Prediabetes is more than a pre-disease: additional evidences supporting the importance of its early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

AIM: To identify Prediabetes (PreD) as early and serious diabetes step using clinical-biochemical characteristics in the population of the Primary Prevention Diabetes Buenos Aires (PPDBA) study. METHODS: PPDBA Study evaluated benefits of adopting healthy lifestyles to prevent T2D. It recruited people 45-75 years of age with PreD (impaired fasting glycaemia [IFG], impaired glucose tolerance [IGT] or both, American Diabetes Association criteria), using an opportunistic approach. They completed a FINDRISC questionnaire, and those with a score ≥13 points were invited to participate. When they accepted, we performed an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with a complete lipid profile and HbA1c while physicians completed a clinical history. We recruited 367 persons, and depending on OGTT results, the sample was divided into normals (NGT), PreD, or with diabetes (last one was excluded in our analysis). Data were statistically analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests and logistic regression to identify parameters associated with PreD. RESULTS: From the recruited (n = 367) 47.7% have NGT, 48.5% PreD and 3.8% unknown T2D (excluded). People with PreD were significantly older, with a higher percentage of overweight/obesity, BMI, and larger waist circumference than NGT. They also showed significantly higher fasting and 2 h post glucose load, HbA1c, and triglyceride levels. No significant differences were recorded in the blood pressure, lipid profile though both groups had abnormally high LDL-c values. They also had a larger percentage of TG/HDL-c ratios (insulin resistance indicator) (55% vs. 37.5%). Logistic regression analysis showed that PreD was significant associated with age, waist circumference, and triglyceride above target values. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that clinical and biochemical parameters were significantly different between people with PreD and those with NGT. This evidence supports the concept that PreD is a serious dysfunction, which should be early diagnosed and treated properly to prevent its transition to T2D and its complications.

Cervical Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Are Associated with Differences in the Vaginal Microbiota of Mexican Women.

Cervical cancer is an important health concern worldwide and is one of the leading causes of death in Mexican women. Previous studies have shown changes in the female genital tract microbe community related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer; yet, this link remains unexplored in many human populations. This study evaluated the vaginal bacterial community among Mexican women with precancerous squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL). We sequenced the V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene in cervical samples from 228 Mexican women, including 121 participants with SIL, most of which were HPV positive, and 107 healthy women without HPV infection or SIL. The presence of SIL was associated with changes in composition (beta diversity) and with a higher species richness (Chao1). A comparison of HPV-positive women with and without SIL showed that microbiota changes occurred even in the absence of SIL. Multivariate association with linear models (MaAsLin) analysis yielded independent associations between HPV infection and an increase in the relative abundance of Brachybacterium conglomeratum and Brevibacterium aureum as well as a decrease in two Lactobacillus iners operational taxonomic units (OTUs). We also identified a positive independent association between HPV-16, the most common HPV subtype linked to SIL, and Brachybacterium conglomeratum. Our work indicates that HPV infection leading to SIL is primarily associated with shifts in vaginal microbiota composition, some of which may be specific to this human population. IMPORTANCE Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a critical role in cervical carcinogenesis but is not sufficient for cervical cancer development, indicating the involvement of other factors. The vaginal microbiota is an important factor in controlling infections caused by HPV, and, depending on its composition, it can modulate the microenvironment in vaginal mucosa against viral infections. Ethnic and sociodemographic factors influence differences in vaginal microbiome composition, which underlies the dysbiotic patterns linked to HPV infection and cervical cancer across different populations of women. Here, we provide evidence for associations between vaginal microbiota patterns and HPV infection linked to ethnic and sociodemographic factors. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the species Brevibacterium aureum and Brachybacterium conglomeratum linked to HPV infection or squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL).

Hydrophobic and adhesive patterns of lactic acid bacteria and their antagonism against foodborne pathogens on tomato surface (Solanum lycopersicum L.).

AIMS: To evaluate tomato epiphyte lactic acid bacteria (LAB) hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation as an indicator of bacteria adhesion to tomato. Likewise, use LAB adhesion and co-aggregation as mechanisms to antagonize pathogen attachment. METHODS AND RESULTS: Fifty-four LAB were screened to evaluate their hydrophobic, auto- and co-aggregative properties against Salmonella Typhimurium, Saintpaul, Montevideo and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Subsequently, tomato adhesion of Enterococcus faecium Col1-1C, Weisella cibaria 11-E-2 and W. confusa Col 1-13 with high, medium and low hydrophobicity and high co-aggregation was investigated as well as their pathogen antagonism. Results indicate that bacteria hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation correspond to LAB adhesion to tomato. Enterococcus faecium Col1-1C interfered in most of the pathogen adhesion and micrographs revealed that such effect could be related to the inhibition of structures-type biofilm on E. coli O157:H7 and the aggregate formation on Salmonella. CONCLUSIONS: Lactic acid bacteria hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation can estimate bacteria adhesion to tomato and adhesive and co-aggregative properties could serve as a tool to antagonize foodborne pathogens under specific conditions. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study evidence the interference of Ent. faecium Col1-1C in E. coli O157:H7 biofilm formation and Salmonella colonization.

Utilization of by-products of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. as alternative sources for the extraction of high-quality pectin.

The by-products of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (HsL), obtained after soaking or decoction of the calyces of Colima and Sudan cultivars, were used for pectin extraction. After soaking, the wastes of both cultivars gave higher yields of pectin than those obtained by decoction. The pectin of the wastes by soaking presented high methoxyl groups, galacturonic acid content, viscosity and gelling capacity. Pectin of this treatment also exhibited bands in the regions of 1750 cm-1 and 1630 cm-1 that represents the C=O stretching vibrations of methyl ester and the amounts and degree of esterification of the HsL pectin. Interestingly, the pectin retained the typical red color of fresh HsL calyces. The amounts of anthocyanins and ascorbic acid of pectin did not show effects against pathogenic microorganisms. Nonetheless, pectin of the Sudan HsL wastes obtained by soaking, exhibited higher properties than those of the citric pectin, thus, demonstrating its potential for industrial applications.

Posible correlación patogénica entre dislipemia y disglucemia / Possible pathogenic correlation between dyslipemia and dysglycemia

RESUMEN Objetivos Analizar: 1) el perfil lipídico en personas con glucemia de ayunas alterada (GAA) y 2) su posible asociación con parámetros clínico-metabólicos. Material y métodos Se reclutaron 101 personas de ambos sexos asistentes a consultorios de la Carrera Universitaria de Medicina Interna UNLP, incluyéndose personas >15 años que firmaron consentimiento informado para participar en el estudio; se excluyeron aquellos tratados con fármacos que afectaran el metabolismo lipídico y con diabetes tipo 2. En ellos se registraron antecedentes personales, heredofamiliares, hábitos de vida y ocurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares previos, índice de masa corporal (IMC), circunferencia de cintura (CC) y tensión arterial. En muestras de sangre se determinó glucemia, HbA1c y perfil lipídico; en la mayoría se agregó insulinemia e índice HOMA-IR. La evaluación estadística incluyó ANOVA y test de Tukey, considerándose significativas diferencias con valor de p ≤0,05. Resultados: 67,32% de los participantes presentaron glucemias ≤100 mg/dl (grupo control) y el 32,67% disglucemias compatibles con el estado de GAA. La edad promedio, el IMC y la CC, los valores de HbA1c, insulina y HOMA-IR al igual que el porcentaje de personas con hipertensión arterial fueron significativamente mayores en este último grupo. Los valores del perfil lipídico registrados fueron mayores en el grupo de GAA excepto el c-HDL en el que fueron menores. Conclusión La dislipemia presente en personas con GAA sería simultáneamente un marcador de ateroesclerosis obliterante y un promotor de la transición a DT2, por lo que requiere su diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz.

ABSTRACT Aims To analyze: 1) the lipid profile in people with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and 2) its potential association with clinical and metabolic parameters. Materials and methods: 101 people were recruited from those attending the University of Internal Medicine UNLP clinic, including people of both sexes, >15 years who sign informed consent to participate in the study; those treated with drugs that affect lipid metabolism and with type 2 diabetes were excluded. In all of them had we recoded body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumference (AC) and blood pressure. Their personal history, inherited relatives, life habits and occurrence of cardiovascular events were also recorded. In their blood samples, blood glucose, HbA1c and lipid profile were measured as well as insulin and HOMA-IR index in most of them. Statistical evaluation included ANOVA and Tukey's test; significant differences were considered when their p value was ≤0.05. Results 67.32% of the participants presented glycemias ≤100 mg/dl (control group) and 32.67% values compatible with IFG status. Mean age, BMI and WC, HbA1c, insulin and HOMA-IR values, as well as the percentage of people with hypertension, were significantly higher in the latter group. The values of the lipid profile recorded were higher in the GAA group except the HDL-c in which they were lower. Conclusion Since the dyslipidemia present in people with IFG would simultaneously be a marker of atherosclerosis obliterans and a promoter of the transition to DT2, it requires its early diagnosis and treatment.

[Hypothyroidism in adults in a basic health area]. / Hipotiroidismo adulto en una zona básica de salud.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the present study is to study the prevalence, as well as the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of hypothyroid disease in adults using the computerised clinical records. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. The target population was the patients of the health centres of Lucena I and II (Córdoba). INCLUSION CRITERIA: Patients 14 years or older, diagnosed with hypothyroidism, born and resident in Lucena. Two hundred and fourteen patients were recruited by random sampling, who then underwent a clinical interview using a questionnaire. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 49.71 years (SD 17.03; 95% CI 47.34-51.98), with 85.5% women. A diagnosis of sub-clinical hypothyroidism was found in 74.8%, compared to 18.7% of primary hypothyroidism, and 6.5% of secondary hypothyroidism. The 53.7% (95% CI 46.81-60.59) of patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism did not have thyroid antibodies results. However, 75.2% (95% CI 68.89-80.86) were being treated with levothyroxine. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 5.7% (95% CI 5.46-5.96). CONCLUSIONS: Sub-clinical hypothyroidism is very common in Primary Care clinics. Many patients are not correctly diagnosed and many are over-medicated, suggesting a need to review the diagnosis.

The association between sleep quality, low back pain and disability: A prospective study in routine practice.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to estimate the association between sleep quality (SQ) and improvements in low back pain (LBP) and disability, among patients treated for LBP in routine practice. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 461 subacute and chronic LBP patients treated in 11 specialized centres, 14 primary care centres and eight physical therapy practices across 12 Spanish regions. LBP, leg pain, disability, catastrophizing, depression and SQ were assessed through validated questionnaires upon recruitment and 3 months later. Logistic regression models were developed to assess: (1) the association between the baseline score for SQ and improvements in LBP and disability at 3 months, and (2) the association between improvement in SQ and improvements in LBP and disability during the follow-up period. RESULTS: Seventy-three per cent of patients were subacute. Median scores at baseline were four points for both pain and disability, as assessed with a visual analog scale and the Roland-Morris Questionnaire, respectively. Regression models showed (OR [95% CI]) that baseline SQ was not associated with improvements in LBP (0.99 [0.94; 1.06]) or in disability (0.99 [0.93; 1.05]), although associations existed between 'improvement in SQ' and 'improvement in LBP' (4.34 [2.21; 8.51]), and 'improvement in SQ' and 'improvement in disability' (4.60 [2.29; 9.27]). CONCLUSIONS: Improvement in SQ is associated with improvements in LBP and in disability at 3-month follow-up, suggesting that they may reflect or be influenced by common factors. However, baseline SQ does not predict improvements in pain or disability. SIGNIFICANCE: In clinical practice, sleep quality, low back pain and disability are associated. However, sleep quality at baseline does not predict improvement in pain and disability.

Differential Response of Neural Cells to Trauma-Induced Swelling In Vitro.

Brain edema and the associated increase in intracranial pressure are major consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that accounts for most early deaths after TBI. We recently showed that acute severe trauma to cultured astrocytes results in cell swelling. We further examined whether trauma induces cell swelling in neurons and microglia. We found that severe trauma also caused cell swelling in cultured neurons, whereas no swelling was observed in microglia. While severe trauma caused cell swelling in both astrocytes and neurons, mild trauma to astrocytes, neurons, and microglia failed to cell swelling. Since extracellular levels of glutamate are increased in brain post-TBI and microglia are known to release cytokine, and direct exposure of astrocytes to these molecules are known to stimulate cell swelling, we examined whether glutamate or cytokines have any additive effect on trauma-induced cell swelling. Exposure of cultured astrocytes to trauma caused cell swelling, and such swelling was potentiated by the exposure of traumatized astrocytes to glutamate and cytokines. Conditioned medium (CM) from traumatized astrocytes had no effect on neuronal swelling post-trauma, while CM from traumatized neurons and microglia potentiated the effect of trauma on astrocyte swelling. Further, trauma significantly increased the Na-K-Cl co-transporter (NKCC) activity in neurons, and that inhibition of NKCC activity diminished the trauma-induced neuronal swelling. Our results indicate that a differential sensitivity to trauma-induced cell swelling exists in neural cells and that neurons and microglia are likely to be involved in the potentiation of the astrocyte swelling post-trauma.

A novel HIF-1α/VMP1-autophagic pathway induces resistance to photodynamic therapy in colon cancer cells.

Colon cancer is the third most frequent cancer and the fourth most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide and the standard therapy is surgical resection plus adjuvant chemotherapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been proposed as an adjuvant therapy because it can prevent the tumor recurrence after surgical excision in colon cancer patients. Hypoxia is a common feature in solid tumors and leads to chemo/radioresistance. Recently, it has been shown that in response to hypoxia, cells can induce HIF-1α-mediated autophagy to survive in this hostile microenvironment. Moreover, hypoxia and autophagy have been implicated in the resistance to antitumor PDT. However, the molecular signals by which HIF-1α induces autophagy in the PDT context have not been studied yet. Here we evaluate the interplay between HIF-1α and autophagy as well as the underlying mechanism in the PDT resistance of colon cancer cells. Our study demonstrates that HIF-1α stabilization significantly increases VMP1-related autophagy through binding to hypoxia responsive elements in the VMP1 promoter. We show that HIF-1α-induced autophagy increases colon cancer cell survival as well as decreases cell death after PDT. Moreover, here we demonstrate that HIF-1α-induced autophagy is mediated by VMP1 expression, since the downregulation of VMP1 by the RNA interference strategy reduces HIF-1α-induced autophagy and cell survival after PDT. In conclusion, PDT induces autophagy as a survival mechanism and the induction of the novel HIF-1α/VMP1-autophagic pathway may explain, at least in part, the resistance of colon cancer cells to PDT. The knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in PDT resistance may lead to more accurate therapeutic strategies.

Tolerance to winemaking stress conditions of Patagonian strains of Saccharomyces eubayanus and Saccharomyces uvarum.

AIMS: Evaluating the winemaking stress tolerance of a set of both Saccharomyces eubayanus and Saccharomyces uvarum strains from diverse Patagonian habitats. METHODS AND RESULTS: Yeast strains growth was analysed under increasing ethanol concentrations; all of them were able to grow until 8% v/v ethanol. The effect of different temperature and pH conditions as well as at SO2 and hexose concentrations was evaluated by means of a central composite experimental design. Only two S. uvarum strains (NPCC 1289 and 1321) were able to grow in most stress conditions. Kinetic parameters analysed (µmax and λ) were statistically affected by temperature, pH and SO2 , but not influenced by sugar concentration. The obtained growth model was used for predicting optimal growth conditions for both strains: 20°C, 0% w/v SO2 and pH 4·5. CONCLUSIONS: Strains from human-associated environments (chichas) presented the highest diversity in the response to different stress factors. Two S. uvarum strains from chichas demonstrated to be the most tolerant to winemaking conditions. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This work evidenced the potential use of two S. uvarum yeast strains as starter cultures in wines fermented at low temperatures. Saccharomyces eubayanus was significantly affected by winemaking stress conditions, limiting its use in this industry.

Use of Torulaspora delbrueckii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in semi-industrial sequential inoculation to improve quality of Palomino and Chardonnay wines in warm climates.

AIMS: We have evaluated for the first time the impact of two commercial yeast strains (Torulaspora delbrueckii TD291 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae QA23) inoculated sequentially in musts of Chardonnay and Palomino Fino grape varieties grown under warm climate (South-west of Spain). METHODS AND RESULTS: Semi-industrial scale alcoholic fermentations (AF) were performed during the 2011 and 2012 harvests. Implantation analyses demonstrated that T. delbrueckii is the predominant strain until the end of the AF phase. Wines with sequential inoculation (SI) resulted in the production of low levels of acetic acid (which gives wine an undesirable 'vinegary' character), low acetaldehyde in Chardonnay and high in Palomino wines. The most salient attributes that contribute to the quality of the Chardonnay and Palomino wines produced were aroma intensity, fresh and tropical fruit character. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that SI of T. delbrueckii and S. cerevisiae contribute significantly to the improvement of Chardonnay wine aromas and the creation of new styles of wine for Palomino. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study has generated new knowledge about the biotechnological potential of T. delbrueckii (TD219) and S. cerevisiae (QA23) for improving the organoleptic properties of Chardonnay and Palomino wines.

Laparoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts: experience at a general hospital in Mexico City.

BACKGROUND: Invasive management of pancreatic pseudocysts (PP) is currently indicated in those patients with symptoms or complications. Treatment options are classified as surgical (open and laparoscopic) and non-surgical (endoscopic and radiologic). AIM: To describe the morbidity, mortality, and efficacy in terms of technical and clinical success of the laparoscopic surgical approach in the treatment of patients with PP in the last 3 years at our hospital center. METHODS: We included patients with PP treated with laparoscopic surgery within the time frame of January 2012 and December 2014. The morbidity and mortality associated with the procedure were determined, together with the postoperative results in terms of effectiveness and recurrence. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients were diagnosed with PP within the last 3 years, but only 20 of them had invasive treatment. Laparoscopic surgery was performed on 17 of those patients (mean pseudocyst diameter of 15.3, primary drainage success rate of 94.1%, complication rate of 5.9%, and a 40-month follow-up). CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained with the laparoscopic technique used at our hospital center showed that this approach is feasible, efficacious, and safe. Thus, performed by skilled surgeons, it should be considered a treatment option for patients with PP.

Importancia de los pesticidas para los pediatras canarios como factor de riesgo para la salud infantil / Importance of pesticides to Canary Islands’ paediatricians as a health risk factor

Introducción: los pesticidas pueden ser un factor de riesgo para la salud. Se desconocen las actitudes y los conocimientos que tienen los pediatras canarios acerca de los pesticidas. Objetivo: conocerla percepción del posible riesgo para la salud de los niños canarios que pueden tener los pesticidas entre un grupo de pediatras que trabajan en las Islas Canarias. Material y métodos: diseño: estudio transversal mediante un cuestionario autoadministrado en formato electrónico que recoge datos profesionales del pediatra, aspectos generales de los pesticidas y formación del encuestado acerca de los plaguicidas. Participantes: 80 pediatras canarios. Resultados: los pediatras consideraron que los pesticidas tenían una alta importancia en la salud infantil pero ocasionaban problemas con poca frecuencia a sus pacientes. Asimismo, consideraron que tenían poca formación en biocidas y se debería ofrecer formación continuada al respecto (AU)

Introduction: pesticides can be a risk factor for health. Pediatricians’ attitudes and knowledge about pesticides are unknown in the Canary Islands. Objective: to know the perception that Canary Islands’ pediatricians have on the possible health risks for children that pesticides may cause. Material and methods: design: transversal study. Electronic self-administered survey about professional data, general aspects and academic training about pesticides. Sample: eighty pediatricians. Results: pediatricians considered pesticides an important factor in paediatric health but referred low frequency of problems due to them. They considered they had insufficient knowledge about biocides and demanded more training (AU)

C-reactive protein level in morbidly obese patients before and after bariatric surgery.

BACKGROUND: Human obesity is associated with a proinflammatory state and an elevated level of mediators, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). OBJECTIVES: To establish CRP levels as baseline preoperative values and then at 6 months after bariatric surgery, as well as to determine the changes in weight, body mass index (BMI), leukocytes, and glycemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational, analytical, retrospective, longitudinal, and open study was conducted. Serum CRP values were measured in 36 adults presenting with morbid obesity, and their baseline relation to weight, BMI, leukocytes, and glycemia was determined; the relation to the same parameters was established again, 6 months after bariatric surgery. RESULTS: The mean and standard deviation of preoperative and postoperative CRP (mg/L) was 1.15±0.86 and 0.34±0.28, respectively with p<0.0001; weight (kg) 112.10±22.91 and 84.82±17.11, p=0.0443; BMI (kg/m(2)) 42.48±5.97 and 32.2±4.79, p=0.0988; glucose (mg/dL) 100.58±17.82 and 87.11±8.49, p<0.0001, and leukocytes (× 10(3)/mm(3)) 8.62±1.69 and 6.99±1.56, p=0.3192. Baseline CRP only correlated with weight and BMI (p=0.047 and p=0.027 respectively) and there was no correlation between postoperative CRP and the evaluated parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative CRP had a significant lineal relation to weight and body mass index. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery had a significant decrease in CRP, weight, and fasting glucose at 6 months after surgery.

[Intraoperative choledochoscopy usefulness in the treatment of difficult biliary stones]. / Utilidad de la coledocoscopia transquirúrgica en el tratamiento de litos biliares difíciles.

BACKGROUND: Choledocholithiasis presents in 5-10% of the patients with biliary lithiasis. Numerous treatment algorithms have been considered for this disease, however, up to 10% of these therapeutic procedures may fail. Intraoperative choledochoscopy has become a useful tool in the treatment of patients with difficult-to-manage choledocholithiasis. OBJECTIVES: To determine the usefulness of intraoperative choledochoscopy in the laparoendoscopic treatment of difficult stones that was carried out in our service. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted. The case records were reviewed of the patients that underwent intraoperative choledochoscopy during biliary tree exploration plus laparoscopic choledochoduodenal anastomosis within the time frame of March 1, 2011 and May 31, 2012, at the Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González. Transabdominal choledochoscopies were performed with active stone extraction when necessary, followed by peroral choledochoscopies through the recently formed bilioenteric anastomosis. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and measures of central tendency. RESULTS: The mean age was 71 years, 57% of the patients were women, and the ASA III score predominated. Active extraction of stones with 7 to 35mm diameters was carried out in 4 of the cases and the absence of stones in the biliary tract was corroborated in all the patients. The mean surgery duration was 18 minutes (range: 4 to 45min). CONCLUSIONS: Choledochoscopy is a safe and effective minimally invasive procedure for the definitive treatment of difficult stones.

Microbiological safety of domestic refrigerators and the dishcloths used to clean them in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.

Household refrigerators are a potential pathogen contamination source for foods. An evaluation of the microbiological safety of 200 refrigerators in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, was made by visual inspection, ATP-bioluminescence levels, indicator microorganisms including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and the presence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella. Additionally, interviews of the owners of the refrigerators were carried out to determine relationships between food storage practices, demographic aspects, and microbiological status. Dishcloths used to clean refrigerators were also analyzed. Operational conditions (cleanliness, fullness, organization, frequency of cleaning, and temperature) were evaluated by trained observers. Results showed deficient cleanliness in 55% of refrigerators, 22% were completely full, 43% very disorganized, 28% were usually cleaned only once in 3 to 6 months, and 53% had internal temperatures >7.1°C. ATP-bioluminescence levels were >300 relative light units on 67 and 74% of shelves and drawers, respectively, indicating that surfaces were dirty according to the luminometer manufacturer. Psychrotrophic aerobic bacteria counts on shelves, drawers, and dishcloths were 6.3, 5.2, and 6.3 log CFU/cm(2); for coliform bacteria, 5.2, 3.9, and 4.7 CFU/cm(2); for E. coli, 3.7, 3.5, and 4.8 CFU/cm(2); and for Staphylococcus aureus, 2.1, 2.5, and 2.3 CFU/cm(2), respectively. L. monocytogenes and Salmonella were isolated from 59.5, 20.5, and 17% and 32.5, 8.0 and 12.5% of shelves, drawers, and dishcloths, respectively. Four Salmonella serotypes and nine serogroups (partially serotyped isolates) were identified. The most prevalent were Salmonella Anatum (39.5%), Salmonella group E1 (19.7%), and Salmonella group E1 monophasic (12.5%). Operational conditions and microbiological status were clearly deficient in sampled refrigerators, highlighting the consequent risk of foodborne disease among users. Educational programs are needed to improve the domestic food safety in Mexico.

Infrared microcalorimetric spectroscopy using quantum cascade lasers.

We have investigated an IR microcalorimetric spectroscopy technique that can be used to detect the presence of trace amounts of target molecules. The chemical detection is accomplished by obtaining the IR photothermal spectra of molecules adsorbed on the surface of uncooled thermal micromechanical detectors. Although we use a chemical layer to absorb target molecules, IR microcalorimetric spectroscopy requires no chemical specific coatings. The chemical specificity of the presented method is a consequence of the wavelength-specific absorption of IR photons from tunable quantum cascade lasers due to vibrational spectral bands of the analyte. We have obtained IR photothermal spectra for trace concentrations of 1,3,5-Trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine and a monolayer of 2-Sulfanylethan-1-ol (2-mercaptoethanol) over the wavelength region from 6 to 10 µm. We found that both chemicals exhibit a number of photothermal absorption features that are in good agreement with their respective IR spectra.

[Laparoscopic drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst: a case report]. / Drenaje laparoscópico de un seudoquiste pancreático: reporte de caso.

Pancreatic pseudocysts are defined as homogeneous pancreatic or peripancreatic collections that are not associated with necrotic tissue and are surrounded by granulated or fibrous tissue with no epithelium. Management has been classified as surgical (conventional and laparoscopic) and nonsurgical (endoscopic and radiologic). The aim of this report is to describe our initial experience in the management of a pancreatic pseudocyst by means of laparoscopic posterior cyst-gastrostomy anastomosis, performed at the Pancreas Clinic of the Hospital General "Dr. Manuel Gea González" in Mexico City. New techniques and instrumentation have contributed to the relatively recent development of laparoscopic pancreatic surgery. Our technique has practical advantages that have been confirmed by other authors, such as simple hemostasis, a wide viewing angle enabling adequate necrosectomy, anastomosis that does not require the use of staples, and the possibility of resolving other associated intra-abdominal pathologies, as in this case.