Colombian propolis as starting material for the preparation of nanostructured lipid carriers

ABSTRACT The value of propolis is scientifically and commercially measured through the content of biologically active molecules as phenolic compounds and flavonoids; on the other hand, a high percentage of waxes in the propolis composition makes it a substandard beekeeping product. Colombian propolis is characterized by a high content of waxes; however, this drawback turns into an advantage when this material is used for preparing lipid nanocarriers. Accordingly, in this research work, a propolis-extracted material obtained by Randall method is characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and 1H-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Then, it is used for obtaining nanostructured lipid carriers by the emulsification-diffusion technique, whose recipe and operating work conditions were established by a Plackett-Burman statistical screening design. The obtained particles exhibit sizes less than 300 nm, polydispersity indices around 0.1, zeta potential values less than ±2 mV, good physical stability and they show to be safe in the in vitro irritation test. Thus, Colombian propolis arises as an attractive natural source for obtaining lipid carriers that could be used in pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries for developing innovative products.

Contaminantes químicos en agua y aire en Venezuela (2006-2013) / Review on scientific studies about chemical contaminants in water and air in Venezuela (2006-2013)

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue documentar estudios realizados en Venezuela sobre contaminantes químicos del aire y del agua (2006-2013), mediante una revisión sistemática. Fue una investigación descriptiva, de corte transversal, tipo revisión documental. Se revisaron bases datos de las principales Universidades del país, instituciones gubernamentales y Organizaciones No-Gubernamentales. De los 27 artículos seleccionados, 8 (29,6%), investigaron sobre contaminación en Aire, 12 (44,4%) en Agua, y 7 (25,9%), realizaron sus estudios en ambos medios ambientales. El 90,9% de los trabajos se realizaron en la región Norte. Los objetos de estudio más frecuentemente investigados fueron: Calidad del agua (20,5%); metales minerales y fenómenos ambientales incluyendo cambio climático (17,9% c/u) y contaminación general (12,8%). El acceso limitado a la información ambiental pública, las escasas campañas de concientización ambiental y el desinterés de la ciudadanía, ubican las investigaciones en esta materia en un plano secundario. Se sugiere a los investigadores, solicitar mayor apoyo institucional y financiero para estudiar los problemas existentes en el país, de forma tal que sus resultados contribuyan a incentivar la “educación ambiental” en todos los niveles y el cumplimiento del marco legal vigente. Se concluye que los trabajos de investigación sobre contaminantes químicos en medios ambientales en Venezuela, es escasa. La situación ambiental del país requiere de una investigación más profunda en las áreas más afectadas, incluyendo el Sur del país, sede de empresas básicas generadoras de importante contaminación.

The purpose of the study was to document studies in Venezuela about chemical pollutants in air and water (2006 to 2013) through a systematic review. It was a descriptive, cross-sectional documental review. Databases of the major universities in the country, government institutions and Non-Governmental Organizations were reviewed. From the twenty-seven articles selected, eight (29.6%) investigated air pollution, 12 (44.4%) water pollution and 7 (25.9%), studied environmental media. 90.9% of the research was conducted in the North area of the country. Main objects of the study were water quality (20.5%), metals/minerals and environmental phenomena including climate change (17.9% each) and overall contamination (12.8%). The limited access to public environmental information, few environmental awareness campaigns and the lack of citizenship, put investigations in this area in a secondary level. Researchers must be stimulated with increased funding to study the environmental problems in the country, so that their results contribute to fostering “environmental education” at all levels and compliance with the existing legal framework. It is concluded that research on chemical contaminants in environmental media in Venezuela is scarce. The environmental situation in the country requires further research in the most affected areas, including the South area of the country where many polluting basic industries are located.

Estudio preliminar sobre ocupación y estilos de vida como factores condicionantes del ciclo menstrual en mujeres de una región de Venezuela / Preliminary Study on Occupation and Lifestyle as Conditioning Factors in Women Menstrual Cycle in a Region of Venezuela / Estudo preliminar sobre ocupação e estilos de vida como fatores condicionantes do ciclo menstrual em mulheres de uma região da Venezuela

Objetivo: Describir en mujeres venezolanas en edad fértil, las características del ciclo menstrual (CM) según variables socio-demográficas (con énfasis en ocupación), médicas, antecedentes obstétricos, exposición a agentes químicos y estilos de vida. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal y descriptivo en 180 mujeres en edad fértil, mediante encuesta previamente validada. Resultados: La duración del CM tuvo una mediana de 28 días, el percentil 25 se ubicó en 28 días y el percentil 75 fue 30 días, con un porcentaje de ciclos cortos (<24 días) y largos (≥ 33 días) de 3,9 y 2,2%, respectivamente. La duración del sangrado menstrual tuvo una mediana de 5 días, el percentil 25 se ubicó en 4 días y el percentil 75 fue 5 días. Ciento cincuenta y una mujeres (83,9 %) presentaron irregularidad del CM y 146 (81,1 %), en la duración del sangrado. Ambas irregularidades resultaron significativamente mayores entre las mujeres de 20 a 34 años y solteras. Se detectó una correlación negativa y significativa entre la edad y la duración del sangrado menstrual (p = 0,035).Al comparar la duración del sangrado menstrual según la profesión/ ocupación se detectaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (prueba de Kruskal-Wallis: p < 0,05), coincidente con publicaciones que muestran alteraciones menstruales más frecuentes en mujeres trabajadoras, en algunas profesiones específicas y en las que trabajan por turnos. Con respecto a los agentes químicos, se encontró una diferencia significativa respecto a la duración del CM en la población expuesta a plaguicidas, consistente con estudios publicados. Igualmente, hubo una significación estadística entre las personas que consumen café con la presencia, tanto de irregularidades del CM como del sangramiento. Sin embargo, no hubo significación cuando se calculó dicha asociación con base en la cantidad de cafeína estimada. Conclusiones: En el marco de las limitaciones de un estudio descriptivo, tanto la duración del CM como la del sangrado, teóricamente estuvieron dentro de lo normal. Sin embargo, el porcentaje de variabilidad fue importante y debe ser considerado. La ocupación, el consumo de café y la exposición a plaguicidas resultaron variables que influenciaron la duración del sangramiento. La metodología usada permitió la caracterización del CM y representa el comienzo de futuras investigaciones en Venezuela usando una muestra mayor e incluyendo otros posibles factores que pudieran determinar las características del CM.

Objective: To describe the characteristics of menstrual cycle (MC) of Venezuelan women of childbearing age, according to socio-demographic (with emphasis on occupation) and medical variables, obstetric history, chemical agents exposure and lifestyles. Material and Methods: An observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study in 180 childbearing women was conducted, using a previous validated questionnaire. Results: MC duration had a median of 28.0 days, 25th percentile was at 28.0 days and the 75th percentile was 30.0 days, with a percentage of short (< 24 days) and long cycles (≥ 33 days) of 3.9 and 2.2%, respectively. Menstrual bleeding duration had a median of 5.0 days, 25th percentile was 4.0 days and 75th percentile was 5 days. 151 women (83.9%), experienced irregularity of the MC and 146 (81.1%) had irregular bleeding duration. Both irregularities were significantly greater among 20 to 34 years old and single women. A negative and significant correlation between age and duration of menstrual bleeding was detected (p = 0.035).When comparing bleeding duration with profession/occupation, a significant difference was established (Kruskal-Wallis: p < 0.05). This is consistent with some publications that show that menstrual alterations are more frequent in working women in some specific occupations and also in the ones working in shifts. According to chemical use, women that use pesticides show a significant difference between pesticides exposure and MC duration, which is consistent with previously reported studies. In the same way, there was a significant association between coffee consumption and menstrual disturbances, in both cases, bleeding and MC duration. However, there was no significance when that association was calculated based on the amount of estimated caffeine intake. Conclusions: Within the limitations concerning a descriptive study, both MC duration and bleeding, theoretically were within normal limits. However, the variability percentage was important and should be considered. Occupation is an influencing factor over bleeding duration as well as coffee consumption and pesticide exposure. The methodology used is suitable for MC characterization and represents the beginning of further investigations in Venezuela using a larger sample and including other possible factors that could influence MC characteristics.

Objetivo: Descrever, em mulheres venezuelanas em idade fértil, as características do ciclo menstrual (CM) conforme variáveis sócio-demográficas (com ênfase em ocupação), médicas, antecedentes obstétricos, exposição a agentes químicos e estilos de vida. Materiais e métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal e descritivo, em 180 mulheres em idade fértil, mediante enquete previamente validada. Resultados: A duração do CM teve uma mediana de 28,0 dias, o percentil 25 situou-se em 28,0 dias e o percentil 75 foi 30,0 dias, com uma porcentagem de ciclos curtos (<24 días) e longos (≥33 días) de 3,9 e 2,2% respectivamente. A duração do sangrado menstrual teve uma mediana de 5,0 dias, o percentil 25 situou-se em 4,0 dias e o percentil 75 foi 5,0 dias. Cento e cinquenta e um mulheres (83,9%) apresentaram irregularidade do CM e 146 (81,1%), na duração do sangrado. Ambas as irregularidades resultaram significativamente maiores entre as mulheres de 20 a 34 anos e solteiras. Detectou-se uma correlação negativa e significativa, entre a idade e a duração do sangrado menstrual (p=0,035).Al comparar a duração do sangrado menstrual segundo a profissão/ocupação, detectaram-se diferenças estatisticamente significativas (Prova de Kruskal-Wallis: p<0,05), coincidente com publicações que mostram alterações menstruais mais frequentes em mulheres trabalhadoras, em algumas profissões específicas e nas que trabalham por turnos. Com respeito aos agentes químicos, encontrou-se uma diferença estatisticamente significativa respeito à duração do CM, na população exposta a praguicidas, consistente com estudos publicados. Igualmente, houve uma significação estatística entre as pessoas que consumem café com a presença, tanto de irregularidades do CM quanto do sangramento. No entanto, não houve significação quando se calculou dita associação com base na quantidade de cafeína estimada. Conclusões: no marco das limitações de um estudo descritivo, tanto a duração do CM quanto a do sangrado, teoricamente estiveram dentro do normal.A ocupação, o consumo de café e a exposição a praguicidas, resultaram variáveis que influenciaram a duração do sangramento.A metodologia usada permitiu a caracterização do CM e representa o começo de futuras pesquisas na Venezuela usando uma amostra maior e incluindo outros possíveis fatores que puderam determinar as características do CM.

Estudio preliminar sobre caracterización del ciclo menstrual en mujeres de una región de Venezuela / Preliminary study on characterization of the menstrual cycle in women of a region of Venezuela

Objetivo: Describir, en mujeres venezolanas en edad fértil, las características del ciclo menstrual según variables socio-demográficas, médicas, antecedentes obstétricos y estilos de vida. Métodos: Estudio epidemiológico observacional, transversal y descriptivo-correlacional, en 180 mujeres en edad fértil, mediante encuesta previamente validada. Resultados y Discusión: No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las mujeres con menstruación frecuente, de duración normal o infrecuente, al comparar entre los grupos el número de días de duración de la menstruación. El promedio de frecuencia de la menstruación fue 28,88 ± 7,564 días, con un porcentaje del sangrado frecuente (<24 días) e infrecuente (>38 días) de 3,9 y 1,1 % respectivamente. La duración promedio del sangrado menstrual fue 4,77 ± 1,269 días. Nueve (5 %) de las mujeres presentaron alteraciones de la frecuencia de la menstruación y 76 (42,3 %), en la duración del sangrado. Las alteraciones del sangrado resultaron significativamente mayores entre las mujeres de 20 a 34 años y solteras. Se detectó una correlación negativa y significativa, entre la edad y la duración del sangrado menstrual (P=0,035). El promedio del índice de masa corporal fue 24,97 ± 5,12 kg/m2 con 12,8 % de obesas, sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas respecto a la frecuencia y duración de la menstruación, según presencia o no de obesidad. Conclusiones: Tanto la frecuencia y duración de la menstruación, están teóricamente, dentro de lo normal, sin embargo, las alteraciones en el sangrado son importantes y deben considerarse. La metodología utilizada es adecuada para la caracterización del ciclo menstrual y representa el inicio de posteriores investigaciones en nuestro país, en las cuales se debe ampliar la muestra y se precisa investigar otros posibles condicionantes.

Objective: To describe in Venezuelan women of childbearing age, the characteristics of their menstrual cycle according to socio-demographic and medical variables, obstetric history and lifestyles. Methods: It was conducted an observational epidemiological, cross-sectional and descriptive-correlational study, in 180 childbearing women who responded to a previous validated questionnaire. Results and Discussion: No significant differences were found among women with frequent, normal, or infrequent menstruation when comparing those groups with the days of menstruation. Average frequency of menstruation was 28.88 ± 7.564 days, with a percentage of frequent (< 24 days) and infrequent (>38 days) cycles, of 3.9 and 1.1 % respectively. Menstrual bleeding average was 4.77 ± 1.269 days. Nine (5.%) women experienced alterations of the menstruation frequency and 76 (42.3 %) had irregular bleeding duration. Bleeding alterations were significantly greater among 20 to 34 years old and unmarried women. A negative and significant correlation between age and duration of menstrual bleeding was detected (P=0.035). The average Body Mass Index was 24.97 ± 5.12 kg/m2 where 12.8 % of them were obese, with no statistically significant differences found between frequency and duration of menstruation according to the presence or absence of obesity. Conclusions: Both frequency and duration of menstruation seem, theoretically, within the normal, however, variability in menstrual bleeding duration was important and should be considered. The methodology used is suitable for the characterization of the menstrual cycle and represents the beginning of further investigations in our country using a bigger sample and including other possible factors that could influence menstrual cycle characteristics.

Antecedentes históricos de la Medicina Familiar / Historical Background of Family Medicine

Se hace una revisión de los antecedentes históricos de la Medicina Familiar en el mundo, sus orígenes en la medicina general desde el siglo XIX hasta las primeras décadas del siglo XX, su debilitamiento producto del surgimiento de las especialidades y su resurgir en los años 40 en Estados Unidos hasta extenderse en los años 1970 a América Latina, el Caribe y Europa. Se aborda la evolución histórica de la medicina familiar en Cuba a través de los sucesos que desde el período colonial hasta la actualidad sirvieron de base al surgimiento de dicha especialidad, utilizando la misma periodicidad de la gesta nacional: colonial, republicana y revolucionaria. En un segundo momento se reflexiona sobre fechas memorables, hechos de gran relevancia y sus protagonistas. Por último se comentan datos interesantes del desarrollo de la Medicina Familiar en el Municipio Morón(AU)

A revision of the historical background of family medicine in the world, its origins in general medicine from XIX century to the first decades of XX century, its weakening due to the upsurge of the specializations and its resurgence in the 40s in United States to spread in the 1970s Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. This is the historical evolution of family medicine in Cuba that through the events from the colonial period to the present provided the basis to the upsurge of this specialty, using the same frequency as the historical development: colonial, republican and revolutionary. In a second moment reflects on memorable dates, facts of great importance and its main characters. Finally, we discuss interesting facts about development of Family Medicine in Morón municipality(AU)

Antecedentes históricos de la medicina familiar / Historical background of family medicine

Se hace una revisión de los antecedentes históricos de la Medicina Familiar en el mundo, sus orígenes en la medicina general desde el siglo XIX hasta las primeras décadas del siglo XX, su debilitamiento producto del surgimiento de las especialidades y su resurgir en los años 40 en Estados Unidos hasta extenderse en los años 1970 a América Latina, el Caribe y Europa. Se aborda la evolución histórica de la medicina familiar en Cuba a través de los sucesos que desde el período colonial hasta la actualidad sirvieron de base al surgimiento de dicha especialidad, utilizando la misma periodicidad de la gesta nacional: colonial, republicana y revolucionaria. En un segundo momento se reflexiona sobre fechas memorables, hechos de gran relevancia y sus protagonistas. Por último se comentan datos interesantes del desarrollo de la Medicina Familiar en el Municipio Morón.

A revision of the historical background of family medicine in the world, its origins in general medicine from XIX century to the first decades of XX century, its weakening due to the upsurge of the specializations and its resurgence in the 40s in United States to spread in the 1970s Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. This is the historical evolution of family medicine in Cuba that through the events from the colonial period to the present provided the basis to the upsurge of this specialty, using the same frequency as the historical development: colonial, republican and revolutionary. In a second moment reflects on memorable dates, facts of great importance and its main characters. Finally, we discuss interesting facts about development of Family Medicine in Morón municipality.

[Child labor and health in a public market, Valencia, Venezuela]. / Trabajo infantil y salud en un mercado público de Valencia, Venezuela.

OBJECTIVES: This study was aimed at determining the living conditions, work practices, health effects and associated occupational risk factors in children working in a public market in Valencia, Venezuela. METHODOLOGY: A questionnaire was administered which included demographic and exposure variables; a descriptive analysis was then made of the data. Forty-four children were selected. RESULTS: The average workday lasted 9.2 + or - 3.2 hours/day. Children were most frequently employed in selling provisions and fruit (43.2 %); 22.7 % of them were evidently backward at school. The symptoms most reported were headache (84%), stress (59.1 %) and fatigue (58.2 %). Occupational accidents were reported by 11.4 % of the children and 2.3 % had suffered an occupational disease related to their present activity. The most frequently occurring occupational risks were discomfort caused by heat (93.2 %), noise (88.6 %) and repetitive work (84.1 %). A significant, indirect correlation was found between age and stress (p=0.04), as in publications showing that the negative impact of stress is more severe in children aged less than 10. It was determined that being a minor had greater significant association with the occupational risk of having greater exposure to organic toxic waste (p=0.017) and working under pressure (p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS: There is no systematic data collection programme for assessing child labour in Venezuela even though a variety of risk factors have been identified and perceived for children. More sensitive indicators are required for the early identification of effects and how to control exposure to the risks mentioned above so that the problem can be studied in greater depth.

Evaluación de la actividad citotóxica y leishmanicida de extractos y fracciones de Piper cumanense y Piper holtonii / Evaluation of the cytotoxic and leishmanicidal activity of extracts and fractions of Piper cumanense and Piper holtonii

Especies del género Piper son reportadas como promisorias para el tratamiento de enfermedades tropicales. Este estudio evalúa la actividad citotóxica y leishmanicida de extractos y fracciones de diferente polaridad obtenidas de las especies vegetales Piper cumanense (P. cumanense) y Piper holtonii (P. holtonii); se emplearon macrófagos murinos J774 y promastigotes de Leishmania panamensis MHOM/CO/87/UA140. La fracción hexánica (PcH) presentó un efecto leishmanicida con una selectividad de 2 en los modelos in vitro empleados. Esta selectividad permite sugerir una potencial actividad antileishmanial, que amerita seguir siendo explorada.

Piper genus’ species are reported as promissory as tropical diseases treatment. This research showed the cytotoxic and leishmanicidal activity of extracts and fractions of different polarity derived from Piper cumanense (P. cumanense) and Piper holtonii (P. holtoni) on murine macrophages J774 and L. panamensis promastigotes (MHOM/ CO/87/UA140). Hexanic fraction (PcH) exhibited leishmanicidal effect with 2-fold index selectivity in this in vitro model used. These results suggest a potential antileishmanial activity which should be more studied.

Trabajo infantil y salud en un mercado público de Valencia, Venezuela / Child labor and health in a public market, Valencia, Venezuela

Objetivo Determinar condiciones de vida, prácticas de trabajo, efectos a la salud y factores de riesgo asociados en un grupo de menores trabajadores de un mercado público en Valencia, Venezuela. Metodología Se aplicó una encuesta con variables demográficas y de exposición y se realizó análisis descriptivo de los datos, seleccionándose 44 menores. Resultados La jornada de trabajo promedio fue de 9,2 ± 3,2 horas/día. La actividad más desempeñada fue la venta de víveres/frutos (43,2 por ciento). El 22,7 por ciento de los menores presentaba retraso escolar evidente. Los síntomas más reportados fueron cefalea (84 por ciento), estrés (59,1 por ciento) y fatiga (58,2 por ciento). El 11,4 por ciento reportaron haber sufrido accidentes y 2,3 por ciento enfermedad relacionados con la actividad presente. Los factores de riesgo más reportados fueron calor (93,2 por ciento), ruido (88,6 por ciento) y repetitividad en la labor (84,1 por ciento). Se encontró una correlación significativa, inversamente proporcional, entre la edad y el estrés (p=0,04) lo cual es consistente con estudios que indican que el impacto negativo del estrés es más profundo en niños que tienen menos de 10 años de edad. Se determinó significativamente que a menor edad hay una mayor exposición a desechos tóxicos orgánicos (p=0,017) y al trabajo bajo presión (p=0,04). Conclusiones No existen procesos de recolección sistemáticos para evaluar el trabajo infantil en nuestro país aún cuando se identificaron una amplia variedad de factores de riesgo percibidas por los niños trabajadores. Para una evaluación más profunda del problema, se requieren indicadores más sensibles que permitan detectar daños tempranos y la forma de controlar la exposición a los mencionados riesgos.

Objectives This study was aimed at determining the living conditions, work practices, health effects and associated occupational risk factors in children working in a public market in Valencia, Venezuela. MethodologyA questionnaire was administered which included demographic and exposure variables; a descriptive analysis was then made of the data. Forty-four children were selected. Results The average workday lasted 9.2 ± 3.2 hours/day. Children were most frequently employed in selling provisions and fruit (43.2 percent); 22.7 percent of them were evidently backward at school. The symptoms most reported were headache (84 percent), stress (59.1 percent) and fatigue (58.2 percent). Occupational accidents were reported by 11.4 percent of the children and 2.3 percent had suffered an occupational disease related to their present activity. The most frequently occurring occupational risks were discomfort caused by heat (93.2 percent), noise (88.6 percent) and repetitive work (84.1 percent). A significant, indirect correlation was found between age and stress (p=0.04), as in publications showing that the negative impact of stress is more severe in children aged less than 10. It was determined that being a minor had greater significant association with the occupational risk of having greater exposure to organic toxic waste (p=0.017) and working under pressure (p=0.04). Conclusions There is no systematic data collection programme for assessing child labour in Venezuela even though a variety of risk factors have been identified and perceived for children. More sensitive indicators are required for the early identification of effects and how to control exposure to the risks mentioned above so that the problem can be studied in greater depth.

Condiciones de exposición ocupacional a agentes químicos en un hospital público de Valencia, Venezuela. Evaluación preliminar / Exploratory study on occupational health exposure to chemical agents, in a public hospital in Valencia, Venezuela. Preliminar assessment

Estudio descriptivo que indagó sobre las condiciones de exposición laboral a agentes químicos (AQ) en trabajadores de un hospital público de Valencia, Venezuela. Participaron 48 trabajadores. Se obtuvo información mediante cuestionario como: datos personales, historia ocupacional, uso de AQ; conocimiento del manejo de riesgos, efectos adversos y disposición de desechos. Se reportaron 16 ocupaciones de 12 áreas de alto riesgo. Emergencia de adultos tuvo 11 trabajadores, seguida por esterilización y laboratorio clínico (7 cada uno), y oncología, 6. Las áreas restantes tenían < 8,3% trabajadores. Anestésicos más usados: halotano, enfluorano e isofluorano 4,17% cada uno. Antineoplásicos más usados: doxorrubicina 16,67% y paclitaxel, 5-fluoracilo y etopsoido, 8,33 % cada uno. AQ varios más reportados: alcohol (70,8%) y cloro (64,6%). Ninguna de las respuestas referidas al conocimiento del manejo y disposición de AQ fue satisfactoria. Asociaciones entre entrenamiento y edad, tiempo en el cargo y ser o no un profesional universitario, no resultaron significativas mientras que entre entrenamiento y conocimiento de AQ fue significativa (p < 0,001). Estos hallazgos evidencian un déficit tanto en conocimiento de los riesgos producidos por las sustancias laborales como de sus desechos, por lo que el entrenamiento debería ser parte de los curricula de pre y post-grado. El estudio provee importantes datos preliminares para el diseño de la fase II, la cual incluiría aspectos clínicos y monitoreo ambiental y biológico.

Descriptive study that identified chemical agents (AQ) use and training on risk management and waste disposal techniques in a public Hospital in Valencia. A questionnaire was answered by 48 workers. Information obtained was: personal data, occupational history, AQ used; knowledge of risk management and waste disposal. There were 16 occupations from 12 “High Risk” areas. “Adult emergency” was the one with more workers (11 individuals), followed by “sterilization” and “clinical laboratory” (7 each) and oncology (5). The remained areas had less than 8.3% workers. The most used anesthetic agents were: Halothane, Enfluorane and Isofluorane 4.17% each and main antineoplastics used were: Doxorubicin 16.67% and Paclitaxel, 5-Fluoracil and Etoposide, 8.33% each. The most mentioned substances were: alcohol (70.8%) and Chlorine (64.6%). None of the answers regarding knowledge of AQ' risk management and waste disposal was satisfactory. Statistical associations between training and several variables such as age, time in their job and being or not a professional, resulted non-significant. The correlation between training and the knowledge of AQ's management was significant (p < 0.001). Participants showed that their knowledge about chemical occupational risk factors they are exposed to is still insufficient. Therefore, this theme should be included in graduate course curricula. These results provide important data and will serve as a pilot research for the follow up Phase II study that will include clinical aspects and environmental and biological monitoring.

A preliminary statistical study of whether pesticide use could be related to birth defects in a rural area of Venezuela.

OBJECTIVES: This study was carried out in response to health authorities' concerns regarding what they considered to be a "high proportion" of birth defects (BD) in a rural Venezuelan state as the preliminary step towards subsequent health assessment regarding exposure to pesticides and possible association with registered BD. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Generalised linear modelling (GLM) was used for relating BD with county of origin and the date of the events. Pesticide-use reports were used for assessing exposure to pesticides. Infants' medical records for 1999-2002 were obtained from the state hospital. The study group consisted of 108 BD cases from 8 municipalities. RESULTS: The cardiovascular system had the highest frequency (20,4 %) of BD, followed by the gastro-intestinal (18,5 %) and urogenital systems (10,2 %). Anilides were the most frequently used group of liquid pesticides (39,8 %), followed by phosphono-methyl-glycine (19,6 %). The most commonly used solid pesticides were organophosphates (54,4 %). GLM revealed some significant results; the number of BD increased exponentially throughout the years being studied. CONCLUSIONS: A causal association between BD and potential pesticide exposure could not be demonstrated due to data limitations. A more in-depth exposure assessment and epidemiological studies are still needed for characterising the risk of exposure to pesticides in terms of birth outcomes in the area being studied.

A Preliminary Statistical Study of Whether Pesticide use Could be Related to birth defects in a rural area of Venezuela

Objectives: This study was carried out in response to health authorities' concerns regarding what they considered to be a "high proportion" of birth defects (BD) in a rural Venezuelan state as the preliminary step towards subsequent health assessment regarding exposure to pesticides and possible association with registered BD. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Generalised linear modelling (GLM) was used for relating BD with county of origin and the date of the events. Pesticide-use reports were used for assessing exposure to pesticides. Infants' medical records for 1999-2002 were obtained from the state hospital. The study group consisted of 108 BD cases from 8 municipalities. Results: The cardiovascular system had the highest frequency (20,4 percent) of BD, followed by the gastro-intestinal (18,5 percent) and urogenital systems (10,2 percent). Anilides were the most frequently used group of liquid pesticides (39,8 percent), followed by phosphono-methyl-glycine (19,6 percent). The most commonly used solid pesticides were organophosphates (54,4 percent). GLM revealed some significant results; the number of BD increased exponentially throughout the years being studied. Conclusions: A causal association between BD and potential pesticide exposure could not be demonstrated due to data limitations. A more in-depth exposure assessment and epidemiological studies are still needed for characterising the risk of exposure to pesticides in terms of birth outcomes in the area being studied.

Objetivos: En respuesta a la preocupación de autoridades de salud en lo que consideraban un "alto índice de BD" en un Estado rural en Venezuela, se condujo un estudio preliminar para una evaluación posterior relacionada con los BD registrados y su posible asociación con exposición a plaguicidas. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. Se usó un modelo linear generalizado (GLM) para asociar BD con municipio de origen y fecha del evento. Para evaluar la exposición a plaguicidas, se usaron los registros de ventas. Se obtuvieron los registros médicos del Hospital estadal (1999-2002). El Grupo estudiado estuvo conformado por 108 casos de 8 municipios. Resultados: El sistema cardio-vascular resultó con la frecuencia mßs alta de BD (20,4 por ciento), seguido por el gastro-intestinal (18,5 por ciento) y el urogenital (10,2 por ciento). El grupo mßs utilizado de plaguicidas líquidos fue el de las anilidas (39,8 por ciento) seguido por fosfono-metil-glicina (19,6 por ciento). Los sólidos mas empleados fueron los organofosforados (54,4 por ciento). El GLM mostró algunos resultados significantes observándose que el número de BD aumentó exponencialmente a través de los años en estudio. Conclusiones: Debido a las limitaciones de los datos, no se pudo demostrar una asociación entre BD y exposición potencial a plaguicidas. Se requiere un estudio de exposición y epidemiológico mßs profundo para caracterizar riesgo de exposición a plaguicidas en términos de producción de malformaciones congénitas en el área.

Evaluación de la exposición ocupacional a cromo en industrias de cromado en Valencia, Venezuela / Assessment of the occupational exposure to chromium in chromium-industries in Valencia, Venezuela

Twenty three (23) workers were studied in 2 plating industries: hard-surface plating (A); n=20 and decorative plating (B); n=3, to characterize potential health effects due to Chromium (Cr) exposure. A questionnaire was designed to collect personal data, health information, work activities and life-styles. Personal Cr+6-Air and biological monitoring of Initial and Final Cr in Urine (U-Cr), were conducted. Results show that A had workers with a higher mean of Cr+6-Air than B, but the difference was no statistically significant which was not expected due to the type of process. The average concentration of U-Cr Initial and Final, on workers with “Direct” exposure (15 workers) was significantly higher (p=0,005; y p=0,008 respectively) to the workers with “Indirect” exposure (8 workers) as it was expected. At “A”, the mean concentration of Initial U-Cr in chroming workers (13,98 ± 8,78 ug/g Ct), was significantly higher (p=0,012) to the one obtained with workers of the Administrative area (2,53 ± 1,7 ug/g Ct). Maintaining mechanics (MM) mean (13 ± 5,57 ug/g Ct) was significantly higher to the level obtained from Operator (O) (6,04 ± 1,78 ug/g CT) and Administrative area workers (2,53 ± 1,7 ug/g ct), (p=0,047 y p=0,004 respectively). This can be explained because MM and O are exposed “directly” working very near to the chromium piles. Main symptoms reported were dermal (65,2 percent) and respiratory (30,4 percent), which are the most vulnerable systems to Cr. The association of biological and environmental monitoring, show a direct correlation (r=0.373), and significant (p=0,04), however, the Cr+6-Air level was not able to explain with confidence, the variability in U-Cr concentrations. It is recommended a new study with a more frequent sampling during the day and more extended in time.

Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal en 2 empresas cromadoras de Valencia, Venezuela, para evaluar posibles efectos adversos por exposición al Cromo (Cr). Se investigaron 23 trabajadores, 20 de cromado duro (A) y 3 de cromado decorativo (B). Se administró un cuestionario para conocer datos personales, clínicos, estilos de vida y prácticas de trabajo. Se utilizaron monitores personales para determinar la concentración ambiental de Cr+6 (Cr+6-aire) y se midió la concentración de Cr en Orina (Cr-O), Inicial y Final. Aunque los valores de Cr-Aire en la empresa “A” resultaron levemente superiores a los de “B”, realmente se esperaba que, basados en el tipo de proceso, fuesen significativamente mayores em “A”. El promedio de Cr-O Inicial y Final en trabajadores com exposición “Directa” (15 Trabajadores), fue significativamente superior (p=0,005; y p=0,008 respectivamente) a los de exposición “Indirecta” (8 trabajadores), como se esperaba. En la empresa “A” la media de Cr-O inicial observada en los cromadores (13,98 ± 8,78 ug/g Ct), fue significativamente superior (p=0.012) a la media obtenida en los trabajadores Del área Administrativa (2,53 ± 1,7 ug/g Ct) y la de los Mecánicos de Mantenimiento (MMTO) (13 ± 5,57 ug/g Ct), fue significativamente superior a la de Tornero/Operador (TO) (6,04 ± 1,78 ug/g Ct) y Administrativos (2,53 ± 1,7 ug/g Ct), (p=0,047 y p=0,004 respectivamente). Los valores Del cromador, MMTO y TO se explican porque son de exposición “Directa”, con puesto de trabajo muy cercano a las pilas de cromado. Los síntomas principales reportados en la población general fueron dérmicos (65,2 por ciento), seguidos por respiratórios 30,4 por ciento, que son los sistemas más vulnerables al Cr Al asociar indicadores biológicos y monitoreo ambiental, los resultados muestran una correlación...

Mercury in hair as a biomarker of exposure in a coastal Venezuelan population.

To assess mercury exposure and potential risk, total mercury (THg-H) and methylmercury (MeHg-H) in hair were studied in 160 adults. The study group consisted of 60 individuals living in the north central coast of Venezuela. A section of the area was known to be contaminated with mercury from a chlor-alkali plant installed near one of the tributary rivers of the Caribbean Sea. The study group was selected from 4 inclusion criteria points. The control group was composed of 100 individuals selected from Carabobo state with no known exposure to Hg. A questionnaire was designed to collect demographic, health information, work activities and fish consumption habits. Hair samples were analyzed for THg. Samples with THg-H > 5 microg/g were also analyzed for MeHg. The mean THg-H was 1.88 +/- 1.50 and 0.99 +/- 0.87 microg/g for the study and control groups, respectively. The study group was statistically higher than control individuals, however, no statistical differences of THg-H were found between each of the 4 categories of both groups. Mean MeHg-H value was 3.67 +/- 1.25 microg/g. Associations were made between Hg-H and several variables. No significant relationship was noted between Hg-H levels and clinical symptoms. R analyses and t-tests were used to determine associations between questionnaire variables and THg-H. The main predictors of THg-H levels in the study group were fish consumption and frequency. As both groups presented relatively low values for THg-H and MeHg-H, the results of this study indicate that Hg exposure did not exceed safe levels. However, a more in-depth exposure assessment should be conducted to more accurately assess this exposure, specifically in terms of Hg content in water and fish sampling.

Mercury in hair as a biomarker of exposure in a coastal Venezuelan population

Mercurio total y metil mercurio en cabello (THg-H y MeHg-H) fueron determinados en 160 adultos para caracterizar esta población en términos de exposición a Hg y su potencial riesgo. El grupo Estudio consistió de 60 individuos que viven en la costa Centro-Norte de Venezuela. Parte de esta  rea se había reportado contaminada, años atrás, con Hg de una planta de cloro-soda instalada junto a uno de los ríos tributarios del mar Caribe. El grupo Estudio se seleccionó con base en 4 criterios de inclusión. El grupo Control estuvo compuesto de 100 individuos del Estado Carabobo, sin exposición conocida a Hg. Se administró un cuestionario para obtener información referida a: demografía, salud, actividades laborales y alimentación con pescado. Se analizaron muestras de cabello para determinar THg. Las que resultaron superiores a 5 µg/g, se analizaron también para MeHg. El promedio de THg-H fue de 1,88 ± 1,50 y 0,99 ± 0,87 µg/g para los grupos estudio y control respectivamente. El grupo estudio resultó estadísticamente superior al control, sin embargo, no se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significantes en el THg-H comparando cada una de las 4 categorías del grupo estudio. La media de MeHg-H fue de 3,67 ± 1,25 æg/g. Se calcularon asociaciones entre Hg-H y algunas variables. No se encontró una relación significativa entre los niveles de Hg-H y los síntomas reportados. Se usaron R-análisis y t-test y para examinar las asociaciones individuales entre las variables del cuestionario y el THg-H. Los principales predictores de los niveles de THg-H en el grupo Estudio fueron el consumo de pescado y su frecuencia. Ya que ambos grupos estudiados presentaron valores relativamente bajos de THg-H y MeHg-H, los resultados de este estudio indican que la exposición a Hg no excedió los niveles permisibles.

[Usefulness of the geographic information system (GIS) in the identification of contributing factors to lead blood concentrations in a population of Venezuelan children]. / El sistema geográfico de información y las concentraciones de plomo en sangre en una población infantil venezolana.

OBJECTIVE: To identify environmental factors that contribute to blood lead levels (BPb) in children living in an urban area in Valencia, Venezuela, using a Geographical Information System (GIS) as an association tool. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An analytical-ecological study was carried out. POPULATION: 60 children. DATA COLLECTED: Demography, potential sources of environmental lead and BPb concentrations. An association was made between environmental variables and BPb, using a buffer analysis. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference between BPb in males (11.1+/-3.1 microg/dl) compared to females (9.5+/-2.7 microg/dl). Average BPb of children living within the buffer areas (10.7+/-3.2 microg/dl) was higher than that of the rest of the children (9.9+/-2.5 microg/dl). Children with BPb levels higher than the permissible limit who live in the southern region of the area studied had an average BPb significantly higher than the rest. The GIS enabled the identification of a soldering/welding shop as the nearest source of exposure to the male children's homes. CONCLUSIONS: GIS made it possible to recognize sources of lead exposure in the area and its association with the BPb levels of children that live near such sources. It is suggested to further evaluate additional factors that could influence the risk of lead exposure.

El sistema geográfico de información y las concentraciones de plomo en sangre en una población infantil venezolana / Usefulness of the Geographic Information System (GIS) in the identification of contributing factors to lead blood concentrations in a population of Venezuelan children

OBJETIVO: Identificar los factores ambientales que contribuyen a la concentración de plomo en sangre (Pb-S) en niños de Valencia, Venezuela, con la utilización del Sistema Geográfico de Información (SGI). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio analítico ecológico. Población: 60 niños. Información obtenida: demografía, fuentes de emisión de plomo ambiental, niveles de Pb-S. Relación entre variables ambientales y Pb-S mediante análisis de buffer. RESULTADOS: Diferencia significativa entre el Pb-S en varones (11.1±3.1 µg/dl) en comparación con las mujeres (9.5±2.7 µg/dl). La media de la Pb-S de los niños residentes en buffer (10.7±3.2 µg/dl) fue superior a la media de los restantes (9.9±2.5 µg/dl). Los niños con valores superiores al límite permisible de Pb-S que viven en la zona sur tuvieron una media de Pb-S significativamente superior respecto de los demás. El SGI permitió identificar en el taller de herrería/soldadura la fuente de exposición más cercana a las residencias de los varones. CONCLUSIONES: El SGI hizo posible reconocer fuentes de exposición al plomo y su vínculo con niveles de Pb-S de los niños que viven cerca de dichas fuentes. Se sugiere evaluar con posterioridad los factores adicionales que favorecen el riesgo de exposición.

Biological monitoring of mercury exposure in individuals referred to a toxicological center in Venezuela.

People in developing countries are often considered at greater risk of mercury (Hg) poisoning due to a variety of factors including a lack of awareness regarding their occupational risks. Individuals requiring urine mercury (U-Hg) analysis at the Center for Toxicological Investigations of the University of Carabobo (CITUC), between 1998 and 2002 were studied to identify demographic characteristics associated to U-Hg levels. The studied population included individuals with a history of exposure (or related exposures) to Hg processes, and was comprised of 1159 individuals (65 children, 1094 adults) ages 0.58-79 years old, mean 36.63+/-12.4. Children's geometric mean U-Hg levels were 2.73 microg/g Creatinine (Ct) and in adults 2.55 microg/g Ct. The highest frequency of adults' occupations were shipyard workers (35.47%), dentists (23.5%), lab technicians (11.43%), dental employees 10.42% and miners (10.2%). Chemical laboratory technicians had the highest mean U-Hg (4.46 microg/g Ct). Mean U-Hg levels in female adults (3.45 microg/g Ct) were statistically superior to levels in male adults (2.15 microg/g Ct). Two of the 172 women in reproductive age, had U-Hg levels higher than 78 microg/g Ct. Individuals from Falcon State were found to have the highest mean U-Hg (4.53 microg/g Ct). U-Hg levels higher than permissible limits were found in only 2 states (Carabobo and Bolivar) with a total of 24 cases. Although the results of this investigation were highly variable, the findings can be used to examine circumstances which influence mercury toxicity trends, and possibly used in future studies working to identify Hg exposures.

Estudio nutricional de niños comprendidos en las edades de 0-14 años del municipio morón 2004 / Nutritional study in children within 0-14 years in Morón municipality 2004

Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo en la población comprendida en las edades de 0 a 14 años del municipio Morón, con el objetivo de evaluar el estado nutricional de los mismos y su relación con algunas variables epidemiológicas, para lo cual se efectuó pesaje y tallaje de nuestro universo de trabajo que estuvo compuesto por el total de la población comprendida dentro del grupo de edad antes mencionado, se aplicó una encuesta diseñada durante el programa de pesaje y tallaje que se efectuó en el país, tomando de ella la información de acuerdo a los objetivos propuestos. Se le realizó la evaluación nutricional a todos los niños utilizando el sistema de las curvas de percentiles, resultando el mayor porciento de la población estudiada normo peso(77,7 porciento), mientras el 2,1 porciento y el 5 porciento resultaron bajo peso y delgados respectivamente siendo estos últimos de predominio en la zona rural y de la enseñanza primaria (47,4 porciento). Predominó en los mismos la situación socioeconómica mala ubicándose el mayor porciento en el Consejo Popular Este. (AU)