Characterizations of Kerr-de Sitter in arbitrary dimension from null infinity.

The Kerr and Kerr-de Sitter metrics share remarkable local geometric properties in four dimensions. Gibbons et al. found a generalization of the Kerr-de Sitter metric to higher dimensions, to which the local characterization above cannot be applied. One viable approach to characterize this family is to understand the behaviour of these metrics at future null infinity. We review Friedrich's and Fefferman-Graham formalisms to discuss the asymptotic initial value problem of ([Formula: see text])-vacuum spacetimes in arbitrary dimensions and study their properties: geometric identification and conformal equivalence of data, Killing initial data and conformal equivalence of boundary conformal Killing vectors (CKV). These results are used to review a recent characterization of Kerr-de Sitter in terms of its asymptotic data, namely conformal flatness at [Formula: see text] together with a canonical TT tensor constructed from specific CKV at [Formula: see text]. Allowing for arbitrary CKV defines the (larger) Kerr-de Sitter-like class. All these metrics can be obtained explicitly as limits or analytic extensions of Kerr-de Sitter. The Kerr-de Sitter-like class is also characterized by the property of being Kerr-Schild and fulfilling a certain falloff condition. In addition, in five dimensions, this class corresponds to all algebraically special metrics with non-degenerate optical matrix. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'At the interface of asymptotics, conformal methods and analysis in general relativity'.

A multi-centre, open-label, prospective, observational study to assess the safety of a nifedipine oral solution in the treatment of preterm labor / Estudio multicéntrico, de diseño abierto, prospectivo y observacional para evaluar la seguridad de una solución oral de nifedipino en el tratamiento del parto prematuro

Objective: To analyze the safety profile of a nifedipine oral solution in the treatment of preterm labor (PTL). Methods: A multi-center, open-label, prospective, single-arm, observational study was conducted in 500 women with PTL to whom a nifedipine oral solution was prescribed according to its Summary of Product Characteristics. Safety profile and tolerability of oral administration of nifedipine solution during routine clinical practice was assessed as the primary objective of the study and treatment efficacy as secondary objective. Results: No severe adverse events were reported among these women, including severe hypotension. Eight patients (2.3%) reported adverse reactions of moderate intensity, and in 0.9% of the patients (3 cases), these adverse reactions caused the discontinuation of the treatment. Conclusions: The results of this study show that nifedipine oral solution exhibits an excellent safety profile used as a tocolytic treatment in women with PTL.(AU)

Objetivo: Analizar el perfil de seguridad de una solución oral de nifedipino en el tratamiento del parto prematuro (PP). Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional, prospectivo, de diseño abierto, de rama única y multicéntrico en 500 mujeres que presentaban un PP, a las que se les administró una solución oral de nifedipino según la ficha técnica del producto. El perfil de seguridad y la tolerancia de la solución oral de nifedipino, en el contexto de la práctica clínica rutinaria, fueron evaluados como objetivo primario del estudio, y la eficacia del tratamiento, como objetivo secundario. Resultados: No se notificaron efectos adversos graves, incluyendo hipotensión severa. Ocho pacientes (2,3%) presentaron reacciones adversas de intensidad moderada, y en el 0,9% de las pacientes (3 casos) estos efectos adversos provocaron la discontinuación del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio muestran que la solución oral de nifedipino dispone de un excelente perfil de seguridad para su uso como tocolítico en el tratamiento de mujeres con PP.(AU)

[Association of morphological variables of acromion type with rotator cuff lesions by nuclear magnetic resonance]. / Asociación de variables morfológicas de tipo de acromion con lesiones del manguito rotador por resonancia magnética nuclear.

INTRODUCTION: the acromion is a small portion of the scapula that extends towards the anterior region from the spine of the scapula. Traditionally, the acromion is classified by the shape of its inferior surface in a sagittal plane. Acromial morphology has been found to be related to rotator cuff injury. OBJECTIVE: to determine the association between the type of acromion with a higher incidence of rotator cuff rupture. Study population: patients who come to the Traumatology and Orthopedics Service of a third level hospital at Monterrey, Mexico, due to a painful shoulder and who have undergone a simple magnetic resonance of the shoulder. MATERIAL AND METHODS: a cross-sectional, retrospective and descriptive study was carried out, in which 273 magnetic resonance studies were reviewed in patients who met the inclusion criteria. The type of acromion was reported according to the morphological classification in type I to IV and the state of the rotator cuff: without rupture, partial rupture or complete rupture, making a comparison between right and left shoulder. RESULTS: in this study we found a value of p = 0.473 which concludes that there is no relation between the type of acromion and the injury of the rotator cuff. CONCLUSION: in the present study, unlike what has been published in the literature, it was found that type II acromion was the one that was associated in most cases with a rotator cuff tear.

INTRODUCCIÓN: el acromion es una pequeña porción de la escápula que se extiende hacia la región anterior desde la espina de la escápula. Tradicionalmente se clasifica al acromion por la forma de su superficie inferior en un plano sagital. Se ha encontrado que la morfología acromial está rela­cionada con la lesión del manguito rotador. OBJETIVO: determinar la asociación entre el tipo de acromion con una mayor incidencia de ruptura de manguito rotador. Población de estudio: pacientes que acudan al Servicio de Traumatología y Ortopedia de un hospital privado de tercer nivel en la ciudad de Monterrey por hombro doloroso y a los cuales se les haya realizado una resonancia magnética simple de hombro. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio de tipo transversal, retrospectivo y descriptivo, en el cual se revisaron 273 estudios de resonancia magnética en pacientes que cumplieran los criterios de inclusión. Se reportó el tipo de acromion según la clasificación morfológica en tipo I a IV y el estado del manguito rotador: sin ruptura, ruptura parcial o ruptura completa, haciendo una comparación entre hombro derecho e izquierdo. RESULTADOS: se obtuvo un valor de p = 0.473 por lo que se concluye que no existe una asociación entre el tipo de acromion y el estado del manguito rotador. CONCLUSIÓN: en el presente estudio, a diferencia de lo publicado en la literatura, se obtuvo que el acromion tipo II fue al que se asoció la mayoría de los casos con ruptura del manguito rotador.

Preconceptional diet manipulation and fetus number can influence placenta endocrine function in sheep.

Changes in maternal nutrition during pregnancy can result in profound effects on placental function and fetal development. Although the preconceptional period holds the potential to reprogram embryonic and placental development, little is known regarding the effects of premating nutritional manipulation on placental function and fetal and postnatal offspring growth. To test this, Polypay-Dorset sheep (n = 99) were assigned to 1 of 3 nutritional treatments (n = 33/treatment) receiving 50% (UN: undernutrition), 100% (C: control), or 200% (ON: overnutrition) of maintenance energy requirements for 21 d before mating during April-May (increasing photoperiod). Thereafter, diets were the same across groups. We evaluated maternal reproductive variables and maternal and offspring weight and body mass index through weaning. Maternal plasma was collected through pregnancy until postnatal day 1 to assay pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and progesterone. Fertility rate was similar among treatments, but ON females had a higher reproductive rate (UN: 82%; C: 100%, ON: 145%). When correcting by total birth weight, twin pregnancies had lower PAGs and progesterone versus singleton pregnancies (P < 0.001). At birth, UN lambs were heavier than C lambs regardless of birth type (P < 0.01). Growth velocity, daily gain, and weaning weight were similar, but UN and ON females grew faster and were heavier at weaning versus C females. We demonstrated that a 3-wk preconceptional maternal undernutrition or overnutrition, when correcting by total birth weight, results in lower endocrine capacity in twin pregnancies. Preconceptional maternal undernutrition and overnutrition increased postnatal female lamb growth, suggestive of reprogramming of pathways regulating growth before conception. This highlights how preconceptional nutrition can result in marked sex-specific differences.

New species of Rivudiva Lugo-Ortiz amp; McCafferty (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) with comments on R. minantenna Lugo-Ortiz amp; McCafferty and R. trichobasis Lugo-Ortiz amp; McCafferty.

Based on nymphs collected in Espírito Santo and Amazonas, Southeastern and Northern Brazil, two new species of the genus Rivudiva Lugo-Ortiz McCafferty, 1998 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) are described. Rivudiva inma sp. nov. shares several characteristics with R. minantenna Lugo-Ortiz McCafferty, 1998, but can be distinguished by details of leg setation, such as length and shape of robust setae and presence of setae on trochanter. Rivudiva oonirikoperi sp. nov. is more similar to R. trichobasis Lugo-Ortiz McCafferty, 1998, but can be separated by the absence of setae on scape and pedicel, shape of distal margin of labrum, and length of maxillary palp. New diagnoses and illustrations are provided for R. minantenna and R. trichobasis, as well as a key to the known nymphs of Rivudiva species.

Control glucémico en pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 de edad avanzada. Intervención para evitar riesgos / Blood-glucose control in eldely patients with type 2 diabetes. Interventions to avoid risks

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el control glucémico de pacientes de edad avanzada, con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2), en tratamiento con varios antidiabéticos, y analizar el efecto de una intervención. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal y observacional de prevalencia que incluyó a pacientes ≥75 años con DM2, en tratamiento con 2 o más hipoglucemiantes. Se analizó la adecuación de los tratamientos siguiendo las recomendaciones actuales para este grupo poblacional, la prevalencia de complicaciones macro y microvasculares, demencia e hipoglucemias, los tratamientos empleados y la adherencia. Se realizó una intervención para optimizar la prescripción. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 215 pacientes. El 54,4% fueron mujeres, con edad media de 82,0±4,1 años, el 77,2% tenía complicaciones macro y/o microvasculares y el 7,4% demencia. En el 67,9% se detectó inadecuación por control glucémico demasiado intensivo (55,6% HbA1c<7,5%) o no estar ajustada la posología a su filtrado glomerular (51,0%). El 81,4% estaba en tratamiento con fármacos con riesgo de producir hipoglucemias; el 2,3% tenía algún episodio registrado. La HbA1c media fue mayor en los no adherentes (8,1±1,6% vs. 7,5±1,3%, p < 0,05). Tras la intervención disminuyó la intensidad del tratamiento hipoglucemiante en el 36,2% de los pacientes, y se adecuó la posología en el 23,1% de los fármacos que precisaban ajuste. El porcentaje de sobretratamiento se redujo al 40,0% (p < 0,01). CONCLUSIONES: Más de la mitad de los pacientes mayores, con DM2 e importantes comorbilidades, tenía un control glucémico demasiado estricto. La puesta en marcha de un programa de intervención ha permitido mejorar la seguridad y la adecuación de los tratamientos

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate blood-glucose control in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who are receiving various anti-diabetic treatments, and to analyse the effect of an intervention. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational study of prevalence that included patients who were ≥75 years old with T2DM and being treated with two or more antidiabetic drugs. The adequacy of treatments following current recommendations for this population group was analysed, together with the prevalence of macro- and micro-vascular complications, dementia, and hypoglycaemia, the treatments used, and adherence. An intervention was carried out to optimise prescription. RESULTS: A total of 215 patients were included, of which 54.4% were women. The mean age was 82.0±4.1, and 77.2% had micro- and/or macrovascular complications, and 7.4% had dementia. Inadequacy was detected in 67.9% due to an overly intensive blood glucose control (55.6% HbA1c<7.5%), or that the dosage was not adapted to glomerular filtration (51.0%). The large majority (81.4%) were being treated with drugs with a risk of producing hypoglycaemia (2.3% had recorded episodes). The HbA1c mean was higher in non-adherent patients (8.1±1.6% vs 7.5±1.3%, P<.05). After the intervention, the intensity of hypoglycaemic treatment was reduced in 36.2% of patients, and the dosage of drugs that required adjustment was corrected in 23.1%. The percentage of overtreatment decreased to 40.0% (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS: More than half of the elderly patients with T2DM and important comorbidities had an overly strict glycaemic control. The launch of an intervention programme has allowed for an improvement in safety and for the optimisation of treatments

Milk yield and composition and body weight of offsprings of mixed-breed goats on semi-arid rangelands with different rainfall.

The objective was to characterize milk yield and composition from mixed-breed goats kidding in winter and grazing rangelands with 221 (n = 15), 334 (n = 20), or 441 (n = 12) mm of annual rainfall in northern Mexico (22-25°N). Weekly milk yield and composition were recorded and progeny growth performance assessed. Body weight loss during lactation was the highest (6.4 kg) for goats on rangeland with 441 mm of rainfall than goats on 221 mm (1.6 kg), or 334 mm (1.8 kg; P < 0.01). The highest daily milk yield was for goats on 221 mm (498 mL; P < 0.01). There was not an evident peak of lactation and milk yield increased uninterruptedly at the end of lactation. Milk fat was negatively related to milk yield and goats on rangeland with 334 mm had the greatest milk fat content (P < 0.001). Milk protein and lactose content were higher in goats on rangeland with 221 mm (P < 0.01). Goat kids on rangelands with 221 and 441 mm grew faster and were heavier (P < 0.001) at weaning than kids reared in other rangelands. Weaning weight was positively related to milk yield (P < 0.001); but not milk components (P > 0.05). In conclusion, moderate milk yield of mixed-breed goats on rangeland is feasible with parturitions in winter, and milk yield is not affected by reduced annual precipitation in rangelands of northern Mexico. Offspring growth performance depends on maternal milk yield, but not milk composition. Nevertheless, slow growth to weaning of offspring had adverse effects on time to reach adequate market weight.

[Blood-glucose control in eldely patients with type 2 diabetes. Interventions to avoid risks]. / Control glucémico en pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 de edad avanzada. Intervención para evitar riesgos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate blood-glucose control in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who are receiving various anti-diabetic treatments, and to analyse the effect of an intervention. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational study of prevalence that included patients who were ≥75 years old with T2DM and being treated with two or more antidiabetic drugs. The adequacy of treatments following current recommendations for this population group was analysed, together with the prevalence of macro- and micro-vascular complications, dementia, and hypoglycaemia, the treatments used, and adherence. An intervention was carried out to optimise prescription. RESULTS: A total of 215 patients were included, of which 54.4% were women. The mean age was 82.0±4.1, and 77.2% had micro- and/or macrovascular complications, and 7.4% had dementia. Inadequacy was detected in 67.9% due to an overly intensive blood glucose control (55.6% HbA1c<7.5%), or that the dosage was not adapted to glomerular filtration (51.0%). The large majority (81.4%) were being treated with drugs with a risk of producing hypoglycaemia (2.3% had recorded episodes). The HbA1c mean was higher in non-adherent patients (8.1±1.6% vs 7.5±1.3%, P<.05). After the intervention, the intensity of hypoglycaemic treatment was reduced in 36.2% of patients, and the dosage of drugs that required adjustment was corrected in 23.1%. The percentage of overtreatment decreased to 40.0% (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS: More than half of the elderly patients with T2DM and important comorbidities had an overly strict glycaemic control. The launch of an intervention programme has allowed for an improvement in safety and for the optimisation of treatments.

Shearing during late pregnancy increases size at birth but does not alter placental endocrine responses in sheep.

Shearing during the latter half of pregnancy is a common practice to improve flock health and productivity. Previous studies have demonstrated that shearing pregnant ewes at mid or late pregnancy is associated with an increase in lamb birth weight. In the present study, we used singleton Polypay × Dorset pregnant sheep, to investigate the potential roles of placental function and changes in maternal metabolism in underlying this increased birth weight response. Two groups were randomly established and blocked at enrollment by animal BW, body condition score and subcutaneous adipose tissue depth. The groups were shorn (SH; n = 18) or not (C; n = 20) at gestational day (GD) 107 ± 1 (mean ± SEM). Weekly maternal plasma samples were collected between shearing and birth, but only six samples were assayed for progesterone, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG1), glucose and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). At birth, sex, birth weight, and newborn body mass index (BMI) were recorded. Maternal BW during mid- to late-pregnancy was similar between groups. Shearing resulted in increased lamb birth weight and BMI (P < 0.05) regardless of fetal sex but did not affect the maternal concentration of PAG1 or progesterone from GDs 100 to 142. After shearing (GD100) and up to lambing, shorn females had higher circulating glucose concentrations (P < 0.05), but not NEFA, compared to the control group. Maternal circulating PAG1, progesterone, glucose or NEFA concentration across pregnancy did not differ according to lamb sex. Across pregnancy, birth weight was positively associated with PAG1 (P < 0.001), but not with progesterone concentrations. In conclusion, weight and BMI at birth were higher in both sexes upon shearing in singleton pregnancies. Despite PAG1 being associated with birth weight, late-pregnancy shearing did not alter the placental endocrine response. Whether other placental factors are altered upon shearing and may influence the increase in birth weight and BMI remain to be investigated.

Competencies on environmental health and pedagogical approaches in the nursing curriculum: A systematic review of the literature.

It has been suggested that climate change is the biggest threat to public health for the 21st Century; increased demand on health services will impact on already overstretched resources and systems will need to be able to respond. However limited attention is given to climate change and sustainability in nursing education; there is no clear guidance on curricula content for nurses or recommendations regarding the skills and competencies that will be required. Literature published in Dutch, English, German, and Spanish was searched and 32 papers met the inclusion criteria for the review. Results suggests that holistic/systems thinking is relevant to healthcare so bringing a 'sustainability lens' to nursing curricula could be seen as being consistent with wider determinants of health. The literature review has identified the educational approaches necessary to provide a broad based curriculum and a cross-disciplinary approach. The findings suggest that topics such as the use of resources, food, health promotion, globalism, disease management, and the environmental impact of delivering healthcare, if embedded in nursing education could support the nursing profession's response for this new and important aspect of healthcare.

Development of a third-generation biosensor to determine sterigmatocystin mycotoxin: An early warning system to detect aflatoxin B1.

A third-generation enzymatic biosensor was developed to quantify sterigmatocystin (STEH). It was based on a glassy carbon electrode modified with a composite of the soybean peroxidase enzyme (SPE) and chemically reduced graphene oxide. The optimal conditions to construct the biosensor were obtained through an experimental design based on the response surfaces methodology. The experiments were performed in 0.1 mol L-1 phosphate buffer solution, pH 5. Amperometric measurements were carried out at - 0.09 V vs Ag/AgCl (3 mol L-1 NaCl). The biosensor showed a lineal response in the concentration range from 6.9 × 10-9 to 5.0 × 10-7 mol L-1. The limit of detection was 2.3 × 10-9 mol L-1 for a signal: noise ratio of 3: 1. Values of the apparent Michaellis-Menten constant, KMapp, obtained by using both Lineweaver-Burk and Eadi-Hofstee methods were (1.5 ± 0.2) × 10-6 and (1.2 ± 0.2) × 10-6 mol L-1, respectively. STEH was analyzed in corn samples spiked with STEH, with an average recovery of 96.5%. The biosensor was also used to determine STEH in corn samples inoculated with the Aspergillus flavus fungus, which is an aflatoxins producer. Considering that STEH is a precursor of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in its biological transformation, its decrease over time was related to the production of AFB1. The STEH concentration determined using the biosensor was in very good agreement with that determined by HPLC.

Experience and Security of the Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Nephrectomy of a Living Donor in a Public Health Center.

BACKGROUND: Hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy (HALDN) is currently the procedure of choice for obtaining living donor kidneys for transplantation. In our institution, it has been the standard procedure for 5 years. Previous studies have shown the same function of the graft as that obtained by open surgery, with a lower rate of bleeding and no differences in complications. We sought to demonstrate the experience and safety of HALDN compared with open donor nephrectomy in healthy donors for kidney transplantation. METHODS: A retrospective analytical observational study was conducted, reviewing the records of the living donors for kidney transplant undergoing open donor nephrectomy or HALDN in our center from March 1, 2009, to March 1, 2016. Renal function was assessed by the estimated glomerular filtration rate by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease method before and after donation, as well as bleeding (mL), and complications (according to Clavien), performing a comparative analysis between the two techniques using parametric or nonparametric tests. RESULTS: A total of 179 living donor nephrectomies were performed during the study period-31 open donor nephrectomy (17.3%) and 148 HALDN (82.7%)-without relevant baseline differences, except for creatinine. HALDN has a shorter surgical time (156,473 ± 87.75 minutes vs 165,484 ± 69.95 minutes) and less bleeding (244.59 ± 416.08 mL vs 324.19 ± 197.986 mL) and a shorter duration of hospital stay (3.74 ± 1.336 days vs 4.75 ± 1.226 days). There were no significant differences in surgical complications at 30 days, or graft loss reported; there were 3 conversions (1.7%) from the HALDN to the open technique. There were no differences in renal function in the donors or recipients at the 5th day or the month after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic nephrectomy has replaced open surgery as the gold standard for living kidney donors. HALDN is a safe and feasible procedure when compared with open donor nephrectomy, achieving a shorter surgical time with less bleeding, and no difference in the number of complications. This procedure lowers costs by decreasing the duration of the hospital stay, making is feasible to perform it at any institution with appropriately trained personnel.

Milk production and composition, and progeny performance in young ewes with high merit for rapid growth and muscle and fat accumulation.

In ewe lambs, acceleration of growth and accumulation of both muscle and fat leads to earlier sexual maturity and better reproductive performance. The next stage in the development of this theme is to test whether these aspects of growth in young ewes affect milk production in their first lactation and the growth of their first progeny. We studied 75 young Merino ewes that had known phenotypic values for depth of eye muscle (EMD) and fat (FAT), and known Australian Sheep Breeding Values for post-weaning weight (PWT) and depths of eye muscle (PEMD) and fat (PFAT). They lambed for the first time at 1 year of age. Their lambs were weighed weekly from birth to weaning at 10 weeks to determine live weight gain and weaning weight. Progeny birth weight was positively associated with live weight gain and weaning weight (P0.05). The PWT of the sire was positively associated with live weight gain (P0.05). The concentrations of fat, protein, lactose and total solids in the milk were not affected by the phenotype or genotype of the mothers or of the sires of the mothers, or by the sex of the progeny (P>0.05). We conclude that selection of young Merino ewes for better growth, and more rapid accumulation of muscle and fat, will lead to progeny that are heavier at birth, grow faster and are heavier at weaning. Moreover, milk production and composition do not seem to be affected by the genetic merit of the mother for post-weaning live weight or PEMD or PFAT. Therefore, Merino ewes can lamb at 1 year of age without affecting the production objectives of the Merino sheep industry.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Prevalence and quality of life in Spanish postmenopausal women. The GENISSE study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and urogynecological conditions associated with menopause, and to evaluate the impact of GSM on quality of life in a cohort of Spanish postmenopausal women. METHODS: Multicenter, cross-sectional, and observational study involving 430 women. RESULTS: The prevalence of GSM was 70%. GSM was diagnosed in 60.2% of women with no known diagnosis of vulvovaginal atrophy or GSM. Most prevalent symptoms were vaginal dryness (93.3%) and reduced lubrication with sexual activity (90.0%). Most prevalent signs were decreased moisture (93.7%) and loss of vaginal rugae (78.4%). GSM was significantly associated with stress or mixed urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, and vaginal prolapse. Symptoms showed a low-moderate impact on quality of life, mainly in sexual functioning and self-concept and body image. CONCLUSIONS: The GSM is very prevalent in Spanish postmenopausal women, affecting up to 70% of those consulting the gynecologist. Despite the high prevalence of symptoms and signs and its impact on the women's well-being, GSM remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Given its relationship with urogynecological conditions, it seems necessary to provide an adequate evaluation of postmenopausal women for identifying potential co-morbidities and providing most adequate treatments. An adequate management of GSM will contribute to an improvement in the quality of life of these women.

Paragangliomas carotídeos: hacia un tratamiento personalizado que reduzca la morbilidad / Carotid body tumours: Towards a personalised treatment that reduces morbidity

Los paragangliomas carotídeos (PGC) son tumores infrecuentes que muy raramente son causa de muerte. El conocimiento de las bases genéticas de los tumores de origen hereditario, más de un tercio del total, ha permitido identificar a la población en riesgo y establecer en ella medidas para un diagnóstico precoz de los tumores. El tratamiento más habitual ha sido el quirúrgico que, en no pocos casos, origina una importante morbilidad. Un amplio contingente de los PGC no experimenta crecimiento alguno, lo que justifica una conducta expectante. Aquellos tumores con crecimiento significativo deben ser tratados. La radioterapia ofrece unas cifras similares de control a las de la cirugía y no presenta secuelas neurológicas ni vasculares. No obstante, la cirugía está indicada en PGC Shamblin I/II de pacientes jóvenes, en los raros tumores malignos o hiperfuncionantes y en el fracaso de la radioterapia. Los tumores múltiples familiares deben tratarse conservadoramente (AU)

Carotid body paragangliomas (CBP) are uncommon tumours that very rarely cause death. The genetic basis of tumours of hereditary origin (more than a third of the total) has been determined in the last few years, which has helped to identify the population at risk and to implement screening methods for an early diagnosis of tumours. The most common treatment of CBP has been surgery, which frequently causes significant morbidity. A significant number of paragangliomas do not experience any growth, which justifies a wait-and-see approach using annual image studies. Those tumours with significant growth must be treated. Radiotherapy has similar outcomes to surgery and has no neurological or vascular sequelae. However, surgery is indicated in Shamblin I/II carotid body tumours in young patients, in the rare malignant or hyper-functioning tumours, and in the failure of radiotherapy. Multiple tumours of familial origin should be treated conservatively (AU)

Diseño y producción de diversas proteínas fusión de la nicotinamida/ nicotinato mononucleotido adenilil transferasa (NMNAT) de Plasmodium falciparum / Design and production of various fusion proteins of the nicotinamide/ nicotinate mononucleotide adenilil transferase (NMNAT) of Plasmodium falciparum / Desenho e produção de várias proteínas fusão da nicotinamida/nicotinato mononucleotido adenilil transferasa (NMNAT) do Plasmodium falciparum

Resumen Las proteínas recombinantes se han convertido en herramientas útiles en la investigación bioquímica. Sin embargo, durante su producción, aparecen cuerpos de inclusión (IB), debido, por un lado, a la alta expresión de proteína producida a partir de los vectores usados que poseen promotores de alta eficiencia y, por otro lado, a características propias de la proteína. Ahora bien, la nicotinamida/nicotinato mononucleótido adenililtransferasa (NMNAT) es una proteína central en la biosíntesis del NAD(H)+, molécula esencial en el metabolismo celular, y ha sido estudiada en parásitos protozoos. Para el estudio de la NMNAT de estos parásitos se ha recurrido a la expresión de su versión recombinante en E. coli, obteniéndose gran cantidad de proteína como IB. Con el fin de aumentar la solubilidad de la proteína, se clonó la secuencia codificante de la NMNAT de Plasmodium falciparum en diferentes vectores de expresión, se indujo la expresión de la proteína recombinante en E. coli BL21 (DE3) y se analizó la solubilidad. La proteína fusión con mayor solubilidad fue purificada y evaluada enzimáticamente. La adición de la etiqueta MBP (proteína de unión a maltosa) a la PfNMNAT incrementó su solubilidad y permitió obtener una proteína funcional con una alta pureza.

Abstract Recombinant proteins have become useful tools in biochemistry research. During their production, however, inclusion bodies (IB) appear, on the one hand, due to the high expression rate from the recombinant plasmids, which have high efficiency promoters, and, on the other hand, intrinsic characteristics of the expressed protein. Furhtermore, the nicotinamide/nicotinate mononucleotide adenilyl transferase (NMNAT) is a central protein in NAD(H)+biosynthesis, an essential cofactor in cell metabolism, and in protozoon parasite has been studied. To study the NMNAT protein of these parasites, their recombinant version in E. coli has been expressed, getting a great quantity of IB as a by-product. To increase the solubility of the protein, the coding sequence of the NMNAT enzyme of Plasmodium falciparum was cloned in different expression plasmids which were subsequently transformed into E. coli BL21 (DE3) expression strain. The solubility of the recombinant proteins was assessed and the one with the highest presence in the soluble fraction was subsequently purified and its enzyme activity was determined. The recombinant protein with a MBP (maltose-binding protein) tag showed an increased solubility and purity.

Resumo As proteínas recombinantes tem convertido em ferramentas úteis na investigação bioquímica. Um problema frequente durante a sua produção é a aparição de corpos de inclusão (IB), devida principalmente à elevada expressão da proteína produzida a partir dos vectores utilizados que têm promotores de elevada eficiência; bem como características das próprias proteínas. Além disso, a nicotinamida/nicotinato mononucleótido adenililtransferasa é uma proteína central na biossíntese do NAD(H)+, molécula essencial no metabolismo celular, e tem sido estudada em protozoários parasitos. Para o estudo da NMNAT destes parasitos, foi realizada a expressão da sua versão recombinante em E. coli, e foi obtido uma grande quantidade de proteína em forma de IB. Com a finalidade de aumentar a quantidade de proteína na fração solúvel, a sequência codificadora para NMNAT de Plasmodium falciparum foi clonada em diferentes vectores de expressão, foi induzida a expressão da proteína recombinante em E. coli BL21(DE3) e foi analisada a solubilidade. A proteína fusão com maior solubilidade foi purificada e avaliada enzimáticamente. A adição da etiqueta MBP (proteína de união a maltosa) à PfNMNAT incrementou a solubilidade da proteína e permitiu obter uma proteína funcional com una alta pureza. espécie de planta.

Relationships between atypical sensory processing patterns, maladaptive behaviour and maternal stress in Spanish children with autism spectrum disorder.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated sensory processing in a sample of Spanish children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, the study aimed to explore (1) the prevalence and distribution of atypical sensory processing patterns, (2) the relationship between adaptive and maladaptive behaviour with atypical sensory processing and (3) the possible relationship between sensory subtype and maternal stress. METHODS: The short sensory profile 2 (Dunn 2014) and the vineland adaptive behavior scale (Sparrow et al. 1984) were administered to examine the sensory processing difficulties and maladaptive behaviours of 45 children with ASD aged 3 to 14; their mothers also completed the parenting stress index-short form (Abidin 1995). RESULTS: Atypical sensory features were found in 86.7% of the children; avoider and sensor being the two most common patterns. No significant relationship was found between atypical sensory processing and adaptive behaviour. However, the analysis showed a strong relationship between sensory processing and maladaptive behaviour. Both maladaptive behaviour and sensory processing difficulties correlated significantly with maternal stress although maternal stress was predicted only by the sensory variable, and in particular by the avoider pattern. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that sensory features in ASD may be driving the high prevalence of parental stress in carers. They also suggest that the effect on parental stress that has been attributed traditionally to maladaptive behaviours may be driven by sensory difficulties. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the development of interventions and the need to explore contextual and cultural variables as possible sources of variability.

VALORACIÓN DE ENERGÍA DIGESTIBLE DE LA GLICERINA CRUDA PROVENIENTE DE ACEITE DE PALMA -Elaeis guineensis- PARA CERDOS EN CRECIMIENTO EN FUNCIÓN DEL NIVEL DE ALMIDÓN DE MAÍZ EN LA DIETA / VALUATION OF DIGESTIBLE ENERGY OF CRUDE GLYCERIN FROM PALM OIL -Elaeis guineensis- FOR GROWING PIGS BASED ON DIETARY CORN STARCH LEVEL

Para determinar la energía digestible aparente (EDA) de la glicerina cruda (GC) proveniente del aceite de palma (Elaeis guineensis) en cerdos se realizaron dos experimentos (E). En E1 se determinó la EDA para GC con la técnica de la bolsa móvil de nailon (TBMN) utilizando ocho cerdos castrados con cánula duodenal. En E2 se determinaron la EDA y la energía metabolizable aparente (EMA) para GC, por el método convencional con indicador (MCI), con 10 cerdos castrados ubicados en jaulas metabólicas. En E1 y E2 se evaluaron, en un arreglo factorial 2 x 5, dos niveles de almidón de maíz (NA) en la dieta, 10% (NA10) y 12% (NA12), y cinco niveles de sustitución con GC (0%, 2,5%, 5,0%, 7,5% y 10%) en E1 en un diseño completo al azar y en E2 en un diseño de cuadrado latino. Para TBMN y MCI los datos se analizaron mediante regresión lineal múltiple y el metabolismo del nitrógeno en MCI como un diseño de cuadrado latino utilizando los módulos REG y GLM del paquete SAS. Por TBMN no hubo efectos (P > 0,05) del NA sobre la EDA de GC. La EDA de GC se calculó en 3.251 kcal/kg MS. La EDA de GC en MCI dependió de NA (P < 0,001) estimándose en 4.427,3 y 3.769,3 Kcal/kg MS para NA10 y NA12, respectivamente. Hubo interacción (P < 0,001) entre NA y GC para la cantidad de nitrógeno digestible, se redujo cuando GC aumentó en NA12 y aumentó en NA10. Otros parámetros del metabolismo nitrogenado no se vieron afectados (P > 0,05). Los resultados de EDA corregidos por NA con MCI mostraron correlación alta (R2 = 0,82) con TBMN. Con MCI se pudo establecer que el aumento en NA en la dieta reduce la EDA de GC.

To determine the apparent digestible energy (EDA) of crude glycerin (GC) from palm oil (Elaeis guineensis) in pigs two experiments (E) were performed. In E1, EDA was determined to GC, with the technique of mobile nylon bag (TBMN) using eight barrows with duodenal cannula. In E2, EDA, EMA to GC was determined by the conventional method with indicator (MCI) with 10 barrows placed in metabolic cages. In E1 and E2 were evaluated in 2 x 5 factorial arrangement, two levels of corn starch (NA) in the diet, 10 (NA10) and 12% (NA12), and five levels of replacement by GC (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5% and 10%), in E1 as a completely randomized design and in E2 as a Latin square design. For MCI and TBMN, data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and nitrogen metabolism in MCI as a Latin square design using the GLM and REG modules of SAS. By TBMN there was no effect (P > 0.05) in the NA on the EDA of GC. EDA of GC was calculated at 3251 kcal/kg DM. EDA of GC in the MCI depended NA (P < 0.001), estimated at 4427.3 and 3769.3 Kcal/kg MS for NA10 and NA12, respectively. Interaction (P < 0.001) between NA and GC for the amount of digestible nitrogen was observed, was reduced when GC increased by NA12 and increased by NA10. Other nitrogen metabolism parameters were not affected (P > 0.05). The results of EDA corrected by NA with MCI showed high correlation (R² = 0.82) with TBMN. By MCI was established that increased in NA reduced the EDA of GC.

Efecto del aceite esencial de orégano sobre el desempeño productivo de ponedoras y la estabilidad oxidativa de huevos enriquecidos con ácidos grasos poliinsaturados / Effect of oregano essential oil on the laying performance and oxidative stability of eggs enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids

Este estudio evaluó la inclusión de aceite esencial de orégano (AEO, Lippia origanoides Kunth) en dietas enriquecidas con ácidos grasos poliinsaturados (AGPI) sobre el desempeño productivo de ponedoras, el perfil lipídico y la estabilidad oxidativa de huevos en almacenamiento. Se distribuyeron 144 ponedoras en uno de cuatro tratamientos con seis replicas, con el objetivo de de evaluar el efecto del tipo de aceite usado en la dieta (palma o pescado) y la inclusión de AEO sobre las variables de producción, junto con el extracto etéreo, perfil de lípidos y concentración de malonaldehído (MDA), usando un diseño completamente al azar con arreglo factorial y medidas repetidas en el tiempo por los días de almacenamiento (0, 30 y 60 días a 4°C). Los resultados mostraron que el tipo de aceite y el AEO no afectaron el desempeño productivo de las ponedoras (P > 0,05). La concentración de AGPI se incrementó en 16,8% en dietas con aceite de pescado en las que el DHA (ácido docosahexaenoico) también aumentó en un 1,4% (P < 0,05), incrementando la concentración de MDA (malonaldehído) en el huevo (41,6 ng MDA/g d yema), mientras que la suplementación de AEO con 100 g/ton mejoró la estabilidad oxidativa durante el almacenamiento (31.1 ng MDA/g de yema). Durante el almacenamiento la concentración de MDA en la yema incremento con el tiempo alcanzando los 38 ng MDA/g de yema a los 60 días. El AEO mostró potencial como antioxidante natural en la dieta de las ponedoras mejorando la estabilidad oxidativa de los huevos almacenados a 4°C hasta por 60 días.

This study evaluated the inclusion of oregano essential oil (OEO, Lippia origanoides Kunth) in diets enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on productive performance of laying hens, lipid profile and oxidative stability of eggs during storage. 144 hens were distributed in one of four treatments with six replicates in order to evaluate the effect of the type of oil used in the diet (palm or fish) and the inclusion of OEO on the production variables, along with the ethereal extract, lipid profile and malonaldehyde concentration (MDA), using a completely randomized factorial design with the repeated measures of days of storage (0, 30 and 60 days at 4° C). Results show that the type of oil and the OEO did not affect productive performance of layers (P > 0.05). PUFA concentration increased in 16.8% in diets with fish oil in 16.8%, where the DHA also increased by 1.4% (P < 0.05), increasing the MDA concentration in egg (MDA 41.6 ng/g yolk), while supplementation of OEO at a level of 100 g/ton improved oxidative stability during storage (MDA 31.1 ng/g yolk). During storage the concentration of MDA in the yolk increased with time reaching 38 ng/g yolk at 60 days. The OEO showed potential as a natural antioxidant in the diet of layers hens improving the oxidative stability of eggs stored at 4°C up to 60 days.

Pastoralism in the drylands of Latin America: Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Peru. / Pastoralismo en zonas áridas de Latinoamérica: Argentina, Chile, México y Perú.

This article discusses various aspects of pastoralism in the Latin American countries with the largest dryland areas. The topics covered include: social, economic and institutional issues; grasslands and their carrying capacity; production systems and productivity rates; competition for forage resources between domestic livestock and wildlife; and the health status of livestock and wildlife. Most grasslands exhibit some degree of degradation. The percentage of offspring reaching weaning age is low: 47-66% of calves and 40-80% of lambs. Some pastoralists adopt patterns of transhumance. In the main, pastoralists experience a high poverty rate and have poor access to social services. For many pastoralists, wildlife is a source of food and by-products. Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Peru have animal health control agencies, are members of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and have signed the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. Pastoral systems subsist mainly on income unrelated to pastoral farming. The OIE recognises all four countries as free from infection with peste des petits ruminants virus, and from rinderpest and African horse sickness. It is difficult to predict the future of pastoralism in Latin America because the situation differs from country to country. For instance, pastoralism is more important in Peru than in Argentina, where it is a more marginal activity. In the future, lack of promotion and protection policies could lead to a decline in pastoralism or to an adverse environmental impact on drylands.

Les auteurs abordent les particularités du pastoralisme dans les quatre pays d'Amérique latine dotés des plus vastes étendues de terres arides du souscontinent ; ils examinent notamment les aspects sociaux, économiques et institutionnels du pastoralisme, les pâtures et leur capacité de charge, les systèmes de production et les indices de productivité, la concurrence entre le bétail et les animaux sauvages pour le prélèvement de fourrage et le statut sanitaire respectif des animaux d'élevage et de la faune sauvage. Les prairies dédiées au pastoralisme présentent dans leur majorité un certain degré de dégradation. Le taux de survie au sevrage fluctue entre 47 % et 66 % pour les veaux et entre 40 % et 80 % pour les agneaux. Certains pasteurs adoptent des schémas de transhumance. Les populations pastorales se caractérisent par un niveau élevé de pauvreté et un accès très limité aux services sociaux. Pour de nombreux pasteurs, la faune sauvage constitue une ressource alimentaire directe mais elle fournit aussi des produits dérivés. En Argentine, au Chili, au Mexique et au Pérou, des services gouvernementaux sont chargés du contrôle de la santé animale. Ces pays sont Membres de l'Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (OIE) et signataires de la Convention des Nations Unies sur la lutte contre la désertification. Les systèmes pastoraux subsistent essentiellement grâce à des revenus autres que ceux issus de la production. Ces territoires ont été reconnus par l'OIE comme étant indemnes d'infection par les virus de la peste des petits ruminants, de la peste bovine et de la peste équine. Il est difficile de prédire l'avenir du pastoralisme en Amérique latine, en raison de la diversité des situations rencontrées d'un pays à l'autre. Par exemple, l'activité pastorale est plus importante au Pérou qu'en Argentine où elle a un caractère marginal. L'absence de politiques de promotion et de protection spécifiques pourrait se traduire à l'avenir par un déclin du pastoralisme ou par un impact écologique négatif pour ces zones arides.

Se abordan matices del pastoralismo relativos a los países con mayor extensión de zonas áridas de Latinoamérica, concretamente, los aspectos sociales, económicos e institucionales, los pastizales y su receptividad, los sistemas de producción e índices de productividad, la competencia entre ganado doméstico y fauna silvestre por el recurso forrajero, y el estatus sanitario del ganado y de los animales silvestres. La mayor parte de los pastizales presenta algún grado de deterioro. El porcentaje de crías que llega al destete fluctúa entre el 47% y el 66% en bovinos y entre el 40% y el 80% en ovinos. Algunos pastoralistas adoptan patrones de trashumancia. Los pastores se caracterizan básicamente por un índice alto de pobreza y un escaso acceso a los servicios sociales. La fauna es un recurso alimentario y una fuente de subproductos para numerosos pastores. Argentina, Chile, México y Perú cuentan con organismos destinados al control de la sanidad animal, son miembros de la OIE y han suscrito la Convención de las Naciones Unidas de Lucha contra la Desertificación. Los sistemas pastoriles subsisten principalmente a partir de ingresos ajenos a su producción. La OIE reconoce a estos territorios como libres de infección por peste de los pequeños rumiantes, por peste bovina y por peste equina. Es difícil predecir el futuro del pastoralismo en Latinoamérica debido a las diferentes situaciones de cada país. Así, por ejemplo, en Perú, esta práctica tiene mayor importancia que en Argentina, donde es más marginal. La carencia de políticas de promoción y protección podría conducir en el futuro a una disminución de la actividad o a un impacto ecológico negativo en las zonas áridas.