Early exposure to agricultural pesticides and the occurrence of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review / Exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e ocorrência do transtorno do espectro autista: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of early exposure to agricultural pesticides and their relationship with autism spectrum disorder. Data source: This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020204842. The subject was systematically analyzed on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases until April 2021. Only studies with humans with early exposure to agricultural pesticides and diagnosis of autism were included. Exclusion criteria were studies on pesticides for domestic or veterinary use and late exposure. There were no language and time restriction. The quality analysis of the studies used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data synthesis: Six case-control studies were included; three of them measured the route of exposure by maternal biomarkers and the others by the residence address. The studies had scores between moderate and high in the quality assessment tool. It was found high rates of association between early exposure to agricultural pesticides and autism and detection limit above the quantification for a sample of polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene, and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene. Conclusions: There is evidence concerning the exposure to agricultural pesticides in early life and the development of the autism spectrum disorder; however, more studies are required to better understand their possible association.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender a influência da exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e sua relação com o transtorno do espectro autista. Fontes de dados: Esta revisão sistemática foi registrada no banco de dados PROSPERO sob número CRD42020204842. Por meio das bases de dados PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science, o assunto foi analisado sistematicamente até abril de 2021. Foram incluídos somente estudos com humanos, sendo critérios de inclusão a exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e o diagnóstico de autismo e critérios de exclusão agrotóxicos de uso doméstico ou veterinário e exposição tardia. Todos os estudos foram analisados sem restrição de linguagem e tempo. A qualidade dos estudos foi avaliada pela NewCastle Ottawa Scale. Síntese dos dados: No total, seis estudos caso-controle foram incluídos. Três deles mensuraram a exposição pelos biomarcadores maternos e os demais (50%) pelo endereço de moradia. Os trabalhos apresentaram qualidade entre moderada e alta. Encontrou-se alta taxa de associação entre a exposição precoce à agrotóxicos e o autismo e detecção acima do limite de quantificação para amostras de bifenilas policloradas, hexaclorobenzeno e diclorodifenildicloroetileno. Conclusões: Existem evidências sobre a exposição a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola precocemente e o desenvolvimento do transtorno do espectro autista, porém mais pesquisas são necessárias para melhor compreensão da associação.

Early exposure to agricultural pesticides and the occurrence of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of early exposure to agricultural pesticides and their relationship with autism spectrum disorder. DATA SOURCE: This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020204842. The subject was systematically analyzed on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases until April 2021. Only studies with humans with early exposure to agricultural pesticides and diagnosis of autism were included. Exclusion criteria were studies on pesticides for domestic or veterinary use and late exposure. There were no language and time restriction. The quality analysis of the studies used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. DATA SYNTHESIS: Six case-control studies were included; three of them measured the route of exposure by maternal biomarkers and the others by the residence address. The studies had scores between moderate and high in the quality assessment tool. It was found high rates of association between early exposure to agricultural pesticides and autism and detection limit above the quantification for a sample of polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene, and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene. CONCLUSIONS: There is evidence concerning the exposure to agricultural pesticides in early life and the development of the autism spectrum disorder; however, more studies are required to better understand their possible association.

Benefits of turmeric supplementation for skin health in chronic diseases: a systematic review.

The skin is a physical barrier that protects the body from the external environment. Through its immune system, it limits the attack of environmental threats. Unregulated immune reactions, however, can cause chronic inflammatory skin diseases, requiring that effective treatment routes be sought. Turmeric, a root originated from Southeast Asia, has a number of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of turmeric oral supplementation in the treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, clinical studies examining the relationship between turmeric, curcumin, and skin health in humans until September 2019 were systematically searched. Evidence analysis were performed using robust tools to evaluate the risk of bias (RoB 2.0), (ROBINS-I) and methodological quality (GRADE) of the included studies. A total of eleven studies were included. The skin conditions examined include psoriasis, pruritus, oral lichen planus, facial redness, as well as types of skin cancers. Overall, therapeutic benefits for skin health have been observed through oral turmeric supplementation. The current published studies, nevertheless, are limited, requiring continuity and improvement in the intervention methodology employed.

Carnosic Acid Suppresses the H2O2-Induced Mitochondria-Related Bioenergetics Disturbances and Redox Impairment in SH-SY5Y Cells: Role for Nrf2.

The phenolic diterpene carnosic acid (CA, C20H28O4) exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-cancer effects in mammalian cells. CA activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), among other signaling pathways, and restores cell viability in several in vitro and in vivo experimental models. We have previously reported that CA affords mitochondrial protection against various chemical challenges. However, it was not clear yet whether CA would prevent chemically induced impairment of the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) function in mammalian cells. In the present work, we found that a pretreatment of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells with CA at 1 µM for 12 h prevented the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced impairment of the TCA enzymes (aconitase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (α-KGDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH)) and abolished the inhibition of the complexes I and V and restored the levels of ATP by a mechanism associated with Nrf2. CA also exhibited antioxidant abilities by enhancing the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and decreasing the content oxidative stress markers (cellular 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG), and mitochondrial malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl, and 3-nitrotyrosine). Silencing of Nrf2 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) abrogated the protective effects elicited by CA in mitochondria of SH-SY5Y cells. Therefore, CA prevented the H2O2-triggered mitochondrial impairment by an Nrf2-dependent mechanism. The specific role of Nrf2 in ameliorating the function of TCA enzymes function needs further research.

Tanshinone I Induces Mitochondrial Protection through an Nrf2-Dependent Mechanism in Paraquat-TreatedHuman Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells.

Tanshinone I (T-I; 1,6-Dimethylnaphtho[1,2-g][1]benzofuran-10,11-dione; C18H12O3), which may be found in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), is a potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer agent. At least in part, T-I exerts antioxidant activity by activating signaling pathways associated with the maintenance of the redox state in mammalian cells. In this context, the upregulation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) has received attention regarding the role of this transcription factor in modulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes and the metabolism of glutathione (GSH). Even though there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that T-I mediates protection against several pro-oxidant challenges in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models, it remains to be examined whether and how T-I would modulate mitochondrial function during redox disturbances. Therefore, we aimed to reveal whether T-I would exhibit protective effects on mitochondria of SH-SY5Y cells treated with paraquat (PQ), a well-known mitochondrial toxic agent. We found that T-I pretreatment significantly protected mitochondria against PQ-induced redox impairment through an Nrf2-dependent mechanism involving upregulation of antioxidant enzymes, such as Mn-superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and both catalytic and modifier subunits of γ-glutamate-cysteine ligase (γ-GCL). T-I prevented complex I and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) impairments elicited by PQ. Thus, T-I may be viewed as a new mitochondrial protective agent whose complete mechanism of action needs to be investigated, but it seems to involve mitochondriotropic aspects related to the chemistry of this molecule.

Carnosic Acid Protects Mitochondria of Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells Exposed to Paraquat Through Activation of the Nrf2/HO-1Axis.

Carnosic acid (CA; C20H28O4), which is also called salvin, is a major phenolic diterpene found in Rosmarinus officinalis L. and exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties. CA activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factor, leading to the upregulation of antioxidant and phase II detoxification enzymes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione reductase (GR), γ-glutamate-cysteine ligase (γ-GCL), and glutathione S-transferase (GST), among others. We have previously demonstrated that CA upregulates the total and mitochondrial synthesis of glutathione (GSH), causing mitochondrial protection against paraquat (PQ) and methylglyoxal (MG). Nonetheless, the complete mechanism by which CA prevented mitochondrial dysfunction was not clear yet. Here, we examine whether HO-1 would be involved in the CA-induced mechanism of mitochondrial protection in SH-SY5Y-treated cells. SH-SY5Y cells were pretreated with CA (1 µM) for 12 h prior to a challenge with PQ at 100 µM for additional 24 h. Zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP IX; a specific inhibitor of HO-1; 10 µM) was utilized prior to exposure to CA in order to investigate whether HO-1 was involved in the cytoprotective effects elicited by CA. We found that the CA-induced Nrf2-dependent HO-1 upregulation ameliorated, at least in part, the mitochondrial function in PQ-treated cells. Therefore, CA protected mitochondria of SH-SY5Y cells and exerted anti-apoptotic effects by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.

Pinocembrin Provides Mitochondrial Protection by the Activation of the Erk1/2-Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells Exposed to Paraquat.

Pinocembrin (PB; 5,7-dihydroxyflavanone; C15H12O4) is a flavonoid found in propolis and exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Furthermore, PB has been studied as a neuroprotective agent. However, it remains to be understood whether and how PB would induce mitochondrial protection in mammalian cells. Therefore, we investigated here the mechanism involved in the protective effects elicited by PB in paraquat (PQ; 100 µM)-treated SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. PB (25 µM) pretreatment (for 4 h) downregulated the levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), blocked the release of cytochrome c to the cytosol, and inhibited the PQ-induced activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. Besides, PB prevented mitochondrial dysfunction by suppressing the PQ-elicited inhibition of complexes I and V. Moreover, PB abrogated the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the decline in ATP levels in the cells exposed to PQ. PB exerted antioxidant effects on mitochondria by decreasing the levels of redox impairment markers in mitochondrial membranes. Importantly, PB enhanced the levels of mitochondrial reduced glutathione (GSH). Upregulation of enzymes involved in the synthesis of GSH was seen in the cells exposed to PB. PB afforded mitochondrial protection by activating the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Erk1/2-Nrf2) axis, since inhibition of Erk1/2 or silencing of Nrf2 abrogated these effects. Therefore, PB exerted mitochondrial and cellular protection by an Erk1/2-Nrf2-dependent mechanism.

Carnosic Acid Affords Mitochondrial Protection in Chlorpyrifos-Treated Sh-Sy5y Cells.

Carnosic acid (CA; C20H28O4) is a phenolic diterpene found in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and exhibits protective properties, e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial activities. In this context, CA has been viewed as a neuroprotective agent due to its ability in rescuing neuronal cells from pro-oxidant and pro-apoptotic challenges. In the present work, we found that CA pretreatment at 1 µM for 12 h suppressed the mitochondria-related pro-oxidant and mitochondria-dependent pro-apoptotic effects of chlorpyrifos (CPF) in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. CA prevented mitochondrial membrane potential disruption and decreased the levels of oxidative stress markers in mitochondrial membranes obtained from cells exposed to CPF. CA also inhibited cytochrome c release and activation of the caspases-9 and -3, as well as decreased DNA fragmentation, in CPF-treated cells. CA upregulated the content of glutathione (GSH) in mitochondria by a mechanism involving the activation of the phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, since inhibition of PI3K/Akt or silencing of Nrf2 using siRNA strategy abolished the protection exerted by CA in SH-SY5Y cells. Therefore, CA protected mitochondria of SH-SY5Y cells through the activation of the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 axis, causing upregulation of the mitochondrial GSH content and consequent antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects.

Avaliação do consumo dietético e estado nutricional em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento quimioterápico / Assessment of the dietary consumption and nutritional status of women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy

Introdução: O câncer de mama é uma das neoplasias que mais acomete mulheres no mundo. O excesso de peso associado ao desenvolvimento desta neoplasia, também esta relacionado ao mau prognóstico em pacientes com câncer de mama. Objetivo: Avaliar o consumo dietético e o estado nutricional em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento quimioterápico. Metodologia: Estudo de modelo transversal com 57 mulheres. Aplicou-se Avaliação Subjetiva Global Produzida pelo Paciente, recordatório alimentar de 24 horas, questionário estruturado e avaliação antropométrica. O consumo alimentar de macronutrientes foi comparado com o Guia Alimentar para a população Brasileira e as vitaminas e minerais de acordo com pelas Dietary Reference Intakes. Analise estatística foi realizada através do Software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) versão 13.0. As variáveis foram avaliadas através de teste t- student, teste Análise de Variância (ANOVA), teste Exato de Fischer. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5% (p< 0,05). Resultados: A média de idade foi de 53,9 (+ 11,2) anos, 79% estavam com excesso de peso segundo Índice de Massa Corporal, e 86% com estado nutricional adequado segundo Avaliação Subjetiva Global Produzida pelo Paciente. O consumo médio de Vitamina D 1,0 ng e de vitamina E (7,4 mg), selênio (0,1 ng), carboidratos (54,6%), fibras (14,4 g) abaixo do recomendado pelas Dietary Reference Intakes e pelo Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira. Conclusão: Conclui- se que a maioria das participantes apresentou excesso de peso. O consumo de vitamina A, D, E, de selênio, e fibras, apresentou- se abaixo do recomendado (AU)

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the neoplasias that most affect women worldwide. Overweight associated with the development of this neoplasia, is also related to poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. Objective: To evaluate the dietary intake and the nutritional status of women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Methodology: Cross-sectional study model with 57 women. There were applied the Patient-generated Subjective Global Assessment, the 24-hour food recall, the structured questionnaire and the anthropometric evaluation. The dietary intake of macronutrients was compared to the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population and the vitamins and minerals according to the Dietary Reference Intakes. Statistical analysis was performed by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 13.0. The variables were evaluated through the Student’s t-test, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test, and the Fischer’s exact test. The adopted significance level was 5% (p< 0.05). Results: The mean age was 53.9 (±11,2) years; 79% were overweight, according to the Body Mass Index, and 86% with adequate nutritional status, according to the Patient-generated Subjective Global Assessment. The average consumption of 1.0 ng of vitamin D and of E vitamin (7.4 mg), selenium (0.1 ng), carbohydrates (54.6%), fiber (14.4 g) under the recommended by the Dietary Reference Intakes and by the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. Conclusion: There is concluded that most of the participants showed overweight. The consumption of vitamin A, D, E, selenium, and fiber, was under the recommended (AU)

The prevalence of and factors associated with constipation in elderly residents of long stay institutions / Prevalência e fatores associados à constipação intestinal em idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência

Objective : Constipation is a frequent motility disorder and while a common complaint among the overall population, is particularly prevalent among the elderly. The increase of this population group is creating a growing demand for long term care institutions. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with constipation in elderly residents of long stay care institutions. Method : The study involved 87 individuals. The data collected from each participant included gender, daily intake of water and fiber, physical activity, family history of constipation and nutritional status. The diagnosis of constipation was based on Roma III criteria. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software program (version 18.0) with a level of significance of 5% (p≤0.05). The Student t, Mann-Whitney, Pearson's chi-square or Fischer's exact tests were employed. Results : The sample was predominantly female (80.5%), with a mean age of 79.4(±9.6) years. A 42.52% prevalence of constipation was observed. Among affected individuals, the condition was more frequent among women (89.2%), those aged over 80 years (67.6%), those who did not engage in physical activity (56.8%), those with below the recommended intake of water and fiber, those who had a family history of constipation, and those who were diagnosed with eutrophia (56.3%). Among the factors analyzed, only age (p=0.049) and low fiber intake (p=0.019) were significantly linked to constipation. Conclusion : The results show that constipation is a multifactorial disease that is significantly related to age and low fiber intake.

Objetivo : Investigar a prevalência e fatores associados à constipação intestinal em idosos institucionalizados. Método : Trata-se de um estudo do tipo transversal. A amostra foi composta por 87 idosos e os dados coletados foram referentes à idade, sexo, ingestão diária de água e fibras, prática de atividade física, histórico familiar de constipação, além de dados referentes ao estado nutricional. O diagnóstico de constipação foi baseado nos critérios de Roma III. Para realização das análises estatísticas foi utilizado o softwareSPSS, versão 18.0, considerando o nível de significância de 5% (p≤0,05) e os testes estatísticos feitos foram:t Student, Mann-Whitney, Qui-quadrado de Pearson ou Exato de Fischer. Resultados : A amostra foi predominantemente do sexo feminino (80,5%), apresentando idade média de 79,4 (±9,6) anos. Observou-se que a prevalência de constipação intestinal foi de 42,52%, sendo mais frequente nas mulheres (89,2%), naqueles com idade igual ou superior a 80 anos (67,6%), nos que não praticavam atividade física (56,8%), nos que possuíam uma ingestão hídrica e consumo de fibras abaixo do recomendado, nos que possuíam histórico familiar de constipação, e também se mostrou mais prevalente naqueles que apresentaram diagnóstico nutricional de eutrofia (56,3%). Quando relacionadas à constipação, verificou-se que apenas a idade (p=0,049) e o baixo consumo de fibras (p=0,019) se associaram significativamente. Conclusão : Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram que a constipação intestinal é uma queixa digestiva de etiologia multifatorial, com a qual a idade avançada e o baixo consumo de fibras se associaram significativamente.

The effect of Garcinia Cambogia as coadjuvant in the weight loss process / El efecto de la Garcinia Cambogia como coadyuvante en el proceso de pérdida de peso

Introduction: due to the significant increase in the obesity rate in recent years, public health has been facing in many countries of the world, one of the major problems caused by this disease. Because of this, natural products arise, herbal, to assist in the treatment of obesity due to their safer effects. Among these, stands out the extract obtained from dried fruits of Garcinia Cambogia (GC), which has been studied and used as a natural supplement for weight loss. Objective: to investigate the GC administration as a coadjuvant factor in the treatment of obesity regarding to its effectiveness, way of action, recommended daily amount, side effects and contraindications, as a way of food and nutritional security for the population. Methodology: literature review. There were consulted the database of LILACS-BIREME data, SciELO and MEDLINE and there were selected scientific articles published in English, Portuguese and Spanish, between the period of 2007 and 2014 that conducted studies involving the administration of the GC as a way of treatment for obesity. The descriptors used for research articles in the databases were the following: Garcinia Cambogia in Portuguese, and in English the terms used were 'Garcinia Cambogia', 'weight loss and obesity', and 'Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)'; this last one is not a descriptor indexed in Decs, but given the importance of this term for the search, it was adopted as a keyword. Thirty-four articles were identified, but only 21 were related to the objectives of this study. The first analysis of the articles was conducted by the title and then by the summary. In addition, 17 references were included because of their relevance to the study. Results: in some analyzed works, there was observed that the GC showed positive effects on weight loss process, appetite reduction, body fat percentage, triglycerides, cholesterol and glucose levels, lipogenesis process, while others had no effect. Conclusion: studies suggest positive results about the effectiveness of the GC on the weight loss process. However, the ideal dosage has not been well established yet. There is little evidence of adverse effects and signs of protective effect against hepatotoxicity induced by ethanol. Therefore, it becomes necessary to carry out further studies to confirm the efficacy of this phytotherapy in the weight loss process (AU)

Introducción: debido al aumento significativo de la tasa de obesidad en los últimos años, la salud pública se ha enfrentado en muchos países del mundo a los principales problemas causados por esta enfermedad. Debido a ello, surgen productos naturales, a base de hierbas, para ayudar en el tratamiento de la obesidad debido a sus efectos más seguros. Entre estos productos destaca el extracto obtenido a partir de frutas secas de Garcinia Cambogia (GC), que se ha estudiado y utilizado como un suplemento natural para la pérdida de peso. Objetivo: investigar la administración de GC como un factor coadyuvante en el tratamiento de la obesidad en cuanto a su eficacia, la forma de acción, la cantidad diaria recomendada, los efectos secundarios y las contraindicaciones, para su uso como un suplemento alimentario natural en la pérdida de peso. Metodología: revisión de la literatura. Se consultaron las bases de datos LILACS-BIREME, SciELO y MEDLINE, y se seleccionaron los artículos científicos publicados en inglés, portugués y español, entre el período de 2007 y 2014, llevando a cabo estudios sobre la administración de la GC como una forma de tratamiento de la obesidad. Los descriptores utilizados para los artículos de investigación fueron: en portugúes Cambogia Garcinia, y en inglés 'Garcinia Cambogia', 'pérdida de peso y obesidad', y 'ácido hidroxicítrico (HCA)'; este último no es un descriptor indexado en Decs, pero dada la importancia de este término para la búsqueda, se adoptó como una palabra clave. Se identificaron treinta y cuatro artículos, pero solo 21 estaban relacionados con los objetivos de este estudio. El primer análisis de los artículos fue realizada por el título y luego por el resumen. Además, se incluyeron 17 referencias por su relevancia para el estudio. Resultados: en algunos trabajos analizados se observó que GC mostró efectos positivos en el proceso de pérdida de peso, reducción de apetito, porcentaje de grasa corporal, triglicéridos, niveles de colesterol y glucosa y proceso de lipogénesis; mientras que en otros no produjo ningún efecto. Conclusión: los estudios sugieren resultados positivos con respecto a la eficacia de la GC en el proceso de pérdida de peso. Sin embargo, la dosis ideal no ha sido aún bien establecido. Hay poca evidencia de efectos adversos y signos de efecto protector contra la hepatotoxicidad inducida por el etanol. Por lo tanto, se hace necesario llevar a cabo más estudios para confirmar la eficacia de esta fitoterapia en el proceso de pérdida de peso (AU)

Effects of oats on lipid profile, insulin resistance and weight loss / Efectos de la avena sobre el perfil lipídico, la resistencia a la insulina y la pérdida de peso

Introduction: cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of morbidity worldwide. Such prevalence justifies the importance of functional foods that promote cardiovascular health, like β-glucan present in oats, with potential hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic effects. Objective: to evaluate the effects of an intervention with oats in blood glucose levels, HOMA-IR index, lipid profile, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) of adult users of a health service in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Methods: longitudinal study, case-control type with before and after experiment, conducted with individuals that are 22-60 years old, users of a health service. The individuals were distributed in Control (usual diet) and Case (usual diet + 40 g oats/day) groups. There was performed, at the beginning of the study and after eight weeks of monitoring, measuring of height and weight, calculation of BMI (kg/m²), blood collection for measurement of fasting glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL cholesterol; and there were calculated the LDL cholesterol and HOMA-IR index. The data was expressed as mean±standard deviation and percentages. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Student t test, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests were applied. A significance level of 5% was adopted (p<0.05). Results: the sample consisted of 82 subjects, divided into cases (n=38) and controls (n=44), mean age 40.07±10.49 years old, 58.5% were women. Comparing the results of all measured parameters at baseline and after eight weeks of monitoring, the Control group did not achieve a significant reduction in any parameter, showing a significant increase in blood glucose and HOMA-IR (p<0.05). The Intervention group had a significant reduction of all anthropometric and biochemical parameters analyzed (p<0.001). Conclusion: the findings demonstrate the beneficial effects of oats to cardiovascular health through significantly improving of the lipid and glycemic profiles, being a potential adjuvant in the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders (AU)

Introducción: las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la principal causa mundial de morbilidad y mortalidad. Esta prevalencia justifica la importancia de los alimentos funcionales que promueven la salud cardiovascular, como el β-glucano, presente en la avena, con potenciales efectos hipocolesterolémicos e hipoglucemiantes. Objetivo: evaluar los efectos de una intervención con la harina de avena en los niveles de glucosa en sangre, el índice HOMA-IR, el perfil de lípidos, el peso y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) de los usuarios adultos de un servicio de salud en Río Grande do Sul, Brasil. Métodos: estudio longitudinal, controlado, realizado con personas de 22-60 años de edad, usuarios de un servicio de salud. Los individuos fueron asignados al grupo control (dieta habitual) o grupo Case (dieta habitual + 40 g de avena/día). Al inicio del estudio y después de ocho semanas de seguimiento se evaluaron el peso y la altura, calculado IMC, la sangre recolectada para la medición de glucemia en ayunas, insulina, triglicéridos, colesterol total y colesterol HDL; y se calculó el colesterol LDL y el índice HOMA-IR. Los datos se expresan como media ± desviación estándar y porcentajes. Se aplicaron el test Kolmogorov-Smirnov, la t de Student, el test Mann-Whitney y las pruebas de Wilcoxon. Se adoptó un nivel de significación del 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: la muestra estuvo constituida por 82 sujetos, divididos en casos (n=38) y controles (n=44) con una edad media de 40,07±10,49 años, 58,5% mujeres. Comparando los resultados de todos los parámetros medidos al inicio del estudio y después de ocho semanas de seguimiento, el grupo de control no obtuvo una reducción significativa en ningún parámetro, mostrando un aumento significativo de la glucosa en sangre y HOMA-IR (p<0,05). El grupo de intervención obtuvo una reducción significativa de todos los indicadores antropométricos y bioquímicos analizados (p<0,001). Conclusión: los resultados demuestran los efectos beneficiosos de la avena para la salud cardiovascular, mejorando significativamente los perfiles de lípidos y la glucemia, por lo que constituye un adyuvante potencial en la prevención y tratamiento de los trastornos metabólicos (AU)

Applicatility of the visceral adiposity index (VAI) in the prediction of the components of the metabolic syndrome in elderly / Aplicabilidad de la adiposidad visceral del índice VAI en la predicción de componentes del síndrome metabólico en ancianos

The nutritional assessment may detect a state of malnutrition, overweight and cardiometabolic risk in the elderly. Easy to apply instruments enable the identification of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Objective: to analyze the applicability of Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) in the prediction of MS components in the elderly. Methods: cross-sectional study with 221 elderly at a mean age of 70.65 ± 7.34 years; 53.4% female and 46.4% male. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), fasting glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), and blood pressure (BP), data was obtained, as well as information about lifestyle. There were calculated the Body Mass Index (BMI), the Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and the VAI. The adiposity measures were compared with the components of MS, and for the VAI there was determined the capability of predicting the occurrence of MS components. Results: by analyzing the association among the biochemical and pressoric variables and MS components with the anthropometric indicators of obesity, there was a direct and significant correlation of the BMI, the weight and the VAI with blood glucose, HDL and TG (p<0.01); the VAI was the indicator with the strongest correlation for all parameters. The WC associated significantly with the HDL and the TG, and the WHR only with the HDL. Regarding to the applicability of the VAI in the determination of the relative risk of occurrence of MS components, the VAI was good predictor of abdominal obesity (OR = 1.27, p<0.001), hyperglycemia (OR = 1.10, p=0.043), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 3.64, p<0.001) and low HDL-c (OR = 2.26, p<0.001). Conclusion: the VAI showed association with components of the metabolic syndrome in men and women with increased risk of abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-c, proving to be a good predictor of MS components in the elderly (AU)

La evaluación nutricional puede detectar un estado de desnutrición, sobrepeso y riesgo cardiometabólico en los ancianos. Fácil de aplicar, los instrumentos permiten la identificación de factores de riesgo de enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV). Objetivo: analizar la aplicabilidad del Índice de Adiposidad Visceral (VAI) en la predicción de los componentes del SM en los ancianos. Métodos: estudio transversal con 221 personas mayores con una edad media de 70,65 ± 7,34 años; 53,4% mujeres y 46,4% hombres. Se obtuvieron peso, talla, circunferencia de la cintura (CC), glucosa en ayunas, triglicéridos (TG), colesterol total (CT), colesterol HDL (HDL-C), colesterol LDL (LDL-C) y presión arterial (PA), así como información acerca del estilo de vida. No se calcularon el índice de masa corporal (IMC), la relación cintura-cadera (WHR) y el VAI. Las medidas de adiposidad se compararon con los componentes de la MS, y para el VAI no se determinó la capacidad de predecir la ocurrencia de los componentes del SM. Resultados: el análisis de la asociación entre las variables bioquímicas y de presión y los componentes del SM con los indicadores antropométricos de obesidad evidencia que existe una correlación directa y significativa entre el índice de masa corporal, el peso y el VAI con la glucosa en sangre, colesterol HDL y TG (p < 0,01); el VAI fue el indicador con la correlación más fuerte para todos los parámetros. El WC se asoció significativamente con el HDL y TG, y el RHO solo con el HDL. En lo que respecta a la aplicabilidad de la VAI en la determinación del riesgo relativo de aparición de los componentes del SM, el VAI era buen predictor de obesidad abdominal (OR = 1,27, p < 0,001), hiperglucemia (OR = 1,10, p = 0,043), hipertrigliceridemia (OR = 3,64, p < 0,001) y bajos niveles de HDL-c (OR = 2,26, p < 0,001). Conclusión: el VAI mostró asociación con componentes del síndrome metabólico en los hombres y las mujeres con mayor riesgo de obesidad abdominal, hiperglucemia, hipertrigliceridemia y bajos niveles de HDL-c, demostrando ser un buen predictor de componentes del SM en los ancianos (AU)

Waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and triglyceride to HDL-c ratio (TG/HDL-c) as predictors of cardiometabolic risk / Razón cintura-estatura (RCA) y los triglicéridos en comparación con el HDL-C (TG / HDL-C): como predictores de riesgo cardiometabólico

Introduction: The excessive concentration of fat in the abdominal region is related to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have been performed to identify simple and effective indicators of abdominal obesity and associated cardiometabolic risk through the use of simple parameters such as anthropometric and biochemical measures. The Triglyceride / High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (TG/HDL-c) has been proposed as a more practical and easy to use atherogenic marker, along with the Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR), which makes a superior tool for separating cardiometabolic risk related to overweight/obesity when comparing to Body Mass Index (BMI). Objective: To verify the applicability of the WHtR and the TG/HDL-c ratio as predictors of cardiometabolic risk. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed at the Department of Nutrition of the UNIVATES University Center, where the participant’s anthropometric and biochemical data were collected. Statistical analysis was performed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS) 20.0, with a significance level of 5% (p < 0.05). Results: A total of 498 individuals took part on this research, 77.5% female and with a mean age of 25.5±6.5. A high percentage of fat was found in both men and women (19.9 ±5.80% and 29.24±5.43%, respectively). The prevalence of overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25Kg/m²) was 35.05%. The WHtR marker was significantly correlated to Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-c), Triglyceride (TG) and Anthropometric BMI values, waist circumference (WC) and body fat percentage (BF%). For the TG/HDL-c ratio, there was a positive and significant correlation to the same markers, beyond TC. There was also a correlation between WHtR and TG/HDL-c, and both presented a negative and significant correlation with HDL-c. Conclusion: WHtR and TG/HDL-c values were found to be good markers for the cardiometabolic risk ratio in the studied sample. Several studies, original articles and academic reviews confirm the use of the WHtR or TG/ HDL-c markers for that purpose in adults (AU)

Introducción: La concentración excesiva de grasa en la region abdominal se relaciona con un mayor riesgo de desarrollar enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV). Se han realizado estudios para identificar los indicadores simples y eficaces de la obesidad abdominal y el riesgo cardiometabólico asociados con el uso de parámetros simples, como las medidas antropométricas y bioquímicas. El / alta densidad de colesterol de lipoproteínas de triglicéridos (TG / HDL-c) se ha propuesto como un enfoque mas practico y fácil de usar marcador aterogénico, junto con la relación cintura-estatura (RCEst), lo que hace que una herramienta superior para separar cardiometabólico riesgos relacionados con el sobrepeso / obesidad cuando se compara con el indice de masa corporal (IMC). Objetivo: Verificar la aplicabilidad de la RCEst y la relación TG / HDL-c como predictores de riesgo cardiometabólico. Métodos: Este estudio transversal se llevo a cabo en el Departamento de Nutrición del Centro Universitario UNIVATES, donde se recogieron datos antropométricos y bioquímicos de los participantes. El análisis estadístico se realizo mediante el paquete estadístico para el software de Ciencias Sociales (SPSS) 20,0, con un nivel de significación del 5% (p <0,05). Resultados: Un total de 498 personas participaron en esta investigación, el 77,5% de mujeres y con una edad media de 25,5 } 6,5. Un alto porcentaje de grasa se encuentra en hombres y mujeres (19,9 } 5,80% y 29,24 } 5,43%, respectivamente). La prevalencia de sobrepeso / obesidad (IMC ≥ 25 kg / m2) fue 35,05%. El marcador RCEst se correlaciono significativamente con baja densidad de colesterol de lipoproteinas (LDL-c), triglicéridos (TG) y antropométricos IMC valores, la circunferencia de la cintura (CC) y el porcentaje de grasa corporal (% GC). Para la relación TG / HDL-c, hubo una correlación positiva y significativa para los mismos marcadores, mas allá de TC. También hubo una correlación entre la RCEst y TG / HDL-c, y ambos presentaron una correlación negativa y significativa con el HDL-c. Conclusión: No se encontraron valores RCEst y TG / HDL-c para ser buenos marcadores de la razón de riesgo cardiometabólico en la muestra estudiada. Varios estudios, artículos originales y revisiones académicas confirman el uso de la RCEst o marcadores TG / HDL-c para tal fin en los adultos (AU)

Perception of body image of adolescents and of their parents in relation to the nutritional status and blood pressure / Percepción de imagen corporal de los adolescentes y sus padres en relación a niveles de presión arterial y el estado nutricional

The perception of body image of adolescents is an instrument for nutritional assessment to health conditions. Objective: To verify the body image perception of adolescents and their parents in relation to nutritional status and blood pressure levels. Methods: Population-based study, and cross-sectional model, conducted with parents and adolescents aged 10- 19 years old, in rural and urban zones in public schools. There was applied the Scale silhouettes for parents about the perception of the described body image and a question about the concern of the nutritional status of their children. There were verified the blood pressure, weight, height and waist circumference, the BMI (kg/m²) calculation of the adolescents, and the self-perceived body image. The data was expressed as average ± standard deviation and percentages. Results: The sample consisted of 914 adolescents with a mean age of 13.12 ± 2.17 years, 56.8% female and 68.9% were eutrophic. As for blood pressure levels, 17.6% were classified in pre-hypertensive, 18.8% in stage 1 hypertension and 6% in stage 2. About the self-perception, 68% considered themselves being eutrophic and 64.75% of the parents classified their children as eutrophic. There was observed a direct and significant correlation among the body mass index, waist circumference, weight, systemic and diastolic blood pressure with the self-perception of the adolescents and the body image perceptions of the parents (p<0.001). Conclusion: The nutritional status was significantly correlated with blood pressure, waist circumference and body image perceptions of the adolescents and their respective parents (AU)

La percepción de la imagen corporal de los adolescentes de un instrumento para la evaluación nutricional de las condiciones de salud. Objetivo: Verificar la percepción de la imagen corporal de los adolescentes y sus padres en relación con los niveles de estado y la presión arterial nutricionales. Métodos: Estudio poblacional, y el modelo de la sección transversal, realizada con los padres y adolescentes de 10 a 19 años de edad, en las zonas rurales y urbanas en las escuelas públicas. Se aplicó la Escala de siluetas de los padres acerca de la percepción de la imagen corporal descrita y una pregunta acerca de la preocupación de la situación nutricional de sus hijos. No se verificaron la circunferencia de la presión arterial, peso, altura y cintura, el IMC (kg/m²) cálculo de los adolescentes, y la imagen corporal de la percepción subjetiva. Los datos se expresaron como media ± desviación estándar y porcentajes. Resultados: La muestra estuvo constituida por 914 adolescentes con una edad media de 13,12 ± 2,17 años, 56,8% mujeres y 68,9% eran eutróficos. En cuanto a los niveles de presión arterial, el 17,6% fueron clasificados en pre-hipertensos, 18,8% en la etapa 1 de hipertensión y el 6% en la etapa 2. Sobre la percepción de sí mismo, el 68% se consideraban ser eutróficos y 64,75% de los padres a sus hijos como clasificado eutróficos. No se observó una correlación directa y significativa entre el índice de masa corporal, circunferencia de la cintura, el peso, la presión arterial sistémica y diastólica con la auto-percepción de los adolescentes y la percepción de imagen corporal de los padres (p<0.001). Conclusión: El estado nutricional se correlacionó significativamente con la presión arterial, circunferencia de la cintura y la percepción de imagen corporal de los adolescentes y sus respectivos padres (AU)

Mites and the implications on human health / Ácaros y las consecuencias sobre la salud humana

Introduction: The infestation by mites of stored products is of great economic importance and public health, with consequences to human health. Objectives: To describe the mite species associated to food and stored products that cause implications to human health as well as to analyze the loss of quality and nutritional composition of infested food. Method: Literature review in LILACS-BIREME, SciELO and MEDLINE databases for publications in English, Portuguese and Spanish with the descriptors 'mites', 'foods', 'storage mites', 'store product mites', 'dust mites', 'quality control', 'quality foods', 'chemical composition', 'chemistry', 'allergens' and 'health'. There were identified 80 articles, but only 55 were related to the objectives of the study. Sixteen references were mentioned in the articles that were found after checked for relevance. Results and discussion: The activity of the mites causes loss of sanitary quality, weight and nutritional composition of the infested products, with great economic loss in the grain industry. Inhalation, ingestion or contact of mites, byproducts of metabolism and feces may sensitize susceptible individuals and cause asthma, allergic rhinitis, contact dermatitis, enteritis and lead to anaphylaxis. The monitoring of temperature and humidity is essential for the control of mites, as well as better conservation and hygiene of the units of grain storage (AU)

Introducción: La infestación por ácaros de productosalmacenados es de gran importancia económica y de salud pública, con consecuencias para la salud humana. bjetivos: Describir las especies de ácaros asociados a los productos alimenticios almacenados y que causan consecuencias para la salud humana, así como para analizar la pérdida de la calidad y la composición nutricional de los alimentos infestados. Método: Revisión de la literatura en LILACS-BIREME, SciELO y MEDLINE bases de datos de las publicaciones en Inglés, portugués y español con los descriptores 'ácaros', 'alimentos', 'ácaros de almacenamiento', 'los ácaros del producto de su tienda', 'los ácaros del polvo', 'calidad control', 'alimentos de calidad', 'composición química', 'química', 'alérgenos' y 'salud'. Se identificaron 80 artículos, pero sólo 55 estaban relacionados con los objetivos del estudio. Dieciséis referencias fueron mencionados en los artículos que se encontraron después de verificado su relevancia. Resultados y discusión: La actividad de los ácaros causan pérdida de calidad sanitaria, el peso y la composición nutricional de los productos infestados, con grandes pérdidas económicas en la industria del grano. La inhalación, ingestión o contacto de los ácaros, subproductos del metabolismo y las heces pueden sensibilizar individuos susceptibles y causar asma, rinitis alérgica, dermatitis de contacto, enteritis y conducir a la anafilaxis. El control de la temperatura y la humedad es esencial para el control de ácaros, así como una mejor conservación y la higiene de las unidades de almacenamiento de grano (AU)

Alimentação na escola e estado nutricional de estudantes do ensino fundamental / Feeding in school and nutritional status of elementary school students / Alimentación en la escuela y el estado nutricional de Estudiantes de la enseñanza fundamental

Objetivo: Relacionar o estado nutricional e o sexo de estudantes do ensino fundamental ao consumo da alimentação escolar gratuita, comprada nas cantinas e trazida de casa. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal, realizado em 2013 com 120 estudantes do 5° ao 9° ano de duas escolas municipais de ensino fundamental de um município gaúcho. Aplicou-se questionário estruturado para investigação acerca da alimentação escolar gratuita, comprada na escola ou trazida de casa. Foram aferidos peso, altura e circunferência da cintura (CC). Analisou-se a distribuição dos percentis do índice de massa corporal (IMC) e classificou-se o estado nutricional utilizando-se o Teste Exato de Fisher para análise. Resultados: Estudantes do sexo feminino (n=36; 46,8%) referiram não consumir a alimentação escolar gratuita porque não gostam, e os estudantes do sexo masculino (n=22; 51,2%), porque não sentem fome (p=0,028). Com relação à alimentação comprada na escola, a preferência feminina (n=12; 27,9%) foi por guloseimas, e a masculina (n=21; 48,8%), por cachorro quente (p=<0,001). A maioria dos estudantes classificados como eutróficos (n=28; 33,3%) consumia a alimentação porque sentia fome, e os com sobrepeso/obesidade (n=24; 70,6%), porque a considerava saudável e nutritiva (p=0,028). Conclusão: Os estudantes eutróficos, com sobrepeso e obesidade de ambos os sexos consomem de 2 a 3 refeições gratuitas oferecidas na escola por semana e demonstram preferência por trazer de casa bolachas, salgadinhos e sanduíches com pão branco. O sexo feminino prefere refrigerantes, guloseimas, doces e bolos, enquanto o sexo masculino, cachorro quente.

Objective: To relate the nutritional status and sex of elementary students with the intake of free school meals, meals bought at canteens and meals brought from home. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study performed in 2013 with 120 students from 5th to 9th grade of two elementary and public school of a municipality in Rio Grande do Sul. A structured questionnaire was applied to investigate free school meals, meals purchased at school or brought from home. Weight, height and waist circumference (WC) were measured. The distribution of percentiles of Body Mass Index (BMI) was analyzed and the nutritional status was ranked, using the Fisher?s Exact Test for analysis. Results: Female students (n=36; 46.8%) reported not consuming the free school meals because they dislike it, and male students (n=22; 51.2%) because they do not feel hungry (p=0.028). Regarding the food purchased at school, females? preference (n=12; 27.9%) was for candies and males? (n=21; 48.8%) was for hot dog (p=<0.001). The majority of the students classified as eutrophic (n=28; 33.3%) consumed the food because they were hungry, and those classified as overweight/obese (n=24; 70.6%), because they considered it healthy and nutritious (p=0.028). Conclusion: Most eutrophic, overweight and obese students in both genders consume 2-3 free meals offered at school per week and they give preference to bringing from home some biscuits, snacks and sandwiches made with white bread. Females prefer soft drinks, goodies, candies, and cakes, while males prefer the hot dog.

Objetivo: Relacionar el estado nutricional y el sexo de Estudiantes de la enseñanza fundamental con el consumo de la alimentación gratuita de la escuela, la de las cafeterías de la escuela y las que se trae de casa. Métodos: Estudio observacional y transversal realizado en 2013 con 120 estudiantes del 5° al 9° año de dos escuelas municipales de enseñanza fundamental de un município del Sur de Brasil. Se aplicó un cuestionario estructurado para investigar sobre la alimentación gratuita de la escuela, aquella comprada en la cafetería o la que se trae de casa. Fueron verificados el peso, la altura y circunferencia de la cintura (CC). Se analizó la distribución de los percentiles del índice de masa corporal (IMC) y se clasificó el estado nutricional utilizándose la prueba Exacto de Fisher. Resultados: Estudiantes Del sexo femenino (n=36; 46,8%) refirieron que no consumían La alimentación gratuita de la escuela porque no les gustan y los estudiantes del sexo masculino (n=22; 51,2%) porque no tienen hambre (p=0,028). Respecto la alimentación adquirida en La escuela la preferencia femenina (n=12; 27,9%) fue por golosinas y la masculina (n=21; 48,8%) por perrito caliente (p=<0,001). La mayoría de los estudiantes clasificados como eutróficos (n=28; 33,3%) consumían la alimentación porque tenían hambre y aquellos con sobrepeso/obesidad (n=24; 70,6%) porque La consideraba saludable y nutritiva (p=0,028). Conclusión: Los estudiantes eutróficos de ambos sexos con sobrepeso y obesidad consumen entre 2 y 3 comidas gratuitas ofrecidas en la escuela cada semana y demuestran la preferencia de traer de casa galletas, ganchitos y emparedados de pan blanco. El sexo femenino prefiere refrescos, golosinas, dulces y pasteles mientras el sexo masculino prefiere el perrito caliente.

Mites and the implications on human health.

INTRODUCTION: The infestation by mites of stored products is of great economic importance and public health, with consequences to human health. OBJECTIVES: To describe the mite species associated to food and stored products that cause implications to human health as well as to analyze the loss of quality and nutritional composition of infested food. METHOD: Literature review in LILACS-BIREME, SciELO and MEDLINE databases for publications in English, Portuguese and Spanish with the descriptors "mites", "foods", "storage mites", "store product mites", "dust mites", "quality control", "quality foods", "chemical composition", "chemistry", "allergens" and "health". There were identified 80 articles, but only 55 were related to the objectives of the study. Sixteen references were mentioned in the articles that were found after checked for relevance. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The activity of the mites causes loss of sanitary quality, weight and nutritional composition of the infested products, with great economic loss in the grain industry. Inhalation, ingestion or contact of mites, byproducts of metabolism and feces may sensitize susceptible individuals and cause asthma, allergic rhinitis, contact dermatitis, enteritis and lead to anaphylaxis. The monitoring of temperature and humidity is essential for the control of mites, as well as better conservation and hygiene of the units of grain storage.

Introducción: La infestación por ácaros de productos almacenados es de gran importancia económica y de salud pública, con consecuencias para la salud humana. Objetivos: Describir las especies de ácaros asociados a los productos alimenticios almacenados y que causan consecuencias para la salud humana, así como para analizar la pérdida de la calidad y la composición nutricional de los alimentos infestados. Método: Revisión de la literatura en LILACS-BIREME, SciELO y MEDLINE bases de datos de las publicaciones en Inglés, portugués y español con los descriptores "ácaros", "alimentos", "ácaros de almacenamiento", "los ácaros del producto de su tienda", "los ácaros del polvo", "calidad control "," alimentos de calidad "," composición química "," química "," alérgenos "y" salud ". Se identificaron 80 artículos, pero sólo 55 estaban relacionados con los objetivos del estudio. Dieciséis referencias fueron mencionados en los artículos que se encontraron después de verificado su relevancia. Resultados y discusión: La actividad de los ácaros causan pérdida de calidad sanitaria, el peso y la composición nutricional de los productos infestados, con grandes pérdidas económicas en la industria del grano. La inhalación, ingestión o contacto de los ácaros, subproductos del metabolismo y las heces pueden sensibilizar individuos susceptibles y causar asma, rinitis alérgica, dermatitis de contacto, enteritis y conducir a la anafilaxis. El control de la temperatura y la humedad es esencial para el control de ácaros, así como una mejor conservación y la higiene de las unidades de almacenamiento de grano.