Pharmacogenetics May Prevent Psychotropic Adverse Events in Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Observational Pilot Study.

INTRODUCTION: Up to 73% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) currently have prescriptions for psychotropic drugs. This is explained by a higher prevalence of medical and psychiatric chronic comorbidities, which favors polypharmacy, increasing the probability of the appearance of adverse events (AEs). These could be a preventable cause of harm to patients with ASD and an unnecessary waste of healthcare resources. OBJECTIVE: To study the impact of pharmacogenetic markers on the prevention of AE appearance in a population with ASD and ID. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, observational study (n = 118, 72 participants completed all information) in the ASD population. Sociodemographic and pharmacological data were gathered. The Udvalg for Kliniske Undersøgelser Scale (UKU Scale) was used to identify AEs related to the use of psychotropic medication. Polymorphisms of DOP2, ABCB1, and COMT were genotyped and correlated with the AE to find candidate genes. Furthermore, a review of all medications assessed in a clinical trial for adults with autism was performed to enrich the search for potential pharmacogenetic markers, keeping in mind the usual medications. RESULTS: The majority of the study population were men (75%) with multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy, the most frequently prescribed drugs were antipsychotics (69%); 21% of the participants had four or more AEs related to psychotropic drugs. The most common were "Neurological" and" Psychiatric" (both 41%). Statistical analysis results suggested a significant correlation between the neurological symptoms and the DOP2 genotype, given that they are not equally distributed among its allelic variants. The final review considered 19 manuscripts of medications for adults with ASD, and the confirmed genetic markers for those medications were consulted in databases. CONCLUSION: A possible correlation between neurologic AEs and polymorphisms of DOP2 was observed; therefore, studying this gene could contribute to the safety of this population's prescriptions. The following studies are underway to maximize statistical power and have a better representation of the population.

Analysis of null deletion polymorphism of glutathione S-transferase theta (GSTT-1), associated with anti-GSTT-1 antibodies development in transplantation.

Glutathione S-transferase theta 1 (GSTT1) is an enzyme involved in phase II biotransformation processes and a member of a multigene family of detoxifying and clearing reactive oxygen species. GSTT1 is polymorphic like other biotransforming enzymes, allowing variability in hepatic conjugation processes. Immunological recognition of the GSTT1 alloantigen, as evidenced by donor-specific antibodies formation, has previously been observed in recipients lacking GSTT1 protein (called GSTT1-, GSTT*0, null phenotype or homozygous for the GSTT1 deletion) who receive liver or kidney transplants from GSTT1+ donors and is a risk factor for the development of de novo hepatitis following liver transplants from a GSTT1 expressing donor. Antibodies against GSTT1 are demonstrated in patients who are GSTT1 null and received a transplant from a GSTT1+ donor. Understanding the local population frequency of the GSTT1 deletion is of value in understanding the potential clinical risk of developing post-transplant complications, which can be attributed to the nonexpression of GSTT1. A population of 173 healthy donors of the Murcia Region in Southeast Spain was evaluated for a null allele of GSTT1 (n = 173). DNA was extracted, and GSTT-1 null allele detection was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The frequency of the null GSTT1 genotype (nonexpression or deletion of the homozygous polymorphism of the GSTT1 protein) was 17.9% (n = 31 null allele GSTT1/173 total individuals). Our data suggest that the frequency of null GSTT1 mutations in our population in Southeast Spain is 17.9%, lower than in other Caucasoid populations. This would convert our recipient population into more susceptible to nonlocal potential organ donors and less susceptible to local donors. All recipients bearing this GSTT1 deletion homozygous would be without the protein and triggering an alloantigen in the case of transplantation with a donor without deletion.

Effect of Black Garlic Consumption on Endothelial Function and Lipid Profile: A Before-and-After Study in Hypercholesterolemic and Non-Hypercholesterolemic Subjects.

BACKGROUND: Black garlic is obtained from raw garlic (Allium sativum L.), by a fermentation process, under humidity and heat treatment, showing a high concentration of organosulfur compounds, which have been related to benefits in the prevention or delay of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The objective of the research was to evaluate whether long-term consumption of black garlic improves endothelial function and lipid profile in subjects with hypercholesterolemia. METHODS: Single center, controlled clinical trial with two branches: Hypercholesterolemia vs. Healthy condition. Sixty-two subjects of both sexes were distributed in two groups, the hypercholesterolemia group (n = 31) (total cholesterol (TC) range 200-300 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol range 135-175 mg/dL) and the healthy group (n = 31). The intervention consisted of the ingestion of 4 cloves of black garlic (12 g) daily for 12 weeks. RESULTS: significant increases in Apolipoprotein (Apo)A1 occurred in both groups: Hypercholesterolemia (Δ 11.8 mg/dL p < 0.001) vs Healthy (Δ 11.1 mg/dL p < 0.001). Besides, significant reductions for endothelial adhesion molecules monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) (Δ -121.5 pg/mL p = 0.007 vs. Δ -56.3 pg/mL p = 0.015), intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) (Δ -39.3 ng/mL p < 0.001 vs. Δ 63.5 ng/mL p < 0.001), and vascular cyto-adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) (Δ -144.4 ng/mL p < 0.001 vs. Δ -83.4 ng/mL p = 0.061) were observed, for hypercholesterolemic and healthy subjects, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These data show that black garlic consumption could improve some parameters related to endothelial function and lipid profile, which may have a favorable impact on the risk of CVDs, although more long-term studies are necessary to confirm.

Self-Reported Medication Adherence Measured with Morisky Scales in Rare Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The visibility of Rare Diseases is a new challenge for society. These diseases are numerous, heterogeneous in nature and distribution, characterized by a high mortality rate but low prevalence, and usually presenting a severe evolution. Adherence to medication studies in rare diseases are uncommon, due to treatment scarcity. OBJECTIVES: The main purpose of this study is to do a meta-analysis, evaluating the level of adherence to medication in the most prevalent rare diseases. METHODS: This work is a systematic review, and meta-analysis was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (Registration number: CRD42022372843) and conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Adherence to treatment in this systematic review and meta-analysis was collected from all studies included, based on the crude numerators and denominators reported, using either the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale 4 or -8. RESULTS: A total of 54 records were identified through database searches, or after screening relevant manuscripts' references. Finally, 18 studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. A total of 1559 participants (54.18% women) aged less than 84 years old were included. Twelve studies used the MMAS-8. In 8 of them, they established the level of adherence to treatment in three categories (low, medium, and high), with the mean prevalence in each of them being 41.4%, 30.4%, and 28.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results observed in adherence to treatment in patients with rare diseases show great variability, due to the different aspects involved in the greater or lesser applicability of the medication.

Antioxidant Activity in Extracts from Zingiberaceae Family: Cardamom, Turmeric, and Ginger.

An increase in life expectancy leads to a greater impact of chronic non-communicable diseases. This is even more remarkable in elder populations, to whom these become main determinants of health status, affecting mental and physical health, quality of life, and autonomy. Disease appearance is closely related to the levels of cellular oxidation, pointing out the importance of including foods in one's diet that can prevent oxidative stress. Previous studies and clinical data suggest that some plant-based products can slow and reduce the cellular degradation associated with aging and age-related diseases. Many plants from one family present several applications that range from the food to the pharmaceutical industry due to their characteristic flavor and scents. The Zingiberaceae family, which includes cardamom, turmeric, and ginger, has bioactive compounds with antioxidant activities. They also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antiemetic activities and properties that help prevent cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. These products are abundant sources of chemical substances, such as alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and diarylheptanoids. The main bioactive compounds found in this family (cardamom, turmeric, and ginger) are 1,8-cineole, α-terpinyl acetate, ß-turmerone, and α-zingiberene. The present review gathers evidence surrounding the effects of dietary intake of extracts of the Zingiberaceae family and their underlying mechanisms of action. These extracts could be an adjuvant treatment for oxidative-stress-related pathologies. However, the bioavailability of these compounds needs to be optimized, and further research is needed to determine appropriate concentrations and their antioxidant effects in the body.

Estudio de la adherencia al tratamiento en pacientes con la enfermedad de Parkinson desde la farmacia comunitaria y las asociaciones de Parkinson de la Región de Murcia / Study of the treatment adherence in patients with Parkinson's disease from the community pharmacy and the Parkinson associations from the Region of Murcia

Introducción: La falta de adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico es uno de los principales problemas en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas. Una falta de adherencia se relaciona con un aumento de la discapacidad y de los costes sanitarios. El objeti-vo principal de este artículo es conocer el grado de adherencia al tratamiento en pacientes con la enfermedad de Parkinson. Método: se ha realizado un estudio observacional, longitudinal y prospectivo en colaboración con la Federación de Asociaciones de Parkinson de la Región de Murcia (FEPAMUR) y farmacias colabo-radoras de la Región de Murcia. Se llevó a cabo un procedimiento de recogida de datos demográficos del paciente (sexo y edad) con el fin de caracte-rizarlos, y se evaluó la adherencia al tratamiento mediante el Test de Morisky-Green y el test de Hermes.Resultados: Al estudiar la adherencia con el Test de Morisky-Green se aprecia que el 64% obtuvo una adherencia baja al tratamiento, el 19% presentó una adherencia media, mientras que sólo el 17% de los pacientes fue muy adherente. Según el test de Hermes se observa que un 42% de los pacientes son adherentes al tratamiento. Conclusiones: Existe una baja adherencia al trata-miento farmacológico, según el test de Hermes y el test de Morisky-Green. En función del sexo se con-cluye que las mujeres son más adherentes que los hombres y si nos enfocamos en la edad, se erigen como más adherentes aquellos pacientes con una edad menor a 60 años. (AU)

Introduction: Lack of adherence to drug treatment is one of the main problems in patients with chronic diseases. A lack of adherence is related to an in-crease in disability and healthcare costs. The main objective of this article is to evaluate the degree of adherence to treatment in patients with Parkinson's disease. Method: An observational, longitudinal and pros-pective study has been carried out in collaboration with the Federation of Parkinson's Associations of the Region of Murcia (FEPAMUR) and collaborating pharmacies of the Region of Murcia. A patients demographic data collection procedure (sex and age) was carried out in order to characterize them. Besides, adherence to treatment was evaluated using the Morisky-Green test and the Hermes test.Results: When studying adherence with the Moris-ky-Green Test, it could be seen that 64% had low adherence to treatment, 19% had medium adhe-rence, while only 17% of the patients were highly adherent. According to the Hermes test, it was observed that 42% of the patients were adherent to treatment.Conclusions: There is a low adherence to pharma-cological treatment, according to the Hermes test and the Morisky-Green test. According to sex, we conclude that women are more adherent than men, and if we focus on the age, patients under 60 years of age are more adherent. (AU)

Effect of Ginger on Inflammatory Diseases.

Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus erythematosus are some of common inflammatory diseases. These affections are highly disabling and share signals such as inflammatory sequences and immune dysregulation. The use of foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) could improve the quality of life of these patients. Ginger is a plant widely used and known by its bioactive compounds. There is enough evidence to prove that ginger possesses multiple biological activities, especially antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the bioactive compounds of ginger and their role in the inflammatory process and its signaling pathways. We can conclude that the compounds 6-shoagol, zingerone, and 8-shoagol display promising results in human and animal models, reducing some of the main symptoms of some inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. For lupus, 6-gingerol demonstrated a protective attenuating neutrophil extracellular trap release in response to phosphodiesterase inhibition. Ginger decreases NF-kß in psoriasis, and its short-term administration may be an alternative coadjuvant treatment. Ginger may exert a function of supplementation and protection against cancer. Furthermore, when receiving chemotherapy, ginger may reduce some symptoms of treatment (e.g., nausea).

Study of the Drivers of Inappropriate Use of Antibiotics in Community Pharmacy: Request for Antibiotics Without a Prescription, Degree of Adherence to Treatment and Correct Recycling of Leftover Treatment.

Introduction: The WHO considered antibiotic resistance as 1 of the 10 greatest threats to global health in 2019. The inappropriate and indiscriminate use of antibiotics, together with the lack of new therapeutic alternatives, may eradicate their effectiveness in the closest future. Objective: The general objective is to analyze the different causes attributable to patients, providers and pharmacists that could be drivers of irrational use of antibiotics, and responsible for the appearance of bacterial resistance, in community pharmacies. To this end, the different processes or indicators were studied: patients' requests of antibiotics at the pharmacy, their degree of adherence, satisfaction with the prescribed treatment and antibiotics' surplus recycling. Methods: This study was observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional, carried out in 2 pharmacy offices, including 333 participants. At the time of dispensing, first phase, surveys to collect patients', providers' and pharmacists' data were carried out over the counter. The second phase, with the aim of checking adherence, degree of satisfaction and recycling. Results: There were 333 requests for antibiotic regardless prescription availability, 17% of the patients requested an antibiotic without having one. 38% of patients did not have full adherence to antibiotics. Exploring non-adherence reasons, 24% forgot to take the treatment, 2% experienced adverse effects; 8% improved infection symptoms and 21% had problems to follow schedule. Regarding the recycling habits, 57% of patients had leftover treatments at home, but only 11% recycled it. 10% of medical prescriptions were forced by the patient, and significant gender differences were observed in adherence and knowledge of treatment. Conclusion: The results of this study suggested that there may be a significant level of antibiotic inappropriate use locally, potentially related to patients' sex, finding significant deficiencies in prescription by doctors, in the dispensing act carried out in community pharmacies, and finally in patient compliance with treatment.

Adherencia y satisfacción del paciente con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica desde la farmacia comunitaria / Pacient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease adherence and satisfaction in community pharmacy

Introducción: Numerosos estudios demuestran que actualmente la enfermedad pulmonar obstruc-tiva crónica (EPOC) está mal controlada e infra-diagnosticada en numerosos pacientes debido a la utilización inadecuada de la farmacoterapia. El conocimiento de los pacientes sobre los complejos medicamentos que manejan puede no ser sufi-ciente, y es aquí donde la dispensación activa del farmacéutico comunitario juega un papel esencial. Los objetivos de este artículo son medir la adheren-cia al tratamiento y el grado de satisfacción con la intervención del farmacéutico de los pacientes que utilizan inhaladores. Método: Se ha realizado un estudio observacional transversal en 105 pacientes diagnosticados de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) tratados con inhaladores y que acuden a la farma-cia comunitaria. A todos los pacientes se les realizó el test de Morisky-Green de adherencia al trata-miento y un test para valorar el grado de satisfac-ción de los pacientes que utilizan inhaladores con la intervención del farmacéutico. Resultados: Presentan adherencia al tratamiento el 60% de los pacientes. La adherencia al tratamiento es superior en mujeres que en hombres, y mayor en pacientes de edad igual o superior a 65 años. Res-pecto al grado de satisfacción con el farmacéutico se observa que el 52,4 % de los pacientes conside-ra adecuada la intervención llevada a cabo por el farmacéutico y el 43,8 % totalmente adecuada.Conclusiones: Los pacientes con EPOC tienen una adherencia al tratamiento bastante mejorable y es-tán satisfechos con la intervención del farmacéuti-co en la mejora de la utilización de los inhaladores. (AU)

Introduction: Numerous studies show that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is currently poorly controlled and under-diagnosed in many pa-tients due to inadequate use of pharmacotherapy. Patients' knowledge of the complex medications they manage may not be sufficient. Here it is where the active dispensing by the community pharma-cist plays an essential role. The objectives of this article are to measure adherence to treatment and satisfaction with the pharmacist's intervention in patients using inhalers. Method: A cross-sectional and observational study was conducted in 105 patients. They were diag-nosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), were treated with inhalers and attended a community pharmacy. All patients made the Morisky-Green test of adherence to treatment and a test to assess the degree of satisfaction of patients using inhalers with the pharmacist's intervention.Results: 60% of the patients showed adherence to treatment. Moreover, it is higher in women than in men and higher in patients aged 65 or more. Re-garding the degree of satisfaction with the pharma-cist, 52.4% of the patients considered the interven-tion carried out by the pharmacist was adequate and 43.8% totally adequate.Conclusions: COPD patients have fairly improvable adherence to treatment and are satisfied with the pharmacist's intervention in improving the use of inhalers. (AU)

Enfermedades raras desde la farmacia comunitaria / Rare diseases from the community pharmacy

Introducción: la visibilidad de las Enfermedades Raras a nivel multidisciplinar y su humanización, son uno de los retos planteados en la Agenda 2030 de Naciones Unidas. El farmacéutico comunitario necesita renovarse y promover habilidades, como técnicas de atención farmacéutica individualizada, imprescindibles para el apoyo de estos pacientes. El objetivo de esta investigación es identificar las necesidades socio-sanitarias de las familias perte-necientes a asociaciones de enfermedades raras que acude a la farmacia comunitaria en España.Método: Estudio observacional y transversal me-diante cuestionario digital enviado a usuarios de la Asociación de Enfermedades Raras D ́genes, a través de la Asociación y de los Colegios Oficiales de Farmacéuticos, n=253.Resultados: las enfermedades raras se distribuyen por todo el territorio con una alta dispersión. La mayoría de pacientes o familiares suelen visitar la farmacia comunitaria más de dos veces al mes. Estas familias suelen confiar en su farmacia desde hace más de tres años y no encuentran dificultades para obtener su tratamiento. El perfil de los pacien-tes que acuden a la farmacia es muy heterogéneo, pero la mayoría de familiares afirman conocer y centrarse únicamente en sus necesidades sociosa-nitarias. En relación a sus niveles de satisfacción, el recibimiento, la discreción en el trato, el tiempo de atención y la despedida son los factores mejor valorados.Conclusiones: El profesional farmacéutico debe poseer, habilidades científicas y técnicas, necesita promover valores como empatía, habilidades socia-les o capacidad de escucha, para poder prestar una atención farmacéutica personalizada a familias con enfermedades raras y conseguir humanizar la farmacia comunitaria del siglo XXI.(AU)

Introduction: the visibility of Rare Diseases at a multidisciplinary level and their humanization are one of the challenges set out in the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations. Community pharmacists need to renew themselves and promote skills, such as in-dividualized pharmaceutical care techniques, which are essential for the support of these patients. The aim of this research is to identify the socio-health needs of families belonging to rare disease asso-ciations who go to the community pharmacy in Spain.Method: Observational and transversal study by a digital questionnaire to users of the Association of Rare Diseases D'genes, through the Associa-tion and the Official Associations of Pharmacists, n=253.Results: Rare diseases are distributed throughout the territory with a high dispersion. Most patients or relatives usually visit the community pharmacy more than twice a month. These families usually trust their pharmacy for more than three years and do not encounter difficulties in obtaining their treatment. The profile of the patients who visit the pharmacy is very heterogeneous, but the majority of family members claim to know and focus only on their social and health needs. In relation to their levels of satisfaction, the reception, discretion in treatment, time of attention and farewell are the best valued factors.Conclusions: The professional pharmacist must possess, scientific and technical skills, needs to promote values such as empathy, social skills or listening skills, to be able to provide personalized pharmaceutical care to families with rare diseases and manage to humanize the community pharma-cy of the 21st century.(AU)

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Capacity of a Fruit and Vegetable-Based Nutraceutical Measured by Urinary Oxylipin Concentration in a Healthy Population: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

Oxylipins, lipid biomarkers of inflammation are considered the gold standard method to evaluate the inflammatory and antioxidant status. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the administration of a polyphenolic extract shot in the form of a nutraceutical was able to reduce inflammation, measured in urine markers. Ninety-two participants (45 males, 47 females, age 34 ± 11 years, weight 73.10 ± 14.29 kg, height 1.72 ± 9 cm, BMI 24.40 ± 3.43 kg/m2) completed the study after an intervention of two 16-week periods consuming extract or placebo separated by a 4-week washout period. The results showed significant differences in terms of reduction of different pro-inflammatory oxylipins (15-keto-PGF2α (from 0.90 ± 0.25 ng/mL to 0.74 ± 0.19 ng/mL p < 0.05), ent-PGF2α (from 1.59 ± 0.37 ng/mL to 1.44 ± 0.32 ng/mL p < 0.05), 2,3-dinor-15-F2t-Isop) (from 1.17 ± 0.35 ng/mL to 1.02 ± 0.27 ng/mL p < 0.05), in total oxylipins count (from 8.03 ± 1.86 ng/mL to 7.25 ± 1.23 ng/mL p < 0.05), and increase in PGE2 (from 1.02 ± 0.38 ng/mL to 1.26 ± 0.38 ng/mL p < 0.05) which has an anti-inflammatory character, after extract consumption compared to placebo. The available data seem to indicate that long-term consumption of a nutraceutical with high polyphenol content improves inflammation and oxidation parameters measured in urine, through UHPLC-QqQ-ESI-MS/MS.

Potential Role of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Ginger is composed of multiple bioactive compounds, including 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 10-gingerol, gingerdiones, gingerdiols, paradols, 6-dehydrogingerols, 5-acetoxy-6-gingerol, 3,5-diacetoxy-6-gingerdiol, and 12-gingerol, that contribute to its recognized biological activities. Among them, the major active compounds are 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol. Scientific evidence supports the beneficial properties of ginger, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities and in contrast, a specific and less studied bioactivity is the possible neuroprotective effect. The increase in life expectancy has raised the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), which present common neuropathological features as increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and protein misfolding. The structure-activity relationships of ginger phytochemicals show that ginger can be a candidate to treat NDs by targeting different ligand sites. Its bioactive compounds may improve neurological symptoms and pathological conditions by modulating cell death or cell survival signaling molecules. The cognitive enhancing effects of ginger might be partly explained via alteration of both the monoamine and the cholinergic systems in various brain areas. Moreover, ginger decreases the production of inflammatory related factors. The aim of the present review is to summarize the effects of ginger in the prevention of major neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

A UHPLC/MS/MS method for the analysis of active and inactive forms of GLP-1 and GIP incretins in human plasma.

Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) are incretin hormones that regulate the nutrient-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic ß-cells. Their low plasma concentrations and rapid clearance pose certain methodological challenges for their detection and quantification. The currently available immunomediated techniques to monitor these hormones overestimate, to some extent, their actual concentration. Hence, the present study is aimed at developing a robust and reliable methodology for the identification and quantification of active and inactive forms of the incretins GLP-1 and GIP, in human plasma, by UHPLC-ESI-QqQ-MS/MS. A comparative study of different SPE cartridges was carried out, being identified OASIS HLB as the most efficient one, with recoveries up to 80%. The method provides adequate linearity, from 4.88 to 1250 nM, and low intervals of LOD and LOQ for each analyte (ranges from 0.01 to 3.42 nM and from 0.10 to 34.17 nM, respectively). The methodology described was validated upon a clinical trial with overweight subjects (n = 20) (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04016337), showing the capacity of the newly developed methodology to detect the augment of the plasma concentration of both GLP-17-36 and GLP-19-36 between 30 and 60 min after the consumption of a sucrose sweetened fruit-based beverage, while the plasma concentration of GIP remained in levels lower than the LOQ. The proposed methodology provides further insights into the mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds and food components in the frame of the glycemic control and would contribute to the assessment of the efficacy of antidiabetic drugs.

A 12-Week Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial, Evaluating the Effect of Supplementation with a Spinach Extract on Skeletal Muscle Fitness in Adults Older Than 50 Years of Age.

The aim of a 12-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was to assess the effect of daily supplementation with a natural extract of Spinacia oleracea L. (4 × 500 mg capsules/day; total 2 g per day) combined with a moderate-intensity training program (1 h session/3 times a week) on skeletal muscle fitness in adults over 50 years of age. Muscle strength assessed by isokinetic and isometric dynamometry improved significantly in the experimental (n = 23) and the placebo (n = 22) groups, but the magnitude of improvement was higher in the experimental group, with between-group differences in almost all variables, including isokinetic at 60° s-1 in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.007); total work per repetition maximum (p < 0.009); isokinetic at 180°s-1 in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.002); total work (p < 0.007); total work per repetition maximum (p < 0.005); average power (p < 0.027); isometric in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.005); and average peak torque (p < 0.002). Similar findings were observed for muscle quality. Changes in quality of life (SF-36) were not found, except for improvements in the role physical (p < 0.023) and role emotional (p < 0.001) domains, likely as a result of the physical training sessions. A nutritional survey did not revealed changes in dietary habits. No adverse events were recorded. In subjects over 50 years of age, moderate-intensity strength training combined with daily supplementation for 12 weeks with a natural extract of Spinacia oleracea L. improved muscle-related variables and muscle quality. Maintaining muscle health is a key component of healthy aging.

Biological effects of stevia, sucralose and sucrose in citrus-maqui juices on overweight subjects.

Background: In the last few years there has been emerging interest in substituting added sugars from juices with other sweeteners to make them healthier. But their long-term effects have been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the addition of stevia, sucralose and sucrose (control) to maqui-citrus beverages on antioxidant and inflammatory status. Methods: a 3-arm parallel, randomized and triple blind clinical trial was performed in overweight subjects (n = 138), who consumed the test beverage (330 mL day-1) for 60 days. The following markers were determined: antioxidant status (ORAC, homocysteine, and oxidized LDL), safety parameters (ALP, AST, ALT, and total bilirubin), lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides) and inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10). Results: The homocysteine levels significantly increased after consumption of sucralose (27%, p = 0.001) and sucrose (40%, p = 0.006). A significant increase in the IL-10 concentration after consumption of the stevia sweetened beverage, and in ORAC values (21%) in subjects with lower basal antioxidant status were observed. The HDL and total cholesterol levels significantly increased after consumption of sucralose (p = 0.039) and sucrose (p = 0.001), respectively. No changes in triglycerides, LDL or oxidized LDL were observed. Conclusions: Oxidative stress and an inflammatory response were observed after consumption of these sweetened beverages, with the exception of stevia, which produced an anti-inflammatory response. The possible antioxidative effects of this polyphenol-rich beverage may only benefit those individuals with poorer antioxidant status. Many randomized controlled trials at normal levels of consumption using commonly consumed sweeteners are necessary to clarify their roles in health.

Deficiencia de vitamina D en preadolescentes sanas que viven en Colombia / Vitamin D deficiency in healthy preadolescents living in Colombia

La vitamina D es esencial para el funcionamiento del organismo. Su deficiencia puede estar asociada tanto a patologías óseas, como a otras afecciones sistémicas. La prevalencia de la hipovitaminosis está aumentando, en todas las edades, incluidos niños y adolescentes. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar los niveles sanguíneos de vitamina D en niñas colombianas, analizando también la dieta, la actividad física y la exposición solar. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal con 52 niñas sanas prepúberes de Pasto (Colombia), entre 7 y 10 años. Se analizaron los niveles de albúmina, calcio, fósforo, magnesio, calcitriol (1,25 dihidroxicolecalciferol) y calcidiol (25 hidroxicolecalciferol). Se realizaron encuestas sobre hábitos alimentarios, actividad física y exposición solar. El 51,1% de las niñas evaluadas presentó insuficiencia de 25-OH-VITD y el 40% presentó deficiencia (< 20 ng/mL). Ninguna niña se encontraba en desnutrición u obesidad, el 10% se encontraba en riesgo de bajo peso (IMC ≤ -1DE y > -2DE), el 4 % presentaba sobrepeso (≥ +1DE y < +2DE), y el 34 % se encontraban en riesgo de talla baja (T/E: -1 y -2 DE). La ingesta media de calorías/día fue inferior a las recomendadas. Se observó una ingesta deficiente de vitamina D, calcio y magnesio (p > 0,05), así como de fibra (p > 0,05). Se pone de manifiesto una deficiencia de vitamina D en las niñas evaluadas a pesar de tener una actividad física y una exposición solar adecuadas. Además, se observan ingestas deficientes de fibra, calcio, magnesio y vitamina D. Habría por tanto que asegurar la ingesta e incluso suplementar para evitar problemas de salud en la edad adulta(AU)

Vitamin D is essential for the body to function. Its deficiency can be associated with bone pathologies as well as other systemic conditions. The prevalence of hypovitaminosisis increasing, in all ages, including children and adolescents. The objective of this study was to evaluate blood levels of vitamin D in Colombian girls, also analyzing diet, physical activity and sun exposure. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with 52 healthy prepubertal girls from Pasto (Colombia), between 7 and 10 yearsold. The levels of albumin, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcitriol (1.25 dihydroxycholecalciferol) and calcidiol (25 hydroxycholecalciferol) were analyzed. Surveys were conducted one a ting habits, physicalactivity and sun exposure. 51.1% of the girls evaluated presented 25-OH-VITD insufficiency and 40% presented deficiency (<20 ng / mL). None of the girls were under nourished or obese, 10% were at risk of low weight (BMI ≤ -1SD and> -2SD), 4% were overweight (≥ + 1DE and <+ 2DE), and 34% were they were at risk of short stature (T / E: -1 and -2 SD). The average calorie intake / day was lower than recommended. A deficient intake of vitamin D, calcium and magnesium (p> 0.05), as well as fiber (p> 0.05) was observed. A vitamin D deficiency is evident in the girls evaluated despite adequate physical activity and sun exposure. In addition, deficient intakes of fiber, calcium, magnesium and vitamin D are observed. Therefore, it would be necessary to ensure the intake and even supplement to avoid health problems in adulthood(AU)

Melatonin in Wine and Beer: Beneficial Effects.

Melatonin is a hormone secreted in the pineal gland with several functions, especially regulation of circadian sleep cycle and the biological processes related to it. This review evaluates the bioavailability of melatonin and resulting metabolites, the presence of melatonin in wine and beer and factors that influence it, and finally the different benefits related to treatment with melatonin. When administered orally, melatonin is mainly absorbed in the rectum and the ileum; it has a half-life of about 0.45-1 h and is extensively inactivated in the liver by phase 2 enzymes. Melatonin (MEL) concentration varies from picograms to ng/mL in fermented beverages such as wine and beer, depending on the fermentation process. These low quantities, within a dietary intake, are enough to reach significant plasma concentrations of melatonin, and are thus able to exert beneficial effects. Melatonin has demonstrated antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective actions. These benefits are related to its free radical scavenging properties as well and the direct interaction with melatonin receptors, which are involved in complex intracellular signaling pathways, including inhibition of angiogenesis and cell proliferation, among others. In the present review, the current evidence on the effects of melatonin on different pathophysiological conditions is also discussed.

Alternative Sweeteners Modify the Urinary Excretion of Flavanones Metabolites Ingested through a New Maqui-Berry Beverage.

Dietary sugar has been largely related to the onset of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, among others. The growing awareness on the close relationship between the dietary habits and this health disturbance has encouraged the development of new beverages using alternative sweeteners that could contribute to combat the above referred pathophysiological disorders. To gain further insight into this issue, the present work, upon an acute dietary intervention, evaluated the urinary excretion of flavanones ingested through polyphenols-rich beverages composed of maqui berry and citrus, with the aim of establishing the highest urinary excretion rate and metabolite profiles. The functional beverages evaluated were supplemented with a range of sweeteners including sucrose (natural and high caloric), stevia (natural and non-caloric), and sucralose (artificial and non-caloric) as an approach that would allow reducing the intake of sugars and provide bioactive phenolics (flavanones). The juices developed were ingested by volunteers (n = 20) and the resulting flavanones and their phase II metabolites in urine were analyzed by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography ElectroSpray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS). A total of 16 metabolites were detected: eriodyctiol, naringenin, and homoeriodyctiol derivatives, where peak concentrations were attained 3.5 h after beverage intake. Sucralose and stevia were the sweeteners that provided the highest urinary excretion for most compounds. Sucrose did not provide a remarkable higher elimination through urine of any compounds in comparison with sucralose or stevia. These results propose two alternative sweeteners to sucrose (sucralose and stevia), an overused, high caloric sweetener that promotes some metabolic diseases.

Influence of fungicide residues and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on total antioxidant capacity and phenolic fraction of Graciano and Tempranillo red wines.

The effect of fenhexamid, mepanipyrim and cyazofamid fungicides on in vitro bioavailability of antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds of Tempranillo and Graciano red wine was studied by simulating the digestive process by dialysis in semipermeable membranes. Determination of antioxidant activity was through reaction with the DPPH • radical and the measurement of phenolic compounds was made with liquid chromatography with diode detector (HPLC-DAD). Fenhexamid, mepanipyrim and cyazofamid reduce the total polyphenol content in both wines. During dialysis there was a large loss of total polyphenols (80-90%) and of antioxidant activity (> 90%). The bioavailability of the phenolic compounds is lower than that for non-treated wines and the highest dialization percentages were found for stilbenes > 50%. While for the remaining phenolic fraction the order is the following hydroxycinnamic derivatives > anthocyanins > flavonols.

Influence of Cooking Methods on Glucosinolates and Isothiocyanates Content in Novel Cruciferous Foods.

Brassica vegetables are of great interest due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, being responsible for the glucosinolates (GLS) and their hydroxylated derivatives, the isothiocyanates (ITC). Nevertheless, these compounds are quite unstable when these vegetables are cooked. In order to study this fact, the influence of several common domestic cooking practices on the degradation of GLS and ITC in two novel Brassica spp.: broccolini (Brassica oleracea var italica Group x alboglabra Group) and kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica L.) was determined. On one hand, results showed that both varieties were rich in health-promoter compounds, broccolini being a good source of glucoraphanin and sulforaphane (≈79 and 2.5 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight (F.W.), respectively), and kale rich in glucoiberin and iberin (≈12 and 0.8 mg 100 g-1 F.W., respectively). On the other hand, regarding cooking treatments, stir-frying and steaming were suitable techniques to preserve GLS and ITC (≥50% of the uncooked samples), while boiling was deleterious for the retention of these bioactive compounds (20-40% of the uncooked samples). Accordingly, the appropriate cooking method should be considered an important factor to preserve the health-promoting effects in these trending Brassica.