Optimization of parameters for obtaining callus, suspension, and root cultures of meadowsweet (filipendula ulmaria) to isolate the largest number of biologically active substances with geroprotective properties

Abstract The study of biologically active substances-secondary metabolites of plants that exhibit geroprotective properties is an actual and popular direction in medicine to prevent early aging. This work aims to select the cultivation parameters for obtaining in vitro cell cultures of meadowsweet containing the largest amount of biologically active substances (BAS) for their further extraction as candidate substances for geroprotectors. To specify the effectiveness of the selected cell culture cultivation parameters, biomass growth for callus and root cultures, growth index, specific growth rate, and viability for suspension cultures was carried out. The study results made it possible to select the nutrient media for the cultivation of cell cultures of meadowsweet. It has been found that the greater the antioxidant activity of the extracts, the greater the antimicrobial properties it exhibits. In this study, cell cultures in vitro and alcohol extracts from the plant Filipendula ulmaria were considered as raw materials rich in candidate substances for geroprotectors. According to the data obtained, the plant is rich in hydroxybenzoic and salicylic acids, spireoside, avicularin, and hyperoside.

Resumo O estudo de substâncias biologicamente ativas metabólitos secundários de plantas que apresentam propriedades geroprotetoras é uma tendência atual e popular no campo da medicina para a prevenção do envelhecimento precoce. O objetivo deste trabalho foi selecionar os parâmetros de cultivo para obtenção de culturas celulares in vitro de Ulmária contendo a maior quantidade de substâncias biologicamente ativas (SBA), para sua posterior extração como substâncias candidatas a serem geroprotetoras. Para especificar a eficácia dos parâmetros selecionados de cultivo em cultura de células, foi realizada a análise de crescimento de biomassa para culturas de calos e raízes, índice de crescimento, taxa de crescimento específica e viabilidade para culturas em suspensão. Os resultados do estudo possibilitaram a seleção do meio nutriente para o cultivo de células de Ulmária. Verificou-se que, quanto maior a atividade antioxidante dos extratos, maiores eram as propriedades antimicrobianas exibidas. Neste estudo, culturas celulares in vitro e extratos alcoólicos da planta Filipendula ulmaria foram considerados matérias-primas ricas em substâncias candidatas a serem geroprotetoras. De acordo com os dados obtidos, a planta é rica em ácidos hidroxibenzoico e salicílico, espirosídeo, avicularina e hiperosídeo.

Optimization of parameters for obtaining callus, suspension, and root cultures of meadowsweet (filipendula ulmaria) to isolate the largest number of biologically active substances with geroprotective properties / Otimização de parâmetros para obtenção de culturas de calos, suspensão e raiz de Ulmária (Filipendula ulmaria) para isolar o maior número de substâncias biologicamente ativas com propriedades geroprotetoras

The study of biologically active substances-secondary metabolites of plants that exhibit geroprotective properties is an actual and popular direction in medicine to prevent early aging. This work aims to select the cultivation parameters for obtaining in vitro cell cultures of meadowsweet containing the largest amount of biologically active substances (BAS) for their further extraction as candidate substances for geroprotectors. To specify the effectiveness of the selected cell culture cultivation parameters, biomass growth for callus and root cultures, growth index, specific growth rate, and viability for suspension cultures was carried out. The study results made it possible to select the nutrient media for the cultivation of cell cultures of meadowsweet. It has been found that the greater the antioxidant activity of the extracts, the greater the antimicrobial properties it exhibits. In this study, cell cultures in vitro and alcohol extracts from the plant Filipendula ulmaria were considered as raw materials rich in candidate substances for geroprotectors. According to the data obtained, the plant is rich in hydroxybenzoic and salicylic acids, spireoside, avicularin, and hyperoside.

O estudo de substâncias biologicamente ativas - metabólitos secundários de plantas que apresentam propriedades geroprotetoras - é uma tendência atual e popular no campo da medicina para a prevenção do envelhecimento precoce. O objetivo deste trabalho foi selecionar os parâmetros de cultivo para obtenção de culturas celulares in vitro de Ulmária contendo a maior quantidade de substâncias biologicamente ativas (SBA), para sua posterior extração como substâncias candidatas a serem geroprotetoras. Para especificar a eficácia dos parâmetros selecionados de cultivo em cultura de células, foi realizada a análise de crescimento de biomassa para culturas de calos e raízes, índice de crescimento, taxa de crescimento específica e viabilidade para culturas em suspensão. Os resultados do estudo possibilitaram a seleção do meio nutriente para o cultivo de células de Ulmária. Verificou-se que, quanto maior a atividade antioxidante dos extratos, maiores eram as propriedades antimicrobianas exibidas. Neste estudo, culturas celulares in vitro e extratos alcoólicos da planta Filipendula ulmaria foram considerados matérias-primas ricas em substâncias candidatas a serem geroprotetoras. De acordo com os dados obtidos, a planta é rica em ácidos hidroxibenzoico e salicílico, espirosídeo, avicularina e hiperosídeo.

Drug use among medical students in São Paulo, Brazil: a cross-sectional study during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Medical students demonstrate higher rates of substance use than other university students and the general population. The challenges imposed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic raised significant concerns about mental health and substance use. OBJECTIVES: Assess the current prevalence of substance use among medical students at the University of São Paulo and evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on drug consumption. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 275 medical students from the University of São Paulo Medical School (São Paulo, Brazil) in August 2020. METHODS: Substance use (lifetime, previous 12 months, and frequency of use before and during the COVID-19 pandemic) and socioeconomic data were assessed using an online self-administered questionnaire. Symptoms of depression were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. RESULTS: Alcohol was the most consumed substance in their lifetime (95.6%), followed by illicit drugs (61.1%), marijuana (60%), and tobacco (57.5%). The most commonly consumed substances in the previous year were alcohol (82.9%), illicit drugs (44.7%), marijuana (42.5%), and tobacco (36%). Students in the first two academic years consumed fewer substances than those from higher years. There was a decreasing trend in the prevalence of most substances used after the COVID-19 pandemic among sporadic users. However, frequent users maintained their drug use patterns. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of substance use was high in this population and increased from the basic to the clinical cycle. The COVID-19 pandemic may have affected the frequency of drug use and prevalence estimates.

Structural identification of the related substances in phloroglucinol injection by two-dimensional liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry / 药学学报

This study aimed to identify the related substances of phloroglucinol injection by two-dimensional liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (2D-LC-Q-TOF/MS). The first-dimensional separation was carried out on an HSS T3 (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column by gradient elution using 1.36 g·L-1 potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer solution (pH adjusted to 3.0 with diluted phosphoric acid) and acetonitrile as the mobile phases. The separated components were then trapped in switch valve tube lines respectively and delivered to the second-dimensional desalting gradient elution which was performed with a BDS C18 (100 mm × 4.6 mm, 2.4 μm) column using 0.1% formic acid and methanol as the mobile phases. After rapid desalting, electrospray-ionization quadrupole time-of-flight high resolution mass spectrometry was used for determining the accurate masses and elemental compositions of the parents and their product ions for both phloroglucinol and its related substance. Structures of the related substances were then figured out by mass spectrometry elucidation, organic reaction mechanism analysis, and/or comparison with reference substances. Under the established analytical conditions, phloroglucinol and its related substances were adequately separated, 17 main related substances were detected and identified in the injection and its stressed samples for the first time. The identification results can provide reference for the quality control of phloroglucinol injection.

Marco legal para la prevención de procedimientos estéticos con sustancias modelantes / Legal framework for preventing aesthetic procedures with modeling substances i:en

En la actualidad, la alogenosis iatrogénica es una condición reconocida en todo el orbe, especialmente en Latinoamérica, donde es evidente la ausencia de control en la administración de sustancias no reguladas con fines estéticos, lo que ha devenido un problema emergente por la magnitud de las complicaciones, ya que algunos productos, como aceites minerales, hidrocarburos, silicona industrial, generan graves consecuencias, tanto locales como sistémicas, en el organismo. Muchos países aún no han regulado la prohibición de esta práctica, aunque cada día son más las campañas para prevenirla; sin embargo, al mismo tiempo aumenta la incidencia de la enfermedad en todo el mundo por el incremento de estos procedimientos estéticos. Al respecto, en Cuba, el creciente número de afectados por esta causa evidencia vulnerabilidad en el cumplimiento de lo establecido hasta la fecha, por lo que se impone instaurar un marco legal de estricto cumplimiento que regule la inyección de sustancias modelantes con fines estéticos.

Currently, iatrogenic allogenosis is a condition recognized throughout the world, especially in Latin America, where the absence of control in the administration of unregulated substances for aesthetic purposes is evident, which has become an emerging problem due to the magnitude of complications, since some products, such as mineral oils, hydrocarbons, industrial silicone, generate serious consequences, both local and systemic, in the body. Many countries have not yet regulated the prohibition of this practice, although every day there are more campaigns to prevent it. However, at the same time the incidence of the disease increases worldwide due to the increase in these aesthetic procedures. In this regard, in Cuba, the growing number of people affected by this cause shows vulnerability in compliance with what has been established to date, that is why it is necessary to establish a legal framework of strict compliance that regulates the injection of modeling substances for aesthetic purposes.

Participación juvenil en la prevención del consumo de sustancias psicoactivas. Estudio de caso de una escuela saludable (Cali, Colombia) / Youth Participation in the Prevention of the Consumption of Psychoactive Substances. A Case Study across Healthy Schools, Cali-Colombia / Participação juvenil na prevenção do consumo de substâncias psicoativas. Estudo de caso de escola saudável, Cali-Colômbia

Introducción: el consumo de sustancias psicoactivas (SPA) en escolares es un fenómeno complejo con múltiples efectos negativos. Desde la perspectiva de los determinantes sociales y la promoción de la salud, la institución educativa (IE) es un agente decisivo para acciones participativas. El objetivo fue identificar factores individuales e institucionales asociados con la participación de estudiantes en una IE pública de Cali (Colombia) para prevenir el consumo de SPA. Materiales y métodos: estudio de caso con enfoque mixto. La aproximación cualitativa implicó un análisis documental para explorar la respuesta y factores institucionales de la IE seleccionada como caso crítico; mientras que para identificar los factores individuales relevantes se desarrolló un componente cuantitativo mediante encuesta a 156 estudiantes (secundaria-media) de esa IE. Resultados: los estudiantes identifican como factor relevante para el consumo de SPA la presión de amigos o compañeros; se evidencia que los espacios y procesos de prevención de mayor aporte son la comunicación con pares. También se reconoce como factor institucional el trabajo curricular desde las áreas para fortalecer la toma de decisiones. Conclusión: en la estrategia de escuelas saludables, es crucial la alianza entre el sector educativo y el sector salud, para dinamizar espacios y procesos de participación dirigidos a prevenir el consumo de SPA. Los estudios de análisis del desarrollo de la estrategia de escuelas saludables son requeridos para generar elementos de reflexión dirigidos al ajuste de las acciones de empoderamiento de los estudiantes y que los procesos de participación juvenil logren la continuidad requerida

Introduction: The consumption of psychoactive substances (PAS) among schoolchildren suggests a complex phenomenon with multiple negative effects. From the perspective of social determinants and health promotion, the educational institution (EI) acts as a decisive agent for participatory actions. The present study aimed to identify individuals and institutional factors associated with the participation of students in an IE public of Cali (Colombia) toward the prevention of the consumption of PAS. Materials and methods: This is a case study with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The former involved a documentary analysis for the exploration of the response and the institutional factors of EI, which were selected as a critical case. Meanwhile, to identify the relevant individual factors, a quantitative component was developed through a survey of 156 students (Secondary­Middle School) of that EI. Results: Students identified pressure from friends or classmates as a relevant factor for PAS consumption, indicating that the spaces and prevention processes with the most significant contribution are communication with peers. The curricular work from the areas to strengthen decision-making is also recognized as an institutional factor. Conclusion: Within the healthy schools' strategy, the alliance between the education and health sectors is of crucial relevance for the promotion of the revitalization of spaces and participation processes aimed at preventing the consumption of PAS. The analysis of studies on the development of healthy schools strategy is thus required to generate elements of reflection directed toward the adjustment of the actions facilitating the empowerment of the students and those referring to youth participation to achieve the required continuity.

Introdução: o consumo de substâncias psicoativas (SPA) em estudantes é um fenômeno complexo com múl- tiplos efeitos negativos. Na perspectiva dos determinantes sociais e da promoção da saúde, a instituição de ensino (IE) é um agente decisivo para ações participativas. O objetivo foi identificar fatores individuais e institucionais associados à participação de alunos em uma IE pública de Cali (Colômbia) para prevenir o consumo de SPA. Materiais e métodos: estudo de caso com abordagem mista. A abordagem qualitativa envolveu uma análise documental para explorar a resposta e os fatores institucionais da IE selecionada como caso crítico; enquanto para identificar os fatores individuais relevantes, desenvolveu-se um com- ponente quantitativo através de um questionário a 156 alunos (ensino médio) daquela IE. Resultados: os alunos identificam a pressão de amigos ou colegas como fator relevante para o consumo de SPA; é evidente que os espaços e processos de prevenção com maior contribuição são a comunicação com os pares. O trabalho curricular das áreas para fortalecer a tomada de decisão também é reconhecido como um fator institucional. Conclusão: na estratégia das escolas saudáveis, a aliança entre o setor da educação e o setor da saúde, assume uma relevância crucial para promover a revitalização de espaços e processos participativos direcionados à prevenção do consumo de SPA. Os estudos de análise do desenvolvimento da estratégia de escolas saudáveis são necessários para gerar elementos de reflexão direcionados ao ajuste das ações de empoderamento dos alunos e que os processos de participação juvenil alcancem a necessária continuidade

Psicologia positiva e transtornos relacionados a substâncias psicoativas: uma revisão integrativa / Positive psychology and substance related disorders: an integrative review / Psicología positiva y trastornos relacionados con sustancias: una revisión integrativa

Este estudo busca identificar e analisar os estudos que associam a Psicologia Positiva e seus construtos com os transtornos relacionados ao uso de substâncias psicoativas. Foi feita uma revisão integrativa sobre o tema. De 64 resultados encontrados, 13 artigos foram selecionados para descrição e análise. Identificou-se baixa produção científica sobre o tema, ainda que esteja em expansão. Apenas sete estudos tinham como objetivo principal a relação entre a Psicologia Positiva e o uso de substâncias psicoativas, sendo apenas dois experimentais. Evidenciou-se também a concentração de publicações nos EUA e a falta de estudos brasileiros. Os construtos da Psicologia Positiva mais abordados são a felicidade e a espiritualidade, estando associados a um menor uso de substâncias psicoativas. Fica demonstrado o potencial desse campo de estudo para a prevenção e tratamento desses transtornos, sugerindo-se o aumento da produção cientifica. (AU)

This study aims to identify and analyze studies that associate Positive Psychology and its constructs with disorders related to the use of psychoactive substances. Method: An integrative review on the subject was conducted. Of the 64 results found, 13 articles were selected for description and analysis. Results: Although expanding, a low scientific production on the subject was identified. There were only seven studies focused on the relationship between Positive Psychology and the use of psychoactive substances, and only two were experimental. The concentration of publications in the USA and the lack of Brazilian studies were also evident. The most discussed constructs of Positive Psychology are happiness and spirituality, which are associated with a reduced use of psychoactive substances. Conclusions: This field of study has demonstrated potential for the prevention and treatment of these disorders, suggesting an increase in scientific production. (AU)

Este estudio busca identificar y analizar estudios que asocien la Psicología Positiva y sus constructos con trastornos relacionados con el uso de sustancias psicoactivas. Método: Se realizó una revisión integrativa sobre el tema. De 64 resultados encontrados, 13 artículos fueron seleccionados para su descripción y análisis. Resultados: Se identificó una baja producción científica sobre el tema, aunque se encuentra en expansión. Solo siete estudios tuvieron como objetivo principal la relación entre la Psicología Positiva y el uso de sustancias psicoactivas, de los cuales, solo dos fueron experimentales. También fue evidente la concentración de publicaciones en los EE. UU. y la falta de estudios brasileños. Los constructos más discutidos de la Psicología Positiva son la felicidad y la espiritualidad, asociándose a un menor consumo de sustancias psicoactivas. Conclusiones: Se demuestra el potencial de este campo de estudio para la prevención y tratamiento de estos trastornos, sugiriendo un incremento en la producción científica. (AU)

Drogas emergentes: detección mediante sensores electroquímicos

La cantidad de nuevas sustancias psicoactivas (NSP) aumenta en el mercado global cada año. El uso de tecnologías para la producción y la comercialización de las sustancias sintéticas y una demanda exigente de efectos psicotrópicos más potentes son algunos de los factores que contribuyen al incremento de una oferta más variada, así como a la cantidad de consumidores de algún tipo de droga. El desarrollo de herramientas analíticas fiables con capacidad de respuesta in situ para una evaluación preliminar contribuye, significativamente, con la generación de información para atender casos de intoxicaciones, aplicar correctamente la legislación de los países e, inclusive, aportar datos reales para una reclasificación más objetiva de las drogas basada en criterios científicos. Los sensores electroquímicos han ganado terreno en áreas de las ciencias forenses como la toxicología. El uso de tecnologías especializadas para crear electrodos miniaturizados con modificaciones, principalmente con materiales nanoestructurados, guía el desarrollo de dispositivos portátiles de fácil manipulación, altamente versátiles y que requieren micro-cantidades de la muestra. Asimismo, algunos sensores electroquímicos presentan parámetros de desempeño -como límites de detección (LOD) de hasta 0,608 pg/mL, sensibilidad y precisión- que son analíticamente comparables, bajo ciertas condiciones, con las metodologías convencionales acopladas con la espectrometría de masas, las cuales muestran LOD del orden de magnitud entre 10-9 g/mL y 10-12 g/mL para la determinación de algunas drogas. Esta revisión se enfoca en la aplicación y comparación analítica de los sensores electroquímicos voltamperométricos para la determinación de bencilpiperazina (BZP), meta-clorofenilpiperazina (mCPP), 25B-NBO-Me, dimetiltriptamina (DMT), mefedrona (4-MMC), 4-metiletcatinona (4-MEC) y fentanilo (FYL) en representación de las drogas emergentes que se pueden conseguir actualmente en el mercado de las sustancias psicoactivas.

The number of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is increasing on the drug global market every year. New technologies for the production and marketing of synthetic substances, along with a rigorous demand for more powerful psychotropic effects, are some of the factors that contribute to the increase in a more varied supply, as well as the number of drug users. The development of reliable analytical tools with an on-site response capacity for a preliminary determination contributes significantly to the generation of data for the proper care of situations such as poisoning, the correct application of the country's legislation, and even the provision of objective criteria for the reclassification of the substances. Electrochemical sensors have gained ground in areas of forensic science. The use of specialized technologies to manufacture miniaturized electrodes based on modifications, mainly with nanostructured materials, guides the development of versatile easy-to-handle portable devices that require microquantities of the sample. Likewise, some electrochemical sensors have performance parameters such as detection limits (LOD) up to 0.608 pg/mL, sensitivity and precision that are analytically comparable, under certain conditions, with conventional methodologies coupled with mass detection, which show LOD of the order of magnitude between 10-9 g/mL and 10-12 g/mL for drug determination. This review focuses on the application and comparison of voltammetric electrochemical sensors for the determination of benzylpiperazine (BZP), meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP), 25B-NBO-Me, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), mephedrone (4-MMC), 4-methylethcathinone (4-MEC) and fentanyl (FYL) representing the emerging drugs available to date on the psychoactive substances market.

A quantidade de novas substâncias psicoativas (NSP) sintéticas aumenta a cada ano no mercado global. A utilização de novas tecnologias de produção e comercialização de substâncias, combinado com uma demanda exigente de efeitos psicotrópicos mais potentes, são alguns dos fatores que contribuem para o aumento de uma oferta mais ampla, assim como a quantidade dos números de consumidores de algum tipo de droga. O desenvolvimento de ferramentas analíticas confiáveis e com uma capacidade de resposta in situ para uma avaliação preliminar, contribuem significativamente para a geração de informações científicas para cuidar casos de envenenamento, aplicar corretamente a lei, e até fornecer dados reais para uma reclassificação mais objetiva de drogas com base em critérios científicos. Sensores eletroquímicos ganharam espaço em áreas da ciência forense. A utilização de tecnologias especializadas para criação de eletrodos miniaturizados com modificações, principalmente com materiais nanoestruturados, norteiam o desenvolvimento de dispositivos portáteis altamente versáteis, de fácil manuseio e que necessitam de microquantidades da amostra. Da mesma forma, alguns sensores eletroquímicos apresentam parâmetros de desempenho -como limites de detecção (LOD) até 0.608 pg/mL, sensibilidade e precisão- que são analiticamente comparáveis, sob certas condições, com metodologias convencionais com detecção de massa -mostram LOD de a ordem de grandeza entre 10-9g/mL e 10-12g/mL para a determinação de determinados medicamentos-. Esta revisão tem como foco a aplicação e comparação analítica de sensores eletro-químicos voltamétricos para determinação de benzilpiperazina (BZP), meta-clorofenilpiperazina (mCPP), 25B-NBOMe, dimetiltriptamina (DMT), mefedrona (4-MMC), 4-metilethcatinona (4-MEC) e fentanilo (FYL), que representam os drogas emergentes disponíveis até o momento no mercado de substâncias psicoativas.

Experiências de pessoas em situação de rua com o uso de substâncias psicoativas: um estudo no contexto do Distrito Federal / Experiences of homeless people with use of psychoactive substances: a study in the context of federal distric / experiencias de personas en situación de calle con el uso de sustancias psicoactivas: un estudio en el contexto del distrito federal

Investigou-se vivências de pessoas em situação de rua que usam/usaram substâncias psicoativas, a partir de um programa de reinserção social e geração de renda, no Distrito Federal. Trata-se de estudo realizado com quatro adultos a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas. As informações foram analisadas pela Análise de Conteúdo, gerando as categorias: caracterização do uso de substâncias psicoativas; experiência com programas para usuários de álcool e outras drogas; história de vida e a situação de rua; projeto social e uso de substâncias psicoativas. Como resultados, evidenciou-se como os participantes se relacionam com substâncias psicoativas, como o projeto social investigado se configura como potencializador para transformação de vidas. Conclui-se que a história de vida dos sujeitos está ligada à situação de rua e uso de substâncias psicoativas, destacando-se o potencial transformador de programas sociais, possibilitadores de desenvolvimento econômico e social, e que modelos baseados em abstinência se mostraram ineficazes como forma de tratamento. (AU)

The experiences of homeless people who use/have used psychoactive substances were investigated, based on a program of social reintegrationand income generation, in the Federal District. This is a study carried out with four adults through semi-structured interviews. The information was analyzed by Content Analysis, generating the following categories: characterization of the use of psychoactive substances; experience with programs for users of alcohol and other drugs; life history and the street situation; social project and use of psychoactive substances. As a result, it was evidenced how the participants relate to psychoactive substances, how the investigated social project is configured as a potentiator for the transformation of lives. It is concluded that the life history of the subjects is linked to the homeless situation and the use of psychoactive substances, highlighting the transforming potential of social programs, enabling economic and social development, and that models based on abstinence proved to be ineffective as a way to of treatment. (AU)

Se indagaron las experiencias de personas en situación de calle que consumen/han utilizado sustancias psicoactivas, a partir de un programa de reinserción social y generación de ingresos, en el Distrito Federal. Se trata de un estudio realizado con cuatro adultos a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. La información fue analizada por Análisis de Contenido, generando las siguientes categorías: caracterización del uso de sustancias psicoactivas; experiencia con programas para usuarios de alcohol y otras drogas; historia de vida y situación de la calle; proyecto social y consumo de sustancias psicoactivas. Como resultado, se evidenció cómo los participantes se relacionan con las sustancias psicoactivas, cómo el proyecto social investigado se configura como un potenciador para la transformación de vidas. Se concluye que la historia de vida de los sujetos está vinculada a la situación de calle y al uso de sustancias psicoactivas, destacando el potencial transformador de los programas sociales, viabilizando el desarrollo económico y social, y que los modelos basados en la abstinencia demostraron ser ineficaces como vía de tratamiento. (AU)

Sustancias psicoactivas, alumnos de anatomía y prepandemia COVID-19: prevalencia de uso y comparación de estudios transversales del periodo 2011-2019 / Psychoactive substances, anatomy and pre-pandemic COVID-19 students: prevalence of use and comparison of cross-sectional studies from the period 2011-2019

En estudios preliminares objetivamos alta prevalencia de uso de sustancias psicoactivas (SP) entre alumnos de Anatomía, con mayor impacto entre los recursantes o aquellos con actividades laborales. La causa del uso es multifactorial, pero se destacan factores de riesgo y precipitantes como la carga horaria de la currícula, exigencias de estudio, el distrés por el afrontamiento cadavérico negativo, el nuevo contexto educativo y la cantidad de horas de sueño. El objetivo fue comparar la prevalencia de uso de SP entre las cohortes de 2011-2019, con focalización en los factores determinantes conductuales. Estudio observacional, transversal y comparativo mediante encuesta estandarizada y anónima en 945 alumnos (año 2011= 122; año 2013= 158; año 2015=204; año 2017= 228; año 2019= 233). Se aplicaron parámetros estadísticos, se definió la significación como p -0.84; AA: r> -0.71). En el caso de ansiolíticos benzodiacepínicos, se asoció con falta de sueño y distrés por el afrontamiento negativo al estudio con cadáveres. En las cohortes comparadas por el lapso de 9 años hallamos alta prevalencia de uso de sustancias psicoactivas con tendencia al incremento. Las variables actividad laboral y recursante fueron determinantes para el uso de sustancias, y se asociaron cuestiones relativas a la adaptabilidad universitaria y afrontamiento de estudio negativo con el cadáver; todos con incidencia pedagógica en el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje.

SUMMARY: In preliminary studies, we observed a high prevalence of the use of psychoactive substances (PS) among Anatomy students, with a greater impact among recurrent students or those with work activities. The cause of use is multifactorial, but risk and precipitating factors stand out, such as the workload of the curriculum, study demands, distress due to negative cadaveric coping, the new educational context and the number of hours of sleep. The objective was to compare the prevalence of SP use between the 2011-2019 cohorts, with a focus on behavioral determinants. Observational, cross-sectional and comparative study using a standardized and anonymous survey in 945 students (year 2011= 122; year 2013= 158; year 2015=204; year 2017= 228; year 2019= 233). Statistical parameters were applied, significance was defined as p -0.84; AA: r> -0.71). In the case of benzodiazepine anxiolytics, it was associated with lack of sleep and distress due to negative coping with the study with cadavers. In the cohorts compared for a period of 9 years, we found a high prevalence of psychoactive substance use with an increasing trend. The variables work activity and recurrence were determinants for the use of substances, and issues related to university adaptability and negative study coping with the corpse were associated; all with pedagogical impact on the teaching and learning process.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Electronic Waste (e-waste) Management Among Users of Electronic Equipments Living in Lucknow City

Background: Contemporary society has led to the increasing use of electronic equipment that is very much responsible for the burden of electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste contains very hazardous substance that harms health and environmental conditions. There is no delicate mechanism for the management of e-waste in Lucknow city, Uttar Pradesh. This study assessed knowledge, practice, and awareness of e-waste management among residents of this city. Material and methods: The study was conducted amongst users of electronic equipment living in the Lucknow City of Uttar Pradesh. The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Multi-stage random sampling was done for the selection of participants for the study. A predesigned and pretested questionnaire was administered in a single setting for all phases. The total optimum sample size is 700 individuals who participated in the study. Data were entered in MS Excel 2016 and descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were calculated, applying the chi-square test for association using R-4.2.1 Statistical software. Aim and objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding the management of electronic waste among users of electronic equipment residing in Lucknow city. Results: Only 37% of users are aware that e-waste adversely affects health. Only 34.3% of users knew that e-waste should be given to the seller or manufacturer for recycling while rest told that it should be stored at home, sold to a scrap dealer, or disposed with normal waste. 87.3% users are not aware about e-waste govt guidelines. In the current study electronic and print media like television, radio and news paper were not found to be source of information for e-waste disposal. Conclusion: Education regarding the ill effects of e-waste is essential for people and awareness of proper disposal of e-waste is the need of the hour. Electronic and print media as well as companies producing electronic equipment should play a significant role to awaken the respondent about the disposal of e-waste

Review on exposure characteristics and health effects of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances / 环境与职业医学

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a new type of persistent organic pollutants that have received extensive attention in recent years. This article reviewed the population characteristics of environmental exposure to PFAS, as well as the potential health effects. Previous studies have verified that people are exposed to PFAS mainly through ingestion, and food and water are the dominant contributors. In terms of exposure characteristics, geographical, gender, age, and occupational differences have an impact on the level of PFAS exposure in the corresponding populations by influencing their behavioral characteristics and metabolic levels, with occupational exposure receiving more attention, especially in the exploration of novel PFAS. PFAS associate with a variety of adverse health effects caused by hepatorenal toxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. However, some of the conclusions are not completely consistent, and the published epidemiological studies have focused on children and young people, lacking relevant data of the elderly. Future research can pay more attention to the elderly population and carry out validation exploration on controversial conclusions.

Analysis method optimization and stability test of related substances of chloral hydrate / 药学实践杂志

Objective To establish a quality control method for detecting impurities in chloral hydrate raw materials, improve the quality standards and control limits of raw materials. Methods The determination methods of chloroform and halogenated carboxylic acid in chloral hydrate were established to monitor the change of impurities in chloral hydrate through stability. Results The research and establishment of chloroform and halogenated carboxylic acid methods met the requirements of relevant regulations for analytical methodology verification, which could accurately detect four impurities in raw materials and preparations by one method. Conclusion The study provides technical support for the improvement and optimization of the quality standards of chloral hydrate and preparations. It is very necessary to implement the impurity monitoring in preparation research and production process by the chloral hydrate impurity detection and the stability comparison of this product at high temperature and light, which could largely promote the safety of medication.

Association between perfluorinated alkyl substances and depression / 环境与职业医学

Background Perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic organic fluorides, which have adverse health effects on brain function, and limited research has been conducted on their effects on depression. Objective To assess potential correlation between serum PFAS and depression. Methods Using the 2015—2016 and 2017—2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets, 2626 subjects with complete relevant information in people ≥20 years old were selected. Logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were used to analyze the association and dose-response relationship between serum PFAS concentration and depression. Subgroup analysis was performed on sex, age, race, education level, marital status, family income to poverty ratio, moderate exercise, body mass index, and drinking status. Results Among the 2626 subjects, there were 666 patients (25.4%) with mild or above depression. After adjusting for race, education level, marital status, body mass index, moderate exercise, drinking history, cotinine, and other types of PFAS, serum perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was positively associated with the risk of depression (OR=1.85, 95%CI: 1.14, 3.02), and showed a nonlinear dose-response relationship (χ2=6.37, Pnonlinear=0.012). Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) was inversely associated with the risk of depression (OR=0.23, 95%CI: 0.14, 0.39), and showed a linear dose-response relationship (Ptrend<0.001, χ2=35.13, Poverall<0.001). After subgroup analysis, it was found that males, 20-39 year-olds and 40-64 year-olds were more sensitive to PFNA exposure (OR=0.15, 95%CI: 0.06, 0.37; OR=0.16, 95%CI: 0.06, 0.40; OR=0.18, 95%CI: 0.08, 0.39). PFOS only showed a statistically significant health effect in people aged 20-39 years (OR=3.00, 95%CI: 1.14, 7.94). In addition, among subgroups of non-Hispanic blacks, cohabitants, current drinkers, high school graduates, and obese patients, exposure to PFAS was significantly associated with the risk of depression. Conclusion PFOS exposure may be associated with increased levels of depression, whereas PFNA exposure may be protective.

Association between perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and maternal thyroid-related hormones in pregnant women / 环境与职业医学

Background Exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during pregnancy might affect thyroid-related hormone levels in pregnant women. However, most previous studies focused on the effects of PFAS containing 8-10 carbon atoms, and few studies have estimated the associations between PFAS with longer carbon chain and thyroid-related hormone levels. Objective To examine the associations between PFAS exposure and thyroid-related hormones in pregnant women. Methods The present study was based on the Jiashan Birth Cohort from September 2016 to April 2018. We analyzed 13 PFAS in maternal blood samples (n=781) by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, as well as total triiodothyronine (T3), total thyroxine (T4), free T3 (FT3), free T4 (FT4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab), and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. PFAS were divided into three groups:low concentration, medium concentration and high concentration according to the tertile of their concentrations. We estimated the associations between PFAS concentrations and thyroid-related hormones in pregnant women by multiple linear regression. Results In the multiple linear regression models, a change in perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA) concentrations from the low concentration group to the high concentration group was associated with a −0.10 (95%CI: −0.20, 0) nmol·L−1 change in T3, −0.15 (95%CI: −0.28, −0.02) pmol·L−1 change in FT3, and −3.02 (95%CI: −5.66, −0.39) pmol·L−1 change in FT4, respectively. A change in perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA) concentrations from the low concentration group to the high concentration group was associated with a −0.10 (95%CI: −0.20, 0) nmol·L−1 change in T3. Compared with the low concentration group, the concentration of T4 in the medium concentration group of perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) increased by 6.10 (95%CI: 0.44, 11.75) nmol·L−1. No statistically significant associations were found between PFAS and TSH concentration. The negative associations of PFAS with thyroid-related hormones were more pronounced in pregnant women with positive TG-Ab and/or TPOAb. Conclusion Exposure to PFAS during pregnancy may affect thyroid-related hormone homeostasis in pregnant women, and the effect is stronger in TG-Ab and/or TPOAb-positive pregnant women.

Progress in research methods or strategies of compatibility mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions / 中国药房

Compound formulas of traditional Chinese medicines （TCM）， also known as prescription in clinic， refers to a form of medication in which several TCMs are selectively combined according to the certain compatibility principles and the needs of patient’s condition， based on syndrome differentiation and treatment. At present， the methods and strategies for investigating the compatibility mechanisms of TCM prescriptions mainly focus on the following two aspects: analysis of pharmacological substances （including chemical composition analysis of TCM， ingredients of TCM analysis in blood， and pharmacokinetic analysis） and pharmacological signaling pathways analysis （involving network pharmacology analysis， signal pathway indicator detection， and metabolomics analysis）. In future research， the compatibility relationships of TCM prescriptions should be explored according to the principles of “Qiqing Hehe”，“ Shengjiang Fuchen”，“ Junchen Zuoshi”， and “Siqi Wuwei”. The regularity of TCM prescriptions compatibility should be shown in the change regularity of chemical components， pharmacokinetics， pharmacological pathways， and chemical compositions of various ratios of TCMs. Based on the insurance of holistic efficacy of TCM prescriptions， the underlying mechanisms of compatibility should be uncovered， which will provide references for the optimization of clinical applications of prescriptions and new directions for the creation of innovative TCM prescriptions.

Associations between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and estimated glomerular filtration rate in population without kidney disease / 环境与职业医学

Background Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are classified as persistent organic pollutants and have been widely detected in human. Studies investigating the associations between PFASs exposure and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) yielded inconsistent results, and little is known about the effects of PFASs on eGFR in population without kidney disease. Objective To explore the associations of exposure to PFASs with eGFR and renal dysfunction in population without kidney disease. Methods A total of 609 participants with an eGFR > 60 mL·min−1·1.73 m−2 and without renal impairment matched for sex and age (1∶1) were recruited from endocrinology department and medical examination center of two hospitals in Tianjin, China, from April 2021 to March 2022. Each subject was interviewed using a structured questionnaire to collect information about sex, age, height, weight, disease history, smoking, alcohol intake, etc. Clinical parameters were obtained from medical record, such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), creatinine (Cre), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured by professionals using standard methods. The serum concentrations of PFASs were determined by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the associations of PFASs exposure with eGFR and renal dysfunction, respectively. Subgroup analyses stratified by age and sex were also performed to assess the modified effects of covariates on the associations of PFASs exposure with eGFR. Results There were 283 males, accounting for 46.5% of the total population. The mean age of the participants was (56.86±12.47) years, and the average body mass index (BMI) was (25.59±3.84) kg·m−2. Perfluoro-n-octanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluoro-n-nonanoic acid (PFNA), perfluoro-n-decanoic acid (PFDA), perfluoro-n-undecanoic acid (PFUnDA), sodium 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluoro-1-octanesulfonate (6:2 FTS), and perfluoropentane sulfonic acid (PFPeS) were positive in more than 75% of serum samples, and the corresponding median concentrations were 9.50, 1.67, 17.22, 1.86, 1.41, 0.78, 0.42, and 0.43 μg·L−1, respectively. After full adjustments of sex, age, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, TC, TG, smoking, and drinking, the linear regression models showed that log2-transformed PFHxS concentration was negatively associated with eGFR (b=−1.160, 95%CI: −2.280, −0.410). Compared with the lowest exposure tertile, the estimated change of eGFR in the highest tertile for PFHxS was significantly decreased (b=−2.471, 95%CI: −4.574, −0.368). Furthermore, compared with males, the negative association of PFHxS with eGFR was strengthened among females (female: b=−1.281, 95%CI: −2.388, −0.174; male: b=−0.781, 95%CI: −2.823, 1.261, Pinteraction=0.043). Conclusion A significant negative association between serum PFHxS and eGFR is observed in the sampled population without kidney disease, and females are more susceptible to PFASs exposure than the males.

Quality regulatory issues and suggestions for the Lonicerae Japonicae Flos with property of drug and food homologous substance / 国际中医中药杂志

In the context of the national strategy of promoting the research and development of food and drug homologous substances, it is necessary to study the regulatory model of food and drug homologous substances as food. Medicinal and food homologous substances are regulated as "Chinese medicinal materials" or "Chinese decoction pieces" in the drug category, and as "food and drug homologous substances", "agricultural products" or "traditional Chinese medicine healthy food" in the food category. Drug supervision focuses on quality, while food supervision focuses on safety, and it is worth exploring whether there is a blind spot in the supervision of food and drug substances completely based on the food concept. In this paper, Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, as drug and food homologous substance, is selected as the research object, and its quality regulation status is investigated by reviewing the relevant laws and regulations and standards on food, analyzing the quality information and test results of the samples, and analyzing the necessity of quality regulation when serving as food, in order to provide a basis and reference for the way food substances are regulated.

Serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl and polyfuoroalkyl substances and determinants in men of childbearing age / 环境与职业医学

Background Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) exposure may affect male reproductive health. There are regional differences in PFASs exposure levels among men of childbearing age in China, and current research results on associated influencing factors are inconsistent. Objective To investigate the levels of PFASs in serum and their determinants among men of childbearing age. Methods The participants (n=113, 22-45 years old) were from a cross-sectional study of exposure to environmental pollutants and male reproductive health damage in Hubei Province conducted from April to June 2013 at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province. Eleven kinds of PFASs were measured in serum by isotopic dilution-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The included PFASs were prefluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUdA), perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA), perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA), perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Information about participants' demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and habits was collected by a set of self-designed questionnaires. The associations of demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and habits with exposure to PFASs were analyzed by linear regression. Results The major components of PFASs were PFOS and PFOA, and the concentrations expressed as M (P25, P75) were 8.31 (4.90, 17.79) ng·mL−1 and 2.77 (2.18, 3.46) ng·mL−1, respectively. The positive rates of six PFASs (PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFUdA, PFHxS, and PFOS) were 100%, followed by PFDoA and PFTrDA (87.61% and 88.59%, respectively). The linear regression results showed that age was positively associated with the levels of Σ8PFASs (sum of the concentrations of the eight PFASs with a positive rate greater than 80%) (P < 0.05). The concentration of serum PFOA in men with monthly family income of 2000-4000 yuan was 53.73% (P < 0.01) higher than those in men with monthly family income of <2000 yuan. The serum concentrations of PFNA and PFTrDA were both 32.31% (P < 0.05) higher in men with monthly family income ≥4000 yuan than those in men with monthly family income <2000 yuan. The serum concentration of PFHxS in men who used plastic cups was 33.64% (P < 0.01) higher than that in men who did not report oral contact with plastic products (plastic tableware, plastic cups, and plastic bags for packing food). The serum concentrations of PFHxS, PFOS, and Σ8PFASs were 33.64% (P < 0.01), 43.33% (P < 0.01), and 36.34% (P < 0.05) higher in men who bathed with laundry soap than those in men who did not use detergents. Men who bathed with toilet soap had a 34.99% (P < 0.05) higher serum concentration of PFHxS than those who bathed without detergents. Conclusion Men of childbearing age are exposed to PFASs extensively. Age, monthly household income, usage of laundry soap or toilet soap in bathing, and usage of plastic cups may influence the level of PFASs in serum. However, further investigation is needed to confirm these results.

Research progress of occupational hazards in plywood manufacturing / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Occupational disease hazards in plywood manufacturing mainly include wood dust, formaldehyde, phenol, ammonia, noise, terpene, microorganisms, etc. The exposure is complex with multiple factors accompanied or coexisted. In the production process, these factors are exceeded, and mass occupational disease hazard events occurred among workers. Exposure to wood dust, formaldehyde, terpene, etc., put workers at increased risk of cancer. This article provides a review of this issue in order to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of occupational disease hazards in plywood manufacturing.