Polyphenol analysis in human milk by a rapid, cost-effective, and accurate micromethod: translational development.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a rapid method for analysing polyphenols, which are potentially active antioxidants against neonatal oxidative stress, from small human milk (HM) volumes. METHODS: Acid and alkaline extractions were compared using two dyes: Folin-Ciocalteu and Fast Blue BB. Linearity, sensitivity, recovery percentage, polyphenol content, precision, and stability were assessed in 14 HM samples and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis H test (p<0.05). The best technique was applied to 284 HM samples to determine their polyphenolic content and its association with maternal diet by multifactorial linear regression. RESULTS: Acidic extraction successfully recovered the gallic acid reference standard, whereas alkaline extraction overestimated it. Calibration curves for all methods were linear (R2>0.96) up to 500 mg/L. All bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu methods assayed were stable and repeatable, whereas Fast Blue BB-based variants were not. HM polyphenols (mean=94.68 mg/L) positively correlated to the dietary intake of hydroxycinnamic acids, the most consumed polyphenolic family in this population. CONCLUSIONS: A bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu micromethod allowed the accurate determination of polyphenols in HM, which might be useful for translational research settings and HM banks.

Polyphenol analysis in human milk by a rapid, cost-effective, and accurate micromethod: translational development / Análise de polifenóis no leite humano por meio de um micrométodo rápido, econômico e preciso: desenvolvimento translacional

ABSTRACT Objective: To develop a rapid method for analysing polyphenols, which are potentially active antioxidants against neonatal oxidative stress, from small human milk (HM) volumes. Methods: Acid and alkaline extractions were compared using two dyes: Folin-Ciocalteu and Fast Blue BB. Linearity, sensitivity, recovery percentage, polyphenol content, precision, and stability were assessed in 14 HM samples and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis H test (p<0.05). The best technique was applied to 284 HM samples to determine their polyphenolic content and its association with maternal diet by multifactorial linear regression. Results: Acidic extraction successfully recovered the gallic acid reference standard, whereas alkaline extraction overestimated it. Calibration curves for all methods were linear (R2>0.96) up to 500 mg/L. All bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu methods assayed were stable and repeatable, whereas Fast Blue BB-based variants were not. HM polyphenols (mean=94.68 mg/L) positively correlated to the dietary intake of hydroxycinnamic acids, the most consumed polyphenolic family in this population. Conclusions: A bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu micromethod allowed the accurate determination of polyphenols in HM, which might be useful for translational research settings and HM banks.

RESUMO Objetivo: Desenvolver um método rápido para analisar polifenóis, que são antioxidantes potencialmente ativos contra o estresse oxidativo neonatal, em pequenos volumes de leite humano (LH). Métodos: Foram comparadas extrações ácidas e alcalinas usando dois corantes: Folin-Ciocalteu e Fast Blue BB. Foram avaliadas variáveis como linearidade, sensibilidade, percentagem de recuperação, teor de polifenóis, precisão e estabilidade em 14 amostras de LH, comparadas usando o teste de Kruskal-Wallis H (p<0,05). A melhor técnica foi aplicada a 284 amostras de LH para determinar seu teor polifenólico e sua associação com a dieta materna por regressão linear multifatorial. Resultados: A extração ácida recuperou com sucesso o padrão de referência do ácido gálico, enquanto a extração alcalina o superestimou. As curvas de calibração para todos os métodos foram lineares (R2>0,96) até os 500 mg/L. Todos os métodos testados baseados em Folin-Ciocalteu com bicarbonato foram estáveis e repetíveis, enquanto as variantes baseadas em Fast Blue BB não. Os polifenóis do HM (média=94,68 mg/L) correlacionaram-se positivamente com a ingestão dietética de ácidos hidroxicinâmicos, a família de polifenóis mais consumida nesta população. Conclusões: Um micrométodo baseado em bicarbonato de Folin-Ciocalteu permitiu a determinação precisa de polifenóis no HM, o que pode ser útil para configurações de pesquisa translacional e bancos de HM.

Interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein for optimal immunometabolic profiling of the lifestyle-related cardiorenal risk.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to identify optimal inflammatory biomarkers involved in cardiorenal risk in response to major lifestyle factors. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-nine adults aged 35-77 years participated voluntarily from 2017 to 2019 (Córdoba, Argentina) in a cross-sectional study to collect sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle data. Blood biomarkers (different cytokines, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]) were measured using standard methods and then evaluated by principal component analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) according to Mediterranean diet adherence, physical activity level, and waist circumference, while cardiorenal risk involved blood diastolic pressure, HDL-cholesterol, triacylglycerols, creatinine, and glycosylated hemoglobin. RESULTS: A principal component included TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-alpha), IL-8 (interleukin-8), IL-6 (interleukin-6), hs-CRP, and MCP-1, with absolute rotated factor loadings >0.10. SEM showed that IL-6 (ß=0.38, 95 % IC=0.08-0.68), hs-CRP (ß=0.33, 95 % IC=0.17-0.48), and TNF-α (ß=0.22, 95 % IC=0.11-0.32) were the mediators that better explained an inflammatory profile positively related to waist circumference (ß=0.77, 95 % IC=0.61-0.94). Moreover, this profile was associated with an increased cardiorenal risk (ß=0.78, 95 % IC=0.61-0.94), which was well-defined by the variable used. CONCLUSIONS: Immune mediators are key elements in profiling the cardiorenal risk associated with lifestyle factors, for which the combination of hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α has emerged as a robust indicator. This work reaffirms the need for biomarker optimization for early diagnosis and risk assessment.

Caffeinated non-alcoholic beverages on the postpartum mental health related to the COVID-19 pandemic by a cross-sectional study in Argentina.

Purpose: This work aimed to study postpartum mental outcomes and determinants of the intake of caffeinated beverages during the pandemic in women from Argentina. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 619 women who responded to online self-report questionnaires during the first and second waves of COVID-19, including validated instruments (Insomnia Severity Index, Perceived Stress Scale, Postpartum Depression Screening Scale, Memory Complaint Scale, and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale), and general data. Intake frequency and amount of caffeinated beverages were estimated. Multivariate regression and structural equation models identified associations and effects (p < 0.05). Results: Women were under social restrictions for 60.39 days, with home and essential activities increasing caffeinated intake. They ingested (mL/d): yerba mate (1457.71), coffee (66.85), tea (67.61), and soft drinks (50.95), which provided 646.20 mg/d of caffeine. Intakes of coffee and yerba mate were higher than pre-pandemic ones. Coffee was positively associated with stress and insomnia, and indirectly linked to higher levels of depression and memory complaints, and lower breastfeeding self-efficacy. Tea showed a similar but weaker association. Yerba mate correlated inversely with depression (through direct pathways), insomnia, and memory complaints (through indirect pathways), promoting breastfeeding self-efficacy. Soft drinks and caffeine did not present significant associations. Conclusion: Although findings do not imply causation, results suggest that beverages would exhibit caffeine-independent affective and cognitive roles, which might be anxiogenic in the case of coffee and tea (to a lesser extent). Yerba mate showed antidepressant potential. Given that breastfeeding might be compromised during the pandemic, yerba mate intake is promissory to protect postpartum mental health.

Three food pattern-based indices diagnose lactating women's nutritional inadequacies in Argentina: A clinimetric approach using diet quality indicators and breast milk biomarkers.

Diet is a health foundation that supports breastfeeding and enables lactating women's recovery. This study aimed to develop 3 valid diet adherence indices by clinimetric contrast with different parameters. We hypothesize that the 3 diet adherence-based indices are positively correlated with diet quality and milk biomarkers and directly related to calcium, fiber, and energy intake. A cross-sectional study recorded food frequency, anthropometric and dietary measures, and milk analysis to estimate correlations, sensitivity, and specificity (n = 284). Three reliable indices agreed by >75% with food frequency: macronutritional (MDI), phytochemical (PDI), and energetic (EDI), which correlated positively to the Fat Quality Index and Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women. MDI and EDI correlated negatively to the Healthy Plant-Based Diet Index (H-PBDI), whereas PDI correlated positively. MDI correlated positively to the protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, whereas EDI correlated negatively. Inadequate intakes of calcium, fiber, and energy were indicated by MDI <19, PDI <19, and EDI ≥19, respectively, in a sensitive and specific manner. Body fat was therefore positively associated with EDI. MDI was associated with increased protein and superoxide anion in milk, depending on its high protein-to-carbohydrate ratio and low H-PBDI. These indices allowed us to assess diet to diagnose maternal malnutrition promptly. Index validity was supported by significant dietary correlations and biological responsiveness. MDI and EDI promoted breast bioactivity and body adiposity, respectively, whereas PDI represented a healthier option.

Ionic complexation improves wound healing in deep second-degree burns and reduces in-vitro ciprofloxacin cytotoxicity in fibroblasts.

The development of new treatments capable of controlling infections and pain related to burns continues to be a challenge. Antimicrobials are necessary tools, but these can be cytotoxic for regenerating cells. In this study, antibiotic-anesthetic (AA) smart systems obtained by ionic complexation of polyelectrolytes with ciprofloxacin and lidocaine were obtained as films and hydrogels. Ionic complexation with sodium alginate and hyaluronate decreased cytotoxicity of ciprofloxacin above 70% in a primary culture of isolated fibroblasts (p < 0.05). In addition, the relative levels of the proteins involved in cell migration, integrin ß1 and p-FAK, increased above 1.5 times (p < 0.05) with no significant differences in cell mobility. Evaluation of the systems in a deep second-degree burn model revealed that reepithelization rate was AA-films = AA-hydrogels > control films > no treated > reference cream (silver sulfadiazine cream). In addition, appendage conservation and complete dermis organization were achieved in AA-films and AA-hydrogels. Encouragingly, both the films and the hydrogels showed a significantly superior performance compared to the reference treatment. This work highlights the great potential of this smart system as an attractive dressing for burns, which surpasses currently available treatments.

[Yerba mate as a safe polyphenolic source during human lactation]. / La yerba mate como fuente segura de polifenoles durante la lactancia humana.

Background: Yerba mate intake is conditioned by assumptions about its benefits and risks for breastfeeding, with a lack of solid evidence. Objective: To evaluate the safety of yerba mate teas during human lactation. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study with 279 adult lactating women from Argentina (years 2013-2020), during the first six months postpartum, without current pregnancy or active pathologies. Social, reproductive, and food data were compiled. Body mass index and percentage of body fat were also established. The adherence to dietary patterns, intake of yerba mate and its phytochemicals were estimated. Milk biochemistry included nutritional, oxidative and tissue markers. Intake means were compared using the Wilcoxon's test depending on the data recorded, while the multiple nonparametric Kernel regression was used to evaluate the effects on body and milk. Results: It was found a wide range of intake, and tube-sipped tea was the main way of consumption. Concerning its constraints, in-cup tea was more used by women without a partner, whereas tube-sipped tea was consumed mainly by employed women, during late postpartum, and with 12 or more years of formal education. Additionally, these teas were an important source of 18 hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids. Moreover, yerba mate provided more than 35% of dietary polyphenols. No anthropometric effects or changes in milk nutrients and biomarkers were found. Conclusions: Yerba mate was a safe source of polyphenols, as it did not compromise lactation and maternal nutritional status.

Introducción: el consumo de yerba mate está condicionado por supuestos sobre sus beneficios y riesgos para la lactancia materna, los cuales carecen de evidencia sólida. Objetivo: evaluar la seguridad de las infusiones de yerba mate durante la lactancia. Material y métodos: estudio transversal con 279 mujeres lactantes adultas de Argentina (años 2013-2020), en los primeros seis meses postparto, sin embarazo ni patologías activas. Se recopilaron datos sociales, reproductivos y alimentarios, índice de masa corporal y porcentaje de grasa corporal. Se estimó adherencia a patrones alimentarios, consumo de mate y sus fitoquímicos. Se analizaron marcadores nutricionales, oxidativos y tisulares en leche. Por la prueba de Wilcoxon, se compararon las medias de consumo según las variables recopiladas y por regresión no paramétrica de Kernel múltiple se evaluaron los efectos corporales y lácteos. Resultados: se encontró un amplio rango en la ingesta de infusiones y el mate cebado fue la principal forma consumida. Respecto a sus condicionantes, el mate cocido fue más bebido por mujeres sin pareja, mientras que el mate cebado fue más consumido por puérperas tardías, con empleo y nivel educativo ≥ 12 años. Además, estas infusiones constituyeron una fuente relevante de 18 ácidos hidroxicinámicos y flavonoides, que proveyeron diariamente más del 35% de los polifenoles dietarios. No se encontraron efectos corporales ni cambios en los niveles de los nutrientes y en los biomarcadores lácteos. Conclusiones: la yerba mate fue una fuente polifenólica segura que no comprometió la lactancia ni el estado nutricional materno.

Dietary Intake of Polyphenols Enhances Executive/Attentional Functioning and Memory with an Improvement of the Milk Lipid Profile of Postpartum Women from Argentina.

Puerperium may lead to memory and executive/attentional complaints that interfere with women's daily life. This might be prevented by dietary compounds, such as neuroprotective polyphenols. Their bioactivity depends on their effects on lipid metabolism in different tissues, such as the brain, fat, and breast. Thus, a polyphenol-related cognitive improvement may be associated with changes of lipids in human milk, which are key for infant neurodevelopment. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 postpartum women from Córdoba (Argentina), involving several neuropsychological tests. Diet was registered to identify polyphenol intake and food pattern adherence, with sociodemographic and other psychological variables (insomnia, stress, subjective cognitive complaints) being also studied. Triacylglycerols, cholesterol, and their oxidative forms were analyzed as milk biomarkers. Multivariate statistical methods were applied. Results confirmed that women who consumed polyphenols presented better executive/attentional performance (i.e., higher correct responses, conceptual level responses, complete categories, verbal fluency; lower attentional interferences, and perseverative errors) and word retention with lower interference. Polyphenols were positively associated with milk lipids, which were higher in women with better cognition. Furthermore, they had lower oxidized triacylglycerols. In conclusion, polyphenolic intake during postpartum may improve executive/attentional functioning, memory, and milk lipid profile.

Association of Dietary Intake of Polyphenols with an Adequate Nutritional Profile in Postpartum Women from Argentina.

HJ-Biplot analysis is a multivariate graphic representation that collects data covariation structure between variables and individuals to represent them in a low-dimensional space with the highest quality in the same reference system. Consequently, it is a promising technique for evaluating dietary exposure to polyphenols and accurately characterizing female nutrition. Herein, we hypothesized that polyphenol intake defines specific clusters with dietary impacts, which can be assessed using HJ-Biplot, based on a cross-sectional study in Argentina. The study included 275 healthy postpartum women who provided information about their food frequency intake and other conditions, which were then used to evaluate polyphenolic intake using the Phenol-Explorer database. Outcomes were established using HJ-Biplot for clustering and ANOVA to compare their impact on diet quality indicators. Two HJ-Biplot models were run (for intakes >20 mg/d and 5∼20 mg/d, respectively) to identify three clusters per model with excellent statistical fitness to explain the data. Thus, specific polyphenolic clusters with potentially bioactive and safe compounds were defined despite significant interindividual variability. In fact, women with the lowest polyphenolic intake exhibited worse dietary quality, body fat, and physical activity. As a result, HJ-Biplot proved to be an effective technique for clustering women based on their dietary intake of these compounds. Furthermore, cluster membership improved the intake of antioxidants, water, fiber, and healthy fats. Additionally, women with formal jobs and a higher educational level showed a better diet. Dietary polyphenols are critical during postpartum because they exert beneficial effects on women and breastfed infants.

Triggering of postpartum depression and insomnia with cognitive impairment in Argentinian women during the pandemic COVID-19 social isolation in relation to reproductive and health factors.

OBJECTIVE: The 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19) required strict confinement measures that differentially impacted the individual's daily life. Thus, this work aimed to study postpartum women's mental health in Argentina during mandatory social isolation. DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to July 2020, which included five validated questionnaires to assess postpartum depression (Postpartum Depression Screening Scale-Short Form), insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index), memory complaints (Memory Complaint Scale), metacognition (Brief Metamemory and Metaconcentration Scale), and breastfeeding self-efficacy (Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form). Sociodemographic variables, social isolation characteristics, and breastfeeding practices were also collected. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Statistical analysis included zero-order correlations, multiple logistic regressions, and a set of structural equation models (SEM) to test direct and indirect effects. Goodness-of-fit indices were calculated for SEM. SETTING: Postpartum women were recruited from public hospitals, private health clinics, and online community recruitment in the Cordoba province (Argentina). PARTICIPANTS: 305 postpartum women from Argentina. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS: 37% of women reported postpartum depression, 46% insomnia, 42% memory impairment, 60% low metaconcentration, 50% low metamemory, and 23% low breastfeeding efficacy. Also, significant associations were found demonstrating that social isolation promoted postpartum depression and insomnia were reciprocally related, which compromised female cognition and efficacy. This situation was aggravated in women during late postpartum, with previous children, and by low social support (e.g., family, health professionals), with non-exclusive breastfeeding being increased. KEY CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study addressing postpartum women's mental status during social isolation in Argentina, which was a promoting factor for postpartum depression and insomnia that were reciprocally related. This situation was also aggravated by reproductive factors, such as late postpartum, multiparity, breastfeeding frequency, and non-exclusive breastfeeding. Additionally, breastfeeding self-efficacy depended on mental health status, and euthymia therefore favoured the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.

[Food patterns in Argentinian women related to socioeconomic and health factors during puerperium]. / Patrones alimentarios de mujeres argentinas durante el puerperio en relación con factores socioeconómicos y sanitarios.

Introduction: Food choices and nutritional requirements of women, which vary throughout their life cycle, are unknown for Argentinian women. Objective: To identify Argentinian women's dietary patterns and their relation to socioeconomic and health characteristics, during puerperium. Method: The food intake of 249 puerperal women was assessed for a cross-sectional study. Dietary patterns were determined by factor analysis, whose adherence was associated with different variables through Spearman's correlation and multivariate analyses. Results: Three patterns were revealed: macronutritional (MP), phytochemical (PP) and energetic (EP). Physical activity and family history of cardiometabolic diseases were positively associated to MP adherence (odds ratio [OR] = 2.69 and 2.68, respectively). Women without formal employment adhered less to PP (OR = 0.49). Low educational level increased adherence to EP (OR = 2.20). Body mass index correlated inversely to PP (rho = −0.16). Correspondence analysis revealed that high adherence to MP and PP were associated with formal employment, high educational level, adequate physical activity, normal body mass index and a diverse diet. Conclusion: Food choices were conditioned by family disease, physical activity, employment, and educational level. We identified three dietary patterns in postpartum women, which constitute an original contribution to future nutritional approaches.

Introducción: Las elecciones alimentarias afectan la salud de las mujeres, cuyos requerimientos nutricionales varían durante el ciclo vital. No obstante, en Argentina se desconocen los alimentos elegidos por las mujeres durante el puerperio. Objetivo: Identificar los patrones alimentarios de mujeres argentinas durante el puerperio y su relación con las características socioeconómicas y sanitarias. Método: Se realizó un estudio transversal con 249 participantes, quienes respondieron sobre su frecuencia alimentaria. Se determinaron patrones por análisis factorial, cuya adherencia fue asociada a diferentes variables mediante correlación de Spearman y análisis multivariados. Resultados: El análisis reveló tres patrones: macronutricional (PM), fitoquímico (PF) y energético (PE). Tener antecedentes familiares de enfermedades cardiometabólicas y realizar actividad física se asociaron con mayor adherencia al PM (razón de momios [RM] = 2.69 y 2.68, respectivamente). Las mujeres sin empleo formal tuvieron menor adherencia al PF (RM = 0.49). Un bajo nivel educacional incrementó la adherencia al PE (RM = 2.20). El índice de masa corporal (IMC) se asoció inversamente al PF (rho = −0.16). El análisis de correspondencia reveló que la alta adherencia al PM y al PF, junto con una baja adherencia al PE, se asociaron con empleo formal, mayor nivel educativo, adecuada actividad física, lMC normal y una dieta diversa. Conclusiones: Las elecciones alimentarias estuvieron condicionadas por los antecedentes familiares patológicos, la actividad física, el empleo y el nivel educacional, identificándose tres patrones alimentarios propios de las mujeres, lo que constituye una contribución original para futuros abordajes nutricionales.

Experimental acute arsenic toxicity in Balb/c mice: organic markers and splenic involvement / Arsenotoxicidad aguda experimental en ratones Balb/c: marcadores orgánicos y compromiso esplénico.

Introduction: Arsenic is an environmental toxic present worldwide. In men and animals, various organs and tissues are targets of its deleterious effects including those of the immune system. Objective: To determine acute arsenic toxicity in tissues and target cells of Balb/c mice using an in vivo methodology. Materials and methods: We injected Balb/c mice intraperitoneally with 9.5 or 19 mg/kg of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), or an equivalent volume of physiological solution as a control (with 3 per experimental group). After 30 minutes, the animals were sacrificed to obtain spleen, thymus, liver, kidneys, and blood. We determined arsenic, polyphenols, and iron concentrations in each sample and we evaluated the oxidative markers (peroxides, advanced products of protein oxidation, and free sulfhydryl groups). In splenocytes from the spleen, cell viability and mitochondrial potential were also determined. Results: The exposure to an acute dose of NaAsO2 reduced the mitochondrial function of splenocytes, which resulted in cell death. Simultaneously, the confirmed presence of arsenic in spleen samples and the resulting cytotoxicity occurred with a decrease in polyphenols, free sulfhydryl groups, and an alteration in the content and distribution of iron, but did not increase the production of peroxides. Conclusion: These findings provide scientific evidence about changes occurring in biomarkers involved in the immunotoxicity of arsenic and offer a methodology for testing possible treatments against the deleterious action of this compound on the immune system.

Introducción. El arsénico es un tóxico ambiental ampliamente diseminado en todo el mundo. En hombres y animales, diversos órganos y tejidos son blancos de sus efectos deletéreos, entre ellos, el los del sistema inmunológico. Objetivo. Determinar la intoxicación aguda por arsénico en tejidos y células diana de ratones Balb/c in vivo. Materiales y métodos. Se aplicó una inyección intraperitoneal de 9,5 o 19 mg/kg de arsenito de sodio (NaAsO2) o un volumen equivalente de solución fisiológica como control, en ratones Balb/c con 3 por cada grupo experimental. Tras media hora, los animales fueron sacrificados y se extrajeron bazos, timos, hígados, riñones y sangre. En cada muestra, se determinó la concentración de arsénico, polifenoles y hierro, y también, se evaluaron marcadores oxidativos, como peróxidos, productos avanzados de oxidación proteica y grupos sulfhidrilos libres. En los esplenocitos obtenidos del bazo, se determinaron la viabilidad celular y el potencial mitocondrial. Resultados. La dosis aguda inyectada de NaAsO2 redujo la función mitocondrial de los esplenocitos, lo que derivó en muerte celular. La presencia confirmada de arsénico en las muestras de bazo y la citotoxicidad resultante, produjeron disminución de los polifenoles y de los grupos sulfhidrilos libres, y alteraron el contenido y la distribución del hierro, pero no se aumentó la producción de peróxidos. Conclusión. Estos hallazgos aportan evidencia científica sobre los cambios en biomarcadores involucrados en la inmunotoxicidad del arsénico y ofrecen, además, una metodología para ensayar potenciales tratamientos frente a la acción deletérea de este compuesto en el sistema inmunológico.

Arsenotoxicidad aguda experimental en ratones Balb/c: marcadores orgánicos y compromiso esplénico / Experimental acute arsenic toxicity in Balb/c mice: organic markers and splenic involvement

Resumen | Introducción. El arsénico es un tóxico ambiental ampliamente diseminado en todo el mundo. En hombres y animales, diversos órganos y tejidos son blancos de sus efectos deletéreos, entre ellos, el los del sistema inmunológico. Objetivo. Determinar la intoxicación aguda por arsénico en tejidos y células diana de ratones Balb/c in vivo. Materiales y métodos. Se aplicó una inyección intraperitoneal de 9,5 o 19 mg/kg de arsenito de sodio (NaAsO2) o un volumen equivalente de solución fisiológica como control, en ratones Balb/c con 3 por cada grupo experimental. Tras media hora, los animales fueron sacrificados y se extrajeron bazos, timos, hígados, riñones y sangre. En cada muestra, se determinó la concentración de arsénico, polifenoles y hierro, y también, se evaluaron marcadores oxidativos, como peróxidos, productos avanzados de oxidación proteica y grupos sulfhidrilos libres. En los esplenocitos obtenidos del bazo, se determinaron la viabilidad celular y el potencial mitocondrial. Resultados. La dosis aguda inyectada de NaAsO2 redujo la función mitocondrial de los esplenocitos, lo que derivó en muerte celular. La presencia confirmada de arsénico en las muestras de bazo y la citotoxicidad resultante, produjeron disminución de los polifenoles y de los grupos sulfhidrilos libres, y alteraron el contenido y la distribución del hierro, pero no se aumentó la producción de peróxidos. Conclusión. Estos hallazgos aportan evidencia científica sobre los cambios en biomarcadores involucrados en la inmunotoxicidad del arsénico y ofrecen, además, una metodología para ensayar potenciales tratamientos frente a la acción deletérea de este compuesto en el sistema inmunológico.

Abstract | Introduction: Arsenic is an environmental toxic present worldwide. In men and animals, various organs and tissues are targets of its deleterious effects including those of the immune system. Objective: To determine acute arsenic toxicity in tissues and target cells of Balb/c mice using an in vivo methodology. Materials and methods: We injected Balb/c mice intraperitoneally with 9.5 or 19 mg/ kg of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), or an equivalent volume of physiological solution as a control (with 3 per experimental group). After 30 minutes, the animals were sacrificed to obtain spleen, thymus, liver, kidneys, and blood. We determined arsenic, polyphenols, and iron concentrations in each sample and we evaluated the oxidative markers (peroxides, advanced products of protein oxidation, and free sulfhydryl groups). In splenocytes from the spleen, cell viability and mitochondrial potential were also determined. Results: The exposure to an acute dose of NaAsO2 reduced the mitochondrial function of splenocytes, which resulted in cell death. Simultaneously, the confirmed presence of arsenic in spleen samples and the resulting cytotoxicity occurred with a decrease in polyphenols, free sulfhydryl groups, and an alteration in the content and distribution of iron, but did not increase the production of peroxides. Conclusion: These findings provide scientific evidence about changes occurring in biomarkers involved in the immunotoxicity of arsenic and offer a methodology for testing possible treatments against the deleterious action of this compound on the immune system.

Public Sector Workers' Mental Health in Argentina: Comparative Psychometrics of the Perceived Stress Scale.

OBJECTIVES: Given that Argentinian public-sector workers are highly exposed to stressful conditions, and that the psychometric properties of the widely used Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) should be evaluated in different settings, this work aimed to compare the psychometric properties of the Latin American Spanish PSS-10 and PSS-4 and to identify the optimal scale for stress assessment. METHODS: A sample of 535 participants was randomly divided into 2 groups to evaluate dimensionality by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The reliability of both scales was also evaluated. Convergent validity was estimated using the Executive Complaints Questionnaire, the average variance extracted, and the composite reliability. Discriminant validity was based on the correlation with the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and the phi-square correlation between the components. RESULTS: The factor analyses supported bidimensionality of the PSS-10 (stress and coping), which showed a better fit than the PSS-4. Moreover, the reliability of the PSS-10 was higher, whereas the PSS-4 did not achieve adequate values of internal consistency. The PSS-10 was also correlated significantly with all validation scales, and presented proper internal convergent and divergent validity. CONCLUSIONS: The PSS-10 is a reliable and structurally valid instrument to measure perceived stress and coping in a Latin American Spanish-speaking population with high work demands, and the findings of this study expand our knowledge on the geographical and sociocultural applicability of the PSS.

Evaluation of cellular safety and the chemical composition of the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) ethanolic extracts.

Arachis hypogaea L. (Leguminosae) is distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. Peanut has high nutritional and commercial value. Scientific research showed that peanut has biological properties such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiinflammatory. However, it is necessary to know if consumption of peanut, either as food or as a phytopharmaceutical implies a health risk. The aim was to evaluate cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of ethanolic extracts from A. hypogaea. Also, chemical characterization of these extracts was performed. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT and Neutral Red Uptake (NRU) assays on Vero cells. Genotoxicity was studied by Micronuclei and comet assays on Balb/C mice. Qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of extracts were performed. Results showed that extracts have low cytotoxicity. Tegument ethanolic extract (TEE) and Seed ethanolic extract (SEE) were not genotoxic. The treatments with TEE at 250 mg/kg and SEE at 2000 mg/kg revealed (highest concentrations evaluated) some toxicity on blood marrow cells of mice. Chemical characterization indicated that TEE had 74.33 ± 1.10 mg GAE/g of dried extract and SEE had 15.05 ± 0.06 mg GAE/g of dried extract of total phenolic content. Also, proanthocyanidins (O.D. at 550 nm 1.39 ± 0.15) and caffeic acid (2.46%) were identified in TEE. While, linoleic acid (58.84%) oleic acid (11.31%) and palmitic acid (8.37%) were major compounds of SEE. In conclusion, peanut consumption is safe at concentrations recommended for healthy uses, such as nutrition, and phytomedicine.

[Variations of the cognitive status in the puerperium and their determinants: a narrative review]. / Variaciones del estado cognitivo en el puerperio y sus determinantes: una revisión narrativa.

The neurobiological modifications that women experience during the puerperium, together with the consequent psychosocial changes, lead to variations in cognitive functions. In order to describe the cognitive variations that occur during postpartum and the determining factors, a narrative review was conducted by means of a bibliographic search in PubMed and Google Scholar. A steady increase in the number of published works was located (PubMed = 186; Google Scholar = 26,730). The analysis of the articles made it possible to: a) characterize the cognitive functions during the puerperium; b) analyze the neuropsychological effects produced by the endocrinological and anatomophysiological changes; c) analyze the effect of the quality of sleep on cognition; d) analyze cognitive functions according to obstetric experiences. In conclusion, puerperal women are characterized by variations in their cognitive functions, which are determined by structural, functional, psychological and social changes. It is necessary to conduct neuropsychological research in this population, since postpartum care still focuses on the care of the newborn, without addressing the puerperal woman in a comprehensive manner.

Las modificaciones neurobiológicas que experimenta la mujer durante el puerperio, junto con los consecuentes cambios psicosociales, determinan variaciones en el funcionamiento cognitivo. Con el objetivo de describir las variaciones cognitivas que ocurren durante el postparto y sus factores determinantes, se desarrolló una revisión narrativa a partir de la búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed y Google Scholar. Se evidenció un constante crecimiento del número de publicaciones a lo largo de los años (PubMed= 186; Google Scholar= 26730). El análisis de los artículos permitió: a) Caracterizar las funciones cognitivas durante el puerperio; b) Analizar los efectos neuropsicológicos producidos por los cambios endocrinológicos y anatomofisiológicos; c) Analizar el efecto de la calidad del sueño sobre la cognición; d) Analizar las funciones cognitivas en función de las experiencias obstétricas. En conclusión, la mujer puérpera se caracteriza por presentar variaciones en sus funciones cognitivas, las cuales están determinadas por cambios estructurales, funcionales, psicológicos y sociales. Es necesario fomentar investigaciones neuropsicológicas en esta población, ya que la atención del posparto todavía se centra en el cuidado del recién nacido, sin abordar a la mujer puérpera de manera integral.

Variaciones del estado cognitivo en el puerperio y sus determinantes: una revisión narrativa / Variations of the cognitive status in the puerperium and their determinants: a narrative review

Resumen Las modificaciones neurobiológicas que experimenta la mujer durante el puerperio, junto con los consecuentes cambios psicosociales, determinan variaciones en el funcionamiento cognitivo. Con el objetivo de describir las variaciones cognitivas que ocurren durante el postparto y sus factores determinantes, se desarrolló una revisión narrativa a partir de la búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed y Google Scholar. Se evidenció un constante crecimiento del número de publicaciones a lo largo de los años (PubMed= 186; Google Scholar= 26730). El análisis de los artículos permitió: a) Caracterizar las funciones cognitivas durante el puerperio; b) Analizar los efectos neuropsicológicos producidos por los cambios endocrinológicos y anatomofisiológicos; c) Analizar el efecto de la calidad del sueño sobre la cognición; d) Analizar las funciones cognitivas en función de las experiencias obstétricas. En conclusión, la mujer puérpera se caracteriza por presentar variaciones en sus funciones cognitivas, las cuales están determinadas por cambios estructurales, funcionales, psicológicos y sociales. Es necesario fomentar investigaciones neuropsicológicas en esta población, ya que la atención del posparto todavía se centra en el cuidado del recién nacido, sin abordar a la mujer puérpera de manera integral.

Abstract The neurobiological modifications that women experience during the puerperium, together with the consequent psychosocial changes, lead to variations in cognitive functions. In order to describe the cognitive variations that occur during postpartum and the determining factors, a narrative review was conducted by means of a bibliographic search in PubMed and Google Scholar. A steady increase in the number of published works was located (PubMed = 186; Google Scholar = 26,730). The analysis of the articles made it possible to: a) characterize the cognitive functions during the puerperium; b) analyze the neuropsychological effects produced by the endocrinological and anatomophysiological changes; c) analyze the effect of the quality of sleep on cognition; d) analyze cognitive functions according to obstetric experiences. In conclusion, puerperal women are characterized by variations in their cognitive functions, which are determined by structural, functional, psychological and social changes. It is necessary to conduct neuropsychological research in this population, since postpartum care still focuses on the care of the newborn, without addressing the puerperal woman in a comprehensive manner.

Pharmacological Activity of Quercetin and 5 Caffeoylquinic Acid Oral Intake in Male Balb/c Mice with Lung Adenocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is a major worldwide cause of death by cancer, it shows high aggressiveness, functional decline, systemic compromise and severe cachexia, which might be counteracted by dietary redox-active phytochemicals. Therefore, our aim was to establish the anticancer effects of the oral intake of quercetin and 5 caffeoylquinic acid. METHODS: LAC-1-bearing male Balb/c mice received quercetin (0-25 µg/kg/d) and 5 caffeoylquinic acid (0-120 µg/kg/d) for three weeks, with different organic and biochemical variables being then compared with ANOVA and the Fisher Test (p <0.05). RESULTS: Quercetin delayed 1.18 fold tumour appearance and increased 8.87 fold non-neoplastic body weight gain, whereas 5 caffeoylquinic acid did it in a lesser extent (1.17 and 2.48 fold, respectively), with tumour weight being consequent with the evolution time. Quercetin induced >1.15 fold tumour hydroperoxides and lipoperoxides, whereas 5 caffeoylquinic acid induced only lipoperoxides. Although both phytochemicals reduced <0.85 fold hydroperoxides and lipoperoxides in the kidney, only quercetin was also antioxidant in the liver. Additionally, 5 caffeoylquinic acid increased >1.15 fold hepatic and renal weights. Although these phytochemicals did not modify telencephalic interleukin 6 production, quercetin augmented 2.51 fold interleukin 6 in the diencephalon, whereas 5 caffeoylquinic acid decreased it 0.43 fold. CONCLUSIONS: Quercetin delayed lung adenocarcinoma appearance and increased the non-neoplastic body weight gain in mice with tumour oxidative stress, without brain interleukin 6 participation. 5 caffeoylquinic acid showed similar effects, although they were weaker. Additionally, quercetin acted as a hepatic and renal antioxidant, whereas 5 caffeoylquinic acid only exerted this effect in the kidney. Therefore, safe oral doses of this flavonoid are promissory to modulate lung cancer progression, with further studies being encouraged.

Effect of cultivation method and processing on total polyphenols content and antioxidant capacity of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)

INTRODUCTION: Tomato is an important dietary source of polyphenols. Factors such as cultivation method and heat can affect its composition. The objective of this study was to determine changes of polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity in tomatoes obtained from different production method (organic vs. conventional), before and after being cooked. METHODS: Total polyphenols and antioxidant capacity were measured in fresh and processed tomatoes from two cultivation methods, using spectrophotometric techniques. RESULTS: Antioxidant capacity was higher (p < 0.05) for fresh and processed samples of organic tomatoes compared with conventional ones (organic 17,82 mg Fe+2/g > conventional 15,39 mg Fe+2/g). No significant difference in polyphenol content according to method of cultivation was found (organic 3,8 μg GAE/g > conventional 3,2 μg GAE/g). Measured parameters were not significantly affected by physical and mechanical processing in tomatoes from both cultivation methods. DISCUSSION: A tendency towards better phytochemical properties in organic tomatoes were found in our study, which is consistent with existing literature. Antioxidant compounds in organic samples appear to be more resistant to processing. CONCLUSION: It is necessary to deepen the study of organic and conventional tomatoes, in order to get more evidence on its nutritional quality

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Auditory processing self-report: How do normal-hearing individuals perceive themselves? / Autorreporte del procesamiento auditivo: ¿Cómo se perciben los individuos normoacúsicos?

Background: Hearing results from processes of modulation of the acoustic signal performed by the auditory pathway and cortical activity. Sound detection, location, discrimination, intelligibility in noise and silence require integrity of the auditory system. Objective: To recognize the auditory variability in competent users and examine the relationship of auditory processing abilities with peripheral sensitivity. Methods: 97 normal-hearing participants with comprehensive listening in a second language and/or music were studied with the Spanish version of the Amsterdam Inventory for Auditory Disability and Handicap (S-AIADH), audiometry and impedanciometry. Correlations between S-AIADH scores and audiometric tonal and acoustic thresholds were calculated. Results: Scores in sound distinction, intelligibility in noise and location showed the greatest dispersion. Auditory processing abilities did not correlate significantly with acoustic thresholds and reflexes, except for the intelligibility in noise that was positively associated with the tonal threshold at frequencies 500 and 1000 Hz in both ears. Conclusion: These results indicate a paradox, which reinforces the differentiation between hearing and listening. For a comprehensive approach, the study of hearing requires addressing both peripheral and central auditory processing, where the use of self-report instruments is important.

Introducción: la audición resulta de procesos de modulación de la señal acústica que realiza la vía auditiva y la actividad cortical. La detección de los sonidos, localización, discriminación, inteligibilidad del habla en ruido y en silencio requieren de la integridad funcional del sistema auditivo. Objetivo: reconocer la variabilidad auditiva en usuarios competentes y examinar la relación de las habilidades del procesamiento auditivo con la sensibilidad periférica. Métodos: un total de 97 participantes normoacúsicos con antecedentes de escucha comprensiva en una segunda lengua y/o música fueron valorados con el Inventario de Ámsterdam para la Discapacidad y Rendimiento Auditivo versión español (S-AIADH), audiometría e impedanciometría. Se calcularon las correlaciones entre los puntajes del S-AIADH y los umbrales tonales audiométricos y del reflejo estapedial. Resultados: los subtotales intratest con mayor dispersión pertenecen a la distinción de sonidos, inteligibilidad en ruido y localización. Las habilidades del procesamiento auditivo no se correlacionaron significativamente con los umbrales de detección de sonido y los reflejos estapediales, a excepción de la inteligibilidad en ruido que se asoció positivamente con el umbral tonal en las frecuencias 500 y 1000 Hz en ambos oídos. Conclusión: Estos resultados indican una paradoja, lo cual refuerza la diferenciación entre oír y escuchar. Para un abordaje integral, el estudio de la audición requiere de abordar tanto el procesamiento auditivo periférico como el central, donde el uso de instrumentos de autorreporte es de gran importancia.