Unveiling Disrupted Lipid Metabolism in Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, Prostate Cancer, and Metastatic Patients: Insights from a Colombian Nested Case-Control Study.

Prostate cancer is a significant global health concern, and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. Despite extensive research efforts, the complexity of the disease remains challenging with respect to fully understanding it. Metabolomics has emerged as a powerful approach to understanding prostate cancer by assessing comprehensive metabolite profiles in biological samples. In this study, metabolic profiles of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer (PCa), and metastatic prostate cancer (Met) were characterized using an untargeted approach that included metabolomics and lipidomics via liquid chromatography and gas chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Comparative analysis among these groups revealed distinct metabolic profiles, primarily associated with lipid biosynthetic pathways, such as biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, fatty acid degradation and elongation, and sphingolipid and linoleic acid metabolism. PCa patients showed lower levels of amino acids, glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and carnitines compared to BPH patients. Compared to Met patients, PCa patients had reduced metabolites in the glycerolipid, glycerophospholipid, and sphingolipid groups, along with increased amino acids and carbohydrates. These altered metabolic profiles provide insights into the underlying pathways of prostate cancer's progression, potentially aiding the development of new diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies.

Soluble Transferrin Receptor, Antioxidant Status and Cardiometabolic Risk in Apparently Healthy Individuals.

Body iron excess appears to be related to insulin resistance and cardiometabolic risk and increased oxidative stress might be involved in this relationship. Very few studies have described the association between soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) levels and cardiometabolic risk in the general population or antioxidant status. There were 239 subjects (20−65 years old) included in this cross-sectional study. Linear regressions adjusting for BMI, menopausal status, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), physical inactivity, alcohol intake and subclinical/chronic inflammation were used to describe the association between sTfR, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and measures of cardio-metabolic risk. sTfR levels were positively associated with TAC in men (ßeta [95% confidence interval ]: 0.31 [0.14 to 0.48]) and women (ßeta = 0.24 [0.07 to 0.40]) in non-adjusted and adjusted models (p < 0.05). In men, sTfR levels were inversely associated with waist circumference (ßeta [95% confidence interval]: −1.12 [−2.30 to −0.22]) and fasting glucose (−2.7 (−4.82 to −0.57), and positively with LDL cholesterol (12.41 (6.08 to 18.57) before and after adjustments for confounding variables. LDL cholesterol had a significant and positive association with TAC in non-adjusted and adjusted models in men (p < 0.05). sTfR levels are significantly associated with antioxidant status and a few specific cardio-metabolic risk variables, independently of covariates that included serum ferritin and hepcidin. This might imply that iron biomarkers in regard to cardiometabolic risk reflect physiological contexts other than iron metabolism.

Circulating hepcidin in type 2 diabetes: A multivariate analysis and double blind evaluation of metformin effects.

SCOPE: Very few studies have evaluated serum hepcidin in patients with type 2 diabetes and they have reported conflicting results. In addition, the effect of antidiabetic drugs on circulating hepcidin has not been explored so far. The aims of the study were to evaluate hepcidin concentrations and hepcidin/ferritin ratio in type 2 diabetes subjects and healthy non-diabetic controls and to evaluate the effect of metformin on hepcidin concentrations. METHODS AND RESULTS: Study 1: Cross-sectional multivariate study of 239 non-diabetic individuals and 65 people with type 2 diabetes. The multivariate analysis included covariates of chronic inflammation, BMI, pharmacological treatment, menopausal status and insulin resistance. Study 2: Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled 4-month trial metformin compared to placebo among 36 type 2 diabetic patients. In both groups diet was controlled by maintaining a hypocaloric intake across the trial. Hepcidin levels were significantly lower in patients with type 2 diabetes than in non-diabetic individuals either in crude or adjusted regression models (P<0.05). Hepcidin decreased in both arms of the trial (Placebo, p = 0.004; metformin, p = 0.022). CONCLUSION: Circulating hepcidin was significantly and independently lower in type 2 diabetes. Metformin treatment is not associated with reductions in hepcidin but hypocaloric diet could be involved.

Circulating hepcidin is independently associated with systolic blood pressure in apparently healthy individuals.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Few studies have described the association between hepcidin levels and cardiometabolic risk in the general population and more so by considering robust adjustment for confounding factors. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the associations between circulating hepcidin and anthropometric, biochemical and vascular variables related to cardiometabolic risk in healthy individuals adjusting for relevant covariates. METHODS: Two-hundred thirty nine individuals (20-65 years old) were included in this cross-sectional study. Outcome variables were fasting glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and the Framingham risk score. Multivariate linear regression and ANCOVA analyses including covariates of body mass index (BMI), menopausal status, physical inactivity, alcohol intake, insulin resistance, subclinical/chronic inflammation, ferritin and soluble transferrin receptors were used to describe the associations between hepcidin and cardiometabolic risk markers. RESULTS: In adjusted linear regression analyses, there was no significant association in men. In women, a relationship between hepcidin and triglycerides became significant after adjustments (p <0.05). By comparing quartiles of hepcidin levels, systolic blood pressure values in men were significantly higher in the upper quartile of hepcidin vs. the rest of quartiles independently of BMI, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance and other iron markers (ANCOVA, p <0.05). There were no significant independent associations with the Framingham risk score (total points). CONCLUSION: We found a threshold effect of hepcidin levels on systolic blood pressure specifically in men. Further larger studies and experimental research are required to investigate possible mechanisms for the relationship between hepcidin metabolism and vascular function.

Relationship between maternal and newborn endothelial function and oxidative stress.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the Relationship between maternal and newborn endothelial function and oxidative stress. METHODS: Forty-three pregnant women and their offspring were evaluated. As markers of endothelial function, the flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured in pregnant women in the second and third trimesters, and nitric oxide (NO) was quantified in the endothelial cells of the umbilical cord vein. Malondialdehyde (MDA), as a marker of oxidative stress, was measured in the maternal plasma (second and third trimesters) and plasma from umbilical cord blood. Gestational age and birth weight were recorded. Correlations between variables were estimated, and adjustments were made for specific gestational week of measurement, gestational age at birth, and complications during pregnancy and/or at delivery. RESULTS: Maternal FMD at second trimester correlated positively with newborn MDA, although with marginal significance (P = 0.090). The change in maternal FMD was positively correlated with newborn NO (P = 0.039), although adjustment for gestational age and specific week of gestation attenuated this relationship (P = 0.070). Maternal MDA at second trimester correlated positively with newborn MDA independently of gestational age at birth, specific week of gestation of the measurement, and having complications during pregnancy or at delivery (P = 0.032). After adjustments, the change in maternal MDA correlated with newborn MDA but marginally (P = 0.077). CONCLUSION: Study findings suggest that under physiological conditions, enhanced endothelial function and/or oxidative stress in the mother may impact on normal fetal development. Future studies are recommended, employing larger sample sizes, a more extensive set of markers of oxidative stress, and comparisons of complicated versus normal pregnancies.

Efecto del ejercicio y reposo postintervención sobre variables de riesgo cardiovascular en grupo de escolares / Effect of exercise and a post-intervention rest in cardiovacular risk variables in schoolars / Efeitos de exercicios e do repouso pos-operatorio sobre variaveis de risco cardiovascular em grupo de escolares

Objetivo: determinar el efecto de un programa de ejercicio seguido de un periodo de reposo post-intervención en marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular de un grupo de escolares de un Colegio de Cali-Colombia. Materiales y métodos: estudio experimental en el que se incluyeron 26 escolares con edades entre 10 y 13 años. Estos se sometieron a un período (4 meses) de intervención con ejercicio seguido de un periodo de reposo. Cambios en: glucosa y perfil lipídico; variables antropométricas; y parámetros de capacidad física, fueron evaluados. Resultados: los niños mostraron mayores valores de porcentaje (%) grasa corporal, cHDL, VO2max, carga y lactato al finalizar la intervención con ejercicio, e incremento significante en el valor de glicemia, IMC y % grasa corporal respecto al final del periodo de reposo post-intervención. En las niñas solo se observó incremento en la mediana de la carga luego de intervención con ejercicio. En el periodo de reposo post-intervención el IMC, porcentaje de grasa corporal y glicemia fueron más altos, y el valor de carga menor en comparación con el final de la intervención con ejercicio. Conclusiones: los niños presentaron mejor respuesta al ejercicio en variables relacionadas con riesgo cardiovascular, y este hallazgo podría estar influenciado por actividad física espontanea en los varones. En la mayoría de variables se observaron cambios negativos tras el periodo de reposo post-intervención. Para el conocimiento de los autores, este ensayo representa una primera exploración del efecto de un periodo sedentario tras un programa de ejercicio en el perfil cardiovascular de un grupo de escolares.

Objective: to determine the effect of an exercise program followed by a rest period post-intervention on cardiovascular risk markers in a group of children of Cali-Colombia school. Materials: experimental study which included 26 children aged 10-13 years old. These were subjected to a exercise intervention period (4 months) followed by a rest period. Changes in: glucose and lipid profile, anthropometric variables, and parameters of physical capacity, were evaluated. Results:boys showed higher values of body fat percentage, cHDL, VO2max, load and lactate at the end of the exercise intervention, and significant increase in the value of blood glucose, BMI and body fat percentage at the end of the post-intervention rest period. In girls only was observed an increase in load median after exercise intervention. In the post-intervention rest period BMI, body fat percentage and blood glucose were higher and the load value was lower compared to the end of the exercise intervention. Conclusions: boys had a better response to exercise in variables related to cardiovascular risk, and this finding could be influenced by spontaneous physical activity in men. In most of the variables, negative changes were observed after the post-intervention rest period. To the author’s knowledge, this paper represents a first exploration of the effect of a sedentary period after an exercise program on the cardiovascular profile of a schoolchildren group.

Objetivo: determinar o efeito de um programa de exercícios seguidos por um período de pós-intervenção nos marcadores de risco cardiovascular em um grupo de resto escolares de Cali Colombia.Materiais: estudo experimental em que 26 alunos foram incluídos com idades entre 10 e 13 anos. Estes foram submetidos a um período (4 meses ), seguido intervenção de exercício com um período de descanso. Mudanças: glicose e do perfil lipídico; variáveis antropométricas ; e foram avaliados parâmetros de capacidade física Resultado: as crianças apresentaram maior percentagem (%) de gordura corporal, o cHDL, VO2max, de carga e de lactato no final da intervenção de exercício, e aumento significativo na quantidade de glicose, imce % de gordura corporal em comparação com o fim de período de descanso pós-intervenção. Em raparigas foi observado aumento apenas no meio de carga, após a intervenção do exercício. No período de descanso pós-intervenção imc, percentual de gordura e de glicose no sangue foram maiores e menor valor de carga em relação ao final da intervenção de exercícios.Conclusões: as crianças apresentaram melhor resposta ao exercício em variáveis relacionadas ao risco cardiovascular, e este achado poderia ser influenciada pela atividade física espontânea em homens. Na maioria das variáveis foram observadas variações negativas depois do período de descanso pós-intervenção. Para o conhecimento dos autores , este estudo representa a primeira análise do efeito de um período sedentário após um programa de exercício no perfil cardiovascular de um grupo de crianças em idade escolar

Evaluation of the relationship between self-reported physical activity and metabolic syndrome and its components in apparently healthy women.

INTRODUCTION: The metabolic syndrome, a set of metabolic anomalies that include insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension and inflammation, is an important tool to explore factors associated to cardiometabolic disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of the levels of self-reported physical activity and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire items and the metabolic syndrome and the variables related to cardiovascular risk in 89 women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The short version of International Physical Activity Questionnaire was applied to classify participating subjects into three categories: insufficient, sufficient and very active physical activity. The metabolic syndrome was assessed according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Biochemical and anthropometrical parameters were measured . RESULTS: Twenty-two participants (23%) presented metabolic syndrome and 66 women (74.2%) were classified in the insufficient physical activity category. No association was found between insufficient physical activity and metabolic syndrome . Inverse correlations were found among the days and minutes per week of physical activity of moderate-intensity, waist circumference ( r =-0.327, and r =-0.313, p<0.005, respectively), and body mass index ( r =-0.262, and r =-0.218, p<0.05, respectively). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of insufficient physical activity was found in the study participants, but this was not associated with metabolic syndrome . Moderate but not vigorous physical activity items from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire correlated inversely with anthropometrical markers related to cardiovascular risk.

Evaluation of the relationship between self-reported physical activity and metabolic syndrome and its components in apparently healthy women / Evaluación de la relación de actividad física autorreportada con el síndrome metabólico y sus componentes en mujeres aparentemente sanas

Introduction: The metabolic syndrome, a set of metabolic anomalies that include insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension and inflammation, is an important tool to explore factors associated to cardiometabolic disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of the levels of self-reported physical activity and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire items and the metabolic syndrome and the variables related to cardiovascular risk in 89 women . Materials and methods: The short version of International Physical Activity Questionnaire was applied to classify participating subjects into three categories: insufficient, sufficient and very active physical activity. The metabolic syndrome was assessed according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Biochemical and anthropometrical parameters were measured . Results: Twenty-two participants (23%) presented metabolic syndrome and 66 women (74.2%) were classified in the insufficient physical activity category. No association was found between insufficient physical activity and metabolic syndrome . Inverse correlations were found among the days and minutes per week of physical activity of moderate-intensity, waist circumference ( r =-0.327, and r =-0.313, p<0.005, respectively), and body mass index ( r =-0.262, and r =-0.218, p<0.05, respectively). Conclusion: A high prevalence of insufficient physical activity was found in the study participants, but this was not associated with metabolic syndrome . Moderate but not vigorous physical activity items from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire correlated inversely with anthropometrical markers related to cardiovascular risk .

Introducción. El síndrome metabólico, conjunto de anomalías metabólicas que incluyen resistencia a la insulina, obesidad central, dislipidemia, hipertensión e inflamación, es una herramienta importante para explorar los factores asociados a enfermedades cardiovasculares. Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la relación de los niveles autorreportados de actividad física y los elementos del Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física ( International Physical Activity Questionnaire ), con el síndrome metabólico y las variables relacionadas con el riesgo cardiovascular en 89 mujeres. Materiales y métodos. La versión corta del Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física se aplicó para clasificar a los sujetos en tres categorías: actividad física insuficiente, suficiente y muy activa. El síndrome metabólico se evaluó según los criterios de la Federación Internacional de Diabetes y se midieron los parámetros bioquímicos y antropométricos. Resultados. Veintidós participantes (23 %) presentaron síndrome metabólico y 66 mujeres (74,2 %) fueron clasificadas en la categoría de actividad física insuficiente. No se encontró asociación entre la actividad física insuficiente y el síndrome metabólico. Se encontraron correlaciones inversas entre los días y minutos de actividad física de moderada intensidad por semana con la circunferencia de cintura ( r =-0,327, y r =-0,313, p<0,005, respectivamente) y el índice de masa corporal ( r =-0,262, y r =-0,218, p<0,05, respectivamente). Conclusión. Una alta prevalencia de actividad física insuficiente se encontró en las participantes en el estudio, pero esto no se asoció con el síndrome metabólico. Los elementos de la actividad física moderada del Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física, pero no así los de actividad vigorosa, se correlacionan inversamente con marcadores antropométricos relacionados con riesgo cardiovascular.

Association of self-reported familial history of cardiometabolic disease with metabolic syndrome in apparently healthy urban Colombian men.

OBJECTIVES: Evidence about the relationship between familial history (FH) of cardiometabolic disease (CMD) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Latin American populations is scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of FH of CMD and of dyslipidemia and obesity with MetS in healthy men. METHODS: One-hundred-twenty one individuals were recruited. Waist circumference and blood pressure were measured by a trained researcher using standard techniques. Glycemia and lipid profile were determined by colorimetric assays. A survey to record personal data and family antecedents in siblings, aunts/uncles, parents, and grandparents was conducted by trained interviewers. RESULTS: Individuals having three or more familial antecedents were associated with high triglycerides level even after adjusting by age, sedentarism, fat and carbohydrates intake, and alcohol consumption. After adjusting for the same variables, FH of dyslipidemia and hypertension was also associated with high triglycerides levels and elevated waist circumference, respectively. The FH of stroke was associated with high blood pressure after adjusting for the rest of familial antecedents, and with MetS in all adjustment models. DISCUSSION: the findings of association of this study together with the previous reports are evidence of the importance of hereditary component as independent predictor of cardiovascular risk factors and its clustering, as well as of possible specific association patterns between FH of CMD and MetS depending on evaluated population in terms of ethnic groups and geographic region. Further studies are required in other populations, as well as exploration of genetic markers of CMD regarding to MetS.

Early atherosclerotic lesions and post-mortem serum cholesterol level in a group of Colombian children / Lesiones ateroscleróticas tempranas y nivel de colesterol post mórtem en un grupo de niños colombianos

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is an asymptomatic chronic disease, which begins at early age and is difficult to detect during this stage. Prospective studies suggest a causal relationship between total serum cholesterol levels during childhood and early adolescence and the development of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of early atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta artery of children and its relationship with post-mortem serum cholesterol levels. Material and methods: Post-mortem samples of blood and aorta were taken from 43 subjects aged less than 17 years old. Histopathological analysis (intimal thickening and inflammatory infiltrates) of the thoracic aorta and measurement of total serum cholesterol were performed. Results: The analysis showed thickening of the intima and lymphocyte infiltrates in 93% of children, and macrophage infiltrates in 79.1% of cases. A relationship between the highest terciles of total serum cholesterol levels and the presence of multiple lesions in the aorta wall was found (P<0.05). Conclusion: This group of children had a high prevalence of early inflammatory atherosclerotic lesions positively related with serum cholesterol levels. To our knowledge this study represents the first report of a relationship between post-mortem total serum cholesterol levels and pathological findings of macrophages and lymphocytes infiltrates in the aorta wall.

Introducción. La aterosclerosis es una enfermedad crónica asintomática que se inicia a edad temprana y es de difícil detección en esta etapa. Los estudios prospectivos sugieren una relación causal entre el nivel de colesterol sérico total en la niñez y la adolescencia, y el desarrollo de enfermedades cardiovasculares en la adultez. Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar, post mórtem, la prevalencia de lesiones ateroscleróticas tempranas en la arteria aorta de niños y su relación con los niveles de colesterol. Materiales y métodos. Se tomaron muestras de sangre y de aorta de 43 sujetos con edades menores de 17 años. Se hizo el análisis histopatológico (engrosamiento de la íntima e infiltrado inflamatorio) de la aorta torácica y la medición de colesterol en suero. Resultados. El análisis mostró engrosamiento de la íntima e infiltrado linfocitario en 93 % de los niños, e infiltrado de macrófagos en 79,1 %. Se encontró relación entre los terciles superiores de colesterol sérico y la presencia de múltiples lesiones en la pared de la aorta (p<0,05). Conclusión. Este grupo de niños presentó una alta prevalencia de lesiones ateroscleróticas inflamatorias tempranas relacionada positivamente con niveles de colesterol sérico. Para nuestro conocimiento, este estudio representa el primer reporte de la relación entre el colesterol sérico y los hallazgos histopatológicos de infiltrado de macrófagos y linfocitos en la pared de la aorta, post mórtem.

Nutrients intake as determinants of blood lead and cadmium levels in Colombian pregnant women.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between nutrients intake in the first trimester of pregnancy and blood levels of lead and cadmium during the first and third trimesters of gestation. METHODS: A total of 381 pregnant women were enrolled. Blood lead and cadmium were measured using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry, and dietary intake was assessed using 24-h recall questionnaire. RESULTS: Lead levels in the first trimester were negatively correlated with cadmium levels in the two trimesters, and levels of both metals correlated positively in the third trimester. Zinc and calcium intakes were negatively associated with blood lead during third trimester. Thiamine and folic acid intakes were negatively and positively associated (respectively) with blood lead at third trimester with marginal significance. Fat, niacin, and vitamin B12 intakes were significantly and positively associated with blood cadmium at first trimester. Folic acid and zinc intakes showed positive and marginally significant associations with blood cadmium without adjustments. At third trimester, blood cadmium was negatively associated to ascorbic acid intake, and positively associated with iron intake with a marginal significance. CONCLUSIONS: Possible acute and late effects of nutrients intake in blood lead and cadmium levels could be related with associations exclusively observed in the first and third trimester. This study represents the first exploration of relationships among a wide range of nutrients intake in the first trimester of pregnancy with blood lead and cadmium in first and third trimester of gestation. Further studies are required to confirm the findings mentioned herein.

Early atherosclerotic lesions and post-mortem serum cholesterol level in a group of Colombian children.

INTRODUCTION: Atherosclerosis is an asymptomatic chronic disease, which begins at early age and is difficult to detect during this stage. Prospective studies suggest a causal relationship between total serum cholesterol levels during childhood and early adolescence and the development of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of early atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta artery of children and its relationship with post-mortem serum cholesterol levels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Post-mortem samples of blood and aorta were taken from 43 subjects aged less than 17 years old. Histopathological analysis (intimal thickening and inflammatory infiltrates) of the thoracic aorta and measurement of total serum cholesterol were performed. RESULTS: The analysis showed thickening of the intima and lymphocyte infiltrates in 93% of children, and macrophage infiltrates in 79.1% of cases. A relationship between the highest terciles of total serum cholesterol levels and the presence of multiple lesions in the aorta wall was found ( P <0.05). CONCLUSION: This group of children had a high prevalence of early inflammatory atherosclerotic lesions positively related with serum cholesterol levels. To our knowledge this study represents the first report of a relationship between post-mortem total serum cholesterol levels and pathological findings of macrophages and lymphocytes infiltrates in the aorta wall.

Type of delivery and gestational age is not affected by pregnant Latin-American women engaging in vigorous exercise. A secondary analysis of data from a controlled randomized trial / El tipo de parto y la edad gestacional no se afectan por el ejercicio aeróbico vigoroso en mujeres gestantes latinas. Análisis secundario de un ensayo clínico

ABSTRACT Objective There is controversy concerning whether exercise during pregnancy may increase preterm delivery risk and type of delivery. The effect of pregnant Latin-American women engaging in vigorous exercise during the second and third trimester was examined regarding type of delivery and gestational age. Materials and Methods This was a secondary analysis of data from a controlled randomized trial for determining the influence of physical exercise on pregnant women's endothelial function. The study included 35 nulliparous women, gestational week 16-20 attending prenatal care at three tertiary hospitals in Colombia, who were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The experimental group engaged in aerobic exercise involving 55 % - 75 % maximum heart rate for 60 min, three times a week for 12 weeks. The control group engaged in their usual physical activity. Maternal weight, height, weight gain, blood pressure and type of delivery were recorded; gender, abdominal and head circumference (cm), weight (g), height (cm), vitality (Apgar score at 1 and 5 min) and gestational age at the time of delivery (in weeks, days) were recorded for the newborn. Results There was no difference in type of delivery by the end of the 12-week program (p>0.05), nor regarding newborn anthropometric variables, Apgar score, or maternal variables concerning weight, height, relative weight gain, blood pressure or weeks of gestation (p>0.05). Conclusion The potential public health benefits of vigorous exercise were enormous. This study support ed existing guidelines indicating that Latin-American women may begin or maintain an on-going exercise program during pregnancy. Trial registration: NCT00741312.

Objetivo Existe controversia acerca del efecto del ejercicio físico vigoroso (EFV) durante el embarazo por sus posibles consecuencias en el tipo de parto y la edad gestacional. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del EFV durante el segundo y tercer trimestre, en mujeres gestantes latinas sobre el tipo de parto y la edad gestacional. Materiales y Métodos Se trata de un análisis secundario de un ensayo clínico controlado en 35 gestantes, asignadas al azar en dos grupos. Grupo experimental (n=18): EFV entre el 55 % y 75 % de la FC max, por 60 min, 3 veces por sem. Por 12 sem. Grupo Control (n=17): actividad física cotidiana y control prenatal habitual. Se registraron en las maternas: peso, talla, ganancia de peso, presión arterial y tipo de parto. En el recién nacido se registró: género, perímetro cefálico y abdominal (cm), peso (g), talla (cm), semanas de gestación, vitalidad (score Apgar al 1 y 5 min), y semanas de gestación. Resultados No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas respecto al tipo de parto (p>0,05). Tampoco en las variables antropométricas del recién nacido, ni en las variables maternas: peso, talla, ganancia de peso, presión arterial o semanas de gestación (p>0,05). Conclusión Los beneficios potenciales en salud pública del efecto EFV durante la gestación son importantes y este estudio favorece que mujeres latinas puedan comenzar o mantener un programa de ejercicios durante el embarazo. Trial registration: NCT00741312.

Los niveles de ferritina y los marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular se correlacionan con mayor tiempo sedentario auto-reportado en hombres aparentemente sanos / Ferritin levels and cardiovascular risk markers correlate with higher self-reported sedentary time in apparently healthy men

Objetivo: evaluar la correlación entre las concentraciones séricas de ferritina y los marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular con el tiempo de actividad física y sedentarismo auto-reportados en hombres aparentemente sanos. Métodos: se incluyeron 69 hombres pertenecientes a tres empresas de servicio privado y público del área metropolitana de Cali, Colombia, con edades entre 25 y 64 años. Se aplicó la versión corta del International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) y se agruparon cuatro categorías de actividad física: 1. Minutos actividad física intensa (AFI)/semana. 2. Minutos actividad física moderada (AFM)/semana. 3. Minutos caminata/semana. 4. Minutos sentado/día. Los marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular se definieron con base en los criterios del ATP-III y la Federación Internacional de Diabetes. Resultados: se encontraron correlaciones positivas en los sujetos que auto-reportaban mayor tiempo en actividades sedentarias según la categoría del IPAQ (minutos promedio sentado/día) en los indicadores antropométricos: porcentaje de grasa corporal (rho=0,249, p<0,05), índice de masa (rho=0,268, p<0,05) y circunferencia de cintura (rho=0,266, p<0,05). Este mismo comportamiento se observó en las variables bioquímicas: ferritina (rho=0,247, p<0,05), triglicéridos (rho=0,258, p<0,05), insulina (rho=0,284, p<0,05) e índice HOMA (rho=0,261). Asimismo, se evidenciaron menores niveles de c-HDL a menores niveles de actividad física (rho=-0,279; p<0,05). Conclusiones: el tiempo sedentario (minutos sentado/semana) reportado por los sujetos, se correlacionó de manera positiva con los niveles de ferritina así como con la resistencia a la insulina y los marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular. Los depósitos de hierro corporales estimados como ferritina sérica, al relacionarse con parámetros de sedentarismo, se comportan como un potencial marcador de riesgo cardiovascular.

Objective: to evaluate the correlation between serum ferritin and cardiovascular risk markers with the time of self-reported physical activity and sedentary life style in apparently healthy men. Methods: we included 69 men from three private and public companies in the metropolitan area of Cali, Colombia, aged between 25 and 64. The short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was applied, and were grouped in four categories of physical activity: 1. Minutes of intense physical activity (IFA)/week.2. Minutes of moderate physical activity (MFA)/week. 3. Minutes of walk/week. 4. Minutes of sitting/day. Cardiovascular risk markers were defined based on the criteria of the ATP-III and the International Diabetes Federation. Results: positive correlations were found in subjects who self-reported more time in sedentary activities according to the IPAQ category (average minutes sitting/day) in anthropometric indicators: percentage of body fat (rho = 0.249, p <0.05), mass index (rho = 0.268, p <0.05) and waist circumference (rho = 0.266, p <0.05). This same behavior was observed in biochemical variables: ferritin (rho = 0.247, p <0.05), triglycerides (rho = 0.258, p <0.05), insulin (rho = 0.284, p <0.05) and HOMA index (rho = 0.261). Also, lower levels of HDL-C were evidenced with lower levels of physical activity (rho =- 0.279, P <0.05). Conclusions: sedentary time (minutes sitting/week) reported by the subjects correlated positively with ferritin levels as well as with insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk markers. The body iron deposits estimated as serum ferritin, when related to sedentary lifestyle parameters, behave as a potential marker of cardiovascular risk.

Type of delivery and gestational age is not affected by pregnant Latin-American women engaging in vigorous exercise: a secondary analysis of data from a controlled randomized trial.

OBJECTIVE: There is controversy concerning whether exercise during pregnancy may increase preterm delivery risk and type of delivery. The effect of pregnant Latin-American women engaging in vigorous exercise during the second and third trimester was examined regarding type of delivery and gestational age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a secondary analysis of data from a controlled randomized trial for determining the influence of physical exercise on pregnant women's endothelial function. The study included 35 nulliparous women, gestational week 16-20 attending prenatal care at three tertiary hospitals in Colombia, who were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The experimental group engaged in aerobic exercise involving 55 % - 75 % maximum heart rate for 60 min, three times a week for 12 weeks. The control group engaged in their usual physical activity. Maternal weight, height, weight gain, blood pressure and type of delivery were recorded; gender, abdominal and head circumference (cm), weight (g), height (cm), vitality (Apgar score at 1 and 5 min) and gestational age at the time of delivery (in weeks, days) were recorded for the newborn. RESULTS: There was no difference in type of delivery by the end of the 12-week program (p > 0.05), nor regarding newborn anthropometric variables, Apgar score, or maternal variables concerning weight, height, relative weight gain, blood pressure or weeks of gestation (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The potential public health benefits of vigorous exercise were enormous. This study supported existing guidelines indicating that Latin-American women may begin or maintain an on-going exercise program during pregnancy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT00741312.

Body iron stores as predictors of insulin resistance in apparently healthy urban Colombian men.

The aim of this study was to evaluate body iron stores as predictors of insulin resistance. We developed a cross-sectional study among 123 men, 25-64 years of age and determined fasting plasma glucose, insulin, serum ferritin, and C-reactive protein levels. A survey was performed to record personal antecedents and family history of non-transmissible chronic diseases. Log-transformed ferritin levels was an independent predictor for log-transformed insulin resistance index assessed by homeostatic model assessment when body mass index or waist circumference were not included in multiple linear regression models. Sedentarism, heart attack family history, and log-C reactive protein levels were also significant predictors for insulin resistance. In conclusion, documented anthropometric predictors affect the significance of ferritin as a potential prediction variable for insulin resistance. Mechanisms of how body fat could influence ferritin levels should be evaluated. To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of the relationship between body iron stores and insulin resistance in a Latin American population.

[Percentile values for physical condition for Cali, Colombian children and adolescents]. / Percentiles de condición física de niños y adolescentes de Santiago de Cali, Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Baseline data for physical condition are not available for adolescents in Cali, Colombia. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop representative age- and sex- specific percentile baseline data for physical condition (mL.kg-1.min-¹) for urban adolescents aged 10-16 years. Materials and methods. The sample (n=1,773) consisted of 865 males and 908 females from the cross-sectional population survey, the IFRECNTEC Study (Identification of Risk Factors of Non-Transmissible Adult Chronic Diseases in School-age Populations in the City of de Cali), for whom the data for physical condition were recorded. Smoothed age- and sex- specific 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th centile values where derived using least mean squares regression analysis. RESULTS: Percentile-based reference data for physical condition were presented for adolescent Colombian boys and girls for the first time. In males, the p50 of the PWC-170 (VO2max) ranged 49-43, and in females 52-40. A decreasing trend (~10%) in the p50 was seen in both sexes over 16 years of age. In general, more heterogeneity was present among males than females in terms of physical aptitude through VO2max test. CONCLUSION: The results established a baseline level of physical condition in adolescents that can be interpreted as an indicator of future cardiovascular health. They also recommend that the physical condition of Colombian adolescents must be improved to protect against cardiovascular disease in adulthood.

Inverse correlation between serum calcium and copper levels in male urban Colombian preschool children: relationships with anthropometry and age.

Copper and calcium are essential for human growth and development. The present study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between calcium and copper levels, as well as their relationship to age and anthropometry in 180 preschool children ages 2-5 years old. Serum copper levels were inversely correlated with age (r = -0.184, P = 0.032) and height (r = -0.175, P = 0.043) in the whole group and with height for age Z score only in male children (r = -0.291, P = 0.016). The correlation with age is not maintained when it is analyzed for gender. Serum calcium values in the total group were inversely correlated with weight (r = -0.153, P = 0.044) and weight for height Z score (r = -0.246, P = 0.001). No differences were found for gender in the levels of both metals. A negative relationship between serum calcium and copper was found only in male children (r = -0.339, P = 0.005). Studies are required in other populations and experimental designs that can explain an inverse relationship between serum calcium and copper levels.

Percentiles de condición física de niños y adolescentes de Santiago de Cali, Colombia / Percentile values for physical condition for Cali, Colombian children and adolescents

Introducción. Muchos estudios han mostrado la relación entre la condición física durante la infancia y adolescencia y el riesgo cardiovascular en la edad adulta. Objetivos. Determinar los valores por edad y sexo de la condición física de niños y adolescentes de 10 a 16 años de Cali, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo en 1.773 niños y adolescentes de ambos sexos, 865 niños y 908 niñas, pertenecientes al estudio Identificación de factores de riesgo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles del adulto en la población escolarizada de 10 a 16 años en el Municipio de Cali, Colombia (IFRECNTEC), a quienes se les determinó la condición física con la prueba de capacidad física de trabajo a una frecuencia cardiaca de 170 por minuto (Physical Working Capacity, the workload at a heart rate of 170 bpm, PWC170), como marcador del volumen máximo de oxígeno (VO2máx). Se calcularon los valores percentiles (5, 25, 50, 75, 90 y 95) con el método de los mínimos cuadrados (Least Mean Squares, LMS) por curvas centiles que representan la asimetría, la mediana y la viariabilidad, utilizando el paquete estadístico Growth Analyzer®. Resultados. Se presentan los datos percentiles de la condición física en menores de 10 a 16 años, por primera vez en esta población. En los de sexo masculino, el percentil 50 medido con la prueba de PWC170 (VO2máx) se situó entre 49 y 43 ml/kg por minuto, y en las de sexo femenino, entre 52 y 40 ml/kg por minuto. Por otro lado, hay una tendencia a la disminución (~10 %) en el percentil 50, en adolescentes de ambos sexos de 16 años de edad por VO2máx estimado. En general, en el sexo masculino hay más heterogeneidad que en el femenino, en términos de condición física mediante el VO2máx. Conclusión. Los resultados obtenidos en el presente estudio permiten evaluar e interpretar correctamente la condición física de niños y adolescentes de 10 a 16 años. También, indican que la condición física de este grupo de edad en Colombia, se debe mejorar para ayudar a protegerlos contra las enfermedades cardiovasculares en la edad adulta.

Introduction. Baseline data for physical condition are not available for adolescents in Cali, Colombia. Objective. This study aimed to develop representative age- and sex- specific percentile baseline data for physical condition (mL•kg -1 •min -1 ) for urban adolescents aged 10-16 years. Materials and methods. The sample (n=1,773) consisted of 865 males and 908 females from the crosssectional population survey, the IFRECNTEC Study (Identification of Risk Factors of Non-Transmissible Adult Chronic Diseases in School-age Populations in the City of de Cali), for whom the data for physical condition were recorded. Smoothed age- and sex- specific 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th centile values where derived using least mean squares regression analysis. Results. Percentile-based reference data for physical condition were presented for adolescent Colombian boys and girls for the first time. In males, the p50 of the PWC-170 (VO2 max) ranged 49- 43, and in females 52-40. A decreasing trend (~10%) in the p50 was seen in both sexes over 16 years of age. In general, more heterogeneity was present among males than females in terms of physical aptitude through VO2max test. Conclusion. The results established a baseline level of physical condition in adolescents that can be interpreted as an indicator of future cardiovascular health. They also recommend that the physical condition of Colombian adolescents must be improved to protect against cardiovascular disease in adulthood.

A factorial randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of micronutrients supplementation and regular aerobic exercise on maternal endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and oxidative stress of the newborn.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have suggested a relationship between metabolic abnormalities and impaired fetal growth with the development of non-transmissible chronic diseases in the adulthood. Moreover, it has been proposed that maternal factors such as endothelial function and oxidative stress are key mechanisms of both fetal metabolic alterations and subsequent development of non-transmissible chronic diseases. The objective of this project is to evaluate the effect of micronutrient supplementation and regular aerobic exercise on endothelium-dependent vasodilation maternal and stress oxidative of the newborn. METHODS AND DESIGN: 320 pregnant women attending to usual prenatal care in Cali, Colombia will be included in a factorial randomized controlled trial. Women will be assigned to the following intervention groups: 1. CONTROL GROUP: usual prenatal care (PC) and placebo (maltodextrine). 2. Exercise group: PC, placebo and aerobic physical exercise. 3. Micronutrients group: PC and a micronutrients capsule consisting of zinc (30 mg), selenium (70 µg), vitamin A (400 µg), alphatocopherol (30 mg), vitamin C (200 mg), and niacin (100 mg). 4. Combined interventions Group: PC, supplementation of micronutrients, and aerobic physical exercise. Anthropometric measures will be taken at the start and at the end of the interventions. DISCUSSION: Since in previous studies has been showed that the maternal endothelial function and oxidative stress are related to oxidative stress of the newborn, this study proposes that complementation with micronutrients during pregnancy and/or regular physical exercise can be an early and innovative alternative to strengthen the prevention of chronic diseases in the population. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT00872365.