23 results on '"Muñoz, Marina"'
Search Results
2. Sexualized Drug Use and Chemsex among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Author
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Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Coronado-Muñoz, Marina, García Cabrera, Emilio, Quintero Flórez, Angélica, Román Casares, Encarnación, Vilches Arenas, Ángel, Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Coronado-Muñoz, Marina, García Cabrera, Emilio, Quintero Flórez, Angélica, Román Casares, Encarnación, and Vilches Arenas, Ángel
- Abstract
Background: In recent years, in Europe, there has been a growing concern about the use of sexualized drugs among men who have sex with men (MSM), due to its possible link to an increase in sexually transmitted infections. The aim of this review is to study the prevalence of chemsex, and the sexualized drug used in Europe, describing both different consumption patterns and other sexual behaviors considered risky and their possible relationship with positivity in diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus. Methods: We conducted a literature review in the main scientific databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science), filtering for articles published between January 2018 and April 2023 that collect information on sexualized drug use and sexual practices conducted in European countries among men who have sex with men, including whether these behaviors can lead to diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections. Results: The definition of drugs included in chemsex is not clearly defined and shows heterogeneity between study publications; the three drugs presented in all manuscripts are mephedrone, GHB/GBL, and crystal methamphetamine. The prevalence of chemsex in Europe is 16% [11–21%] among MSM. The most frequent risky sexual behavior associated with chemsex practice was unprotected sex with a high number of partners. The log risk ratio of STIs was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.49 to 1.23). Conclusions: Adherence to definitions, stringent research methodologies, and focused interventions are needed to tackle the intricate relationship between substance use, sexual behavior, and the risk of HIV/STI transmission in MSM.
- Published
- 2024
3. Sexualized Drug Use and Chemsex among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
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Coronado-Muñoz, Marina, García-Cabrera, Emilio, Quintero-Flórez, Angélica, Román, Encarnación, and Vilches-Arenas, Ángel
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UNSAFE sex , *SEXUALLY transmitted diseases , *HIV seroconversion , *DRUG utilization , *HUMAN sexuality , *LITERATURE reviews - Abstract
Background: In recent years, in Europe, there has been a growing concern about the use of sexualized drugs among men who have sex with men (MSM), due to its possible link to an increase in sexually transmitted infections. The aim of this review is to study the prevalence of chemsex, and the sexualized drug used in Europe, describing both different consumption patterns and other sexual behaviors considered risky and their possible relationship with positivity in diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus. Methods: We conducted a literature review in the main scientific databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science), filtering for articles published between January 2018 and April 2023 that collect information on sexualized drug use and sexual practices conducted in European countries among men who have sex with men, including whether these behaviors can lead to diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections. Results: The definition of drugs included in chemsex is not clearly defined and shows heterogeneity between study publications; the three drugs presented in all manuscripts are mephedrone, GHB/GBL, and crystal methamphetamine. The prevalence of chemsex in Europe is 16% [11–21%] among MSM. The most frequent risky sexual behavior associated with chemsex practice was unprotected sex with a high number of partners. The log risk ratio of STIs was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.49 to 1.23). Conclusions: Adherence to definitions, stringent research methodologies, and focused interventions are needed to tackle the intricate relationship between substance use, sexual behavior, and the risk of HIV/STI transmission in MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
- Full Text
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4. Pseudomonas taetrolens ULE-PH5 and Pseudomonas sp. ULE-PH6 Isolated from the Hop Rhizosphere Increase Phosphate Assimilation by the Plant.
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Ghoreshizadeh, Seyedehtannaz, Calvo-Peña, Carla, Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, Otero-Suárez, Rebeca, Coque, Juan José R., and Cobos, Rebeca
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PLANT assimilation ,PLANT growth-promoting rhizobacteria ,HOPS ,GREENHOUSES ,PSEUDOMONAS ,RHIZOSPHERE - Abstract
Most of the phosphorus incorporated into agricultural soils through the use of fertilizers precipitates in the form of insoluble salts that are incapable of being used by plants. This insoluble phosphorus present in large quantities in soil forms the well-known "phosphorus legacy". The solubilization of this "phosphorus legacy" has become a goal of great agronomic importance, and the use of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria would be a useful tool for this purpose. In this work, we have isolated and characterized phosphate-solubilizing bacteria from the rhizosphere of hop plants. Two particular strains, Pseudomonas taetrolens ULE-PH5 and Pseudomonas sp. ULE-PH6, were selected as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria due to their high phosphate solubilization capability in both plate and liquid culture assays and other interesting traits, including auxin and siderophore production, phytate degradation, and acidic and alkaline phosphatase production. These strains were able to significantly increase phosphate uptake and accumulation of phosphorus in the aerial part (stems, petioles, and leaves) of hop plants, as determined by greenhouse trials. These strains are promising candidates to produce biofertilizers specifically to increase phosphate adsorption by hop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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5. Acute In Vivo Administration of Compound 21 Stimulates Akt and ERK1/2 Phosphorylation in Mouse Heart and Adipose Tissue.
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Quiroga, Diego T., Narvaéz Pardo, Jorge A., Zubiría, María G., Barrales, Benjamín, Muñoz, Marina C., Giovambattista, Andrés, and Dominici, Fernando P.
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HEART ,ADIPOSE tissues ,WHITE adipose tissue ,INSULIN therapy ,BOLUS drug administration ,INSULIN receptors - Abstract
The angiotensin II type 2 (AT
2 ) receptor has a role in promoting insulin sensitivity. However, the mechanisms underlying the AT2 receptor-induced facilitation of insulin are still not completely understood. Therefore, we investigated whether acute in vivo administration of AT2 receptor agonist compound 21 (C21) could activate insulin signaling molecules in insulin-target tissues. We report that, in male C57BL/6 mice, an acute (5 min, 0.25 mg/kg; i.v.) injection of C21 induces the phosphorylation of Akt and ERK1/2 at activating residues (Ser473 and Thr202/Tyr204, respectively) in both epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT) and heart tissue. In WAT, the extent of phosphorylation (p) of Akt and ERK1/2 induced by C21 was approximately 65% of the level detected after a bolus injection of a dose of insulin known to induce maximal activation of the insulin receptor (IR). In the heart, C21 stimulated p-Akt to a lesser extent than in WAT and stimulated p-ERK1/2 to similar levels to those attained by insulin administration. C21 did not modify p-IR levels in either tissue. We conclude that in vivo injection of the AT2 receptor agonist C21 activates Akt and ERK1/2 through a mechanism that does not involve the IR, indicating the participation of these enzymes in AT2 R-mediated signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2023
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6. A Landscape of the Genomic Structure of Cryptococcus neoformans in Colombian Isolates.
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Patiño, Luz Helena, Muñoz, Marina, Ramírez, Angie Lorena, Vélez, Nórida, Escandón, Patricia, Parra-Giraldo, Claudia-Marcela, and Ramírez, Juan David
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CRYPTOCOCCUS neoformans , *GENETIC epidemiology , *WHOLE genome sequencing , *GENETIC variation , *SINGLE nucleotide polymorphisms , *CHROMOSOME analysis , *DNA copy number variations - Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans species complexes are recognized as environmental fungi responsible for lethal meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised individuals. Despite the vast knowledge about the epidemiology and genetic diversity of this fungus in different regions of the world, more studies are necessary to comprehend the genomic profiles across South America, including Colombia, considered to be the second country with the highest number of Cryptococcosis. Here, we sequenced and analyzed the genomic architecture of 29 Colombian C. neoformans isolates and evaluated the phylogenetic relationship of these strains with publicly available C. neoformans genomes. The phylogenomic analysis showed that 97% of the isolates belonged to the VNI molecular type and the presence of sub-lineages and sub-clades. We evidenced a karyotype without changes, a low number of genes with copy number variations, and a moderate number of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Additionally, a difference in the number of SNPs between the sub-lineages/sub-clades was observed; some were involved in crucial fungi biological processes. Our study demonstrated the intraspecific divergence of C. neoformans in Colombia. These findings provide evidence that Colombian C. neoformans isolates do not probably require significant structural changes as adaptation mechanisms to the host. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the whole genome sequence of Colombian C. neoformans isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2023
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7. Changes in the Cervical Microbiota of Women with Different High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Loads.
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Camargo, Milena, Vega, Laura, Muñoz, Marina, Sánchez, Ricardo, Patarroyo, Manuel Elkin, Ramírez, Juan David, and Patarroyo, Manuel Alfonso
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PAPILLOMAVIRUSES ,HUMAN microbiota ,VIRAL load ,BACTERIAL communities ,COMMUNITIES ,LACTOBACILLUS - Abstract
The cervical microbiota is essential in female sexual health, and its altered states seem to have a central role in the dynamic of high-risk papillomavirus (hrHPV) infections. This study aimed to evaluate the variation in bacterial communities' compositions according to hrHPV. We collected two samples per woman, with a difference of 12 ± 1 months between them, and performed a follow-up on 66 of these women. The viral load (VL) of the hrHPV was estimated by quantitative PCR (qPCR), then it was normalized (using the HMBS gene as reference) and transformed to the Log
10 scale to facilitate the interpretation. The VL was categorized as Negative, without hrHPV copies; Low, less than 100 hrHPV copies; Medium, between 100 to 102 hrHPV copies; and High, >102 hrHPV copies. The microbiota composition was described through the Illumina Novaseq PE250 platform. The diversity analyses revealed changes regarding the hrHPV VL, where women with low VL (<100 hrHPV copies) presented high diversity. The community state type (CST) IV was the most common. However, in women with high VL, a lower association with Lactobacillus depletion was found. Lactobacillus gallinarum and L. iners were the most abundant species in women with high VL, whereas women with low VL had a 6.06 greater probability of exhibiting Lactobacillus dominance. We identified conspicuous differences in the abundance of 78 bacterial genera between women with low and high VL, where 26 were depleted (e.g., Gardnerella) and 52 increased (e.g., Mycoplasma). A multilevel mixed-effects linear regression showed changes in the diversity due to the interaction between the measurement time and the VL, with a decrease in diversity in the second follow-up in women with low VL (Coeff. = 0.47), whereas the women with medium VL displayed an increase in diversity (Coeff. = 0.58). Here, we report for the first time that the cervical microbiota is influenced by the number of copies of hrHPV, where a decrease in the abundance of Lactobacillus, greater diversity, and enrichment of bacterial taxa is relevant in women with low VL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2022
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8. Non- Saccharomyces Are Also Forming the Veil of Flor in Sherry Wines.
- Author
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Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, Hernández-Fernández, María, Cordero-Bueso, Gustavo, Martínez-Verdugo, Sergio, Pérez, Fernando, and Cantoral, Jesús Manuel
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SHERRY ,SACCHAROMYCES ,EXTRACELLULAR enzymes ,SACCHAROMYCES cerevisiae ,PICHIA - Abstract
Biological ageing is an essential process for obtaining some distinctive Sherry wines, such as Fino and Manzanilla. It occurs after the fermentation of the grape must due to the appearance of a biofilm on the surface of the wine called "veil of flor". Yeasts belonging to the Saccharomyces cerevisiae species mainly comprise such biofilm. Although other species have also been found, these have been traditionally considered spoilage. Indeed, it has even been hypothesised that they may not be able to form biofilm on their own under such conditions. In the present work, four different non-Saccharomyces yeasts isolated from barrels in the Jerez area under biological ageing have been characterised through their physiological abilities, including extracellular enzymatic and biofilm-forming capabilities. Results showed not only a surprising ethanol tolerance, above 15.5% in all cases, but also a significant degree of extracellular enzyme production, highlighting the urease and proteolytic activities found in Pichia manshurica, as well as lipolytic activity in Pichia kudriavzevii, Pichia membranifaciens and Wicherhamomyces anomalus. As a conclusion, these non-Saccharomyces could be very interesting in the oenological field, beyond improving the organoleptic characteristics as well as technological features in these wines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
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9. Culturable Yeasts as Biofertilizers and Biopesticides for a Sustainable Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review
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Biomedicina, Biotecnología y Salud Pública, Hernández Fernández, María, Cordero Bueso, Gustavo Adolfo, Ruiz Muñoz, Marina, Cantoral Fernández, Jesús Manuel, Biomedicina, Biotecnología y Salud Pública, Hernández Fernández, María, Cordero Bueso, Gustavo Adolfo, Ruiz Muñoz, Marina, and Cantoral Fernández, Jesús Manuel
- Abstract
The extensive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has negative consequences in terms of soil microbial biodiversity and environmental contamination. Faced with this growing concern, a proposed alternative agricultural method is the use of microorganisms as biofertilizers. Many works have been focused on bacteria, but the limited literature on yeasts and their potential ability to safely promote plant growth is gaining particular attention in recent years. Thus, the objective of this review is to highlight the application of yeasts as biological agents in different sectors of sustainable agricultural practices through direct or indirect mechanisms of action. Direct mechanisms include the ability of yeasts to provide soluble nutrients to plants, produce organic acids and phytohormones (indole-3-acetic acid). Indirect mechanisms involve the ability for yeasts to act as biocontrol agents through their high antifungal activity and lower insecticidal and herbicidal activity, and as soil bioremediating agents. They also act as protective agents against extreme environmental factors by activating defense mechanisms. It is evident that all the aspects that yeasts offer could be useful in the creation of quality biofertilizers and biopesticides. Hence, extensive research on yeasts could be promising and potentially provide an environmentally friendly solution to the increased crop production that will be required with a growing population
- Published
- 2021
10. Genomic Diversity of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant in South American Countries.
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Luna, Nicolas, Muñoz, Marina, Ramírez, Angie L., Patiño, Luz H., Castañeda, Sergio Andres, Ballesteros, Nathalia, and Ramírez, Juan David
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SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant , *SARS-CoV-2 - Abstract
Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 is one of the tools that provide genomic information on circulating variants. Given the recent emergence of the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, this tool has provided data about this lineage's genomic and epidemiological characteristics. However, in South America, this variant's arrival and genomic diversity are scarcely known. Therefore, this study determined the genomic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of 21,615 Omicron genomes available in public databases. We found that in South America, BA.1 (n = 15,449, 71%) and BA.1.1 (n = 6257, 29%) are the dominant sublineages, with several mutations that favor transmission and antibody evasion. In addition, these lineages showed cryptic transmission arriving on the continent in late September 2021. This event may have contributed to the dispersal of Omicron sublineages and the acquisition of new mutations. Considering the genomic and epidemiological characteristics of these lineages, especially those with a high number of mutations in their genome, it is important to conduct studies and surveillance on the dynamics of these lineages to identify the mechanisms of mutation acquisition and their impact on public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2022
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11. Improving an Industrial Sherry Base Wine by Yeast Enhancement Strategies.
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Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, Cordero-Bueso, Gustavo, Izquierdo-Cañas, Pedro Miguel, Mena-Morales, Adela, and Cantoral, Jesús M.
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SHERRY ,YEAST ,FERMENTATION products industry ,HYDROGEN sulfide ,GENETIC variation - Abstract
There is growing interest in yeast selection for industrial fermentation applications since it is a factor that protects a wine's identity. Although it is strenuous evaluating the oenological characteristics of yeasts in selection processes, in many cases the most riveting yeasts produce some undesirable organoleptic characteristics in wine. The aim of the present work is to improve an industrial yeast strain by reducing its hydrogen sulfide (H
2 S) production. To accomplish this, two different improvement approaches were used on said yeast: hybridization by mass mating and adaptive laboratory evolution, both performed through spore generation and conjugation, thus increasing genetic variability. Three evolved variants with lower H2 S production were obtained and used as starters to carry out fermentation at an industrial level. Wine quality was analyzed by its principal oenological parameters and volatile aroma compounds, which were both corroborated by sensory evaluations. Significant differences between the produced wines have been obtained and a substantial improvement in aromatic quality has been achieved. Both hybrids were the most different to the control due to terpenes and esters production, while the evolved strain was very similar to the parental strain. Not only have organoleptic defects been reduced at an industrial level, more floral and fruitier wines have been produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2022
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12. Culturable Yeast Diversity of Grape Berries from Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris (Gmelin) Hegi.
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Cordero-Bueso, Gustavo, Vigentini, Ileana, Foschino, Roberto, Maghradze, David, Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, Benitez-Trujillo, Francisco, and Cantoral, Jesús M.
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VITIS vinifera ,YEAST ,ENDANGERED species ,BERRIES ,CLIMATE change ,SACCHAROMYCES cerevisiae ,GRAPES - Abstract
Vitis vinifera L. ssp. sylvestris (Gmelin) Hegi is recognized as the dioecious parental generation of today's cultivars. Climatic change and the arrival of pathogens and pests in Europe led it to be included on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species in 1997. The present work focused on the study of culturable yeast occurrence and diversity of grape berries collected from wild vines. Sampling was performed in 29 locations of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Italy, Romania, and Spain. In total, 3431 yeast colonies were isolated and identified as belonging to 49 species, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, by 26S rDNA D1/D2 domains and ITS region sequencing. Isolates of S. cerevisiae were also analyzed by SSR–PCR obtaining 185 different genotypes. Classical ecology indices were used to obtain the richness (S), the biodiversity (H'), and the dominance (D) of the species studied. This study highlights the biodiversity potential of natural environments that still represent a fascinating source of solutions to common problems in winemaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
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13. Deciphering the Association among Pathogenicity, Production and Polymorphisms of Capsule/Melanin in Clinical Isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii VNI.
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Vélez, Nórida, Vega-Vela, Nelson, Muñoz, Marina, Gómez, Paola, Escandón, Patricia, Ramírez, Juan David, Zaragoza, Oscar, Monteoliva Diaz, Lucía, and Parra-Giraldo, Claudia-Marcela
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CRYPTOCOCCUS neoformans ,MELANINS ,IMMUNOCOMPROMISED patients ,GENOTYPES ,CRYPTOCOCCUS ,PHENOTYPES - Abstract
Background: Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that can cause meningitis in immunocompromised individuals. The objective of this work was to study the relationship between the phenotypes and genotypes of isolates of clinical origin from different cities in Colombia. Methods: Genome classification of 29 clinical isolates of C. neoformans var. grubii was performed using multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and genomic sequencing was used to genotype protein-coding genes. Pathogenicity was assessed in a larval model, and melanin production and capsule size were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Results: Eleven MLST sequence types (STs) were found, the most frequent being ST69 (n = 9), ST2, ST93, and ST377 (each with n = 4). In the 29 isolates, different levels of pigmentation, capsule size and pathogenicity were observed. Isolates classified as highly pathogenic showed a tendency to exhibit larger increases in capsule size. In the analysis of polymorphisms, 48 non-synonymous variants located in the predicted functional domains of 39 genes were found to be associated with capsule size change, melanin, or pathogenicity. Conclusions: No clear patterns were found in the analysis of the phenotype and genotype of Cryptococcus. However, the data suggest that the increase in capsule size is a key variable for the differentiation of pathogenic isolates, regardless of the method used for its induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
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14. The Microbial Diversity of Sherry Wines.
- Author
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Cordero-Bueso, Gustavo, Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, González-Moreno, Mónica, Chirino, Salvador, del Carmen Bernal-Grande, María, and Cantoral, Jesús Manuel
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SHERRY ,FERMENTATION ,MICROBIAL diversity ,YEAST ,METABOLITES - Abstract
The principal role of wine yeast is to transform efficiently the grape-berries' sugars to ethanol, carbon dioxide, and other metabolites, without the production of off-flavors. Wine yeast strains are able to fermentmusts, while other commercial or laboratory strains fail to do so. The genetic differences that characterize wine yeast strains in contrast to the biological ageing of the veil-forming yeasts in Sherry wines are poorly understood. Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains frequently exhibit rather specific phenotypic features needed for adaptation to a special environment, like fortified wines with ethanol up to 15% (v/v), known as Sherry wines. Factors that affect the correct development of the veil of flor during ageing are also reviewed, along with the related aspects of wine composition, biofilm formation processes, and yeast autolysis. This review highlights the importance of yeast ecology and yeast metabolic reactions in determining Sherry wine quality and the wealth of untapped indigenous microorganisms co-existing with the veil-forming yeast strains. It covers the complexity of the veil forming wine yeasts' genetic features, and the genetic techniques often used in strain selection and monitoring during fermentation or biological ageing. Finally, the outlook for new insights to protect and to maintain the microbiota of the Sherry wines will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
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15. Evolution and Epidemic Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Colombia: A Year into the Pandemic.
- Author
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Castañeda, Sergio, Patiño, Luz H., Muñoz, Marina, Ballesteros, Nathalia, Guerrero-Araya, Enzo, Paredes-Sabja, Daniel, Flórez, Carolina, Gomez, Sergio, Ramírez-Santana, Carolina, Salguero, Gustavo, Gallo, Juan E., Paniz-Mondolfi, Alberto E., and Ramírez, Juan David
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SARS-CoV-2 ,PANDEMICS ,ECONOMIC impact of disease ,EPIDEMICS ,GENOMICS - Abstract
Current efforts to understand the epidemiology, transmission dynamics and emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants worldwide has enabled the scientific community to generate critical information aimed at implementing disease surveillance and control measures, as well as to reduce the social, economic and health impact of the pandemic. Herein, we applied an epidemic model coupled with genomic analysis to assess the SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Colombia. This epidemic model allowed to identify the geographical distribution, Rt dynamics and predict the course of the pandemic considering current implementation of countermeasures. The analysis of the incidence rate per 100,000 inhabitants carried out across different regions of Colombia allowed visualizing the changes in the geographic distribution of cases. The cumulative incidence during the timeframe March 2020 to March 2021 revealed that Bogotá (8063.0), Quindío (5482.71), Amazonas (5055.68), Antioquia (4922.35) and Tolima (4724.41) were the departments with the highest incidence rate. The highest median Rt during the first period evaluated was 2.13 and 1.09 in the second period; with this model, we identified improving opportunities in health decision making related to controlling the pandemic, diagnostic testing capacity, case registration and reporting, among others. Genomic analysis revealed 52 circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages in Colombia detected from 774 genomes sequenced throughout the first year of the pandemic. The genomes grouped into four main clusters and exhibited 19 polymorphisms. Our results provide essential information on the spread of the pandemic countrywide despite implementation of early containment measures. In addition, we aim to provide deeper phylogenetic insights to better understand the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in light of the latent emergence of novel variants and how these may potentially influence transmissibility and infectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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16. Culturable Yeasts as Biofertilizers and Biopesticides for a Sustainable Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review.
- Author
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Hernández-Fernández, María, Cordero-Bueso, Gustavo, Ruiz-Muñoz, Marina, Cantoral, Jesús M., and Antoniou, Chrystalla
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SUSTAINABLE agriculture ,YEAST ,SYNTHETIC fertilizers ,BIOPESTICIDES ,SOIL biodiversity ,PLANT nutrients ,BIOLOGICAL pest control agents ,BIOFERTILIZERS - Abstract
The extensive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has negative consequences in terms of soil microbial biodiversity and environmental contamination. Faced with this growing concern, a proposed alternative agricultural method is the use of microorganisms as biofertilizers. Many works have been focused on bacteria, but the limited literature on yeasts and their potential ability to safely promote plant growth is gaining particular attention in recent years. Thus, the objective of this review is to highlight the application of yeasts as biological agents in different sectors of sustainable agricultural practices through direct or indirect mechanisms of action. Direct mechanisms include the ability of yeasts to provide soluble nutrients to plants, produce organic acids and phytohormones (indole-3-acetic acid). Indirect mechanisms involve the ability for yeasts to act as biocontrol agents through their high antifungal activity and lower insecticidal and herbicidal activity, and as soil bioremediating agents. They also act as protective agents against extreme environmental factors by activating defense mechanisms. It is evident that all the aspects that yeasts offer could be useful in the creation of quality biofertilizers and biopesticides. Hence, extensive research on yeasts could be promising and potentially provide an environmentally friendly solution to the increased crop production that will be required with a growing population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
17. Co-Circulation of Bovine Leukemia Virus Haplotypes among Humans, Animals, and Food Products: New Insights of Its Zoonotic Potential.
- Author
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Corredor-Figueroa, Adriana P., Olaya-Galán, Nury N., Velandia-Álvarez, Sebastian, Muñoz, Marina, Salas-Cárdenas, Sandra P., Ibáñez-Pinilla, Milcíades, Patarroyo, Manuel A., Gutiérrez, Maria F., and Alda, Natale
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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18. Phylogenomic Evidence of Reinfection and Persistence of SARS-CoV-2: First Report from Colombia.
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Ramírez, Juan David, Muñoz, Marina, Ballesteros, Nathalia, Patiño, Luz H., Castañeda, Sergio, Rincón, Carlos A., Mendez, Claudia, Oliveros, Carolina, Perez, Julie, Márquez, Elizabeth K., Ortiz, Frank de los Santos, Correa-Cárdenas, Camilo A., Duque, Maria Clara, Paniz-Mondolfi, Alberto, and La Torre, Giuseppe
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COVID-19 ,SARS-CoV-2 ,REINFECTION ,GENETIC polymorphisms ,DISEASE progression - Abstract
The continuing evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and the emergence of novel variants have raised concerns about possible reinfection events and potential changes in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission dynamics. Utilizing Oxford Nanopore technologies, we sequenced paired samples of three patients with positive RT-PCR results in a 1–2-month window period, and subsequent phylogenetics and genetic polymorphism analysis of these genomes was performed. Herein, we report, for the first time, genomic evidence of one case of reinfection in Colombia, exhibiting different SARS-CoV-2 lineage classifications between samples (B.1 and B.1.1.269). Furthermore, we report two cases of possible viral persistence, highlighting the importance of deepening our understanding on the evolutionary intra-host traits of this virus throughout different timeframes of disease progression. These results emphasize the relevance of genomic surveillance as a tool for understanding SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics, and how this may translate effectively to future control and mitigations efforts, such as the national vaccination program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. Development of a Multilocus Sequence Typing Scheme for Giardia intestinalis.
- Author
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Higuera, Adriana, Muñoz, Marina, López, Myriam Consuelo, Reyes, Patricia, Urbano, Plutarco, Villalobos, Oswaldo, and Ramírez, Juan David
- Subjects
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GIARDIA lamblia , *MICROBIAL genetics , *CIONA intestinalis , *GLUTAMATE dehydrogenase , *NUCLEOTIDE sequencing , *ISOMERASES , *ALLELES - Abstract
Giardia intestinalis is an intestinal protozoan most commonly found in humans. It has been grouped into 8 assemblages (A-H). Markers such as the glutamate dehydrogenase gene, triose phosphate isomerase and beta-giardin (β-giardin) have been widely used for genotyping. In addition, different genetic targets have been proposed as a valuable alternative to assess diversity and genetics of this microorganism. Thus, our objective was to evaluate new markers for the study of the diversity and intra-taxa genetic structure of G. intestinalis in silico and in DNA obtained from stool samples. We analysed nine constitutive genes in 80 complete genome sequences and in a group of 24 stool samples from Colombia. Allelic diversity was evaluated by locus and for the concatenated sequence of nine loci that could discriminate up to 53 alleles. Phylogenetic reconstructions allowed us to identify AI, AII and B assemblages. We found evidence of intra- and inter-assemblage recombination events. Population structure analysis showed genetic differentiation among the assemblages analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. Genetic Diversity Among SARS-CoV2 Strains in South America may Impact Performance of Molecular Detection.
- Author
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Ramírez, Juan David, Muñoz, Marina, Hernández, Carolina, Flórez, Carolina, Gomez, Sergio, Rico, Angelica, Pardo, Lisseth, Barros, Esther C., and Paniz-Mondolfi, Alberto E.
- Subjects
BINDING sites ,SARS-CoV-2 ,COVID-19 ,MOLECULAR diagnosis - Abstract
Since its emergence in Wuhan (China) on December 2019, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly spread worldwide. After its arrival in South America in February 2020, the virus has expanded throughout the region, infecting over 900,000 individuals with approximately 41,000 reported deaths to date. In response to the rapidly growing number of cases, a number of different primer-probe sets have been developed. However, despite being highly specific, most of these primer-probe sets are known to exhibit variable sensitivity. Currently, there are more than 300 SARS-CoV2 whole genome sequences deposited in databases from Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, Uruguay, Peru, and Argentina. To test how regional viral diversity may impact oligo binding sites and affect test performance, we reviewed all available primer-probe sets targeting the E, N, and RdRp genes against available South American SARS-CoV-2 genomes checking for nucleotide variations in annealing sites. Results from this in silico analysis showed no nucleotide variations on the E-gene target region, in contrast to the N and RdRp genes which showed massive nucleotide variations within oligo binding sites. In lines with previous data, our results suggest that the E-gene stands as the most conserved and reliable target when considering single-gene target testing for molecular diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2020
- Full Text
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21. Occurrence of Blastocystis in Patients with Clostridioides difficile Infection.
- Author
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Vega, Laura, Herrera, Giovanny, Muñoz, Marina, Patarroyo, Manuel Alfonso, and Ramírez, Juan David
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BLASTOCYSTIS ,CLOSTRIDIOIDES difficile ,HEALTH facilities ,OXIDATIVE stress ,INFECTION - Abstract
Clostridiodes difficile comprises a public-health threat that has been understudied in Colombia. Hypervirulent strains of C. difficile harbor multiple toxins, can be easily spread, and can have their onset of disease within healthcare facilities (HCFO) and the community (CO). Studies have shown that a disrupted microbiota (e.g., dysbiosis) may allow C. difficile infection (CDI). It has been suggested that dysbiosis prevents colonization by the anaerobic eukaryote Blastocystis, possibly due to an increase in luminal oxygen tension. No study has found co-occurrence of CDI and Blastocystis. Therefore, we aimed to determine the frequencies of C. difficile and Blastocystis infection/colonization in 220 diarrheal fecal samples. Molecular detection by PCR for both microorganisms was performed, with descriptive analyses of four variables (CDI detection, determination of C. difficile toxigenic profiles, Blastocystis detection, and patient site of onset). We demonstrate a significant association between the presence of Blastocystis and CDI, with coinfection found in 61 patients, and show a high frequency of CDI among both HCFO and CO groups. Our results of coinfection frequencies could support hypotheses that suggest Blastocystis can adapt to dysbiosis and oxidative stress. Further, the presence of toxigenic C. difficile occurring outside healthcare facilities shown here raises the alarm for community wide spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
22. Human Papillomavirus (HPV69/HPV73) Coinfection associated with Simultaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus and Presumed Lung Metastasis.
- Author
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Shea, Stephanie, Muñoz, Marina, Ward, Stephen C., Beasley, Mary B., Gitman, Melissa R, Nowak, Michael D, Houldsworth, Jane, Sordillo, Emilia Mia, Ramirez, Juan David, and Paniz Mondolfi, Alberto E.
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PAPILLOMAVIRUSES , *SQUAMOUS cell carcinoma , *OROPHARYNX , *MIXED infections , *PATHOLOGY , *ANUS , *HUMAN carcinogenesis - Abstract
Background: Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) have been linked to a variety of human cancers. As the landscape of HPV-related neoplasia continues to expand, uncommon and rare HPV genotypes have also started to emerge. Host-virus interplay is recognized as a key driver in HPV carcinogenesis, with host immune status, virus genetic variants and coinfection highly influencing the dynamics of malignant transformation. Immunosuppression and tissue tropism are also known to influence HPV pathogenesis. Methods: Herein, we present a case of a patient who, in the setting of HIV positivity, developed anal squamous cell carcinoma associated with HPV69 and later developed squamous cell carcinoma in the lungs, clinically presumed to be metastatic disease, associated with HPV73. Consensus PCR screening for HPV was performed by real-time PCR amplification of the L1 gene region, amplification of the E6 regions with High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis followed by Sanger sequencing confirmation and phylogenetic analysis. Results: Sanger sequencing of the consensus PCR amplification product determined that the anal tissue sample was positive for HPV 69, and the lung tissue sample was positive for HPV 73. Conclusions: This case underscores the importance of recognizing the emerging role of these rare "possibly carcinogenic" HPV types in human carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2020
- Full Text
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23. Intraspecific Genomic Divergence and Minor Structural Variations in Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis.
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Patino, Luz H., Muñoz, Marina, Muskus, Carlos, Méndez, Claudia, and Ramírez, Juan David
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SINGLE nucleotide polymorphisms , *LEISHMANIA , *CUTANEOUS leishmaniasis , *NUCLEOTIDE sequence , *DNA , *DNA copy number variations - Abstract
Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis is one of the most important Leishmania species associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Latin America. Despite its wide geographic distribution and pathogenic potential in humans and animals, the genomic variability of this species is low compared with other Leishmania species circulating in the same geographical area. No studies have reported a detailed analysis of the whole genome of L. panamensis from clinical isolates using DNA high-throughput sequencing to clarify its intraspecific genomic variability or plausible divergence. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the intraspecific genomic variability of L. panamensis from Colombia and Panama. A total of 22 genomes were analyzed, 19 from Colombian patients with CL and three genomes from Panama obtained from public databases. The phylogenomic analysis revealed the potential existence of three well-supported clades as evidence of intraspecific divergence. Additionally, the whole-genome analysis showed low structural variations in terms of ploidy, copy number variations, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPs shared among all clades were identified, revealing their importance in different biological processes of L. panamensis. The findings not only expand our knowledge of intraspecific genomic variability of one of the most important Leishmania species in South America but also highlights the possible existence of different clades/lineages/subpopulations across a geographic scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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