Enhancing ASD detection accuracy: a combined approach of machine learning and deep learning models with natural language processing.

Purpose: The main aim of our study was to explore the utility of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study primarily focused on using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models to detect ASD potential cases by analyzing text inputs, especially from social media platforms like Twitter. This is to overcome the ongoing challenges in ASD diagnosis, such as the requirement for specialized professionals and extensive resources. Timely identification, particularly in children, is essential to provide immediate intervention and support, thereby improving the quality of life for affected individuals. Methods: We employed natural language processing (NLP) techniques along with ML models like decision trees, extreme gradient boosting (XGB), k-nearest neighbors algorithm (KNN), and DL models such as recurrent neural networks (RNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM), bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT and BERTweet). We extracted a dataset of 404,627 tweets from Twitter users using the platform's API and classified them based on whether they were written by individuals claiming to have ASD (ASD users) or by those without ASD (non-ASD users). From this dataset, we used a subset of 90,000 tweets (45,000 from each classification group) for the training and testing of these models. Results: The application of our AI models yielded promising results, with the predictive model reaching an accuracy of almost 88% when classifying texts that potentially originated from individuals with ASD. Conclusion: Our research demonstrated the potential of using AI, particularly DL models, in enhancing the accuracy of ASD detection and diagnosis. This innovative approach signifies the critical role AI can play in advancing early diagnostic techniques, enabling better patient outcomes and underlining the importance of early identification of ASD, especially in children.

Whole-Exome Sequencing of 24 Spanish Families: Candidate Genes for Non-Syndromic Pediatric Keratoconus.

Keratoconus is a corneal dystrophy that is one of the main causes of corneal transplantation and for which there is currently no effective treatment for all patients. The presentation of this disease in pediatric age is associated with rapid progression, a worse prognosis and, in 15-20% of cases, the need for corneal transplantation. It is a multifactorial disease with genetic variability, which makes its genetic study difficult. Discovering new therapeutic targets is necessary to improve the quality of life of patients. In this manuscript, we present the results of whole-exome sequencing (WES) of 24 pediatric families diagnosed at the University Hospital La Paz (HULP) in Madrid. The results show an oligogenic inheritance of the disease. Genes involved in the structure, function, cell adhesion, development and repair pathways of the cornea are proposed as candidate genes for the disease. Further studies are needed to confirm the involvement of the candidate genes described in this article in the development of pediatric keratoconus.

Diagnósticos e intervenções de enfermagem para recém-nascidos submetidos à cuidados intensivos / Diagnoses and nursing interventions for newborns undergoing intensive care

Introdução: Recém-nascidos vivenciam eventos de adaptabilidade, e esta pode tornar-se um desafio quando há necessidade de cuidados intensivos, exigindo intervenções e cuidados especiais. Assim, a equipe de enfermagem deve predispor um ambiente que minimize o sofrimento do neonato por meio de cuidados de enfermagem embasados em instrumentos científicos padronizados. Objetivo: Apresentar diagnósticos e intervenções de enfermagem para recém nascidos submetidos a cuidados intensivos, segundo as taxonomias NANDA Internacional (NANDA-I) e a Classificação de Intervenções de Enfermagem (NIC). Método: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo, desenvolvido sob a forma de pesquisa documental e estudo de caso. A coleta de dados foi realizada em um hospital-escola, após a aprovação do Comitê de Ética, investigando achados de enfermagem de recém-nascidos internados no mês de Agosto de 2022, através de prontuários físicos e eletrônicos. Resultados: Prevaleceram recém-nascidos por cesariana e do sexo masculino, prematuros e de baixo peso, os quais foram expostos a procedimentos invasivos, evidenciando diagnósticos de enfermagem de risco. Amamentação interrompida, risco de hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal, risco de desequilíbrio eletrolítico, dinâmica de alimentação ineficaz do lactente, risco de volume de líquidos desequilibrado, risco de motilidade gastrintestinal disfuncional, risco de vínculo prejudicado, risco de infecção, risco de trombose, distúrbio no padrão de sono, risco de aspiração, integridade da pele prejudicada, risco de lesão por pressão neonatal, risco de trauma vascular, risco de desenvolvimento motor atrasado do lactente, risco de hipotermia neonatal, risco de termorregulação ineficaz e conforto prejudicado foram os diagnósticos de enfermagem levantados. Os domínios mais evidenciados foram: 2 - Nutrição (38%), 3 - Eliminação e Troca (7%), 4 - Atividade e Repouso (14%), 7 - Papéis e Relacionamento (3%), 11 - Segurança e Proteção (31%), 12 - Conforto (3%) e 13 - Crescimento e Desenvolvimento (3%). Prevaleceu o risco de hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal (100%) e risco de desequilíbrio eletrolítico (100%), sendo relacionados às terapias utilizadas e ao tempo de internação. Conclusão: Considerando os estressores decorrentes do período de internação, os diagnósticos e intervenções de enfermagem para neonatos em ambientes de terapia intensiva pontuam a necessidade de o enfermeiro embasar-se em estudos científicos, alinhado às taxonomias NANDA-I e NIC, para nortear cuidados mais eficazes.

Introduction: Newborns experience adaptability events, and this can become a challenge when there is a need for intensive care, requiring special interventions and care. Thus, the nursing team should provide an environment that minimizes the suffering of the neonate through nursing care based on standardized scientific instruments. Objective: To present diagnoses and nursing interventions for newborns undergoing intensive care, according to the NANDA International (NANDA-I) taxonomies and the Classification of Nursing Interventions (NIC). Method: Quantitative, descriptive study, developed in the form of documentary research and case study. Data collection was performed in a hospital-school, after the approval of the Ethics Committee, investigating nursing findings of newborns hospitalized in August 2022, through physical and electronic medical records. Results: Newborns by cesarean section and male, premature and underweight, who were exposed to invasive procedures, showing risk nursing diagnoses, prevailed. Interrupted breastfeeding, risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, risk of electrolyte imbalance, ineffective feeding dynamics of the infant, risk of unbalanced fluid volume, risk of dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility, risk of impaired attachment, risk of infection, risk of thrombosis, sleep pattern disorder, risk of aspiration, impaired skin integrity, risk of neonatal pressure injury, risk of vascular trauma, risk of delayed motor development of the infant, risk of neonatal hypothermia, risk of ineffective thermoregulation and impaired comfort were the nursing diagnoses raised. The most evident domains were: 2 - Nutrition (38%), 3 - Elimination and Exchange (7%), 4 - Activity and Rest (14%), 7 - Roles and Relationship (3%), 11 - Safety and Protection (31%), 12 - Comfort (3%) and 13 - Growth and Development (3%). The risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (100%) and risk of electrolyte imbalance (100%) prevailed, being related to the therapies used and the length of hospitalization. Conclusion: Considering the stressors arising from the period of hospitalization, the diagnoses and nursing interventions for neonates in intensive care environments point out the need for the nurse to be based on scientific studies, aligned with the NANDA-I and NIC taxonomies, to guide more effective care

Introducción: Los recién nacidos experimentan eventos de adaptabilidad, y esto puede convertirse en un desafío cuando existe la necesidad de cuidados intensivos, requiriendo intervenciones y cuidados especiales. Así, el equipo de enfermería debe propiciar un ambiente que minimice el sufrimiento del recién nacido a través de cuidados de enfermería basados en instrumentos científicos estandarizados. Objetivo: Presentar diagnósticos e intervenciones de enfermería para recién nacidos en cuidados intensivos, de acuerdo con las taxonomías de la NANDA Internacional (NANDA-I) y la Clasificación de Intervenciones de Enfermería (NIC). Método: Estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo, desarrollado en forma de investigación documental y estudio de caso. La recolección de datos se realizó en un hospital de enseñanza, previa aprobación del Comité de Ética, investigando los hallazgos de enfermería de los recién nacidos hospitalizados en agosto de 2022, a través de registros físicos y electrónicos. Resultados: Predominó los recién nacidos por cesárea y de sexo masculino, prematuros y de bajo peso al nacer, que fueron expuestos a procedimientos invasivos, evidenciando diagnósticos de enfermería de riesgo. Interrupción de la lactancia materna, riesgo de hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal, riesgo de desequilibrio electrolítico, dinámica de alimentación infantil ineficaz, riesgo de volumen de líquido desequilibrado, riesgo de motilidad gastrointestinal disfuncional, riesgo de deterioro del apego, riesgo de infección, riesgo de trombosis, patrón de sueño alterado, riesgo de aspiración, deterioro de la integridad de la piel, riesgo de lesión por presión neonatal, riesgo de trauma vascular, riesgo de retraso en el desarrollo motor infantil, riesgo de hipotermia neonatal, riesgo de ineficacia de la termorregulación y deterioro del confort fueron los diagnósticos de enfermería planteados. Los dominios más evidentes fueron: 2 - Nutrición (38%), 3 - Eliminación e Intercambio (7%), 4 - Actividad y Descanso (14%), 7 - Roles y Relación (3%), 11 - Seguridad y Protección (31%), 12 - Comodidad (3%) y 13 - Crecimiento y Desarrollo (3%). Predominó el riesgo de hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal (100%) y el riesgo de desequilibrio hidroelectrolítico (100%), relacionándose con las terapias utilizadas y el tiempo de estancia hospitalaria. Conclusión: Considerando los estresores resultantes del período de hospitalización, los diagnósticos e intervenciones de enfermería para neonatos en cuidados intensivos apuntan la necesidad de que los enfermeros se basen en estudios científicos, alineados con las taxonomías NANDA-I y NIC, para orientar cuidados más efectivos

Conventional versus extended-pulsed fidaxomicin dosing in patients at high risk of recurrence of Clostridioides difficile infection: a propensity score analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The main challenge in the treatment of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is to reduce recurrence rates. Fidaxomicin improves the recurrence rate of CDI compared with vancomycin. Extended-pulsed dosing of fidaxomicin was associated with lower recurrence rates in one clinical trial but has never been directly compared with conventional fidaxomicin dosing. METHODS: To compare the recurrence rate of fidaxomicin conventional dosing (FCD) and fidaxomicin in extended-pulsed dosing (FEPD) in conditions of clinical practice at a single institution. We performed propensity score matching taking the variables age, severity and previous episode as confounders to evaluate patients with a similar recurrence risk. RESULTS: In total, 254 episodes of CDI treated with fidaxomicin were evaluated: 170 (66.9%) received FCD, and 84 (33.1%) received FEPD. More patients who received FCD were hospitalized for CDI, had severe CDI and had a diagnosis based on toxin detection. In contrast, the proportion of patients receiving proton pump inhibitors was higher in those receiving FEPD. The crude recurrence rates in FCD- and FEPD-treated patients were 20.0% and 10.7%, respectively (OR:0.48; 95% CI 0.22-1.05; P = 0.068). We did not find any differences in CDI recurrence rate in patients receiving FEPD versus FCD (OR = 0.74; 95% CI 0.27-2.04) by propensity score analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Although the recurrence rate with FEPD was numerically lower than that observed with FCD, we have not been able to show that the recurrence rate of CDI is different depending on the dosage regimen of fidaxomicin. Clinical trials or large observational studies comparing the two dosing regimens of fidaxomicin are needed.

In a Setting of Esophageal Replacement, Total Gastric Pull-Up has Fewer Complications than Partial Gastric Pull-Up.

AIM: The main indications for an esophageal replacement (ER) are unresolved complex esophageal atresia (EA) and caustic strictures (CS). The use of different organs for replacement has been described. When the stomach is chosen, there are two ways to do a gastric pull-up: a partial (PGP) or a total pull-up (TGP). Few studies have been published comparing the different techniques. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent ER by PGP or by TGT. METHODS: The medical records of all patients who underwent gastric pull-up for ER in the last 18 years at the National Pediatric Hospital Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan were reviewed. The study is comparative, retro-prospective and longitudinal. Patients were divided in two groups according to the ER technique (PGP or TGP). We compared the following outcomes: duration of the operation, days of hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU), days of total hospitalization, time to initiation of oral feedings and rate of anastomosis dehiscence, incidence of anastomotic stenosis, need for re-operations, incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), incidence of tracheo-esophageal fistulas (TEF), incidence of dumping syndrome, incidence of gastric necrosis and mortality. RESULTS: There were 92 patients included in the study: 70 in the PGP group (76%) and 26 in the TGP group (24%). The two groups were demographically equivalent. Patients in the TGP group had a statistically significant lower incidence of anastomotic dehiscence (22,7% versus 54,3%; p = 0.01) and dumping syndrome (13,6% versus 37,1%; p = 0.038). Patients in the TGP had lower incidence of anastomotic stenosis, although the difference was not statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of duration of the operation, postoperative days in the ICU, time to oral feedings, GERD, TEF or overall hospital stay. There were no cases of gastric necrosis. There were 3 deaths in the PGP group and one in the TGP group. CONCLUSIONS: We observed benefits in the TGP group versus the PGP approach in terms of anastomotic dehiscence and dumping syndrome, as well as a trend toward a lower incidence of anastomotic stenosis. Based on this experience, we recommend the TGP approach for patients who need an esophageal replacement by a gastric pull-up. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: According to the Journal of Pediatric Surgery this research corresponds to type of study level III for retrospective comparative study.

Effects of Acute Vitamin C plus Vitamin E Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Runners: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

Considering the existing controversy over the possible role of acute antioxidant vitamins in reducing exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), this doubled-blind, randomized and controlled trial aimed to determine whether supplementation with vitamins C and E could mitigate the EIMD in endurance-trained runners (n = 18). The exercise protocol involved a warm-up followed by 6 to 8 bouts of 1 km running at 75% maximum heart rate (HRmax). Two hours before the exercise protocol, participants took the supplementation with vitamins or placebo, and immediately afterwards, blood lactate, rate of perceived exertion and performance were assessed. At 24 h post-exercise, CK, delayed onset muscle soreness and performance were determined (countermovement jump, squat jump and stiffness test). The elastic index and vertical stiffness were calculated using a stiffness test. Immediately after the exercise protocol, all participants showed improved maximum countermovement jump, which only persisted after 24 h in the vitamin group (p < 0.05). In both groups, squat jump height was significantly greater (p < 0.05) immediately after exercise and returned to baseline values after 24 h. The elastic index increased in the vitamin group (p < 0.05), but not in the placebo group. In both groups, lactate levels increased from pre- to immediately post-exercise (p < 0.05), and CK increased from pre- to 24 h post-exercise (p < 0.05). No significant differences between groups were observed in any of the variables (p > 0.05). Vitamin C and E supplementation does not seem to help with EIMD in endurance-trained individuals.

Efecto de la erradicación del VHC sobre la frecuencia crítica de parpadeo en pacientes coinfectados por VIH/VHC con cirrosis avanzada / Effect of HCV eradication on critical flicker frequency in HIV/HCV coinfected patients with advanced cirrhosis

Antecedentes La frecuencia crítica de parpadeo (FCP), definida como la frecuencia a la que un sujeto percibe una luz parpadeante como continua, se asocia directamente con el nivel de alerta del sistema nervioso central. Métodos Mediante el Hepatonorm analyzer (Medi-Business Freiburg GmGH, Germany) hemos estudiado la FCP en el momento basal y tras la erradicación del virus de la hepatitis C (VHC) en 47 pacientes coinfectados por virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH)/VHC y cirrosis. Los pacientes tenían una edad media de 52 años; el 81% eran varones y el 80% tenía antecedentes de consumo de drogas. Resultados Observamos un incremento en la FCP al final del tratamiento del VHC comparado con el momento basal (42,3 ± 8,5 Hz vs. 45,9 ± 7,8 Hz; p = 0,001), y una reducción en la proporción de pacientes con encefalopatía hepática subclínica (definida como una FCP < 39 Hz) desde 15 (32%) de los 47 pacientes al inicio a 7 (17%) de los 41 pacientes tras el tratamiento del VHC (p = 0,180). Conclusión La erradicación del VHC en pacientes coinfectados por VIH/VHC aumenta la FCP indicando una mejoría de la función hepática (AU)

Background Critical flicker frequency (CFF), defined as the frequency at which a subject perceives a flickering light as continuous, is directly associated with central nervous system alertness. Methods We studied CFF using the Hepatonorm analyzer (Medi-Business Freiburg GmGH, Germany) at baseline and after hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication in 47 patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV coinfection and cirrhosis. Patients had a mean age of 52 years, 81% were male, and 80% had a history of drug use. Results We observed an increase in the CFF at the end of HCV therapy compared to baseline (42.3 ± 8.5 Hz vs. 45.9 ± 7.8 Hz; p = 0.001), and a reduction in the proportion of patients with subclinical hepatic encephalopathy (defined as a CFF <39 Hz) from 15 (32%) of 47 patients at baseline to 7 (17%) of 41 patients after HCV therapy (p = 0.180). Conclusion HCV eradication in HIV/HCV coinfected patients increases CFF, indicating improved liver function (AU)

Effect of HCV eradication on critical flicker frequency in HIV/HCV coinfected patients with advanced cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND: Critical flicker frequency (CFF), defined as the frequency at which a subject perceives a flickering light as continuous, is directly associated with central nervous system alertness. METHODS: We studied CFF using the Hepatonorm analyzer (Medi-Business Freiburg GmGH, Germany) at baseline and after hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication in 47 patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV coinfection and cirrhosis. Patients had a mean age of 52 years, 81% were male, and 80% had a history of drug use. RESULTS: We observed an increase in the CFF at the end of HCV therapy compared to baseline (42.3 ±â€¯8.5 Hz vs. 45.9 ±â€¯7.8 Hz; p = 0.001), and a reduction in the proportion of patients with subclinical hepatic encephalopathy (defined as a CFF <39 Hz) from 15 (32%) of 47 patients at baseline to 7 (17%) of 41 patients after HCV therapy (p = 0.180). CONCLUSION: HCV eradication in HIV/HCV coinfected patients increases CFF, indicating improved liver function.

Weight changes after antiretroviral therapy initiation in CoRIS (Spain): a prospective multicentre cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Weight gain after starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a major problem that can increase morbidity. Our main objective was to evaluate the effects of initial ART on weight change in a large prospective cohort of HIV-positive individuals. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of 13,198 subjects included in the Spanish HIV Research Network (CoRIS) between January 2004 and November 2018. We included subjects who started triple ART and achieved HIV RNA suppression within 48 weeks. We fitted linear mixed models adjusted for potential confounders to compare longitudinal changes in weight. We used Cox proportional-hazard models to compare treatment groups' times to transition to a higher body mass index (BMI) category. RESULTS: We analysed data from a total of 1631 individuals resulting in 14,965 persons/years and 14,085 observations. Individuals retained in the final multivariable model were representative of the overall cohort. NNRTI-based first-line ART was associated with a lower average weight gain compared to PI- (+0.7 kg per year, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.0, p < 0.001) and INSTI-based (+0.9 kg per year, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.1, p < 0.001) regimens. Individuals starting ART with TAF+FTC had greater weight gain than those receiving TDF+FTC (+0.8 kg per year, 95% CI 0.3 to 1.4, p = 0.004). Women and black persons presented a greater weight gain than men and non-black individuals. Differences in weight trajectories were driven mainly by changes during the first year of ART. The NNRTI group was less likely to transition from normal weight to overweight than the PI (aHR 1.48, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.85) and INSTI groups (aHR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.64). PIs but not INSTIs were associated with a higher rate of overweight-to-obesity shift (aHR 2.17, 95% CI 1.27 to 3.72). No differences were found among INSTIs in the transition to a higher BMI category. CONCLUSIONS: INSTI- and PI-based first-line ARTs are associated with greater weight gain compared to NNRTI-based ART. Within the NRTIs, TAF+FTC was most strongly associated with weight gain. This heterogeneous effect of ART on body weight could affect the long-term risk of some non-communicable diseases.

Giant omphalocele: Delayed closure using the San Martin technique following epithelialization of the membrane.

AIM: The management of patients with congenital anterior abdominal wall defects remains challenging, particularly in cases of giant omphalocele. In 1948, San Martín described a surgical technique for the repair of large midline incisional hernias in adults without the need for a mesh. The purpose of this report is to describe our experience with this technique for the delayed closure of giant omphaloceles. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of all patients with giant omphalocele managed with the San Martin technique between September 2013 and March 2019. Data collected included birth weight, gestational age, associated malformations, neonatal hospital stay, age at the time of the abdominal wall closure, days on mechanical ventilation (MV) after the closure, time to initiation of enteral feedings, intra- and postoperative complications, and postoperative hospital stay. RESULTS: A total of 8 patients were included in the study. The median birth weight was 3.190 (2.150 to 3.400) grams. The median gestational age was 35 (32 to 38) weeks. The median age at surgery was 6 (5 to 13) years. The median postoperative days on MV was 3 (3 to 11) days. Enteral feeding were initiated postoperatively at a median of 4 (2 to 4) days. There was one intraoperative complication (minor vascular injury). There were no short-term or long-term complications directly related to the surgical technique. The median postoperative hospital stay was 10 (6 to 16) days. The follow-up was 18 months to 8 years. CONCLUSION: We believe that the San Martín technique is a valid alternative for the delayed closure of giant omphaloceles. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: According to the Journal of Pediatric Surgery this research corresponds to type of study level IV for case series with no comparison group.

Histiocytic hyperplasia with hemophagocytosis and acute alveolar damage in COVID-19 infection.

The spectrum of COVID-19 infection includes acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), although the histological basis for these disorders has not been thoroughly explored. Post-mortem pulmonary and bone marrow biopsies were performed in 33 patients. Samples were studied with a combination of morphological and immunohistochemical techniques. Bone marrow studies were also performed in three living patients. Bone marrow post-mortem studies showed striking lesions of histiocytic hyperplasia with hemophagocytosis (HHH) in most (16/17) cases. This was also observed in three alive patients, where it mimicked the changes observed in hemophagocytic histiocytosis. Pulmonary changes included a combination of diffuse alveolar damage with fibrinous microthrombi predominantly involving small vessels, in particular the alveolar capillary. These findings were associated with the analytical and clinical symptoms, which helps us understand the respiratory insufficiency and reveal the histological substrate for the macrophage activation syndrome-like exhibited by these patients. Our results confirm that COVID-19 infection triggers a systemic immune-inflammatory disease and allow specific therapies to be proposed.

Oxidative and inflammatory effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with bronchiectasis. A prospective, randomized study / Efectos oxidativos e inflamatorios de la rehabilitación pulmonar en pacientes con bronquiectasia. Estudio prospectivo aleatorizado

Background: systemic inflammation and oxidative stress are important factors in the pathogenesis of bronchiectasis. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recommended for bronchiectasis, but there is no data about its effect on the inflammatory and REDOX status of these patients. Aims: to investigate the effect of PR in non-cystic-fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) patients, and to compare it with the effect of PR plus a hyperproteic oral nutritional supplement (PRS) enriched with beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) on serum inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers. Materials and methods: this was an open randomized, controlled trial. Thirty individuals (65 years old or younger with a body mass index over 18.5, older than 65 years with a body mass index over 20) were recruited from September 2013 to September 2014, and randomly assigned to receive PR or PRS. Total neutrophils, and inflammatory and oxidative biomarker levels were measured at baseline, and then at 3 and 6 months. Results: in the PRS group neutrophil levels were decreased from baseline at 6 months. A significantly different fold change was found between the PR and PRS groups. In the PR group, IL-6 and adiponectin were increased by the end of the study while TNFa levels were decreased from baseline at 6 months. REDOX biomarkers remained stable throughout the study except for 8-isoprostane levels, which were increased from baseline at 6 months in both groups of patients. Conclusion: a PR program induced a pro-oxidative effect accompanied by changes in circulating inflammatory cytokine levels in NCFB patients. Our results would also suggest a possible beneficial effect of the HMB enriched supplement on neutrophil level regulation in these patients. The information provided in this study could be useful for choosing the right therapeutic approach in the management of bronchiectasis

Introducción: la inflamación sistémica y el estrés oxidativo son factores importantes en la patogénesis de la bronquiectasia. La rehabilitación pulmonar (PR) está recomendada en los sujetos con bronquiectasias, pero no hay datos sobre sus posibles efectos sobre el estado inflamatorio y REDOX de estos pacientes. Objetivos: investigar el efecto de la PR en pacientes con bronquiectasias no asociadas a fibrosis quística (NCFB) sobre los biomarcadores oxidativos e inflamatorios, y compararlo con los efectos de la PR junto con la suplementación oral de un suplemento hiperproteico (PRS) enriquecido con beta-hidroxi-beta-metilbutirato (HMB). Material y métodos: ensayo clínico abierto, aleatorizado y controlado. Treinta pacientes (de 65 años o menos con un índice de masa corporal por encima de 18,5, y mayores de 65 años con un índice de masa corporal de más de 20) se aleatorizaron para recibir PR o PRS. Los niveles circulantes de neutrófilos totales y los de biomarcadores de estado inflamatorio y oxidativo se determinaron al inicio del estudio y a los 3 y 6 meses. Resultados: los niveles de neutrófilos en el grupo de PRS se redujeron desde el inicio a los 6 meses, presentando una tasa de cambio significativamente diferente según el tratamiento. En el grupo de PR, la IL-6 y la adiponectina aumentaron al final del estudio, mientras que los niveles de TNFa disminuyeron desde el inicio a los 6 meses. Los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo se mantuvieron estables durante todo el estudio excepto por los niveles de 8-isoprostano, que aumentaron desde el inicio a los 6 meses en ambos grupos de pacientes. Conclusión: el programa de PR indujo un efecto pro-oxidativo acompañado de cambios en los niveles de citoquinas inflamatorias circulantes en pacientes con NCFB. Nuestros resultados también sugieren un posible efecto beneficioso del suplemento nutricional sobre la regulación de los niveles de neutrófilos de estos pacientes

Oxidative and inflammatory effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with bronchiectasis. A prospective, randomized study.

INTRODUCTION: Background: systemic inflammation and oxidative stress are important factors in the pathogenesis of bronchiectasis. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recommended for bronchiectasis, but there is no data about its effect on the inflammatory and REDOX status of these patients. Aims: to investigate the effect of PR in non-cystic-fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) patients, and to compare it with the effect of PR plus a hyperproteic oral nutritional supplement (PRS) enriched with beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) on serum inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers. Materials and methods: this was an open randomized, controlled trial. Thirty individuals (65 years old or younger with a body mass index over 18.5, older than 65 years with a body mass index over 20) were recruited from September 2013 to September 2014, and randomly assigned to receive PR or PRS. Total neutrophils, and inflammatory and oxidative biomarker levels were measured at baseline, and then at 3 and 6 months. Results: in the PRS group neutrophil levels were decreased from baseline at 6 months. A significantly different fold change was found between the PR and PRS groups. In the PR group, IL-6 and adiponectin were increased by the end of the study while TNFα levels were decreased from baseline at 6 months. REDOX biomarkers remained stable throughout the study except for 8-isoprostane levels, which were increased from baseline at 6 months in both groups of patients. Conclusions: a PR program induced a pro-oxidative effect accompanied by changes in circulating inflammatory cytokine levels in NCFB patients. Our results would also suggest a possible beneficial effect of the HMB enriched supplement on neutrophil level regulation in these patients. The information provided in this study could be useful for choosing the right therapeutic approach in the management of bronchiectasis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: la inflamación sistémica y el estrés oxidativo son factores importantes en la patogénesis de la bronquiectasia. La rehabilitación pulmonar (PR) está recomendada en los sujetos con bronquiectasias, pero no hay datos sobre sus posibles efectos sobre el estado inflamatorio y REDOX de estos pacientes. Objetivos: investigar el efecto de la PR en pacientes con bronquiectasias no asociadas a fibrosis quística (NCFB) sobre los biomarcadores oxidativos e inflamatorios, y compararlo con los efectos de la PR junto con la suplementación oral de un suplemento hiperproteico (PRS) enriquecido con beta-hidroxi-beta-metilbutirato (HMB). Material y métodos: ensayo clínico abierto, aleatorizado y controlado. Treinta pacientes (de 65 años o menos con un índice de masa corporal por encima de 18,5, y mayores de 65 años con un índice de masa corporal de más de 20) se aleatorizaron para recibir PR o PRS. Los niveles circulantes de neutrófilos totales y los de biomarcadores de estado inflamatorio y oxidativo se determinaron al inicio del estudio y a los 3 y 6 meses. Resultados: los niveles de neutrófilos en el grupo de PRS se redujeron desde el inicio a los 6 meses, presentando una tasa de cambio significativamente diferente según el tratamiento. En el grupo de PR, la IL-6 y la adiponectina aumentaron al final del estudio, mientras que los niveles de TNFα disminuyeron desde el inicio a los 6 meses. Los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo se mantuvieron estables durante todo el estudio excepto por los niveles de 8-isoprostano, que aumentaron desde el inicio a los 6 meses en ambos grupos de pacientes. Conclusión: el programa de PR indujo un efecto pro-oxidativo acompañado de cambios en los niveles de citoquinas inflamatorias circulantes en pacientes con NCFB. Nuestros resultados también sugieren un posible efecto beneficioso del suplemento nutricional sobre la regulación de los niveles de neutrófilos de estos pacientes.

Relationship between glucose control, glycemic variability, and oxidative stress in children with type 1 diabetes / Relación entre control metabólico, variabilidad glucémica y estrés oxidativo en niños con diabetes tipo 1

Introduction: Few studies assessing the relationship between oxidative stress and glycemic variability in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are available, and most of them reported no significant results. Objective: To assess the relationship between glucose control, glycemic variability, and oxidative stress as measured by urinary excretion of 8-iso-prostanglandin F2-alpha (8-iso-PGF2alfa) in children with T1DM. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study including 25 children with T1DM. Participants were evaluated during five days in two different situations: 1st phase during a summer camp, and 2nd phase in their everyday life at home. The following data were collected in each study phase:. Six capillary blood glucose measurements per day. Mean blood glucose (MBG) levels and glucose variability parameters, including standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), were calculated. - Capillary HbA1c level. - 24-h urine sample to measure 8-iso-PGF2alfa. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in urinary 8-iso-PGF2alfa levels (142 ± 37 vs. 172 ± 61 pg/mg creatinine) and glucose control and glycemic variability parameters between both phases. In the 2nd phase, statistically significant correlations were found between urinary 8-iso-PGF2alfa and HbA1c levels (r = 0.53), MBG (r = 0.72), standard deviation (r = 0.49), and MAGE (r = 0.42). No significant correlations between glucose control, glycemic variability and urinary 8-iso-PGF2alfa excretion were found in the 1st phase. Conclusions: A significant correlation was found between glycemic variability and HbA1c level and urinary 8-iso-PGF2α excretion in a group of children with T1DM during their daily lives. Additional studies are needed to confirm this finding and to explore its long-term impact on health

Introducción: En niños con diabetes tipo 1 (DM1) hay pocos estudios que evalúen la relación entre estrés oxidativo y variabilidad glucémica, y la mayoría de ellos no encuentran resultados significativos. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre control metabólico, variabilidad glucémica y estrés oxidativo medido por la excreción urinaria de 8-iso-prostaglandina F2 alfa (8-iso-PGF2alfa) en niños con DM1. Material y método: Estudio transversal que incluyó 25 niños con DM1. Los participantes fueron evaluados durante 5 días en 2 situaciones diferentes: 1.a fase durante un campamento de verano y 2.a fase durante su actividad habitual en domicilio. En cada fase se recogieron:- Seis determinaciones de glucemia capilar diarias. Se calcularon glucemia media y parámetros de variabilidad glucémica: desviación estándar, coeficiente de variación y «mean amplitude of glycemic excursions» (MAGE). - HbA1c capilar. - Muestra de orina de 24h para la determinación de 8-iso-PGF2alfa. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en excreción urinaria de 8-iso-PGF2alfa (142 ± 37 vs. 172 ± 61 pg/mg creatinina) y parámetros de control y variabilidad glucémicos entre las fases. En la 2.a fase se observaron correlaciones estadísticamente significativas entre 8-iso-PGF2alfa urinario con HbA1c (r = 0,53), glucemia media (r = 0,72), desviación estándar (r = 0,49) y MAGE (r = 0,42). En la 1.a fase del estudio no se han detectado correlaciones significativas. Conclusiones: Se ha encontrado una correlación significativa entre parámetros de variabilidad glucémica y HbA1c con la excreción urinaria de 8-iso-PGF2alfa en un grupo de niños con DM1 evaluados durante su vida diaria. Son necesarios más estudios para confirmar estos resultados y evaluar el impacto a largo plazo sobre la salud

Osteopenia and Osteoporosis in Patients with Bronchiectasis: Association with Respiratory Parameters, Body Composition, Muscle Strength and Bone Remodeling Biomarkers.

The prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis has not been sufficiently studied in people with bronchiectasis not due to cystic fibrosis (BC), nor has its relationship with other variables (clinical, body composition and bone turnover and inflammation markers) been sufficiently studied. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis and related factors in patients with BC. We did a cross-sectional study in people with BC in a clinically stable state. Spirometric parameters, annual exacerbations and analysis with bone turnover markers (BTM) and inflammation markers were evaluated. Densitometry (DXA) was performed for body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and handgrip strength. 123 patients were studied (65% women, mean age 49.6 ± 18.8, Body Mass Index (BMI) 24.8 ± 4.7 kg/m2). 62.8% and 62.5% of men and women, respectively, had normal bone mineral density, 30.2% and 22.2% osteopenia and 7% and 15% osteoporosis. 52 patients (56.2%) had low fat-free mass: 68.9% women and 28.6% men. Patients with decreased bone mass had significantly lower muscle strength, maximum expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1%), vitamin D, higher levels of C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) and total osteocalcin and underarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC). We observed significant and negative correlations between BMD and the number of serious exacerbations per year CTX and undercarboxylated osteocalcin. We observed significant positive correlations between BMD, fat free mass index (FFMI) and handgrip dynamometry. The study suggest that the prevalence of osteoporosis was high in relation to the demographic characteristics. Respiratory parameters, body composition, muscle strength and bone remodeling markers were associated with a lower bone mineral density.

Relationship between glucose control, glycemic variability, and oxidative stress in children with type 1 diabetes.

INTRODUCTION: Few studies assessing the relationship between oxidative stress and glycemic variability in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are available, and most of them reported no significant results. OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between glucose control, glycemic variability, and oxidative stress as measured by urinary excretion of 8-iso-prostanglandin F2-alpha (8-iso-PGF2α) in children with T1DM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study including 25 children with T1DM. Participants were evaluated during five days in two different situations: 1st phase during a summer camp, and 2nd phase in their everyday life at home. The following data were collected in each study phase:. - Six capillary blood glucose measurements per day. Mean blood glucose (MBG) levels and glucose variability parameters, including standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), were calculated. - Capillary HbA1c level. - 24-h urine sample to measure 8-iso-PGF2α. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in urinary 8-iso-PGF2α levels (142±37 vs. 172±61pg/mg creatinine) and glucose control and glycemic variability parameters between both phases. In the 2nd phase, statistically significant correlations were found between urinary 8-iso-PGF2α and HbA1c levels (r=0.53), MBG (r=0.72), standard deviation (r=0.49), and MAGE (r=0.42). No significant correlations between glucose control, glycemic variability and urinary 8-iso-PGF2α excretion were found in the 1st phase. CONCLUSIONS: A significant correlation was found between glycemic variability and HbA1c level and urinary 8-iso-PGF2α excretion in a group of children with T1DM during their daily lives. Additional studies are needed to confirm this finding and to explore its long-term impact on health.

Dairy Product Consumption and Metabolic Diseases in the Di@bet.es Study.

To date it is not clear what the role of dairy products is in metabolic diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Therefore, the aim of this study is to test the association between dairy product consumption and those pathologies. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 5081 adults included in the di@bet.es study, from 100 health centers around Spain. Food frequency questionnaires were carried out concerning consumption habits, which included dairy product consumption. Logistic regression models were used for the association analyses between the variables controlling confounding variables. Women had a higher consumption of milk, cheese, or yogurt than men (p < 0.0001), but men consumed more sugar dairy products (p < 0.001). People who live in the North of Spain consume more dairy products than those who live in the East. Dairy product consumption was inversely associated with the presence of hypertension regardless of age, sex, geographical region, and body mass index (BMI) (Odds Ratio (OR) 0.743; p = 0.022). The presence of obesity was inversely associated with dairy consumption regardless of age, sex, and geographical region (OR 0.61; p < 0.001). Milk consumption was not associated with diabetes. Our results show that consuming dairy products is associated with a better metabolic profile in the Spanish population.

Comparison of the Effects of Goat Dairy and Cow Dairy Based Breakfasts on Satiety, Appetite Hormones, and Metabolic Profile.

The satiating effects of cow dairy have been thoroughly investigated; however, the effects of goat dairy on appetite have not been reported so far. Our study investigates the satiating effect of two breakfasts based on goat or cow dairy and their association with appetite related hormones and metabolic profile. Healthy adults consumed two breakfasts based on goat (G-Breakfast) or cow (C-Breakfast) dairy products. Blood samples were taken and VAS tests were performed at different time points. Blood metabolites were measured and Combined Satiety Index (CSI) and areas under the curves (AUC) were calculated. Desire to eat rating was significantly lower (breakfast & time interaction p < 0.01) and hunger rating tended to be lower (breakfast & time interaction p = 0.06) after the G-breakfast. None of the blood parameters studied were different between breakfasts; however, AUCGLP-1 was inversely associated with the AUChunger and AUCdesire-to-eat after the G-Breakfast, whereas triglyceride levels were directly associated with AUCCSI after the C-Breakfast. Our results suggest a slightly higher satiating effect of goat dairy when compared to cow dairy products, and pointed to a potential association of GLP-1 and triglyceride levels with the mechanisms by which dairy products might affect satiety after the G-Breakfast and C-Breakfast, respectively.

Inflammation and Oxidation Biomarkers in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: The Influence of Azithromycin.

OBJECTIVE: In addition to their antibiotic effect, macrolides appear to modulate the inflammatory response in cystic fibrosis (CF) and could influence oxidative stress. The objective of this study was to assess oxidation biomarkers and levels of inflammation and to determine whether there is an association between these parameters and the intake of macrolides. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The subjects included in this cross-sectional study were, on the one hand, clinically stable patients with CF and, on the other, healthy controls. The following serum and plasma inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers were measured: interleukin-6 (IL-6), reactive C protein (RCP), tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), together with markers of lipid peroxidation (8-isoprostanes and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS]). Clinical, anthropometric, lung function, radiological, and analytical variables (albumin, prealbumin, vitamins, and zinc) were also recorded. RESULTS: We studied 36 adults with CF and 41 controls. No differences were observed in age, gender, or anthropometric variables. The patients had significantly higher levels of IL-6, TNF-α, RCP, TBARS, and isoprostanes, and lower levels of SOD than the controls. Twenty-three of the patients were treated with azithromycin, and they had more severe clinical and radiological parameters than those who were not but nevertheless presented significantly lower levels of TNF-α. No differences were observed in the markers of oxidation. CONCLUSION: Inflammation and oxidation biomarkers were increased in patients with CF compared with controls. The use of azithromycin was associated with reduced TNF-α levels and did not influence oxidation parameters.

Dietary fatty acids modulate adipocyte TNFa production via regulation of its DNA promoter methylation levels.

The factors regulating TNF alpha (TNFa) levels could be considered therapeutic targets against metabolic syndrome development. DNA methylation is a potent regulator of gene expression and may be associated with protein levels. In this study we investigate whether the effect of dietary fatty acids on TNFa released from adipocytes might be associated with modifications of the TNFa promoter DNA methylation status. A group of rats was assigned to three diets with a different composition of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Samples of visceral adipose tissues were taken for adipocyte isolation, in which released TNFa levels were measured, and for methylation and expression studies. In addition, 3 T3-L1 cells were treated with palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids, with and without 5-Azacitydine (5-AZA). After treatments, cells and supernatants were included in the same analyses as rat samples. TNFa promoter methylation levels, gene expression and secretion were different according to the diets and fatty acid treatments associated with them. Cells treated with 5-AZA displayed higher TNFa levels than in the absence of 5-AZA, without differences between fatty acids. According to our results, dietary fatty acid regulation of adipocyte TNFa levels may be mediated by epigenetic modifications of the TNFa promoter DNA methylation levels.