Título del artículo:

Diet and Clinical Outcomes in a Heart Failure Population

Background There are limited data to inform dietary recommendations in persons with heart failure (HF). Objectives The aim of this study was to examine associations between consumption levels of 11 common foods, and a healthy diet pattern, with clinical outcomes in a HF population. Methods This analysis was a substudy of 3,798 participants from 25 countries enrolled in the multinational G-CHF (Global Congestive Heart Failure) registry with dietary data collected through food frequency questionnaires. Associations were examined between consumption levels of 6 plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and refined grains) and 5 animal-based foods (fish, poultry, unprocessed red meat, eggs, and dairy) with the primary composite outcome of death or HF hospitalization and its components. Also examined was the association between an overall healthy diet pattern (measured by using a mAHEI [modified Alternative Heathy Eating Index]) and these outcomes. Results A total of 1,236 participants had a primary outcome event, 890 participants died, and 593 were hospitalized for HF. Higher legume intake (HR: 0.85 [95% CI: 0.73-0.99] for 0.1 to <0.5 serving per day and HR: 0.80 [95% CI: 0.65-0.98] for ≥0.5 serving per day vs <0.1 serving per day) was associated with a lower risk of the primary outcome. Moderate vegetable intake (1 to <3 servings per day) was associated with a lower risk of HF hospitalization (HR: 0.77 [95% CI: 0.61-0.97]) compared with <1 serving per day. Higher refined grain intake was associated with a higher risk of hospitalization for HF (HR: 1.56 [95% CI: 1.19-2.05] for 1-3 servings per day and HR: 1.76 [95% CI: 1.30-2.39) for >3 servings per day vs <1 serving per day). Associations with other foods, as well as with the mAHEI, were neutral. Conclusions In persons with HF, higher legume and vegetable intake were each associated with a lower risk of adverse clinical outcomes, whereas higher refined grain intake was associated with a higher risk of adverse clinical outcomes.

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Jacc Heart Failure

Título del artículo:

Effect of Vitamin D on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and biological effects of vitamin D supplementation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, based on evidence from randomized controlled trials. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Three databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for randomized controlled trials published until June 2025. Studies were included if they assessed the effects of vitamin D supplementation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and reported clinical or biological outcomes. Results: Twelve randomized controlled trials involving 6626 participants from diverse regions, with wide variability in sample sizes (36 to 5 110 participants). Most studies targeted patients with baseline vitamin D deficiency and evaluated varied dosing strategies (daily, weekly, monthly, or single high-dose regimens). Supplementation significantly increased serum 25(OH) D levels in all trials. Symptom burden and exacerbation frequency were reduced in most studies, particularly among patients with vitamin D deficiency. Consistent reductions in inflammatory markers, including IL-6, IL-8, and CRP, were observed. However, findings on pulmonary function (e.g., FEV1) and quality of life were mixed and often not statistically significant. Eleven studies (91.7 %) were classified as high methodological quality, and six (50 %) met high reporting standards. Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation appears to offer clinical and biological benefits in COPD, particularly in patients with documented deficiency. Consistent findings across high-quality trials support its role in reducing symptoms and inflammation. However, its impact on lung function and long-term outcomes remains uncertain.

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Gaceta Medica De Caracas

Título del artículo:

Adult Rome IV Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction in a Pediatric Population †

Background: Disorders of the gut–brain interaction (DGBIs) constitute a group of functional conditions widely described in adults; however, some of these have not been included in pediatric Rome criteria, despite the fact that they may manifest during childhood. Early identification of these conditions is relevant due to their clinical/psychosocial impact as well as their effect on quality of life. The aim was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of some DGBIs described in adults according to the Rome IV criteria in pediatric population. Methods: An observational/prospective/cross-sectional study was conducted in toddlers, school-aged children, and adolescents from three Colombian cities. The adapted Questionnaire for Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rome IV (QPGS-IV) using adult criteria was applied, along with quality-of-life scales and PROMIS for anxiety/depression. Descriptive uni/bivariate analyses were performed as well as a multivariate logistic regression model. Results: A total of 704 participants were included (13.7 ± 2.8 years old). The prevalence of DGBIs described in adults according to QPGS-IV was 5.8%, with proctalgia fugax being the most frequent. In the bivariate analysis, race, school/social absenteeism, depressive traits, and impaired quality of life were significantly associated. In the multivariate model depressive traits (OR = 4.08; 95%CI = 1.82–9.12; p = 0.001), school (OR = 2.51; 95%CI = 1.06–5.98; p = 0.036), and social absenteeism (OR = 4.04; 95%CI = 1.70–9.62; p = 0.002) were the factors independently associated. Conclusions: These adult DGBIs, according to the QPGS-IV, can occur in pediatric populations and are closely related to psycho-emotional and functional factors. These are mainly associated with depression and school/social absenteeism, supporting the need for a biopsychosocial approach and a revision of the pediatric diagnostic criteria.

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Children

Título del artículo:

Economic burden of Chagas disease in Latin American countries: a population-based cost-of-illness analysis from the RAISE study

SummaryBackgroundChagas disease (ChD) remains a public health concern in Latin America. Despite a decline in overall prevalence, the chronic symptomatic forms still impose a substantial epidemiological and economic burden. This study undertakes a comprehensive, population-based cost analysis of chronic Chagas disease (CCD) from a societal perspective in seven endemic Latin American countries for 2010 and 2023.MethodsA Markov model with one-year cycles and six states was employed. Direct medical and indirect costs, converted to 2024 purchasing power parity US dollars, were estimated using prevalence data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023. Based on a previous Brazilian Markov model, parameters were adjusted using healthcare coverage and per capita health expenditure ratios for each country, further validated by national experts.FindingsIn 2010, Brazil (US$252 billion) and Argentina (US$164 billion) had the highest lifetime burdens. As a percentage of annual Gross Domestic Product, Bolivia (0·9%) and Argentina (0·8%) were most affected. CCD accounted for 6% of total health expenditures in both countries. Between 2010 and 2023, most countries experienced a decline in economic burden due to decreased CCD prevalence, despite an increased proportion of patients with cardiac conditions, reflecting population aging and disease progression.InterpretationCCD imposes substantial economic burden across Latin American countries. Epidemiological shift to older populations with severe cardiac forms signals increased healthcare demands. Findings inform policymakers for resource allocation and tailored interventions.FundingFunding was provided by Novartis Pharma AG as part of a research collaboration with the World Heart Federation (project number CLCZ696D2010R).

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Lancet Regional Health Americas

Título del artículo:

Agreement in the Degree of Foraminal Stenosis Between Oblique Sagittal and Axial Sequences on Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Lower Cervical Spine

Background Cervical foraminal stenosis is a common cause of radiculopathy, and its assessment by magnetic resonance imaging is typically performed using orthogonal planes, which may limit evaluation of the neural foramen due to its oblique orientation. Oblique sagittal sequences provide visualisation more closely aligned with the foraminal axis. Objective To assess agreement in the grading of foraminal stenosis between oblique sagittal and axial magnetic resonance imaging sequences of the lower cervical spine in patients with a history of cervicalgia. Materials and methods A prospective observational analytical study was conducted in 50 adult patients (400 neural foramina). The degree of foraminal stenosis from C4/C5 to C7/T1 was assessed using the Park classification for oblique sagittal sequences and the Kim classification, adapted by institutional consensus, for axial sequences. Intraobserver agreement between the two sequences was evaluated using Cohen\'s weighted kappa coefficient, interpreted according to Landis and Koch criteria. Additionally, the Stuart–Maxwell test was applied to identify systematic differences in the classification of stenosis severity between the two sequences. Results The mean age was 58.8 ± 12 years (range: 28–88), and 31 patients (62.0%) were women. The highest degree of stenosis was observed at C4/C5 and C5/C6. A higher grade of foraminal stenosis was identified on oblique sagittal sequences compared with axial sequences. Overall agreement was substantial to almost perfect at left C4/C5, right C6/C7, and left C7/T1 levels, with kappa values ranging from 0.81 to 0.92. The Stuart–Maxwell test showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001), with a tendency for the axial plane to classify a lower degree of severity. Conclusions Oblique sagittal and axial sequences show high agreement in the evaluation of cervical foraminal stenosis. However, a systematic difference in severity categorisation was identified, with axial sequences tending to assign lower stenosis grades. The inclusion of oblique sagittal sequences may be useful as a complementary technique in patients with a clinical suspicion of radiculopathy.

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Radiologia

Título del artículo:

Incidence, evolution and clinical behavior of pseudocholelithiasis associated with ceftriaxone in children

Ceftriaxone-associated pseudocholelithiasis is common but underdiagnosed in children, occurring in up to half of those receiving ceftriaxone. Although self-limiting, it is frequently accompanied by symptoms. OBJECTIVE: To report the incidence, course, risk factors, and clinical behavior of pseudocholelithiasis in children receiving ceftriaxone. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Prospective, descriptive, observational case series study. Patients aged 1 month to 18 years who received ceftriaxone were included. Clinical follow-up and hepatobiliary ultrasound were performed at the start of treatment and every 5 days until complete resolution. Association with risk factors was explored. Statistics used included Pearson\'s chi-square test and Fisher\'s exact test. RESULTS: Eighty patients were included, 51.2% were male, median age 4.5 years (range 5 months to 17 years). The prevalence of pseudocholelithiasis was 35% (28 patients), documented in 6 and 27 patients during the first and second ultrasound (21.4% and 96.4%). Pseudocholelithiasis was significantly more frequent in the age group older than 5 years, those with lower fluid intake, obese, overweight, and very rare in malnourished patients (all p < 0.05). Twelve patients presented abdominal pain as a cardinal symptom (42.9%). The mean duration of the stones was 19.1 (5-44) days. CONCLUSION: Ceftriaxone-associated pseudocholelithiasis is common, occurring in 1 out of 3 children who receive it. Its main risk factors were age over 5 years, lower fluid intake, overweight, and obesity. Abdominal pain is frequent, and the progression was self-limited.

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Andes Pediatrica Revista Chilena De Pediatria

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Impact of emerging technologies on education: A systematic review

With technological advances in different areas, we have seen how education has been significantly transformed, improving teaching methods, facilitating different processes, and extending knowledge to people who previously would not have had access to it. This study conducts a systematic review of the impact and effects of emerging technologies on education over the last decade. To carry out this review, relevant studies are selected that address emerging technologies in education and their impact on learning, the challenges faced in implementing emerging technologies in education, and the evaluation of educational institutions\' experience in using information systems.

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Congreso Internacional De Innovacion Y Tendencias En Ingenieria Coniiti

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Electrochemical Evaluation in Artificial Saliva of Orthodontic Brackets Recycled by Electrolytic Polished, Flamed and Sandblasting

In the present study the surface qualities of the orthodontic stainless austenitic steel brackets, modified through techniques commonly used in its recycling, specifically, the techniques of sandblasting and direct flamed were compared with a new technique of surface modification known as electropolishing with passivation. Through electrochemical tests such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Tafel extrapolation and cyclic potentiodynamic polarization all the corrosion processes for the material were evaluated in simulated physical medium, it means the mouth cavity. This one was simulated through an electrolytic assembly with three electrodes and one experimental physiological medium composed by artificial saliva Afnor at 37 °C. The results gathered evidenced that sandblasting produced the best protection qualities towards corrosion in the simulated mouth environment. The electropolishing technique and passivation showed good characteristics regards to the direct flaming brackets. However, sandblasting technique showed the best results in the specimen tested. Based on the facts previously mentioned, the recycling of metallic brackets at the surface level is an issue of great importance in the current orthodoncy field due to the fact that recycling presents important variables which influence the strength of adhesion to the teeth and the liberation of ions into the body.

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Journal of Bio and Tribo Corrosion

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Energy Integration and Valorization of Surplus Electricity Through Alkaline Water Electrolysis Within a Self-Generation Scheme Using Gas Turbogenerators

This study assesses the technical, operational, environmental, and economic feasibility of integrating alkaline water electrolysis (AEL) using on-site measured surplus electricity from two 20 MW natural-gas turbogenerators installed at a Central Processing Facility (CPF) in a Colombian oilfield. Unlike approaches based on modeled profiles, the analysis relies on more than 31,000 experimental records of gas consumption and active power, enabling an accurate characterization of the structural availability of energy surpluses under real operating conditions. A specialized industrial water treatment and purification company was consulted and provided with the physicochemical characterization results obtained from process water samples analyzed by an accredited laboratory. Based on these parameters, the technical supplier confirmed the feasibility of designing a multistage treatment train, including equalization, filtration, clarification, activated carbon, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis, capable of achieving final conductivities at or below 5 µS/cm. This water quality level is compatible with typical industrial alkaline electrolysis requirements and in line with technical specifications commonly aligned with ASTM and ISO standards for pressurized AEL systems. A strategic comparison between PEM and AEL technologies, supported by IFE/EFE matrices and sensitivity analyses, identified alkaline electrolysis as the optimal alternative under a stable electrical profile and capital expenditure constraints. Energy sizing for scenarios between 1.5 and 10 MW, assuming continuous 24 h operation and an average specific consumption of 50 kWh/kg H2, yields productions between 0.5 and 3.5 t H2/day, with electrical efficiencies above 70%. A 20-year financial analysis indicates a techno-economic threshold near 3 MW (NPV > 0; IRR > WACC), with optimal performance in the 6.5–10 MW range and payback periods between 2 and 4 years under internal valorization of the surplus electricity. From an environmental perspective, the produced hydrogen is classified as low-carbon rather than “green” due to its thermal origin; however, the integration improves the turbines’ operating regime and valorizes surplus electrical exergy that was previously unused, providing a replicable strategy for industrial assets with self-generation and treatable water availability.

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Sci

Título del artículo:

Relevance of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) miRNAs in EBV-Infected B Cells and B-Cell Lymphomas

Viral infection is a critical early event in Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-positive B-cell lymphomas. While latent EBV proteins are known to promote cancer development, the role of EBV-encoded microRNAs (miRNAs) is not yet clear. These miRNAs are reported to regulate viral persistence, immune evasion, B-cell survival, and growth. This review compiles evidence on the role of EBV miRNAs in B cells and B-cell lymphomas, including their known target genes, and their effects on cancer-related pathways. By combining profiling studies and results from laboratory models, we highlight how EBV miRNAs might contribute to lymphoma development. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the biology of EBV-positive B-cell lymphoma, and current knowledge supports a critical role for EBV miRNAs in B cell transformation.

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Cancers

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Corrigendum to “Unravelling the past of cervid populations on the Pearl Island Archipelago (Panama) through a two dimensional geometric morphometric analysis of the lower third molar” [J. Archaeol. Sci. Volume 177, 106187]

The authors regret that following publication of the article, two of the originally listed co-authors, Anneke van Heteren and Gertrud Rößner, have requested that their names be removed from the author list, as they did not have an opportunity to approve the final, revised version. The corresponding author confirms that the revisions were conducted in good faith and accepts full responsibility for the final published content. With this corrigendum, the author list is updated to: María Fernanda Martínez-Polanco, Thomas Ingicco, Iván Rey-Rodríguez, Sergio Andrés Castro Méndez, Máximo Jiménez-Acosta, Juan Guillermo Martín. The corresponding author would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused. The authors would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.

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Journal of Archaeological Science

Título del artículo:

Forecasting biomass hydrogen production using a novel recency-weighted grey multivariate model

The scalable production of green hydrogen from biomass gasification is hindered by unpredictable yields arising from complex, non-linear interactions among multiple feedstock and process parameters, compounded by sparse data in pilot-scale operations. Existing machine learning models demand large datasets, while traditional grey system models lack adaptability to recent information and multivariate dependencies. This study introduces a novel recency-weighted grey multivariate model incorporating a data preference accumulation operation with exponential weighting controlled by memory factor to dynamically prioritize recent observations. Integrated into a multivariable grey framework, it captures interdependencies while maintaining robustness with small samples. Theoretical stability analysis shows enhanced noise resistance in limited-data regimes. Validated on real-world biomass gasification data with 23 data points, the novel model achieves high accuracy with 0.096% mean absolute percentage error, 0.046 root mean square error and coefficient of determination of 0.9907. The prediction robustness is confirmed by Diebold-Mariano and superior prediction ability tests over some grey models, statistical models, and machine learning benchmarks. This first application of recency-weighted grey multivariate forecasting to biomass hydrogen production provides a data-efficient, interpretable tool for optimizing reactor operation and feedstock selection, accelerating the transition to a sustainable hydrogen economy.

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Renewable Energy

Título del artículo:

Comparative Prognosis of Chagas and Other Cardiomyopathies

AbstractBackgroundChagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi parasites, is a common cause of heart failure (HF) in Latin America and has recently been declared endemic in the United States. The authors compared outcomes in Chagasic HF vs ischemic and other nonischemic etiologies of HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of Chagasic HFrEF vs ischemic and other nonischemic etiologies.MethodsInvestigator-reported etiology of HFrEF in the ATMOSPHERE, PARADIGM-HF, and GALACTIC-HF trials was categorized as ischemic, valvular, alcoholic, hypertensive, idiopathic, viral, Chagasic, or “other.” Time to the composite of first HF hospitalization or cardiovascular death, its components, all-cause death, and stroke was analyzed using Cox models adjusted for baseline characteristics, patient setting, trial, and other potential confounders.ResultsAmong 23,647 patients (13,381 ischemic, 4,344 idiopathic, 2,559 hypertensive, 1,923 others, 423 alcoholic, 412 valvular, 297 viral, and 308 Chagasic), Chagasic HF had the highest incidence rates of all clinical outcomes compared with other etiologies. Compared with patients with ischemic etiology, the adjusted HRs in Chagasic HF were significantly higher for the composite outcome (HR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.36-2.02), HF hospitalization (HR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.36-2.25), cardiovascular death (HR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.47-2.35), all-cause death (HR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.47-2.25), and stroke (HR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.20-3.88).ConclusionsPatients with Chagasic HFrEF have a distinct clinical course associated not only with excess mortality but also with an increased risk for stroke compared with other etiologies except for valvular and “other” etiologies. (Aliskiren Trial to Minimize Outcomes in Patients with Heart Failure [ATMOSPHERE], NCT00853658; Prospective Comparison of ARNI [Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor] with ACEI [Angiotensin-Converting-Enzyme Inhibitor] to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure Trial [PARADIGM-HF], NCT01035255; Global Approach to Lowering Adverse Cardiac Outcomes Through Improving Contractility in Heart Failure [GALACTIC-HF], NCT02929329)

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Journal of the American College of Cardiology

Título del artículo:

Radial Domichnia–Fodinichnia ichnofossil from the Lower Cretaceous of San Andrés (Santander, Colombia)

Introduction. Burrow and tunnel systems preserved in sandy and muddy marine substrates are commonly associated with the behavioral activities of polychaete worms and other benthic invertebrates, providing relevant ethological information in sedimentary records. Objectives. This study aims to i) describe the morphological and ethological characteristics of a radial ichnofossil, ii) evaluate its possible correspondence with previously established radial ichnogenera, and iii) propose paleoecological interpretations of the trace-making organism and its depositional environment. Materials and Methods. A detached sandstone block from the Aguardiente Formation (Albian–Cenomanian, Lower Cretaceous) was examined along the banks of the Hisgaura River, San Andrés municipality (Santander, Colombia). The trace architecture was documented through high-resolution photography, digital image processing, and artificial intelligence–assisted three-dimensional reconstruction to enhance visualization of its morphology and internal organization. UPGMA–Jaccard similarity and parsimony analyses were applied to assess relationships with other radial and rosette ichnogenera. Results. The specimen is preserved in full relief and consists of a central ellipsoidal chamber from which slightly sinuous tubular galleries radiate, locally arranged in superposed tiers. Similarity analysis groups the structure with Arenituba, Guanshanichnus, and Hartsellea. Parsimony analysis recovered a single most-parsimonious tree (length = 32 steps; CI = 0.34; RI = 0.7) in which the specimen forms part of a clade characterized primarily by branched galleries and shallow-marine occurrence. Conclusions. The structure records ethological evidence of a benthic organism inhabiting sandy shallow-marine environments. Diagnostic differences preclude confident assignment to any previously established radial ichnogenus.

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Innovaciencia

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Cardioneuroablation versus cardiac pacemaker in the management of dominant cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope: a retrospective cohort study

Background: Refractory dominant cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope (VVS) remains a therapeutic challenge in patients older than 40 years. Dual-chamber pacemakers with closed-loop stimulation (CLS-PM) are guideline-supported, while cardioneuroablation (CNA), targeting ganglionated plexus, has emerged as a device-free alternative. Direct comparative data between these strategies are limited. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, comparative cohort study including patients > 40 years with refractory cardioinhibitory VVS treated between 2018 and 2024. Patients underwent either CNA with extracardiac vagal stimulation validation (CNA-ECVS) or CLS-PM implantation. The primary outcome was recurrence of the first syncope episode. Secondary outcomes included syncope-free survival, syncope burden (≥ 50% reduction), and safety. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were applied. Results: Eighty patients were included (37 CNA-ECVS, 43 CLS-PM; mean age 58.0 ± 14.6 years). Patients in the CNA group were younger than those in the CLS-PM group (49.9 ± 10.3 vs. 65.0 ± 14.1 years; p < 0.001). During a mean follow-up of 3.8 years, syncope-free rates were 89.2% in the CNA group and 79.1% in the CLS-PM group (p = 0.363). Syncope-free survival did not differ significantly (log-rank p = 0.168), and recurrence risk was similar between strategies (HR 0.45; 95% CI 0.14–1.46; p = 0.182). Post-procedural syncope burden was numerically lower after CNA (10.8% vs. 20.9%) but without statistical significance. No major adverse events were observed in either group. Conclusions: In patients older than 40 years with refractory cardioinhibitory NCS, CNA with physiological validation and CLS-PM therapy demonstrated comparable efficacy and safety. Both strategies represent viable therapeutic options, warranting confirmation in randomized clinical trials.

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Journal of Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology

Título del artículo:

Criterion validity of AUDIT for alcohol dependence screening in primary health care patients

Objective: To determine the validity of AUDIT criteria for the detection of alcohol dependence in adult patients of primary care in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methods: An analytical study of the criterion validity of a scale was conducted following the recommendations of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2). A total of 243 adult users of primary healthcare services, aged between 18 and 65 years, were included. Data were collected between April 4 and November 10, 2018. A Colombian version of AUDIT was applied. Subsequently, trained personnel conducted The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview anonymously. Results: The area under the curve is 0.87. The optimal cut-off point for the AUDIT, according to the value obtained in the highest Youden index, 0.69, was ≥ 3 points and showed the following indicators: sensitivity 0.84 (95%CI: 0.80-0.89), specificity 0.84 (95%CI: 0.790.88), negative predictive value 0.99 (95%CI: 0.97-1); positive predictive value 0.22 (95%CI: 0.17-0.27). Conclusions: The AUDIT proved to be valid and reliable in identifying possible cases of alcohol dependence in primary care users with a cut-off point ≥ 3. These findings are significant for public health, as they support the early detection of a high-burden disorder and inform the development of timely intervention strategies in Colombia.

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Revista Facultad Nacional De Salud Publica

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2026 Latin American consensus for the management of patients with hypertension and cardio-renal and metabolic disturbances: endorsed by the Latin American Society of Hypertension, the Iberoamerican Hypertension League, and the World Hypertension League

Hypertension is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), affecting 20–40% of Latin American (LATAM) adults, and responsible for more than two million deaths annually due to CVD. The different ethnic, economic, geographic, and cultural characteristics of the LATAM population influence the high prevalence of all cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF), particularly metabolic disturbances such as type 2 diabetes (DM2), obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Their main determinants in LATAM includes environment, food quality, social inequity, low education, political aspects, contextual behaviour, and genetics. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in LATAM increased during the last four decades reaching figures of 10–20% in childhood, 30–40% in adolescence, and 60–70% in adults. Many studies in the region have reported the extremely low rates of awareness, treatment, and control of CVRF in the general population of LATAM, particularly in patients with metabolic disorders, and the consequent high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This 2026 LATAM consensus is developed by a large group of experts from different LATAM countries, the USA and Europe, representing areas of internal medicine, cardiology, nephrology, endocrinology, geriatrics, paediatrics, pharmacology, and epidemiology. A careful search for novel studies in LATAM, together with new evidence that has emerged since the 2019 LATAM consensus, support the statements and recommendations in the current report. This update aims to provide clear and useful recommendations for health professionals to improve awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension and associated CVRF in the region.

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Journal of Hypertension

Título del artículo:

Mental health in migrant families: Educational strategies for support from social work

Introduction: Mental health is crucial to the well-being of migrants, who face loss of support and job insecurity. This has led to an increase in demand for mental health services in Córdoba, related to family breakdown and unemployment. Objective: To analyse educational strategies formulated from social work aimed at psychosocial support in promoting mental health in migrant families, oriented towards identifying factors associated with psychosocial adaptation in contexts of human mobility. Methodology: Pragmatic paradigm under the mixed method, as it integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitatively, 40 migrant families from San José de Cúcuta (Norte de Santander), Robledo (Antioquia), Montería (Córdoba), and Tierralta (Córdoba) were surveyed using a 36-item questionnaire. At the same time, in the qualitative analysis, 10 documents were analysed based on the categories (a) Mental health in migrant families, (b) Educational strategies for support from social work, which enabled the data to be analysed. Results: The link between mental health and educational strategies is fundamental, especially for migrant families with emotional vulnerabilities. Social work offers multiple teaching approaches that promote emotional well-being and social cohesion, thereby fostering social support as a formative practice for mental health and cultural integration, thereby building inclusive communities. Conclusion: The importance of developing educational strategies in social work for the psychosocial support of migrant families is emphasised, as the quality and continuity of interventions condition their mental health. Ongoing support, cultural recognition, and community participation are also important for better inclusion.

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Gaceta Medica De Caracas

Título del artículo:

Association of sexual orientation with current alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking in Colombian adults from the general population

Introduction: The available data present an inconsistent association between sexual orientation and alcohol or cigarette consumption in high-income countries. However, such studies are scarce in low-and middle-income countries. Objective: The study aimed to estimate the association between sexual orientation and current alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking among Colombian adults. Methodology: A secondary analysis of the National Survey on the Consumption of Psychoactive Substances was completed. Lay interviewers asked about sexual orientation, current alcohol drinking, and current cigarette smoking. Participants also completed the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) to assess depression risk. Results: 46,197 adults between 18 and 65 years (M=39.82, SD=13.83) participated; 59% were female. Lesbian/gay or bisexual (LGB) sexual orientation was related to current drinking alcohol (OR=1.63, 95%CI 1.37-1.94) and current cigarette smoking (OR=2.19, 95%CI 1.78-2.69). Conclusion: LGB sexual orientations were significantly related to current alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking. It is crucial to consider sexual orientation in alcohol and cigarette use prevention in Colombian adults.

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Medicina Clinica Y Social

Título del artículo:

Women in Positive Peacebuilding: Urgent Demands for Overcoming the Socio-Environmental and Armed Conflict in Colombia

This research article analyzes the role of women in positive peacebuilding to overcome the socio-environmental and armed conflict in Colombia. It uses a holistic approach, primarily influenced by the constructivist paradigm, to develop an analytical methodology with a documentary, evolutionary, and multivariate design. The methodology consisted of reviewing a series of official documents from an ecofeminist perspective. The goal was to reveal challenges, achievements, and developments in the government approaches adopted for peacebuilding following the signing of the Havana Agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC-EP subversive group. The results show that, while discursive advances have been incorporated around gender equity and the recognition of nature as a subject of rights, multiple gaps persist in the territorial implementation of policies, especially in contexts where women have traditionally been excluded. Furthermore, a persistent instrumentalization of the female role is observed in post-agreement scenarios, which limits their transformative participation. The research concludes that a truly sustainable and just peace in Colombia requires the active integration of women as political and environmental agents, going beyond welfare-based approaches, by strengthening community leadership, protecting women environmental defenders, and adopting a cross-cutting ecofeminist perspective in state planning.

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Revista Kawsaypacha Sociedad Y Medio Ambiente

Título del artículo:

Burden of HIV and hepatitis B and C viruses in incoming Venezuelan migrants at the Colombian border: a laboratory-based cross-sectional study, 2021–2023

Objectives The socioeconomic crisis in Venezuela has urged many to seek refuge elsewhere, primarily in Colombia. The vulnerability to and epidemiology of blood-borne viruses causing chronic infections such as HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in incoming migrants at the Colombian border remain uncertain, which we aimed to elucidate. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in 2469 adult Venezuelan migrants during 2021 ( n = 1582) and 2023 ( n = 887) encountered at governmental and nongovernmental organizations providing food and social services in Bucaramanga and Cúcuta, Colombia, close to the Venezuelan border. Demographic data and blood samples were collected and analysed by molecular, serological and bioinformatic tools. Results The age- and sex-weighted HIV prevalence was 1.2% (95% CI: 0.6–1.7; 16/1650) and was significantly higher in men than in women (2.0% [95% CI: 0.8–3.2; 11/501] vs. 0.4% [95% CI: 0.0–0.7; 5/1149], p 0.002). Median HIV viral load was 3.9 log10 IU/mL (range: 2.2–5.1 log10 IU/mL). HIV infections were almost exclusively detected in migrants without health insurance. Viral genomes clustered with phylogenetically diverse HIV-1 group M subtype B strains from Colombia and Venezuela, refuting regional point-source acquisition. In silico susceptibility to antiviral drugs suggested lack of treatment access. The adjusted HBV prevalence in migrants was low (0.8%, 95% CI: 0.4–1.2; 12/1647), with median viral loads of 3.3 log10 IU/mL (range: 2.5–3.6 log10 IU/mL). The HCV estimate was also low (0.5%, 95% CI: 0.2–0.8; 10/2406) with median viral loads of 5.3 log10 IU/mL (range: 4.9–6.0 log10 IU/mL). Both HBV and HCV rates were comparable to Colombian population-level estimates, whereas HIV rates in migrants were 2x higher. No coinfections of HIV, HBV, or HCV were found. High levels of HIV but not HCV suggested predominantly sexual transmission rather than illicit drug use or contaminated blood transfusions. Conclusions Our data revealed a high burden of HIV, but not HBV and HCV in incoming Venezuelan migrants. Implementation of testing, educational, and prophylactic programmes in this highly vulnerable population at the border region is imperative.

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Clinical Microbiology and Infection

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Patency of the Ductus Arteriosus at 72 h in Extremely Preterm Infants Born at Two Altitudes in Colombia: A Preliminary Descriptive Study

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is common in preterm neonates, especially before 28 weeks’ gestation, and is associated with morbidity such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, hemorrhage, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Beyond immaturity, perinatal factors, postnatal interventions, and altitude, may affect ductal persistence; altitude is proposed as a modifier, though evidence is limited. The objective of the study is to describe the prevalence, the clinical, and echocardiographic characteristics of PDA at 72 h of life in neonates born before 28.6 weeks of gestation in two Colombian cities located at different altitudes. A prospective observational descriptive study with exploratory analysis was conducted from January 2022 to January 2024 in Bucaramanga (959 m above sea level) and Pasto (2,527 m above sea level). Sixty neonates born before 28.6 weeks underwent color Doppler echocardiography at 72 h. Hemodynamically significant PDA was defined using a standardized, center-agreed echocardiographic scoring system criteria adapted from previously described criteria. Patent ductus arteriosus was present in 85% of neonates at 72 h, although only 11.7% (n=7) fulfilled criteria for hemodynamic significance (hs). The frequency of hsPDA did not differ between altitudes. Neonates with hsPDA showed no differences in inotropic support, ventilatory support, or oxygen requirements. No differences were observed in other variables either, such as birth weight, gestational age, surfactant type, or early fluid intake. No differences in early PDA persistence or hemodynamic relevance were observed between altitudes. However, the high prevalence of PDA at 72 h supports the need for early, structured echocardiographic follow-up to identify hemodynamic compromise and guide timely clinical decision-making.

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Pediatric Cardiology

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An application of Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT), the MASW test and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) for the determination of the soil profile and dynamic parameters in the urban area of the municipality of Tocancipá, Cundinamarca

This study presents the application of indirect geophysical methods, specifically Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT), Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW), and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), in two sectors of the municipality of Tocancipá, Cundinamarca, Colombia. The scope of this work was to classify the soil type according to the average shear wave velocity of the first 30 meters (VS30) and to obtain dynamic soil parameters such as Poisson\'s ratio, unit weight, stiffness, Young\'s ratio, and Bulk’s modulus, which are useful in geotechnical applications and as input for detailed hazard, vulnerability, and risk studies. These parameters are calculated from the P-type (VP) and S-type (VS) seismic velocity values obtained through Seismic Refraction Tomography and Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves tests, respectively. The methodology included the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of six Seismic Refraction Tomography sections, six Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves profiles, and five Electrical Resistivity Tomography sections. In the study area, a first layer of clayey residual soil was identified, followed by a sandy-gravelly layer, and finally, a fractured Cretaceous basement corresponding to the Labor Tierna Formation (K2t). The calculated VS30 indicated very dense soil or soft rocks (Type C according to NSR-10). The dynamic parameters showed an increase with depth, suggesting a greater degree of compaction and an improvement in the geomechanical properties of the materials. The integration of seismic and geoelectric methods allowed for a detailed characterization of the subsoil, overcoming the intrinsic limitations of each technique separately.

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Boletin De Ciencias De La Tierra

Título del artículo:

Progressive generalized motor absence seizures. Regarding a clinical case

Progressive generalized motor absence seizures represent an unusual and severe variant of absence seizures, characterized by brief episodes of loss of consciousness accompanied by motor manifestations such as myoclonus or automatisms, which progressively worsen over time. In the context of the patient’s clinical case, who has shown an evolution from absence seizures to generalized tonic-clonic seizures, this spike-wave activity could suggest an imbalance in inhibitory and excitatory activity within the involved neural networks. The progression to tonic-clonic seizures may be associated with the propagation of epileptiform activity beyond the primary cortical areas, implicating additional cortical networks that could be related to the generation of motor activity. This aligns with the theory that the progression of seizures might involve a broader recruitment of the cortex, potentially explaining the emergence of more severe symptoms. In conclusion, the interpretation of this EEG and the correlation with clinical findings suggest a complexity in the presentation of epilepsy in this patient, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and personalized management. The evolution and response to treatment should be carefully monitored to adjust therapeutic strategies according to the progression of the disease.

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Revista De Neuro Psiquiatria

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Association Between Ultraprocessed Food Intake and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Risk: A Propensity-Matched Analysis With Monte Carlo Simulation From the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology Study

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Gastroenterology