Variação semanal da osmolaridade do filme lacrimal em indivíduos saudáveis e com síndrome do olho seco

Purpose: The possible variability in diagnostic test results is a statistical feature of dry eye disease patients. The clinician should consider tear film variations over time since the timing of tear film measurements is important for proper diagnosis. The purpose of the present study was to analyze the inter-week variation of osmolarity measurement in healthy and dry eye disease participants. Methods: Based on the Dry Eye Workshop II (DEWS-II) diagnostic methodology report criteria, a battery of tests (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] questionnaire, breakup time, and corneal staining) was administered to rule out the presence of dry eye disease. A total of 40 qualified volunteers were recruited into two groups: with only 20 healthy and 20 dry eye disease participants. The inter-week variation of osmolarity in the two groups was measured using a TearLab osmometer in two sessions one-week apart. The differences between the results were calculated. Results: There were no significant differences in osmolarity between the two sessions for either the healthy (paired t-test; p=0.085) or dry eye disease (paired t-test; p=0.093) participants. Moreover, there was no significant correlation between the means and differences in either session on healthy (Pearson correlation: r=0.020; p=0.935) or dry eye disease (Pearson correlation: r=-0.022; p=0.928) participants. In session 1, there was a significant difference in osmolarity values between groups (unpaired t-test; p=0.001), but no difference was found in session 2 (unpaired t-test; p=0.292). Conclusions: The present study discovered no inter-week variation in the tear film osmolarity of healthy and dry eye disease participants classified based on the DEWS-II criteria.Objetivo: A possível variabilidade nos resultados de testes diagnósticos é uma característica estatística dos pacientes com síndrome do olho seco. O médico deve considerar as variações do filme lacrimal ao longo do tempo, pois o momento em que o filme lacrimal é medido pode ser crítico para o diagnóstico adequado. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a variação semanal da osmolaridade do filme lacrimal em participantes saudáveis e em outros com síndrome do olho seco. Métodos: Com base nos critérios da metodologia de diagnóstico do relatório da Dry Eye Workshop II (DEWSII), foi aplicada uma bateria de testes (questionário do índice de doença da superfície ocular [OSDI], tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal e coloração da córnea) para descartar a presença de síndrome do olho seco. Um total de 40 voluntários qualificados foi recrutado e distribuído em dois grupos de 20 participantes saudáveis e 20 participantes com síndrome do olho seco. A variação da osmolaridade entre semanas foi medida com um osmômetro TearLab em duas sessões com uma semana de intervalo nos dois grupos. As diferenças entre os resultados foram então calculadas. Resultados: Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas na osmolaridade entre as medidas obtidas nas duas sessões, nem no grupo de participantes saudáveis (teste de t pareado; p=0,085), nem no de participantes com síndrome do olho seco (teste de t pareado; p=0,093). Não foi detectada nenhuma correlação significativa entre as médias e diferenças entre as duas sessões entre participantes saudáveis (correlação de Pearson: r=0,020, p=0,935) e aqueles com síndrome do olho seco (correlação Pearson: r=-0,022, p=0,928). Foi encontrada uma diferença significativa nos valores de osmolaridade entre os dois grupos na primeira sessão (teste de t não pareado; p=0,001), mas nenhuma diferença foi encontrada na segunda sessão (teste de t não pareado; p=0,292). Conclusões: O presente estudo não encontrou variação entre semanas consecutivas na osmolaridade do filme lacrimal em participantes saudáveis e com síndrome do olho seco, classificados com base nos critérios do DEWSIIS

Meibomian gland secretion quality association with ocular parameters in university students during COVID- 19 restrictions

Purpose: To determine if the Meibomian Gland (MG) secretion quality is associated with symptoms of ocular discomfort, hours of Video Display Terminals (VDT) use, eyelid margin abnormalities, conjunctival hyperemia, and Meibomian Gland Loss Area (MGLA) in a sample of university students. Methods: An online survey that included an Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and an extra question about hours of VDT use recruited an initial sample of 183 participants. Only 120 participants that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were scheduled for a battery of ocular surface and MG specific exam. The tests include: 1) meibometry, 2) slit lamp exploration of eyelid margin abnormalities (irregularity, hyperemia and MG orifices plugging), MG secretion quality and conjunctival hyperemia, and 3) Meibography. Results: Significant positive correlations between the MG secretion quality and eyelid margin hyperemia, MG orifices plugging, MGLA, nasal conjunctival hyperemia, and temporal conjunctival hyperemia (Spearman Rho; all r>0.186, p<0.042) were found. Multivariate regression found association between OSDI with hours of VDT use (B=0.316, p=0.007), and eyelid hyperemia (B=0.434, p≤ 0.001). A statistical association between MG secretion quality and eyelid margin hyperemia, MG orifices plugging, MGLA and conjunctival hyperemia (Fisher’s exact; all p<0.039) were found. Multivariate regression found association between MG secretion quality with MG orifices plugging (B=0.295, p=0.004) and meibometry (B=-0.001, p=0.029). Conclusion: Participants with higher values in MG secretion quality have higher values in eyelid margin hyperemia, MG plugging, MGLA, and conjunctival hyperemia. No direct relationship between MG secretion quality and hours of VDT use or OSDI were found.Open Access funding provided thanks to the CRUE-CSIC agreement with Springer NatureS

A Comprehensive Study on Tear Meniscus Height Inter-Eye Differences in Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye Diagnosis

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a chronic ocular surface condition that requires precise diagnostic tools. The present study aimed to investigate the diagnostic potential of the absolute inter-eye difference (|OD-OS|) in tear meniscus height (TMH) for the detection of the presence of aqueous deficient dry eye (ADDE). Methods: A sample of 260 participants with dry eye complaints underwent ocular surface examinations thorough diagnostic assessments based on the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society guidelines (TFOS DEWS II). Participants were subsequently categorized as No ADDE and ADDE based on TMH. Statistical analyses to determine the optimal TMH|OD-OS| cut-off value in a randomly selected study group (200 participants) were performed, while a separate validation analysis of the cut-off value obtained in a random cross-validation group (60 participants) was also performed. (3) Results: The significant diagnostic capability of TMH|OD-OS| (area under the curve = 0.719 ± 0.036, p < 0.001) was found. The identified cut-off value of 0.033 mm demonstrated reliable specificity (77.6%) and moderate sensitivity (59.1%). Cross-validation confirmed the cut-off value’s association with the TFOS DEWS II diagnostic criterion (Cramer’s V = 0.354, p = 0.006). (4) Conclusions: The present study provides evidence for the diagnostic potential of TMH|OD-OS| in identifying ADDE. The identified cut-off value enhances the specificity and offers moderate sensitivity, providing an objective tool for clinical decision making.S

Cysteamine Eye Drops in Hyaluronic Acid Packaged in Innovative Single-Dose Systems, Part II: Long-Term Stability and Clinical Ocular Biopermanence

Background: Cystinosis is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of cystine crystals in several tissues and organs causing, among others, severe eye symptoms. The high instability of cysteamine eye drops makes it difficult to develop formulations with an acceptable shelf life to be prepared in hospital pharmacy departments. Previously, a new compounded formulation of cysteamine eye drops in hyaluronic acid (HA) packaged in innovative single-dose systems was developed. Methods: Long-term stability at -20 °C of this formulation was studied considering the content of cysteamine, pH, osmolality, viscosity, and microbiological analysis. The oxygen permeability of single-dose containers was also studied and an ocular biopermanence study was conducted in healthy volunteers measuring lacrimal stability and volume parameters. Results: Data confirm that cysteamine concentration remained above 90% for 120 days, all parameters remaining within the accepted range for ophthalmic formulations. The permeability of the containers was reduced over time, while ocular biopermanence was maintained despite the freezing process and storage time. Conclusions: 0.55% cysteamine hydrochloride formulation in HA and packaged in single-dose containers preserved at -20 °C is stable for 120 days protected from light, presenting high potential for its translation into clinical practice when commercial presentations are not availableFEFH 18-19/Fundación Española de Farmacia Hospitalaria JR18/00014/Instituto de Salud Carlos III JR20/00026/Instituto de Salud Carlos III CM21/00114/Instituto de Salud Carlos III Asociación La Lucha de Iker/Asociación La Lucha de IkerS

Transformación y Revitalización del paisaje Wayuu Mercado Nuevo Liwa - Paseo Gastronómico

El objetivo de este estudio es determinar cómo los elementos arquitectónicos y dianmicas sociales de los individuos a tratar pueden apropiarse correctamente dentro de una plaza de mercado. Con este fin, la pregunta de investigación es la siguiente: ¿Cual será el diseño adecuado para recuperar y preservar el paisaje y cultura Wayuu dentro de la plaza de mercado en las afueras de Riohacha?  En este contexto, la dinámica social es la medida en que las personas sienten apropiarse de su territorio. La pregunta de investigación se responde a través de un estudio urbano que implica distribuir un cuestionario a partir de una visita física. Estos se dividen en dos condiciones (Urbana y social). Sobre la base de investigación, se les pide a los locales que comenten su experiencia a través del tiempo, fotos y videos que argumental la situación actual del lugar. Las respuestas recibidas muestran sentir una gran distancia social que conduce a más intenciones de cambio. Estos resultados indican que la distancia social tiene un impacto en las intenciones arquitectónicas a tratar. Teniendo esto en cuenta, se recomienda articular y recuperar la representación de la plaza de Mercado Nuevo respondiendo a un distancia social significativo en las actividades diarias relacionadas con los cambios biofísicos de la ciudad.The objective of this study is to determine how the architectural elements and social dynamics of the individuals to be treated can be appropriately appropriated within a market place. To this end, the research question is the following: What will be the appropriate design to recover and preserve the Wayuu landscape and culture within the market place on the outskirts of Riohacha? In this context, social dynamics is the extent to which people feel that they are appropriating their territory. The research question is answered through an urban study that involves distributing a questionnaire from a physical visit. These are divided into two conditions (Urban and social). On the basis of research, the locals are asked to comment on their experience through time, photos and videos that argue the current situation of the place. The responses received show a great social distance that leads to more intentions for change. These results indicate that social distance has an impact on the architectural intentions to be treated. Taking this into account, it is recommended to articulate and recover the representation of the Mercado Nuevo square, responding to a significant social distance in the daily activities related to the biophysical changes of the city

c-Raf regulates cell survival and retinal ganglion cell morphogenesis during neurogenesis

9 pages, 6 figures.The signaling cascade Ras/Raf/mitogen-activated protein kinases modulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival, all key cellular processes during neural development. To better define the in vivo role of Raf during chick retinal neurogenesis, we interfered with Raf-dependent signaling during days 4.5 to 7.5 of embryonic development by expressing a dominant negative mutant of c-Raf (DeltaRaf), which blocks Ras-dependent Raf activation, and by overexpressing wild-type c-Raf. DeltaRaf expression induced an increase in cell death by apoptosis, whereas it did not affect overall cell proliferation and differentiation. In parallel, the number of Islet-1/2-positive and TUJ1-positive retinal ganglion cells were diminished in their definitive layer, whereas there was an increase in the number of mislocated Islet-1/2-positive cells. This disturbed morphogenesis correlated with a disruption of the optic fiber layer. Conversely, c-Raf overexpression caused moderate opposite effects on apoptosis. These results frame in vivo early neurogenesis processes in which c-Raf is essential.This study was supported by Dirección General de Investigación y Desarrollo (Spain) Grants P.M.96–0003 (to E.J.d.l.R.), PB97–0143 (to F.d.P.), and P.M.96–0075 to (I.V.-N.). The fellowships to B.P. and C.S. were awarded by the Ministerio de Educación y Cultura (Spain).Peer reviewe

Biocompatible Films with Tailored Spectral Response for Prevention of DNA Damage in Skin Cells

Peer Reviewe

Gene and cell survival: lessons from prokaryotic plasmid R1

Plasmids are units of extrachromosomal genetic inheritance found in all kingdoms of life. They replicate autonomously and undergo stable propagation in their hosts. Despite their small size, plasmid replication and gene expression constitute a metabolic burden that compromises their stable maintenance in host cells. This pressure has driven the evolution of strategies to increase plasmid stability—a process accelerated by the ability of plasmids to transfer horizontally between cells and to exchange genetic material with their host and other resident episomal DNAs. These abilities drive the adaptability and diversity of plasmids and their host cells. Indeed, survival functions found in plasmids have chromosomal homologues that have an essential role in cellular responses to stress. An analysis of these functions in the prokaryotic plasmid R1, and of their intricate interrelationships, reveals remarkable overall similarities with other gene- and cell-survival strategies found within and beyond the prokaryotic world

Unidades locais de saúde: ganhos económicos e ganhos em saúde

Perante os atuais contextos organizacionais caracterizados por contínuas e rápidas mutações económicas, tecnológicas e sociais para se definirem políticas de gestão e implementar procedimentos que facilitem o desempenho e a competitividade organizacional já não se podem adotar modelos clássicos de gestão, mas sim enveredar por novos mecanismos organizacionais (Franco, 2006).info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Unidad local de salud: un modelo de integración vertical de los cuidados de salud

Analisar o modelo organizacional das ULS e os potenciais ganhos económicos e em saúde. Metodologia: Estudo exploratório em que participaram cinco ULS que se localizam na zona norte e interior de Portugal. Os dados analisados incidiram sobre o acesso dos cidadãos aos cuidados de saúde, qualidade dos cuidados, eficiência produtiva e desempenho económico-financeiro, referentes ao período de 2015 a 2018. A fonte dos dados foi a Entidade Reguladora da Saúde (ERS) e a Administração Central do Sistema de Saúde (ACSS). Resultados: Pela análise dos dados da ACSS e da ERS parece haver evidência de que o modelo organizativo em ULS não traduz na prática ganhos económicos e em saúde. Conclusão: Na génese das ULS está o objetivo de criar uma melhor interligação dos diferentes níveis de cuidados, concluindo-se que este modelo de governação não aporta o valor acrescentado que teoricamente previa.The local health unit (Unidade Local de Saúde - ULS) model embodies the vertical integration of health care services, bringing together different levels of care within a single entity and under the same management. Objective: To analyze the ULS organizational model and its potential health and economic gains. Methodology: This is an exploratory study involving five ULSs located in Portugal’s northern and inland areas. The data analyzed focused on citizens’ access to health care, quality of care, productive efficiency, and economic and financial performance from 2015 to 2018. The Portuguese Health Regulation Authority (ERS) and the Central Administration of the Health System (ACSS) provided the data for analysis. Results: Considering the ACSS and ERS data analysis, there seems to be evidence that the ULS organizational model does not translate into economic and health gains. Conclusion: ULSs were created to allow a better interconnection between the different levels of care. However, this organizational management model does not provide the added value theoretically expected.Las unidades locales de salud (ULS) implementan la integración de los cuidados de carácter vertical reuniendo en una sola entidad y con la misma gestión diferentes niveles de cuidados. Objetivos: Analizar el modelo organizativo de las ULS y los posibles beneficios económicos y sanitarios. Metodología: Estudio exploratorio en el que participaron cinco ULS situadas en la zona del norte e interior de Portugal. Los datos analizados se centraron en el acceso de los ciudadanos a los cuidados de salud, la calidad de los cuidados, la eficiencia productiva y los resultados económico-financieros, para el período comprendido entre 2015 y 2018. La fuente de los datos fue la Entidad Reguladora de la Salud (ERS) y la Administración Central del Sistema de Salud (ACSS). Resultados: A través del análisis de los datos de la ACSS y de la ERS, parece que hay pruebas de que el modelo organizativo de las ULS no se traduce en la práctica en beneficios económicos y sanitarios. Conclusión: En la base de las ULS está el objetivo de crear una mejor interconexión entre los distintos niveles de cuidados, de lo que se concluye que este modelo de gobernanza no aporta el valor añadido que teóricamente prevé.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio