Metahemoglobinemia y hemólisis intravascular aguda después de una intoxicación por naftaleno en un paciente pediátrico / Methemoglobinemia and acute intravascular hemolysis after naphthalene poisoning in a pediatric patient

La intoxicación por naftaleno es poco frecuente en los niños. Es causada por la ingesta, la inhalación o el contacto con la piel de sustancias que contienen naftaleno. Los pacientes suelen tener orina de color marrón oscuro, diarrea acuosa y vómito bilioso. Los signos incluyen fiebre, taquicardia, hipotensión y valores bajos en la oximetría de pulso, incluso con oxigenoterapia. Los análisis de sangre detectan anemia hemolítica, metahemoglobinemia, insuficiencia renal e hiperbilirrubinemia. Además del tratamiento sintomático, se hacen transfusiones de eritrocitos y se les administran ácido ascórbico, azul de metileno y N-acetilcisteína. En este artículo, presentamos el caso de un paciente masculino de 23 meses de edad con metahemoglobinemia y hemólisis intravascular aguda que recibió atención en la unidad de cuidados intensivos durante cinco días por intoxicación por naftaleno. Si bien la intoxicación por naftaleno es muy poco frecuente, tiene consecuencias mortales y se debe ejercer precaución con su uso y venta.

Poisoning by naphthalene is uncommon in children. It is a type of poisoning brought on by ingesting, inhaling, or coming into touch with naphthalene-containing substances on the skin. Patients typically present with an initial onset of dark brown urine, watery diarrhea, and bile vomit. The signs include fever, tachycardia, hypotension, and low pulse oximetry readings even with oxygen support. Hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, renal failure, and hyperbilirubinemia are all detected in blood tests. Erythrocyte transfusion, ascorbic acid, methylene blue, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) therapies are provided to inpatients in addition to symptomatic treatment. We present a 23-month-old male patient who developed methemoglobinemia and acute intravascular hemolysis, who was followed up in the intensive care unit for five days due to naphthalene intoxication. Although naphthalene poisoning is very rare, it should be known that it has fatal consequences, and more care should be taken in its use and sale.

High-dose Vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of patients with COVID-19: A systematic review

Introduction: Vitamin C supplementation has been seen as a supportive treatment to control and prevent complications of COVID-19 by enhancing the immune response against infection. However, the effects of high doses of this vitamin are not yet fully understood. Objective: To analyze the effects of high-dose vitamin C in patients with COVID-19. Methods: This was a systematic review, using original studies published from April 2020 to November 2022 in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The combination of descriptors registered in Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) used to search for articles were: (("vitamin C" OR "ascorbic acid") AND ("COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2" OR "coronavirus")). Original articles of clinical trials conducted with patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and submitted to high-dose vitamin C supplementation were included. Results: Eligible studies included patients in intensive care units, wards, or outpatient clinics, who were given doses of vitamin C, ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 mg/day, with an average duration of 6.25 days of supplementation and mostly intravenous administration. A reduction in fever and myalgia was observed, as well as an improvement in oxygen saturation and lung impairment rate. Conclusion: The role of high-dose vitamin C in patients affected by COVID-19 requires further study, however, to date, the results have been promising for symptom reduction and improvement in lung function and oxygenation.

Introducción: La administración de suplementos de vitamina C se ha considerado un tratamiento de apoyo para controlar y prevenir las complicaciones del COVID-19 al mejorar la respuesta inmunitaria contra la infección. Sin embargo, los efectos de dosis elevadas de esta vitamina aún no se conocen en su totalidad. Objetivo: Analizar los efectos de altas dosis de vitamina C en pacientes con COVID-19. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio de revisión sistemática, utilizando artículos originales publicados desde abril de 2020 hasta noviembre de 2022 en las bases de datos PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus y Web of Science. Para la búsqueda de los artículos se utilizó la combinación de descriptores registrados en Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): (("vitamin C" OR "ascorbic acid") AND ("COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2" OR "coronavirus")). Se incluyeron artículos originales de tipo ensayo clínico realizados con pacientes diagnosticados con COVID-19 y sometidos a suplementación con altas dosis de vitamina C. Resultados: Los estudios elegibles se realizaron con pacientes ingresados en unidades de cuidados intensivos, salas o ambulatorios, a los que se administraron dosis de vitamina C que oscilaban entre 6.000 y 8.000 mg/día, con una duración media de 6,25 días de suplementación y vía de administración mayoritariamente intravenosa. Se observó una reducción de la fiebre y las mialgias, además de una mejoría de la saturación de oxígeno y de la tasa de compromiso pulmonar. Conclusión: El papel de las dosis altas de vitamina C en pacientes afectados por COVID-19 requiere más estudios; sin embargo, hasta la fecha, los resultados han sido prometedores en cuanto a la reducción de los sintomas, y la mejora de la función pulmonar y la oxigenación.

Phytochemical evaluation and anti-psoriatic activity of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Thespesia populnea

Psoriasis is a chronic, mild and common inflammatory skin condition. Still an ideal treatment for psoriasis, effective, safe, convenient, and economical is not available. In this scenario, the search for suitable alternative treatments with minimal side effects is necessary. Plants can be effective and alternative in this regard. Therefore, this article discusses the leaves of the plants Thespesia populnea (Malvaceae) that are traditionally used in the treatment of psoriasis. The present study aimed to assess anti-psoriatic activity. The dried leaves of the plants were subjected to soxhlation with 95% ethanol and phytochemical studies were performed. The anti-psoriatic activity was evaluated by the Mouse-Tail model. It is a relatively sensitive and reproducible morphometric method that allows quantitative evaluation of the effects of anti-psoriatics through epidermal differentiation. Extracts were applied topically at a dose of 500mg/kg over 14 days and at the end, the animals were sacrificed, longitudinal histological sections were made of the tail skin and the degree of orthokeratosis was determined. It was significantly (P <0.05) increased by the ethanolic extract of Thespesia populnea (52.86±2.86) compared to the control (17.30±4.09). In relative epidermal thickness, the ethanolic extract of Thespesia populnea (92.68±8.8) showed a significant difference (P <0.05) compared to the control (100±10.7). The data obtained suggest that the selected plant has anti-psoriatic activity and confirms its traditional use in the treatment of psoriasis.

Mental stress induces endothelial dysfunction by AT1R-mediated redox imbalance in overweight/obese men

The main goal of this study was to determine whether oxidative imbalance mediated by AT1 receptor (AT1R) is responsible for deleterious endothelial responses to mental stress (MS) in overweight/obese class I men. Fifteen overweight/obese men (27±7 years old; 29.8±2.6 kg/m2) participated in three randomized experimental sessions with oral administration of the AT1R blocker olmesartan (40 mg; AT1R blockade) or ascorbic acid (AA; 3g) infusion or placebo [both intravenously (0.9% NaCl) and orally]. After two hours, endothelial function was determined by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) before (baseline), 30 min (30MS), and 60 min (60MS) after a five-minute acute MS session (Stroop Color Word Test). Blood was collected before (baseline), during MS, and 60 min after MS for redox homeostasis profiling: lipid peroxidation (TBARS; thiobarbituric acid reactive species), protein carbonylation, and catalase activity by colorimetry and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity by an ELISA kit. At the placebo session, FMD significantly decreased 30MS (P=0.05). When compared to baseline, TBARS (P<0.02), protein carbonylation (P<0.01), catalase (P<0.01), and SOD (P<0.01) increased during the placebo session. During AT1R blockade, FMD increased 30 min after MS (P=0.01 vs baseline; P<0.01 vs placebo), while AA infusion increased FMD only 60 min after MS. No differences were observed during MS with the AT1R blockade and AA regarding TBARS, protein carbonylation, catalase, and SOD. AT1R-mediated redox imbalances played an important role in endothelial dysfunction to mental stress.

Association of Rhizophora mangle and ascorbic acid in hydrogels: Evaluation of cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects

Abstract Polyphenolics from Rhizophora mangle (R. mangle) have shown wound healing and anti- inflammatory effects that may be potentiated by being associated with ascorbic acid, an important substance for collagen and elastin synthesis that plays a role in tissue repair. In our study, we aimed to formulate an association of R. mangle and ascorbic acid in hydrogels and evaluate the association's cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects. In a pre-formulation study, three gelling polymers (i.e.xanthan gum, poloxamer and hydroxyethyl cellulose) were tested. The selected polymer (i.e. xanthan gum) was used to evaluate cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects using flow cytometry. Xanthan gum (1.5%) had a homogeneous appearance, an orange colour, a smooth surface, intense brightness and the typical odour, as well as non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behaviour. With a pH of 5.0-5.3 and a non-cytotoxic profile, xanthan gum induced the proliferation and activation of CD4 +, CD8+ and NK T lymphocytes and the production of IL- 2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17 and TNF-α cytokines in stimulated splenocytes. The results suggest that the association of R. mangle and ascorbic acid in 1.5% xanthan gum hydrogel may be promising in preparations for wound-healing processes.

Scurvy and food selectivity in childhood: a case report

ABSTRACT Despite its rarity, symptomatic micronutrient deficiency remains a public health problem. Scurvy is the differential diagnosis for bleeding disorders and hematological and rheumatological diseases, especially in patients with eating disorders. However, it is unrelated to autism spectrum disorders or other neurodevelopmental disorders. A previously healthy 10-year-old boy living in São Paulo, Brazil, had a history of significant food selectivity unrelated to autism spectrum disorder, resulting in symptomatic ascorbic acid deficiency (scurvy). This resulted in pain and purpuric lesions on the lower limbs, gingival edema, bleeding during tooth brushing, asthenia, weakness, malaise, and sadness. Therefore, dietary anamnesis is important for routine monitoring of child growth and development. This process helps prevent nutritional deficiencies, facilitates early diagnosis of eating disorders, and enables multidisciplinary follow-up for these patients.

O efeito do ácido ascórbico tópico na cicatrização cutânea / The effect of topical ascorbic acid on cutaneous healing

Introdução: A ferida cirúrgica apresenta altos níveis de radicais livres em resposta ao dano cutâneo, o que gera a hipótese de um possível benefício do uso de antioxidantes no reparo destas feridas, tal como a aplicação tópica do ácido ascórbico. No entanto, pesquisas recentes obtiveram conclusões discrepantes para este tipo de tratamento. O objetivo é avaliar o efeito do ácido ascórbico tópico na cicatrização cutânea por meio de uma revisão de escopo. Métodos: A revisão de escopo foi realizada na base de dados Medline, Lilacs e Cochrane, com os descritores: ácido ascórbico, creme para a pele e cicatrização de feridas. Foram definidos como critérios de inclusão: ensaios clínicos randomizados, observacionais e revisões sistemáticas, em humanos, com data de publicação de até 5 anos, nas línguas inglesa, portuguesa ou espanhola. Foram excluídas: revisões narrativas, dissertações, teses, editoriais, estudos in vitro e em animais. Por fim, foi realizada a classificação dos estudos através da metodologia GRADE. Resultados: Foram encontrados 83 estudos e, após triagem, seis artigos foram selecionados. Destacou-se o uso do ácido ascórbico na concentração de 5 a 20% e de seus derivados (0,075% a 9,55%). Apresentaram a qualidade GRADE moderada os desfechos: aumento da firmeza cutânea e redução da vermelhidão, e alta qualidade: melhora na hidratação, elasticidade, colorometria das manchas e melhora do fechamento das feridas. Conclusão: O ácido ascórbico promove melhor elasticidade cutânea, diminuição do eritema e melhor fechamento das feridas. Apesar destes fortes indícios, ensaios clínicos randomizados com menor risco de viés de aferição e com maior casuística ainda se fazem necessários.

Introduction: The surgical wound has high levels of free radicals in response to skin damage, which raises the hypothesis of a possible benefit from using antioxidants in repairing these wounds, such as the topical application of ascorbic acid. However, recent research has found conflicting conclusions about this type of treatment. The objective is to evaluate the effect of topical ascorbic acid on skin healing through a scope review. Methods: The scope review was carried out in the Medline, Lilacs and Cochrane databases, with the descriptors: ascorbic acid, skin cream, and wound healing. Inclusion criteria were defined as randomized clinical trials, observational and systematic reviews, in humans, with a publication date of up to 5 years, in English, Portuguese or Spanish. The following were excluded: narrative reviews, dissertations, theses, editorials, in vitro and animal studies. Finally, the studies were classified using the GRADE methodology. Results: 83 studies were found, and six articles were selected after screening. The use of ascorbic acid in the concentration of 5 to 20% and its derivatives (0.075% to 9.55%) stood out. The outcomes presented a moderate GRADE quality: increased skin firmness and reduced redness, and high quality: improved hydration, elasticity, colorimetry of the stains and improved wound closure. Conclusion: Ascorbic acid promotes better skin elasticity, reduced erythema and better wound closure. Despite these strong indications, randomized clinical trials with a lower risk of measurement bias and greater casuistry are still necessary.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) protects from neuropathy caused by cisplatin, through enhanced heat shock protein-70 and reduced oxidant effect

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine whether vitamin C has a protective effect on cisplatin-induced neuropathy in rats. METHODS: In total, 24 rats were included in the study of which 8 rats (no drug administered) were categorized as the control group. The remaining 16 rats were given a total dose of 20 mg/kg cisplatin to induce neuropathy. These drug-administered rats (16 rats) were randomly divided into two groups, namely, group-1 (n=8): cisplatin+saline and group-2 (n=8): cisplatin+vitamin C (500 mg/kg/day). All rats were tested for motor function and electromyographic activity 3 days after cisplatin. Motor performance was evaluated by an inclined-plane test. Compound muscle action potential was evaluated. Plasma malondialdehyde, glutathione, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6, and sciatic nerve HSP 70 levels were measured. Axon diameter and nerve growth factor expression levels were analyzed. RESULTS: Plasma malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin 6 levels were higher in the cisplatin+saline group than control group (p<0.001). But vitamin C significantly reduced malondialdehyde and inflammatory cytokine levels when compared with the cisplatin+saline group (p<0.001). Glutathione levels were lower in both cisplatin+saline and cisplatin+vitamin C groups than control group, but vitamin C significantly ameliorated the glutathione levels (p<0.05). Sciatic heat shock protein-70 levels were significantly higher in the cisplatin+vitamin C group than cisplatin+saline group. Compound muscle action potential amplitude and inclined plane test scores were significantly improved in the vitamin C group (p<0.05). Axon diameter and nerve growth factor expression ameliorated with vitamin C (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated the ameliorated effects of vitamin C on cisplatin-induced neuropathy through increased heat shock protein-70, nerve growth factor levels, and reduced inflammatory and oxidant effects. The results are promising to improve the neurotoxic effects of cisplatin in cancer patients.

Phytochemical evaluation and anti-psoriatic activity of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Momordica charantia

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, multi factorial disease. Topical chemical agents are used to treat psoriasis, despite their lower effectiveness or ineffective effects. Herbal medicine can be one of the alternative treatment methods. Momordica charantia is traditionally used to treat skin diseases, especially psoriasis. The main phytochemicals responsible for antipsoriatic activity is stigmasterol, taraxerol, lofenol, phenylpropanoids and squalene. The alcoholic soxhlation method was used to obtain the percentage phytochemical yield of 13.36% w/w, which was used for antipsoriatic activity using a mouse tail model of psoriasis. The extract produced significant differentiation of the epidermis as evidenced by the degree of orthokeratosis 70.18 ± 2.64% compared to the negative control 17.30 ± 4.09%. This was equivalent to the effect of the standard positive control, tazarotene gel (0.1%), which showed a degree of orthokeratosis of 90.03 ± 2.00%. The extract showed an overall antipsoriatic activity of 63.94%.

Pharmacokinetics of a Novel Sustained-Release Vitamin C Oral Tablet: A Single Dose, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Objectives To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of a novel sustained-release oral tablet (C-Fence, Inventia Healthcare Limited, Mumbai, India). Methods We conducted a randomized, placebo controlled, parallel-design, 500 mg single-dose pharmacokinetic study of this new preparation in 18 healthy adult human subjects (nine in each group) under fasting conditions. The concentration-time profile and pharmacokinetic parameters of L-ascorbic acid, including Cmax (maximum plasma concentration), Tmax (time to reach Cmax), and AUC0-24h (area under the plasma concentration versus time curve from time 0 h to 24 h) were calculated using baseline-corrected values. Results The sustained-release tablets resulted in mean Cmax and AUC0-24h, respectively, of 1.39 ± 1.21 µg/mL and 11.72 ± 10.73 µg.h/mL against 0.18 ± 0.10 µg/mL and 0.89 ± 0.27 µg.h/mL, respectively, in the placebo group. The mean Tmax with the sustained-release tablets was 4.3 ± 2.5 h. At 12, 16, and 24 h from dosing, the concentrations were 0.6, 0.4, and 0.3 µg/mL, respectively, above baseline values. Conclusion Novel sustained-release formulations of vitamin C are expected to help achieve plasma vitamin C values above the homeostatic saturation level and result in higher steady-state plasma concentration, which might result in better cellular uptake.

A vitamina C na esquizofrenia apresenta benefício? Estudo preliminar com análise comportamental em ratos / Does vitamin C have benefit in schizophrenia? Preliminary study with behavioral analysis in rats

RESUMO Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar em ratos modelos de esquizofrenia, induzidos pela administração de cetamina, a possibilidade dos efeitos benéficos do ácido ascórbico na esquizofrenia, por meio do teste comportamental. Métodos O estudo preliminar foi simples-cego e randomizado. Foi realizado o protocolo de psicose por cetamina em 24 ratos Wistar submetidos posteriormente à análise comportamental. No primeiro grupo, foram administradas: água e cetamina; no segundo: ácido ascórbico e cetamina; no terceiro: antipsicótico, ácido ascórbico e cetamina; e no quarto: antipsicótico, água e cetamina. A análise comportamental foi feita por meio do Open Field Test, considerado o método-padrão para avaliar comportamento em modelos animais de esquizofrenia. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo software IBM-SPSS, por meio dos Modelos Lineares Generalizados. Resultados O tratamento em monoterapia de haloperidol (Média Quadrante: 44,5 ± 15,8; IC: 13,54-75,46/Média Centro: 2,67 ± 0,67; IC: 1,63-4,35) e aquele em conjunto com a vitamina C (Média Quadrante: 38,67 ± 15,8; IC: 7,71-69,52/Média Centro: 2,00 ± 0,58; IC: 1,14-3,52) demonstraram benefícios nos ratos modelos de esquizofrenia induzidos por cetamina (Média Quadrante: 108,5 ± 15,8; IC: 77,54-139,46/Média Centro: 11,33 ± 1,37; IC: 8,94-14,37) (p < 0,001). O tratamento isolado com a vitamina C não apresentou resultado significante (Média Quadrante: 62,00 ± 15,8; IC: 31,04-92,96/Média Centro: 7,00 ± 1,08; IC: 5,17-9,47). Conclusão A associação de antipsicótico e vitamina C e somente o antipsicótico demonstraram efeito terapêutico em relação aos controles. A vitamina C isolada não apresentou benefício.

ABSTRACT Objective The objective of this study was to analyze in rats models of schizophrenia, induced by the administration of ketamine, the possibility of the beneficial effects of ascorbic acid in schizophrenia, through the behavioral test. Methods This preliminary study was simple blind and randomized. The ketamine psychosis protocol was carried out in 24 Wistar rats, which were subsequently submitted to behavioral analysis. The first group was supplied with: water and ketamine; the second: ascorbic acid and ketamine; the third: antipsychotic, ascorbic acid and ketamine; the fourth: antipsychotic, water and ketamine. Behavioral analysis was performed using the Open Field Test, considered the standard method for assessing behavior in animal models of schizophrenia. Statistical analysis was performed by the IBM-SPSS software, using the Generalized Linear Models. Results Treatment in haloperidol monotherapy (Quadrant Average: 44.5 ± 15.8; CI: 13.54-75.46/Center Average: 2.67 ± 0.67; CI: 1.63-4.35) and combined with vitamin C (Quadrant Average: 38.67 ± 15.8; CI: 7.71-69.52/Center Average: 2.00 ± 0.58; CI: 1.14-3.52), demonstrated benefits in the animal model of schizophrenia induced by ketamine (Quadrant Average: 108.5 ± 15.8; CI: 77.54-139.46/Center Average: 11.33 ± 1.37; CI: 8.94- 14.37) (p < 0.001). The isolated treatment with vitamin C did not show a significant result (Quadrant Average: 62.00 ± 15.8; CI: 31.04-92.96/Mean Average: 7.00 ± 1.08; CI: 5.17-9.47). Conclusion The association of antipsychotic and vitamin C and only the antipsychotic demonstrated a therapeutic effect respecting to controls. Vitamin C manage separately had no benefit.

Escorbuto en la adolescencia: reporte de un caso / Scurvy in adolescence: case report

El escorbuto es una enfermedad producida por déficit de vitamina C. Si bien en la actualidad es poco frecuente, la bibliografía describe grupos de riesgo en la población pediátrica, dentro de los que se encuentran los pacientes con alteraciones alimentarias. Se reporta el caso de un adolescente varón, de 11 años de edad, que desarrolló la enfermedad por un hábito alimentario selectivo, sin ingesta de frutas ni verduras. El objetivo del reporte es resaltar la importancia de la anamnesis alimentaria completa en la consulta con el equipo de salud, que permita sospechar y detectar de manera temprana y oportuna trastornos por déficit de micronutrientes como el escorbuto.

Scurvy is a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Although it is currently rare, risk groups in the pediatric population are described in the bibliography, including patients with eating disorders. We report the case of an 11-year-old male adolescent who developed the disease due to a selective eating habit, without fruits or vegetables. The objective of this report is to highlight the importance of complete food anamnesis in consultation with the health team, which allows to suspect and detect early and timely micronutrient deficiency disorders such as scurvy.

Suplemento alimentar de vitamina C: fiscalização durante o período de adequação à nova legislação / Vitamin C dietary supplement: inspection during adequacy period of new legislation

Os suplementos à base de vitamina C são amplamente consumidos pela população, evidenciando a importância da fiscalização desses produtos. Em julho de 2018, a ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária) publicou as novas regulamentações sobre suplementos alimentares, estabelecendo-se o prazo de 60 meses para as empresas se adequarem a essas normas. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo determinar os teores de vitamina C, comparar os valores analisados com os declarados na informação nutricional e avaliar os dizeres de rotulagem em produtos à base dessa vitamina. Os teores de vitamina C foram determinados por titulação potencio métrica e as análises de rotulagem foram realizadas com base nas legislações da ANVISA em doze amostras de suplementos colhidos pelas Vigilâncias Sanitárias do Estado de São Paulo. Os teores de vitamina C avaliados estavam de acordo com os declarados na informação nutricional do rótulo, com exceção de uma amostra que apresentou teor abaixo do valor declarado. Em relação aos dizeres de rotulagem, sete amostras (58%) apresentaram um ou mais itens em desacordo com a legislação, mostrando a necessidade de monitoramento constante desse tipo de produto. O trabalho representa um estudo preliminar de avaliação dos suplementos no período de adequação às novas regulamentações (AU).

Vitamin C-based supplements are widely consumed by the population, highlighting the importance of monitoring these products. In July 2018, the ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency) published new regulations for dietary supplements,setting a 60 months deadline for companies to comply with these standards.The objective of the present work was to evaluate the contents of vitamin C, and compare the analyzed/real values with those reported on the nutrition facts label, and to evaluate the labeling of vitamin supplements. Vitamin C contents were determined by potentiometric titration, and labeling analysis were performed based on ANVISA legislation in twelve samples of supplements collected by the Sanitary Surveillance of the State of São Paulo.The contents of vitamin C were in accordance with those declared in the nutritional information on the label, with the exception of one sample that presented content below the declared value. Regarding the labeling analysis, seven samples (58%) presented one or more items in disagreement with the legislation, showing the need for constant monitoring of this type of product.The work represents a preliminary study to evaluate the supplements in the adequacy period of new regulations (AU).

Standardized Nutritional Intervention in Patients with COVID-19 Admitted to a Hospital in Bogotá, Colombia / Intervención nutricional estandarizada en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 admitidos en un Hospital en Bogotá, Colombia

Summary Background: Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) present an increase in oxidative stress, characterized by the production of reactive oxygen species and a concomitant deficiency of antioxidants. There are multiple defense mechanisms including enzymatic scavengers and non-enzymatic molecules (glutathione and vitamins A, C, D, E, and zinc). Methods: In this observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study, we aimed to describe the clinical behavior of patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 (those trea ted with a standardized nutritional intervention versus those who received the COVID-19 standard treatment available at the time). A total of 214 medical records of patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 who required nutritional intervention were analyzed. Descriptive analyses of continuous and categorical variables were performed, and an ANOVA test was performed for numerical variables. A logistic regression model and a propensity score matching determined the differences between the matched groups. Findings: 33·6% of the patients were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 28·5% required invasive mechanical ventilation, and the overall mortality was 19·6%. 44·8% of the patients received the standardized nutritional intervention. There were no statistically significant differences between intervention groups, except for the intervention time, in which the standardized nutritional intervention (days) was identified as a protective factor OR=0·550 (p <0·05; CI=0·324-0·936). Conclusions: This is the first study in Colombia to consider a standardized nutritional intervention in patients hospitalized due to COVID-19. Despite not being able to meet the primary objectives, controlled experiments must be carried out to determine the role and possible therapeutic effects of micro and macronutrients in patients with COVID-19.

Resumen Antecedentes: los pacientes con enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) presentan un aumento del estrés oxidativo, caracterizado por la producción de especies reactivas de oxígeno y una deficiencia concomitante de antioxidantes. Existen múltiples mecanismos de defensa que incluyen eliminadores enzimáticos y moléculas no enzimáticas (glutatión y vitaminas A, C, D, E y zinc). Métodos: En este estudio observacional, transversal y retrospectivo, el objetivo fue describir el comportamiento clínico de los pacientes hospitalizados por CO VID-19 (aquellos tratados con una intervención nutricional estandarizada versus aquellos que recibieron el tratamiento estándar COVID-19 disponible en el tiempo). Un total de 214 historias clínicas de los pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 que requirieron intervención nutricional. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos de variables continuas y categóricas. Se realizó una prueba de ANOVA para las variables numéricas. Un modelo de regresión logística y un emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión determinaron las diferencias entre los grupos emparejados. Resultados: el 33,6% de los pacientes ingresaron en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI), el 28,5% requirió ventilación mecánica invasiva y la mortalidad global fue del 19,6%.44 · 8% de los pacientes recibieron la intervención nutricional estandarizada. No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los grupos de intervención, excepto por el tiempo de intervención, en el que la intervención nutricional estandarizada (días) se identificó como factor protector OR = 0 · 550 (p <0 · 05; IC = 0 · 324-0 · 936). Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio en Colombia que considera una intervención nutricional estandarizada en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19. A pesar de no poder alcanzar los objetivos primarios, se deben realizar experimentos controlados para determinar el papel y los posibles efectos terapéuticos de los micro y macronutrientes en pacientes con COVID-19

Vitamin C as a shelf-life extender in liposomes

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of vitamin C (VC) on the stability of stored liposomes under different climatic conditions. Liposomal formulations containing 1 mg/mL of VC (LIP-VC) and blank formulations (LIP-B) were prepared by the reverse-phase evaporation method. After preparation, they were characterized according to their refractive index, average vesicle diameter, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, pH, content, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), morphology, stability and antioxidant activity. For stability, LIP-VC and LIP-B were stored in different climatic conditions (4 °C, 25 °C and 40 °C) for 30 days. The LIP-VC presented 1.3365 refractive index, 161 nm of mean diameter, 0.231 PDI, -7.3 mV zeta potential, 3.2 pH, 19.4% EE%, spherical morphology, 1 mg/mL of VC content, and antioxidant activity of 12 and 11.4 μmol of TE/mL for the radical DPPH and ABTS+, respectively. During stability, the LIP-B stored in 40 °C showed an instability in the parameters: PDI, vesicle size and zeta potential after 15 days, while the LIP-VC remained stable in its size and PDI for 30 days. After that, it is shown that VC can be used as an antioxidant and stabilizer in liposomes to increase the stability and shelf-life of vesicles.

Efetividade do ácido ascórbico e solução fisiológica no acesso venoso central pediátrico: ensaio clínico randomizado / Effectiveness of ascorbic acid and saline solution in pediatric central venous access: randomized clinical trial / Efectividad del ácido ascórbico y la solución salina en el acceso venoso central pediátrico: ensayo clínico aleatorizado

RESUMO Objetivo: comparar a efetividade entre o uso de ácido ascórbico e solução fisiológica 0,9% na prevenção de obstrução de cateter venoso central pediátrico. Método: ensaio clínico randomizado realizado em Hospital Público do Paraná, entre os meses de junho de 2018 a outubro de 2019 com 152 participantes, dos quais, 73 do grupo experimental e 79, grupo-controle) que foram submetidos à inserção de cateter venoso central e randomizados para receber a intervenção flush com ácido ascórbico ou solução fisiológica 0,9%. Resultados: obstrução do cateter ocorreu em 17 casos (11,2%), sendo nove (11,4%) no grupo- controle e oito (10,9%) no grupo experimental. Obstrução trombótica ocorreu em 15 casos, de forma semelhante, nos dois grupos (p=0,88). A remoção do cateter ocorreu em 82 casos por questões eletivas e, em 63 casos, por complicações. Conclusão: o uso de ácido ascórbico é tão eficiente quanto a solução fisiológica a 0,9% na prevenção da obstrução de cateter venoso central. O estudo amplia as possibilidades de intervenções dentro da temática.

ABSTRACT Objective: to compare the effectiveness between the use of ascorbic acid and 0.9% saline solution in the prevention of pediatric central venous catheter obstruction. Method: randomized clinical trial conducted in a public hospital in Paraná, between the months of June 2018 to October 2019 with 152 participants, of which, 73 in the experimental group and 79, control group) who underwent central venous catheter insertion and randomized to receive the flush intervention with ascorbic acid or 0.9% saline solution. Results: Catheter obstruction occurred in 17 cases (11.2%), nine (11.4%) in the control group and eight (10.9%) in the experimental group. Thrombotic obstruction occurred in 15 cases, in a similar way, in both groups (p=0.88). Catheter removal occurred in 82 cases for elective reasons and in 63 cases for complications. Conclusion: the use of ascorbic acid is as efficient as 0.9% saline solution in preventing central venous catheter obstruction. The study expands the possibilities of interventions within the theme.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comparar la efectividad del ácido ascórbico y la solución salina al 0,9% en la prevención de la obstrucción del catéter venoso central pediátrico. Método: ensayo clínico aleatorizado realizado en un hospital público de Paraná, entre los meses de junio de 2018 a octubre de 2019 con 152 participantes, de los cuales, 73 en el grupo experimental y 79, grupo control) que fueron sometidos a la inserción de catéteres venosos centrales y aleatorizados a recibir la intervención de lavado con ácido ascórbico o solución salina al 0,9%. Resultados: la obstrucción del catéter se produjo en 17 casos (11,2%), nueve (11,4%) en el grupo de control y ocho (10,9%) en el grupo experimental. La obstrucción trombótica se produjo en 15 casos, de forma similar, en ambos grupos (p=0,88). La retirada del catéter se produjo en 82 casos por razones electivas y en 63 casos por complicaciones. Conclusión: el uso de ácido ascórbico es tan eficiente como la solución fisiológica al 0,9% en la prevención de la obstrucción del catéter venoso central. El estudio amplía las posibilidades de intervención dentro del tema.

Deficiency of vitamins C and E in women of childbearing age in Brazil: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Despite the several options available for supplements containing vitamins C and E, evidence regarding the prevalence of deficiency or insufficiency of these vitamins is weak. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of deficiency or insufficiency of vitamins C and E and associated factors among women of childbearing age, in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review and meta-analysis conducted at a Brazilian public university. METHODS: A search from index inception until May 2020 was conducted. Meta-analyses were performed using inverse variance for fixed models, with summary proportions calculation using Freeman-Tukey double arcsine (base case). Reporting and methodological quality were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for prevalence studies. RESULTS: Our review identified 12 studies, comprising 1,316 participants, especially breastfeeding women. There was at least one quality weakness in all studies, mainly regarding sampling method (i.e. convenience sampling) and small sample size. The prevalence of vitamin C deficiency ranged from 0% to 40%. Only vitamin E deficiency was synthetized in meta-analyses, with mean prevalences of 6% regardless of the alpha-tocopherol cutoff in plasma, and 5% and 16% for cutoffs of < 1.6-12.0 mmol/l and < 16.2 mmol/l, respectively. The cumulative meta-analysis suggested that a trend to lower prevalence of vitamin E deficiency occurred in recent studies. CONCLUSIONS: Although the studies identified in this systematic review had poor methodological and reporting quality, mild-moderate vitamin C and E deficiencies were identified, especially in breastfeeding women. Thus, designing and implementing policies does not seem to be a priority, because the need has not been properly dimensioned among women of childbearing age in Brazil. REGISTRATION NUMBER IN PROSPERO: CRD42020221605.

Escorbuto una Enfermedad del Pasado en Nuestros Tiempos. A Propósito de un Caso / Scurvy a Disease of the Past in Our Times. About a case

El término escorbuto procede de una palabra del antiguo escandinavo, scorbruck, que significa "hinchazones ulceradas". Es una entidad infrecuente en pediatría, causada por deficiencia nutricional exógena de ácido ascórbico. Los seres humanos, a diferencia de otros seres vivos, no pueden sintetizar la vitamina C y, en consecuencia, dependen estrictamente de su aporte exógeno. El escorbuto puede simular varios desórdenes reumatológicos. Aunque es poco común, puede presentarse como pseudovasculitis o artritis crónica. Para el diagnóstico en pacientes que presentan síntomas músculo esqueléticos se requiere un alto índice de sospecha. Se reporta el caso de un paciente masculino de 9 años que desarrolló la enfermedad por un hábito alimentario selectivo de larga evolución, sin ingesta de frutas ni verduras. El objetivo del presente reporte es alertar al pediatra acerca del desarrollo de escorbuto como potencial consecuencia de las dietas restrictivas, y la importancia de realizar una anamnesis alimentaria completa ante la sospecha diagnóstica

The term scurvy comes from a word from the old Scandinavian, scorbruck, which means ulcerated swellings. Scurvy is an infrequent entity in pediatrics caused by exogenous nutritional deficiency of ascorbic acid. Human beings, unlike other living beings, can not synthesize vitamin C and, consequently, they depend strictly on their exogenous contribution. Scurvy can simulate several rheumatological disorders. Although it is uncommon, it can present as pseudovasculitis or chronic arthritis. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose patients with musculoskeletal symptoms. We report a case of a 9-year-old male patient who developed the disease due to a long-term selective eating habit, without fruits or vegetables intake. The objective of this report is to alert the pediatrician about the development of scurvy as a potential consequence of restrictive diets, and the importance of performing a complete dietary history to suspect diagnosis

Evidencia científica sobre la aplicabilidad del ácido ascórbico en lesiones cutáneas / Scientific Evidence regarding the Applicability of Ascorbic Acid against Skin Lesions

Introducción: Las lesiones cutáneas se caracterizan por la ruptura de la continuidad del tegumento que resulta de varios factores. Así, la atención médica de las personas con lesiones cutáneas debe ser multidimensional e interdisciplinaria entre los profesionales de la salud. Una de las alternativas terapéuticas que viene ganando espacio en el tratamiento de pacientes con lesiones cutáneas es el uso de productos naturales, como el ácido ascórbico. Objetivo: Analizar la mejor evidencia científica sobre el uso del ácido ascórbico como método terapéutico en lesiones cutáneas. Métodos: Revisión sistemática, donde se buscaron estudios en las bases de datos Pubmed, Scopus, Cinahl, Web of Science y The Cochrane Data Base, con investigación dirigida a la aplicabilidad del ácido ascórbico en las lesiones de la piel. Los estudios se analizaron de forma pareada y se clasificaron con respecto a su mejor evidencia científica. Conclusión: Después de analizar los ensayos clínicos, que presentaron solidez científica, se notó que hay un fomento de la contribución del ácido ascórbico a la curación, ya que disminuye el proceso inflamatorio y conduce a la neovascularización, la concentración de macrófagos y la concentración de fibroblastos y fibras de colágeno. Entre los estudios analizados, se evidencia que el uso del ácido ascórbico tiene un efecto en el proceso terapéutico en pacientes con lesiones, pero requiere nuevos estudios para complementar esta tesis(AU)

Introduction: Skin lesions are characterized by break in the continuity of tissue resulting from several factors. Therefore, the medical care provided to people with skin lesions must be multidimensional and interdisciplinary. One of the therapeutic alternatives that is increasingly being used for the treatment of patients with skin lesions is the use of natural products, such as ascorbic acid. Objective: To analyze the best scientific evidence on the use of ascorbic acid as a therapeutic method against skin lesions. Methods: Systematic review consisting in search for studies in the databases Pubmed, Scopus, Cinahl, Web of Science and The Cochrane Data Base, with research directed to the applicability of ascorbic acid against skin lesions. The studies were paired and ranked according to their best scientific evidence. Conclusion: After analyzing the clinical trials, which presented scientific solidity, it was noted that there is some promotion of the contribution of ascorbic acid to healing, since it decreases the inflammatory process and leads to neovascularization, to concentration of macrophages, as well as of fibroblasts and collagen fibers. Among the studies analyzed, it is evidenced that the use of ascorbic acid has an effect on the therapeutic process of patients with injuries, but new studies are required to complement this thesis(AU)

Voltammetric Determination of Ascorbic Acid in Pharmaceutical Formulations Using Modified Iodine-Coated Platinum Electrode / Determinación voltamétrica del ácido ascórbico en formulaciones farmacéuticas utilizando un electrodo de platino modificado recubierto de yodo

Background: Despite the high reactivity of the platinum electrode, the iodine-coated platinum electrode shows obvious inertness toward adsorption and surface processes. For that, iodine-coated platinum electrodes accommodate themselves to interesting voltammetric applications. Objectives: This study reports using the modified iodine-coated polycrystalline platinum electrode as a voltammetric sensor for ascorbic acid determination in pharmaceutical formulations. Methods: The developed voltammetric method based on recording cyclic voltammograms of ascorbic acid at iodine-coated electrode The optimized experimental parameters for the determination of ascorbic acid were using 0.1 M KCl as a supporting electrolyte with a scan rate of 50mV/s. Results: The anodic peak related to ascorbic acid oxidation was centered at nearly 0.28V. An excellent and extended linear dependence of the oxidative peak current on the concentration of ascorbic acid was observed in the range 2.84x10-3 - 5.68 mM. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 1.0 µM and 3.01 µM, respectively, attesting to the method's sensitivity. The investigation for the effect of potential interference from multivitamin tablet ingredients (vitamins B1, B6, B12, folic acid, citric acid, sucrose, glucose, and zinc) indicated specific selectivity toward ascorbic acid and the absence of any electrochemical response toward these components. Recovery results in the range 98.93±2.78 - 99.98±5.20 for spiked standard ascorbic acid in pharmaceutical formulations further confirmed the potential applicability of the developed method for the determination of ascorbic acid in real samples. Conclusions: The developed method was successfully applied to the analysis of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and the obtained results were in good agreement with the labeled values; besides, the statistical tests indicated no significant difference at p=0.05 with a 95% confidence level

Antecedentes: A pesar de su alta reactividad, el electrodo de platino recubierto de yodo muestra una inercia evidente hacia la adsorción y los procesos superficiales. Por ello, los electrodos de platino recubiertos de yodo se adaptan a interesantes aplicaciones voltamétricas. Objetivos: Este estudio informa sobre el uso del electrodo de platino policristalino recubierto de yodo modificado como sensor voltamétrico para la determinación del ácido ascórbico en formulaciones farmacéuticas. Métodos: El método voltamétrico desarrollado se basa en el registro de voltamperogramas cíclicos del ácido ascórbico en el electrodo recubierto de yodo Los parámetros experimentales optimizados para la determinación del ácido ascórbico fueron utilizando KCl 0,1 M como electrolito de soporte con una velocidad de barrido de 50mV/s. Resultados: El pico anódico relacionado con la oxidación del ácido ascórbico se centró en casi 0,28V. Se observó una excelente y extendida dependencia lineal de la corriente del pico oxidativo con respecto a la concentración de ácido ascórbico en el rango 2,84x10-3 - 5,68 mM. El límite de detección (LOD) y el límite de cuantificación (LOQ) fueron 1,0 µM y 3,01 µM, respectivamente, lo que demuestra la sensibilidad del método. La investigación del efecto de la interferencia potencial de los ingredientes de las tabletas multivitamínicas (vitaminas B1, B6, B12, ácido fólico, ácido cítrico, sacarosa, glucosa y zinc) indicó una selectividad específica hacia el ácido ascórbico y la ausencia de cualquier respuesta electroquímica hacia estos componentes. Los resultados de recuperación en el rango de 98,93±2,78 - 99,98±5,20 para el ácido ascórbico estándar adicionado en formulaciones farmacéuticas confirmaron además la potencial aplicabilidad del método desarrollado para la determinación del ácido ascórbico en muestras reales. Conclusiones: El método desarrollado se aplicó con éxito al análisis de ácido ascórbico (vitamina C), y los resultados obtenidos coincidieron con los valores etiquetados; además, las pruebas estadísticas no indicaron diferencias significativas a p=0,05 con un nivel de confianza del 95%