Candida albicans cell wall component ß-glucan has been extensively studied for its ability to induce epigenetic and functional reprogramming of innate immune cells, a process termed trained immunity. We show that a high-complexity blend of two individual ß-glucans from Saccharomyces cerevisiae possesses strong bioactivity, resulting in an enhanced trained innate immune response by human primary monocytes. The training required the Dectin-1/CR3, TLR4, and MMR receptors, as well as the Raf-1, Syk, and PI3K downstream signaling molecules. By activating multiple receptors and downstream signaling pathways, the components of this ß-glucan preparation are able to act synergistically, causing a robust secondary response upon an unrelated challenge. In in-vivo murine models of melanoma and bladder cell carcinoma, pre-treatment of mice with the ß-glucan preparation led to a significant reduction in tumor growth. These insights may aid in the development of future therapies based on ß-glucan structures that induce an effective trained immunity response.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae , beta-Glucans , Humans , Animals , Mice , Trained Immunity , beta-Glucans/pharmacology , Monocytes , Signal Transduction
Long-chain dextrans are α-glucans that can be produced by lactic acid bacteria. NextDextTM, a specific long-chain dextran with a high degree of polymerisation, produced using Weissella cibaria, was recently shown to exert prebiotic potential in vitro. In this study, the ex vivo SIFR® technology, recently validated to provide predictive insights into gut microbiome modulation down to the species level, was used to investigate the effects of this long-chain dextran on the gut microbiota of six human adults that altogether covered different enterotypes. A novel community modulation score (CMS) was introduced based on the strength of quantitative 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the highly controlled ex vivo conditions. This CMS overcomes the limitations of traditional α-diversity indices and its application in the current study revealed that dextran is a potent booster of microbial diversity compared to the reference prebiotic inulin (IN). Long-chain dextran not only exerted bifidogenic effects but also consistently promoted Bacteroides spp., Parabacteroides distasonis and butyrate-producing species like Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Anaerobutyricum hallii. Further, long-chain dextran treatment resulted in lower gas production compared to IN, suggesting that long-chain dextran could be better tolerated. The additional increase in Bacteroides for dextran compared to IN is likely related to the higher propionate:acetate ratio, attributing potential to long-chain dextran for improving metabolic health and weight management. Moreover, the stimulation of butyrate by dextran suggests its potential for improving gut barrier function and inflammation. Overall, this study provides a novel tool for assessing gut microbial diversity ex vivo and positions long-chain dextran as a substrate that has unique microbial diversity enhancing properties.
OBJECTIVES: Portable pH meters are robust and reliable tools for measuring urinary pH bypatients at home. This study evaluated the usability of a prototype smart Lit-Control® pH Meter and an associated mobile medical app, with the aim of identifying possible design and functionality issues along with usability problems among non-expert voluntary users. MATHERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one individuals of both genders, between 26 and 61 years old, tested the dyad pH meter/app for 14 days (three readings per day). The participants were asked to carry out a sequence of use of the system equivalent to what an intended user would do for urinary pH self-monitoring. At the end of the trial period, each participant filled out study questionnaires regarding the learning times, i.e. the time used by a new user to perform a task with the technology, usability, errors detected, and suggestions for improvement. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 35.4 (range, 26 to 61) years. The readings from the pH meter yielded average values of 5.72 (SD = 0.26), 6.13 (SD= 0.43), and 5.47 (SD = 1.27) for the morning, evening, and night micturitions, respectively. The time of the day with greater adherence was the morning (49.7% of all readings). The learning times were in general short as reported by the participants: 73.7% were able to register in the App, rated as the least easy task, in less than two and a half minutes. The task of uploading the pH readings, both manually and automatically, was mostly performed in less than 35 seconds. CONCLUSION: This pilot study of real-world usage pattern shows that the dyad smart Lit-Control pH meter/Appwas perceived as fit for purpose by non-expert volunteers and had no relevant functionality or usability issues that would pose a significant barrier to the intended users. New studies are ongoing in order to test the usability by patients with lithiasis history.
OBJETIVOS: Los medidores de pH (pH-metros) portátiles son herramientas precisas y fiables para determinar el pH urinario de los pacientes en su domicilio. Este estudio evaluó la usabilidad de un prototipo de pH-metro inteligente Lit-Control® y una aplicación móvil asociada (App), con el objetivo de identificar posibles problemas de diseño y funcionalidad, así como su usabilidad, entre participantes voluntarios no expertos.MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Veintiún individuos de ambos sexos, entre 26 y 61 años, probaron la combinación pH-metro/aplicación durante 14 días (tres lecturas al día). Se pidió a los participantes que efectuaran una secuencia de uso del sistema equivalente a lo que haría un supuesto usuario para la auto-monitorización del pH urinario. Al final del período de prueba, cada participante rellenó los cuestionarios del estudio sobre los tiempos de aprendizaje, es decir, el tiempo empleado para realizar cada tarea con la nueva tecnología, su usabilidad, los errores detectados y sugerencias de mejora. RESULTADOS: La edad media de los participantes fue 35,4 (rango, 26 a 61) años. Las lecturas con el pH-metro obtuvieron un valor promedio de 5,72 (DE = 0,26), 6,13 (DE = 0,43) y 5,47 (DE = 1,27) para la orina de la mañana, tarde y noche, respectivamente. El momento del día con mayor adherencia fue la mañana (49,7% de todas las lecturas). Los tiempos de aprendizaje fueron en general cortos según lo informado por los participantes: el 73,7% pudo registrarse en la App,calificada como la tarea menos fácil, en menos de dos minutos y medio. La tarea de descargar las mediciones del pH, tanto manual como automáticamente, se realizó generalmente en menos de 35 segundos.CONCLUSIÓN: Este estudio piloto sobre el patrón de uso en el mundo real muestra que la combinación del pH-metro inteligente Lit-Control y su aplicación móvil se percibió como adecuada para su propósito por voluntarios no expertos y no tuvo problemas de funcionalidad o usabilidad relevantes que pudieran representar una barrera significativa para los futuros usuarios. Se están realizando nuevos estudios para evaluar la usabilidad en pacientes con antecedentes de litiasis.
Mobile Applications , Adult , Female , Humans , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Male , Middle Aged , Pilot Projects , Surveys and Questionnaires
Objetives: Portable pH meters are robust and reliable tools for measuring urinary pH bypatients at home. This study evaluated the usability of a prototype smart Lit-Control® pH Meterand an associated mobile medical app, with the aim of identifying possible design andfunctionality issues along with usability problems among non-expert voluntary users.Materials and methods: Twenty-one individuals of both sexes, between 25 and 65years old, tested the dyad pH meter/app for 14 days (three readings per day). The participantswere asked to carry out a sequence of use of the system equivalent to what an intended userwould do for urinary pH self-monitoring. At the end of the trial period, each participant filled outstudy questionnaires regarding the learning times, i.e. the time used by a new user to performa task with the technology, usability, errors detected, and suggestions for improvement.Results: The mean age of participants was 35.4 (range, 26 to 61) years. The readings fromthe pH meter yielded average values of 5.72 (SD = 0.26), 6.13 (SD = 0.43), and 5.47 (SD =1.27) for the morning, evening, and night urines, respectively. The time of the day with greateradherence was the morning (49.7% of all readings). The learning times were in general shortas reported by the participants: 73.7% were able to register in the App, rated as the least easy task, in less than two and a half minutes. The task of uploading the pH readings, both manuallyand automatically, was mostly performed in less than 35 seconds.Conclusion: This pilot study of real-world usage pattern shows that the dyad smart Lit-Control pH meter/App was perceived as fit for purpose by non-expert volunteers and had norelevant functionality or usability issues that would pose a significant barrier to the intendedusers. New studies are ongoing in order to test the usability by patients with lithiasis history.(AU)
Objetivos: Los medidores de pH (pH-metros) portátiles son herramientas precisas y fiablespara determinar el pH urinario de los pacientes en su domicilio. Este estudio evaluó lausabilidad de un prototipo de pH-metro inteligente Lit-Control® y una aplicación móvilasociada (App), con el objetivo de identificar posibles problemas de diseño y funcionalidad,así como su usabilidad, entre participantes voluntarios no expertos.Material y métodos: Veintiún individuos de ambos sexos, entre 25 y 65 años,probaron la combinación pH-metro/aplicación durante 14 días (tres lecturas al día). Se pidió alos participantes que efectuaran una secuencia de uso del sistema equivalente a lo que haríaun supuesto usuario para la auto-monitorización del pH urinario. Al final del período de prueba,cada participante rellenó los cuestionarios del estudio sobre los tiempos de aprendizaje, esdecir, el tiempo empleado para realizar cada tarea con la nueva tecnología, su usabilidad, loserrores detectados y sugerencias de mejora.Resultados: La edad media de los participantes fue 35,4 (rango, 26 a 61) años. Laslecturas con el pH-metro obtuvieron un valor promedio de 5,72 (DE = 0,26), 6,13 (DE = 0,43)y 5,47 (DE = 1,27) para la orina de la mañana, tarde y noche, respectivamente. El momentodel día con mayor adherencia fue la mañana (49,7% de todas las lecturas). Los tiempos deaprendizaje fueron en general cortos según lo informado por los participantes: el 73,7% pudoregistrarse en la App, calificada como la tarea menos fácil, en menos de dos minutos y medio.La tarea de descargar las mediciones del pH, tanto manual como automáticamente, se realizógeneralmente en menos de 35 segundos.Conclusiones: Este estudio piloto sobre el patrón de uso en el mundo real muestra que lacombinación del pH-metro inteligente Lit-Control y su aplicación móvil se percibió comoadecuada para su propósito por voluntarios no expertos y no tuvo...(AU)
Humans , Male , Female , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Mobile Applications , Urology , Urologic Diseases , Kidney Calculi , Telemedicine , Pilot Projects , Biomedical Technology
OBJECTIVES: Urinary pH is a decisive factor in several pathologies, thereby an informative marker employed in treatment decisions. Although extensively used, the urinary pH dipstick test may not be sufficiently accurate or precise for clinical decisions and more robust methodologies need to be considered. In this study, we compare pH measurements when using a portable medical device and different dipstick tests. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four pH dipstick brands and a Lit-Control® pH Meter were tested using commercial buffer solutions with seven distinct pH values representing the physiological range in urine (4.66; 5.0; 5.5; 6.0; 7.0; 7.5; 8.0). A statistical analysis was performed to assess the correlation of measured versus real values, together with validity measures as resolution, precision and accuracy. RESULTS: Validity measures stated the superiority of the portable pH meter, with a reduced dispersion of data and more exact values. Additionally, correlation analysis demonstrate that the pH values obtained with the pH meter were the closest to the buffers' real pH values. CONCLUSION: The detailed comparative study presented here reveal the superiority of a portable pH meter to several of the most used dipstick brands in the clinic. Lit-Control® pH Meter represents a reliable alternative when a monitoring of urinary pH is needed, as may happen during the screening of diseases or treatment monitoring in the clinic, as well as during the self-monitoring by the patient under professional supervision at home
OBJETIVOS: El pH urinario es un factor decisivo en varias patologías, en consecuencia, un marcador informativo empleado en las decisiones de tratamiento. Aunque ampliamente utilizada, la tira reactiva puede no ser lo suficientemente acurada o precisa para la toma de decisiones clínicas y otras metodologías más robustas deben ser consideradas. En este estudio, comparamos las mediciones de pH cuando usamos un dispositivo médico portátil y diferentes tiras reactivas. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se probaron cuatro marcas de tiras reactives de pH y un medidor de pH, Lit-Control(R) pH Meter, utilizando soluciones tampón comerciales con siete valores de pH distintos que representan el rango fisiológico de pH en orina (4.66; 5.0; 5.5; 6.0;7.0; 7.5; 8.0). Se realizó un análisis estadístico para evaluar la correlación de los valores medidos versus los reales, junto con las medidas de validez como resolución, precisión y exactitud. RESULTADOS: Las medidas de validez indicaron la superioridad del medidor de pH portátil, con una reducción de la dispersión de los datos y valores más exactos. Además, el análisis de correlación demuestra que los valores de pH obtenidos con el medidor de pH fueron los más cercanos a los valores de pH reales de los tampones. CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio comparativo detallado presentado aquí revela la superioridad de un medidor portátil de pH frente algunas de las marcas comerciales de tiras reactivas más ampliamente usadas en las prácticas clínicas. El Lit-Control(R) pH Meter representa una alternativa fiable cuando se necesita un monitoreo del pH urinario, como puede suceder durante la detección de enfermedades o la monitorización del tratamiento a nivel clínico, así como durante el autocontrol domiciliario del paciente, bajo supervisión profesional
Humans , Urine/chemistry , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Reagent Strips/standards , Urinalysis/instrumentation , Reference Values , Reference Standards , Monitoring, Physiologic/instrumentation
OBJECTIVES: Urinary pH is a decisive factor in several pathologies, there by an informative marker employed in treatment decisions. Although extensively used, the urinary pH dipstick test may not be sufficiently accurate or precise for clinical decisions and more robust methodologies need to be considered. In this study, we compare pH measurements when using aportable medical device and different dipstick tests. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four pH dipstick brands and a Lit-Control® pH Meter were tested using commercial buffer solutions with seven distinct pH values representing the physiological range in urine (4.66; 5.0;5.5; 6.0; 7.0; 7.5; 8.0). A statistical analysis was performed to assess the correlation of measured versus real values, together with validity measures as resolution,precision and accuracy. RESULTS: Validity measures stated the superiority of the portable pH meter, with a reduced dispersion of data and more exact values. Additionally, correlation analysis demonstrate that the pH values obtained with the pH meter were the closest to the buffers' real pH values. CONCLUSION: The detailed comparative study presented here reveal the superiority of a portable pH meter to several of the most used dipstick brands in the clinic.Lit-Control® pH Meter represents a reliable alternative when a monitoring of urinary pH is needed, as may happen during the screening of diseases or treatment monitoringin the clinic, as well as during the self-monitoringby the patient under professional supervision at home.
OBJETIVOS: El pH urinario es un factor decisivo en varias patologías, en consecuencia, un marcador informativo empleado en las decisiones de tratamiento. Aunque ampliamente utilizada, la tira reactiva puede no ser lo suficientemente acurada o precisa para la toma de decisiones clínicas y otras metodologías más robustas deben ser consideradas. En este estudio,comparamos las mediciones de pH cuando usamos un dispositivo médico portátil y diferentes tiras reactivas. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se probaron cuatro marcas de tiras reactives de pH y un medidor de pH, Lit-Control® pH Meter, utilizando soluciones tampón comerciales con siete valores de pH distintos que representan el rango fisiológico de pH en orina (4.66; 5.0; 5.5; 6.0;7.0; 7.5; 8.0). Se realizó un análisis estadístico para evaluar la correlación de los valores medidos versus los reales, junto con las medidas de validez como resolución,precisión y exactitud. RESULTADOS: Las medidas de validez indicaron la superioridad del medidor de pH portátil, con una reducción de la dispersión de los datos y valores más exactos. Además, el análisis de correlación demuestra que los valores de pH obtenidos con el medidor de pH fueron los más cercanos a los valores de pH reales de los tampones.CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio comparativo detallado presentado aquí revela la superioridad de un medidor portátil de pH frente algunas de las marcas comerciales de tiras reactivas más ampliamente usadas en las práctica clínica. El Lit-Control® pH Meter representa una alternativa fiable cuando se necesita un monitoreo del pH urinario, como puede suceder durante la detección de enfermedades o la monitorización del tratamiento a nivel clínico, así como durante el autocontrol domiciliario del paciente, bajo supervisión profesional.
Reagent Strips , Urinalysis , Employment , Humans , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
BACKGROUND: Encrustation of ureteral double J stents is a common complication that may affect its removal. The aim of the proposed study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new oral composition to prevent double J stent encrustation in indwelling times up to 8 weeks. METHODS: A double-blinded, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 105 patients with indwelling double J stents enrolled across 9 public hospitals in Spain. The patients were randomly assigned (1:1) into intervention (53 patients) or placebo (52 patients) groups for 3 to 8 weeks and both groups self-monitored daily their morning urine pH levels. The primary outcome of analysis was the degree of stent ends encrustation, defined by a 4-point score (0 - none; 3 - global encrustation) using macroscopic and electron microscopy analysis of crystals, after 3 to 8-w indwelling period. Score was exponentially transformed according to calcium levels. Secondary endpoints included urine pH decrease, stent removal, and incidence of adverse events. RESULTS: The intervention group benefits from a lower global encrustation rate of stent ends than placebo group (1% vs 8.2%; p < 0.018). Mean encrustation score was 85.12 (274.5) in the placebo group and 18.91 (102.27) in the intervention group (p < 0.025). Considering the secondary end points, treated patients reported greater urine pH decreases (p = 0.002). No differences in the incidence of adverse events were identified between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the use of this new oral composition is beneficial in the context of ureteral double J indwelling by decreasing mean, as well as global encrustation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov under the name "Combined Use of a Medical Device and a Dietary Complement in Patient Urinary pH Control in Patients With an Implanted Double J Stent" with date 2nd November 2017, code NCT03343275, and URL.
Calcinosis/etiology , Calcinosis/prevention & control , Methionine/administration & dosage , Phytic Acid/administration & dosage , Postoperative Complications/etiology , Postoperative Complications/prevention & control , Stents/adverse effects , Ureter/surgery , Administration, Oral , Adult , Crystallization , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Male , Middle Aged , Prospective Studies , Prosthesis Failure , Urine/chemistry
Bacterial colonization in the oral cavity is critical for efficient action of probiotics. However, limited colonization rates have been reported in many clinical trials. The aim of this pilot clinical study was to evaluate the colonization efficiency of Streptococcus dentisani under different dosing schedules and pre-treatment conditions. Eleven adult volunteers enrolled in the study. A professional ultrasound cleaning was performed in quadrants 1 and 4. The probiotic was applied in all four quadrants at a total dose of 1010 CFUs, administered in a buccoadhesive gel for 5 min, either in a single dose (n = 5) or daily for a week (n = 6). Dental plaque and saliva samples were collected at baseline and after 14 and 28 days of first application. Amounts of S. dentisani and the cariogenic organism Streptococcus mutans were measured by qPCR and salivary pH was measured by reflectometry. There was a significant increase in S. dentisani cells at day 14 but not at day 28 under both dosing schedules. A non-significant higher colonization was found in the half-mouth with previous professional cleaning as compared to the intact half. There was a significant increase in salivary pH at day 14 (p = 0.024) and day 28 (p = 0.014), which was stronger in multi-dose patients, and a significant decrease in S. mutans at day 28 (p < 0.01). The results indicate that S. dentisani is transiently able to colonize the oral cavity and that it buffers oral pH, especially after multiple dosing. Future randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials should evaluate its use to prevent tooth decay.
Dental Caries , Probiotics , Adult , Humans , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Pilot Projects , Saliva , Streptococcus mutans
Prebiotic supplements are used to promote gastrointestinal health by stimulating beneficial bacteria. The aim of this study was to compare the potential prebiotic effects of fructans with increasing degrees of polymerization, namely fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and inulins with a low and high polymerization degree (LPDI and HPDI, respectively), using an ex vivo fermentation system to simulate the colonic environment. The system was inoculated with pooled feces from three healthy donors with the same baseline enterotype. Changes in microbiota composition were measured by 16S metagenomic sequencing after 2, 7, and 14 days of fermentation, and acid production was measured throughout the experiment. Alpha-diversity decreased upon inoculation of the ex vivo fermentation under all treatments. Composition changed significantly across both treatments and time (ANOSIM p < 0.005 for both factors). HPDI and LPDI seemed to be similar to each other regarding composition and acidification activity, but different from the control and FOS. FOS differed from the control in terms of composition but not acidification. HDPI restored alpha-diversity on day 14 as compared to the control (Bonferroni p < 0.05). In conclusion, the prebiotic activity of fructans appears to depend on the degree of polymerization, with LPDI and especially HPDI having a greater effect than FOS.
Bacteria/drug effects , Fructans/pharmacology , Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects , Oligosaccharides/pharmacology , Polymerization , Prebiotics , Adult , Bacteria/growth & development , Bacterial Typing Techniques/methods , Colon/microbiology , Female , Fermentation , Fructans/chemistry , Humans , Inulin/chemistry , Inulin/pharmacology , Male , Oligosaccharides/chemistry
BACKGROUND: In the present study we evaluated the weight loss effect of a polysaccharide-rich food supplement, LipiGo®, comprising a specific ß-glucan-chitin-chitosan fraction (BGCC) obtained from the chemical hydrolysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, resulting as a by-product of the brewing process. RESULTS: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed enrolling 56 overweight and obese subjects (body mass index, BMI, 25-35 kg m-2 ) who were not following any specific diet, and were given placebo or BGCC (3 g d-1 ) for 12 weeks. Results were analysed by intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) methods. Body weight increased in the placebo group compared to baseline (ITT: 1.0 kg, P < 0.001; PP: 1.5 kg, P = 0.003), while it was slightly lowered in the BGCC group (ITT: -0.8 kg, P = 0.210; PP: -1.1 kg, P = 0.182). BGCC, but not the consumption of placebo, also resulted in a reduction of waist circumference and body fat compared to baseline. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that daily supplementation of BGCC may be useful for improving body weight and waist circumference in overweight and obese subjects, without relevant adverse effects. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.
Anti-Obesity Agents/administration & dosage , Obesity/drug therapy , Overweight/drug therapy , Polysaccharides/administration & dosage , Saccharomyces cerevisiae/chemistry , Adult , Aged , Anti-Obesity Agents/metabolism , Body Mass Index , Dietary Supplements/analysis , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Obesity/metabolism , Obesity/physiopathology , Overweight/metabolism , Overweight/physiopathology , Polysaccharides/chemistry , Prospective Studies , Waste Products/analysis , Weight Loss/drug effects , Young Adult
The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate our results with one-stage revision using cementless femoral stem for infected hip arthroplasties. Twenty-four patients were included in the study. The acetabular component was cemented in 9 cases. In 2 patients a structured bone allograft was necessary to fill an acetabular defect. After a mean follow-up of 44.6 months, 23 patients showed no signs of infection (95.8%), the mean functional response according to the Merle d'Aubigné scale was 13.8 and the mean Harris Hip Score was 65.4. One-stage revision hip arthroplasty using cementless femoral stem was associated with a high success rate.
Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/methods , Hip Prosthesis , Joint Diseases/surgery , Prosthesis-Related Infections/surgery , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/adverse effects , Female , Femur/surgery , Hip Joint , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Prosthesis-Related Infections/etiology , Reoperation , Retrospective Studies
BACKGROUND: Hypercholesterolaemia plays a key role in the development and progression of coronary artery disease. There are numerous drugs available to treat this condition but they are often expensive and can have unwanted side effects. Therefore, a screening of lactic acid bacteria to select candidate probiotic strains to reduce cholesterol levels was carried out. Three Lactobacillus plantarum strains (CECT 7527, 7528 and 7529) were selected as potential probiotics to reduce cholesterol levels after conducting several in vitro tests for demonstrating the functionalities of the strains according to international guidelines. RESULTS: The three strains showed a high ability to survive under gastrointestinal tract conditions and to adhere to intestinal cells. Regarding lipid metabolism, the strains showed a great production of bile salt hydrolase, especially when combined. Moreover, the strains assimilated cholesterol directly from the medium. Part of the cholesterol present in the medium was removed via binding onto the bacterial cellular surface. Finally, the three strains, especially CECT 7529, produce large quantities of propionic and butyric acids. CONCLUSION: Combined, these characteristics suggest that these strains could be excellent candidates for reducing high blood cholesterol levels.
Anticholesteremic Agents/metabolism , Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism , Cholesterol/metabolism , Digestion , Intestinal Mucosa/microbiology , Lactobacillus plantarum/physiology , Probiotics/metabolism , Amidohydrolases/metabolism , Animals , Anticholesteremic Agents/adverse effects , Bacterial Adhesion , Bacterial Proteins/metabolism , Bacterial Translocation , Biological Transport , Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism , Humans , Hydrolysis , Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism , Lactobacillus plantarum/cytology , Lactobacillus plantarum/enzymology , Lactobacillus plantarum/growth & development , Microbial Viability , Molecular Typing , Probiotics/adverse effects , Random Allocation , Rats , Rats, Wistar , Species Specificity
Previous studies have indicated that supplementation with probiotic bacteria may improve lipid metabolism. The present study was aimed at investigating the effects of a mixture of three strains of Lactobacillus plantarum (CECT 7527, CECT 7528 and CECT 7529) on cholesterol-lowering efficacy in hypercholesterolaemic patients. A total of sixty volunteers (thirty participants in the placebo group and thirty counterparts in the L. plantarum group), aged 1865 years old, participated in a controlled, randomised, double-blind trial. The study group received one capsule daily containing 1·2 × 10(9) colony-forming units of Lactobacillus strains in a unique dose; the placebo group consumed the same product without bacteria for 12 weeks. A significant reduction of 13·6 % in plasma total cholesterol (TC) levels was observed after 12 weeks of consumption in the L. plantarum group when compared with the placebo group. The lipidic outcomes were also analysed based on TC values at baseline: low initial values (LIV, 2000-2500 mg/l) v. high initial values (HIV, 25103000 mg/l). In the HIV group, the L. plantarum treatment showed a reduction after 12 weeks of consumption compared with the placebo group in TC, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and oxidised LDL-C (17·4, 17·6 and 15·6 %, respectively). In the LIV, the L. plantarum treatment only showed a reduction after 12 weeks of consumption when compared with the placebo group in TC (9·4 %). The present results showed that the biofunctionality of L. plantarum (CECT 7527, CECT 7528 and CECT 7529) is proportional to the cardiovascular risk of the patient, having a better effect in patients with higher levels of cholesterol.
Anticholesteremic Agents/therapeutic use , Cholesterol/blood , Hypercholesterolemia/drug therapy , Lactobacillus plantarum , Probiotics/therapeutic use , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Anticholesteremic Agents/pharmacology , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Hypercholesterolemia/blood , Lipoproteins, LDL/blood , Male , Middle Aged , Species Specificity , Stem Cells , Young Adult
This study investigated the effect of two partially hydrolyzed guar gums (PHGG) on fatty acid and sterol excretion. PHGG were obtained by chemical hydrolysis of guar gum (GG) with H(2)O:EtOH (1:1) at 100 °C for 1 h (PHGG1) or 2 h (PHGG2). The viscosity of the PHGG in a 1 % (w/v) aqueous solution corresponded to that of a pseudoplastic fluid and was higher for PHGG1 than PHGG2. Guinea pigs (n = 8 per group) were fed high fat diets (17/100 g) that contained 12/100 g of cellulose, PHGG1, or PHGG2 for 4 weeks. Despite the differences in viscosity, the two PHGG exerted similar physiological effects. Compared to the control cellulose group, the body weight gain was lower in animals fed PHGG, although no effect on food consumption was observed. PHGG increased the excretion of fatty acids and neutral sterols, but not bile acids. Consumption of PHGG did not alter the fecal fatty acid profile, while intestinal bioconversion of sterols tended to increase in response to PHGG2. A reduction in the viscosity within the range tested did not correlate with losses in the hypocholesterolemic capacity of PHGG as both were effective in reducing plasma cholesterol. Thus, we conclude that the chemical hydrolysis of guar gum renders the gum suitable for inclusion in food products without significantly altering its beneficial health effects.
Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism , Galactans/pharmacology , Mannans/pharmacology , Plant Gums/pharmacology , Sterols/metabolism , Animals , Diet, High-Fat , Dietary Fiber/pharmacology , Fatty Acids/metabolism , Female , Galactans/chemistry , Guinea Pigs , Lipid Metabolism/drug effects , Mannans/chemistry , Plant Gums/chemistry , Viscosity/drug effects
UNLABELLED: Probiotics have been proven effective for preventing caries. In contrast, the effect of probiotics on improving oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis and halitosis has been less explored. OBJECTIVE: To perform a screening of lactic acid bacteria, according to international guidelines for the evaluation of probiotics, in order to select candidate probiotic strains for preventing oral disorders. STUDY DESIGN: The strains were isolated from healthy children and were subjected to a variety of in vitro tests in order to show their functionality. The safety of the strains was assessed by determining antibiotic susceptibility and production of lactic acid. RESULTS: Forty-six of the 100 new isolates were assigned to lactic acid bacteria genera after a biochemical characterization. Most of the new isolated strains seem to be resistant to oral conditions, have great ability to form aggregates and have high antagonistic activity against oral pathogens. None of the strains produced unpleasant volatile compounds. The strains showed high ability to adhere to oral tissues and they do not present any antibiotic resistance. Moreover, an increased risk of developing caries due to their ability to produce lactic acid was discarded in seven pre-selected probiotic candidates. CONCLUSIONS: These lactic acid bacteria show promising properties to be used as potential probiotics for improving oral health.
Dental Caries/prevention & control , Halitosis/prevention & control , Lactobacillus/isolation & purification , Oral Health , Periodontitis/prevention & control , Probiotics/pharmacology , Cell Adhesion , Child , Drug Resistance, Microbial , Humans , Lactobacillus/classification , Lactobacillus/metabolism , Statistics, Nonparametric
BACKGROUND: The Spaso technique has been recently described as a new, simple, and effective manoeuvre for reducing anterior shoulder dislocation. However, there is a lack of series in the English literature. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results obtained with the introduction of this technique in an emergency department. METHODS: An observational prospective study at the Hospital Clínic of Barcelona Orthopaedic Emergency Department was done from January 2007 to May 2007. In this period, the Spaso technique was applied in 36 anterior shoulder dislocations. Two of the patients were excluded due to a presentation later than 24 hours after the dislocation, leaving a total of 34 dislocations in 33 patients. They occurred in 22 male and 12 female shoulders. The patients' ages ranged from 21 to 80 years (average, 51 years). The success of the attempt, complications, and other data were collected. RESULTS: The Spaso technique was successful in 23 (67.6%) of the 34 anterior shoulder dislocations. If just those patients with previous shoulder dislocations were taken into account, the success rate increased to 83%. No complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of the present study, we consider the Spaso technique as a safe and effective manoeuvre for the reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations, with an acceptable success rate similar to the classical techniques previously described.
Manipulation, Orthopedic/methods , Shoulder Dislocation/therapy , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Prospective Studies
INTRODUCTION: Surgical management of proximal humerus fractures remains controversial and there is an increasing interest in intramedullary nailing. Created to improve previous designs, the T2-proximal humeral nail (PHN) (Stryker) has been recently released, and the English literature lacks a series evaluating its results. We present a clinical prospective study evaluating this implant for proximal humeral fractures. METHOD: We evaluated the functional and radiological results and possible complications. Twenty-nine patients with displaced fractures of the proximal humerus were treated with this nail. One patient was lost right after surgery and excluded from the assessment. Eighteen patients were older than 70 years. RESULTS: There were 21 fractures of the proximal part of the humerus and 7 fractures that also involved the shaft; 15 of the fractures were two-part fractures (surgical neck), 5 were three-part fractures, and 1 was a four-part fracture. All fractures healed in a mean period of 2.7 months. There was one delayed union that healed in 4 months. One case of avascular necrosis of the humeral head was observed (a four-part fracture), but remained asymptomatic and did not require further treatment. In one case a back-out of one proximal screw was observed. A final evaluation with a minimum 1 year follow-up was performed by an independent observer; in 18 patients, the mean Constant score was 65.7 or 76.1% with the adjustment of age and gender; in 19 patients, the mean Oxford Shoulder Score was 21.7. The results obtained with the T2-PHN nail indicate that it represents a safe and reliable method in the treatment of two- and three-part fractures of the proximal humerus. The proximal fixation mechanism diminishes the rate of back-out of the screws, a frequent complication described in the literature. Better functional results were obtained from the patients younger than 70 years, but these were not statistically significant.
Bone Nails , Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary/instrumentation , Shoulder Fractures/surgery , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Female , Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary/methods , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Postoperative Complications/prevention & control , Prospective Studies , Treatment Outcome
UNLABELLED: The literature documents poor concordance between superficial swab and intraoperative tissue cultures in chronic prosthetic joint infections but is less clear in acute postsurgical prosthetic joint infections. We evaluated the relationship between superficial swab and deep intraoperative cultures in 56 patients with acute postsurgical prosthetic joint infections from June 2003 to June 2007; patients receiving antibiotics were excluded. There were 30 hip and 26 knee prostheses. A superficial sample of the wound drainage was taken at admission and three deep samples were obtained during open débridement. Concordance was defined when at least one of the microorganisms isolated in the superficial samples also was found in the deep samples. The analysis also was performed according to the type of microorganism: Staphylococcus aureus, gram-negative bacilli, or other gram-positive microorganisms. Concordance between superficial and deep samples was 80.3% (45 of 56). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of superficial cultures to predict the microorganism isolated in deep cultures varied depending on the type of microorganism: 93.7%, 100%, 100%, and 97.5% for S. aureus; 90%, 91.6%, 85.7%, and 94.3% for gram-negative bacilli; and 50%, 75%, 60%, and 66.7% for other gram-positive microorganisms. We therefore believe the superficial swab culture is useful in identifying the etiologic microorganism of acute prosthetic joint infections, especially when S. aureus or gram-negative bacilli were identified. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, diagnostic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Culture Techniques/methods , Hip Prosthesis/adverse effects , Knee Prosthesis/adverse effects , Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Debridement , Drainage , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Prosthesis-Related Infections/surgery , Retrospective Studies , Sensitivity and Specificity , Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification
Footprinting and mutagenesis experiments demonstrated that Leptospira interrogans LexA binds the palindrome TTTGN(5)CAAA found in the recA promoter but not in the lexA promoter. In silico analysis revealed that none of the other canonical SOS genes is under direct control of LexA, making the leptospiral lexA gene the first described which is not autoregulated.
Bacterial Proteins/genetics , Homeostasis/genetics , Leptospira interrogans/genetics , Serine Endopeptidases/genetics , Base Sequence , DNA Footprinting , DNA Repair/physiology , Molecular Sequence Data , Mutagenesis , Transcription, Genetic/physiology
MC-1 is a marine, magnetotactic bacterium that is phylogenetically associated with the alpha subclass of the Proteobacteria and is the first and only magnetotactic coccus isolated in pure culture to date. By using a TBLASTN search, a lexA gene was identified in the published genome of MC-1; it was subsequently cloned, and the protein was purified to >90% purity. Results from reverse transcription-PCR analysis revealed that the MC-1 lexA gene comprises a single transcriptional unit with two open reading frames encoding proteins of unknown function and with a rumA-like gene, a homologue of the Escherichia coli umuD gene. Mobility shift assays revealed that this LexA protein specifically binds both to its own promoter and to that of the umuDC operon. However, MC-1 LexA does not bind to the promoter regions of other genes, such as recA and uvrA, that have been previously reported to be regulated by LexA in bacterial species belonging to the alpha subclass of the Proteobacteria: Site-directed mutagenesis of both the lexA and umuDC operator regions demonstrated that the sequence CCTN(10)AGG is the specific target motif for the MC-1 LexA protein.
Alphaproteobacteria/metabolism , Bacterial Proteins/metabolism , Escherichia coli Proteins/genetics , Magnetics , Promoter Regions, Genetic , Seawater/microbiology , Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism , Amino Acid Motifs , Amino Acid Sequence , Bacterial Proteins/genetics , Base Sequence , Binding Sites , DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase , Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay , Escherichia coli Proteins/metabolism , Molecular Sequence Data , Mutagenesis, Site-Directed , Operon , Regulon , Sequence Analysis, DNA , Serine Endopeptidases/genetics
