Naturalization of treated wastewater by a constructed wetland in a water-scarce Mediterranean region.

The effluents from conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), even if accomplishing quality regulations, substantially differ in their characteristics with those of waters in natural environments. Constructed wetlands (CWs) serve as transitional ecosystems within WWTPs, mitigating these differences and restoring natural features before water is poured into the natural environment. Our study focused on an experimental surface-flow CW naturalizing the WWTP effluent in a semiarid area in Eastern Spain. Despite relatively low pollutant concentrations entering the CW, it effectively further reduced settled organic matter and nitrogen. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) reaching the CW was mainly protein-like, yet optical property changes in the DOM indicated increased humification, aromaticity, and stabilization as it flowed through the CW. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the CW released less abundant but more active bacterial populations than those received. MiSeq Illumina sequencing highlighted changes in the prokaryotic community composition, with phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria dominating the CW outflow. Functional prediction tools (FaproTax and PICRUSt2) demonstrated a shift towards microbial guilds aligned with those of the natural aquatic environments, increased aerobic chemoheterotrophs, photoautotrophs, and metabolic reactions at higher redox potentials. Enhanced capabilities for degrading plant material correlated well with changes in the DOM pool. Our findings emphasize the role of CWs in releasing biochemically stable DOM and functionally suited microbial populations for natural receiving environments. Consequently, we propose CWs as a naturalization nature-based solution (NBS) in water-scarce regions like the Mediterranean, where reclaimed discharged water can significantly contribute to ecosystem's water resources compared to natural flows.

Odour mapping and air quality analysis of a wastewater treatment plant at a seaside tourist area.

Although wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) play a fundamental role in protecting the aquatic environment as they prevent organic matter, nutrients and other pollutants from reaching the natural ecosystems, near residential areas they can generate unpleasant smells and noise. The plant studied in the present work is in a seaside tourist area in the Valencian Community, Spain. The main aim was to detect any possible perceptible H2S concentrations from the WWTP by experimental measurement campaigns (including sensor readings and olfactometry measurements by two experts) plus mathematical modelling. After a thorough data analysis of the essential variables involved, such as wind speed, wind direction and H2S concentrations (the main odorant) and comparing their temporal patterns, it was found that the probability of affecting the residential area was highest from June to August before noon and in the late evening. The hourly H2S concentration, influent flow rate and temperature showed a positive correlation, the strongest (R2 = 0.89) being the relationship between the H2S concentration and influent flow rate. These two variables followed a similar daily pattern and indicated that H2S was emitted when influent wastewater was being pumped into the biological reactor. The H2S median concentration at the source of the emission was below 1393.865 µg/m3 (1 ppm), although concentrations 10 times higher were occasionally recorded. The observed H2S peak-to-mean ratio (1 min to 1 h of integration times) ranged from 1.15 to 16.03. This ratio and its attenuation with distance from the source depended on the atmospheric stability. Both H2S concentrations and variability were considerably reduced after submerging the inlet. The AERMOD modelling framework and applying the peak-to-mean ratio were used to map the peak H2S concentration and determine the best conditions to eliminate the unpleasant odour.

Oleocanthal supplemented diet improves renal damage and endothelial dysfunction in pristane-induced systemic lupus erythematosus in mice.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multiorgan disorder with a deregulated immune-inflammatory response. Nutritional therapy has been considered a promising approach to SLE management. Oleocanthal (OLE), the main extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)-derived secoiridoid, has shown to regulate the immune-inflammatory response in various disease contexts; however, its possible beneficial effects on SLE remain unclear. This study sought to evaluate the effects of OLE enriched diet on renal damage and aortic endothelial dysfunction in murine pristane-induced SLE, focusing on the action mechanisms and signaling pathways involved. BALB/c mice were injected with pristane and fed with OLE supplemented diet (0.01 % (w/w)) for six months. Levels of cytokines were measured by ELISA in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated peritoneal macrophages and splenocytes. Presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM immune complexes were examined by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Thoracic aortas were used to evaluate endothelial dysfunction. Western blotting was employed to detect signaling pathways and oxidative-inflammatory-related mediators. Dietary OLE supplementation reduced Th1/Th17 pro-inflammatory cytokines production and alleviated renal damage by decreasing immunoglobulin complexes deposition, and inflammation-mediating enzymes expression. The mechanisms underlying these protective effects could be related to the regulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/Haem oxygenase 1 (Nrf-2/HO-1), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), signal transducer and transcription activator of transcription (STAT-3), inflammasome and, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Also, dietary OLE improved aortic endothelial dysfunction and vascular reactivity, normalizing endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling, and NADPH oxidase-1 (NOX-1) overexpression. This study shows the immunomodulatory effects of OLE in an in vivo model of SLE by improving renal damage and regulating aortic endothelial dysfunction. These preliminary results provide OLE as a new therapeutic strategy in SLE management.

Epigenetic linkage of systemic lupus erythematosus and nutrition.

The term 'epigenetics' refers to a series of meiotically/mitotically inheritable alterations in gene expression, related to environmental factors, without disruption on DNA sequences of bases. Recently, the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases (ADs) has been closely linked to epigenetic modifications. In fact, epigenetic mechanisms can modulate gene expression or repression of targeted cells and tissues involved in autoimmune/inflammatory conditions acting as keys effectors in regulation of adaptive and innate responses. ADs, as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a rare disease that still lacks effective treatment, is characterised by epigenetic marks in affected cells. Taking into account that epigenetic mechanisms have been proposed as a winning strategy in the search of new, more specific and personalised therapeutics agents, pharmacology and pharmaco-epigenetic studies about epigenetic regulations of ADs may provide novel individualised therapies. Focusing on possible implicated factors on development and predisposition of SLE, diet is feasibly one of the most important factors since it is linked directly to epigenetic alterations and these epigenetic changes may augment or diminish the risk of SLE. Nevertheless, several studies have suggested that dietary therapy could be promising to SLE patients via prophylactic actions deprived of side effects of pharmacology, decreasing co-morbidities and improving lifestyle of SLE sufferers. Herein, we review and discuss the cross-link between epigenetic mechanisms on SLE predisposition and development, as well as the influence of dietary factors on regulation of epigenetic modifications that may eventually make a positive impact on SLE patients.

Effects of Oleacein, a New Epinutraceutical Bioproduct from Extra Virgin Olive Oil, in LPS-Activated Murine Immune Cells.

The present study was designed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of the secoiridoid from extra virgin olive oil, oleacein (OLA), deepening into the possible signaling pathways involved in LPS-activated murine peritoneal macrophages. Moreover, we have explored OLA-induced epigenetic changes in histone markers and related cytokine production in murine LPS-stimulated murine splenocytes. Murine cells were treated with OLA in the presence or absence of LPS (5 µg/mL) for 18 or 24 h. OLA modulated the oxidative stress and the inflammatory response produced by LPS stimulation in murine peritoneal macrophages, by the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß, IFN-γ, IL-17 and IL-18) and ROS production and the expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as iNOS, COX-2 and m-PGES1. These protective effects could be due to the activation of the Nrf-2/HO-1 axis and the inhibition of JAK/STAT, ERK and P38 MAPKs and inflammasome canonical and non-canonical signaling pathways. Moreover, OLA modulated epigenetic modifications throughout histone methylation deacetylation (H3K18ac) and (H3K9me3 and H3K27me) in LPS-activated spleen cells. In conclusion, our data present OLA as an interesting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant natural compound that is able to regulate histone epigenetic markers. Nevertheless, additional in vivo studies are required to further investigate the beneficial effects of this EVOO secoiridoid, which might be a promising epinutraceutical bioproduct for the management of immune-related inflammatory diseases.

Ligstroside aglycon, an extra virgin olive oil secoiridoid, prevents inflammation by regulation of MAPKs, JAK/STAT, NF-κB, Nrf2/HO-1, and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathways in LPS-stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages.

Ligstroside aglycon (LA) is one of the main polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO); nevertheless, it is scarcely investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of LA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages, as well as the potential signaling pathways involved. Isolated macrophages were treated with LA (50, 25, and 12.5 µM) in the presence or absence of LPS (5 µg ml-1) for 18 h. Cell viability was determined using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokine production was analyzed by the Griess method and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Protein expression of pro-inflammatory markers and signaling pathways were evaluated by western blot analysis. LA showed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through decreasing oxidative stress markers such as NO production, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and NADPH oxidase-1 (NOX-1) protein expression. Besides, LA was able to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and modulate cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2), and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGEs-1) protein overexpression. The mechanisms underlying these protective effects could be related via activation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and inhibition of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activation of transcription (JAK2/STAT3) signaling pathways. In addition, LA inhibited non-canonical and canonical activation of a nucleotide-binding (NOD)-like receptor (NLRP3) inflammasome. We conclude that LA showed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in LPS-stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages. However, further in vivo studies are warranted to further investigate the bioactivity of this interesting compound that might be a promising natural agent for the treatment of immune-inflammatory diseases.

Anoxic desulphurisation of biogas from full-scale anaerobic digesters in suspended biomass bioreactors valorising previously nitrified digestate centrate.

Nitrification of centrate from anaerobic sewage sludge digestion presents a major opportunity as an electron acceptor in anoxic biogas biodesulphurisation. Nitritation and nitrification inhibition by free ammonia was detected at laboratory scale, but was avoided during the scale-up operation in a 4 m3 reactor treating ammonium loads up to 19 gN m-3 h-1. This nitrate-rich stream was fed to two pilot-scale suspended biomass bioreactors (SBBs) treating real biogas for 220 days. After an adaptation period of 21 days, nitrate and alkalinity concentrations in the liquid medium below 10 mgN L-1 and 100 mgCaCO3 L-1 were found to limit hydrogen sulphide (H2S) oxidation. Once controlled, 95% of the H2S was removed in SBB1 and 90% in SBB2, at a gas residence time (GRT) of 5.9 min, treating average values of 321 ± 205 ppmv and 457 ± 205 ppmv, respectively. Outlet H2S concentrations of 16 ± 24 ppmv in SBB1 and 46 ± 39 ppmv in SBB2 were obtained, which are below the requirements of biogas combustion heat and power engines. Unlike H2S, siloxanes were not removed with these GRTs. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the combined process for H2S treatment, potential valorisation of precipitated elemental sulphur and a reduction in the reagents currently used to control H2S.

Histone Extraction from Human Articular Cartilage for the Study of Epigenetic Regulation in Osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease that affects articular cartilage, causing its degeneration. Although OA is one of the most prevalent pathologies globally, there are no definitive treatments available. Recently, research has focused on elucidating the complex interplay that takes place between inflammatory processes and epigenetic regulation, showing that histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) can exert a pronounced effect on the expression of OA-related genes. OA chondrocytes enhance the production of interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß) and interleukin 8 (IL-8), which are epigenetically regulated. These cytokines upregulate the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aggrecanases, which promote the extracellular matrix (ECM) destruction. This motivates the study of histone PTMs to investigate the epigenetic regulation of proinflammatory molecules, but the absence of specific protocols to extract histones from human articular cartilage has complicated this task. The lack of effective methods can be explained by the structural complexity and low cellularity of this tissue, which are responsible for the biomechanical properties that allow the movement of the joint but also complicate histone isolation. Here, we provide a histone extraction procedure specifically adapted for cryopreserved human articular cartilage that can be useful to understand epigenetic regulation in OA and accelerate the search for novel strategies.

Dietary Oleocanthal Supplementation Prevents Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Collagen-Induced Arthritis in Mice.

Oleocanthal (OLE), a characteristic and exclusive secoiridoid of Oleoaceae family, is mainly found in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Previous studies have reported its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer and neuroprotective effects. Since the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves inflammatory and oxidative components, this study was designed to evaluate the preventive role of dietary OLE-supplemented effects in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) murine model. Animals were fed with a preventive OLE-enriched dietary during 6 weeks previous to CIA induction and until the end of experiment time. At day 43 after first immunization, mice were sacrificed: blood was recollected and paws were histological and biochemically processed. Dietary OLE prevented bone, joint and cartilage rheumatic affections induced by collagen. Levels of circulatory matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-17, IFN-γ) were significantly decreased in secoiridoid fed animals. Besides, dietary OLE was able to diminish COX-2, mPGES-1 and iNOS protein expressions and, also, PGE2 levels. The mechanisms underlying these protective effects could be related to Nrf-2/HO-1 axis activation and the inhibition of relevant signaling pathways including JAK-STAT, MAPKs and NF-κB, thus controlling the production of inflammatory and oxidative mediators. Overall, our results exhibit preliminary evidences about OLE, as a novel dietary tool for the prevention of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, such as RA.

Frecuencia del maltrato y homicidio infantil en Medellín (Colombia)

RESUMEN Introducción: El maltrato y el homicidio infantil se destacan dentro del espectro de la violencia intrafamiliar por las consecuencias severas que generan en la salud, el desarrollo socioeconómico de una región y en la calidad de vida de los menores y sus familiares. Objetivo: Caracterizar el maltrato físico, sexual y los homicidios ejercidos hacia los niños y niñas menores de doce años, ocurridos en el contexto familiar en Medellín, Colombia, durante 2010-2015. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y transversal. Se realizó un análisis estadístico descriptivo de la ocurrencia de los eventos violentos intrafamiliares en menores de doce años atendidos por el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses en la ciudad de Medellín. Resultados: Se reportaron 3 519 casos de maltrato físico y sexual infligido a menores de doce años dentro del contexto familiar. 56,9 % de los hechos corresponden a maltrato sexual, siendo las mujeres las principales víctimas de este tipo de abuso; por su parte los hombres fueron los más afectados por maltrato físico. Los menores entre los seis y once años son los más maltratados. Se reportaron nueve casos de homicidio, de los cuales siete fueron cometidos contra mujeres y cinco de estos fueron perpetrados por el padrastro de las víctimas. Conclusiones: El maltrato infantil intrafamiliar ha sido un problema persistente en la ciudad de Medellín, y esto lo demuestra el alto número de casos registrados. No obstante, aunque los reportes de homicidio infantil han sido pocos, no se deben subestimar dada la importancia y las grandes consecuencias que esto presenta para la sociedad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Child abuse and homicide are highlighted in the spectrum of intrafamily violence due to the severe consequences they generate on health, the economic and social development of a region and the quality of life of children and their families. Objective: characterize the physical and sexual abuse, and homicide exercised against children under twelve years old, occurred in the family context in Medellin Colombia, during 2010-2015. Methodology: Descriptive study, retrospective and cross-sectional. It was made a descriptive statistical analysis of the occurrence of intrafamily violent events attended by the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences in Medellín. Results: 3,519 cases of physical and sexual abuse inflicted on children under twelve years old within the family context were reported. Of these, 56.9% of the events correspond to sexual abuse and women are the main victims of this type of abuse; men are the most affected in physical abuse. Children between six and eleven years old are the most vulnerable. Nine cases of homicide were reported, of which seven were committed against women and five of these were perpetrated by the victims' stepfather. Conclusions: Intrafamily child abuse is a persistent problem in Medellín, and this is demonstrated by the high cases recorded. However, there have been few cases of child homicide, this does not diminish the importance and the number should not be underestimated, because of the enormous consequences they have for society.

A New Peracetylated Oleuropein Derivative Ameliorates Joint Inflammation and Destruction in a Murine Collagen-Induced Arthritis Model via Activation of the Nrf-2/Ho-1 Antioxidant Pathway and Suppression of MAPKs and NF-κB Activation.

: Oleuropein (OL), an olive tree secoiridoid and its peracetylated derivate (Per-OL) have exhibited several beneficial effects on LPS-stimulated macrophages and murine experimental systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was designed to evaluate dietary Per-OL in comparison with OL supplementation effects on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) murine model. Three-weeks-old DBA-1/J male mice were fed from weaning with a standard commercial diet or experimental enriched-diets in 0.05 % (w/w) OL, 0.05% and 0.025% Per-OL. After six weeks of pre-treatment, arthritis was induced by bovine collagen type II by tail base injection (day 0) and on day 21, mice received a booster injection. Mice were sacrificed 42 days after the first immunization. Both Per-OL and OL diets significantly prevented histological damage and arthritic score development, although no statistically significant differences were observed between both compounds. Also, serum collagen oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), metalloprotease (MMP)-3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were ameliorated in paws from secoiridoids fed animals. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)s and nuclear transcription factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) activations were drastically down-regulated whereas nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expressions were up-regulated in those mice fed with OL and Per-OL diets. We conclude that both Per-OL and its parent compound, OL, supplements might provide a basis for developing a new dietary strategy for the prevention of rheumatoid arthritis.

(-)-Methyl-Oleocanthal, a New Oleocanthal Metabolite Reduces LPS-Induced Inflammatory and Oxidative Response: Molecular Signaling Pathways and Histones Epigenetic Modulation.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses of (-)-methyl-oleocanthal (met-OLE), a new metabolite of the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) phenolic oleocanthal (OLE), were explored in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine peritoneal macrophages. Possible signaling pathways and epigenetic modulation of histones were studied. Met-OLE inhibited LPS-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrite (NO) production and decreased the overexpression of the pro-inflammatory enzymes COX-2, mPGES-1 and iNOS in murine macrophages. In addition, met-OLE was able to significantly decrease the activation of p38, JNK, and ERK mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and blocked canonical and non-canonical inflammasome signaling pathways. On the contrary, met-OLE upregulated haem oxigenase 1 (HO-1) and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf-2) expression in treated cells. Finally, met-OLE pretreated spleen cells counteracted LPS induction, preventing H3K18 acetylation or H3K9 and H3K27 demethylation. Overall, these results provide novel mechanistic insights into the beneficial effects of met-OLE regarding the regulation of the immune-inflammatory response through epigenetic changes in histone markers. This revealing evidence suggests that the methylated metabolite of OLE may contribute significantly to the beneficial effects that are associated with the secoiridoid-related compound and the usual consumption of EVOO.

Síndrome de Burnout y la psiconeuroendocrinoinmunología: consecuencias en el personal de salud durante la pandemia por Coronavirus / Burnout syndrome and psycho neuro endocrino immunology: consequences in health workers during the Coronavirus pandemic / Síndrome de burnout e psiconeuroendocrinoimmunologia: consequências em profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia de Coronavírus

Sr. Editor. Hasta la fecha se han documentado 7,439,220 de contagio por coronavirus (COVID-19) con una cifra de muertes de 961,400, de los cuales aproximadamente 7,000 hacen parte del personal de salud. En Colombia, las cifras por COVID-19 llegan a 758,398 con una mortalidad de 3,1%, lo que equivale a 24,039 muertes. Esto ha significado una gran carga mental para el personal de salud, conduciendo a un incremento en el número de suicidios por parte de este personal. Colombia no es ajena a la situación, tiene un reporte de 43,157 casos de los cuales 7,651 se dieron en médicos, 11,171 en auxiliares de enfermería, 4,611 en enfermeras profesionales. En cuanto a la mortalidad, hasta la fecha de revisión del 3 de febrero del 2021 había una cifra de 216 fallecidos de los cuales 71 eran médicos, 38 eran auxiliares de enfermería y trece enfermeras profesionales (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3997

Until today, 7,439,220 infections have been documented by coronavirus (COVID-19) with a death toll of 961,400, of which approximately 7,000 make part of the health personnel. In Colombia, the figures for COVID-19 reaches 758,398 with a mortality of 3.1%, which is equivalent to 24,039 deaths. This has meant a great mental burden for health personnel, driving an increase in the number of suicides by this staff. Colombia is no stranger to the situation, it has a report from 43,157 cases of which 7,651 occurred in physicians, 11,171 in nursing assistants, 4,611 in nurses Professionals. Regarding mortality, to date revision of February 3, 2021 there was a figure of 216 deceased of which 71 were doctors, 38 were nursing assistants and thirteen professional nurses (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3997

Até hoje, 7.439.220 infecções foram documentadas por coronavírus (COVID-19) com um número de mortes de 961.400, das quais aproximadamente 7.000 fazem parte do pessoal de saúde. Na Colômbia, os dados do COVID-19 chegam a 758.398 com mortalidade de 3,1%, o que equivale a 24.039 óbitos. Isso tem significado uma grande carga mental para o pessoal de saúde, levando a um aumento no número de suicídios dessa equipe. A Colômbia conhece bem a situação, tem um relatório de 43.157 casos, dos quais 7.651 ocorreram em médicos, 11.171 em auxiliares de enfermagem, 4.611 em profissionais de enfermagem. Em relação à mortalidade, até a data da revisão de 3 de fevereiro de 2021 havia 216 mortos, sendo 71 médicos, 38 auxiliares de enfermagem e treze profissionais de enfermagem (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3997

Potential Protective Role Exerted by Secoiridoids from Olea europaea L. in Cancer, Cardiovascular, Neurodegenerative, Aging-Related, and Immunoinflammatory Diseases.

Iridoids, which have beneficial health properties, include a wide group of cyclopentane [c] pyran monoterpenoids present in plants and insects. The cleavage of the cyclopentane ring leads to secoiridoids. Mainly, secoiridoids have shown a variety of pharmacological effects including anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, and anti-obesity, which increase the interest of studying these types of bioactive compounds in depth. Secoiridoids are thoroughly distributed in several families of plants such as Oleaceae, Valerianaceae, Gentianaceae and Pedialaceae, among others. Specifically, Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae) is rich in oleuropein (OL), dimethyl-OL, and ligstroside secoiridoids, and their hydrolysis derivatives are mostly OL-aglycone, oleocanthal (OLE), oleacein (OLA), elenolate, oleoside-11-methyl ester, elenoic acid, hydroxytyrosol (HTy), and tyrosol (Ty). These compounds have proved their efficacy in the management of diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and viral and microbial infections. Particularly, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties of secoiridoids from the olive tree (Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae)) have been suggested as a potential application in a large number of inflammatory and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated diseases. Thus, the purpose of this review is to summarize recent advances in the protective role of secoiridoids derived from the olive tree (preclinical studies and clinical trials) in diseases with an important pathogenic contribution of oxidative and peroxidative stress and damage, focusing on their plausible mechanisms of the action involved.

Oleocanthal Modulates LPS-Induced Murine Peritoneal Macrophages Activation via Regulation of Inflammasome, Nrf-2/HO-1, and MAPKs Signaling Pathways.

The present study was designed to investigate the role of the canonical and noncanonical inflammasome, MAPKs and NRF-2/HO-1, signaling pathways involved in the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of oleocanthal in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages. Isolated cells were treated with oleocanthal in the presence or absence of LPS (5 µg mL-1) for 18 h. Oleocanthal showed a potent reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (25 µM, 50. 612 ± 0.02; 50 µM, 53. 665 ± 0.09; 100 µM, 52. 839 ± 0.02), nitrites (25 µM, 0.631 ± 0.07; 50 µM, 0.652 ± 0.07; 100 µM, 0.711 ± 0.08), and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels when compared with LPS-DMSO-treated control cells. In terms of enzymes protein expression, oleocanthal was able to downregulate iNOS (25 µM, 0.173 ± 0.02; 50 µM, 0.149 ± 0.01; 100 µM, 0.150 ± 0.01; p < 0.001), COX-2 (25 µM, 0.482 ± 0.08; 50 µM, 0.469 ± 0.05; 100 µM, 0.418 ± 0.06; p < 0.001), and mPGES-1 (25 µM, 0.185 ± 0.11; 50 µM, 0.218 ± 0.13; 100 µM, 0.161 ± 0.15; p < 0.001) as well as p38 (25 µM, 0.366 ± 0.11; 50 µM, 0.403 ± 0.13; 100 µM, 0.362 ± 0.15; p < 0.001), JNK (25 µM, 0.443 ± 0.11; 50 µM, 0.514 ± 0.13; 100 µM, 0.372 ± 0.15; p < 0.001), and ERK (25 µM, 0.294 ± 0.01; 50 µM, 0.323 ± 0.01; 100 µM, 0.274 ± 0.01; p < 0.001) protein phosphorylation, which was accompanied by an upregulation of Nrf-2 (25 µM, 1.57 ± 0.01; 50 µM, 1.54 ± 0.01; 100 µM, 1.63 ± 0.05; p < 0.05) and HO-1(25 µM, 2.12 ± 0,03; 50 µM, 2.24 ± 0.01; 100 µM, 1.92 ± 0.05; p < 0.01) expression in comparison with LPS-DMSO cells. Moreover, oleocanthal inhibited canonical and noncanonical inflammasome signaling pathways. Thus, oleocanthal might be a promising natural agent for future treatment of immune-inflammatory diseases.

Eficacia del tratamiento ultrasónico en la recuperación de espermatozoides en la investigación de delitos sexuales / Efficacy of an ultrasound technique in the recovery of spermatozoa during the investigation of sexual offenses

Objetivo: Evaluar la eficiencia para la recuperación de espermatozoides utilizando una técnica estándar y una técnica basada en ultrasonido. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio experimental para comparar 2 técnicas de recuperación de espermatozoides: 1) la técnica estándar, basada en la elución de la evidencia en agua destilada con un solución tampón, y 2) una técnica modificada, que incluyó la concentración por centrifugado y el uso de ultrasonido. La eficacia se basó en el recuento manual de espermatozoides utilizando diluciones de 1:1 a 1:500. Resultados: La técnica modificada mejoró sustancialmente la recuperación de los espermatozoides. En la dilución 1:10, la técnica estándar recuperó el 3,1%, la modificada recuperó un 17,5%; representando un aumento de 6 veces más en la recuperación. La técnica modificada fue la única capaz de recuperar espermatozoides en diluciones superiores a 1:250. Conclusión: La implementación de la técnica ultrasónica mejora la recuperación de espermatozoides

Objective: To evaluate the efficiency for the recovery of spermatozoa using the standard technique and a technique based on ultrasound. Materials and methods: An experimental study was carried out to compare two techniques for spermatozoa recovery; I the standard technique, based on elution of the evidence in distilled water with a buffer and, II a modified technique that included concentration by centrifugation and ultrasound. The efficiency was based on manual counting of spermatozoa using dilutions 1:1 to 1:500. Results: The modified technique substantially improved the recovery of spermatozoa. While the standard technique recovered 3.1%, the modified one resulted in a recovery of 17.5% using the 1:10 dilution, which represents a six-fold increase. The modified technique was the only one able to recover spermatozoa in dilutions higher than 1:250. Conclusion: The implementation of the ultrasonic technique improves the recovery of spermatozoa

Polyphenolic extract from extra virgin olive oil inhibits the inflammatory response in IL-1ß-activated synovial fibroblasts.

The polyphenolic extract (PE) from extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has been shown to possess important anti-inflammatory and joint protective properties in murine models of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was designed to evaluate the effects of PE on IL-1ß-activated human synovial fibroblasts SW982 cell line. PE from EVOO treatment inhibited IL-1ß-induced matrix metalloproteases (P<0·001), TNF-α and IL-6 production (P<0·001). Similarly, IL-1ß-induced cyclo-oxygenase-2 and microsomal PGE synthase-1 up-regulations were down-regulated by PE (P<0·001). Moreover, IL-1ß-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation and NF-κB activation were ameliorated by PE (P<0·001). These results suggest that PE from EVOO reduces the production of proinflammatory mediators in human synovial fibroblasts; particularly, these protective effects could be related to the inhibition of MAPK and NF-κB signalling pathways. Taken together, PE from EVOO probably could provide an attractive complement in management of diseases associated with over-activation of synovial fibroblasts, such as RA.

Características de los programas de prevención primaria para el control del VIH en la región del suroeste antioqueño, 2014 / Characteristics of the Primary Prevention Programs to Control HIV in the South-Western Antioquia Province, 2014 / Características dos programas de prevenção primária para o controle da HIV na região do sul-oeste antioquenho, 2014

Resumen Introducción: la prevención primaria (PP) del VIH/Sida es una obligación estatal para el control de la epidemia y el cumplimiento de los objetivos sanitarios, pero existe escasa evidencia sobre su funcionamiento. Objetivo: identificar algunas características de contexto, estructura, proceso y resultados de los programas de PP del VIH/Sida en el suroeste antioqueño. Método: estudio transversal, con análisis estadístico descriptivo, utilizando fuentes epidemiológicas y sociodemográficas oficiales y encuestas a 21/23 coordinadores de programa. Resultados: la incidencia, prevalencia y mortalidad del VIH/Sida fue de 10 casos por cada 100.000 habitantes, 73 casos por cada 100.000 habitantes y 22 casos por cada 100.000 habitantes. La disponibilidad de servicios fue limitada. La densidad profesional fue de 3 médicos/enfermeras/10.000 habitantes, coberturas de PP<25%, focalizadas en actividades informativas, dirigidas principalmente a la población general, indígena y materna. Los coordinadores percibieron logros no cuantificados relacionados con disminución de transmisión madre-hijo, mayor uso de condón, pero también limitaciones económicas, de intersectorialidad y estigma. Conclusión: pese al impacto epidemiológico y a factores de riesgo contextuales, la estructura, los procesos y los resultados de PP requieren mejoramiento.

Abstract Introduction: Primary prevention (PP) of HIV/AIDS is a state obligation in the control of the epidemy and to comply with the public health objectives, though there is scarce evidence on how it operates. Objective: To identify some characteristics of the context, structure, process and results of the HIV/AIDS primary prevention programs in the south-western Antioquia Province. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study with descriptive statistical analysis making use of the official sociodemographic and epidemiologic sources as well as surveys to 21/23 program coordinators. Results: the incidence, prevalence and mortality of the HIV/AIDS 10 cases per 100,000, 73 cases per 100,000 and 22 per 100,000 inhabitants. the health services were limited, the density of health professionals was 3 doctors/nurses/10,000 inhabitants and the PP coverage was <25%, focused in informative activities targeting primarily the general population, indigenous populations and mothers. the program coordinators perceived non-quantified achievements related to a decrease in the mother-to-child transmission, a greater use of condoms but also financial restrictions concerning intersectoriality and stigma. Conclusion: Despite the epidemiologic impact and contextualized risk factors, the structure, processes and results of the Prevention Programs require upgrading.

Resumo Introdução: a prevenção primária (PP) da Sida/AIDS/HIV é uma obrigação estatal para o controle da epidemia e o cumprimento dos objetivos sanitários, mas existe escassa evidência sobre seu funcionamento. Objetivo: identificar algunas características de contexto, estrutura, processo e resultados dos programas de PP da Sida/AIDS/VIH no sul-oeste antioquenho. Método: estudo transversal, com análise estatística descritiva a utilizar fontes epidemiológicas e sócio-demográfi cas oficiais e inquéritos a 21/23 coordenadores de programa. Resultados: a incidência, prevalência e mortalidade da Sida/ HIV foi de 10 por 100.000, 73 por 100.000 e 22 por 100.000 habitantes. A disponibilidade de serviços foi limitada. A densidade profissional foi de 3 médicos/enfermeiros/10.000 habitantes, coberturas de PP<25%, focalizadas em atividades informativas, dirigidas principalmente à população geral, indígena e materna. Os coordenadores perceberam êxito não quanti ficado relacionado com diminuição de transmissão mãe-filho, maior uso de camisinha, mas também limitações econômicas, de intersetorialidade e estigmatização. Conclusão: embora o impacto epidemiológico e fatores de risco contextuais, a estrutura, os processos e os resultados de PP precisam de melhoramento.

Peracetylated hydroxytyrosol, a new hydroxytyrosol derivate, attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory response in murine peritoneal macrophages via regulation of non-canonical inflammasome, Nrf2/HO1 and JAK/STAT signaling pathways.

The present study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of a new derivative of hydroxytyrosol (HTy), peracetylated hydroxytyrosol (Per-HTy), compared with its parent, HTy, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophages as well as potential signaling pathways involved. In particular, we attempted to characterize the role of the inflammasome underlying Per-HTy possible anti-inflammatory effects. Isolated murine peritoneal macrophages were treated with HTy or its derivative in the presence or absence of LPS (5 µg/ml) for 18 h. Cell viability was determined using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Nitric oxide (NO) production was analyzed by Griess method. Production of pro-inflammatory cytokines was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway (STAT3), haem oxigenase 1 (HO1), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) expression and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation was determined by Western blot. Per-HTy significantly reduced the levels of NO and pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as both COX-2 and iNOS expressions. Furthermore, Per-HTy treatment inhibited STAT3 and increased Nrf2 and HO1 protein levels in murine macrophages exposed to LPS. In addition, Per-HTy anti-inflammatory activity was related with an inhibition of non-canonical nucleotide binding domain (NOD)-like receptor (NLRP3) inflammasome pathways by decreasing pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-18 cytokine levels as consequence of regulation of cleaved caspase-11 enzyme. These results support that this new HTy derivative may offer a new promising nutraceutical therapeutic strategy in the management of inflammatory-related pathologies.

Correction: Oleuropein down-regulated IL-1ß-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in human synovial fibroblast cell line SW982.

Correction for 'Oleuropein down-regulated IL-1ß-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in human synovial fibroblast cell line SW982' by Maria Luisa Castejón, et al., Food Funct., 2017, DOI: 10.1039/c7fo00210f.