Subduction zone fluids and arc magmas conducted by lithospheric deformed regions beneath the central Andes

Dehydration of the oceanic subducting slab promotes the formation of magmatic arcs, intra-slab intermediate-depth seismicity, and hydration of the overlying mantle wedge. However, the complex permeability structure of the overriding plate controls the magma and fluid migration and their accumulation at shallower depths. In this regard, mapping the inner structure of the overriding crust and mantle is crucial to understand the magmatic and hydrological processes in subduction zones. We integrate 3-D P-wave, [Formula: see text], and electrical resistivity tomographic models of the northern Chilean subduction zone to map the magmatic and fluids derived from the subducting oceanic Nazca plate. Results show a continental crust relatively thick (50-65 km) characterized by a lower zone of high [Formula: see text] values (7.2-7.6 km/s), which is interpreted as the presence of plutonic rocks. The mantle lithospheric wedge is weakly hydrated ([Formula: see text] = 1.75-1.8) while the forearc continental crust is traversed by regions of reduced electrical resistivity values ([Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]) interpreted as zones of relatively high permeability/fracturing and fluid content. These regions spatially correlate with upper plate trans-lithospheric deformation zones. Ascending melts accumulate preferentially in the back-arc, whereas hydrothermal systems form trenchward of the volcanic arc. The results highlight the complex permeability structure of the upper South American plate.

Synthesis, optical and thermoluminescence properties of thulium-doped KMgF3 fluoroperovskite

KMgF₃ fluoroperovskite doped with thulium at different concentrations were synthesized by the solid-state reaction method. The phase composition and the thermal stability up to 600 °C of the polycrystals were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The KMgF₃ at 1.0 mol% of Tm polycrystals showed the best thermal stability and did not present another phase. The gamma radiation (0.1-10 kGy) effect in thulium-doped KMgF₃ produced the F color centers, and their aggregates such as F₂, and F₃ centers. The F centers, and the potassium vacancies (V_K^-) in the fluoroperosvkites were analyzed by the optical absorption and emission measurements. Optical absorption at 275 nm and 443 nm were assigned to F and F₂, respectively, in undoped KMgF₃. Tm-doped fluoroperovskite shows the optical absorption bands at 277, 393, 432, and 577 nm, which were ascribed to the F, F₃, F₂ and V_K^- centers, respectively. When the F band for undoped polycrystals was excited at 275 nm, a clear emission associated with F₂ and F₃ centers was observed. In the case of Tm-doped, an enhancement of the blue emission at 457 nm occurred and a UV band (354 nm) was observed upon exciting the F band. The blue emission of thulium was overlapped with the F₃ color center band. The emission bands at 457 and 354 nm were ascribed to ¹D₂ - ³F₄ and ¹D₂ - ³H₆ transitions of Tm in KMgF₃. The optical absorption and glow curves were investigated too. The glow curves were assisted by the color centers, vacancies, and thulium impurity. Thermal bleaching shows that the F center was the main participant to give rise to the TL intensity of the glow curves. Thulium acts as a deep electron trap in the bandgap of the KMgF₃ fluoroperovskites forming TL peak at the higher temperature, from 430 to 408 °C. The absorption, emission, and thermoluminescence glow peaks of the undoped and Tm-doped KMgF₃ were compared.

Secretagogin expression in the mouse olfactory bulb under sensory impairments

The interneurons of the olfactory bulb (OB) are characterized by the expression of different calcium-binding proteins, whose specific functions are not fully understood. This is the case of one of the most recently discovered, the secretagogin (SCGN), which is expressed in interneurons of the glomerular and the granule cell layers, but whose function in the olfactory pathway is still unknown. To address this question, we examined the distribution, generation and activity of SCGN-positive interneurons in the OB of two complementary models of olfactory impairments: Purkinje Cell Degeneration (PCD) and olfactory-deprived mice. Our results showed a significant increase in the density of SCGN-positive cells in the inframitral layers of olfactory-deprived mice as compared to control animals. Moreover, BrdU analyses revealed that these additional SCGN-positive cells are not newly formed. Finally, the neuronal activity, estimated by c-Fos expression, increased in preexisting SCGN-positive interneurons of both deprived and PCD mice -being higher in the later- in comparison with control animals. Altogether, our results suggest that the OB possesses different compensatory mechanisms depending on the type of alteration. Particularly, the SCGN expression is dependent of olfactory stimuli and its function may be related to a compensation against a reduction in sensory inputs.

The Male Warrior Hypothesis: Testosterone-related Cooperation and Aggression in the Context of Intergroup Conflict

The Male Warrior Hypothesis (MWH) establishes that men's psychology has been shaped by inter-group competition to acquire and protect reproductive resources. In this context, sex-specific selective pressures would have favored cooperation with the members of one's group in combination with hostility towards outsiders. We investigate the role of developmental testosterone, as measured indirectly through static markers of prenatal testosterone (2D:4D digit ratio) and pubertal testosterone (body musculature and facial masculinity), on both cooperation and aggressive behavior in the context of intergroup conflict among men. Supporting the MWH, our results show that the intergroup conflict scenario promotes cooperation within group members and aggression toward outgroup members. Regarding the hormonal underpinnings of this phenomenon, we find that body musculature is positively associated with aggression and cooperation, but only for cooperation when context (inter-group competition) is taken into account. Finally, we did not find evidence that the formidability of the group affected individual rates of aggression or cooperation, controlling for individual characteristics.

A7 Co-receptor tropism determined by genotypic assay in HIV-1 non-B subtypes circulating in Cuba: Implications for pathogenesis and Maraviroc resistance

The V3 loop of the HIV-1 envelope (env) gene is involved in binding to the chemokine receptors CCR5 and CXCR4, thus determining viral tropism. With the aim of genetically characterizing the C2V3 env region of HIV-1 samples from Cuban patients, naive to Maraviroc (MVC) therapy, 115 plasma samples were taken in the period of 2014–6 and analyzed by sequencing of the C2V3 region. HIV-1 subtyping was performed using COMET V.2 and Rega subtyping toolV.3 software. Subtypes were confirmed by phylogenetic analyses using Mega-6. Prediction of co-receptor tropism was performed using the geno2pheno algorithm. The viral mutations associated to MVC resistance were analyzed, as well as the association of the subtype with clinical, epidemiological, virological, and immunological variables. The subtypes detected using the C2V3 region were CRF20, 23, 24_BG (35 patients, 30.4%); Subtype B (33 patients, 28.7%); CRF19_cpx (30 patients, 26.1%); CRF18_cpx (10 patients, 8.7%); and others (7 patients, 6.1%). Overall, 60 per cent of the viruses exhibited R5 phenotype, 14.8 per cent were R5X4 and 25.2 per cent were X4. Interestingly, CRF19_cpx virus was associated with having phenotype X4 [46.7%, P = 0.0047, odds ratio (OR): 3.96, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.59–9.84], with infection in young individuals (39.1%, P = 0.025, OR: 3,548; 95% CI: 1,136–11,077) and with higher values of viral load (P ≤ 0.05). The comparison of the amino acid sequences of the V3 loop showed differences between the B and non-B subtypes (P = 0.0001). Mutations reported to be associated with MVC resistance, were detected in 75.7 per cent of the samples, in positions 11 (6.1%), 13 (49.6%), 25 (6.1%), 316 (7.0%), 323 (11.3%), and 319 (3.5%) of Gp120, particularly in the recombinant forms CRF19_cpx and CRF_BGs. HIV variants that use the CXCR4 co-receptor were associated with more than 10 years of diagnosis, with older individuals, in the AIDS stage, with low CD4 counts and higher viral load levels (P < 0.05). The results support the hypothesis previously stated that CRF19_cpx viruses could be more pathogenic and would have limitations for the use of MVC. The high rate of mutations associated to MVC among non-B Cuban subtypes should be further studied.

Water flow paths are hotspots for the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in soil

Antibiotic resistance genes in soil pose a potential risk for human health. They can enter the soil by irrigation with untreated or insufficiently treated waste water. We hypothesized that water flow paths trigger the formation of antibiotic resistance, since they transport antibiotics, multi-resistant bacteria and free resistance genes through the soil. To test this, we irrigated soil cores once or twice with waste water only, or with waste water added with sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and ciprofloxacin (CIP). The treatments also contained a dye to stain the water flow paths and allowed to sample these separately from unstained bulk soil. The fate of SMX and CIP was assessed by sorption experiments, leachate analyses and the quantification of total and extractable SMX and CIP in soil. The abundance of resistance genes to SMX (sul1 and sul2) and to CIP (qnrB and qnrS) was quantified by qPCR. The sorption of CIP was larger than the dye and SMX. Ciprofloxacin accumulated exclusively in the water flow paths but the resistance genes qnrB and qnrS were not detectable. The SMX concentration in the water flow paths doubled the concentration of the bulk soil, as did the abundance of sul genes, particularly sul1 gene. These results suggest that flow paths do function as hotspots for the accumulation of antibiotics and trigger the formation of resistance genes in soil. Their dissemination also depends on the mobility of the antibiotic, which was much larger for SMX than for CIP.

Peripheral blood monocyte and T cell subsets in children with specific polysaccharide antibody deficiency (SPAD)

Specific polysaccharide antibody deficiency (SPAD) is a well reported immunodeficiency characterized by a failure to produce antibodies against polyvalent polysaccharide antigens, expressed by encapsulated microorganisms. The clinical presentation of these patients involves recurrent bacterial infections, being the most frequent agent Streptococcus (S.) pneumoniae. In SPAD patients few reports refer to cells other than B cells. Since the immune response to S. pneumoniae and other encapsulated bacteria was historically considered restricted to B cells, the antibody deficiency seemed enough to justify the repetitive infections in SPAD patients. Our purpose is to determine if the B cell defects reported in SPAD patients are accompanied by defects in other leukocyte subpopulations necessary for the development of a proper adaptive immune response against S. pneumoniae. We here report that age related changes observed in healthy children involving increased percentages of classical monocytes (CD14++ CD16- cells) and decreased intermediate monocytes (CD14++ CD16+ cells), are absent in SPAD patients. Alterations can also be observed in T cells, supporting that the immune deficiency in SPAD patients is more complex than what has been described up to now.

Persistent natural acidification drives major distribution shifts in marine benthic ecosystems

Ocean acidification is receiving increasing attention because of its potential to affect marine ecosystems. Rare CO2 vents offer a unique opportunity to investigate the response of benthic ecosystems to acidification. However, the benthic habitats investigated so far are mainly found at very shallow water (less than or equal to 5 m depth) and therefore are not representative of the broad range of continental shelf habitats. Here, we show that a decrease from pH 8.1 to 7.9 observed in a CO2 vent system at 40 m depth leads to a dramatic shift in highly diverse and structurally complex habitats. Forests of the kelp Laminaria rodriguezii usually found at larger depths (greater than 65 m) replace the otherwise dominant habitats (i.e. coralligenous outcrops and rhodolith beds), which are mainly characterized by calcifying organisms. Only the aragonite-calcifying algae are able to survive in acidified waters, while high-magnesium-calcite organisms are almost completely absent. Although a long-term survey of the venting area would be necessary to fully understand the effects of the variability of pH and other carbonate parameters over the structure and functioning of the investigated mesophotic habitats, our results suggest that in addition of significant changes at species level, moderate ocean acidification may entail major shifts in the distribution and dominance of key benthic ecosystems at regional scale, which could have broad ecological and socio-economic implications.

Monitoring changes in anti-tuberculosis treatment: associated factors determined at the time of diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

To determine predictive factors for changes in standard anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy at the time of diagnosis.

METHODS

A prospective study was performed among tuberculosis (TB) patients treated at specialised centres during 2008-2009. Treatment outcome was monitored per standard guidelines. Treatment was considered successful if the patient was cured or completed treatment. Factors associated with treatment modification were analysed at the bivariate and multivariate levels using logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 427 patients were included in the study. The initial standard treatment regimen was retained for 249 patients (58.3%), extended to 9 months for 36 (8.4%) and changed for 142 (33.3%). Factors associated with a change of regimen at the multivariate level were female sex, age ≥ 50 years, human immunodeficiency virus infection, comorbidities, alcoholism, hospitalisation and culture-positive sputum. Drug resistance and toxicity were analysed independently. Treatment outcome was successful in 97.2% of cases without a regimen change and in 87.3% of those with a changed regimen (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Factors associated with changes in the initial anti-tuberculosis regimen should be considered for rigorous follow-up. Results obtained through individualised treatment provided by specialists were good despite the complexity of the cases treated.

Three-dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging assessment of cervix and vagina in women with uterine malformations

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the accuracy of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) with respect to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and compared to clinical examination, in the assessment of cervix and vagina in women with uterine malformations.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 16 patients diagnosed with uterine malformation with cervical involvement underwent 3D-US examination. The acquisition of cervical volumes was transvaginal, with four cases repeated in the peri-ovulation period, while vaginal volumes were acquired by transperineal imaging following filling of the vagina with gel. MRI was performed in 13 patients using endovaginal gel. All cases underwent clinical examination, comprising bimanual gynecological examination and speculoscopy. Diagnostic concordance of each of the methods with the gold standard was calculated.

RESULTS

3D-US cervical examinations revealed 12 cases of duplicate cervix, two of complete septate cervix and two of incomplete septate cervix. Images of the cervical canal in the peri-ovulation period were judged subjectively to be better in quality, but did not lead us to change any diagnosis. 3D-US vaginal examinations revealed four cases with a vaginal dividing wall and two with a blind hemivagina. None of the 3D-US findings contradicted the clinical findings of the cervix; however, clinically we observed two cases with vaginal dividing wall that had not been diagnosed with 3D-US. MRI diagnosed nine cases of duplicate cervix, three of complete septate cervix, one of incomplete septate cervix, five of vaginal dividing wall and two of blind hemivagina. One case diagnosed as complete septate cervix was in fact a duplicate cervix on 3D-US and on clinical examination. Compared with the gold standard, both 3D-US and MRI were highly efficient in the diagnosis of anomalies of the cervix and vagina. The overall diagnostic concordance of 3D-US with clinical examination (kappa, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.62-1) was slightly inferior to that of MRI with clinical examination (kappa, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.72-1), but this difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The acquisition of isolated cervical volumes, without including the uterus, defines the extent of the ectocervix and the limits of the cervical canal in uterine malformations. The use of endovaginal gel makes possible the diagnosis of associated vaginal anomalies with 3D-US.

Bioimpedance system for monitoring muscle and cardiovascular activity in the stump of lower-limb amputees

A bioimpedance system for the continuous measurement of non-invasive physiological parameters in lower-limb amputees is presented. The aim of the system is to monitor as many physiological parameters as possible from a single bioimpedance electrode configuration. In this way, a simple, low-cost and low-size autonomous system is developed that is able to continuously monitor the amputee in different environments (home, work, etc). The system measures both electrical impedance myography and electrical impedance plethysmography in the stump with electrodes placed in the inside face of a silicone interface. Such a system allows for the monitoring of a patient's muscle activity, and heart and breath rate, thus enabling the study and continuous monitoring of prosthesis adaptation and improvement of patient's gait to reduce physiological stress. Additionally, it can prevent cardiovascular problems due to the effort involved in the use of prostheses, which can decrease the life expectancy of amputees with previous vascular diseases. Experimental results obtained from different amputees' test validate the purpose of the system.

Latent tuberculosis infection among health care workers at a general hospital in Santiago de Cuba

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and its predictors in general hospital personnel.

METHODS

Two tuberculin skin tests (TSTs) were carried out within 2 years in a sample of 371 health care workers (HCWs) at a general hospital in Santiago de Cuba Province, along with an interview to explore the association of LTBI with age, sex, occupation, contact history of TB and bacille Calmette-Guérin scar. A 10 mm cut-off point was used; an increase of ≥10 mm in the second TST was considered as tuberculin conversion.

RESULTS

Of the 350 HCWs with available TST re- sults, 82% were female; the mean age was 37.6 years. LTBI prevalence was 15.4%: it was highest in professionals (20.6%); 60.3% were non-reactors, and at the second test a year later 1.4% were converters. Among the HCWs, physicians had the highest prevalence (21.8%), followed by nurses (19.6%), while administrative staff had the lowest prevalence (3.3%). The mean induration was 3.78 mm; it was highest in professionals (4.4 mm) and the lowest among support staff (2.6 mm). Contact with TB cases was found to be a risk factor for LTBI.

CONCLUSIONS

Even at low levels, TB transmission in this hospital could be associated with risk exposure. It is recommended that preventive chemotherapy be given to tuberculin converters as an infection control measure in this hospital.

Chemical composition and cooking properties of beef forequarter muscles of Mexican cattle from different genotypes

Beef forequarter muscles biceps brachii (BRB), brachialis (BRA), complexus (COM), splenius (SPL), infraspinatus (INF), teres major (TER), rhomboideus (RHO), subscapularis (SUB), supraspinatus (SUP), triceps brachii long-head (TRB) and triceps brachii lateral-head (TRI) were obtained from Mexican beef carcasses originated from Bos indicus (Bi, n=10) or Bos taurus (Bt, n=10) young bulls. Muscles were analyzed for WBSF, cooking loss, and moisture and fat contents. INF had the lowest WBSF (37.23N) and cooking loss (31.78%) of all. RHO exhibited the lowest moisture (72.62%) and highest fat content (5.23%) of all. Bi genotype exhibited higher WBSF (53.78, 48.69N), higher cook loss (36.27, 34.32%), higher fat content (2.93, 2.35%), and lower moisture content (73.70, 75.07%) than Bt. Further research is needed to estimate the actual consumer acceptance of beef forequarter muscles and their marketing potential as individual cuts in the Mexican market.

Changes in the serotonergic system and in brain-derived neurotrophic factor distribution in the main olfactory bulb of pcd mice before and after mitral cell loss

The serotonergic centrifugal system innervating the main olfactory bulb (MOB) plays a key role in the modulation of olfactory processing. We have previously demonstrated that this system suffers adaptive changes under conditions of a lack of olfactory input. The present work examines the response of this centrifugal system after mitral cell loss in the Purkinje cell degeneration (pcd) mutant mice. The distribution and density of serotonergic centrifugal axons were studied in the MOB of control and pcd mice, both before and after the loss of mitral cells, using serotonin (5-HT) and 5-HT transporter immunohistochemistry. Studies of the amount of 5-HT and its metabolite, 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA), were performed by means of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the relative amounts of brain-derived neurotrophin factor, BDNF, and its major receptor, tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), were measured by Western blot. Our study revealed that the serotonergic system develops adaptive changes after, but not before, mitral cell loss. The lack of the main bulbar projection cells causes a decrease in the serotonergic input received by the MOB, whereas the number of serotonergic cells in the raphe nuclei remains constant. In addition, one of the molecules directly involved in serotonergic sprouting, the neurotrophin BDNF and its main receptor TrkB, underwent alterations in the MOBs of the pcd animals even before the loss of mitral cells. These data indicate that serotonergic function in the MOB is closely related to olfactory activity and that mitral cell loss induces serotonergic plastic responses.

[Initial experience in single site laparoscopic surgery in a pediatric hospital of Bogotá]

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery is the current accepted approach for abdominal surgery. However, less invasive techniques such as single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) are being used more frequently and we believe it will become the standard choice for abdominal surgery. This report describes our initial experience with Single Port Incision Surgery (SILS).

METHODS

We reviewed all the patients who underwent SILS in our hospital between November 2009 and July 2011. We used a surgical glove attached to a wound retractor to yield a multi-port hybrid.

RESULTS

We present 80 patients with a mean age of 8.6 years and mean weight of 32,1 kg. The youngest patient was 8 days old and the smallest patient weighed 2.5 kg. The average duration of surgery was 48.2 minutes. The average length of stay was 48.7 hours. Different procedures were performed: appendectomies for early appendicitis (55%), hepatic biopsies (15%), appendectomies for perforated appendicitis (7.5%), and the following isolated cases: cholecystectomy, Meckel's diverticulum resection, oophorectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, ovarian cystectomy, bowel biopsy, and a resection of an accessory spleen torsion. SILS was successfully completed in 78 cases, and 2 cases were converted to standard laparoscopy and none to open surgery. There were no intraoperative surgical complications. Postoperative complications presented in 5 cases: a superficial incisional site infection, two residual abdominal abscesses, one bowel obstruction and one evisceration. The last two cases subsequently resulted in reoperation and occurred early in our learning curve.

CONCLUSIONS

SILS is a reproducible and viable technique that may be used successfully in pediatric surgery. It may be used safely in different procedures and age groups, even in neonates. Time of surgery decreased with our learning curve. Additionally, excellent cosmetic results were obtained as evidenced by imperceptible umbilical scarring.

Long-lasting changes in the anatomy of the olfactory bulb after ionizing irradiation and bone marrow transplantation

The adult brain is considered to be a radioresistant organ since it is mainly composed of non-dividing cells. However, in adult animals there are a few neurogenic brain areas that are affected by ionizing radiation whose plasticity and capacity for recovery are still unclear. Here, mice were irradiated with a minimal lethal dose of radiation in order to determine its effects on the subventricular zone (SVZ), the rostral migratory stream (RMS), and the olfactory bulb (OB). These regions underwent a dramatic reduction in cell proliferation and ensuing morphological alterations, accompanied by a patent reactive gliosis. Bone marrow stem cell (BMSC) transplants were also performed after the radiation treatment to allow the mouse survival with a view to analyzing long-term effects. Normal proliferation rates were not recovered over time and although bone marrow-derived cells reached the brain, they were not incorporated into the SVZ-RMS-OB pathway in an attempt to rescue the damaged regions. Since neurogenesis produces new interneurones in the OB, thus feeding cell turnover, the volume and lamination of the OB were analyzed. The volume of the OB proved to be dramatically reduced at postnatal day 300 (P300), and this shrinkage affected the periependymal white matter, the granule cell layer, the external plexiform layer, and the glomerular layer. These results should be taken into account in cell therapies employing BMSC, since such cells reach the encephalon, although they cannot restore the damage produced in neurogenic areas. This study thus provides new insight into the long-term effects of ionizing radiation, widely employed in animal experimentation and even in clinical therapies for human beings.

Minimum inhibitory concentrations of medicinal plants used in Northern Peru as antibacterial remedies

AIM

The plant species reported here are traditionally used in Northern Peru to treat bacterial infections, often addressed by the local healers as "inflammation". The aim of this study was to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of their antibacterial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antimicrobial activity of ethanolic and water extracts of 141 plant species was determined using a deep-well broth microdilution method on commercially available bacterial strains.

RESULTS

The ethanolic extracts of 51 species inhibited Escherichia coli, and 114 ethanolic extracts inhibited Staphylococcus aureus. In contrast, only 30 aqueous extracts showed activity against Escherichia coli and 38 extracts against Staphylococcus aureus. The MIC concentrations were mostly very high and ranged from 0.008 to 256 mg/ml, with only 36 species showing inhibitory concentrations of <4 mg/ml. The ethanolic extracts exhibited stronger activity and a much broader spectrum of action than the aqueous extracts. Hypericum laricifolium, Hura crepitans, Caesalpinia paipai, Cassia fistula, Hyptis sidifolia, Salvia sp., Banisteriopsis caapi, Miconia salicifolia and Polygonum hydropiperoides showed the lowest MIC values and would be interesting candidates for future research.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of antibacterial activity could be confirmed in most species used in traditional medicine in Peru which were assayed in this study. However, the MIC for the species employed showed a very large range, and were mostly very high. Nevertheless, traditional knowledge might provide some leads to elucidate potential candidates for future development of new antibiotic agents.

Thermal characterization of ZnO-DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) colloidal dispersions using the inverse photopyroelectric technique

Nanofluids, i.e., colloidal dispersions of nanoparticles in a base liquid (solvent), have received considerable attention in the last years due to their potential applications. One attractive feature of these systems is that their thermal conductivity can exceed the corresponding values of the base fluid and of the fluid with large particles of the same chemical composition. However, there is a lack of agreement between published results and the suggested mechanisms which explain the thermal conductivity enhancement. Here we show the possibilities of the inverse photopyroelectric method for the determination of the effective thermal effusivity of the system constituted by small ZnO nanoparticles dispersed in dimethyl sulfoxide, as a function of the nanoparticles volumetric fraction. Using a phenomenological model we estimated the thermal conductivity of these colloidal samples without observing any significant enhancement of this parameter above effective medium predictions.

Discrimination and mental health in Ecuadorian immigrants in Spain

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of ethnic discrimination on the mental health of Ecuadorian immigrants in Spain and to assess the roles of material and social resources.

METHODS

Data were taken from the "Neighbourhood characteristics, immigration and mental health" survey conducted in 2006 in Spain. Psychological distress measured as "Possible Psychiatric Case" (PPC) was measured by the GHQ-28. A logistic regression was fitted to assess the association between PPC and discrimination. Interactions of discrimination with social and material resources were tested using product terms.

RESULTS

Some 28% of the participants met our definition of PPC. About 20% of those who reported no discrimination were PPCs, rising to 30% of those who sometimes felt discriminated against and 41% of those who continually perceived discrimination. The OR for continuous discrimination was 12 (95% CI 3.5 to 40.3) among those with high financial strain, and 10 (2.4 to 41.7) when there was lack of economic support. Emotional support had an independent effect on PPC (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.0 to 3.6, for those who reported having no friends). Social integration through a community group or association was positively related to the probability of being a PPC (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.0 to 2.9).

CONCLUSION

Ethnic discrimination is associated with psychological distress in these Ecuadorian immigrants in Spain. Discrimination effects may be exacerbated among those facing economic stress and those without economic support. These particularly vulnerable immigrants should be the subject of social and health interventions.

Sexual dimorphic stages affect both proliferation and serotonergic innervation in the adult rostral migratory stream

One of the sexual dimorphic differences in adult rodents is neural proliferation. Here we demonstrate that physiological hormone stages can modulate this proliferation in the adult forebrain. Female mice, both pregnant and synchronized in oestrus, exhibited higher proliferating cell percentages than males in both the rostral migratory stream (RMS) and the olfactory bulb (OB). Moreover, although the hormonal component also influenced the subventricular zone (SVZ), no differences in proliferation were observed in this region. In addition, both groups of females had higher numbers of serotonergic fibres in these regions. Serotonin may therefore be related to the mechanism of action by which hormones can affect cell proliferation of this brain region. We also evaluated cell death in the SVZ in males and females, finding that this was higher in the former. Taken together, our results support the idea that in female rodents more neuroblasts are able to reach the RMS and then proliferate, apoptosis being an additional mechanism affecting the low proliferation of cells in the RMS and OB in males. Thus, proliferation in the RMS is influenced by sexual dimorphism.

Direct interaction of colloidal nanostructured ZnO and SnO2 with NO and SO2

A novel and easy synthesis pathway of small SnO2 nanoparticles is reported. The method consists of the spontaneous hydrolysis of SnCl4 x 5H2O in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), containing 3% water, at room temperature. The structure of the SnO2 nanocrystals corresponds to that of the cassiterite phase, as shown by powder X-ray diffraction and HR-TEM. The UV-visible electronic absorption and emission spectra of the SnO2 colloids are discussed. The reactions of NO(g) and SO2(g) with ZnO (wurtzite phase) and SnO2 nanocolloids are studied. The interaction of NO with ZnO nanoparticles generates the dissolution of the particles and it is quite probable that NO3(-1), NOs(-2), N2O and N2 are formed; while its contact with SO2 probably yields SO4(-2), SO3(-2) and also the dissolution of the particles is observed. When these gases are reacted with SnO2, then NO3(-1), NO2(-1), SO3(-2) and SO4(-2), were respectively obtained.

The goat mammary glandular epithelial (GMGE) cell line promotes polyfucosylation and N,N′-diacetyllactosediaminylation of N-glycans linked to recombinant human erythropoietin

We have established a continuous, non-transformed cell line from primary cultures from Capra hircus mammary gland. Low-density cultures showed a homogeneous epithelial morphology without detectable fibroblastic or myoepithelial cells. The culture was responsive to contact inhibition of proliferation and its doubling time was dependent on the presence of insulin and epidermal growth factor (EGF). GMGE cells secrete caseins regardless of the presence or absence of lactogenic hormones in the culture media. Investigation of the total N-glycan pool of human erythropoietin (rhEPO) expressed in GMGE cells by monosaccharide analysis, HPLC profiling, and mass spectrometry, indicated significant differences with respect to the same protein expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. N-Glycans of rhEPO-GMGE are core-fucosylated, but fucosylation of outer arms was also found. Our results also revealed the presence of low levels of sialylation (>95% Neu5Ac), N,N'-diacetyllactosediamine units, and possibly Gal-Gal non-reducing terminal elements.

Distribution of Neurocalcin-Containing Neurons Reveals Sexual Dimorphism in the Mouse Olfactory Bulb

Olfactory sexual dimorphism has mainly been described in the vomeronasal system, in relation to reproductive behavior, while evidence of sexual dimorphism in the main olfactory bulb (OB) remains scarce. There are no data indicating sex-related differences in the neurochemistry of intrinsic olfactory elements. Neurocalcin (NC) is a calcium-binding protein that is expressed in specific neuronal populations of the central nervous system. Here we analyzed by immunohistochemistry the NC-containing neurons in the mouse main OB, comparing both their quantities and their locations between male and female animals. NC cell density was higher in males than in females in specific locations of the glomerular layer, the external plexiform layer, the mitral cell layer, and the internal plexiform layer. This divergence in the numbers of NC cells was especially patent in central rostrocaudal levels. The NC-containing neurons exhibiting sexual divergence were identified as both juxtaglomerular and short-axon cells. This is the first description of sexual dimorphism regarding neurons belonging to the mouse main OB. According to their distribution in the OB, neurocalcin-immunoreactive interneurons could reflect a sexually dimorphic regulation of specific odorants.

Contrasting Effects of Cd2+ and Co2+ on the Blocking/Unblocking of Human Cav3 Channels

Inorganic ions have been used widely to investigate biophysical properties of high voltage-activated calcium channels (HVA: Ca(v)1 and Ca(v)2 families). In contrast, such information regarding low voltage-activated calcium channels (LVA: Ca(v)3 family) is less documented. We have studied the blocking effect of Cd2+, Co2+ and Ni2+ on T-currents expressed by human Ca(v)3 channels: Ca(v)3.1, Ca(v)3.2, and Ca(v)3.3. With the use of the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique, we have recorded Ca2+ (2 mM: ) currents from HEK-293 cells stably expressing recombinant T-type channels. Cd2+ and Co2+ block was 2- to 3-fold more potent for Ca(v)3.2 channels (EC50 = 65 and 122 microM, respectively) than for the other two LVA channel family members. Current-voltage relationships indicate that Co2+ and Ni2+ shift the voltage dependence of Ca(v)3.1 and Ca(v)3.3 channels activation to more positive potentials. Interestingly, block of those two Ca(v)3 channels by Co2+ and Ni2+ was drastically increased at extreme negative voltages; in contrast, block due to Cd2+ was significantly decreased. This unblocking effect was slightly voltage-dependent. Tail-current analysis reveals a differential effect of Cd2+ on Ca(v)3.3 channels, which can not close while the pore is occupied with this metal cation. The results suggest that metal cations affect differentially T-type channel activity by a mechanism involving the ionic radii of inorganic ions and structural characteristics of the channels pore.

Double cationic propargylation: from linear to polycyclic ethers

[reaction: see text]. The trapping of cations generated from Co2(CO)6-bispropargylic alcohols provided diethers in good yield. The procedure is also valid when two vicinal acetylenes are present. The methodology can be applied to the synthesis of symmetrical or unsymmetrical linear or cyclic propargylic ethers. The use of substrates with a stereochemically defined secondary nucleophilic alcohol provided cyclic ethers with a high degree of stereocontrol.

Localization of glutamate-cysteine ligase mRNA and protein in mouse kidney and induction with methylmercury

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a toxicant that targets the kidney among other tissues. MeHg accumulates in the kidney, where it indirectly produces oxidative stress due to glutathione depletion and leakage of reactive oxygen species from the mitochondria. Glutathione is believed to have an important role in protecting the kidney against MeHg toxicity, and MeHg exposure is known to result in the induction of GSH synthesis through the upregulation of the enzyme glutamate-cysteine ligase (GLCL). GLCL, the rate-limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis, is composed of two subunits, a large catalytic (GLCLc) and a smaller regulatory (GLCLr) subunit. In this study we show that GLCLc and GLCLr mRNAs and GLCLc protein are localized in the paracortical region of the mouse kidney, the area of the kidney with the highest MeHg concentration, and that the upregulation of these mRNAs induced by MeHg is also located to the same region. This supports the role of GLCL in protection against MeHg toxicity in the kidney.

Tissue specific changes in the expression of glutamate-cysteine ligase mRNAs in mice exposed to methylmercury

Glutamate-cysteine ligase (GLCL), the rate-limiting enzyme in glutathione (GSH) synthesis is composed of two subunits, a catalytic (GLCLc) and a regulatory subunit (GLCLr). These two subunits are known to be differentially regulated in vitro, in different cell types and in response to various xenobiotic exposures. In this study, we examined whether these two subunits can also be differentially regulated in vivo. We found that GLCLc and GLCLr are differentially regulated at the transcriptional level in a tissue-dependent manner in female mice treated with methylmercury (MeHg). MeHg caused a downregulation of both subunit mRNAs in the liver, upregulation of both subunit mRNAs in the kidney and upregulation of only the catalytic subunit mRNA in the small intestine of female mice treated with a single dose of MeHg (6 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection. These results suggest that GLCLc and GLCLr can be differentially regulated in vivo, and that this regulation is tissue dependent in the mouse.

[Diagnosis of tuberculosis meningitis by detection of adenosine deaminase activity and amplification of nucleotide sequences with PCR]

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most severe and lethal form of tuberculosis. The rapid bacteriological diagnosis with the conventional techniques is nearly impossible in TBM. There for many patients are treated with anti-TBC drugs without a definitive diagnosis. A more fast and accurate diagnostic method is necessary, in order to initiate the treatment on time to prevent the irreversible neurologic sequel or death. We evaluated the use of two rapid methods: Adenosine deaminase activity (ADA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for IS6110 and mtp40 sequences on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from chronic meningitis patients. For ADA activity > 8.0 U/L the sensibility and specificity was 80% and 91%. PCR sensibility was 80% and specificity 97%. ADA activity and PCR on CSF could be specially useful as complementary tools in the early diagnosis of TBM.

Merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy associated with abnormal cerebral cortical gyration: an autopsy study

We report clinical, biopsy and autopsy findings in a merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) infant with abnormal cortical gyration. Brain showed polymicrogyria and occipital agyria with marginal neuroglial heterotopia and inferior vermis hypoplasia. There was a normal pattern of myelination consistent with early age. Laminin alpha 2 chain was also absent in myocardium, brain pial-glial membrane, brain and skin blood vessels as well as intramuscular and skin nerves. Occasional basal lamina gaps were found in muscle fibres but not in brain-blood vessels. This is the first autopsy study in a merosin-deficient CMD case with abnormal cortical gyration.

Study of the binding in an aqueous medium of inclusion complexes of several cyclodextrins involving fenoprofen calcium

Interactions among fenoprofen calcium and alpha-, beta-, gamma- and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrins (HP-beta-CD) were evaluated in aqueous solution by UV/vis and fluorescence direct spectroscopies and monodimensional (1D) 1H-NMR. Different UV/vis and fluorescence emission spectra were obtained to study the apparent binding constants (K) to define the most appropriate cyclodextrin to form the inclusion complexes (IC). beta-CD and HP-beta-CD clearly fit the magnitude of stability constant data of the complexes to take into account the pharmaceutical technology interest.

Solubility, 1H-NMR, and molecular mechanics of mebendazole with different cyclodextrins

The solubility behavior and binding constants (Kass) of mebendazole with alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrins (HP-beta-CD) have been investigated in simulated intestinal juice by the Higuchi and Connors method. AL diagrams have been obtained. The equilibrium has also been studied in simulated gastric fluid with HP-beta-CD. The phase solubility, 1H-NMR, and molecular mechanics studies revealed the formation of a 1:1 complex.

Binding, molecular mechanics, and thermodynamics of cyclodextrin inclusion complexes with ketoprofen in aqueous medium

The purpose of this work was to study the interaction forces involved in the inclusion processes of ketoprofen with several cyclodextrins and to assess the best cyclodextrin for complexing this anti-inflammatory drug. The behavior of the inclusion complexes of ketoprofen with alpha-, beta-, and gamma-cyclodextrins was studied by UV-VIS direct spectroscopy, 1H NMR, and molecular mechanics. Thermodynamic parameters for the binding processes were obtained from the temperature variations in binding constants, which manifest that "nonclassical" hydrophobic interactions are the main forces involved in these inclusion processes. Binding constants show that beta- and gamma-cyclodextrins form more stable 1:1 complexes with ketoprofen than does alpha-cyclodextrin. 1H NMR spectra show that the inclusion degree depends on the size of the internal diameter of cyclodextrin. The geometries calculated on the bases of molecular mechanics for these three-dimensional models indicate high stability.

Complexation and solubility behavior of albendazole with some cyclodextrins

The main purpose of this work was to study the albendazole-cyclodextrins complexation equilibrium and to propose a suitable excipient to improve the solubility behavior and dissolution rate of albendazole. The complexation of albendazole with four cyclodextrins, alpha-CD, beta-CD, gamma-CD, and hydroxypropylated (HP)-beta-CD, has been studied by using electronic absorption spectroscopy and molecular mechanics. The equilibrium was studied at pH 7.5 under various temperature conditions, and at pH 1.8 with HP-beta-CD at 298 K. The albendazole binding constant was the greatest for the HP-beta-CD. Both the un-ionized (Alb) and the ionized species (AlbH+) were shown to interact with HP-beta-CD. The studies at different temperatures suggest that the hydrophobic effect is the most important driving force in these systems. Moreover, the dissolution rate studies with beta- and HP-beta-CDs in the buffered aqueous solution at pH 7.5 have been accomplished and the dissolution rate was observed to increase with the cyclodextrin concentration. The solubility behavior was studied with the Higuchi and Connors method. The phase solubility and direct spectroscopy methods reveal a 1:1 inclusion complex in all of the studied cases. Molecular mechanics data show the most probable structure of the complexes.

Molecular structure and gas chromatographic retention behavior of the components of Ylang-Ylang oil

Using quantitative structure-retention relationships (QSRR) methodologies the Kovats gas chromatographic retention indices for both apolar (DB-1) and polar (DB-Wax) columns for 48 compounds from Ylang-Ylang essential oil were empirically predicted from calculated and experimental data on molecular structure. Topological, geometric, and electronic descriptors were obtained for model generation. Relationships between descriptors and the retention data reported were established by linear multiple regression, giving equations that can be used to predict the Kovats indices for compounds present in essential oils, both in DB-1 and DB-Wax columns. Factor analysis was performed to interpret the meaning of the descriptors included in the models. The prediction model for the DB-1 column includes descriptors such as Randic's first-order connectivity index (1X), the molecular surface (MSA), the sum of the atomic charge on all the hydrogens (QH), Randic's third-order connectivity index (3X) and the molecular electronegativity (chi). The prediction model for the DB-Wax column includes the first three descriptors mentioned for the DB-1 column (1X, MSA and QH) and the most negative charge (MNC), the global softness (S), and the difference between Randic's and Kier and Hall's third-order connectivity indexes (3X-3XV).

Modulation of human papillomavirus type 16 mRNA in cervical invasive carcinoma patients by interferon-alpha therapy

Mechanisms by which interferon produces papilloma regression remain largely unknown. We analyzed biopsies from three cervical invasive carcinoma patients treated with interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) administered both topically and i.m. for 15 days. All specimens contained human papillomavirus (HPV-16) DNA as determined by polymerase chain reaction using specific HPV-16 E7 primers. Interestingly, in two patients. HPV-16 mRNA expression was reduced (44% and 67%, respectively) after IFN treatment. Upregulation of 2-5 A synthetase and PKR mRNA levels were indicative of the IFN effect. A larger study should be initiated to see whether IFN-alpha modulates the HPV-16 mRNA levels in tumor biopsies from cervical carcinoma patients.

A descriptive-exploratory study of outcome and some biopsychosocial characteristics of drug dependent veterans in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVE

The authors attempted to correlate outcomes with various significant biopsychosocial variables in drug dependent veterans receiving outpatient treatment at San Juan V.A.M.C.

METHODS

The clinical charts of 120 inactive patients were examined using a 50 item questionnaire. The data was processed and analyzed using the EpiInfo v.5 computer program. The outcome of the patients was measured using a Goal Attainment Scale Technique with demonstrated validity and reliability.

RESULTS

The patients retention in treatment for 12 or more visits and its relationship to good outcomes was the most significant finding of this study (P < 0.00000000, 80.5% of patients improved). Only 5% of patients with 3 or less visits showed positive outcomes. Another variable associated with good outcomes was a supportive wife (P < 0.02). HIV reactivity was strongly correlated with IV drug use (P < 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

The strong correlation of the retention of patients in treatment for 12 or more visits and good outcomes should alert clinicians and policy makers as to the importance of available and effective treatments in the fight against substance abuse and mental health problems. This study also showed that a supportive family member is usually the best social asset that patients and therapists have in their fight for sobriety.

Effects of subconjunctival methylprednisolone on the blood aqueous barrier following cataract surgery

The aim of this double-blind randomized study was to assess the effect of subconjunctival methylprednisolone hemisuccinate (MH) on the recovery of the blood aqueous barrier (BAB) following uncomplicated cataract surgery performed by the same surgeon in normal eyes. Fifty eyes of fifty patients (28 female, 22 male, mean age 72.3 +/- 11.2 years) were randomized into two groups: group 1 received a subconjunctival injection of MH (40 mg in 0.5 cc) at the end of the surgery and group 2 did not. All patients were free of other ocular or systemic diseases known to alter the BAB and were not taking any anti-inflammatory medications. Postoperative treatments were similar in both groups. The patients were submitted to laser flare photometry 30 minutes to one hour after mydriasis with a drop of tropicamide preoperatively and on the first, second and seventh day and then one month and six months following surgery. No difference in aqueous flare was seen between the two groups on any of postoperative visits. These data suggest that subconjunctival MH has no beneficial effect in postoperative BAB permeability following uncomplicated cataract surgery in normal eyes.

[Effect of antibiotic prophylaxis with vancomycin on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection following liver transplantation]

An epidemic outbreak of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infections affecting liver transplantation patients was detected in our hospital. In this study we describe the special characteristics of the infections and the results of prophylactic treatment with Vancomycin. Between april 1990 and december 1991, 47 patients with mean age of 54.4 +/- 10 years underwent liver transplantation. The patients were included in two chronological groups: 1) Group I: 20 patients not treated prophylactically with Vancomycin; 2) Group II: 27 consecutive patients treated with Vancomycin. Systematical cultures of body fluids for bacteria and fungi were done in every patient, and were repeated after 24 hours. The cultures were repeated again in case of sepsis. Group I patients had a significantly higher frequency of MRSA infections than group II patients. Furthermore, in patients with MRSA infection, independently of the group, duration of transplantation (p < 0.01), reoperations (p < 0.001) and prophylactic treatment with Vancomycin (p < 0.001) were significative factors. In conclusion, Vancomycin appears to be an elective prophylactic antibiotic in case of high risk of MRSA sepsis after liver transplantation.