The quinoa variety influences the nutritional and antioxidant profile rather than the geographic factors.

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is attracting worldwide attention due to its nutritional and biological properties. Nowadays, this pseudocereal is cultivated worldwide in different environmental conditions. This work evaluates the nutritional profile, polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity of five quinoa cultivars (Negra Collana, Chullpi Real, Salcedo Inia, Pasankalla and Kancolla) from Spain and from the Andean region, looking for the key factor of quinoa composition. Nutritional profile was similar for the same cultivar among the locations but, protein and iron contents were higher (p < 0.05) in Spanish seeds compared to the Andean ones. PCA and Pearson correlation coefficient reveal that the darkest quinoa cultivars, Negra and Pasankalla, had the best bioactive profile because the greater dietary fiber, polyphenol content, and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05), regardless of origin zone. Concluding, the genetic variability seems to have a higher influence than the geographic factors on the nutritional and antioxidant composition of quinoa.

Influence of age, gender and obesity on pressure discomfort threshold of the foot: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Foot pain is a highly prevalent health problem for which measures such as a pattern of Pressure Discomfort Threshold of the foot plantar surface can provide valuable information for orthosis design. This study aimed to describe such pattern as a tool for the assessment of painful conditions of the feet and to analyse how it modifies according to age, gender and obesity. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with participants allocated in: Group 1 people aged 20 to 35 years, Group 2 aged 50 to 65 years and Group 3 aged over 65. Pressure Discomfort Threshold on twelve points of the foot plantar surface was measured with an adapted manual dynamometer. Inferential analyses of the data were performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) considering foot areas, age group, gender and obesity. FINDINGS: 36 participants were analysed. The pattern of Pressure Discomfort Threshold for all individuals showed a significantly higher threshold on the heel and external foot (P < 0.001, η2 = 0.124) and was statistical significantly influenced by age (P < 0.001, η2 = 0.17), especially in participants aged over 65; by gender, with women having higher values (P < 0.001, η2 = 0.13), and by obesity (P < 0.001, η2 = 0.19). INTERPRETATION: A Pressure Discomfort Threshold pattern exists in the foot plantar surface. The characteristics of the discomfort pattern of the foot and its association with aging, gender and obesity may have considerable implications for orthosis and footwear design.

[Reliability and concurrent validity of the app Goniometer Pro vs Universal Goniometer in the determination of passive knee flexion]. / Fiabilidad y validez concurrente de la app Goniometer Pro vs goniómetro universal en la determinación de la flexión pasiva de rodilla.

BACKGROUND: Smartphones have become a fundamental part of our society, not only everyday, but also professional, since many applications have emerged for the health field. The objective of the study was to analyze the reliability and concurrent validity of an app for iPhone in relation to traditional measurement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A non-experimental, double-blind validation and descriptive study. On a sample of 21 subjects, four measurements of knee mobility were performed. Two using universal goniometer (GU) and two through the application Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) for IPhone. The X-ray was used as a reference measure of the knee flexion angle and was analyzed by a single evaluator who compared this result with that of the other evaluators. RESULTS: The difference between the average intra-group values was 3.148o (± 2.669o) for GU and 2.476o (± 2.638o) for G-Pro. The inter-group mean difference reached 5.45o. The Inter-observer reliability was 0.990 for GU and 0.993 for G-Pro; as for validity, the values obtained were 0.976 for GU and 0.992 for G-Pro. CONCLUSIONS: The G-Pro app is a reliable tool with a high accuracy to measure the knee flexion angle. Its results are slightly superior and more accurate to those of traditional instruments.

ANTECEDENTES: Los teléfonos inteligentes se han convertido en una parte fundamental de nuestra sociedad, no sólo cotidiana, sino también profesional, pues han surgido numerosas aplicaciones para el ámbito sanitario. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la fiabilidad y validez concurrente de una app para iPhone en relación con la goniometría tradicional. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio comparativo y descriptivo de validación no experimental a doble ciego. En una muestra de 21 sujetos se realizaron cuatro mediciones de movilidad de rodilla: dos mediante goniometría universal (GU) y dos mediante la aplicación Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) para iPhone. La radiografía se empleó como medida de referencia del ángulo de flexión de rodilla y fue analizada por un único evaluador que comparó este resultado con el de los otros evaluadores. RESULTADOS: La diferencia entre los valores medios intragrupos fue de 3.148o (± 2.669o) para GU y 2.476o (± 2.638o) para G-Pro. La diferencia de medias intergrupos alcanzó 5.45o. La fiabilidad interobservador fue de 0.990 para GU y 0.993 para G-Pro; en cuanto a la validez, los valores obtenidos fueron 0.976 para GU y 0.992 para G-Pro. CONCLUSIONES: La app G-Pro es una herramienta fiable y con una elevada exactitud para medir el ángulo de flexión de la rodilla. Sus resultados son ligeramente superiores y más precisos a los de la goniometría tradicional.

Fiabilidad y validez concurrente de la app Goniometer Pro vs goniómetro universal en la determinación de la flexión pasiva de rodilla / Reliability and concurrent validity of the app Goniometer Pro vs Universal Goniometer in the determination of passive knee flexion

Resumen: Antecedentes: Los teléfonos inteligentes se han convertido en una parte fundamental de nuestra sociedad, no sólo cotidiana, sino también profesional, pues han surgido numerosas aplicaciones para el ámbito sanitario. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la fiabilidad y validez concurrente de una app para iPhone en relación con la goniometría tradicional. Material y métodos: Estudio comparativo y descriptivo de validación no experimental a doble ciego. En una muestra de 21 sujetos se realizaron cuatro mediciones de movilidad de rodilla: dos mediante goniometría universal (GU) y dos mediante la aplicación Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) para iPhone. La radiografía se empleó como medida de referencia del ángulo de flexión de rodilla y fue analizada por un único evaluador que comparó este resultado con el de los otros evaluadores. Resultados: La diferencia entre los valores medios intragrupos fue de 3.148o (± 2.669o) para GU y 2.476o (± 2.638o) para G-Pro. La diferencia de medias intergrupos alcanzó 5.45o. La fiabilidad interobservador fue de 0.990 para GU y 0.993 para G-Pro; en cuanto a la validez, los valores obtenidos fueron 0.976 para GU y 0.992 para G-Pro. Conclusiones: La app G-Pro es una herramienta fiable y con una elevada exactitud para medir el ángulo de flexión de la rodilla. Sus resultados son ligeramente superiores y más precisos a los de la goniometría tradicional.

Abstract: Background: Smartphones have become a fundamental part of our society, not only everyday, but also professional, since many applications have emerged for the health field. The objective of the study was to analyze the reliability and concurrent validity of an app for iPhone in relation to traditional measurement. Material and methods: A non-experimental, double-blind validation and descriptive study. On a sample of 21 subjects, four measurements of knee mobility were performed. Two using universal goniometer (GU) and two through the application Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) for IPhone. The X-ray was used as a reference measure of the knee flexion angle and was analyzed by a single evaluator who compared this result with that of the other evaluators. Results: The difference between the average intra-group values was 3.148o (± 2.669o) for GU and 2.476o (± 2.638o) for G-Pro. The inter-group mean difference reached 5.45o. The Inter-observer reliability was 0.990 for GU and 0.993 for G-Pro; as for validity, the values obtained were 0.976 for GU and 0.992 for G-Pro. Conclusions: The G-Pro app is a reliable tool with a high accuracy to measure the knee flexion angle. Its results are slightly superior and more accurate to those of traditional instruments.

Determination of soluble dietary fibre content of Okara treated with high hydrostatic pressure and enzymes: a comparative evaluation of two methods (AOAC and HPLC-ELSD).

ABSTRACT: Okara is a promising by-product from soybean and a rich source of dietary fibre, chiefly insoluble (IDF). To increase its solubility and functionality, a treatment with high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) assisted by food grade enzymes -Ultraflo® L or Viscozyme® L- has been performed. To monitor the effectiveness, an analysis of dietary fibre, mainly the soluble fraction (SDF), was accomplished by the AOAC enzymatic-gravimetric method with dialysis followed by both, spectrophotometric methods and High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Evaporative Light Scattering Detector (HPLC-ELSD) analysis of the soluble fraction. A significant increase in SDF (≈1.5-times) to the expense of a decrease in IDF was shown and chromatograms revealed two peaks of 95 and 22 kDa. Thus, treated Okara possessed a more balanced and convenient ratio of soluble to insoluble dietary fibre, which could have health benefits as prebiotic. Inbuilt interferences of the official AOAC's method for dietary fibre were confirmed and the direct HPLC-ELSD approach was about twice more sensitive than spectrophotometric methods. Consequently, the direct HPLC-ELSD analysis of the supernatant is proposed as a cheaper, faster and reliable method. Combined HHP-treatments plus specific enzymes represent a promising alternative for the valorisation and preservation of agrofood by-products.

Autophagy-related proteins are functionally active in human spermatozoa and may be involved in the regulation of cell survival and motility.

Macroautophagy (hereafter autophagy) is an evolutionarily highly conserved cellular process that participates in the maintenance of intracellular homeostasis through the degradation of most long-lived proteins and entire organelles. Autophagy participates in some reproductive events; however, there are not reports regarding the role of autophagy in the regulation of sperm physiology. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate whether autophagy-related proteins are present and functionally active in human spermatozoa. Proteins related to autophagy/mitophagy process (LC3, Atg5, Atg16, Beclin 1, p62, m-TOR, AMPKα 1/2, and PINK1) were present in human spermatozoa. LC3 colocalized with p62 in the middle piece of the spermatozoa. Autophagy activation induced a significant increase in motility and a decrease in PINK1, TOM20 expression and caspase 3/7 activation. In contrast, autophagy inhibition resulted in decreased motility, viability, ATP and intracellular calcium concentration whereas PINK1, TOM20 expression, AMPK phosphorylation and caspase 3/7 activation were significantly increased. In conclusion our results show that autophagy related proteins and upstream regulators are present and functional in human spermatozoa. Modification of mitochondrial proteins expression after autophagy activation/inhibition may be indicating that a specialized form of autophagy named mitophagy may be regulating sperm function such as motility and viability and may be cooperating with apoptosis.

In vitro fermentability and prebiotic potential of soyabean Okara by human faecal microbiota.

At present, there is a huge interest in finding new prebiotics from agrofood industrial waste, such as the soyabean by-product Okara, rich in insoluble dietary fibre. A previous treatment of Okara with high hydrostatic pressure assisted by the food-grade enzyme Ultraflo ® L achieved a 58·2 % increment in its soluble dietary fibre (SDF) contents. Therefore, potential prebiotic effect of both treated and native Okara was assayed using 48 h, pH-controlled, anaerobic batch cultures inoculated with human faecal slurries, which simulate the human gut. Changes in faecal microbiota were evaluated using 16S rRNA-based fluorescence in situ hybridisation, whereas release of SCFA and lactic acid was assessed by HPLC. Both Okara samples exhibited potential prebiotic effects but Okara treated to maximise its SDF content showed higher SCFA plus lactic acid, better growth promotion of beneficial bacteria, including bifidobacteria after 4 and 48 h and lactobacilli after 4 h of fermentation, and a greater inhibition of potentially harmful bacterial groups such as clostridia and Bacteroides. Differences found between fructo-oligosaccharides and Okara substrates could be attributed to the great complexity of Okara's cell wall, which would need longer times to be fermented than other easily digested molecules, thus allowing an extended potential prebiotic effect. These results support an in vitro potential prebiotic effect of Okara.

The autophagy-related protein LC3 is processed in stallion spermatozoa during short-and long-term storage and the related stressful conditions.

Use of cooled and frozen semen is becoming increasingly prevalent in the equine industry. However, these procedures cause harmful effects in the sperm cell resulting in reduced cell lifespan and fertility rates. Apoptosis and necrosis-related events are increased during semen cryopreservation. However, a third type of cell death, named autophagy, has not been studied during equine semen storage. Light chain (LC)3 protein is a key component of the autophagy pathway. Under autophagy activation, LC3-I is lipidated and converted to LC3-II. The ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I is widely used as a marker of autophagy activation. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether LC3 is processed during cooling, freezing and the stressful conditions associated with these technologies. A secondary objective was to determine if LC3 processing can be modulated and if that may improve the quality of cryopreserved semen. LC3 processing was studied by Western blot with a specific antibody that recognized both LC3-I and LC3-II. Viability was assessed by flow cytometry. Modulation of LC3-I to LC3-II was studied with known autophagy activators (STF-62247 and rapamycin) or inhibitors (chloroquine and 3-MA) used in somatic cells. The results showed that conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II increased significantly during cooling at 4°C, freezing/thawing and each of the stressful conditions tested (UV radiation, oxidative stress, osmotic stress and changes in temperature). STF-62247 and rapamycin increased the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio and decreased the viability of equine sperm, whereas chloroquine and 3-MA inhibited LC3 processing and maintained the percentage of viable cells after 2 h of incubation at 37°C. Finally, refrigeration at 4°C for 96 h and freezing at -196°C in the presence of chloroquine and 3-MA resulted in higher percentages of viable cells. In conclusion, results showed that an 'autophagy-like' mechanism may be involved in the regulation of sperm viability during equine semen cryopreservation. Modulation of autophagy during these reproductive technologies may result in an improvement of semen quality and therefore in higher fertility rates.

Long-term effects of graduated compression stockings on cardiorespiratory performance.

The use of graduated compression stockings (GCS) in sport has been increasing in the last years due to their potential positive effects for athletes. However, there is little evidence to support whether these types of garments actually improve cardiorespiratory performance. The aim of this study was to examine the cardiorespiratory responses of GCS during running after three weeks of regular use. Twenty recreational runners performed three tests on different days: test 1) - a 5-min maximal effort run in order to determine the participants' maximal aerobic speed; and tests 2) and 3) - a fatigue running test of 30 minutes at 80% of their maximal aerobic speed with either GCS or PLACEBO stockings at random. Cardiorespiratory parameters (minute ventilation, heart rate, relative oxygen consumption, relative carbon dioxide production, ventilatory equivalents for oxygen and carbon dioxide, and oxygen pulse) were measured. Before each test in the laboratory, the participants trained with the randomly assigned stockings (GCS or PLACEBO) for three weeks. No significant differences between GCS and PLACEBO were found in any of the cardiorespiratory parameters. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence that running with GCS for three weeks does not influence cardiorespiratory parameters in recreational runners.

Effects of graduated compression stockings on skin temperature after running.

High skin temperatures reduce the thermal gradient between the core and the skin and they can lead to a reduction in performance and increased risk of injury. Graduated compression stockings have become popular among runners in the last years and their use may influence the athlete's thermoregulation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of graduated compression stockings on skin temperature during running in a moderate indoor environment. Forty-four runners performed two running tests lasting 30min (10min of warm-up and 20min at 75% of their maximal aerobic speed) with and without graduated compressive stockings. Skin temperature was measured in 12 regions of interest on the lower limb by infrared thermography before and after running. Heart rate and perception of fatigue were assessed during the last minute of the running test. Compression stockings resulted in greater increase of temperature (p=0.002 and ES=2.2, 95% CI [0.11-0.45°C]) not only in the body regions in contact (tibialis anterior, ankle anterior and gastrocnemius) but also in the body regions that were not in contact with the garment (vastus lateralis, abductor and semitendinosus). No differences were observed between conditions in heart rate and perception of fatigue (p>0.05 and ES<0.8). In conclusion, running with graduated compression stockings produces a greater increase of skin temperature without modifying the athlete's heart rate and perception of fatigue.

Effect of 3 Weeks Use of Compression Garments on Stride and Impact Shock during a Fatiguing Run.

Excessive and prolonged exposure to impact acceleration during running is associated with increased injury rate. Acute use of compressive garments has been speculated to improve attenuation. However, it is unknown how longer interventions of compressive garments influence attenuation in running. 40 runners trained with compressive and placebo stockings for 3 weeks. Perception of comfort, stride parameters (rate, length) and impact acceleration (head and tibial peak acceleration, magnitude, acceleration rate and attenuation) were measured every 5 min during a fatigue run (30 min at 80% of the individual's maximal aerobic speed). Compressive stockings reduced tibial peak acceleration and magnitude compared to placebo stockings at every minute (p<0.05) except for the initial measurement (p>0.05). Moreover, compressive stockings led to a lower rate of increase in tibial peak acceleration (14%, p<0.005) and magnitude (16%, p<0.001) as a result of the development of fatigue compared to placebo stockings (24% and 26% increase, p=0.014 and p=0.003, respectively). Similar perception of comfort was reported for both garments. Training with compressive stockings for 3 weeks reduced impact acceleration and the rate of increase in acceleration compared to placebo stockings. These findings suggest that compressive stockings may play a protective role by reducing impact accelerations during running.

[Prebiotics: concept, properties and beneficial effects]. / Prebiotics: concept, properties and beneficial effects.

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients (oligosaccharides) that reach the colon and are used as substrate by microorganisms producing energy, metabolites and micronutrients used for the host; in addition they also stimulate the selective growth of certain beneficial species (mainly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) in the intestinal microbiota. In this article, a multidisciplinary approach to understand the concept of prebiotic carbohydrates, their properties and beneficial effects in humans has been carried out. Definitions of prebiotics, reported by relevant international organizations and researchers, are described. A comprehensive description of accepted prebiotics having strong scientific evidence of their beneficial properties in humans (inulin-type fructans, FOS, GOS, lactulose and human milk oligosaccharides) is reported. Emerging prebiotics and those which are in the early stages of study have also included in this study. Taken into account that the chemical structure greatly influences carbohydrates prebiotic properties, the analytical techniques used for their analysis and characterization are discussed. In vitro and in vivo models used to evaluate the gastrointestinal digestion, absorption resistance and fermentability in the colon of prebiotics as well as major criteria to design robust intervention trials in humans are described. Finally, a comprehensive summary of the beneficial effects of prebiotics for health at systemic and intestinal levels is reported. The research effort on prebiotics has been intensive in last decades and has demonstrated that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary in order to claim their health benefits.

Los prebióticos son ingredientes alimentarios no digeribles (oligosacáridos) que llegan al colon y sirven de sustrato a los microorganismos, originando energía, metabolitos y micronutrientes utilizados por el hospedador y estimulando el crecimiento selectivo de determinadas especies beneficiosas (principalmente, bifidobacterias y lactobacilos) de la microbiota intestinal. En este artículo se realiza una revisión sobre los carbohidratos prebióticos desde diferentes perspectivas, comenzando por las definiciones de prebióticos formuladas a lo largo de los últimos treinta años por científicos y diferentes organismos internacionales. Se realiza una descripción detallada de los prebióticos aceptados, como tales, que presentan propiedades beneficiosas fundamentadas en estudios llevados a cabo en humanos (fructanos tipo inulina y FOS; GOS, lactulosa y oligosacáridos de leche humana), los que se consideran prebióticos emergentes y aquellos que se encuentran en fases iniciales de estudio. Además y teniendo en cuenta que la estructura química de los carbohidratos influye notablemente en sus propiedades prebióticas, se describen las técnicas más utilizadas para su análisis y caracterización. Asimismo, se detallan los modelos in vitro e in vivo más utilizados para estudiar la resistencia de los prebióticos a la digestión y la absorción gastrointestinal, la fermentación de los prebióticos en el colon así como los criterios a tener en cuenta para llevar a cabo ensayos de intervención en humanos. Por último se realiza una amplia descripción de los efectos beneficiosos de los prebióticos para la salud a nivel intestinal y sistémico. Como conclusión, podría decirse que la investigación existente hasta el momento, sobre prebióticos, es extensa y pone de manifiesto que es necesario considerar un gran número de factores para poder atribuir alegaciones de salud a un prebiótico.

Prebióticos; concepto, propiedades y efectos beneficiosos / Prebiotics: concept, properties and beneficial effects

Los prebióticos son ingredientes alimentarios no digeribles (oligosacáridos) que llegan al colon y sirven de sustrato a los microorganismos, originando energía, metabolitos y micronutrientes utilizados por el hospedador y estimulando el crecimiento selectivo de determinadas especies beneficiosas (principalmente, bifidobacterias y lactobacilos) de la microbiota intestinal. En este artículo se realiza una revisión sobre los carbohidratos prebió- ticos desde diferentes perspectivas, comenzando por las definiciones de prebióticos formuladas a lo largo de los últimos treinta años por científicos y diferentes organismos internacionales. Se realiza una descripción detallada de los prebióticos aceptados, como tales, que presentan propiedades beneficiosas fundamentadas en estudios llevados a cabo en humanos (fructanos tipo inulina y FOS; GOS, lactulosa y oligosacáridos de leche humana), los que se consideran prebióticos emergentes y aquellos que se encuentran en fases iniciales de estudio. Además y teniendo en cuenta que la estructura química de los carbohidratos influye notablemente en sus propiedades prebióticas, se describen las técnicas más utilizadas para su análisis y caracterización. Asimismo, se detallan los modelos in vitro e in vivo más utilizados para estudiar la resistencia de los prebióticos a la digestión y la absorción gastrointestinal, la fermentación de los prebióticos en el colon así como los criterios a tener en cuenta para llevar a cabo ensayos de intervención en humanos. Por último se realiza una amplia descripción de los efectos beneficiosos de los prebióticos para la salud a nivel intestinal y sistémico. Como conclusión, podría decirse que la investigación existente hasta el momento, sobre prebióticos, es extensa y pone de manifiesto que es necesario considerar un gran número de factores para poder atribuir alegaciones de salud a un prebiótico (AU)

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients (oligosaccharides) that reach the colon and are used as substrate by microorganisms producing energy, metabolites and micronutrients used for the host; in addition they also stimulate the selective growth of certain beneficial species (mainly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) in the intestinal microbiota. In this article, a multidisciplinary approach to understand the concept of prebiotic carbohydrates, their properties and beneficial effects in humans has been carried out. Definitions of prebiotics, reported by relevant international organizations and researchers, are described. A comprehensive description of accepted prebiotics having strong scientific evidence of their beneficial properties in humans (inulin-type fructans, FOS, GOS, lactulose and human milk oligosaccharides) is reported. Emerging prebiotics and those which are in the early stages of study have also included in this study. Taken into account that the chemical structure greatly influences carbohydrates prebiotic properties, the analytical techniques used for their analysis and characterization are discussed. In vitro and in vivo models used to evaluate the gastrointestinal digestion, absorption resistance and fermentability in the colon of prebiotics as well as major criteria to design robust intervention trials in humans are described. Finally, a comprehensive summary of the beneficial effects of prebiotics for health at systemic and intestinal levels is reported. The research effort on prebiotics has been intensive in last decades and has demonstrated that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary in order to claim their health benefits (AU)

Caspase activation, hydrogen peroxide production and Akt dephosphorylation occur during stallion sperm senescence.

To investigate the mechanisms inducing sperm death after ejaculation, stallion ejaculates were incubated in BWW media during 6 h at 37°C. At the beginning of the incubation period and after 1, 2, 4 and 6 h sperm motility and kinematics (CASA), mitochondrial membrane potential and membrane permeability and integrity were evaluated (flow cytometry). Also, at the same time intervals, active caspase 3, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion (flow cytometry) and Akt phosphorylation (flow cytometry) were evaluated. Major decreases in sperm function occurred after 6 h of incubation, although after 1 h decrease in the percentages of motile and progressive motile sperm occurred. The decrease observed in sperm functionality after 6 h of incubation was accompanied by a significant increase in the production of hydrogen peroxide and the greatest increase in caspase 3 activity. Additionally, the percentage of phosphorylated Akt reached a minimum after 6 h of incubation. These results provide evidences that sperm death during in vitro incubation is largely an apoptotic phenomena, probably stimulated by endogenous production of hydrogen peroxide and the lack of prosurvival factors maintaining Akt in a phosphorylated status. Disclosing molecular mechanisms leading to sperm death may help to develop new strategies for stallion sperm conservation.

Identification of apoptotic bodies in equine semen.

Apoptosis in the testis is required to ensure an efficient spermatogenesis. However, sometimes, defective germ cells that are marked for elimination during this process escape elimination in the testes, giving rise to ejaculates with increased percentages of abnormal and apoptotic spermatozoa and a high percentage of apoptotic bodies. Apoptosis markers in the ejaculate have been associated with low fertility, either in animals or humans. Therefore, the goal of this study was to investigate whether fresh equine semen contains apoptotic bodies [initially named Merocyanine 540 (M540) bodies] and to study the relationship between the quantity of these bodies and cell concentration, the volume of ejaculate, viability and motility. Moreover, we also studied whether the presence apoptotic bodies in fresh semen was related to the resistance of the stallion spermatozoa to being incubated at 37 °C or being frozen and thawed. Fresh equine semen was stained with fluorescent dyes such as M540 and Annexin-V. Active Caspase 3 was studied in fresh semen through Western blotting and immunofluorescence with a specific antibody. Sperm kinematics was assessed in fresh, incubated and thawed samples using computer-assisted semen analysis, and viability was evaluated with the LIVE/DEAD Sperm Viability Kit. Overall, our results demonstrate for the first time the presence of apoptotic bodies in equine semen. The quantity of apoptotic bodies was highly variable among stallions and was positively correlated with Caspase 3 activity in fresh samples and negatively correlated with the viability and motility of stallion spermatozoa after the cryopreservation process.

During cooled storage the extender influences processed autophagy marker light chain 3 (LC3B) of stallion spermatozoa.

To investigate the role of the processed autophagy marker light chain 3 (LC3B) protein in sperm survival in stallion semen processing during cooled storage, split ejaculates were diluted in two different extenders, KMT and INRA 96, and LC3B processing and sperm quality evaluated during incubation at 5°C for five days. After 3 days of incubation there was a drop in total motility in both extenders, although the percentage of progressive motile sperm was greater (P<0.05) in samples extended in INRA96. On Day 5 of cooled storage all sperm parameters decreased significantly independent of the extender, however, samples extended in INRA 96 maintained motility values while those extended in KMT had a further decrease in motility compared with data collected on Day 3 of incubation. The percentage of live sperm decreased over the time of incubation, but only in samples incubated in KMT. The extender had a marked effect in LC3B processing during cooled storage. Spermatozoa maintained in KMT extender did not exhibit LC3B processing, while in spermatozoa incubated in INRA96 there was an increase (P<0.01) in LC3B processing after 5 days of cooled storage. Stallion spermatozoa experience LC3B turnover during cooled storage, however, the extent depends on the extender used. Apparently LC3B turnover is associated with enhanced survival.

Low plasma fibrinogen levels and blood product transfusion in liver transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Risk of bleeding in liver transplantation is determined by surgical technique, preoperative hemoglobin and antifibrinolitic therapy. We hypothesized that keeping these confounders factors identical, preoperative plasma fibrinogen level of ≤2 g/L influenced on blood product requirements. METHODS: Adult patients underwent orthotropic liver transplantation (LT) during the period between January 1998 and December 2009. Cases were selected according to a propensity matching analysis meeting the following criteria: surgical vena cava preservation, tranexamic acid administration and hemoglobin range between 90 to 120 g/L. Intraoperative management was protocolized. The main variable was the percentage of patients that did not require red blood cells (RBC's). RESULTS: Six hundred sixty-four patients with LT, 208 excluded, 266 who cannot be matched, the analysis was performed on 190 patients. Two cohorts: Low fibrinogen (≤2 g/L) (61 cases) and standard fibrinogen (>2 g/L) (129 cases) were analyzed. Preoperative platelet count (73.5±52 vs. 104±65; 103/mm3) was different in contrast to the hemoglobin (104.2±8.6 vs. 105.6±8.3; g/L). Use of RBC's resulted significantly higher in the low fibrinogen group (median, 3 vs. 2). The number of patients with no blood product requirements was fewer in the low fibrinogen group (8 cases, 13% vs. 45 cases, 35%). The critical level of plasma fibrinogen (1 g/L) was reached after graft reperfusion in 7 cases (5.5%) in the standard fibrinogen group vs. 24 cases (39%) in the low fibrinogen group. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that preoperative plasma fibrinogen level of ≤2 g/L increases requirements for blood products during the surgical procedure of liver transplantation.

Características de los pacientes con hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica crónica atendidos en una consulta específica de hipertensión pulmonar / No disponible

La hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica crónica (HPTEC) es una complicación a largo plazo de la embolia pulmonar sintomática, con una incidencia acumulada del 1-5% en los 2 años siguientes al episodio. Además, alrededor del 40% de los casos tiene su origen en un tromboembolismo venoso asintomático. En estos casos se recomienda la administración de anticoagulación oral a largo plazo. No obstante, hay que tener en cuenta que el único tratamiento curativo es la tromboendarterectomía. Para los pacientes no candidatos a cirugía, con malos resultados tras la misma, o como puente antes de la intervención, está indicado el tratamiento médico. El fármaco más estudiado en esta enfermedad es el bosentán, que ha demostrado que mejora significativamente la resistencia vascular pulmonar y el índice cardíaco. En este artículo se analizan los diferentes tipos de tratamiento disponibles en la actualidad, mediante el análisis de seis casos de HPTEC atendidos en una consulta específica durante un periodo de 2 años (AU)

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a long-term complication of symptomatic pulmonary embolism, with an incidence of 1-5% in the two years following the episode. In addition, about 40% of cases stems from asymptomatic venous thromboembolism. In these cases we recommend the administration of long-term oral anticoagulation. However, we must bear in mind that the only curative treatment is thromboendarterectomy. For patients who are not candidates for surgery, with poor results after the same, or as a bridge before surgery, medical treatment is indicated. The most studied drug in this disease is the bosentan, which has shown to significantly improve pulmonary vascular resistance and cardiac index. This article discusses the different types of treatment available today, through the analysis of six cases of CTEPH treated in a separate consultation for a period of two years (AU)

Sex sorting increases the permeability of the membrane of stallion spermatozoa.

At present, the only repeatable means of selecting the sex of offspring is the Beltsville semen sorting technology using flow cytometry (FC). This technology has reached commercial status in the bovine industry and substantial advances have occurred recently in swine and ovine species. In the equine species, however, the technology is not as well developed. To better understand the changes induced in stallion spermatozoa during the sorting procedure, pooled sperm samples were sorted: sperm motility and kinematics were assessed using computer assisted sperm analysis, sperm membrane integrity was assessed using the YoPro-1 assay, while plasmalemmal stability and lipid architecture were assessed using Merocyanine 540/SYTOX green and Annexin-V, respectively. Lipid peroxidation was also investigated with the probe Bodipy(581/591)-C11. All assays were performed shortly after collection, after incubation and after sex sorting using FC. In order to characterize potential molecular mechanisms implicated in sperm damage, an apoptosis protein antibody dot plot array analysis was performed before and after sorting. While the percentage of total motile sperm remained unchanged, sex sorting reduced the percentages of progressive motile spermatozoa and of rapid spermatozoa as well as curvilinear velocity (VCL). Sperm membranes responded to sorting with an increase in the percentage of YoPro-1 positive cells, suggesting the sorted spermatozoa had a reduced energy status that was confirmed by measuring intracellular ATP content.

An hourly PM10 diagnosis model for the Bilbao metropolitan area using a linear regression methodology.

There is extensive evidence of the negative impacts on health linked to the rise of the regional background of particulate matter (PM) 10 levels. These levels are often increased over urban areas becoming one of the main air pollution concerns. This is the case on the Bilbao metropolitan area, Spain. This study describes a data-driven model to diagnose PM10 levels in Bilbao at hourly intervals. The model is built with a training period of 7-year historical data covering different urban environments (inland, city centre and coastal sites). The explanatory variables are quantitative-log [NO2], temperature, short-wave incoming radiation, wind speed and direction, specific humidity, hour and vehicle intensity-and qualitative-working days/weekends, season (winter/summer), the hour (from 00 to 23 UTC) and precipitation/no precipitation. Three different linear regression models are compared: simple linear regression; linear regression with interaction terms (INT); and linear regression with interaction terms following the Sawa's Bayesian Information Criteria (INT-BIC). Each type of model is calculated selecting two different periods: the training (it consists of 6 years) and the testing dataset (it consists of 1 year). The results of each type of model show that the INT-BIC-based model (R(2) = 0.42) is the best. Results were R of 0.65, 0.63 and 0.60 for the city centre, inland and coastal sites, respectively, a level of confidence similar to the state-of-the art methodology. The related error calculated for longer time intervals (monthly or seasonal means) diminished significantly (R of 0.75-0.80 for monthly means and R of 0.80 to 0.98 at seasonally means) with respect to shorter periods.