Malnutrition: muscle wasting, inflammation, RDW, and their relation with adverse outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to explore red cell distribution width (RDW) as a surrogate marker of inflammation, alone and in conjunction with muscle wasting to predict malnutrition-related adverse outcomes. METHODS: This was a single-center observational study including adult hospitalized patients. Demographic variables, malnutrition criteria, and RDW were captured within 24 hours of hospital admission. Correlation tests and regression models were performed between these variables (RDW and muscle wasting) and adverse outcomes (in-hospital mortality and unplanned transfer to critical care areas (CCA). RESULTS: Five hundred and forty-five patients were included in the final analysis. Muscle wasting showed an independent association with adverse outcomes in every regression model tested. RDW alone showed fair predictive performance for both outcomes' significance and the adjusted model with muscle wasting showed association only for unplanned transfer to CCA. CONCLUSION: RDW did not improve the prediction of adverse outcomes compared to muscle wasting assessed by physical examination and simple indexes for acute and chronic inflammation. Malnourished patients presented higher RDW values showing a possible metabolic profile (higher inflammation and lower muscle). It is still unknown whether nutrition support can influence RDW value over time as a response marker or if RDW can predict who may benefit the most from nutritional support.

OBJETIVO: Explorar el ancho de distribución eritrocitaria (ADE) como un marcador subrogado de inflamación, individualmente y en conjunto con el desgaste muscular, para predecir resultados adversos asociados a la desnutrición. MÉTODO: Estudio unicéntrico, observacional, incluyendo pacientes adultos hospitalizados. Se capturaron variables demográficas, criterios de desnutrición y el ADE en las primeras 24 horas de ingreso. Se realizaron pruebas de correlación y modelos de regresión entre dichas variables (ADE y desgaste) y resultados adversos (mortalidad hospitalaria y traslado no planeado a áreas críticas). RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 545 pacientes. El desgaste muscular mostró asociación independiente con los resultados adversos en cada modelo. El ADE individualmente mostró un desempeño aceptable para la predicción de ambos resultados, y en modelos ajustados con desgaste muscular mostró asociación únicamente con traslado no planeado a áreas críticas. CONCLUSIONES: El ADE no mejoró la predicción de resultados adversos comparado con el desgaste muscular por exploración física e índices simples de inflamación. Los pacientes con desnutrición presentaron mayores valores de ADE, mostrando un posible perfil metabólico (mayor inflamación y menos músculo). Aún se desconoce si el soporte nutricional puede influenciar el ADE como un marcador de respuesta o si puede predecir una respuesta favorable al soporte nutricional.

Eupatorin and Salviandulin-A, with Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects from Salvia lavanduloides Kunth Leaves.

This study describes the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects from extracts obtained from the leaves of Salvia lavanduloides. The plant material was macerated with three solvents of ascending polarity (n-hexane (Sl-Hex), ethyl acetate (Sl-AcOEt), and dichloromethane (Sl-D)). The extracts, fractions (SlD-2 and SlD-3), and isolated compounds (15,16-epoxy-10-ß-hydroxy-neo-cleroda-3,7,13(16),14-tetraene-17,12R:18,19-diolide (1), salviandulin A (2), and eupatorin (3)) were evaluated as antimicrobials against Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria and the fungus Candida albicans (Ca) using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the anti-inflammatory activity induced by 13-acetate of 12-O-tetradecanoylforbol (TPA). Sl-D and Sl-AcOEt extracts, SlD-2 and SlD-3 fractions showed the highest antimicrobial activity. The isolated compounds showed good activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa with a MIC < 2 µg/mL, while the anti-inflammatory activity, the Sl-Hex, Sl-D extracts, and SlD-3 fraction presented an inhibition of 62, 45 and 61%, respectively, while (2) 70% and (3) 72%.

Relación entre la disbiosis de la microbiota oral y la enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica.

Considerando la alta incidencia de las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) en México y el mundo, la presente revisión proporciona un panorama general sobre la relación entre el desarrollo de periodontitis y la patogenia de estas enfermedades, describiendo aspectos sobre la alteración de la microbiota oral y los mecanismos asociados con el establecimiento de la respuesta inmunitaria local y sistémica en los pacientes con ECV. Además, proporciona las bases para considerar el análisis de la microbiota de la cavidad oral como un blanco terapéutico potencialmente útil en la regulación de la respuesta inmunitaria, lo que permitiría conseguir mejores pronósticos en pacientes con ECV.Considering the high incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide, the present review provides a general panorama of the relation between the pathogenesis of these diseases and the development of periodontitis. Specific associations are described between an altered oral microbiota (and associated mechanisms) and the local and systemic immune response in patients with CVD. Additionally, the basis is established for considering an imbalance in the microbiota of the oral cavity as a potentially useful therapeutic target for the regulation of the immune response, which could possibly allow for better therapeutic outcomes in the case of patients with CVD.

Preliminary Phytochemical Profile and Bioactivity of Inga jinicuil Schltdl & Cham. ex G. Don.

Several Mesoamerican cultures have used Inga jinicuil as traditional medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and infectious issues. The aims of this contribution were to elucidate the phytochemical profile of the organic extracts from the bark and leaves of I. jinicuil and to assess the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of these extracts. The preliminary chemical profile was determined by HPLC-PDA and GC-MS; the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated with a mouse ear edema model, whereas the antibacterial activity was screened against several bacteria. The phytochemical profile of both organs (bark and leaves) of I. jinicuil led to the identification of 42 compounds, such as polyphenolic, flavonoids, triterpenes, prenol-type lipids, and aliphatic and non-aliphatic esters. This molecular diversity gave moderate anti-inflammatory activity (67.3 ± 2.0%, dichloromethane bark extract) and excellent antibacterial activity against Pseudomona aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Sthaphylococcus aureus (MIC values of ˂3.12 and 50 µg/mL, respectively). These results contribute to the chemotaxonomic characterization and the rational use in traditional medicine of Inga jinicuil Schltdl & Cham. ex G. Don.

Effect of storage temperature and time on the behavior of Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and background microbiota on whole fresh avocados (Persea americana var Hass).

Avocados are popular fruits; however, contamination of whole fresh avocados and avocado products with foodborne pathogens has raised concern about their safety. Recalls and import alerts of avocado products due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes cause important economic losses. The behavior of Salmonella, L. monocytogenes, and background microbiota on whole fresh avocados at 5 and 25 °C as affected by temperature and time of storage was investigated. Whole fresh avocados were inoculated by immersion in suspensions containing six rifampicin-resistant strains of Salmonella or L. monocytogenes, and stored at 5 °C for 48 d, or at 25 °C for 11 d. At selected sampling times, avocados were removed from storage and pathogens enumerated. The log counts of both pathogens at each temperature were fitted to the Weibull distribution nonlinear model to estimate kinetic parameters including the time for the first 1-log reduction (δ), the shape of the curve (ρ), and the time for two (2-D) and three (3-D) log reductions. Salmonella and L. monocytogenes initial populations (approx. 7 log CFU/avocado) decreased during storage at 5 and 25 °C; L. monocytogenes mean counts were higher than those observed for Salmonella (P < 0.05). L. monocytogenes showed a lower rate of decline at 5 °C when compared to Salmonella. In general, the ability of both pathogens to survive on the surface of avocados stored at room temperature was similar. Salmonella and L. monocytogenes counts decline over time on the epicarp of whole avocados; however, if the initial number of cells is large enough, the pathogens could be present for large periods of time. Simultaneously, psychrotrophic microorganisms (PM), aerobic plate count (APC), coliforms (C) and yeasts/molds (Y/M) were enumerated from non-inoculated avocados stored at 5 and 25 °C. Initial mean counts for PM, APC, C and Y/M ranged from 6.1 to 6.6 log CFU/avocado and showed no change (P > 0.05) during storage at both temperatures. Good agricultural and handling practices from farm to fork are crucial to prevent or minimize contamination of whole avocados; otherwise, if large numbers of pathogens contaminate the fruit, they could survive and be transferred to the pulp, or to other ready to eat foods, representing a risk for consumers.

Ellagitannin, Phenols, and Flavonoids as Antibacterials from Acalypha arvensis (Euphorbiaceae).

There is a significant need to gain access to new and better antibacterial agents. Acalypha arvensis, a plant from the Euphorbiaceae family, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat infectious diseases. This manuscript reports the isolation, characterization, and antibacterial screening of 8 natural products extracted from maceration of aerial parts of Acalypha arvensis. Specifically, three extracts were assessed (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol), in which antibacterial activity was evaluated against diverse bacterial strains. The ethanolic extract showed the best activity against methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, which supports the medicinal properties attributed to this plant. The chromatographic fractions AaR4 and AaR5 were the most bioactive, in which the ellagitannin natural product known as corilagin (1) was identified for the first time in this plant. Therefore, it can be said that this is the main chemical responsible for the observed antibacterial activity. However, we also identified chlorogenic acid (2), rutin (3), quercetin-3-O-glucoside (4), caffeic acid (5), among others (6-8). Hence, this plant can be considered to be a good alternative to treat health-related issues caused by various bacteria.

[Self-reported prevalence of fructan food hypersensitivity in university students from the State of Mexico]. / Prevalencia de hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos en estudiantes universitarios del Estado de México.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the self-reported prevalence of fructans food hypersensitivity in a sample of Mexican university students and to investigate the most frequent symptoms, the related foods involved, risk factors and gastrointestinal function status. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in a convenience sample of 412 university students aged from 18 to 35 years. Data were collected about their personal and family history of gastrointestinal diseases, the presence of symptoms after consumption of certain foods, and the severity of their symptoms. RESULTS: The prevalence of fructans food hypersensitivity was 31.1 %; it was higher in women than in men. The most frequent gastrointestinal symptoms were bloating and flatulence. The most frequent extra-intestinal symptoms were fatigue and stress. The food groups related to the occurrence of symptoms were legumes, vegetables, and fruits. Significant association was found between female sex, personal and family history of gastrointestinal diseases and the presence of fructans food hypersensitivity (p < 0.05). Most individuals with fructans food hypersensitivity had mild gastrointestinal dysfunction (67.2 %). CONCLUSIONS: FFH is a common condition, it was found in one third of university students and occurs mainly in women. More research and diffusion about this pathology is required.

OBJECTIVO: Determinar la prevalencia por autorreporte de hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios e investigar los síntomas más frecuentes, los alimentos relacionados, los factores de riesgo y su función gastrointestinal. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio transversal, descriptivo, en una muestra elegida por conveniencia de 412 estudiantes universitarios, de 18 a 35 años. Se recopilaron datos sobre antecedentes personales y familiares de enfermedades gastrointestinales, síntomas secundarios al consumo de ciertos alimentos y severidad de sus síntomas. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos fue de 31.1 %, mayor en mujeres que en hombres. Los síntomas gastrointestinales más frecuentes fueron distensión y flatulencias y los extraintestinales, fatiga y estrés. Los grupos de alimentos relacionados con la aparición de síntomas fueron leguminosas, vegetales y frutas. Se encontró asociación significativa entre el sexo femenino, la historia personal y familiar de enfermedades gastrointestinales y la presencia de hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos (p < 0.05). La mayoría de los individuos con hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos tuvieron una disfunción gastrointestinal leve (67.2 %). CONCLUSIONES: La hipersensibilidad alimentaria a fructanos es común; se encontró en un tercio de los estudiantes universitarios, principalmente en mujeres. Se necesita mayor investigación y difusión sobre esta patología.

Pyrrole Plasma Polymer-Coated Electrospun Scaffolds for Neural Tissue Engineering.

Promising strategies for neural tissue engineering are based on the use of three-dimensional substrates for cell anchorage and tissue development. In this work, fibrillar scaffolds composed of electrospun randomly- and aligned-oriented fibers coated with plasma synthesized pyrrole polymer, doped and undoped with iodine, were fabricated and characterized. Infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the functional groups and molecular integration of each scaffold, as well as the effect of plasma polymer synthesis on crystallinity. Scanning microscopy imaging demonstrated the porous fibrillar micrometric structure of the scaffolds, which afforded adhesion, infiltration, and survival for the neural cells. Orientation analysis of electron microscope images confirmed the elongation of neurite-like cell structures elicited by undoped plasma pyrrole polymer-coated aligned scaffolds, without any biochemical stimuli. The MTT colorimetric assay validated the biocompatibility of the fabricated composite materials, and further evidenced plasma pyrrole polymer-coated aligned scaffolds as permissive substrates for the support of neural cells. These results suggest plasma synthesized pyrrole polymer-coated aligned scaffolds are promising materials for tissue engineering applications.

Sun exposure and sun protection behaviors among teenagers and adults in Mexico City.

OBJECTIVE: To know the prevalence of sun exposure and protection behaviors in a group of adolescents and to compare them with a group of adults in Mexico City. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional study in students aged 16 to 18 years and in adults older than 18 years. RESULTS: Seven-hundred and forty-eight students were surveyed; 60 % were females and 40 % males; 90 % seek shade, 70.1 % avoid exposing themselves to the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 30.6 % use sunscreen. Out of 620 adults, 67.5 % were women and 32.4 % were men; 82.6 % seek shade, 60.2 % avoid the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 48.1% use sunscreen; 72.9 % of adults and 80.8 % of adolescents are exposed to the sun due to domestic activities. DISCUSSION: There is a similar trend in sun protection and exposure behaviors in adolescents and adults. The prevalence of sunscreen use in adults is high in comparison with adolescents.

OBJETIVO: Conocer la prevalencia de las conductas exposición y protección solar en un grupo de adolescentes y compararlos con un grupo de adultos en la Ciudad de México. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal descriptivo en estudiantes de 16 a 18 años y en adultos mayores de 18 años. RESULTADOS: Se encuestaron 748 alumnos, 60 % mujeres y 40 % hombres. El 90 % busca la sombra, el 70.1 % evita exponerse al sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 30.6 % usa filtro solar. De 620 adultos, 67.5 % mujeres y 32.4 % hombres, el 82.6 % buscan la sombra, el 60.2 % evita el sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 48.1 % utiliza filtro solar. El 72.9 % de adultos y el 80.8 % de adolescentes se exponen al sol debido a actividades domésticas. DISCUSIÓN: Existe una tendencia similar en las conductas de protección y exposición solar en adolescentes y adultos. Es alta la prevalencia de uso de fotoprotector en adultos en comparación con los adolescentes.

Conductas de exposición y protección solar en adolescentes y adultos de la Ciudad de México / Sun exposure and sun protection behaviors among teenagers and adults in Mexico City

Resumen Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de las conductas exposición y protección solar en un grupo de adolescentes y compararlos con un grupo de adultos en la Ciudad de México. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal descriptivo en estudiantes de 16 a 18 años y en adultos mayores de 18 años. Resultados: Se encuestaron 748 alumnos, 60 % mujeres y 40 % hombres. El 90 % busca la sombra, el 70.1 % evita exponerse al sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 30.6 % usa filtro solar. De 620 adultos, 67.5 % mujeres y 32.4 % hombres, el 82.6 % buscan la sombra, el 60.2 % evita el sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 48.1 % utiliza filtro solar. El 72.9 % de adultos y el 80.8 % de adolescentes se exponen al sol debido a actividades domésticas. Discusión: Existe una tendencia similar en las conductas de protección y exposición solar en adolescentes y adultos. Es alta la prevalencia de uso de fotoprotector en adultos en comparación con los adolescentes.

Abstract Objective: To know the prevalence of sun exposure and protection behaviors in a group of adolescents and to compare them with a group of adults in Mexico City. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study in students aged 16 to 18 years and in adults older than 18 years. Results: Seven-hundred and forty-eight students were surveyed; 60 % were females and 40 % males; 90 % seek shade, 70.1 % avoid exposing themselves to the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 30.6 % use sunscreen. Out of 620 adults, 67.5 % were women and 32.4 % were men; 82.6 % seek shade, 60.2 % avoid the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 48.1% use sunscreen; 72.9 % of adults and 80.8 % of adolescents are exposed to the sun due to domestic activities. Discussion: There is a similar trend in sun protection and exposure behaviors in adolescents and adults. The prevalence of sunscreen use in adults is high in comparison with adolescents.

Cervicovaginal and rectal colonization by group B Streptococci in Mexican women with full-term pregnancies.

BACKGROUND: A pregnant woman rectally or vaginally colonized by group B Streptococcus can infect her newborn. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective, cross-sectional, analytical 24-month study in pregnant women. Women in labor with ≥ 36 weeks of gestation were included. Pregnancy was classified as normal or high-risk. Main risk factors of the pregnant women were analyzed. Rectal and vaginal samples were obtained, placed in Todd-Hewitt broth and subsequently inoculated in 5% sheep blood agar. Identification was carried out by biochemical tests and latex agglutination. RESULTS: 3,347 pregnant women were included. Mean age was 25.6 ± 5.3 years, 95.5% received antenatal care; 2,213 (66%) had normal-risk pregnancies, and in 1,370 (41%), delivery was by cesarean section. Overall colonization was 4.3% (145/3,347), and it was higher in the 30-34 years age group (6.8%). Serotype I (58%) was the most common. CONCLUSION: The percentage of colonization in this population was low. A routine cervicovaginal and rectal culture program in pregnant women and the intrapartum antimicrobial prophylaxis program are controversial in our region.

ANTECEDENTES: Una mujer embarazada colonizada por estreptococo del grupo B por vía rectal o vaginal puede infectar a su recién nacido. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo, transversal y analítico, durante 24 meses, en embarazadas. Se incluyeron aquellas en trabajo de parto con ≥ 36 semanas de gestación. El embarazo se clasificó como normal o de alto riesgo. Se analizaron los principales factores de riesgo de las embarazadas. Se tomaron muestras rectales y vaginales, se colocaron en caldo Todd-Hewitt y posteriormente se inocularon en agar sangre de carnero al 5%. La identificación se realizó mediante pruebas bioquímicas y aglutinación con látex. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 3,347 embarazadas, edad media 25.6 ± 5.3 años, 95.5% con control prenatal; 2,213 (66%) embarazo de riesgo normal y 1,370 (41%) obtenidas por cesárea. La colonización global fue del 4.3% (145/3,347), siendo mayor en el grupo de edad de 30 a 34 años (6.8%). El serotipo I (58%) fue el más frecuente. CONCLUSIÓN: El porcentaje de colonización en esta población fue bajo. Un programa sistemático de cultivo cervicovaginal y rectal en mujeres embarazadas y el programa de profilaxis antimicrobiana intraparto son controvertidos en nuestra región.

Revisiting the metallothionein genes polymorphisms and the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma in a Brazilian population.

BACKGROUND: Metallothioneins (MTs) gene polymorphisms have been associated with the ability of free radical scavenging and detoxification of heavy metals leading to cancer development. Our aim was to revisit, in a Brazilian population, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MT gene family previously associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A case-control investigation with 28 OSCC patients and 45 controls was conducted, using conventional risk factors (tobacco use and alcohol consumption) as covariates. SNPs genotyping for rs8052334 (MT1B), rs964372 (MT1B), and rs1610216 (MT2A) was performed by PCR-RFLP, and SNPs for rs11076161 (MT1A) were analyzed by TaqMan assay. RESULTS: The only SNP associated with increased risk for OSCC was the MT-1A AA genotype (OR = 4.7; p = 0.01). We have also evidenced for the first time a significant linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs of MT-2A and MT-1A in this population with the highest frequency (30%) of the unfavorable haplotype G/A/C/T (rs1610216 / rs11076161 / rs964372 / rs8052334) of MT gene polymorphisms (OR = 6.2; p = 0.04). Interestingly, after removing the effects of conventional risk factors, we have uncovered the significance of the AA genotype of the rs11076161 with increased odds of 19-fold higher towards OSCC development. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first demonstration that a significant linkage disequilibrium among gene polymorphisms of the MT family may affect susceptibility to oral cancer, which is conditioned by the G/A/C/T haplotype (rs1610216/rs11076161/rs964372/ rs8052334) and the MT-1A gene polymorphism has a potential clinical utility for the OSCC risk assessment.

Extraction of Galphimines from Galphimia glauca with Supercritical Carbon Dioxide.

The anti-depressive and anxiolytic effect of galphimine B (isolated from Galphimia glauca) has been demonstrated by researchers. Therefore, it is necessary to explore extraction techniques that produce materials with adequate quality for pharmaceutical applications. In this work, supercritical extractions of galphimines from Galphimia glauca were performed in the presence of carbon dioxide. Pressure, temperature, particle diameter, and flow rate effects were examined to explore the conditions with the highest yield and the concentration profile of galphimines in the studied interval. The identification of the nor-seco triterpenoids and galphimine B and E was carried out by HPLC analyses. The mathematical modeling of the extraction curves was attained by the approaches proposed by Sovová and Papamichail et al. According to results, the highest yield 2.22% was obtained at 323.15 K, 326 µm, 3 L/min, and 33.75 MPa. Meanwhile, the content of galphimine B in the extract was, on average, 19.5 mg·g-1.

Genotyping of Human Papillomavirus in Cervical Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions in Mexican Women.

Approximately 40 genotypes of the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been identified in cervical mucosa. In particular, HPV-16 and HPV-18 have been associated with cervical neoplasia. Squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) are precursors of cervical cancer. This study aimed to identify the HPV by genotype in SILs using a linear array genotyping test in a population in Mexico. We performed a cross-sectional study of 129 female patients with or without SILs, as determined by colposcopy, who completed a risk factor questionnaire. Cervical swab samples were obtained and genotyped using a Linear Array HPV Genotyping assay. Forty-nine (37.98%) samples were positive for HPV, and 24 genotypes were identified among these samples. The most common genotype was HPV-16. Twelve genotypes were found in both high- and low-grade SILs (HPV-6, 16, 31, 39, 51, 52, 53, 58, 59, 61, 67, and 84), of which seven were high-risk SILs (HPV-16, 31, 39, 51, 52, 58, and 59). Among the populations studied, the most frequent genotype was HPV-16, multiple infections were found, and four patients without injury tested positive for HPV.

Identification and Quantification of ß-Sitosterol ß-d-Glucoside of an Ethanolic Extract Obtained by Microwave-Assisted Extraction from Agave angustifolia Haw.

ß-sitosterol ß-d-glucoside (BSSG) was extracted from "piña" of the Agave angustifolia Haw plant by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) with a KOH solution such as a catalyst and a conventional maceration method to determine the best technique in terms of yield, extraction time, and recovery. The quantification and characterization of BSSG were done by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS). With an extraction time of 5 s by MAE, a higher amount of BSSG (124.76 mg of ß-sitosterol ß-d-glucoside/g dry weight of the extract) than those for MAE extraction times of 10 and 15 s (106.19 and 103.97 mg/g dry weight respectively) was shown. The quantification of BSSG in the extract obtained by 48 h of conventional maceration was about 4-5 times less (26.67 mg/g dry weight of the extract) than the yields reached by the MAE treatments. MAE achieved the highest amount of BSSG, in the shortest extraction time while preserving the integrity of the compound's structure.

Antibacterial activity of Morinda citrifolia Linneo seeds against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus spp.

In traditional medicine, Morinda citrifolia (Noni) is used to treat various ailments, including skin and respiratory-tract infections. In this work, a bio-directed study (seed extracts) with five bacteria was carried out against four clinical isolates of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus (MRS) and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 strain to find molecules capable of inhibiting them. Three organic extracts were obtained by maceration of the noni seeds with ascending polarity solvents (n-hexane, dichloromethane and methanol) that were evaluated as antibacterial in the model of bioautography and broth microdilution techniques. The results showed that the methanolic extract was the most active against all bacteria (MIC = 16 mg/mL). The chromatographic fractionation performed on this extract allowed obtaining six fractions (EMF1-EMF6), of which F1, F2 and F5 exhibited activity against some of the bacteria. EMF1 fraction reached an MIC of 25 µg/mL against S. haemolyticus twice as much as the positive control, in which the chemical content is mainly composed of a mixture of γ-butyrolactones (1-2) and esterified fatty acids (3-9); chemical characterization of the nine compounds was carried out based on gas chromatography coupled to masses. EMF2 fraction, presented an MIC of 200 µg/mL against S. aureus 0198 and S. haemolyticus 562B, where a coumarin known as scopoletin (10) was isolated and active against S. aureus 0198 (MIC = 100 µg/mL). EMF5 fraction demonstrated an MIC of 200 µg/mL against S. aureus 0198, S. haemolyticus 562B and S. epidermidis 1042, in which a neolignan known as americanin A (11) was identified, showing activity against S. haemolyticus 562B and S. epidermidis 1042 (MIC = 100 µg/mL). The chemical characterization of isolated compounds 10 and 11 was performed by the analysis of 1H and 13C NMR. Therefore, the methanolic extract, identified and isolated compounds showed important antibacterial activity against the MRS, validating its use in traditional medicine.

Therapeutic Effectiveness of Galphimia glauca in Young People with Social Anxiety Disorder: A Pilot Study.

Social anxiety is one of the most common disorders found in the population attending the first level of health care. Galphimia glauca has been used for many years in Mexican traditional medicine to treat "nervous disorders". A standardized extract of this species has been evaluated in clinical studies that have proven its efficacy and safety in patients with generalized anxiety disorder. In this work, a double-blind clinical trial was carried out, using sertraline as a control. Patients from both sexes (18 to 35 years old) with moderate or severe social anxiety were included. Experimental group was treated daily (orally), for 10 weeks, with an extract from G. glauca containing 0.374 mg/dose of Galphimine-B (G-B, active compound). Patients in the control group were given sertraline (50 mg) in the same conditions. All patients were evaluated every two weeks. Another assessment was done one month after the end of the administration period. A total of 34 patients was included, 17 in each group. Women were predominant, and the mean age was 25 ± 4.7 years. In patients who received the G. glauca standardized extract, a significant reduction in anxiety was observed, with a value (in the Brief Social Phobia Scale) of 41.1±10.3 points at the start and 11.2±5.6 points at the end of treatment, while patients treated with sertraline had a value of 37.7±7.3 points at the beginning and 11.1±5.2 points at the end. No significant difference was observed between the treated groups. In a similar way, the health scale showed a gradual and continuous improvement in each of the five evaluations. In conclusion, the 10-week oral administration of G. glauca standardized extract showed efficacy and safety in patients with social anxiety disorder, without showing a significant difference from patients treated with sertraline.

Simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents in NG108-15 cells cultured on gold substrate.

This paper shows the simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents by using a gold substrate to culture NG108-15 cells. Cells grown on two different substrates (plastic Petri dishes and gold substrates) were characterized quantitatively through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well as qualitatively by optical and atomic force microscopy (AFM). No significant differences were observed between the surface area of cells cultured on gold substrates and Petri dishes, as indicated by measurements performed on SEM images. We also evaluated the electrophysiological compatibility of the cells through standard patch-clamp experiments by analyzing features such as the resting potential, membrane resistance, ionic currents, etc. Cells grown on both substrates showed no significant differences in their dependency on voltage, as well as in the magnitude of the Na+ and K+ current density; however, cells cultured on the gold substrate showed a lower membrane capacitance when compared to those grown on Petri dishes. By using two separate patch-clamp amplifiers, we were able to record the membrane current with the conventional patch-clamp technique and through the gold substrate simultaneously. Furthermore, the proposed technique allowed us to obtain simultaneous recordings of the electrical activity (such as action potentials firing) and the underlying membrane ionic currents. The excellent conductivity of gold makes it possible to overcome important difficulties found in conventional electrophysiological experiments such as those presented by the resistance of the electrolytic bath solution. We conclude that the technique here presented constitutes a solution to the problem of the simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents, which for decades, had been solved only partially.

Self-report prevalence and associated factors to drug hypersensitivity in Mexican young adults.

BACKGROUND: Drug hypersensitivity is defined as any unfavorable reaction that occurs after the administration of any drug. It may or may not be mediated by the involvement of the immune system. Epidemiological data related to drug hypersensitivity reactions in our country are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of drug hypersensitivity in a group of young adults, as well as to identify associated factors. METHODS: A structured questionnaire was applied to young people aged 18 to 25 years. The instrument was oriented to identify reactions of drug hypersensitivity, as well as the most prevalent drugs involved. In addition, a personal and family history of atopic diseases was included. Analysis for associations between variables was been done through logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of drug hypersensitivity reactions was 12% (144 of 1,200). The antibiotics were the agents most related to hypersensitivity reactions (9.8%) followed by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (1.6%). Factors associated with drug hypersensitivity were a personal history of asthma, odds ratio (OR) 3.15 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44-6.91), maternal and paternal history of drug hypersensitivity, OR 2.33 (95% CI, 1.21-4.48) and OR 3.11 (95% CI, 1.22-7.92), respectively. CONCLUSION: The results of this research show that drug hypersensitivity in young adults is a highly prevalent event and it is associated with personal history of asthma and history of drug hypersensitivity in parents.

Urocultivos en infección clínica de vías urinarias / RESULTS OF URINE CULTURE IN PATIENTS WITH CLINICAL URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Introducción: Las infecciones de vías urinarias (IVU) constituyen un problema de salud mundial. El aumento de la resistencia bacteriana a los antimicrobianos limita la administración de antibióticos económicos y de espectro limitado, lo que afecta el costo y el acceso a la atención. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar la sensibilidad, resistencia y germen causal en urocultivos realizados en pacientes con infección clínica de vías urinarias. Métodos: Estudio transversal. Se analizaron urocultivos de pacientes con infección clínica de vías urinarias, cada urocultivo correspondió a un paciente. Las variables fueron edad, género, microorganismo causal, resistencia y sensibilidad a los antimicrobianos. Se realizó en la Unidad de Medicina Familiar No. 222 del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social en Toluca Estado de México. Se evaluaron urocultivos con más de 100000 Unidades formadoras de colonias. Se realizó mediciones descriptivas, frecuencias y porcentajes en el programa SPSS v. 17 para Windows. Resultados: se incluyeron urocultivos de pacientes con infección clínica de vías urinarias. La edad promedio de los pacientes fue de 50.09 ± 19.43 años, con predominio del género femenino (211 pacientes). Los agentes causales más frecuentes fueron: Escherichia Coli (51.91%), Proteus mirabilis (14.70%) y Staphylococcus (11.11 %). Los antibióticos con mayor sensibilidad fueron: imipenem, cefotetan y meropenem (34%). Los antimicrobianos con mayor resistencia fueron: ampicilina (24%), ciprofloxacino (22%) y ampicilina con sulbactam (20%). Conclusiones: los microorganismos más frecuentemente fueron: Escherichia coli y Proteus; y los antimicrobianos a los que mostraron más resistencia bacteriana fueron: ampicilina y quinolonas.

Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a global health problem. Increased bacterial resistance to antimicrobials limits the administration of low-spectrum antibiotics, which affect cost and access to care. The objective of this work is to determine the sensitivity, resistance and causal germ in urine cultures in patients with clinical urinary tract infection Methods: Transversal study. Urine cultures of patients with clinical urinary tract infection were analyzed, each urine culture corresponded to one patient. The variables were age, gender, causal microorganism, resistance and sensitivity to antimicrobials. It was performed at the Family Medicine Unit No. 222 of the Mexican Institute of Social Security in Toluca State of Mexico. Urocultures were evaluated with more than 100,000 colony forming units. Measurements were made frequencies and percentages in the SPSS program version 17 for Windows. Results: there were included 558 urine cultures; the average age was 50.09 ± 19.43 years, female predominance (211 patients). The most common causative microorganisms were Escherichia coli (51.91%), Proteus mirabilis (14.70%) and Staphylococcus (11.11%). Most sensitive antibiotics were: imipenem, meropenem and cefotetan (34%). Most resistance antimicrobial were: ampicillin (24%), ciprofloxacin (22%) and ampicillin with sulbactam (20%). Conclusions: Escherichia coli and Proteus were the most commonly isolated microorganisms; Ampicillin and quinolones showed more bacterial resistence.