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As in many developing economies, cash is still widely used in Colombia, even among merchants who accept payment cards. Indeed, 60% of these merchants use dissuasive strategies to make their clients pay with cash. This paper presents estimates of merchant card fees that are optimal according to the Tourist Test, so that merchants are indifferent between being paid with cash or cards. We find the estimates are far below the rates that the industry charges because of the low marginal costs of cash and the incentives that sales-tax evasion—a common practice in many developing economies—adds to its promotion. Moreover, we find that reductions in cash usage may lead to an increase in optimal merchant card fees due to scale effects. The results show that the Tourist Test should be used as a guideline for regulators but ought to be complemented with a broader analysis of the industry.

The OMICAS alliance is part of the Colombian government’s Scientific Ecosystem, established between 2017-2018 to promote world-class research, technological advancement and improved competency of higher education across the nation. Since the program’s kick-off, OMICAS has focused on consolidating and validating a multi-scale, multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary strategy and infrastructure to advance discoveries in plant science and the development of new technological solutions for improving agricultural productivity and sustainability. The strategy and methods described in this article, involve the characterization of different crop models, using high-throughput, real-time phenotyping technologies as well as experimental tissue characterization at different levels of the omics hierarchy and under contrasting conditions, to elucidate epigenome-, genome-, proteome- and metabolome-phenome relationships. The massive data sets are used to derive in-silico models, methods and tools to discover complex underlying structure-function associations, which are then carried over to the production of new germplasm with improved agricultural traits. Here, we describe OMICAS’ R&D trans-disciplinary multi-project architecture, explain the overall strategy and methods for crop-breeding, recent progress and results, and the overarching challenges that lay ahead in the field.

There is ongoing interest in the alcohol industry to significantly reduce and/or add value to the liquid residue, vinasse, produced after the distillation and rectification of ethanol from sugar cane. Vinasse contains potassium, glycerol, and a protein component that can cause environmental issues if improperly disposed of. Currently, some industries have optimized their processes to reduce waste, and a significant proportion of vinasse is being considered for use as an additive in other industrial processes. In the manufacture of cement and asphalt, vinasse has been used in the mixtures at low concentrations, albeit with some physical and mechanical problems. This work is the first molecular approximation of the components of the sugar cane vinasse in an industrial context, and it provides atomic details of complex molecular events. In the current study, the major components of sugar cane vinasse, alone or complexed on the surface of calcium carbonate, were modeled and simulated using molecular dynamics. The results showed that the protein component, represented by the mannoprotein Mp1p, has a high affinity for forming hydrogen bonds with potassium and glycerol in the vinasse. Additionally, it provides atomic stability to the calcium carbonate surface, preserving the calcite crystalline structure in the same way potassium ions interact with the carbonate group through ion–dipole interactions to improve the cohesion of the modeled surface. On the contrary, when the glycerol molecule interacts with calcium carbonate using more than two hydrogen bonds, it triggers the breakdown of the crystalline structure of calcite expanding the ionic pair.

The present study aimed to evaluate the state of research linking alternative proteins with consumer attitude and behavior, through a bibliometric analysis of 265 documents indexed in Scopus. The methodology involved the identification of descriptive indicators such as temporal evolution of publications, journals, authors and most cited documents. A qualitative content analysis was also carried out to determine research designs, data sources and predominant analysis techniques. The results show an exponential growth of publications since 2018, with majority contributions from Europe and North America. In terms of methodological aspects, quantitative and empirical survey-based studies predominate. The literature linkage evidenced three streams: overcoming cultural barriers towards edible insects, factors predicting general acceptance of alternative proteins, and acceptance drivers specifically for plant-based meat substitutes. Future research opportunities include the need for more comparative studies across countries and population segments, experimentation with communication and packaging strategies, forms of gradual insertion into the diet, and analysis of microbial and fungal protein sources.

Objective: The detection and classification of sarcopenia involves the analysis of many variables (50 to 60), which increases the time and costs required to diagnose and manage this condition. The objective of the study was to develop a synthetic statistical index to diagnose and classify sarcopenia in physically active women over 60 years old. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study on 100 physically active women (64.88 ±4.4 years) on whom body composition measurements, muscle strength, and gait tests were performed. One thousand random selections of both training and test sets (80% and 20%, respectively) were made, logistic regression was fitted, and the regularization procedure (Elastic net regression) was performed. Results: the skeletal appendicular mass index (kg/m2), muscle mass (kg/m2) and SAMI (kg/m2) are highly correlated (0.93) and slow gait speed (m/sec) were the variables that contributed the most to the diagnosis of sarcopenia with a visibly high correlation, (94%). Conclusion: appendicular lean mass, gait speed, and explosive strength sufficiently describe the state of muscle and functional deterioration (sarcopenia) in physically active older women. Also, the precise identification and classification of this condition facilitates comprehensive multidisciplinary intervention, increasing the positive impact of health promotion and disease prevention programs

Abstract Background The characteristics of the implementation process of interventions are essential for bridging the gap between research and practice. This scoping review aims to identify the implementation process of social network interventions (SNI) to address physical activity and sedentary behaviors in children and adolescents. Methods The scoping review was conducted adhering to the established guidelines. The search was carried out in the ERIC, EBSCO, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Lilacs databases in April 2023. Social network intervention studies in children and adolescents were included, addressing physical activity or sedentary behaviors. Replicability (TIDieR), applicability (PRECIS-2), and generalizability (RE-AIM) were the explored components of the implementation process. Each component was quantitatively and separately analyzed. Then, a qualitative integration was carried out using a narrative method. Results Most SNI were theoretically framed on the self-determination theory, used social influence as a social mechanism, and used the individual typology of network intervention. Overall, SNI had strong replicability, tended to be pragmatic, and three RE-AIM domains (reach, adoption (staff), and implementation) showed an acceptable level of the generalizability of findings. Conclusions The analyzed SNI for physical activity and sedentary behaviors in adolescents tended to be reported with high replicability and were conducted pragmatically, i.e., with very similar conditions to real settings. The RE-AIM domains of reach, adoption (staff), and implementation support the generalizability of SNI. Some domains of the principles of implementation strategies of SNI had acceptable external validity (actor, action targets, temporality, dose, and theoretical justification).

Este artículo presenta una revisión general de los conceptos e investigaciones que fundamentan el enfoque psicosocial sobre los procesos de apoyo social y revisa la pertinencia de estos procesos en el campo de la salud y el bienestar. Además, revisa el concepto de redes sociales identificando los diversos niveles de intervención desde el ámbito de lo íntimo o microsocial hasta el nivel de lo macrosocial. Identifica y diferencia tres tipos de redes: las informales, las formales y las virtuales. Presenta el concepto de intervención en red y una serie de recomendaciones metodológicas y prácticas para llegar a realizar un diagnóstico social de la situación y una propuesta de intervención en red, alertando a los lectores sobre las implicaciones que para la intervención tienen el cambio de un nivel a otro.

El presente estudio experimental aborda el impacto del tipo de emisor de información en la percepción de credibilidad de las noticias tecnológicas. La investigación involucró a 150 estudiantes universitarios, quienes, mediante un diseño entre sujetos 3 x 1, observaron un video sobre un innovador invento médico. La variable principal fue el emisor de la noticia: un presentador humano, un avatar con alto grado de realismo humano y un avatar de apariencia ficticia. La evaluación se centró en la credibilidad de la información. A través de análisis de la varianza (Anovas) y pruebas post-hoc se descubrió una jerarquía clara en la percepción de credibilidad. Los datos revelaron que existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la credibilidad otorgada a la condición humana y a la del avatar realista, a favor del humano. Sin embargo, no se hallaron diferencias significativas entre el humano y el avatar ficticio. Esto sugiere que la apariencia no humana de un avatar no necesariamente disminuye la credibilidad frente a una persona real, aunque los avatares muy realistas pueden generar cierto rechazo que se puede traducir en una menor credibilidad percibida.

Abstract Background The physical activity (PA) prescription workshop for physicians, through the global health initiative “Exercise is Medicine” (EIM), has trained more than 4000 health care professionals (HCPs) in Latin America. It has shown to be effective in increasing PA prescription knowledge and awareness among HCPs. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the curricular and pedagogical approach used by EIM Colombia at the PA prescription workshops implemented between 2014 and 2015. Methods A mixed methods study, with a sequential explanatory design was implemented among a convenience sample of HCPs attending twenty-six PA prescription workshops. HCPs health status, PA personal habits, and medical practices were collected using a questionnaire at baseline among 795 participants (pre-test measurement), and subsequently quantitatively analyzed. A workshop satisfaction survey was administered after the completion of the workshop among 602 HCPs. The curricular and pedagogical approach of the workshop, the designers’ and students’ contextual factors, and perceptions about the workshop were measured using qualitative methods (analysis of the procedures manual, two workshop observations, three semi-structured interviews, and one focus group including 8 HCPs). Results The workshop is student-centered and guided by an expert with an academic and clinical background. Learning was achieved with theoretical and practical components using authentic performance and collaborative learning. An active teaching and learning approach was used with strategies such as interactive lectures, hands-on elements, and role-playing (patient-counselor). The workshop emphasized an individual approach when prescribing PA integrating in clinical practice not only health benefits but also patient´s beliefs, motivations, needs, and barriers. Conclusions Evidence-based practices and authentic performance were the most salient pedagogical elements used by EIM Colombia at the PA prescription workshop. A knowledge assessment that includes the practical aspect is suggested for future workshops. The curricular and pedagogical approach of the PA prescription workshop implemented in Colombia is well received by the medical community and a useful continuing medical education intervention with a potential contribution to current, and future health promotion needs.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of a curricular intervention to promote health-related fitness (HRF) among medical students in Bogota, Colombia. Method The study was conducted between May 2014 and December 2015 as part of the medical physiology course, in which 208 medical students were enrolled.The curricular intervention included two lectures on physical activity (PA) and student-led group presentations on the physiological effects of exercise on human physiology. An academic incentive (10% of final grade) was given to students who reported and documented regular PA practice during the semester. This study assessed students’ HRF variables, perceptions of the curriculum intervention, and PA practices using quantitative and qualitative approaches. Results 55% of the students were female, with a mean age of 19.5 years. Body fat, estimated maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), handgrip, and sit-up strength showed statistically significant improvements at the end of the intervention. Students reported that PA practice was positively influenced by the curriculum intervention, particularly the academic incentive and the HRF tests. Students reported a wide variety of PA practices, which were mainly done with friends, classmates, or family members. Lack of time was the main reported barrier to PA practice. Conclusion The curricular intervention was effective in improving HRF and promoting PA. It remains to be investigated whether these gains are sustained over time.

El presente artículo analiza la relación entre la imagen y la música en la serie alemana Dark, centrándose en el año 1986. La metodología mixta empleada combina análisis cuantitativos y hermenéuticos para determinar si existe una conexión directa entre ambos elementos. Se examinan diversos aspectos de la música, como su carácter diegético o extradiegético, instrumentalidad, letras y género, tanto por artista como por canción. Los resultados revelan una relación no directa entre la temporalidad de la imagen y la música, ya que esta última, aunque ambientada en los años 80, es producida en el siglo XXI. Predominan los géneros clásico y new romantic, sugiriendo un uso referencial de la nostalgia mediante la imitación estilística de la música de los ochenta. Finalmente, se evidencia una intencionalidad nostálgica en la producción musical actual, que busca evocar la estética de esa época.

El presente trabajo revisa encuentros y tensiones entre la moda y el feminismo a partir de las percepciones de mujeres protagonistas de ambos sectores sociales. Se basa en un estudio descriptivo en el que se entrevistaron a 16 mujeres, divididas en dos grupos: primero, pertenecientes a colectivos feministas; segundo, involucradas en la industria de la moda. El análisis de sus testimonios muestra que la configuración de imaginarios y estereotipos asociados a la moda y al feminismo se deriva de la creciente ambivalencia entre lo público y lo privado, ámbitos cuyas fronteras son cada vez más tenues. Las conclusiones evidencian que el vestirse emerge como un acto político que entra de diversas maneras en las agendas de la moda y los movimientos feministas.

The experience and knowledge that students have about the teaching process, interaction in the class, and their motivation toward physical education influence their attitude and learning at school. This study investigated the likes, motivation, and attitudes of students toward physical education and the practice of sports outside class. A mixed method research was used to conduct the study, which included qualitative and quantitative techniques. We worked with a sample of 2550 students from ninth and tenth grades of public schools in the nine subregions of the Department of Antioquia (Colombia). The qualitative data were analyzed through open coding using ATLAS.ti, and the quantitative data were analyzed with SPSS. The results showed that 83.5% of the respondents really liked physical education. They like the class because of the practice and learning of sports, the possibility of improving their physical condition, the games, the break from other school subjects, the learning of values, and the attitude of the teachers. On the other hand, 88.4% of the respondents said that they play sports outside class.

This ethnographic work on the cultural behavior of anorexic women in a virtual communication space aimed to demonstrate the use of their verbalizations and images that support the motivations and guidelines of this practice. The methodology of writing from the leading role of this condition and having returned some time later to be able to document it was used. The main finding is a guide exposed in categories where it can be concluded that this pathology behaves as a spiritual cult where communication with ANA is vital, the deity of this practice that has its own symbols and imaginaries, all through a virtual forum. Este trabajo etnográfico sobre el comportamiento cultural de las mujeres anoréxicas en un espacio de comunicación virtual, tuvo como objetivo evidenciar el uso de sus verbalizaciones e imágenes que fundamentan las motivaciones y pautas de esta práctica. Se usó la metodología de escribir desde el protagonismo de este padecimiento y haber regresado tiempo después para poder documentarlo. Como principal hallazgo se presenta una guía expuesta en categorías donde se puede concluir que esta patología se comporta como culto espiritual donde es vital la comunicación con ANA, la deidad de esta práctica que tiene sus propios símbolos e imaginarios, todo a través de un foro virtual.

La escuela, como eje de transformación, debe adaptar sus prácticas en relación con la diversidad de necesidades del alumnado sordo, aportando soluciones que permitan el avance y desarrollo de los procesos académicos. Esta investigación tuvo como propósito analizar la viabilidad de procedimientos para el diseño y la implementación de un vocabulario de señas para Educación Física, así como explorar sus posibles efectos en el desempeño académico. Se realizó un estudio piloto con 48 alumnos sordos (sexo masculino n = 23) con edades de entre 13 y 19 años. Se implementó una intervención en un solo grupo, sin grupo control, y se analizaron los cambios en el desempeño académico antes y después de la intervención. El diseño del vocabulario arrojó un conjunto de 27 señas para uso pedagógico en Educación Física. Los hallazgos preliminares del estudio sugieren que la intervención educativa realizada con el vocabulario pedagógico de señas en Educación Física produjo un gran efecto (d = 2.05) y cambios significativos en el desempeño académico de los alumnos sordos (p < .05). Los resultados del estudio indican que el uso de la herramienta de validez externa conocida como RE-AIM aportó elementos favorables en su diseño e implementación. Sin embargo, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en el desempeño de acuerdo al sexo de los participantes (p > .05). La implementación de la intervención educativa con el vocabulario pedagógico de señas en Educación Física produjo resultados satisfactorios como estrategia de mejoramiento del desempeño académico de los alumnos sordos. Se considera necesario crear futuras líneas de trabajo asociadas al estudio de estas variables.

Abstract Background The objective of the study was to analyze the associations of family aspects, physical fitness, and physical activity with mental-health indicators in a sample of adolescents from Colombia. Methods A cross-sectional study carried out in a sample of 988 adolescents (11-17 years-old) from public schools in Montería. Mental-health indicators were evaluated: Stress, depression, anxiety, happiness, health-related quality of life (HRQL), and subjective wellness. Family aspects included family affluence, functionality, and structure. These variables, along with physical activity and screen time, were measured with questionnaires. A fitness score was established by assessing the components of fitness: Flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, grip strength, and lower-limb strength. Associations were analyzed by multivariate linear regression models. Results Nuclear family structure was associated with lower stress level (− 1.08, CI: − 1.98 - -0.18), and family functionality was associated with all the studied mental-health indicators (Stress: -0.11, CI: − 0.17 - -0.06; depression: -0.20, CI: − 0.25 - -0.16; trait anxiety: -0.13, CI: − 0.18 - -0.09; state anxiety: -0.12, CI: − 0.17 - -0.08; happiness: 0.09, CI: 0.07 - 0.1; HRQL: 1.13, CI: 0.99 - 1.27; subjective wellness: 1.67, CI: 1.39 - 1.95). Physical activity was associated (β, 95% Confidence Interval (CI)) with depression (− 0.27, − 0.57 - -0.02), trait anxiety (− 0.39, CI: − 0.65 - -0.13), state anxiety (− 0.30, CI: − 0.53 - -0.07), happiness (0.14, CI: 0.06 - 0.22), HRQL (3.63, CI: 2.86 – 4.43), and subjective wellness (5.29, CI: 3.75 – 6.83). Physical fitness was associated with stress (− 0.80, CI: − 1.17 - -0.43), state anxiety (− 0.45, CI: − 0.73 - -0.17), and HRQL (1.75, CI: 0.82 - 2.69); screen time was only associated with stress (0.06, CI: 0.02 - 0.11). Conclusions Family aspects were associated with mental health indicators, especially family functionality which was associated all mental-health indicators. Similarly, fitness, physical activity, and screen time were associated with the studied indicators of mental health. Particularly, physical activity was associated with all the mental-health indicators, except stress, which was only associated with screen time. Physical fitness was associated with stress, anxiety, and HRQL. Future studies could explore the causal relationships of fitness, physical activity and screen time with mental health in adolescents.

Se presenta una investigación sobre las relaciones imaginarias entre los habitantes de la región Oriente Antioqueño, en Colombia, y sus objetos favoritos, desglosados en tres generaciones: hijos, padres y abuelos. Se parte de una reflexión filosófica, antropológica y semiótica de los objetos, donde se revisan los marcos conceptuales clásicos en la materia y se les pone en diálogo con trabajos contemporáneos de corte sociológico, comunicativo y estético. Se emplea una metodología mixta: primero, desde lo cuantitativo se definen variables de análisis como generación, entorno, tiempo con el objeto y sistema simbólico; en segunda instancia, se correlacionan las generaciones y el entorno de proveniencia de los objetos con los sistemas simbólicos en los cuales estos actúan. Al final se reflexiona sobre la pertinencia y actualidad de las tradiciones teóricas de estudio de los objetos para mirar las implicaciones de la supuesta virtualización/digitalización del mundo en relación con lo que muestran los resultados empíricos del estudio.