Innovative Poly(lactic Acid) Blends: Exploring the Impact of the Diverse Chemical Architectures from Itaconic Acid.

Environment-friendly polymer blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and itaconic acid (IA), poly(itaconic acid) (PIA), poly(itaconic acid)-co-poly(methyl itaconate) (Cop-IA), and net-poly(itaconic acid)-ν-triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (Net-IA) were performed via melt blending. The compositions studied were 0.1, 1, 3, and 10 wt% of the diverse chemical architectures. The research aims to study and understand the effect of IA and its different architectures on the mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of PLA. The PLA/IA, PLA/PIA, PLA/Cop-IA, and PLA/Net-IA blends were characterized by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, rotational rheometer (RR), thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The complex viscosity, storage module, and loss module for the RR properties were observed in the following order: PLA/Cop-IA, PLA/Net-IA, and PLA/PIA > PLA > PLA/IA. Thermal stability improved with increasing concentrations of Cop-IA and Net-IA. In the same way, the mechanical properties were enhanced. In addition, the micrographs illustrated the formation of fibrillar structures for all blends. The crystallinity degree displayed higher values for the blends that contain Net-IA > Cop-IA than IA > PIA. Therefore, IA and its architectures can influence these studied properties, which have potential applications in disposable food packing.

Comprehensive Analysis of Rheological, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties in Poly(lactic acid)/Oxidized Graphite Composites: Exploring the Effect of Heat Treatment on Elastic Modulus.

This study is focused on investigating the rheological and mechanical properties of highly oxidized graphite (GrO) incorporated into a poly (lactic acid) (PLA) matrix composite. Furthermore, the samples were annealed at 110 °C for 30 min to study whether GrO concentration has an effect on the elastic modulus (E') after treatment. The incorporation of GrO into PLA was carried out by employing an internal mixing chamber at 190 °C. Six formulations were prepared with GrO concentrations of 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 3 wt%. The thermal stability, thermomechanical behavior, and crystallinity of the composites were evaluated utilizing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and differential scanning calorimetry DSC, respectively. The thermal stability (according to Tmax) of the PLA/GrO composites did not change substantially compared with PLA. According to DSC, the crystallinity increased until the GrO concentration reached 1 wt% and afterward decreased. Regarding the heat treatment of the PLA/GrO composites, the E' increased (by two orders of magnitude) at 80 °C with the maximum value achieved at 1 wt% GrO compared with the non-heat-treated composites.

Beneficios del entrenamiento multicomponente en el aprendizaje motor y cognitivo de los adultos mayores / Benefits of multicomponent training on motor and cognitive learning in older adults / Benefícios do treinamento multicomponente para o aprendizado motor e cognitivo em adultos mais velhos

Un problema reiterativo en adultos mayores son las caídas, afectando notablemente su salud y generando morbimortalidad elevada por la lesión y por las secuelas producidas en el aspecto psicológico y social. Objetivo. Analizar los beneficios de los ejercicios multicomponentes en el aprendizaje motor y cognitivo del adulto mayor. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de artículos experimentales que se centraron en los ejercicios multicomponentes como intervención o tratamiento publicados en revistas indexadas en las bases de datos Scopus y Scielo entre 2015 y 2020. Como resultado preliminar se obtuvo 183 artículos con la aplicación de la cadena de búsqueda: TITLE-ABS-KEY (multicomponent AND exercises AND older AND adults). Después de la selección, se analizaron 12 artículos relevantes que cumplían con los criterios establecidos. Conclusión. La prueba de condición física multidimensional, mostró su eficacia para predecir cambios en el rendimiento físico; Los ejercicios de resistencia redujeron la ocurrencia de caídas al mejorar la funcionalidad. Asimismo, los ejercicios multicomponentes fueron eficaces para restablecer la función cognitiva de los adultos mayores, la prevención de caídas y la mejoría de sus labores cotidianas. Los programas de intervención con ejercicios multicomponentes, redujeron sustancialmente los riesgos de caídas, comparados con programas de ejercicios únicos, del mismo modo se evidenció mejoras relevantes en la función cognitiva y en labores cotidianas, evidenciando mejor funcionamiento general que a su vez originó mejoras en su productividad.

Falls are a recurrent problem in older adults, notably affecting their health and generating high morbimortality due to the injury and the psychological and social sequelae. Objective. To analyze the benefits of multicomponent exercises in motor and cognitive learning in the elderly. Methodology. A systematic review of experimental articles focusing on multicomponent exercises as an intervention or treatment published in journals indexed in the Scopus and Scielo databases between 2015 and 2020 was performed. As a preliminary result, 183 articles were obtained with the application of the search string: TITLE-ABS-KEY (multicomponent AND exercises AND older AND adults). After selection, 12 relevant articles that met the established criteria were analyzed. Conclusion. The multidimensional physical fitness test showed its efficacy in predicting changes in physical performance; resistance exercises reduced the occurrence of falls by improving functionality. Likewise, multicomponent exercises were effective in restoring the cognitive function of older adults, preventing falls and improving their daily tasks. Intervention programs with multicomponent exercises substantially reduced the risk of falls, compared to single exercise programs, and also showed significant improvements in cognitive function and daily tasks, resulting in better overall functioning, which in turn led to improvements in productivity.

As quedas são um problema recorrente em adultos mais velhos, afetando sua saúde e gerando alta morbimortalidade devido à lesão e às sequelas psicológicas e sociais. Objetivos. Analisar os benefícios dos exercícios multicomponentes na aprendizagem motora e cognitiva em idosos. Metodologia. Realizamos uma revisão sistemática de artigos experimentais que enfocaram os exercícios multicomponentes como intervenção ou tratamento publicados em periódicos indexados nas bases de dados Scopus e Scielo entre 2015 e 2020. Como resultado preliminar, 183 artigos foram obtidos com a aplicação da string de busca: TITLE-ABS-KEY (multicomponent AND exercises AND older AND adults). Após a seleção, foram analisados 12 artigos relevantes que atenderam aos critérios estabelecidos. Conclusões. O teste multidimensional de condicionamento físico demonstrou ser eficaz na previsão de mudanças no desempenho físico; os exercícios de resistência reduziram a ocorrência de quedas, melhorando a funcionalidade. Os exercícios multicomponentes também foram eficazes na restauração da função cognitiva dos idosos, na prevenção de quedas e na melhoria de suas tarefas diárias. Os programas de intervenção de exercícios multicomponentes reduziram substancialmente o risco de quedas em comparação com os programas de exercícios individuais e também apresentaram melhorias significativas na função cognitiva e nas tarefas diárias, resultando em melhor funcionamento geral, o que, por sua vez, levou a melhorias na produtividade.

Third National Registry of Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs in Mexico (RENAPREC III-2022) / Tercer Registro Nacional de Programas de Rehabilitación Cardiaca en México (RENAPREC III-2022)

Abstract Introduction: In Mexico, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) as an interdisciplinary intervention with therapeutic impact in patients with heart disease is growing. There is the need to know actual conditions of CR in our country. Objectives: The objective of this National Registry is to follow-up those existing and new CR units in Mexico through the comparison between the two previous registries, RENAPREC-2009 and RENAPREC II-2015 studies. This is a descriptive study focused on diverse CR activities such as assistance training, and certification of health professionals, barriers, reference, population attended, interdisciplinarity, permanence over time, growth prospects, regulations, post-pandemic condition, integrative characteristics, and scientific research. Results: Data were collected from 45 CR centers in the 32 states, 75.5% are private practice units, 67% are new, 33% were part of RENAPREC II-2015, and 17 have continued since 2009. With a better distribution of CR units along the territory, the median reference of candidates for CR programs is 9% with a significant reduction into tiempo of enrollment to Phase II admission (19 ± 11 days). Regarding to previous registries, the coverance of Phases I, II, and III is 71%, 100%, and 93%, respectively; and a coverance increases in evaluation, risk stratification, and prescription, more comprehensive attendance and prevention strategies. Conclusions: CR in Mexico has grown in the past 7 years. Even there is still low reference and heterogeneity in specific processes, there are strengths such as interdisciplinarity, scientific professionalization of specialists, national diversification, and an official society that are consolidated over time.

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[Third National Registry of Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs in Mexico (RENAPREC III-2022)]. / Tercer Registro Nacional de Programas de Rehabilitación Cardiaca en México (RENAPREC III-2022).

Introduction: In Mexico, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) as an interdisciplinary intervention with therapeutic impact in patients with heart disease is growing. There is the need to know actual conditions of CR in our country. Objectives: The objective of this National Registry is to follow-up those existing and new CR units in Mexico through the comparison between the two previous registries, RENAPREC-2009 and RENAPREC II-2015 studies. This is a descriptive study focused on diverse CR activities such as assistance training, and certification of health professionals, barriers, reference, population attended, interdisciplinarity, permanence over time, growth prospects, regulations, post-pandemic condition, integrative characteristics, and scientific research. Results: Data were collected from 45 CR centers in the 32 states, 75.5% are private practice units, 67% are new, 33% were part of RENAPREC II-2015, and 17 have continued since 2009. With a better distribution of CR units along the territory, the median reference of candidates for CR programs is 9% with a significant reduction into tiempo of enrollment to Phase II admission (19 ± 11 days). Regarding to previous registries, the coverance of Phases I, II, and III is 71%, 100%, and 93%, respectively; and a coverance increases in evaluation, risk stratification, and prescription, more comprehensive attendance and prevention strategies. Conclusions: CR in Mexico has grown in the past 7 years. Even there is still low reference and heterogeneity in specific processes, there are strengths such as interdisciplinarity, scientific professionalization of specialists, national diversification, and an official society that are consolidated over time.

Introducción: En México, la Rehabilitación Cardíaca (RC) como intervención interdisciplinaria con impacto terapéutico en paciente con cardiopatía está en crecimiento. Existe la necesidad de conocer las condiciones actuales de la RC en nuestro país. Objetivo: El objetivo de este Registro es dar seguimiento comparativo de las unidades nuevas y existentes entre los registros anteriores, RENAPREC-2009 y RENAPREC II-2015. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo centrado en diversas actividades de la RC: formación asistencial y certificación de sus profesionales, barreras, referencia, población atendida, interdisciplinariedad, permanencia en el tiempo, perspectivas de crecimiento, normativa, condición pospandemia, características integradoras e investigación. Resultados: Se recolectaron datos de 45 centros en los 32 estados, 67% son nuevos 75.5% son de práctica privada, 33% fueron parte de RENAPREC II-2015 y 17 desde 2009. Con una mejor distribución de las unidades de RC a lo largo del territorio, la mediana de referencia de pacientes candidatos a RC es ahora del 9% con reducción significativa del tiempo de admisión a Fase II (19 ± 11 días). Respecto a registros anteriores las coberturas de las Fases I, II y III son del 71%, 100% y 93%, respectivamente; con un aumento de la cobertura en evaluación, estratificación de riesgo y prescripción, atención más integral y estrategias de prevención. Conclusiones: La RC en México ha crecido en los últimos 7 años. Si bien aún existe baja referencia y heterogeneidad en procesos específicos, existen fortalezas como la interdisciplinariedad, la profesionalización científica de los especialistas, la diversificación nacional y una sociedad oficial que se consolida en el tiempo.

CD8+ T-cell Exhaustion Phenotype in Human Asymptomatic and Ocular Toxoplasmosis.

This work analyzed exhaustion markers in CD8+ T-cell subpopulations in 21 samples of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from individuals with ocular toxoplasmosis (n = 9), chronic asymptomatic toxoplasmosis (n = 7), and non-infected people (n = 5) by using RT-qPCR and flow cytometry techniques. The study found that gene expression of PD-1 and CD244, but not LAG-3, was higher in individuals with ocular toxoplasmosis versus individuals with asymptomatic infection or uninfected. Expression of PD1 in CD8+ central memory (CM) cells was higher in nine individuals with toxoplasmosis versus five uninfected individuals (p = .003). After ex vivo stimulation, an inverse correlation was found between the exhaustion markers and quantitative clinical characteristics (lesion size, recurrence index, and number of lesions). A total exhaustion phenotype was found in 55.5% (5/9) of individuals with ocular toxoplasmosis. Our results suggest that the CD8+ exhaustion phenotype is involved in the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis.

Plasmodium falciparum COQ2 gene encodes a functional 4-hydroxybenzoate polyprenyltransferase.

Ubiquinone (UQ) is a fundamental mitochondrial electron transport chain component. This compound is synthesized as the condensation of a p-substituted benzoic acid and a polyisoprenic moiety catalyzed by the enzyme 4-hydroxybenzoate polyprenyltransferase (EC 2.5.1.39). In Plasmodium spp., this enzyme is still uncharacterized. In this work, we expressed the sequence of the Plasmodium falciparum PF3D7_0607500 gene (abbreviated as PfCOQ2) in a coq2Δ mutant strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and studied the functionality of its gene product. This open reading frame could complement S. cerevisiae coq2Δ mutant growth defect on media with glycerol as a carbon source. Further, UQ was unequivocally identified in lipid extracts from this coq2Δ mutant when expressing PfCOQ2. Remarkably, UQ was detected under those conditions when S. cerevisiae cells were metabolically labeled with either [ring-14C(U)]-p-aminobenzoic acid or [ring-14C(U)]-4-hydroxybenzoic acid. However, no UQ was detected in P. falciparum if labeled with p-aminobenzoic acid. These results indicate that PfCOQ2 is a 4-hydroxybenzoate polyprenyltransferase. Further, its substrate profile seems not dissimilar to that of S. cerevisiae, but, as in other organisms, p-aminobenzoic acid does not act as an aromatic precursor in UQ biosynthesis in P. falciparum. The reason for this last feature remains to be established, but may lie upstream of PfCOQ2.

Study of Geopolymers Obtained from Wheat Husk Native to Northern Mexico.

Agro-industrial wastes such as wheat husk (WH) are renewable sources of organic and inorganic substances, including cellulose, lignin, and aluminosilicates, which can be transformed into advanced materials with high added value. The use of geopolymers is a strategy to take advantage of the inorganic substances by obtaining inorganic polymers, which have been used as additives, e.g., for cement and refractory brick products or ceramic precursors. In this research, the WH native to northern Mexico was used as a source to produce wheat husk ash (WHA) following its calcination at 1050 °C. In addition, geopolymers were synthesized from the WHA by varying the concentrations of the alkaline activator (NaOH) from 16 M to 30 M, namely Geo 16M, Geo 20M, Geo 25M, and Geo 30M. At the same time, a commercial microwave radiation process was employed as the curing source. Furthermore, the geopolymers synthesized with 16 M and 30 M of NaOH were studied for their thermal conductivity as a function of temperature, in particular at 25, 35, 60, and 90 °C. The chemical composition of the WHA, determined by ICP, revealed a SiO2 content close to 81%, which is similar to rice husk. The geopolymers were characterized using various techniques to determine their structure, mechanical properties, and thermal conductivity. The findings showed that the synthesized geopolymers with 16M and 30M of NaOH had significant mechanical properties and thermal conductivity, respectively, compared to the other synthesized materials. Finally, the thermal conductivity regarding the temperature revealed that Geo 30M presented significant performance, especially at 60 °C.

Salivary Glucose Detection with Laser Induced Graphene/AgNPs Non-Enzymatic Sensor.

The tailoring of novel nanomaterials for sensitive glucose detection through a non-enzymatic mechanism is currently under intensive research. Here, we present a laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrode decorated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a catalytic element for the direct electrooxidation of glucose. The AgNPs were synthesized through cyclic voltammetry using LIG as a template, resulting in a porous tridimensional assembly with anchored nanostructures. The characterization corroborated the formation of LIG/AgNPs composite with distinctive peaks attributed to Ag2O and AgO interaction with glucose. The proposed non-enzymatic sensors were successfully applied for non-enzymatic amperometric detection, exhibiting a linear range from 1 to 10 mM in the first peak (+0.7 V) and a narrow range from 1 to 2 mM with higher sensitivity of 52.2 mA/mM and improved LOD of 45 µM in the second peak (+0.55 V). The applicability of the LIG/AgNPs sensor was evaluated with spiked artificial saliva in a PoC format using a smartphone potentiostat, showing an average recovery rate of 91%. The analysis was performed in a portable, mobile, and low-cost fashion using a simulated non-invasive sample, with promising results in clinical ranges.

Effect of the Addition of Different Natural Waxes on the Mechanical and Rheological Behavior of PLA-A Comparative Study.

In this study, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) blended with different natural waxes (beeswax, candelilla, carnauba, and cocoa) was investigated. Different wax amounts, 3, 5, 10, and 15 wt%, were incorporated into the PLA using a Brabender internal mixer. The blends were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rotational rheometer (RR), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and contact angle to observe the effect of the different waxes on the PLA physicochemical, rheological, mechanical behavior, and wetting properties. The complex viscosity of the blends was studied by employing a RR. The effect of the addition of the waxes on the mechanical properties of PLA was evaluated by DMA in the tension modality. A slight decrease in the thermal stability of PLA was observed with the addition of the waxes. However, in the case of the mechanical properties, the cocoa wax showed a considerable effect, especially in the elongation at break of PLA. Likewise, waxes had an essential impact on the water affinity of PLA. Specifically, with the addition of cocoa, the PLA became more hydrophilic, while the rest of the waxes increased the hydrophobic character.

Theoretical Study of Vinyl-Sulfonate Monomers and Their Effect as the Dopants of Polyaniline Dimers.

Establishing the structure-property relationships of monomers and polymers via theoretical chemistry is vital for designing new polymer structures with a specific application. Developing bifunctional monomers with selective polymerizable sites is one of the strategies employed to obtain complex polymeric systems. In this work, a theoretical study on anilinium 2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonate (ani-AMPS) and anilinium 4-styrenesulfonate (ani-SS) monomers and their respective doped polyaniline dimer (PAni-d AMPS or PAni-d SS) was performed. The study focused on understanding the susceptibility of the vinyl group to a radical attack and the conformation changes resulting from the coordinated covalent bond between sulfonate and aniliniun. Applying Density Functional Theory with the B3LYP functional and a basis set of 6 - 31 + G(d,p), the structures of the ani-AMPS, ani-SS, PAni-d AMPS, and PAni-d SS were optimized, and the different chemical descriptors were determined. The simulation showed that the reactivity of the vinyl group in the ani-AMPS is slightly higher. The sulfonate group undergoes a conformational change when bonding with PAni-d AMPS or PAni-d SS compared to its respective bifunctional monomer. Additionally, the electronegativity of PAni-d depends on the dopant's structure. Thus, the bonded spacer between the vinyl and sulfonate groups (dopant) plays a notable role in the final characteristics of ani-AMPS, ani-SS, PAni-d AMPS, and PAni-d SS.

Brush-like Polyaniline with Optical and Electroactive Properties at Neutral pH and High Temperature.

In this research, a brush-like polyaniline (poly(2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonate)-g-polyaniline)-b-poly(N-vinylcarbazole) (BL PAni) was developed as a strategy to overcome the limited processability and dedoping above pH 4 of conventional polyaniline (PAni). For the BL PAni synthesis, RAFT polymerization (homopolymer), RAFT-mediated surfactant-free emulsion polymerization (block copolymer), and interfacial oxidative polymerization were applied to graft the PAni chains. NMR and FT-IR spectroscopies were performed to confirm the structural elucidation of the reaction pathways, while the thermal properties were analyzed by TGA and DSC. Notably, the BL PAni presents absorption throughout the visible region and up to the near-infrared, showing dedoping resistance at up to 80 °C and at a neutral pH. The absorption range of the BL PAni, block copolymer, and homopolymer were studied by UV-Vis spectroscopy in solid-state and dispersion/solution, highlighting BL PAni and poly(anilinium 2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonate)-b-poly(N-vinylcarbazole) (PAAMP-b-PVK) due to the π-stacking between the anilinium and carbazole groups. The cyclic voltammetry confirmed the persistence of electroactivity at a pH near 7.

Presence of Phylloquinone in the Intraerythrocytic Stages of Plasmodium falciparum.

Malaria is one of the most widespread parasitic diseases, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia and South America. One of the greatest problems for control of the disease is the emergence of drug resistance, which leads to a need for the development of new antimalarial compounds. The biosynthesis of isoprenoids has been investigated as part of a strategy to identify new targets to obtain new antimalarial drugs. Several isoprenoid quinones, including menaquinone-4 (MK-4/vitamin K2), α- and γ-tocopherol and ubiquinone (UQ) homologs UQ-8 and UQ-9, were previously detected in in vitro cultures of Plasmodium falciparum in asexual stages. Herein, we described for the first time the presence of phylloquinone (PK/vitamin K1) in P. falciparum and discuss the possible origins of this prenylquinone. While our results in metabolic labeling experiments suggest a biosynthesis of PK prenylation via phytyl pyrophosphate (phytyl-PP) with phytol being phosphorylated, on the other hand, exogenous PK attenuated atovaquone effects on parasitic growth and respiration, showing that this metabolite can be transported from extracellular environment and that the mitochondrial electron transport system (ETS) of P. falciparum is capable to interact with PK. Although the natural role and origin of PK remains elusive, this work highlights the PK importance in plasmodial metabolism and future studies will be important to elucidate in seeking new targets for antimalarial drugs.

Progress of Polyaniline Glucose Sensors for Diabetes Mellitus Management Utilizing Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Detection.

Glucose measurement is a fundamental tool in the daily care of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients and healthcare professionals. While there is an established market for glucose sensors, the rising number of DM cases has promoted intensive research to provide accurate systems for glucose monitoring. Polyaniline (PAni) is a conductive polymer with a linear conjugated backbone with sequences of single C-C and double C=C bonds. This unique structure produces attractive features for the design of sensing systems such as conductivity, biocompatibility, environmental stability, tunable electrochemical properties, and antibacterial activity. PAni-based glucose sensors (PBGS) were actively developed in past years, using either enzymatic or non-enzymatic principles. In these devices, PAni played roles as a conductive material for electron transfer, biocompatible matrix for enzymatic immobilization, or sensitive layer for detection. In this review, we covered the development of PBGS from 2015 to the present, and it is not even exhaustive; it provides an overview of advances and achievements for enzymatic and non-enzymatic PBGB PBGS for self-monitoring and continuous blood glucose monitoring. Additionally, the limitations of PBGB PBGS to advance into robust and stable technology and the challenges associated with their implementation are presented and discussed.

Conocimientos del pie diabético en el personal médico en formación de la Universidad de Antioquia / Knowledge of the diabetic foot in physician in training in the city of Medellín

RESUMEN Introducción: el pie diabético es el causante de casi el 85 % de las amputaciones no traumáticas, ocasionando discapacidades importantes. Por ello, el personal de la salud debe estar capacitado para el reconocimiento temprano de esta condición, así como para su adecuado tratamiento. Por lo anterior, nos proponemos recopilar el conocimiento que tienen los médicos en formación del último año de la carrera Medicina de la Universidad de Antioquia, para la evaluación del pie diabético y la estratificación del riesgo de amputación. Métodos: los participantes fueron estudiantes de medicina del último año de la Universidad de Antioquia. A estos se les realizó un cuestionario que debían autodiligenciar, que constaba de 22 preguntas acerca del conocimiento sobre la evaluación y estratificación del riesgo de amputación en los pacientes con pie diabético. Resultados: fueron 148 participantes. En general, los conocimientos sobre la evaluación y estratificación del riesgo son bajos. El 16,9 % de los participantes saben realizar la prueba de monofilamento y el 22,3 % sabe interpretarla. También existe un desconocimiento acerca de los factores de riesgo para la amputación; solo el 20,9 % de los encuestados demuestran conocimientos del tema. Conclusión: el nivel de conocimiento sobre pie diabético, su diagnóstico y estratificación del riesgo es baja en los participantes del estudio. Lo anterior indica que los estudiantes de último año de medicina de la universidad de Antioquia poseen una información superficial sobre el tema, lo cual puede llevar a un retraso en el diagnóstico y la implementación de un tratamiento oportuno.

SUMMARY Justification: The diabetic foot is the cause of up to 85% of non-traumatic amputations, leading to major disabilities. Therefore, health personnel must be trained for the early recognition of this condition, as well as for the adequate treatment. We set out to identify the knowledge that doctors in training of the last year of the medical degree of the University of Antioquia have for the evaluation of the diabetic foot, as well as for the stratification of the risk of amputation. Methods: Participants were medical students of the last year in the University of Antioquia, whom were asked a self-monitoring questionnaire that consisted of 22 questions about knowledge on evaluation and stratification of the risk of amputation in patients with diabetic foot. Results: There were 148 participants. In general, knowledge about risk assessment and stratification is low. Seventeen percent of the participants know how to perform the monofilament test and 22.3% know how to interpret it. There is also a lack of knowledge about the risk factors for amputation; only 20.9% of the respondents demonstrate knowledge of the subject. Conclusion: The level of knowledge about diabetic foot, its diagnosis and risk stratification is low in the study participants. The foregoing indicates that last year medical students at the University of Antioquia have superficial information on the subject, which can lead to a delay in the diagnosis and implementation of timely treatment.

Dibutyl Itaconate and Lauryl Methacrylate Copolymers by Emulsion Polymerization for Development of Sustainable Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives.

Renewable polymers possess the potential to replace monomers from petrochemical sources. The design and development of polymeric materials from sustainable materials are a technological challenge. The main objectives of this study were to study the microstructure of copolymers based on itaconic acid (IA), di-n-butyl itaconate (DBI), and lauryl methacrylate (LMA); and to explore and to evaluate these copolymers as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA). The copolymer synthesis was carried out through batch emulsion radical polymerization, an environmentally friendly process. IA was used in a small fixed amount as a functional comonomer, and LMA was selected due to low glass transition temperature (Tg). The structure of synthesized copolymers was studied by FTIR, 1H-NMR, Soxhlet extraction, and molecular weight analyses by GPC. Furthermore, the viscoelastic and thermal properties of copolymer films were characterized by DMA, DSC, and TGA. The single Tg displayed by the poly(DBI-LMA-IA) terpolymers indicates that statistical random composition copolymers were obtained. Moreover, FTIR and NMR spectra confirm the chemical structure and composition. It was found that a cross-linked microstructure and higher molecular weight are observed with an increase of LMA in the feed led. The Tg and modulus (G') of the copolymers film can be tuned with the ratio of DBI:LMA providing a platform for a wide range of applications as a biobased alternative to produce waterborne PSA.

Descripción morfométrica de la anatomía externa e interna del Ambystoma mexicanum / Morphometric description of the external and internal anatomy of Ambystoma mexicanum

RESUMEN: El Ambystoma mexicanum o comúnmente llamado axolote, es un anfibio miembro del género Ambystoma que comprende 32 especies presentes desde el sur de Canadá hasta la región central de México. Actualmente esta especie se encuentra en peligro de extinción debido a cambios fisicoquímicos en su medio ambiente y la depredación por organismos introducidos en su hábitat. Dentro de las múltiples estrategias para su conservación se encuentran el desarrollo de programas de investigación, educación y desarrollo del manejo clínico. El objetivo del presente trabajo estuvo enfocado en obtener y analizar datos morfométricos acompañados por una descripción de la anatomía externa e interna de la especie Ambystoma mexicanum con el propósito de contribuir a su conservación. Por lo anterior, cinco ejemplares de la especie Ambystoma mexicanum de 2 años, criados en cautiverio, fueron estudiados para obtener valores morfométricos externos e internos utilizando un calibrador vernier, balanzas analíticas y rayos X. Los resultados de la observación externa mostraron el dimorfismo sexual característico de estas especies presentes en la zona peri cloacal, además, el análisis radiográfico permitió observar y señalar algunas estructuras óseas del esqueleto axial y apendicular. Los ejemplares presentaron un peso promedio de 31,6 g y una longitud de 15,7 cm. Los miembros anteriores mostraron una longitud de 2,92 cm y 2,8 cm en los miembros posteriores. El análisis de los órganos internos mostró que el corazón tiene un peso de 0,036 g y una longitud de 0,75 cm, los pulmones un peso de 0,019 g y una longitud de 2,6 cm, el estómago arrojó una longitud de 4,86 cm y el intestino 10,88 cm. En conclusión, los valores presentados en el presente trabajo sirven de referencia en futuros trabajos de investigación clínica veterinaria y manejo zootécnico del axolote para su conservación y preservación.

SUMMARY: The Ambystoma mexicanum commonly known as axolotl, is an amphibian and member of the genus Ambystoma which includes 32 species that can be found from southern Canada to central Mexico. Currently this species is in danger of extinction due to physicochemical changes in its environment and predation by organisms introduced into its habitat. Among the multiple strategies to aid in its conservation are the development of research programs, education and development of clinical management. The objective of this work is focused on obtaining and analyzing morphometric data accompanied by a description of the external and internal anatomy of the species Ambystoma mexicanum with the purpose of contributing to the conservation of this species. Therefore, five 2-year-old specimens of the Ambystoma mexicanum species, raised in captivity, were studied to obtain external and internal morphometric values using a vernier caliper, analytical balances and X-rays. The results of external observation showed the characteristic sexual dimorphism of these species present in the pericloacal zone. Furthermore, the radiographic analysis allowed to observe and point out some bony structures of the axial and appendicular skeleton. The specimens presented an average weight of 31.60 g and a length of 15.70 cm. The forelimbs showed a length of 2.92 cm and 2.8 cm in the hindlimbs. Analysis of the internal organs showed that the heart had a weight of 0.036 g and a length of 0.75 cm, the lungs a weight of 0.019 g and a length of 2.6 cm, the stomach had a length of 4.86 cm and the intestine 10.88 cm. In conclusion, the values presented in this work serve as a reference for future veterinary clinical research and zootechnical management of the axolotl for its conservation and preservation.

Stiff-Elongated Balance of PLA-Based Polymer Blends.

In this study, polymer blends with a mechanical property balance based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA), stiff polymer, and elongated polymer were developed. First, the binary blends PLA-elongated polymer [ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyethylene], or PLA-stiff polymer [polystyrene or poly(styrene-co-methyl methacrylate) (SMMA)] blends were studied using dynamic mechanic analysis (DMA) and analyzed using Minitab statistical software to determine the factors influencing the elongation or stiffness of the blends. Then, ternary blends such as elongation-poly(lactic acid)-stiff, were made from the binary blends that presented optimal performance. In addition, three blends [EVA-PLA-SMMA (EPS)] were elaborated by studying the mixing time (5, 15, and 15 min) and the added time of the SMMA (0, 0, and 10 min). Specifically, the mixing time for EPS 1, EPS 2, and EPS 3 is 5 min, 15 min, and 15 min (first EVA + PLA for 10 min, plus 5 min PLA-EVA and SMMA), respectively. Mechanical, thermal, rheological, and morphological properties of the blends were studied. According to DMA, the results show an increase in elongation at break (εb) and do not decrease the elastic module of poly(lactic acid). Nevertheless, EPS 3 excels in all properties, with an εb of 67% and modulus of elasticity similar to PLA. SMMA has a significant role as a compatibilizing agent and improves PLA processability.