Serum metal levels in a population of Spanish pregnant women / Niveles de metales en suero en una población de mujeres embarazadas españolas

Objective: To describe serum levels of calcium, copper, selenium, magnesium, iron and zinc and evaluate their relationship with maternal socio-demographic characteristics and dietary variables in women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Method: Cross-sectional study with 1279 participants from the INMA cohorts. Results: The concentrations of the elements analyzed were within the normal range. Associations with higher levels of these metals were found for calcium with white meat intake (p = 0.026), for copper with excess body weight (p < 0.01), low social class (p = 0.03) and being multipara (p < 0.01), for magnesium with being over 35 years old (p = 0.001), high social class (p = 0.044), primiparous status (p = 0.002) and low daily intake of bread (p = 0.009) and legumes (p = 0.020); for zinc with university education (p = 0.039) and residence in Gipuzkoa (p < 0.01), and for selenium with residence in Valencia (p < 0.01), university education (p = 0.001), vitamin B6 supplementation (p = 0.006), fish intake (> 71 g/day) (p = 0.014) and having been born in Spain (p = 0.001). Further, lower iron levels were associated with being overweight (p = 0.021) or obese (p < 0.001) and vitamin B12 supplementation (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Our results suggest that trace elements in the analyzed cohorts are adequate for this stage of pregnancy. The variability in these elements is mainly linked to socio-demographic and anthropometric variables. (AU)

Objetivo: Describir las concentraciones de calcio, cobre, selenio, magnesio, hierro y zinc en muestras de suero de gestantes en el primer trimestre y evaluar la relación con las características sociodemográficas maternas y las variables de dieta. Método: Estudio transversal con 1279 participantes de las cohortes INMA. Resultados: Las concentraciones de los elementos analizados estuvieron dentro de los límites de referencia. El calcio se asoció con el consumo de carne blanca (p = 0,026). Los valores elevados de cobre se asociaron con tener exceso de peso (p < 0,01), clase social baja (p = 0.03) y ser multípara (p < 0,01). Los valores más elevados de magnesio se asociaron con tener más de 35 años (p = 0,001), clase social alta (p = 0,044), ser primípara (p = 0,002) y bajo consumo diario de pan (p = 0,009) y legumbres (p = 0,020). El zinc se asoció con tener estudios universitarios (p = 0,039) y con la cohorte de Gipuzkoa (p < 0,01). Los valores más altos de selenio se asociaron con la cohorte de Valencia (p < 0,01), tener estudios universitarios (p = 0,001), tomar suplementos de vitamina B6 (p = 0,006), consumo de pescado >71 g/día (p = 0,014) y ser española (p = 0,001). Los valores más bajos de hierro se asociaron con tener exceso de peso (p = 0,021) u obesidad (p < 0,001) y con tomar suplementos de vitamina B12 (p = 0,006). Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados sugieren que los oligoelementos en las cohortes analizadas son adecuados para esta etapa del embarazo. La variabilidad de estos elementos está asociada principalmente a las variables sociodemográficas y antropométricas. (AU)

Serum metal levels in a population of Spanish pregnant women.

OBJECTIVE: To describe serum levels of calcium, copper, selenium, magnesium, iron and zinc and evaluate their relationship with maternal socio-demographic characteristics and dietary variables in women in the first trimester of pregnancy. METHOD: Cross-sectional study with 1279 participants from the INMA cohorts. RESULTS: The concentrations of the elements analyzed were within the normal range. Associations with higher levels of these metals were found for calcium with white meat intake (p=0.026), for copper with excess body weight (p <0.01), low social class (p=0.03) and being multipara (p <0.01), for magnesium with being over 35 years old (p=0.001), high social class (p=0.044), primiparous status (p=0.002) and low daily intake of bread (p=0.009) and legumes (p=0.020); for zinc with university education (p=0.039) and residence in Gipuzkoa (p <0.01), and for selenium with residence in Valencia (p <0.01), university education (p=0.001), vitamin B6 supplementation (p=0.006), fish intake (> 71g/day) (p=0.014) and having been born in Spain (p=0.001). Further, lower iron levels were associated with being overweight (p=0.021) or obese (p <0.001) and vitamin B12 supplementation (p=0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that trace elements in the analyzed cohorts are adequate for this stage of pregnancy. The variability in these elements is mainly linked to socio-demographic and anthropometric variables.

Determinación de selenio en caprinos de la localidad de Peldehue, en la región metropolitana de Santiago de Chile / Selenium Determination in Goats in the Peldehue Zone, Metropolitan Area of Santiago de Chile

Resumen El selenio (Se) es un componente indispensable dentro de los sistemas antioxidantes del organismo animal, lo que permite su correcto mantenimiento y desarrollo. Por este motivo, su deficiencia se encuentra relacionada con una serie de trastornos oxidativos, que se traducen en una mala salud, reproducción y rendimiento productivo en general. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el balance metabólico nutricional de Se, a través de la medición de las concentraciones sanguíneas del mineral en un establecimiento rural ubicado en la zona central de Chile, en donde existen antecedentes de episodios de mortandad compatibles con su deficiencia. Para esto, se tomaron muestras sanguíneas de caprinos pertenecientes al establecimiento (n = 32), las cuales fueron analizadas mediante espectrofotometría de absorción atómica en el laboratorio de bioquímica de la Estación Experimental Agropecuaria del Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, ubicado en Balcarce, Argentina. Se obtuvo un promedio de Se sanguíneo de 34,16 ± 14,81 ppb, en donde el 100 % de los animales analizados presentaron valores inadecuados para la especie. En el caso de los caprinos juveniles (n = 5), se obtuvo un promedio de 18,48 ± 8,51 ppb. En el ganado adulto (n = 27), los valores bordearon concentraciones de 8,12 y 63,35 ppb. Se concluye que existe una deficiencia de Se crítica en los animales muestreados pertenecientes al establecimiento ubicado en la zona central de Chile.

Abstract Selenium (Se) is a component indispensable for the antioxidant systems of animal bodies. It enables a correct maintenance and development. For this reason, a Se deficiency is associated with some oxidative disorders that result in bad health, bad reproduction and poor productive performance in general. This study aims to evaluate the Se nutritional metabolic balance by measuring the blood concentrations thereof in a farm located in Central Chile, with existing background of mortality events compatible with a Se deficiency. To do so, blood samples were taken from goats belonging to this farm (n = 32) that were subject to atomic absorption spectrophotometry at the biochemistry laboratory in the Agricultural Experimental Station, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, located in Balcarce, Argentina. Blood average Se was measured at 34.16 ± 14.81 ppb and 100% of the studied animals showed inappropriate values for this species. In the young goats (n = 5) the average value was 18.48 ± 8.51 ppb. In the adult goats (n = 27) the values were near 8.12 and 63.35 ppb. It is concluded that there is a critical Se deficiency in the sample taken from the farm located in Central Chile.

Chronic copper poisoning in beef cattle in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil / Intoxicação crônica por cobre em bovinos de corte no Estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil

Copper is an essential micromineral in animal feed; however, when consumed in excess, it can cause liver necrosis, hemolytic crisis, hemoglobinuric nephrosis and death in cattle. Although uncommon in this species, copper poisoning occurs as a result of exacerbated supplementation, deficiency of antagonist microminerals, or previous liver lesions. An outbreak of chronic copper poisoning is reported in semi-confined cattle after supplementation with 50 mg/Kg of dry matter copper. The cattle showed clinical signs characterized by anorexia, motor incoordination, loss of balance, jaundice, brownish or black urine, diarrhea and death, or were found dead, 10 to 302 days after consumption. Of the 35 cattle that died, 20 underwent necropsy, whose frequent findings were jaundice, enlarged liver with evident lobular pattern, black kidneys, and urinary bladder with brownish to blackish content. Microscopically, the liver showed vacuolar degeneration and/or zonal hepatocellular centrilobular or paracentral coagulative necrosis, in addition to cholestasis, mild periacinal fibrosis, apoptotic bodies, and mild to moderate mononuclear inflammation. Degeneration and necrosis of the tubular epithelium and intratubular hemoglobin cylinders were observed in the kidneys. Copper levels in the liver and kidneys ranged from 5,901.24 to 28,373.14 µmol/kg and from 303.72 to 14,021 µmol/kg, respectively. In conclusion, copper poisoning due to excessive nutritional supplementation is an important cause of jaundice, hemoglobinuria, and death in semi-confined cattle.(AU)

Cobre é um micromineral essencial, que quando em excesso induz necrose hepática, crise hemolítica, nefrose hemoglobínurica e morte em bovinos. As intoxicações, apesar de incomuns nessa espécie, ocorrem devido a suplementação exacerbada de cobre, pela deficiência de microminerais antagonistas ou secundária a lesão hepática prévia. Relata-se um surto de intoxicação crônica por cobre em bovinos semiconfinados após suplementação com 50mg/kg de cobre em matéria seca. Os bovinos manifestaram sinais clínicos caracterizados por anorexia, incoordenação motora, perda de equilíbrio, icterícia, urina acastanhada ou negra, diarreia e morte ou foram encontrados mortos, após 10 a 302 dias do início de consumo. De 35 bovinos que morreram 20 foram submetidos à necropsia sendo achada frequente icterícia, fígado aumentado e com padrão lobular evidente, rins pretos e bexiga urinária repleta de conteúdo acastanhado a enegrecida. Microscopicamente, no fígado havia degeneração vacuolar e ou necrose coagulativa hepatocelular zonal, centrolobular ou paracentral, além de degeneração vacuolar com corpúsculos de Councilman, colestase, fibrose periascinar leve, e inflamação de discreta a moderada. Nos rins havia degeneração e necrose do epitélio tubular assim como cilindros de hemoglobina intratubulares. Os níveis de cobre no fígado e rim foram de 5.901,24 a 28.373,14µmol/kg e 303,72 a 14.021µmol/kg respectivamente. A suplementação nutricional excessiva com cobre pode causar doença hemolítica com icterícia, hemoglobinúria e morte de bovinos mantidos em sistema de semiconfinamento.(AU)

Zinc sérico en escolares / Serum Zinc in school children

Introducción: La primera infancia es una etapa fundamental en el desarrollo y crecimiento del ser humano, época donde el cerebro se desarrolla a la máxima velocidad. La alimentación, uno de los principales condicionantes del desarrollo y las deficiencias de micronutrientes, entre otros, son responsables de daños funcionales. Objetivo: Determinar la concentración de zinc sérico en escolares y comparar resultados con estudios en la misma población de países latinos. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo y comparativo en 116 niños escolares entre 7 a 12 años de edad, de la escuela básica primaria, del Municipio Maracaibo, Estado Zulia, Venezuela. Se realizó evaluación antropométrica, clínica y bioquímica. Resultados: Mayor frecuencia de niñas (52,6 por ciento) edad promedio de 8 años y 9 meses y de 8 años y 5 meses para los niños; peso promedio de 25,21 kg y talla de 124,49 cm para las niñas, y peso promedio 25,07 kg y talla de 125,75 cm para los niños. Se encontró una concentración promedio de zinc en los niños de 0,49 µg/mL, y en las niñas de 0,50 µg/mL. La mayoría de los resultados de cuatro países latinos revelaron que el promedio de zinc sérico estuvo entre 0,32 y 95,2 µg/dL. Conclusión: Los niños mostraron concentraciones de zinc séricos por debajo de los valores promedios establecidos. Es necesario implementar estrategias alimentarias para mejorar el estado nutricional del zinc en las poblaciones pediátricas en países de Latinoamérica(AU)

Introduction: Early childhood is a crucial stage in the growth and development of the human being; it is the time where the brain develops at maximum speed. Feeding, one of the main determining factors of development and micronutrient deficiencies, among others, are responsible for functional damage. Objective: To determine the concentration of serum zinc in school children and to compare results with studies in the same population of different Latin American countries. Methods: Prospective descriptive and comparative study in 116 school children between 7 to 12 years old of the Basic Primary school in Maracaibo Municipality, Zulia State, Venezuela. Anthropometric clinical and biochemical assessment was performed. Results: Higher frequency in girls (52.6 percent) of average age 8 years and 9 months, and 8 years and 5 months for boys; average weight of 25.21 kg and height of 124.49 cm for girls, and average weight of 25.07 kg and height of 125.75 cm for boys. It was found an average concentration of zinc of 0.49 µg/mL in boys, and of 0.50 µg/mL in girls. Most of the results of four Latin American countries revealed that the average serum zinc was between 0.32 and 95.2 µg/dL. Conclusion: Children showed serum zinc concentrations below the mean values set. It is necessary to implement food strategies to improve the nutritional status of zinc in pediatric populations of Latin American countries(AU)

[Dietary intake of trace elements and semen quality and reproductive hormone levels in young men: relationship with fertility]. / Oligoelementos en la dieta y calidad seminal y niveles de hormonas reproductivas en varones jóvenes: relación con la fertilidad.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to study the associations between dietary intake of trace elements and semen quality and reproductive hormones levels in young men. MATERIAL AND METHOD: This is a cross-sectional study in healthy male university students (n=209) recruited in Murcia Region (Spain) between 2010 and 2011. Dietary intake of trace elements (iron, iodine and cinc) was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Semen analysis (sperm concentration, motility and morphology) was carried out according to World Health Organization guidelines. Serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones and testosterone were also determined. Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-squared tests were used in bivariate analysis and multiple lineal regression was used to adjust for significant covariates. RESULTS: A statistically significant inverse association between dietary intake of iron and sperm concentration (P, trend=0.01) and the percentage of progressive motile sperm (P, trend=0.004) were observed. No other significant associations for the remaining sperm parameters or reproductive hormones were detected. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that high levels of iron may be associated with reduced sperm concentration and motility in young men. However, further studies are needed, particularly in other male populations consulting for infertility problems.

Trace elements in plasma and nutritional assessment in patients with compensated cirrhosis on a liver transplant list

ABSTRACT Background - In chronic liver disease, trace element levels in plasma are usually low. However, the specific cause and functional implications of this abnormality are yet not well understood. These element levels may decrease as a result of abnormal liver function in patients with cirrhosis and/or malnutrition. Objective - To evaluate the nutritional status and the profile of trace elements in plasma of patients with cirrhosis on a liver transplant list and to correlate them with disease severity. Methods - This cross-sectional study evaluated 31 male patients diagnosed with compensated liver cirrhosis on a waiting list for liver transplant. Nutritional status was objectively evaluated through anthropometry using Mendenhall score and Blackburn classification, subjectively through the Detsky questionnaire and severity of the disease by MELD and CTP score. Trace elements (Zn, Se, Cu, Ca, Fe, Mg and Mn) in plasma were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney test. Results - According to the nutritional assessment 19 (61.3%) were malnourished and 12 (38.7%) were overweight. Regarding disease severity 12 (39%) were classified as Child A, 17 (55%), Child B and 2 (6%) Child C, with 46.9% of patients with MELD score >17. The trace element analysis indicated that 31 (100%) had Mn levels above the reference range, 23 (74.2%) low levels of Cu, 29 (93.5%) with deficiency of Se, and 31 (100%) low levels of Ca and Mg. Disease severity did not show statistical difference between the studied trace elements, in contrast to the nutritional status, in which the malnourished group showed higher levels of Mn (P=0.01) and Fe (P=0.01) and low levels of Zn (P=0.03) when compared to the overweight group. Conclusion - The results showed that the trace elements in plasma are altered in chronic liver disease; without significant correlation to disease severity, but correlated to nutritional status. Malnutrition is present in the patients studied, nonetheless a new scenario with an increase in the prevalence of overweight was verified regardless of the degree of hepatic decompensation.

RESUMO Contexto - Na doença hepática crônica os níveis plasmáticos de oligoelementos normalmente apresentam-se baixos, mas a causa específica e implicações funcionais desta anormalidade ainda não estão bem esclarecidas. Estes elementos podem estar diminuídos em consequência da função hepática alterada em pacientes com cirrose e/ou desnutrição. Objetivo - Avaliar o estado nutricional e o perfil de oligoelementos plasmáticos dos pacientes com cirrose hepática em lista para transplante e correlacionar com a gravidade da doença. Métodos - Trata-se de um estudo transversal, no qual foram avaliados 31 pacientes do sexo masculino com diagnóstico de cirrose hepática compensada em lista de espera para transplante de fígado. O estado nutricional foi avaliado objetivamente por medidas antropométricas através do escore de Mendenhall e classificado segundo Blackburn, subjetivamente por um questionário sistematizado por Detsky e a gravidade da doença pelo escore MELD e CTP. Os oligoelementos plasmáticos (Zn, Se, Cu, Ca, Fe, Mg e Mn) foram analisados pelo método de espectrometria de massas com fonte de plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP-MS). Para análise estatística foi utilizado o Teste de Mann-Whitney. Resultados - De acordo com a avaliação nutricional 19 (61,3%) estavam com desnutrição e 12 (38,7%) com sobrepeso. Em relação à gravidade da doença 12 (39%) foram classificados como Child A, 17 (55%), Child B e 2 (6%) Child C, sendo 46,9% dos pacientes com o escore MELD >17. Na análise dos oligoelementos 31 (100%) apresentaram níveis de Mn acima dos valores de referência, 23 (74,2%) níveis baixos de Cu, 29 (93,5%) com deficiência de Se, e 31 (100%) níveis baixos de Ca e Mg. Em relação à gravidade da doença não houve diferença estatística entre os oligoelementos estudados, já em relação ao estado nutricional o grupo desnutrido apresentou níveis maiores de Mn (P=0,01) e Fe (P=0,01) e níveis diminuídos de Zn (P=0,03) quando comparado ao grupo sobrepeso. Conclusão - Os resultados mostraram que os oligoelementos estão alterados na doença hepática crônica, sem associação significativa com a gravidade da doença, mas sim com o estado nutricional. A desnutrição está presente nos pacientes estudados, porém um novo cenário com aumento na prevalência de sobrepeso foi verificado independente do grau de descompensação hepática.

Requerimiento de micronutrientes y oligoelementos

Se hace una revisión basada en evidencias de la importancia de los micronutrientes y oligoelementos en la dieta, durante el embarazo y posparto. El enfoque integral de la nutrición debe ser atendido en toda la vida reproductiva de la mujer, incluso antes de estar embarazada. La deficiencia de micronutrientes se ha visto asociada a diferentes riesgos que tienen que ver con defectos estructurales fetales. La suplementación multivitamínica en el embarazo ha probado ser muy efectiva para prevenir diversos problemas de salud, como la reducción de los recién nacidos con peso bajo, los pequeños para edad gestacional, así como la disminución de una serie de malformaciones congénitas, como los defectos del tubo neural, defectos cardiovasculares, paladar hendido y anomalías del tracto urinario. No se encuentra beneficios en la protección de defectos genéticos, como el Down, y tampoco parece que tienen alguna influencia en la mortalidad perinatal.

A brief evidencebased account on the importance of micronutrients and oligoelements in the diet during pregnancy and postpartum is done. An integral approach on nutrition must be given to women during reproductive life as well as before pregnancy. Micronutrient deficiencies have been associated with fetal structural defects risks. Micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy has shown to be effective in the prevention of different health problems including low birth weight, small for gestational age, and birth defects including neural, cardiovascular, cleft palate and abnormalities of the urinary tract. There is no evidence of protection against genetic problems type Down syndrome, or in reduction of perinatal mortality.

Deficiencia de oligoelementos durante el primer trimestre del embarazo en maracaibo, venezuela / Deficiencies of trace elements during the first trimester of pregnancy at maracaibo, venezuela

Las deficiencias de oligoelementos es un importante problema de salud pública, que pone en riesgo principalmente a las embarazadas y a sus productos; por tanto se propuso determinar las concentraciones séricas de Hierro (Fe), Zinc (Zn) y Cobre (Cu) durante el primer trimestre del embarazo e identificar las patologías asociadas con su deficiencia durante el primer trimestre del embarazo, en embarazadas que acudían a la consulta prenatal de la Maternidad Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza del Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo, Venezuela durante el año 2012. Investigación fue de tipo descriptiva y aplicada; con un diseño de tipo no experimental y prospectivo, que incluyo una muestra no probabilística e intencionada de 70 mujeres en el primer trimestre del embarazo, a las cuales se les determinaron las concentraciones séricas de Fe, Zn y Cu. Se encontró que la edad promedio fue de 20,5± 6 años; 42,85% eran adolescentes y 57,15% adultas. Se determinó una media de FE, Zn y Cu de 40,04 ± 1,212 μg/dL, 0,566 ± 0,130 μg/mL y 1,326 ± 0,878 μg/mL, respectivamente; siendo las concentraciones de Fe y Zn más bajos en las adolescentes (< 0,001). Asimismo, se demostró que el 67%, 57% y 14% de estas embarazadas presentaban deficiencia de Fe, Zn y Cu, respectivamente; sin diferencias significativas entre adolescentes o adultas (p >0,05). Se concluye que existe una alta prevalencia de deficiencias de oligoelementos (Zn, Cu y Fe) en gestantes sin patologías asociadas y aparentemente sanas al inicio de su embarazo(AU)

Deficiencies of trace elements is an important public health problem that threatens mainly pregnant women and their products; we propose to determine serum iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) during the first trimester of pregnancy and identify the pathologies associated with a deficiency during the first trimester of pregnancy in pregnant women attending antenatal care at Maternity Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza, University Hospital of Maracaibo, Venezuela during 2012. A descriptive and applied type research, with a non-experimental and prospective design, which includes a non-probabilistic intentional sample of 70 women during the first trimester of pregnancy, which were measured in serum Fe, Zn and Cu. We found that the age mean was 20,5± 6 years; in terms of the concentrations of these trace elements was determined an average of Fe, Zn and Cu of 40,04 ± 1,212 μg/dL, 0,566 ± 0,130 μg/mL and 1,326 ± 0,878μg/mL, respectively; with concentrations of Fe and Zn lower in adolescents (<0,001). It also showed that 67%, 57% and 14% of these pregnant women were deficient in Fe, Zn and Cu, respectively; without not significant differences between adolescents and adults patients (p> 0,05). Its concluded that exist a high prevalence of deficiencies of trace elements (Zn, Cu and Fe) in patients without associated diseases and apparently healthy at the beginning of her pregnancy(AU)

Suplementos nutricionales orales a base de nuevos complejos de cobre, magnesio, manganeso y zinc

Suplementos nutricionales orales a base de nuevos complejos de cobre, magnesio, manganeso y zinc Los oligoelementos cobre, magnesio, manganeso y zinc intervienen en numerosos procesos metabólicos, enzimáticos, inmunológicos y tisulares, forman parte estructural de proteínas y pueden participar en la regulación de la expresión genética. La deficiencia de estos elementos esenciales dificulta el apropiado funcionamiento del organismo e induce el desarrollo de diversas enfermedades. Se debe garantizar la incorporación de oligoelementos a través de la dieta; sin embargo, la cantidad suministrada no siempre es suficiente y el uso de suplementos nutricionales convencionales presenta dos problemas; el primero se atribuye a la asociación de los metales a sales inorgánicas que generan una baja absorción e intolerancias a nivel gástrico y el segundo corresponde a las interacciones antagonistas entre diversos metales componentes de la formulación. Como una alternativa a los problemas mencionados, en este trabajo se propone la elaboración de tabletas para la administración oral de nuevos complejos de cobre, zinc, magnesio y manganeso ligados a los aminoácidos glicina y asparagina. En la síntesis de estos complejos, cada ligando se unió a duplas de cationes no antagonistas, se verificó la formación de los complejos por espectroscopía infrarroja, calorimetría de barrido diferencial, análisis termogravimétrico y difracción de rayos X de polvos, y se determinaron los tiempos de desintegración y de disolución in-vitro a las formas farmacéuticas finales.

Oral dietary supplements with copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc-based new complexes Oligoelements such as copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc are involved in several metabolic, enzymatic and immunological processes. They are also important for the integral tissue proteins and could be involved in gene expression regulation. The deficiency of these essential elements hampers the appropriate function of the body and may cause various diseases. Therefore, it is important to guarantee the incorporation of these trace elements in the diet, but the quantity provided is not always adequate for the optimum body performance. Currently, conventional nutritional supplements have two major problems. The first one is attributed to the association of inorganic salts with metals which might cause low absorption and gastric intolerance. The second problem is caused when several metals are present in a formulation which could lead to possible antagonistic interactions. For this reason, this study explores the development of cations (i.e., copper, zinc, magnesium and manganese) and amino acids (i.e., glycine and asparagine) new complexes formulated into compacts for oral administration. In each reaction, ligands were linked to non-antagonistic cation pairs. The complex formation was characterized by infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and powder X-ray diffraction analyses. Compact disintegration and in-vitro dissolution tests for these complexes were also determined.

Proteinograma e teores de cobre, ferro e zinco no soro sanguíneo de ovelhas da raça Santa Inês com mastite experimental por staphylococcus aureus / Proteinogram and serum concentrations of copper, iron and zinc in Santa Inês ewes with staphylococcus aureus experimentally induced mastitis

Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o proteinograma e os teores de cobre, ferro e zinco no soro sangüíneo de ovelhas com mastite induzida por cepa de campo de Staphylococcus aureus. Foram utilizadas 10 ovelhas da raça Santa Inês, primíparas, recém-paridas, com aproximadamente dois anos de idade e bom estado nutricional. Inoculou-se na metade direita da glândula mamária 1,0x10(4) UFC/mL da bactéria, enquanto que a metade esquerda serviu como controle. Os animais foram acompanhados diariamente e a partir do diagnóstico clínico de mastite, procedeu-se colheita do material para realização do proteinograma sérico em gel de poliacrilamida contendo dodecil sulfato de sódio (SDS-PAGE) e para determinação do teor plasmático de fibrinogênio e das concentrações séricas de cobre, ferro e zinco em 16 momentos a saber: antes da inoculação (controle) e 12h, 24h, 36h, 48h, 60h, 72h, 84h, 96h, 108h, 120h, 132h, 168h, 180h, 288h e 336h após a inoculação (p.i.). Todas as ovelhas apresentaram quadro clínico de mastite, com perda da funcionalidade da glândula mamária. O proteinograma permitiu a identificação de 23 proteínas, cujos pesos moleculares (PM) variaram de 26.000 a 185.000 dáltons (Da), incluindo proteínas de fase aguda, IgG e IgA. Notou-se aumento significativo nas concentrações de haptoglobina e ceruloplasmina, assim como de IgG e IgA. Não se constatou alteração nos teores de antitripisina e de glicoproteína ácida .Verificou-se diminuição nos teores de ferro e zinco e elevação na concentração de cobre. Constatou-se correlação positiva entre o teor plasmático de fibrinogênio e as concentrações séricas de ceruloplasmina (r=0,74), a haptoglobina (r=0,62) e IgA(r=0,62). Estes resultados mostram a importância das proteínas de fase aguda ceruloplasmina e haptoglobina como indicadores auxiliares da infecção intramamária de ovelhas, assim como ratifica a relevância do fibrinogênio como marcador inflamatório em razão de sua alta correlação com as proteínas...

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Staphylococcus aureus experimentally induced mastitis on proteinogram and serum concentrations of cupper, iron and zinc levels of Santa Ines primiparous ewes . The right mammary gland of ten healthy ewes was inoculated with 1,0x10(4) UFC/mL of S. aureus. Clinical examination and determination of serum concentrations of proteins by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE), cupper, iron and zinc, as well plasma level of fibrinogen were measured before the inoculation (control) and 12h, 24h, 36h, 48h, 60h, 72h, 84h, 96h, 108h, 120h, 132h, 168h, 180h, 288h and 336h after bacteria inoculation. All animals experimentally infected presented clinical mastitis and subsequent loss of mammary gland function. The electrophoretogram allowed the identification of 23 proteins with molecular weights (MW) ranged from 26.000 to 185.000 daltons (Da) including acute-phase proteins, IgG and IgA. A significant increase (P<0,05) in haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, IgG and IgA concentrations was observed. Antitrypsin and acid glicoprotein concentrations did not alter. The levels of iron and zinc decreased and the cupper concentration increased . A positive correlation between plasma fibrinogen and serum ceruloplasmin (r=0.74), haptoglobin (r=0.62) and IgA (r=0.62) was also identified. Results showed the importance of ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin as acute-phase proteins in ewes with intramammary infections and confirms fibrinogen as an inflammatory marker because its high correlation with specific proteins. The alterations in the serum levels of Cu, Fe and Zn suggest the action of inflammatory mediators triggered by S. aureus.

Influência da água termal e de seus oligoelementos na estabilidade e eficácia de formulações dermocosméticas / Influence of thermal water and its oligoelements in the stability and efficacy of dermocosmetics formulations

Introdução: a água termal vem sendo proposta como agente anti-inflamatório e hidratante leve. Posto que há rígido controle de qualidade e, portanto, dificuldade para sua extração do subsolo, um complexo de oligoelementos tem sido utilizado com finalidade equivalente. Objetivo: avaliar a estabilidade e a influência da água termal ou de seus oligoelementos em formulações cosmecêuticas, assim como os efeitos imediatos de sua aplicação na pele. Métodos: foram elaborados gel aquoso, gel-creme e emulsão acrescidos ou não de oligoelementos e submetidos à análise de estabilidade física. Na análise da eficácia, 15 voluntárias aplicaram nos antebraços as formulações que demonstraram melhor estabilidade.A avaliação objetiva dos efeitos imediatos e após duas horas, em relação à hidratação e textura da pele, foi realizada através de técnicas de biofísica e análise de imagem, antes e após a aplicação.A avaliação subjetiva foi obtida por questionário de percepção desses efeitos pelas voluntárias. Não foi avaliada a possível ação anti-inflamatória. Resultados: os géis foram considerados mais estáveis e selecionados para os testes de eficácia; também proporcionaram aumento do conteúdo aquoso do estrato córneo, e as águas apenas melhoraram a textura da pele. Conclusão: os resultados obtidos na avaliação subjetiva e objetiva foram coincidentes e sugeriram a utilidade do uso de cosmecêuticos com oligoelementos na hidratação da pele como coadjuvantes em tratamentos dermatológicos.

Background: It has been proposed that thermal water can be used as an anti-inflammatory and mild hydrating agent in the preparation of skincare formulations. However, due to the complex process and strict quality control associated with its extraction from the ground, an oligoelements complex that mimics the effects of thermal water on skin is being used instead. Objective:To evaluate the stability and effects of thermal water and its oligoelements in the formulation of cosmeceuticals, as well as their immediate effects on the skin. Methods: An aqueous gel, a gel cream and an emulsion were prepared with and without the addition of oligoelements and submitted to physical stability analysis.The more stable preparations were tested on study subjects' forearms. The objective evaluation of the effects on the skin's texture and hydration was conducted according to biophysical and image analysis techniques before, immediately after and 2 hours after application. Questionnaires assessed participants' subjective perceptions of the various formulations.The possible anti-inflammatory effects were not evaluated. Results: The effects of the more stable gel formulations were assessed on 15 study subjects.The gels increased the content of the aqueous corneum stratum, while the waters only produced an improvement of the skin's texture. Conclusion: The results obtained from the subjective and objective analyses coincided and suggested the usefulness of the oligoelements complex in cosmeceutical products for moisturizing the skin.

Análise da dosagem sérica de elementos traço e sua correlação com aspectos clínicos de uma população de idosos saudáveis / Analysis of serum trace elements and their correlation with clinical aspects of a population of healthy elderly

O interesse sobre o papel dos elementos traço na gênese de doenças, na mortalidade e na manutenção da saúde vem sendo cada vez maior. Este trabalho tem como objetivo determinar as concentrações séricas dos elementos: Br, Ca, Cl, Fe, Na, Rb, Se e Zn e correlacioná-las com os aspectos clínicos de uma população de idosos saudáveis. Foram considerados saudáveis os idosos sem senilidade sistêmica e sintomática, sendo selecionamos 101 idosos saudáveis, 33 (32,67%) homens e 68 (67,33%) mulheres com idade média de 71,7 ± 7,1 (60-98). O nível sérico de Se foi significativamente menor em pacientes mais idosos (p < 0.001). Em comparação com os valores de referência, o Br, Cl e Na apresentaram médias menores. Em relação ao sexo, os homens tiveram menores níveis de Br (p < 0,001) e de Se (p = 0,005) com maiores níveis de Fe (p < 0,001). Menores níveis de Se foram relacionados com menor escolaridade (p= 0.013). Os valores de Br estiveram muito abaixo dos valores de referência e a prática da atividade física correlacionou-se com menores níveis de Br (p= 0,008). Poderíamos questionar se os altos níveis de Br seriam prejudiciais ao envelhecimento saudável, se níveis baixos de bromo seriam marcadores de saúde em idosos ou até se existe relação entre hábitos de vida saudáveis com os níveis de Br. A partir dos 71,2 anos, os níveis séricos de selênio começam a cair mesmo em indivíduos saudáveis. Estudos adicionais deverão determinar se o monitoramento dos níveis séricos de selênio pode ser utilizado como marcador precoce do desenvolvimento de doenças e mortalidade.

Concern about the role of trace elements in the genesis of disease, mortality and health maintenance has been increasing. This study aims to determine serum concentrations of the elements: Br, Ca, Cl, Fe, Na, Rb, Se and Zn and correlate them with clinical features of a population of healthy elderly. Were considered healthy elderly people without senile systemic symptoms. We selected 101 healthy elderly, 33 (32.67%) men and 68 (67.33%) women with a mean age of 71.7 ± 7.1 (60-98). The serum level of Se was significantly lower in older patients (p <0.001). Compared with the reference values Br, Cl and Na diminished. Longer averages about sex men had lower levels of Br (p <0.001) and Se (p = 0.005) with higher levels of Fe (p <0.001). If lower levels were associated with less education (p = 0.013). Br values were well below the reference values and physical activity correlated with lower levels of Br (p = 0.008). One might question whether high levels of Br would be detrimental for healthy aging, if low levels of bromine were markers of health in the elderly or even if there is a relationship between healthy lifestyle habits with the levels of Br. From 71.2 years, serum levels of selenium begin to fall even in healthy individuals. Additional studies will determine if monitoring of serum levels of selenium can be used as a marker of early development of disease and mortality.

La nutrición, su relación con la respuesta inmunitaria y el estrés oxidativo / Nourishment and its relation with inmunitary response and oxidative stress

Se trata de una revisión bibliográfica sistemática sobre la nutrición. Se clasifican los nutrientes como las proteínas, carbohidratos y grasas además de los oligoelementos (vitaminas y minerales), necesarios en la dieta para el buen funcionamiento del organismo. Se revisaron artículos relacionados con el tema de los últimos 10 años, en Inglés y Español, disponibles en la red telemática de Infomed. Se realiza un análisis sobre los principales antioxidantes que se ingieren con la dieta, debido al efecto dañino que provocan los radicales libres en el organismo; por otro lado, se explica cómo la manipulación nutricional de la inmunidad puede tener implicaciones clínicas (inmunodeficiencia celular, humoral y déficit fagocítico), biológicas y terapéuticas, además de abordar el efecto que tiene una adecuada nutrición sobre los principales mecanismos de defensa del organismo. De esta revisión bibliográfica, se deduce la importancia de conocer y establecer una terapia nutricional adecuada no solamente para mantener una apariencia física saludable, sino para lograr disminuir los mecanismos de estrés oxidativo y mejorar nuestras defensas.

It is a systematic bibliographic review about nutrition. Nutrients are classified as proteins, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, needed in diet for the well functioning of the human being. These last decade’s articles were reviewed, all related to the topic and written in English and Spanish, well available at the Infomed intranet. An analysis is done about the main antioxidants ingested by diet, due to the harmful effect that free radicals cause in the organism ; on the other hand it is explained how nutritional manipulation of immunity may have clinical ( cellular immunodeficiency, humoral and phagocitic weakness), biological and therapeutic implications. Besides, it is approached the effect that an adequate nutrition may have on the main defense mechanisms of the organism. Out of this bibliographic review, it is deductible the importance of an adequate nutrition to maintain a proper physical appearance and to diminish the oxidative stress mechanisms and improve our defenses.

La Nutrición, su relación con la respuesta ninmunitaria y el estrés oxidativo / Nourishment and its relation with inmunitary response and oxidative stress

Se trata de una revisión bibliográfica sistemática sobre la nutrición. Se clasifican los nutrientes como las proteínas, carbohidratos y grasas además de los oligoelementos (vitaminas y minerales), necesarios en la dieta para el buen funcionamiento del organismo. Se revisaron artículos relacionados con el tema de los últimos 10 años, en Inglés y Español, disponibles en la red telemática de Infomed. Se realiza un análisis sobre los principales antioxidantes que se ingieren con la dieta, debido al efecto dañino que provocan los radicales libres en el organismo; por otro lado, se explica cómo la manipulación nutricional de la inmunidad puede tener implicaciones clínicas (inmunodeficiencia celular, humoral y déficit fagocítico), biológicas y terapéuticas, además de abordar el efecto que tiene una adecuada nutrición sobre los principales mecanismos de defensa del organismo. De esta revisión bibliográfica, se deduce la importancia de conocer y establecer una terapia nutricional adecuada no solamente para mantener una apariencia física saludable, sino para lograr disminuir los mecanismos de estrés oxidativo y mejorar nuestras defensas(AU)

It is a systematic bibliographic review about nutrition. Nutrients are classified as proteins, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, needed in diet for the well functioning of the human being. These last decades articles were reviewed, all related to the topic and written in English and Spanish, well available at the Infomed intranet. An analysis is done about the main antioxidants ingested by diet, due to the harmful effect that free radicals cause in the organism ; on the other hand it is explained how nutritional manipulation of immunity may have clinical ( cellular immunodeficiency, humoral and phagocitic weakness), biological and therapeutic implications. Besides, it is approached the effect that an adequate nutrition may have on the main defense mechanisms of the organism. Out of this bibliographic review, it is deductible the importance of an adequate nutrition to maintain a proper physical appearance and to diminish the oxidative stress mechanisms and improve our defenses(AU)