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Speech emotion recognition is key to many fields, including human-computer interaction, healthcare, and intelligent assistance. While acoustic features extracted from human speech are essential for this task, not all of them contribute to emotion recognition effectively. Thus, reduced numbers of features are required within successful emotion recognition models. This work aimed to investigate whether splitting the features into two subsets based on their distribution and then applying commonly used feature reduction methods would impact accuracy. Filter reduction was employed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by principal component analysis (PCA) and independent component analysis (ICA). A set of features was investigated to determine whether the indiscriminate use of parametric feature reduction techniques affects the accuracy of emotion recognition. For this investigation, data from three databases-Berlin EmoDB, SAVEE, and RAVDES-were organized into subsets according to their distribution in applying both PCA and ICA. The results showed a reduction from 6373 features to 170 for the Berlin EmoDB database with an accuracy of 84.3%; a final size of 130 features for SAVEE, with a corresponding accuracy of 75.4%; and 150 features for RAVDESS, with an accuracy of 59.9%.

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Resumen Austrocylindropuntia pachypus (K.Schum.) Backeb. es un cactus endémico de Perú, cuya distribución conocida estaba restringida a las vertientes occidentales de La Libertad, Áncash y Lima. En base a expediciones botánicas por las estribaciones andinas de Ica, en este trabajo reportamos nuevas localidades con pequeñas poblaciones, lo que amplía en más de 260 km al sur la distribución conocida de A. pachypus. Además, en base a 42 registros georreferenciados, se amplía la información sobre sus localidades, poblaciones, distribución potencial, hábitats, amenazas y estado de conservación. El modelo de distribución potencial mostró altos niveles predictivos o de idoneidad con valores de AUC = 0.96 en base a siete variables climáticas, siendo Bio17, Bio2 y Bio7 las variables con mayor contribución; mostrando a Lambayeque, La Libertad, Áncash, Lima, Ica y Huancavelica los departamentos con mayores valores de idoneidad. Las poblaciones con mayor concentración de individuos, pero que a su vez se encuentran seriamente perturbadas por actividades antropogénicas, son las de los valles del río Chillón (Santa Rosa de Quives, Canta) y Rímac (Santa Eulalia, Huarochirí) en Lima. Asimismo, se estima que cerca del 70% de las poblaciones de A. pachypus se encuentran amenazadas por derechos mineros, extracción de hidrocarburos, sobrepastoreo y expansión urbana o agrícola, incrementando la fragmentación de sus hábitats, por lo que se propone categorizar a este cactus endémico como En Peligro (EN).

Abstract Austrocylindropuntia pachypus (K.Schum.) Backeb. is an endemic cactus of Peru, whose known distribution was restricted to the western slopes of La Libertad, Áncash, and Lima. Based on botanical expeditions along the Andean foothills of Ica, this study reports new localities with small populations, thereby extending the known distribution of A. pachypus by over 260 km to the south. Additionally, based on 42 georeferenced records, information on its localities, populations, potential distribution, habitats, threats, and conservation status is expanded. The potential distribution model exhibited high predictive or suitability levels with AUC values of 0.96 based on seven climatic variables, with Bio17, Bio2, and Bio7 being the most contributory variables; Lambayeque, La Libertad, Áncash, Lima, Ica, and Huancavelica demonstrated the highest suitability values. Populations with the highest concentration of individuals, yet significantly disturbed by anthropogenic activities, are those in the valleys of the Chillón River (Santa Rosa de Quives, Canta) and Rímac River (Santa Eulalia, Huarochirí) in Lima. Furthermore, it is estimated that approximately 70% of A. pachypus populations are threatened by mining rights, hydrocarbon extraction, overgrazing, and urban or agricultural expansion, exacerbating habitat fragmentation. Hence, it is proposed to categorize this endemic cactus as Endangered (EN).

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El Pisco es el destilado del Perú, elaborado a partir de mostos recientemente fermentados con uvas criollas denominadas "pisqueras". Las levaduras son los microorganismos clave en la fermentación y el uso de cepas nativas seleccionadas presenta ventajas competitivas para la tipicidad del producto, así como también para la estandarización del producto y el control microbiológico del proceso. El objetivo fue identificar y seleccionar las cepas de levaduras nativas para la producción del Pisco de uva Quebranta aisladas de procesos productivos de Pisco en el valle de Ica. Para ello, se emplearon técnicas microbiológicas y moleculares mediante el análisis de ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 PCR-RFLP para la identidad taxonómica. La evaluación de las cepas para producir Pisco consistió en el análisis fisicoquímico y organoléptico del destilado obtenido con las cepas seleccionadas. Se evaluaron 3 aislados para la producción de Pisco identificados como Saccharomyces cerevisiae: UNA SC - 25, UNA SC - 49 y UNA SC - 54, de los cuales la cepa UNA SC-49 destacó por mostrar aptitudes enológicas diferentes a las otras cepas. Este trabajo constituye el primer registro de levaduras nativas del Perú para mostos procedentes de uva Quebranta.

El Pisco stands as Peru's distilled spirit, crafted from recently fermented musts derived from native grape varieties known as "pisqueras". Yeasts serve as decisive microorganisms in the fermentation process, and the utilization of selected native strains confers competitive advantages for product typicity, standardization, and microbiological control within the production process. The aim was to identify and select native yeast strains for Quebranta grape Pisco production, isolated from Pisco production processes in the Ica Valley. Microbiological and molecular techniques were employed, utilizing ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 PCR-RFLP analysis for taxonomic identification. The assessment of yeast strains for Pisco production involved the physicochemical and organoleptic analysis of the distilled product obtained using the selected strains. Three isolates were evaluated for Pisco production, identified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae: UNA SC - 25, UNA SC - 49, and UNA SC - 54. Among these, the UNA SC-49 strain stood out due to displaying oenological characteristics distinct from the other strains. This work is the first documentation of native yeasts in Peru for musts derived from Quebranta grapes.

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In the present research the typical triangle on formative research was extended to a double triangle for an overall career programme (here expander/ compressor) and funnel proposal was explored in a single course (as a "fractal" method). Array processing and ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) techniques have been incorporated into a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) course and research projects. The present research question was: is it possible to insert array sensing on formative research in an undergraduate course of DSP? From over eight years, two semesters with different homework loads (homogeneous triangle vs expander-compressor-supplier distributions) were analysed in detail within the DSP evaluations and students chose between experimental applied analysis and a formative research project. Results showed that cognitive load was influenced positively in the expander-compressor-supplier distribution, showing that an increase of the efficiency undertook more undergraduate research on array processing and the decrease of the number of formative applied projects. Over a longer term (48 months) students undertook more undergraduate research works on array processing and DSP techniques. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10639-023-11837-y.

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Alcohol-associated liver disease is one of the main causes of chronic liver disease. It comprises a clinical-histologic spectrum of presentations, from steatosis, steatohepatitis, to different degrees of fibrosis, including cirrhosis and severe necroinflammatory disease, called alcohol-associated hepatitis. In this focused update, we aim to present specific therapeutic interventions and strategies for the management of alcohol-associated liver disease. Current evidence for management in all spectra of manifestations is derived from general chronic liver disease recommendations, but with a higher emphasis on abstinence and nutritional support. Abstinence should comprise the treatment of alcohol use disorder as well as withdrawal syndrome. Nutritional assessment should also consider the presence of sarcopenia and its clinical manifestation, frailty. The degree of compensation of the disease should be evaluated, and complications, actively sought. The most severe acute form of this disease is alcohol-associated hepatitis, which has high mortality and morbidity. Current treatment is based on corticosteroids that act by reducing immune activation and blocking cytotoxicity and inflammation pathways. Other aspects of treatment include preventing and treating hepatorenal syndrome as well as preventing infections although there is no clear evidence as to the benefit of probiotics and antibiotics in prophylaxis. Novel therapies for alcohol-associated hepatitis include metadoxine, interleukin-22 analogs, and interleukin-1-beta antagonists. Finally, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, microbiota transplantation, and gut-liver axis modulation have shown promising results. We also discuss palliative care in advanced alcohol-associated liver disease.

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Luminal stenosis has been the standard feature for the current management strategies in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease. Histological and imaging studies show considerable differences between plaques with identical degrees of stenosis. They indicate that specific plaque characteristics like Intraplaque hemorrhage, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core, Plaque Inflammation, Thickness and Ulceration are responsible for the increased risk of ischemic events. Intraplaque hemorrhage is defined by the accumulation of blood components within the plaque, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core is composed of macrophages loaded with lipid, Plaque Inflammation is defined as the process of atherosclerosis itself and Plaque thickness and Ulceration are defined as morphological features. Advances in imaging methods like Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography and Positron Emission Tomography have enabled a more detailed characterization of the plaque, and its vulnerability is linked to these characteristics, changing the management of these patients based only on the degree of plaque stenosis. Studies like Rotterdam, ARIC, PARISK, CAPIAS and BIOVASC were essential to evaluate and prove the relevance of these characteristics with cerebrovascular symptoms. A better approach for the prevention of stroke is needed. This review summarizes the more frequent carotid plaque features and the available validation from recent studies with the latest evidence.

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Background: Methicillin resistance and biofilm-producing Staphylococci are emerging as multidrug-resistant strains narrowing the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy. Although vancomycin is used as the drug of choice to treat such isolates, different studies worldwide have documented the emergence of strains that are intermediately susceptible or resistant to this antibiotic. Objective: The study aimed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration of vancomycin to methicillin-resistant and biofilm-producing staphylococci isolated from different clinical specimens. Methods: 375 staphylococci isolated from different clinical specimens over one year were included in the study. Biofilm formation was determined by the Tissue culture plate method (TCP), and ica genes were identified by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility and methicillin resistance were done following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin in all isolates was determined by the agar dilution method. Results:Among 375 Staphylococci studied, 43% and 57% represented S. aureus and Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci (CNS), respectively. The rate of Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin-Resistant Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (MRCNS) were 81.4% and 66.8% respectively and determined by the disc diffusion method. The most potential antibiotics were tetracycline and chloramphenicol showing sensitivity to more than 90% isolates. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of oxacillin for staphylococci ranged from 0.125-32 µg/ml. Oxacillin agar diffusion method showed 51.6% and 79.9% isolates as MRSA and MRCNS, respectively, revealing a very high percentage of S. aureus and CNS isolates as methicillin-resistant. All isolates had susceptible vancomycin MICs that ranged from 0.125-2 µg/ml. Two S. aureus isolated from Central Venous Catheter (CVC) and catheter specimens were detected with intermediate susceptibility to vancomycin. Similarly, three CNS isolated from blood, CVC, and wound/pus (w/p) were intermediately susceptible to vancomycin. Strong biofilm formation was observed in 22.1% of clinical isolates, and the ica gene was detected among 22.9% of isolates. Only one S. aureus detected as a biofilm producer by the TCP method was found to have intermediate susceptibility to vancomycin. Conclusions: The increment in vancomycin MIC among methicillin-resistant and biofilm-producing staphylococci is alarming. Strict control measures to prevent methicillin-resistant isolates spread and routine surveillance for vancomycin-resistant isolates must be incorporated in hospitals to prevent antimicrobial treatment failure

Antecedentes: Los estafilococos resistentes a la meticilina y productores de biopelículas están surgiendo como cepas multirresistentes que reducen la eficacia del tratamiento antimicrobiano. Aunque la vancomicina se utiliza como fármaco de elección para tratar dichos aislados, diferentes estudios realizados en todo el mundo han documentado la aparición de cepas intermedias susceptibles o resistentes a este antibiótico. Objetivo: El estudio tenía como objetivo determinar la concentración mínima inhibitoria de la vancomicina para los estafilococos resistentes a la meticilina y productores de biofilm aislados de diferentes muestras clínicas. Métodos: Se incluyeron en el estudio 375 estafilococos aislados de diferentes muestras clínicas durante un año. La formación de biopelículas se determinó mediante el método de la placa de cultivo de tejidos (TCP), y los genes ica se identificaron mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR). La susceptibilidad a los antibióticos y la resistencia a la meticilina se realizaron siguiendo las directrices del Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). La concentración inhibitoria mínima (MIC) de vancomicina en todos los aislados se determinó por el método de dilución en agar. Resultados:Entre los 375 estafilococos estudiados, el 43% y el 57% representaban S. aureus y estafilococos coagulasa-negativos (ECN), respectivamente. La tasa de S. aureus resistente a la meticilina (SARM) y de estafilococos coagulasa negativos resistentes a la meticilina (ECNM) fue del 81,4% y el 66,8%, respectivamente, y se determinó por el método de difusión de discos. Los antibióticos más potenciales fueron la tetraciclina y el cloranfenicol, que mostraron una sensibilidad superior al 90% de los aislados. El valor de la concentración inhibitoria mínima (CIM) de la oxacilina para los estafilococos osciló entre 0,125-32 µg/ml. El método de difusión en agar de la oxacilina mostró que el 51,6% y el 79,9% de los aislados eran SARM y MRCNS, respectivamente, lo que revela que un porcentaje muy elevado de los aislados de S. aureus y CNS son resistentes a la meticilina. Todos los aislados tenían MIC de vancomicina susceptibles que oscilaban entre 0,125-2 µg/ml. Se detectaron dos S. aureus aislados de muestras de catéteres venosos centrales (CVC) y catéteres con una susceptibilidad intermedia a la vancomicina. Del mismo modo, tres S. aureus aislados de sangre, CVC y herida/pus (w/p) fueron intermedianamente susceptibles a la vancomicina. Se observó una fuerte formación de biopelículas en el 22,1% de los aislados clínicos, y se detectó el gen ica en el 22,9% de los aislados. Sólo un S. aureus detectado como productor de biopelículas por el método TCP resultó tener una susceptibilidad intermedia a la vancomicina. Conclusiones: El incremento de la MIC de vancomicina entre los estafilococos resistentes a la meticilina y productores de biofilm es alarmante. Para evitar el fracaso del tratamiento antimicrobiano, deben incorporarse en los hospitales medidas de control estrictas para prevenir la propagación de los aislados resistentes a la meticilina y una vigilancia rutinaria de los aislados resistentes a la vancomicina

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Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus by healthcare workers is of great clinical importance as it facilitates the contamination of medical devices and cross-transmission. However, studies regarding the epidemiology and dissemination of S. aureus and Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) within the Primary Health Care in Brazil are scarce. The current study aimed to detect and characterize S. aureus and MRSA strains from the nasal cavities of 63 healthcare working in primary health care units in order to determine the prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA, biofilm formation and resistance profile of these isolates. PCR reactions were performed for detecting mecA, icaA and icaD genes. The phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by the disk diffusion method and biofilm formation by the Congo Red Agar (CRA) method. The MRSA isolates were typed for the Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec (SCCmec). The prevalence of nasal carriage of S. aureus was 74.6%, of which 72.3% were MRSA carrying SCCmec type I (24.4%), III (34.1%), IV (36.6%). Two (4.9%) isolates presented a non-typeable cassette by the performed technique. The antimicrobial susceptibility evaluation evidenced penicillin resistance in 66.1% of S. aureus, erythromycin resistance in 49.2%, while 37.3% were resistant to oxacillin, 28.8% to cefoxitin, 5.1% to levofloxacin and 5.1% to clindamycin. All isolates were biofilm producers and 96.6% of the strains contained the ica biofilm-forming genes (icaA and/or icaD). We have demonstrated a high prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA carriage among health care working in Primary Health Care units, the presence of SCCmec types I, III and IV, in addition to their high ability to form biofilm, factors that possibly contribute to the dissemination and persistence of these pathogens within the primary care services. These observations highlight the importance of broadening the perspective of Health Care-Associated Infections prevention, including all health care levels, which are currently little explored. In addition, the dynamics and resistance mechanisms of S. aureus transmission still need to be further clarified to enable the implementation of more effective prevention measures.

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ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the possible relationship between serum uric acid concentrations and insulin resistance in adolescents. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 74 participants from a public school in São Luís, Maranhão, aged between 10 and 19 years. The study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of the University Hospital of the Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA) under report 2,673,791. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and blood collection were performed. The participants were divided into two groups: group 1 (with hyperuricemia) and group 2 (without hyperuricemia). Data analysis was performed by means of the Stata program. Results: Anthropometric measurements, such as body mass index and waist circumference, had statistical significance (p < 0.05) among groups with hyperuricemia and without hyperuricemia, as well as the percentage of body fat (p = 0.0423) and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.0235). Biochemical parameters for total cholesterol (p = 0.0172), triglycerides (p = 0.0268), glucose (p = 0.0284) and TyG index (p = 0.0416) had statistical significance in the hyperuricemia group when compared to the group without hyperuricemia. Conclusion: According to the obtained results, the participants with insulin resistance calculated by the TyG index presented high serum acid levels, demonstrating a statistically significant correlation.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Verificar la posible relación entre concentraciones séricas de ácido úrico y resistencia a la insulina en adolescentes. Métodos: Estudio transversal con 74 participantes de una escuela pública en São Luís, Maranhão, con edades entre 10 y 19 años. El estudio es aprobado por el Comité de Ética e Investigación del Hospital Universitario de la Universidad Federal de Maranhão (UFMA) bajo dictamen 2.673.791. Se realizaron mediciones antropométricas, de presión arterial y extracción de sangre. Los participantes se dividieron en dos grupos: grupo 1 (con hiperuricemia) y grupo 2 (sin hiperuricemia). El análisis de datos se realizó utilizando el programa Stata. Resultados: Las medidas antropométricas, como el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y la circunferencia de la cintura, tuvieron significancia estadística (p < 0,05) entre los dos grupos, así como el porcentaje de grasa corporal (p = 0,0423) y la presión arterial sistólica y diastólica (p = 0,0235). Los parámetros bioquímicos referentes a colesterol total (p = 0,0172), triglicéridos (p = 0,0268), glucosa (p = 0,0284) e índice TyG (p = 0,0416) fueron estadísticamente significativos en el grupo con hiperuricemia, en comparación con el grupo sin hiperuricemia. Conclusión: De acuerdo a los resultados obtenidos, los participantes con resistencia a la insulina, en base al cálculo mediante el índice TyG, presentaron niveles séricos elevados de ácido úrico, mostrando una correlación estadísticamente significativa.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a possível relação entre concentrações séricas de ácido úrico e resistência insulínica em adolescentes. Métodos: Estudo de caráter transversal com 74 participantes oriundos de uma escola pública de São Luís, Maranhão, com idades entre 10 e 19 anos. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa do Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA) sob o parecer 2.673.791. Medidas antropométricas, pressão arterial e coleta de sangue foram feitas. A divisão dos participantes foi realizada em dois grupos: grupo 1 (com hiperuricemia) e grupo 2 (sem hiperuricemia). A análise de dados foi realizada por meio do programa Stata. Resultados: As medidas antropométricas, como índice de massa corporal (IMC) e circunferência da cintura, tiveram significância estatística (p < 0,05) entre os dois grupos, assim como a porcentagem de gordura corporal (p = 0,0423) e a pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica (p = 0,0235). Os parâmetros bioquímicos referentes a colesterol total (p = 0,0172), triglicerídeos (p = 0,0268), glicose (p = 0,0284) e índice TyG (p = 0,0416) tiveram significância estatística no grupo com hiperuricemia, quando comparados com o grupo sem hiperuricemia. Conclusão: De acordo com os resultados obtidos, os participantes com resistência insulínica, a partir do cálculo pelo índice TyG, apresentaram níveis séricos elevados de ácido úrico, demonstrando correlação estatística significativa.

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Resumen El presente trabajo reporta por primera vez para el Perú a la cianobacteria bentónica Lemmermanniella uliginosa, identificada en muestras de perifiton y sedimentos bentónicos procedentes del humedal de Caucato en el distrito de San Clemente, departamento de Ica. Además, se registra por primera vez al género Lemmermanniella para el país. Se discuten aspectos morfo-taxonómicos de la especie comparándola con poblaciones reportadas para otras localidades en zonas tropicales.

Abstract This work presents the first record of Lemmermmanniella uliginosa from Peru based on periphyton and sediment samples from Caucato wetland (San Clemente district, Ica department). Furthermore, the genus Lemmermmanniella is recorded for the first time for Peru. Morpho-taxonomic comparison with other populations reported in tropical regions is discussed.

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BACKGROUND: Recently, changes in acute kidney injury (AKI) diagnostic criteria have been proposed (ICA-AKI criteria). However, in Brazil there is a paucity of data and analyses that evaluate AKI in patients with cirrhosis and determine the impact of the implemented AKI criteria changes. Therefore, this study sought to evaluate the incidence of AKI in patients with cirrhosis; to evaluate the agreement between traditional and ICA-AKI criteria; and to assess its clinical and laboratory characteristics, etiologies, risk factors and outcomes. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and acute decompensation. The total number of hospitalizations was evaluated using the PWP statistical model for recurring events; P values<0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: A total of 154 admissions of 75 patients were included in the study. Among the hospitalizations, 89 (57.79%) met the ICA-AKI criteria. There was substantial agreement between both AKI classifications (Kappa 0.7293). The main etiology of AKI was pre-renal (59.55%), followed by renal (26.96%) and hepatorenal syndrome (10.11%). A multivariate analysis uncovered risk factors for ICA-AKI, including the MELD score (P=0.0162, RR:1.055, 95% CI:1.010-1.101) and the use of furosemide (P=0.001,RR:2.360, 95% CI:1.417-3.931). A univariate analysis found an association between in-hospital mortality and serum creatinine (sCr)≥1.5mg/dL(P=0.0373), MELD (P=0.0296), bilirubin (P=0.0064), and infection (P=0.0045), while in the multivariate analysis, the bilirubin levels (P=0.0030, RR:1.077, 95% CI: 1.025-1.130) and the presence of shock (P=0.0002, RR:8.511, 95% CI: 2.746-26.377) were associated with in-hospital mortality. Among the hospitalizations with AKI, death was significantly associated with non-response to treatment and dialysis. Initial stage 1A-AKI had lower in-hospital mortality than stage 1B-AKI. CONCLUSIONS: AKI incidence was high in this cohort of patients with decompensated cirrhosis, and substantial agreement between AKI definitions was observed. In-hospital mortality was associated with worse liver function, AKI, infection and the presence of shock. Also, sCr>1,5mg/dL remained an important prognostic factor.

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Type 1 diabetes islet cell autoantigen 512 (ICA512/IA-2) is a tyrosine phosphatase-like intrinsic membrane protein involved in the biogenesis and turnover of insulin secretory granules (SGs) in pancreatic islet ß-cells. Whereas its membrane-proximal and cytoplasmic domains have been functionally and structurally characterized, the role of the ICA512 N-terminal segment named "regulated endocrine-specific protein 18 homology domain" (RESP18HD), which encompasses residues 35-131, remains largely unknown. Here, we show that ICA512 RESP18HD residues 91-131 encode for an intrinsically disordered region (IDR), which in vitro acts as a condensing factor for the reversible aggregation of insulin and other ß-cell proteins in a pH and Zn2+-regulated fashion. At variance with what has been shown for other granule cargoes with aggregating properties, the condensing activity of ICA512 RESP18HD is displayed at a pH close to neutral, i.e. in the pH range found in the early secretory pathway, whereas it is resolved at acidic pH and Zn2+ concentrations resembling those present in mature SGs. Moreover, we show that ICA512 RESP18HD residues 35-90, preceding the IDR, inhibit insulin fibrillation in vitro Finally, we found that glucose-stimulated secretion of RESP18HD upon exocytosis of SGs from insulinoma INS-1 cells is associated with cleavage of its IDR, conceivably to prevent its aggregation upon exposure to neutral pH in the extracellular milieu. Taken together, these findings point to ICA512 RESP18HD being a condensing factor for protein sorting and granulogenesis early in the secretory pathway and for prevention of amyloidogenesis.

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Prepulse inhibition (PPI) test has been widely used to evaluate sensorimotor gating. In humans, deficits in this mechanism are measured through the orbicularis muscle response using electromyography (EMG). Although this mechanism can be modulated by several brain structures and is impaired in some pathologies as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, neural PPI evaluation is rarely performed in humans. Since eye blinks are a consequence of PPI stimulation, they strongly contaminate the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal. This paper describes a method to reduce muscular artifacts and enable neural PPI assessment through EEG in parallel to muscular PPI evaluation using EMG. Both types of signal were simultaneously recorded in 22 healthy subjects. PPI was evaluated by the acoustical startle response with EMG and by the P2-N1 event-related potential (ERP) using EEG in Fz, Cz, and Pz electrodes. In order to remove EEG artifacts, Independent Component Analysis (ICA) was performed using two methods. Firstly, visual inspection discarded components containing artifact characteristics as ocular and tonic muscle artifacts. The second method used visual inspection as gold standard to validate parameters in an automated component selection using the SASICA algorithm. As an outcome, EEG artifacts were effectively removed and equivalent neural PPI evaluation performance was obtained using both methods, with subjects exhibiting consistent neural as well as muscular PPI. This novel method improves PPI test, enabling neural gating mechanisms assessment within the latency of 100-200 ms, which is not evaluated by other sensory gating tests as P50 and mismatch negativity.

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In formulations of nanostructured lipid carriers, lipid solid dispersions and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems, it is common that a solid or semi-solid lipid excipient is mixed with a liquid solvent or liquid lipid. Even when the excipients are visually miscible upon melting, they might have microscopic non-homogeneities which could lead to instability over time and future phase separation. Raman mapping associated with chemometric methods can be useful to evaluate spatial distribution of compounds, however it has not been extensively applied to the formulations mentioned above. The aim of this work was to compare the outcomes of three different chemometric methods - principal components analysis (PCA), multivariate curve resolution with alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) and independent components analysis (ICA) - to study two systems of very different degrees of microscopic miscibility: cetyl palmitate + Transcutol© (heterogeneous) and polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) + Tween 80© (homogeneous). These two samples were chosen due to large differences in spatial distribution of the compounds over the pixels which could require different approaches for data treatment. The three methods were compared regarding recovered concentrations (or scores), signals (or loadings) and the need for matrix augmentation to obtain reliable results. Results showed that PCA loadings were the mathematical differences of the spectra of pure compounds for both samples, and therefore only 'contrast images' could be generated. MCR and ICA provided signals that could be related to the chemical components, however MCR presented rotational ambiguities even for the very heterogeneous sample, a situation in which ICA performed better as a blind search method. For the homogeneous sample, both methods showed rank deficiency and therefore the use of a matrix augmentation was necessary. ICA and PCA allowed identifying physical modifications in the homogeneous semi-solid PEG 6000/Tween 80® sample over the time, probably due to the folding/unfolding of the crystalline chains of PEG 6000. Therefore, this work discusses the ability of the three chemometrics methods to extract information from Raman spectra in order to characterize the chemical, spatial and even physical aspects of semi-solid pharmaceutical formulations, which could be of much use for stability studies of different drug delivery systems.

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Clival lesions are still considered surgically complex due to their anatomical location. Critical structures, such as the internal carotid arteries (ICAs), cavernous sinuses, cranial nerves, and brainstem, may be encased within the lesion. Although advances in endoscopic endonasal approaches have provided new routes to these lesions, exposure and resection of clival tumors through the endonasal route remain a technical challenge. Here, the authors report a left-sided endoscopic transmaxillary approach to access the right aspect of the clivus and the hypoglossal canal.A 35-year-old woman presented with progressive right 6th cranial nerve palsy. MRI revealed a contrast-enhancing right petroclival chondrosarcoma that involved Meckel's cave and extended into the right hypoglossal canal. An endoscopic-contralateral-transmaxillary approach through a left sublabial incision was used to access the right petroclival region and right hypoglossal canal. A left maxillary osteoplastic flap was elevated to expose the left maxillary sinus. This was followed by a left medial maxillectomy, gaining access to the left posterior nasal cavity. The posterior third of the left inferior turbinate and nasal septum were removed to access the right side of the petroclival region. Near-total resection was achieved without any vascular or neurological complications. A thin shell of residual tumor was left behind due to involvement of vital structures, such as the ICA, and further treated with proton-beam radiotherapy.The endoscopic-contralateral-transmaxillary approach provides a direct surgical corridor and good lateral visualization of the skull base vasculature. This approach allows wide maneuverability around the ICA and hypoglossal canal, which, in this case, allowed maximal tumor resection with full preservation of neurological function.

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Se analizó el solapamiento de las dietas de dos especies de gorriones en un agroecosistema de la costa central del Perú, una de las especies es invasora (Passer domesticus), mientras que la otra es nativa (Zonotrichia capensis). El presente trabajo muestra que a pesar de que Z. capensis tiene una dieta más diversa (H’= 2.07) que P. domesticus (H’=1.63), presentan alta similitud entre ellas (Dmax=0.15, p>0.05). El índice de Schoener fue ɸ=0.73 y junto con en el análisis de escalamiento multidimensional no métrico muestran un amplio solapamiento en la dieta de ambos gorriones en los diferentes meses de evaluación. Estos resultados permiten concluir que existe un potencial impacto de la invasión de Passer domesticus sobre la especie nativa Zonotrichia capensis por presentar un marcado solapamiento del alimento.

We analyse the diet overlap of two species of sparrows in an agroecosystem of the Central Coast of Peru, one of the species is invasive House Sparrow, while the other is native Rufous-collared Sparrow. We show that although native species has a more diverse diet (H'= 2.07), than invasive species (H' = 1.63), they present high similarity between them (Dmax = 0.15, p> 0.05). The Schoener index was ɸ = 0.73 and together with the non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis they show a broad diet overlap of both sparrows in the different months of evaluation. These results allow to conclude that there is a potential impact of the invasion of House Sparrow on the native species Rufous-collared Sparrow by food overlap.

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Abstract In this study, samples from four different sites were collected from Río Frío, a stream crossing the city of Bucaramanga (Colombia). The course evaluated started in the suburban area and finished in the vicinity where Río Frío becomes the tributary of Río de Oro. Invertebrates were identified belonging to different phyla: Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda, corresponding to five classes, 14 orders, and 51 families. Biological monitoring working party (BMWP)/Col., ICO, and ICA-CETESB (Environmental Agency of the State of São Paulo) indexes were evaluated to determine water quality and environmental impact caused by urban growth. Statistical analysis of collected data revealed progressive basin deterioration from the first site of collection to the last site. At the beginning of the evaluated course, good water quality was observed. However, after flowing through the urban area, very poor quality indexes were detected. Based on the Wenger etal. guidelines two main problems were identified: weak enforcement of environmental laws, in addition to poorly legislated environmental urban planning.

Resumen En este estudio se recolectaron muestras de cuatro sitios diferentes del Río Frío, un arroyo que cruza la ciudad de Bucaramanga (Colombia). El curso evaluado inició en el área suburbana y culminó en las cercanías en donde el Río Frío se convierte en el afluente del Río de Oro. Se identificaron invertebrados pertenecientes a diferentes especies: Annelida, Mollusca y Artrópodos, correspondientes a cinco clases, 14 órdenes y 51 familias. De igual forma, se realizó un monitoreo biológico de los índices de los grupos de investigación (BMWP)/ Col., ICO, e ICA-CETESB (Agencia ambiental de São Paulo) con el fin de determinar la calidad del agua y el impacto ambiental causados por el crecimiento urbano. El análisis estadístico de la información obtenida reveló la deterioración progresiva de la cuenca del rio desde el primer sitio de la toma de la muestra hasta el final. Al inicio del curso evaluado, se observó una buena calidad del agua. Sin embargo, después de atravesar el área urbana, se detectaron índices de muy mala calidad. Basándose en Wenger et al., se identificaron dos problemas principales: un cumplimiento deficiente de las leyes ambientales, y un planeamiento urbanístico ambiental mal legislado.

Resumo Neste estudo se coletaram amostras de quatro locais diferentes do Rio Frío, um canal que cruza a cidade de Bucaramanga (Colômbia). O curso avaliado iniciou na área suburbana e culminou nas proximidades onde o Rio Frio se converte em afluente do Rio de Oro. Se identificaram invertebrados pertencentes a diferentes espécies: Annelida, Mollusca y Artrópodos, correspondentes a cinco classes, 14 ordens e 51 famílias. Adicionalmente, se realizou uma monitoração biológica dos índices dos grupos de investigação (BMWP)/Col., ICO, e ICA-CETESB (Agencia ambiental de São Paulo) com a finalidade de determinar a qualidade da água e o impacto ambiental causado pelo crescimento urbano. A análise estatística da informação obtida revelou a deterioração progressiva da bacia hidrográfica desde o primeiro local de coleta até o local final de amostragem. Na área inicial do curso elevado, se observou uma boa qualidade da água. Entretanto, depois de cruzar a área urbana, se detectaram índices de qualidade muito baixos. De acordo com as guias de Wenger e colaboradores, se identificaram dois problemas principais: um cumprimento deficiente das leis ambientais e um planejamento urbanístico ambiental mal legislado.

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RESUMO

Long-awaited positive trial data have shown the efficacy of endovascular treatment in patients with ischemic stroke who arrive at the hospital within the first 6 hours with large-vessel occlusion of the anterior circulation. With the introduction of stent retrievers (SRs) for mechanical thrombectomy, efficient and safe large-artery recanalization treatment can be achieved. However, sometimes there are patients who do not attain complete flow restoration following attempts with traditional maneuvers. The authors present the case of a 57-year-old man with acute ischemic stroke due to an M1 embolus that extended into both M2 trunks. This patient was successfully treated with an innovative technique in which a Solitaire SR (Covidien) and a Catch SR (Balt) were used in a "Y" configuration, for which the authors coined the term "Y-stent retriever."

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Computer models have been used to assess soil organic carbon (SOC) stock change. Commonly, models require to determine soil bulk density (Db), a variable that is often lacking in soil data bases. To partly overcome this problem, pedotransfer functions (PTFs) are developed to estimate Db from other easily available soil properties. However, only a few studies have determined the accuracy of these functions and quantified their effects on the final quality of the spatial variability maps. In this context, the objectives of this study were: i) to develop one PTF to estimate Db in soils of the Brazilian Central Amazon region; ii) to compare the performance of PTFs generated with three other models generally used to estimate Db in soils of the Amazon region; and iii) to quantify the effect of applying these PTFs on the spatial variability maps of SOC stock. Using data from 96 soil profiles in the Urucu river basin in Brazil, a multiple linear regression model was generated to estimate Db using SOC, pH, sum of basic cations, aluminum (Al+3), and clay content. This model outperformed the three other PTFs published in the literature. The average estimation error of SOC stock using our model was 0.03 Mg C ha1, which is markedly lower than the other PTFs (1.06 and 1.23 Mg C ha1, or 15 % and 17 %, respectively). Thus, the application of a non-validated PTF to estimate Db can introduce an error that is large enough to skew the significant difference in soil carbon stock change.(AU)

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