Resumen El objetivo del trabajo fue comparar el comportamiento de elementos climáticos y eventos térmicos extremos entre dos unidades de paisaje de la ciudad de Neuquén (Argentina) para el período 2013-2020. Se examinaron datos diarios de temperatura mínima -Tmin-, temperatura máxima -Tmax- y humedad relativa -HR- de las estaciones meteorológicas “Neuquén Aero” (NA) y “Paseo de la Costa” (PC), referentes del valle (área periurbana) y del corredor fluvial (entorno ripario) respectivamente. Se analizó la influencia de la ribera en las Tmin y Tmax diarias durante Olas de Calor (OC) y Olas de Frío (OF) en el valle según metodología del Servicio Meteorológico Nacional. Las Tmax (Tmin) medias, a resoluciones anual, estacional y mensual, resultaron menores (mayores) en PC. Los valores medios de HR fueron superiores en NA. Durante las OC, se exhibió un efecto regulador respecto a la cantidad de días que se excedieron los valores umbrales de manera consecutiva en el litoral fluvial.

Resumo O objetivo do trabalho foi comparar o comportamento de elementos climáticos e eventos térmicos extremos entre duas unidades de paisagem da cidade de Neuquén, Argentina, no período de 2013 a 2020. Foram analisados dados diários de temperatura mínima (Tmin), temperatura máxima (Tmax) e umidade relativa (UR) das estações meteorológicas “Neuquén Aero” (NA) e “Paseo de la Costa” (PC), que são referências do vale (área periurbana) e do corredor fluvial (ambiente ribeirinho), respectivamente. Foi analisada a influência da margem nas Tmin e Tmax diárias durante ondas de calor (OC) e ondas de frio (OF) no vale de acordo com a metodologia do Serviço Meteorológico Nacional. As médias de Tmax (Tmin), em resoluções anuais, sazonais e mensais, foram menores (maiores) em PC. Os valores médios de UR foram superiores em NA. Durante as OC, foi observado um efeito regulador em relação à quantidade de dias em que os valores limites foram excedidos de forma consecutiva no litoral fluvial.

Abstract This paper aimed to compare the behavior of climatic elements and extreme thermal events between two landscape units of the city of Neuquén, Argentina, for the period 2013-2020. The study involved daily data of minimum temperature (Tmin), maximum temperature (Tmax), and relative humidity (RH) obtained from the meteorological stations “Neuquén Aero” (NA) and “Paseo de la Costa” (PC), referring to the valley (peri-urban area) and the fluvial corridor (riparian environment) respectively. The influence of the riverbank on the daily Tmin and Tmax during Heat Waves (HW) and Cold Waves (CW) in the valley was analyzed using the methodology of the National Meteorological Service. The mean Tmax (Tmin), at annual, seasonal, and monthly resolutions, were lower (higher) in PC. The mean RH values were higher in NA. During the HW, a regulatory effect was exhibited regarding the number of days that the threshold values were exceeded consecutively in the fluvial littoral.

Screener, a board game supplemented with online resources, was introduced and distributed by the Brazilian Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics to postgraduate programs as an instructional tool for the process of drug discovery and development (DDD). In this study, we provided a comprehensive analysis of five critical aspects for evaluating the quality of educational games, namely: 1) description of the intervention; 2) underlying pedagogical theory; 3) identification of local educational gaps; 4) impact on diverse stakeholders; and 5) elucidation of iterative quality enhancement processes. We also present qualitative and quantitative assessments of the effectiveness of this game in 11 postgraduate courses. We employed the MEEGA+ online survey, comprising thirty-three close-ended unipolar items with 5-point Likert-type response scales, to assess student perceptions of the quality and utility of Screener. Based on 115 responses, the results indicated a highly positive outlook among students. In addition, we performed a preliminary evaluation of learning outcomes in two courses involving 28 students. Pre- and post-quizzes were applied, each consisting of 20 True/False questions directly aligned with the game's content. The analysis revealed significant improvement in students' performance following engagement with the game, with scores rising from 8.4 to 13.3 (P<0.0001, paired t-test) and 9.7 to 12.7 (P<0.0001, paired t-test). These findings underscore the utility of Screener as an enjoyable and effective tool for facilitating a positive learning experience in the DDD process. Notably, the game can also reduce the educational disparities across different regions of our continental country.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Presentar una descripción integral de la donación, utilización y descarte de órganos en todo el proceso de donación en Colombia. Métodos. Estudio retrospectivo de 1 451 donantes posibles, distribuidos en tres regiones de Colombia, que fueron evaluados en el 2022. Se describen las características generales, el diagnóstico y las causas de contraindicación de los donantes potenciales. Resultados. De los 1 451 donantes posibles, 441 (30,4%) cumplían con los criterios de muerte encefálica y constituyeron el conjunto de donantes potenciales. Las familias consintieron la donación de órganos en 141 casos aptos desde el punto de vista médico, mientras que en 60 casos se recurrió a la presunción legal, con lo que se llegó a 201 donantes aptos (13,9%). De estos, 160 (11,0%) fueron donantes reales (en los que se les practicó una incisión quirúrgica para la extracción de órganos o se obtuvo al menos un órgano). En última instancia, hubo 147 donantes utilizados (10,1%) (de los que se trasplantó al menos un órgano). Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las regiones en cuanto a edad, sexo, diagnóstico de muerte encefálica y vía crítica del donante. Se trasplantaron un total de 411 órganos procedentes de 147 donantes utilizados; los riñones fueron los órganos obtenidos y trasplantados con mayor frecuencia, ya que supusieron 280 (68,1%) del total de órganos, seguidos del hígado (85, 20,7%), el corazón (31 , 7,5%), los pulmones (14, 3,4%) y el páncreas (1, 0,2%). La tasa de descarte de los donantes fallecidos disponibles fue del 8,1%. Conclusiones. Aproximadamente una décima parte de los donantes son utilizados, de hecho, para realizar trasplantes. Estos datos destacan las áreas en las que se han obtenido buenos resultados y aquellas en las que se presentan desafíos, lo cual proporciona una base para futuras mejoras en Colombia.

ABSTRACT Objective. To obtain a comprehensive overview of organ donation, organ utilization, and discard in the entire donation process in Colombia. Methods. A retrospective study of 1 451 possible donors, distributed in three regions of Colombia, evaluated in 2022. The general characteristics, diagnosis, and causes of contraindication for potential donors were described. Results. Among the 1 451 possible donors, 441 (30.4%) fulfilled brain death criteria, constituting the potential donor pool. Families consented to organ donation in 141 medically suitable cases, while 60 instances utilized legal presumption, leading to 201 eligible donors (13.9%). Of those, 160 (11.0%) were actual donors (in whom operative incision was made with the intent of organ recovery or who had at least one organ recovered). Finally, we identified 147 utilized donors (10.1%) (from whom at least one organ was transplanted). Statistically significant differences were found between age, sex, diagnosis of brain death, and donor critical pathway between regions. A total of 411 organs were transplanted from 147 utilized donors, with kidneys being the most frequently procured and transplanted organs, accounting for 280 (68.1%) of the total. This was followed by 85 livers (20.7%), 31 hearts (7.5%), 14 lungs (3.4%), and 1 pancreas (0.2%). The discard rate of procured deceased donors was 8.1%. Conclusions. About one-tenth of donors are effectively used for transplantation purposes. Our findings highlight areas of success and challenges, providing a basis for future improvements in Colombia.

RESUMO Objetivo. Obter uma visão geral e abrangente da doação, do aproveitamento e do descarte de órgãos em todo o processo de doação na Colômbia. Métodos. Estudo retrospectivo de 1 451 possíveis doadores em três regiões da Colômbia que foram avaliados em 2022. Foram descritas as características gerais, o diagnóstico e os motivos para a contraindicação de potenciais doadores. Resultados. Dentre os 1 451 possíveis doadores, 441 (30,4%) preencheram os critérios de morte encefálica, formando o grupo de potenciais doadores. Em 141 casos considerados clinicamente aptos, as famílias consentiram com a doação de órgãos, e em 60 casos utilizou-se o princípio da presunção legal, resultando em 201 doadores elegíveis (13,9%). Desses, 160 (11,0%) foram doadores efetivos (ou seja, doadores nos quais foi feita uma incisão cirúrgica com a intenção de remover um órgão ou pessoas com pelo menos um órgão removido). Por fim, foram identificados 147 doadores utilizados (10,1%) (ou seja, que doaram pelo menos um órgão que foi transplantado). Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre idade, sexo, diagnóstico de morte encefálica e itinerário crítico de doação entre as regiões. Um total de 411 órgãos foram transplantados de 147 doadores utilizados. Os rins foram os órgãos mais frequentemente removidos e transplantados, representando 280 (68,1%) do total, seguido de 85 fígados (20,7%), 31 corações (7,5%), 14 pulmões (3,4%) e 1 pâncreas (0,2%). A taxa de descarte de doadores falecidos com órgãos removidos foi de 8,1%. Conclusões. Cerca de um décimo dos doadores são efetivamente usados para fins de transplante. Nossos achados destacam áreas de sucesso e desafios, oferecendo uma base para futuras melhorias na Colômbia.

Abstract In civil engineering, the stability of many structures depends on the physical properties of the contact between the concrete seated on the rocky foundation surface. Usually, they are critical structures of great importance to society, such as: bridges, tunnels and dams. Thus, the shear behavior of rock-concrete joints is a key factor of the structural stability. The method of cohesive zones (CZM) allows to simulate the beginning of the formation of a crack and its propagation, without knowing the crack location or when it will start. Thus, in this work, a numerical model was developed capable of simulating the failure due to interfacial delamination of the contact between a structure formed by mortar seated on a rocky granite leaning surface. The calibration of the numerical model was performed using the experimental test results of simple compression on a block of rock in contact with the mortar by an inclined interface. The test was monitored using a high-resolution digital camera. The data were processed using the digital image correlation method (DIC) to obtain displacement data of the laboratory test. The DIC results were used to calibrate the nonlinear numerical model of the test using the bilinear method of cohesive zone in the rock-mortar interfacial contact elements. By a parametric analysis varying the maximum shear stress parameter of the contact cohesive elements, the bilinear law was adjusted (Maximum tensile stress and critical displacement and damage rate). Indirectly, the rate of release of energy of critical deformation from the rupture of the contact was also estimated.

Resumo Na engenharia civil, a estabilidade de muitas estruturas depende das propriedades físicas do contato entre o concreto assentado na superfície rochosa de fundação. Geralmente são estruturas críticas e de grande importância para a sociedade, tais como: pontes, túneis e barragens. Assim, o comportamento ao cisalhamento das juntas rocha-concreto é um fator chave da estabilidade estrutural. O método das zonas coesivas (MZC) permite simular o início da formação de uma fissura e a sua propagação, sem saber a localização da fissura ou quando esta irá começar. Assim, neste trabalho foi desenvolvido um modelo numérico capaz de simular a ruptura por descolamento interfacial do contato entre uma estrutura formada por argamassa assentada sobre uma superfície inclinada de granito rochoso. A calibração do modelo numérico foi realizada através dos resultados de ensaios experimentais de compressão simples sobre um bloco de rocha em contato com a argamassa por uma interface inclinada. O teste foi monitorado por meio de uma câmera digital de alta resolução. Os dados foram processados utilizando o método de correlação de imagens digitais (CID) para obtenção dos dados de deslocamento do ensaio laboratorial. Os resultados do método CID foram utilizados para calibrar o modelo numérico não linear do ensaio utilizando o método bilinear de zona coesiva nos elementos de contato interfacial rocha-argamassa. Através de uma análise paramétrica variando o parâmetro de tensão cisalhante máxima dos elementos coesivos de contato, determinou-se a lei bilinear ajustada (tensão máxima de tração, deslocamento crítico e taxa de dano). Indiretamente, também foi estimada a taxa de liberação de energia de deformação crítica proveniente da ruptura do contato.

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) intention and associated variables among women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods: The data were collected with a questionnaire for the pregnant women (n=653), from December/2018 to November/2019. They answered the Infant Feeding Intentions (IFI) scale, translated and adapted to Brazilian Portuguese, and a questionnaire on sociodemographic, biological, family, pregnancy, breastfeeding, health care, and habits variables. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed with a 5% significance level, following a multilevel hierarchical model that estimated the association between the dependent and independent variables. The outcome EBF intention measured by the IFI score was dichotomized by the median (<16 or =16). Results: Mean±standard deviation score for the IFI scale was 14.4±2.6 (score 0: very strong intention to not breastfeed at all; score 16: very strong EBF intention up to six months). The results from the regression analysis showed that pregnant women who had no intention to bottle feed (OR=4.33; 95%CI 2.79-6.72) or did not know (OR=1.85; 95%CI 1.21–2.82), those who planned the pregnancy (OR=1.52; 95%CI 1.09–2.12), those who believed they would have help to care for the baby (OR=3.60; 95%CI 1.51–8.56) or did not know (OR=3.97; 95%CI 1.26–12.51), and those who reported knowing the World Health Organization recommendations on breastfeeding (OR=1.73; 95%CI 1.13–2.64) were more likely to show a very strong EBF intention. Conclusions: Pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy presented a strong EBF intention. The higher EBF intention score was significantly associated with the structural, setting, and individual determinants.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a intenção materna de amamentar exclusivamente (IMA) e variáveis associadas entre as mulheres no terceiro trimestre de gravidez. Métodos: A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevista e questionário semiestruturado e autoadministrado, entre dezembro/2018 e novembro/2019. As gestantes (n=653) responderam à escala Infant Feeding Intentions (IFI) testada, traduzida e adaptada para o português do Brasil e ao questionário contendo perguntas sobre variáveis sociodemográficas, biológicas e familiares, bem como relacionadas à gestação, ao aleitamento materno, à assistência à saúde e a hábitos. Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas e de regressão logística múltipla hierarquizada, com nível de significância de 5%, para estimar a associação entre as variáveis independentes e o desfecho. A IMA, medida pela escala IFI, foi dicotomizada pela mediana (<16 ou =16). Resultados: A pontuação média±desvio padrão para a escala IFI foi de 14,4±2,6. Os resultados da análise de regressão mostraram que as gestantes que não tinham intenção de oferecer mamadeira (OR=4,33; IC95% 2,79-6,72) ou não sabiam (OR=1,85; IC95% 1,21–2,82), que planejaram a gestação (OR=1,52; IC95% 1,09–2,12), aquelas que acreditavam que teriam ajuda nos cuidados com o bebê (OR=3,60; IC95% 1,51–8,56) ou que não sabiam (OR=3,97; IC95% 1,26–12,51), bem como aquelas que relataram conhecer as recomendações da Organização Mundial de Saúde sobre amamentação (OR=1,73; IC95% 1.13–2.64) tinham mais chances de mostrar uma IMA muito forte. Conclusões: As gestantes no terceiro trimestre de gestação apresentaram forte IMA. A maior IMA esteve significativamente associada aos determinantes estruturais, contextuais e individuais.

RESUMEN La paracoccidioidomicosis (PCM) es una infección causada por hongos patógenos humanos del género Paracoccidioides. Es una micosis sistémica que puede afectar cualquier órgano. Se describen con este reporte cuatro casos de paracoccidioidomicosis con diferentes presentaciones clínicas, tiempo de evolución, con afectación mucocutánea, pulmonar, glándulas suprarrenales, sistema nervioso entre otros, principalmente en adultos varones de diferentes edades y profesiones, tanto inmunosuprimidos como inmunocompetentes, teniendo en común el contacto con el suelo. Se demuestra de esta manera la importancia de considerar esta patología ante una sospecha clínica de micosis sistémica para así realizar una confirmación temprana y tratamiento oportuno ya que presenta buena respuesta terapéutica antimicótica y mejoría clínica.

ABSTRACT Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an infection caused by human pathogenic fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides. This report describes: 4 cases of paracoccidioidomycosis diagnosed with different clinical presentations, different times of evolution, with mucocutaneous, pulmonary, adrenal gland, and nervous system involvement, among others, mainly in male adults of different ages and professions, both immunosuppressed and immunocompetent, having in common contact with the ground. In this way, PCM is a systemic mycosis that can affect any organ and therefore the importance of considering this pathology when a diagnostic suspicion of systemic mycosis is presented in order to make an early diagnosis and timely treatment since it presents a good therapeutic response, antifungal and clinical improvement.

Abstract Introduction. Around 3.7 billion people under 50 years of age are infected with HSV-1 and 491 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 are infected with HSV-2 in the world; his symptoms, vesicles or painful ulcers recur periodically. Conventional treatment decreased its effectiveness in resistant and immunosuppressed strains. Therapeutic alternatives with extracts of medicinal plants and antiviral potential, such as Opuntia soehrensii Brito known as "ayrampù" in Bolivia, uses infusion of its seeds as an analgesic, antidiabetic, hypotensive and febrifuge. In vapors by inhalation for respiratory conditions; as a topical tincture in skin lesions of smallpox, measles and cold sores. Objectives . To evaluate the preclinical safety of a gel containing the hydroalcoholic extract of Opuntia soehrensii seeds in different doses, applied to the vaginal mucosa of Sprague Dawley rats. Material and Methods. Acute and sub-acute toxicity protocols were carried out to evaluate local response in the vaginal mucosa, through histo pathological studies, and systemic responses, through biochemical and behavioral markers, in groups of animals to which the gel with different concentrations of the extract of Opuntia soehrensii was applied, compared with a control group and another that received only the vehicle. Results. It was found that the histological indicators of local reaction and cell integrity were equally distributed in all groups. Cytology showed conservation of the cell phenotype for the phases of the estrous cycle in all groups. The systemic indicators of behavior and weight gain did not show differences between groups. Hematological and biochemical indicators showed results ranged in physiologic parameters, without changes in the study groups. Conclusion. The application of a gel from Opuntia soehrensii does not show appreciable levels of local and systemic toxicity, which makes it possible to recommend the initiation of clinical application studies.

Resumen Introducción. Alrededor de 3700 millones menores de 50 años con infección por VHS-1 y 491 millones de personas de 15 a 49 años cursan con infección por VHS-2 en el mundo; sus síntomas, vesículas o ulceras dolorosas reaparecen periódicamente. El tratamiento convencional disminuyó su efectividad en cepas resistentes e inmunodeprimidos. Alternativas terapéuticas con extractos de plantas medicinales y potencial antiviral, como Opuntia soehrensii Brito conocida como “ayrampù” en Bolivia, utiliza infusión de sus semillas como analgésico, antidiabético, hipotensor y febrífugo. En vapores por inhalación para afecciones respiratorias; como tintura tópica en lesiones dérmicas de viruela, sarampión y herpes labial. Objetivo. Evaluar la seguridad preclínica de un gel que contiene el extracto hidro-alcohólico de semillas de Opuntia soehrensii en diferentes dosis, aplicado en la mucosa vaginal de ratas Sprague Dawley. Material y métodos. Se ejecutaron protocolos de toxicidad aguda y subaguda para evaluar la respuesta sistémica, a través de marcadores bioquímicos y de comportamiento, y la respuesta local en mucosa vaginal, mediante estudios histopatológicos, en grupos de animales a los que se aplicó el gel con diferentes concentraciones del extracto de Opuntia soehrensii, comparados con un grupo control y otro que recibió solo el vehículo. Resultados. Se encontró que los indicadores sistémicos de comportamiento y ganancia de peso no mostraron diferencias entre grupos. Los indicadores hematológicos y bioquímicos mostraron resultados fisiológicamente esperados y sin cambios en los grupos de estudio. La citología expuso conservación del fenotipo celular para las fases del ciclo estral en todos los grupos. Los indicadores histológicos de reacción local e integridad celular se distribuyeron de igual manera en los todos los grupos. Conclusión. La aplicación de un gel de Opuntia soehrensii no muestra niveles apreciables de toxicidad local y sistémica, lo que permite recomendar la iniciación de estudios de aplicación clínica.

Resumen Las infestaciones de garrapatas representan una gran dificultad para la producción de ganado bovino en países tropicales y subtropicales alrededor del mundo. Las formas tradicionales de combate a esta plaga son químicos (acaricidas) y manejo integral de pastizales. Sin embargo, estos métodos no han logrado controlar de manera contundente la presencia de este ectoparásito. Lo anterior ha llevado a la búsqueda de vacunas que permitan el control de estos parásitos. Actualmente, se cuenta con inmunógenos que contienen el antígeno intestinal Bm86 de Rhipicephalus microplus, los cuales han demostrado ser una alternativa efectiva, al reducir las poblaciones de garrapatas y el uso de acaricidas sintéticos. No obstante, el polimorfismo de este locus en garrapatas de distintas zonas geográficas representa una limitante en su efectividad. Se han realizado un número importante de investigaciones acerca del gen Bm86 como antígeno vacunal, por lo que, en este documento, se presenta una actualización de las investigaciones realizadas con este antígeno y su potencial uso como control inmunológico para reducir las infestaciones de garrapatas en el ganado bovino.

Abstract Tick infestations represent a major difficulty for cattle production in tropical and subtropical countries around the world. The traditional ways to combat this pest are chemicals (acaricides) and integrated management of grasslands. Nevertheless, these methods have not been able to conclusively control the presence of this ectoparasite. This has led to the search for vaccines that allow the control of these parasites. Currently, there are immunogens containing the gut antigen Bm86 of Rhipicephalus microplus, which have proven to be an effective alternative, as they have reduced tick populations and the use of synthetic acaricides. However, the polymorphism of this locus in ticks from different geographical areas represents a limitation in its effectiveness. A significant number of studies have been conducted on the Bm86 gene as a vaccine antigen, so this paper presents an update on studies conducted with this antigen and its potential use as an immunological control to reduce tick infestations in cattle.

Resumen La planta Hevea brasiliensis se utiliza ampliamente en la industria como fuente de extracción de caucho, un elemento empleado en diversas áreas comerciales y médicas. Los estudios inmunológicos de esta especie indican que es una fuente alergénica importante, que puede provocar sensibilización y alergia. Se han identificado diferentes componentes alergénicos de esta planta, con diversas propiedades inmunitarias y bioquímicas, y estudiado más de diez tipos diferentes de alérgenos, cada uno con distinta capacidad de inducir síntomas alérgicos. En esta revisión informamos los avances actuales en el estudio de Hevea brasiliensis.

Abstract Hevea brasiliensis, a plant species used extensively for rubber extraction, is a common allergenic source that can cause sensitization and allergic reactions. Recent immunological studies have characterized various allergenic components of Hevea brasiliensis that possess diverse immune and biochemical properties. Over ten types of allergens have been identified, each with varying capacities to induce allergic symptoms. This review presents the current advances in the study of this allergenic source.

Resumen Introducción. La región amazónica posee alta diversidad vegetal, en pocas especies se han desarrollado estudios sobre propagación y crecimiento. Objetivo. Evaluar la germinación in situ y ex situ, de Sterculia colombiana y sus características de crecimiento posterior a la plantación en coberturas de suelo de bosque primario y zonas intervenidas. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en Napo, Ecuador, en el período 2019-2020. Se caracterizó la germinación de S. colombiana en las variables: días y porcentaje de germinación, altura de la planta, diámetro del tallo y número de hojas, en condiciones de invernadero y sembradas en el sitio de recolecta. Las plantas obtenidas en la prueba de germinación fueron trasplantadas a una cobertura de suelo de bosque primario (in situ) y zona intervenida con vegetación de recambio (ex situ). Se evaluaron modelos de crecimiento lineales, cuadráticos, cúbicos, exponenciales y logarítmicos para la altura y diámetro del tallo. Se registró la temperatura del aire, suelo, y características físico-químicas del suelo. Se realizó un análisis de varianza para determinar diferencias en el crecimiento y supervivencia entre los sitios de plantación y entre las plantas obtenidas en las pruebas in situ y ex situ. Resultados. Las plántulas obtenidas de invernadero, tuvieron menor número de días a la emergencia y mayores valores en el resto de variables evaluadas, que las desarrolladas in situ. Las plantas se desarrollaron en las diferentes coberturas evaluadas, sin diferencias significativas en el crecimiento al final del estudio, solo se reportó correlación significativa al 5 % entre el diámetro del tallo y la temperatura del aire. Conclusiones. Sterculia colombiana germinó en invernadero y se desarrolló en los sitios de trasplante, sin que esto influyera en su crecimiento. La temperatura fue el único factor que reportó correlaciones significativas con el crecimiento al final del periodo de evaluación.

Abstract Introduction. The Amazon region has a great plant diversity, but studies on their propagation and growth have been carried out in few species. Objective. To evaluate the in situ and ex situ germination of Sterculia colombiana and its growth characteristics after planting in ground covers of primary forest and intervened areas. Materials and methods. The study was carried out in Napo, Ecuador, in the period 2019-2020. The germination of S. colombiana was characterized in the variables: days and percentage to emergence, plant height, stem diameter and number of leaves, under greenhouse conditions and planted at the collection site. The plants obtained in the germination test were transplanted to a ground cover of primary forest (in situ) and an intervened area with replacement vegetation (ex situ). Linear, quadratic, cubic, exponential, and logarithmic growth models for stem height and diameter were evaluated. The air and soil temperature and the physical-chemical characteristics of the soil were recorded. An analysis of variance was performed to determine differences in growth and survival between the plantation sites and between the plants obtained in the in situ and ex situ tests. Results. The seedlings obtained from greenhouses reported fewer days to emergence and higher values in the rest of the variables evaluated than those grown in situ. The plants developed in the different evaluated covers, without significant differences in growth at the end of the study, only a significant correlation at 5 % between stem diameter and air temperature was reported. Conclusions. Sterculia colombiana germinated in a greenhouse and developed in the transplant sites, without this influencing its growth. Temperature was the only factor that reported significant correlations with growth at the end of the evaluation period.

Resumen Introducción : El objetivo fue evaluar la inmunogeni cidad y efectividad de las vacunas contra el SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple (EM) incluidos en el registro argentino de EM (RelevarEM, NCT 03375177). Métodos : Estudio de cohorte prospectivo entre mayo y diciembre 2021. Se evaluó la inmunogenicidad (detec ción de anticuerpos totales (Ab) contra proteína espiga y anticuerpos neutralizantes en suero) y eficacia (nueva infección por COVID-19) durante seguimiento de tres meses. El momento de detección de anticuerpos fue 4 semanas después de segunda dosis de vacuna. Un caso positivo de COVID-19 se definió de acuerdo con la defi nición del Ministerio de Salud. Resultados : Se incluyeron 94 pacientes, edad media de 41.7 ± 12.1 años. Ochenta (85.1%) tenían EM remiten te-recurrente; 30 (31.9%) en tratamiento con fingolimod. La vacuna Sputnik V fue usada en 33 (35.1%), mientras que AstraZeneca se administró en 61 (64.9%). En 60 pa cientes (63.8 %), la vacuna provocó respuesta humoral específica. La respuesta inmunológica según esquemas de vacunación (Sputnik V, Astra Zeneca o esquemas he terólogos) no mostró diferencias cualitativas (p = 0.45). El análisis estratificado según tratamiento recibido para la EM mostró que número significativamente menor de sujetos desarrolló anticuerpos contra el antígeno espiga en los pacientes que recibieron ocrelizumab (p ≤ 0.001), aunque con un número reducido de pacientes evaluados bajo este tratamiento (n = 7). Esto también se observó para anticuerpos neutralizantes en el grupo bajo ocrelizumab (p < 0.001). Durante el seguimiento de tres meses, dos personas fueron diagnosticadas con COVID-19. Conclusión : Encontramos que los pacientes con EM que recibieron vacunas Sputnik V o AstraZeneca para el SARS-CoV-2 desarrollaron respuesta serológica sin diferencias entre las vacunas utilizadas.

Abstract Introduction : The objective was to assess the im munogenicity and effectiveness of vaccines against SARSCoV-2 in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients included in the Argentinean MS registry. Methods : A prospective cohort study between May and December 2021. The primary outcome was im munogenicity and effectiveness of vaccines during a three-month follow-up. Immunogenicity was evalua ted based on detection of total antibodies (Ab) against spike protein and neutralizing Ab in serum 4 weeks after the second vaccine dose. A positive COVID-19 case was defined according to Argentinean Ministry of Health. Results : 94 patients were included, mean age: 41.7 ± 12.1 years. Eighty (85.1%) had relapsing remitting mul tiple sclerosis (RRMS); 30 (31.9%) were under fingolimod treatment. The Sputnik V vaccine was the first dose in 33 (35.1%), and AstraZeneca in 61 (64.9%). In 60 (63.8%), the vaccine elicited a specific humoral response. Immu nological response according to the vaccination schemes showed no qualitative differences (p = 0.45). Stratified analysis according to the MS treatment showed that a significantly smaller number of subjects developed anti bodies against spike antigen among those that were on ocrelizumab compared to other groups (p ≤ 0.001), while a reduced number of patients under ocrelizumab where evaluated (n = 7). This was also observed for neutralizing antibodies in the ocrelizumab group (p < 0.001). During the three-month follow-up, two individuals were diag nosed with COVID-19. Conclusion: We found that MS patients that recei ved Sputnik V or AstraZeneca vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 developed a serological response with no differences between the vaccines used.

Resumen El almidón resistente (AR) es una fracción del almidón no digerible por las α-amilasas y a diferencia de la fibra dietética, el AR es fermentado en el colon promoviendo beneficios en la salud. Dentro de los diferentes tipos de AR, el tipo 3 (AR3) se obtiene por autoclaveado y sin el uso de agentes químicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue obtener AR3 a partir de avena y evaluar su efecto a diferentes concentraciones (0, 5, 10, 15 y 20 %, p/p) sobre las propiedades reológicas de la masa, propiedades de textura de las galletas y su aceptabilidad sensorial. El análisis de perfil de textura (TPA) evidenció un incremento en la fracturabilidad, dureza, adhesividad y gomosidad. La incorporación de AR3 incrementó el módulo elástico (G´) y viscoso (G´´) en comparación con la masa control. Todos los tratamientos presentaron comportamiento elástico (G´ > G´´). La dureza en las galletas aumentó con la concentración de AR3, con valores de ≈ 8 N (control) hasta 20 N (AR3-20 %). Las pruebas sensoriales no fueron significativas entre tratamientos, aunque las galletas AR3-20 % tuvieron mayor preferencia. La adición de AR3 en la masa provocó cambios funcionales y de textura significativos que afectaron positivamente los atributos de calidad de las galletas.

Abstract Resistant starch (RS) is a portion of starch that is not digestible by α-amylases and unlike dietary fiber, RS is fermented in the colon, promoting health benefits. Among the different types of RS, type 3 (RS3) is obtained by autoclaving and without chemical agents. The objective of this work was to obtain RS3 from oats and to evaluate its effect at different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 % w/w) on the rheological properties of the dough, textural properties of the cookies and their sensory acceptability. Texture profile analysis (TPA) showed an increased fracturability, hardness, adhesiveness and gumminess. The incorporation of RS3 increased the elastic (G’) and viscous (G’’) modulus compared to the control dough. All treatments showed elastic behavior (G’ > G’’). Hardness in cookies increased with RS3 concentration, with values from ≈ 8 N (control) to 20 N (RS3 - 20 %). Sensory tests were not significant between treatments, although RS3-20 % cookies had a higher preference. The addition of RS3 in the dough caused significant functional and textural changes that positively affected the quality attributes of the cookies.

Resumen El maíz de calidad proteínica (MCP) combina la calidad proteínica de la mutante opaco-2 (o2) con un endospermo vítreo. Estas características han permitido a los programas de mejoramiento alrededor del mundo producir genotipos MCP que ayudan a aliviar la malnutrición de la gente en países en desarrollo de África, Asia y América Latina con una dieta basada en cereales. Sin embargo, el desarrollo de estos materiales ha sido poco eficiente debido al limitado conocimiento acerca de las bases moleculares de la conversión del endospermo suave o2 en un fenotipo vítreo en MCP. Esta conversión se ha asociado con el incremento en cuerpos proteínicos pequeños ricos en γ-zeína de 27 kDa, la síntesis de almidón con una mayor proporción de amilosa y ramificaciones de amilopectina cortas-intermedias que favorece la compactación de los gránulos de almidón, así como alteraciones en la envoltura de los amiloplastos que favorece la interacción entre gránulos de almidón y cuerpos proteínicos. Estudios adicionales sobre los mecanismos involucrados en la modificación del endospermo en MCP contribuirán a producir materiales con buenas características agronómicas y buena calidad proteínica.

Abstract Quality protein maize (QPM) combines the protein quality of the opaque-2 (o2) mutant with a vitreous endosperm. These characteristics have allowed breeding programs worldwide to produce QPM genotypes that help alleviate malnutrition of people in developing countries from Africa, Asia and Latin America with a cereal-based diet. However, the development of these materials has been inefficient due to the limited knowledge about the molecular basis of the soft o2 endosperm conversion into a vitreous phenotype in QPM. This conversion has been associated with an increase in small protein bodies rich in 27 kDa γ-zein, the synthesis of starch with a higher proportion of amylose and short-intermediate amylopectin chain branches that favors the compaction of the starch granules, as well as alterations in the amyloplast envelope that favors the interaction between starch granules and protein bodies. Additional studies about the mechanisms involved in the modification of the endosperm in QPM will contribute to produce materials with good agronomic characteristics and protein quality.