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Abstract Introduction Falls in older adults are a common and serious threat to health and functional independence. It can cause psychological distress, inability to participate in activities of daily living, brain injury, fractures, and even death. The aim was to analyze the psychometric properties of the self-assessed fall risk scale (FRS) that measures the risk of falls in older adults in a central region of Chile, as well as to verify the concurrent validity against functional fitness tests. Materials and methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 222 older adults (OA) [34 males and 188 females] with an age range of 65 to 85 years. The 13-item self-perceived fall risk scale (FRS) was validated. Anthropometric measures (weight, height and waist circumference) were assessed. Five functional fitness tests were measured (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test). Validation was performed by construct validation [(exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)] and concurrent validity. Results The EFA revealed 4 factors in the FRS scale [1: fear of falling (variance 27.1%), 2: use of assistive devices (variance 10.6%), 3: loss of sensation (variance 9.3%), and 4: limited mobility (variance 8.3%)]. Factor loadings ranged from ∼ 0.50 to 0.83 across the 4 components. The Kaiser-Meyer Olkin sample adequacy test (KMO) reflected adequate adequacy (KMO = 0.79, chi-square (X2) = 498.806, gl = 78, p = 0.00). The CFA showed a satisfactory final fit [chi-square (X2) = 126.748, Root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.042, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.946, Comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.935 y Normed fit index (NFI) = 0.90. The relationships between the FRS scale and functional fitness tests (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test) ranged from low to moderate (r= -0.23 to 0.41). Conclusion The FRS scale showed acceptable validity and reliability in older adults in central region of Chile. It is expected that this scale will be useful for assessing fall risk in clinical and epidemiological settings in the aging Chilean population.

Abstract Background Fat Free Mass (FFM) is an important and essential indicator in various sports populations, since greater muscle and bone mass generates greater strength, endurance and speed in athletes. Objective The purpose of the study was to validate Body Surface Area (BSA) as an anthropometric indicator to estimate FFM in young basketball players. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 105 male basketball players of the Brazilian Basketball Confederation of Sao Paulo (Campinas), Brazil. The age range was 11 to 15 years. Weight and height were evaluated. BSA, body mass index (BMI) and maturity status (MS) were calculated. Total body scanning was performed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The components were extracted: Fat mass (FM), Fat free mass (FFM), percentage of fat mass (%FM) and bone mass (BM). The data were analyzed using the correlation coefficient of concordance (CCC) in terms of precision and accuracy. Results Three regression equations were generated: equation 1 had age and body weight as predictors [FFM= -30.059+(2.926*age)+(0.625*Weight)] (R2 = 92%, precision = 0.96 and accuracy = 0.99), equation 2 used age and BSA [FFM=-45.719+(1.934*age)+(39.388*BSA)] (R2 = 94%, precision = 0.97 and accuracy = 0.99) and equation 3 was based on APHV and BSA [FFM=-15.284+(1.765*APHV)+(37.610*(BSA)] (R2 = 94%, precision = 0.96 and accuracy = 0.99). Conclusions The results suggest the use of anthropometric equation using decimal age and BSA to estimate FFM in young basketball players. This new method developed can be used to design, evaluate and control training programs and monitor the weight status of athletes.

IntroductionThe use of normative values and/or standards of functional fitness in adults is relevant to overall health and well-being. The objectives of the study were: to identify the physical tests of the senior fitness test (SFT) that have been applied since its proposal and to describe the proposed percentiles according to age, sex and country.MethodsA systematic review study was conducted in the Pubmed and Scopus databases. As eligibility criteria, we considered the period from 1999 to 2022 that presented data on SFT test used in the population over 60 years of age and that described normative values through percentiles. MeSH were used as: (1) Physical fitness, Exercise test, Senior Fitness Test, Functional fitness, Cardiorespiratory fitness, (2) older adult, aged, (3) Reference standards, standards, standards of care. Boolean operators “AND” and “OR” were included. Data extracted from the selected studies included: year of publication, country, sample age, sample size, sample sex, fitness component.Results and discussionSeven studies were identified in five countries (03 in China, 01 in Poland, 01 in Portugal, 01 in Spain and 01 in United States). The age range ranged from 60 to 103 years. The studies were conducted in both sexes. The study with the smallest sample size was by Chung et al. (China) with 944 participants and the largest number of participants was the study by Rikli and Jones in the United States with 7,183 participants. In general, no study was able to complete 100% (8 components) of the tests proposed in the SFT. Normative values were presented through percentile distribution (p10, p50 and p90) organized by age ranges. Males presented better performance in FPF tests than females in all tests. Since the first publication of the SFT until 2022, seven articles have been published in countries such as United States, China (three regional studies), Poland, Portugal and Spain. No study has published the complete battery with its eight components. The percentiles of functional fitness reflect decline with advancing age.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO (CRD42023441294: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023441294).

Objective: a) to verify whether body composition and physical fitness should be analyzed by chronological age and/or maturity stage in young Brazilian soccer players and b) to propose reference values for the evaluation of body composition and physical fitness by maturity stage in elite soccer players.Methods: A descriptive-correlational study was carried out in 206 young Brazilian soccer players (11–16 years old). The sample selection was non-probabilistic by convenience. Weight and standing height were evaluated. Body composition (BC) was assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). BC indicators [(percent fat (%F), Fat-free mass (FFM), Fat mass (FM) and Bone mass (BM)] were extracted. For physical fitness (PF), we applied the Flexibility (cm) sit and reach tests, explosive strength tests [Counter Movement Jump CMJ (cm) and horizontal jump HJ (cm)], speed [Speed 10, 20, 30 and 40 m (seconds)] and Yo-Yo endurance level I test. Percentiles were constructed for BC and PF using the LMS method [L (Lambda; skewness), M (Mu; median) and S (Sigma; coefficient of variation)].Results: The explanatory power between chronological age (CA) with BC was: FM (R2 = 0.03%), FFM (R2 = 0.66%) and BM (R2 = 0.62%), while between maturity status (MS) with BC were: FM (R2 = 0.04%), FFM (R2 = 0.71%) and BM (R2 = 0.66). The explanatory power between the CA with the physical fitness tests ranged from: (R2 = 0.22–0.62%). While between MS with physical fitness the values ranged from: (R2 = 0.23–0.64%). Percentiles per MS (P3, P5, P10, P15, P25, P50, P75, P85, P90, P95 and P97) were proposed for both BC and PF.Conclusion: The results of the study have shown that the evaluation of BC and PF of young soccer players should be performed by controlling for MS rather than for CA. The inclusion of a non-invasive method to control MS by means of percentiles during puberty may contribute to the development of retention and exclusion of young soccer players, thus, they may have a better chance of achieving sporting success.

The objective was to summarize the scientific literature on the anthropometric characteristics of female futsal players. A systematic review documentary study was carried out. SCOPUS, PUBMED and SCIELO databases were used to search for information on primary studies related to the anthropometric profile of women's indoor soccer (elite and non-elite). The keywords used were: futsal, female, anthropometry. The range of years for the search was from 2010 to 2020. To analyze anthropometric differences, two groups were formed: group A: elite and group B: non-elite. 31 primary studies were identified, 22 (71%) in Scopus, 5 (16.1%) in PUBMED and 4 (12.9%) in SCIELO. Three publication languages were considered (English, Spanish and Portuguese) and 6 countries were identified (Brazil, Spain, Iran, Turkey, Venezuela and Italy). Players in the elite group evidenced higher weight, height, and BMI relative to their non-elite counterparts. Discrepancy in anthropometric characteristics between elite and non-elite players was verified. These results suggest that in order to participate in competitions at the highest level in women's futsal, they should have greater weight, height and BMI than their non-elite counterparts.

Injured endothelial cells are shown to induce an A1 phenotype in astrocytes, characterized by a genetic signature associated with extracellular matrix remodeling factors (e.g. decorin and vascular Aß deposits).

La prueba Körperkoordinationstest für kinder (KTK) es de gran utilidad en el ámbito de la educación física, rehabilitación y en ciencias del deporte. Su aplicación implica el control riguroso en términos de confiabilidad. Esta revisión verifica los tipos de confiabilidad utilizados. Se utilizó la base de datos Pubmed, incluyendo estudios del periodo 2016 hasta 2020. Se utilizó las palabras clave: coordinación motora, competencia motora, KTK, niños, confiabilidad. Se seleccionó 10 estudios transversales. Los rangos de edad y el tamaño de la muestra oscilaron entre 4 hasta los 14 años e incluye un tamaño de muestra desde 64 hasta 3738. De los 10 estudios, 2 han utilizado tres criterios de confiabilidad (estabilidad, equivalencia y consistencia interna), 3 utilizaron medidas de estabilidad, y 4 de equivalencia. Las medidas de estabilidad reportadas varían de 0,60 a 0,99, las medidas de equivalencia desde 0,75 a 0,99 y por medio de consistencia interna 0,95. En conclusión, se verificó que los estudios trasversales que evalúan las pruebas de KTK fueron realizadas por lo general en niños de ambos géneros y aplicados en rangos de edad desde los 4 hasta los 14 años como lo sugiere la propuesta original y los tipos de confiabilidad utilizados variaron entre los estudios desde moderado hasta excelente.

Currently, there is a growing need to assess social skills in young university students since the use and application of these scales can provide benefits in different situations, such as work, education, clinical and psychological. The objective of the study was to verify the validity and reliability of a social skills scale (SS) for students from three professional health sciences programs in Chile. This information will provide understanding and development of SS among health care team members and between them and patients. A cross-sectional study was designed with 185 Chilean university students (141 males and 44 females). Students were recruited voluntarily from a private university in Chile. Ages ranged from 18 to 30 years old. Goldstein’s SS scale (consisting of six dimensions with a total of 50 questions) was used. It was administered virtually. Validity was verified by means of confirmatory factor analysis and reliability through internal consistency. The factor structure of the model confirmed the 50 questions and six dimensions of the scale. In general, the model reflected satisfactory values. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin’s (KMO) test for the adequacy (suitability) of the sample was 0.834, chi squared X2= 4344.8 (gl= 1425, p< 0.000). The comparative fit index (CFI) was 0.45, goodness of fit index (GFI) was 0.56, the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) was 0.091, and the % of variance 54%. The communalities reflected values from 0.31 to 0.76. In addition, Cronbach’s Alpha values varied from 0.72 to 0.75. In its totality, the scale demonstrated a reliability of 0.75. The SS scale is valid and reliable. It can be used with students from nursing, kinesiology, and speech therapy programs. The results suggest the use and application of the scale with professionals working in higher education.

Abstract Background Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is typified by the cerebrovascular deposition of amyloid. The mechanisms underlying the contribution of CAA to neurodegeneration are not currently understood. Although CAA is highly associated with the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ), other amyloids are known to associate with the vasculature. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by parenchymal Aβ deposition, intracellular accumulation of tau, and significant neuroinflammation. CAA increases with age and is present in 85–95% of individuals with AD. A substantial amount of research has focused on understanding the connection between parenchymal amyloid and glial activation and neuroinflammation, while associations between vascular amyloid pathology and glial reactivity remain understudied. Methods Here, we dissect the glial and immune responses associated with early-stage CAA with histological, biochemical, and gene expression analyses in a mouse model of familial Danish dementia (FDD), a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the vascular accumulation of Danish amyloid (ADan). Findings observed in this CAA mouse model were complemented with primary culture assays. Results We demonstrate that early-stage CAA is associated with dysregulation in immune response networks and lipid processing, severe astrogliosis with an A1 astrocytic phenotype, and decreased levels of TREM2 with no reactive microgliosis. Our results also indicate how cholesterol accumulation and ApoE are associated with vascular amyloid deposits at the early stages of pathology. We also demonstrate A1 astrocytic mediation of TREM2 and microglia homeostasis. Conclusion The initial glial response associated with early-stage CAA is characterized by the upregulation of A1 astrocytes without significant microglial reactivity. Gene expression analysis revealed that several AD risk factors involved in immune response and lipid processing may also play a preponderant role in CAA. This study contributes to the increasing evidence that brain cholesterol metabolism, ApoE, and TREM2 signaling are major players in the pathogenesis of AD-related dementias, including CAA. Understanding the basis for possible differential effects of glial response, ApoE, and TREM2 signaling on parenchymal plaques versus vascular amyloid deposits provides important insight for developing future therapeutic interventions.

The practice of physical exercise is recommended in the prevention of the deterioration of neuromuscular functions in aging. The objectives of this systematic review were to describe the protocols used and the functional fitness indicators evaluated in aquatic exercise programs in adults aged 50 to 80 years. The Pubmed database was used. The keywords were: 1) Physical exercise program or protocols or duration or type of exercise or aquatic exercise, frequency or intensity or indicators; 2) Adults or older adults; 3) Training or indicators, functional fitness, physical fitness. The search strategy considered the components of the Population, Interventions, Comparators, Outcomes, and Study design (PICOS) tool. Nine experimental studies were identified. These studies developed protocols to improve functional fitness in adults aged 50 to 80 years. They were based on sessions of 2 to 5 per week, the work time per session was 30 to 60min, intensities varied between 50 to 95% and totaled between 4 to 24 weeks of intervention. The activities were based on aquatic gymnastic exercises aimed at muscular strengthening of the upper and lower extremities, as well as coordination, balance, agility, cycling and walking exercises submerged in water. The protocols developed to improve functional fitness in adults aged 50 to 80 years were based on general physical exercise prescription guidelines (frequency, duration, intensity and type of activity). The application of aquatic exercises based on gymnastic exercises can provoke positive responses on functional fitness if worked at least 2 to 5 times per week, 30 to 60min/day and at intensities of 50 to 95%. These systematized indicators can be used by professionals working with adults to create and promote aquatic programs to improve functional fitness.

The components of physical fitness, aerobic capacity and anthropometric characteristics play an important role in maintaining and protecting cardiorespiratory functioning during all stages of life. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between body fat indicators and aerobic capacity of students in a physical education program. A descriptive study (cross-sectional) was carried out with 110 physical education university students (75 males and 35 females). Ages ranged between 17.7 and 26.1 years old. Weight, standing height, sitting height, waist circumference (WC), and seven skinfolds (mm) were evaluated. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. The Navette test (20m back and forth run) was used to assess the students. The correlations between adiposity and aerobic capacity for males varied from r= -0.21 to 0.34 and for females, from r= -0.21 to 0.34. In general, greater body adiposity (BMI, WC, and skinfolds) was a determinant in the males (R2= 14 to 27%). For the females, the Σ 7 skinfolds explained 11% of the adiposity. Males and females classified as having a high level of aerobic capacity showed less fat tissue (Σ 7 skinfolds) than those with moderate and low aerobic capacity (p

ObjectiveKnowledge of the biological parameters of pubertal growth spurt allows verification of secular changes and exploration of the timing of puberty. The aim of the study was to estimate final height, age at peak height velocity (APHV), and peak height velocity PHV (cm/y) in children and adolescents living at moderate altitude in Colombia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was designed in 2.295 schoolchildren from Bogotá (Colombia) with an age range from 5.0 to 18.9 years. Height (cm) was assessed. Preece–Baines model 1 (1PB) was used to make inferences about mathematical and biological parameters.ResultsThe five mathematical parameters estimated in general have reflected quality in the fit to the model, reflecting a small residual error. Final height was reached in boys at 170.8 ± 0.4 cm and in girls at 157.9 ± 0.2 cm. APHV was estimated at 12.71 ± 0.1 years in boys and 10.4 ± 0.2 years in girls. Girls reached APHV 2.2 years earlier than boys. In relation to PHV (cm/y), boys reached higher growth speed in height (7.4 ± 0.4 cm/y), and in girls it was (7.0 ± 0.2 cm/y).ConclusionIt was determined that final height was reached at 170.8 ± 0.4 cm in boys and 157.9 ± 0.2 cm in girls, and APHV (years) and PHV (cm/ye) were reached relatively early and with average peak velocity similar to Asian and Western populations. A large-scale longitudinal study is needed to confirm these findings.

A soccer player should possess a reasonable level of different skills and abilities, so the playing position, level of training, style of play, physical and physiological demands can influence his performance. The objective was to identify the intervention programs that have been applied in search of generating positive effects on explosive strength and speed in young soccer players, as well as to identify the percentage of improvement among soccer players. A bibliographic study of systematic review was carried out. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement, bibliographic searches were performed in the PubMed database. The following descriptors were used: Explosive Strength, soccer players, jump performance, CMJ, SJ, VJ, Plyometrics, power, speed, sprint, kicking speed, change of direction speed, soccer player, football and training, intervention. Articles were included only if they were original articles, studied populations of young soccer players and showed an intervention program related to explosive strength and speed. Six studies were identified that applied intervention programs to look for changes in speed and explosive strength in young soccer players. In the 5m speed tests, significant changes were observed, improving from (0.26 to 0.53m/s), 10m speed (0.07 to 0.27m/s), 20m speed (0.08 to 1.92m/s) and 40m speed (0.25 to 0.62m/s). In explosive strength, performance in the test squat jump SJ (4.1 to 8.6cm), countermovement jump CMJ (1.0 to 8.8cm), horizontal jump HJ (12.17 to 24.4cm) and vertical jump VJ (5.0 to 11.0cm). Speed and explosive strength are relevant components of athletic performance and can be improved through training programs that include 20 to 40min sessions, training two to five times per week over a period of approximately 6 to 9 weeks.

Abstract Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is typified by the cerebrovascular deposition of amyloid. Currently, there is no clear understanding of the mechanisms underlying the contribution of CAA to neurodegeneration. Despite the fact that CAA is highly associated with accumulation of Aβ, other types of amyloids have been shown to associate with the vasculature. Interestingly, in many cases, vascular amyloidosis is accompanied by significant tau pathology. However, the contribution of tau to neurodegeneration associated to CAA remains to be determined. We used a mouse model of Familial Danish Dementia (FDD), a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of Danish amyloid (ADan) in the vasculature, to characterize the contribution of tau to neurodegeneration associated to CAA. We performed histological and biochemical assays to establish tau modifications associated with CAA in conjunction with cell-based and electrophysiological assays to determine the role of tau in the synaptic dysfunction associated with ADan. We demonstrated that ADan aggregates induced hyperphosphorylation and misfolding of tau. Moreover, in a mouse model for CAA, we observed tau oligomers closely associated to astrocytes in the vicinity of vascular amyloid deposits. We finally determined that the absence of tau prevents synaptic dysfunction induced by ADan oligomers. In addition to demonstrating the effect of ADan amyloid on tau misfolding, our results provide compelling evidence of the role of tau in neurodegeneration associated with ADan-CAA and suggest that decreasing tau levels could be a feasible approach for the treatment of CAA.

The Horizontal Jump (HJ) is a daily tool that could be used to categorize the level of muscle fitness performance of the lower limbs. The goal was to compare the muscle fitness with those of international studies and to propose percentiles to assess the HJ performance of children and adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total number of 3023 children and adolescents between the ages of 6.0 to 17.9 were studied. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and lower limb muscle fitness were evaluated. The student HJ performance values in Chile were inferior when compared to HJ performance in Brazil, Poland and Europe. For the Greek study, differences occurred only from age 6 to 15 years old. In comparison to Colombia, students showed better muscle fitness performance. These differences appeared in childhood and lasted until the beginning of adolescence. Percentiles were created to assess the lower limb fitness being an easy tool to be used and applied to classify lower limb strength.

The physical actions developed by baseball players can increase muscular fitness, and consequently improve bone health. The objective was to relate some indicators of muscular fitness to bone health in young baseball players. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 102 children and adolescent baseball players of the Brazilian National Team. The age range ranged from 9.0 to 15.0 years, the average chronological age was 12.2±2.2 years and the maturity status was 14.8±0.5 APHV (age at peak height velocity). Anthropometry, body composition [% fat, fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM)], physical tests [horizontal jump (HJ) and medicine ball throw (MBT)] bone health was estimated by anthropometry [bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC)]. There was positive and significant correlation between bone health with FFM (r2= 89%) and with muscle strength tests (HJ and MBT) (R2= 55 to 75%). Young baseball players classified with low bone health level, reflected decreased values of FFM, HJ and MBT, in relation to young players classified with moderate and high bone health level (p

Cellular growth, function, and protection require proper iron management, and ferritin plays a crucial role as the major iron sequestration and storage protein. Ferritin is a 24 subunit spherical shell protein composed of both light (FTL) and heavy chain (FTH1) subunits, possessing complimentary iron-handling functions and forming three-fold and four-fold pores. Iron uptake through the three-fold pores is well-defined, but the unloading process somewhat less and generally focuses on lysosomal ferritin degradation although it may have an additional, energetically efficient pore mechanism. Hereditary Ferritinopathy (HF) or neuroferritinopathy is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the FTL C-terminal sequence, which in turn cause disorder and unraveling at the four-fold pores allowing iron leakage and enhanced formation of toxic, improperly coordinated iron (ICI). Histopathologically, HF is characterized by iron deposition and formation of ferritin inclusion bodies (IBs) as the cells overexpress ferritin in an attempt to address iron accumulation while lacking the ability to clear ferritin and its aggregates. Overexpression and IB formation tax cells materially and energetically, i.e., their synthesis and disposal systems, and may hinder cellular transport and other spatially dependent functions. ICI causes cellular damage to proteins and lipids through reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation because of high levels of brain oxygen, reductants and metabolism, taxing cellular repair. Iron can cause protein aggregation both indirectly by ROS-induced protein modification and destabilization, and directly as with mutant ferritin through C-terminal bridging. Iron release and ferritin degradation are also linked to cellular misfunction through ferritinophagy, which can release sufficient iron to initiate the unique programmed cell death process ferroptosis causing ROS formation and lipid peroxidation. But IB buildup suggests suppressed ferritinophagy, with elevated iron from four-fold pore leakage together with ROS damage and stress leading to a long-term ferroptotic-like state in HF. Several of these processes have parallels in cell line and mouse models. This review addresses the roles of ferritin structure and function within the above-mentioned framework, as they relate to HF and associated disorders characterized by abnormal iron accumulation, protein aggregation, oxidative damage, and the resulting contributions to cumulative cellular stress and death.

Evidence has shown that lymphatic drainage contributes to removal of debris from the brain but its role in the accumulation of amyloid β peptides (Aβ) has not been demonstrated. We examined the levels of various forms of Aβ in the brain, plasma and lymph nodes in a transgenic model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) at different ages. Herein, we report on the novel finding that Aβ is present in the cervical and axillary lymph nodes of AD transgenic mice and that Aβ levels in lymph nodes increase over time, mirroring the increase of Aβ levels observed in the brain. Aβ levels in lymph nodes were significantly higher than in plasma. At age 15.5 months, there was a significant increase of monomeric soluble Aβ40 (p = 0.003) and Aβ42 (p = 0.05) in the lymph nodes over the baseline values measured at 6 months of age. In contrast, plasma levels of Aβ40 showed no significant changes (p = 0.68) and plasma levels Aβ42 significantly dropped (p = 0.02) at the same age. Aβ concentration was low to undetectable in splenic lymphoid tissue and several other control tissues including heart, lung, liver, kidneys and intestine of the same animals, strongly suggesting that Aβ peptides in lymph nodes are derived from the brain.

Mutations in the ferritin light chain (FTL) gene cause the neurodegenerative disease neuroferritinopathy or hereditary ferritinopathy (HF). HF is characterized by a severe movement disorder and by the presence of nuclear and cytoplasmic iron-containing ferritin inclusion bodies (IBs) in glia and neurons throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and in tissues of multiple organ systems. Herein, using primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts from a mouse model of HF, we show significant intracellular accumulation of ferritin and an increase in susceptibility to oxidative damage when cells are exposed to iron. Treatment of the cells with the iron chelator deferiprone (DFP) led to a significant improvement in cell viability and a decrease in iron content. In vivo, iron overload and DFP treatment of the mouse model had remarkable effects on systemic iron homeostasis and ferritin deposition, without significantly affecting CNS pathology. Our study highlights the role of iron in modulating ferritin aggregation in vivo in the disease HF. It also puts emphasis on the potential usefulness of a therapy based on chelators that can target the CNS to remove and redistribute iron and to resolubilize or prevent ferritin aggregation while maintaining normal systemic iron stores.

Ferritin, a 24-mer heteropolymer of heavy (H) and light (L) subunits, is the main cellular iron storage protein and plays a pivotal role in iron homeostasis by modulating free iron levels thus reducing radical-mediated damage. The H subunit has ferroxidase activity (converting Fe(II) to Fe(III)), while the L subunit promotes iron nucleation and increases ferritin stability. Previous studies on the H gene (Fth) in mice have shown that complete inactivation of Fth is lethal during embryonic development, without ability to compensate by the L subunit. In humans, homozygous loss of the L gene (FTL) is associated with generalized seizure and atypical restless leg syndrome, while mutations in FTL cause a form of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation. Here we generated mice with genetic ablation of the Fth and Ftl genes. As previously reported, homozygous loss of the Fth allele on a wild-type Ftl background was embryonic lethal, whereas knock-out of the Ftl allele (Ftl-/-) led to a significant decrease in the percentage of Ftl-/- newborn mice. Analysis of Ftl-/- mice revealed systemic and brain iron dyshomeostasis, without any noticeable signs of neurodegeneration. Our findings indicate that expression of the H subunit can rescue the loss of the L subunit and that H ferritin homopolymers have the capacity to sequester iron in vivo. We also observed that a single allele expressing the H subunit is not sufficient for survival when both alleles encoding the L subunit are absent, suggesting the need of some degree of complementation between the subunits as well as a dosage effect.

Familial Danish dementia (FDD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease caused by a 10-nucleotide duplication-insertion in the BRI(2) gene. FDD is clinically characterized by loss of vision, hearing impairment, cerebellar ataxia and dementia. The main neuropathologic findings in FDD are the deposition of Danish amyloid (ADan) and the presence of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Here we investigated tau accumulation and truncation in double transgenic (Tg-FDD-Tau) mice generated by crossing transgenic mice expressing human Danish mutant BRI(2) (Tg-FDD) with mice expressing human 4-repeat mutant Tau-P301S (Tg-Tau). Compared to Tg-Tau mice, we observed a significant enhancement of tau deposition in Tg-FDD-Tau mice. In addition, a significant increase in tau cleaved at aspartic acid (Asp) 421 was observed in Tg-FDD-Tau mice. Tg-FDD-Tau mice also showed a significant decrease in synaptophysin levels, occurring before widespread deposition of fibrillar ADan and tau can be observed. Thus, the presence of soluble ADan/mutant BRI(2) can lead to significant changes in tau metabolism and synaptic dysfunction. Our data provide new in vivo insights into the pathogenesis of FDD and the pathogenic pathway(s) by which amyloidogenic peptides, regardless of their primary amino acid sequence, can cause neurodegeneration.

BACKGROUND:Mutations in the integral membrane protein 2B, also known as BRI(2), a type II trans-membrane domain protein cause two autosomal dominant neurodegenerative diseases, Familial British and Danish Dementia. In these conditions, accumulation of a C-terminal peptide (ABri and ADan) cleaved off from the mutated precursor protein by the pro-protein convertase furin, leads to amyloid deposition in the walls of blood vessels and parenchyma of the brain. Recent advances in the understanding of the generation of amyloid in Alzheimer's disease has lead to the finding that BRI(2) interacts with the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP), decreasing the efficiency of APP processing to generate Abeta. The interaction between the two precursors, APP and BRI(2), and possibly between Abeta and ABri or ADan, could be important in influencing the rate of amyloid production or the tendency of these peptides to aggregate. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS:We have generated the first BRI(2) Danish Knock-In (FDD(KI)) murine model of FDD, expressing the pathogenic decamer duplication in exon 6 of the BRI(2) gene. FDD(KI) mice do not show any evident abnormal phenotype, with normal brain histology and no detectable amyloid deposition in blood vessel walls or parenchyma. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE:This new murine mouse model will be important to further understand the interaction between APP and BRI(2), and to provide insights into the molecular basis of FDD.

Explosive strength is fundamental in the performance of athletes. The objective is to identify the criteria used for the prescription of Explosive Strength Training (EST) and to verify the changes it produces in futsal players. A systematic review of studies analyzing the criteria used for the prescription of explosive strength training was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scielo, considering the period between 2017 and 2023. The search strategy used the terms: players, Futsal, Futsal training, strength, physical exercise, explosive strength, intervention, experimental study. Data extraction included: year of publication, country, sample, protocol performed (content and activity developed, duration, intensity, frequency, total weeks). A total of six studies were identified. Fifty percent of the studies were developed in Brazil, the others in Italy, Spain and Portugal. Five studies applied a training of 2 sessions per week and one indicated 2-3 sessions. Three studies describe the training sessions (study 1: 15-30 minutes, study 2: 20-25 minutes, study 3: 1 hour). Five studies used 1RM and one study used subjective perception of exertion (PSE). The contents of the interventions were varied, from squats with weights, accelerations and decelerations, leg press, leg extension, plyometrics. The training criteria for explosive strength were: intensity controlled by a 1RM, frequency of 2 to 3 sessions per week, duration of 15 to 30 minutes per session and the training contents were varied. These results suggest positive changes in CMJ, increasing explosive strength from ∼2.0 to 4.6 cm (5.8 to 13.7%). These findings highlight the need to develop a more standardized protocol to optimize the benefits of explosive strength training in this athletic population.

Realizar un análisis bibliométrico integral de la productividad científica relacionada con programas de intervención que buscan mejorar la función cognitiva en adultos mayores, según revista, país y tema de intervención en la base de datos pubmed. Se realizó un estudio bibliométrico durante el periodo 2018 al 2023. La búsqueda bibliográfica se realizó en la base de datos PubMed. Los términos de búsqueda fueron: cognitivecayden, cognitivecayden, exercise program, intervention program, physical exercise,older adult, elderly. Cada artículo identificó: año de publicación, idioma de publicación, país de publicación, nombre de la revista y tema del estudio. Se utilizaron los lineamientos establecidos por PRISMA. Se incluyeron 51 publicaciones científicas, analizadas en 34 revistas. China lidera con 14 estudios (27,5%), seguido de Estados Unidos con 5 artículos (9,8%). Corea y Singapur están en tercer lugar con 4 estudios cada uno (7,8%), seguido de Japón con 3 estudios (5,9%). En cuanto al idioma de publicación, el 96,1% (n=49) fueron publicados en inglés. Solo el 3,9% (n=2) fueron publicados en español. La revista con mayor frecuencia de publicaciones fue Nutrients, con 6 artículos publicados, lo que representa el 11,8% del total y destaca como líder en este campo. Le siguió BMC Geriatrics con 3 artículos publicados, lo que representa el 5,9% del total. Destaca el aumento de las investigaciones sobre intervenciones para el deterioro cognitivo en OA, concentradas principalmente en los años 2020 y 2023. China lidera la producción de estudios seguida de Estados Unidos, Corea y Singapur. Los programas de intervención más estudiados incluyen el ejercicio y el deporte, seguido de la nutrición y el entrenamiento computarizado. Destaca la revista “Nutrients” con mayor número de artículos, seguida de “BMC Geriatrics”.

Objectives: The aim was to estimate the pubertal growth height of children and adolescents living in a high-altitude region of Peru using the Preece-Baines model 1 (1 PB). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in schoolchildren from the department of Puno (Peru) between 3841 and 3874 masl. The age range was between 4 and 17 years. Standing height was evaluated. 1 PB was used to infer the mathematical and biological parameters of stature. Results: Mathematical parameters estimated by the 1 PB model reflected small residual standard error (RSE) values in both sexes (0.25 in boys and 0.27 in girls). In boys, the age at which peak velocity was reached (APHV) was estimated at 13.21 ± 0.33years. While in girls it was 9.96 ± 0.26years (p < 0.05). In general, girls reached APHV (y) 3.25 years earlier than boys. On the other hand, the growth velocity of maximum height [APHV (cm/y)] of boys was higher (6.33 ± 6.06 cm/y) relative to girls (6.06 ± 0.32 cm/y). Estimated final adult height (EFAH) in boys was reached at 166.020 ± 0.99 cm and height at maximum growth velocity (HPHV) was 153.07 ± 0.67 cm, while in girls they were significantly lower (EFAH; 153.74 ± 0.44 cm and HPHV: 139.73 ± 0.84 cm). Conclusions: This study showed that girls living in Puno at a high altitude in Peru reached APHV 3 years earlier than boys and at the same time reflected slower PHV. These results suggest that pubertal growth at high altitudes is slower in both sexes and especially in girls. Thus, modeling physical growth may be an important step in understanding the onset of puberty at different latitudes.

Abstract Background The assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness is important because it allows the identification of subgroups with poor health status and the targeting of effective intervention strategies to improve health. Objective To compare the cardiorespiratory capacity of children and adolescents living in a moderate altitude region of Peru with international studies and to develop reference values for the 6-min walk test (6MWT) according to age and sex. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study of schoolchildren from a region of moderate altitude in Peru was carried out. A total of 704 schoolchildren (400 males and 304 females) with an age range of 6 to 17 years were studied. Weight, standing height, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI) and tri-ponderal mass index (TMI) were evaluated. The 6MWT was assessed in a straight line over a distance of 30 m. Percentiles were created through the LMS method [L (skewness: lambda), M (median: mu) and S (coefficient of variation: Mu)]. Results There were discrepancies in cardiorespiratory fitness performance with international studies by age and sex. The schoolchildren in the study reached stability and the highest number of meters in the last two age ranges (14 to 15 years: 698.1 m and 16 to 17 years 686.3 m in males). While females (14 to 15 years: 698.1 m and 16 to 17 years: 686.3 m). The proposed percentile values show ascending values as age advances. The cut-off points adopted are: low cardiorespiratory fitness 75. Conclusion We verified that the cardiorespiratory fitness evaluated by means of the 6MWT is ascending with the course of age. Even the performance with other countries is heterogeneous at early and middle ages, stabilizing during adolescence. The proposed reference values can be used to evaluate and monitor cardiorespiratory fitness during physical education classes.