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The Attitude Scale to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Old Age (EAFV-LGBT) evaluates attitudes towards LGBT older adults. The main goal of this research was to adapt and examine the psychometric properties in a Spanish-speaking sample. The sample consisted of 521 Colombian adults (36.3% men and 63.7% women) with a mean age equal to 27.39 (SD = 9.27). Participants completed a Socio-Demographic and Sexual History Questionnaire, the Hispanic translations of the EAFV-LGBT, the Subtle and Manifest Prejudice Scale towards Homosexuals, and the Big Five Personality Trait Short Questionnaire. The results showed that the Colombian EAFV-LGBT has good psychometric properties. The structure of the scale was unidimensional, and the internal consistency reliability was also adequate. Likewise, the convergent validity of the scale was verified by correlating it with another measure that evaluates explicit and implicit homophobia. In addition, it was found that there was a relationship between personality traits and attitudes towards LGBT adults. Specifically, participants with lower openness, extraversion, and agreeableness reported more negative attitudes toward older LGBT people.

The present research aimed to identify and discuss the social representations of trans women related to gender identity and transphobia in Brazil and Colombia. In this study participated 43 Trans women, 22 from Brazil, aged between 18 and 55 years (M=29.09, SD=8.53) and 21 from Colombia, aged between 21 and 41 years (M=28.19, SD=7.63). This study adopted a qualitative approach in which semi-structured interviews were used. The data were analyzed by the Iramuteq software, which identified the social representations in classes. The results showed what the participants understood about transphobia and how they regarded their experiences with this gender identity. The participants presented negative social representations, aiming at their personal experiences related to their social context. Themes related to violence, discrimination, prejudice, denial of rights and family support emerged from both the Brazilian and Colombian sample. Implications for Tran´s quality of life are discussed. Resumo A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo identificar e discutir as representações sociais de mulheres trans relacionadas à identidade de gênero e transfobia no Brasil e na Colômbia. Neste estudo participaram 43 mulheres trans, 22 do Brasil, com idade entre 18 e 55 anos (M=29,09, DP=8,53) e 21 da Colômbia, com idade entre 21 e 41 anos (M=28,19, DP=7,63). Este estudo adotou uma abordagem qualitativa na qual foram utilizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram analisados pelo software Iramuteq, que identificou as representações sociais. Os resultados mostraram o que os participantes entenderam sobre transfobia e como eles encararam suas experiências com essa identidade de gênero. Os participantes apresentaram representações sociais negativas, visando suas experiências pessoais relacionadas ao seu contexto social. Temas relacionados à violência, discriminação, preconceito, negação de direitos e apoio familiar emergiram da amostra brasileira e colombiana. Espera-se que este estudo possa contribuir para compreensão deste fenômeno biopsicossocial.

Las redes sociales, particularmente Facebook, influyen en las relaciones sentimentales, ya que pueden generar celos y conflictos entre los miembros de la pareja. La Escala de Celos de Facebook (FJS) es un instrumento que evalúa los celos por el uso de Facebook, y no hay ningún instrumento similar disponible en Colombia. El objetivo principal fue examinar las propiedades psicométricas del FJS en una muestra colombiana de 485 hombres y 727 mujeres. Los participantes completaron un cuestionario sociodemográfico, la adaptación de la Escala de Celos de Facebook, la Escala de Conflicto de Pareja Romántica, la Escala de Autoestima de Rosenberg y la Escala de Celos Románticos. La versión final de la FJS estuvo conformada por 15 ítems que, a su vez, conformaron tres dimensiones: Actividad de la pareja, Vigilancia de la pareja, Relación romántica y sexual de la pareja. Los valores de alfa ordinal de los tres factores oscilaron entre .90 y .95. También se demostró validez concurrente con otras dimensiones relacionadas con conflicto en la pareja, autoestima y celos románticos. El análisis de invarianza según género resultó en un nivel de invarianza métrica. El FJS es una medida que puede ser útil para la práctica clínica y los investigadores que trabajan en temas relacionados con las relaciones románticas. La investigación que analice los celos asociados al Facebook ofrecerá un interesante indicador de la supervisión en el contexto de pareja y las conductas de control, elementos clave del abuso psicológico, un subtipo de la violencia de pareja Social networks, particularly Facebook, influence romantic relationships, as they can generate jealousy and conflict between members of the couple. The Facebook Jealousy Scale (FJS) is an instrument that assesses jealousy about using Facebook, but no similar instrument is available in Colombia. The main aim was to examine the psychometric properties of the FJS in a Colombian sample of 485 men and 727 women. Participants answered the socio-demographic questionnaire, the adaptation of the Facebook Jealousy Scale, Romantic Partner Conflict Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Romantic Jealousy Scale. The final version of the FJS was made up of 15 items which were distributed across three dimensions: Partner´s Activity, Partner´s Surveillance, Partner´s Romantic and Sexual relationship. Ordinal´s alpha values from its three factors ranged between .90 and .95. Concurrent validity was also provided, as the measure was associated with dimensions from partner conflict, self-esteem, and romantic jealousy. An invariance test by gender was also performed, resulting in compliance with metric invariance. Therefore, the FJS is a useful tool for clinicians and researchers who work on issues related to romantic relationships. Research analyzing Facebook jealousy provides an interesting indicator of couple´s monitoring and controlling behaviors, which are features of psychological abuse, a subtype of intimate partner violence.

Objetivo: durante los últimos años, las actividades de ciencia ciudadana han cobrado mayor interés, debido a que contribuyen a la recopilación de nueva información y a generar nuevas preguntas de investigación. El propósito de este trabajo es presentar un ejercicio de ciencia ciudadana enfocado en la evaluación de la calidad del aire y la caracterización de microfauna acuática del humedal Juan Amarillo de la ciudad de Bogotá. Métodos: se diseñó un estudio longitudinal desde la perspectiva de la ciencia ciudadana que involucró mediciones de material particulado 2,5 (PM2,5) en la ciclorruta del humedal Juan Amarillo. El recorrido fue dividido en dos zonas. Se realizó una caracterización de la microfauna acuática residente en el humedal mediante observación con microscopio óptico y estereoscopio. Resultados: las concentraciones de PM2,5 fueron significativamente mayores en la zona 1 comparadas con las de la zona 2 (p < 0,001). Se identificaron diferentes especies de macroinvertebrados pertenecientes a los grupos Gastropoda, Oligochaeta, Hirudínea. Conclusiones: se estableció una relación entre la concentración de PM2,5 y las condiciones ambientales de la ruta. Se identificaron algunos microorganismos que podrían ser usados como bioindicadores de la calidad del agua. Las actividades de ciencia ciudadana pueden ser útiles para acercar a niños(as) a la ciencia.

Lack of consent is an essential characteristic of sexual violence. The present study was conducted to analyze the relation between sexual consent and the risk of perpetrating sexual aggression by men and victimization suffered by women in more depth. The sample consisted of 1681 heterosexual Spanish men and women aged 18–66 years. The participants completed an online survey containing the Spanish versions of the Sexual Consent Scale Revised and the Sexual Experiences Survey. The results showed that 70.2% of the women had been sexual victims, and 20.8% of men reported having perpetrated sexual violence. On the one hand, sexual aggressors, unlike non aggressors, underestimated the relevance of obtaining sexual consent, and more aggressors reported lack of perceived behavioral control for requesting sexual consent and endorsed less positive attitudes to obtain sexual consent than non aggressors. On the other hand, sexual victims, compared to non victims, considered requesting explicit sexual consent relevant, but held certain ideas, attitudes, and behaviors that did not go along with obtaining sexual consent, which leaves women in a position of vulnerability.

To mitigate the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), vaccines have been rapidly developed and introduced in many countries. In Colombia, the population was vaccinated with four vaccines. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the ability of the vaccines introduced in the National Vaccination Plan to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and induce seroconversion and sought to investigate the longevity of antibodies in the blood. We conducted a prospective, nonprobabilistic, consecutive cross-sectional cohort study in a population with access to vaccination with CoronaVac, Ad26.COV2.S, AZD1222, and BNT162b2 from March 2021 to March 2022. The study included 1327 vaccinated people. A plurality of participants were vaccinated with BNT162b2 (36.1%; n = 480), followed by Ad26.COV2.S (26.9%; n = 358), CoronaVac (24%; n = 331), and AZD1222 (11.9%; n = 158). The crude seroprevalence on day zero varied between 18.1% and 57.8%. Participants who received BNT162b2 had a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection than those who received the other vaccines. Participants who were immunized with BNT162b2 and AZD1222 had a higher probability of losing reactivity on day 210 after receiving the vaccine.

People living with HIV/AIDS not only suffer in terms of physical and/or psychological health, but also frequently experience violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Although there are international treaties and a regulatory framework that legally protects people with HIV/AIDS, it is essential to determine the effectiveness of the regulatory framework in Colombia. Therefore, our main goal was to examine the legislation on HIV/AIDS in Colombia with the purpose of understanding the decrees and laws, and describing the main obstacles and barriers that people with HIV/AIDS encounter. For this purpose, we employed the method of legal interpretation and reviewed the legal regulations on HIV/AIDS, as well as the judgments of guardianship of the Constitutional Court. It is verified that there is a specific regulation on HIV/AIDS, specifically decree 559 of 19,991, decree 1543 of 1997, Law 599 of 2000, Law 972 of 2005, and Law 1220 of 2008. Although at the legislative level Colombia shows an evolution in the norm, patients with HIV/AIDS continue to be victims of human rights violations. As a result, and through the analysis of tutela judgments, it was found that the Constitutional Court recognized the violation of rights and ordered the necessary measures to be taken to guarantee the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the defendants.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is employed in the production of cosmetics, sunscreen, food, and drugs; however, TiO2 is toxic at the nanometric scale. To analyze the in vitro toxic effect of TiO2 NPs on mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The hMSCs from Wharton`s jelly were exposed to 4, 62.5 and 500 μg/mL of TiO2 NPs. Viability and cell proliferation tests were carried out at 2, 5 and 7 days of exposure. Additionally, the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation capacity was evaluated. TiO2 NPs had a perinuclear arrangement and internalized in vesicles into cytosol, diminished significantly the viability (40% and 30% and 30%) and the proliferation cellular (35%, 50% and 55%), differentiation to osteoblast (38%) and adipoblasts (20%). TiO2 NPs affect viability, proliferation, and differentiation of hMSCs. Our result suggests more regulation of the use of TiO2.

During the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, several environmental factors have influenced the activities and the protection policy measures. This has had a major effect on climate change and global environmental catastrophe. In many countries, the strategy of closing various activities such as tourism, industrial production, stopped normal life, transportation, among others. This closure has a positive impact on the environment. However, the massive use of masks and personal protection could significantly increase pollution worldwide. The impact on the environment needs to be calculated to have information for public health actions. In this study, we present a first overview of the potential impacts of COVID-19 on some environmental matrices in Bogota, Colombia.

La Artritis Reumatoide (AR) se considera una enfermedad de alto costo, dada la alta probabilidad de complicaciones y un mayor consumo de recursos del sistema de salud. En la última década se han implementado diferentes modelos de contratación para la atención de los pacientes, migrando de una contratación por evento a un pago por resultados. El objetivo general del presente trabajo es establecer el efecto del tipo de contratación entre pagadores y prestadores para la atención de pacientes con diagnóstico de Artritis Reumatoide sobre la actividad de la enfermedad como resultado en salud medido por medio de la escala clinimétrica DAS28 (por sus siglas en inglés; Disease Activity Score 28). Se realizó un estudio de caso tomando como fuente de información los reportes a la Cuenta de Alto Costo (CAC) que realizó una IPS Privada ubicada en Bogotá. Se tomaron datos reportados durante los años 2016 a 2019 para capturar información de usuarios que hayan estado expuestos al tipo de programa establecido al menos 2 años. El análisis de los datos se realizó por medio de pruebas paramétricas y no paramétricas. Los resultados obtenidos indican que la cohorte que recibió atención bajo la modalidad de Pago Global Prospectivo obtiene una mejoría estadísticamente significativa en la actividad de la enfermedad. IPS privada Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is considered a high cost disease, given the high probability of complications and a greater consumption of health system resources. In the last decade, different hiring models have been implemented for patient care, migrating from a hiring per event to a payment for results. The general objective of this work is to establish the effect of the type of contracting between payers and providers for the care of patients with a diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis on the activity of the disease as a health outcome measured by means of the clinimetric scale DAS28 (for its acronym in English; Disease Activity Score 28). A case study was carried out taking as a source of information the reports to the High Cost Account (CAC) made by a Private IPS located in Bogotá. Data reported during the years 2016 to 2019 were taken to capture information from users who have been exposed to the type of program established for at least 2 years. Data analysis was carried out by means of parametric and non-parametric tests. The results obtained indicate that the cohort that received care under the Prospective Global Payment modality obtained a statistically significant improvement in disease activity. Magíster en Economía de la Salud Maestría

BackgroundHealthcare workers are at increased risk of infection due to occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare workers in Colombia.MethodsThis study is a cross-sectional study focused on estimating the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in healthcare workers from 65 hospitals in 10 cities in Colombia during the second semester of 2020. The seroprevalence was determined using an automated immunoassay (Abbott SARS-CoV-2 CLIA IgG). The study included a survey to establish the sociodemographic variables and the risk of infection. A multivariate model was used to evaluate the association between the results of seroprevalence and risk factors.ResultsThe global seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was 35% (95% Bayesian CI 33% to 37%). All the personnel reported the use of protective equipment. General services personnel and nurses presented the highest ratios of seroprevalence among the healthcare workers. Low socioeconomic strata have shown a strong association with seropositivity.ConclusionThis study estimates the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers. Even though all the personnel reported the use of protective equipment, the seroprevalence in the general services personnel and nurses was high. Also, a significant difference by cities was observed.

IntroductionLeptospirosis is a zoonotic disease with high prevalence in low-income and middle-income countries and tropical and subtropical regions. The clinical symptoms of the disease are similar to symptoms presented by other endemic infectious diseases that could be present simultaneously. Thus, leptospirosis could be masked by similar infections like dengue, malaria, hantavirus, melioidosis and borreliosis, among others. Therefore, leptospirosis could present itself as an under-reported infection or as a coinfection with another pathogen, as has been reported in the literature. However, there is a lack of documented evidence about the specific risk factors of leptospirosis infection, the symptoms, the coinfection’s mortality and the frequency of coinfection. Additionally, leptospirosis coinfections have not been considered a neglected public health concern. Therefore, this systematic review aims to evaluate published articles that show the risk factors associated with leptospirosis infection and coinfection with other pathogens.Methods and analysisThe search process to identify eligible studies will be conducted including the LILACS, ProQuest, PubMed and Scopus databases with no restriction in terms of publication date. Also, grey literature will be included in the research. Authors will independently screen the title and abstracts of the articles identified from the search using Rayyan free software. Eligibility criteria include peer-reviewed research articles written in English or Spanish, including observational studies, cohorts, case–control, cross-sectional, ecological studies and report cases. The systematic review will include studies that report descriptions of leptospirosis cases with coinfection or co-occurrence. The search will be accomplished by articles from 1950 to May 2022. The data will be extracted in a standard extraction form using an Excel format.Ethics and disseminationResults will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Also, findings will be disseminated through scientific meetings. Ethical approval will not be required as this is a systematic review and primary data will be not collected or included.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021234754.

Background and Objectives: Particulate Matter (PM), particles of variable but small diameter can penetrate the respiratory system via inhalation, causing respiratory and/or cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to evaluate the association of environmental particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon (BC) with respiratory health in users of different transport modes in four roads in Bogotá. Materials and Methods: this was a mixed-method study (including a cross sectional study and a qualitative description of the air quality perception), in 300 healthy participants, based on an exploratory sequential design. The respiratory effect was measured comparing the changes between pre- and post-spirometry. The PM2.5 and black carbon (BC) concentrations were measured using portable devices. Inhaled doses were also calculated for each participant according to the mode and route. Perception was approached through semi-structured interviews. The analysis included multivariate models and concurrent triangulation. Results: The concentration of matter and black carbon were greater in bus users (median 50.67 µg m−3; interquartile range (–IR): 306.7). We found greater inhaled dosages of air pollutants among bike users (16.41 µg m−3). We did not find changes in the spirometry parameter associated with air pollutants or transport modes. The participants reported a major sensory influence at the visual and olfactory level as perception of bad air quality. Conclusions: We observed greater inhaled doses among active transport users. Nevertheless, no pathological changes were identified in the spirometry parameters. People’s perceptions are a preponderant element in the assessment of air quality.

Generation 4 of polyamidoamine dendrimer (G4-PAMAM) has several biological effects due to its tridimensional globular structure, repetitive branched amides, tertiary amines, and amino-terminal subunit groups liked to a common core. G4-PAMAM is cytotoxic due to its positive charges. However, its cytotoxicity could increase in cancer cells due to the excessive intracellular negative charges in these cells. Furthermore, this work reports G4-PAMAM chemical structural characterization using UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS (LC–MS) by electrospray ionization to measure its population according to its positive charges. Additionally, the antiproliferative effects and intracellular localization were explored in the HMC-1 and K-562 cell lines by confocal microscopy. The LC–MS results show that G4-PAMAM generated multivalent mass spectrum values, and its protonated terminal amino groups produced numerous positive charges, which allowed us to determine its exact mass despite having a high molecular weight. Additionally, G4-PAMAM showed antiproliferative activity in the HMC-1 tumor cell line after 24 h (IC50 = 16.97 µM), 48 h (IC50 = 7.02 µM) and 72 h (IC50 = 5.98 µM) and in the K-562 cell line after 24 h (IC50 = 15.14 µM), 48 h (IC50 = 14.18 µM) and 72 h (IC50 = 9.91 µM). Finally, our results showed that the G4-PAMAM dendrimers were located in the cytoplasm and nucleus in both tumor cell lines studied.

Sexual violence is a type of gender-based violence (GBV), as it is one of the different types of violence that is exerted against women. Sexual violence infringes fundamental human rights, and denies women’s dignity and self-determination, personal development, and well-being. Despite international treaties and a regulatory framework that legally protects Colombian women against sexual violence, it is necessary to know the effectiveness of this regulatory framework in Colombia. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to examine criminal legislation on crimes of sexual violence in Colombia with a dual purpose: first, to analyze procedural guarantees for women victims of sexual violence, second, to determine obstacles for victims of sexual violence in accordance with the legal framework. We used a legal interpretation method to perform an analysis and interpret the law. The results found that, although sexual violence is considered a type of crime, procedural guarantees are not effective as victims encounter serious obstacles with negative consequences, such as the violation of fundamental human rights.

Airport workers are a high-risk population for infectious diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In a cohort of workers at the International Airport in Colombia, the accumulated incidence of SARS-CoV-2 and seroprevalence were 23.58% and 16.03%, respectively. A seroconversion rate of 60% was found among workers with COVID-19.

The present research aimed to identify and discuss the social representations of trans women related to gender identity and transphobia in Brazil and Colombia. In this study participated 43 Trans women, 22 from Brazil, aged between 18 and 55 years (M=29.09, SD=8.53) and 21 from Colombia, aged between 21 and 41 years (M=28.19, SD=7.63). This study adopted a qualitative approach in which semi-structured interviews were used. The data were analyzed by the Iramuteq software, which identified the social representations in classes. The results showed what the participants understood about transphobia and how they regarded their experiences with this gender identity. The participants presented negative social representations, aiming at their personal experiences related to their social context. Themes related to violence, discrimination, prejudice, denial of rights and family support emerged from both the Brazilian and Colombian sample. Implications for Tran´s quality of life are discussed. © 2021, Associacao Brasileira de Pos - Graduacao em Saude Coletiva. All rights reserved.

Summary: Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to cause very high morbidity and mortality throughout Latin American countries. However, few population-based seroprevalence surveys have been conducted to quantify attack rates and characterize drivers of transmission. Methods: We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study to assess the seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in ten cities in Colombia between September and December 2020. The study involved multi-stage cluster sampling at each city. Participants provided a serum sample and answered a demographic and risk factor questionnaire. Prior infection by SARS-CoV-2 was ascertained using the ''SARS-CoV-2 Total (COV2T) Advia Centaur - Siemens'' chemiluminescence assay. Findings: A total of 17863 participants from 7320 households participated in the study. Seroprevalence varied substantially between cities, ranging from 26% (95%CI 23–29 %) in Medellín to 68% (95%CI 62–74 %) in Guapi. There were no differences in seroprevalence by sex, but seropositivity was higher in certain ethnic groups. There was substantial heterogeneity in seroprevalence within cities, driven to a large extent by a strong association between socioeconomic stratum and seropositivity. Interpretation: Colombia has been one of the Latin American countries most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study documented very high attack rates in several Colombian cities by the end of 2020 and identified key drivers of heterogeneities including ethnicity and socioeconomic stratum. Few studies of seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 have been conducted in Latin America, and therefore this study contributes to the fundamental understanding of the pandemic in the region. Funding: The study was sponsored by, Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnología e Innovación –CT361/2020, Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social, Fundación Universitaria del Norte, Imperial College of London, Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Sede Medellín), Universidad de Córdoba, California University, Unidad Nacional de Gestión del Riesgo, Centro de Atención y Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Infecciosas -CDI-, Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas -CIDEIM-, Departamento Administrativo Nacional de Estadística - DANE, Fondo Nacional de Turismo -FONTUR-, Secretarías de Salud Departamentales, Distritales y Municipales and Instituto Nacional de Salud.

Child and adolescent sexual abuse (CSA) is an international public health problem. Despite the importance of CSA, there is no consensus definition, and the lack of consensus is related to difficulties in conducting prevalence studies as well as research in other areas. To establish a consensual definition, legal aspects such as the age of sexual consent and the difference in age or power between victim and aggressor as well as aspects related to sexual freedom and sexual indemnity must be considered. Therefore, the main goal of this research was to analyze the age of sexual consent in the legal systems of Spanish-speaking countries and to examine whether the Romeo and Juliet clause is established. To achieve the proposed aims, we employed the legal interpretation method, and we analyzed the current Criminal Codes of the 21 Spanish-speaking countries. From the results, it is found that the age of sexual consent varies between countries, establishing valid sexual consent between 13 and 18 years. In addition, only six countries have the Romeo and Juliet clause that protects sexual freedom in adolescents. Finally, we discussed the lack of consensus on the age of sexual consent and the limitations presented by the Romeo and Juliet clause.

Objetivo. Evaluar la capacidad operativa de nueve pruebas serológicas rápidas para detectar la respuesta de anticuerpos IgM/IgG en el suero de pacientes con SARS-CoV-2 en diferentes etapas clínicas. Métodos. Se diseñó un estudio transversal de las pruebas serológicas rápidas para comparar su rendimiento respecto del diagnóstico del SARS-CoV-2. Se utilizaron en total 293 muestras, inclusive muestras de suero de pacientes negativos, asintomáticos y sintomáticos. Resultados. La sensibilidad de las pruebas evaluadas fue baja y moderada en las muestras de suero del grupo de pacientes asintomáticos y en el grupo de pacientes con menos de 11 días desde el inicio de los síntomas. La especificidad de las pruebas de anticuerpos anti-SARS-CoV-2 varió entre 86,5%-99% para la IgM y 86,5%-99,5% para la IgG. La sensibilidad y la razón de verosimilitud (likelihood ratio) fueron diferentes según los grupos de estudio. La utilidad de estas pruebas se limita a los pacientes sintomáticos y su sensibilidad es superior al 85% después de 11 días de la aparición de los síntomas. Conclusiones. Las pruebas serológicas no son una estrategia adecuada para la identificación de los pacientes asintomáticos y presintomáticos. Las pruebas serológicas rápidas para la detección de anticuerpos específicos anti-SARS-CoV-2 pueden ser utilizadas como ayuda diagnóstica, pero el diagnóstico debe ser confirmado por RT-PCR. Las pruebas rápidas deben reservarse para los pacientes con síntomas que duren más de 11 días. Objective. To evaluate the operative capacity of nine serological rapid tests to detect the IgM/IgG antibodies response in serum from patients with SARS-CoV-2 in different clinical stages. Methods. A cross-sectional study of serological rapid tests was designed to compare the performance of the evaluated immunochromatographic tests for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2. A total of 293 samples was used, including negatives, asymptomatic, and symptomatic serum samples. Results. The sensitivity of the evaluated tests was low and moderate in the groups of asymptomatic serum samples and the group of serums coming from patients with less than 11 days since the onset of the symptoms. The specificity for the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies tests ranged between 86.5%-99% for IgM and 86.5%-99.5% for IgG. The sensitivity and the likelihood ratio were different according to the study groups. The usefulness of these tests is restricted to symptomatic patients and their sensitivity is greater than 85% after 11 days from the appearance of symptoms. Conclusions. Serological tests are not an adequate strategy for the identification of asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic patients. Serological rapid tests for the detection of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies can be used as a diagnostic aid, but diagnosis must be confirmed by RT-PCR. Rapid tests should be reserved for patients with symptoms lasting more than 11 days.

Objetivo Aplicar una técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) múltiple en tiempo real para la detección de Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes y Yersinia enterocolitica, como herramienta de apoyo diagnóstico en la vigilancia de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos.Materiales y Métodos Se aplicó la metodología molecular en muestras clínicas provenientes de individuos que estaban asociados a brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de dos departamentos de Colombia. Los resultados se compararon con los datos arrojados por la metodología convencional de cultivo. Adicionalmente a los aislamientos obtenidos se les evaluó relación clonal mediante la técnica de electroforesis de campo pulsado (PFGE).Resultados Se determinó un total de 123 casos de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de los cuales 45 muestras biológicas fueron confirmadas por laboratorio y 88 mediante nexo epidemiológico. La metodología molecular detectó 35/45 muestras positivas frente a 17/45 muestras positivas detectadas mediante la metodología convencional. La PFGE demostró relación clonal en cada brote.Conclusión Los resultados del estudio demuestran la aplicabilidad de la técnica molecular como herramienta útil de apoyo diagnóstico en la caracterización de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos, permitiendo una respuesta oportuna y confiable.

Acute leukemia is the most common pediatric cancer, representing one-third of all cancers that occurs in under 15 year olds, with a varied incidence worldwide. Although a number of advances have increased the knowledge of leukemia pathophysiology, its etiology remains less well understood. The role of infectious agents, such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites, in the pathogenesis of leukemia has been discussed. To date, several cellular mechanisms involving infectious agents have been proposed to cause leukemia following infections. However, although leukemia can be triggered by contact with such agents, they can also be beneficial in developing immune stimulation and protection despite the risk of leukemic clones. In this review, we analyze the proposed hypotheses concerning how infectious agents may play a role in the origin and development of leukemia, as well as in a possible mechanism of protection following infections. We review reported clinical observations associated with vaccination or breastfeeding, that support hypotheses such as early life exposure and the resulting early immune stimulation that lead to protection.

El empleo de celulas mesenquimales ha emergido como una parte importante en la medicina regenerativa con efectos positivos en la recuperacion de tejidos danados o perdidos. Las ulceras cronicas incluyen lesiones cutaneas que afectan a una gran parte de la poblacion con diabetes mellitus, (por ejemplo 9.14% desarrollan lesiones por pie diabetico segun ENSANUT 2016) y representan gastos economicos considerables, debido a la pobre calidad de vida que llevan los pacientes. El tratamiento convencional que se lleva a cabo en estos casos es a largo plazo, y los efectos beneficos generados que se presentan son limitados, ya que las lesiones reinciden por no contar con un tratamiento especifico y regenerativo, solo paliativo. Es por ello que en este trabajo se obtuvieron y emplearon celulas troncales mesenquimales derivadas de gelatina de Wharton (CTM-GW) bajo los criterios propuestos por la Sociedad Internacional de la Terapia Celular. El tratamiento fue aplicado en dos pacientes con ulceras cronicas flebostaticas de diferentes condiciones medicas y se monitoreo a corto plazo, por lo que fue un estudio limitado. Los resultados mostraron que las CTM-GW indujeron la reconstruccion cutanea mediante formacion de tejido de granulacion, ademas de disminuir el proceso inflamatorio cronico en la zona de dano, lo que favorecio el indice de cierre de la herida. Por lo anterior, se propone la utilizacion de CTM-GW en ulceras flebostaticas cronicas como tratamiento en la regeneracion de la estructura tisular con resultados a corto plazo

Background Cardiovascular disease is more frequent in menopausal women, which has been related to factor such as weight gain, altered fat distribution, and increased inflammation markers including adipokines (MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6) and cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) produced by macrophages. In addition to their phagocytic activity, macrophages secrete cytokines and chemokines that induces cell recruitment, which is a process related to vascular damage that favors the formation of atheromatous plaques. Tibolone (Tb) therapy is used to reduce the symptoms of menopause as well as osteoporosis and it has been shown to decreases the risk of fractures. Methods To investigate the effect of tibolone in macrophage enzymatic activity, gene expression of cytokines, and its effect on foam cells formation. We use phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-differentiated THP-1 cells. The cells were incubated 24 h and 48 h using pre and post-treatment schemes. We evaluated total ROS determination by NBT assay, expression of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, NOS2, ARG1, TGFβ) by RT-qPCR and foam cell formation in THP-1 differentiated macrophages stimulated with PMA. Results It was observed that the minor levels of total ROS determination were obtained with tibolone at 48 h in post-treatment scheme. Also, in a long term we found decrease the proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α). Finally, with treatment for 24 h with P4 y Tb we observed fewer LDL vesicles into macrophages cytoplasm. Conclusions These results suggest that tibolone reduces the inflammatory process, also inhibits the foam cells formation; suggesting a possible role in reducing cardiovascular risk.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pathogens has been associated mainly with excessive use of antibiotics. Most studies of resistance have focused on clinical pathogens; however, microorganisms are exposed to numerous anthropogenic substances. Few studies have sought to determine the effects of chemical substances on microorganisms. Exposure to these substances may contribute to increased rates of AMR. Understanding microorganism communities in natural environments and AMR mechanisms under the effects of anthropogenic substances, such as pesticides, is important to addressing the current crisis of antimicrobial resistance. This report draws attention to molecules, rather than antibiotics, that are commonly used in agrochemicals and may be involved in developing AMR in non-clinical environments, such as soil. This report examines pesticides as mediators for the appearance of AMR, and as a route for antibiotic resistance genes and antimicrobial resistant bacteria to the anthropic environment. Available evidence suggests that the natural environment may be a key dissemination route for antibiotic-resistant genes. Understanding the interrelationship of soil, water, and pesticides is fundamental to raising awareness of the need for environmental monitoring programs and overcoming the current crisis of AMR.La resistencia a los antimicrobianos (RAM) en los agentes patógenos ha sido relacionada principalmente con el uso excesivo de los antibióticos. La mayoría de los estudios sobre la resistencia se han centrado en los agentes patógenos de importancia clínica; sin embargo, los microorganismos están expuestos a numerosas sustancias antropogénicas. Son muy pocos los estudios dedicados a determinar los efectos que producen las sustancias químicas en los microorganismos. La exposición a estas sustancias puede contribuir a los niveles mayores de la RAM. Comprender las comunidades de microorganismos en el medioambiente natural y los mecanismos de la RAM por los efectos de las sustancias antropogénicas, como los plaguicidas, resulta importante para abordar la actual crisis de la resistencia a los antimicrobianos. En este informe se hace énfasis en las moléculas, en lugar de los antibióticos, que se usan generalmente en los productos agroquímicos y que podrían contribuir a que se desarrolle la RAM en entornos no clínicos, como el suelo. Asimismo, se analiza el papel de los plaguicidas como mediadores en la aparición de la RAM, así como la manera en la que los genes y los microorganismos resistentes a los antibióticos se trasladan hacia el entorno antrópico. La evidencia indica que el entorno natural podría ser una vía clave de propagación para los genes resistentes a los antibióticos. Comprender la interrelación entre el suelo, el agua y los plaguicidas es fundamental para crear consciencia en cuanto a la necesidad de establecer programas de seguimiento ambiental y así poder superar la crisis actual de la RAM.A resistência antimicrobiana dos patógenos está principalmente associada ao uso excessivo de antibióticos. Os estudos sobre resistência se concentram, na sua maioria, nos patógenos de importância clínica. Porém, os microrganismos são expostos a inúmeras substâncias antropogênicas e existem poucos estudos sobre os efeitos que os compostos químicos causam nos microrganismos. A exposição a estes compostos pode contribuir para o aumento da resistência antimicrobiana. Entender as comunidades de microrganismos em ambiente natural e os mecanismos de resistência antimicrobiana por ação das substâncias antropogênicas, como os pesticidas, é essencial no combate à atual crise de resistência antimicrobiana. Este informe destaca os compostos ativos (exceto antibióticos) normalmente usados nos produtos agroquímicos que podem contribuir para o surgimento de resistência antimicrobiana em ambientes não clínicos, como o solo. Examina-se o papel dos pesticidas como mediadores da resistência antimicrobiana e as vias pelas quais os genes que conferem resistência e as bactérias resistentes aos antimicrobianos alcançam o ambiente antrópico. As evidências indicam que o ambiente natural pode ser uma das principais vias de disseminação dos genes que conferem resistência aos antibióticos. Entender a inter-relação entre solo, água e pesticidas é fundamental para conscientizar sobre a necessidade de programas de monitoramento ambiental e combater a atual crise de resistência antimicrobiana.

El presente estudio tiene como objetivo describir la ansiedad ante las situaciones existenciales en religiosos y no religiosos en una muestra 100 universitarios colombianos, con una edad promedio de 22 años. Los participantes completaron el ANSIV que mide ansiedad existencial (ANSIV) y la Escala de Depresión de Zung. Los hallazgos comprueban que los no religiosos presentaron mayor ansiedad que los religiosos frente a la toma de decisiones; que no se observaron diferencias en relación al sentido de vida en ambos grupos; que los no religiosos presentaron ansiedad más exacerbada frente a la muerte que los religiosos y que los religiosos se encontraron menos ligeramente deprimidos que los no religiosos. The present study aims to describe the anxiety in existential situations in religious and non-religious people in a sample of 100 students from Colombia with an average age of 22 years. The participants completed the ANSIV that measures Existential Anxiety and Self- Rating Depression Scale. The findings show that the non-religious presented higher anxiety than the religious people in decision-making process; no differences were observed in relation to the meaning of life in both groups; non-religious presented anxiety more exacerbated in the face of death than religious people and the religious were found slightly less depressed than non-religious.

RESUMEN Objetivo Aplicar una técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) múltiple en tiempo real para la detección de Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes y Yersinia enterocolitica, como herramienta de apoyo diagnóstico en la vigilancia de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos. Materiales y Métodos Se aplicó la metodología molecular en muestras clínicas provenientes de individuos que estaban asociados a brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de dos departamentos de Colombia. Los resultados se compararon con los datos arrojados por la metodología convencional de cultivo. Adicionalmente a los aislamientos obtenidos se les evaluó relación clonal mediante la técnica de electroforesis de campo pulsado (PFGE). Resultados Se determinó un total de 123 casos de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de los cuales 45 muestras biológicas fueron confirmadas por laboratorio y 88 mediante nexo epidemiológico. La metodología molecular detectó 35/45 muestras positivas frente a 17/45 muestras positivas detectadas mediante la metodología convencional. La PFGE demostró relación clonal en cada brote. Conclusión Los resultados del estudio demuestran la aplicabilidad de la técnica molecular como herramienta útil de apoyo diagnóstico en la caracterización de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos, permitiendo una respuesta oportuna y confiable. ABSTRACT Objective To apply a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to detect Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Yersinia enterocolitica as a diagnostic support tool for the surveillance of foodborne disease outbreaks. Materials and Methods Molecular methodology was applied on clinical samples taken from individuals who were associated with foodborne disease outbreaks in two departments of Colombia. The results were compared with the data obtained by conventional culture methodology. In addition, the clonal relation of the isolations was evaluated using the Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) technique. Results 123 cases of foodborne disease were determined, of which 45 biological samples were confirmed by laboratory and 88 by epidemiological link. The molecular methodology detected 35/45 positive samples versus 17/45 positive samples detected by conventional methodology. PFGE demonstrated a clonal relation during each outbreak. Conclusion The results of the study demonstrate the applicability of the molecular technique as a useful diagnostic support tool to characterize foodborne disease outbreaks, allowing a timely and reliable response.

Objetivo Aplicar una técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) múltiple en tiempo real para la detección de Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes y Yersinia enterocolitica, como herramienta de apoyo diagnóstico en la vigilancia de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos.Materiales y Métodos Se aplicó la metodología molecular en muestras clínicas provenientes de individuos que estaban asociados a brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de dos departamentos de Colombia. Los resultados se compararon con los datos arrojados por la metodología convencional de cultivo. Adicionalmente a los aislamientos obtenidos se les evaluó relación clonal mediante la técnica de electroforesis de campo pulsado (PFGE).Resultados Se determinó un total de 123 casos de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de los cuales 45 muestras biológicas fueron confirmadas por laboratorio y 88 mediante nexo epidemiológico. La metodología molecular detectó 35/45 muestras positivas frente a 17/45 muestras positivas detectadas mediante la metodología convencional. La PFGE demostró relación clonal en cada brote.Conclusión Los resultados del estudio demuestran la aplicabilidad de la técnica molecular como herramienta útil de apoyo diagnóstico en la caracterización de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos, permitiendo una respuesta oportuna y confiable. Objective To apply a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to detect Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Yersinia enterocolitica as a diagnostic support tool for the surveillance of foodborne disease outbreaks.Materials and Methods Molecular methodology was applied on clinical samples taken from individuals who were associated with foodborne disease outbreaks in two departments of Colombia. The results were compared with the data obtained by conventional culture methodology. In addition, the clonal relation of the isolations was evaluated using the Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) technique.Results 123 cases of foodborne disease were determined, of which 45 biological samples were confirmed by laboratory and 88 by epidemiological link. The molecular methodology detected 35/45 positive samples versus 17/45 positive samples detected by conventional methodology. PFGE demonstrated a clonal relation during each outbreak.Conclusion The results of the study demonstrate the applicability of the molecular technique as a useful diagnostic support tool to characterize foodborne disease outbreaks, allowing a timely and reliable response.

La salud mental es una de las principales áreas de interés en el marco de bienestar social y en el contexto organizacional. En este sentido, se ha convertido en un reto para las organizaciones no gubernamentales que contribuyen al sector de economía de los servicios sociales, alcanzar un equilibrio entre dos aspectos íntimamente relacionados como lo son la salud y el servicio a la comunidad. Este artículo tuvo como objetivo describir la responsabilidad social corporativa, el engagement y la satisfacción con la vida en una muestra de 57 colaboradores de una ONG colombiana. Los participantes completaron el Maslach Burnout Inventory, la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida y la Encuesta de Adicción al Trabajo. Los resultaron arrojaron que el engagement en el trabajo, está directamente relacionado con actitudes positivas hacia las tareas laborales y en la satisfacción de vida. Mental health is one of the main areas of interest within the framework of social welfare and the organizational context. In this sense, it has become a challenge for non-governmental organizations that contribute to the social services economy sector, striking a balance between two closely related aspects such as health and community service. This article aimed to describe corporate social responsibility, engagement and satisfaction with life in a sample of 57 employees of a Colombian NGO. Participants filled the Maslach Burnout Inventory, Life Satisfaction Scale and Work Addiction Survey. The results showed that engagement at work is directly related to positive attitudes towards work tasks and the satisfaction with life.

The skin in the human is the largest organ, his integrity represents protection against various chemical, biological and mechanical agents. The injuries in this tissue are solved by forming a scar, however, different molecular alterations may overstimulate this process, leading to the formation of aberrant scars (hypertrophic or keloid). The most recommended treatment for such injuries is the intralesional application of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and on the other hand, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a pro-hormone that has a wide variety of biological effects such as regulation of the synthesis of collagen fibers, cell protection, anti-tumor properties, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. In this paper, the combination of AT-DHEA on proliferation and cell death in fibroblast cell line 3T3-L1 was studied. The results showed that the AT 100 and 1000 M DHEA to inhibit proliferation by 50 and 40% respectively. The combination of AT-DHEA (10000-10 M) inhibits cell proliferation and induce programmed cell death, so this combination could be used in hypertrophic or keloid scars for disposal.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) represent a heterogeneous population with the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into different cell types. At the middle of the last century these cells initially were described in bone marrow (BM), thence this tissue has become the gold standard for obtaining and characterization of MSC. It is known that these cells are housed in specific areas called niches distributed throughout all body, where they contribute to tissue regeneration processes of self-tissue were they are located. However, finding an alternative source of CTM with the same characteristics that have showed in MO, but its obtention no represent a risk since the donor is essential to their use for therapeutic purposes. In this study we isolated mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, adipose tissue and Wharton’s jelly and they were compared in their characteristics in according to the standards of the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT). The results showed that the morphology as well as adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation and also the expression of surface antigens (CD90, CD73, and CD105) from all tissues accomplished the standards, although Wharton’s jelly represented the best option.

"Las células troncales mesenquimales (CTM) representan una población heterogénea con capacidad para auto-renovarse y diferenciarse a distintos tipos celulares. Estas fueron descritas en un inicio en médula ósea (MO) a mediados del siglo pasado, desde entonces este tejido se ha convertido en el estándar de oro para la obtención y caracterización de CTM. Actualmente se sabe que este tipo de células se encuentran alojadas en nichos distribuidos por todo el organismo, donde contribuyen a los procesos de regeneración del tejido donde se localizan. No obstante, encontrar una fuente alterna de CTM con las mismas características que las de MO, pero que su extracción no suponga riesgo para el donador es fundamental para su utilización con fines terapéuticos. En este trabajo se aislaron células troncales de médula ósea, y se compararon con tejido adiposo y gelatina de Wharton y caracterizaron de acuerdo a los criterios de la Sociedad Internacional para la Terapia Celular (ISCT). Los resultados mostraron que la morfología, diferenciación osteogénica y adipogénica, así como la expresión de los antígenos de superficie CD90, CD73 y CD105 cumplen con los estándares, señalando a las provenientes de gelatina de Wharton como mejor opción."

"Las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) son la principal causa de muerte a nivel mundial, donde la terapia con Células Troncales Mesenquimales (CTM) representa una alternativa para los pacientes que no logran recuperarse con los tratamientos actuales. El lograr que las CTM residentes se movilicen al órgano afectado representaría una ventaja para el manejo terapéutico de las ECV. La dehidroepiandrosterona (DHEA) es un precursor hormonal cuyos niveles disminuyen a lo largo de la vida, lo que se ha asociado al desarrollo de ECV. Diversos estudios han demostrado que el consumo de DHEA previene y mejora la condición cardiaca, aunque no se sabe si esto ocurre porque se ejerce un efecto en los cardiomiocitos y estos, a su vez, hacia las CTM. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el efecto del medio condicionado procedente de la línea H9C2 pretratada con DHEA y sometida a daño, sobre la motilidad de CTM, llevando a cabo un ensayo de cierre de herida. El pretratamiento con DHEA y el daño en la línea H9C2, promueve la motilidad de CTM. El estímulo de la motilidad de CTM por un efecto indirecto de DHEA podría ser una estrategia terapéutica para el daño cardiaco."

"La piel es el órgano más extenso en el ser humano, su integridad representa protección contra diferentes agentes químicos, biológicos y mecánicos. Las lesiones ocasionadas en este tejido se resuelven mediante la formación de una cicatriz, sin embargo, diferentes alteraciones moleculares pueden sobre estimular este proceso, lo que conlleva a la formación de cicatrices aberrantes (hipertrófica o queloide). El tratamiento más recomendado para este tipo de lesiones es la aplicación intralesional del acetónido de triamcinolona (AT) y por otro lado, la dehidroepiandrosterona (DHEA) es una pro-hormona que posee una gran variedad de efectos biológicos como: regulación de la síntesis de fibras de colágeno, protección celular, propiedades antitumorales, antiinflamatorias y antioxidante. En este trabajo, se estudió la combinación de AT-DHEA sobre la proliferación y muerte celular en la línea celular de fibroblastos 3T3- L1. Los resultados mostraron que la AT a 100 M y la DHEA a 1000 M inhiben la proliferación en un 50 y 40% respectivamente. La combinación de AT-DHEA (10000-10 M) inhibe la proliferación celular e inducen muerte celular programada, entonces esta combinación pudiera utilizarse en cicatrices hipertróficas o queloides para su eliminación."

"Osteoporosis, characterized by diminished bone mineral density (BMD) and augmented susceptibility to fractures, is tied to a low level of the suprarenal steroid called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). When administrated in hormonal replacement therapy, DHEA improves BMD. Although there are various physical and drug treatments to prevent bone loss, the results have generally been poor. For this reason, cellular therapy based on the application of mesenchymal stem cells has emerged as an attractive alternative. In this study the effect of DHEA on osteogenic gene expression of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs). Cell population obtained was characterized as having fibroblastoid morphology and the expression of antigens positive for CD90, CD73, CD13 and CD105. The plasticity of hBM-MSCs was evident and corroborated by adipocytes and osteoblast differentiation. DHEA concentration used in all experiments were 1, 10 and 100 μM during seven days and after the expression of mRNA BMP2, RUNX2 and SPARC (the main involved genes on osteogenic differentiation) was evaluated. Results showed that all DHEA concentration induced high expression on mRNA of BMP2, RUNX2 and SPARC. However, DHEA at 1μM induced a higher accumulation of extracellular Ca++ which it′s a characteristic for bone formation. This work confirms that DHEA could be considered an alternative in the treatment of bone diseases."

To apply a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to detect Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Yersinia enterocolitica as a diagnostic support tool for the surveillance of foodborne disease outbreaks.Molecular methodology was applied on clinical samples taken from individuals who were associated with foodborne disease outbreaks in two departments of Colombia. The results were compared with the data obtained by conventional culture methodology. In addition, the clonal relation of the isolations was evaluated using the Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) technique.123 cases of foodborne disease were determined, of which 45 biological samples were confirmed by laboratory and 88 by epidemiological link. The molecular methodology detected 35/45 positive samples versus 17/45 positive samples detected by conventional methodology. PFGE demonstrated a clonal relation during each outbreak.The results of the study demonstrate the applicability of the molecular technique as a useful diagnostic support tool to characterize foodborne disease outbreaks, allowing a timely and reliable response.Aplicar una técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) múltiple en tiempo real para la detección de Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes y Yersinia enterocolitica, como herramienta de apoyo diagnóstico en la vigilancia de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos.Se aplicó la metodología molecular en muestras clínicas provenientes de individuos que estaban asociados a brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de dos departamentos de Colombia. Los resultados se compararon con los datos arrojados por la metodología convencional de cultivo. Adicionalmente a los aislamientos obtenidos se les evaluó relación clonal mediante la técnica de electroforesis de campo pulsado (PFGE).Se determinó un total de 123 casos de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos de los cuales 45 muestras biológicas fueron confirmadas por laboratorio y 88 mediante nexo epidemiológico. La metodología molecular detectó 35/45 muestras positivas frente a 17/45 muestras positivas detectadas mediante la metodología convencional. La PFGE demostró relación clonal en cada brote.Los resultados del estudio demuestran la aplicabilidad de la técnica molecular como herramienta útil de apoyo diagnóstico en la caracterización de brotes de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos, permitiendo una respuesta oportuna y confiable.

"Antecedentes: La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 se ha convertido en un problema a nivel mundial. Se estima que del 15 al 25% de los pacientes desarrollarán una úlcera crónica a lo largo de su vida, y cerca del 33% de los costos directos de atención a diabetes mellitus tipo 2 se gasta en la atención de estas úlceras. Las células troncales mesenquimales han surgido como una fuente celular prometedora para el tratamiento de este tipo de úlceras. Caso clínico: Masculino de 67 a ̃ nos con antecedentes de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, infarto agudo de miocardio y úlcera crónica en miembro inferior derecho que involucra la cara interna del pie y parte de la pierna derecha; se le trató con células troncales mesenquimales, resultando una adecuada integración del injerto de piel y la cobertura total de la lesión. Conclusión: La implementación de células troncales mesenquimales para el tratamiento de la úlcera crónica es factible. El impacto en la población sería importante, al mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes y disminuir los costos de atención."

Leukemia cells produce acidic metabolites due to their high metabolic condition. An alkaline pHi (intracellular pH) shift, caused by activation of the Na+/H+ exchange, is an important event in the mechanism of growth factor activity. However, the role of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger in the survival of erythroleukemia TF-1 cells has not yet been studied in detail. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl) amiloride (EIPA), a highly specific blocker of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger, on the survival of SCF-dependent TF-1 cells. The effects of EIPA on survival and mitochondrial membrane potential were studied when exposing wild type TF-1 cells and TF-1 cells expressing bcl-2 to EIPA for 48 h. Ectopic expression of the bcl-2 gene maintained a mildly alkaline pH and prevented the simultaneous appearance of apoptosis and autophagy (typically displayed by TF-1 cells) in the presence of EIPA. Consistent with Stem Cell Factor (SCF) function, we found that this molecule rescued TF-1 cells during autophagy but not apoptosis, allowing these cells to subsequently respond to GM-CSF. Serum deprivation or SCF withdrawal induced cell death at 36 h in TF-1 and TF-1 neo cells, whereas TF-1/bcl-2 cells tended to undergo apoptosis and show acidic vacuoles after 96 h, pointing to a transient anti-apoptotic effect. The present study shows the suppressive effect of EIPA on the proliferation of leukemia cell line stimulated with SCF, apparently by decreasing the mitochondria membrane potential and averting alkalinization. Through the constitutive expression of bcl-2, TF-1 cells were survival factor independent. Proliferation in these cells was not affected by EIPA at the concentrations used against parental TF-1 cells, indicating that the inhibitory effect in SCF-stimulated cells can be attributed to specific blocking of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger.

Diabetes mellitus 2 has become a global problem. It is estimated that 15% to 25% of patients could develop a chronic ulcer in their life, and nearly 33% of direct care costs of the diabetes mellitus 2 is spent on treating these ulcers. Mesenchymal stem cells have emerged as a promising cell source for the treatment of these ulcers.The case is presented of a 67 year-old male with a history of diabetes mellitus, acute myocardial infarction, and food ulcer chronic involving right foot and part of his leg. He was treated with mesenchymal stem cell management, resulting in skin graft integration and full coverage of the lesion.The implementation of mesenchymal stem cell techniques for treatment of chronic ulcer is feasible. The impact on the population would lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life and reduce healthcare spending.

ResumenAntecedentesLa diabetes mellitus tipo2 se ha convertido en un problema a nivel mundial. Se estima que del 15 al 25% de los pacientes desarrollarán una úlcera crónica a lo largo de su vida, y cerca del 33% de los costos directos de atención a diabetes mellitus tipo2 se gasta en la atención de estas úlceras. Las células troncales mesenquimales han surgido como una fuente celular prometedora para el tratamiento de este tipo de úlceras.Caso clínicoMasculino de 67años con antecedentes de diabetes mellitus tipo2, infarto agudo de miocardio y úlcera crónica en miembro inferior derecho que involucra la cara interna del pie y parte de la pierna derecha; se le trató con células troncales mesenquimales, resultando una adecuada integración del injerto de piel y la cobertura total de la lesión.ConclusiónLa implementación de células troncales mesenquimales para el tratamiento de la úlcera crónica es factible. El impacto en la población sería importante, al mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes y disminuir los costos de atención.AbstractBackgroundDiabetes mellitus 2 has become a global problem. It is estimated that 15% to 25% of patients could develop a chronic ulcer in their life, and nearly 33% of direct care costs of the diabetes mellitus 2 is spent on treating these ulcers. Mesenchymal stem cells have emerged as a promising cell source for the treatment of these ulcers.Clinical caseThe case is presented of a 67 year-old male with a history of diabetes mellitus, acute myocardial infarction, and food ulcer chronic involving right foot and part of his leg. He was treated with mesenchymal stem cell management, resulting in skin graft integration and full coverage of the lesion.ConclusionThe implementation of mesenchymal stem cell techniques for treatment of chronic ulcer is feasible. The impact on the population would lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life and reduce healthcare spending.

Background Diabetes mellitus 2 has become a global problem. It is estimated that 15–25% of patients could develop a chronic ulcer in their life, and nearly 33% of direct care costs of the diabetes mellitus 2 is spent on treating these ulcers. Mesenchymal stem cells have emerged as a promising cell source for the treatment of these ulcers. Clinical case The case is presented of a 67 year-old male with a history of diabetes mellitus, acute myocardial infarction, and chronic ulcer involving right foot and part of his leg. He was treated with mesenchymal stem cell management, resulting in skin graft integration and full coverage of the lesion. Conclusion The implementation of mesenchymal stem cell techniques for treatment of chronic ulcer is feasible. The impact on the population would lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life and reduce healthcare spending.