Self-reported executive function, and not performance-based measures, strongly associates with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder / Autorreporte de funciones ejecutivas, y no medidas de desempeño, fuertemente se asocia con síntomas de síndrome premenstrual/trastorno disfórico premenstrual

Abstract Introduction Premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMS/PMDD) may be neuropsychologically understood as impairments of executive functions (EF), since these are related to the regulation of complex behavior and cognition. Objective To test the utility of self-report of EF versus performance-based measures, for the understanding of PMS/PMDD, and to analyze interactive effects between symptoms of these pathologies and EF on daily-life functionality. Method Mexican women were recruited through non-probabilistic procedures. The Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) was used to determine severity of symptoms and functional impairment in daily-life activities, and the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Functions-Adults (BRIEF-A) (short Spanish-translated version) adapted to collect information on EF during luteal versus follicular phases. Performance was evaluated with Stroop, Trail Making Test and Letter-Number Sequencing. Results A total of 157 were analyzed. Three groups were formed: No diagnosis ( n = 78); PMS ( n = 67) and PMDD ( n = 12). Between-group differences were observed for both BRIEF-A-Luteal and BRIEF-A-Follicular. Bivariate correlations between these measures and the PSST were found, with double the magnitude relative to BRIEF-A-Luteal. Only two indicators of performance-based measures were weakly associated to the PSST. The regression model showed high multicollinearity between self-reported EF and PMS/PMDD symptoms, and no interaction was found. Discussion and conclusion Self-report probed a better association than based-performance tests for the assessment of EF in PMS/PMDD. EF deficits and PMS/PMDD symptoms, particularly during luteal phase, may be as closely link as to allow for the consideration of these diagnoses as partial forms of dysexecutive syndrome.

Resumen Introducción El síndrome premenstrual/trastorno disfórico premenstrual (SPM/TDPM) pueden entenderse neuropsicológicamente como alteraciones de las funciones ejecutivas (FE), ya que éstas permiten la regulación del comportamiento complejo y la cognición. Objetivo Evaluar la utilidad del autorreporte de las FE versus pruebas de desempeño para comprender el SPM/TDPM, y analizar los efectos interactivos entre los síntomas de estas patologías y las FE sobre el funcionamiento diario. Método Mujeres mexicanas fueron reclutadas por medio de procedimientos no probabilísticos. El Instrumento de Detección de Síntomas Premenstruales (PSST) se utilizó para determinar la gravedad de los síntomas y el deterioro funcional en las actividades de la vida diaria, y el Inventario de Evaluación Conductual de la Función Ejecutiva-Adultos (BRIEF-A) (versión breve traducida al español) para recopilar información sobre EF durante las fases lútea versus folicular. Se emplearon también las pruebas de desempeño: Stroop, Trail Making Test y Secuencia de Letras y Números. Resultados Se analizó un total de 157 participantes. Se formaron tres grupos: sin diagnóstico ( n = 78); SPM ( n = 67) y TDPM ( n = 12). Se observaron diferencias entre los grupos para BRIEF-A-Lútea y BRIEF-A-Folicular. Se encontraron correlaciones bivariadas entre estas medidas y el PSST, con el doble de magnitud en relación con BRIEF-A-Lútea. Solo dos indicadores de medidas basadas en el desempeño mostraron una asociación débil con el PSST. El modelo de regresión mostró alta multicolinealidad entre el autorreporte de FE y SPM/TDPM, y no se encontró la interacción esperada. Discusión y conclusión El autorreporte mostró una mejor asociación que las pruebas de rendimiento para la evaluación de FE en SPM/TDPM. Los déficits de EF y los síntomas de SPM/TDPM, particularmente durante la fase lútea, pueden estar tan estrechamente vinculados como para permitir la consideración de estos diagnósticos como formas parciales de síndrome disejecutivo.

Poro de Tabasco cheese: Chemical composition and microbiological quality during its artisanal manufacturing process.

Poro de Tabasco cheese (PTC) is one of the most popular cheeses in southern Mexico. It has been made by traditional, nonstandardized artisanal techniques dating back more than 50 yr. These techniques result in the cheese having a heterogeneous chemical and microbiological composition and, consequently, distinct organoleptic characteristics. Scientific interest in artisanal cheese is growing because it represents a source of bacteria with potential health benefits. However, the quality of raw-milk cheeses often does not comply with official sanitary standards. The objective of the present study was to explore the chemical composition and microbiological quality of PTC and to describe its production process. Based on chemical composition, this cheese can be classified as a hard, full-fat, fresh cheese, with moisture on a fat-free basis and fat in dry matter ranging from 41 to 55% and from 49 to 57%, respectively. The chemical and microbiological composition of PTC varied among the evaluated dairies due to the lack of standardization in the production process. Microbial populations decreased during production, which may be associated with high acidity and high salt and low moisture contents, the presence of lactic acid bacteria or antimicrobial substances, and the drainage of whey. However, despite the absence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes in final cheeses for all dairies, Staphylococcus aureus and its toxins were found in some samples from one dairy. Therefore, heat treatment for milk and good manufacturing practices should be implemented throughout the entire production process to ensure a safe product.

Phenotypic Variability in a Mexican Mestizo Family with Retinal Vasculopathy with Cerebral Leukodystrophy and TREX1 Mutation p.V235Gfs*6.

BACKGROUND: Retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukodystrophy (RVCL) is an adult-onset, autosomal dominant disease involving microvessels of the brain and eye resulting in central nervous system degeneration with visual disturbances, stroke, motor impairment, and cognitive decline. Frameshift mutations at the C-terminus of TREX1 gene are the molecular cause of this disorder. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to present the different clinical manifestations of RVCL in three-related patients and to investigate the presence of TREX1 mutation in the extended genealogy. METHODS: Multidisciplinary testing was performed in three related patients. Based on their family history, the study was extended to 34 relatives from the same small community. Neurological evaluation, sequencing of TREX1, and presymptomatic diagnosis were offered to all participants. RESULTS: The patients exhibited the heterozygous TREX1 mutation p.V235Gfs*6, but with phenotypic variability. In addition, 15 relatives were identified as pre-manifest mutation carriers. The remaining participants did not carry the mutation. CONCLUSIONS: This is the figrst report of a large Mexican genealogy with RVCL, where the same TREX1 mutation causes a variation in organ involvement and clinical progression. The early identification and follow-up of individuals at risk may help provide insights into the basis for this variability in presentation.

Invited review: Artisanal Mexican cheeses.

The objective of this review is to present an overview of some of the most commonly consumed artisanal Mexican cheeses, as well as those cheeses that show potential for a protected designation of origin. A description is given for each of these cheeses, including information on their distinguishing characteristics that makes some of them potential candidates for achieving a protected designation of origin status. This distinction could help to expand their frontiers and allow them to become better known and appreciated in other parts of the world. Due to the scarcity of scientific studies concerning artisanal Mexican cheeses, which would ultimately aid in the standardization of manufacturing processes and in the establishment of regulations related to their production, more than 40 varieties of artisanal cheese are in danger of disappearing. To preserve these cheeses, it is necessary to address this challenge by working jointly with government, artisanal cheesemaking organizations, industry, academics, and commercial partners on the implementation of strategies to protect and preserve their artisanal means of production. With sufficient information, official Mexican regulations could be established that would encompass and regulate the manufacture of Mexican artisanal cheeses. Finally, as many Mexican artisanal cheeses are produced from raw milk, more scientific studies are required to show the role of the lactic acid bacteria and their antagonistic effect on pathogenic microorganisms during aging following cheese making.

Psychiatric complications of a late diagnosis of acute porphyria in an affected male / Complicaciones psiquiátricas de un diagnóstico tardío de porfiria aguda en un varón afectado

Introduction Acute porphyrias are rare genetic disorders of incomplete penetrance (10%). This means that only 10% of the individuals with the genotype known to cause the disease will show any signs or symptoms of such disease. They consist of a deficiency of any enzyme of the heme biosynthesis and are considered as exceptional inborn errors of metabolism with an autosomal dominant inheritance. The incidence is 1 in 100 000. The symptoms are variable and unspecific, consisting mainly of severe abdominal pain, tachycardia, and hypertension. Other frequent manifestations are psychiatric symptoms like depression, psychosis, and hallucinations. In addition to these unspecific symptoms, patients may also present peripheral neuropathy and loss of sensation, which can become permanent. In severe cases, liver damage and chronic renal disease can occur. The objective of this study is to highlight the importance of the difficult diagnosis of acute porphyria, the implications of a misdiagnosis, and the importance of adequate treatment. Case We present a 47 year-old male with a history of abdominal pain for seven years. The pain was diffuse, progressive, and incapacitating. He was diagnosed and treated for chronic gastritis and cholecystitis without improvement. An elective cholecystectomy was performed but he continued with intense abdominal pain. Three years later he developed hallucinations, paresthesias, muscular weakness, depression, and irritability. He was managed as a psychiatric patient with psychotic tendencies. After a complete and thorough history of all his symptoms throughout the years and a re-examination of the patient, acute porphyria was considered as a possible diagnosis. Specific laboratory studies were indicated revealing elevated levels of porphyrines, elevated levels of PBGD, PBG in urine within normal levels, elevated presence of coproporphyrines by chromatography, and a normal PBGD enzymatic activity. The diagnosis of acute porphyria was established. Appropriate treatment was initiated starting with adequate pain management. A high carbohydrate diet was also recommended with appropriate nutritional requirements and caloric intake. Another important aspect of the management was the elimination of risk factors, like alcohol, cigarette smoking, and certain specific medications. Follow-up showed significant improvement of his symptoms and less frequent acute attacks with identification and elimination of risk factors. He was able to return to a stable work schedule. The patient presents residual permanent renal damage. Adequate doctor-patient education was maintained. Discussion This case is an important example of a not-so-rare genetic disease that any physician should have in mind when confronted with a patient with unspecific paroxysmal clinical manifestations. The possibility of acute porphyria should always be excluded before establishing a diagnosis of a psychiatric illness. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to reduce the risk of recurrences and permanent damage. Patient education is a very important aspect of the management of the disease since there is no cure. There is a specific treatment for the management of acute attacks (Hemin) but, unfortunately, it is still unavailable in our country. This is a problem that turns the management and prevention of risk factors into the most important tools we have to improve our patients' quality of life.

Introducción Las porfirias agudas son un conjunto de enfermedades genéticas de penetrancia incompleta (10%). Es decir, sólo 10% de los individuos con el genotipo determinado que causa la enfermedad presentan algún signo o síntoma de ella. Las porfirias agudas son causadas por una deficiencia de alguna de las enzimas de la biosíntesis del heme. Son unos de los pocos errores innatos del metabolismo que presentan herencia autosómica dominante. La incidencia es de 1 en 100 000, y es más común en mujeres de entre 30-40 años. Los síntomas son variables e inespecíficos; los más comunes son: dolor abdominal difuso e incapacitante, taquicardia e hipertensión. También se acompaña de síntomas psiquiátricos como depresión, intento de suicidio, paranoia y alucinaciones. Otros síntomas relacionados son neuropatía periférica y pérdidas sensitivas, daño hepático e insuficiencia renal crónica. El objetivo de este estudio es establecer la importancia de realizar un diagnóstico oportuno de porfiria aguda, ya que un diagnóstico erróneo puede generar tratamientos y gastos innecesarios al paciente. El diagnóstico de porfiria permite llevar a cabo un manejo y tratamiento adecuados que favorecen un buen pronóstico. Caso Se trata de un paciente masculino de 47 años de edad, sin antecedentes familiares relacionados, que presenta dolor abdominal intenso, difuso e incapacitante con siete años de evolución. Fue tratado como gastritis aguda y colecistitis. Se realizó colecistectomía sin lograr mejoría de los síntomas. Tres años después, se agregaron a los síntomas originales los siguientes: alucinaciones auditivas, parestesias, debilidad muscular, depresión e irritabilidad, por lo que se catalogó como paciente con trastorno psiquiátrico con tendencia psicótica. Se realizó historia clínica de todos los síntomas y una exploración física completa, por lo que se sospechó porfiria aguda. Se realizaron estudios de laboratorio específicos con los que se confirmó el diagnóstico de porfiria aguda por la presencia de niveles elevados de porfirinas en orina, niveles elevados de PBGD, niveles normales de PBG en orina, niveles significativamente elevados de coproporfirinas por cromatografía y actividad enzimática de PBGD en rangos normales. Se inició un tratamiento para el manejo adecuado del dolor. También, una dieta alta en carbohidratos, con aporte calórico adecuado. Se recomendó la eliminación de factores de riesgo como alcohol, cigarro y medicamentos específicos. Dos meses después se observó una mejoría significativa de los síntomas, control de crisis e identificación y eliminación de factores precipitantes. Los síntomas psiquiátricos desaparecieron y el paciente pudo reestablecer sus actividades laborales y sociales. El paciente presenta hasta el momento datos de insuficiencia renal crónica. Se continúa el seguimiento del paciente. Discusión El caso presentado representa un ejemplo de una enfermedad genética que todo médico debe tener en mente cuando se presenta un paciente con síntomas inespecíficos. El diagnóstico de porfiria aguda es un diagnóstico de exclusión, pero sigue siendo importante en el análisis del diagnóstico diferencial. Es de gran importancia descartar o confirmar un caso de porfiria aguda antes de establecer el diagnóstico de un trastorno psiquiátrico. Establecer un diagnóstico temprano y un tratamiento específico mejora el pronóstico y limita el daño, particularmente neurológico y hepático. La educación del paciente es de extrema importancia, ya que no existe cura para la porfiria aguda. Una prevención que evite los factores precipitantes conocidos es uno de los tratamientos principales de esta enfermedad, ya que el medicamento específico para el control de la crisis aguda (Hematina) no se distribuye en nuestro país. Aunado a un subdiagnóstico de la enfermedad, lo anterior vuelve aún más difícil el manejo de los pacientes.

COX-2 and sPLA2 inhibitory activity of aqueous extract and polyphenols of Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove).

The aqueous extract of Rhizophora mangle bark and its polyphenolic fractions showed remarkable in vitro antiinflammatory activity in a preliminary study. The low molecular weight fraction exhibited cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory activity while the total aqueous extract and the low molecular weight fraction showed secretory phospholipase A(2) inhibitory activity.

Flavonoids from Artemisia copa with anti-inflammatory activity.

Bioactivity-guided fractionation of the dichloromethane and ethanol extracts from the aerial parts of Artemisia copa led to the isolation of the flavonoids spinacetin, jaceosidin, axillarin, penduletin, tricin and chrysoeriol. These compounds were studied for possible inhibitory activity on the generation of inflammatory mediators in a cell line of mouse macrophages (RAW 264.7) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Spinacetin and jaceosidin weakly inhibited nitric oxide production whereas all flavonoids reduced prostaglandin E2 levels to different extents. The most active flavonoid was jaceosidin that inhibited cyclooxygenase-2 activity in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 2.8 microM. In addition, the other flavonoids partially inhibited synovial phospholipase A2 activity. These mechanisms may provide a basis for explaining the anti-inflammatory activity of this plant.