Myeloid cell iron uptake pathways and paramagnetic rim formation in multiple sclerosis.

In multiple sclerosis (MS), sustained inflammatory activity can be visualized by iron-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the edges of chronic lesions. These paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) are associated with clinical worsening, although the cell type-specific and molecular pathways of iron uptake and metabolism are not well known. We studied two postmortem cohorts: an exploratory formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue cohort of 18 controls and 24 MS cases and a confirmatory snap-frozen cohort of 6 controls and 14 MS cases. Besides myelin and non-heme iron imaging, the haptoglobin-hemoglobin scavenger receptor CD163, the iron-metabolizing markers HMOX1 and HAMP as well as immune-related markers P2RY12, CD68, C1QA and IL10 were visualized in myeloid cell (MC) subtypes at RNA and protein levels across different MS lesion areas. In addition, we studied PRLs in vivo in a cohort of 98 people with MS (pwMS) via iron-sensitive 3 T MRI and haptoglobin genotyping by PCR. CSF samples were available from 38 pwMS for soluble CD163 (sCD163) protein level measurements by ELISA. In postmortem tissues, we observed that iron uptake was linked to rim-associated C1QA-expressing MC subtypes, characterized by upregulation of CD163, HMOX1, HAMP and, conversely, downregulation of P2RY12. We found that pwMS with [Formula: see text] 4 PRLs had higher sCD163 levels in the CSF than pwMS with [Formula: see text] 3 PRLs with sCD163 correlating with the number of PRLs. The number of PRLs was associated with clinical worsening but not with age, sex or haptoglobin genotype of pwMS. However, pwMS with Hp2-1/Hp2-2 haplotypes had higher clinical disability scores than pwMS with Hp1-1. In summary, we observed upregulation of the CD163-HMOX1-HAMP axis in MC subtypes at chronic active lesion rims, suggesting haptoglobin-bound hemoglobin but not transferrin-bound iron as a critical source for MC-associated iron uptake in MS. The correlation of CSF-associated sCD163 with PRL counts in MS highlights the relevance of CD163-mediated iron uptake via haptoglobin-bound hemoglobin. Also, while Hp haplotypes had no noticeable influence on PRL counts, pwMS carriers of a Hp2 allele might have a higher risk to experience clinical worsening.

Neuron-oligodendrocyte potassium shuttling at nodes of Ranvier protects against inflammatory demyelination.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS. Increasing evidence suggests that vulnerable neurons in MS exhibit fatal metabolic exhaustion over time, a phenomenon hypothesized to be caused by chronic hyperexcitability. Axonal Kv7 (outward-rectifying) and oligodendroglial Kir4.1 (inward-rectifying) potassium channels have important roles in regulating neuronal excitability at and around the nodes of Ranvier. Here, we studied the spatial and functional relationship between neuronal Kv7 and oligodendroglial Kir4.1 channels and assessed the transcriptional and functional signatures of cortical and retinal projection neurons under physiological and inflammatory demyelinating conditions. We found that both channels became dysregulated in MS and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), with Kir4.1 channels being chronically downregulated and Kv7 channel subunits being transiently upregulated during inflammatory demyelination. Further, we observed that pharmacological Kv7 channel opening with retigabine reduced neuronal hyperexcitability in human and EAE neurons, improved clinical EAE signs, and rescued neuronal pathology in oligodendrocyte-Kir4.1-deficient (OL-Kir4.1-deficient) mice. In summary, our findings indicate that neuron-OL compensatory interactions promoted resilience through Kv7 and Kir4.1 channels and identify pharmacological activation of nodal Kv7 channels as a neuroprotective strategy against inflammatory demyelination.

Burnout syndrome assessment among Spanish oral surgery consultants: A two populations comparative pilot study

Background: The professional Burnout Syndrome (BOS) or Burnout is considered a professional disease made up of three interrelated dimensions (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and lack of personal fulfillment). BOS has been documented to most severely affect the healthcare professions, especially dentists. On the other hand, its appearance has been documented at an early age, during dental training. However, there are no studies that analyze its incidence in professionals dedicated to Oral Surgery and Implantology, determining the age of onset and related factors. Material and Methods: The modified Maslach questionnaire was carried out anonymously among the professors and students of the Master of Oral Surgery and Implantology at the Complutense University of Madrid. A total of 36 participants were enrolled in this study and the results of the modified Maslach Questionnaire were established into four groups [1st year (n=6), 2nd year (n=6), 3rd year (n=6) postgraduate students and clinical teachers (n=18)]. The following variables were recorded: Age, sex, years of experience, weekly hours of work, dedication on weekends and scope of work. The statistical analysis performed included Pearson's correlation, analysis of variance, Student's t-test, F-Anova, Chi-Square and Gamma correlation. Statistical Significance of the tests was established of p≤0.05. Results: 36 questionnaires were analyzed, of which 22.2% (n = 8) presented BOS, and 77.8% (n = 28) a medium risk of suffering it. The mean values and standard deviation ​​of emotional exhaustion (7.50 ± 2.43; 9.83 ± 4.12; 15.83 ± 6.21; 30.22 ± 7.86), depersonalization (5.50 ± 1.23; 50 ± 3.27; 11.33 ± 1.75; 17.56 ± 4.13), low personal fulfillment (39.67 ± 3.72; 39.33 ± 2.34; 43.17 ± 3, 55; 37.33 ± 5.51) and professional burnout (54.33 ± 2.66; 61.67 ± 2.88; 70.33 ± 5.43; 85.11 ± 9.05) in the four groups respectively. A significant association was found in the appearance of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, years of experience, weekly work hours and the work environment. Conclusions: BOS is a disease that can appear from 30 years of age, after 5 years of professional experience and when there is a clinical consultation of 40 hours a week. Oral Surgery and Implantology seems to be a risk activity for the manifestation of depersonalization.(AU)

Experiência de famílias de doadores falecidos durante o processo de doação de órgãos: um estudo qualitativo / Experiencia de familias de donantes fallecidos durante el proceso de donación de órganos: un estudio cualitativo / Deceased donor's family experience during the organ donation process: a qualitative study

Resumo Objetivo A família é o principal componente da doação de órgãos. Este estudo descreve a experiência da família do doador com os cuidados de enfermagem durante o processo de doação. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo fenomenológico. Os participantes eram familiares que aceitaram a doação de órgãos de um parente em hospitais, e foram recrutados por meio de amostragem intencional. Foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade e anotações em campo, além de uma análise temática. Resultados Três temas foram identificados: Aspectos positivos do cuidado de enfermagem na unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI); Aspectos positivos do cuidado do enfermeiro coordenador de transplantes (ECT); e Aspectos improváveis do cuidado de enfermagem durante o processo de doação de órgãos. A flexibilidade dos horários na unidade de terapia intensiva para favorecer o acompanhamento dos familiares e fornecer informações adequadas e adaptadas sobre a doação são cuidados diferenciados para as famílias. Elas destacaram áreas para melhorias relacionadas à intimidade e privacidade durante o processo de doação. Conclusão As famílias dos doadores prezam e valorizam os cuidados de enfermagem no processo de doação de órgãos.

Resumen Objetivo La familia es el principal componente de la donación de órganos. Este estudio describe la experiencia de la familia del donante con los cuidados de enfermería durante el proceso de donación. Métodos Se realizó un estudio fenomenológico. Los participantes fueron familiares que aceptaron la donación de órganos de un pariente en hospitales, reclutados por medio de muestreo intencional. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad y anotaciones en campo, además de un análisis temático. Resultados Se identificaron tres temas: Aspectos positivos del cuidado de enfermería en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI); Aspectos positivos del cuidado del enfermero coordinador de trasplantes (ECT); y Aspectos improbables del cuidado de enfermería durante el proceso de donación de órganos. La flexibilidad en los horarios en la unidad de cuidados intensivos para favorecer el acompañamiento de los familiares y suministrar informaciones adecuadas y adaptadas respecto a la donación constituyen cuidados diferenciados con las familias. Destacaron áreas para mejoras relacionadas con la intimidad y la privacidad durante el proceso de donación. Conclusión Las familias de los donantes precian y valoran los cuidados de enfermería en el proceso de donación de órganos.

Abstract Objective The family is the main component for organ donation. This study describes the experience of the donor's family with the nursing care during the donation process. Methods A phenomenological study was applied. Participants were family members who accepted the donation of organs from a relative in hospitals, using purposeful sampling. In-depth interviews and field notes were conducted. A thematic analysis was performed. Results Three themes were identified: Positive aspect of intensive care unit nurses' care; Positive aspects of nurses transplant coordinators' care; and Improvable aspects of nursing care during the organ donation process. The flexibility of hours in the intensive care unit to favor the accompaniment of family members, and to provide adequate and adapted information about the donation are outstanding care for families. They highlight areas for improvement related to intimacy and privacy during the donation process. Conclusion Donor's families appreciate and value nursing care within the organ donation process.

Deceased donor care provided by the nurse transplant coordinator: A qualitative research study among Spanish nurses.

AIM: The purpose of this study is to describe the experience of nursing care provided to the deceased organ donor by the nurse transplant coordinator. METHODS: A qualitative exploratory study was conducted within the National Transplant Organization and the Regional Office for Transplant Coordination. A purposive sampling method was used. Data collection methods included semistructured interviews. Sampling and data collection were pursued until the researchers achieved information redundancy. A systematic text condensation analysis was performed. The Guba and Lincoln criteria for guaranteeing trustworthiness were followed. RESULTS: A total of 16 participants were recruited, and three themes were identified regarding care of organ donors by the nurse transplant coordinator during the organ donation process: (a) fulfilling the desire and will of the donor patient; (b) the family as an extension of the donor; (c) coordinating the organ donation process. CONCLUSIONS: The donation process is both complex and delicate, and nursing care is an essential component. The care provided by the nurse transplant coordinator has the donor at the centre of the process, driven by respect for their decision. The family is seen as an extension of the donor. Nursing care should focus on continuous, honest communication, coordinating care with the intensive care unit, ensuring privacy and intimacy.

Facilitators and Barriers in the Organ Donation Process: A Qualitative Study among Nurse Transplant Coordinators.

BACKGROUND: Spain is the world leader in organ donation, with a rate of 49.0 donations per million population. Nurse transplant coordinators fulfill key roles for the success of the complex donation process. Our aims were: (a) to describe the experience of nurse transplant coordinators and (b) to identify barriers and facilitators during the process of organ donation. METHODS: A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted within the National Transplant Organization. A purposive sampling method was used, and data collection methods included semistructured interviews, researcher field notes, and participants' personal letters. A systematic text condensation analysis was performed. The study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee. RESULTS: A total of 16 participants were recruited and four themes were identified: (a) a different job for nurses, (b) facilitators and barriers of the coordinator's job, (c) not a job for a novice nurse, and (d) coordinators facing a paradigm shift. Coordinators described their job as being characterized with uncertainty and having to face emotional and institutional barriers. The facilitators identified were high educational level and training, and feelings of pride for being part of the National Transplant Organization. CONCLUSIONS: The organ donation process requires specialized training to avoid organizational barriers.

A Point-of-Care Based on Label-Free Interferometric Optical Detection Method to Evaluate Interferon Gamma (IFN-γ): A Correlation with the ELISA Technique.

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is a cytokine associated with inflammatory diseases, virus, infection, etc. The quantification of interferon-gamma concentration levels is studied to relate the immune system response to the progression of disease. In this work, we used a label-free point-of-care device based on the increase relative optical power (IROP) and a biosensor based on photonic transducers called BICELLs (Biophotonic Sensing Cells) to evaluate interferon-gamma concentrations. The BICELLs' sensing surface size used is 100 µm in diameter. The bioreceptor is attached to the surface by streptavidin-biotin affinity. This label-free IROP-based device can work with a low concentration of reagents and a low sample volume for measurements. Furthermore, this new device was compared with an ELISA technique in the same conditions. A good correlation was achieved between both techniques. This device is easy to use, and it is a cost-effective tool for monitoring an analyte in a disease.

Educación inclusiva en Medicina: una experiencia formativa sobre personas con discapacidad / Inclusive education in Medicine: Awareness health care for persons with disabilities

FUNDAMENTO: La educación inclusiva universitaria trata de transformar y mejorar el rol competencial de los futuros médicos en relación con las personas con discapacidad (PcD), grupo poblacional vulnerable y prevalente que necesita una atención de calidad para hacer efectivo su derecho a la salud. OBJETIVO: Analizar y valorar la sensibilización y la formación de una experiencia desarrollada en Medicina en relación con la atención integral a las PcD. MÉTODO: Se ha realizado un estudio de intervención, tipo antes y después, sin grupo control, en 120 alumnos del grado de Medicina. RESULTADOS: Los estudiantes perciben que falta de formación en este tema y son conscientes de su rol sanitario y social en la reducción de desigualdades en las PcD. Entre los conocimientos profesionales que mejoran con la intervención, de manera significativa, están los relacionados con los derechos de las PcD, los factores de riesgo, el grado de discapacidad, el diseño universal, las medidas de acción positiva y las adaptaciones curriculares asociadas a la educación inclusiva. En relación con las competencias que deben ser adquiridas, se debe destacar su sensibilización sobre la necesidad de habilidades sociales y de comunicación, y la capacidad para emitir informes médicos sobre la incapacitación. CONCLUSIÓN: La intervención formativa se muestra efectiva en relación con la sensibilización sobre la importancia del rol del médico en relación con los pacientes con discapacidad y, en consecuencia, se valoran los conocimientos y competencias necesarias para conseguir una mejor atención sanitaria

BACKGROUND: Inclusive higher education aims to transform and improve the competence role of the future doctors in relation to people with disabilities (PwD), a vulnerable and prevalent population group which needs Quality Care to fulfil the right to health. AIM: To analyse and assess the awareness and training received of an experience developed in the School of Medicine related to the comprehensive care for PwD. METHOD: A before- and after-intervention, with no control group, of 120 students enrolled in the School of Medicine. RESULTS: Students perceive a lack of training on this topic and are aware of their health and social role to reduce inequalities in PwD. The professional knowledge that significantly improved with the intervention are the related with the rights of PwD, risk factors, degree of disability, universal design, positive action measures, and curriculum adaptations. As regards to the competences that must be acquired, the awareness of social and communications skills needed should be noted, as well as the ability to issue medical reports about disability. CONCLUSION: The training intervention is effective in terms of awareness about the importance of the medical role related to PwD, and consequently, the knowledge and skills needed to achieve a better Health Care are assessed

Genetic Modification of CD8+ T Cells to Express EGFR: Potential Application for Adoptive T Cell Therapies.

Adoptive immunotherapy with ex vivo-expanded tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has achieved objective clinical responses in a significant number of patients with cancer. The failure of many patients to develop long-term tumor control may be, in part, due to exhaustion of transferred T cells in the presence of a hostile tumor microenvironment. In several tumor types, growth and survival of carcinoma cells appear to be sustained by a network of receptors/ligands of the ErbB family. We speculated that if transferred T cells could benefit from EGFR ligands produced by the tumor, they might proliferate better and exert their anti-tumor activities more efficiently. We found that CD8+ T cells transduced with a retrovirus to express EGFR responded to EGFR ligands activating the EGFR signaling pathway. These EGFR-expressing effector T cells proliferated better and produced more IFN-γ and TNF-α in the presence of EGFR ligands produced by tumor cells in vitro. EGFR-expressing CD8 T cells from OT-1 mice were more efficient killing B16-OVA cells than control OT-1 CD8 T cells. Importantly, EGFR-expressing OT-1 T cells injected into B16-OVA tumor bearing mice were recruited into the tumor, expressed lower levels of the exhaustion markers PD1, TIGIT, and LAG3, and were more efficient in delaying tumor growth. Our results suggest that genetic modification of CD8+ T cells to express EGFR might be considered in immunotherapeutic strategies based on adoptive transfer of anti-tumor T cells against cancers expressing EGFR ligands.

La lectura y su relación con la salud y el bienestar de las personas / Reading and its relation with the health and well-being of people

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los elementos de la lectura que nos implican más poderosamente en esta actividad y su relación con la salud. Para esto se diseñó y distribuyó una encuesta entre personas que habitualmente leen, pertenecientes a las Comunidades autónomas de Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid y Asturias. En esta, los encuestados tenían que valorar aquellos aspectos que consideraban más importantes para ellos respecto a la lectura: tranquilidad, diversión, información y otros. Recogidas y analizadas 255 respuestas, los resultados pusieron de relieve que por encima de las funciones tradicionales relacionadas con las actividades formativas e informativas, lo que más valoran los encuestados son los aspectos protectores de la lectura, como paliar la soledad, evitar pensamientos negativos y gestionar mejor las emociones(AU)

The aim of this study was to try to identify the elements of reading that involve us most powerfully in this activity, in order to determine how reading habits affect health. To this end, a survey was designed and distributed among people who habitually read, from the Autonomous Communities of Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid, and Asturias. In this, the respondents had to assess those aspects that they considered most important for them regarding reading: tranquility, fun, information, and others. Collected and analyzed 255 responses, the results highlight that, above traditional functions related to training and information, the respondents valued most the healing aspects of reading, such as alleviating loneliness, avoiding negative thoughts and managing emotions better(AU)

La lectura y su relación con la salud y el bienestar de las personas / Reading and its relation with the health and well-being of people

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los elementos de la lectura que nos implican más poderosamente en esta actividad y su relación con la salud. Para esto se diseñó y distribuyó una encuesta entre personas que habitualmente leen, pertenecientes a las Comunidades autónomas de Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid y Asturias. En esta, los encuestados tenían que valorar aquellos aspectos que consideraban más importantes para ellos respecto a la lectura: tranquilidad, diversión, información y otros. Recogidas y analizadas 255 respuestas, los resultados pusieron de relieve que por encima de las funciones tradicionales relacionadas con las actividades formativas e informativas, lo que más valoran los encuestados son los aspectos protectores de la lectura, como paliar la soledad, evitar pensamientos negativos y gestionar mejor las emociones(AU)

The aim of this study was to try to identify the elements of reading that involve us most powerfully in this activity, in order to determine how reading habits affect health. To this end, a survey was designed and distributed among people who habitually read, from the Autonomous Communities of Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid, and Asturias. In this, the respondents had to assess those aspects that they considered most important for them regarding reading: tranquility, fun, information, and others. Collected and analyzed 255 responses, the results highlight that, above traditional functions related to training and information, the respondents valued most the healing aspects of reading, such as alleviating loneliness, avoiding negative thoughts and managing emotions better(AU)

Polar auxin transport is implicated in vessel differentiation and spatial patterning during secondary growth in Populus.

PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Dimensions and spatial distribution of vessels are critically important features of woody stems, allowing for adaptation to different environments through their effects on hydraulic efficiency and vulnerability to embolism. Although our understanding of vessel development is poor, basipetal transport of auxin through the cambial zone may play an important role. METHODS: Stems of Populus tremula ×alba were treated with the auxin transport inhibitor N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA) in a longitudinal strip along the length of the lower stem. Vessel lumen diameter, circularity, and length; xylem growth; tension wood area; and hydraulic conductivity before and after a high pressure flush were determined on both NPA-treated and control plants. KEY RESULTS: NPA-treated stems formed aberrant vessels that were short, small in diameter, highly clustered, and angular in cross section, whereas xylem formed on the untreated side of the stem contained typical vessels that were similar to those of controls. NPA-treated stems had reduced specific conductivity relative to controls, but this difference was eliminated by the high-pressure flush. The control treatment (lanolin + dimethyl sulfoxide) reduced xylem growth and increased tension wood formation, but never produced the aberrant vessel patterning seen in NPA-treated stems. CONCLUSIONS: These results are consistent with a model of vessel development in which basipetal polar auxin transport through the xylem-side cambial derivatives is required for proper expansion and patterning of vessels and demonstrate that reduced auxin transport can produce stems with altered stem hydraulic properties.

Validación de un método por CLAR para la cuantificación de L-prolina en la tintura al 20 por ciento de Murraya paniculata L. Jack / Validation of a high performance liquid chromatography method for quantitation of L-proline in 20 percent tincture from Murraya paniculata L. Jack

INTRODUCCIÓN: la búsqueda de técnicas analíticas para el control de la calidad de los medicamentos constituye un aspecto de gran interés en el campo farmacéutico, más si van dirigidas al estudio del o los marcadores químicos de las plantas medicinales, sus extractos y fitomedicamentos. OBJETIVO: validar un método de cromatografía líquida de alta resolución (CLAR) para la determinación cuantitativa del aminoácido L-prolina como sustancia marcador en la tintura de Murraya paniculata L. Jack. MÉTODOS: en el método por CLAR, la separación se realizó en una columna C-18 (UP5ODB-150/046), se utilizó como fase móvil una mezcla de solución buffer fosfato, pH ajustado a 2,4 y acetonitrilo (70:30 v/v), con una velocidad de flujo de 0,6 mL/min, modo isocrático, con detección ultravioleta a 440 nm. El volumen de inyección de la muestra fue de 20 µL. El método fue validado según la categoría I, siguiendo las exigencias internacionales. RESULTADOS: la curva de calibración fue lineal en el rango de concentraciones ensayadas (30 a 375 µg/mL), se observó una buena precisión con coeficientes de variación menores del 2 por ciento. Los valores de recobrado estuvieron dentro de los límites establecidos para los métodos cromatográficos (98-102 por ciento). Se demostró la especificidad del método, al no presentarse interferencias de picos adicionales en la zona de elusión del compuesto de interés (L-prolina). CONCLUSIONES: el método analítico por CLAR, validado para la cuantificación del aminoácido L-prolina en la tintura de M. paniculata, demostró ser lineal, preciso, exacto y específico bajo las condiciones de estudio(AU)

INTRODUCTION: the search for analytical methods that may monitor the quality of drugs is an issue of great interest in the pharmaceutical field, even more if they are directed to studying chemical markers of medicinal plants, their extracts and phytomedicines. OBJECTIVE: to validate a high-resolution liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the quantitative determination of the L-proline amino acid as a marker substance in Murraya paniculata L. Jack tincture. METHODS: in the HPLC, the separation was performed on a C-18 (UP5ODB-150/046) column, with a mixture of phosphate buffer solution, pH adjusted to 2.4 and acetonitrile (70:30 v/v) used as mobile phase, the flow rate was 0.6 mL/min, isocratic mode with UV detection set at 440 nm. The injection volume of the sample was 20 µL. The method was validated according to category I, following international requirements. RESULTS: the calibration curve was linear over the concentration range tested (30-375 mg/mL), good precision was observed with a variation coefficient less than 2 percent. Recovery values were within the limits for chromatographic methods (98-102 percent). The method was specific since there was no-interference by additional peaks in the elution zone of the compound in question (L-proline). CONCLUSIONS: the HPLC analytical method, validated for the quantification of L-proline amino acid in M. paniculata tincture, proved to be linear, precise, accurate and specific under the study conditions(AU)

Validación de un método por CLAR para la cuantificación de L-prolina en la tintura al 20 por ciento de Murraya paniculata L Jack / Validation of a high performance liquid chromatography method for quantitation of L-proline in 20 percent tincture from Murraya paniculata L Jack

Introducción: la búsqueda de técnicas analíticas para el control de la calidad de los medicamentos constituye un aspecto de gran interés en el campo farmacéutico, más si van dirigidas al estudio del o los marcadores químicos de las plantas medicinales, sus extractos y fitomedicamentos. Objetivo: validar un método de cromatografía líquida de alta resolución (CLAR) para la determinación cuantitativa del aminoácido L-prolina como sustancia marcador en la tintura de Murraya paniculata L. Jack. Métodos: en el método por CLAR, la separación se realizó en una columna C-18 (UP5ODB-150/046), se utilizó como fase móvil una mezcla de solución buffer fosfato, pH ajustado a 2,4 y acetonitrilo (70:30 v/v), con una velocidad de flujo de 0,6 mL/min, modo isocrático, con detección ultravioleta a 440 nm. El volumen de inyección de la muestra fue de 20 µL. El método fue validado según la categoría I, siguiendo las exigencias internacionales. Resultados: la curva de calibración fue lineal en el rango de concentraciones ensayadas (30 a 375 µg/mL), se observó una buena precisión con coeficientes de variación menores del 2 por ciento. Los valores de recobrado estuvieron dentro de los límites establecidos para los métodos cromatográficos (98-102 por ciento). Se demostró la especificidad del método, al no presentarse interferencias de picos adicionales en la zona de elusión del compuesto de interés (L-prolina). Conclusiones: el método analítico por CLAR, validado para la cuantificación del aminoácido L-prolina en la tintura de M. paniculata, demostró ser lineal, preciso, exacto y específico bajo las condiciones de estudio(AU)

Introduction: the search for analytical methods that may monitor the quality of drugs is an issue of great interest in the pharmaceutical field, even more if they are directed to studying chemical markers of medicinal plants, their extracts and phytomedicines. Objective: to validate a high-resolution liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the quantitative determination of the L-proline amino acid as a marker substance in Murraya paniculata L. Jack tincture. Methods: in the HPLC, the separation was performed on a C-18 (UP5ODB-150/046) column, with a mixture of phosphate buffer solution, pH adjusted to 2.4 and acetonitrile (70:30 v/v) used as mobile phase, the flow rate was 0.6 mL/min, isocratic mode with UV detection set at 440 nm. The injection volume of the sample was 20 ÁL. The method was validated according to category I, following international requirements. Results: the calibration curve was linear over the concentration range tested (30-375 mg/mL), good precision was observed with a variation coefficient less than 2 percent. Recovery values were within the limits for chromatographic methods (98-102 percent). The method was specific since there was no-interference by additional peaks in the elution zone of the compound in question (L-proline). Conclusions: the HPLC analytical method, validated for the quantification of L-proline amino acid in M. paniculata tincture, proved to be linear, precise, accurate and specific under the study conditions(AU)

Circadian variation of melatonin, light exposure, and diurnal preference in day and night shift workers of both sexes.

BACKGROUND: Light-at-night has been shown in experimental studies to disrupt melatonin production but this has only partly been confirmed in studies of night shift workers. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the circadian variation of melatonin in relation to shift status, individual levels of light-at-night exposure, and diurnal preference, an attribute reflecting personal preference for activity in the morning or evening. METHODS: One hundred and seventeen workers (75 night and 42 day) of both sexes, ages 22 to 64 years, were recruited from four companies. Participants collected urine samples from all voids over 24 hours and wore a data logger continuously recording their light exposure. Sociodemographic, occupational, lifestyle, and diurnal preference information were collected by interview. Concentrations of urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), the main melatonin metabolite, were measured. RESULTS: Mean aMT6s levels were lower in night [10.9 ng/mg creatinine/hour; 95% confidence interval (CI), 9.5-12.6] compared with day workers (15.4; 95% CI, 12.3-19.3). The lowest aMT6s levels were observed in night workers with morning preference (6.4; 95% CI, 3.0-13.6). Peak time of aMT6s production occurred 3 hours later in night (08:42 hour, 95% CI, 07:48-09:42) compared with day workers (05:36 hour, 95% CI, 05:06-06:12). Phase delay was stronger among subjects with higher light-at-night exposure and number of nights worked. CONCLUSIONS: Night shift workers had lower levels and a delay in peak time of aMT6s production over a 24-hour period. Differences were modified by diurnal preference and intensity of light-at-night exposure. IMPACT: Night shift work affects levels and timing of melatonin production and both parameters may relate to future cancer risk.

Acercamiento al género Murraya (Rutaceae) y a la especie Murraya paniculata (L) Jack / Approach to Murraya (Rutaceae) genus and Murraya paniculata (L) Jack species

Introducción: Murraya paniculata (L) Jack (Rutaceae) es empleada tradicionalmente en algunas provincias de Cuba para el alivio del dolor y la inflamación asociados a enfermedades osteomioarticulares. No se reportan estudios en el país que profundicen en la composición química de esta especie o del género Murraya, ni tampoco relacionados con información etnomédica y actividades biológicas comprobadas. Objetivos: reunir y analizar información científica actualizada referente al género, y a esta especie en particular, como fuente natural de compuestos biológicamente activos que determinan sus potencialidades medicinales. Métodos: se incluyeron en el análisis artículos científicos y libros relacionados con los temas de composición química, usos tradicionales y evaluaciones farmacológicas, así como otros elementos de interés de plantas medicinales. Resultados: la información analizada puede servir de base para el desarrollo de nuevas investigaciones que avalen el empleo en la terapéutica de productos fitoterápicos de elevada eficacia, seguridad y calidad. La revisión de los resultados de otros grupos de investigación permite establecer estrategias racionales de investigación científica, que contribuyan al uso racional de los recursos que se encuentran en universidades y centros de investigación y salud. Conclusiones: los elementos encontrados en la bibliografía consultada permiten asegurar que la especie Murraya paniculata puede ser potencialmente empleada en fitoterapia, debido entre otras cosas, al importante número de metabolítos secundarios identificados con actividad farmacológica reconocida(AU)

Introduction: Murraya paniculata (L) Jacq (Rutaceae) is traditionally used in some Cuban provinces for pain relief and inflammation associated to osteomyoarticulary diseases. There has been no reported studied at domestic level, which delves into neither the chemical composition of this species or of Murraya genus nor the confirmation of etnomedical information and biological actions. Objectives: to gather and analyze updated scientific information about this genus, particularly this species, as likely natural source of biologically active compounds responsible for their medicinal potentialities. Methods: the analysis comprised scientific articles and books on chemical composition, traditional uses and pharmacological assessment, and other interesting elements of medicinal plants. Results: the analyzed information can provide the basis for the development of new research studies that will support the use of highly effective, safe and quality phytotherapeutic products. The review of the results achieved by other research groups allows drawing reasonable scientific research strategies to contribute to the rational use of resources by universities and research and health institutions. Conclusions: the elements found in the literature review allow assuring that Murraya paniculata species may be potentially used in phytotherapy because of the significant numbers of detected secondary metabolites with recognized pharmacological action(AU)

Acercamiento al género Murraya (Rutaceae) y a la especie Murraya paniculata (L) Jack / Approach to Murraya (Rutaceae) genus and Murraya paniculata (L) Jack species

Introducción: Murraya paniculata (L) Jack (Rutaceae) es empleada tradicionalmente en algunas provincias de Cuba para el alivio del dolor y la inflamación asociados a enfermedades osteomioarticulares. No se reportan estudios en el país que profundicen en la composición química de esta especie o del género Murraya, ni tampoco relacionados con información etnomédica y actividades biológicas comprobadas. Objetivos: reunir y analizar información científica actualizada referente al género, y a esta especie en particular, como fuente natural de compuestos biológicamente activos que determinan sus potencialidades medicinales. Métodos: se incluyeron en el análisis artículos científicos y libros relacionados con los temas de composición química, usos tradicionales y evaluaciones farmacológicas, así como otros elementos de interés de plantas medicinales. Resultados: la información analizada puede servir de base para el desarrollo de nuevas investigaciones que avalen el empleo en la terapéutica de productos fitoterápicos de elevada eficacia, seguridad y calidad. La revisión de los resultados de otros grupos de investigación permite establecer estrategias racionales de investigación científica, que contribuyan al uso racional de los recursos que se encuentran en universidades y centros de investigación y salud. Conclusiones: los elementos encontrados en la bibliografía consultada permiten asegurar que la especie Murraya paniculata puede ser potencialmente empleada en fitoterapia, debido entre otras cosas, al importante número de metabolítos secundarios identificados con actividad farmacológica reconocida

Introduction: Murraya paniculata (L) Jacq (Rutaceae) is traditionally used in some Cuban provinces for pain relief and inflammation associated to osteomyoarticulary diseases. There has been no reported studied at domestic level, which delves into neither the chemical composition of this species or of Murraya genus nor the confirmation of etnomedical information and biological actions. Objectives: to gather and analyze updated scientific information about this genus, particularly this species, as likely natural source of biologically active compounds responsible for their medicinal potentialities. Methods: the analysis comprised scientific articles and books on chemical composition, traditional uses and pharmacological assessment, and other interesting elements of medicinal plants. Results: the analyzed information can provide the basis for the development of new research studies that will support the use of highly effective, safe and quality phytotherapeutic products. The review of the results achieved by other research groups allows drawing reasonable scientific research strategies to contribute to the rational use of resources by universities and research and health institutions. Conclusions: the elements found in the literature review allow assuring that Murraya paniculata species may be potentially used in phytotherapy because of the significant numbers of detected secondary metabolites with recognized pharmacological action

Programa psicoeducativo de medicación / Psychoeducational medication programme

El presente trabajo tiene como propósito mostrar la evaluaciónde un Programa Psicoeducativo sobre Medicaciónrealizado con los pacientes ingresados desde el año 2001hasta el 2004 en el Hospital de Día Psiquiátrico de Salamanca.El tratamiento en el Hospital de Día es intensivo, de cortaduración y de carácter multidisciplinar, tanto farmacológicocomo psicoterapéutico.Los pacientes atendidos padecen cualquiera de las patologíaspsiquiátricas, excepto las que serían objeto de exclusiónen este hospital como: retraso mental, demencia, conductasheteroagresivas o autoagresivas importantes.Los resultados se obtienen a partir de cuestionarios realizadosvoluntariamente tanto por los pacientes como por sus familias,al finalizar el tratamiento en dicho hospital

The purpose of this paper is to show the evaluation of aPsychoeducational Medication Programme performed on patientsadmitted from 2001 to 2004 at “Hospital de DíaPsiquiátrico” of Salamanca.Treatment at the Day Hospital is intensive, of a short-durationand of a multidisciplinary nature, involving pharmacologicalas well as psychotherapeutic care.Attended patients suffer from any psychiatric pathology, exceptingthose that would be meet exclusion criteria such asmental retardation, dementia, or significant heteroagressiveor self-aggressive behaviours.Results are obtained from questionnaires that the patientsand their families filled in voluntarily at completion of the treatment period at the said hospital (AU)