Quantification of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Commonly Consumed Salami in Brazil

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic compounds that have been found in different food categories, and meat products can have high concentrations of PAHs, since the technological processes to which they are subjected, such as smoking, can produce several compounds. Considering the risk that these compounds can bring to the population's health, it is essential to develop an accurate and reliable method to evaluate the contamination of PAHs in products of animal origin. The objective of this study was to optimize and validate a method for the quantification of 4 PAHs (benz[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene) in salami. The methodology included saponification, liquid­liquid extraction, solid-phase purification, and quantification by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography. The effects of saponification parameters were investigated by experimental design, whereas the model obtained by regression analysis was considered satisfactory with the dissolution solvent of potassium hydroxide providing the highest global sum of areas. In validation, the parameters studied were adequate and within European and INMETRO Guidelines limits. The evaluation of 22 samples indicated that 27% were contaminated with at least one of the 4 PAHs, and benz[a]anthracene being the prevalent one with content varying between < 1.00 and 17.58 µg/kg. Two samples showed PAHs contamination above the maximum tolerable limit in the European Commission Regulation.

Valor diagnóstico de indicadores antropométricos para sobrepeso y obesidad / Diagnostic value of anthropometric indicators for overweight and obesity

La obesidad se define por un exceso de masa grasa, sin embargo, hay otros indicadores antropométricos que pueden ser útiles para el diagnóstico de sobrepeso u obesidad; Objetivo. Determinar la exactitud diagnóstica del índice de masa corporal (IMC), circunferencia de la cintura (CC) e índice de forma corporal (ABSI) para el diagnóstico de sobrepeso u obesidad en una población adulta del Ecuador. Materiales y métodos. Se desarrolló un estudio observacional de corte transversal en el que participaron 253 sujetos con edades entre 20 y 60 años. Se midió peso, estatura, circunferencia de la cintura y porcentaje de grasa corporal (PGC). Se correlacionó el PGC con IMC, CC y ABSI y se estableció la sensibilidad y especificidad de estos indicadores para el diagnóstico de sobrepeso u obesidad con curvas ROC. Resultados. El PGC fue menor en hombres que en mujeres (30,9 vs 41,87), ABSI y CC fue mayor en hombres que en mujeres (0,079 vs 0,075) y (99,76 vs 91,25) respectivamente. Se encontró una correlación positiva fuerte (≥0,75) entre el PGC e IMC y CC. En la curva ROC, el área bajo la curva más alta se observa para el IMC (0,949), mientras que el área más baja se observa para ABSI (0,395). Conclusión. El IMC es el indicador con mayor precisión diagnóstica de sobrepeso u obesidad. ABSI no sería un indicador útil en el diagnóstico de sobrepeso u obesidad(AU)

Obesity is defined by an excess of fat mass, however, there are other anthropometric indicators that can be useful for the diagnosis of overweight or obesity; Objetive. To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and body shape index (ABSI) for the diagnosis of overweight or obesity in an adult population of Ecuador. Materials and methods. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out in which 253 subjects aged between 20 and 60 years participated. Weight, height, waist circumference and percentage body fat (PBF) were measured. The PBF was correlated with BMI, WC and ABSI and the sensitivity and specificity of these indicators were established for the diagnosis of overweight or obesity with ROC curves. Results. The PBF was lower in men than in women (30.09 vs 41.87), ABSI and CC were higher in men than in women (0.079 vs 0.075) and (99.76 vs 91.25) respectively. A strong positive correlation (≥0.75) was found between % body fat and BMI and WC. On the ROC curve, the area under the highest curve is observed for BMI (0.949), while the lowest area is observed for ABSI (0.395). Conclusion. The BMI is the indicator with the highest diagnostic precision of overweight or obesity. ABSI would not be a useful indicator in the diagnosis of overweight or obesity(AU)

Phytosterols Content in Vegetable Oils of Brazil: Coconut, Safflower, Linseed and Evening Primrose

Abstract In the last years phytosterols, natural components of plants, have received more attention due to association of their consumption with reducing risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. There are several scientific studies about phytosterols in vegetable oils, but they are scarce in unconventional oils. The objective of this research was evaluating the content of phytosterols (β-sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol) in vegetable oils sold in São Paulo city, in Brazil. The analysis included cold alkaline saponification, derivatization with hexamethyldisilazane and trimethylchlorosilane reagents, and quantification by gas chromatography using flame ionization detection and internal standardization. The quality control parameters indicated that the method was suitable for analysis. Total sterols were between 272.3 mg kg-1 (coconut oil) to 6169.7 mg kg-1 (evening primrose oil). β-sitosterol was the component found in higher concentrations and evening primrose oil was the most representative in quantity of phytosterols.

Choque séptico por Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Septic shock due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Resumen: La tuberculosis típicamente se considera una enfermedad crónica, aunque puede manifestarse de forma aguda, cuya manifestación se revisa en este caso clínico. La patogenia de la tuberculosis aguda suele estar relacionada con factores epidemiológicos y genéticos del huésped. El choque séptico debido a Mycobacterium tuberculosis es poco frecuente, pero está bien reconocido, se comporta de manera similar al choque séptico bacteriano, conocido como sepsis tuberculosa gravissima. Nuestra paciente ingresó con afectación hemodinámica y diagnóstico de choque séptico que evolucionó a insuficiencia multiorgánica; a pesar del tratamiento antimicrobiano y antituberculoso establecido, falleció a los cinco días del ingreso a la unidad de cuidados intensivos. El espectro de la enfermedad por M. tuberculosis dificulta el diagnóstico, a menos que la sospecha clínica sea alta, pero la alta mortalidad exige su consideración. El inicio temprano del tratamiento es decisivo para optimizar el resultado clínico.

Abstract: Tuberculosis is typically considered a chronic disease, although it can be manifested acutely, whose form is reviewed in this clinical case. The pathogenesis of acute tuberculosis is usually related to epidemiological and genetic factors of the host. Septic shock due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis is rare, but it is well recognized, behaving similarly to bacterial septic shock, known as sepsis tuberculosa gravissima. Our patient was admitted with hemodynamic compromise and diagnosis of septic shock that evolved to multiorganic failure; despite antimicrobial and antituberculous management, patient died five days after admission to the intensive care unit. The spectrum of M. tuberculosis disease makes diagnosis difficult, unless clinical suspicion is high, but high mortality requires consideration. The early start of therapy is decisive to optimize the clinical outcome.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons content and fatty acids profile in coconut, safflower, evening primrose and linseed oils

This study aimed at evaluating the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contamination of commercial vegetable oils and examined the identity through the fatty acids profiles. Coconut, safflower, evening primrose, and linseed oils marketed in São Paulo (Brazil) were investigated totaling 69 samples. Four PAHs, benzo[a] anthracene (BaA), chrysene (Chr), benzo[b]fluoranthene (BbF), and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), were detected in 96% of the samples at individual levels ranging from not detected to 14.99 µg kg−1. Chrysene was the abundant hydrocarbon found among all types of oils, with the highest median values. The results of the fatty acid profiles revealed that 43% showed different profiles according to the ones on their labels, with a higher incidence of adulteration of evening primrose oils. The maximum tolerable limits by European Regulation No. 835/2011 were exceeded for BaP in 12%, and for total 4 PAHs in 28%, with a greater contribution of adulterated samples

Factores de riesgo asociadas a la enfermedad Chagas en comunidades rurales en Lara, Venezuela / Comparative analysis of risk factors associated with Chagas disease in Lara State, Venezuela

La reinfestación por vectores secundarios es un problema emergente para la transmisión de la enfermedad de Chagas. Objetivo: Realizar un análisis comparativo para determinar los factores de riesgo asociados a la seropositividad en humanos. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio ecoentomológico y seroepidemiológico realizado en dos comunidades del Estado Lara, infestadas por Triatoma maculata o Panstrongylus geniculatus. Resultados: Guariquito (bosque húmedo tropical templado intervenido para actividad agrícola) mostró una seroprevalencia (SP) canina del 33,33 % y humana del 6,81 % asociada a: menores de 40 años, vector en vivienda anterior, comer animales de caza, migración rural, reconocimiento y contacto con el vector, siendo factores protectores conocimiento del vector y haber vivido en ranchos; infestación 20,45 %, colonización 0 % e infección 18,75 %; ninfas capturadas en cuevas de Xenarthra, los cuales se encontraron infectados (20 %), al igual que Rodentias (25 %). Cauderales (región semidesértica): SP humana del 11,56 % asociada a: mayores de 40 años, vector en vivienda anterior tipo rancho, comer animales de caza, migración rural, reconocimiento y contacto con el vector, siendo factor protector presencia de caninos en la vivienda, los cuales fueron seronegativos; infestación 5,51 %, colonización 0 % e infección-vivienda 0 %; ninfas y Chiropteras no infectadas fueron capturadas en Cactáceas. Conclusión: Panstrongylus geniculatus es responsable de la transmisión reciente en regiones intervenidas de bosque tropical húmedo y con reservorios de los géneros Xenarthra y Rodentia; Tm tiene capacidad vectorial limitada debido a bajos índices de infección producto de sus fuentes de alimento.

Reinfestation by secondary vectors is an emerging problem for h g ’ i e e smission. Objective: To make a comparative analysis and to identify risk factors associated with human seropositivity. Methods: We have done and ecoentomological and seroepidemiologic study in two communities in Lara state, infested by Triatoma maculata or Panstrongylus geniculatus. Results: Guariquito (temperate rainforest, human intervened for agricultural activity) showed 33,33 % og’ e op ev le ce (SP) 6,81 % hum SP associated with: individuals under 40 years, vector infestation of previous house, eating hunting animals, rural migration, vector recognition or contact; protective factors were: knowledge about vectors and used to live in dwellings; 20,45 % infestation, 0% colonization and 18,75 % infection; nymphs were capture in Xenarthra caves, which were found infected (20 %), as well as Rodentias (25 %). Cauderales (semi-desert region) showed 11,56 % human SP associated with: individuals older than 40 years, vector presence in dwellings, eating wild animals, rural migration, recognition and vector contact; as protective factors presence of dogs in the house, which were seronegative; 5,51 % infestation, 0 % colonization or infection indexes; non-infected Chiropteras and Tm nymphs were captured in Cactaceae. Conclusion: Panstrongylus geniculatus is the vector responsible for recent transmission of Chagas disease in tropical rain forest regions, where human intervention is in evolution and reservoirs of genera Xenarthra and Rodentia are present, while Tm has a limited vector capacity because of their low rates of infection as consequence of their food sources.

Stability of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of regular and decaffeinated coffees

This study compared the regular and decaffeinated coffees in relation to antioxidant capacity, levels of some antioxidant molecules and stability of these parameters over a six-month period under different storage conditions. The regular coffee samples analyzed right after the industrial production showed higher antioxidant capacity (ORAC and DPPH), the same levels of phenolic compounds and higher levels of phenolic acids than decaffeinated coffee. After six months, the closed packs of both the grades kept under vacuum at 20°C did not show significant changes from the initial results; the open packs stored at 4°C showed small but statistically significant reductions and the open packs stored at 20°C showed higher and statistically significant losses (p < 0.05). Oxygen was the most important factor for these losses but temperature also played an important role. Tests showed that the storage conditions were very important to preserve the quality of coffees regarding the analyzed parameters.

Antioxidant potential of tomatoes cultivated in organic and conventional systems

The objective of the study was to compare the effect of organic and conventional cultivation on the antioxidant compound content and antioxidant activity of the Carmen tomato cultivar. Tomatoes were analyzed regarding ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, lycopene content and antioxidant activity. Organic tomatoes presented higher content of ascorbic acid and total phenolics (641.39 and 4466.66 mg/100 g EAG on dry wt basis) than did the conventional tomatoes (510.16 and 3477.50 mg/100 g EAG on wt dry basis, respectively). There was no difference in lycopene concentrations between the organic and conventional. The ether, alcohol and aqueous extracts obtained from the tomatoes were subjected to the DPPH test and the β-carotene/linoleic acid system assay. The alcohol and aqueous extracts from organic tomatoes presented higher antioxidant activity in the DPPH test (25.43 and 14.28%, respectively) than the conventional tomatoes (19.52 and 11.33%, respectively). Organic tomatoes had higher antioxidant potential probably due to its higher ascorbic acid and total phenolic values.

Intervenciones para el control del sobrepeso y obesidad en niños y adolescentes en el Perú / Interventions to control overweight and obesity in children and adolescents in Peru

El sobrepeso y la obesidad en niños y adolescentes representa un serio problema de salud pública en el Perú, con elevados costos para la sociedad, esto hace necesaria la implementación de un conjunto de políticas públicas dirigidas hacia el control de dicho inconveniente. Así, se han propuesto intervenciones como la regulación de la publicidad de alimentos no saludables, su autorregulación, la implementación de quioscos saludables y el etiquetado nutricional. Desde el análisis de la problemática del sobrepeso y obesidad en niños y adolescentes en el Perú, el presente artículo hace una revisión narrativa de dichas intervenciones.

Overweight and obesity in children and adolescents represent a serious public health problem in Peru, with high costs for society that require the implementation of a set of public policies directed toward its control. Thus, interventions have been proposed as the regulation of advertising of unhealthy foods, self-regulation, the implementation of kiosks healthy and nutritional labeling. From the analysis of the problem of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents in Peru, this article is a narrative review of such interventions.

Actividad antiséptica de vinagre de Guadua angustifolia Kunth / Antiseptic activity of Guadua angustifolia Kunth vinegar

Introducción: los vinagres de bambú se utilizan en los países orientales en aplicaciones farmacéuticas, con la especie Guadua angustifolia Kunth no se han encontrado investigaciones similares. Evaluar la actividad antiséptica del vinagre de guadua permitiría avanzar en estos desarrollos. Objetivo: determinar la sensibilidad de las bacterias Pseudomona aeruginosa y Staphylococcus aureus frente al vinagre de guadua, los cambios con la concentración y el pH. Métodos: la actividad antimicrobiana se midió por difusión en agar en medio Muller Hinton. Se ensayaron vinagres a concentraciones entre 100, 80, 60, 40 y 20 por ciento a pH entre 3 y 6. Se estableció la concentración mínima inhibitoria. Resultados: el vinagre de guadua presenta actividad antiséptica a concentraciones superiores a 12 mg/mL en base seca, rango de pH 2 a 6, reduce en 4 log la concentración de microorganismos y muestra mayor actividad antiséptica contra S. aureus. Conclusiones: la actividad antiséptica del vinagre de bambú comparado con el de otra especie, obtenido en condiciones similares a las que se realizaron en este estudio, se obtiene una mayor actividad para el vinagre de G. angustifolia, lo cual permite demostrar el gran potencial de este para el desarrollo de formulaciones con actividad antiséptica.

Introduction: bamboo vinegars are used in the Asian countries for pharmaceutical applications, but the Guadua angustifolia Kunth species has not been similarly researched in this field. The assessment of the antiseptic activity of guadua vinegar would allow moving forward in this direction. Objective: to determine the antiseptic action of guadua vinegar against Pseudomona aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, with several changes in concentration and the pH. Methods: the antimicrobial activity was measured through the agar diffusion in Muller Hinton medium. Guadua vinegars were tested at 100, 80, 60, 40, and 20 percent concentrations and the pH ranged 3 to 6. The minimum inhibitory concentration was set. Results: guadua vinegar showed antiseptic properties at concentrations over 12 mg/mL, on dry weight and pH range of 2 to 6; it reduced by 4 log the final microorganism concentration and exhibited greater antibacterial activity against S. aureus. Conclusions: comparing the antiseptic activity of bamboo vinegar with that of another species, under conditions similar to those in this study, results in greater activity for Guadua angustifolia vinegar, which can prove its great potential for the development of antiseptic formulations.

Avaliação de uma intervenção nutricional sobre o consumo alimentar de indivíduos hiperlipidêmicos coronarianos / Evaluation of a dietary treatment on food intake of hyperlipidemic patients with cardiovascular disease

This study aimed to evaluate the changes on the dietary intake of patients with coronary heart disease, after a nutritional intervention based on the Scoring System for Control of Serum Lipids and Cholesterol Levels. An intervention study was carried out on hyper lipidemic patients with cardiovascular disease. This protocol accompanied the following groups: three patients with coronary heart disease advised to follow their usual diet and with a total cholesterol > 200mg/dL (DHCA); eight patients with coronary heart disease advised to follow their usual diet and with a total cholesterol < 200mg/dL (DHCB); three patients with coronary heart disease advised to follow the diet proposed by the Scoring System and with a total cholesterol > 200mg/dL (DPCA); eight patients with coronary heart disease advised to follow the diet proposed by the Scoring System and with a total cholesterol < 200mg/dL (DPCB). Changes in dietary intake variables were compared between the groups by analysis of variance for repeated measures using the general linear model. It was observed that the DPCB group presented a significantly lower intake of fats, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids and cholesterol when compared with the DHCB group(p<0.050). The DPCA group presented a significantly lower intake of saturated fatty acids and an increased intake of dietary fiber, vitamin C and vitamin E when compared to the DHCA group (p<0.050). From the results of the present study, it is possible to conclude that patients who adopted the guidelines proposed by the Scoring System changed their food intake, especially regarding the consumption of lipids.

Este estudio tuvo por objetivo evaluar los cambios en la ingestión de alimentos de pacientes hiperlipidémicos con enfermedad coronaria, después de una intervención nutricion albasada en el Sistema de Puntos para el Control del Colesterol y de la Grasa en la Sangre. Se realizó un estudio de intervención con pacientes hiperlipidémicos con enfermedad coronaria. Este protocolo de investigación acompañó los siguientes grupos: tres pacientes coronarios aconsejados a seguir su dieta habitual y con colesterol total >200mg/dL (DHCA); ocho individuos coronarios aconsejados a seguir su dieta habitual y con colesterol total<200mg/dL (DHCB); tres pacientes coronarios aconsejados a seguir la dieta propuesta por el Sistema de Puntos y con colesterol total>200mg /dL (DPCA), y ocho pacientes coronarios aconsejados a seguir la dieta de los puntos con colesterol total <200mg / dL (DPCB). Los cambios en las variables de consumo de alimentos fueron comparados entre los grupos de estudio mediante análisis de varianza para medidas repetidas utilizando el Modelo Lineal General. Se observó que los pacientes del grupo DPCB consumieron cantidades significativamente más bajas de grasa, grasas saturadas, grasas trans y colesterol en comparación con el grupo DHCB (p <0,050). El grupo DPCA mostró un menor consumo de ácidos grasos saturados yun mayor consumo de fibra y vitaminas C y Eque el grupo DHCA (p <0,050). Los resultados obtenidos por este estudio permiten concluir que los pacientes que adoptaron las directrices propuestas por el Sistema de Puntos modificaron su consumo de alimentos, especialmente con relación a la ingesta de lípidos.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as modificações no consumo alimentar de indivíduos hiperlipidêmicos coronarianos, após uma intervenção nutricional baseada no Sistema de Pontos para Controle de Colesterol e Gordura no Sangue. Foi realizado um estudo de intervenção, com pacientes hiperlipidêmicos com doença coronariana. Este protocolo de pesquisa acompanhou os seguintes grupos: três pacientes coronarianos orientados a seguir sua dieta habitual e com colesterol total >200mg/dL (DHCA); oitoi ndivíduos coronarianos orientados a seguir sua dieta habitual e com colesterol total<200mg/dL (DHCB); três pacientes coronarianos orientados a seguir a dieta proposta pelo Sistemade Pontos e com colesterol total >200mg/dL(DPCA); oito pacientes coronarianos orientados a seguir a dieta de pontos e com colesterol total <200mg/dL (DPCB). Alterações sobre as variáveis de consumo alimentar foram comparadas entre os grupos de estudo utilizando a análise de variância para medidas repetidas por meio do modelo linear generalizado. Pôde-se observar que os pacientes do grupo DPCB consumiram quantidades significantemente menores de lipídios, ácidos graxos saturados, trans e colesterol quando comparados aos do grupo DHCB (p<0,050).O grupo DPCA apresentou menor consumo de ácidos graxos saturados e maior ingestão de fibras e vitaminas C e E que o DHCA(p<0,050). Os resultados obtidos pelo presente estudo permitem concluir que os pacientes que adotaram as orientações propostas pelo Sistema de Pontos alteraram seu consumo alimentar, principalmente em relação ao consumo de lipídios.

Natural antioxidant from yerba maté (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil.) prevents hamburger peroxidation

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether yerba maté alcoholic extracts at very low concentrations (0.01 and 0.1 percent), prevent/retard lipid peroxidation in beef hamburgers without impairing sensory acceptability. For this TBARs and hexanal levels, fatty acid profile and cholesterol oxides were evaluated as oxidation parameters in beef hamburgers during 90 days' storage. The addition of 0.01 percent yerba maté ethanolic extracts proved inefficient in restraining the lipid peroxidation while the addition of 0.1 percent resulted in efficient antioxidant activity. Sensory evaluation of hamburger containing 0.1 percent yerba maté ethanolic extracts showed good acceptability. Yerba maté ethanolic extracts could entirely or partially replace the phenolic synthetic antioxidants in beef hamburgers only when used at above legally allowed concentrations for antioxidant additives (0.01 percent).

Validación de pruebas ELISA IgM anti-Toxoplasma para uso en programas de tamización en recién nacidos / Validation of anti-Toxoplasma IgM ELISA tests in newborn screening programs

Objetivos. Evaluar y determinar el punto de corte para la detección de IgM anti-Toxoplasma por el método ELISA, en muestras de sangre de cordónumbilical, mediante dos ensayos comerciales diferentes, y correlacionar los resultados obtenidos con el diagnóstico de toxoplasmosis congénitarealizado por seguimiento serológico y los datos clínicos. Métodos. Se evaluó la prueba IgM anti-Toxoplasma ELISA de Vircell®, frente a los resultados por Western blot e IgM ELISA de Labsystems®. Seestudiaron 105 muestras de cordón umbilical de niños colombianos, obtenidas de seis ciudades diferentes por Western blot y seguimiento clínico yserológico en aquellos positivos. Se obtuvo una curva receptor-operador (ROC) para la prueba ELISA IgM anti-Toxoplasma de Vircell® y de Labsystems®. Se analizó la concordancia entre pruebas en 105 sueros obtenidos de cordón umbilical. Resultados. El mejor desempeño para la prueba Vircell® fue con un punto de corte de índice 8 y la prueba de Labsystems® con un punto de cortede 16 inmunounidades enzimáticas. Frente al Western blot, la prueba Vircell® tuvo una sensibilidad de 100 % (IC 95%; 71,8-100) y una especificidadde 78 % (IC 95%; 69-85,7), la prueba Labsystems® tuvo una sensibilidad de 100 % (IC95%; 71,8-100) y una especificidad de 100 % (IC95%; 96-100). Laconcordancia entre ambas pruebas (Labsystems® y Vircell®) fue de 80 %, con un índice kappa de 0,45. Conclusiones. Un punto de corte de un índice 8 para la prueba ELISA IgM anti-Toxoplasma de Vircell® y un punto de corte de 16 inmunounidadesenzimáticas por Labsystems®, permiten identificar infecciones congénitas en sangre de cordón umbilical en niños colombianos.

Objectives: To evaluate and validate the detection of anti-Toxoplasma IgM ELISA in umbilical cord blood by means of two different commercialassays and to correlate the results with the diagnosis of congenital infection in children by serological follow up and clinical data. Materials and methods: We evaluated the commercial anti-Toxoplasma IgM ELISA kitÔ from Vircell (Granada, Spain) compared to the results of Toxoplasma IgM Western blotÔ (LDbio, Lyon, France) and IgM ELISA testÔ from Labsystems (Finland). We obtained the receptor-operator curve (ROC) for the IgMELISA assay form Vircell and Labsystems. We studied 105 umbilical cord blood serum samples from Colombian children from six different cities by Westernblot, and clinical and serological follow up for positive cases. The kappa agreement index was determined for the 105 sera obtained from umbilical cords. Results: The Vircell assay showed a better performance with a cut-off index of 8 against a 16 for Labsystems for enzyme immunounits (EUI). Whenthe results were evaluated against the Western blot assay, the Vircell IgM assay had a sensitivity of 100% (IC95%: 71.8-100) and a specificity of 78%(IC95%: 69-85.7), the IgM assay from Labsystems had a sensitivity of 100% (IC95%; 71.8-100) and a specificity of 100% (IC95%; 96-100). Agreement between both tests (Labsystems and Vircell) was 80% and had a kappa index of 0.45. Conclusions: A cut-off point of 8 for the anti-Toxoplasma IgM ELISA assay from Vircell and 16 EIU for the Labsystems assay allow the identificationof congenital infections in umbilical cord blood samples from Colombian children.

Elaboração de um sistema de pontos para intervenções dietéticas em indivíduos hiperlipidêmicos / Preparations a scoring system for dietetic interventions in hyperlipidemic individuals

Fundamentos: Sabe-se da existência de substâncias dietéticas aterogênicas e promotoras de doenças cardiovasculares. Assim a utilização de um guia de fácil compreensão e manejo poderia auxiliar na escolha de alimentos saudáveis. Objetivo: Elaborar um instrumento de orientação alimentar como ferramenta para intervenção dietética em indivíduos com hiperlipidemias. Métodos: Foi elaborado um sistema de pontos com alimentos em medidas caseiras, considerando-se as características socioculturais da população. Criou-se uma listagem de alimentos que receberam pontuações para índicede colesterol/gordura saturada (CSI). O CSI foi calculado por meio de metodologia validada, utilizando a seguinte fórmula: CSI=(1,01xg de gordura saturada) + (0,05xmg decolesterol). Um índice baixo significa alta capacidade de redução das hiperlipidemias. A necessidade individual de gorduras e colesterol para o cálculo do CSI foi extraída das recomendações da American Heart Association. Resultados: Foi organizada uma dieta de pontos para colesterol em formato de cartilha acompanhada de material explicativo. Utilizou-se como representação gráfica o Guiada Pirâmide Alimentar Saudável, pois reflete rapidamente conceitos alimentares importantes, porém em formato decoração em alusão à prevenção de doenças cardiovasculares. Conclusão: Elaborou-se, com sucesso, um instrumento de orientação alimentar denominado Sistema de Pontos para Controle de Colesterol e Gordura no Sangue. É uma ferramenta que pode apoiar a capacitação de profissionais promotores da saúde, para orientar pacientes e a população em geral.

Background: The existence of foods containing atherogenic substances that cause cardiovascular diseases is well known. An eating guide that is easy tohandle and understand could thus help patients choose healthier foods.Objective: To prepare an eating guide as a tool for dietetic intervention in hyperlipidemic individuals. Methods: A food scoring system was drawn up,assigning points to foods using ordinary home measurements, considering the social and cultural characteristics of the population. A list of foods was prepared, assigning points based on the Cholesterol / Saturated Fat Index (CSI). This Index was calculatedthrough a validated methodology based on the following formula: CSI=(1.01xg saturated fat) + (0.05xmg of cholesterol). A low score indicates goodcapacity for reducing hyperlipidemias. The individual fat and cholesterol requirements for calculating thisIndex are drawn from the American Heart Association recommendations. Results: A cholesterol score diet was designed and presented in a leaflet, together with explanatory materials,using the Healthy Food Guide Pyramid as this clearly demonstrates important food-related concepts, but reshaped into a heart in order to underscore its importance for preventing cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: A successful eating guide was prepared,using a points system to score cholesterol and fat in the blood. This tool can provide input for trainingprofessional health promoters, as well as offering guidance to patients and the population in general.

Prevalencia de protozoos intestinales en 79 niños de 2 a 5 años de edad de un hogar infantil estatal en Circasia, Quindío / Prevalence of intestinal protozoa in 79 children 2 to 5 years old from a state nursery program in Circasia, Quindío

Introducción: Los parásitos intestinales se consideran un problema de salud pública en los países en desarrollo y afecta a individuos de todas las edades y sexos, pero se presentan, sobre todo, en los primeros años de vida. En la actualidad, entre las parasitosis más reportadas para el departamento del Quindío se encuentra la giardiasis, producida por Giardia intestinalis (G. duodenalis o G. lamblia), y la blastocistocis, producida por Blastocystis sp. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de protozoos intestinales en 79 niños con edades comprendidas entre los 2 y 5 años, de un hogar infantil en el municipio de Circasia, Quindío.Materiales y métodos: Se recolectaron tres muestras de heces en 79 niños con previo consentimiento del tutor legal. Las muestras fueron sometidas al análisis de laboratorio por examen directo macroscópico y microscópico, utilizando lugol al 1%, solución salina al 0,83%, solución salina-eosina y la técnica de concentración de Ritchie o formol-éter. Resultados: Para los tres muestras, los parásitos con potencial patógeno tuvieron las siguientes prevalencias: Blastocystis sp., 49,4%, 57% y 64,6%; G. lamblia, 16,5%, 22,8% y 15,2 %; complejo Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, 5,1%, 5,1% y 1,3%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Este estudio muestra la elevada prevalencia de parásitos protozoarios, y Blastocystis sp. fue el más prevalente. Durante el seguimiento se detectó reinfestación de los niños que participaron en el estudio.

Introduction: Intestinal parasites are considered a public health problem in developing countries, and they affect individuals of all ages and sexes; nevertheless they are frequent in early childhood. At present, the most reported intestinal parasite conditions in Quindío are giardiasis, caused by Giardia intestinalis (G. lamblia or G.duodenalis), and blastocystosis caused by Blastocystis sp. Objective: The objective is to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in children 2 to 5 years old at a State nursery in Circasia, Quindio. Materials and methods: Three fecal samples per child were collected from 79 children following informed consent from their legal guardians. Microscopic and macroscopic laboratory test were made using 1 % Lugol, 0,8 % saline solution, saline-eosin solution and concentration techniques with formaldehyde-ether (Ritchie.) Results: In the three fecal samples, the pathogen parasites had the following prevalence: Blastocystis sp 49,4 %, 57 % and 64,6 % sp; Giardia lamblia 16,5 %, 22,8 % and 15,2 %; and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 5,1 %, 5,1 % and.1,3 % respectively.Conclusions: This study shows a high frequency of protozoa parasites, Blastocystis sp being the most prevalent. Re-infection in children was detected during the study.

Efeito do processamento na atividade antioxidante do grão de amaranto (Amaranthus cruentus L. BRS-Alegria) / Effect of processing on the antioxidant activity of amaranth grain

As características nutricionais, funcionais e agrícolas do amaranto são responsáveis pelo aumento do interesse por este alimento nas últimas décadas. O grão pode ser cozido, estourado, torrado, extrusado ou moído para ser consumido. Foi avaliado o efeito destes processamentos na atividade antioxidante do grão de amaranto, através das determinações do teor de fenólicos totais e da atividade antioxidante in vitro por dois métodos: inibição da oxidação lipídica pelo sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoléico e índice de atividade antioxidante pelo aparelho Rancimat®. Os processamentos reduziram em média o teor de fenólicos totais do grão de amaranto de 31,7 para 22,0 mg de equivalentes de ácido gálico/g de resíduo seco. Observou-se que o extrato obtido por etanol do grão torrado foi o único a apresentar menor índice de atividade antioxidante (IAA) em relação ao grão cru (1,3 v 1,7). Os processos de extrusão, torração e explosão não alteraram a capacidade de inibição da oxidação lipídica (IOL) do amaranto (55 por cento). Já o cozimento aumentou o IOL (79 por cento), o que pode ter ocorrido devido ao maior tempo de processamento sob alta temperatura (100ºC/10min). Os métodos mais comuns de processamento do grão de amaranto ocasionaram redução do teor de fenólicos totais, no entanto a atividade antioxidante do estourado e do extrusado, avaliada pelos dois métodos, foi semelhante ao do grão cru. O grão de amaranto tanto cru como processado apresenta potencial antioxidante. Polifenóis, antocianinas, flavonóides, tocoferóis, vitamina C e compostos gerados na reação de Maillard podem estar relacionados à atividade antioxidante deste grão.

Amaranth has attracted increasing interest over recent decades because of its nutritional, functional and agricultural characteristics. Amaranth grain can be cooked, popped, toasted, extruded or milled for consumption. This study investigated the effect of these processes on the antioxidant activity of amaranth grain. Total phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant activity were determined according to two methods: inhibition of lipid oxidation using the β-carotene/linoleic acid system and the antioxidant activity index using the Rancimat® apparatus. The processing reduced the mean total phenolics content in amaranth grain from 31.7 to 22.0 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dry residue. It was observed that the ethanol extract from toasted grain was the only one that presented a lower antioxidant activity index compared with the raw grain (1.3 versus 1.7). The extrusion, toasting and popping processes did not change the capacity to inhibit amaranth lipid oxidation (55 percent). However, cooking increased the inhibition of lipid oxidation (79 percent), perhaps because of the longer time at high temperatures in this process (100°C/10 min). The most common methods for processing amaranth grain caused reductions in the total phenolics content, although the antioxidant activity of popped and extruded grain, evaluated by the two methods, was similar to that of the raw grain. Both raw and processed amaranth grain presents antioxidant potential. Polyphenols, anthocyanins, flavonoids, tocopherols, vitamin C levels and Maillard reaction products may be related to the antioxidant activity of this grain.

Associação entre nutrientes da dieta e fatores de risco cardiovascular / Association of nutrients and cardiovascular risk factors

The objective of this study was to evaluate the infl uence of nutrients such as monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and antioxidant vitamin (α-tocopherol) on the cardiovascular risk factors (BMI, CC, Total Cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c and anti-LDLox autoantibodies). Data on food intake by 63 individuals at INCOR/SP/Brazil were collected by using 24-hour recalls and diet nutritional analysis (NutWin, version 5.1). After 12h fasting, blood samples were collected and the plasma was analyzed for: lipid profi le (colorimetric methods), autoantibodies against LDLox (ELISA) and α-tocopherol (HPLC). Habitual diet was evaluated by three 24-hour recalls (R24) and the nutritional composition was analyzed by NutWin, version 5.1. The population was divided in quartiles according to the consumption of nutrients and the results indicated that MUFA, PUFA and serum α-tocopherol showed association with the BMI, CC, Total Cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c and anti-LDLox autoantibodies. These associations were signifi cant and negative with consumption. According to our results we can state that these nutrients are capable to modify the cardiovascular risk.

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la influencia de los ácidos grasos mononsaturados (AGM), polinsaturados (AGP) y antioxidantes(α-tocoferol) sobre los marcadores de riesgo cardiovascular (IMC, CC, Colesterol total, HDL-C, LDL-C y autoanticuerpos anti-LDLox). La dieta habitual de sesenta y tres individuos del INCOR/SP/Brasil fue evaluada por medio de 3 recordatorios de 24h (R24h) y los nutrientes fueron analizados utilizando el programa NutWin, versión 5.1 Después de un ayuno de12h fueron recogidas muestras de sangre. Fueron determinados en el plasma: el perfi l lipidico (método colorimétrico), los autoanticuerposanti-LDLox (ELISA) y el α-tocoferol (HPLC). El análisis en cuartiles mostró que los factores de riesgo cardiovascular (IMC, CC, Colesterol Total, HDL-c, LDL-c y la producción de anticuer pos anti- LDLox) es tabanrelacionados negativamente con los nutrientes (AGM y AGP) evaluados por medio del R24h y con el α-tocoferol, identifi cado como marcadorbioquímico de consumo. De acuerdo con nuestros resultados podemos concluir que estos nutrientes son capaces de modifi car el riesgo para enfermedad cardiovascular.

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a influência de nutrientes da dieta, tais como, ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (MUFA), ácidos graxospolinsaturados (PUFA) e vitamina antioxidante (α-tocoferol) sobre o risco cardiovascular. Foram coletadas informações sobre o consumoalimentar de 63 indivíduos do INCOR/SP/ Brasil, por meio de três recordatórios de 24 horas e realizada a análise da composição nutricional das dietas (NutWin, versão 5.1). Após jejum de 12h, as amostras de sangue foram coletadas, e a partir do plasma foramanali sados: o perfil lipídico (métodos colorimétricos), os autoanticorpos anti-LDLox (ELISA) e o α-tocoferol (HPLC). A análise em quartis demonstrou que os fatores de risco cardiovascular (IMC, CC, Colesterol Total, HDL-c, LDL-c e a geração de autoanticorpos anti-LDLox) apresentam associação negativa com os nutrientes (MUFA e PUFA) avaliados por meio do R24h e com o α-tocoferol , identifi cado como marcador bioquímico de consumo. De acordo com os nossos resultadospodemos concluir que esses nutrientes são capazes de modificar o risco para doença cardiovascular.

Prevalencia de microorganismos asociados a infecciones vaginales en 230 mujeres gestantes y no gestantes sintomáticas del Centro de Salud La Milagrosa en el municipio de Armenia (Colombia) / Prevalence of micro-organisms associated with vaginal infections in 230 symptomatic expectant and non-expectant women at La Milagrosa health center in Armenia, Colombia

Objetivos: determinar la prevalencia de los agentes etiológicos de las infecciones vaginales en mujeresembarazadas y no embarazadas sintomáticas del centro de salud “La Milagrosa”, de Armenia (Quindío,Colombia), en un periodo comprendido entre noviembre y diciembre de 2007 y enero de 2008.Materiales y métodos: estudio de prevalencia. Se tomaron muestras en 230 pacientes que consultaron por síntomas asociados a infección vaginal en el centro de salud “La Milagrosa”. A todas las pacientes se les tomó muestras de flujo vaginal parala medición del pH, test de amina, identificación microscópica de células clave (células epiteliales que contienen bacterias, indicando la presencia deGardnerella), Trichomonas vaginalis, levaduras e hifas. Se hicieron cultivos en agar sangre, Sabouraud y Mac Conckey y se realizó la técnica de tinción de Gram. Los datos fueron analizados en el programaEpi Info versión 6.Resultados: la principal causa de infección fue cocobacilos gram variable tipo Gardnerella (39 por ciento), seguida de Candida spp (6,5 por ciento y Trichomonas vaginalis (5,7 por ciento). Conclusiones: en pacientes sintomáticas de flujo vaginal se encontró mayor prevalencia de vaginosis bacteriana.

Objective: determining the prevalence of infectious agents responsible for vaginal infections in symptomaticwomen at La Milagrosa primary health center in Armenia (Quindío, Colombia), between November and December 2007 and January 2008.Materials and methods: a cross sectional study was carried out on 230 patients who consulted for vaginal discharge and symptoms. A sample of vaginal discharge was obtained from each patient. Each sample was analysed for pH, amines test, identification of clue cells containing bacteria as an indicator for Gardnerella infection, Trichomonasvaginalis and the presence of hifae or yeasts. All samples were also cultured on blood agar, Sabouraud and Mac Conckey media and Gram stained. Thedata was organised on an Excel spreadsheet and analysed using Epi Info software (version 6).Results: Gardnerella had the highest infectious agent prevalence (39 percent), followed by Candida spp (6.5 percent)and Trichomonas vaginalis (5.7 percent).