Optimización del proceso de liofilización de pulpa de maracuyá: efecto de diferentes aglomerantes en la cinéticade secado y características del producto final / Optimization of the passion pulp freeze-drying process: effect of differentbinders on drying kinetics and characteristics of the final product

Introducción: El estudio se centró en obtener pulpa liofi-lizada de maracuyá manteniendo su calidad sensorial y nu-tracéutica. Objetivo: Se evaluaron diferentes concentraciones deaglomerantes en propiedades físico-químicas, solubilidad, co-lor, vitamina C y polifenoles. Material y métodos: Se examinó la cinética de secado porliofilización en un diseño factorial 3x3, los aglomerantes (gomaarábiga, almidón de arroz, pectina) y sus concentraciones im-pactaron fenoles totales, vitamina C, color y solubilidad. Resultados: Destacaron la goma arábiga al 1.5% y la pec-tina al 1.0% para preservar sabor y color, y la pectina al0.75% mostró alta velocidad de secado. Conclusión: La goma arábiga sobresalió en fenoles tota-les, color y solubilidad, mientras que la pectina conservó me-jor la vitamina C.(AU)

Introduction: The study focused on obtaining freeze-dried passion fruit pulp while maintaining its sensorial and nu-tritional quality. Objective: Different concentrations of binders were eval-uated for physical-chemical properties, solubility, color, vita-min C and polyphenols. Methodology: The freeze-drying kinetics were examinedin a 3x3 factorial design, the binders (gum arabic, rice starch,pectin) and their concentrations impacted total phenols, vita-min C, color and solubility. Results: They highlighted gum arabic at 1.5% and pectinat 1.0% to preserve flavor and color, and pectin at 0.75%showed high drying speed. Conclusion: Gum Arabic excels in total phenols, color andsolubility, while pectin preserves vitamin C better.(AU)

Effects of an antioxidants cocktail on glucose metabolism at rest, during exercise, and during a glucose load in healthy young subjects

Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate glucose metabolism (GM) in skeletal muscle by improving the translocation of GLUT4. Antioxidant supplementation could block this physiological effect, altering glucose signaling during exercise. However, there is limited evidence in humans on whether antioxidant intake affects GM. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effect of an antioxidant cocktail (AOC) on GM at rest and during metabolic challenges. Methods: Ten healthy male subjects received AOC supplementation (1000 mg of Vitamin C, 600 IU of Vitamin E, and 600 mg of α-lipoic acid) or placebo (2.000 mg of talc) before two trials conducted 7 days apart. Trial 1: AOC 120 and 90 minutes before an endurance exercise (EEX) bout at 60 % of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max); Trial 2: AOC 120 and 90 minutes before an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT; 75 g glucose). Measurements of gas exchange and capillary blood samples were collected every 15 minutes during both trials. Results: AOC supplementation increased resting glucose levels (p<0.05). During Trial 1 (EEX), the AOC increased carbohydrate oxidation (CHOox) (p= 0.03), without effect in glucose blood levels. During Trial 2 (OGTT), the AOC supplementation had no significant effect on GM parameters. Conclusion: Acute supplementation with AOC increased resting glucose levels and CHOox during EEX in healthy subjects, with no effect on GM during the OGTT.

Antecedentes: Las especies reactivas de oxígeno (ROS) regulan el metabolismo de la glucosa (GM) en el músculo esquelético al mejorar la translocación de GLUT4. La suplementación con antioxidantes podría bloquear este efecto fisiológico, alterando la señalización de la glucosa durante el ejercicio. Sin embargo, existe evidencia limitada en humanos sobre si la ingesta de antioxidantes afecta el GM. Por lo tanto, nuestro objetivo fue determinar el efecto de un cóctel de antioxidantes (AOC) en el GM en reposo y durante desafíos metabólicos. Métodos: Sujetos sanos (sexo masculino; n= 10) recibieron suplementos de AOC (1.000 mg de vitamina C, 600 UI de vitamina E y 600 mg de ácido α-lipoico) o placebo (2.000 mg de talco) previo a dos pruebas realizadas con 7 días de diferencia. Prueba 1: AOC 120 y 90 minutos antes de una serie de ejercicio de resistencia (EEX) al 60% del consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2max); prueba 2: AOC 120 y 90 minutos antes de una prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa (OGTT; 75 g de glucosa). Se obtuvieron datos de intercambio de gaseoso y muestras de sangre capilar cada 15 minutos durante ambas pruebas. Resultados: la suplementación con AOC aumentó los niveles de glucosa en reposo (p<0,05). Durante la prueba 1 (EEX), el AOC aumentó la oxidación de carbohidratos (CHOox) (p= 0,03), sin efecto en los niveles de glucosa en sangre. Durante la prueba 2 (OGTT), la suplementación con AOC no tuvo un efecto significativo en los parámetros de GM. Conclusión: Una suplementación aguda con AOC aumentó los niveles de glucosa en reposo y la CHOox durante EEX en sujetos sanos, sin efecto sobre el GM durante la OGTT.

Age-related histopathological and biochemical testicular damages were ameliorated by vitamin C administration / Los daños testiculares histopatológicos y bioquímicos relacionados con la edad mejoraron con la administración de vitamina C

Introduction and objectives: Aging is an irreversible process associated with decreased biological functions that can lead to the reduction of reproductive organs capacities in males and females. Paternal age is a significant predictor of offspring health and development. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of vitamin C on histopathological and biochemical testicular changes following aging process with a focus on stereological methods. Material and methods: For this study, 48 adult male NMRI mice were divided into two control and experimental groups. Mice in experimental group were supplemented with vitamin C (150mg/kg) including 24-h interval by oral gavage for 33 weeks. Same regime was performed for animals in control group except that vitamin C was replaced by water. Then, right testes were extracted for stereological and left testes were used for molecular analyses on weeks 8, 12, and 33. (AU)

Introducción y objetivos: El envejecimiento es un proceso irreversible asociado a una disminución de las funciones biológicas que puede conducir a la reducción de la capacidad de los órganos reproductivos en hombres y mujeres. La edad paterna es un predictor significativo de la salud y el desarrollo de la descendencia. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los efectos de la vitamina C sobre los cambios testiculares histopatológicos y bioquímicos posteriores al proceso de envejecimiento con un enfoque en los métodos estereológicos.Material y métodos: Para este estudio, 48 ratones NMRI machos adultos se dividieron en dos grupos de control y experimentales. Los ratones del grupo experimental se suplementaron con vitamina C (150mg/kg), incluido un intervalo de 24 horas mediante sonda oral durante 33 semanas. Se realizó el mismo régimen para los animales del grupo de control, excepto que se reemplazó la vitamina C por agua. Luego, se extrajeron los testículos derechos para estereología y los testículos izquierdos se utilizaron para análisis moleculares en las semanas 8, 12 y 33. (AU)

Vitamina C, tiamina e hidrocortisona: ¿aliados en shock séptico? / Vitamin C, thiamine and hydrocortisone: allies against septic shock?

Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad del uso de un protocolo de vitamina C, tiamina e hidrocortisona en shock séptico a las dosis empleadas en el estudio Marik. Método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo antes-después que compara dos grupos de pacientes con shock séptico: grupo tratamiento (GT), tratado con el protocolo, desde enero 2019 a mayo 2020, frente a un grupo control (GC) en un periodo previo. Los objetivos principales fueron la supervivencia a los 14 y a los 28 días. Resultados: Se incluyeron 91 pacientes, 44 en GC y 47 en GT. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la supervivencia a los 14 ni a los 28 días ni en la duración de estancia hospitalaria ni en la Unidad de Reanimación (REA) (p>0,05). La variación de los valores de creatinina entre los días 1 y 4 presentó una mediana de -0,04 (RIC -0,24;0,8) en el GC frente a -0,3 del GT (RIC -0,079;-0,03), p<0,05. Los valores de procalcitonina descendieron en el 27,3% de los pacientes del GC frente al 91,5% del GT (p<0,05). La necesidad de soporte vasoactivo con noradrenalina fue del 93% GC vs 76,6% GT en el día 2; 75% GC vs 55,3% GT en el día 3; 50% GC vs 27,7% GT en el día 4 (p<0,05). Conclusiones: Los datos de nuestro estudio muestran un beneficio limitado del uso del protocolo en pacientes con shock séptico, pero son necesarios estudios de mayor reclutamiento con un diseño prospectivo randomizado para asegurar el beneficio real y/o dosis óptimas. (AU)

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of using a protocol of vitamin C, thiamine and hydrocortisone for the treatment of septic shock at the doses used in the Marik study. Methods: Retrospective observational before-after study comparing two groups of patients with septic shock: treatment group (GT), treated with the protocol, between January 2019 and May 2020, versus a control group (GC) in a previous period. The primary outcomes were 14-Day and 28-Day Survival. Results: 91 patients were included, 44 in GC and 47 in GT. No statistically significant differences were found in 14-day and 28-day survival, in length of hospital or Resuscitation Unit (REA) stay (p>0.05). The median creatinine variation between days 1 and 4 was -0.04 (IQR -0.24;0.8) in the GC vs -0.3 in the GT (IQR -0.079; -0.03) (p<0.05). Procalcitonin values decreased in 27.3% of GC versus 91.5% of GT (p<0.05). The need for vasoactive drugs (noradrenaline) was 93% in GC vs 76.6% GT on day 2; 75% GC vs 55.3% GT on day 3; 50% GC vs 27.7% GT on day 4 (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our results show a limited benefit of the use of the protocol in patients with septic shock, but larger recruitment studies with a prospective randomized design are needed to ensure real benefit and/or optimal doses. (AU)

Vitamin C and thiamine for the treatment of refractory septic shock in surgical critically ill patients: a retrospective before-and-after study / Vitamina C y tiamina para el tratamiento del shock séptico refractario en pacientes críticos quirúrgicos: un estudio retrospectivo antes-después

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate whether early vitamin C and thiamine administration was associated with a lower 28-day and in-hospital mortality in surgical critically ill patients with refractory septic shock. Patients and methods: We performed a retrospective before-and-after study on patients with refractory septic shock. According to local protocol, hydrocortisone is initiated in case of refractory septic shock. In January 2017, the protocol was changed and vitamin C and thiamine were included. Patients who were admitted in 2015-2016 and 2017-2018 were included in the control and treatment groups, respectively. The primary end point was 28-day and in-hospital mortality. Secondary end points were ICU mortality, ICU and hospital length of stay, duration of vasopressors and mechanical ventilation, use of renal replacement therapy (RRT), and the modification in serum procalcitonin and SOFA score during the first 72 h. Results: A total of 120 patients were included (58 in the treatment group and 62 in the control group). Log-rank test in Kaplan-Meier curves showed lower 28-day and in-hospital mortality over time in the treatment group (p=0.021 and p=0.035, respectively) but it not reached statistical significance in ICU mortality over time (p=0.100). The need of RRT was less frequent in treatment group (17.2% vs. 37.1%, p=0.024). There were no differences in other secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Intravenous vitamin C and thiamine administration in surgical patients with refractory septic shock may be associated with a lower 28-day and in-hospital mortality. Further prospective studies are needed in refractory septic shock. (AU)

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar si la administración precoz de vitamina C y tiamina estaba asociada a una reducción en la mortalidad a los 28 días y hospitalaria en pacientes críticos quirúrgicos con shock séptico refractario. Pacientes y métodos: Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo antes-después en pacientes con shock séptico refractario. Según el protocolo local, se inicia tratamiento con hidrocortisona en situación de shock séptico refractario. En enero de 2017 se cambió el protocolo y se incluyó vitamina C y tiamina. Los pacientes que fueron ingresados en 2015-2016 y 2017-2018 se incluyeron en el grupo control y tratamiento, respectivamente. Los objetivos primarios fueron la mortalidad a los 28 días y hospitalaria. Los objetivos secundarios fueron la mortalidad en UCI, la duración de estancia en UCI y hospitalaria, la duración del tratamiento vasopresor y de la ventilación mecánica, el uso de técnicas de reemplazo renal (TRR), y la modificación en la procalcitonina sérica y la puntuación SOFA durante las primeras 72h. Resultados: Se incluyeron un total de 120 pacientes (58 en el grupo tratamiento y 62 en el grupo control). El test Log-rank en las curvas de Kaplan-Meier mostró mortalidad a los 28 días y hospitalaria más baja a lo largo del tiempo en el grupo tratamiento (p=0,021 and p=0,035, respectivamente) pero no alcanzó significación estadística en la mortalidad en UCI a lo largo del tiempo (p=0,100). La necesidad de TRR fue menos frecuente en el grupo tratamiento (17,2% vs. 37,1%, p=0,024). No hubo diferencias en otros resultados secundarios. Conclusiones: La administración de vitamina C y tiamina intravenosa en pacientes quirúrgicos con shock séptico refractario podría estar asociada a una menor mortalidad a los 28 días y hospitalaria. Se necesitan más estudios prospectivos en pacientes con shock séptico refractario. (AU)

Actividad antioxidante del fruto de Rubus sparsiflorus (Shiraca) / Antioxidant activity of the fruit of Rubus sparsiflorus (Shiraca)

Objetivo: Determinar la actividad antioxidante del fruto de Rubus sparsiflorus (shiraca). Material y métodos: Se preparó un homogenizado con agua destilada y se centrifugó a 15,000 rpm por 10 minutos, el sobrenadante se utilizó para realizar las determinaciones analíticas. Los polifenoles se determinaron con la técnica de Singleton y Rossi, los flavonoides con la técnica de Jia, Tang y Wu, la vitamina C con la técnica de Jagota y Dan y las antocianinas con la de Giusti y Wrolstad. Así mismo, se determinó la capacidad antioxidante utilizando las técnicas FRAP (Benzie y Strain), DPPH (Brand-Williams, Cuvellier y Berset), ABTS (Rice-Evans, Miller y Paganga) y el sistema ascorbato/cobre (Uchida y Kawakishi).Resultados: La shiraca madura mostró un contenido de polifenoles de 415.4 mg. EAG/100g de fruta, flavonoides 72.03 mg.EC/100g de fruta y antocianinas 147.38 mg de cianidina-3-glucósido/100g de fruta que fueron más elevados que la shiraca verde, en cambio, el contenido de vitamina C fue similar en el fruto maduro (108.35 mg/100g) y el verde (118.52 mg/100g). Así mismo, la actividad antioxidante del fruto maduro evaluada con las técnicas FRAP (8.05 mmoles de Fe-II/100 g de fruta), DPPH (IC50 = 0.76 mg/mL), ABTS (IC50 = 0.147 mg/mL) y el sistema ascorbato/cobre (IC50 = 2.16 mg/mL) mostraron que el fruto maduro tuvo mayor capacidad antioxidante que el fruto verde.Conclusiones: La shiraca principalmente la madura, es un fruto que posee una elevada capacidad antioxidante y un alto contenido de polifenoles, flavonoides y vitamina C.(AU)

Objective: To determine the antioxidant activity of thefruit of Rubus sparsiflorus (shiraca). Material and methods: A homogenate was preparedwith distilled water and centrifuged at 15,000 rpm for 10 min-utes, the supernatant was used to perform the analytical de-terminations. Polyphenols were determined using theSingleton and Rossi technique, flavonoids using the Jia, Tangand Wu technique, vitamin C using the Jagota and Dan tech-nique, and anthocyanins using the Giusti and Wrolstad tech-nique. Likewise, the antioxidant capacity was determined us-ing the FRAP (Benzie and Strain), DPPH (Brand-Williams,Cuvellier and Berset), ABTS (Rice-Evans, Miller and Paganga)techniques and the ascorbate/copper system (Uchida andKawakishi). Results: The mature shiraca showed a polyphenol contentof 415.4 mg GAE/100g of fruit, flavonoids 72.03 mg.CE/100gof fruit and anthocyanins 147.38 mg of cyanidin-3-gluco-side/100g of fruit that were higher than the green shiraca, in-stead, the content of vitamin C was similar in the mature fruit(108.35 mg/100g) and the green fruit (118.52 mg/100g).Likewise, the antioxidant activity of the mature fruit evaluatedwith the techniques FRAP (8.05 mmoles of Fe-II/100 g of fruit), DPPH (IC50 = 0.76 mg/mL), ABTS (IC50 = 0.147 mg/mL) andthe ascorbate/copper system (IC50 = 2.16 mg/mL) showedthat the mature fruit had higher antioxidant capacity than thegreen fruit. Conclusions: Shiraca, mainly the mature one, is a fruitthat has a high antioxidant capacity and a high content ofpolyphenols, flavonoids and vitamin C.(AU)

Age-related histopathological and biochemical testicular damages were ameliorated by vitamin C administration.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Aging is an irreversible process associated with decreased biological functions that can lead to the reduction of reproductive organs capacities in males and females. Paternal age is a significant predictor of offspring health and development. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of vitamin C on histopathological and biochemical testicular changes following aging process with a focus on stereological methods. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For this study, 48 adult male NMRI mice were divided into two control and experimental groups. Mice in experimental group were supplemented with vitamin C (150mg/kg) including 24-h interval by oral gavage for 33 weeks. Same regime was performed for animals in control group except that vitamin C was replaced by water. Then, right testes were extracted for stereological and left testes were used for molecular analyses on weeks 8, 12, and 33. RESULTS: Our findings showed low semen quality, decreased level of serum Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone along with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and higher apoptotic gene expression following aging. Stereological studies showed that the volume of testes, the length of seminiferous tubules, and the number of spermatogenic and none-spermatogenic cells decreased significantly during aging. Also, vitamin C consumption for 33 weeks significantly improved biochemical and histological indices. The impact of aging on male reproduction seems to be inevitable worldwide. Therefore, the use of protective and preventive remedies conserving male fecundity is very important and based on our results, vitamin C is a beneficial candidate for improving age-related testicular changes due to aging process.

Evaluation of antibacterial activity of vitamin C against human bacterial pathogens / Avaliação da atividade antibacteriana da vitamina C contra patógenos bacterianos humanos

Now a day’s multidrug resistance phenomenon has become the main cause for concern and there has been an inadequate achievement in the development of novel antibiotics to treat the bacterial infections. Therefore, there is an unmet need to search for novel adjuvant. Vitamin C is one such promising adjuvant. The present study was aimed to elucidate the antibacterial effect of vitamin C at various temperatures (4°C, 37°C and 50°C) and pH (3, 8, and 11), against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at various concentrations (5-20 mg/ml) through agar well diffusion method. Growth inhibition of all bacterial strains by vitamin C was concentration-dependent. Vitamin C significantly inhibited the growth of Gram-positive bacteria: Bacillus licheniformis (25.3 ± 0.9 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (22.0 ± 0.6 mm), Bacillus subtilis (19.3 ± 0.3 mm) and Gram-negative bacteria: Proteus mirabilis (27.67 ± 0.882 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (21.33±0.9 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.0 ± 1.5 mm) and Escherichia coli (18.3 ± 0.3 mm). The stability of vitamin C was observed at various pH values and various temperatures. Vitamin C showed significant antibacterial activity at acidic pH against all bacterial strains. Vitamin C remained the stable at different temperatures. It was concluded that vitamin C is an effective and safe antibacterial agent that can be used in the future as an adjunct treatment option to combat infections in humans.

Agora, a resistência antimicrobiana de um dia em patógenos aos antibióticos tornou-se a principal causa de preocupação e houve uma realização inadequada no desenvolvimento de novos antibióticos para tratar infecções bacterianas. Portanto, há uma necessidade de pesquisar um novo adjuvante, e a vitamina C é um desses adjuvantes promissores. O objetivo do presente estudo foi elucidar o efeito antibacteriano da vitamina C em diferentes temperaturas (4 °C, 37 °C e 50 °C) e pH (3, 8 e 11), contra Gram-positivos e Gram-cepas bacterianas negativas em várias concentrações (5-20 mg / ml) através do método de difusão em ágar bem. A inibição do crescimento de todas as cepas bacterianas pela vitamina C era dependente da concentração. A vitamina C inibiu significativamente o crescimento de bactérias Gram-positivas: Bacillus licheniformis (25,3 ± 0,9 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (22,0 ± 0,6 mm), Bacillus subtilis (19,3 ± 0,3 mm) e bactérias Gram- negativas: Proteus mirabilis (27,7 ± 0,9 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (21,3 ± 0,9 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18,0 ± 1,5 mm) e Escherichia coli (18,3 ± 0,3 mm). A estabilidade da vitamina C foi observada em vários valores de pH e várias temperaturas. A vitamina C mostrou atividade antibacteriana significativa em pH ácido contra todas as cepas bacterianas. A estabilidade da vitamina C permaneceu nas mesmas diferentes temperaturas (4 °C, 37 °C e 50 °C). Concluímos que a vitamina C é um agente antibacteriano eficaz e seguro que pode ser usado no futuro como uma opção de tratamento auxiliar para combater infecções em humanos, pois pode apoiar o sistema imunológico diretamente.

Evaluation of antibacterial activity of vitamin C against human bacterial pathogens

Abstract Now a days multidrug resistance phenomenon has become the main cause for concern and there has been an inadequate achievement in the development of novel antibiotics to treat the bacterial infections. Therefore, there is an unmet need to search for novel adjuvant. Vitamin C is one such promising adjuvant. The present study was aimed to elucidate the antibacterial effect of vitamin C at various temperatures (4°C, 37°C and 50°C) and pH (3, 8, and 11), against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at various concentrations (5-20 mg/ml) through agar well diffusion method. Growth inhibition of all bacterial strains by vitamin C was concentration-dependent. Vitamin C significantly inhibited the growth of Gram-positive bacteria: Bacillus licheniformis (25.3 ± 0.9 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (22.0 ± 0.6 mm), Bacillus subtilis (19.3 ± 0.3 mm) and Gram-negative bacteria: Proteus mirabilis (27.67 ± 0.882 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (21.33±0.9 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.0 ± 1.5 mm) and Escherichia coli (18.3 ± 0.3 mm). The stability of vitamin C was observed at various pH values and various temperatures. Vitamin C showed significant antibacterial activity at acidic pH against all bacterial strains. Vitamin C remained the stable at different temperatures. It was concluded that vitamin C is an effective and safe antibacterial agent that can be used in the future as an adjunct treatment option to combat infections in humans.

Resumo Agora, a resistência antimicrobiana de um dia em patógenos aos antibióticos tornou-se a principal causa de preocupação e houve uma realização inadequada no desenvolvimento de novos antibióticos para tratar infecções bacterianas. Portanto, há uma necessidade de pesquisar um novo adjuvante, e a vitamina C é um desses adjuvantes promissores. O objetivo do presente estudo foi elucidar o efeito antibacteriano da vitamina C em diferentes temperaturas (4 °C, 37 °C e 50 °C) e pH (3, 8 e 11), contra Gram-positivos e Gram-cepas bacterianas negativas em várias concentrações (5-20 mg / ml) através do método de difusão em ágar bem. A inibição do crescimento de todas as cepas bacterianas pela vitamina C era dependente da concentração. A vitamina C inibiu significativamente o crescimento de bactérias Gram-positivas: Bacillus licheniformis (25,3 ± 0,9 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (22,0 ± 0,6 mm), Bacillus subtilis (19,3 ± 0,3 mm) e bactérias Gram- negativas: Proteus mirabilis (27,7 ± 0,9 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (21,3 ± 0,9 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18,0 ± 1,5 mm) e Escherichia coli (18,3 ± 0,3 mm). A estabilidade da vitamina C foi observada em vários valores de pH e várias temperaturas. A vitamina C mostrou atividade antibacteriana significativa em pH ácido contra todas as cepas bacterianas. A estabilidade da vitamina C permaneceu nas mesmas diferentes temperaturas (4 °C, 37 °C e 50 °C). Concluímos que a vitamina C é um agente antibacteriano eficaz e seguro que pode ser usado no futuro como uma opção de tratamento auxiliar para combater infecções em humanos, pois pode apoiar o sistema imunológico diretamente.

Escorbuto en la adolescencia: reporte de un caso / Scurvy in adolescence: case report

El escorbuto es una enfermedad producida por déficit de vitamina C. Si bien en la actualidad es poco frecuente, la bibliografía describe grupos de riesgo en la población pediátrica, dentro de los que se encuentran los pacientes con alteraciones alimentarias. Se reporta el caso de un adolescente varón, de 11 años de edad, que desarrolló la enfermedad por un hábito alimentario selectivo, sin ingesta de frutas ni verduras. El objetivo del reporte es resaltar la importancia de la anamnesis alimentaria completa en la consulta con el equipo de salud, que permita sospechar y detectar de manera temprana y oportuna trastornos por déficit de micronutrientes como el escorbuto.

Scurvy is a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Although it is currently rare, risk groups in the pediatric population are described in the bibliography, including patients with eating disorders. We report the case of an 11-year-old male adolescent who developed the disease due to a selective eating habit, without fruits or vegetables. The objective of this report is to highlight the importance of complete food anamnesis in consultation with the health team, which allows to suspect and detect early and timely micronutrient deficiency disorders such as scurvy.

Vitamina C y su acción en células cancerígenas

RESUMEN Introducción: La vitamina C es una sustancia que desde hace ya varios años ha suscitado debate debido a la cantidad de usos que se han demostrado. En algunos casos, las utilidades han ido desde profilaxis y acortamiento de la duración de resfriados, hasta estudios de acción en enfermedades, tales como el cáncer; los mecanismos de acción de esta han sido evaluados en forma de monoterapia o en combinación con quimioterapia para demostrar o descartar su utilidad en el cáncer. Objetivo: Demostrar si los efectos de la vitamina C fueron efectivos y si su uso, solo o en combinación con quimioterapia, es de utilidad. Método: Se realizó una investigación de tipo descriptiva documental, realizada con artículos científicos en el periodo comprendido desde 2016 hasta 2021, con un análisis detallado de los resultados del uso de la vitamina C y su posible efecto sobre los diferentes tipos de cáncer. Fueron buscados en las bases de datos de SciELO, Scopus y Medline. Resultados: La información hallada fue organizada según concentraciones plasmáticas de vitamina C y su acción en células cancerosas, dosis evaluadas de la vitamina C, mecanismos de acción en relación a células cancerígenas, desequilibrio redox, efecto específico en cánceres, vitamina C y cáncer de mama. Conclusiones: En la revisión realizada se evidencia que la vitamina C tiene un efecto benéfico en los cánceres hematopoyéticos, como: leucemia, melanoma, cáncer de mama o ciertos tipos de cáncer colorrectal y que disminuyen los efectos adversos producidos por medicamentos quimioterapéuticos.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Vitamin C is a water-soluble substance that has been in debate since a long time ago due to its wide demonstrated use. In some cases, its usage have ranged from prophylaxis and shortening the duration of colds, to studies of its action in diseases, such as cancer; Its mechanisms of action have been evaluated in the form of monotherapy or in combination with the chemotherapy to demonstrate or rule out its usefulness in cancer. Objective: To demonstrate whether the effects of vitamin C were effective and whether its use, alone or in combination with chemotherapy, is useful. Method: A documentary descriptive research was carried out, supported with scientific articles (period 2016 to 2021) which analyze in detail the results of the use of vitamin C and its possible effect on different types of cancer. Results: The information found was organized according to plasma concentrations of vitamin C, its action on cancer cells, evaluated doses of vitamin C, mechanisms of action in relation to cancer cells, redox imbalance, specific effect on cancers, vitamin C and breast cancer. Conclusions: The review shows that the use of vitamin C has a beneficial effect on hematopoietic cancers, such as leukemia, melanoma, breast cancer or certain types of colorectal cancer, and also reduces the adverse effects produced by chemotherapeutic drugs.

RESUMO Introdução: A vitamina C é uma substância que há vários anos desperta o debate devido ao número de usos que foram demonstrados. Em alguns casos, os benefícios vão desde a profilaxia e redução da duração dos resfriados, até estudos de ação em doenças, como o câncer; os mecanismos de ação deste foram avaliados como monoterapia ou em combinação com quimioterapia para provar ou descartar sua utilidade no câncer. Objetivo: Demonstrar se os efeitos da vitamina C foram eficazes e se seu uso, isoladamente ou em combinação com a quimioterapia, é útil. Método: Foi realizada uma pesquisa documental descritiva, realizada com artigos científicos no período de 2016 a 2021, com análise detalhada dos resultados do uso da vitamina C e seu possível efeito nos diferentes tipos de câncer. Eles foram pesquisados nas bases de dados SciELO, Scopus e Medline. Resultados: As informações encontradas foram organizadas de acordo com as concentrações plasmáticas de vitamina C e sua ação nas células cancerígenas, doses avaliadas de vitamina C, mecanismos de ação em relação às células cancerígenas, desequilíbrio redox, efeito específico sobre cânceres, vitamina C e câncer de mama. Conclusões: Na revisão realizada, fica evidente que a vitamina C tem efeito benéfico sobre os cânceres hematopoiéticos, como: leucemia, melanoma, câncer de mama ou certos tipos de câncer colorretal e que reduz os efeitos adversos produzidos pelos quimioterápicos.

Effect of high-dose intravenous vitamin C on prognosis in patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia / Efecto de la vitamina C intravenosa en dosis altas sobre el pronóstico en pacientes con neumonía por SARS-CoV-2

Background:Until now, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected more than 2.5 million individuals worldwide, with approximately 170,000 deaths. Currently, no treatments with robust evidence of clinical benefit exist, and utilization of experimental agents have been recommended by national and international guidelines as a part of clinical studies.Method:In this retrospective study, a total of 323 patients severe acute respiratory syndrome due to PCR-documented COVID-19 infection admitted in our unit were included. Patients were categorized into two groups as those who did or did not receive high dose intravenous vitamin C. we examined the effect of high dose intravenous vitamin C administered in addition to other commonly used agents on prognosis in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.Results:As compared to patients who did not receive vitamin C, those in the VC group were not significantly different in terms of the length of hospital stay (p=0.05), re-admission rate (p=0.943), admission to intensive care, need for advanced oxygen support (p=0.488), need for advanced medical treatment (p<0.001), and mortality (p=0.52).Conclusion:The limited evidence based on small samples precludes definitive conclusions regarding the potential efficacy of high dose vitamin C in these patients, indicating the need for further assessment within the context of clinical research. (AU)

Antecedentes:Hasta ahora, la pandemia de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) ha afectado a más de 2,5 millones de individuos en todo el mundo, con aproximadamente 170.000 muertes. En la actualidad, no existen tratamientos con evidencias sólidas de beneficio clínico, y la utilización de agentes experimentales ha sido recomendada por las guías nacionales e internacionales como parte de los estudios clínicos.Método:En este estudio retrospectivo se incluyeron un total de 323 pacientes con síndrome respiratorio agudo severo por infección por COVID-19 documentada por PCR, ingresados en nuestra unidad. Los pacientes se clasificaron en 2 grupos, según recibieran o no dosis elevadas de vitamina C intravenosa. Se examinó el efecto de la administración de dosis elevadas de vitamina C intravenosa, además de otros agentes utilizados habitualmente, sobre el pronóstico de los pacientes con neumonía por COVID-19.Resultados:En comparación con los pacientes que no recibieron vitamina C, los del grupo que recibieron vitamina C no fueron significativamente diferentes en cuanto a la duración de la estancia hospitalaria (p=0,05), la tasa de reingreso (p=0,943), el ingreso en cuidados intensivos, la necesidad de soporte avanzado de oxígeno (p=0,488), la necesidad de tratamiento médico avanzado (p<0,001) y la mortalidad (p=0,52).Conclusiones:Las limitadas evidencias basadas en muestras pequeñas impiden sacar conclusiones definitivas sobre la potencial eficacia de la vitamina C en dosis altas en estos pacientes, lo que indica la necesidad de una mayor evaluación en el contexto de la investigación clínica. (AU)

Effect of high-dose intravenous vitamin C on prognosis in patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia.

BACKGROUND: Until now, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected more than 2.5 million individuals worldwide, with approximately 170,000 deaths. Currently, no treatments with robust evidence of clinical benefit exist, and utilization of experimental agents have been recommended by national and international guidelines as a part of clinical studies. METHOD: In this retrospective study, a total of 323 patients severe acute respiratory syndrome due to PCR-documented COVID-19 infection admitted in our unit were included. Patients were categorized into two groups as those who did or did not receive high dose intravenous vitamin C. we examined the effect of high dose intravenous vitamin C administered in addition to other commonly used agents on prognosis in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. RESULTS: As compared to patients who did not receive vitamin C, those in the VC group were not significantly different in terms of the length of hospital stay (p=0.05), re-admission rate (p=0.943), admission to intensive care, need for advanced oxygen support (p=0.488), need for advanced medical treatment (p<0.001), and mortality (p=0.52). CONCLUSION: The limited evidence based on small samples precludes definitive conclusions regarding the potential efficacy of high dose vitamin C in these patients, indicating the need for further assessment within the context of clinical research.

[Corticosteroids and metabolic resuscitation (hydrocortisone, ascorbic acid and thiamine) in sepsis and septic shock]. / Corticoides y resucitación metabólica (hidrocortisona, ácido ascórbico y tiamina) en la sepsis y el shock séptico.

In accordance with the recommendations of, among others, the Surviving Sepsis Campaign, adjunctive therapies may play a role in the treatment and the prognosis in sepsis patients. Corticosteroids, ascorbic acid, and thiamine has been identified as a potential therapy for septic shock alone or in combination. Since many years, low-dosis corticosteroids has been proposed as adjuvant therapies for these patients. However, there are still many controversies regarding the role of systemic low-dose corticosteroids as a part of the treatment of septic shock. In recent clinical and experimental investigations, mitochondrion-target therapy bic acid and thiamine) for sepsis has been suggested to reduce MODS severity and mortality although their clinical results are not yet convincing for their use. In the present article, we have performed a narrative review of the current literature including pathophysiologic rationale and the current evidence for such therapies in septic patients.

Riesgo de preeclampsia y suplementación de vitamina C y E: revisión sistemática y metanálisis / Risk of preeclampsia and Vitamin C and E supplementation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

RESUMEN Introducción: Se ha sugerido que la preeclampsia puede ser prevenida por la ingesta de vitamina E y C, dado el mecanismo fisiopatológico de esta enfermedad. Objetivo: Determinar la eficacia conjunta de la vitamina C y E en la prevención de la preeclamsia. Métodos: Revisión sistemática de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos pubmed/medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, y Clinical Trials. El riesgo de sesgo de los ensayos clínicos aleatorios se evaluó mediante la herramienta Cochrane versión 2. Se realizó un metanálisis de efectos aleatorios y se calcularon los riesgos relativos, con los correspondientes intervalos de confianza al 95 %. Resultados: Se incluyeron 7 estudios (n= 1 475). No se encontró asociación estadísticamente significativa del tratamiento con suplementación de vitamina C y E con respecto a la preeclampsia (riesgo relativo: 1,03; IC95 %: 0,78-1,26). Conclusiones: La suplementación dual de vitamina C y E no previene la preeclamsia en gestantes con riesgo de padecer la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: It has been suggested that preeclampsia can be prevented by vitamin E and C intake, given the pathophysiological mechanism of this disease. Objective: To determine the joint efficacy of vitamin C and E in the prevention of preeclampsia. Methods: Systematic review of randomized clinical trials. A search of pubmed/medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Clinical Trials databases was performed. The risk of bias of the randomized clinical trials was assessed using the Cochrane tool version 2. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed and relative risks were calculated, with corresponding 95 % confidence intervals. Results: Seven studies were included (n= 1 475). No statistically significant association of treatment with vitamin C and E supplementation was found with respect to preeclampsia (relative risks: 1.03; 95 % CI 0.78-1.26). Conclusions: Dual vitamin C and E supplementation does not prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women at risk for the disease.

Composición nutricional y declaraciones nutricionales del plátano de Canarias / Nutritional composition and nutritional claims of Canary Islands banana

Objetivos: el plátano de Canarias es el único fruto del género Musa que se produce en territorio español. Desde el año 2013 se cataloga como un alimento con Indicación Geográfica Protegida (IGP). El plátano de Canarias presenta características propias a nivel organoléptico que lo diferencian de otros frutos de consumo del mismo género como la banana. Sin embargo, hasta la fecha no se habían realizado estudios detallados sobre su composición nutricional y las posibles declaraciones nutricionales derivadas de su composición. Métodos: en el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados del análisis bromatológico del plátano de Canarias, realizado a través de distintas técnicas (cromatografía liquida, espectroscopia, espectrofotometría y polarimetría) en un estado óptimo de maduración del fruto (estadio 6). Adicionalmente, se hizo uso de la legislación vigente concerniente a las declaraciones de la composición nutricional de alimentos (Reglamento N.º 1169/2011) para esclarecer aquellas atribuibles al plátano. Resultados: el plátano de Canarias es un alimento con alto contenido por porción comestible en vitamina B6 (0,52 g/100 g) y fuente de potasio (419,9 mg/100 g), fibra dietética total (2,22 g/100 g) y vitamina C (12,35 mg/100 g) de manera natural, de acuerdo con la legislación vigente en materia de etiquetado alimentario. Conclusiones: la ingesta diaria de un plátano de Canarias contribuye a alcanzar el consumo recomendado de tres piezas de fruta al día, aportando unos valores de referencia de nutrientes (VRN) óptimos de vitaminas (B6, C), minerales (potasio) y fibra dietética, con el consiguiente valor añadido a nivel nutricional que pone de manifiesto su importancia como alimento de producción local y su incorporación como tal en el contexto de una dieta saludable. (AU)

Objectives: Canary Islands bananas represent the only native cultivar of Musa spp. present in Spanish territory. Since 2013, it has the Protected Geographical Indication label, which confers an additional value to this fruit. Bananas from the Canary Islands have certain organoleptic properties that make them stand out from among other commonly consumed Musa spp. However, to date, no studies have been reported including an extended nutritional composition of this product. Methods: the present work shows the main nutritional components of bananas from the Canary Islands as determined by different analytical techniques (mainly liquid chromatography, spectroscopy, spectrophotometry, and polarimetry) when at their best in terms of ripeness (grade 6). Moreover, potential nutrition claims relating to their composition were proposed using the current legislation. Results: the fruit's remarkable content, edible portion, in vitamin B6 (0.52 g/100 g), dietary fiber (2.22 g/100 g), potassium (419.9 mg/100 g), and vitamin C (12.35 mg/100 g) should be highlighted. Additionally, these components could appear on nutritional labeling as claims, according to current European regulations. Conclusions: a daily consumption of one Canary Islands banana contributes to the recommended dietary intake of vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The high nutritional value of this fruit enhances its presence in the Mediterranean eating pattern, being remarkable as a local product with excellent nutritional properties. (AU)

[Nutritional composition and nutritional claims of Canary Islands banana]. / Composición nutricional y declaraciones nutricionales del plátano de Canarias.

INTRODUCTION: Objectives: Canary Islands bananas represent the only native cultivar of Musa spp. present in Spanish territory. Since 2013, it has the Protected Geographical Indication label, which confers an additional value to this fruit. Bananas from the Canary Islands have certain organoleptic properties that make them stand out from among other commonly consumed Musa spp. However, to date, no studies have been reported including an extended nutritional composition of this product. Methods: the present work shows the main nutritional components of bananas from the Canary Islands as determined by different analytical techniques (mainly liquid chromatography, spectroscopy, spectrophotometry, and polarimetry) when at their best in terms of ripeness (grade 6). Moreover, potential nutrition claims relating to their composition were proposed using the current legislation. Results: the fruit's remarkable content, edible portion, in vitamin B6 (0.52 g/100 g), dietary fiber (2.22 g/100 g), potassium (419.9 mg/100 g), and vitamin C (12.35 mg/100 g) should be highlighted. Additionally, these components could appear on nutritional labeling as claims, according to current European regulations. Conclusions: a daily consumption of one Canary Islands banana contributes to the recommended dietary intake of vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The high nutritional value of this fruit enhances its presence in the Mediterranean eating pattern, being remarkable as a local product with excellent nutritional properties.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Objetivos: el plátano de Canarias es el único fruto del género Musa que se produce en territorio español. Desde el año 2013 se cataloga como un alimento con Indicación Geográfica Protegida (IGP). El plátano de Canarias presenta características propias a nivel organoléptico que lo diferencian de otros frutos de consumo del mismo género como la banana. Sin embargo, hasta la fecha no se habían realizado estudios detallados sobre su composición nutricional y las posibles declaraciones nutricionales derivadas de su composición. Métodos: en el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados del análisis bromatológico del plátano de Canarias, realizado a través de distintas técnicas (cromatografía liquida, espectroscopia, espectrofotometría y polarimetría) en un estado óptimo de maduración del fruto (estadio 6). Adicionalmente, se hizo uso de la legislación vigente concerniente a las declaraciones de la composición nutricional de alimentos (Reglamento N.º 1169/2011) para esclarecer aquellas atribuibles al plátano. Resultados: el plátano de Canarias es un alimento con alto contenido por porción comestible en vitamina B6 (0,52 g/100 g) y fuente de potasio (419,9 mg/100 g), fibra dietética total (2,22 g/100 g) y vitamina C (12,35 mg/100 g) de manera natural, de acuerdo con la legislación vigente en materia de etiquetado alimentario. Conclusiones: la ingesta diaria de un plátano de Canarias contribuye a alcanzar el consumo recomendado de tres piezas de fruta al día, aportando unos valores de referencia de nutrientes (VRN) óptimos de vitaminas (B6, C), minerales (potasio) y fibra dietética, con el consiguiente valor añadido a nivel nutricional que pone de manifiesto su importancia como alimento de producción local y su incorporación como tal en el contexto de una dieta saludable.

Niveles de ascorbato en pacientes quemados durante la fase aguda / Ascorbate levels in burned patients during the acute phase

Introducción y objetivo: Después de la agresión térmica disminuyen los niveles de antioxidantes y se elevan los biomarcadores oxidativos, que junto a los mediadores inflamatorios, participan en las alteraciones de la microvasculatura provocando filtración capilar y shock hipovolémico. La vitamina C modula esta respuesta, por lo que se ha propuesto incorporarla en megadosis al tratamiento inicial del paciente quemado.El objetivo de este trabajo es estimar los niveles de ascorbato sérico que alcanzan los pacientes quemados administrando 3 g diarios de vitamina C durante la fase aguda.Material y método.Estudio descriptivo en 25 pacientes quemados en reanimación a los que se les determinó el nivel de ascorbato sin recibir la primera dosis de vitamina C y a las 72 horas de su administración. Comparamos las concentraciones de ascorbato en esos momentos con el de referencia empleando el Test de Student para una muestra. Determinamos si existía asociación entre el nivel de ascorbato y la extensión de la lesión utilizando el Test de Student para muestras independientes y analizamos el pronóstico de vida utilizando análisis de varianza (ANOVA).Resultados.Los valores promedio de ascorbato estuvieron significativamente disminuidos sin cambios entre el nivel inicial y a las 72 horas de tratamiento. No encontramos relación con la extensión ni con el pronóstico.Conclusiones.La administración de 3 g de vitamina C no fue suficiente para alcanzar los niveles séricos normales. Es necesario administrar dosis superiores a la protocolizada en nuestra institución. (AU)

Background and objective: After thermal aggression, antioxidant levels decrease and oxidative biomarkers rise, which together with inflammatory mediators, participate in alterations of the microvasculature, causing capillary leakage and hypovolemic shock. Vitamin C modulates this response, and it has been proposed to incorporate it in megadoses in the initial treatment of burned patients.The aim of this work is to estimate the serum ascorbate levels reached in burned patients by administering 3 g daily of vitamin C during the acute phase.Methods.Descriptive study in 25 burned patients in resuscitation, in whom the ascorbate level was determined without receiving the first dose of vitamin C and then at 72 hours. Those ascorbate concentrations were compared with the reference one using the Student's test for a sample. It was determined if there was an association between the level of ascorbate and the extension of the lesion using the Student's test for independent samples, and the same was analyzed with the prognosis of life using analysis of variance (ANOVA).Results.Mean ascorbate values were significantly decreased without changes between the initial level and that reached at 72 hours treatment. No relationship was found with the extension or with the prognosis.Conclusions.Administration of 3 g of vitamin C was not enough to reach normal serum levels. It is necessary to administer doses higher than the protocol established in our institution. (AU)

Metahemoglobinemia grave de origen desconocido: respuesta al tratamiento con ácido ascórbico / Severe methemoglobinemia of unknown origin: response to treatment with ascorbic acid

La metahemoglobina es una forma oxidada de la hemoglobinaque en un valor mayor a 1% en adultos y a 2% en lactantes, que genera anemia funcional e hipoxia tisular. Puede ser adquirida o congénita. La forma adquirida es más frecuente y suele ocurrir cuando se sobrepasa los mecanismos reductores de protección. El azul de metileno es el antídoto de primera elección. En caso de no contar con este,debe considerarse el uso de ácido ascórbico. La instauración de un tratamiento rápido y eficaz disminuye los efectos potencialmente fatales. Reportamos el caso de un paciente de 2 años que ingresa a la guardia pediátrica con cianosis generalizada refractaria a la oxigenoterapia

Methemoglobin is an oxidized form of hemoglobin that in a value greater than 1% in adults and 2% in infants generates functional anemia and tissue hypoxia.It can be acquired or congenital. The acquired form is more frequent and usually occurs when the protective reducing mechanisms are exceeded. Methylene blue is the first-line antidote. If such is not available, the use of ascorbic acid should be considered. Choosing a fast and effective treatment decreases the potentially fatal effects. We report the case of a 2-year-old patient who enters the pediatric ward with generalized cyanosis refractory to oxygen therapy