Utility of intracranial EEG networks depends on re-referencing and connectivity choice.

Studies of intracranial EEG networks have been used to reveal seizure generators in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Intracranial EEG is implanted to capture the epileptic network, the collection of brain tissue that forms a substrate for seizures to start and spread. Interictal intracranial EEG measures brain activity at baseline, and networks computed during this state can reveal aberrant brain tissue without requiring seizure recordings. Intracranial EEG network analyses require choosing a reference and applying statistical measures of functional connectivity. Approaches to these technical choices vary widely across studies, and the impact of these technical choices on downstream analyses is poorly understood. Our objective was to examine the effects of different re-referencing and connectivity approaches on connectivity results and on the ability to lateralize the seizure onset zone in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. We applied 48 pre-processing pipelines to a cohort of 125 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy recorded with interictal intracranial EEG across two epilepsy centres to generate intracranial EEG functional connectivity networks. Twenty-four functional connectivity measures across time and frequency domains were applied in combination with common average re-referencing or bipolar re-referencing. We applied an unsupervised clustering algorithm to identify groups of pre-processing pipelines. We subjected each pre-processing approach to three quality tests: (i) the introduction of spurious correlations; (ii) robustness to incomplete spatial sampling; and (iii) the ability to lateralize the clinician-defined seizure onset zone. Three groups of similar pre-processing pipelines emerged: common average re-referencing pipelines, bipolar re-referencing pipelines and relative entropy-based connectivity pipelines. Relative entropy and common average re-referencing networks were more robust to incomplete electrode sampling than bipolar re-referencing and other connectivity methods (Friedman test, Dunn-Sidák test P < 0.0001). Bipolar re-referencing reduced spurious correlations at non-adjacent channels better than common average re-referencing (Δ mean from machine ref = -0.36 versus -0.22) and worse in adjacent channels (Δ mean from machine ref = -0.14 versus -0.40). Relative entropy-based network measures lateralized the seizure onset hemisphere better than other measures in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (Benjamini-Hochberg-corrected P < 0.05, Cohen's d: 0.60-0.76). Finally, we present an interface where users can rapidly evaluate intracranial EEG pre-processing choices to select the optimal pre-processing methods tailored to specific research questions. The choice of pre-processing methods affects downstream network analyses. Choosing a single method among highly correlated approaches can reduce redundancy in processing. Relative entropy outperforms other connectivity methods in multiple quality tests. We present a method and interface for researchers to optimize their pre-processing methods for deriving intracranial EEG brain networks.

Resting-state background features demonstrate multidien cycles in long-term EEG device recordings.

BACKGROUND: Longitudinal EEG recorded by implanted devices is critical for understanding and managing epilepsy. Recent research reports patient-specific, multi-day cycles in device-detected epileptiform events that coincide with increased likelihood of clinical seizures. Understanding these cycles could elucidate mechanisms generating seizures and advance drug and neurostimulation therapies. OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS: We hypothesize that seizure-correlated cycles are present in background neural activity, independent of interictal epileptiform spikes, and that neurostimulation may temporarily interrupt these cycles. METHODS: We analyzed regularly-recorded seizure-free data epochs from 20 patients implanted with a responsive neurostimulation (RNS) device for at least 1.5 years, to explore the relationship between cycles in device-detected interictal epileptiform activity (dIEA), clinician-validated interictal spikes, background EEG features, and neurostimulation. RESULTS: Background EEG features tracked the cycle phase of dIEA in all patients (AUC: 0.63 [0.56-0.67]) with a greater effect size compared to clinically annotated spike rate alone (AUC: 0.55 [0.53-0.61], p < 0.01). After accounting for circadian variation and spike rate, we observed significant population trends in elevated theta and beta band power and theta and alpha connectivity features at the cycle peaks (sign test, p < 0.05). In the period directly after stimulation we observe a decreased association between cycle phase and EEG features compared to background recordings (AUC: 0.58 [0.55-0.64]). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that seizure-correlated dIEA cycles are not solely due to epileptiform discharges but are associated with background measures of brain state; and that neurostimulation may temporarily interrupt these cycles. These results may help elucidate mechanisms underlying seizure generation, provide new biomarkers for seizure risk, and facilitate monitoring, treating, and managing epilepsy with implantable devices.

Resting-state background features demonstrate multidien cycles in long-term EEG device recordings.

Background: Longitudinal EEG recorded by implanted devices is critical for understanding and managing epilepsy. Recent research reports patient-specific, multi-day cycles in device-detected epileptiform events that coincide with increased likelihood of clinical seizures. Understanding these cycles could elucidate mechanisms generating seizures and advance drug and neurostimulation therapies. Objective/Hypothesis: We hypothesize that seizure-correlated cycles are present in background neural activity, independent of interictal epileptiform spikes, and that neurostimulation may disrupt these cycles. Methods: We analyzed regularly-recorded seizure-free data epochs from 20 patients implanted with a responsive neurostimulation (RNS) device for at least 1.5 years, to explore the relationship between cycles in device-detected interictal epileptiform activity (dIEA), clinician-validated interictal spikes, background EEG features, and neurostimulation. Results: Background EEG features tracked the cycle phase of dIEA in all patients (AUC: 0.63 [0.56 - 0.67]) with a greater effect size compared to clinically annotated spike rate alone (AUC: 0.55 [0.53-0.61], p < 0.01). After accounting for circadian variation and spike rate, we observed significant population trends in elevated theta and beta band power and theta and alpha connectivity features at the cycle peaks (sign test, p < 0.05). In the period directly after stimulation we observe a decreased association between cycle phase and EEG features compared to background recordings (AUC: 0.58 [0.55-0.64]). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that seizure-correlated dIEA cycles are not solely due to epileptiform discharges but are associated with background measures of brain state; and that neurostimulation may disrupt these cycles. These results may help elucidate mechanisms underlying seizure generation, provide new biomarkers for seizure risk, and facilitate monitoring, treating, and managing epilepsy with implantable devices.

Efficient capture of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) with citrate-coated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles.

Several vaccines against COVID-19 use a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) as antigen, making the purification of this protein a key step in their production. In this work, citrate-coated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were evaluated as nano adsorbents in the first step (capture) of the purification of recombinant RBD. The nanoparticles were isolated through coprecipitation and subsequently coated with sodium citrate. The citrate-coated nanoparticles exhibited a diameter of 10 ± 2 nm, a hydrodynamic diameter of 160 ± 3 nm, and contained 1.9 wt% of citrate. The presence of citrate on the nanoparticles' surface was confirmed through FT-IR spectra and thermogravimetric analysis. The crystallite size (10.1 nm) and the lattice parameter (8.3646 Å) were determined by X-ray diffraction. In parallel, RBD-containing supernatant extracted from cell culture was exchanged through ultrafiltration and diafiltration into the adsorption buffer. The magnetic capture was then optimized using different concentrations of nanoparticles in the purified supernatant, and we found 40 mg mL-1 to be optimal. The ideal amount of nanoparticles was assessed by varying the RBD concentration in the supernatant (between 0.113 mg mL-1 and 0.98 mg mL-1), which resulted in good capture yields (between 83 ± 5% and 94 ± 4%). The improvement of RBD purity after desorption was demonstrated by SDS-PAGE and RP-HPLC. Furthermore, the magnetic capture was scaled up 100 times, and the desorption was subjected to chromatographic purifications. The obtained products recognized anti-RBD antibodies and bound the ACE2 receptor, proving their functionality after the developed procedure.

Interictal intracranial EEG asymmetry lateralizes temporal lobe epilepsy.

Patients with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy often undergo intracranial EEG recording to capture multiple seizures in order to lateralize the seizure onset zone. This process is associated with morbidity and often ends in postoperative seizure recurrence. Abundant interictal (between-seizure) data is captured during this process, but these data currently play a small role in surgical planning. Our objective was to predict the laterality of the seizure onset zone using interictal (between-seizure) intracranial EEG data in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. We performed a retrospective cohort study (single-center study for model development; two-center study for model validation). We studied patients with temporal lobe epilepsy undergoing intracranial EEG at the University of Pennsylvania (internal cohort) and the Medical University of South Carolina (external cohort) between 2015 and 2022. We developed a logistic regression model to predict seizure onset zone laterality using interictal EEG. We compared the concordance between the model-predicted seizure onset zone laterality and the side of surgery between patients with good and poor surgical outcomes. 47 patients (30 women; ages 20-69; 20 left-sided, 10 right-sided, and 17 bilateral seizure onsets) were analyzed for model development and internal validation. 19 patients (10 women; ages 23-73; 5 left-sided, 10 right-sided, 4 bilateral) were analyzed for external validation. The internal cohort cross-validated area under the curve for a model trained using spike rates was 0.83 for a model predicting left-sided seizure onset and 0.68 for a model predicting right-sided seizure onset. Balanced accuracies in the external cohort were 79.3% and 78.9% for the left- and right-sided predictions, respectively. The predicted concordance between the laterality of the seizure onset zone and the side of surgery was higher in patients with good surgical outcome. In conclusion, interictal EEG signatures are distinct across seizure onset zone lateralities. Left-sided seizure onsets are easier to distinguish than right-sided onsets. A model trained on spike rates accurately identifies patients with left-sided seizure onset zones and predicts surgical outcome.

Diversity and host assemblage of avian haemosporidians in different terrestrial ecoregions of Peru.

Characterizing the diversity and structure of host-parasite communities is crucial to understanding their eco-evolutionary dynamics. Malaria and related haemosporidian parasites are responsible for fitness loss and mortality in bird species worldwide. However, despite exhibiting the greatest ornithological biodiversity, avian haemosporidians from Neotropical regions are quite unexplored. Here, we analyze the genetic diversity of bird haemosporidian parasites (Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) in 1,336 individuals belonging to 206 bird species to explore for differences in diversity of parasite lineages and bird species across 5 well-differentiated Peruvian ecoregions. We detected 70 different haemosporidian lineages infecting 74 bird species. We showed that 25 out of the 70 haplotypes had not been previously recorded. Moreover, we also identified 81 new host-parasite interactions representing new host records for these haemosporidian parasites. Our outcomes revealed that the effective diversity (as well as the richness, abundance, and Shannon-Weaver index) for both birds and parasite lineages was higher in Amazon basin ecoregions. Furthermore, we also showed that ecoregions with greater diversity of bird species also had high parasite richness, hence suggesting that host community is crucial in explaining parasite richness. Generalist parasites were found in ecoregions with lower bird diversity, implying that the abundance and richness of hosts may shape the exploitation strategy followed by haemosporidian parasites. These outcomes reveal that Neotropical region is a major reservoir of unidentified haemosporidian lineages. Further studies analyzing host distribution and specificity of these parasites in the tropics will provide important knowledge about phylogenetic relationships, phylogeography, and patterns of evolution and distribution of haemosporidian parasites.

Antioxidant Activity of Bioactive Peptide Fractions from Germinated Soybeans Conjugated to Fe3O4 Nanoparticles by the Ugi Multicomponent Reaction.

The conjugation of biomolecules to magnetic nanoparticles has emerged as promising approach in biomedicine as the treatment of several diseases, such as cancer. In this study, conjugation of bioactive peptide fractions from germinated soybeans to magnetite nanoparticles was achieved. Different fractions of germinated soybean peptides (>10 kDa and 5-10 kDa) were for the first time conjugated to previously coated magnetite nanoparticles (with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and sodium citrate) by the Ugi four-component reaction. The crystallinity of the nanoparticles was corroborated by X-ray diffraction, while the particle size was determined by scanning transmission electron microscopy. The analyses were carried out using infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and thermogravimetry, which confirmed the coating and functionalization of the magnetite nanoparticles and conjugation of different peptide fractions on their surfaces. The antioxidant activity of the conjugates was determined by the reducing power and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. The nanoparticles synthesized represent promising materials, as they have found applications in bionanotechnology for enhanced treatment of diseases, such as cancer, due to a higher antioxidant capacity than that of fractions without conjugation. The highest antioxidant capacity was observed for a >10 kDa peptide fraction conjugated to the magnetite nanoparticles coated with APTES.

Biomateriales compuestos para restauración ósea obtenidos mediante tecnologías basadas en el uso del campo electromagnético / Composite biomaterials for bone restoration obtained by technologies based on the use of the electromagnetic

Introducción: El panorama demográfico en el mundo está cambiando. La población mayor de 60 años es el segmento que está creciendo más rápidamente y en el que las enfermedades del tejido óseo se presentan con más frecuencia, lo que aumenta la demanda de materiales y tecnologías apropiadas para restaurar estos tejidos. Objetivo: Analizar la información que se ha generado sobre el desarrollo de biomateriales compuestos para la reparación ósea, con énfasis en la identificación de las tecnologías emergentes basadas en el uso del campo electromagnético, sus aplicaciones y potencialidades. Métodos: Se consultaron trabajos científicos publicados en libros, revistas, patentes y tesis. El 80 por ciento de la documentación seleccionada pertenece al periodo 2010-2019. Análisis e integración de la información: Los métodos identificados fueron clasificados en cinco grupos: electrodeposición química, ya sea por electrólisis, electroforesis o síntesis electroforética in situ; electroporación; electrohilado; control magnético distal y bioestimulación electromagnética de células y tejidos, directamente o por la introducción de dispositivos que convierten la energía electromagnética en energía mecánica. Conclusiones: Estos métodos permiten la conformación de matrices celulares y acelulares compuestas y, además, dispositivos bioestimuladores con control de los parámetros de construcción y acción, de tal manera, que se logran procesos con mayor grado de reproducibilidad y a la medida de los requerimientos específicos para cada paciente(AU)

Introduction: The global demographic panorama is changing. The population aged over 60 years is the fastest growing segment, as well as the one where bone tissue diseases are most common, increasing the demand of appropriate materials and technologies to restore those tissues. Objective: To analyze the information so far generated about the development of composite biomaterials for bone repair, with an emphasis on the identification of emerging technologies based on the use of the electromagnetic field, its applications and potential. Methods: An analysis was performed of scientific papers published in books, journals, patents and theses. Of the documentation selected, 80 percent was from the period 2010-2019. Data analysis and integration: The methods identified were classified into five groups: chemical electrodeposition, be it by in situ electrophoretic synthesis, electrolysis or electrophoresis; electroporation; electrospinning; distal magnetic control and electromagnetic biostimulation of cells and tissues, either directly or incorporating devices which convert electromagnetic energy into mechanical energy. Conclusions: These methods permit the conformation of composite cellular and acellular matrices as well as biostimulator devices controlling construction and action parameters in such a way that the processes obtained display greater reproducibility and are more in keeping with the specific requirements of each patient(AU)

Launching of the Anaemia Research Peruvian Cohort (ARPEC): a multicentre birth cohort project to explore the iron adaptive homeostasis, infant growth and development in three Peruvian regions.

BACKGROUND: Preventing infantile anaemia and ensuring optimal growth and development during early childhood, particularly in resource-constrained settings, represent an ongoing public health challenge. Current responses are aligned to treatment-based solutions, instead of determining the roles of its inter-related causes. This project aims to assess and understand the complex interplay of eco-bio-social-political factors that determine infantile anaemia to inform policy, research design and prevention practices. METHODS: This is a longitudinal birth cohort study including four components: (1) biological, will assess known blood markers of iron homeostasis and anaemia and stool microbiota to identify and genetically analyse the participants' flora; (2) ecological, will assess and map pollutants in air, water and soil and evaluate features of nutrition and perceived food security; (3) social, which will use different qualitative research methodologies to explore key stakeholders and informants' perceptions related to nutritional, environmental and anaemia topics, participant observations and a participatory approach and (4) a political analysis, to identify and assess the impact of policies, guidelines and programmes at all levels for infantile anaemia in the three regions. Finally, we will also explore the role of social determinants and demographic variables longitudinally for all study participants. This project aims to contribute to the evidence of the inter-related causal factors of infantile anaemia, addressing the complexity of influencing factors from diverse methodological angles. We will assess infantile anaemia in three regions of Peru, including newborns and their mothers as participants, from childbirth until their first year of age. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Research Ethics Committee of the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (Lima, Peru), CIEI-043-2019. An additional opinion has been granted by the Ethical Committee of Queen Mary University of London (London, UK). Dissemination across stakeholders is taking part as a continues part of the research process.

Crecimiento físico de niños con hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita perdedora de sal durante los dos primeros años de vida en el Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño / Physical growth in children with salt-wasting adrenal hyperplasia during their first two years of life in the Peruvian National Children's Health Institute

Objetivo: Describir el crecimiento físico de niños con hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita (HSC) perdedora de sal durante los dos primeros años de vida, evaluados en el Servicio de Endocrinología del Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (INSN), Lima-Perú. Materiales y métodos: Es un estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se incluyeron 55 niños con HSC que tuvieron seguimiento en el Servicio de Endocrinología del INSN del 2000 al 2016; se recopilaron datos como peso y talla al nacer y cada 6 meses, edad al diagnóstico, dosis de hidrocortisona y fludrocortisona y velocidad de crecimiento. Resultados: Se analizaron 55 niños con HSC perdedora de sal siendo el diagnóstico más precoz en mujeres (mediana: 21 días) que en varones (mediana: 52 días). Al nacimiento, su longitud promedio fue 0,07 + 0,75 DE; a los 6 meses fue -1,67 + 1,33 DE con mayor compromiso en varones (-2,29 + 1,18 DE; p=0,022); a los 12 meses fue -1,84 + 1,27 DE, con recuperación a los 24 meses (-1,51 + 1,10 DE). La velocidad de crecimiento fue -1,03 + 1,62 DE y -0,89 + 1,06 DE en el en el primer y segundo año, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Los niños con HSC perdedora de sal que tuvieron seguimiento en el INSN, tuvieron menor longitud a los 6 y 12 meses de edad y lograron recuperarse a los 24 meses.

Objective: To describe physical growth features in children with salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) during their first two years of life, in the Endocrinology Service of the Peruvian National Children's Health Institute (CHI) in Lima, Peru. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective, observational, and descriptive study. Fifty-five children with CAH underwent follow-up in the Endocrinology Service of the CHI from 2000 to 2016; data such as body weight and height were collected at birth time and every six months, as well as age at diagnosis, hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone doses, and growth velocity. Results: Fifty-five children with salt-wasting CAH were assessed, the diagnosis was more promptly made in females (median: 21 days) compared to males (median: 52 days). At birth, their average length was 0.07 ± 0.75 SD; at 6 months it was -1.67 ± 1.33 SD, and male subjects were more affected (-2.29 ± 1.18 SD; p= 0.022); at 12 months, this parameter was -1.84 ± 1.27 SD, and recovery was observed at 24 months (-1.51 ± 1.10 SD). Growth velocity values were -1.03 ± 1.62 SD and -0.89 ± 1.06 SD in the first and second years of life, respectively. Conclusions: Children with salt-wasting CAH who were followed-up at CHI had shorter length at 6- and 12- months of age, and their recovered at 24-monbths.

Methamphetamine-associated dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis.

Methamphetamine and HIV impair thyroid function, but few studies have investigated their combined effects on thyroid dysregulation. This study examined the associations of methamphetamine use alone and in combination with HIV on thyroid function among men in South Florida. Measures of thyroid function in methamphetamine-using, HIV-infected (METH+HIV+; n = 127) and HIV-negative (METH+HIV-; n = 46) men who have sex with men (MSM) were compared to non-methamphetamine-using, HIV-negative men (METH-HIV-; n = 136). Thyroid function was dysregulated in methamphetamine-using MSM, irrespective of HIV status. Both meth-using groups had greater odds of abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone levels and significantly higher mean free triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Elevated free T3 was associated with greater depressive symptoms. Overall, outcomes have important implications for assessment of thyroid function in methamphetamine users, particularly among those presenting with depression.

Asociación entre la carga glicémica de la ingesta alimentaria y el síndrome metabólico en niños y adolescentes obesos / Association between dietary glycemic load and metabolic syndrome in obese children and adolescents

Objetivo. Evaluar la asociación entre síndrome metabólico (SM) y carga glicémica (CG) de la ingesta alimentaria en niños y adolescentes obesos atendidos en consulta endocrinológica de un hospital de referencia pediátrica en Lima, Perú. Población y método. Estudio transversal en niños y adolescentes obesos (índice de masa corporal ≥ percentil 95) de 10 a 15 años. Se clasificó como SM según los criterios de la International Diabetes Federation. Se aplicó un recordatorio de 24 horas y se calculó la CG total y por comida. Se evaluó la asociación entre los terciles de CG (comparación con el inferior) y SM usando razones de prevalencia ajustadas (RPa) por variables demográficas, antecedentes familiares, de actividad física y consumo total de carbohidratos en modelos de regresión de Poisson con varianza robusta. Resultados. De 273 niños y adolescentes obesos, 52,4% fueron varones y 94,9% fueron físicamente inactivos. La mediana de CG fue de 213 (164,8287,4) y la de ingesta calórica diaria fue 2275 (1851-3024) kcal, dada principalmente por carbohidratos (62%). La prevalencia de SM fue de 22,3%; los componentes con mayor prevalencia fueron la obesidad abdominal (81,7%) y los valores de lipoproteínas de alta densidad (HDL, del inglés high density lipoprotein) bajos (63,7%). Por último, se encontró una asociación entre el consumo elevado de CG y el riesgo de presentar SM (RPa 4,5; IC 95%: 1,3-15,3). Conclusiones. Existe una asociación entre el alto consumo de CG y la presencia de SM en niños y adolescentes con obesidad.

Objective. To study the association between the metabolic syndrome (MS) and the glycemic load (GL) of food intake among obese children and adolescents seen in consultation by the endocrinology team in a pediatric referral hospital in Lima, Peru. Population and Method. Cross-sectional study among obese children and adolescents (body mass index ≥ 95 percentile), 10-15 years old. The MS was classified according to criteria of the International Diabetes Federation. A 24 hour reminder was used, and the overall and per meal GL was calculated. The association between the GL tertiles (comparison with the lower tertile) and the MS was assessed using prevalence ratios adjusted by demographic outcome measures, family history, physical activity and total carbohydrate consumption in Poisson regression models with a robust variance. Results. Out of 273 obese children and adolescents, 52.4% were male and 94.9% did not engage in any physical activity. Glycemic load median value was 213 (164.8-287.4) and the daily calorie intake value was 2275 (1851-3024) kcal, consisting mainly of carbohydrates (62%). MS prevalence was 22.3%; the most prevalent components were abdominal obesity (81.7%) and low values of high density lipoprotein (HDL) (63.7%). Lastly, an association was observed between a high consumption of GL and the risk of developing MS (aRP 4.5; 95% CI: 1.3-15.3). Conclusions. There is an association between a high consumption of GL and the presence of MS among obese children and adolescents.

Association between dietary glycemic load and metabolic syndrome in obese children and adolescents. / Asociación entre la carga glicémica de la ingesta alimentaria y el síndrome metabólico en niños y adolescentes obesos.

OBJETIVE: To study the association between the metabolic syndrome (MS) and the glycemic load (GL) of food intake among obese children and adolescents seen in consultation by the endocrinology team in a pediatric referral hospital in Lima, Peru. POPULATION AND METHOD: Cross-sectional study among obese children and adolescents (body mass index ≥ 95 percentile), 10-15 years old. The MS was classified according to criteria of the International Diabetes Federation. A 24 hour reminder was used, and the overall and per meal GL was calculated. The association between the GL tertiles (comparison with the lower tertile) and the MS was assessed using prevalence ratios adjusted by demographic outcome measures, family history, physical activity and total carbohydrate consumption in Poisson regression models with a robust variance. RESULTS: Out of 273 obese children and adolescents, 52.4% were male and 94.9% did not engage in any physical activity. Glycemic load median value was 213 (164.8-287.4) and the daily calorie intake value was 2275 (1851-3024) kcal, consisting mainly of carbohydrates (62%). MS prevalence was 22.3%; the most prevalent components were abdominal obesity (81.7%) and low values of high density lipoprotein (HDL) (63.7%). Lastly, an association was observed between a high consumption of GL and the risk of developing MS (aRP 4.5; 95% CI: 1.3-15.3). CONCLUSIONS: There is an association between a high consumption of GL and the presence of MS among obese children and adolescents.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la asociación entre síndrome metabólico (SM) y carga glicémica (CG) de la ingesta alimentaria en niños y adolescentes obesos atendidos en consulta endocrinológica de un hospital de referencia pediátrica en Lima, Perú. POBLACIÓN Y MÉTODO: Estudio transversal en niños y adolescentes obesos (índice de masa corporal ≥ percentil 95) de 10 a 15 años. Se clasificó como SM según los criterios de la International Diabetes Federation. Se aplicó un recordatorio de 24 horas y se calculó la CG total y por comida. Se evaluó la asociación entre los terciles de CG (comparación con el inferior) y SM usando razones de prevalencia ajustadas (RPa) por variables demográficas, antecedentes familiares, de actividad física y consumo total de carbohidratos en modelos de regresión de Poisson con varianza robusta. RESULTADOS: De 273 niños y adolescentes obesos, 52,4% fueron varones y 94,9% fueron físicamente inactivos. La mediana de CG fue de 213 (164,8-287,4) y la de ingesta calórica diaria fue 2275 (1851-3024) kcal, dada principalmente por carbohidratos (62%). La prevalencia de SM fue de 22,3%; los componentes con mayor prevalencia fueron la obesidad abdominal (81,7%) y los valores de lipoproteínas de alta densidad (HDL, del inglés high density lipoprotein) bajos (63,7%). Por último, se encontró una asociación entre el consumo elevado de CG y el riesgo de presentar SM (RPa 4,5; IC 95%: 1,3-15,3). CONCLUSIONES: Existe una asociación entre el alto consumo de CG y la presencia de SM en niños y adolescentes con obesidad.

Central diabetes insipidus: clinical profile that suggests organicity in Peruvian children: Lima - Peru 2001-2013.

BACKGROUND: Central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is a heterogeneous disease caused by arginine vasopressin deficiency; its management implies a profound understanding of the pathophysiology and the clinical spectrum. The aim of the study was to describe the clinical characteristics that indicate organicity in children and adolescents with central diabetes insipidus treated at the Department of Endocrinology from The Child Health's Institute during 2001 to 2013. METHODS: Cross-sectional, retrospective study. 79 cases of patients diagnosed with CDI (51 males and 28 females) from 1 month to 16 years of age were reviewed. For the descriptive analysis, measures of central tendency and dispersion were used; groups of organic and idiopathic CDI were compared using χ2-test and t-test. A p-value<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The average age of patients was 8.1±4.2 years. Organic causes were intracranial tumors, 44 (55.7%), Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), 11 (13.9%) and cerebral malformations in 7 (8.9%) patients, while the idiopathic group was 14 (17.7%) patients. Regarding clinical characteristics suggestive of organicity, headache (p=0.02) and visual disturbances (p=0.01) were found statistically significant. The anterior pituitary hormonal abnormalities were documented in 34 (52.3%) organic CDI patients. Furthermore, we did not find a significant difference in the average daily dose of desmopressin between patients with permanent vs. transitory CDI (0.81±0.65 vs. 0.59±0.62; p=0.363). CONCLUSIONS: The main clinical features suggestive of organicity in pediatric patients with central diabetes insipidus were headache and visual disturbances; furthermore, anterior pituitary hormonal abnormalities suggest an underlying organic etiology.

[GHRd3 polymorphism of growth hormone receptor gen in peruvian children with idiopathic short stature]. / Polimorfismo GHRd3 del gen del receptor de la hormona de crecimiento en niños peruanos con talla baja idiopática.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the standardization of molecular detection and frequency of a growth hormone receptor gene deleted for exon three (GHRd3) polymorphism in a population of Peruvian children with idiopathic short stature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Peripheral blood samples were used from patients (N=64) who were diagnosed with idiopathic short stature and were treated at the endocrinology unit of the National Institute of Child Health in Peru The amplification of exon 3 was carried out using G1, G2, and G3 primers by optimizing PCR conditions, such as annealing temperature and magnesium concentration. RESULTS: The specificity of primers was maximized at 67 °C and there were no differences between magnesium concentration tests. Two-thirds (67%) of patients were GHRfl homozygous, 28% were heterozygous, and 5% were GHRd3 homozygous. CONCLUSIONS: The test was useful in determining the genotypes of patients with idiopathic short stature and revealed that only 5% had a genotype that would respond better to rhGH treatment. Thus, molecular assays may be useful when considering the decision to start drug therapy.

Polimorfismo GHRD3 del gen del receptor de la hormona de crecimiento en niños peruanos con talla baja idiopática / GHRD3 polymorphism of growth hormone receptor gen in peruvian children with idiopathic short stature

Describir la estandarización de la detección molecular y la frecuencia del polimorfismo de GHRd3 del gen del receptor de la hormona de crecimiento en una población de niños peruanos con talla baja idiopática. Materiales y métodos. Se estudiaron 64 muestras de sangre periférica de pacientes con diagnóstico de talla baja idiopática atendidos en el servicio de endocrinología del Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño en Lima, Perú. La amplificación del exón 3 se llevó a cabo empleando los cebadores G1, G2 y G3 optimizándose las condiciones de PCR, como la temperatura de hibridización y las concentraciones de magnesio. Resultados. Se determinó la especificidad de los cebadores a 67 °C y no se obtuvo diferencias entre las concentraciones de magnesio probadas. El 67% de los pacientes fueron homocigotos para GHRfl, 28% fueron heterocigotos y 5% fueron homocigotos para GHRd3. Conclusiones. La técnica permitió establecer los genotipos de los pacientes con talla baja idiopática, determinándose que solo el 5% de ellos presenta el genotipo susceptible de mejor respuesta al tratamiento con rhGH, lo cual puede ser considerado en la decisión de iniciar la terapia...

To describe the standardization of molecular detection and frequency of a growth hormone receptor gene deleted for exon three (GHRd3) polymorphism in a population of Peruvian children with idiopathic short stature. Materials and methods. Peripheral blood samples were used from patients (N=64) who were diagnosed with idiopathic short stature and were treated at the endocrinology unit of the National Institute of Child Health in Peru The amplification of exon 3 was carried out using G1, G2, and G3 primers by optimizing PCR conditions, such as annealing temperature and magnesium concentration. Results. The specificity of primers was maximized at 67 °C and there were no differences between magnesium concentration tests. Two-thirds (67%) of patients were GHRfl homozygous, 28% were heterozygous, and 5% were GHRd3 homozygous. Conclusions. The test was useful in determining the genotypes of patients with idiopathic short stature and revealed that only 5% had a genotype that would respond better to rhGH treatment. Thus, molecular assays may be useful when considering the decision to start drug therapy...

[National congenital hypothyroidism screening in Peru: a broken program]. / Tamizaje nacional unificado de hipotiroidismo congénito en el Perú: un programa inexistente.

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most important cause of preventable mental retardation. The prevalence of CH varies by geographic region, race and ethnicity. In the countries of the Northern hemisphere, the prevalence has been reported as 1:4,000 live newborns. The prevalence is remarkably different among the countries of Latin America not only because of their different races and ethnicities but also because of the heterogeneous social-economic development. The prevalence of CH in 1984 in Peru was reported as 1:1250. In 2007, the reported incidence by the Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal was 1:1638. A recent retrospective study performed by the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño in Lima, Peru described the average age of diagnosis of CH as 5,9 months +/- 5,28. This late age of CH diagnosis certainly suggests the poor efficiency of the current neonatal CH screening programs in Peru. Every Peruvian infant deserves a timely newborn screening and treatment for CH. The Peruvian government is responsible for ensuring this mandatory goal is achieved promptly.

Tamizaje nacional unificado de hipotiroidismo congénito en el Perú: un programa inexistente / National congenital hypothyroidism screening in Peru: a broken program

El hipotiroidismo congénito (HC) es la principal causa prevenible de retardo mental. La prevalencia de HC varía de acuerdo con la región geográfica y la población racial. En el hemisferio norte, la incidencia es 1:4000 recién nacidos vivos. En Latinoamérica, la incidencia varía debido a la heterogeneidad racial/étnica y al nivel de desarrollo. En el Perú, un estudio realizado en 1984 describió esta prevalencia como 1:1250. En el 2007, esta prevalencia fue reportada como 1:1638 por el Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal. Un reciente estudio del Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño durante 1995û2005, describió la edad promedio de diagnóstico de HC como 5,9 meses +/- 5,28. Esta tardía edad de diagnóstico sugiere la poca eficiencia de los actuales programas de tamizaje. Todo niño peruano tiene derecho a recibir diagnóstico oportuno y tratamiento de HC y es el Estado Peruano, el responsable principal de asegurar que esta meta se cumpla...

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most important cause of preventable mental retardation. The prevalence of CH varies by geographic region, race and ethnicity. In the countries of the Northern hemisphere, the prevalence has been reported as 1:4,000 live newborns. The prevalence is remarkably different among the countries of Latin America not only because of their different races and ethnicities but also because of the heterogeneous social-economic development. The prevalence of CH in 1984 in Peru was reported as 1:1250. In 2007, the reported incidence by the Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal was 1:1638. A recent retrospective study performed by the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño in Lima, Peru described the average age of diagnosis of CH as 5,9 months +/- 5,28. This late age of CH diagnosis certainly suggests the poor efficiency of the current neonatal CH screening programs in Peru. Every Peruvian infant deserves a timely newborn screening and treatment for CH. The Peruvian government is responsible for ensuring this mandatory goal is achieved promptly...

Personal protective equipment for the Ebola virus disease: A comparison of 2 training programs.

BACKGROUND: Personal protective equipment (PPE) for preventing Ebola virus disease (EVD) includes basic PPE (B-PPE) and enhanced PPE (E-PPE). Our aim was to compare conventional training programs (CTPs) and reinforced training programs (RTPs) on the use of B-PPE and E-PPE. METHODS: Four groups were created, designated CTP-B, CTP-E, RTP-B, and RTP-E. All groups received the same theoretical training, followed by 3 practical training sessions. RESULTS: A total of 120 students were included (30 per group). In all 4 groups, the frequency and number of total errors and critical errors decreased significantly over the course of the training sessions (P < .01). The RTP was associated with a greater reduction in the number of total errors and critical errors (P < .0001). During the third training session, we noted an error frequency of 7%-43%, a critical error frequency of 3%-40%, 0.3-1.5 total errors, and 0.1-0.8 critical errors per student. The B-PPE groups had the fewest errors and critical errors (P < .0001). CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that both training methods improved the student's proficiency, that B-PPE appears to be easier to use than E-PPE, that the RTP achieved better proficiency for both PPE types, and that a number of students are still potentially at risk for EVD contamination despite the improvements observed during the training.

Respuesta al tratamiento con análogos de hormona liberadora de gonadotrofinas de pacientes con pubertad precoz central en el Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño / Response to treatment with analogues of gonadotrophin releasing hormone in patient with central precocious puberty in the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño

Los análogos de hormona liberadora de gonadotrofinas (GnRHa), son el tratamiento de elección de la pubertad precoz central (PPC) y a pesar de las diversas experiencias reportadas hay aspectos clínicos y auxológicos por responder. Objetivo: Describir la respuesta al tratamiento...

The analogues of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRHa) are the preferred treatment for central precocious puberty (CPP); despite the various reported experiences, there are clinical and auxological issues unanswered. Objective: To describe the response to GnRHa therapy in patients with central precocious puberty, followed in the Endocrine Unit at the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (INSN), Lima, Perú, between 1998 and 2008...