Bovine oocyte activation with bull or human sperm by conventional ICSI and Piezo-ICSI: Its relationship with PLCɀ activity.

Background: The intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) technique has low efficiency in cattle. This has mainly been attributed to the oocyte activation failure due to oocyte and/or sperm factors. Aim: Our aim was to evaluate the effect of conventional ICSI and Piezo-ICSI with bull or human sperm on bovine oocyte activation and embryo development and to assess its relationship with the phospholipase C zeta (PLCɀ) activity of both species. Methods: In vitro matured bovine oocytes were randomly divided into five groups and were fertilized as follows: conventional ICSI using bovine sperm with chemical activation (control), conventional ICSI using bovine sperm, Piezo-ICSI using bovine sperm, conventional ICSI using human sperm, and Piezo-ICSI using human sperm. PLCɀ activity was determined in bull and human sperm samples. Results: Within the groups using bull sperm, the oocytes fertilized by conventional ICSI had the lowest values of 2 pronuclei (PN) formation and cleavage, Piezo-ICSI increased both percentages and ICSI + chemical activation presented the highest 2 PN, cleavage, and blastocyst rates (p < 0.05). Within the groups using human sperm, the oocytes fertilized by Piezo-ICSI presented higher 2 PN and cleavage rates than those activated by conventional ICSI (p < 0.05). Piezo-ICSI with human sperm increased bovine oocyte activation as much as conventional ICSI + chemical activation with bovine sperm (p < 0.05). Higher values of PLCɀ activity were found in human sperm compared with bovine sperm (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results suggest that the higher stability of the bovine sperm in combination with its relatively low content of PLCɀ impairs bovine oocyte activation after ICSI.

Stability, Content of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Emulsions with Propolis Extracts during Simulated In Vitro Digestion.

The objective in this work was the evaluation of the stability and content of bioactive compounds (total phenols and total flavonoids) and antioxidant activity of emulsions of ethanolic extracts of propolis obtained by ultrasound, during simulated in vitro digestion. The emulsions prepared with propolis extracts were evaluated on certain properties: their emulsion efficiency, stability (zeta potential, particle size, electrical conductivity), content of bioactive compound (total phenolics and total flavonoids), antioxidant activity and their behavior during simulated in vitro digestion. Based on the total phenol content, an emulsification efficiency of 87.8 ± 1.9% to 97.8 ± 3.8% was obtained. The particle size of the emulsions was 322.5 ± 15.33 nm to 463.9 ± 33.65 nm, with a zeta potential of -31.5 ± 0.66 mV to -28.2 ± 1.0 mV and electrical conductivity of 22.7 ± 1.96 µS/cm to 30.6 ± 0.91 µS/cm. These results indicate good emulsion stability. During simulated in vitro digestion, the content of bioactive compounds (total phenolics, total flavonoids) and antioxidant activity were affected during 77 days of storage at 4 °C. It was concluded that the emulsion process fulfills the function of protecting the bioactive compounds and therefore their biological activity.

Variations in metabolic parameters of in vitro matured porcine oocytes after vitrification-warming.

Background: As the porcine oocyte is the most sensitive to low-temperature damage, it has been difficult to cryopreserve compared to those from other domestic animals. However, at present, vitrification is used as a method for the cryopreservation of both oocytes and embryos in this species. Aim: Our aim was to analyze alterations in metabolic parameters in vitrified-warmed in vitro matured porcine oocytes at different post-warming recuperation times. In addition, metaphase II plate recovery time analysis, in vitro fertilization, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection were carried out to evaluate oocyte recovery capacity. Methods: Oocytes were vitrified-warmed and then incubated for 0, 3, or 21 hours post-warming to assess biochemical parameters. Results: Oocyte viability and morphology were not affected by vitrification-warming. Cytosolic oxidative status, active mitochondria, and reactive oxygen species levels presented changes at the different time points in control and vitrified-warmed oocytes (p < 0.05) as well as differences between both groups (p < 0.05). Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate levels remained constant throughout different recuperation times but were significantly lower in vitrified-warmed oocytes (p < 0.05). Metaphase II plate recovery occurred mostly between 3 and 4 hours post-warming, but the percentage of metaphase II was reduced by vitrification-warming. Sperm head decondensation and pronuclear formation capacities were not modified. Conclusion: In conclusion, vitrification-warming generates biochemical alterations in porcine oocytes that would be, in part, responsible for affecting their performance. Therefore, although the technique is a valid alternative for porcine oocyte cryopreservation, the protocols should be adapted to minimize those alterations.

Caracterización clínico-epidemiológica de pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y microalbuminuria

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus constituye una enfermedad de elevada morbilidad y mortalidad. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y epidemiológicamente la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y el uso de la microalbuminuria en el daño renal precoz. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal mediante una muestra no probabilística de 94 pacientes, en un universo de 187 enfermos con diabetes mellitus 2, en el Servicio de Medicina Interna del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Docente Amalia Simoni, de Camagüey. El mismo tuvo lugar entre enero de 2020 y enero de 2021. Se analizaron variables como edad, sexo, hábitos tóxicos, estado nutricional, tiempo de evolución de la diabetes, comorbilidades, valor de la microalbuminuria y su relación con el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad. Para el procesamiento de los datos se empleó el programa estadístico SPSS 19.0. Resultados: Prevalecieron el grupo de 60 años y más, el sexo femenino, el tabaquismo como hábito tóxico, y el sobrepeso. Según el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad, prevaleció el rango de 6 a 10 años. Las comorbilidades principales fueron la hipertensión arterial y la cardiopatía isquémica. La relación entre el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad y la aparición de microalbuminuria patológica, demostró la utilidad de esta en la detección del daño renal precoz en pacientes con 6 a 10 años de evolución. Conclusiones: Se demostró el papel de la microalbuminuria en la detección del daño renal precoz en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2.

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a disease with high morbidity and mortality. Objective: To characterize clinically and epidemiologically type 2 diabetes mellitus and the use of microalbuminuria in early kidney damage. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out using a non-probabilistic sample of 94 patients from a universe of 187 patients with type2 diabetes mellitus treated in the Internal Medicine Service of the Teaching Clinical-Surgery Hospital "Amalia Simoni", of Camagüey. It was conducted between January 2020 and January 2021. Variables such as age, sex, toxic habits, nutritional status, time of evolution of diabetes, comorbidities; value of albuminuria and its relationship with the time of evolution of the disease were analyzed. The SPSS 19.0 statistical program was used for data processing. Results: The age group of 60 years old and over, female sex, smoking as a toxic habit, and overweight prevailed. According to the time of evolution of the disease, the range of 6 to 10 years prevailed. The main comorbidities were arterial hypertension and ischemic heart disease. The relationship between the time of evolution of the disease and the appearance of pathological microalbuminuria demonstrated its usefulness in the detection of early kidney damage in patients with 6 to 10 years of evolution. Conclusions: The role of microalbuminuria in the detection of early kidney damage in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus was demonstrated.

Agro-Food Waste as an Ingredient in Functional Beverage Processing: Sources, Functionality, Market and Regulation.

Waste generated from the agro-food industry represents a concerning environmental, social and economic issue. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations defines food waste as all food that decreases in quantity or quality to the extent that it is thrown out by food service providers and consumers. The FAO reports that 17% of worldwide food production may be wasted. Food waste may include fresh products, food close to the expiration date discarded by retailers and food products from household kitchens and eating establishments. However, food waste offers different possibilities to extract functional ingredients from different sources, such as dairy, cereals, fruits, vegetables, fibers, oils, dye and bioactive compounds. The optimization of agro-food waste as an ingredient will help in the development and innovation of food products to generate functional food and beverages to prevent and treat several diseases in consumers.

Torsión uterina causada por miomatosis: reporte de un caso / Uterine torsion caused by myomatosis: A case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: La torsión uterina es una rotación del útero sobre su eje mayor de más de 45°; por lo general sucede en torno del istmo uterino. Los leiomiomas son el factor predisponente más frecuente en úteros no grávidos. OBJETIVO: Reportar el caso de una paciente con torsión uterina cervical y miomatosis de grandes elementos. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 42 años, nuligesta, con antecedente de miomatosis uterina de grandes elementos de 27 x 27 cm. Los síntomas se iniciaron con síndrome doloroso abdominal intenso, tipo cólico, localizado en el hipogastrio y la fosa iliaca. En la exploración física el abdomen se percibió doloroso a la palpación superficial y profunda, con una tumoración cercana a la cicatriz umbilical (25 cm), móvil y dolorosa. En la laparotomía exploradora se encontró líquido peritoneal hemorrágico y se observó una torsión uterina (una vuelta) cerca del cuello del útero, además de un mioma subseroso en la cara posterior, de 27 x 27 cm. El útero, los anexos y las salpinges se advirtieron con datos francos de daño vascular, con áreas de isquemia. Por lo anterior se decidieron la histerectomía total abdominal y la salpingooforectomia bilateral. El informe histopatológico reportó: útero con cambio isquémico extenso panmural, sin evidencia de neoplasia maligna. CONCLUSIONES: El dolor abdominal es el síntoma más común de la torsión uterina que puede variar de leve a agudo. El diagnóstico preoperatorio rápido y preciso de torsión uterina es decisivo y se justifica la intervención quirúrgica de urgencia.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Uterine torsion is a rare entity that is defined as a rotation of the uterus on its major axis of more than 45°, generally occurring at the level of the uterine isthmus. Leiomyomas are the most frequent predisposing factor in non-gravid uterus. OBJECTIVE: Report of a case of a gynecological patient with uterine torsion at the cervical level in a uterus with uterine myomatosis of large elements. CLINICAL CASE: A 42-year-old patient, nulliparous, with a history of uterine myomatosis with large elements of 27 x 27 cm. The symptoms began with intense abdominal pain syndrome, colic type, located in the hypogastrium and the iliac fossa. On physical examination, the abdomen was perceived as painful on superficial and deep palpation, with a mobile and painful tumor close to the umbilical scar (25 cm). In the exploratory laparotomy, hemorrhagic peritoneal fluid was found and a uterine torsion (one turn) was observed near the cervix, as well as a subserous myoma on the posterior face, measuring 27 x 27 cm. The uterus, the annexes and the salpinges were noted with frank data of vascular damage, with areas of ischemia. Therefore, total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were decided. The histopathological report reported: uterus with extensive panmural ischemic change, without evidence of malignancy. CONCLUSIONS: In uterine torsion, abdominal pain is the most common symptom and can range from mild to severe abdominal symptoms. Therefore, a prompt and accurate preoperative diagnosis of uterine torsion is crucial and urgent surgical intervention is warranted.

Ruptura uterina asociada con útero didelfo y placenta acreta. Reporte de caso / Uterine rupture associated with uterus didelphus and placenta accreta. A case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: Las malformaciones müllerianas son consecuencia de una alteración en la formación de los conductos de Müller durante el desarrollo del feto. El momento en que sucede la alteración determina el tipo de malformación. La clasificación actual es la de la American Society for Reproductive Medicine ASMR que se asocia con múltiples complicaciones obstétricas, entre las más graves está la ruptura uterina. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente primigesta de 23 años, con 39.1 semanas de embarazo, sin antecedentes personales patológicos para el padecimiento actual, sin control prenatal, con dolor abdominal intenso generalizado y disminución de los movimientos fetales desde 12 horas previas a su valoración. Al ingreso de la paciente al hospital su feto se encontró muerto; hemoglobina de 7.9 g/dL, tensión arterial de 96-53 mmHg, taquicárdica, con datos clínicos de irritación peritoneal. En la laparotomía exploradora el feto se encontró muerto, en la cavidad abdominal. Hemoperitoneo de 1300 mL, útero didelfo, con ruptura uterina hacia el fondo. Datos de acretismo placentario. Por lo anterior, se procedió a la histerectomía obstétrica, con sangrado de 2000 cc. Fue necesaria la reanimación y la permanencia de 24 horas en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. La TAC abdomino-pélvica se reportó sin alteraciones renales, con una tumoración adherida cerca del peritoneo parietal sugerente de riñón ectópico. El puerperio trascurrió sin contratiempos por lo que fue dada de alta del hospital. CONCLUSIÓN: En el embarazo, las malformaciones müllerianas son causa de complicaciones obstétricas graves, entre ellas la ruptura uterina. El diagnóstico oportuno es decisivo para la prevención de complicaciones y el control prenatal.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Müllerian malformations are the consequence of an alteration in the formation of the Müllerian ducts during fetal development. The time at which the alteration occurs determines the type of malformation. The current classification is that of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine ASMR, which is associated with multiple obstetric complications, among the most serious of which is uterine rupture. CLINICAL CASE: A 23-year-old primigravid patient, 39.1 weeks pregnant, with no personal pathological history for the current condition, without prenatal control, with severe generalized abdominal pain and decreased fetal movements for 12 hours prior to her evaluation. On the patient admission to the hospital her fetus was found dead; hemoglobin 7.9 g/dL, blood pressure 96-53 mmHg, tachycardic, with clinical data of peritoneal irritation. At exploratory laparotomy the fetus was found dead, in abdominal cavity. Hemoperitoneum of 1300 mL, didelphic uterus, with uterine rupture towards the fundus. Data of placental accretism. Therefore, obstetric hysterectomy was performed, with bleeding of 2000 cc. Resuscitation and a 24-hour stay in the intensive care unit was necessary. The abdomino-pelvic CT scan showed no renal alterations, with an adherent tumor near the parietal peritoneum suggestive of ectopic kidney. The puerperium was uneventful, and she was discharged from the hospital. CONCLUSION: In pregnancy, Müllerian malformations are a cause of serious obstetric complications, including uterine rupture. Timely diagnosis is decisive for the prevention of complications and prenatal management.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Preparation of Gelatin Films with Antimicrobial Activity.

Silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using Thuja orientalis aqueous extract and AgNO3 as a precursor. UV-Vis showed a distinct absorption peak at 424 nm attributed to silver nanoparticles due to their surface plasmon resonance. Atomic absorption analysis reflected an increase in the concentration of nanoparticles in relation to the progress of the synthesis, obtaining a peak concentration value of 15.7 mg/L at 50 min. The FTIR spectra revealed the characteristic functional groups of phytomolecules involved in the silver-ion binding process, such as R-O-H (3335 cm-1) O=C-OH (2314 cm-1) and C-C=C (1450 cm-1). At 50 min, zeta potential showed the stability of the nanoparticles with the value of -21.73 mV. TEM micrographs revealed the formation of spherical nanoparticles with an average size of about 85.77 nm. Furthermore, films incorporated with nanoparticles exhibited a Tg from 66.42 °C to 73.71 °C and Tm at 103.31 °C. Films from the G22 formulation presented excellent antibacterial properties inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Thuja orientalis aqueous extract could be a low-cost, eco-friendly, and efficient reducing and capping agent for the synthesis of nanometric-sized Ag particles. Gelatin films with nanoparticles are expected to have high potential as an active food packaging system.

The Effect of High-Intensity Ultrasound and Natural Oils on the Extraction and Antioxidant Activity of Lycopene from Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Waste.

The extraction of lycopene was carried out with three types of vegetable oils (grape, extra virgin olive, and peanut) by means of two methods: agitation and high-intensity ultrasound with a frequency of 20 kHz at an amplitude of 80% with periods of 40 s of sonication for 20 min at a temperature of 40 °C. The antioxidant determination by inhibition of ABTS and DPPH radicals showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) for inhibition of the ABTS radical in native oils and oils with lycopene. However, the radical DPPH showed that the native oils presented significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) compared to the samples with lycopene. FTIR spectra revealed the characteristic functional groups of lycopene exhibiting two characteristic peaks at 2923 cm−1 and 2957 cm−1. The DSC thermograms showed that the higher the degree of oil unsaturation, the lower the melting temperatures. Olive oil was the least unsaturated with the highest amount of oleic fatty acid. Grapeseed oil reported the lowest melting temperature at around −24.64 °C. Extra virgin olive oil showed the lightest values (L* = 41.08 ± 0.45) of brightness, and the peanut oil with lycopene was the darkest (L* = 16.72 ± 0.05). The extraction of lycopene from organic wastes treated with agitation and ultrasound was satisfactory reducing the use of conventional solvents. However, extraction with olive oil under agitation showed the best results.

Did a 3800-year-old Mw ~9.5 earthquake trigger major social disruption in the Atacama Desert?

Early inhabitants along the hyperarid coastal Atacama Desert in northern Chile developed resilience strategies over 12,000 years, allowing these communities to effectively adapt to this extreme environment, including the impact of giant earthquakes and tsunamis. Here, we provide geoarchaeological evidence revealing a major tsunamigenic earthquake that severely affected prehistoric hunter-gatherer-fisher communities ~3800 years ago, causing an exceptional social disruption reflected in contemporary changes in archaeological sites and triggering resilient strategies along these coasts. Together with tsunami modeling results, we suggest that this event resulted from a ~1000-km-long megathrust rupture along the subduction contact of the Nazca and South American plates, highlighting the possibility of Mw ~9.5 tsunamigenic earthquakes in northern Chile, one of the major seismic gaps of the planet. This emphasizes the necessity to account for long temporal scales to better understand the variability, social effects, and human responses favoring resilience to socionatural disasters.

Milk Whey Hydrolysates as High Value-Added Natural Polymers: Functional Properties and Applications.

There are two types of milk whey obtained from cheese manufacture: sweet and acid. It retains around 55% of the nutrients of the milk. Milk whey is considered as a waste, creating a critical pollution problem, because 9 L of whey are produced from every 10 L of milk. Some treatments such as hydrolysis by chemical, fermentation process, enzymatic action, and green technologies (ultrasound and thermal treatment) are successful in obtaining peptides from protein whey. Milk whey peptides possess excellent functional properties such as antihypertensive, antiviral, anticancer, immunity, and antioxidant, with benefits in the cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, immune, and nervous system. This review presents an update of the applications of milk whey hydrolysates as a high value-added peptide based on their functional properties.

Disgenesia gonadal completa 46,XY o síndrome de Swyer: reporte de un caso / Complete 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis or Swyer syndrome: A case report

Resumen INTRODUCCIÓN: La disgenesia gonadal completa 46,XY (síndrome de Swyer) es una alteración del desarrollo sexual caracterizada por fenotipo femenino, amenorrea primaria, útero normal o rudimentario, estrías gonadales y cariotipo con expresión 46,XY. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 14 años, con amenorrea primaria e hipogonadismo en estudio. En la exploración física se encontraron: glándulas mamarías con Tanner 1, vello axilar y púbico Tanner 1, genitales externos de apariencia femenina, sin desarrollo secundario; labios mayores lisos, sin rugosidades ni aumento de la pigmentación y labios menores pequeños, no visibles. La histeroscopia reportó: himen íntegro y vagina normal; cuello uterino pequeño, con canal endocervical normal, sin comunicación a la cavidad del útero. El cariotipo de sangre periférica fue 46,XY. CONCLUSIÓN: La disgenesia gonadal completa 46,XY es una alteración que debe considerarse en las pacientes con amenorrea primaria y ausencia de caracteres sexuales secundarios. La valoración mediante un equipo multidisciplinario permitirá establecer el diagnóstico y tratamiento adecuados para este tipo de padecimiento.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: 46, XY Complete Gonadal Dysgenesis (46, XY DGC), or Swyer Syndrome, is an alteration of sexual development, characterized by a female phenotype; primary amenorrhea; normal or rudimentary uterus; Gonadal striae and 46, XY karyotype. CASE REPORT: A 14-year-old patient comes for a referral to a second-level care center; due to primary amenorrhea and hypogonadism under study. On physical examination: Tanner 1 breasts; Tanner 1 axillary and pubic hair; female apparent external genitalia without secondary development, smooth labia majora, without roughness, without increased pigmentation; with small non-visible labia minora; hysteroscopy that reported: presence of complete hymen, normal vagina; Small cervix, with normal endocervical canal, without passing into the cavity of the uterus. Peripheral blood karyotype: 46, XY. CONCLUSION: 46, XY complete gonadal dysgenesis is a clinical entity that should be considered in all patients with primary amenorrhea and absence of secondary sexual characteristics. The multidisciplinary assessment will allow to establish the appropriate diagnosis and treatment for this type of disease.

Residential proximity to pesticide applications in Argentine Patagonia: impact on pregnancy and newborn parameters.

Among residents living close to agricultural fields who are potentially exposed to pesticides, pregnant women and their fetuses are of particular concern for their vulnerability to environmental chemicals. In this collaborative multicenter study, we covered a wide distribution of participants in the most important fruit production zone of north Patagonia (Argentina) to investigate whether maternal residential proximity to fruit croplands with intense pesticide applications (rural group -RG-) is associated with pregnancy complications and alterations in their newborn parameters compared to the urban population (urban group -UG-). A total of 776 pregnant women met the inclusion criteria. The percentage of threatened miscarriage was significantly higher in the RG than in the UG. The percentage of miscarriage, threat of premature labor, intrauterine fetal death, preterm premature rupture of membranes, and intrauterine growth retardation were similar in both groups. Newborn anthropometric parameters were corrected by sex and gestational age prior to statistical analysis. Length at birth and head circumference were lower in the RG than in the UG. Birth weight was similar in both groups. The percentage of head circumference less than the 5th percentile and the ponderal index were greater in the RG than in the UG. Our results suggest that proximity to pesticide applications may increase the risk of pregnancy complications and altered newborn parameters.

Characterization of Whey-Based Fermented Beverages Supplemented with Hydrolyzed Collagen: Antioxidant Activity and Bioavailability.

In this study, the preparation of a milk whey-based beverage with the addition of different concentrations of hydrolyzed collagen (0.3%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) was carried out. The control was considered at a concentration of 0%. Physicochemical properties, viscosity, antioxidant activity, and microbiological parameters were evaluated. The 1% collagen treatment showed the highest protein content (9.75 ± 0.20 g/L), as well as radical inhibition for ATBS (48.30%) and DPPH (30.06%). There were no significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) in the fat and lactose parameters. However, the pH in the control treatment was lower compared to beverages treated with hydrolyzed collagen. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy showed spectra characteristic of lactose and collagen amides. The viscosity increased significantly as the concentration of hydrolyzed collagen increased. The addition of hydrolyzed collagen increased the bioavailability, nutritional value, and the antioxidant activity of the beverage. Hydrolyzed collagen acted as an antimicrobial agent, as there was no presence of microorganism pathogens observed in the treated beverages.

Application of Nanoemulsions (W/O) of Extract of Opuntia oligacantha C.F. Först and Orange Oil in Gelatine Films.

Over the past decade, consumers have demanded natural, completely biodegradable active packaging serving as food containers. Bioactive plant compounds can be added to biopolymer-based films to improve their functionality, as they not only act as barriers against oxidation, microbiological, and physical damage, they also offer functionality to the food they contain. A water-in-oil (W/O) nanoemulsion was produced by applying ultrasound to xoconostle extract and orange oil, and was incorporated into gelatine films in different proportions 1:0 (control), 1:0.10, 1:0.25, 1:0.50, 1:0.75, and 1:1 (gelatine:nanoemulsion). The nanoemulsions had an average size of 118.80 ± 5.50 nm with a Z-potential of -69.9 ± 9.93 mV. The presence of bioactive compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, and betalains in the films was evaluated. The 1:1 treatment showed the highest presence of bioactive compounds, 41.31 ± 3.71 mg of gallic acid equivalent per 100 g (GAE)/100g for phenols, 28.03 ± 3.25 mg of quercetin equivalent per 100 g (EQ)/100g flavonoids and 0.014 mg/g betalains. Radical inhibition reached 72.13% for 2,20-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), and 82.23% for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The color of the films was influenced by the incorporation of nanoemulsions, showing that it was significantly different (p < 0.05) to the control. Mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, Young's modulus, and percentage elongation, were affected by the incorporation of nanoemulsified bioactive compounds into gelatine films. The obtained films presented changes in strength and flexibility. These characteristics could be favorable as packaging material.

Collagen Hydrolysates for Skin Protection: Oral Administration and Topical Formulation.

Antioxidants are molecules that delay or inhibit the oxidation of other molecules. Its use significantly increased in recent years in the diet of people. Natural antioxidants are replacing the use of synthetic antioxidant ingredients due to their safety, nutritional, and therapeutic values. Hydrolyzed collagen (HC) is a popular ingredient considered to be an antioxidant. This low molecular weight protein has been widely utilized due to its excellent biocompatibility, easy biodegradability, and weak antigenicity. It is a safe cosmetic biomaterial with good moisturizing properties on the skin. The antioxidant properties of HC are conditioned to the size of the molecule: the lower the molecular weight of peptides, the greater the ability to donate an electron or hydrogen to stabilize radicals. The antioxidant capacity of HC is mostly due to the presence of hydrophobic amino acids in the peptide. The exact mechanism of peptides acting as antioxidants is not clearly known but some aromatic amino acids and histidine are reported to play an important role in the antioxidant activity. Oral ingestion of HC increases the levels of collagen-derived peptides in the blood torrent and improves the skin properties such as elasticity, skin moisture, and transepidermal water loss. Additionally, daily intakes of HC protect the skin against UV melasma, enhances the fibroblast production and extracellular matrix of the skin. HC has been identified as a safe cosmetic ingredient for topical formulations with good moisturizing properties at the stratum corneum layer of the skin. It reduces the effects of skin aging (dryness, laxity, and wrinkles). The use of HC as a principal ingredient in safe formulations for skin protection was reviewed and compared when it is used by topical and/or oral administration.

Apoptosis in porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes: Relationship with their morphology and the developmental competence.

The aim of this study was to assess the presence and distribution of apoptosis in porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and its relations with COC morphology and developmental competence. The COCs were obtained from slaughterhouse ovaries, classified into A1 (top category), A2, B1, B2, C, and D based on their morphology. A1, A2, and B1 were matured and fertilized in vitro, and blastocyst rate was compared among them. Before and after in vitro maturation (IVM), annexin-V staining, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays were performed to assess early and late apoptosis, respectively. There was a significant increase in both annexin-V (+) oocytes and TUNEL (+) cumulus cells as morphology further deteriorated. There were no statistical differences regarding annexin-V (+) oocytes within immature and post-IVM COCs, but TUNEL (+) oocytes were only observed in post-IVM COCs. Early and late apoptosis was detected in cumulus cells of all categories of immature and post-IVM COCs. However, the difference was only significant for annexin-V (+). There were no significant differences in embryo development. Therefore, apoptosis increases as the morphological features of the immature COCs decrease. In conclusion, the selection of COCs from Categories A1, A2, and B1 may be used as a selection criterion for in vitro development.

Cirugía laparoscópica preservadora de la fertilidad en tumores limítrofes del ovario: reporte de un caso / Laparoscopic fertility-preserving surgery in borderline ovarian tumors. A case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: Los tumores limítrofes del ovario se caracterizan por la proliferación celular y atipia nuclear, sin invasión estromal. Su incidencia se estima en 2.5 a 5.5 por cada 100,000 mujeres-año. Casi siempre se diagnostican en etapas tempranas, con buen pronóstico, incluso también en estadios avanzados. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 25 años de edad, con crecimiento abdominal y dolor difuso, útero aumentado de volumen por arriba de la cicatriz umbilical, con tumoración sólida, móvil, al tacto vaginal dependiente del anexo derecho. Reporte de ultrasonido: ovario derecho 13.1 x 12 x 11.2 cm y el izquierdo no visible, CA 125: 130.4 U/mL. Se le efectuó un lavado peritoneal, se tomó una biopsia peritoneal y se practicaron: omentectomía y salpingooferectomía derecha. El estudio transoperatorio reportó la existencia de una tumoración en el ovario derecho, con implantes en la cavidad abdominal. Reporte histopatológico: tumor papilar limítrofe del ovario derecho, sin invasión vascular, lavado peritoneal, epiplón e implantes peritoneales positivos a células neoplásicas. Se indicó tratamiento coadyuvante con quimioterapia (plaquitaxel y carboplatino) y logró quedar embarazada un año después de terminar ese esquema; el embarazo concluyó en parto y nacimiento de una niña de 3100 g. CONCLUSIÓN: Este caso refleja el éxito de la cirugía laparoscópica en el tratamiento de los tumores limítrofes serosos, con cirugía preservadora de la fertilidad. Quedan claras las ventajas de la quimioterapia como tratamiento coadyuvante en este tipo de tumores.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Borderline ovarian tumors are defined as the presence of cell proliferation and nuclear atypia without stromal invasion2, their incidence is estimated between 2.5 and 5.5 / 100,000 women per year, they are usually diagnosed in early stages with a good prognosis even in advanced stages. CLINICAL CASE: 25-year-old patient, with abdominal growth and diffuse pain, increased uterus of volume above the umbilical scar, with solid, mobile tumor, to the vaginal touch dependent on the right annex. Ultrasound report: right ovary 13.1 x 12 x 11.2 cm and the left not visible, CA 125: 130.4 U / mL. A peritoneal lavage was performed, a peritoneal biopsy was taken, and omentectomy and right salpingopherectomy were performed. The transoperative study reported the existence of a tumor in the right ovary, with implants in the abdominal cavity. Histopathological report: papillary tumor bordering the right ovary, without vascular invasion, peritoneal lavage, omentum and positive peritoneal implants to neoplastic cells. Adjuvant treatment with chemotherapy (Plaquitaxel and Carboplatin) was indicated and she managed to get pregnant a year after finishing that scheme; the pregnancy concluded in childbirth and birth of a girl of 3100 g. CONCLUSION: This case reflects the success of laparoscopic surgery in the management of serous border tumors with fertility-preserving surgery, in addition to highlighting the use of chemotherapy as an adjuvant treatment in this type of pathologies.

Quiste gigante de Naboth como diagnóstico diferencial de los tumores anexiales. Reporte de un caso / Giant Naboth cyst as a differential diagnosis of adnexal tumors. A case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: Los quistes de Naboth son tumoraciones benignas del cuello uterino, casi siempre son asintomáticos, por excepción son gigantes y de localización intraabdominal. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 44 años, acudió a consulta debido a sangrado uterino anormal de 7 años de evolución, flujo transvaginal hialino abundante y continuo, sensación de pesantez pélvica, aumento del tamaño abdominal y dificultad para orinar. En la exploración física el abdomen se encontró blando, depresible, el útero no delimitado, con el anexo derecho aumentado de tamaño. La tomografía abdominopélvica reportó una lesión compleja en el anexo derecho. Debido a la sospecha diagnóstica de tumoración del anexo, dependiente del ovario, se solicitaron los marcadores tumorales Ca 125 que se reportaron con valores en límites normales; la citología cervicovaginal fue negativa para displasia. En la laparoscopia se encontró integridad de los anexos y útero macroscópicamente normal, con un quiste en la cara anterior, adherido al espacio paravesical. De la cistectomía con punción del quiste se obtuvo material mucinoso, se observó comunicación entre el quiste y el canal vaginal de aproximadamente 6 cm. Con base en esos hallazgos se decidió la histerectomía total por vía abdominal. El reporte histopatológico fue de: quiste complejo de Naboth, profundo hasta la pared en el segmento y parametrios, sin evidencia de malignidad. CONCLUSIONES: Los quistes gigantes de Naboth son sintomáticos, de origen compresivo y abundante descarga vaginal. Debe sospecharse entre las tumoraciones anexiales; el diagnóstico definitivo se establece por histopatología.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Naboth cysts are benign tumors of the uterine cervix, usually asymptomatic, exceptionally present as giant cysts and rarely intra-abdominal location. CLINICAL CASE: A 44-year-old female who came to present with abnormal 7-year-old uterine bleeding, a feeling of pelvic heaviness, an increase in abdominal size, difficulty in urination and the presence of abundant and continuous transvaginal hyaline flow. On physical examination, a depressible soft abdomen, an unmarked uterus, with an enlarged right appendix was found. Abdominopélvica computed axial tomography reported a complex lesion in the right annex. An annex tumor was suspected, mainly ovarian-dependent, so tumor markers Ca 125 were requested with values within normal ranges, cervicovaginal cytology was negative for dysplasia. Laparoscopy was performed finding the integrity of the annexes and macroscopically normal uterus with presence of cyst in the anterior face adhered to the paravesical space, cystectomy was performed with puncture of the cyst obtaining mucinous material, communication was observed between the cyst and the vaginal canal of approximately 6 cm, So it was decided to perform total hysterectomy via abdominal. The histopathological report: complex cyst of deep Naboth to wall in the segment and parametria without evidence of malignancy. CONCLUSIONS: Naboth´s giant cysts usually cause symptoms especially of compressive origin and abundant vaginal discharge, it should be suspected among the adnexal tumors, the definitive diagnosis is made by histopathology.

Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications.

Hydrolyzed collagen (HC) is a group of peptides with low molecular weight (3-6 KDa) that can be obtained by enzymatic action in acid or alkaline media at a specific incubation temperature. HC can be extracted from different sources such as bovine or porcine. These sources have presented health limitations in the last years. Recently research has shown good properties of the HC found in skin, scale, and bones from marine sources. Type and source of extraction are the main factors that affect HC properties, such as molecular weight of the peptide chain, solubility, and functional activity. HC is widely used in several industries including food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, biomedical, and leather industries. The present review presents the different types of HC, sources of extraction, and their applications as a biomaterial.