Effects of Mind-Body Qigong Exercise on Overall Health, Fatigue/Sleep, and Cognition in Older Chinese Immigrants in the US: An Intervention Study with Control.

Background: Culturally relevant exercises may help improve health and address disparities faced by older immigrants due to language and cultural barriers. Few studies have focused on such exercise interventions among older Chinese immigrants at US daycare centers. Methods: We conducted a 10-week nonrandomized controlled trial in older Chinese immigrants in Philadelphia, US. The intervention group practiced Chinese Qigong (Baduanjin) 5 days a week guided by trained research assistants and video instructions. The control group maintained their usual daily activities. We collected self-report assessments on overall health, sleep, and fatigue and implemented two computerized cognitive tests measuring psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) and memory twice, preintervention and postintervention. Repeated measures general linear model (GLM) and paired samples t-tests were used for data analyses. Results: Eighty-eight older adults (Qigong, n = 53; control, n = 35) with an average age of 78.13 (SD = 5.05) were included. Groups showed no significant differences at baseline evaluation. After the 10-week exercise, the intervention group showed significant improvements in overall health (p=0.032), fatigue (p < 0.001), and cognitive functions including memory (p=0.01), response speed (p=0.002), and response time (p=0.012) on the PVT, as well as marginally significant benefits in sleep (p=0.058). Between-group comparisons identified significant group-by-time interactions in health (p=0.024), sleep (p=0.004), fatigue (p=0.004), and memory (p=0.004). Conclusion: We revealed significant positive effects of Qigong in older Chinese immigrants across multiple health domains. Findings highlight the potential of a culturally relevant exercise in addressing health disparities.

DHA Supplementation during Pregnancy in Women with Obesity Normalizes IGF2R Levels in the Placenta of Male Newborns.

Introduction: Insulin-like growth factor receptor 2 (IGF2R) regulates placental nutrient transport, and its soluble form is related to obesity in adults. If the placental expression of IGF2R is altered in women with obesity is unknown. Whether maternal supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties, has a modulatory role in IGF2R's function has not been elucidated. We hypothesized that maternal obesity (Ob) would be associated with alterations in placental IGF2R expression, which may be prevented with DHA supplementation during pregnancy. Methods: At delivery, we obtained placentas from women with Ob (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, n = 17), Ob supplemented with 800 mg/day of DHA during pregnancy (Ob + DHA, n = 13), and normal-weight women (Nw, BMI ≥ 18.5 ≤ 24.9 kg/m2, n = 14). The IGF2R mRNA and protein were determined by RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. Moreover, we quantified the gene expression of molecules that modulate the IGF2R function in the extracellular domain, such as TACE/ADAM17, PLAU, and IGF2. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric tests were used to compare results between two or three groups accordingly. Results: The IGF2R levels in the Ob placentas of the male offspring were higher than in the Nw group. The DHA supplementation prevented this effect, suggesting an unknown relationship between IGF2R-Ob-DHA in placental tissues. Conclusion: We report, for the first time, that DHA supplementation during pregnancy in women with obesity normalizes the increased IGF2R levels in male placentas, reducing the risk of adverse outcomes related to the IGF2/IGF2R system in male newborns.

Culturally tailored group Qigong exercise in older Chinese immigrants: A feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: Culturally tailored group exercise bridges health disparities among new immigrants, particularly older adults. We designed a Chinese Qigong (Baduanjin) exercise intervention testing the feasibility and acceptability among older Chinese at a senior daycare center in Philadelphia, PA, US. METHODS: 10-week Qigong group in-person exercise was delivered 5 days a week, using a 12-minute video tutorial under trained research assistants' guidance. Daily attendance and attrition was recorded. Participants completed baseline self-report assessments on physical and mental health, and two computerized cognitive tests, the psychomotor vigilance test and a memory test. RESULTS: 53 older adults participated (mean age: 78, female: 88.7%). Average daily attendance was 65.28%. Stratification analysis on age groups <80 and ≥80 shows no significant differences on key variables. CONCLUSIONS: Recruitment for Baduanjin Qigong exercise was feasible in senior daycare centers, and older adults could easily learn and safely follow exercise movements. Preliminarily findings call for further research.

Phytochemical Study of Eryngium cymosum F. Delaroche and the Inhibitory Capacity of Its Main Compounds on Two Glucose-Producing Pathway Enzymes.

One undescribed acylated flavonol glucoside and five known compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Eryngium cymosum F. Delaroche, a plant that is used in traditional Mexican medicine to treat type 2 diabetes. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using a variety of spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). Chlorogenic acid (1), rosmarinic acid (2), caffeic acid (3), protocatechuic acid (4), kaempferol-3-O-(2,6-di-O-trans-ρ-coumaryl)-ß-d-glucopyranoside (5), and the new acylated flavonol glucoside quercetin-3-O-(2,6-di-O-trans-ρ-coumaryl)-ß-d-glucopyranoside (6) were isolated. This is the first report on the natural occurrence of quercetin-3-O-(2,6-di-O-trans-ρ-coumaryl)-ß-D-glucopyranoside (6). In addition, according to the HPLC profile obtained for the water extract (WE), chlorogenic acid (1) and rosmarinic acid (2) were identified as the main compounds, while kaempferol-3-O-(2,6-di-O-trans-ρ-coumaryl)-ß-d-glucopyranoside (5) were the main compound in the butanolic extract. We demonstrate the important role of compound 5 over the inhibition of G6Pase and FBPase. The isolated compounds may play an important role in the hypoglycemic effect of the extract and may act in a synergic way, but more experiments are needed to corroborate these findings.

Association of Exposure to Cattle with Self-Reported History of TB Among Dairy Workers.

BACKGROUND: Mycobacterium bovis (bTB) is a potential health hazard to dairy workers. This study uses the One Health wholistic framework for examining bovine tuberculosis (TB) and its relationship to human health. This approach can help bridge surveillance data gaps and contribute to disease control and prevention programs for dairy farm workers, cattle, and the environment. The primary objective of this study was to compare the self-reported history of TB among dairy workers in Bailey County, Texas, with occupational categories of risk and exposure to TB. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among dairy workers. Job positions were used as a proxy for exposure to cattle-high and medium/low. We employed bivariate analyses to examine differences between groups using both the chi-square test and the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: Of the 293 dairy workers invited, 77.0% (n = 225) participated. No statistically significant associations were found between job categories and reported history of TB exposure. Workers in the high group were younger, Guatemalan males with lower levels of formal education, more likely to be single with no children, and cohabitating with coworkers compared with the medium/low group. CONCLUSION/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: Self-reported TB history among dairy workers is an imprecise measure of being previously diagnosed with TB. Dairy workers at risk for occupationally acquired TB could be tested for TB before employment and tested periodically thereafter, and more expeditiously treated if a positive test is obtained. Future studies should focus on the feasibility of offering on-farm health services, such as TB screening.

Multilevel Variation in Diabetes Screening Within an Integrated Health System.

OBJECTIVE: Variation in diabetes screening in clinical practice is poorly described. We examined the interplay of patient, provider, and clinic factors explaining variation in diabetes screening within an integrated health care system in the U.S. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of primary care patients aged 18-64 years with two or more outpatient visits between 2010 and 2015 and no diagnosis of diabetes according to electronic health record (EHR) data. Hierarchical three-level models were used to evaluate multilevel variation in screening at the patient, provider, and clinic levels across 12 clinics. Diabetes screening was defined by a resulted gold standard screening test. RESULTS: Of 56,818 patients, 70% completed diabetes screening with a nearly twofold variation across clinics (51-92%; P < 0.001). Of those meeting American Diabetes Association (ADA) (69%) and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) (36%) screening criteria, three-quarters were screened with a nearly twofold variation across clinics (ADA 53-92%; USPSTF 49-93%). The yield of ADA and USPSTF screening was similar for diabetes (11% vs. 9%) and prediabetes (38% vs. 36%). Nearly 70% of patients not eligible for guideline-based screening were also tested. The USPSTF guideline missed more cases of diabetes (6% vs. 3%) and prediabetes (26% vs. 19%) than the ADA guideline. After adjustment for patient, provider, and clinic factors and accounting for clustering, twofold variation in screening by provider and clinic remained (median odds ratio 1.97; intraclass correlation 0.13). CONCLUSIONS: Screening practices vary widely and are only partially explained by patient, provider, and clinic factors available in the EHR. Clinical decision support and system-level interventions are needed to optimize screening practices.

Chronic hypoglycemic effect and phytochemical composition of Smilax moranensis roots

ABSTRACT Smilax moranensis M.Martens & Galeotti, Smilacaceae, root is a medicinal plant used among the Chatinos in Oaxaca, Mexico, to control type 2 diabetes. The objectives of the study were to isolate the bioactive compounds from the roots of Smilax and evaluate the chronic hypoglycemic effect of the ethanol-water extract. The main compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract via conventional phytochemical methods. The dried roots of S. moranensis were extracted with methanol and chromatographed on Sephadex LH 20. Fractions were chromatographed and purified on a silica gel chromatography column. The ethanol-water extract was orally administered to hyperglycemic rats for a period of 42 days, and glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and triacylglycerides were measured. Moreover, very-low-density lipoprotein was calculated. During the chemical investigation, three compounds were isolated and characterized, namely, 3-O-caffeoyl-quinic acid, 5-O-caffeoyl-quinic acid and trans-resveratrol, using various spectroscopic techniques. Animal experiments confirmed that the plant extract could control both the glucose and HbA1c levels. In conclusion, this study confirms that the roots of S. moranensis have hypoglycemic properties and suggests that the isolated compounds are potentially involved in this effect.

The Association Among Overweight, Obesity, and Low Back Pain in U.S. Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study of the 2015 National Health Interview Survey.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore the association between obesity (via body mass index [BMI]) and presence of low back pain (LBP) in a representative sample of US adults, aged ≥18 years. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used data from 32 060 respondents to the 2015 National Health Interview Survey. Body mass index (kg/m2) was calculated using reported height and weight and expressed as normal weight (<25 kg/m2), overweight (25 to <30 kg/m2), or obese (≥30 kg/m2); 3-month prevalence of reported LBP was the targeted outcome. Weighted univariate and multivariable logistic regression (adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, and leisure-time physical activity) were performed. Interaction by sex and race/ethnicity was also explored. RESULTS: Findings suggest a statistically significant association between BMI categories and LBP. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of LBP in overweight and obese participants were higher than those in normal weight participants: 1.21 (1.11-1.32) and 1.55 (1.44-1.67), respectively. Both sex and race/ethnicity statistically significantly modified the association between BMI and LBP. Compared with normal weight white men (reference), odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of LBP were higher among obese white men, obese white women, and obese nonwhite women (1.28 [1.10, 1.48], 1.58 [1.36, 1.84], and 1.36 [1.16, 1.60], respectively), and lower in overweight, nonwhite men, and normal weight nonwhite men and women (0.80 [0.68, 0.94], 0.62 [0.51, 0.76], and 0.73 [0.61, 0.87], respectively). CONCLUSION: Overweight and obesity were associated with increased odds of LBP. However, the measures of associations varied in magnitude and direction by race and sex groups.

Glutamine protects intestinal calcium absorption against oxidative stress and apoptosis.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether glutamine (GLN) could block the inhibition of the intestinal Ca2+ absorption caused by menadione (MEN), and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. To do this, one-month old chicks were divided in four groups: 1) controls, 2) MEN treated, 3) GLN treated and 4) GLN treated before or after MEN treatment. Intestinal Ca2+ absorption as well as protein expression of molecules involved in the transcellular Ca2+ pathway were determined. Glutathione (GSH) and superoxide anion and activity of enzymes of the antioxidant system were evaluated. Apoptosis was measured by the TUNEL technique, the expression of FAS and FASL and the caspase-3 activity. A previous dose of 0.5gGLN/kg of b.w. was necessary to show its protector effect and a dose of 1g/kg of b.w. could restore the intestinal Ca2+ absorption after MEN treatment. GLN alone did not modify the protein expression of calbindin D28k and plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase, but blocked the inhibitory effect of the quinone. GLN avoided changes in the intestinal redox state provoked by MEN such as a decrease in the GSH content, and increases in the superoxide anion and in the SOD and CAT activities. GLN abrogated apoptotic effects caused by MEN in intestinal mucosa, as indicated by the reduction of TUNEL (+) cells and the FAS/FASL/caspase-3 pathway. In conclusion, GLN could be an oral nutritional supplement to normalize the redox state and the proliferation/cell death ratio in the small intestine improving the intestinal Ca2+ absorption altered by oxidative stress.

II - Insulin processing in mitochondria.

Our objective was to know how insulin is processing in mitochondria; if IDE is the only participant in mitochondrial insulin degradation and the role of insulin degradation on IDE accumulation in mitoplasts. Mitochondria and its fractions were isolated as described by Greenwalt. IDE was purified and detected in immunoblot with specific antibodies. High insulin degradation was obtained through addition to rat's diet of 25 g/rat of apple and 10 g/rat of hard-boiled eggs, 3 days a week. Mitochondrial insulin degradation was assayed with 5 % TCA, insulin antibody or Sephadex G50 chromatography. Degradation was also assayed 60 min at 37 °C in mitochondrial fractions (IMS and Mx) with diet or not and without IDE. Degradation in fractions precipitated with ammonium sulfates (60-80 %) were studied after mitochondrial insulin incubation (1 ng. insulin during 15 min, at 30 °C) or with addition of 2.5 mM ATP. Supplementary diet increased insulin degradation. High insulin did not increase mitoplasts accumulation and did not decrease mitochondrial degradation. High insulin and inhibition of degradation evidence insulin competition for a putative transport system. Mitochondrial incubation with insulin increased IDE in matrix as observed in immunoblot. ATP decreased degradation in Mx and increased it in IMS. Chromatography of IMS demonstrated an ATP-dependent protease that degraded insulin, similar to described by Sitte et al. Mitochondria participate in insulin degradation and the diet increased it. High insulin did not accomplish mitochondrial decrease of degradation or its accumulation in mitoplasts. Mitochondrial incubation with insulin increased IDE in matrix. ATP suggested being a regulator of mitochondrial insulin degradation.

Glass transitions and physical aging of cassava starch - corn oil blends.

Glass transition temperatures and physical aging of amorphous cassava starch and their blends with corn oil were assessed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Two enthalpic relaxation endotherms, well separated in temperature values, were exhibited by neat amorphous cassava starch with 10.6% moisture content, evidencing two amorphous regions within the starch with different degrees of mobility. The phase segregation of these two amorphous regions was favored by added corn oil at low moisture contents during storage. The presence of amylose-lipid complexes in this matrix, may also affect the molecular dynamics of these two amorphous regions at low moisture contents. Increasing moisture content, leads to a homogeneous amorphous phase, with an aging process characterized by a single enthalpic relaxation peak. In all cases, after deleting the thermal history of the samples only one glass transition temperature was detected (during DSC second heating runs) indicating that a single homogeneous amorphous phase was attained after erasing the effects of physical aging. Trends of the enthalpic relaxation parameters were also different at the two moisture contents considered in this work.

[Environmental UV radiation levels for dosing PUVA-sol in Mexico]. / Niveles de radiación UV ambiental para dosificar el PUVA-sol en México.

BACKGROUND: PUVA-sol therapy has the advantage of its extensive availability and low cost. However, its use is empirical. The aim was to quantify the environmental UVA radiation and suggest a method for PUVA-sol administration. METHODS: we measured the UV radiation in the center of México (22 °N, 101 °W, 1877 m) by means of terrestrial radiometry from 2007 to 2011. We registered the variations according to hour, month, cloudiness and transmission through domestic silicate plates. RESULTS: more than 75 % of the UVA radiation is registered between the hours of 9:00 and 17:00. The annual lowest average intensity was 20 mW/cm(2) and the highest 25.4 mW/cm(2) (ANOVA, p < 0.001). The monthly UVA irradiation during the zenith for clear skies can be estimated by the following formula: 23.8 + 0.13 (month) - 0.13 (month - 6.5)(2), (r(2) = 0.95, p < 0.001). The commonly used silicate plate (3 mm) has a UVB absorbance of 0.93, and UVA transmittance of 0.58. CONCLUSIONS: the rational use of PUVA-sol is possible on the basis of the obtained data. It is necessary to isolate UVB radiation, and to adjust exposure during cloudy days, as well as following the safety protocol to obtain benefit and to reduce the risk of adverse effects.

Introducción: la terapia PUVA-sol tiene como ventaja su disponibilidad y bajo costo. Sin embargo, su utilización es empírica. La finalidad del estudio es cuantificar la radiación solar UVA ambiental y sugerir una forma de administración en México. Métodos: se midió la radiación UV en el centro del país (22 °N, 101 °O, 1877 m) mediante radiometría terrestre de 2007 a 2011. Se registró la variación por hora, mes, nubosidad y transmisión a través de placas de silicato doméstico. Resultados: más del 75 % de la radiación UVA se registra entre las 9:00 y las 17:00 horas. La intensidad anual promedio mínima fue de 20 mW/cm2 y la máxima de 25.4 mW/cm2 (ANOVA, p < 0.001). El cálculo de irradiación UVA mensual durante el cenit bajo cielo despejado puede estimarse mediante la fórmula: 23.8 + 0.13 (mes) - 0.13 (mes - 6.5)2, (r2 = 0.95, p < 0.001). La placa común (3 mm) de silicato doméstico tiene una absorbancia UVB de 0.93 y una transmitancia UVA de 0.58. Conclusiones: es posible el empleo racional de PUVA-sol según los datos obtenidos. Es necesario aislar la radiación UVB y ajustar la dosis según la nubosidad, así como apegarse al protocolo de seguridad a fin de obtener beneficios y minimizar los efectos adversos.

Molecular mechanisms involved in the enhancement of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase activity by calcitriol in chick intestine.

Mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH) from the intestine is the NAD-linked oxidoreductase of the tricarboxylic acid cycle with the highest activity and response to vitamin D treatment in vitamin D-deficient chicks (-D). The aim of this study was to elucidate potential molecular mechanisms by which cholecalciferol or calcitriol enhances the activity of this enzyme. One group of animals used was composed of -D and -D treated with cholecalciferol or with calcitriol. A second group consisted of -D and -D supplemented with high Ca(2+) diet. A third group included chicks receiving either a normal or a low Ca(2+) diet. In some experiments, animals were injected with cycloheximide. Data showed that either vitamin D (cholecalciferol or calcitriol) or a low Ca(2+) diet increases mMDH activity. High Ca(2+) diet did not modify the intestinal mMDH activity from -D. The mMDH activity from -D remained unaltered when duodenal cells were exposed to 10(-8) mol/L calcitriol for 15 min. The enhancement of mMDH activity by calcitriol was completely abolished by simultaneous cycloheximide injection to -D. mMDH mRNA levels, detected by RT-PCR, indicate that calcitriol did not affect gene expression. In contrast, Western blots show that calcitriol enhanced the protein expression. In conclusion, calcitriol stimulates intestinal mMDH activity by increasing protein synthesis. No response of mMDH activity by rapid effects of calcitriol or activation through increment of serum Ca(2+) was demonstrated. Consequently, ATP production would be increased, facilitating the Ca(2+) exit from the enterocytes via the Ca(2+)-ATPase and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, which participate in the intestinal Ca(2+) absorption.

A multiarray mapping method to minimize morbidity from thermocoagulation as treatment of refractory trigeminal neuralgia.

BACKGROUND: Conventional percutaneous thermocoagulation of postgasserian fibers has shown high success rates, with significant residual morbidity. METHODS: This communication summarizes conclusions of multiple publications on our computerized mapping method and technique, and presents new data on short- and long-term results on trigeminal pain, including an actuarial analysis, complications. RESULTS: In TTN, 97.4% of 75 procedures produced initial pain relief without medication. In all, 84.7% of appropriate verbal responses were achieved by proper location of the needle at the chosen target, requiring an average of 1.45 tracts per procedure. Needle tip was located between 1 and 15 mm below the sellar floor in 97.0% of procedures and in an angle of 40 degrees to 80 degrees regarding the clivus profile projection in 99.1%. A 93% reduction of corneal analgesia and a 100% suppression of major dysesthesias and cranial nerve palsies were found. CONCLUSION: We have shown a significant reduction of morbidity from percutaneous thermocoagulation of postgasserian fibers with similar short- and long-term results as those shown in 11 recently selected series. Strict adherence to all details of our new method and technique is essential. Future multiinstitutional studies are needed to confirm and enrich this small series.

Genotypes of vitamin D and estrogen receptors in pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba, Argentina.

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes and their relationship with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba (Argentina) and adjacent areas. Genotypes were assessed by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction technique. Bsm I and Fok I for vitamin D receptor gene and Xbal and Pvull for estrogen receptor gene were used as restrictases. Two hundred and ten healthy pre and perimenopausal women were recruited and analyzed by age. Calcemia and serum parathyroid hormone did not change, but serum P and beta-CrossLaps decreased with age. Femoral neck bone mineral density decreased significantly after 30 years old. Vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotype frequencies were similar to those from other Caucasian women. No association between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density has been detected. Analysis of interaction between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genes using covariates such as age, height and body mass index did not show any influence of the combination of those genotypes on bone mineral density. Lifestyle, smoking and alcohol intake had no effect on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density. To conclude, these data do not support the hypothesis that vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes influence on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from this area of Argentina.

Genotypes of vitamin D and estrogen receptors in pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba, Argentina

El propósito del estudio fue determinar la frecuencia de los genotipos de los receptores de vitamina D y de estrógeno y su relación con la densidad mineral ósea en mujeres sanas pre y perimenopáusicas de la ciudad de Córdoba y alrededores. Los genotipos se determinaron con la técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y análisis de los polimorfismos de longitud de fragmentos de restricción. Se usaron como restrictasas Bsm I y Fok I para el gen del receptor de vitamina D y Pvu II y Xba I para el gen del receptor de estrógeno. Se reclutaron y agruparon por edad doscientos diez mujeres pre y peri-menopáusicas. Sus niveles séricos de Ca y de hormona paratiroidea fueron similares, pero los de fósforo y b-Cross Laps disminuyeron con la edad. La densidad mineral ósea de cuello femoral disminuyó después de los 30 años. Las frecuencias genotípicas de ambos receptores fueron similares a aquéllas de otras mujeres caucásicas. No hubo asociación entre los genotipos de los receptores y la densidad mineral ósea. Los análisis de interacción entre ambos genes no evidenciaron influencia sobre la densidad mineral ósea, utilizándose edad, talla e índice de masa corporal como covariables. Los estilos de vida y hábitos de fumar y beber alcohol tampoco afectaron la densidad mineral ósea. En conclusión, estos datos no sostienen la hipótesis de que los genotipos de los receptores de vitamina D y de estrógeno influencian la densidad mineral ósea de columna lumbar y cuello femoral en mujeres sanas pre y perimenopáusicas de esta región de Argentina.

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes and their relationship with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba (Argentina) and adjacent areas. Genotypes were assessed by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction technique. Bsm I and Fok I for vitamin D receptor gene and XbaI and PvuII for estrogen receptor gene were used as restrictases. Two hundred and ten healthy pre and perimenopausal women were recruited and analyzed by age. Calcemia and serum parathyroid hormone did not change, but serum P and b-CrossLaps decreased with age. Femoral neck bone mineral density decreased significantly after 30 years old. Vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotype frequencies were similar to those from other Caucasian women. No association between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density has been detected. Analysis of interaction between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genes using covariates such as age, height and body mass index did not show any influence of the combination of those genotypes on bone mineral density. Lifestyle, smoking and alcohol intake had no effect on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density. To conclude, these data do not support the hypothesis that vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes influence on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from this area of Argentina.

Genotypes of vitamin D and estrogen receptors in pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba, Argentina

El propósito del estudio fue determinar la frecuencia de los genotipos de los receptores de vitamina D y de estrógeno y su relación con la densidad mineral ósea en mujeres sanas pre y perimenopáusicas de la ciudad de Córdoba y alrededores. Los genotipos se determinaron con la técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y análisis de los polimorfismos de longitud de fragmentos de restricción. Se usaron como restrictasas Bsm I y Fok I para el gen del receptor de vitamina D y Pvu II y Xba I para el gen del receptor de estrógeno. Se reclutaron y agruparon por edad doscientos diez mujeres pre y peri-menopáusicas. Sus niveles séricos de Ca y de hormona paratiroidea fueron similares, pero los de fósforo y b-Cross Laps disminuyeron con la edad. La densidad mineral ósea de cuello femoral disminuyó después de los 30 años. Las frecuencias genotípicas de ambos receptores fueron similares a aquéllas de otras mujeres caucásicas. No hubo asociación entre los genotipos de los receptores y la densidad mineral ósea. Los análisis de interacción entre ambos genes no evidenciaron influencia sobre la densidad mineral ósea, utilizándose edad, talla e índice de masa corporal como covariables. Los estilos de vida y hábitos de fumar y beber alcohol tampoco afectaron la densidad mineral ósea. En conclusión, estos datos no sostienen la hipótesis de que los genotipos de los receptores de vitamina D y de estrógeno influencian la densidad mineral ósea de columna lumbar y cuello femoral en mujeres sanas pre y perimenopáusicas de esta región de Argentina.(AU)

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes and their relationship with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from Córdoba (Argentina) and adjacent areas. Genotypes were assessed by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction technique. Bsm I and Fok I for vitamin D receptor gene and XbaI and PvuII for estrogen receptor gene were used as restrictases. Two hundred and ten healthy pre and perimenopausal women were recruited and analyzed by age. Calcemia and serum parathyroid hormone did not change, but serum P and b-CrossLaps decreased with age. Femoral neck bone mineral density decreased significantly after 30 years old. Vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotype frequencies were similar to those from other Caucasian women. No association between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes with the lumbar spine or femoral neck bone mineral density has been detected. Analysis of interaction between vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genes using covariates such as age, height and body mass index did not show any influence of the combination of those genotypes on bone mineral density. Lifestyle, smoking and alcohol intake had no effect on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density. To conclude, these data do not support the hypothesis that vitamin D receptor and estrogen receptor genotypes influence on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density in healthy pre and perimenopausal women from this area of Argentina.(AU)

Disfunción craneomandibular: frecuencia y formas de presentación en una población de trescientos adultos jóvenes y su demanda de atención / Carniomandibular dysfunction: frequency and forms of presentation in a three-hundred adult population and its care demand

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la frecuencia de signos y síntomas de disfunción craneomandibular (DCM) y la demanda y necesidad de tratamiento en una muestra de 300 estudiantes adultos jóvenes con una edad promedio de 26.9, con una distribución por sexo del 68.5 por ciento de hombres y 79,7 por ciento de mujeres. Se utilizó el protocolo de Fricton para organizar la data, generándose 4 índices según áreas observadas: dolor a la palpación muscular articular, limitación y dolor en los movimientos mandibulares y ruidos articulares. Se observaron además algunas características oclusales y otros síntomas que comúnmente acompañan a la DCM, para establecer su posible asociación. Resultados: se observó una alta frecuencia de signos y síntomas que alcanzó el 75.7 por ciento de la muestra, pero en sólo el 3,3 por ciento presentó DCM severa. El dolor a la palpación muscular alcanzó el 41,3 por ciento de la muestra, en la ATM al 24.7 por ciento, el chasquido al 27 por ciento y la limitación en la movilidad mandibular el 24,3 por ciento. La necesidad y demanda de tratamiento fueron escasas, alcanzando el 7 y 6.7 por ciento, respectivamente. Los factores oclusales comparados no fueron estadísticamente significativos asociados a la DCM. Por el contrario, el bruxismo, las cefaleas, el tinnitus, el vértigo, la fatiga mandibular y la hipermovilidad articular sistémica (HAS) estuvieron asociados a la DCM significativamente (P=0,001 a 0,047), no así la hipoacusia. Conclusión: la frecuencia de signos y síntomas de DCM fue muy alta. Sin embargo, sólo el 3,3 por ciento de la muestra presentó sintomatología severa y por lo tanto, la necesidad y demanda de atención alcanzaron un bajo porcentaje de los encuestados. De los resultados obtenidos en este estudio se observa un alto factor de riesgo para el sexo femenino y la DCM. Como en la mayor parte de los trabajos publicados últimamente, la asociación de factores oclusales y la DC no es significativa.

Disfunción craneomandibular: frecuencia y formas de presentación en una población de trescientos adultos jóvenes y su demanda de atención / Carniomandibular dysfunction: frequency and forms of presentation in a three-hundred adult population and its care demand

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la frecuencia de signos y síntomas de disfunción craneomandibular (DCM) y la demanda y necesidad de tratamiento en una muestra de 300 estudiantes adultos jóvenes con una edad promedio de 26.9, con una distribución por sexo del 68.5 por ciento de hombres y 79,7 por ciento de mujeres. Se utilizó el protocolo de Fricton para organizar la data, generándose 4 índices según áreas observadas: dolor a la palpación muscular articular, limitación y dolor en los movimientos mandibulares y ruidos articulares. Se observaron además algunas características oclusales y otros síntomas que comúnmente acompañan a la DCM, para establecer su posible asociación. Resultados: se observó una alta frecuencia de signos y síntomas que alcanzó el 75.7 por ciento de la muestra, pero en sólo el 3,3 por ciento presentó DCM severa. El dolor a la palpación muscular alcanzó el 41,3 por ciento de la muestra, en la ATM al 24.7 por ciento, el chasquido al 27 por ciento y la limitación en la movilidad mandibular el 24,3 por ciento. La necesidad y demanda de tratamiento fueron escasas, alcanzando el 7 y 6.7 por ciento, respectivamente. Los factores oclusales comparados no fueron estadísticamente significativos asociados a la DCM. Por el contrario, el bruxismo, las cefaleas, el tinnitus, el vértigo, la fatiga mandibular y la hipermovilidad articular sistémica (HAS) estuvieron asociados a la DCM significativamente (P=0,001 a 0,047), no así la hipoacusia. Conclusión: la frecuencia de signos y síntomas de DCM fue muy alta. Sin embargo, sólo el 3,3 por ciento de la muestra presentó sintomatología severa y por lo tanto, la necesidad y demanda de atención alcanzaron un bajo porcentaje de los encuestados. De los resultados obtenidos en este estudio se observa un alto factor de riesgo para el sexo femenino y la DCM. Como en la mayor parte de los trabajos publicados últimamente, la asociación de factores oclusales y la DC no es significativa.(AU)

The impact of disease activity on the quality of life, mental health status, and family dysfunction in colombian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

This study investigated the relationship between activity of disease, mental health status, quality of life, and family dysfunction in northwestern Colombian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Seventy-nine patients completed a 2-phase study that included physical examination (objective measurement of disease activity according to adapted American College of Rheumatology criteria) and a pretested questionnaire that sought information on helplessness, disability, depression, anxiety, quality of life, arthritis self-efficacy for pain, and other symptoms, as well as family dysfunction and socioeconomic status. Nineteen patients (24%) had active RA, 48 (61%) had moderately active RA, and 12 (15%) were in remission. Symptoms of depression, helplessness, disability, pain, anxiety, lower quality of life, and self-efficacy were associated with RA activity regardless of age, sex, and duration of the disease. Symptoms of depression were directly correlated with anxiety, helplessness, pain, and disability and inversely correlated with quality of life and self-efficacy. Although family dysfunction was present in 39% of patients, no associations between family dysfunction, activity of RA, mental health variables, socioeconomical status or quality of life were observed. These results indicate that RA activity significantly influences mental health status and quality of life in this population. Accordingly, a holistic conception of therapy should guide the treatment of patients with RA.