Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy for renal transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Renal transplantation remains the definitive treatment for end-stage renal disease. Currently employed minimally invasive techniques include robotic-assisted laparoscopy and laparoscopy. This study aims to determine whether either method provides an advantage. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted. Data were analysed using Review Manager 5.3. RESULTS: A total of 12 studies were included. Operative time and operative bleeding were similar between both approaches, with a mean difference (MD) of 16min (95% confidence interval (CI) -4.06, 37.38; p = 0.11) and 10.44ml (95% CI -43.89, 64.78; p = 0.71), respectively. Robotics had longer warm ischemia time (MD 1.14min; 95% CI 0.65, 1.63; p = 0.00001) but reduced length of stay (LOS) (MD -0.23days; 95% CI -0.45, -0.01; p = 0.04) and pain (MD -1.26 VAS; 95% CI -1.77, 0.75). Similar complication and conversion rates were seen among groups. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic approaches provide a viable alternative to laparoscopic surgery. Operative time, bleeding volumes, complications and conversion rates are similar between both techniques; apparent robotic advantages on LOS and Pain need to be better analysed by future studies.

Exploring the response of a key Mediterranean gorgonian to heat stress across biological and spatial scales.

Understanding the factors and processes that shape intra-specific sensitivity to heat stress is fundamental to better predicting the vulnerability of benthic species to climate change. Here, we investigate the response of a habitat-forming Mediterranean octocoral, the red gorgonian Paramuricea clavata (Risso, 1826) to thermal stress at multiple biological and geographical scales. Samples from eleven P. clavata populations inhabiting four localities separated by hundreds to more than 1500 km of coast and with contrasting thermal histories were exposed to a critical temperature threshold (25 °C) in a common garden experiment in aquaria. Ten of the 11 populations lacked thermotolerance to the experimental conditions provided (25 days at 25 °C), with 100% or almost 100% colony mortality by the end of the experiment. Furthermore, we found no significant association between local average thermal regimes nor recent thermal history (i.e., local water temperatures in the 3 months prior to the experiment) and population thermotolerance. Overall, our results suggest that local adaptation and/or acclimation to warmer conditions have a limited role in the response of P. clavata to thermal stress. The study also confirms the sensitivity of this species to warm temperatures across its distributional range and questions its adaptive capacity under ocean warming conditions. However, important inter-individual variation in thermotolerance was found within populations, particularly those exposed to the most severe prior marine heatwaves. These observations suggest that P. clavata could harbor adaptive potential to future warming acting on standing genetic variation (i.e., divergent selection) and/or environmentally-induced phenotypic variation (i.e., intra- and/or intergenerational plasticity).

Operative safety of orthotopic liver transplant in patients with prior transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts: A 20-year experience.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) is the definitive treatment of most types of liver failure. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and portocaval shunt placement procedures reduce the systemic vascular complications of portal hypertension. TIPS placement remains a "bridge" therapy that enables treatment of refractory symptoms until transplantation becomes available. The aim of the present study was to describe the operative impact of TIPS prior to OLT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted on patients that underwent liver transplant at the Hospital San José within the timeframe of 1999 and February 2020. RESULTS: We reviewed a total of 92 patients with OLT. Sixty-six patients were male and 26 were female, with a mean age of 52 years. Nine (9.8%) of the 92 patients had a TIPS, before the OLT. Preoperative Child-Pugh class, MELD score, and sodium and platelet levels were similar between groups. We found no difference in the means of intensive care unit stay, operative time, or blood transfusions for liver transplant, with or without previous TIPS. There was no significant difference between groups regarding vascular and biliary complication rates or the need for early intervention. The overall one-year mortality rate in the TIPS group was 11%. CONCLUSIONS: TIPS is an appropriate therapeutic bridge towards liver transplant. We found no greater operative or postoperative complications in patients with TIPS before OLT, when compared with OLT patients without TIPS. The need for transfusion, operative time, and ICU stay were similar in both groups.

Alimentación funcional para corregir desórdenes gastrointestinales asociados a trastornos del espectro autista: una revisión sistemática / Functional feeding to correct gastrointestinal disorders associated with autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review

Antecedentes: los trastornos gastrointestinales (TGI) son comorbilidades comunes en los pacientes con trastornos del espectro autista (TEA); los tratamientos con dietas libres de gluten y caseína (LGLC) o suplementos de prebióticos/probióticos podrían reducir la severidad de los TGI. Objetivo: integrar y discutir la evidencia sobre la efectividad de las terapias con dietas LGLC y suplementos de prebióticos/probióticos sobre los TGI en pacientes con TEA. Metodología: se utilizaron las guías para la publicación de revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis (PRISMA). Se analizaron las características de los participantes, las intervenciones dietéticas, la administración de suplementos de prebióticos/prebióticos, los efectos de las intervenciones sobre los TGI, el riesgo de sesgo de los estudios y la seguridad de los tratamientos. Resultados: se analizaron quince investigaciones; la prevalencia de los TGI entre los pacientes con TEA fue alta (58 %; rango, 27-83 %). En más del 20 % de los pacientes intervenidos con dietas LGLC o suplementos disminuyó la severidad de los TGI (principalmente estreñimiento, diarrea y dolor abdominal). Se reportaron aumentos en los conteos de bacterias benéficas y una disminución de la proporción de bacterias patógenas tras el uso de los suplementos. Sin embargo, todas estas investigaciones presentaron sesgos metodológicos importantes. Conclusiones: aunque se han encontrado reducciones en la frecuencia y severidad de algunos TGI, la efectividad de estos tratamientos aún no se ha comprobado. Dadas las diferencias metodológicas de las investigaciones, se justifica el diseño de estudios rigurosos para evaluar los efectos terapéuticos de estos tratamientos sobre la salud gastrointestinal en pacientes con TEA (AU)

Background: gastrointestinal disorders (GIDs) are common comorbidities in patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); treatments with gluten- and casein-free (LGLC) diets or prebiotic/probiotic supplements may reduce the severity of GIDs. Objective: to integrate and discuss the evidence on the effectiveness of LGLC diet therapies and prebiotic/probiotic supplements on GIDs in patients with ASD. Methodology: the guidelines for the publication of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) were used. Participant characteristics, dietary interventions, prebiotic/prebiotic supplementation, effects of interventions on GIDs, risk of bias, and safety of treatments were analyzed. Results: fifteen investigations were analyzed; the prevalence of GIDs among patients with ASD was high (58 %; range, 27-83 %). In more than 20 % of the patients managed with LGLC diets or supplements GID severity decreased (mainly constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain). Increases in the counts of beneficial bacteria and a decrease in the proportion of pathogenic bacteria were reported after supplement use. However, all these investigations had significant methodological biases. Conclusions: although reductions in the frequency and severity of some GIDs have been found, the effectiveness of these treatments has not been proven yet. Given the methodological differences in the investigations, the design of rigorous studies to evaluate the therapeutic effects of these treatments on gastrointestinal health in patients with ASD is warranted (AU)

Population collapse of habitat-forming species in the Mediterranean: a long-term study of gorgonian populations affected by recurrent marine heatwaves.

Understanding the resilience of temperate reefs to climate change requires exploring the recovery capacity of their habitat-forming species from recurrent marine heatwaves (MHWs). Here, we show that, in a Mediterranean highly enforced marine protected area established more than 40 years ago, habitat-forming octocoral populations that were first affected by a severe MHW in 2003 have not recovered after 15 years. Contrarily, they have followed collapse trajectories that have brought them to the brink of local ecological extinction. Since 2003, impacted populations of the red gorgonian Paramuricea clavata (Risso, 1826) and the red coral Corallium rubrum (Linnaeus, 1758) have followed different trends in terms of size structure, but a similar progressive reduction in density and biomass. Concurrently, recurrent MHWs were observed in the area during the 2003-2018 study period, which may have hindered populations recovery. The studied octocorals play a unique habitat-forming role in the coralligenous assemblages (i.e. reefs endemic to the Mediterranean Sea home to approximately 10% of its species). Therefore, our results underpin the great risk that recurrent MHWs pose for the long-term integrity and functioning of these emblematic temperate reefs.

Effect of phenolic compounds on the growth of selected probiotic and pathogenic bacteria.

Fruit extracts from different tissues (pulp, seed and peel) have shown antimicrobial and prebiotic activities related to their phenolic profile, although structure-specific evaluations have not been reported yet. The effect of five phenolic compounds (catechin and gallic, vanillic, ferulic and protocatechuic acids) identified in different fruits, particularly in mango, was evaluated on the growth of two probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosusGG ATCC 53103 and Lactobacillus acidophilusNRRLB 4495) and two pathogenic (Escherichia coli 0157:H7 ATCC 43890 and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ATCC 14028) bacteria. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of phenolic acids ranged from 15-20 mmol l-1 and 20-30 mmol l-1 against E. coli and S. Typhimurium, respectively. For catechin, the MIC and MBC were 35 mmol l-1 and >35 mmol l-1 against E. coli and S. Typhimurium, respectively. The presence of catechin and gallic, protocatechuic and vanillic acids in MRS broth without dextrose allowed the growth of lactobacilli. Catechin combined with protocatechuic or vanillic acid mildly allowed the growth of both probiotics. In conclusion, phenolic compounds can selectively inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria without affecting the viability of probiotics. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study provides relevant information about the effects of phenolic compounds commonly present in fruit and vegetables on the growth of probiotic and pathogenic bacteria. The compounds selectively allowed the growth of probiotic lactobacilli (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Lactobacillus acidophilus) and inhibited pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium) at the same concentration (20 mmol l-1 ). These findings can contribute to the formulation of nutraceutical products, such as synbiotics, that can restore or maintain an optimal composition of human microbiota, potentially improving the overall health of the consumer.

Assessing the Relationship between Vitamin D Status and Impairments in Cognitive and Physical Performance in Older Adults Using a Dual Task Physical Performance Test.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults. Several studies have demonstrated an association between vitamin D deficiency and gait and cognitive impairments, which are two risk factors for falls in the elderly. There is lack of research about the role of vitamin D in cognitive function in the context of mobility. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between vitamin D status with the age-related changes in mobility through higher order cognitive function using a dual task physical performance test. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. SETTING: Community-dwelling older adult population located in Miami, Fl. PARTICIPANTS: Healthy participants over the age of 55 (n=97) who participated in the parent interventional study. MEASUREMENTS: Participants completed assessments that included serum levels of vitamin D, surveys, and dual task physical performance tests. Spearman's correlations, independent t-tests, repeated measures ANOVAs and multiple logistic regressions were used to examine the relationship between vitamin D insufficiency (25-hydroxyvitamin D <30 ng/ml) and sufficiency (≥30 ng/ml) and dual task physical performance variables. The significance level was set at α=0.05. RESULTS: There were no significant associations between vitamin D insufficiency and gait velocity during either task. Using Spearman correlations, slower single (P=0.011) and dual task counting rates (P=0.006) were significantly associated with vitamin D insufficiency. Independent t-tests showed dual and single task counting rates were significantly lower in the vitamin D insufficient group compared to the sufficient group (P=0.018 and P=0.028, respectively). The results for the ANOVAs indicated that velocities and counting rates were not significantly different by vitamin D status (Wilk's Lambda =0.999; F (1, 95) =.11, P=.740) (Wilk's Lambda =.999, F(1,95)=.13, P=.718). Vitamin D status was not significantly associated with dual task physical performance (defined as the difference in dual and single task) in gait velocity (OR=1.00, 95% CI: 0.98; 1.02, P=0.772) and counting rate (OR=1.684, 95% CI: 0.15; 19.57, P=0.677), when controlling for confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Since counting backward is a mental tracking task, which is a component of executive function, our results suggest a relationship between vitamin D insufficiency and executive dysfunction. Executive dysfunction has been previously associated with fall risks in the elderly, and it could be a possible mediator between vitamin D and falls. Our data suggest that cognition may play a significant role in vitamin D's influence on falls, while motor function may play a lesser role.

Whole genome sequencing of Shigella sonnei through PulseNet Latin America and Caribbean: advancing global surveillance of foodborne illnesses.

OBJECTIVES: Shigella sonnei is a globally important diarrhoeal pathogen tracked through the surveillance network PulseNet Latin America and Caribbean (PNLA&C), which participates in PulseNet International. PNLA&C laboratories use common molecular techniques to track pathogens causing foodborne illness. We aimed to demonstrate the possibility and advantages of transitioning to whole genome sequencing (WGS) for surveillance within existing networks across a continent where S. sonnei is endemic. METHODS: We applied WGS to representative archive isolates of S. sonnei (n = 323) from laboratories in nine PNLA&C countries to generate a regional phylogenomic reference for S. sonnei and put this in the global context. We used this reference to contextualise 16 S. sonnei from three Argentinian outbreaks, using locally generated sequence data. Assembled genome sequences were used to predict antimicrobial resistance (AMR) phenotypes and identify AMR determinants. RESULTS: S. sonnei isolates clustered in five Latin American sublineages in the global phylogeny, with many (46%, 149 of 323) belonging to previously undescribed sublineages. Predicted multidrug resistance was common (77%, 249 of 323), and clinically relevant differences in AMR were found among sublineages. The regional overview showed that Argentinian outbreak isolates belonged to distinct sublineages and had different epidemiologic origins. CONCLUSIONS: Latin America contains novel genetic diversity of S. sonnei that is relevant on a global scale and commonly exhibits multidrug resistance. Retrospective passive surveillance with WGS has utility for informing treatment, identifying regionally epidemic sublineages and providing a framework for interpretation of prospective, locally sequenced outbreaks.

The effect of cooling to different subzero temperatures on dog sperm cryosurvival.

The objective was to assess the effect of cooling to different subzero temperatures around ice formation (-5°C) on dog sperm cryosurvival and plasma membrane fluidity. Semen was centrifuged, and sperm were resuspended in a Tris-egg yolk medium (3% glycerol). Diluted sperm were cooled from 22 to 5°C, and then, a Tris-egg yolk medium containing 7% glycerol was added (final concentration of 5% glycerol and 200 × 106  cells/ml). Sperm were packaged in 0.5-ml plastic straws, and equilibration was done 16 hr at 5°C before freezing. I. Straws (n = 47) at 5°C were exposed to nitrogen vapours to determine the freezing point. II. Other straws (from different ejaculates) processed as mentioned, were further cooled to -3, -5 or -7°C and immediately rewarmed in a water bath at 37°C. Motility, plasma membrane functionality and acrosome integrity were assessed. III. Other straws (from different ejaculates) processed as mentioned were further cooled to -3 or -5°C, frozen over nitrogen vapours and stored in liquid nitrogen for one month. Straws were thawed in a water bath at 38°C for 30 s. Motility, plasma membrane functionality, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, capacitation status and plasma membrane fluidity were assessed. Ice nucleation temperature was -14.3 ± 2.05°C (mean ± SD); cooling to +5, -3, -5 and -7°C, without freezing, produces no differences on sperm quality between target temperatures; cooling to +5, -3, and -5°C produced no differences on sperm survival and plasma membrane fluidity after freeze-thawing. In conclusion, cooling of dog spermatozoa to different subzero temperatures did not improve sperm cryosurvival and had no effect on plasma membrane fluidity after thawing.

A comparative study of two cooling protocols on stallion sperm cryosurvival.

There are many protocols for horse sperm cryopreservation, but results are inconsistent; sperm survival after freeze-thawing is usually poor; in consequence, fertility is low. The objective of this work was to see whether slow cooling before freezing to minus 3 °C instead of +5 °C, the traditional target temperature, could improve horse sperm cryosurvival, capability to carry out capacitation and the acrosome reaction induced by progesterone. Spermatozoa from five stallions were packaged in straws and slowly cooled to +5 °C. Half of the straws were frozen directly and the other half was further cooled to -3 °C before freezing. Progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity and capacitation status were assessed. After thawing, there were no differences between cooling treatments on motility, viability, acrosome integrity and capacitation status; however, there was difference (P < 0.05) regarding plasma membrane integrity. Acrosome integrity decreased as incubation, without or with progesterone (2 µg ml(-1) ), progressed, but there were no differences between cooling treatments regardless of progesterone. Both capacitated and acrosome-reacted spermatozoa increased as incubation progressed, but there were no differences between cooling treatments regardless of progesterone. Slow cooling to -3 °C before freezing did not improve horse sperm cryosurvival or capability to undergo the acrosome reaction.

Amino acid consumption in naïve and recombinant CHO cell cultures: producers of a monoclonal antibody.

Most commercial media for mammalian cell culture are designed to satisfy the amino acid requirements for cell growth, but not necessarily those for recombinant protein production. In this study, we analyze the amino acid consumption pattern in naïve and recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell cultures. The recombinant model we chose was a CHO-S cell line engineered to produce a monoclonal antibody. We report the cell concentration, product concentration, and amino acid concentration profiles in naïve and recombinant cell cultures growing in CD OptiCHO™ medium with or without amino acid supplementation with a commercial supplement (CHO CD EfficientFeed™ B). We quantify and discuss the amino acid demands due to cell growth and recombinant protein production during long term fed batch cultivation protocols. We confirmed that a group of five amino acids, constituting the highest mass fraction of the product, shows the highest depletion rates and could become limiting for product expression. In our experiments, alanine, a non-important mass constituent of the product, is in high demand during recombinant protein production. Evaluation of specific amino acid demands could be of great help in the design of feeding/supplementation strategies for recombinant mammalian cell cultures.

Lipid droplet analysis using in vitro bovine oocytes and embryos.

The aim of this study was to quantify the content of lipid droplets in bovine oocytes and embryos from Bos indicus (Bi), Bos taurus (Bt) and Bos indicus × Bos taurus (Bi × Bt). Oocytes were aspirated post-mortem and subjected to in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization and in vitro development; the medium employed at each stage (TCM-199, TALP, SOF) was supplemented with (i) serum replacement (SR), (ii) foetal calf serum (FCS) or (iii) oestrous cow serum (ECS). The structure and distribution of the lipid droplets were established using electron microscopy, but were quantified using an optical microscope on semi-fine toluidine blue-stained sections. The highest percentage of embryos corresponded to those produced with FCS and ECS, which differed from embryos generated with SR (p < 0.05). The highest percentage of morulae and the lowest percentage of blastocysts were obtained with the SR supplement (p < 0.05). The oocytes cultured in FCS demonstrated a higher number of lipid droplets compared to those cultured in SR and ECS (p < 0.05). Less accumulation of lipids was observed in embryos supplemented with SR. The lowest and highest numbers of lipid droplets in oocytes corresponded to the Bi and Bt strain, respectively. The lowest amount of lipid droplets in embryos was observed in Bi (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of the in vitro development culture medium (synthetic oviduct fluid) with a synthetic substitute serum produced similar results in terms of embryo development compared to those obtained with FCS, but a decreased degree of lipid droplet accumulation was observed in the in vitro-cultured embryos.

Phenolic compounds: their journey after intake.

Plant foods are rich in phenolic compounds (PCs) that display multifaceted bioactions in health promotion and disease prevention. To exert their bioactivity, they must be delivered to and absorbed in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, transported in circulation, and reach the target tissues. During the journey from ingestion to target tissues and final excretion, PCs are subjected to modifications by many factors during their absorption, deposition, metabolism and excretion (ADME) and consequently their bioefficacy may be modified. Consistent with all nutrients in foods, PCs must first be released from the food matrix through mechanical, chemical, and enzymatic forces to facilitate absorption along the GI tract, particularly in the upper small intestine section. Further, glycosylation of PCs directs the route of their absorption with glycones being transported through active transportation and aglycones through passive diffusion. After enteral absorption, the majority of PCs are extensively transformed by the detoxification system in enterocytes and liver for excretion in bile, feces, and urine. The journey of PCs from consumption to excretion appears to be comparable to many synthetic medications, but with some dissimilarities in their fate and bioactivity after phase I and II metabolism. The overall bioavailability of PCs is determined mainly by chemical characteristics, bioaccessibility, and ADME. In this review, factors accounting for variation in PCs bioavailability are discussed because this information is crucial for validation of the health benefits of PCs and their mechanism of action.

Acute physiological response to indoor cycling with and without hydration; case and self-control study.

INTRODUCTION: Oral rehydration drinks help maintain physical capacity and hydration during exercise. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate, in a case and self-control study, the effectiveness of three hydration and exercise protocols on work capacity and physical and psychosomatic stress during indoor cycling (InC). METHODS: 14 middle-aged eutrophic men participated in three controlled randomly and not sequentially hydration (~278 mL 6/c 15 min) and exercise (InC/90 min) protocols: No liquids, plain water, or sports drinks (SD). The response variables were: Body temperature (BT), heart rate (HR), and mean blood pressure (MBP). The covariables: Distance traveled (DT), ergometer resistance (R), body fat (BF), difference in body weight between tests (rBW), and age of the participants. The differences between protocols were evaluated using GLM Repeated Measures, the independence of associations by multiple linear regression. RESULTS: In non-liquids, the subjects showed higher BT, HR, and MBP than when they drank plain water or SD (p < 0.01). Work capacity was the same in the three hydration protocols. BT was the most sensitive variable detected by the hydration status of the subjects. 34%, 99%, and 21% of the associated variance to HR, MBP, and BT was explained by DT + BT, BT + BF, and ΔBW + age + R + DT + BF, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Liquid intake with or without electrolytes does not affect work capacity, and they are equally effective as hydration sources during =?90 min of InC at strong and very strong intensities. Body temperature is the most sensitive variable detected by the subject's hydration status during exercise.

Introducción: Las bebidas de re-hidratación oral ayudan a mantener la capacidad física y el nivel de hidratación durante el ejercicio. Objetivo: Evaluar en un estudio de casos y autocontroles la efectividad de tres protocolos de hidratación y ejercicio sobre la capacidad de trabajo, estrés físico y psicosomático durante el ciclismo de sala (CiS). Métodos: 14 varones eutróficos de mediana edad participaron de manera aleatoria y no consecutiva en tres protocolos de hidratación controlada (~278 mL 6/c 15 min) y ejercicio (CiS/90 min): No líquidos, agua corriente o bebida deportiva (BD). Las variables respuesta fueron: Temperatura corporal (TC), frecuencia cardiaca (FC) y presión sanguínea media (PSM). Las covariables: distancia recorrida (DR), resistencia del ergómetro (R) grasa corporal (GC), pérdida de peso al final del ejercicio ( PC) y edad de los participantes. Las diferencias entre los protocolos fueron evaluadas por GLM de Medidas Repetidas, la independencia de las asociaciones por regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: En no líquidos, los sujetos presentaron mayor TC, FC y PSM que cuando ingirieron agua corriente o BD (p < 0,01). La capacidad de trabajo fue igual en los tres protocolos de hidratación. La TC fue la variable más sensible que detectó el estado de hidratación de los sujetos. El 34%, 99% y 21% de la varianza asociada a FC, PSM y TC lo explicaron DR + TC, TC + GC, y ?PC + edad + R + DR + GC respectivamente. Conclusiones: La ingesta de líquidos con o sin electrolitos no afecta la capacidad de trabajo y son igualmente efectivos como medios de hidratación durante =?90 min de Cis a intensidades pesadas y muy pesadas. La TC es la variable más sensible que detecta el estado de hidratación de los sujetos durante el ejercicio.

Acute physiological response to indoor cycling with and without hydration; case and self-control study / Respuesta fisiológica aguda al ciclismo de sala con y sin hidratación; estudio de casos y autocontroles

Introduction: Oral rehydration drinks help maintain physical capacity and hydration during exercise. Objective: Evaluate, in a case and self-control study, the effectiveness of three hydration and exercise protocols on work capacity and physical and psychosomatic stress during indoor cycling (InC). Methods: 14 middle-aged eutrophic men participated in three controlled randomly and not sequentially hydration (~278 mL 6/c 15 min) and exercise (InC/90 min) protocols: No liquids, plain water, or sports drinks (SD). The response variables were: Body temperature (BT), heart rate (HR), and mean blood pressure (MBP). The covariables: Distance traveled (DT), ergometer resistance (R), body fat (BF), difference in body weight between tests (rBW), and age of the participants. The differences between protocols were evaluated using GLM Repeated Measures, the independence of associations by multiple linear regression. Results: In non-liquids, the subjects showed higher BT, HR, and MBP than when they drank plain water or SD (p < 0.01). Work capacity was the same in the three hydration protocols. BT was the most sensitive variable detected by the hydration status of the subjects. 34%, 99%, and 21% of the associated variance to HR, MBP, and BT was explained by DT + BT, BT + BF, and ABW + age + R + DT + BF, respectively. Conclusions: Liquid intake with or without electrolytes does not affect work capacity, and they are equally effective as hydration sources during ≤ 90 min of InC at strong and very strong intensities. Body temperature is the most sensitive variable detected by the subject's hydration status during exercise (AU)

Introducción: Las bebidas de rehidratación oral ayudan a mantener la capacidad física y el nivel de hidratación durante el ejercicio. Objetivo: Evaluar en un estudio de casos y autocontroles la efectividad de tres protocolos de hidratación y ejercicio sobre la capacidad de trabajo, estrés físico y psicosomático durante el ciclismo de sala (CiS). Métodos: 14 varones eutróficos de mediana edad participaron de manera aleatoria y no consecutiva en tres protocolos de hidratación controlada (~278 mL 6/c 15 min) y ejercicio (CiS/90 min): No líquidos, agua corriente o bebida deportiva (BD). Las variables respuesta fueron: Temperatura corporal (TC), frecuencia cardiaca (FC) y presión sanguínea media (PSM). Las covariables: distancia recorrida (DR), resistencia del ergómetro (R) grasa corporal (GC), pérdida de peso al final del ejercicio (PC) y edad de los participantes. Las diferencias entre los protocolos fueron evaluadas por GLM de Medidas Repetidas, la independencia de las asociaciones por regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: En no líquidos, los sujetos presentaron mayor TC, FC y PSM que cuando ingirieron agua corriente o BD (p < 0,01). La capacidad de trabajo fue igual en los tres protocolos de hidratación. La TC fue la variable más sensible que detectó el estado de hidratación de los sujetos. El 34%, 99% y 21% de la varianza asociada a FC, PSM y TC lo explicaron DR + TC, TC + GC, y APC + edad + R + DR + GC respectivamente. Conclusiones: La ingesta de líquidos con o sin electrolitos no afecta la capacidad de trabajo y son igualmente efectivos como medios de hidratación durante ≤ 90 min de Cis a intensidades pesadas y muy pesadas. La TC es la variable más sensible que detecta el estado de hidratación de los sujetos durante el ejercicio (AU)

Metabolic power and cardiovascular response of a low cadence-high height bench stepping exercise in healthy young people.

AIM: The aim of this paper was to study the feasibility of bench stepping at a low cadence as a safe exercise that can provide enough cardiovascular fitness that be performed by any person. METHODS: Thirty-three men and twenty-one young women (age =23±3 yrs; weight =70±13 kg; height 170±9 cm) participated in this study. Each one held a continuous 20 minute (4 stages /5 min each) bench stepping workout session with two different step heights (31 and 41 cm) and two different intensities (60 and 90 steps∙min-1). Body weight (bw), total & trochanteric height, heart rate (HR, beats∙min-1), rated perceived exertion (RPE) and O2 consumption (VO2) were recorded. RESULTS: From the 1st through the 4th stage, the vertical distance (VD, m), RPE, HR and VO2 values were 4.6-9.23 m, 2.5-6.7, 118-168 beats∙min-1 and 20.8-34.0 ml∙kg-1∙min-1, respectively. The best regression model to calculate the O2 consumption (VO2) was: VO2 (L∙min-1) =-1.264+0.026∙bw (kg)+0.195∙VD (m). VD, bw, and gender determined, independently, the changes of caloric expenditure (R2=0.92). CONCLUSION: The energy expenditure of a low cadence stepping exercise (15-22 cycles∙min-1) at 31-41 cm bench height, is enough to improve aerobic fitness which in turn may benefit cardiovascular health.

Factores fisiológicos y sociales asociados a la masa corporal de jóvenes mexicanos con discapacidad intelectual / Physiological and social factors associated with increments of body mass of Mexican young people with intellectual disabilities

Introducción: Estudios sobre el estado de salud y nutrición de Mexicanos con discapacidad intelectual (DI) incluyendo aquellos con Síndrome de Down (SD), son escasos. Objetivo: Analizar algunos factores fisiológicos y sociales asociados a la masa corporal de jóvenes con DI del norte de México. Métodos: A 57 jóvenes con DI (17 ± 5 años, SD = 16%) y al menos uno de sus tutores, se les midió su peso, talla, y otras variables antropométricas. Se determinó su IMC (kg/m2), somatotipo y estado nutricio mediante 3 criterios internacionales y glucosa, colesterol total y triacilglicéridos plasmáticos. Al tutor se le aplicó un cuestionario socioeconómico, de inseguridad alimentaria y conocimientos de nutrición. Resultados: Los participantes con SD eran 12 cm más pequeños y median 6 mm más de pliegue subscapular (PSECP) que aquellos con otra DI (p < 0,05). El sobrepeso-obesidad estuvo presente en 70 y 44%, respectivamente. Los parámetros bioquímicos fueron similares entre grupos, pero 25% tenía alguna dislipidemia. El IMC del participante correlacionó (p < 0,01) con varios indicadores antropométricos y de adiposidad (r = 0,40 a 0,88), plasmáticos [triacilglicéridos (r = 0,48), colesterol total (r = 0,44)] y edad del participante y tutor (r = 0,35). El gasto en alimentos correlaciono con PSECP del participante (r = -0,33, p < 0,05). La circunferencia de cadera, cintura, pantorrilla y PSECP, explicaron el 89% de la varianza del IMC. Conclusión: La masa corporal de jóvenes con DI del norte de México se relaciona fuertemente con el grado de adiposidad corporal, con dislipidemias y con factores socioeconómicos de su entorno familiar (AU)

Introduction: Studies on the state of health and nutrition of Mexicans with intellectual disability (ID) including those with Down syndrome (DS), are scarce. Objective: To analyze some physiological and social factors associated with the body mass of young people with ID from northern México. Methods: Body weight, height and other anthropometric values were measured in fifty seven young (17 ± 5 years) participants with ID (DS,16%) and at least one guardian. BMI (kg/m2), somatotype and nutritional status were established by three international standards and total blood glucose, cholesterol & triacylglycerides, were also analyzed. Guardian's socio-economic, household food insecurity and nutrition literacy status were estimated with validated questionnaires by direct interview. Results: Participants with SD were 12 cm smaller but subscapular skinfold (SECPS) was 6 mm thicker than that from other ID participants (p < 0.05). Prevalence of overweight/obesity was 70 and 44%, respectively. Blood biochemicals were similar between groups, but 25% had dyslipidemias. Participant's BMI correlated (p < 0,01) with several anthropometric & adiposity indicators (r = 0,40 a 0,88 ), blood triglycerides (r = 0,48 ) and cholesterol (r = 0,44) and guardians & participants' age (r = 0,35). The spending in food correlated (p < 0.05) with participant's SECPS (r = -0.33). The circumference of the waist, hip, calf and PSECP, 89% of the variance of the BMI explained. Conclusion: The body mass of young people with DI from northern Mexico, is strongly related to the degree of body adiposity, dyslipidemias, and some socio-economic factors of their family environment (AU)

Malnutrition risk factors among the elderly from the US-Mexico border: the "one thousand" study.

BACKGROUND: The Mexican population is aging, which makes the fact that there is no regional information on the health of the elderly, including those in the northern region of the country. OBJECTIVE: To examine nutritional, functional, and cognitive impairments, as well as depression, in non-institutionalized elderly Mexicans along Mexico's northern border. DESIGN: Observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Demographic and anthropometric measurements were screened and the following scales were applied among 760 elderly individuals in Chihuahua, Mexico: Katz index (for activities of daily living, ADL), the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), the Yesavage (depression), and the Pffeifer (cognitive decline). RESULTS: 7% prevalence of malnutrition, a 18% prevalence of functional disability, a 44% prevalence of depressive symptoms, a 33% prevalence of cognitive impairment, and a risk of disease in almost half the population, without differences between genders. Malnutrition, functional disability, and cognitive impairment increased with age (P <0.001). Functional disability, depression, and cognitive impairment also increased the risk of malnutrition 3.0, 2.9 and 1.4 times (P <0.005). Other factors that may affect nutritional status included isolated living and illiteracy. CONCLUSION: Levels of malnutrition, functional disability, depression and cognitive impairment are higher than those reported previously and are closely related to one another, so detecting alterations in primary care is important in order to improve quality of life and reduce complications.

Correlation of average hydrophobicity, water/air interface surface rheological properties and foaming properties of proteins.

A comparative study on the behavior in the air-water interface of ß-lactoglobulin, α-lactoalbumin, glycinin and ß-conglycinin was performed. The behavior at the interface was evaluated by equilibrium surface tension and surface rheological properties of adsorbed films. There were significant differences (α ≤ 0.05) in the values of the constants of adsorption to the interface of the four proteins. The glycinin had the slowest rate of adsorption, due to its low average hydrophobicity, low molecular flexibility and large molecular size. Smaller proteins like ß-lactoglobulin and α-lactoalbumin tended to greater equilibrium pressure values than the larger proteins because of its higher rate of adsorption to the interface. The foam capacity of proteins showed a positive correlation with the average hydrophobicity; the maximal retained liquid volume or the initial rate of passage of liquid to foam were significantly lower (α ≤ 0.05) when protein was glycinin. The dilatational modulus of glycinin was the lowest, which implies lowest resistance to disruption of the film. Glycinin protein has lower proportion of gravitational drainage and higher disproportionation having perhaps a less resistant film. In conclusion, ß-conglycinin and whey proteins showed a similar behavior, so ß-conglycinin might be the best soybean protein to replace milk proteins in food formulations.