Detection of dengue virus serotype 4 in Panama after 23 years without circulation.

Panama is a country with endemic Dengue virus (DENV) transmission since its reintroduction in 1993. The four serotypes have circulated in the country and the region of the Americas, however, DENV-4 confirmed autochthonous cases have not been identified since 2000, despite its circulation in neighboring countries. Here, we report DENV-4 detection in Panama in the last four-month period of 2023 with co-circulation of the other serotypes, this was associated with a peak of dengue cases during the dry season even though most dengue outbreaks are described in the rainy season. Complete genomes of DENV-4 allowed us to determine that cases were caused by DENV-4 genotype IIb, the same genotype as 23 years ago, with high similarity to DENV-4 sequences circulating in Nicaragua and El Salvador during 2023. This report shows the importance of maintaining serotype and genotype surveillance for early detection of new variants circulating in the country.

Extraction and Concentration of Spirulina Water-Soluble Metabolites by Ultrafiltration.

Spirulina (Arthospira platensis) is known for its rich content of natural compounds like phycocyanin, chlorophylls, carotenoids, and high protein levels, making it a nutrient-dense food. Over the past decade, research has aimed to optimize the extraction, separation, and purification of these valuable metabolites, focusing on technologies such as high-pressure processing, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction as well as enzymatic treatments, chromatographic precipitation, and membrane separation. In this study, various extraction methods (conventional vs. ultrasound-assisted), solvents (water vs. phosphate buffer), solvent-to-biomass ratios (1:5 vs. 1:10), and ultrafiltration (PES membrane of MWCO 3 kDa, 2 bar) were evaluated. The quantities of total protein, phycocyanin (PC), chlorophyll a (Cla), and total carotenoids (TCC) were measured. The results showed that ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with phosphate buffer at a 1:10 ratio yielded a metabolite-rich retentate (MRR) with 37.0 ± 1.9 mg/g of PC, 617 ± 15 mg/g of protein, 0.4 ± 0.2 mg/g of Cla, and 0.15 ± 0.14 mg/g of TCC. Water extraction in the concentration process achieved the highest concentrations in MRR, with approximately 76% PC, 92% total protein, 62% Cla, and 41% TCC. These findings highlight the effective extraction and concentration processes to obtain a metabolite-rich retentate from Spirulina biomass, reducing the volume tenfold and showing potential as a functional ingredient for the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Pica is associated with lower willingness to change negative habits of diet and exercise, inadequate lifestyle, and less healthful food consumption in dialysis.

Background: In dialysis patients, on the one hand unwillingness to change negative lifestyle patterns is associated with worse nutritional status and unhealthy lifestyle, whereas on the other, pica may be highly prevalent. However, it is not known whether pica is associated with unwillingness to change negative lifestyle behaviors, as well as with consumption of different types of foods. This study aimed to investigate this issue. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in dialysis patients. Lifestyle was assessed using the self-administered Instrument to Measure Lifestyle Questionnaire (IMEVID). Pica diagnosis was established according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. A food frequency questionnaire was performed and self-reported willingness to change was determined by a trans-theoretical model staging inventory. Results: Compared with patients without pica, those with pica (particularly hard pica) had lower willingness to change unhealthy behavior in the case of diet (22% vs. 46% in precontemplation/contemplation stages, respectively) and exercise (43% vs. 62% in precontemplation/contemplation stages, respectively). Patients with hard pica had significantly (p < 0.05) lower scores in almost all dimensions of the lifestyle questionnaire than those in the no pica group: diet (23.9 vs. 26.8, respectively), physical activity (5.5 vs. 7, respectively), knowledge of disease (5.7 vs. 6.4, respectively), emotion management (6.6 vs. 8, respectively) and adherence to treatment (13.4 vs. 14.7, respectively), but not in the consumption of tobacco and alcohol. Compared to patients with no pica, those with hard pica ate vegetables and fruits less frequently, and dairy products, fried foods and soda more frequently. Conclusions: Pica was more frequently observed in patients with lower willingness to change negative habits of diet and exercise, in those who had more unhealthy behaviors in diet, exercise and emotion management dimensions and adherence to treatment, as well as in those who ate less frequently healthful foods and more frequently unhealthy foods.

Icariin as a Treatment Proposal in Mammalian Reproduction.

Icariin (ICA), one of the main active components of Herba Epimedii, is a natural prenylated flavonol glycoside that possesses a wide range of pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, antiosteoporotic, anti-aging, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, antitumor, and aphrodisiac effects, and prevents numerous health disorders, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, cancer, sexual dysfunction, menstrual disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, asthma, chronic inflammation, and diabetes. In the reproductive system, it has been observed that ICA may play a role in preserving fertility by regulating different signalling pathways, such as PI3K/AKT, which improves ovarian function, and ERα/Nrf2, which enhances testicular function and prevents ROS generation. In contrast, regulating the NF/kB signalling pathway causes anti-inflammatory effects, reducing spontaneous abortions. In this study, we review and examine the relevant literature on the therapeutic potential of ICA in reproduction, highlight the various mechanisms of action and limitations for the therapeutic applications of ICA, and summarise and highlight the existing preclinical research on its effects on male and female reproduction.

Dietary counseling, meal patterns, and diet quality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with/without chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Aim to this study is to investigate the association of Dietary Counseling, Meal Patterns, and Diet Quality (DietQ) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) with/without chronic kidney disease (CKD) in primary healthcare. METHODS: Cross-sectional study acquired data on dietary counseling and meal patterns by direct interview with a food-frequency questionnaire and one 24-h food-recall. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) was used to classify DietQ ["good" DietQ (GDietQ, score ≥ 80) and "poor" DietQ (PDietQ, score < 80)]. PARTICIPANTS/SETTING: This study included 705 patients with T2DM: 306 with normal kidney function; 236 with early nephropathy, and 163 with overt nephropathy (ON). STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED: Multivariate linear-regression models for predicting HEI and χ2 tests for qualitative variables and one-way ANOVA for quantitative variables were employed. Mann-Whitney U and independent Student t were performed for comparisons between GDietQ and PDietQ. RESULTS: Only 18 % of the population was classified as GDietQ. Patients with ON and PDietQ vs. with GDietQ received significantly less dietary counseling from any health professional in general (45 % vs 72 %, respectively), or from any nutrition professional (36 % vs. 61 %, respectively). A better HEI was significantly predicted (F = 42.01; p = 0.0001) by lower HbA1C (ß -0.53, p = 0.0007) and better diet diversity (ß 8.09, p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with more advanced stages of CKD had less nutritional counseling and worse dietary patterns, as well as more frequent PDietQ. Our findings reinforce the need for dietitians and nutritionists in primary healthcare to provide timely nutritional counseling.

Obesity and periodontitis: a comprehensive review of their interconnected pathophysiology and clinical implications.

Obesity and periodontitis are significant health problems with a complex bidirectional relationship. Excess body fat is linked to systemic diseases and can lead to persistent inflammation, potentially harming periodontal health. Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of teeth, poses substantial health risks. Both conditions share pathological processes such as inflammation and oxidative stress, which aggravate health status and make treatment more challenging. Understanding this interaction is crucial for developing effective management strategies for both diseases. This study explores the multifaceted aspects of obesity and periodontitis and their reciprocal relationship.

Effect of Self-transcendence, Self-distancing, and Family Functionality on Self-care Agency in Older Adults.

Objective: To determine the effect of self-distancing, self-transcendence, and family functioning on self-care agency in Mexican older adults. Methods: Correlational-explanatory design, with a sample of 253 elderly, collecting data through a simple random sampling. A personal data questionnaire was applied, the scale of: self-transcendence, the self-distancing subscale, the family APGAR and the ability to self-care in Mexican population from different demographic groups. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied (Mann-Whitney U and a structural equation model) and the study was approved by a registered ethics committee. Results: The study had participation from 253 elderly, with a mean age of 68.02 years, with prevalence of the female sex (60.1%); the level of education was primary school or lower (51.4%). It was observed that the group of chronic diseases had lower self-distancing (U = 4.449.5, p = 0.038) and greater self-transcendence (U = 4177.0, p = 0.008), and selfcare (U = 4365.5, p = 0.024) than the group without chronic diseases. It was also found that self-transcendence, self-distancing, and family functionality produce a positive effect of 37% on selfcare. Conclusion: Self-distancing, self-transcendence, and family functionality explain an important proportion of selfcare in the elderly. Said knowledge permits understanding the care behavior of the elderly and, thus, propose future educational interventions by nursing to prevent or avoid functional, cognitive loss and social effects.

Effect of Self-transcendence, Self-distancing, and Family Functionality on Self-care Agency in Older Adults / Efecto de la autotrascendencia, autodistanciamiento y funcionalidad familiar en la agencia de autocuidado en adultos mayores / Efeito da autotranscendência, do autodistanciamento e da funcionalidade familiar na agência do autocuidado em idosos

Objective. To determine the effect of self-distancing, self-transcendence, and family functioning on self-care agency in Mexican older adults. Methods. Correlational-explanatory design, with a sample of 253 elderly, collecting data through a simple random sampling. A personal data questionnaire was applied, the scale of: self-transcendence, the self-distancing subscale, the family APGAR and the ability to self-care in Mexican population from different demographic groups. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied (Mann-Whitney U and a structural equation model) and the study was approved by a registered ethics committee. Results.The study had participation from 253 elderly, with a mean age of 68.02 years, with prevalence of the female sex (60.1%); the level of education was primary school or lower (51.4%). It was observed that the group of chronic diseases had lower self-distancing (U = 4.449.5, p = 0.038) and greater self-transcendence (U = 4177.0, p = 0.008), and selfcare (U = 4365.5, p = 0.024) than the group without chronic diseases. It was also found that self-transcendence, self-distancing, and family functionality produce a positive effect of 37% on selfcare. Conclusion. Self-distancing, self-transcendence, and family functionality explain an important proportion of selfcare in the elderly. Said knowledge permits understanding the care behavior of the elderly and, thus, propose future educational interventions by nursing to prevent or avoid functional, cognitive loss and social effects.

Objetivo. Determinar el efecto del autodistanciamiento, autotrascendencia y funcionamiento familiar sobre la agencia de autocuidado en adultos mayores mexicanos. Métodos. Diseño correlacional-explicativo, con una muestra de 253 adultos mayores, recolectado mediante un muestreo aleatorio simple. Se aplicó un cuestionario de datos personales, la escala de: autotrascendencia, la subescala de autodistanciamiento, el APGAR familiar y la capacidad de autocuidado en población mexicana de diferentes grupos demográficos. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva e inferencial (U de Mann-Whitney y un modelo de ecuación estructural) y contó con la aprobación de un comité de ética registrado. Resultados. Participaron 253 adultos mayores, con una media de 68.02 años, predominó el sexo femenino (60.1 %) y el grado de estudio de primaria o menor (51.4 %). Se observó que el grupo de enfermedades crónicas tuvo menor autodistanciamiento (U = 4.449,5, p = 0.038) y mayor autotrascendencia (U = 4.177,0, p = 0,008) y autocuidado (U = 4.365,5, p = 0.024) que el grupo sin enfermedades crónicas. También se encontró que la autotrascendencia, autodistanciamiento y funcionalidad familiar producen un efecto positivo de un 37 % sobre el autocuidado. Conclusión. El autodistanciamiento, autotrascendencia y la funcionalidad familiar explican una importante proporción del autocuidado en los adultos mayores. Dicho conocimiento permite entender la conducta del cuidado del adulto mayor y de esta manera proponer a futuro intervenciones educativas por enfermería con miras a prevenir o evitar la pérdida funcional, cognitiva y afectaciones sociales.

Objetivo. Determinar o efeito do autodistanciamento, da autotranscendência e do funcionamento familiar na capacidade de autocuidado em idosos mexicanos. Métodos. Desenho correlacional-explicativo, com amostra de 253 idosos, coletada por meio de amostragem aleatória simples. Aplicou-se um questionário de dados pessoais, a escala de autotranscendência, a subescala de autodistanciamento, o APGAR familiar e a capacidade de autocuidado na população mexicana de diferentes grupos demográficos. Estatísticas descritivas e inferenciais (U de Mann-Whitney e modelo de equações estruturais) foram aplicadas e tiveram aprovação de um comitê de ética registrado. Resultados. Participaram 253 idosos, com idade média de 68.02 anos, predominou o sexo feminino (60.1%) e o nível de escolaridade era fundamental ou inferior (51.4%). Observou-se que o grupo com doenças crônicas apresentou menor autodistanciamento (U=4.449.5, p=0.038) e maior autotranscendência (U=4177.0, p=0.008) e autocuidado (U=4365.5, p= 0.024) que o grupo sem doenças Crônicas. Verificou-se também que a autotranscendência, o autodistanciamento e a funcionalidade familiar produzem um efeito positivo de 37% no autocuidado. Conclusão. O autodistanciamento, a autotranscendência e a funcionalidade familiar explicam uma proporção importante do autocuidado em idosos. Esse conhecimento permite compreender o comportamento de cuidar do idoso e desta forma propor futuras intervenções educativas pela enfermagem com vistas a prevenir ou evitar perdas funcionais, cognitivas e efeitos sociais.

Pirfenidone Reverts Global DNA Hypomethylation, Promoting DNMT1/UHRF/PCNA Coupling Complex in Experimental Hepatocarcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development is associated with altered modifications in DNA methylation, changing transcriptional regulation. Emerging evidence indicates that DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) plays a key role in the carcinogenesis process. This study aimed to investigate how pirfenidone (PFD) modifies this pathway and the effect generated by the association between c-Myc expression and DNMT1 activation. Rats F344 were used for HCC development using 50 mg/kg of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 25 mg/kg of 2-Acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF). The HCC/PFD group received simultaneous doses of 300 mg/kg of PFD. All treatments lasted 12 weeks. On the other hand, HepG2 cells were used to evaluate the effects of PFD in restoring DNA methylation in the presence of the inhibitor 5-Aza. Histopathological, biochemical, immunohistochemical, and western blot analysis were carried out and our findings showed that PFD treatment reduced the amount and size of tumors along with decreased Glipican-3, ß-catenin, and c-Myc expression in nuclear fractions. Also, this treatment improved lipid metabolism by modulating PPARγ and SREBP1 signaling. Interestingly, PFD augmented DNMT1 and DNMT3a protein expression, which restores global methylation, both in our in vivo and in vitro models. In conclusion, our results suggest that PFD could slow down HCC development by controlling DNA methylation.

Perception of Complementary Medicine and Treatment Adherence as Predictors of Self-Efficacy in Individuals with Chronic Conditions in Mexico.

Chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), arterial hypertension (HTN), and obesity are significant global health challenges, contributing to millions of premature deaths. In Mexico, these pose major challenges due to limited access to healthcare and inadequate primary care quality. Complementary medicine presents itself as an adjuvant in this context, offering minimally invasive techniques to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. However, effective treatment adherence is crucial for positive outcomes, influenced by self-efficacy, resulting in persistently low adherence rates-a pressing public health concern. This observational study aimed to explore how perceptions of complementary medicine and treatment adherence predict self-efficacy among individuals with chronic diseases in Mexico. Data were collected from 113 participants with chronic conditions, including T2DM, HTN, and obesity. Participants completed surveys assessing perception of complementary medicine, treatment adherence, and self-efficacy. Statistical analyses, including correlations and regression, were conducted to examine the relationships between variables. The study revealed significant correlations between the perception of complementary medicine, treatment adherence, and self-efficacy. Treatment adherence was positively associated with self-efficacy, while perception of holistic medicine was negatively correlated with self-efficacy. Perception of complementary medicine and adherence to treatment were found to predict 41.9% (p = 0.001) self-efficacy. These findings underscore the potential of complementary therapies in enhancing self-efficacy levels, and highlight the importance of holistic healthcare approaches in managing chronic conditions. Further research is needed to better understand these relationships and their implications for healthcare outcomes in Mexico and beyond.

Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and its association with gastric cancer: health benefits from a Planeterranean perspective.

The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has garnered increasing attention for its potential protective effects against gastric cancer (GC). The MD's rich content of antioxidants, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds contributes to its ability to modulate gene expression, inhibit tumor growth, and regulate apoptosis. Studies have shown significant reductions in inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) among individuals adhering to the MD, suggesting its pivotal role in mitigating chronic inflammation-associated with cancer development. Furthermore, the MD's anti-angiogenic properties, particularly in components like olive oil, red wine, fish, and tomatoes, offer promising avenues for reducing GC risk by inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. Additionally, the MD's influence on intestinal microbiota composition underscores its potential in maintaining immune homeostasis and reducing systemic inflammation, factors crucial in GC prevention. Despite challenges such as variability in dietary adherence scoring systems and the need for further gender and geographical-specific studies, evidence supports the MD as a cost-effective and holistic approach to GC prevention. Emphasizing the role of nutrition in public health is a promising strategy with broad implications for global health and cancer prevention initiatives. Therefore, this review explores the multifaceted impacts of the MD on GC prevention, delving into its anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and molecular mechanisms.

Clinical evaluation of posterior restorations over wet and dry dentin using an etch-and-rinse adhesive: A 36-month randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the clinical performance of posterior restorations over wet and dry dentin with an etch-and-rinse adhesive after 36 months of clinical service. METHODS: Forty-five participants were recruited, each one had at least two posterior teeth that needed restoration. Ninety restorations were placed on Class I or Class II cavities. For the restoration protocol, a simplified etch-and-rinse adhesive (Adper Single Bond 2) was applied over wet (WD) or dry dentin (DD) and later restored with a bulk-fill composite (Filtek Bulk Fill) under rubber dam isolation. Each restoration was evaluated using the World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria after 6, 12, and 36 months of clinical service, regarding the following principal restoration characteristics: postoperative sensitivity, marginal discoloration, marginal adaptation, fracture of material and retention, and recurrence of caries. Kruskal Wallis analysis of variance rank (α = 0.05) and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: After 36 months of clinical evaluation, no significant difference between groups was observed in each FDI criterion (p > 0.05). Twenty restorations (WD=10, DD=10) showed minor marginal staining, and twenty-two restorations (WD=11, DD=11) presented small marginal adaptation defects (p > 0.05). Four restorations were lost (WD = 2, DD = 2) and the fracture rates (95% confidence interval) were 94.9% for each one, without significant difference between wet and dry dentin (p > 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: The degree of dentin moisture does not seem to affect the clinical performance of a simplified etch-and-rinse adhesive in posterior restorations when the adhesive is applied vigorously over the dentine surface.

How to Start on Dermatologic Ultrasound: Basic Anatomical Concepts, Guidelines, Technical Considerations, and Best Tips.

Dermatologic ultrasound has grown exponentially during the last decades and has passed from the experimental phase to the routine daily practice in multiple countries. The performance of this imaging technique requires color Doppler ultrasound devices working with high-frequency probes, a trained operator on imaging and dermatologic conditions, and the performance of standardized protocols for obtaining the anatomical data properly. In this review, we analyze the ultrasonographic anatomy of the skin, hair, and nails, the technical requirements and considerations, the guidelines, and the recommended protocols, and provide the best tips for practicing this type of examination confidently.

INOCUIDAD ALIMENTARIA Y ENFERMEDADES TRANSMITIDAS POR ALIMENTOS (ETAS); SUS EFECTOS EN LA SALUD HUMANA: UNA REVISIÓN / FOOD SAFETY AND FOODBORNE DISEASES; ITS EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH: A REVIEW

INTRODUCCIÓN: En la actualidad la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU) como una de sus metas proyectadas al 2030 es que los alimentos sean inocuos, con seguridad alimentaria, nutritiva y suficiente, debido a que en los últimos años se ha incrementado el número de casos de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Alimentos (ETAs). La inocuidad de los alimentos es un principio básico de salud y como característica intrínseca de un alimento es que el mismo no debe causar daño a la salud. OBJETIVO: describir la importancia de la inocuidad alimentaria y los microorganismos patógenos más frecuentes que se presentan en los alimentos. METODOLOGÍA: se realizó una revisión narrativa conformada de artículos científicos a partir del año 2019 al 2023. RESULTADOS: los microoganismos que frecuentemente son causantes de las ETAs son: Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Hepatitis A, Vibrio cholerae, Listeria monocytogenes, ocasionando a nivel mundial elevados casos de diarreas relacionadas directamente con alimentos y agua contaminada, y que actualmente van en incremento. CONCLUSIÓN: las principales causas de las ETAs son por el aumento del comercio internacional de los alimentos contaminados, así como el incremento en la migración de aquellas personas que estén infectadas favoreciendo la propagación, reemergencia y aparición de microorganismos patógenos en alimentos contaminados por las malas prácticas de higiene, con la capacidad de generar infecciones, intoxicaciones y brotes en la población. Por lo anterior los organismos gubernamentales a nivel mundial, nacional y local establecen estrategias para abatir esta problemática de salud pública, pero son insuficientes, debiendo reforzar las acciones concretas de prevención y promoción.

INTRODUCTION: Due to the number of cases of Foodborne Diseases (ETAs) in recent years, the United Nations (UN) currently establishes as one of its goals for 2030 that food be safe, secure, nutritious, and sufficient. Food safety is a basic requirement, and an intrinsic characteristic of a food is that it should not negatively impact health. OBJECTIVE: to describe the importance of food safety and identify the most common pathogenic microorganisms that occur in food. Methodology: a narrative review was carried, out consisting of scientific articles from 2019 to 2023. RESULTS: the microorganisms that frequently cause ETAs are: Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Hepatitis A, Vibrio cholerae, Listeria monocytogenes, which cause frequent cases of diarrhea worldwide due to contaminated food and water, and which are currently increasing. CONCLUSION: the main causes of ETAs are the increase in international trade in contaminated foods, and the increase in the migration of people who are infected. Poor hygiene in food handling practices favor the contamination, spread, re-emergence and appearance of pathogenic microorganisms in foods, with the capacity to generate infections, poisonings and outbreaks in the population. Government agencies at the global, national, and local levels establish strategies to combat this public health problem, but they are insufficient, and specific prevention and promotion actions must be reinforced.

Influencia de la percepción de la calidad de atención sobre la salud en estudiantes universitarios / Influence of the quality perception of care on health in university students

Resumen Objetivo: La percepción de la calidad de atención al paciente es una línea de atención que ha quedado relegada en la población universitaria, ya que estos cuentan con el derecho a la atención médica por parte de la universidad, sin embargo, existen factores tanto del sector salud y universitarios que disminuyan las prácticas saludables en los estudiantes universitarios. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar como perciben la calidad de atención en salud sobre la percepción y las prácticas de salud en los estudiantes de la Universidad de Quintana Roo a través de un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Materiales y Métodos: Se encuestaron a 401 estudiantes de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Quintana Roo, mayores de 20 años, 70% mujeres y 30% hombres. Se aplicaron las escalas de percepción de la calidad de atención en el servicio médico, calidad del servicio de promoción de salud por parte de la universidad y la percepción de salud en el estudiante; mediante un modelo estructural se analizó la relación entre la calidad de los servicios con el cuidado de la salud. Resultados: La percepción de una adecuada calidad de atención en las instituciones de salud y en la universidad influye significativamente en la percepción positiva de salud de los estudiantes (p<0.05). Por otra parte, se encontró que un 70% de los estudiantes no cuentan con acciones preventivas de salud. Conclusión: La percepción de salud y las prácticas preventivas pueden verse influenciadas por la calidad en los servicios que se les ofrecen en la institución de salud y en la universidad.

Abstract Objective: The quality perception of patient care is a line of care that has been relegated in the university students, since they have the right to medical care from the university, however, there are factors both in the health sector and in the university that decrease healthy practices in university students. The objective of this study was to evaluate how to perceive the quality of health care on the perception and practices of health in the students of the University of Quintana Roo through a model of structural equations. Materials and methods: A total of 401 students from the Autonomous University of the State of Quintana Roo over the age of 20, 70% women and 30% men, were surveyed. The scales of perception of the quality of care in the medical service, quality of the health promotion service by the university and the perception of health in the student were applied; Using a structural model, the relationship between the quality of services and health care was analyzed. Results: The perception of an adequate quality of care in health institutions and university influences possitively the perception of health of students (p<0.05). On the other hand, it was found that 70% of the students do not have preventive health actions. Conclusion: The perception of health and preventive practices can be influenced by the quality of the services offered at the health institution and university.

Tackling potentially inappropriate prescriptions in older adults: development of deprescribing criteria by consensus from experts in Colombia, Argentina, and Spain.

BACKGROUND: Potentially inappropriate medication use is prevalent among older adults in primary care, leading to increased morbidity, adverse drug reactions, hospitalizations, and mortality. This study aimed to develop and validate a tool for identifying PIMs in older adults within the primary care setting. The tool is composed of a list of criteria and was created based on consensus among experts from three Spanish-speaking countries, including two from Latin America. METHODS: A literature review was conducted to identify existing tools, and prescription patterns were evaluated in a cohort of 36,111 older adults. An electronic Delphi method, consisting of two rounds, was used to reach a formal expert consensus. The panel included 18 experts from Spain, Colombia, and Argentina. The content validity index, validity of each content item, and Kappa Fleiss statistical measure were used to establish reliability. RESULTS: Round one did not yield a consensus, but a definitive consensus was reached in round two. The resulting tool consisted of a list of 5 general recommendations per disease, along with 33 criteria related to potential problems, recommendations, and alternative therapeutic options. The overall content validity of the tool was 0.87, with a Kappa value of 0.69 (95% CI 0.64-0.73; Substantial). CONCLUSIONS: The developed criteria provide a novel list that allows for a comprehensive approach to pharmacotherapy in older adults, intending to reduce inappropriate medication use, ineffective treatments, prophylactic therapies, and treatments with an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio for the given condition. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the impact of these criteria on health outcomes.

Prevalencia y caracterización de las neoplasias malignas en personas viviendo con VIH en Colombia / Prevalence and characterization of cancer in people living with HIV in Colombia

INTRODUCCIÓN: En el síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida las neoplasias han jugado un papel preponderante, y con el advenimiento del tratamiento antirretroviral (TAR), la infección por VIH se ha transformado en una enfermedad crónica, siendo los tumores malignos una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad. OBJETIVO: Describir las características demográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio de las personas que viven con VIH (PVVIH) y han sido diagnosticadas con cáncer en Colombia y comparar los grupos de neoplasias definitorias y no definitorias de Sida. MÉTODOS: Revisión multicéntrica retrospectiva, en la que se recolectó y analizó datos relacionados con la infección por VIH y de diagnóstico de cáncer y tipo. Incluyó PVVIH diagnosticadas con neoplasias malignas atendidas en 23 centros de atención de pacientes con VIH en 11 ciudades de Colombia desde 1986 hasta 2018. RESULTADOS: En 23.189 pacientes, se identificaron 650 casos de malignidad (prevalencia de 2,8 % [IC de 95%: 2,6-2,9]). La neoplasia definitoria de Sida (NDS) sigue siendo el tipo de cáncer prevalente (71,1%), las neoplasias malignas más frecuentes fueron sarcoma de Kaposi (n: 330; 50,8%), linfoma no Hodgkin (n: 110; 16,9%), cáncer de piel (n: 48; 7,4%) y linfoma de Hodgkin (n: 25; 3,8%). Los pacientes con NDS tenían más probabilidades de ser HSH y estar en un estadio CDC 3, un recuento de linfocitos T CD4 < 200/μL y una carga viral del VIH ≥ 50 copias/mL al momento del diagnóstico de malignidad. Las personas con neoplasias no definitorias de Sida (NNDS) eran significativamente mayores y tenían más probabilidades de ser fumadores. CONCLUSIONES: Estos hallazgos son relevantes considerando la creciente carga de cáncer en las PVVIH que envejecen y las causas cambiantes de morbilidad y mortalidad. La presentación tardía a la atención del VIH y el retraso en el inicio del TAR son probablemente factores que contribuyen al cambio más lento hacia NNDS en comparación con las regiones de altos ingresos donde hay un acceso más rápido y temprano al TAR. El conocimiento de las tendencias epidemiológicas actuales y el perfil del cáncer en las PVVIH es fundamental para mejorar los esfuerzos de prevención y tratamiento del cáncer en el contexto de la atención integral del VIH.

BACKGROUND: In the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, neoplasms have played a preponderant role, and with the advent of antiretroviral treatment (ART), HIV has become a chronic disease, with malignant tumors being an important cause of morbidity and mortality. AIM: To describe the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of people living with HIV (PLHIV) who have been diagnosed with cancer in Colombia and to compare the groups of AIDS-defining (ADC) and non-AIDS-defining neoplasms (NADC). METHODS: Retrospective, multicenter study that included people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) diagnosed with malignancies treated at 23 HIV care centers located in 11 Colombian cities from 1986 to 2018. Data related to HIV infection and cancer diagnosis were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Among 23,189 patients, 650 malignancy cases were identified (prevalence of 2.8% [95% CI 2.6-2.9]). AIDS-defining neoplasm remains the most prevalent type of cancer (71.1%), The most frequent individual malignancies were Kaposi sarcoma (n: 330; 50.8%), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (n: 110; 16.9%), skin cancer (n: 48; 7.4%), and Hodgkin lymphoma (n: 25; 3.8%). Compared people with NADC, with ADC were more likely to be MSM and have a CDC HIV stage 3, CD4 T cell count < 200/μL, and HIV viral load ≥ 50 copies/mL at the time of malignancy diagnosis. PLHIV and with NADC were significantly older and were more likely to be smokers. CONCLUSIONS: These findings are relevant considering the increasing burden of cancer in the aging PLHIV and the changing causes of morbidity and mortality. Late presentation to HIV care and delayed ART initiation are likely factors contributing to the slower shift toward NADCs compared with high-income regions where access to ART is better. Knowledge of the current epidemiological trends and profile of cancer in PLWHA is critical to improve cancer prevention and treatment efforts in the context of comprehensive HIV care.

Factors influencing neutralizing antibody response to the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and the Omicron variant in a high vaccination coverage country, a population-based study.

The study compared immunity to the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (Wuhan) and the Omicron variant using neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), that provide a good approximation of protective immunity. The results might help determine immunization strategies. DESIGN AND METHODS: Unlike previous studies, we analyzed NAbs in a random sample of 110 IgG positive sera from individuals who participated in a population-based seroprevalence transversal study, carried out in May 2022 in two Chilean cities, a country with high vaccination coverage. RESULTS: Our findings indicate that 98.2% of individuals had NAbs against Wuhan, 65.5% against Omicron, and 32.7% tested positive for Wuhan but not Omicron. Factors influencing protective immunity included a prior natural infection and the number of vaccines received. NAbs titers against the original virus were high, demonstrating vaccine effectiveness in the population. However, the level of antibodies decreased when measuring NAbs against Omicron, particularly among older individuals, indicating a decline in vaccine protection. Previous COVID-19 episodes acted as a natural booster, increasing NAbs titers against both virus strains. CONCLUSIONS: Protective immunity against the original Wuhan SARS-CoV-2 virus is reduced when compared to Omicron variant. Updating vaccine to target emerging variants and continued monitoring of effectiveness at the population level are necessary.

Assessment of the Efficiency of Technological Processes to Modify Whey Protein Antigenicity.

Whey is a by-product that represents a cheap source of protein with a high nutritional value, often used to improve food quality. When used as a raw material to produce hypoallergenic infant formulas (HIF), a processing step able to decrease the allergenic potential is required to guarantee their safe use for this purpose. In the present paper, thermal treatments, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), and enzymatic hydrolysis (EH) were assessed to decrease the antigenicity of whey protein solutions (WPC). For monitoring purposes, a competitive ELISA method, able to detect the major and most allergenic whey protein ß-lactoglobulin (BLG), was developed as a first step to evaluate the efficiency of the processes. Results showed that EH together with HHP was the most effective combination to reduce WPC antigenicity. The evaluation method proved useful to monitor the processes and to be employed in the quality control of the final product, to guarantee the efficiency, and in protein antigenicity reduction.

HIV-1 Low-Frequency Variants Identified in Antiretroviral-Naïve Subjects with Virologic Failure after 12 Months of Follow-Up in Panama.

Low-frequency mutations associated with drug resistance have been related to virologic failure in subjects with no history of pre-treatment and recent HIV diagnosis. In total, 78 antiretroviral treatment (ART)-naïve subjects with a recent HIV diagnosis were selected and followed by CD4+ T lymphocytes and viral load tests to detect virologic failure. We sequenced the basal samples retrospectively using next-generation sequencing (NGS), looking for low-frequency mutations that had not been detected before using the Sanger sequencing method (SSM) and describing the response to ART. Twenty-two subjects developed virologic failure (VF), and thirteen of them had at least one drug-resistance mutation associated with Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (RTI) and Protease Inhibitors (PIs) at frequency levels ≤ 1%, not detected previously in their basal genotyping test. No resistance mutations were observed to Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs). We identified a possible cause of VF in ART-naïve subjects with low-frequency mutations detected. To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of pre-existing drug resistance for HIV-1 minority variants carried out on ART-naïve people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) by analyzing the HIV-1 pol gene using NGS in the country.