The genus Croton (Euphorbiaceae) encompasses numerous species recognized for their diverse medicinal applications, particularly in pain management. This systematic review aims to compile and analyze the scientific evidence on the antinociceptive properties of Croton species. The review protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF) associated project: osf.io/z4juf. Using the PRISMA methodology, an exhaustive search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies published to date. The review includes preclinical studies in animal models that investigate the mechanisms of action and efficacy of Croton extracts and isolated compounds in pain inhibition. The results indicate that 28 Croton species exhibit significant antinociceptive effects, attributed to bioactive compounds such as diterpenes, alkaloids, and flavonoids. These compounds interact with multiple biological pathways, including ion channels, such as TRPV1, K/ATP, and ASIC channels, as well as the inhibition of the synthesis of inflammatory mediators, particularly prostaglandins. This review highlights the potential of Croton as a source of novel analgesic agents and emphasizes the necessity for further clinical studies. Additionally, integrating ethnobotanical and pharmacological knowledge is suggested to develop innovative and effective treatments for pain management.
Background/Objectives: Vitamin D (VD) deficiency has been associated with increased risk of gestational disorders affecting the endocrine system, immune system, and neurodevelopment in offspring. Recent studies have focused on the interaction between toxic elements and micronutrients during pregnancy. This review analyzes the potential relationships between VD levels and heavy metals in pregnant women and their offspring. Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Boolean operators ‘AND’ and ‘OR’ were applied with terms like ‘pregnancy’, ‘vitamin D’, ‘heavy metals’, and ‘newborns’. Results: From 4688 articles, 14 studies were selected based on relevance and quality. These studies measured the levels of metals like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As), in biological samples including maternal blood, umbilical cord blood, placenta tissue, and meconium during different stages of pregnancy, showing an inverse relationship between VD deficiency and heavy metal concentrations, which could be related to the incidence of preterm birth. Conclusions: The review highlights the importance of maintaining adequate VD levels during pregnancy, suggesting that sufficient VD may mitigate the adverse effects of heavy metal exposure, potentially reducing pregnancy-related complications.
Background: A positive attitude toward research is crucial for the development of evidence‐based practice (EBP). Despite its importance, many medical and nursing students display negative or indifferent attitudes toward research. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes toward research among nursing interns and medical residents in a pediatric hospital in Mexico. Methods: After obtaining approval from the hospital’s ethics committee, a structured and validated questionnaire was administered to nursing interns and medical residents ( n = 198) who had signed informed consent. The results were categorized into four areas: research skills, barriers to research, and positive and negative perceptions of research. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed (ANOVA, Student’s t ‐test, and Pearson correlation), with a significance level of p < 0.05, following a prior normality test using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Results: The majority of participants considered writing skills and knowledge of APA formatting to be essential for conducting research. However, they also identified significant barriers, such as lack of knowledge and limited support from faculty. Participants exhibited low to moderate attitudes toward research. Conclusions: Attitudes toward research were generally poor in this study group. Educational institutions and hospitals should implement strategies to foster a supportive and research‐driven environment, which could enhance the training of future professionals and ultimately improve the quality of healthcare.
The anxiety, as an adaptive emotion, can motivate individuals to seek solutions and improve their performance, but when it reaches pathological levels, it significantly affects daily life. This descriptive review article narrates the importance of studying anxiety through animal models at the preclinical level, highlighting its relevance in understanding the neurobiology and development of effective treatments. A search for updated scientific information was conducted in Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and other databases. It discusses experimental models of conditioned and unconditioned responses used to replicate characteristics of these disorders in laboratory animals, which must possess face, construct, and predictive validity. The limitation of these models to fully replicate the complete human experience of anxiety is emphasized, as well as the physiological and behavioral differences between species. Despite their limitations, animal models remain valuable tools for understanding and treating anxiety, although more research is needed to improve their validity and clinical applicability.
Introduction: Complementary feeding (CF) refers to the introduction of foods and beverages that complement breast milk or formula in children aged 6 to 23 months. Appropriate initiation and dietary diversity in CF are crucial for optimal growth and neurodevelopment. Common errors in CF practices may lead to nutritional deficiencies, anemia, and weight-related problems. Objective: To assess the prevalence of anemia, complementary feeding practices, and nutritional status in children aged 6 to 24 months in Atitalaquia, Mezquital Valley, Hidalgo, Mexico. Methods: A cross-sectional observational epidemiological study was conducted using a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 78 children enrolled in two childcare centers. Data were collected over four months (March–July 2024), including anthropometric measurements, hemoglobin levels, and the application of the ENSANUT instrument to evaluate CF practices. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: The average age of CF initiation was 8.8 months, delayed compared to the WHO recommendation of 6 months. A low intake of vegetables and a high consumption of meats and processed foods rich in sugars, fats, and sodium were identified. A moderate prevalence of anemia and overweight/obesity was observed in the sample. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for early interventions to improve CF practices, promote dietary diversity, and prevent anemia and nutritional disorders in the studied pediatric population.