Comparison of vitamin C and flavanones between freshly squeezed orange juices and commercial 100% orange juices from four European countries.

Knowing the true levels of nutrients and dietary bioactives in fruit juices at the point of consumption is key to properly understand their potential health benefits. The objective was to characterise the vitamin C and flavanone content in commercial orange juices consumed in Europe, compared with fresh-squeezed juices. Commercial juices were a rich source of vitamin C (>30% of the Nutrient Reference Value). Vitamin C in fresh-squeezed juices, at the end of their shelf-life, remained 33% higher than the levels found in the commercial juices. Flavanones had similar values from both commercial and fresh juices, except for fresh samples stored for 48 h, where fresh juices had higher values (22.36 mg/100 mL). Thus, orange juices preserve their bioactive compounds during storage, with very little influence of the brand, country, industrial process or storage conditions. Main bioactive compounds in commercial juices are present at nutritionally significant levels to the freshly-squeezed ones.

Bioaccessible Organosulfur Compounds in Broccoli Stalks Modulate the Inflammatory Mediators Involved in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Inflammatory diseases are strongly associated with global morbidity and mortality. Several mediators are involved in this process, including proinflammatory interleukins and cytokines produced by damaged tissues that, somehow, act as initiators of the autoreactive immune response. Bioactive compounds present in plant-based foods and byproducts have been largely considered active agents with the potential to treat or prevent inflammatory diseases, being a valuable alternative to traditional therapeutic agents used nowadays, which present several side effects. In this regard, the present research uncovers the anti-inflammatory activity of the bioaccessible fraction of broccoli stalks processed, by applying different conditions that render specific concentrations of bioactive sulforaphane (SFN). The raw materials' extracts exhibited significantly different contents of total glucosinolates (GSLs) that ranged between 3993.29 and 12,296.48 mg/kg dry weight (dw), with glucoraphanin as the most abundant one, followed by GI and GE. The indolic GSLs were represented by hydroxy-glucobrassicin, glucobrassicin, methoxy-glucobrassicin, and neo-glucobrassicin, with the two latter as the most abundant. Additionally, SFN and indole-3-carbinol were found in lower concentrations than the corresponding GSL precursors in the raw materials. When exploring the bioaccessibility of these organosulfur compounds, the GSL of all matrices remained at levels lower than the limit of detection, while SFN was the only breakdown product that remained stable and at quantifiable concentrations. The highest concentration of bioaccessible SFN was provided by the high-ITC materials (~4.00 mg/kg dw). The results retrieved on the cytotoxicity of the referred extracts evidenced that the range of supplementation of growth media tested (0.002-430.400 µg of organosulfur compounds/mL) did not display cytotoxic effects on Caco-2 cells. The obtained extracts were assessed based on their capacity to reduce the production of key proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, and TNF-α) by the intestinal epithelium. Most of the tested processing conditions provided plant material with significant anti-inflammatory activity and the absence of cytotoxic effects. These data confirm that SFN from broccoli stalks, processed to optimize the bioaccessible concentration of SFN, may be potential therapeutic leads to treat or prevent human intestinal inflammation.

Effect of Rootstock on the Volatile Profile of Mandarins.

Mandarin production has increased in recent years, especially for fresh consumption, due to its ease of peeling, its aroma, and its content of bioactive compounds. In this sense, aromas play a fundamental role in the sensory quality of this fruit. The selection of the appropriate rootstock is crucial for the success of the crop and its quality. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the influence of 9 rootstocks ("Carrizo citrange", "Swingle citrumelo CPB 4475", "Macrophylla", "Volkameriana", "Forner-Alcaide 5", "Forner-Alcaide V17", "C-35", "Forner-Alcaide 418", and "Forner-Alcaide 517") on the volatile composition of "Clemenules" mandarin. For this, the volatile compounds of mandarin juice were measured using headspace solid-phase micro-extraction in a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Seventy-one volatile compounds were identified in the analyzed samples, with limonene being the main compound. The results obtained showed that the rootstock used in the cultivation of mandarins affects the volatile content of the juice, with "Carrizo citrange", "Forner-Alcaide 5", "Forner-Alcaide 418", and "Forner-Alcaide 517" being those that presented the highest concentration.

The (Poly)phenolic Profile of Separate Winery By-Products Reveals Potential Antioxidant Synergies.

The by-products of grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) in the winemaking process present a diverse phytochemical profile of (poly)phenols, essentially represented by phenolic acids, flavonoids, and stilbenes, which have health benefits. In winemaking, solid (grape stems and pomace) and semisolid (wine lees) by-products are generated, negatively impacting the sustainability of the agro-food activity and the local environment. Although information on the phytochemical profile of grape stems and pomace has been reported, especially information concerning (poly)phenols, research on wine lees is necessary to take advantage of the compositional traits of this residue. So, in the present work, an updated, in-depth comparison of the (poly)phenolic profiles of these three resulting matrices in the agro-food industry has been carried out to provide new knowledge and interesting data on the action of yeast and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) metabolism in the diversification of phenolic composition; additionally, we extract complementarities for the possible joint application of the three residues. The phytochemical analysis of the extracts was carried out using HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn. The (poly)phenolic profiles of the residues showed significant discrepancies. The results obtained showed that the greatest diversity of (poly)phenols was found in the stems of the grapes, followed closely by the lees. Through technological insights, it has been suggested that yeasts and LAB, responsible for the fermentation of must, might play a key role in the transformation of phenolic compounds. This would provide new molecules with specific bioavailability and bioactivity features, which might interact with different molecular targets and, consequently, improve the biological potential of these underexploited residues.

Microwave Treatment vs. Conventional Pasteurization: The Effect on Phytochemical and Microbiological Quality for Citrus-Maqui Beverages.

This study uncovered the impacts of microwave (MW) treatments compared to conventional pasteurization (TP) on the quality of functional citrus-maqui beverages, with added sucrose or stevia. The influence of these thermal treatments on the microbiological burden and phytochemical composition was determined by processing under two MW power levels (600 W and 800 W) and TP at 85 °C for 15 s for 60 days at room temperature (20 °C). The results indicated that, beyond the microbiological quality achieved in the juices treated by both MW and TP technology, there were no differences among the treatments regarding the stability of vitamin C, anthocyanin, and flavanone concentrations. However, anthocyanins were more stable in those beverages with sucrose added, rendering a better red color. Besides, all treatments ensured microbiological stability throughout the entire storage time. In conclusion, MW treatment could be considered as an alternative to TP, which ensures microbial safety, protecting functional compounds associated with health effects.

Conventional vs. Organic: Evaluation of Nutritional, Functional and Sensory Quality of Citrus limon.

Organic farming is growing rapidly worldwide since it is perceived as more respectful of the environment than conventional farming. In this sense, organic agriculture is highly appreciated by consumers since consumers around the world believe that organic food has a higher content of beneficial compounds for health and consider it of higher quality. For that reason, the objective of this research was to evaluate the nutritional, sensorial, and functional quality of the 'Fino 49' lemon grafted on Citrus macrophylla in conventional and organic cultivation. Fatty acids, amino acids, total phenol, and polyphenols were quantified, antioxidant activity was measured, and sensory descriptive analysis was performed. Conventional farming led to an increase in amino acid content (641 mg L-1) and an increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids (254 mg 100 g-1) and monounsaturated fatty acids (37.61 mg 100 g-1). On the other hand, organically produced lemon fruits had better sensory profile (highlighting overall aroma (6.5), lemon odor (6.8), sourness (5.8), floral (0.6), and fresh lemon flavor (9.8)), and lower thrombogenicity index (0.15). The type of cultivation (organic and conventional) had no influence on the antioxidant activity (~1.60, ~3.08, and ~4.16 mmol Trolox L-1 for ABTS+, DPPH•, and FRAP, respectively) and polyphenols content (85.51 and 86.69 conventional and organic, respectively). However, to establish the advantages and disadvantages of different types of cultivation on lemon quality more studies are needed.

Impact of Non-Thermal Technologies on the Quality of Nuts: A Review.

Nuts are widely consumed worldwide, mainly due to their characteristic flavor and texture, ease of consumption, and their functional properties. In addition, consumers increasingly demand natural or slightly processed foods with high quality. Consequently, non-thermal treatments are a viable alternative to thermal treatments used to guarantee safety and long shelf life, which produce undesirable changes that affect the sensory quality of nuts. Non-thermal treatments can achieve results similar to those of the traditional (thermal) ones in terms of food safety, while ensuring minimal loss of bioactive compounds and sensory properties, thus obtaining a product as similar as possible to the fresh one. This article focuses on a review of the main non-thermal treatments currently available for nuts (cold plasma, high pressure, irradiation, pulsed electric field, pulsed light, ultrasound and ultraviolet light) in relation to their effects on the quality and safety of nuts. All the treatments studied have shown promise with regard to the inhibition of the main microorganisms affecting nuts (e.g., Aspergillus, Salmonella, and E. coli). Furthermore, by optimizing the treatment, it is possible to maintain the organoleptic and functional properties of these products.

Métodos de diagnóstico molecular en la práctica odontológica / Molecular diagnostic methods in dental practice

El diagnóstico molecular, mediante la aplicación de técnicas molecu- lares, ha permitido estudiar microorganismos presentes en el inicio y progresión de la caries dental, enfermedad periodontal, y en los fracasos endodónticos. Las técnicas moleculares permiten la detección y cuan- tificación del material genético del ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA), ácido ribonucleico (RNA) o proteínas, lo que posibilita el estudio del genoma completo o secuencias de DNA específicas. Estas técnicas surgen como una necesidad de detectar microorganismos de difícil o lento crecimiento en cultivos; la técnica más utilizada es la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) que permite la amplificación de peque- ños segmentos de material genético al utilizar cebadores, por lo que es un método económico, preciso, sensible y rápido para la detección de microorganismos. El presente artículo de revisión bibliográfica servirá para informar sobre los avances de las técnicas moleculares utilizadas para el diagnóstico en la práctica odontológica (AU)

Molecular diagnosis, through the application of molecular techniques, has made it possible to study microorganisms present in the onset and progression of dental caries, periodontal disease, and endodontic failures. Molecular techniques allow the detection and quantification of the genetic material of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA) or proteins, allowing the study of the complete genome or specific DNA sequences, they arise as a need to detect difficult or slow growing microorganisms in cultures. The most widely used technique is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that allows the amplification of small segments of genetic material using primers, it is an economical, precise, sensitive and fast method for the detection of microorganisms. This bibliographic review article will serve to report on the advances in molecular techniques used for diagnosis in dental practice (AU)

A case of IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis with significant involvement of the abdominal aorta-a clinical and diagnostic challenge.

Immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) with retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare, fibroinflammatory disease involving the soft tissues of the retroperitoneum. A 73-year-old man with IgG4-related RPF affecting the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries was treated with steroids and mycophenolate mofetil. The prevalence of the disease remains unknown because it is often misdiagnosed and can mimic many malignant, infectious, and inflammatory conditions. Autoimmune pancreatitis is a common presenting condition of IgG4-RD. Because As IgG4-RD is responsive to steroids, diagnosing IgG4-related RPF early can prevent the exposure of patients with RPF to unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

Resistencia de cepas de Staphylococcus aureus aislados en ambientes nosocomiales / Resistance of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated in nosocomial environments / Resistência de cepas de Staphylococcus aureus isoladas em ambientes nosocomiais

Staphylococcus aureus es un microorganismo que posee características particulares de virulencia y resistencia a los antibióticos. Las infecciones que produce, ocurren mayormente en personas inmunodeprimidas que podrían presentar severas consecuencias, a pesar de la terapia antimicrobiana. Objetivo. Determinar la resistencia de Staphylococcus aureus aislados en ambientes nosocomiales mediante métodos convencionales y moleculares. Materiales y métodos. el estudio presenta un enfoque cuantitativo, investigación de campo, observacional de corte transversal. Se analizó 200 muestras de aislados de ambientes nosocomiales mediante métodos fenotípicos (antibiograma por la técnica de Kirby Bauer) y genotípicos (genes de resistencia blaZ, mecA, y vanA por PCR punto final). Resultados. Los resultados de las pruebas de susceptibilidad antibiótica mostraron que el 100% de las cepas de S. aureus aisladas, fueron resistentes a oxacilina y penicilina g; y sensibles a vancomicina. Conclusiones. los resultados obtenidos en este estudio evidenciaron la presencia de SARM en las diferentes áreas hospitalarias, constituyéndose en un factor de riesgo de transmisión horizontal entre el personal sanitario y los pacientes, razón por la cual es de gran importancia evaluar su prevalencia y establecer medidas rigurosas de prevención y control de su diseminación, para disminuir el riesgo de nuevas infecciones.

Staphylococcus aureus is a microorganism with particular characteristics of virulence and resistance to antibiotics. The infections it produces occur mostly in immunocompromised individuals who may present severe consequences, despite antimicrobial therapy. Objective. To determine the resistance of Staphylococcus aureus isolated in nosocomial environments by conventional and molecular methods. Materials and methods. The study presents a quantitative, field research, observational, cross-sectional approach. Two hundred samples of isolates from nosocomial environments were analyzed by phenotypic (antibiogram by Kirby Bauer technique) and genotypic (resistance genes blaZ, mecA, and vanA by endpoint PCR) methods. Results. The results of the antibiotic susceptibility tests showed that 100% of the S. aureus strains isolated were resistant to oxacillin and penicillin g; and sensitive to vancomycin. Conclusions. the results obtained in this study showed the presence of MRSA in the different hospital areas, constituting a risk factor for horizontal transmission between health personnel and patients, which is why it is of great importance to evaluate its prevalence and establish rigorous measures for the prevention and control of its dissemination, in order to reduce the risk of new infections.

O Staphylococcus aureus é um microorganismo com características particulares de virulência e resistência a antibióticos. As infecções ocorrem principalmente em indivíduos imunocomprometidos que podem ter conseqüências graves, apesar da terapia antimicrobiana. Objetivo. Para determinar a resistência de Staphylococcus aureus isolado em ambientes nosocomiais usando métodos convencionais e moleculares. Materiais e métodos. O estudo apresenta uma abordagem quantitativa, pesquisa de campo, observacional, transversal. Duzentas amostras de isolados de ambientes nosocomiais foram analisadas pelos métodos fenotípico (antibiograma pela técnica de Kirby Bauer) e genotípico (genes de resistência blaZ, mecA, e vanA pelo método de PCR de ponto final). Resultados. Os resultados dos testes de suscetibilidade aos antibióticos mostraram que 100% das cepas de S. aureus isoladas eram resistentes à oxacilina e penicilina g; e sensíveis à vancomicina. Conclusões. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo mostraram a presença de MRSA nas diferentes áreas hospitalares, constituindo um fator de risco para a transmissão horizontal entre o pessoal de saúde e os pacientes, razão pela qual é de grande importância avaliar sua prevalência e estabelecer medidas rigorosas para a prevenção e controle de sua disseminação, a fim de reduzir o risco de novas infecções.

Vigilancia epidemiológica de Staphylococcus aureus y resistencia antibiótica en ambientes nosocomiales / Epidemiological surveillance of Staphylococcus aureus and the antibiotic resistence in nosocomial environments / Vigilância epidemiológica de Staphylococcus aureus e resistência a antibióticos em ambientes nosocomiais

Uno de los microrganismos más importantes en Infecciones Asociadas a la Atención en Salud (IAAS) es Staphylococcus aureus, una bacteria aerobia Gram positiva, resistente a diferentes condiciones ambientales. Objetivo. Identificar Staphylococcus aureus y su resistencia a los principales antibióticos Betalactámicos, aislada en áreas inertes. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó análisis fenotípico, antibiograma y métodos moleculares como: Extracción de ADN mediante Lisis Alcalina, identificación molecular para la amplificación de los genes tanto de identificación de la bacteria (nucA y femB), como de resistencia de antibióticos (blaZ, mecA y vanA) mediante PCR punto final, la separación de los amplicones se realizó mediante electroforesis en gel de Agarosa, los productos de la PCR se revelaron mediante la utilización de transiluminador UV. Resultados. De 200 muestras tomadas se obtuvo dos muestras positivas (1%) para Staphylococcus aureus, con el 100% de resistencia a penicilina y sensible a todos los demás antibióticos testeados. Conclusiones. La identificación de la bacteria y su resistencia hoy en día se realiza mayormente mediante métodos moleculares, lo cual no descarta la identificación fenotípica que, en este caso, determinó resultados importantes como lo es la prueba D-test positivo. La resistencia a fármacos betalactámicos se considera como un serio problema de salud, por lo tanto, se requiere de una vigilancia epidemiológica constante.

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most important microorganisms related to Health Care Associated Infections (HCAI), it is a Gram-positive aerobic bacterium, highly resistant to the outer environment. Objective. Identify Staphylococcus aureus and its resistance to the most common beta-lactam antibiotics in isolated, inert areas. Materials and methods. Phenotypic analysis, antibiogram and molecular testing such as: DNA extraction by Alkaline Lysis, molecular identification for the amplification of genes both for identification of Staphylococcus aureus (nucA and femB), and for antibiotic resistance (blah, mega and vanA) by PCR, the disassociation of the amplicons was preforming by Agarose gel electrophoresis and results were shown in a UV translluminator. Results. From the 200 samples taken, two showed positive (1%) for Staphylococcus aureus, with 100% penicillin-resistant and sensitive to all other antibiotics tested. Conclusions. Nowadays identification of the bacteria and its resistance is carried out mostly through molecular testing, ruling out phenotypic identification, which in this case it determined important results such as the positive D-test. Resistance to beta-lactam drugs is considered a serious health issue, therefore it requires a safer epidemiological vigilance, an increase in sensitivity testing and the accuracy of results. It is recommended to carry out the D-test in laboratories to identify resistance mechanisms and to guide health personnel to select the best option regarding specific and effective treatment for patients affected with MRSA.

Um dos microrganismos mais importantes em Infecções Associadas à Saúde (HAIs) é o Staphylococcus aureus, uma bactéria aeróbica gram-positiva resistente a diferentes condições ambientais. Objetivo. Identificar Staphylococcus aureus e sua resistência aos principais antibióticos beta-lactam, isolados em áreas inertes. Materiais e métodos. Análise fenotípica, antibiograma e métodos moleculares foram realizados tais como: extração de DNA por Alkaline Lysis, identificação molecular para a amplificação dos genes tanto da identificação da bactéria (nucA e femB), e resistência a antibióticos (blaZ, mecA e vanA) pelo ponto final da PCR, a separação dos amplicons foi realizada por eletrofose em gel de Agarose, os produtos PCR foram revelados usando transiluminador UV. Resultados. De 200 amostras colhidas, duas amostras positivas (1%) foram obtidas para o Staphylococcus aureus, com 100% de resistência à penicilina e sensível a todos os outros antibióticos testados. Conclusões. A identificação da bactéria e sua resistência hoje é realizada principalmente por métodos moleculares, o que não exclui a identificação fenotípica que, neste caso, determinou resultados importantes como o teste D positivo. A resistência aos medicamentos beta-lactam é considerada um grave problema de saúde, portanto, é necessária uma vigilância epidemiológica constante.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV: report of 5 cases of Morquio Syndrome.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV or Morquio Syndrome, is a lysosomal deposit disease, of autosomal recessive inheritance with a similar incidence in men and women. The clinical picture is of variable expressiveness, its phenotype is characterized by skeletal dysplasia that includes neck and short trunk, short stature, keel thorax, kyphosis, scoliosis, genus valgus, flat foot, coxa valga, gait disorders, instability of the cervical spine and wedge or ovoid vertebrae. The treatment is symptomatic, with enzyme replacement. We present a series of 5 cases, the product of 2 couples, with a confirmed diagnosis of Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV, and different clinical presentation.

Susceptibilidad de cepas de S. aureus aisladas en superficies hospitalarias

Resumen Las infecciones nosocomiales por Staphylococcus aureus tiene una alta prevalencia, debido a que esta bacteria forma parte de la microbiota de la piel del personal de salud y pacientes. Este microorganismo debido a su ubicuidad está presente en superficies y fómites, convirtiéndose en vectores para la trasmisión de infecciones. Objetivo. Describir el perfil de susceptibilidad antibiótica de cepas de S. aureus aisladas en superficies de un hospital de la ciudad de Cuenca. Materiales y métodos . Se realizó un estudio con enfoque cuantitativo, de corte transversal, descriptivo. Se recolectaron 200 muestras de diferentes superficies de áreas hospitalarias, en las que se identificó S. aureus mediante la amplificación de genes nucA Y femB. La susceptibilidad fenotípica a los antibióticos se determinó por el método de Kirby Bauer. Resultados . Se identificaron 6 cepas de S. aureus distribuidas de la siguiente manera: 2 cepas en el área de emergencia (33.33%) y 1 cepa (16.66%) en cada una de las áreas de: vestidores, rayos X, ecografía y odontología. La totalidad de estos aislados resultaron resistentes a: penicilina, oxacilina y amoxacilina; sensibles a trimetoprim sulfametoxazol, rifampicina, tetraciclina, cloranfenicol, vancomicina y linezolid. En el caso de la gentamicina se encontró: 3 cepas sensibles, 1 con sensibilidad intermedia y 2 resistentes. Conclusión . Se aislaron 6 cepas de S. aurues, en las cuales se pudo medir la susceptibilidad a diferentes antibióticos.

Abstract Nasocomial infections by Staphylococcus aureus have a high prevalence, because this bacterium is part of skin microbiota of health personnel and patients. This microorganism for its ubiquity is present on surfaces and fomites becoming vectors for the transmission of infecions. Objective . Describe the antibiotic sisceptibility profile of S. aureus strains isolated from surfaces of hospital the city of Cuenca. Materials and methods . Is a quantitative cross sectional, descriptive, 200 samples were collected from different surfaces of hospital areas, in which S. aureus was identified through the amplification of nucA and femB genes. Phenotipic susceptibility to antibiotics was determined by the Kirby Bauer method. Results. 6 strains of S. aureus were identified, distributes as follows: 2 strains in the emergency area (33.33%) and 1 (16.66%) in each of the areas: dressing rooms X-rays, ultrasound and dentistry. All of these isolates were resistant to: penicillin, oxacillin, and amoxacillin; sensitive to trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole, rifampin, tetracycline vancomycin and linezolid. In the case of gentamicin, it was found: 3 sensitive strains, 1 with intermediate sensitivity and 2 resistant. Conclusion. Six strains of S. aureus were isolates, in which the susceptibility to different antibiotics could be measured.

Resumo As infecções nosocomiais por Staphylococcus aureus têm uma elevada prevalência, devido ao facto desta bactéria fazer parte da microbiota cutânea do pessoal de saúde e dos pacientes. Devido à sua ubiquidade, este microorganismo está presente nas superfícies e fomenta, tornando-se um vector de transmissão de infecções. Objectivo . Descrever o perfil de susceptibilidade aos antibióticos das estirpes de S. aureus isoladas das superfícies de um hospital na cidade de Cuenca. Materiais e métodos. Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo. Duzentas amostras foram recolhidas em diferentes superfícies de áreas hospitalares, nas quais S. aureus foi identificado por amplificação dos genes nucA e femB. A susceptibilidade fenotípica aos antibióticos foi determinada pelo método de Kirby Bauer. Resultados. Foram identificadas seis estirpes de S. aureus, distribuídas da seguinte forma: duas estirpes na área de emergência (33,33%) e uma estirpe (16,66%) em cada uma das seguintes áreas: camarins, raio-x, ultra-som e odontologia. Todos estes isolados eram resistentes à penicilina, oxacilina e amoxacilina; sensíveis ao trimetoprim sulfametoxazol, rifampicina, tetraciclina, cloranfenicol, vancomicina e linezolida. No caso da gentamicina encontramos: 3 estirpes sensíveis, 1 com sensibilidade intermédia e 2 resistentes. Conclusão . 6 estirpes de S. aurues foram isoladas, nas quais a susceptibilidade a diferentes antibióticos podia ser medida.

Sensibilidad y especificidad de pruebas moleculares en odontología / Sensitivity and specificity of molecular tests in dentistry

La biología molecular tiene mayor afinidad en las áreas de la salud, en odontología su principal aplicación ha sido en la identificación de microorganismos orales patógenos mediante el uso de secuencias genéticas específicas (ácido desoxirribonucleico [DNA], ácido ribonucleico [RNA] y proteínas). Las pruebas a nivel molecular se caracterizan por su rapidez, reproductibilidad, sensibilidad y especificidad de los microorganismos diana. El presente artículo de revisión bibliográfica servirá como herramienta para comprender los principios de las técnicas más destacadas como son: PCR estándar y RT-PCR en tiempo real, PCR con transcriptasa inversa, microarreglos y ensayo por inmunoabsorción ligado a enzimas (ELISA), además de sus ventajas y desventajas respecto a las pruebas convencionales (AU)

Molecular biology has a greater affinity in the areas of health. In dentistry, its main application has been the identification of pathogenic oral microorganisms, through the use of specific genetic sequences (deoxyribonucleic acid [DNA], ribonucleic acid [RNA] and proteins). Molecular tests are characterized by their rapidity, reproducibility, sensitivity and specificity of target microorganisms. This literature review article will serve as a tool to understand the principles of the most prominent techniques such as: Standard PCR, Real-time RT-PCR, Reverse transcriptase PCR, microarrays and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), in addition to their advantages and disadvantages with respect to conventional tests (AU)

Detección de mutaciones del gen 23S de Helicobacter pylori implicadas en la resistencia a claritromicina / Detection of Helicobacter pylori 23S gene involved in clarithromycin resistance / Detecção de mutações no gene 23S do Helicobacter pylori envolvidas na resistência à claritromicina

INTRODUCCIÓN: uno de los principales factores que influyen en el tratamiento para la erradicación de Helicobacter pylori es la resistencia a antibióticos, la cual difiere entre países e incluso regiones de un país. Entre los antibióticos más usados para el tratamiento de la infección se encuentra la claritromicina, se ha demostrado que el gen 23S ARNr está involucrado en la resistencia a este antibiótico, como resultado de mutaciones puntuales. OBJETIVO: detectar las mutaciones presentes en el gen 23S ARNr que codifican la resistencia a la claritromicina en Helicobacter pylori a través de un método no invasivo y rápido. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: a partir de muestras de heces de 76 pacientes con síntomas gastrointestinales asociados a la bacteria, se aisló y purificó el ADN bacteriano, se identificó el gen 23S ARNr mediante seminested PCR. Para la detección de mutaciones puntuales en el gen se realizó la RFLP, utilizando las enzimas HhaI que detecta la mutación T2717C y MboII que identifica la mutación A2142C/G. RESULTADOS: un total de 45 pacientes resultaron positivos a Helicobacter pylori lo cual corresponde al 59,2%. La mutación T2717C analizada con la enzima HhaI se presentó en el 2,2% de la muestra de estudio, no se obtuvo resultados positivos para la enzima MboII. CONCLUSIONES: a través de la Seminested PCR se identificó al gen 23S ARNr de Helicobacter pylori, PCR-RFLP es un método fiable para detectar la presencia de mutaciones causantes de resistencias a antibióticos, útil antes de elegir el tratamiento erradicador contra las infecciones por Helicobacter pylori.

INTRODUCTION: one of the main factors that influence the treatment for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori is resistance to antibiotics, which differs between countries and even regions of a country. Clarithromycin is among the most widely used antibiotics for the treatment of infection. The 23S rRNA gene has been shown to be involved in resistance to this antibiotic, as a result of point mutations. OBJECTIVE: to detect the mutations present in the 23S rRNA gene that encode resistance to clarithromycin in Helicobacter pylori through a non-invasive and rapid method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: from stool samples of 76 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms associated with the bacteria, bacterial DNA was isolated and purified, the 23S rRNA gene was identified by seminested PCR. For the detection of point mutations in the gene, RFLP was performed, using the enzymes HhaI that detects the T2717C mutation and MboII that identifies the A2142C / G mutation. RESULTS: a total of 45 patients were positive for Helicobacter pylori, which corresponds to 59.2%. The T2717C mutation analyzed with the HhaI enzyme was present in 2.2% of the study sample, no positive results were obtained for the MboII enzyme. CONCLUSIONS: the 23S rRNA gene of Helicobacter pylori was identified through Seminested PCR, PCR-RFLP is a reliable method to detect the presence of mutations causing resistance to antibiotics, useful before choosing the eradication treatment against Helicobacter pylori infections.

INTRODUÇÃO: um dos principais fatores que influenciam no tratamento para erradicação do Helicobacter pylori é a resistência aos antibióticos, que difere entre países e até mesmo regiões de um país. A claritromicina está entre os antibióticos mais amplamente utilizados para o tratamento de infecções.O gene 23S rRNA demonstrou estar envolvido na resistência a esse antibiótico, como resultado de mutações pontuais. OBJETIVO: detectar as mutações presentes no gene 23S rRNA que codificam resistência à claritromicina no Helicobacter pylori, por meio de um método não invasivo e rápido. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: a partir de amostras de fezes de 76 pacientes com sintomas gastrointestinais associados à bactéria, o DNA bacteriano foi isolado e purificado, o gene 23S rRNA foi identificado por PCR seminestado. Para a detecção de mutações pontuais no gene, foi realizado RFLP, utilizando as enzimas HhaI que detecta a mutação T2717C e MboII que identifica a mutação A2142C / G. RESULTADOS: um total de 45 pacientes foram positivos para Helicobacter pylori, o que corresponde a 59,2%. A mutação T2717C analisada com a enzima HhaI estava presente em 2,2% da amostra do estudo, nenhum resultado positivo foi obtido para a enzima MboII. CONCLUSÕES: por meio da PCR seminestada, foi identificado o gene rRNA 23S do Helicobacter pylori, o PCR-RFLP é um método confiável para detectar a presença de mutações que causam resistência a antibióticos, útil antes de escolher o tratamento de erradicação contra infecções por Helicobacter pylori.

Consumers' Attitude towards the Sustainability of Different Food Categories.

Currently, poverty, climate change, environmental pollution and the depletion of natural resources have generated a greater concern for sustainability. The objective is the survival of the human species and the persistence of all components of the biosphere. To achieve sustainability, human participation is essential; sustainable consumption depends on consumers' perceptions of sustainability and how they affect their behavior. The aim of this study was to understand consumers' perceptions and attitudes towards food sustainability based on country, age, gender, income and education level. An online survey was carried out in countries in Europe, America and Asia. Consumers were asked questions organized into food categories. The results showed that consumers' attitude towards sustainability is understood differently in each country, even within the same food category. Consumers with lower education level showed the lowest knowledge and concern about food sustainability. Older generations were less aware of sustainability and its related problems. While income level presented unclear results, gender did not affect attitude towards food sustainability. Therefore, to achieve a sustainable future, raising awareness among the population is increasingly necessary. Consequently, segmenting training campaigns according to the group they are aimed at will provide a greater impact and, therefore, greater awareness.

Fermented beverage obtained from hydroSOStainable pistachios.

Currently, consumers increasingly demand healthy foods, such as "vegetable drinks" made from nuts and cereals. In this scenario, the potential use of pistachios, grown under conventional and regulated deficit irrigation conditions (hydroSOStainable), to prepare fermented beverages was evaluated. This work addressed three important aspects: (i) water savings, (ii) use of noncommercial products, and (iii) expansion of the offer of vegetable drinks. Two commercial cultures of lactic acid bacteria (MA400 and MY800) and two sugars (glucose and fructose) were tested. Fermented drinks were evaluated by analyzing the following parameters: microbial counts, pH, titratable acidity, CIE (L* , a* , and b* ) color, and total fatty acid, volatile and sensory profiles; all parameters were evaluated at 1, 15, and 30 days of cold storage (4 °C). Pistachio-based beverages proved to be excellent substrates for the growth and survival of lactic acid bacteria. The fatty acid profile was not affected by the studied factors. However, the volatile profile was more complex for the treatments conventional-MY800 (80 µg/L) and hydroSOS-MA400 (72 µg/L). HydroSOS beverages fermented with MA400 culture were less sour and had higher intensity of umami and pistachio flavor; however, hydroSOS pistachios fermented with MY800 culture had lower pistachio odor intensity. All tested factors can be considered suitable for the preparation of fermented pistachios-based beverages, considering both technological and quality aspects.

Determination of the Volatile Profile of Lemon Peel Oils as Affected by Rootstock.

Citrus limon (L.) Burm is an important crop that grows between latitudes 30° North and 30° South, the main producers being China, the USA, Mexico, India, Brazil, and Spain. In Spain, lemon grows mainly in Mediterranean areas such as Murcia, Valencia, and Andalucía. The most cultivated varieties are "Fino" and "Verna". In this study, five varieties of lemon, "Verna", "Bétera", "Eureka", "Fino 49", and "Fino 95" were evaluated on different rootstocks: three new Forner-Alcaide ("FA13", "FA5", "FA517"), Citrus macrophylla, Wester, and Citrus aurantium L. Hydrodistillation was used to obtain essential oil from fresh peels and then the volatile profile was studied by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 26 volatile compounds were identified, limonene being the main one followed by ß-pinene, γ-terpinene, sabinene, and α-pinene. The results revealed that Forner-Alcaide rootstocks ("FA5" > "FA517" > "FA13") proved to be the best rootstocks for the aroma quality as they led to high volatile contents, followed by C. aurantium and C. macrophylla. Among the other varieties, the most aromatic one was "Eureka". The whole trend was as follows (in decreasing order): "Eureka" > "Bétera" > "Fino 95" > "Verna" > "Fino 49".