Teaching Old Polymers New Tricks: Improved Synthesis and Anomalous Crystallinity for a Lost Semi-Fluorinated Polyaryl Ether via Interfacial Polymerization of Hexafluoroacetone Hydrate and Diphenyl Ether.

A practical and direct electrophilic polymerization of hexafluoroacetone hydrate with diphenyl ether toward the preparation of semi-fluorinated polyaryl ethers (PAE) is reported. Electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) polymerization under interfacial conditions with phase transfer catalyst (Aliquat 336) proceeds in trifluoromethanesulfonic anhydride by generation of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid and the protonated hexafluoroacetone (HFA) in situ affording 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropylidene (6F) PAE with high regioselectivity (4,4'-DPE) and high molecular weight (≈60 kDa). Although first reported in a 1966 US Patent by DuPont using harsh conditions, improved synthetic methods or modern characterization has not been disclosed until now. Despite the presence of the 6F group, known to impart disordered morphology, this simple semi-fluorinated PAE exhibits anomalous crystallinity with polymorphic melting points (Tm ) ranging from 230-309 °C, high solubility in common organic solvents, a glass transition (Tg ) of 163 °C, and thermo-oxidative stability above 500 °C. Tough optically clear films prepared from solution give transmittance higher than 90% throughout the visible region. Synthesis, mechanistic aspects, and characterization including surface and dielectric properties are discussed.

Modeling metabolism: a window toward a comprehensive interpretation of networks in cancer.

Given the multi-factorial nature of cancer, uncovering its metabolic alterations and evaluating their implications is a major challenge in biomedical sciences that will help in the optimal design of personalized treatments. The advance of high-throughput technologies opens an invaluable opportunity to monitor the activity at diverse biological levels and elucidate how cancer originates, evolves and responds under drug treatments. To this end, researchers are confronted with two fundamental questions: how to interpret high-throughput data and how this information can contribute to the development of personalized treatment in patients. A variety of schemes in systems biology have been suggested to characterize the phenotypic states associated with cancer by utilizing computational modeling and high-throughput data. These theoretical schemes are distinguished by the level of complexity of the biological mechanisms that they represent and by the computational approaches used to simulate them. Notably, these theoretical approaches have provided a proper framework to explore some distinctive metabolic mechanisms observed in cancer cells such as the Warburg effect. In this review, we focus on presenting a general view of some of these approaches whose application and integration will be crucial in the transition from local to global conclusions in cancer studies. We are convinced that multidisciplinary approaches are required to construct the bases of an integrative and personalized medicine, which has been and remains a fundamental task in the medicine of this century.

Platelet increases survival in a model of 90% hepatectomy in rats.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Ninety per cent hepatectomy in rodents is a model for acute liver failure. It has been reported that platelets have a strong effect enhancing liver regeneration, because of the production of several growth factors such as serotonin. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of microencapsulated platelets on 90% hepatectomy in rats. METHODS: Platelets (PLT) were microencapsulated in sodium alginate and implanted in the peritoneum of rats after 90% partial hepatectomy (PH). Control group received empty capsules (EC). Animals were euthanized at 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h post PH (n=9-12/group/time) to evaluate liver regeneration rate, mitotic index, liver content, serum and tissue levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and serotonin and its receptor 5-hydroxytryptamine type 2B (5Ht2b). Survival rate in 10 days was evaluated in a different set of animals (n=20/group). RESULTS: Platelets group showed the highest survival rate despite the lowest liver regeneration rate at any time point. Mitotic and BrdU index showed no difference between groups. However, the number of hepatocytes was higher and the internuclear distance was shorter for PLT group. Liver dry weight was similar in both groups indicating that water was the main responsible factor for the weight difference. Gene expression of IL-6 in the liver was significantly higher in EC group 6 h after PH, whereas 5Ht2b was up-regulated at 72 h in PLT group. CONCLUSIONS: Platelets enhance survival of animals with 90% PH, probably by an early protective effect on hepatocytes and the increase in growth factor receptors.

When is injury potentially reversible in a lung ischemia-reperfusion model?

OBJECTIVE: To verify the impact of ischemic time on lung cell viability in an experimental model of lung ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury and its repercussion on lung performance after reperfusion. METHODS: Twenty-four animals were subjected to selective clamping of the left pulmonary artery and divided into four groups (n = 6) according to ischemic time: 15 (IR15), 30 (IR30), 45 (IR45), and 60 min (IR60). All animals were observed for 120 min after reperfusion. The hemodynamics, arterial blood gases measurements, and histologic changes were analyzed. Immunofluorescence assays for caspase 3 and annexin V were performed. Lipid peroxidation was assessed by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, and caspase 3 activity was assessed by colorimetric extract. RESULTS: The partial pressure of arterial oxygen significantly decreased at the end of the observation period in the IR30, IR45, and IR60 groups (P < 0.05). The final mean arterial pressure significantly decreased in the IR60 group (P < 0.05). We observed a significant increase in caspase 3 activity and caspase 3-positive cells by immunofluorescence in the IR45 group compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, there was an increase in necrotic cells assessed by annexin V in the IR60 group. The histologic score did not show differences among the different groups. CONCLUSIONS: The degree of cell damage had a negative impact on lung performance. Sixty minutes of lung ischemia and posterior reperfusion resulted in an increased number of necrotic cells, suggesting that these cells may not be able to reverse the effects of the IR injury because of the lack of viable cells.

[Somatometric alterations and lower APGAR score in indigenous newborns]. / Alteraciones somatométricas y menor puntaje APGAR en recién nacidos indígenas.

INTRODUCTION: the indigenous population is vulnerable and there is limited understanding of their somatometric indicators and APGAR score at birth. AIM: the objective of the study was to explore the association of the condition of indigenous newborn (INB) on somatometric parameters and APGAR score at birth. METHODS: this study employed an exploratory cross-sectional design, utilizing the registry of newborns (NB) from a private clinic. The APGAR score at one minute after birth, as well as nutritional indicators derived from measurements of weight, height, and perimeters, were taken into consideration. The statistical analysis involved the use of logistic regressions. RESULTS: the analysis included 7413 NB (1.8 % INB), 52 % were male and 8.1 % were born preterm (gestational age < 37 weeks). In comparison to non-indigenous NB, the INB group showed a higher risk of malnutrition (8 % vs. 6.3 %; p < 0.001), a greater prevalence of excess weight (7.3 % vs. 1.8 %; p < 0.001), smaller head circumference (33.6 cm vs. 34.1 cm; p = 0.017), smaller abdominal circumference (30.9 cm vs. 31.5 cm; p = 0.011), and a higher occurrence of low APGAR scores (< 7) (8.7 % vs. 1.2 %; p < 0.001). Furthermore, the indigenous condition was independently associated with low birth weight (< 2.500 g) (OR, 0.4; 95 % CI, 0.2; 0.9), excess head circumference (OR, 2.7; 95 % CI, 1.5; 4.7), and APGAR score < 7 points (OR, 8.3; 95 % CI, 4.2; 16.5). CONCLUSIONS: the indigenous condition was associated with factors that have adverse effects on the health of NB, including reduced head circumference and suboptimal performance on the APGAR scale. These results emphasize the importance of improving access to and quality of prenatal healthcare services for indigenous communities.

Satisfaction with the Care Received and the Childbirth and Puerperium Experience in Christian and Muslim Pregnant Women.

Over the last three decades, there has been an increase in the population as a result of the migratory flow due to the arrival of migrants to Spain, including young women of childbearing age and with reproductive capacity. This phenomenon has made childbirth assistance an extremely important priority in recent years. The aim of this study was to assess the satisfaction and experience during childbirth and the postpartum period in pregnant women according to their religion after assistance in a tertiary hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 242 women using the validated Spanish version of the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale (MCSRS) to measure satisfaction with the childbirth experience during the months of January to April 2021. Statistically significant differences were found in the domains of birth satisfaction (p < 0.01), satisfaction with the obstetrician (p < 0.01), and perception of pain during labour (p < 0.01). The Christian group of women scored higher in these three domains as compared to the Muslim group. The rate of breastfeeding at birth was 5.26 times higher among the Muslim group compared to the Christian group (p = 0.02). The experience of childbirth and the puerperium significantly influenced the levels of satisfaction of pregnant women with the process of childbirth in a different way according to the religious culture of the patient.

On the biomimetic design of agile-robot legs.

The development of functional legged robots has encountered its limits in human-made actuation technology. This paper describes research on the biomimetic design of legs for agile quadrupeds. A biomimetic leg concept that extracts key principles from horse legs which are responsible for the agile and powerful locomotion of these animals is presented. The proposed biomimetic leg model defines the effective leg length, leg kinematics, limb mass distribution, actuator power, and elastic energy recovery as determinants of agile locomotion, and values for these five key elements are given. The transfer of the extracted principles to technological instantiations is analyzed in detail, considering the availability of current materials, structures and actuators. A real leg prototype has been developed following the biomimetic leg concept proposed. The actuation system is based on the hybrid use of series elasticity and magneto-rheological dampers which provides variable compliance for natural motion. From the experimental evaluation of this prototype, conclusions on the current technological barriers to achieve real functional legged robots to walk dynamically in agile locomotion are presented.

[Hospital stay in internal medicine hospitalist function]. / Tiempo de estancia en medicina interna. Función del médico hospitalista.

BACKGROUND: hospitalists are physicians who focus all of their clinical efforts on the management of hospital inpatients. OBJECTIVE: to evaluate if the presence of hospitalist physicians is associated with a shorter length of stay (LOS). METHODS: hospitalized patients in the Internal Medicine Department of two second care government hospitals. LOS was defined as ≥ 9 days and hospital admission was classified as medical and nonmedical. RESULTS: the principal cause of longer nonmedical LOS was delay of medical or surgical procedures. The hospital with hospitalists had significantly lower frequency of LOS (26 % versus 34 %, p = 0.05), higher number of weekends discharges (35 % versus 21 %, p = 0.01) and minor days of hospitalization 6.3 ± 5.2 versus 8.0 ± 6.2, p = 0.002) compared to the hospital without hospitalists. CONCLUSIONS: the hospitalist model tends toward more cost-effective patient care.

Risk of anorexia and bulimia nervosa and its associated factors in undergraduate students / Risco de anorexia e bulimia nervosa e seus fatores associados em estudantes de graduação

ABSTRACT Objective To quantify the prevalence and related factors to the risk of anorexia and bulimia nervosa in undergraduate students at a private university in Bogotá, Colombia. Methods A cross-sectional study, which evaluated the frequency of food consumption, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire, short form), the risk of anorexia and bulimia nervosa (Sick, Control, One, Fat, and Food questionnaire) and demographic variables. The statistical analysis used a multivariate logistic regression model, where the outcome was the yes/no risk of anorexia or bulimia nervosa. Results A total of 1,545 university students participated. The average age was 19.2 years (+/-2.5), 65.7% were women, and 63.9% came from Bogotá. The risk of anorexia and bulimia nervosa was 27.6%. In the logistic regression, the risk was associated with female sex (OR 1.6 CI95% 1.2 to 2.1), daily consumption of cereals (OR 0.7 CI95% 0.6 to 0.9), daily fat consumption (OR 1.5 CI95% 1.1 to 2.1), eat light products (OR 1.8 CI95% 1.1 to 2.9), consume protein supplements (OR 0.4 CI95% 0.2 to 0.8), being in disagreement with physical activity for fun (OR 1.8 CI95% 1.1 to 3.1), and physical activity by appearance (OR 2.2 CI95% 1.6 to 2.9). Conclusions The prevalence of risk to anorexia and bulimia nervosa in the study sample is high. The associated factors were the consumption of cereals, fat, light products, and protein supplements. Physical activity by appearance and disagreement to do exercise by fun were associated with the risk of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. So it is recommended that universities implement awareness and education interventions to address this problem.

RESUMO Objetivo Quantificar a prevalência e os fatores relacionados ao risco de anorexia e bulimia nervosa em estudantes de graduação de uma universidade particular de Bogotá, Colômbia. Métodos Estudo transversal, que avaliou a frequência de consumo alimentar, atividade física (ferramenta (Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física, versão curta), risco de anorexia e bulimia nervosa (Questionário de doença, controle, um, gordura e comida) e variáveis demográficas. A análise estatística utilizou um modelo de regressão logística multivariada, em que o resultado foi o risco sim / não de anorexia ou bulimia nervosa. Resultados Participaram 1.545 estudantes universitários. A idade média era de 19,2 anos (+/- 2,5), 65,7% eram mulheres e 63,9% eram de Bogotá. O risco de anorexia e bulimia nervosa foi de 27,6%. Na regressão logística, o risco foi associado ao sexo feminino (OR 1,6 IC95% 1,2 a 2,1), consumo diário de cereais (OR 0,7 IC95% 0,6 a 0,9), consumo diário de gordura (OR 1,5 IC95% 1,1 a 2,1), comer produtos leves (OR 1,8 IC95% 1,1 a 2,9), consomem suplementos proteicos (OR 0,4 IC95% 0,2 a 0,8), discordam de atividade física para se divertir (OR 1,8 IC95% 1,1 a 3,1) e atividade física pela aparência (OR 2,2 CI95% 1,6 a 2,9). Conclusão A prevalência de risco para anorexia e bulimia nervosa na amostra do estudo é alta. Os fatores associados foram o consumo de cereais, gorduras, produtos light e suplementos proteicos. A atividade física pela aparência e a discordância para fazer exercício pela diversão estiveram associadas ao risco de anorexia e bulimia nervosa. Portanto, é recomendado que as universidades implementem intervenções de conscientização e educação para resolver esse problema.

TP53 exon-6 truncating mutations produce separation of function isoforms with pro-tumorigenic functions.

TP53 truncating mutations are common in human tumors and are thought to give rise to p53-null alleles. Here, we show that TP53 exon-6 truncating mutations occur at higher than expected frequencies and produce proteins that lack canonical p53 tumor suppressor activities but promote cancer cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Functionally and molecularly, these p53 mutants resemble the naturally occurring alternative p53 splice variant, p53-psi. Accordingly, these mutants can localize to the mitochondria where they promote tumor phenotypes by binding and activating the mitochondria inner pore permeability regulator, Cyclophilin D (CypD). Together, our studies reveal that TP53 exon-6 truncating mutations, contrary to current beliefs, act beyond p53 loss to promote tumorigenesis, and could inform the development of strategies to target cancers driven by these prevalent mutations.

Encapsulated Whole Bone Marrow Cells Improve Survival in Wistar Rats after 90% Partial Hepatectomy.

Background and Aims. The use of bone marrow cells has been suggested as an alternative treatment for acute liver failure. In this study, we investigate the effect of encapsulated whole bone marrow cells in a liver failure model. Methods. Encapsulated cells or empty capsules were implanted in rats submitted to 90% partial hepatectomy. The survival rate was assessed. Another group was euthanized at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after hepatectomy to study expression of cytokines and growth factors. Results. Whole bone marrow group showed a higher than 10 days survival rate compared to empty capsules group. Gene expression related to early phase of liver regeneration at 6 hours after hepatectomy was decreased in encapsulated cells group, whereas genes related to regeneration were increased at 12, 24, and 48 hours. Whole bone marrow group showed lower regeneration rate at 72 hours and higher expression and activity of caspase 3. In contrast, lysosomal-ß-glucuronidase activity was elevated in empty capsules group. Conclusions. The results show that encapsulated whole bone marrow cells reduce the expression of genes involved in liver regeneration and increase those responsible for ending hepatocyte division. In addition, these cells favor apoptotic cell death and decrease necrosis, thus increasing survival.

Variaciones hipotéticas en la incidencia y la fracción atribuible poblacional de cánceres hepático, colorrectal y de mama, como efectos de la reducción teórica del índice de masa corporal en Colombia, 2016 - 2050 / Hypothetical variations in the incidence and the population attributable fraction of liver, colorectal and breast cancers, as effects of the theoretical reduction of the Body Mass Index in Colombia, 2016 - 2050 / Variações hipotéticas em incidência e a fração atribuível à população de cânceres de fígado, colorretal e de mama, como efeitos da redução teórica do Índice de Massa Corporal na Colômbia, 2016 - 2050

Resumen Objetivo: Estimar el impacto potencial de la disminución teórica del índice de masa corporal, sobre la incidencia y la fracción atribuible poblacional de cánceres hepático, colorrectal y de mama, en el contexto colombiano, 2016-2050. Metodología: Se efectuó un estudio de macrosimulación, bajo tres escenarios de distribuciones futuras del índice de masa corporal: el primero o de "Referencia" (sin intervenir el factor de riesgo), y dos de intervención: el segundo, consistente en la reducción gradual, acumulada en los primeros diez años, del 10 % de la diferencia entre los valores medios esperados e ideales del índice de masa corporal, y sostenerla hasta el 2050; y el tercero, correspondiente a lograr "Toda la población con índice de masa corporal ideal" a partir del 2017. Resultados: Se estimó, bajo el tercer escenario, que las proporciones de cánceres que podrían evitarse oscilarían, en las mujeres, entre 8,0 % (cáncer colorrectal) y 16,7 % (cáncer hepático), y en los hombres, entre 10,4 % (cáncer colorrectal) y 12,2 % (cáncer hepático). Bajo el segundo escenario, los casos evitables proyectados corresponderían aproximadamente a 4009 cánceres de mama (en mujeres), 2086 cánceres colorrectales y 728 cánceres hepáticos; y bajo el tercer escenario, a 48 410 cánceres de mama, 25 089 cánceres colorrectales y 8648 cánceres hepáticos. Conclusión: Intervenir para disminuir el exceso de peso en la población colombiana contribuiría especialmente a evitar, en ambos sexos, el cáncer hepático, y en las mujeres, los casos nuevos de cáncer de mama.

Abstract Objective: To estimate the effect of a theoretical decrease impact of the body mass index on the incidence and the population attributable fraction of liver, colorectal and breast cancers in Colombian, 2016-2050.. Methodology: A macro-simulation study was performed under three scenarios of future distributions of the body mass index: the first or of "Reference" (without intervening on the risk factor) and two interventions scenarios: the second consisting of a gradual reduction, accumulated over the first ten years, of 10 % of the difference between the expected and ideal mean values of the body mass index and sustaining these until 2050; and the third corresponding to achieve "Complete population with ideal Body Mass Index" as of 2017. Results: It was estimated that the proportions of cancers that could be avoided under the third scenario, would range between 8,0 % (colorectal cancer) and 16,7 % (liver cancer) among women and between 10,4 % (colorectal cancer) and 12,2 % (liver cancer) among men. The avoidable number of cases projected under the second scenario would correspond to approximately 4009 breast cancers (in women), 2086 colorectal cancers and 728 liver cancers, and under the third scenario to 48 410 breast cancers, 25 089 colorectal cancers and 8648 liver cancers. Conclusion: Interventions to reduce excess weight in the Colombian population, would especially contribute to avoid liver cancer in both sexes and the new cases of breast cancer (in women).

Resumo Objetivo: Estimar o impacto da redução teórica do índice de massa corporal, em incidência e a fração atribuível da população de cânceres de fígado, colorretal e de mama, no contexto colombiano, 2016-2050. Metodologia: Foi realizado um estudo de macro-simulação, sob três cenários de distribuições futuras do índice de massa corporal: o primeiro ou de "Referência" (sem intervir o fator de risco) e duas de intervenção: a segunda, consistindo na redução gradual, acumulou nos primeiros dez anos, do 10 % da diferença entre os valores médios esperados e ideais do índice de massa corporal e sustentando-o até 2050; e a terceira, correspondendo ao alcançar "Toda a população com Índice de Massa Corporal ideal" a partir do 2017. Resultados: Estimou-se que as proporções de cânceres que poderiam ser evitadas no terceiro cenário variariam em mulheres entre 8,0 % (câncer colorretal) e 16,7 % (câncer de fígado) e em homens entre 10,4 % (câncer colorretal) e 12,2 % (câncer de fígado). Os casos evitáveis projetados sob a segundo cenário corresponderiam a aproximadamente 4009 cânceres de mama (em mulheres), 2086 cânceres colorretais e 728 cânceres de fígado e, sob a terceiro cenário, a 48 410 cânceres de mama, 25 089 cânceres colorretais e 8648 cânceres de fígado. Conclusão: Intervir para reduzir o excesso de peso na população colombiana, contribuiria especialmente para evitar o câncer de fígado em ambos os sexos e novos casos de câncer de mama (em mulheres).

Metodología del estudio piloto / Methodology of the pilot studies

Resumen: La enseñanza de la investigación debe abarcar todos los aspectos de su proceso, involucrando los estudios piloto. En la investigación biomédica, el primer paso en la ejecución de un proyecto es la realización de un estudio o prueba piloto, que busca probar en menor escala aspectos logísticos de la ejecución del estudio, lo que evitará cometer errores en los estudios posteriores y de mayor envergadura. La presente revisión pretende exponer aspectos fundamentales en la utilización y planeación de los estudios piloto, lo que servirá para optimizar los procesos de investigación en las áreas de la salud.

Abstract: The teaching of research covers all aspects of the research process, involving pilot studies. In biomedical research, the first step in the execution of a project is the realization of a pilot study, with the objective of testing on smaller scale logistic aspects of the execution of the study, which will avoid making mistakes in the larger studies. This review aims to expose fundamental aspects in the use and planning of pilot studies, which will serve to optimize research processes in the areas of health.

[CONSISTENCY OF MINI NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT TO IDENTIFY SARCOPENIA IN OLDER ADULTS IN NURSING HOMES IN BOGOTA, COLOMBIA]. / CONSISTENCIA DEL MINI NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT PARA IDENTIFICAR LA SARCOPENIA EN ADULTOS MAYORES DE HOGARES GERIÁTRICOS DE BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA.

INTRODUCTION: malnutrition and sarcopenia, which have similar physiological mechanisms and are both responsible for adverse health outcomes, are highly prevalent in the elderly. OBJECTIVES: to measure the consistency of the MNA with the diagnosis of sarcopenia in older adults. METHODS: cross-sectional study of consistency in four nursing homes in Bogotá. The nutritional screening and nutritional assessment were made with the Mini Nutritional Assessment in its long form; the diagnosis of sarcopenia was done with the algorithm and the breakpoints of the European Consensus (EWGSOP). STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Pearson Chi2, Mann-Whitney and consistency by Cohen's kappa coefficient. RESULTS: we included 108 patients, 62% women, mean age 80.4 years (SD 7.7). The prevalence of sarcopenia, malnutrition and risk of malnutrition were 38.9%, 33.3% and 2.8% respectively. The concordance of the MNA with the diagnosis of sarcopenia was slight (kappa 0.1908 95% CI 0.0025 to 0.3791, p < 0.05) CONCLUSION: MNA shows mild concordance to identify sarcopenia, suggesting that it is not an appropriate tool for the diagnosis of sarcopenia in older institutionalized adults.

Introducción: la desnutrición y la sarcopenia son de alta prevalencia en el adulto mayor, compartiendo mecanismos fisiológicos y desenlaces adversos para la salud. Objetivos: cuantificar la consistencia del MNA con el diagnóstico de sarcopenia en el adulto mayor institucionalizado. Métodos: estudio transversal de consistencia, en 4 residencias geriátricas de Bogotá. El tamizaje y la valoración nutricional se hicieron con la forma larga Mini Nutritional Assessment; el diagnóstico de sarcopenia se hizo con el algoritmo y puntos de corte del Consenso Europeo (EWGSOP). Análisis estadístico: Ji2 de Pearson, U de Mann-Whitney y coeficiente kappa de Cohen. Resultados y discusión: participaron 108 personas, 62% mujeres, con una edad promedio de 80,4 años (DE 7,7). La prevalencia de sarcopenia, riesgo de desnutrición y desnutrición fueron del 38,9%, 33,3% y 2,8%, respectivamente. La concordancia del MNA con el diagnóstico de sarcopenia fue leve (kappa 0,1908 IC95% 0,0025 a 0,3791; p < 0.05) Conclusión: la leve concordancia del MNA para identificar la sarcopenia sugiere que no es una herramienta adecuada para el diagnóstico de sarcopenia en los adultos mayores institucionalizados.

Uncoupling protein-2 mRNA expression in mice subjected to intermittent hypoxia.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of intermittent hypoxia-a model of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-on pancreatic expression of uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), as well as on glycemic and lipid profiles, in C57BL mice. METHODS: For 8 h/day over a 35-day period, male C57BL mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia (hypoxia group) or to a sham procedure (normoxia group). The intermittent hypoxia condition involved exposing mice to an atmosphere of 92% N and 8% CO2 for 30 s, progressively reducing the fraction of inspired oxygen to 8 ± 1%, after which they were exposed to room air for 30 s and the cycle was repeated (480 cycles over the 8-h experimental period). Pancreases were dissected to isolate the islets. Real-time PCR was performed with TaqMan assays. RESULTS: Expression of UCP2 mRNA in pancreatic islets was 20% higher in the normoxia group than in the hypoxia group (p = 0.11). Fasting serum insulin was higher in the hypoxia group than in the normoxia group (p = 0.01). The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance indicated that, in comparison with the control mice, the mice exposed to intermittent hypoxia showed 15% lower insulin resistance (p = 0.09) and 21% higher pancreatic ß-cell function (p = 0.01). Immunohistochemical staining of the islets showed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the area or intensity of α- and ß-cell staining for insulin and glucagon. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first report of the effect of intermittent hypoxia on UCP2 expression. Our findings suggest that UCP2 regulates insulin production in OSA. Further study of the role that UCP2 plays in the glycemic control of OSA patients is warranted.

Comparación del dinamómetro Camry con el dinamómetro Jamar para su uso en adultos colombianos saludables / Comparing the Camry dynamometer to the Jamar dynamometer for use in healthy Colombian adults / Comparação dos dinamômetros Camry e Jamar para seu uso em adultos colombianos saudáveis

Objective: Hand grip strength can provide an objective index of general upper strength, but hand dynamometer has not been validated for use in Colombia. The objective was to determine the interchangeability between Camry electronic and Jamar hydraulic hand grip dynamometers in a population found on the campus of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the elderly living in a community. Methods: This was a cross-sectional concordance study on 18-88-year-old males and females. Data regarding their demographics, health, and anthropometric variables were collected/measured and the Lin concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) along with Bland-Altman plots were used for evaluating concordance regarding both devices. Results: One hundred and thirty-three subjects participated in this study (average age 47±20.74 years-old). Right hand (RH) grip strength was 32.15±9.96 kg with the Jamar dynamometer and 29.95±9.18 kg with the Camry device. It is worth highlighting that the Jamar instrument presents higher values than the Camry instrument (p <0.05). CCC was only significant at the population level and for the 40-59-year-old age group. Bland-Altman plots had narrow limits of agreement. Conclusion:We concluded that the Camry dynamometer could replace the Jamar dynamometer in the 40-59-year-old age group; furthermore, it would be appropriate for medical use in patient monitoring or follow-up due to the close values observed

Objetivo: La fuerza de agarre de la mano puede proporcionar un índice objetivo de la fuerza de los miembros superiores, pe-ro no se dispone de un dinamómetro de mano validado para su uso en Colombia. El objetivo fue determinar la intercambiabilidad entre los dinamómetros hidráulicos Jamar y el dinamómetro electrónico Camry en una población que se encuentra en el campus de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia y personas mayores que viven en una comunidad. Métodos: estudio transversal de concordancia realizado en hombres y mujeres de 18 a 88 años de edad. Se recolectó in-formación sobre variables demográficas, de salud y antropométricas. El coeficiente de correlación de concordancia de Lin (CCC) y los gráficos de Bland-Altman se utilizaron para evaluar la concordancia entre ambos dispositivos. Resultados: participaron 133 sujetos (edad promedio de 47 ± 20,74 años). La fuerza de agarre de la mano derecha fue de 32,15 ± 9,96 kg con el dinamómetro Jamar y de 29,95 ± 9,18 kg con el dispositivo Camry, destacando que el equipo Jamar presenta valores superiores al Jamar (p<0.05). La CCC solo fue significativa a nivel de la población y para el grupo de edad de 40 a 59 años. Los gráficos Bland-Altman presentaron límites de acuerdo estrechos. Conclusión: Concluimos que el dinamómetro Camry podría reemplazar el dinamómetro Jamar en el grupo de edad de 40-59 años; además, sería apropiado para uso médico en el monitoreo o seguimiento de pacientes debido a los valores cercanos observados.

Objetivo. A força de agarramento manual pode fornecer um índice objetivo da força dos membros superiores, mas um di-namômetro manual validado não está disponível para uso na Colômbia. O objetivo foi comparar os dinamômetros hidráuli-cos Jamar com o dinamômetro eletrônico Camry e establecer a possibilidade de equivalência no seu uso, na população do campus da Universidad Nacional de Colombia e em idosos que moram em uma comunidad. Métodos: estudo de concordância transversal realizado em ho-mens e mulheres de 18 a 88 anos de idade. Foram coletadas informações sobre variáveis demográficas, sanitárias e antro-pométricas. O coeficiente de correlação de concordância de Lin (CCC) e os gráficos de Bland-Altman foram utilizados para avaliar a de equivalência entre os dois dispositivos. Resultados: 133 sujeitos participaram (idade média de 47 ± 20,74 anos). A força de preensão da mão direita foi de 32,15 ± 9,96 kg com o dinamômetro Jamar e 29,95 ± 9,18 kg com o dispositivo Camry, destacando que a equipe do Jamar possui valores maiores que o Jamar (p < 0,05). O CCC foi significativo apenas no nível populacional e na faixa etária de 40 a 59 anos. Os gráficos de Bland-Altman apresentaram limites estreitos de concordância. Conclusão: Concluímos que o dinamômetro Camry poderia substituir o dinamômetro Jamar na faixa etária de 40 a 59 anos; Além disso, seria apropriado para uso médico no monitora-mento ou acompanhamento de pacientes devido aos valores próximos observados.

Lophomoniasis pulmonar / Pulmonary lophomoniasis / Lophomoniase pulmonar

Resumen: La lophomoniasis pulmonar es una infección por un protozoario sumamente rara, está asociada con enfermedades crónicas que comprometen la respuesta inmune; sus manifestaciones son erráticas en muchos de los casos, por lo que se retrasa el diagnóstico y el tratamiento oportuno, lo que lleva a complicaciones graves. Presentamos a paciente obstétrica complicada con síndrome de preeclampsia-eclampsia que fue expuesta a corticoide como madurador pulmonar fetal, la cual desarrolló neumonía con SIRA grave, y se documentó en frotis de secreción bronquial Lophomonas spp., recibió tratamiento específico con recuperación clínica.

Abstract: Pulmonary lophomoniasis is an extremely rare protozoan infection, it is associated with chronic diseases that compromise the immune response, its manifestations are in many cases erratic, which delays the diagnosis and timely treatment, leading to complications serious. We present obstetric patient complicated with preeclampsia eclampsia syndrome that was exposed to corticoids as fetal pulmonary maturing, developing pneumonia with severe ARDS, documented in smear of bronchial secretion Lophomonas ssp., received specific treatment with clinical recovery.

Resumo: A lophomoniase pulmonar é uma infecção protozoária extremamente rara, está associada a doenças crônicas que comprometem a resposta imune, suas manifestações são em muitos casos erráticas, por isso o diagnóstico e o tratamento oportuno são tardios levando a complicações sérias. Apresentamos uma paciente obstétrica complicada com síndrome de eclâmpsia pré-eclâmpsia que foi exposta ao corticóide como um madurador pulmonar fetal, desenvolvendo pneumonia com SIRA grave, documentada com frotis de secreção brônquica Lophomonas ssp, recebeu tratamento específico com recuperação clínica.

Nutrition status of the elderly differs by elderly care facility / El estado nutricional en los adultos mayores es diferente de acuerdo con cada tipo de hogar geriátrico

The prevalence of malnutrition in homes for the elderly is well-known, yet research does not exist concerning differences among types of homes. In this study, the association of nutritional status (measured with MNA-FV and anthropometric measures) with the type of home for the elderly (charity, government, private) was evaluated. A cross-sectional study in adults > 60 years was carried out. Students t, U of Mann-Whitney, ANOVA, or Kruskal Wallis test with statistical significance p < 0.05 were used for statistical analysis. In the study, 152 elderly (95 female) persons with an average age of 81.4 years (SD 7.82) participated; 59.6% had a normal nutritional status and 45.3% had a normal BMI. Malnutrition, risk of malnutrition and low calf circumference were associated with private homes (p < 0.05). We concluded that nutritional status varies by type of home and this nutritional profile possibly depends on criteria used to admit persons into each type of facility.

La prevalencia de la malnutrición en los hogares geriátricos es bien conocida, aunque no existen investigaciones sobre las diferencias del estado nutricional entre los tipos de hogares. Se realizó un estudio transversal en adultos > 60 años que evaluó la asociación del estado nutricional (medido con MNA-VL y medidas antropométricas) con el tipo de hogar geriátrico (caridad, gobierno, privado); para el análisis estadístico se utilizó la prueba de t de Student, U de Mann-Whitney, ANOVA o Kruskal Wallis con significación estadística p<0,05. Participaron 152 ancianos (62,5% mujeres) y edad promedio de 81,4 (+/-7,82 años); el 59,6% tenía un estado nutricional normal y el 45,3% tenía un IMC normal. La malnutritión, el riesgo de desnutrición y la baja circunferencia de la pantorrilla (<31cm) se asociaron con hogares privados (p<0,05). Concluimos que el estado nutricional varía según el tipo de hogar y este perfil nutricional posiblemente dependa de los criterios utilizados para admitir a los ancianos en cada hogar.

Caracterización de los hábitos alimentarios y nivel de actividad física en estudiantes universitarios / Characterizing eating habits and physical activity levels in college students / Características dos hábitos alimentares e de atividade física em estudantes universitários

Objetivo. Describir los hábitos alimentarios y el nivel de actividad física en estudiantes de la Universidad El Bosque durante agosto 2017. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. La población fueron hombres y mujeres, estudiantes (cursos básicos o I-IV semestre) y matriculados en el segundo semestre de 2017. Los hábitos alimentarios y la actividad física se midieron mediante un cuestionario de frecuencia de alimentos y el cuestionario IPAQ-SF, respectivamente. Se reportaron frecuencias, porcentajes, promedios, medianas, desviaciones estándar, rangos e IC95%. Resultados. Participaron 1.551 estudiantes, 65,6 % eran mujeres, la mediana de la edad fue de 19 años (RIQ=18-20), el 52,7 % pertenecía al primer año de los programas de pregrado y el 6,2 % era de cursos básicos. El 30,6 %, el 16,8 % y el 10,6 % de los estudiantes pertenecían a las facultades de medicina, ingeniería y educación, respectivamente.El 75 % de los estudiantes consumía habitualmente tres comidas principales (desayuno, almuerzo y cena), y el 3,1 % consumía alimentos dos o menos veces al día. El 47,4 % consumía diariamente lácteos y, el 20,1 %, verduras. En todas las facultades, se encontró un alto consumo diario de bebidas azucaradas (17,2 %) y azúcares (40,7 %).El 45 %, el 35 % y el 20 % de los estudiantes tenían un nivel bajo, alto e intermedio de actividad física, respectivamente. El nivel bajo de actividad física aumenta conforme incrementa el semestre académico (43 a 46,4 %); las facultades del área de la salud presentaron mayores porcentajes de nivel bajo de actividad física (46,5 a 60,9 %) y la facultad de creación-comunicación presentó mayor porcentaje de nivel alto de actividad física (49,5 %). Conclusiones. Los estudiantes evaluados presentaron inadecuados hábitos alimentarios y bajo nivel de actividad física, lo cual puede estar perjudicando su salud y desempeño académico.

Objective: Describe eating habits and physical activity level in college students at Universidad El Bosque during August, 2017 Materials and methods: Cross- sectional descriptive study. Its population was comprised of men and women, students ranging from preparatory courses to second year, enrolled through the second term of 2017. Eating habits and physical activity were measured by a food frequency survey and IPAQ-SF questionnaire. Frequencies, ranges, averages, percentages, medians, standard derivations and IC 95% were reported. Results: 1551 students participated in this study. 65,6% were women, whose age median was 19 (RIQ 18-20). 52,7% of the sample is comprised of first year undergraduate students, while 6,2% belong to preparatory courses. 30.6% are medical students; 16,8% are engineering students and 10,6% are from education school. 75% of student typically eats three times a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and 3.1% eats twice a day or less. 47.4% intakes dairy products and 20.1% include groceries. A high daily intake of sugary beverages was found throughout the sample (17,2%) and overall, students have a low level of physical activity. As the academic process progresses, physical activity decreases. Health sciences schools have the lowest levels of physical activity 46,5%-60,9%), while the school of communication scored the highest physical activity (49,5%). Conclusions: Students assessed shown inadequate eating habits and low physical activity levels which may be detrimental to their health and academic performance

Objetivo. Descrever os habitos alimentares e de atividade física dos estudantes da universidad El Bosque. Materiais e métodos. Estudo descritivo de corte transversal. A população considerada na amostra são homens e mulheres estudantes dos cursos básicos de graduação entre o primeiro e o sexto semestre, matriculados no período 2017 II. Por meio de um questionário de frequência de alimentos complementado com o questionário IPAQ-SF, foram reportadas frequências, porcentagens, médias, medianas, rangos e IC95%. Resultados. De 1551 estudantes estudados, média de idade 19 anos (RIQ 18-20), o 52,7% pertencem ao primero ano da graduação e 6,2% são de cursos básicos. O 30,6%, 16,8% e 10,6% dos estudantes são dos programas de Medicina, Engenharia e Educação respectivamente. O 75% dos estudantes consome habitualmente três refeições (café da manhã, almoço, jantar) e o 3,1% consome duas ou menos vezes por dia. O 47,4% consome diariamente lácteos e 20,1% verduras; todos os estudantes apresentam alto consumo de bebidas açucaradas (17,2%) e açúcares em geral (40,7%). O 45%, 35% e 20% dos estudantes tem níveis: baixo, médio e alto de atividade física respectivamente, a baixa na atividade física diminui conforme aumenta o semestre académico (43%-46,4%); os estudantes se formando na área da saúde apresentaram menores porcentagens de atividade física (46,5%-60,9%) e a faculdade de criação-comunicação apresentou maior porcentagem de atividade (49,5%). Conclusões: Os estudantes avaliados apresentaram inadequados hábitos alimentares e baixo nível de atividade física, o que pode estar alterando seu nível académico