Predictive Value of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors for Mortality in Septic Patients: A Cohort Study.

PURPOSE: Over 170 biomarkers are being investigated regarding their prognostic and diagnostic accuracy in sepsis in order to find new tools to reduce morbidity and mortality. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors have been recently studied as promising new prognostic biomarkers in patients with sepsis. This study is aimed at determining the utility of several cutoff points of these biomarkers to predict mortality in patients with sepsis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multicenter, prospective, analytic cohort study was performed in the metropolitan area of Bucaramanga, Colombia. A total of 289 patients with sepsis and septic shock were included. MMP-9, MMP-2, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), TIMP-2, TIMP-1/MMP-9 ratio, and TIMP-2/MMP-2 ratio were determined in blood samples. Value ranges were correlated with mortality to estimate sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the receiving operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: Sensitivity ranged from 33.3% (MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio) to 60.6% (TIMP-1) and specificity varied from 38.8% (MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio) to 58.5% (TIMP-1). As for predictive values, positive predictive value range was from 17.5% (MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio) to 70.4% (MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio), whereas negative predictive values were between 23.2% (MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio) and 80.9% (TIMP-1). Finally, area under the curve scores ranged from 0.31 (MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio) to 0.623 (TIMP-1). CONCLUSION: Although TIMP-1 showed higher sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value, with a representative population sample, we conclude that none of the evaluated biomarkers had significant predictive value for mortality.

Cumulative lifetime stressor exposure impairs stimulus-response but not contextual learning.

Greater exposure to stressors over the life course is believed to promote striatum-dependent over hippocampus-dependent learning and memory processes under stressful conditions. However, little research in this context has actually assessed lifetime stressor exposure and, moreover, it remains unknown whether greater cumulative lifetime stressor exposure exerts comparable effects on striatum-dependent learning and hippocampus-dependent learning in non-stressful contexts. To investigate this issue, we used the Stress and Adversity Inventory for Adults (Adult STRAIN) and Multicued Search Task to investigate the relation between cumulative lifetime stressor exposure and striatum-dependent stimulus-response learning and hippocampus-dependent contextual learning under non-stressful conditions among healthcare professionals (N = 205; 157 females, 48 males; Age: M = 34.23, SD 9.3, range 20-59 years). Individuals with moderate, but not low, cumulative lifetime stressor exposure exhibited impaired learning for stimulus-response associations. In contrast, learning for context associations was unrelated to participants' lifetime stressor exposure profiles. These results thus provide first evidence that cumulative lifetime stressor exposure may have negative consequences on human striatum-dependent stimulus-response learning under non-stressful environmental conditions.

A Study on the Efficacy and Safety of Pipeline Shield Stents and Nonmodified Surface Flow-Diverting Stents in Patients with Intracranial Aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have compared the Pipeline Shield stents with previous generations of flow-diverting stents (FDSs) for the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Pipeline Shield stents and FDSs without modified surfaces. METHODS: The present evaluation is a retrospective cohort study of patients endovascularly treated with Pipeline Shield stents or FDSs without modified surfaces for unruptured intracranial aneurysms between January 2014 and June 2022. The data analyzed were obtained from the anonymized database of our institution's interventional radiology service. RESULTS: A total of 147 patients with 155 unruptured intracranial aneurysms were included. Of the 155 aneurysms, 96 were treated with Pipeline Shield stents and 59 with FDSs without modified surfaces. The aneurysms treated with Pipeline Shield stents had higher 6-month (O'Kelly-Marotta [OKM] D; 87.5% vs. 71.4%; P = 0.025) and 1-year (OKM D; 82.5% vs. 63.0%; P = 0.047) occlusion rates than the aneurysms treated using FDSs without modified surfaces. No differences between the devices were found at the 1-year follow-up in the incidence of ischemic stroke (P = 0.939) or hemorrhagic complications (P = 0.559). CONCLUSIONS: Pipeline Shield stents demonstrated superior complete occlusion rates (OKM D) at both the 6-month and the 1-year follow-up assessments compared with nonmodified surface FDSs. No significant differences were found in the safety profiles between the 2 types of stents with regard to thromboembolic complications and ischemic events. Further research with larger study populations is necessary to validate these findings.

Genetic variants in triglyceride metabolism genes among individuals with hypertriglyceridemia in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: The genetic substrate of severe hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG) in Latin America is insufficiently understood. OBJECTIVE: To identify genetic variants in genes related to triglyceride (TG) metabolism among adults with sHTG from Colombia. METHODS: In individuals with plasma TG≥880 mg/dL at least once in their lifetime, we amplified and sequenced all exons and intron/exon boundaries of the genes LPL, APOC2, APOA5, GPIHBP1 and LMF1. For each variant we ascertained its location, zygosity, allelic frequency and pathogenicity classification according to American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) criteria. RESULTS: The study included 166 participants (62 % male, mean age 50), peak TG levels ranged between 894 and 11,000 mg/dL. We identified 92 variants: 19 in LPL, 7 in APOC2, 11 in GPIHBP1, 38 in LMF1, and 17 in APOA5. Eighteen of these variants had not been reported. We identified a new pathogenic variant in LMF1 (c.41C>A; p.Ser14*), a new likely pathogenic variant in LMF1 (c.1527 C > T; p.Pro509=, also expressed as c.1447C>T; p.Gln483*), and a known pathogenic variant in LMF1 (c.779G>A; p.Trp260*). Four participants were heterozygous for variant c.953A>G; p.Asn318Ser in LPL, a known risk factor for hypertriglyceridemia. Participants with variants of unknown significance (VUS) in LMF1 had significantly higher peak TG than those with VUS in other genes. Peak TG were 4317 mg/dL in participants with a history of pancreatitis, and 1769 mg/dL in those without it (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study identified variants associated with sHTG among Latinos, and showed that genetic variation in LMF1 may be frequently associated with sHTG in this population.

Tracing the Scientific Legacy: Bibliometric Analysis of LATAM Research in Bariatric Surgery for 33 Years.

INTRODUCTION: Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) has experienced considerable growth, addressing the challenges of obesity and its complications. The lack of a comprehensive bibliometric analysis in Latin America motivates this study, highlighting the need to understand the evolution of research in this area and its impact on clinical decision-making and health policies. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional bibliometric study was carried out using the Scopus database. A structured search strategy was designed to identify articles related to bariatric surgery with authors affiliated with Latin American countries. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, followed by a descriptive and bibliometric analysis of the scientific production found. RESULTS: A total of 3553 documents published between 1991 and 2024 were included. There was an annual growth of 11%, with an average age of documents of 7.5 years. A concentration was observed in some countries, notably Brazil, Mexico, and Chile. Although scientific output increased, the average number of citations per article showed a downward trend since 2003. DISCUSSION: Despite the growth in scientific production, the quality and relevance of research is questioned, especially given the decrease in the impact received. It highlights the lack of meaningful regional collaboration, which could limit the sharing of knowledge and resources. Questions are raised about gaps in research capacity and the economic and development implications are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides valuable information to strengthen future research in bariatric surgery in Latin America. It highlights the importance of promoting regional and international collaboration and improving research training in countries with less participation. Clinical intervention strategies can benefit from better understanding research trends and adopting evidence-based practices in a more informed manner.

Agreement and Reproducibility of Anterior Chamber Angle Measurements between CASIA2 Built-In Software and Human Graders.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the agreement and reproducibility of ACA measurements obtained using the built-in software of the CASIA2 (Version 3G.1) and the measurements derived from expert clinicians. METHODS: Healthy volunteers underwent ophthalmological evaluation and AS-OCT examination. ACA measurements derived from automated and manual SS location were obtained using the CASIA2 automated software and clinician identification, respectively. The intraobserver, interobserver reproducibility, CASIA2-human grader reproducibility and CASIA2 repeatability were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). RESULTS: The study examined 58 eyes of 30 participants. The CASIA2 software showed excellent repeatability for all ACA parameters (ICC > 0.84). Intraobserver, interobserver, and CASIA2-human grader reproducibility were also excellent (ICC > 0.87). Interobserver agreement was high, except for nasal TISA500, differing between observers 1 and 2 (p < 0.05). The agreement between CASIA2 measurements and human graders was high, except for nasal TISA500, where observer 1 values were smaller (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The CASIA2 built-in software reliably measures ACA parameters in healthy individuals, demonstrating high consistency. Although a small difference was observed in nasal TISA500 measurements, interobserver and CASIA2-human grader reproducibility remained excellent. Automated SS detection has the potential to facilitate evaluation and monitoring of primary angle closure disease.

Flow Diverter Treatment for Non-Ruptured Carotid Aneurysms: Efficacy and Safety.

PURPOSE: Internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm treatment with a flow diverter (FD) has shown an adequate efficacy and safety profile, presenting high complete occlusion or near occlusion rates with low complications during follow-up. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FD treatment in non-ruptured internal carotid aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective, single-center, observational study evaluating patients diagnosed with unruptured ICA aneurysms treated with an FD between January 1, 2014, and January 1, 2020. We analyzed an anonymized database. The primary effectiveness endpoint was complete occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta D, OKM-D) of the target aneurysm through 1-year follow-up. The safety endpoint was the evaluation of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 90 days after treatment, considering a favorable outcome an mRS 0-2. RESULTS: A total of 106 patients were treated with an FD, 91.5% were women; the mean follow- up was 427.2±144.8 days. Technical success was achieved in 105 cases (99.1%). All patients included had 1-year follow-up digital subtraction angiography control; 78 patients (73.6%) completed the primary efficacy endpoint by achieving total occlusion (OKM-D). Giant aneurysms had a higher risk of not achieving complete occlusion (risk ratio, 3.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.70 - 5.54]). The safety endpoint of mRS 0-2 at 90 days was accomplished in 103 patients (97.2%). CONCLUSION: Treatment of unruptured ICA aneurysms with an FD showed high 1-year total occlusion results, with very low morbidity and mortality complications.

The effect of bariatric surgery on metabolic syndrome: A retrospective cohort study in Colombia.

Introduction and Objective: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a group of metabolic abnormalities. It is currently a pandemic, and its prevalence is on the rise. MetS has a direct relationship with obesity, for this reason, bariatric and metabolic surgery has been proposed as a method to simultaneously control obesity and MetS. However, in Colombia the results of this intervention are unknown. This study aims to compare metabolic syndrome before and after bariatric surgery in a Colombian population. Methods: Retrospective cohort study conducted in a highly complex institution in Colombia, where comparing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients who underwent bariatric surgery during a 1-year follow-up period, between January 2015 and December 2019. Of these patients, 48 underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and 32 underwent sleeve gastrectomy by laparoscopic technique. Results: A total of 80 patients were included, of which 67.5% were women and the mean age was 42.8 ± 12.9 years. The most frequent preprocedure comorbidities were arterial hypertension (36.2%), dyslipidemia (32.4%), and sleep apnea (20%). After bariatric surgery, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome decreased from 66.2% to 3.7% (p < 0.05). In addition, a reduction in the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance score from 77.5% to 22.5% was observed during the follow-up period. HbA1c, creatinine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone, were the only parameters without significant changes. Conclusions: Metabolic and bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for weight reduction, with a high impact in reducing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in the short and medium term in the Colombian population.

Angiographic outcomes of embolization in patients with intracranial aneurysms with coil- assisted Laser cut stent versus braided stents.

INTRODUCTION: Intracranial aneurysms (IA) are a focal dilatation of the vessel wall, the rupture of these, causes subarachnoid hemorrhage. Until now, endovascular management is the ideal treatment, providing the interventionist a range of options among which the stent and coils embolization stands out because of its occlusion rate. This study presents the results of a retrospective cohort comparing the effectiveness, morbidity, and mortality of IA treatment with laser-cut stent-assisted coils versus braided stents. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective cohort of patients diagnosed with unruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with coil-assisted laser-cut stents or braided stents between January 2014 and December 2021. RESULTS: In total, 138 patients with 147 intracranial aneurysms were analyzed, 91 of them were treated with laser-cut stent and 56 with braided stents. The main antecedent was arterial hypertension (48.55%). In the immediate angiographic control, a Raymond Roy scale (RRO) I was obtained in 86.81% of the patients with laser-cut stents and 87.50% of the patients with braided stents. In the angiographic follow-up at 12 months, an RRO I occlusion rate of 85.19% was reported in both groups. Perioperative complications occur in 16 patients treated with laser-cut stents and 12 patients treated with braided stents. Three patients presented bleeding complications during the 12-month follow-up, of which two correspond to patients treated with braided stents and one with a laser-cut stent. CONCLUSION: Treatment of patients with intracranial aneurysms with laser-cut stents or braided stents and coils is just as safe and effective.

Comparison of Clopidogrel and Ticagrelor for Dual Antiplatelet Therapy of Patients with Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysms Undergoing Endovascular Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Thromboembolic events are critical complications in neuroendovascular procedures, and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) can reduce them. The effects of using aspirin and clopidogrel in DAPT are well characterized, but use of aspirin and ticagrelor has been less studied. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study, conducted between April 1, 2015, and December 30, 2020, included patients with endovascular treatment with flow-diverting and non-flow-diverting stents for unruptured cerebral aneurysms who received DAPT with aspirin and clopidogrel or with aspirin and ticagrelor. RESULTS: Of 148 patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms with flow-diverting and non-flow-diverting stents started on DAPT with aspirin (100 mg/day) and clopidogrel (75 mg/day), 24 had a poor response to clopidogrel according to the VerifyNow test and had DAPT changed to aspirin (100 mg/day) and ticagrelor (90 mg every 12 hours). One thrombotic complication (0.81%) and 1 bleeding complication (0.81%) occurred in patients receiving DAPT with clopidogrel and aspirin during the procedure. These complications did not occur (0.00%) in patients receiving DAPT with ticagrelor and aspirin. At the 6-month follow-up, 4 patients (3.15%) in the clopidogrel group presented with thrombotic complications, whereas no patients (0.00%) in the ticagrelor group experienced this complication. At 6-month follow-up, 4 patients (3.23%) in the clopidogrel group presented with hemorrhagic complications, whereas only 1 patient (4.17%) in the ticagrelor group experienced this complication. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that DAPT with ticagrelor (90 mg every 12 hours) and aspirin (100 mg/day) is a safe and effective alternative to DAPT with clopidogrel (75 mg/day) and aspirin (100 mg/day) for patients with an inadequate response to clopidogrel.

Estimation of ocular axial length with optometric parameters is not accurate.

Myopia is a worldwide major public concern, aside from the visual disturbance needing optical correction, myopia may be associated with open angle glaucoma, retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy. The higher the myopia the higher the risk for retinal associated comorbidities, and the axial length is the more important measure to estimate risk of visual impairment. Recently a formula to predict axial length using spherical equivalent and keratometry was proposed, with the intention of categorizing the risk of visual impairment with Tideman et al. classification. PURPOSE: To evaluate the accuracy of an axial length prediction formula in a Colombian population 8-17 years old. METHODS: Children from MIOPUR study with optical biometer axial length measure (AL), manifest refraction and keratometry were included in the analysis. Predicted axial length (PAL) was calculated with the prediction formula. A Bland-Altman assessment was conducted, and the concordance correlation coefficient was measured. Proposed classification of AL to establish risk of visual loss was used with measured AL and with PAL. The percentage of eyes misclassified was then established. RESULTS: A total of 2129 eyes were included in the analysis. Mean difference of axial length (actual AL minus PAL) was -0.516 mm (-1.559 mm - 0.528 mm). Concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) of 0.656 (IC95 0.636-0.675) was found between the real AL and PAL. PAL differed from measured AL by 1 mm or more in 16.58 %, and by 2 mm or more, in 0.61 % of the eyes. In myopic eyes, PAL was in average 0.426 mm longer than the AL actually measured with CCC of 0.714 (IC95 0.666-0.761). PAL differed from measured AL by 1 mm or more in 21.92 %, and by 2 mm or more, in 0.45 % of the myopic eyes. The study revealed that 15.03 % of all eyes, and 29.81 % of myopic eyes, were misclassified when PAL was used. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed axial length prediction formula was not accurate, and it did not adequately classify risk of visual impairment in myopic eyes in a group of Colombian children. We consider that it is not possible to predict the axial length based only on optometric data, such as the corneal radius of curvature and the spherical equivalent. This is very possibly related to the variability of crystalline lens power within a population.

[Myocardial dysfunction and its prognostic utility in sepsis and septic shock]. / Disfunción miocárdica y su utilidad pronóstica en sepsis y choque séptico.

BACKGROUND: Sepsis is a potentially mortal infection which is related to multiple organ dysfunction; it has a high morbidity and mortality. Myocardial dysfunction is frequent in sepsis and it is related to unfavorable outcomes. Objective: To describe by transthoracic echocardiography the clinical distribution of myocardial dysfunction in sepsis and septic shock and estimate its prognostic utility. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on a multi-centric prospective cohort study in 4 reference centers in Bucaramanga, Colombia, and its metropolitan area. 271 patients with sepsis and septic shock were included; they underwent standard transthoracic echocardiography and a 30-day follow-up. RESULTS: There was no difference in the left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.061) between survivors and non-survivors. 51 patients (48.71%) had grade I diastolic dysfunction, 48 patients (14.52%) had grade II dysfunction and 21 patients (36.75%) had grade III diastolic dysfunction. Mortality was higher in patients with grade I diastolic dysfunction when compared to those with grade II dysfunction (p = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS: The higher mortality in grade I diastolic dysfunction suggests that patients with low filling pressures have worst outcomes. On the other hand, left ventricular ejection fraction per se is not associated with a higher mortality in sepsis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la sepsis es una disfunción orgánica potencialmente mortal que está asociada a una infección; tiene alta morbilidad y mortalidad. La disfunción miocárdica asociada a sepsis es frecuente y se asocia con desenlaces desfavorables. OBJETIVO: describir la distribución de la disfunción miocárdica por ecocardiografía transtorácica y estimar su utilidad pronóstica en sepsis y choque séptico. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio de cohorte multicéntrico prospectivo, realizado en cuatro centros de referencia de Bucaramanga y su área metropolitana. Se incluyeron 271 pacientes con diagnóstico de sepsis y choque séptico, a quienes se les realizó ecocardiograma transtorácico y se les dio seguimiento por 30 días. RESULTADOS: no hubo diferencias en la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo entre sobrevivientes a los 30 días y no sobrevivientes. Se registraron 51 pacientes (48.7%) con disfunción diastólica grado I, 14.5% con disfunción grado II y 36.75% con disfunción grado III. Los pacientes con disfunción diastólica grado I tuvieron una mortalidad más alta que aquellos con disfunción diastólica de grado II (p = 0.023). CONCLUSIONES: la mayor mortalidad registrada en la disfunción diastólica grado I sugiere que los pacientes con bajas presiones de llenado tienen peores desenlaces. Por otra parte, la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo por sí sola no se relaciona con mayor mortalidad en sepsis.

How our population is aging. Factors associated with the functional capacity of older adults in Bucaramanga-Colombia: The ARENA Study / Como está envejeciendo nuestra población. Factores asociados a la capacidad funcional de adultos mayores en Bucaramanga-Colombia: Estudio ARENA / Como nossa população está envelhecendo. Fatores associados à capacidade funcional de idosos em Bucaramanga-Colômbia: Estudo ARENA

Introduction. As a demographic aging result, societies have experienced effects such as the increase of functional limitations in older adults and high demand for social and health care. The objective is to analyze factors associated with the functional level of daily life activities and socio-family risk factors of older adults in an urban population in Bucaramanga-Colombia. Methodology. Analytical cross-sectional secondary data study. 196 older adults were studied after excluding individuals with incomplete records. The Barthel and the Lawton Index were used for functional status, and Socio-Family Assessment Scale for social risk. The STATA software was used for doing the logistic regression that helped to determine association between variables. Results. Above half of older adults presented functional limitations when performing daily life activities (59.69%). The prevalence of a socio-family risk was 47.45%. Functional limitation was associated with age, cognitive dysfunction and falls risk. Discussion. The study demonstrated lower scores in the Barthel Index and high scores in risk and social problematic situations compared to other studies. Moreover, results support that high blood pressure is a risk factor for functional limitations situations. Conclusion. It is important to continue interventions about health status in older people to identify risk factors, such as cognitive dysfunction, high Falls risk and chronic diseases control

Introducción. Como consecuencia del envejecimiento demográfico las sociedades han experimentado efectos tales como, el aumento de adultos mayores con limitaciones funcionales y la alta demanda de atención socio sanitaria. El objetivo es analizar los factores asociados al nivel funcional para las actividades de la vida diaria y los factores de riesgo sociofamiliares de los adultos mayores en una población urbana de Bucaramanga, Santander-Colombia. Método. Estudio transversal analítico de datos secundarios, se estudiaron 196 adultos mayores después de excluir a los individuos con registros incompletos. Se utilizó el Índice de Barthel y Lawton para evaluar el estado funcional y la Escala de Evaluación Sociofamiliar para el riesgo social. Se utilizó el software STATA para realizar la regresión logística que ayudó a determinar la asociación entre variables. Resultados. Más de la mitad de los adultos mayores presentaron limitaciones funcionales para realizar actividades de la vida diaria (59.69%). La prevalencia de riesgo sociofamiliar fue 47.45%. La limitación funcional se asoció con la edad, la disfunción cognitiva y el riesgo de caídas. Discusión. El estudio demostró puntajes bajos en el Índice de Barthel y puntajes altos en situaciones de riesgo y problemática social en comparación con otros estudios. Además, los resultados apoyan a la hipertensión arterial como un factor de riesgo para el deterioro funcional. Conclusión. Es importante continuar con intervenciones sobre la salud de los adultos mayores con el fin de identificar factores de riesgo, como la disfunción cognitiva, el riesgo de caídas y el control de enfermedades crónicas.

Introdução. Como consequência do envelhecimento demográfico, as sociedades têm experimentado efeitos como o aumento de idosos com limitações funcionais e elevada procura de atendimento sócio-sanitário. O objetivo é analisar os fatores associados ao nível funcional para atividades de vida diária e os fatores de risco sociofamiliares de idosos em uma população urbana de Bucaramanga, Santander-Colômbia. Método. Estudo transversal analítico de dados secundários, foram estudados 196 idosos após exclusão dos indivíduos com prontuários incompletos. Foi utilizado o Índice de Barthel e Lawton para avaliar o estado funcional e a Escala de Avaliação Sociofamiliar para risco social. O software STATA foi utilizado para realizar a regressão logística que ajudou a determinar a associação entre as variáveis. Resultados. Mais da metade dos idosos apresentou limitações funcionais na realização das atividades de vida diária (59.69%). A prevalência de risco sociofamiliar foi de 47.45%. A limitação funcional foi associada à idade, à disfunção cognitiva e ao risco de queda. Discussão. O estudo demonstrou pontuações baixas no Índice de Barthel e pontuações altas em situações de risco e problemas sociais em comparação com outros estudos. Além disso, os resultados apoiam a hipertensão arterial como fator de risco para deterioração funcional. Conclusão. É importante dar continuidade às intervenções sobre a saúde dos idosos, a fim de identificar fatores de risco, como disfunção cognitiva, risco de quedas e controle de doenças crônicas

Factores asociados a baja agudeza visual en una población escolar de la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Colombia / Factors Associated with Low Visual Acuity in a School Population in the City of Bucaramanga, Colombia / Fatores associados à baixa acuidade visual em uma população escolar da cidade de Bucaramanga, Colômbia

Introducción. La baja agudeza es un problema de salud pública en el mundo, que aumenta año tras año, relacionada con factores comportamentales poco saludables como el sedentarismo. La baja agudeza afecta especialmente a escolares, en quienes la visión representa uno de los sistemas más importantes para su desarrollo, tanto para el aprendizaje como para las relaciones sociales. El objetivo es establecer asociación entre baja agudeza visual y características sociodemográficas y comportamentales en una población escolar de la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Metodología. Estudio observacional de corte transversal basado en datos recolectados de encuestas a estudiantes de una institución educativa de Bucaramanga entre los años 2006 y 2017, sobre las cuales se realizó un análisis bivariado entre características sociodemográficas y comportamentales con baja agudeza visual. Resultados. La prevalencia de baja agudeza visual fue de 33.57%, con mayor prevalencia de baja agudeza visual en mujeres y aquellos con mayor índice de masa corporal. La agudeza visual baja no tuvo asociación estadísticamente significativa con las otras variables estudiadas. Discusión. Las mujeres tienen una mayor prevalencia de baja agudeza visual. Parece existir una relación entre la actividad física y la agudeza visual. Conclusiones. Las diferencias encontradas según el sexo pueden deberse a patrones comportamentales diferentes entre hombres y mujeres, como la actividad física y el sedentarismo. Hacen falta estudios que evalúen la causalidad de la asociación entre los problemas de agudeza visual y los hábitos de vida poco saludables. Palabras clave: Agudeza Visual; Adolescente; Conducta Sedentaria; Visión Ocular; Baja Visión.

Introduction. Low visual acuity is a public health problem worldwide, which is increasing year by year, and it is associated with unhealthy behavioral factors such as sedentary lifestyle. Low visual acuity particularly affects schoolchildren, whom eyesight is one of the most important abilities for their development, both in terms of learning and social interactions. The objective of this study is to establish an association between low visual acuity, sociodemographic, and behavioral characteristics of a student population in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methodology. This was a cross-sectional observational study based on data collected from surveys of students within an educational institution sited in Bucaramanga between 2006 and 2017. A bivariate analysis was conducted between sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics and low visual acuity. Results. The prevalence of low visual acuity was 33.57%, with a higher prevalence of low visual acuity in women and those with a higher body mass index. However, low visual acuity didn't have a statistically significant association with the other variables studied. Discussion. Women have a higher prevalence of low visual acuity. There appears to be an association between physical activity and visual acuity. Conclusions. The encountered differences according to sex may be due to different behavioral patterns between males and females, such as physical activity and sedentary lifestyle. Further studies are needed to assess the causality of the association. Keywords: Visual Acuity; Adolescent; Sedentary Behavior; Vision, Ocular; Vision, Low.

Introdução. A baixa acuidade é um problema de saúde pública no mundo, que aumenta a cada ano, relacionada a fatores comportamentais pouco saudáveis, como o sedentarismo. A baixa acuidade atinge especialmente as crianças em idade escolar, para as quais a visão representa um dos sistemas mais importantes para o seu desenvolvimento, tanto para a aprendizagem quanto para as relações sociais. O objetivo é estabelecer uma associação entre baixa acuidade visual e características sociodemográficas e comportamentais em uma população escolar na cidade de Bucaramanga, Colômbia. Metodologia. Estudo observacional transversal baseado em dados coletados em pesquisas com estudantes de uma instituição de ensino de Bucaramanga entre 2006 e 2017, nos quais foi realizada uma análise bivariada entre características sociodemográficas e comportamentais com baixa acuidade visual. Resultados. A prevalência de baixa acuidade visual foi de 33.57%, com maior prevalência de baixa acuidade visual em mulheres e naqueles com maior índice de massa corporal. A baixa acuidade visual não teve associação estatisticamente significativa com as demais variáveis estudadas. Discussão. As mulheres apresentam maior prevalência de baixa acuidade visual. Parece haver uma relação entre atividade física e acuidade visual. Conclusões. As diferenças encontradas segundo o sexo podem ser decorrentes de diferentes padrões comportamentais entre homens e mulheres, como atividade física e sedentarismo. Estudos são necessários para avaliar a causalidade da associação entre problemas de acuidade visual e hábitos de vida pouco saudáveis. Palavras-chave: Acuidade Visual; Adolescente; Comportamento Sedentário; Visão Ocular; Baixa Visão.

Reproducibilidad del cuestionario POIBA-¿Cómo nos movemos?, en escolares colombianos de tercer grado de primaria / Reproducibility of the "POiBA-How do we Move?" Questionnaire in Colombian Third-Grade Elementary Schools / Reprodutibilidade do questionário POiBA-(como nos movemos?) em estudantes colombianos da terceira série do ensino fundamental

Introducción: disponer de instrumentos reproducibles que midan la actividad física y los comportamientos sedentarios es una prioridad para la vigilancia y promoción de estilos de vida saludables en niños y niñas. En esta investigación se evaluó la reproducibilidad prueba-reprueba del cuestionario POIBA-¿Cómo nos movemos? en escolares colombianos. Materiales y métodos: participaron 125 estudian- tes de tercer grado de primaria de una institución educativa colombiana. En dos ocasiones se aplicó el cuestionario POIBA-¿Cómo nos movemos?, que evalúa la actividad física realizada para transportarse a la institución educativa y desde esta, durante el tiempo escolar (clases de educación física y recreo), extraescolar (deportiva, con entrenador) y libre. Se emplearon índices kappa y kappa ponderado en los ítems categóricos y el coeficiente de correlación intraclase con modelo de efectos mixtos en los ítems con escala cuantitativa. Resultados: en los ítems sobre actividad física en el ámbito escolar y deportivo predominaron kappas superiores a 0.70. Las preguntas sobre el transporte a la institución educativa y desde esta tuvieron coeficientes kappa cercanos a 0.90. Los ítems de tiempo frente a pantallas alcanzaron coeficientes kappa alrededor de 0.5, y los correspondientes a la hora de acostarse y levantarse obtuvieron coeficientes de correlación intraclase entre 0.40 y 0.72. Conclusiones: el cuestionario POIBA-¿Cómo nos movemos? es una opción para evaluar la actividad física de escolares en el contexto latinoamericano. Los ítems sobre actividad física de transporte, en el ámbito escolar y deportivo, tuvieron los mayores índices de reproducibilidad.

Introduction: Reproducible instruments measuring physical activity and sedentary behaviors are a priority for monitoring and promoting healthy lifestyles for boys and girls. This study evaluated the test-retest reproducibility of the "Prevención de la Obesidad Infantil en Barcelona (Childhood Obesity Prevention in Barcelona) [POIBA]-How do we move?" questionnaire in Colombian school children. Materials and methods: One hundred twenty-five third-grade primary students from a public educational institution in Colombia participated in the "POIBA-How do we move?" questionnaire, which was conducted twice. The survey measured physical activity during travel to and from school, school hours (physical education classes and recess), extracurricular activities (sports with a coach), and leisure time. To assess reproducibility, categorical questions and questions with a quantitative scale were evaluated using kappa and weighted kappa indices and an intraclass correlation coefficient with a mixed-effects model. Results: In the questions about physical activity at school and sports practice, kappas higher than 0.70 predominated. The questions about commuting to and from school had kappa coefficients close to 0.90. The kappa coefficients for the screen-time questions were around 0.5, and the intraclass correlation coefficients for questions about going to bed and getting up were between 0.40 and 0.72. Conclusions: The "POIBA-How do we move?" questionnaire is a valuable tool for evaluating the physical activity of school children in a Latin American context. The questions concerning physical activity during commuting to and from school, school hours, and sports environment had the highest reproducibility indices.

Introdução: dispor de instrumentos reprodutíveis que meçam a atividade física e os comportamentos sedentários é uma prioridade para a monitorização e promoção de estilos de vida saudáveis em meninos e meninas. Nesta pesquisa, a reprodutibilidade teste-reteste do Questionário POIBA ­ (como nos movemos?) foi avaliada em estudantes colombianos. Materiais e métodos: participaram do estudo 125 alunos da terceira série do ensino fundamental de uma instituição educacional colombiana. Foi aplicado o questionário POIBA ­ (como nos movemos?) em dois momentos, que avalia a atividade física realizada para o transporte de e para a instituição de ensino, no horário escolar (aulas de educação física e recreio), extracurricular (esportes, com treinador) e no tempo livre. Para avaliar a reprodutibi- lidade, foram utilizados os índices Kappa e Kappa ponderado para itens categóricos e o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse com modelo de efeitos mistos para itens com escala quantitativa. Resultados: nos itens sobre atividade física no ambiente escolar e esportivo predominaram Kappas superiores a 0.70. As questões sobre transporte de ida e volta para a instituição de ensino apresentaram coeficientes Kappa próximos a 0.90. Os itens tempo de tela atingiram coeficientes Kappa em torno de 0.5, e os correspondentes a hora de dormir e acordar obtiveram coeficientes de correlação intraclasse entre 0.40 e 0.72. Conclusões: o questionário POIBA ­ (como nos movemos?) é uma opção para avaliação da atividade física de estudantes no contexto latino-americano. Os itens sobre atividade física de transporte, no ambiente escolar e esportivo apresentaram os maiores índices de reprodutibilidade

Vitamin D and risk of preeclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Human vitamin D levels have been increasingly related to a wide range of clinical outcomes. There is a large amount of reports on its associations, especially with obstetric complications, including preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. These results are scarcely consistent and there is still a lack of quality intervention studies to confirm the role of vitamin D in those outcomes. Objective: To review the available scientific evidence on the role of maternal vitamin D in the development of preeclampsia. Materials and methods: The methodology used followed the recommendations of the Cochrane guide for the preparation of systematic reviews, and for metaanalysis, the Guide of the Metaanalysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology group (MOOSE). The search included both observational studies and controlled clinical trials. Results: Low vitamin D levels, measured by the 25-hydroxyvitamin D test, are common in pregnancy. The results of this systematic review and metaanalysis suggest an inverse ratio between vitamin D levels and the development of preeclampsia. There was heterogeneity among the studies with regard to the design, population, geographic location, definitions of exposure, and the outcome. We excluded randomized controlled trials from this meta-analysis. Conclusion: The inverse association we found suggests that the higher the levels of vitamin D the lesser the probability of developing preeclampsia, in spite of the heterogeneity of the global measurement in this type of analysis.

Introducción: Cada vez son más los hallazgos sobre la relación entre las concentraciones de vitamina D en el ser humano y diversas condiciones clínicas. Hay una gran cantidad de estudios que informan sobre dicha asociación, especialmente con complicaciones obstétricas, incluidas la preeclampsia y la diabetes mellitus de la gestación, entre otras, pero sus resultados todavía no son definitivos, por lo que se requieren estudios de intervención de calidad que confirmen la relación de la vitamina D con dichos resultados. Objetivo: Revisar la información plasmada en estudios en torno al papel de la vitamina D materna y el desarrollo de la preeclampsia. Materiales y métodos: La metodología usada siguió las recomendaciones de la guía Cochrane para la elaboración de revisiones sistemáticas y de la guía del grupo Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) para los metaanálisis. La búsqueda incluyó estudios observacionales y ensayos clínicos controlados. Resultados: Los niveles bajos de vitamina D, medida con el examen de 25-hidroxivitamina D, son comunes en el embarazo. Los resultados de esta revisión sistemática y del metaanálisis sugieren una asociación inversa entre los niveles de vitamina D y el desarrollo de preeclampsia. Hubo heterogeneidad en los estudios en cuanto a su diseño, población y ubicación geográfica, así como a las definiciones de exposición y resultado. Los ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorizados se excluyeron del metaanálisis. Conclusión: Se encontró una asociación inversa que sugiere que, a mayores concentraciones de vitamina D, menor es la probabilidad de desarrollar preclampsia, a pesar de la heterogeneidad de la medida global en este tipo de análisis.

Descripción del nivel de conocimientos y actitudes de enfermeras y auxiliares respecto al dolor en una institución de salud de Santander, Colombia / Description of the level of knowledge and attitudes of nurses and assistants regarding pain in a health institution in Santander, Colombia / Descrição do nível de conhecimento e atitudes de enfermeiras e auxiliares em relação à dor em uma instituição de saúde em Santander, Colômbia

Introducción. El dolor es definido por la Asociación Internacional para el Estudio del Dolor (IASP, por su sigla en inglés) como una experiencia sensorial y emocional desagradable. Por tanto, la función que cumple la enfermería en esta quinta constante vital es fundamental. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el nivel de conocimientos y actitudes de enfermeras profesionales y auxiliares respecto al dolor en una institución asistencial de tercer nivel de atención de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Metodología. Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, con una muestra conformada por 162 participantes. Se utilizó el cuestionario Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain. Criterios de inclusión: enfermeras profesionales y auxiliares de enfermería con mínimo tres meses en el servicio; criterios de exclusión: estudiantes de enfermería y enfermeras con labores formativas y no clínicas. Resultados. El promedio de edad fue de 31 años, sexo femenino 86.4%, la media de años de experiencia en el servicio fue de 1.54 años. El porcentaje de respuestas correctas de conocimientos fue de 30.7% para enfermeras profesionales y 25.6% para auxiliares. Discusión. Aunque se han realizado a nivel internacional estudios que han evaluado el conocimiento y actitudes del dolor haciendo uso del mismo cuestionario, este estudio es el primero en Colombia que compara enfermeras y auxiliares, evidenciando mejores porcentajes de respuestas correctas y mayor número de preguntas con resultados clasificados como "satisfactorios". Conclusiones. El nivel de conocimientos y actitudes respecto al dolor obtenidos de las enfermeras es mayor que en los auxiliares; sin embargo, se identificaron en ambas poblaciones debilidades específicas en estas áreas.

Introduction. Pain is defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience. Therefore, the role of nursing in this fifth vital constant is fundamental. The objective of this study was to describe the level of knowledge and attitudes of professional nurses and nursing assistants regarding pain in a tertiary health care institution in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methodology. A descriptive cross-sectional study, with a sample of 162 participants. The Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain was used. Inclusion criteria: Professional nurses and assistants with at least three months in service. Exclusion criteria: Nursing students and nurses with formative and non-missional tasks. Results. The average age was 31 years, 86.4% female, and the average number of years of experience in service was 1.54 years. The percentage of correct answers in knowledge was 30.7% for professional nurses and 25.6% for assistants. Discussion. Although some international studies have evaluated knowledge and attitudes regarding pain using the same survey, this study is the first in Colombia that compares nurses and assistants, showing better percentages of correct answers and a greater number of questions with results classified as "satisfactory." Conclusions. The level of knowledge and attitudes regarding pain obtained from the nurses is higher than that of assistants. However, specific weaknesses in these areas were identified in both populations.

Introdução. A dor é definida pela Associação Internacional para o Estudo da Dor (IASP, sigla em inglês) como uma experiencia sensorial e emocional desagradável. Portanto, o papel que a enfermagem desempenha neste quinto sinal vital é fundamental. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o nível de conhecimento e atitudes de enfermeiras e auxiliares em relação à dor em uma instituição de atendimento terciário de Bucaramanga, Colômbia. Metodologia. Estudo descritivo, transversal, com uma amostra de 162 participantes. Foi utilizado o questionário Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain. Critérios de inclusão: enfermeiras e auxiliares com no mínimo três meses no serviço. Critérios de exclusão: estudantes de enfermagem e enfermeiras com funções de formação e não missionárias. Resultados. A idade média foi de 31 anos, sexo feminino 86,4%, a média de anos de experiência no serviço foi de 1,54 anos. O percentual de respostas corretas de conhecimento foi de 30,7% para enfermeiras e 25,6% para auxiliares. Discussão. Embora tenham sido realizados estudos internacionais que avaliaram conhecimentos e atitudes sobre a dor usando o mesmo questionário, este estudo é o primeiro na Colômbia que compara enfermeiras e auxiliares, mostrando melhores percentuais de respostas corretas e maior número de perguntas com resultados classificados como "satisfatórios". Conclusões. O nível de conhecimento e atitudes em relação à dor, obtido das enfermeiras é superior ao dos auxiliares. No entanto, foram identificadas fragilidades específicas nestas áreas em ambas as populações.

Cancer incidence and mortality in Bucaramanga, Colombia. 2008-2012.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer is a burden in the world, especially for the least developed countries. The Population Registries of Cancer are fundamental in order to know the territorial profiles of cancer, and to evaluate the impact of their control programs. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence and mortality from cancer in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Bucaramanga in the period 2008-2012. METHODS: A descriptive population study of cancer incidence and mortality in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Bucaramanga was conducted. Primary invasive cancer cases from the 2008-2012 period was obtained from the RPC-AMB base. Population and death data were provided by the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE, for its initials in Spanish). Crude rates of global and specific incidence and mortality were estimated by sex, and standardized incidence and mortality rates. RESULTS: During the five-year period, 8,775 incidents of cancer were recorded (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). The global standardized incidence rates per 100,000 person-years were 151.7 in men and 157.2 in women. The main locations were prostate, stomach and colorectal, in men; breast, thyroid and colorectal in women. The standardized mortality rate per 100,000 person-years was 94.8 in men and 78.0 in women. CONCLUSION: The incidence and mortality rates in most locations are lower than the national ones and those in the previous quinquennium in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Bucaramanga. Thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer, and leukemia show a tendency to increase, which demands further investigation.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El cáncer constituye una carga en el mundo, en especial para los países menos desarrollados. Los Registros Poblacionales de Cáncer son fundamentales para conocer los perfiles territoriales del cáncer y la evaluación del impacto de sus programas de control. OBJETIVO: Estimar la incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer en el Área Metropolitana de Bucaramanga en el período 2008-2012. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio poblacional descriptivo de la incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer en el Área Metropolitana de Bucaramanga. Los casos de cáncer invasivos primarios del periodo 2008-2012 se obtuvieron de la base del RPC-AMB. Los datos de población y defunciones fueron facilitados por el Departamento Administrativo Nacional de Estadística (DANE). Se estimaron tasas crudas de incidencia y mortalidad globales y específicas por sexo, y tasas de incidencia y mortalidad estandarizadas. RESULTADOS: Durante el quinquenio se registraron 8,775 casos incidentes de cáncer (excluyendo cáncer de piel no melanoma). Las tasas de incidencia estandarizada globales por 100,000 personas-año fueron de 151.7 en hombres y 157.2 en mujeres. Las principales localizaciones fueron próstata, estómago y colorrecto, en los hombres, y mama, tiroides y colorrecto en las mujeres. La tasa de mortalidad estandarizada por 100,000 personas-año fue de 94.8 en hombres y de 78.0 en mujeres. CONCLUSIÓN: Las tasas de incidencia y mortalidad en la mayoría de localizaciones son inferiores a las nacionales y al quinquenio previo en el Área Metropolitana de Bucaramanga. El cáncer de tiroides, colorrectal, y las leucemias muestran una tendencia al aumento, lo cual demanda indagaciones posteriores.

Hallazgos histopatológicos y malignidad de masas suprarrenales en un centro de patología y citología en Bucaramanga, Santander entre 2007 y 2019 / Histopathological findings and malignancy of adrenal masses in a pathology and cytology center in Bucaramanga, Santander between 2007 and 2019 / Achados histopatológicos e malignidade de massas adrenais em um centro de patologia e citologia em Bucaramanga, Santander entre 2007 e 2019

Introducción. Las masas encontradas en la glándula suprarrenal pueden clasificarse de acuerdo con su origen, comportamiento, localización, función y forma de diagnóstico. En Colombia no existen datos suficientes que describan la frecuencia y las principales características histopatológicas de dichas lesiones. El objetivo del presente manuscrito es describir los principales hallazgos histopatológicos y la malignidad de las masas suprarrenales en un centro médico especializado en patología de Bucaramanga, Santander. Metodología. Estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se revisaron patologías de pacientes de todas las edades con alteraciones histopatológicas en la glándula suprarrenal, en un centro médico de Bucaramanga, Santander. Resultados. Se revisaron 79 patologías suprarrenales de las cuales 39 presentaron lesión a nivel de la glándula suprarrenal, la lesión más frecuente encontrada fue la metástasis (28.2%), y la localización de lesión más frecuente se evidenció en la glándula derecha (62.1%). Conclusión. Es fundamental que se realicen estudios prospectivos que permitan obtener datos epidemiológicos con el fin de generar datos locales.

Introduction. Masses found in the adrenal gland can be classified according to their origin, behavior, location, function and manner of diagnosis. In Colombia there are insufficient data describing the frequency and main histopathological characteristics of these lesions. The aim of this manuscript is to describe the main histopathological findings and malignancy of adrenal masses in a medical center specialized in pathology in Bucaramanga, Santander. Methodology. Descriptive and retrospective study. Pathologies of patients of all ages with histopathologic alterations in the adrenal gland were reviewed in a medical center in Bucaramanga, Santander. Results. Seventy-nine adrenal pathologies were reviewed, of which 39 showed adrenal gland lesions. The most frequent lesion found was metastasis (28.2 %), and the most frequent location of the lesion was in the right gland (62.1 %). Conclusion. It is essential that prospective studies be carried out to obtain epidemiological data in order to generate local data

Introdução. As massas encontradas na glândula adrenal podem ser classificadas de acordo com a sua origem, comportamento, localização, função e forma de diagnóstico. Na Colômbia, não há dados suficientes que descrevam a frequência e as principais características histopatológicas dessas lesões. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever os principais achados histopatológicos e a malignidade das massas adrenais em um centro médico especializado em patologia em Bucaramanga, Santander. Metodologia. Estudo descritivo e retrospectivo. Foram analisadas patologias de pacientes de todas as idades com alterações histopatológicas na glândula adrenal, em um centro médico em Bucaramanga, Santander. Resultados. Foram revisadas 79 patologias adrenais, das quais 39 apresentavam lesão em glândula adrenal, a lesão mais frequente encontrada foi metástase (28.2%), e o local mais frequente de lesão foi evidenciado na glândula direita (62.1%). Conclusão. É imprescindível a realização de estudos prospectivos para obtenção de dados epidemiológicos a fim de gerar dados locais.