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1.
Arch Sex Behav ; 53(2): 839-857, 2024 02.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37884798

RESUMEN

Love is a phenomenon that occurs across the world and affects many aspects of human life, including the choice of, and process of bonding with, a romantic partner. Thus, developing a reliable and valid measure of love experiences is crucial. One of the most popular tools to quantify love is Sternberg's 45-item Triangular Love Scale (TLS-45), which measures three love components: intimacy, passion, and commitment. However, our literature review reveals that most studies (64%) use a broad variety of shortened versions of the TLS-45. Here, aiming to achieve scientific consensus and improve the reliability, comparability, and generalizability of results across studies, we developed a short version of the scale-the TLS-15-comprised of 15 items with 5-point, rather than 9-point, response scales. In Study 1 (N = 7,332), we re-analyzed secondary data from a large-scale multinational study that validated the original TLS-45 to establish whether the scale could be truncated. In Study 2 (N = 307), we provided evidence for the three-factor structure of the TLS-15 and its reliability. Study 3 (N = 413) confirmed convergent validity and test-retest stability of the TLS-15. Study 4 (N = 60,311) presented a large-scale validation across 37 linguistic versions of the TLS-15 on a cross-cultural sample spanning every continent of the globe. The overall results provide support for the reliability, validity, and cross-cultural invariance of the TLS-15, which can be used as a measure of love components-either separately or jointly as a three-factor measure.


Asunto(s)
Amor , Conducta Sexual , Humanos , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Parejas Sexuales , Lenguaje , Psicometría , Encuestas y Cuestionarios
2.
BMC Pregnancy Childbirth ; 23(1): 483, 2023 Jun 30.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37391704

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to exceptional stress in pregnant women. The aim of the present study was to investigate associations of maternal stress (pandemic-related and -unrelated), anxiety, and relationship satisfaction experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic with prenatal mother-infant attachment. METHODS: An online study was conducted evaluating pandemic-related stress, pregnancy-specific stress (unrelated to the pandemic), anxiety, partnership satisfaction, and maternal-fetal attachment in German-speaking women during the second COVID-19 lockdown between January and March 2021. In total, 431 pregnant women (349 lived in Germany and 82 in Switzerland) filled in the questionnaires and gave information on demographic and pregnancy-related variables (i.e. age, gestational age, parity). Bivariate correlations were calculated in order to investigate associations between the different variables and additionally, a hierarchical regression model was conducted in order to evaluate the influence of the independent variables on prenatal attachment. RESULTS: The hierarchical regression analysis revealed that after controlling for age, gestational age, and parity higher pandemic-related stress, namely stress associated with feeling unprepared for birth, higher partnership satisfaction as well as higher positive appraisal (considered as a way of coping with pandemic-related stress) was associated with stronger maternal-fetal attachment, whereas associations of anxiety and other forms of stress were non-significant. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights interesting associations between maternal pandemic-related preparedness stress and positive appraisal of the pregnancy as well as partnership satisfaction and prenatal attachment in women pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic.


Asunto(s)
COVID-19 , Pandemias , Embarazo , Lactante , Femenino , Humanos , COVID-19/epidemiología , Control de Enfermedades Transmisibles , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Madres , Satisfacción Personal
3.
MAGMA ; 36(6): 887-896, 2023 Dec.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37421501

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: Pre-clinical models of human atherosclerosis are extensively used; however, traditional histological methods do not allow for a holistic view of vascular lesions. We describe an ex-vivo, high-resolution MRI method that allows the 3 dimensional imaging of the vessel for aortic plaque visualization and quantification. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aortas from apolipoprotein-E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice fed an atherogenic diet (group 1) or a control diet (group 2) were subjected to 14 T MR imaging using a 3D gradient echo sequence. The obtained data sets were reconstructed (Matlab), segmented, and analyzed (Avizo). The aortas were further sectioned and subjected to traditional histological analysis (Oil-Red O and hematoxylin staining) for comparison. RESULTS: A resolution up to 15 × 10x10 µm3 revealed that plaque burden (mm3) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in group 1 (0.41 ± 0.25, n = 4) than in group 2 (0.01 ± 0.01, n = 3). The achieved resolution provided similar detail on the plaque and the vessel wall morphology compared with histology. Digital image segmentation of the aorta's lumen, plaque, and wall offered three-dimensional visualizations of the entire, intact aortas. DISCUSSION: 14 T MR microscopy provided histology-like details of pathologically relevant vascular lesions. This work may provide the path research needs to take to enable plaque characterization in clinical applications.


Asunto(s)
Aterosclerosis , Placa Aterosclerótica , Humanos , Animales , Ratones , Microscopía , Aterosclerosis/diagnóstico por imagen , Placa Aterosclerótica/diagnóstico por imagen , Aorta/diagnóstico por imagen , Imagen por Resonancia Magnética/métodos , Espectroscopía de Resonancia Magnética
4.
Matern Child Health J ; 27(10): 1864-1875, 2023 Oct.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37470899

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: Pregnant women are likely to experience high levels of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the factors that might influence the extent of experienced emotional distress are poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to investigate potential correlates of prenatal emotional distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: In total, N = 1437 pregnant women from Germany and Switzerland participated in an online study during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (May-August 2020). The survey assessed prenatal distress, pandemic-related pregnancy stress, general anxiety, fear of childbirth, and several socio-demographic, pregnancy- and COVID-19-related factors. Linear multivariate regression models were the main analytical strategy. RESULTS: The results highlight that several factors such as full-time employment, nulliparity, high-risk pregnancy, emotional problems, cancelled prenatal appointments, and stating that COVID-19 affected the choice of birth mode were significantly associated with elevated prenatal distress, anxiety, pandemic-related pregnancy stress, and fear of childbirth. Conversely, access to an outdoor space was a protective factor for pandemic-related pregnancy stress and prenatal distress. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: Overall, the study highlights significant correlates influencing the levels of emotional distress pregnant women experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings may contribute to the improvement of maternal prenatal medical and psychological care during a public health crisis of international concern, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.


Asunto(s)
COVID-19 , Femenino , Embarazo , Humanos , COVID-19/epidemiología , Pandemias , Suiza/epidemiología , SARS-CoV-2 , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Mujeres Embarazadas/psicología , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Miedo , Paridad , Depresión/psicología
5.
Matern Child Health J ; 27(12): 2091-2098, 2023 Dec.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37815656

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: To characterize pregnant women admitted to Irene Neto Maternity Hospital, Lubango city, Huíla province, and their pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional facility-based survey between October 2016 and September 2017, involving 500 pregnant women, followed from admission in labor until the end of delivery. Mean (SD) was computed for quantitative variables, while relative and absolute frequencies were determined for categorical variables. Additionally, confidence intervals were estimated. RESULTS: Among pregnant women 18.3% were adolescents (≤ 19 years) and 14.5% had advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years). Illiteracy was reported by 8.2%. One in three (33.6%) had a short stature (< 1.55 m). Malaria was the most frequent infection during pregnancy (16.3%). Upon admission, 18.1% were anemic (Hb < 11 g/dl) and 36.0% had hypertension (SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg), contrasting with the few cases reported of chronic hypertension and pregnancy-induced hypertension. There were 15 twin pregnancies. Cesarean section was performed in 25.2% of the women, although there was no medical indication for 23.0% of women having cesareans. Two maternal deaths occurred in our sample. Among live births from singleton pregnancies (97.1%), birth asphyxia (Apgar < 7 at 5 min) was observed in 22.7% and 10.3% had low birth weight (< 2.5 kg). CONCLUSIONS: There are very few studies reporting pregnancy outcomes in Angola. This analysis presents data from Huíla province, the second most populous province. We identified characteristics for higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes: adolescence, illiteracy, and short stature. Among newborn outcomes, birth asphyxia and low birth weight demand special attention. Further research is needed to explore the non-medical indications for cesarean section and to better understand the twinning rate in Lubango.


Asunto(s)
Cesárea , Hipertensión Inducida en el Embarazo , Recién Nacido , Adolescente , Embarazo , Femenino , Humanos , Adulto , Estudios Transversales , Angola/epidemiología , Asfixia , Resultado del Embarazo/epidemiología
6.
J Reprod Infant Psychol ; : 1-12, 2023 Jan 02.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36593232

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Whereas the maternal 'blues' has been widely researched, comparatively less is known about the "highs" following childbirth, and the relation between mothers and fathers' mood in this early period. We aimed to investigate the association between maternal 'blues' and 'highs' with paternal postpartum mood (here described as 'lows' and 'highs') in the early postpartum and their associations with the quality of child bonding. METHODS: Women and their cohabitating male partners, fathers of the index child (N = 98 couples), attending an obstetric hospital unit completed questionnaires on mood, bonding and socio-demographics between the 3rd and the 5th postpartum day. We used generalised estimating equations to analyse the data. RESULTS: The 'blues' scores were higher in mothers, whereas 'highs' and bonding were higher in fathers. Maternal 'blues' were significantly correlated with paternal 'lows' (rs = .23, p < .05) and maternal 'highs' were also associated with paternal 'highs' (rs = .22, p < .05). Parental 'highs' were significantly associated with better baby bonding (B = .13, p = .02). CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates moderate associations between both 'blues/lows' and 'highs' in mothers and fathers shortly after the birth of the child. Associations between mood, particularly 'highs', and bonding were similar for mothers and fathers. Greater consideration of 'blues/lows' and 'highs' in both parents is needed to promote adjustment in the postpartum period.

7.
Front Neuroendocrinol ; 62: 100929, 2021 07.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34171352

RESUMEN

Women's increased risk for depression during reproductive transitions suggests an involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis of HPO functioning in female mood disorders. Inclusionary criteria were: i) women suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or a depressive disorder, ii) assessment of HPO-axis related biomarkers, iii) a case-control design. Sixty-three studies (N = 5,129) were included. There was evidence for PMDD to be paralleled by lower luteal oestradiol levels. Women with depression unrelated to reproductive transition showed lower testosterone levels than healthy controls and there was some evidence for lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels. There were no differences in HPO-related parameters between women with pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopausal depression and controls. Women with PMDD and depression unrelated to reproductive transitions exhibit specific changes in the HPO-axis, which potentially contribute to their symptoms. Further research into reproductive mood disorders characterised by extreme endocrine changes is warranted.


Asunto(s)
Trastorno Disfórico Premenstrual , Síndrome Premenstrual , Femenino , Hormonas , Humanos , Trastornos del Humor , Embarazo
8.
BMC Pregnancy Childbirth ; 21(1): 62, 2021 Jan 18.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33461520

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: We aimed to determine the associations between breastfeeding and children's neurodevelopment indexed by intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional and behavioural problems through mid-childhood adjusting for prenatal and postnatal depression and multiple confounders; and to test the novel hypothesis that breastfeeding may moderate the effects of prenatal depression and anxiety on children's neurodevelopment. METHODS: The study is based on women and their children from the longitudinal Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (n=11,096). Children's IQ was derived from standardized in-person testing; behaviour problems were assessed according to parent-report; information on breastfeeding, prenatal depression and anxiety and multiple confounders were derived from self-report questionnaires. We conducted hierarchical multiple regression adjusting for several covariates. RESULTS: 43% women were exclusively breastfeeding at 1 month and an additional 16.8% were engaged in mixed or partial breastfeeding. Both exclusive breastfeeding (B = 2.19; SD = 0.36, p =.00) and mixed feeding (B = 1.59; SD= 0.52; p=.00) were positively associated with IQ at 8 years of age, after adjusting for covariates. Exclusive breastfeeding was negatively associated with hyperactivity/attention deficit at 4 years (B = -.30, SD = .05; p < .01); mixed feeding was related to hyperactivity/attention deficit at age 9 (B = .20; SD = .08; p = .03) after adjustments. There was no association between breastfeeding and emotional or conduct problems. Breastfeeding did not moderate the association between prenatal depression and anxiety and children's neurodevelopment. CONCLUSIONS: The selective association between breastfeeding and neurodevelopmental measures suggests a nutritional rather than broader beneficial psychological effect on child neurodevelopment. Breastfeeding did not moderate the associations between prenatal depression and anxiety and child neurodevelopment, suggesting separate mechanisms of action.


Asunto(s)
Trastorno por Déficit de Atención con Hiperactividad/psicología , Lactancia Materna/psicología , Desarrollo Infantil , Depresión/psicología , Inteligencia , Adulto , Niño , Desarrollo Infantil/fisiología , Preescolar , Depresión Posparto/psicología , Inglaterra , Femenino , Humanos , Lactante , Fórmulas Infantiles , Inteligencia/fisiología , Pruebas de Inteligencia , Estudios Longitudinales , Masculino , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven
9.
Molecules ; 26(17)2021 Aug 28.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34500661

RESUMEN

Mussel production generates losses and waste since their commercialisation must be aligned with target market criteria. Since mussels are rich in proteins, their meat can be explored as a source of bioactive hydrolysates. Thus, the main objective of this study was to establish the optimal production conditions through two Box-Behnken designs to produce, by enzymatic hydrolysis (using subtilisin and corolase), hydrolysates rich in proteins and with bioactive properties. The factorial design allowed for the evaluation of the effects of three factors (hydrolysis temperature, enzyme ratio, and hydrolysis time) on protein/peptides release as well as antioxidant and anti-hypertensive properties of the hydrolysates. The hydrolysates produced using the optimised conditions using the subtilisin protease showed 45.0 ± 0.38% of protein, antioxidant activity via ORAC method of 485.63 ± 60.65 µmol TE/g of hydrolysate, and an IC50 for the inhibition of ACE of 1.0 ± 0.56 mg of protein/mL. The hydrolysates produced using corolase showed 46.35 ± 1.12% of protein, antioxidant activity of 389.48 ± 0.21 µmol TE/g of hydrolysate, and an IC50 for the inhibition of ACE of 3.7 ± 0.33 mg of protein/mL. Mussel meat losses and waste can be used as a source of hydrolysates rich in peptides with relevant bioactive properties, and showing potential for use as ingredients in different industries, such as food and cosmetics, contributing to a circular economy and reducing world waste.


Asunto(s)
Mytilus/metabolismo , Hidrolisados de Proteína/metabolismo , Animales , Antioxidantes/metabolismo , Carne , Temperatura
10.
Front Neuroendocrinol ; 55: 100792, 2019 10.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31557486

RESUMEN

Sexual dysfunctions are common in men with depression. As the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is a crucial regulator of sexual function, and also affects mood and cognition, the following question arises: Is the HPG axis altered in depressed men when compared to healthy controls? To answer this question, PubMed and PsycINFO were searched. Inclusion criteria for the systematic review and meta-analysis were: (1) case-control study including male patients with a depressive disorder and (2) assessment of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestradiol, or testosterone. Seventeen studies were identified. Follicle-stimulating hormone and LH did not differ between patients and controls. By contrast, in patients, oestradiol was marginally increased (g = 0.52, 95% CI [-0.01, 1.04]; Z = 1.92, p = .055) and testosterone was significantly decreased (g = -0.45, 95% CI [-0.80, -0.10]; Z = -2.53, p = .012). Depressed men may be characterised by diminished testosterone and potentially elevated oestradiol, which beyond contributing to sexual dysfunction, could impact mood and cognition.


Asunto(s)
Trastorno Depresivo/metabolismo , Estradiol/metabolismo , Hormona Folículo Estimulante/metabolismo , Sistema Hipotálamo-Hipofisario/metabolismo , Hormona Luteinizante/metabolismo , Testosterona/metabolismo , Humanos , Masculino
11.
Sex Transm Infect ; 96(8): 587-589, 2020 12.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32423945

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: To characterise infections by HIV, Treponema pallidum, hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) in parturients admitted to Irene Neto Maternity, Lubango city, Huíla province, Angola, namely its seropositivity rate and its association with sociodemographic factors. METHODS: An observational, cross-sectional and analytical facility-based survey was conducted among 500 parturients at Irene Neto Maternity, from October 2016 to September 2017. Women in labour were screened for antibodies against HIV-1/2, T. pallidum and HCV. Antigen detection was used to diagnose HBV infections. Sociodemographic data were also collected. The seropositivity rate and respective CIs were estimated at a level of 95%. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to explore the association between the studied infections and sociodemographic factors. RESULTS: In 11.8% of the parturients (95% CI 9.3 to 14.9), at least one infection was detected. HBV infection was the most common (8.6%), followed by HIV infection (3.0%) and syphilis (1.0%). Coinfection with HBV and HIV was observed in two parturients (0.4%) and HBV, HIV and T. pallidum were all detected in one parturient (0.2%). No HCV infection was detected. For each additional year of formal education, pregnant women had a 10.0% lower chance of being infected with HBV (adjusted OR=0.900, 95% CI 0.816 to 0.992). CONCLUSIONS: This study is one of the few reports contributing for the knowledge of some sexually transmitted infections epidemiology in Angola. The seropositivity rate of the studied infections is of concern, especially the high endemicity of HBV. There is a need for a stronger commitment and further research to design cost-effective public health and clinical interventions to improve the situation.


Asunto(s)
Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Anticuerpos Antivirales/sangre , Infecciones por VIH/sangre , Hepatitis B/sangre , Hepatitis C/sangre , Complicaciones del Embarazo/sangre , Sífilis/sangre , Adolescente , Adulto , Angola/epidemiología , Coinfección/sangre , Coinfección/epidemiología , Estudios Transversales , Demografía , Femenino , Infecciones por VIH/epidemiología , Hepatitis B/epidemiología , Hepatitis C/epidemiología , Humanos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Parto , Embarazo , Complicaciones del Embarazo/epidemiología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Sífilis/epidemiología , Adulto Joven
12.
Diabetes Obes Metab ; 22(11): 2089-2096, 2020 11.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32618383

RESUMEN

AIM: To evaluate whether the addition of sotagliflozin to optimized insulin significantly increases the proportion of adults with type 1 diabetes who achieve HbA1c goals without weight gain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a patient-level pooled analysis (n = 1575) of data from two phase 3, 52-week clinical trials (inTandem1 and inTandem2), the change from baseline in HbA1c and weight as well as the proportion of participants achieving an HbA1c of less than 7% without weight gain were compared between groups treated with placebo, sotagliflozin 200 mg and sotagliflozin 400 mg. RESULTS: From a mean baseline HbA1c of 7.7%, mean HbA1c changes at week 24 were -0.36% (95% CI -0.44% to -0.29%) and -0.38% (-0.45% to -0.31%) with sotagliflozin 200 and 400 mg versus placebo (P = .001 for both), respectively, with sustained effects through week 52. Weight significantly decreased at weeks 24 and 52 in both sotagliflozin groups compared with placebo. At week 52, the proportion of patients who achieved an HbA1c of less than 7% without weight gain was 21.8% with sotagliflozin 200 mg, 26.1% with sotagliflozin 400 mg and 9.1% with placebo (P < .001). Other HbA1c, weight and safety composite variables showed similar significant trends. CONCLUSION: When added to optimized insulin therapy, sotagliflozin improved glycaemic control and body weight and enabled more adults with type 1 diabetes to achieve HbA1c goals without weight gain over 52 weeks, although there was more diabetic ketoacidosis relative to placebo.


Asunto(s)
Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1 , Adulto , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1/tratamiento farmacológico , Método Doble Ciego , Quimioterapia Combinada , Hemoglobina Glucada/análisis , Glicósidos , Humanos , Hipoglucemiantes/uso terapéutico , Insulina/uso terapéutico , Aumento de Peso
14.
Int J Mol Sci ; 20(4)2019 Feb 17.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30781581

RESUMEN

Homocysteine (Hcy) is a sulfur-containing non-proteinogenic amino acid formed during the metabolism of the essential amino acid methionine. Hcy is considered a risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the molecular basis of these associations remains elusive. The impairment of endothelial function, a key initial event in the setting of atherosclerosis and CVD, is recurrently observed in hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy). Various observations may explain the vascular toxicity associated with HHcy. For instance, Hcy interferes with the production of nitric oxide (NO), a gaseous master regulator of endothelial homeostasis. Moreover, Hcy deregulates the signaling pathways associated with another essential endothelial gasotransmitter: hydrogen sulfide. Hcy also mediates the loss of critical endothelial antioxidant systems and increases the intracellular concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) yielding oxidative stress. ROS disturb lipoprotein metabolism, contributing to the growth of atherosclerotic vascular lesions. Moreover, excess Hcy maybe be indirectly incorporated into proteins, a process referred to as protein N-homocysteinylation, inducing vascular damage. Lastly, cellular hypomethylation caused by build-up of S-adenosylhomocysteine (AdoHcy) also contributes to the molecular basis of Hcy-induced vascular toxicity, a mechanism that has merited our attention in particular. AdoHcy is the metabolic precursor of Hcy, which accumulates in the setting of HHcy and is a negative regulator of most cell methyltransferases. In this review, we examine the biosynthesis and catabolism of Hcy and critically revise recent findings linking disruption of this metabolism and endothelial dysfunction, emphasizing the impact of HHcy on endothelial cell methylation status.


Asunto(s)
Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/metabolismo , Homocisteína/metabolismo , Hiperhomocisteinemia/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/patología , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/patología , Células Endoteliales/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales/patología , Homocisteína/toxicidad , Humanos , Sulfuro de Hidrógeno/metabolismo , Hiperhomocisteinemia/patología , Metionina/metabolismo , Óxido Nítrico/metabolismo , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno/metabolismo , S-Adenosilhomocisteína/metabolismo
15.
Int J Mol Sci ; 19(1)2018 Jan 03.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29301341

RESUMEN

Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane channels that facilitate water and glycerol permeation through cell membranes. Recently, the water channel AQP1 was suggested to contribute to endothelial homeostasis and cardiovascular health. Less is known about endothelial aquaglyceroporins expression and its implication in cardiovascular disease (CVD). We have previously used cultured human endothelial cells under a hypomethylating environment to study endothelial dysfunction and activation, a phenotype implicated in the establishment of atherosclerosis and CVD. Here, we used the same cell model to investigate aquaporin's expression and function in healthy or pro-atherogenic phenotype. We first confirmed key features of endothelium dysfunction and activation in our cell model, including an augmented endothelial transmigration under hypomethylation. Subsequently, we found AQP1 and AQP3 to be the most predominant AQPs accounting for water and glycerol fluxes, respectively, in the healthy endothelium. Moreover, endothelial hypomethylation led to decreased levels of AQP1 and impaired water permeability without affecting AQP3 and glycerol permeability. Furthermore, TNF-α treatment-induced AQP1 downregulation suggesting that the inflammatory NF-κB signaling pathway mediates AQP1 transcriptional repression in a pro-atherogenic endothelium, a possibility that warrants further investigation. In conclusion, our results add further support to AQP1 as a candidate player in the setting of endothelial dysfunction and CVD.


Asunto(s)
Acuaporinas/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales de la Vena Umbilical Humana/metabolismo , Transporte Biológico/efectos de los fármacos , Permeabilidad de la Membrana Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Glicerol/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales de la Vena Umbilical Humana/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , Metilación/efectos de los fármacos , S-Adenosilhomocisteína , Factor de Necrosis Tumoral alfa/farmacología , Agua/metabolismo
16.
Molecules ; 23(6)2018 06 17.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29914219

RESUMEN

Here and for the first time, we show that the organometallic compound [Ru(η5-C5H5)(PPh3)2Cl] (RuCp) has potential to be used as a metallodrug in anticancer therapy, and further present a new approach for the cellular delivery of the [Ru(η5-C5H5)(PPh3)2]⁺ fragment via coordination on the periphery of low-generation poly(alkylidenimine) dendrimers through nitrile terminal groups. Importantly, both the RuCp and the dendrimers functionalized with [Ru(η5-C5H5)(PPh3)2]⁺ fragments present remarkable toxicity towards a wide set of cancer cells (Caco-2, MCF-7, CAL-72, and A2780 cells), including cisplatin-resistant human ovarian carcinoma cell lines (A2780cisR cells). Also, RuCp and the prepared metallodendrimers are active against human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), which are often found in the tumor microenvironment where they seem to play a role in tumor progression and drug resistance.


Asunto(s)
Antineoplásicos/síntesis química , Cisplatino/farmacología , Complejos de Coordinación/síntesis química , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos/efectos de los fármacos , Células Madre Mesenquimatosas/citología , Compuestos Organometálicos/química , Antineoplásicos/química , Antineoplásicos/farmacología , Células CACO-2 , Línea Celular Tumoral , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Complejos de Coordinación/química , Complejos de Coordinación/farmacología , Dendrímeros , Ensayos de Selección de Medicamentos Antitumorales , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , Células MCF-7 , Células Madre Mesenquimatosas/efectos de los fármacos , Estructura Molecular , Compuestos Organometálicos/síntesis química , Compuestos Organometálicos/farmacología
17.
Biochim Biophys Acta ; 1862(1): 82-92, 2016 01.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26506125

RESUMEN

S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) can induce endothelial dysfunction and activation, contributing to atherogenesis; however, its role in the activation of the inflammatory mediator NFkB has not been explored. Our aim was to determine the role of NFkB in SAH-induced activation of endothelial cells. Furthermore, we examined whether SAH, as a potent inhibitor of S-adenosylmethionine-dependent methyltransferases, suppresses the function of EZH2 methyltransferase to contribute to SAH-induced endothelial cell activation. We found that excess SAH increases the expression of adhesion molecules and cytokines in human coronary artery endothelial cells. Importantly, this up-regulation was suppressed in cells expressing a dominant negative form of the NFkB inhibitor, IkB. Moreover, SAH accumulation triggers the activation of both the canonical and non-canonical NFkB pathways, decreases EZH2, and reduces histone 3 lysine 27 trimethylation. EZH2 knockdown recapitulated the effects of excess SAH on endothelial activation, i.e., it induced NFkB activation and the subsequent up-regulation of adhesion molecules and cytokines. Our findings suggest that suppression of the epigenetic regulator EZH2 by excess SAH may contribute to NFkB activation and the consequent vascular inflammatory response. These studies unveil new targets of SAH regulation, demonstrating that EZH2 suppression and NFkB activation mediated by SAH accumulation may contribute to its adverse effects in the vasculature.


Asunto(s)
Células Endoteliales/inmunología , Proteína Potenciadora del Homólogo Zeste 2/inmunología , Inflamación/inmunología , FN-kappa B/inmunología , S-Adenosilhomocisteína/inmunología , Línea Celular , Humanos , Metilación , Metiltransferasas/inmunología , S-Adenosilmetionina/inmunología
18.
Arch Womens Ment Health ; 20(1): 123-128, 2017 02.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27878386

RESUMEN

Little is known about the natural course of depressive symptoms and associated features throughout pregnancy. We examined the course of some psychological and somatic symptoms in each month of pregnancy in a normative sample. A consecutive, unselected sample of women (N = 374) were interviewed retrospectively at 6 weeks postpartum with the Structured Clinical Interview (DSM-IV). Women were asked whether they had experienced each symptom at any time during pregnancy and the occurrence of the symptom for each month of pregnancy. Associated symptoms of depression showed complex changes across pregnancy. Depressed mood (F(df) = 5.15(1); p = 0.02) showed a quadratic pattern with elevations at the beginning and end of pregnancy. Both linear increases (a) and quadratic (b) changes over time were observed for sensitivity to criticism (F a(df) = 20.9(1), p a = 0.00; F b(df) = 7.02(1), p b = 0.00), lack of concentration (F a(df) = 37.0(1), p a = 0.00; F b(df) = 10.3(1); p b = 0.00), decreased energy (F a(df) = 13.4(1); p a = 0.00; F b(df) = 62.6(1); p b = 0.00) and feelings of heavy limbs (F a (df) = 92.9(1); p a = 0.00; F b(df) = 67.7(1); p b = 0.00). Only guilt (F(df) = 0.00(1); p = 0.93) showed no significant change over pregnancy. Psychological symptoms changed throughout pregnancy as much as somatic symptoms. A linear increase was found for most symptoms, but significant non-linear changes were also found. The discrepancy between the patterns of depressed mood and most somatic and psychological symptoms suggest complex interactions and potentially important implications for assessment and monitoring treatment.


Asunto(s)
Depresión/diagnóstico , Trastorno Depresivo/diagnóstico , Complicaciones del Embarazo/diagnóstico , Trimestres del Embarazo/psicología , Adulto , Ansiedad/psicología , Depresión/psicología , Trastorno Depresivo/psicología , Manual Diagnóstico y Estadístico de los Trastornos Mentales , Femenino , Culpa , Humanos , Entrevista Psicológica , Embarazo , Complicaciones del Embarazo/psicología , Pruebas Psicológicas , Autoimagen , Conducta Social
19.
Clin Infect Dis ; 63(5): 627-633, 2016 Sep 01.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27217216

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: The human treponematoses are important causes of disease. Mother-to-child transmission of syphilis remains a major cause of stillbirth and neonatal death. There are also almost 100 000 cases of endemic treponemal disease reported annually, predominantly yaws. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) would improve access to screening for these diseases. Most RDTs cannot distinguish current and previous infection. The Dual Path Platform (DPP) Syphilis Screen & Confirm test includes both a treponemal (T1) and nontreponemal (T2) component and may improve the accuracy of diagnosis. METHODS: We conducted a metaanalysis of published and unpublished evaluations of the DPP-RDT for the diagnosis of syphilis and yaws. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, and overall agreement of the test compared with reference laboratory tests. RESULTS: Nine evaluations, including 7267 tests, were included. Sensitivity was higher in patients with higher titer rapid plasma reagin (≥1:16) for both the T1 (98.2% vs 90.1%, P < .0001) and the T2 component (98.2% vs 80.6%, P < .0001). Overall agreement between the DPP test and reference serology was 85.2% (84.4%-86.1%). Agreement was highest for high-titer active infection and lowest for past infection. CONCLUSIONS: The RDT has good sensitivity and specificity of the treponemal and nontreponemal components both in cases of suspected syphilis and yaws, although the sensitivity is decreased at lower antibody titers.


Asunto(s)
Pruebas en el Punto de Atención , Juego de Reactivos para Diagnóstico , Sífilis/diagnóstico , Buba/diagnóstico , Humanos , Modelos Estadísticos , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Sensibilidad y Especificidad
20.
J Clin Lab Anal ; 30(5): 628-32, 2016 Sep.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26892231

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Laboratory diagnosis of neurosyphilis is complicated especially when it is asymptomatic, no single laboratory test result being appropriate to diagnose central nervous system infectivity caused by Treponema pallidum. Our objective was to evaluate two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques for the detection of T. pallidum DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with syphilis. METHODS: One hundred twenty-four CSF samples from patients with reactive blood tests for syphilis were obtained. Two PCR techniques (47-PCR, polA-PCR) were used to detect T. pallidum DNA. The laboratory criteria used for the diagnosis of neurosyphilis to which the PCR techniques were compared were those recommended by the IUSTI: 2008 European guidelines on the management of syphilis. RESULTS: Treponema pallidum DNA was detected amplified in 37 of 124 (29.8%) and 30 of 124 (24.2%) samples with the 47-PCR and polA-PCR, respectively. Sensitivities were 75.8% and 69.7% and specificities 86.8% and 92.3%, respectively, for 47-PCR and polA-PCR techniques, respectively. The three CSF samples of patients with primary syphilis did not fulfill the criteria of neurosyphilis and DNA was only detected in one by the 47-PCR. In samples from secondary syphilis and neurosyphilis, three of nine and nine of nine respectively, results were coincident for the two PCR techniques and neurosyphilis criteria. Major discrepancies between the two PCR techniques and neurosyphilis diagnostic criteria were observed in latent syphilis. CONCLUSION: Beyond some limitations of the study, which are discussed here, both PCR techniques seem to be useful for the diagnosis of neurosyphilis, although 47-PCR presents a higher sensitivity and polA-PCR a higher specificity.


Asunto(s)
ADN Protozoario/líquido cefalorraquídeo , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/métodos , Treponema pallidum/aislamiento & purificación , Adulto , Humanos , Sensibilidad y Especificidad , Sífilis/líquido cefalorraquídeo , Sífilis/parasitología , Treponema pallidum/genética
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