 and ORF-2 genomic regions), sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Fifty-three (5.3%) wastewater samples were RNA-HEV positive by real time RT-qPCR, with variations according to the location and year (0.0% - 21.6%). Out of these, ORF-2 genomic region was amplified in 20 samples (37.7%) and ORF-1 partial region in 12 (22.6%), and eighteen sequences were obtained. Throughout the study period, two (4.2%) HEV confirmed infections were reported, and one sequence was obtained. Phylogenetic analyses for both genomic regions showed that all the isolates were genotype HEV-3 clade abchijklm. Our study detected HEV in wastewater over a six-year period, despite a low number of clinical cases, emphasizing WBE as a valuable tool that complements clinical surveillance, by detecting pathogens' presence; identifying their transmission, circulation dynamics and excretion hotspots; and revealing changes in their genomic diversity.

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Layered double hydroxides nanoparticles (LDH-NP) are increasingly studied for biomedical applications. Nevertheless, their interaction with biomolecules such as proteins needs further exploration for an effective application. In this work, the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on LDH-NP and the conformation changes of the protein upon adsorption were characterized using fluorescence spectroscopy. First, the quenching of tryptophan residues of BSA by chloride-intercalated LDH-NP was explored and the BSA adsorption capacity of LDH-NP were determined. Then, the structural conformation of the protein was analyzed by fluorescence spectroscopy (including synchronous, polarization and quenching studies) at different surface coverages. Finally, the proclivity of adsorbed BSA molecules to assemble as amyloid fibril was evaluated. Due to the positive charging and low curvature of LDH-NP, BSA molecules were strongly adsorbed, which produced a quenching of the protein fluorescence and a large adsorption capacity. The effect on BSA conformation was dependent on surface coverage (SC): at low values ,t he tryptophan residues were in more hydrophobic environments and more accessible to quenchers than al high ones. At low SC, there is space between the BSA molecules to spread on the surface, which led to a conformation change. Contrarily, the native conformation around tryptophan residues of BSA was preserved at high SC due to the tight packing of the adsorbed protein molecules. As a result, BSA molecules are stabilized against the formation of amyloid fibrils at high SC, while at low SC they present a similar fibrillation than free BSA.

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Monitoring wastewater for the traces of viruses allows effective surveillance of entire communities, including symptomatic and asymptomatic infected individuals, providing information on whether a specific pathogen is circulating in a population. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, 261 wastewater samples from six communities of the province of Córdoba, Argentina were analyzed. From mid-May 2020 to the end of August 2021, raw sewage samples were collected from the central network pipe that enters into the Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) in Córdoba city and five communities in the Punilla Valley. SARS-CoV-2 was concentrated by using the polyethylene glycol-6000 precipitation method. Viral genomes were extracted from concentrated samples, and N- and E-SARS-CoV-2 genes were detected by using real time RT-PCR. Wastewater samples that resulted positive for SARS-CoV-2 genome detection were subjected to viral variants of concern (VOCs) identification by real time RT-PCR. Overall, just by using the identification of the N gene or E gene, the rates of viral genome detection were 43.4% (86/198) and 51.5% (102/198) respectively, and by using both methodologies (positivity criterion: detection of N and / or E gene), the detection rate was 71.2% (141/198). Thereby, the optimal strategy to study the SARS-CoV-2 genome in wastewater would be the use of the combined detection of both genes. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants in wastewater reflected their circulation in the community, showing no VOCs detection in the first COVID-19 wave and their co-circulation with Gamma, Alpha and Delta VOCs during 2021. Therefore, SARS-CoV-2 Wastewater Based Epidemiology (WBE) described the introduction, permanence and/or the co-circulation of viral variants in the community. In geographical areas with a stable population, SARS-CoV-2 WBE could be used as an early warning sign of new COVID-19 cases, whereas in localities with a low number of inhabitants and high tourist influx, WBE may only be useful to reflect the circulation of the virus in the community. Overall, the monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater can become a silent sentinel of the trend of viral circulation in the community, providing supplementary information for clinical surveillance to support public health measures.

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Aneurysm clipping requires the proficiency of several skills, yet the traditional way of practicing them has been recently challenged. The use of simulators could be an alternative educational tool. The aim of this data analysis is to provide further evaluation of a reusable low-cost 3D printed training model we developed for aneurysm clipping [1]. The simulator was designed to replicate the bone structure, arteries and targeted aneurysms. Thirty-two neurosurgery residents performed a craniotomy and aneurysm clipping using the model and then filled out a survey. The survey was designed in two parts: a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire and three questions requiring written responses [1]. Two dimensions of the model were evaluated by the questionnaire: the face validity, assessed by 5 questions about the realism of the model, and the content validity, assessed by 6 questions regarding the usefulness of the model during the different steps of the training procedure. The three questions requiring written responses referred to the strengths and weaknesses of the simulator and a global yes/no question as to whether or not they would repeat the experience. Demographic data, experience level and survey responses of the residents were grouped in a dataset [2]. A descriptive analysis was performed for each dimension. Then, the groups were compared according to their level of expertise (Junior and Senior groups) with an independent sample t-test. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was estimated, using a Weighted Least Squares Mean Variance adjusted (WLSMV) which works best for the ordinal data [3]. Fitness was calculated using chi-square (χ2) test, Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), and the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA). A non-significant χ2, CFI and TLI greater than 0.90 and RMSEA < 0.08 were considered an acceptable fit [4]. All data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 23.0 statistical software. Data are reported as mean + standard deviation (SD). A probability p < 0.05 was considered significant. Exploratory Factor Analysis was done to explore the factorial structure of the 11-items scale in the sample, first we performed a principal components analysis. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure verified the sampling adequacy for the analysis (KMO = 0.784; Bartlett's Test of Sphericity χ2 (55) = 243.44, p < .001), indicating correlation is adequate for factor analysis. Considering Eigen values greater than 1, a two-factor solution explained 73.1% of the variance but left one item in factor 2 (Q 11). The results of this factor analysis are presented in Table 1. Confirmatory Factor Analysis, considering only the 10 items in the first factor (removing question 11 of our model), was performed. This model reached the following fit: χ2 (35) = 38.821, p > .05; CFI = 0.997; TLI = 0.996; RMSEA 0.058, without any error terms to exhibit covariance. Regarding the reliability of the questionnaire, the internal consistency was explored in the 10 items selected in the confirmatory factor analysis with an alpha coefficient (α = 0.941).

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Resumen: La personalidad resistente constituye un constructo de suma importancia en la protección de la salud, por lo cual es imprescindible la adaptación y validación de instrumentos que permitan evaluarla. El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar las propiedades psicométricas del Cuestionario de Personalidad Resistente (versión no laboral) en la población cubana. Se efectuó un estudio instrumental que incluyó 400 sujetos residentes en 6 provincias de Cuba. La edad media fue de 48 (±14.7) años; el 54.5 % de la muestra fue del sexo femenino. Se estimaron tres modelos, de ellos el que mostró mejores índices de ajuste fue el trifactorial (control, implicación y reto) con un factor de segundo orden (personalidad resistente) reducido a partir de la eliminación de dos reactivos. Se obtuvieron valores aceptables de confiabilidad tanto global (a=0.83) como en cada dimensión: control y reto (a=0.77) e implicación (a=0.70). La validez concurrente aporta evidencia sobre el valor de las subescalas control y compromiso.

Abstract: The hardiness is a variable of great importance in the protection of health, so the validation and adaptation of instruments to evaluate it are necessary. The objective of the research was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Hardiness Questionnaire (non-work version) for a sample of the Cuban population. An instrumental study was carried out based on the quantitative research paradigm. The sample selection was made based on a cluster sampling that included 400 subjects residing in six provinces of the country. The standard age chosen was 48 (±14.7); 54.5 % of the simple was for females. Three models were estimated, the one who showed better scores was the trifactorial one (control, implication and challenge) with a factor of a second order (hardiness) reduced from the elimination of two reactive. Some acceptable figures of reliability were obtained, both global (a=0.83) and as in each dimension: control and challenge (a=0.77) and implication (a=0.70). The recurrent validity brings evidence of the value of the subscales control and commitment.

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Layered double hydroxide nanoparticles (LDH-NPs) constitute promising nanocarriers for drug and gene delivery. Although their cell internalization has been studied, the interaction between LDH-NPs and biological membrane models, such as giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), remains unexplored. These vesicles are widely-used membrane models that allow minimizing the complexity and uncertainty associated with biological systems to study the physical interactions in the absence of cell metabolism effects. With such an approach the physicochemical properties of the membrane can be differentiated from the biological functionalities involved in cell internalization and the membrane-mediated internalization can be directly understood. In this work, we describe for the first time the interaction of LDH-NPs with freestanding negatively charged POPC:POPS GUVs by fluorescence microscopy. The experiments were performed with fluorescein labeled LDH-NPs of about 100 nm together with different fluorophores in order to evaluate the NPs interactions with the vesicles as well as their impact on the membrane morphology and permeability. Positively charged LDH-NPs are electrostatically accumulated at the GUVs membrane, altering its lateral phospholipid distribution and increasing the stiffness and permeability of the membrane. The adsorption of albumin (LDH@ALB) or polyacrylic acid (LDH@PA) passivates the surface of LDH-NPs eliminating long-range electrostatic attraction. The absence of membrane-mediated internalization of either LDH@ALB or LDH@PA, represents an advantage in the use of LDH-NPs as drug or nucleic acids nanocarriers, because suitable functionalization will allow an optimal cell targeting.

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INTRODUCCIÓN: La alfabetización en salud es de vital importancia en etapas vulnerables como la juventud para evitar el padecimiento de enfermedades crónicas. OBJETIVO: Evaluar el nivel de conocimiento sobre la enfermedad renal crónica en estudiantes de Psicología de la Universidad Central "Marta Abreu" de la Villas (UCLV). MÉTODOS: Diseño mixto secuencial con alcance exploratorio-descriptivo. Conformaron la muestra 125 estudiantes de Psicología de la UCLV a partir del muestreo intencional - no probabilístico. Se emplearon como instrumentos el Cuestionario de conocimiento sobre la enfermedad renal crónica y la entrevista grupal. RESULTADOS: Se constató que los estudiantes poseen un bajo nivel de conocimiento sobre la enfermedad siendo el primer año quien obtuvo la mayor cantidad de respuestas negativas. CONCLUSIONES: Se reconoce un mayor nivel de conocimiento sobre la Anatomía y funciones del sistema urinario, y por el contrario sobre las Comorbilidades asociadas. La percepción de los estudiantes sobre la ERC se configura en torno a experiencias personales y la modificación del estilo de vida.

INTRODUCTION: Health literacy is of vital importance in vulnerable stages such as youth to avoid suffering from chronic diseases. OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of knowledge about chronic kidney disease in Psychology students of the Central University "Marta Abreu" de la Villas (UCLV). METHODS: Sequential mixed design with an exploratory-descriptive scope. The sample consisted of 125 UCLV Psychology students from intentional -non-probability sampling. The knowledge questionnaire on chronic kidney disease and the group interview were used as instruments. RESULTS: It was found that students have a low level of knowledge about the disease, being the first year the one with the highest number of negative responses. CONCLUSIONS: A higher level of knowledge on the Anatomy and functions of the urinary system is recognized, and on the contrary, on the associated Comorbidities. Students' perception of CKD is configured around personal experiences and lifestyle modification.

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Sugarcane orange rust caused by Puccinia kuehnii has recently become an important disease in sugarcane crops and its spread is causing great concern to growers. In this study, we analyzed spores from symptomatic orange rust sugarcane leaves collected in multiple locations in Cuba in a 4-year-period in order to characterize morphological traits of P. kuehnii, establish an adequate molecular technique to characterize it, and determine its infection court in sugarcane. Orange rust caused by P. kuehnii was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and morphological characterization. AFLP markers detected high diversity in P. kuenhnii samples. Sequencing of rDNA regions, as expected, did not reveal differences and SSR markers designed for P. melanocephala could not be transferred to P. kuehnii. In addition to stomata, entry through prickles was also detected as a new infection court in sugarcane. Although the presence of pustules on the adaxial leaf surface was frequently detected, no clear correlation between this presence and density of stomata and/or prickles was found.(AU)

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Sugarcane orange rust caused by Puccinia kuehnii has recently become an important disease in sugarcane crops and its spread is causing great concern to growers. In this study, we analyzed spores from symptomatic orange rust sugarcane leaves collected in multiple locations in Cuba in a 4-year-period in order to characterize morphological traits of P. kuehnii, establish an adequate molecular technique to characterize it, and determine its infection court in sugarcane. Orange rust caused by P. kuehnii was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and morphological characterization. AFLP markers detected high diversity in P. kuenhnii samples. Sequencing of rDNA regions, as expected, did not reveal differences and SSR markers designed for P. melanocephala could not be transferred to P. kuehnii. In addition to stomata, entry through prickles was also detected as a new infection court in sugarcane. Although the presence of pustules on the adaxial leaf surface was frequently detected, no clear correlation between this presence and density of stomata and/or prickles was found.

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Introducción: el traumatismo cardíaco es una condición poco frecuente en edad pediátrica, ocurriendo en menos del 5 % de traumatismos torácicos. Afecta más frecuentemente los ventrículos que las aurículas. Según el mecanismo de injuria puede ser: cerrado (como las contusiones torácicas) o penetrante (como las heridas por arma blanca o armas de fuego). El siguiente documento tiene la intención de describir la presentación clínica y el manejo de un paciente pediátrico con traumatismo cardíaco penetrante; se pretendió realizar una revisión de literatura sobre otros casos de traumatismo cardíaco penetrante. Presentación del caso: se expone el caso clínico de un paciente masculino de 14 años de edad, quien es referido al centro por historia de herida de arma blanca en región precordial izquierda. Se recibe con inestabilidad hemodinámica y hemitórax izquierdo hipodinámico; luego de realizar estudios de imagen y laboratorio se decide realizar toracocentesis. Ante evidente deterioro clínico, se decide realizar exploración quirúrgica, donde se halla laceración del ventrículo izquierdo y hematoma pericárdico, y se procede a drenar hematoma y cardiorrafia de ventrículo izquierdo. Conclusión: luego de describir la presentación y manejo de nuestro paciente, llegamos a la conclusión de que la sospecha clínica y el diagnóstico y manejo precoz son imprescindibles para mejorar el pronóstico de estos traumatismos. Asimismo, entendemos pertinente la exploración quirúrgica temprana ante los casos de inestabilidad hemodinámica, evitando el retraso de un tratamiento oportuno

Introduction: Cardiac trauma is a rare condition in pediatrics, occurring in less than 5 % of thoracic trauma. It affects the ventricles more often than the atria. Depending on the mechanism of injury, it may be classified as closed (such as blunt chest traumas) or penetrating (such as wounds with a knife or guns). The following document has the intention to describe the clinical presentation and management of a pediatric patient with a penetrating cardiac trauma, and it was intended to conduct a literature review on other cases of penetrating cardiac trauma. Case presentation: We present the clinical case of a 14-year-old male, who is referred to the center with history of a knife wound in the left precordial region. He is received with hemodynamic instability and hypodynamic left hemithorax, and, after performing imaging and laboratory studies, it was decided to perform thoracentesis. In the presence of evident clinical deterioration, it was decided to perform surgical exploration, where laceration of the left ventricle and pericardial hematoma is evidenced, for which drainage of hematoma and left ventricle cardiorrhaphy were performed. Conclusion: After describing the presentation and management of our patient, we conclude that clinical suspicion and early diagnosis and management are essential to improve the prognosis of these injuries. Likewise, we recognize the pertinence of early surgical exploration in cases of hemodynamic instability, avoiding the delay of a timely treatment.

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INTRODUCTION: In Chile, Law 20,545 came into force in 2011, extending the maternity leave from 12 to 21 weeks. The National Breastfeeding Survey (ENALMA, in Spanish), applied after the exten ded maternity leave, reported a 12% increase in adherence to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at the sixth month. However, 63% of the women surveyed were unemployed, therefore, the main causes of cessation of breastfeeding (BF) were not related to maternal rest time. OBJECTIVES: To calculate the impact of changes in the EBF adherence in patients who attend to well-child visits in the period before and after the entry into force of the extended maternity leave. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected from electronic medical records of the San Joaquin Health Center between 2009 and 2013, which were recruited according to specified inclusion and exclusion criteria (n = 938 patients). Subsequently, they were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of the ex tended maternity leave and with follow-up at three, six and 12 months. Using frequency tables, the characterization of the groups was carried out at the beginning of the observation period. To evaluate group homogeneity, study variables were compared between groups using Chi-square and Wicolxon Mann-Whitney tests. The prevalence of EBF maintenance was compared by pr-test between the groups with follow-up at three, six and 12 months. Using survival analysis and Cox regression, the impact of the extended maternity leave effect between both groups in the first 12 months was cal culated. RESULTS: At the beginning of the observation periods, no differences were observed between the groups in the studied variables. When comparing groups, without and with extended maternity leave, there were no significant differences in EBF adherence at three months: 327 (66%) versus 302 (68%), p = 0.492, respectively. However, in the groups in follow-up at six and 12 months, there was an increase in EBF adherence from 164 (33%) to 187 (42%), p = 0.004 and from 51 (10%) to 72 (16), p = 0.007, respectively. Analyzing the impact of the maternity leave extension on the adherence to breastfeeding, determined by risk ratio, this extension may positively influence on the adherence to EBF over time, with a HR < 1 (HR: 0.852, p=0.04 CI 95%: 0.728-0.996). CONCLUSION: Increased ma ternal resting time may influence as a protective factor for adherence to EBF.

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INTRODUCCIÓN: En Chile, el año 2011 entró en vigencia la ley 20.545, correspondiente a la extensión del postnatal de 12 a 21 semanas. La Encuesta Nacional de Lactancia Materna (ENALMA), aplicada posterior al postnatal extendido, reportó un aumento del 12% en la adherencia a la lactancia materna exclusiva (LME) al sexto mes. Sin embargo, un 63% de las mujeres encuestadas eran laboralmente inactivas, por lo que las principales causas de cese de LM (lactancia materna) no estaban relacionadas con el tiempo de descanso materno. OBJETIVOS: Calcular el impacto de los cambios en la adherencia a la LME en pacientes atendidos en control sano, en el período previo y posterior a la entrada en vigencia del post natal extendido. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó la extracción de datos de las fichas electrónicas del Centro Médico San Joaquín entre los años 2009 a 2013, los cuales fueron reclutados según criterios de inclusión y exclusión especificados (n = 938 pacientes). Posteriormente, fueron divididos en 2 grupos, según la presencia o ausencia de postnatal extendido, con seguimiento a los 3, 6 y 12 meses. Mediante tablas de frecuencia se realizó la caracterización de los grupos al comienzo del periodo de observación. Para evaluar homogeneidad de grupos, las variables del estudio se compararon entre los grupos mediante los test de chi cuadrado y Wilcolxon Mann-Whitney. Se comparó la prevalencia de mantención de LME mediante pr-test entre los grupos a los 3, 6 y 12 meses. Mediante análisis de sobrevida y regresión de Cox, se calculó el impacto del efecto del postnatal extendido entre ambos grupos en los primeros 12 meses. RESULTADOS: Al comienzo de los periodos de observación, no se observaron diferencias entre los grupos en las variables estudiadas. Al comparar ambos grupos, sin y con postnatal extendido, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en la adherencia a la LME a los 3 meses: 327(66%) vs 302(68%), p = 0,492, respectivamente. En contraste, en el seguimiento a 6 y 12 meses se evidenció un aumento en la adherencia a la LME: 164 (33%) a 187 (42%), p = 0,004 y a los 12 meses; de 51 (10%) a 72 (16%), p = 0,007. Al analizar el impacto de la extensión del postnatal en la adherencia a la lactancia materna, determinado por la razón de riesgo, el postnatal extendido podría influir positivamente en la adherencia a la LME en el tiempo, con un HR < 1 (HR: 0,852, p = 0,04 IC 95%: 0,728-0,996). CONCLUSIÓN: el aumento del tiempo de descanso materno, podría influir como factor protector de la adherencia a la LME.

INTRODUCTION: In Chile, Law 20,545 came into force in 2011, extending the maternity leave from 12 to 21 weeks. The National Breastfeeding Survey (ENALMA, in Spanish), applied after the exten ded maternity leave, reported a 12% increase in adherence to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at the sixth month. However, 63% of the women surveyed were unemployed, therefore, the main causes of cessation of breastfeeding (BF) were not related to maternal rest time. OBJECTIVES: To calculate the impact of changes in the EBF adherence in patients who attend to well-child visits in the period before and after the entry into force of the extended maternity leave. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected from electronic medical records of the San Joaquin Health Center between 2009 and 2013, which were recruited according to specified inclusion and exclusion criteria (n = 938 patients). Subsequently, they were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of the ex tended maternity leave and with follow-up at three, six and 12 months. Using frequency tables, the characterization of the groups was carried out at the beginning of the observation period. To evaluate group homogeneity, study variables were compared between groups using Chi-square and Wico- lxon Mann-Whitney tests. The prevalence of EBF maintenance was compared by pr-test between the groups with follow-up at three, six and 12 months. Using survival analysis and Cox regression, the impact of the extended maternity leave effect between both groups in the first 12 months was cal culated. RESULTS: At the beginning of the observation periods, no differences were observed between the groups in the studied variables. When comparing groups, without and with extended maternity leave, there were no significant differences in EBF adherence at three months: 327 (66%) versus 302 (68%), p = 0.492, respectively. However, in the groups in follow-up at six and 12 months, there was an increase in EBF adherence from 164 (33%) to 187 (42%), p = 0.004 and from 51 (10%) to 72 (16), p = 0.007, respectively. Analyzing the impact of the maternity leave extension on the adherence to breastfeeding, determined by risk ratio, this extension may positively influence on the adherence to EBF over time, with a HR < 1 (HR: 0.852, p=0.04 CI 95%: 0.728-0.996). CONCLUSION: Increased ma ternal resting time may influence as a protective factor for adherence to EBF.

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Considering that the use of nanoparticles (NPs) as carriers of therapeutic or theranostic agents has increased in the last years, it is mandatory to understand the interaction between NPs and living systems. In contact with biological fluids, the NPs (synthetic identity) are covered with biomolecules that form a protein corona, which defines the biological identity. It is well known that the protein corona formation is mediated by non-specific physical interactions, but protein-protein interactions (PPI), involving specific recognition sites of the polypeptides, are also involved. This work explores the relationship between the synthetic and biological identities of layered double hydroxides nanoparticles (LDH-NPs) and the effect of the protein corona on the cellular response. With such a purpose, the synthetic identity was modified by coating LDH-NPs with either a single protein or a complex mixture of them, followed by the characterization of the protein corona formed in a commonly used cell culture medium. A proteomic approach was used to identify the protein corona molecules and the PPI network was constructed with a novel bioinformatic tool. The coating on LDH-NPs defines the biological identity in such a way that the composition of the protein corona as well as PPI are changed. Electrostatic interactions appear not to be the only driving force regulating the interactions between NPs, proteins and cells since the specific recognition also play a fundamental role. However, the biological identity of LDH-NPs does not affect the interactions with cells that shows negligible cytotoxicity and high internalization levels.

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BACKGROUND: Prevalence of rosacea has been estimated around the world in the range of 0-22%. In Colombia, the prevalence of rosacea remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of rosacea and the frequencies of its subtypes in Colombia. METHODS: This cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted in six outpatient dermatology clinics across Colombia. A total of 33 dermatologists conducted a comprehensive medical history and physical examination for all rosacea patients seen at their offices over the course of 2 months. All patients who accepted to participate were encouraged to answer a survey about the history of their illness. RESULTS: Of 10,204 outpatients evaluated for rosacea between July and August 2014, 291 rosacea patients were included in this study. The prevalence of rosacea subtypes in this cohort was: 45.3% erythematotelangiectatic (ETR) (n = 132), 48.7% papulopustular (PPR) (n = 142), 4.8% phymatous (n = 14), and 1% ocular (n = 3). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the prevalence in Colombia was 2.85%. Our data represent an important first step to understanding the current state of rosacea in Colombia. The prevalence of rosacea in Colombia is the highest in Latin America among a few reports published, which might be explained by geographic features. However, contrary to our expectations, the prevalence is lower than that in some European countries. We postulate that this finding may be due to methodological differences.

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Introducción: La deficiencia de vitamina D es considerada una pandemia. En la actualidad existen numerosas publicaciones que documentan esta deficiencia en pacientes con osteopenia y/o osteoporosis; sin embargo, no hay estudios en Colombia ni en Latinoamérica que evalúen la deficiencia e insuficiencia de vitamina D en población sana, ni en dermatólogos, quienes pueden ser susceptibles de adquirir esta deficiencia por las largas jornadas laborales y la falta de exposición solar. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de deficiencia de vitamina D en dermatólogos y residentes de dermatología en Colombia, y establecer sí la región de origen estaba asociada a niveles de vitamina D. Metodología: estudio tipo piloto, observacional, analítico de corte transversal, en el cual se incluyeron dermatólogos y residentes de dermatología asistentes al congreso Colombiano de dermatología 2016. A todos los participantes se les aplicó un cuestionario, se practicó examen físico y se midió niveles de 25 hidroxi vitamina D3. Resultados: 100 participantes fueron incluidos en el estudio: la edad media fue 39 años, el 67 % eran mujeres, con prevalencia de insuficiencia o deficiencia de vitamina D del 96% y concentración media de vitamina D de 18.20 ng/ml. Conclusiones: La deficiencia de vitamina D es altamente prevalente en dermatólogos y residentes de dermatología en Colombia, se sugieren intervenciones preventivas en esta población, debido a la alta morbimortalidad relacionada con tal deficiencia...(AU)

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is considered as a pandemic. Now, there are lots of publications documenting this deficiency in patients with osteopenia and / or osteoporosis; however, there are no studies either in Colombia or Latin America that evaluate vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in a healthy population, or in dermatologists, who can be susceptible to acquire this deficiency by the long working hours and the lack of sun exposure. Objective: To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in dermatologists and residents of dermatology in Colombia and to establish if the area of origin was associated with vitamin D levels. Methodology: This is a pilot, observational, cross-sectional and analytical study in which dermatologists and dermatology residents attending to the 2016 Colombian Congress of Dermatology were included. All participants were given a questionnaire; a physical exam was performed to them and their levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 were measured as well. Results: 100 participants were included in this study: their average age was 39 years; 67% of them were women, with a prevalence of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency of 96% and with a mean of vitamin D concentration of 18.20 ng/ml. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in dermatologists and residents of dermatology in Colombia. With this population, some preventive interventions are suggested due to the high morbimortality related to such deficiency...(AU)

Introdução: a deficiência de vitamina D é considerada uma pandemia. Existem agora inúmeras publicações documentando essa deficiência em pacientes com osteopenia e / ou osteoporose; no entanto, não há estudos na Colômbia ou na América Latina que avaliem a deficiência e insuficiência de vitamina D na população saudável, nem em dermatologistas, que podem ser suscetíveis de adquirir essa deficiência devido aos longos dias de trabalho e falta de exposição solar. Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de deficiência de vitamina D em dermatologistas e residentes de dermatologia na Colômbia e determinar se a região de origem estava associada a níveis de vitamina D. Metodologia: estudo piloto, observacional, transversal, analítico em que dermatologistas e residentes de dermatologia presentes no Congresso Colombiano de Dermatologia 2016 foram incluídos. Todos os participantes receberam um questionário, exame físico e níveis de 25 hidroxi vitamina D3. Metodologia: estudo piloto, observacional, transversal, analítico em que dermatologistas e residentes de dermatologia presentes no Congresso Colombiano de Dermatologia 2016 foram incluídos. Todos os participantes receberam um questionário, exame físico e níveis de 25 hidroxi vitamina D3. Resultados: 100 participantes foram incluídos no estudo: idade média foi de 39 anos, 67% eram mulheres, com prevalência de deficiência de vitamina D ou insuficiência de 96% e concentração média de vitamina D de 18.20 ng/ml. Conclusões: A deficiência de vitamina D é altamente prevalente em dermatologistas e residentes de dermatologia na Colômbia. As intervenções preventivas nesta população, são sugeridas por causa da alta morbidade e mortalidade associada a esta deficiência...(AU)

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The physicochemical properties of drug nanocarriers such as layered double hydroxide nanoparticles (LDH-NPs) determine their circulation times in biological media and their interaction with the targeted cells. Nevertheless, the components of the biological fluid, and particularly the formation of a protein corona, change the properties of as-prepared nanocarriers. Here, we discuss the effect of the protein corona formation on the colloidal stability and reactivity of LDH-NPs intercalated with chloride (LDH-Cl), carbonate (LDH-CO3) or dodecylsulfate (LDH-DS). These solids present model physicochemical properties (hydrophillic character, surface charge, and exchange capacity) that can be obtained depending on the interaction of drugs with LDH layers. The colloidal stability of LDH-NPs was determined in simulated biological fluids at high ionic strength and/or the presence of albumin (the main protein of human blood plasma), whereas the reactivity was evaluated by dissolution kinetics in acidic media, compatible with the environment of cell internalized nanocarriers. The protein corona increased the colloidal stability of the nanocarriers by steric hindrance at high ionic strength, reverted the positive zeta potential of as-prepared LDH-NPs and protected them from dissolution at low pHs. The properties of the anionic cargo of LDH-NPs strongly affected the protein corona and hence the fate of NPs in biological fluids. Drug nanocarriers with interfacial properties similar to those of LDH-Cl and LDH-CO3 seem to be more promising than LDH-DS in forming a protein corona. Then, LDH-Cl and LDH-CO3 would enable long circulation times due to their size, colloidal stability and low protein damage. Our results indicate that LDH-NPs preserve and even improve their properties as drug nanocarriers after interacting with the biological media, particularly their ability to reach the site of therapeutic action from the injection place.

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Determinar la frecuencia del Tumor Venéreo Transmisible (TVT) en perros domésticos de la Urbanización Mariscal Cáceres de San Juan de Lurigancho y evaluar la asociación entre diversas variables. Metodología: Se realizaron campañas gratuitas de desparasitación donde se recolectó información epidemiológica por medio de fichas. Las variables de estudio fueron: sexo, edad, convivencia con otros animales, condición de esterilizado y hábitos callejeros. Se realizó el examen clínico en busca de masas sugestivas y sospechosas a TVT, para su posterior examen citológico utilizando tinción Hemacolor. Resultados y Conclusiones: Se examinó clínicamente 243 canes, de ellos 125 hembras y 118 machos. La edad de las hembras osciló entre 6 meses y 10 años y la de los machos entre 5 meses y 9 años. Se encontró 8 perros con presencia de masas sospechosas a los cuáles 5 se confirmaron como TVT. Se encontró una frecuencia del 2.06% (5/243), de los cuales 2.54% (3/118) fueron machos y 1.6% (2/125) fueron hembras. Del 100% de los casos positivos, la edad osciló entre 4 a 9 años. Solo se encontró asociación significativa entre la variable de hábitos callejeros y la presentación del TVT (p<0.05). Se demostró la presencia de TVT en perros de la Urbanización Mariscal Cáceres en el distrito de San Juan de Lurigancho...

To determine the frequency of the Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor (TVT) in domestic dogs from Mariscal Caceres neighborhood in San Juan de Lurigancho and to establish the association different variables. Methods: A free deworming campaign was made to obtain tissue samples from 243 dogs. According to the epidemiological information and the results of the clinic examination, suspicious and suggestive masses of TVT were evaluated for their later cytological examination using hemacolor stain. Results and Conclusions: A total of 243 dogs, 125 female and 118 male, were studied. The age of female and male dogs oscillated from 6 months to 10 years old and from 5 months to and 9 years old respectively. There were 8 dogs with presence of suggestive masses of TVT and 5 were confirmed. We found a prevalence of 2.06% (5/243, from which 2.54% (3/118) were male and 1.6% (2/125) were female. This was observed in animals from 4 to 9 years old. There is an association between the street habits variable and the presentation of TVT. The gender, the coexistence with other animals, as well as the sterilization variable did not have any significant association with the emergence of this pathology...

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BACKGROUND: Previous findings indicate that susceptibility to Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis infection of monocyte-derived macrophages from patients and asymptomatically infected individuals were associated with the adaptive immune response and clinical outcome. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: To understand the basis for this difference we examined differential gene expression of human monocyte-derived macrophages following exposure to L. (V.) panamensis. Gene activation profiles were determined using macrophages from healthy volunteers cultured with or without stationary phase promastigotes of L. (V.) panamensis. Significant changes in expression (>1.5-fold change; p<0.05; up- or down-regulated) were identified at 0.5, 4 and 24 hours. mRNA abundance profiles varied over time, with the highest level of activation occurring at earlier time points (0.5 and 4 hrs). In contrast to observations for other Leishmania species, most significantly changed mRNAs were up- rather than down-regulated, especially at early time points. Up-regulated transcripts over the first 24 hours belonged to pathways involving eicosanoid metabolism, oxidative stress, activation of PKC through G protein coupled receptors, or mechanism of gene regulation by peroxisome proliferators via PPARα. Additionally, a marked activation of Toll-receptor mediated pathways was observed. Comparison with published microarray data from macrophages infected with L. (Leishmania) chagasi indicate differences in the regulation of genes involved in signaling, motility and the immune response. CONCLUSIONS: Results show that the early (0.5 to 24 hours) human monocyte-derived macrophage response to L. (Viannia) panamensis is not quiescent, in contrast to published reports examining later response times (48-96 hours). Early macrophage responses are important for the developing cellular response at the site of infection. The kinetics and the mRNA abundance profiles induced by L. (Viannia) panamensis illustrate the dynamics of these interactions and the distinct biologic responses to different Leishmania species from the outset of infection within their primary host cell.

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Las piedras son infecciones fúngicas de baja agresividad que comprometen la porción extrafolicular del pelo, originadas por un hongo levaduriforme del género Trichosporon spp. Se caracterizan clínicamente por la presencia de lesiones nodulares en pelos de axilas, pubis, barba y, con menor frecuencia, del cuero cabelludo. La piedra blanca predomina en hombres entre los 18 y los 35 años de edad, y aunque todo el pelo corporal puede verse afectado, la localización en la región púbica en estas edades es considerada la más frecuente; sin embargo, en los niños la afectación predomina en el cuero cabelludo. En su diagnóstico se destaca el examen directo con hidróxido de potasio de pelos y cultivo en agar Sabouraud. Se presentan ocho casos de piedra blanca en cuero cabelludo de pacientes pediátricos, residentes en el área metropolitana de Bucaramanga, Colombia. El examen fúngico demostró la presencia de Trichosporon spp. Además, se hace una revisión de los aspectos históricos, epidemiológicos, clínicos, diagnósticos y terapéuticos de la enfermedad.

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