Circunferencia media de brazo en preescolares y escolares hospitalizados como valor predictivo de desnutrición aguda / Media arm circumference in school and preschool hospitalized as predictive value of acute malnutrition

Se evaluó el poder predictivo de la circunferencia media de brazo para la identificación precoz de desnutrición aguda en niños preescolares y escolares hospitalizados en dos hospitales de Valencia, estado Carabobo. Se evaluaron 182 niños entre 2-10 años. Estado nutricional antropométrico calculado por: circunferencia media del brazo para la edad CMB y peso para la talla P/T. Se empleó paquete estadístico SPSS versión 15.0 y Statistix versión 6.0. Se determinó sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo y negativo por Teorema de Bayes; correspondencia por índice Kappa; diagnóstico de desnutrición aguda y sensibilidad por CMB y área bajo la curva ROC; nivel de confianza 95%. Se encontró 51,1% masculinos, 48,9% femeninos, edad 5,2 ± 2,2 años; 71,4% pre-escolares, 28,6% escolares con p=0,000 entre las edades. Cuando se ajustó por sexo y edad, la CMB se correlacionó significativamente con el peso (r=0,804; p=0,000) y la talla (r=0,510; p=0,000). Índice Kappa de 0,720 (p=0,000) para la comparación entre P/T y CMB en el diagnóstico de desnutrición aguda. Prevalencia de 28% por desnutrición aguda para P/T y 34,6% para CMB, con concordancia entre ambos indicadores. CMB presentó buena sensibilidad y especificidad, siendo más sensible y específica en pre-escolares y escolares masculinos para niños con desnutrición aguda. Punto de corte para desnutrición aguda en preescolares 14,9 cm, con sensibilidad 85,5%; especificidad 74,5%; para escolares 16,0 cm con sensibilidad 89,2%; especificidad 80%. CMB demostró mejor predictor de desnutrición aguda que P/T. Se recomienda establecer puntos de corte específicos por edad y sexo, para la definición y clasificación del déficit nutricional(AU)

The predictive power of the middle arm circumference for early identification of acute malnutrition in preschool and school children hospitalized in two hospitals in Valencia, Carabobo state. Was evaluated 182 children aged 2-10 years were evaluated. Anthropometric nutritional status calculated by: mid-arm circumference for age MAC and weight for height P/T. SPSS version 15.0 and Statistix version 6.0 was used. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value was determined by Bayes Theorem; Kappa index for correspondence; Diagnosis of acute malnutrition and sensitivity by MAC and area under the curve ROC; 95% confidence level. We found 51.1% male, 48.9% female, age 5.2 ± 2.2 years; 71.4% pre-school, school 28.6% (p = 0.000) between ages. When adjusted for sex and age, the CMB was significantly correlated with weight (r = 0.804; p = 0.000) and height (r = 0.510; p = 0.000). Kappa index of 0.720 (p = 0.000) for the comparison between P/T and CMB in the diagnosis of acute malnutrition. Acute malnutrition 28% prevalence for P/T and 34.6% for MAC, with agreement between both indicators. MAC showed good sensitivity and specificity, being more sensitive and specific in pre-school and school male children with acute malnutrition. 14.9 cm of cutoff point for acute malnutrition in preschool, with 85.5% sensitivity; 74.5% specificity; for school 16 cm with 89.2% sensitivity; 80% specificity. MAC showed better predictor of acute malnutrition P/T. It is recommended to set specific cutoffs for age and sex, for the definition and classification of nutritional deficit(AU)

Antimicrobial effect of ethanol extract of leaf neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) on Listeria monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes es un patógeno causante de enfermedades alimentarias. En la búsqueda de controlar su propagación utilizando sustancias naturales se planteó el objetivo de mostrar si el extracto etanólico foliar de neem (Azadirachta Indica A. Juss.) tiene efecto antimicrobiano sobre L. monocytogenes ICTA-12446. El extracto se obtuvo a partir de hojas de neem sometidas a secado por 8 días, se redujeron de tamaño mecánicamente, se sometieron a maceración en frío por 3 días usando etanol 96% en recipientes ámbar, se filtró y concentró en rota evaporador. Se estandarizó el concentrado con dimetilsulfóxido (DMSO) a una concentración de 60 mg/L. Listeria monocytogenes ICTA-12446, fue inoculado en caldo nutriente junto con soluciones del extracto a diferentes concentraciones (20, 30, 40, 50 y 60 mg/L), se emplearon tiempos de contacto (2.5, 5, 10 y 15 minutos). Cumplido cada tiempo se realizaron diluciones seriadas e inocularon en agar nutritivo por extensión durante 24 h a 37ºC. Se efectuó el recuento en Unidades Formadoras de Colonias UFC. Al comparar las concentraciones del extracto se evidencia entre 20 y 60 mg/mL diferencia significativa, mientras que en 30, 40 y 50 mg/mL un comportamiento similar. Al contrastar tiempos de contacto, se observa que entre el tiempo 2.5 min y los restantes un p=0,03. El tiempo mínimo donde existió inhibición fue 2.5 minutos, y concentración mínima inhibitoria de 20 mg/mL. Los cuatro tiempos de contacto arrojan porcentajes de inhibición microbiana de 100% al emplear 60mg/mL. Se concluye que el extracto etanólico foliar de neem posee un efecto inhibitorio sobre Listeria monocytogenes(AU)

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen causing foodborne illness. In seeking to control its spread using natural substances in order to show if the leaf ethanol extract of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) has antimicrobial effect on L. monocytogenes ICTA-12446, was proposed. The extract was obtained from neem leaves, which was subjected to drying for 8 days. It was reduced in size mechanically, and subjected to cold soak for 3 days, using 96% ethanol in amber vessels, filtered and concentrated in rot evaporator. Concentrated was solubilized with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and standarized to achieve a concentration of 60 mg/mL Listeria monocytogenes was inoculated in nutrient broth with extract solutions at different concentrations (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60mg/mL), four contact times (2.5, 5, 10 and 15 minutes) were used. Completed each time it was diluted and inoculated on nutrient agar by extension for 24h at 37ºC. The count of Colony Forming Units UFC was taking. Comparing the concentrations of the extract between 20 and 60mg /mL significant difference was appreciate, while 30, 40 and 50 mg/mL show a similar behavior. Contrasting contact times observed between time 2.5 min and the remaining p = 0.03. The minimum time where there was some kind of inhibition was 2.5 minutes, and minima inhibitory concentration of 20mg/mL. The four contact times yield microbial inhibition percentages of 100% by using 60mg/L. It is concluded that ethanol extract of neem leaf has an inhibitory effect on L. monocytogenes(AU)

Calcio en calostro y suero sanguíneo en mujeres lactantes: maternidad "dr. josé maría vargas" valencia estado carabobo / Calcium in colostrum and blood serum in lactating women: maternity "dr. josé maria vargas" valencia: carabobo state

El calcio es uno de los minerales que interviene en diversas funciones celulares, así como también en la estructura ósea, coagulación y señales intracelulares. En el presente trabajo se determinó la concentración de calcio en calostro y suero sanguíneo de madres lactantes que asistieron a la Maternidad Dr. José María Vargas. Valencia, Edo. Carabobo. Muestra conformada por 50 mujeres lactantes, edad 18-35 años. Se realizó: evaluación clínica con elaboración de historia médica; recolección de calostro por extracción manual estandarizada según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se les extrajo muestra de sangre periférica (10 ml), mediante punción venosa Se determinó concentración de calcio en calostro y suero sanguíneo por Espectrofotometría de Absorción Atómica bajo la modalidad de llama, equipo Perkin Elmer modelo 3100. Edad promedio 24.5±3.2 años; concentración de calcio en calostro 209,98 a 251,54 µg/mL sin asociación significativa entre la edad y los valores de calcio agrupados en percentiles. La concentración de calcio en suero sanguíneo predominó en el percentil 25 con valores ≤ 1,414 mmol/L; concentraciones de calcio en calostro de ≥ 251,55 µg/mL; la mayoría de las madres lactantes estaban ubicadas en los estratos III, IV y V. Se concluye, que las concentraciones promedio de calcio en muestras de calostro y suero sanguíneo de la población en estudio fueron normales en el límite superior para calostro y en el límite inferior en suero sanguíneo(AU)

Calcium is one of the minerals involved in various cellular operations, as well as in bone structure, coagulation and intracellular signals. In this paper the concentration of calcium in blood serum and colostrum of nursing mothers who attended the Maternity Dr. José Maria Vargas. Valencia, Edo. Carabobo was determined. The sample consisted of 50 lactating women, aged 18-35 years. We performed: clinical evaluation development of medical history. Colostrum collection by manual removal standardized by WHO. It was took peripheral blood sample (10 ml) by venipuncture; calcium concentration was determined in colostrum and blood serum by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in the form of flame, using Perkin Elmer model 3100. Results: The mean age of 24.5 ± 32 years; calcium concentration in colostrum from 209.98 to 251.54 mg / mL without significant association between age and calcium values grouped into percentiles. The concentration of calcium in blood serum predominated in the 25th percentile with values ≤ 1.414mmol /L; calcium concentrations in colostrum ≥ 251.55 mg / mL; most nursing mothers were located in strata III, IV and V. It is concluded that the average calcium concentrations in colostrum samples and blood serum of the study population were normal in the upper limit for colostrum, and the lower limit in blood serum, with significant association to socioeconomic status(AU)

Prevalencia de la enfermedad de hígado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) en una población de niños obesos en Valencia, Venezuela / Prevalence of No Alcohol Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in a population of obese children in Valencia, Venezuela

El hígado graso no alcohólico (HGNA), se caracteriza por la acumulación anormal de grasa en los hepatocitos, sin consumo de alcohol, donde sobrepeso y obesidad son factores condicionantes. Se evaluó, por ecosonografía, la prevalencia de hígado graso en pacientes pediátricos obesos y su relación con la evaluación nutricional. Muestra conformada por 85 niños, (51 hembras, 34 varones), edad 3-17 años.Se realizó ecosonografía abdominal, IMC, circunferencia de cintura; Test Godard para actividad física, se interrogó antecedentes de diabetes, dislipidemia, obesidad y enfermedad cardiovascular. Se determinó perfil lipídico, glucosay resistencia a la insulina.Datos analizados a partir de tablas descriptivas y comparativas. Se obtuvo: edad promedio hembras 9,8±2,7 y varones 9,6±2,7 años. La ecosonografía indico 50% hígado graso y 50% hígado-páncreas graso en niños de 3-6 años; 7-11 años hígado-páncreas graso 39,7%; 12-17años 31,6% hígado-páncreas graso (p>0,05); IMC>26kg/m2 hígado-páncreas graso 42,9%; 21- 25 kg/m2 44,7% hígado graso; 15-20 kg/m2 60% hígadopáncreas graso; (p>0,05). CC alta 97,6%. Un 68,2% con actividad física insuficiente; alta frecuencia de antecedentes de enfermedades crónicas no trasmisibles. Se concluye queen la población en estudiohubo predominio dehígado graso con reemplazo graso de páncreas (HG-RGP) en los grupos con mayor IMC, circunferencia de cintura y sexo masculino, sin relación entre resistencia a la insulina, alteraciones del perfil lipídico y diagnóstico de HG. Se infiere que es la evaluación antropométrica de circunferencia de cintura y la ecosonografía abdominal las que indican la presencia de obesidad visceral, que predispone a la condición de esteatosis hepática, pancreática y/o hepática-pancreática.

No Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat in hepatocytes, without alcohol, where overweight and obesity are determinants. Ecosonografía evaluated the prevalence of fatty liver in obese pediatric patients and its relation to nutritional assessment. The sample consisted of 85 children (51 females, 34 males), age 3-17. The abdominal ecosonography, BMI, waist circumference were performed; Godard Test for physical activity, history of diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity and cardiovascular disease were questioned. Lipid profile, glucose and insulin resistance were determined. Data analyzed from descriptive and comparative tables. We obtained: mean age 9.8 ± 2.7 females and males 9.6 ± 2.7 years. The ecosonography indicated 50% and 50% fatty liver-pancreas fatty liver in children aged 3- 6 years; 7-11 years 39.7% fatty liver-pancreas; 12-17yrs 31.6% fatty liver-pancreas (p> 0.05); BMI> 26kg/m2 42.9% fatty liver-pancreas; 21 to 25 kg/m2 44.7% fatty liver; 15 to 20 kg/m2 60%fatty liver-pancreas (p> 0.05). 97.6% with high CC; 68.2% with inadequate physical activity; high frequency of history of chronic non-communicable diseases. We concluded that this population had predominantly fatty liver fatty replacement of the pancreas (HG-RGP) in the groups with higher BMI, CC and high male unrelated insulin resistance, altered lipid profile and diagnosis HG. We inferred that the anthropometric assessment of waist circumference and abdominal ecosonography indicate the presence of visceral obesity, a condition that predisposes to hepatic steatosis, pancreas and / or liver-pancreas.

[Prevalence of no alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a population of obese children in Valencia, Venezuela]. / Prevalencia de la enfermedad de higado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) en una población de niños obesos en Valencia, Venezuela.

No Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat in hepatocytes, without alcohol, where overweight and obesity are determinants. Ecosonografia evaluated the prevalence of fatty liver in obese pediatric patients and its relation to nutritional assessment. The sample consisted of 85 children (51 females, 34 males), age 3-17. The abdominal ecosonography, BMI, waist circumference were performed; Godard Test for physical activity, history of diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity and cardiovascular disease were questioned. Lipid profile, glucose and insulin resistance were determined. Data analyzed from descriptive and comparative tables. We obtained: mean age 9.8 ± 2.7 females and males 9.6 ± 2.7 years. The ecosonography indicated 50% and 50% fatty liver-pancreas fatty liver in children aged 3-6 years; 7-11 years 39.7% fatty liver-pancreas; 12-17yrs 31.6% fatty liver-pancreas (p > 0.05); BMI > 26 kg/m2 42.9% fatty liver-pancreas; 21 to 25 kg/m2 44.7% fatty liver; 15 to 20 kg/m2 60%fatty liver-pancreas (p> 0.05). 97.6% with high CC; 68.2% with inadequate physical activity; high frequency of history of chronic non-communicable diseases. We concluded that this population had predominantly fatty liver fatty replacement of the pancreas (HG-RGP) in the groups with higher BMI, CC and high male unrelated insulin resistance, altered lipid profile and diagnosis HG. We inferred that the anthropometric assessment of waist circumference and abdominal ecosonography indicate the presence of visceral obesity, a condition that predisposes to hepatic steatosis, pancreas and/or liver-pancreas.

Efecto bacteriostático y/o bactericida del xilitol sobre cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes / Bacteriostatic effect and/or xylitol bactericide of crops on Listeria Monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes ha sido considerado como un patógeno emergente causante de enfermedades alimentarias. En la búsqueda de una vía alterna biocontroladora de su propagación, se propone al xilitol como posible agente bacteriostático y/o bactericida. El xilitol es un poliol derivado de la hidrogenación del monosacárido xilosa de relevancia en la industria farmacéutica por su efecto anticariogénico. Para comprobar el efecto del xilitol como posible agente bacteriostático y/o bactericida sobre Listeria monocytogenes, se determinó la concentración mínima inhibitoria (CMI), el tiempo mínimo de inhibición (TMI) y la concentración bactericida mínima (CBM) de soluciones de xilitol en cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. Se aplicó el método de difusión en agar, utilizando soluciones de xilitol en concentraciones de 0 a 10%, respectivamente, para la CMI. El TMI se determinó por curvas de crecimiento en caldo Soya tripticasa con soluciones de 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 y 20% de xilitol, respectivamente, con un inoculo inicial de 108 UFC de Listeria monocytogenes por mL en cada solución. Se observó que la CMI fue con la solución del 1% de xilitol; el TMI fue de 10 horas con las concentraciones de 1 a 10% y de 7 horas al aplicar 20% xilitol. Se comprobó que efectivamente el xilitol tiene poder bacteriostático sobre Listeria monocytogenes (p<0.001), más sin embargo, no se obtuvo efecto bactericida en los ensayos realizados.

Listeria monocytogenes has been considered as an emerging pathogen causing foodborne illness. In the search for an alternate route biocontrol propagation, xylitol has been proposed as a possible bacteriostatic and / or bactericide. Xylitol is a polyol derived from the hydrogenation of xylose monosaccharide of importance in the pharmaceutical industry for its anti-cariogenic effect. To check the possible effect of xylitol as bacteriostatic and /or bactericidal against Listeria monocytogenes, it was determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the time minimum inhibition (TMI) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of xylitol solutions on Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. The agar diffusion method was applied, using xylitol solutions at concentrations of 0-10%, respectively, for the MIC. The TMI was determined by growth curves in trypticase soy broth with solutions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 20% of xylitol, respectively, with an initial inoculum of 108 CFU per ml of Listeria monocytogenes in each solution. MIC observed was the solution 1% of xylitol; the TMI was 10 hours to concentrations of 1 to 10% and 7 hours to apply 20% xylitol. It was found that xylitol has bacteriostatic power on Listeria monocytogenes (p <0.001), but not bactericide effect.

[Bacteriostatic effect and/or xylitol bactericide of crops on Listeria Monocytogenes]. / Efecto bacteriostático y/o bactericida del xilitol sobre cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria monocytogenes has been considered as an emerging pathogen causing foodborne illness. In the search for an alternate route biocontrol propagation, xylitol has been proposed as a possible bacteriostatic and / or bactericide. Xylitol is a polyol derived from the hydrogenation of xylose monosaccharide of importance in the pharmaceutical industry for its anti-cariogenic effect. To check the possible effect of xylitol as bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal against Listeria monocytogenes, it was determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the time minimum inhibition (TMI) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of xylitol solutions on Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. The agar diffusion method was applied, using xylitol solutions at concentrations of 0-10%, respectively, for the MIC. The TMI was determined by growth curves in trypticase soy broth with solutions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 20% of xylitol, respectively, with an initial inoculum of 108 CFU per ml of Listeria monocytogenes in each solution. MIC observed was the solution 1% of xylitol; the TMI was 10 hours to concentrations of 1 to 10% and 7 hours to apply 20% xylitol. It was found that xylitol has bacteriostatic power on Listeria monocytogenes (p < 0.001), but not bactericide effect.

Efecto bacteriostático y/o bactericida del extracto de gel de Aloe vera sobre cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes es una bacteria responsable de enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos (ETA). Para comprobar el efecto del extracto de gel de Aloe vera, como posible agente bacteriostático y/o bactericida sobre Listeria monocytogenes, se determinó la concentración mínima inhibitoria (CMI), el tiempo mínimo de inhibición (TMI) y la concentración bactericida mínima (CBM) de soluciones de extracto de gel de Aloe vera en diferentes concentraciones sobre cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. Se aplicó el método de difusión en agar, utilizando soluciones del extracto de gel de Aloe vera en concentraciones de 0 a 100% para la CMI. El TMI se determinó por curvas de crecimiento en caldo Soya tripticasa con un inoculo inicial de Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635 de 108 UFC por mL en cada solución. Se pudo determinar que la CMI fue del 10% de extracto de gel de Aloe vera y el TMI fue de 5 horas en las concentraciones de 10%, 20% y 30% de Aloe vera, mientras que a las concentraciones de 50, 80, 90 y 100%, el tiempo fue de 8 horas. Se comprobó que efectivamente el gel de Aloe vera tiene poder bacteriostático sobre Listera monocytogenes (p<0.001), mas sin embargo, no se obtuvo un efecto bactericida en los ensayos realizados.

Bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal extract of Aloe vera gel on cultures of Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria responsible for food borne diseases (FBD) The effect of Aloe vera gel extract as a possible bacteriostatic and / or bactericidal against Listeria monocytogenes, was checked by determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the time of minimum inhibition (TMI) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) solutions extract of Aloe vera gel in different concentrations on cultures of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. We applied the agar diffusion method, using solutions of extract of Aloe vera gel at concentrations of 0 to 100% for the MIC. The TMI was determined by growth curves in trypticase soy broth with an initial inoculum of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635 of 108 CFU/mL in each solution. It was determined that the MIC was 10% extract of Aloe vera gel and TMI was 5 hours at concentrations of 10%, 20% and 30% of Aloe vera, while concentrations of 50, 80, 90 and 100%, the time was 8 hours. It was found that indeed the Aloe vera gel is bacteriostatic power on Listeria monocytogenes (p <0.001), but yet, no bactericidal effect was obtained in our study.

[Bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal extract of Aloe vera gel on cultures of Listeria monocytogenes]. / Efecto bacteriostático y/o bactericida del extracto de gel de Aloe vera sobre cultivos de Listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria responsible for food borne diseases (FBD). The effect of Aloe vera gel extract as a possible bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal against Listeria monocytogenes, was checked by determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the time of minimum inhibition (TMI) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) solutions extract of Aloe vera gel in different concentrations on cultures of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635. We applied the agar diffusion method, using solutions of extract of Aloe vera gel at concentrations of 0 to 100% for the MIC. The TMI was determined by growth curves in trypticase soy broth with an initial inoculum of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7635 of 108 CFU/mL in each solution. It was determined that the MIC was 10% extract of Aloe vera gel and TMI was 5 hours at concentrations of 10%, 20% and 30% of Aloe vera, while concentrations of 50, 80, 90 and 100%, the time was 8 hours. It was found that indeed the Aloe vera gel is bacteriostatic power on Listeria monocytogenes (p < 0.001), but yet, no bactericidal effect was obtained in our study.

Pobreza estructural y déficit nutricional en niños preescolares, escolares y adolescentes del Sur de Valencia Estado Carabobo-Venezuela / Structural poverty and nutritional deficit in pre-school and school children, and adolescents of the South of Valencia, Carabobo State -Venezuela

La pobreza es un síndrome situacional en el que se asocian desnutrición, precarias condiciones de vivienda, bajos niveles educacionales, malas condiciones sanitarias, inestabilidad en el aparato productivo, poca participación en los mecanismos de integración social y quizás la adscripción a una escala particular de valores diferenciada de alguna manera de la del resto de la sociedad. Se evaluaron antecedentes de morbilidad y déficit nutricional y su relación con pobreza estructural en 257 niños entre 2-18 años, de un barrio del Sur de Valencia, Estado Carabobo. Metodología. Evaluación socioeconómica según Graffar; registro de antecedentes biomédicos, diagnóstico nutricional antropométrico. Resultados. Edad promedio de la población 7,76 ± 2,6 años. Estrato socioeconómico predominante IV con 55,6%. Predominio de cohabitación de hasta 5 personas por familia con estructura monofamiliar; profesión del jefe de familia, obrero especializado 49,1 %; madres con educación primaria, 47,9 %. Estado nutricional con déficit nutricional, 36,6 %. No hubo asociación significativa entre diagnóstico nutricional y número de personas por familia. Se encontró 78,3% de desnutridos en grupos familiares de más de una familia por vivienda, p<0,05. Prevalencia de diarrea e infecciones respiratorias inferiores (55,3% y 64,9%, respectivamente) en familias de más de 5 personas. El grado de instrucción de la madre mostró relación significativa con el antecedente de infecciones respiratorias inferiores. Se concluye que el déficit nutricional se relaciona con variables de pobreza estructural (número de familias por vivienda), indicativo de que los métodos de medición de pobreza permiten mostrar una evaluación integral de las poblaciones vulnerables.

Poverty, a highly predominant condition in Latin America, is associated with insufficient food intake, undernutrition, poor living conditions, low education, lack of insertion in the productive system and in the social integration network, despair and anomia. In this context, the influence of structural poverty associated variables on nutritional status was assessed in 257 children andadolescents (2-18 years of age), from a poor neighborhood in southern Valencia, Carabobo State. Methodology: Socioeconomic evaluation (Graffar-Méndez Castellano), biomedical history, anthropometric nutritional assessment (body composition, body dimension and mixed indicators) were performed. Results: Families living in Stratum IV were predominant, as well as the unifamiliar structure and 5 people per family or household. 36.6% of nutritional deficit was observed. A significant association between undernutrition and number of families per household was found, and alsobetween a history of diarrhea and acute lower respiratory infections and the number of persons per family, with more prevalence in family groups of more than 5 people. The educational level of the mother also showed a statistically significant relationship with a history of lower respiratory infections, when mothers had primary education or were literate. It is concluded that there is a strong relationship between nutritional deficit and structural poverty variables (number of families per household). The most significant association was observed between poverty measurement methods and nutritional diagnosis of deficit. Inclusion of this method in community research will allow a comprehensive assessment of vulnerable populations.

Cristaluria en una población pediátrica del estado carabobo, venezuela / Cristaluria in a pediatric population of carabobo state, venezuela

En la orina la presencia de cristales tiene poco significado clínico, aunque su correcta identificación es de utilidad en pediatría pues, proporciona información para el diagnóstico de padecimientos sistémicos, enfermedades de las vías urinarias y posibles errores congénitos del metabolismo. A fin de evaluar la influencia del género, grupo etario, condición socioeconómica y el estado nutricional antropométrico sobre la prevalencia de cristaluria, se evaluaron 381 niños aparentemente sanos, edad 1 a 18 años, atendidos en tres de los ambulatorios del Municipio Guacara, Estado Carabobo. Se determinó estado nutricional antropométrico mediante peso/edad, talla/edad, peso/talla, área grasa y área muscular en lactantes, preescolares y escolares; índice de masa corporal para adolescentes; nivel socioeconómico medido por Graffar modificado. Análisis de orina al microscopio óptico (aumento 400x) Estadístico SPSS versión 10.0 significancia p<0,05. Del total de la población estudiada 49,1% presentó cristaluria, con prevalencia en preescolares y adolescentes (33,2% y 26,2% respectivamente), con predominio estadísticamente significativo en varones (57,8%). El cristal prevalerte fue el oxalato de calcio en 66,8%, con una relación estadísticamente significativa entre tipo de cristal, grupo etario y estrato socioeconómico. En el estado nutricional antropométrico se encontró 16,6% de desnutrición, predominio del estrato socioeconómico IV en todos los grupos etarios. Se concluye que la cristaluria encontrada en esta población pediátrica de nivel socioeconómico bajo, es independiente del estado nutricional antropométrico, aunque asociado a otros factores como grupo etario, género y estrato socioeconómico(AU)

In the urine the crystal presence has little clinical meaning; although its correct identification is of utility in pediatric, due to it provide information for the diagnosis of systemic sufferings, diseases of the urinary routes and possible congenital errors of the metabolism. In order to evaluate the influence of the gender, etario group, socioeconomic condition and the anthropometric nutritional state on the prevalence of cristaluria, 381 apparently healthy children were evaluated; age 1 to 18 years, taken care in three of the ambulatory of the Guacara Municipality, Carabobo State. Was determined anthropometric nutritional state by means of weight/age, carves/age, weight/ carves, greasy area and muscular area in suckling babies, preschool and school students; corporal mass index for adolescents; socioeconomic level measured by modified Graffar. Analysis of urine by optical microscope (400x). Statistical SPSS version 10.1 significance p<0.05. Of the total of studied population 49.1% presented cristaluria, with prevalence in preschool and adolescents (33.2% and 26.2% respectively), with statistically significant predominance in boys (57.8%). The crystal prevalent was the oxalate of calcium in 66.8%, with a statistically significant relation between type of crystal, etario group and socioeconomic layer. In the anthropometric nutritional state was 16,6% of undernourishment. Predominance of socioeconomic layer IV in all the etarios groups. We concludes that cristaluria found in this pediatric population of low socioeconomic level, is independent of the anthropometric nutritional state, although other factors like etario group, gender and socioeconomic level are associated(AU)

Detección de Listeria monocytogenes en queso blanco criollo, mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) / Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in white cheese by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

La reacción en cadena de la polimerasa, conocida como PCR, es un método que permite replicar miles de veces, en pocas horas e in vitro, pequeñas cantidades de ADN. La aplicación de métodos rápidos y sensibles, para detectar Listeria monocytogenes en muestras de queso blanco, permitirá un mejor control microbiológico del proceso de producción. Se aplicó PCR a 30 muestras de queso blanco, de una quesera de Valencia Estado Carabobo. Se detectó especificidad y sensibilidad para PCR mediante el empleo de la cepa control Listeria monocytogenes 446. Extracción de ADN según metodología descrita por Torres y col., Marcador de peso molecular de 100 pares de base. Se emplearon: cuatro cebadores del gen hlyA de listeriolisina O; iniciadores L1/U1 para banda 938 pb y LF/LR para banda 750 pb del gen hlyA. Estadístico EpiInfo V6 para concordancia de observaciones en geles, mediante coeficiente Kappa (K). Resultados: 8 de las 30 muestras de queso analizadas, mostraron crecimiento presuntivo de Listeria spp en Agar PALCAM. De las cuales 2 de las muestras no pertenecian al género Listeria; en las 6 restantes las pruebas de confirmación arrojaron que: 2 eran L. monocytogenes, 3 L.ivanovii y 1 L. seeligeri. Mediante PCR 2 muestras resultaron positivas para L. monocytogenes al amplificar la banda 938 pb para Listeria y banda 750 pb para la especie monocytogenes. Se concluye que PCR demostró ser altamente específico y sensible para L. monocytogenes, teniendo ventaja sobre agar PALCAM al evidenciar la presencia especifica del patógeno en un tiempo relativamente corto.

The Polymerase Chain Reaction, known as PCR, is a method to replicate thousands of times within a few hours and in vitro, small amounts of DNA. The application of rapid and sensitive methods to detect Listeria monocytogenes in cheese samples, allow a better microbiological control of the production process. PCR was applied to 30 samples of of white cheese, from Valencia, Carabobo State. It was detected PCR specificity and sensitivity by using the control strain Listeria monocytogenes 446. DNA extraction according to the methodology described by Torres et al., Molecular weight marker 100 base pairs. Were used: four primers hlyA gene of listeriolysin O; L1/U1 primers for 938 bp band and LF / LR 750 bp band hlyA gene. EpiInfo Statistical V6 to match observations in gels, by Kappa coefficient (K). Results: 8 out of 30 cheese samples analyzed showed presumptive growth of Listeria spp in PALCAM Agar. Two of the samples not belonged to the genus Listeria, in the 6 remaining sample confirmation tests showed that: 2 were L. monocytogenes, 3 L. ivanovii and 1 L. seeligeri. In PCR 2 samples were positive for L. monocytogenes by amplify the 938 bp band for Listeria and 750 bp band for the species monocytogenes. We concluded that PCR was highly specific and sensitive to L. monocytogenes, taking advantage of PALCAM agar to detect the presence of the pathogen specifies a relatively short time.

Calidad microbiológica en frutas de conchas comestibles expendidas en mercados populares de los municipios Valencia y San Diego, estado Carabobo, Venezuela / Microbiological quality of fruits that have edible peels sold at popular markets of the Valencia and San Diego Municipalities, Carabobo State, Venezuela

Las frutas constituyen un grupo de nutrientes indispensables para la salud y bienestar del individuo. Se evaluó la calidad microbiológica en frutas de concha comestible (fresas, guayabas y duraznos) expendidas en mercados populares de Valencia y San Diego, estado Carabobo, Venezuela. Se determinó el número de UFC/g de mesófilos aerobios (MA), coliformes totales y fecales (CT, CF) y Salmonella spp. según Normas COVENIN. La mayoría de los recuentos obtenidos de MA fueron elevados en la mayoría de las frutas. Los niveles de contaminación por estos microorganismos se encontraron entre 1,4x10(5) y 6,6x10(10) UFC/g. Los recuentos encontrados para CT generalmente resultaron inferiores a los obtenidos para los MA, y se encontraron en un rango de 2,6x10³ a 7,2 x 10(10) UFC/g. No se detectó la presencia de CF y de Salmonella spp., en las muestras evaluadas. De las frutas analizadas las fresas fueron las que presentaron el mayor grado de contaminación microbiológica tanto por MA como CT. La ausencia de CF y Salmonella spp. sugiere que las condiciones a las cuales fueron sometidas las frutas durante el período de pre y postcosecha, estuvieron aparentemente dentro los límites permisibles de calidad sanitaria.

Fruits constitute a group of indispensable nutrients for the health and wellbeing of individuals. We evaluated the microbiological quality of fruits with edible peels (strawberries, guavas and peaches) sold at popular markets in Valencia and San Diego, Carabobo State, Venezuela. We determined the number of CFU/g of mesophilic aerobics (MA), total and fecal coliforms (TC, FC) and Salmonella spp. according to COVENIN guidelines. Most of the MA counts obtained were high in most fruits. The contamination levels by these microorganisms were found to be between 1.4x10(5) and 6.6x10(10) CFU/g. The counts found for TC were generally lower than those for MA, and occurred in amounts of between 2.6x10³ and 7.2x10(10) CFU/g. The presence of FC and Salmonella spp. was not detected in the samples evaluated. Of the fruits studied, strawberries were the ones which showed the highest microbiological contamination degree both by MA and TC. The absence of TC and Salmonella spp. suggests that the conditions to which the fruits were submitted during the pre and post harvest period apparently were within the permissible limits of sanitary quality.

[Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in white cheese by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)]. / Detección de listeria monocytogenes en queso blanco criollo, mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR).

UNLABELLED: The polymerase chain reaction, known as PCR, is a method to replicate thousands of times within a few hours and in vitro, small amounts of DNA. The application of rapid and sensitive methods to detect Listeria monocytogenes in cheese samples, allow a better microbiological control of the production process. PCR was applied to 30 samples of of white cheese, from Valencia, Carabobo State. It was detected PCR specificity and sensitivity by using the control strain Listeria monocytogenes 446. DNA extraction according to the methodology described by Torres et al., Molecular weight marker 100 base pairs. Were used: four primers hlyA gene of listeriolysin O; L1/U1 primers for 938 bp band and LF/LR 750 bp band hlyA gene. Epilnfo Statistical V6 to match observations in gels, by Kappa coefficient (K). RESULTS: 8 out of 30 cheese samples analyzed showed presumptive growth of Listeria spp in PALCAM Agar. Two of the samples not belonged to the genus Listeria, in the 6 remaining sample confirmation tests showed that: 2 were L. monocytogenes, 3 L. ivanovii and 1 L. seeligeri. In PCR 2 samples were positive for L. monocytogenes by amplify the 938 bp band for Listeria and 750 bp band for the species monocytogenes. We concluded that PCR was highly specific and sensitive to L. monocytogenes, taking advantage of PALCAM agar to detect the presence of the pathogen specifies a relatively short time.

[Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in fresh tomatoes (Lycopersicum esculentum) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum) in three markets of Valencia, Venezuela]. / Frecuencia de Listeria monocytogenes en muestras de tomates (Lycopersicum esculentum) y cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) frescos en tres supermercados de Valencia, Venezuela.

The incidence of L. monocytogenes in tomatoes and coriander obtained from three different markets, during eight weeks were determined. 192 samples were evaluated: 96 of tomatoes, and 96 of coriander. The isolation of L. monocytogenes was performed using COVENIN 3718:2001. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 12.0. Kolmogorov Smirnov, Mann Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis U test; Spearman's correlation were applied, and p<0.05 significance level was aplied. It was not found significant differences between the medias values and standard deviations of Most Probable Number (MPN) of Listeria spp to tomatoes and coriander during the eight weeks of recollection in the markets; neither between the distributions of MPN of tomatoes and coriander from the markets (Chi2=5,233 p<0,073; Chi2=1,624 p<0,444 respectively) neither the samples per weeks (Chi2=6,547 p<0,477; Chi2=2,667 p<0,914 respectively). In the number of MPN between tomatoes and coriander both distributions were significant different according to test U Mann Whitney U=3040,5 (Z=-4,216 p<0,0001). It was found statistical significance (p<0,001) between the number of MPN of tomatoes and coriander. The presence of Listeria spp in tomatoe was 41,66% (25,0% L. monocytogenes and 16,7% L. ivanovii); in coriander 77,08% (36,5% L. monocytogenes, 33,3% L. ivanovii and 7,3% L. seelige). We concluded that the high level of L. monocytogenes in tomatoes and coriander is independent of the markets store; we see the necessity of a microbiological control on the irrigation system, collection and distribution to ensure the quality of the product.

Frecuencia de listeria monocytogenes en muestras de tomates (lycopersicum esculentum) y cilantro (coriandrum sativum) frescos en tres supermercados de Valencia, Venezuela / Prevalence of listeria monocytogenes in fresh tomatoes (lycopersicum esculentum) and coriander (coriandrum sativum) in three markets of Valencia, Venezuela

Se determinó la frecuencia de L. monocytogenes en tomates y cilantro, de tres diferentes supermercados, ubicados en el Municipio Valencia, Estado Carabobo, durante ocho semanas. Se evaluaron 192 muestras: 96 de tomates y 96 de cilantro. Procesamiento y análisis microbiológico, según Normas Industriales COVENIN 3718:2001. Paquete estadístico SPSS versión 12.0. Se aplicó prueba de Kolmogorov Smirnov, test de U Mann Whitney y Kruskal Wallis y correlación de Spearman. Nivel de significancia (pListeria spp para tomates y cilantro, durante las ocho semanas de recolección en los tres supermercados; ni tampoco entre las distribuciones de NMP en tomates y cilantro de los tres supermercados (Chi²=5,233 p2=1,624 p2=6,547 p2=2,667 pListeria spp en tomate fue 41,66 por ciento (25,0 por ciento L. monocytogenes y 16,7 por ciento L. ivanovii); en cilantro 77,08 por ciento (36,5 por ciento L. monocytogenes, 33,3 por ciento L. ivanovii, 7,3 por ciento L. seeligeri). Se concluye que el elevado porcentaje encontrado de L. monocytogenes en tomates y cilantro, es independiente del supermercado de expendio; se evidencia la necesidad de un control microbiológico a nivel del sistema de riego, recolección y distribución, para asegurar la calidad del producto.

The incidence of L. monocytogenes in tomatoes and coriander obtained from three different markets, during eight weeks were determined. 192 samples were evaluated: 96 of tomatoes, and 96 of coriander. The isolation of L. monocytogenes was performed using COVENIN 3718:2001. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 12.0. Kolmogorov Smirnov, Mann Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis U test; Spearman’s correlation were applied, and pListeria spp to tomatoes and coriander during the eight weeks of recollection in the markets; neither between the distributions of MPN of tomatoes and coriander from the markets (Chi²=5,233 p2=1,624 p2=6,547 p2=2,667 pL. monocytogenes and 16,7 percent L. ivanovii); in coriander 77,08 percent (36,5 percent L. monocytogenes, 33,3 percent L. ivanovii and 7,3 percent L. seelige.). We concluded that the high level of L. monocytogenes in tomatoes and coriander is independent of the markets store; we see the necessity of a microbiological control on the irrigation system, collection and distribution to ensure the quality of the product.

Asociación entre pobreza e infestación parasitaria intestinal en preescolares, escolares y adolescentes del sur de Valencia estado Carabobo-Venezuela / Association between poverty and intestinal parasitism in pre-school, elementary school children and adolescents from south of Valencia state of Carabobo Venezuela

Condiciones de vida deficientes, contaminación fecal de agua, de alimentos y del suelo favorecen la transmisión de parásitos intestinales. Para establecer asociación entre pobreza e infestación parasitaria se evaluaron aspectos socio-sanitarios (composición familiar, estrato social, vivienda), ambientales (agua, excretas) y coproparasitológicos (examen directo y kato) en 257 sujetos (2 a 18 años), de Valencia Estado Carabobo. Se encontró: Predominio de escolares en estrato IV, de estructura monofamiliar y de 5 personas por grupo; 48,2 por ciento de infestación, alta prevalencia en escolares (mono (57,3 por ciento) y poliparasitismo (52,6 por ciento). Los protozoarios fueron más prevalentes en el estrato IV (63,9 por ciento) y los helmintos en el estrato V (64,3 por ciento). No se encontró asociación estadísticamente significativa entre estrato socioeconómico por el método de Graffar- Méndez Castellano y parasitosis, pero sí entre parasitosis y ausencia de cloacas, agua no tratada, baño intradomiciliario, ausencia de piso y número de personas por familia. Predominio de protozoarios en familias de hasta 5 personas (56,6 por ciento) y helmintos en familias con mas de de cinco personas (78,6 por ciento). Asociación significativa entre Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba coli y Ascaris lumbricoides y familias de más de 5 personas. Hubo estrecha aociación entre parasitosis y condiciones socio-sanitarias, ambientales y conductuales, lo que favorece la morbilidad en este grupo poblacional, perpetuando el ciclo de pobreza e infestación parasitaria.

Poor living conditions, fecal contamination of food, water and soil are factors that contribute to intestinal parasites transmission. In order to stablish association between poverty and parasitary infectation, socio-sanitary (family structure, social stratum, housing), environmental (water and excreta disposition) and coproparasitological (direct and kato examination) aspects were evaluated, in 257 subjects (2-18 years old), from Valencia, Carabobo State. Findings were: High prevalence of school children, of stratum IV, of monofamiliar structure, with five persons per group. Parasite infestation was found in 48.2 percent of children, more prevalent in school children, with mono (53.7 percent) and poliparasitism (52.6 percent). Protozoa forms were more prevalent in stratum IV (63.9 percent) and helminthes forms in stratum V (64.3 percent). There was not statistically significant association between socioeconomic strata assessed by Graffar-M‚ndez Castellano method and parasitic infestation, but between parasitic infestation and sociosanitary conditions (absence of sewers, non-treated water, intradomiciliary bath, absence of floor and number of people by family), statistically significant association was present. Predominance of protozoa in subjects from small families groups (less than five persons) was 56.6 percent while in children from large families groups (higher than five persons), prevalence of helminthes was 78.6 percent. Significant association was found between Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba coli and Ascaris lumbricoides and large families groups. It is concluded that a strong and significant association was found between parasite infestations and socio-sanitary, environmental and cultural conditions, situation that favours a high morbidity rate, which perpetuates the interactions cycle of poverty and parasite infestations.

Influencia de las parasitosis intestinales y otros antecedentes infecciosos sobre el estado nutricional antropométrico de ni±os en situación de pobreza / Intestinal parasitic infestation and others infectious backgrounds influence in the antropometric nutritional status of children in poverty

Las parasitosis afectan principalmente a la población infantil de bajos recursos económicos. A fin de establecer estas asociaciones se evaluaron los antecedentes patológicos previos al estudio (diarrea, infección respiratoria superior e inferior y sarampión) en 257 niños y niñas aparentemente sanos entre 2-18 años de edad, del Sur de Valencia, Edo. Carabobo. 250 muestras de heces fueron sometidas a examen al fresco y Kato. Se determinó el estado nutricional antropométrico utilizando combinación de indicadores (dimensión corporal, composición corporal) e indicadores mixtos y por el método de Graffar-Méndez Castellano se identificó la condición socioeconómica. El análisis estadístico comprendió distribución de frecuencias y Chi2 como medida de asociación; nivel de significancia de p < 0,05. Se encontró 49,6 por ciento de niños parasitados, predominio de estratos socioeconómicos IV y V y de monoparasitismo por protozoarios. El antecedente patológico más prevalente fue infección respiratoria superior. Existió una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre antecedente de diarrea y presencia de parásitos, mas específicamente entre antecedente de diarrea aguda e infestación por Giardia lamblia y Trichuris trichiura. La asociación significativa encontrada entre desnutrición, parasitosis y antecedentes de diarrea, no pudo ser demostrada cuando se discriminó por tipo de parásito y grado de desnutrición. Se evidenció un efecto deletéreo de las parasitosis sobre el estado nutricional. Los antecedentes de diarrea pueden orientar hacia el diagnóstico de parasitosis, causa importante de morbilidad infantil en comunidades en situación de pobreza.

Parasitic infestations affect mainly infantile population of low economic resources. In order to assess this evidence, pathological antecedents of diarrhea, superior and inferior respiratory infection and measles were evaluated in 257 apparently healthy children (boys and girls) aged 2-18 from the South of Valencia city, Edo. Carabobo 250 feces samples were examinationed by fresh and Kato method. The Anthropometric nutritional status was determined by combination of indicators (corporal dimension, corporal composition) and mixed indicators. Sociodemogrßfic evaluation was performed by method of Graffar-Méndez. Frecuency distribution and Chi² association was measure, with a significance value of p < 0,05. It was found 49.6 percent of parasitic infestation with predominance of socioeconomic strata IV and V Monoparasitism and protozoa infestation were highly prevalent. Superior respiratory infection was the most frequent antecedent. A statistically significant association between diarrhea antecedents and parasite infestation, therewas more specifically between antecedent of acute diarrhea and infestación by Giardia lamblia or Trichuris trichiura. A statistically significant association was found among undernourishment, parasitism and antecedent of diarrhea, but it could not be demonstrated when discrimination by type of parasite and degree of undernourishment. Deleterious effect of parasitic infestation on the nutritional status; was found diarrhea antecedents can lead to the diagnosis, important cause of infantile morbidity in communities in poverty situation.

[Lowering plasma homocysteine with vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid. Effect on lipids concentration in patients with secondary hyperlipoproteinemia type IV, with and without Lovastatina treatment]. / Disminución de homocisteina plasmática con vitaminas B6, B12 y ácido fólico. Su efecto en la concentración de los lípidos en pacientes con hiperlipoproteinemia secundaria tipo IV, con y sin tratamiento con lovastatina.

The concentration of plasma homocysteine was diminished by the oral use of vitamins B6 (300 mg/day), B12 (250 microg/day) and folic acid (10 mg/day), and the effect was studied in the lipids of patient with hiperlipoproteinemia secondary type IV, during 120 days, in 30 patients, 45 to 70 years old, with myocardial heart attack. They were divided in group A (n=15) without treatment with Lovastatin and group B (n=15) with Lovastatin. Basal homocysteine concentration was 17.4 +/- 1.0 micromol/L and 16.7 +/- 1.0 micromol/L for the groups A and B respectively, diminishing 24% at the end of the experimental time, in both groups. Total cholesterol decreased below 220 mg/dl, while the triglycerides diminished 25.4 mg/dl and 27.0 mg/dl in groups A and B respectively, by each micromol/L of homocysteine catabolissed. Low density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low density (VLDL) diminished significantly (p < 0.005), while the high-density (HDL) increased 1.0 mg/dl in group A and 1.15 mg/dl in group B, for each micromol/L of homocysteine metabolized, lowering the coronary risk factor in 28.5% group A and 35.9% group B. We concluded that these vitamins decreased plasma homocysteine concentration, promoting the lowering of lipids and lipoprotein concentratation in this type of patients; while Lovastatin doesn't reduce homocysteine, but it had a synergic effect with the vitamins, dicreasing the lipid concentration, in group B.

Disminución de homocisteína plasmática con vitaminas B6, B12 y ácido fólico. Su efecto en la concentración de los lípidos en pacientes con hiperlipoproteinemia secundaria tipo IV, con y sin tratamiento con Lovastatina / Lowering plasma homocysteine with vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. Effect on lipids concentration in patients with secondary hyperlipoproteinemia type IV, with and without Lovastatina treatment

Se disminuyó la concentración de homocisteina plasmática mediante el uso oral de vitaminas B6 (300 mg/día), B12 (250μg/dνa) y ácido fólico (10 mg/día), y se estudió su efecto en los lípidos de pacientes con hiperlipoproteinemia secundaria tipo IV, durante 120 días, en 30 pacientes, de 45 a 70 años de edad, con infarto al miocardio. Se dividieron en grupo A (n=15) sin tratamiento con Lovastatina y grupo B (n=15) con el hipolipemiante. La homocisteina basal fue de 17,4±1,0 μmol/L y 16,7±1,0 µmol/L para los grupos A y B respectivamente, disminuyendo un 24% al final del tiempo experimental, en ambos grupos. El colesterol total se redujo por debajo de 220 mg/dl, mientras que los triglicéridos disminuyeron 25,4 mg/dl y 27,0 mg/dl en los grupos A y B respectivamente, por cada µmol/L de homocisteina catabolizada. Las lipoproteínas de baja densidad (LDL) y de muy baja densidad (VLDL) disminuyeron significativamente (p<0,005), mientras que las de alta densidad (HDL) se incrementaron en 1,0 mg/dl para el grupo A y 1,15 mg/dl para el grupo B, por cada μmol/L de homocisteina metabolizada, disminuyendo el riesgo coronario en un 28,5% grupo A y 35,9% grupo B. Se concluye que estas vitaminas disminuyen la concentración de homocisteína plasmática, promoviendo la disminución de la concentración de lípidos y lipoproteínas en este tipo de pacientes; mientras que la Lovastatina no reduce la concentración plasmática del aminoácido; pero si ejerce un efecto sinérgico con las vitaminas en la disminución de la concentración de los lípidos, en el grupo B.

The concentration of plasma homocysteine was diminished by the oral use of vitamins B6 (300 mg/day), B12 (250μg/day) and folic acid (10 mg/day), and the effect was studied in the lipids of patient with hiperlipoproteinemia secondary type IV, during 120 days, in 30 patients, 45 to 70 years old, with myocardial heart attack. They were divided in group A (n=15) without treatment with Lovastatin and group B (n=15) with Lovastatin. Basal homocysteine concentration was 17,4±1,0 µmol/L and 16,7±1,0 µmol/L for the groups A and B respectively, diminishing 24% at the end of the experimental time, in both groups. Total cholesterol decreased below 220 mg/dl, while the triglycerides diminished 25,4 mg/dl and 27,0 mg/dl in groups A and B respectively, by each µmol/L of homocysteine catabolissed. Low density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low density (VLDL) diminished significantly (p<0,005), while the high-density (HDL) increased 1,0 mg/dl in group A and 1,15 mg/dl in group B, for each μmol/L of homocysteine metabolized, lowering the coronary risk factor in 28,5% group A and 35,9% group B. We concluded that these vitamins decreased plasma homocysteine concentration, promoting the lowering of lipids and lipoprotein concentratation in this type of patients; while Lovastatin doesn't reduce homocysteine, but it had a synergic effect with the vitamins, dincreasing the lipid concentration, in group B.