Effects of exercise, physical activity, and sports on physical fitness in adults with Down syndrome: A systematic review.

This systematic review aimed to analyze the effects of exercise, physical activity, and sports on physical fitness in adults with Down syndrome (DS). A literature search was conducted across four databases EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The PEDro scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool were used to assess the quality and risk of the studies, respectively. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (code: CRD42023449627). Of the 423 records initially found, 13 were finally included in the systematic review, in which 349 adults with DS participated. 92% of the articles declared at least one significant difference post-intervention. The available evidence indicates that exercise, physical activity, and sports have a positive effect on some variables of physical fitness, especially strength, balance, body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, flexibility, and functional capacity. Furthermore, it should be considered as an additional treatment or complementary therapy to improve the functionality and quality of life of adults with DS.

Test-Retest Reliability of an Isometric and Isometric/Vibratory Muscular Strength Protocol with Functional Electro-Mechanical Dynamometry.

The purpose of the study was to analyze the test-retest reliability of an isometric and isometric/vibratory muscular strength protocol in the bilateral seated bench press (BSBP), bilateral seated rowing (BSR), unilateral seated right knee extension (USKER), and left knee extension (USKEL) tests controlled using functional electromechanical dynamometry (FEMD) in healthy young adults. A repeated measures design was used to determine the reliability of a muscular strength protocol in isometric and isometric vibration modes with FEMD. No significant differences were found in test-retest analysis (p > 0.05; ES < 0.20); and high reliability (CV = 4.65-5.02%; ICC = 0.99-0.98) was found for BSBP measures, and acceptable reliability (CV = 3.71-9.61%; ICC = 0.98-0.95) was found for BSR, USKER, and USKEL. Furthermore, the coefficients between the two measures were strong (r = 0.963-0.839) and highly significant (p = 0.001) for maximal strength in the isometric and maximal isometric/vibratory assessment of muscle strength in all muscle strength tests. This study demonstrates that isometric and maximal isometric/vibratory strength in the BSBP, BSR, USKER, and USKEL tests can be measured with high reliability and reproducibility using the FEMD.

Validity of the Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS) for the Adolescent Colombian Population.

INTRODUCTION: Addiction behaviors are primary contributors to mental health issues among adolescents, often utilized as coping mechanisms or emotional regulation tools. This study aimed to establish the content validity of the Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS) for Colombian adolescents, recognized for its representation of the cognitive-emotional aspects of craving. METHODOLOGY: This quantitative research focused on instrument validation. Seven subject matter experts evaluated the scale in terms of pertinence, relevance, usefulness, sufficiency, clarity, and appearance. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22, calculating internal consistency and the Content Validity Index. Qualitative feedback from experts was compiled in an Excel matrix, facilitating grammatical and semantic adjustments to the instrument. RESULTS: Cronbach's Alpha values for each item and the scale exceeded 0.8. Content Validity Index scores exceeded 0.7 in four out of five evaluated criteria. These results supported retaining all scale items in the Colombian version. CONCLUSIONS: The content validation process yielded an instrument that satisfied expert opinion regarding conceptual constructs and explanatory power for the Colombian adolescent population.

Hydrogel composites based on chitosan and CuAuTiO2 photocatalysts for hydrogen production under simulated sunlight irradiation.

This study explored the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using novel biohydrogel composites comprising chitosan, and a photocatalyst consisting in TiO2 P25 decorated with Au and/or Cu mono- and bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) to boost its optical and catalytic properties. Low loads of Cu and Au (1 mol%) were incorporated onto TiO2 via a green photodeposition methodology. Characterization techniques confirmed the incorporation of decoration metals as well as improvements in the light absorption properties in the visible light interval (λ > 390 nm) and electron transfer capability of the semiconductors. Thereafter, Au and/or Cu NP-supported TiO2 were incorporated into chitosan-based physically crosslinked hydrogels revealing significant interactions between chitosan functional groups (hydroxyls, amines and amides) with the NPs to ensure its encapsulation. These materials were evaluated as photocatalysts for the HER using water and methanol mixtures under simulated sunlight and visible light irradiation. Sample CuAuTiO2/ChTPP exhibited a maximum hydrogen generation of 1790 µmol g-1 h-1 under simulated sunlight irradiation, almost 12-folds higher compared with TiO2/ChTPP. Also, the nanocomposites revealed a similar tendency under visible light with a maximum hydrogen production of 590 µmol g-1 h-1. These results agree with the efficiency of photoinduced charge separation revealed by transient photocurrent and EIS.

Antimicrobial peptides in livestock: a review with a one health approach.

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), often referred to as nature's antibiotics, are ubiquitous in living organisms, spanning from bacteria to humans. Their potency, versatility, and unique mechanisms of action have garnered significant research attention. Unlike conventional antibiotics, peptides are biodegradable, adding to their appeal as potential candidates to address bacterial resistance in livestock farming-a challenge that has been under scrutiny for decades. This issue is complex and multifactorial, influenced by a variety of components. The World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed a comprehensive approach known as One Health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human-animal-environment relationships in tackling such challenges. This review explores the application of AMPs in livestock farming and how they can mitigate the impact of this practice within the One Health framework.

International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Global Mapping Programme: Latin American Society of Pediatric Oncology (SLAOP) country-level report.

BACKGROUND: Latin American countries are improving childhood cancer care, showing strong commitment to implement the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, but there are scant publications of the situation at a continental level. METHODS: As part of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology Global Mapping project, delegates of each country participating in the Latin American Society of Pediatric Oncology (SLAOP) and chairs of national pediatric oncology societies and cooperative groups were invited to provide information regarding availability of national pediatric cancer control programs (NPCCP), pediatric oncology laws, pediatric oncology tumor registries, and training programs and support to diagnosis and treatment. RESULTS: Nineteen of the 20 countries participating in SLAOP responded. National delegates reported nine countries with NPCCP and four of them were launched in the past 5 years. National pediatric tumor registries are available in eight countries, and three provided published survival results. Fellowship programs for training pediatric oncologists are available in 12 countries. National delegates reported that eight countries provide support to most essential diagnosis and treatments and 11 provide partial or minimal support that is supplemented by civil society organizations. Seven countries have a pediatric oncology law. There are three international cooperative groups and four national societies for pediatric oncology. CONCLUSION: Despite many challenges, there were dramatic advances in survivorship, access to treatment, and availability of NPCCP in Latin America. Countries with highest social development scores in general provide more complete support and are more likely to have NPCCP, training programs, and reported survival results.

Vicerrectoría de Proyección Social y su vínculo con la comunidad: más allá de sus de sus muros / The social outreach program offifice and its link with the community: the university beyond its wall

La Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud FUCS creó en 2021 la Vicerrectoría de Proyección Social, con la función principal de interactuar y beneficiar a la comunidad a través de labores de extensión, salud comunitaria, educación continuada, relacionamiento con otras instituciones y responsabilidad social, ramas que tienen una clara representación dentro de las diferentes dependencias de dicha función sustantiva y que aportan en forma directa a los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS). Una de las divisiones que hace más evidente dicha labor es la de salud comunitaria, con la que se han logrado acumular miles de beneficiarios, teniendo en su haber 378441 durante 2023, con actividades que se dividen en cuatro grandes programas: FUCS al parque, espacios educativos saludables, vivienda, familia y salud, y entorno seguro para el paciente y su familia. Se busca realizar promoción de la salud y prevención de la enfermedad a través de labores presenciales dentro de instituciones educativas de todo nivel, en parques, empresas e instituciones hospitalarias, así como las virtuales con los espacios de Pregúntele al Especialista, o en diversos canales de comunicación.

The Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud FUCS created in 2021 the Vice Rector's Office of Social Outreach, with the main function of interacting and benefiting the community through outreach work, community health, continuing education, relations with other institutions and social responsibility, branches that have a clear representation within the different units of this substantive function and that contribute directly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of the divisions that makes this work more evident is that of community health, with which thousands of beneficiaries have been accumulated, with 378,441 beneficiaries during 2023, with activities divided into four major programs: FUCS to the park, healthy educational spaces, housing, family and health, and safe environment for the patient and his or her family. The aim is to promote health and prevent disease through face-to-face activities in educational institutions at all levels, in parks, companies and hospitals, as well as virtual activities through the Ask the Specialist spaces, or through various communication channels.

A highly conserved plant volatile odorant receptor detects a sex pheromone component of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae).

Odorant receptors (ORs) are key specialized units for mate and host finding in moths of the Ditrysia clade, to which 98% of the lepidopteran species belong. Moth ORs have evolved to respond to long unsaturated acetates, alcohols, or aldehydes (Type I sex pheromones), falling into conserved clades of pheromone receptors (PRs). These PRs might have evolved from old lineages of non-Ditrysian moths that use plant volatile-like pheromones. However, a Ditrysian moth called the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella (a worldwide-distributed pest of beehives), uses C9-C11 saturated aldehydes as the main sex pheromone components (i.e., nonanal and undecanal). Thus, these aldehydes represent unusual components compared with the majority of moth species that use, for instance, Type I sex pheromones. Current evidence shows a lack of consensus in the amount of ORs for G. mellonella, although consistent in that the moth does not have conserved PRs. Using genomic data, 62 OR candidates were identified, 16 being new genes. Phylogeny showed no presence of ORs in conserved PR clades. However, an OR with the highest transcript abundance, GmelOR4, appeared in a conserved plant volatile-detecting clade. Functional findings from the HEK system showed the OR as sensitive to nonanal and 2-phenylacetaldehyde, but not to undecanal. It is believed that to date GmelOR4 represents the first, but likely not unique, OR with a stable function in detecting aldehydes that help maintain the life cycle of G. mellonella around honey bee colonies.

Carbapenem resistance in Enterobacterales bloodstream infections among children with cancer or post-haematopoietic stem cell transplant: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Risk factors for carbapenem resistance in Enterobacterales bloodstream infections among children with cancer or post-HSCT have not been thoroughly explored. METHODS: All children with cancer or post-HSCT who developed Enterobacterales bloodstream infections in two cancer referral centres in major Colombian cities between 2012 and 2021 were retrospectively examined. When the infection episode occurred, carbapenem resistance mechanisms were evaluated according to the available methods. Data were divided in a training set (80%) and a test set (20%). Three internally validated carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) prediction models were created: a multivariate logistic regression model, and two data mining techniques. Model performances were evaluated by calculating the average of the AUC, sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. RESULTS: A total of 285 Enterobacterales bloodstream infection episodes (229 carbapenem susceptible and 56 carbapenem resistant) occurred [median (IQR) age, 9 (3.5-14) years; 57% male]. The risk of CRE was 2.1 times higher when the infection was caused by Klebsiella spp. and 5.8 times higher when a carbapenem had been used for ≥3 days in the previous month. A model including these two predictive variables had a discriminatory performance of 77% in predicting carbapenem resistance. The model had a specificity of 97% and a negative predictive value of 81%, with low sensitivity and positive predictive value. CONCLUSIONS: Even in settings with high CRE prevalence, these two variables can help early identification of patients in whom CRE-active agents are unnecessary and highlight the importance of strengthening antibiotic stewardship strategies directed at preventing carbapenem overuse.

Effects of the Solvent Vapor Exposure on the Optical Properties and Photocatalytic Behavior of Cellulose Acetate/Perylene Free-Standing Films.

The search to deliver added value to industrialized biobased materials, such as cellulose derivatives, is a relevant aspect in the scientific, technological and innovation fields at present. To address these aspects, films of cellulose acetate (CA) and a perylene derivative (Pr) were fabricated using a solution-casting method with two different compositions. Consequently, these samples were exposed to dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent vapors so that its influence on the optical, wettability, and topographical properties of the films could be examined. The results demonstrated that solvent vapor could induce the apparent total or partial preferential orientation/migration of Pr toward the polymer-air interface. In addition, photocatalytic activities of the non-exposed and DMF vapor-exposed films against the degradation of methylene blue (MB) in an aqueous medium using light-emitting diode visible light irradiation were comparatively investigated. Apparently, the observed improvement in the performance of these materials in the MB photodegradation process is closely linked to the treatment with solvent vapor. Results from this study have allowed us to propose the fabrication and use of the improved photoactivity "all-organic" materials for potential applications in dye photodegradation in aqueous media.

Electroconvulsive Therapy Impact on Memory Performance in Patients With Depression.

INTRODUCTION: The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS: Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. RESULTS: Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. CONCLUSIONS: Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.

Abundance of Dendroctonus frontalis and D. mexicanus (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) along altitudinal transects in Mexico: Implications of climatic change for forest conservation.

Bark beetle infestations have historically been primary drivers of stand thinning in Mexican pine forests. However, bark beetle impacts have become increasingly extensive and intense, apparently associated with climate change. Our objective was to describe the possible association between abundance of bark beetle flying populations and the occurrence of given value intervals of temperature, precipitation and their balance, in order to have a better comprehension of the climatic space that might trigger larger insect abundances, an issue relevant in the context of the ongoing climatic change. Here, we monitored the abundance of two of the most important bark beetle species in Mexico, Dendroctonus frontalis and D. mexicanus. We sampled 147 sites using pheromone-baited funnel traps along 24 altitudinal transects in 11 Mexican states, from northwestern Chihuahua to southeastern Chiapas, from 2015 to 2017. Through mixed model analysis, we found that the optimum Mean Annual Temperatures were 17°C-20°C for D. frontalis in low-elevation pine-oak forest, while D. mexicanus had two optimal intervals: 11-13°C and 15-18°C. Higher atmospheric Vapor Pressure Deficit (≥ 1.0) was correlated with higher D. frontalis abundances, indicating that warming-amplified drought stress intensifies trees' vulnerability to beetle attack. As temperatures and drought stress increase further with projected future climatic changes, it is likely that these Dendroctonus species will increase tree damage at higher elevations. Pine forests in Mexico are an important source of livelihood for communities inhabiting those areas, so providing tools to tackle obstacles to forest growth and health posed by changing climate is imperative.

Impacto de la Terapia Electroconvulsiva en el Funcionamiento de la Memoria en Pacientes con Depresión

Introducción: La seguridad de la terapia electroconvulsiva ha mejorado mucho en las últimas décadas, lo que hace que los efectos potencialmente adversos en la memoria y otras funciones neurocognitivas sean el principal aspecto clínico de preocupación en el presente. En Colombia, la población general y los profesionales de la salud (incluso algunos psiquiatras) parecen tener opiniones mayoritariamente negativas sobre el tratamiento electroconvulsivo, pero quizá esto podría reconsiderarse si se brinda más información; por lo tanto, el objetivo del presente estudio es evaluar los cambios en la memoria y la gravedad de los síntomas en un grupo de pacientes con depresión grave antes y después de la terapia electroconvulsiva. Métodos: Se incluyó a 23 pacientes con edades comprendidas entre los 23 y los 70 anos del Servicio de Terapia Electroconvulsiva de la Clínica San Juan de Dios (Manizales, Colombia) para evaluar el efecto de esta terapia en la memoria de pacientes con depresión grave. Los síntomas depresivos y la memoria se evaluaron con la escala de depresión de Hamilton (HAMD) y la prueba de aprendizaje auditivo verbal de Rey (RAVLT) respectivamente. Se evaluó a los participantes antes de la sesión inicial de la serie de terapia electroconvulsiva (0-1 día) y 2 días después de su último tratamiento. Resultados: La terapia electroconvulsiva resultó en una mejora significativa en la puntuación de depresión. No hubo diferencias significativas en las puntuaciones de las 5 pruebas de aprendizaje, recuerdo retardado, aprendizaje y olvido desde antes del tratamiento hasta después de este. Se encontraron diferencias significativas antes y después del tratamiento en la prueba de reconocimiento retardado. Conclusiones: Los problemas de memoria pueden evaluarse y caracterizarse de manera práctica tras la terapia electroconvulsiva. La evaluación cognitiva antes y después de la terapia electroconvulsiva es un procedimiento viable y útil. En general, el rendimiento de la memoria no empeora después de la terapia electroconvulsiva en pacientes con depresión. Solo el reconocimiento retardado se ve afectado unos días después, particularmente en pacientes con bajo nivel educativo y colocación de electrodos bitemporales (BT).

Introduction: The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. Methods: Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. Results: Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. Conclusions: Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.

Nivel de actividad física realizada en alumnos de establecimientos particulares subvencionados de la comuna de Talcahuano en tiempo de confinamiento / Level of Physical Activity Carried Out in Students From Subsidized Private Establishments in The Community of Talcahuano in Time Of Confinement / Nível de atividade física exercida pelos estudantes em escolas privadas subsidiadas na comuna de Talcahuano durante o período de internação

Resumen: Introducción: debido a la pandemia mundial ocasionada por el SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), las autoridades han optado por confinar a su ciudadanía como una medida de contención epidemiológica disminuyendo en forma considerable los niveles de actividad física en la población adolescente. Propósito: considerando la importancia de la actividad física y específicamente, los niveles insuficientes que realiza la población adolescente, surge la interrogante de conocer los niveles de actividad física que ejecutan los estudiantes de enseñanza media entre establecimientos particulares subvencionado de la comuna de Talcahuano durante el periodo de confinamiento. Método: fueron evaluados 152 hombres y 177 mujeres entre 14 a 17 años de tres establecimientos particulares subvencionados de la comuna de Talcahuano. La aplicación del cuestionario digital se realizó en la jornada de clases a distancia. Resultados: se obtuvo la media del puntaje del cuestionario de (2,37 ± 0,68), el puntaje obtenido los clasifica como inactivos, por presentar valores inferiores a 2,75 de media en la valoración del cuestionario PAQ -A. Se realizó la prueba de U de Mann-Whitney para determinar las diferencias en la mediana del puntaje del cuestionario, para los grupos de hombres y mujeres. La mediana fue estadísticamente significativa entre los grupos p= 0,001. En comparación entre las edades, se realizó la prueba Kruskal-Wallis, resultando que la mediana no fue significativamente diferente entre los grupos de edades, P = 0,224. Conclusión: los hombres realizan una media mayor actividad física que las mujeres y no existen en la media entre las edades de 14 a 17 años en tiempos de confinamiento.

Abstract: Introduction: due to the worldwide pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), authorities have chosen to confine their citizens as an epidemiological containment measure, considerably reducing physical activity levels in the adolescent population. Objective: The evidence indicates the importance of physical activity in mental health, development of motor skills, improvements in cardiovascular risk profile, cognitive functions, increased self-esteem, and quality of life in adolescence. Considering the importance of physical activity and, specifically, the insufficient levels of physical activity in the adolescent population, the question of the levels of physical activity performed by high school students in subsidized private schools in the district of Talcahuano during the period of confinement was raised. Method: 152 males and 177 females between 14 and 17 years of age from three subsidized private schools in the municipality of Talcahuano were evaluated. A digital questionnaire was administered on the day of distance learning. Results: The mean questionnaire score was 2.37 ± 0.68. The obtained score classified the students as inactive since they had values lower than 2.75 on the PAQ-A questionnaire. Mann-Whitney U test was performed to determine the differences in median questionnaire scores for male and female groups. The median was statistically significant between the groups p= 0.001. A KruskalWallis test was performed to compare the age groups. As a result, the median was not significantly different between age groups, P = 0.224. Conclusion: men are, on average, more physically active than women, and there is no difference in the median age between 14 and 17 years in the confinement periods.

Resumo: Introdução: devido à pandemia mundial causada pela SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), as autoridades optaram por confinar seus cidadãos como medida de contenção epidemiológica, reduzindo consideravelmente os níveis de atividade física na população adolescente. Objetivo: considerando a importância da atividade física e, especificamente, os níveis insuficientes de atividade física na população adolescente, levanta-se a questão dos níveis de atividade física realizada por estudantes do ensino médio em escolas particulares subsidiadas no distrito de Talcahuano durante o período de internação. Método: foram avaliados 152 homens e 177 mulheres entre 14 e 17 anos de idade, de três escolas privadas subsidiadas na comuna de Talcahuano. O questionário digital foi administrado no dia do ensino à distância. Resultados: a pontuação média do questionário foi de 2,37 ± 0,68; a pontuação obtida classifica os estudantes como inativos por ter valores inferiores a 2,75 no questionário PAQ-A. O teste Mann-Whitney U foi realizado para determinar as diferenças na pontuação mediana do questionário para os grupos masculino e feminino. A mediana foi estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos p= 0,001. Em comparação entre os grupos etários, foi feito o teste Kruskal-Wallis e, como resultado, a mediana não foi significativamente diferente entre os grupos etários, P = 0,224. Conclusão: os homens são em média mais ativos fisicamente que as mulheres e não há diferença na mediana da idade entre 14 e 17 anos nos períodos de confinamento.

Urinary KIM-1 is not correlated with gestational age among 5-year-old children born prematurely.

Background: Preterm birth is associated with decreased nephron endowment. Currently, there is no reliable non-invasive biomarker to identify or monitor decreased nephron number in at-risk patients. Urinary Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) is a biomarker of acute and chronic renal injury. We measured urinary KIM-1 among a wide array of other potential biomarkers. Methods: We conducted an ambispective cohort study of 5-years-old children born prematurely and healthy controls identified from city schools. Detailed anthropometrics, renal ultrasound dimensions, and biochemical parameters were measured. Urinary KIM-1 was measured using Luminex® technology. Age independent z-scores were calculated and compared. Spearman correlations were used for estimating the association between measures and KIM-1. Results: We enrolled 129 children, 97 (75.2%) born pre-term and 32 (24.8%) healthy controls born at full-term. Pre-term patients had significantly lower weight and body surface area than controls. Pre-term patients and controls did not differ in current age, sex, race, height, blood pressure, urinary sodium, fractional sodium excretion, serum creatinine and estimated GFR. All spearman correlation between KIM-1 and gestational age, renal and serum measurements were weak without statistical significance. Conclusion: In 5-year-old children born prematurely, KIM-1 was not correlated with gestational age. Further prospective studies need to confirm this finding.

Influence of CYP2B6 Genotype on Methadone Dosage in Patients from the Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) Program in Pereira, Colombia.

Methadone treatment reduces the use of heroin and withdrawal symptoms; however, methadone is an expensive medication with a narrow safety margin. We compared the retention rates, persistence of heroin use, and quality of life of a group of patients undergoing conventional Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) with a group for whom the CYP2B6 516G>T polymorphism was used in addition to the MMT to calculate the required methadone dose. Over 12 weeks, the retention rate, heroin usage, and quality of life of patients under conventional treatment (n = 34) were compared with those of patients for whom we used genetic markers to calculate methadone dosage (n = 38). At the end of the study, 26.4% of patients abandoned the program, and neither demographic nor clinical variables were associated with treatment adherence. Of the remaining patients, 16% of the control group and 8% of patients in the pharmacogenetic group reported heroin use, while both groups showed a 64% reduction in the use of cocaine/crack (no significant differences between the groups were found). Starting in the second week, the methadone dosage was lower among the patients for whom methadone was prescribed based on genotype. Although there were six individuals in the control group and three in the pharmacogenetic group with QTc intervals > 450 ms (a threshold that is considered dangerous), we did not find a relationship between the QTc interval and methadone dosage. There were no differences in the perception of quality of life between the two groups. The results of this pilot study suggest that concerning methadone therapy, the CYP2B6 genotype contributes to reduced effective doses and treatment costs.

Primary central nervous system tumors survival in children in ten Colombian cities: a VIGICANCER report.

Purpose: Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the second most common cancer in children and adolescents, leading to premature death and disability. Population-based survival estimates aid decision-making in cancer control, however data on survival for primary CNS tumors in Latin America is lacking. We describe survival rates for children with primary CNS tumors treated in ten Colombian cities. Methods: We analyzed data from children and adolescents newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2021, participating in the Childhood Cancer Clinical Outcomes Surveillance System (VIGICANCER) in ten cities in Colombia. VIGICANCER collects information on clinical outcomes from twenty-seven pediatric oncology units and conducts active follow-up every three months. VIGICANCER does not register craniopharyngiomas; we excluded intracranial germ cell tumors for this report. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to estimate the overall survival probability, stratified by sociodemographic variables, topography, WHO grading, receipt of radiation therapy, and type of surgical resection. We analyzed the prognostic capacity of variables using multivariate proportional Cox's regression, stratified by city and year of diagnosis. Results: During the study period, VIGICANCER included 989 primary CNS tumors in 879 children and 110 adolescents. The cohort median age was 9 years; 53% of patients were males, and 8% were Afro-descendants. Most common tumors were supratentorial astrocytomas (47%), astrocytic tumors (35%), medulloblastomas (20%), ependymomas (11%), and mixed and unspecified gliomas (10%). Five-year overall survival of the entire cohort was 54% (95% CI, 51-58); for supratentorial gliomas, WHO grade I was 77%, II was 62%, III-IV was 27%, respectively, and for medulloblastoma was 61%. The adjusted hazard rate ratio for patients with WHO grade III and IV, for those with subtotal resection, for brainstem location, and for those not receiving radiation therapy was 7.4 (95% CI, 4.7-11.8), 6.4 (95% CI, 4.2-9.8), 2.8 (95% 2.1-3.8), 2.0 (95% CI, 1.3-2.8) and 2.3 (95% CI, 1.7-3.0), respectively. Conclusion: We found that half of Colombia's children and adolescents with primary CNS tumors survive five years, compared to 70% to 80% in high-income countries. In addition to tumor biology and location, gross total resection was crucial for improved survival in this cohort. Systematic monitoring of survival and its determinants provides empirical data for guiding cancer control policies.

Fiabilidad y estabilidad del gesto de diferentes variantes de lanzamiento de balonmano / Reliability and Stability of the Gesture of Different Variants of drowing of Handball

Resumen El estudio tiene como propósito analizar la fiabilidad de la prueba de 8 lanzamientos de 3 diferentes variantes de lanzamientos de balonmano en estudiantado universitario. 33 varones, 20 ±1,9 años; peso 72,39±8,9 kg; altura 176,75 ±6,07 cm; IMC 23,14±2,3. Los sujetos participantes fueron evaluados en 2 sesiones separadas entre sí por un lapso de una semana. Ejecutaron lanzamientos hasta quedar registrados 8 mediciones en cada una de las pruebas, lanzamientos inespecíficos, en apoyo y en carrera con 3 pasos, se registró la velocidad de lanzamiento con un radar posterior a la portería. La fiabilidad del promedio de las puntuaciones del test de 8 medidas entre la primera sesión y la segunda con una prueba test-retest, se obtuvieron los siguientes resultados: en el lanzamiento inespecífico se obtuvo un ICC= (0,86) entre el 95% de confianza, un de CV= (7,43%) y un ES= (0,08). Para el lanzamiento con apoyo se obtuvo un ICC= (0,94) al 95 % de confianza, un de CV= (4,71 %) y un ES= (-0,09). Para el lanzamiento con carrera se obtuvo un ICC= (0,96) al 95 % de confianza, un de CV= (4,00 %) y un ES= (0,05). Este estudio ha demostrado que la prueba de 8 lanzamientos y las 3 variantes es una medida de rendimiento confiable y estable para estudiantes de nivel universitario sin experiencia en el balonmano, en relación con las variables del lanzamiento, las 3 fueron fiables, solo la variable inespecífica fue menor en comparación al lanzamiento con apoyo y con carrera.

Abstract This study aims to analyze the reliability of the test of 8 throws of 3 different variants of handball throws in university students. The participants were 33 males, 20 ± 1.9 years; weight 72.39 ± 8.9 kg; height 176.75 ± 6.07 cm; BMI 23.14 ± 2.3. They were evaluated in 2 sessions separated from each other by a period of one week. The participants executed throws until 8 measurements were recorded in each of the tests, unspecific throws, in support and in the race with 3 steps; the launch speed was recorded with a radar behind the goal. The reliability of the average of the test scores of 8 measurements between the first session and the second was measured with a test-retest test. The following results were obtained: in the nonspecific launch, an ICC= (0.86) was obtained between 95% of confidence, one of CV= (7.43%) and one ES = (0.08). For the toss with support, an ICC = (0.94) was obtained at 95% confidence, one of CV = (4.71%) and an ES = (-0.09). For the running throw, an ICC = (0.96) was obtained at 95% confidence, one of CV = (4.00%) and one ES = (0.05). This study has shown that the test of 8 throws and the 3 variants is a reliable and stable performance measure for university-level students without experience in handball; in relation to the throw variables, all 3 were reliable. Only the nonspecific variable was lower compared to the supported and running pitch.

Resumo O estudo tem como objetivo analisar a confiabilidade do teste de 8 arremessos de 3 variantes diferentes de arremessos de handebol em estudantes universitários. 33 homens, 20 ±1,9 anos; peso 72,39±8,9 kg; altura 176,75 ±6,07 cm; IMC 23,14±2,3. Os participantes foram testados em 2 sessões separadas por um lapso de 1 semana. Os participantes executaram arremessos até poder registrar 8 medições em cada um dos testes, arremessos não específicos, com apoio e correndo com 3 passos. A velocidade de arremesso foi registrada com um radar pós-gol. A confiabilidade da média dos resultados dos testes de 8 medições entre a primeira sessão e a segunda com um teste de retorno, deu os seguintes resultados: no teste de lançamento não específico, foi obtido um ICC= (0,86) com 95% de confiança, um CV= (7,43%) e um ES= (0,08). Para o lançamento apoiado obtivemos um ICC= (0,94) a 95% de confiança, um CV= (4,71%) e um ES= (-0,09). Para o arremesso de corrida obtivemos um ICC= (0,96) a 95% de confiança, um CV= (4,00%) e um ES= (0,05). Este estudo mostrou que o teste de 8 lances e as 3 variantes é uma medida de desempenho confiável e estável para estudantes universitários sem experiência em handebol. Em relação às variáveis de arremesso, todas as 3 foram confiáveis, apenas a variável não específica foi menor em comparação com o arremesso com suporte e com corrida.

New Hybrid Nanocomposites with Catalytic Properties Obtained by In Situ Preparation of Gold Nanoparticles on Poly (Ionic Liquid)/Poly (4-Vinylpyridine) Nanofibers.

In this work, we report the obtaining of new hybrid nanocomposites with catalytic activity formed by nanofibers of polymer blends and gold nanoparticles. The nanofibers were obtained by electrospinning blends of a poly (ionic liquid) (PIL) and its precursor polymer, poly (4-vinyl pyridine) (P4VPy). The characteristics of the nanofibers obtained proved to be dependent on the proportion of polymer in the blends. The nanofibers obtained were used to synthesize, in situ, gold nanoparticles on their surface by two-step procedure. Firstly, the adsorption of precursor ions on the nanofibers and then their reduction with sodium borohydride to generate gold nanoparticles. The results indicated a significant improvement in the performance of PIL-containing nanofibers over pure P4VPy NFs during ion adsorption, reaching a 20% increase in the amount of adsorbed ions and a 6-fold increase in the respective adsorption constant. The catalytic performance of the obtained hybrid systems in the reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol was studied. Higher catalytic conversions were obtained using the hybrid nanofibers containing PIL and gold nanoparticles achieving a maximum conversion rate of 98%. Remarkably, the highest value of kinetic constant was obtained for the nanofibers with the highest PIL content.

Effect of Ethanol Consumption on the Placenta and Liver of Partially IGF-1-Deficient Mice: The Role of Metabolism via CYP2E1 and the Antioxidant Enzyme System.

Ethanol use during pregnancy is a risk factor for developing adverse outcomes. Its metabolism by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) produces radical oxygen species (ROS), promoting cellular injury and apoptosis. To date, no studies have been conducted to elucidate the teratogenic effects due to both IGF-1 deficiency and ethanol consumption in mice placentas. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of ethanol consumption on the placenta and liver of partially IGF-1-deficient mice, the role of metabolism via CYP2E1, and the antioxidant enzyme system. Heterozygous (HZ, Igf1+/-) pregnant female mice were given water or 10% ethanol. Wild-type (WT, Igf1+/+) female mice were used as controls. At gestational day 19, pregnant dams were euthanized, and maternal liver and placentas were collected. Pregnant HZ dams were smaller than controls, and this effect was higher due to ethanol consumption. Cyp2e1 gene was overexpressed in the liver of HZ pregnant dams exposed to ethanol; at the protein level, CYP2E1 is reduced in placentas from all genotypes. The antioxidant enzymatic system was altered by ethanol consumption in both the maternal liver and placenta. The results in this work hint that IGF-1 is involved in intrauterine development because its deficiency exacerbates ethanol's effects on both metabolism and the placenta.