Trace metals distribution between the surface waters of the Gulf of Cadiz and the Alboran Sea.

This study was conducted to address the changes in the surface distribution of trace metals (cobalt, copper, iron, cadmium, nickel, zinc, lead and molybdenum) as they are advected from the Gulf of Cadiz to the Alboran Sea, through the Strait of Gibraltar (south Iberian Peninsula), regions of great ecosystemic importance. Trace metals concentrations were measured in samples collected during two oceanographic cruises, together with the main factors affecting their spatial distribution and temporal variability (i.e., wind and surface currents). Several rivers, the main source of trace metals in this region, flow into the Gulf of Cadiz which is connected with the Alboran Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar by the general circulation pattern. The surface circulation pattern leads to an offshore-eastward gradient that is highly influenced by wind variability. An increase in vertical turbulence induced by the winds or the tidal cycle causes the dilution of trace metals' concentration by mixing rich-metal superficial waters with poor-metal subsurface waters. Additionally, along the eastward displacement of surface waters, several water retention zones have been described (Trafalgar, Camarinal, the Coastal Cyclonic Gyre) that imply an increase in trace metals concentration close to the coast. In addition, our results suggest that the coastal edges of the Strait of Gibraltar also act as a source of certain metals to the Alboran Sea, probably due to the industries in the proximity areas.

Types and Distribution of Bioactive Polyunsaturated Aldehydes in a Gradient from Mesotrophic to Oligotrophic Waters in the Alborán Sea (Western Mediterranean).

Polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUAs) are bioactive molecules suggested as chemical defenses and infochemicals. In marine coastal habitats, diatoms reach high PUA production levels during bloom episodes. Two fractions of PUA can usually be analyzed: pPUA obtained via artificial breakage of collected phytoplankton cells and dissolved PUA already released to the environment (dPUA). In nature, resource supply arises as a main environmental controlling factor of PUA production. In this work, we monitored the vertical distribution and daily variation of pPUA associated with large-size phytoplankton and dPUA, at three sites located in the Alborán Sea from mesotrophic to oligotrophic waters. The results corroborate the presence of large-size PUA producers in oligotrophic and mesotrophic waters with a significant (58%-85%) diatom biomass. In addition to diatoms, significant correlations between pPUA production and dinoflagellate and silicoflagellate abundance were observed. 2E,4E/Z-Heptadienal was the most abundant aldehyde at the three sites with higher values (17.1 fg·cell-1) at the most oligotrophic site. 2E,4E/Z-Decadienal was the least abundant aldehyde, decreasing toward the oligotrophic site. For the first time, we describe the daily fluctuation of pPUA attributable to cellular physiological state and not exclusively to taxonomical composition. Our results demonstrate the persistence of threshold levels of dPUA deep in the water column, as well as the different chromatographic profiles of dPUA compared with pPUA. We propose different isomerization processes that alter the chemical structure of the released PUAs with unknown effects on their stability, biological function, and potential bioactivity.

Factores asociados a la hepatitis C en pacientes dializados / Factors associated with hepatitis C in dialysed patients

Introducción: en pacientes dializados se ha observado, desde los comienzos de la diálisis como tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal, una alta incidencia de hepatitis. En hemodiálisis se observa una prevalencia del 13 por ciento, con una alta variabilidad (del uno al 70 por ciento). Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de hepatitis C y sus factores asociados en los pacientes dializados. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, de corte transversal; el universo de estudio estuvo constituido por los 169 pacientes que estaban bajo tratamiento dialítico. Las variables estudiadas fueron la edad, el sexo, el tiempo de tratamiento dialítico, los antecedentes de trasplante renal y el método dialítico. Resultados: se observó una prevalencia del 36,7 por ciento entre los pacientes estudiados. En cuanto al sexo el masculino (37,5 por ciento) fue el más afectado y por grupos de edades el de 25 a 34 años (55,6 por ciento). De 91,3 por cienhto fue la prevalencia entre los pacientes con más de tres años de tratamiento dialítico, de 78,6 por ciento entre los que refirieron antecedentes de trasplante renal y de 38,7 por ciento en el caso de los pacientes que recibían hemodiálisis como tratamiento sustitutivo renal. Conclusiones: el tiempo de tratamiento en hemodiálisis representó el factor de mayor asociación a la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C en pacientes dializados(AU)

Assessment of the SWAT model to simulate a watershed with limited available data in the Pampas region, Argentina.

Argentina has been among the world leaders in the production and export of agricultural products since the 1990s. The Carcarañá River Lower Basin (CRLB), a cropland of the Pampas region supplied by extensive rainfall, is located in an area with few streamgauging and other hydrologic/water-quality stations. Therefore, limited hydrologic data are available resulting in limited water-resources assessment. This work explores the application of Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to the CRLB in the Santa Fe province of the Pampas region. The analysis of field and remote-sensing data characterizing hydrology, water quality, soil types, land use/land cover, management practices, and crop yield, guarantee a comprehensive SWAT modeling approach. A combined manual and automated calibration and validation process incorporating sensitivity and uncertainty analysis is performed using information concerning interior watershed processes. Eleven N/P fertilizer rates are selected to simulate the impact of N fertilizer on crop yield, plant uptake, as well as runoff and leaching losses. Different indices (partial factor productivity, agronomic efficiency, apparent crop recovery efficiency of applied nutrient, internal utilization efficiency, and physiological efficiency) are considered to assess nitrogen-use efficiency. The overall quality of the fit is satisfactory considering the input data limitations. This work provides, for the first time in Argentina, a reliable tool to simulate yield response to soil quality and water availability capable to meet defined environmental targets to support decision making on planning public policies and private activities on the Pampas region.

First report of multiple anthelmintic resistance in nematodes of sheep in Colombia.

This study aimed to report the presence of parasites resistant to the most used anthelmintic drugs in sheep in Colombia. Four farms (denominated farm 1, 2, 3 and 4) were selected where the animals were not treated with anthelmintics for two months before the trial. Animals with faecal egg count (FEC) above 150 and of different ages were allocated into six groups, each consisting of at least 5 animals. The drugs and dosages used were: ivermectin 1% (0.2 mg/kg), albendazole 25% (5 mg/kg), fenbendazole 10% (5 mg/kg), levamisole 10% (5 mg/kg), and moxidectin 1% (0.2 mg/kg). Anthelmintic efficacy was determined by the FEC reduction test (FECRT) with a second sampling 14 days post-treatment. The efficacy of albendazole and fenbendazole at farm 1 was above 95%, which was different from the others farms. The FECRT indicated the presence of multidrug resistance in the other farms where no tested drugs showed activity higher than 79% (albendazole: 0 to 55%, fenbendazole: 51.4 to 76.6%, ivermectin: 67.3 to 93.1%, levamisole: 0 to 78.1%, and moxidectin: 49.2 to 64.1%).Haemonchus contortus was the predominant (96%) species, followed by a small presence of Trichostrongylus sp. (3%) andCooperia sp. (1%). Therefore, we report for the first time the existence of multiple anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in Colombia.

A novel cis-acting element in the GmERF3 promoter contributes to inducible gene expression in soybean and tobacco after wounding.

KEY MESSAGE: Using in silico and functional analyses, we cloned and validated the expression profile of an inducible soybean promoter (GmERF3) along with its novel wound-induced and delayed expression (WIDE) element. Promoters and their contributing promoter elements are the main regulators of gene expression at the transcriptional level. Although the Ethylene Response Factor (ERF) gene family is one of the most well-studied stress-responsive gene families in plants, their promoter regions have received little attention. In this study, we investigated the expression patterns driven by the soybean (Glycine max) GmERF3 promoter and its cis-acting elements in soybean and tobacco. Transcriptomic data revealed that the native GmERF3 gene was differentially expressed in organs and tissues of plants. In transgenic soybeans containing a 1.3 kb GmERF3 promoter fused to the green fluorescent protein (gfp) gene, organ- and tissue-specificity was observed in untreated plants while mechanical wounding led to induction of GFP expression. Further in silico and in planta analyses of the GmERF3 promoter sequence in soybean revealed different cis-acting elements, including a novel cis-acting element, which contributed to increased expression, 1-2 days after mechanical wounding. We have named this DNA motif the wound-induced and delayed expression element (GGATTCAAGTTTAACC). A synthetic promoter containing a tetrameric repeat of this element showed high but late wound-induced GFP expression in leaves of transgenic tobacco. Our study expands the toolbox of inducible promoters and promoter elements for potential use in basic and applied research.

Potential polyunsaturated aldehydes in the Strait of Gibraltar under two tidal regimes.

Diatoms, a major component of the large-sized phytoplankton, are able to produce and release polyunsaturated aldehydes after cell disruption (potential PUAs or pPUA). These organisms are dominant in the large phytoplankton fraction (>10 µm) in the Strait of Gibraltar, the only connection between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In this area, the hydrodynamics exerts a strong control on the composition and physiological state of the phytoplankton. This environment offers a great opportunity to analyze and compare the little known distribution of larger sized PUA producers in nature and, moreover, to study how environmental variables could affect the ranges and potential distribution of these compounds. Our results showed that, at both tidal regimes studied (Spring and Neap tides), diatoms in the Strait of Gibraltar are able to produce three aldehydes: Heptadienal, Octadienal and Decadienal, with a significant dominance of Decadienal production. The PUA released by mechanical cell disruption of large-sized collected cells (pPUA) ranged from 0.01 to 12.3 pmol from cells in 1 L, and from 0.1 to 9.8 fmol cell⁻¹. Tidal regime affected the abundance, distribution and the level of physiological stress of diatoms in the Strait. During Spring tides, diatoms were more abundant, usually grouped nearer the coastal basin and showed less physiological stress than during Neap tides. Our results suggest a significant general increase in the pPUA productivity with increasing physiological stress for the cell also significantly associated to low nitrate availability.

Identification and validation of promoters and cis-acting regulatory elements.

Studies of promoters that largely regulate gene expression at the transcriptional level are crucial for improving our basic understanding of gene regulation and will expand the toolbox of available promoters for use in plant biotechnology. In this review, we present a comprehensive analysis of promoters and their underlying mechanisms in transcriptional regulation, including epigenetic marks and chromatin-based regulation. Large-scale prediction of promoter sequences and their contributing cis-acting elements has become routine due to recent advances in transcriptomic technologies and genome sequencing of several plants. However, predicted regulatory sequences may or may not be functional and demonstration of the contribution of the element to promoter activity is essential for confirmation of regulatory sequences. Synthetic promoters and introns provide useful approaches for functional validation of promoter sequences. The development and improvement of gene expression tools for rapid, efficient, predictable, and high-throughput analysis of promoter components will be critical for confirmation of the functional regulatory element sequences identified through transcriptomic and genomic analyses.

Termite Resistance of Thermally-Modified Dendrocalamus asper (Schultes f.) Backer ex Heyne.

The effects of thermal modification on the resistance of Dendrocalamus asper against Microcerotermes losbañosensis were investigated after exposure to virgin coconut oil at 140-200 °C for 30-120 min. The results showed that heat treatment significantly improved bamboo's resistance to termites based on mass losses and visual observations. The enhancement was highest at 200 °C. Prolonged treatment had a positive effect on the resistance at lower temperatures only.

Proporcionalidad corporal de estudiantes cubanos de danza clásica, moderna y folclórica / Body proportionality of classic, modern and folkloric dance students from Cuba

Las características de proporcionalidad ósea y muscular definen el nivel de belleza escénica de la figura del bailarín de ballet o danza clásica (DC). Un bailarín desproporcionado posee un estigma corporal que limita sus posibilidades de desarrollo artístico en el ámbito cubano de la danza. La belleza proporcional del bailarín de DC, se valora cualitativamente de manera diferente en relación a la Danza Moderna y Folclórica (DMF).El objetivo de este estudio, es comparar la proporcionalidad de estudiantes de nivel avanzado de DC respecto a los de DMF. Se analizó, etnográfica y antropométricamente, a estudiantes cubanos de la Escuela Nacional de Ballet (ENB) y de la Escuela Nacional de Danza Moderna y Folclórica (ENDMF) mediante un protocolo de 15 variables antropométricas para calcular la proporcionalidad utilizando la estrategia del modelo “Phantom” de Ross y Wilson (1974), modificando los valores originales del indicador “Z-score” por los datos representativos de los bailarines elites de la compañía Ballet Nacional de Cuba (BNC).Los resultados obtenidos en las comparaciones entre los diferentes grupos de bailarines de uno u otro sexo, registraron diferencias significativas en la mayoría de las variables del perfil de proporcionalidad. El patrón de proporcionalidad de los estudiantes de DC de uno u otro sexo, se caracterizó por extremidades superiores más cortas y delgadas, torso más pequeño y menos voluminoso, y extremidades inferiores más largas y alineadas, en relación al perfil de los de DMF. Diferencias que, ratificaron las evidencias empíricas y cualitativas enunciadas por los maestros de la ENB para clasificar la belleza proporcional de cada tipo de bailarín en el ámbito de la danza cubana. Los datos obtenidos, permitieron constatar cuantitativamente, la tendencia y la magnitud de las diferencias encontradas entre la proporcionalidad de los estudiantes de nivel avanzado de DC y DMF y el bailarín elite de la compañía del BNC (AU)

The skeletal-muscle proportionality characteristics define the level of scenic beauty of the ballet or classic dancer’s (CD) figure. To be unproportional is a stigma which prevents the professional development and success of CD in Cuba. The proportional beauty is valuated qualitatively in a different way for CD and modern and folkloric dancers (MFD).The purpose of this paper is to compare the proportional standards of advanced level CD students with the MFD students. We analyzed, ethnographically and anthropometrically, the students from the “Escuela Nacional de Ballet” (ENB) and the “Escuela Nacional de Danza Moderna y Folclórica” (ENDMF), with an anthropometric protocol of 15 variables in order to determine the proportional profile using the strategy of the Phantom Model of Ross and Wilson (1974). The normalized “Z- score” indexes were modified for the representative data of elite dancers of the “Ballet Nacional de Cuba” (BNC).The results of the comparative analysis between female and male groups of dancers shared significant differences in the majority of the proportionality profile variables. The proportionality of the CD of both sexes was characterized by shorter and thinner upper extremities, smaller and less bulky trunk, and longer and more aligned lower extremities, compared to MFD. Such data ratifies the empirical and qualitative evidences that are firmly stated by the most prominent teachers of the ENB to classify the proportional beauty of all dancers in Cuba. We can conclude that our study has shown quantitatively, the tendency and magnitude of the proportional differences of the advanced level students of CD and MFD, compared to the elite dancers of the BNC (AU)

Resistance of Wood Wool Cement Board to the Attack of Philippine Termites.

The resistance of yemane (Gmelina arborea Roxb.)-based wood wool cement board (WWCB) against Philippine termites was evaluated under laboratory and field conditions. Tests were conducted following the FPRDI standard procedures in determining the resistance of WWCB against subterranean and drywood termites. Results of the laboratory tests showed that WWCB was resistant to both Microcerotermes losbañosensis Oshima and Cryptotermes dudleyi Banks. Under field conditions, WWCB was highly resistant to subterranean termites. There was no remarkable termite damage except for the normal nibbling or initial termite feeding on the board during the 8-year exposure period.

High level transgenic expression of soybean (Glycine max) GmERF and Gmubi gene promoters isolated by a novel promoter analysis pipeline.

BACKGROUND: Although numerous factors can influence gene expression, promoters are perhaps the most important component of the regulatory control process. Promoter regions are often defined as a region upstream of the transcriptional start. They contain regulatory elements that interact with regulatory proteins to modulate gene expression. Most genes possess their own unique promoter and large numbers of promoters are therefore available for study. Unfortunately, relatively few promoters have been isolated and characterized; particularly from soybean (Glycine max). RESULTS: In this research, a bioinformatics approach was first performed to identify members of the Gmubi (G.max ubiquitin) and the GmERF (G. max Ethylene Response Factor) gene families of soybean. Ten Gmubi and ten GmERF promoters from selected genes were cloned upstream of the gfp gene and successfully characterized using rapid validation tools developed for both transient and stable expression. Quantification of promoter strength using transient expression in lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) cotyledonary tissue and stable expression in soybean hairy roots showed that the intensity of gfp gene expression was mostly conserved across the two expression systems. Seven of the ten Gmubi promoters yielded from 2- to 7-fold higher expression than a standard CaMV35S promoter while four of the ten GmERF promoters showed from 1.5- to 2.2-times higher GFP levels compared to the CaMV35S promoter. Quantification of GFP expression in stably-transformed hairy roots of soybean was variable among roots derived from different transformation events but consistent among secondary roots, derived from the same primary transformation events. Molecular analysis of hairy root events revealed a direct relationship between copy number and expression intensity; higher copy number events displayed higher GFP expression. CONCLUSION: In this study, we present expression intensity data on 20 novel soybean promoters from two different gene families, ubiquitin and ERF. We also demonstrate the utility of lima bean cotyledons and soybean hairy roots for rapid promoter analyses and provide novel insights towards the utilization of these expression systems. The soybean promoters characterized here will be useful for production of transgenic soybean plants for both basic research and commercial plant improvement.

Robotics and dynamic image analysis for studies of gene expression in plant tissues.

Gene expression in plant tissues is typically studied by destructive extraction of compounds from plant tissues for in vitro analyses. The methods presented here utilize the green fluorescent protein (gfp) gene for continual monitoring of gene expression in the same pieces of tissues, over time. The gfp gene was placed under regulatory control of different promoters and introduced into lima bean cotyledonary tissues via particle bombardment. Cotyledons were then placed on a robotic image collection system, which consisted of a fluorescence dissecting microscope with a digital camera and a 2-dimensional robotics platform custom-designed to allow secure attachment of culture dishes. Images were collected from cotyledonary tissues every hour for 100 hours to generate expression profiles for each promoter. Each collected series of 100 images was first subjected to manual image alignment using ImageReady to make certain that GFP-expressing foci were consistently retained within selected fields of analysis. Specific regions of the series measuring 300 x 400 pixels, were then selected for further analysis to provide GFP Intensity measurements using ImageJ software. Batch images were separated into the red, green and blue channels and GFP-expressing areas were identified using the threshold feature of ImageJ. After subtracting the background fluorescence (subtraction of gray values of non-expressing pixels from every pixel) in the respective red and green channels, GFP intensity was calculated by multiplying the mean grayscale value per pixel by the total number of GFP-expressing pixels in each channel, and then adding those values for both the red and green channels. GFP Intensity values were collected for all 100 time points to yield expression profiles. Variations in GFP expression profiles resulted from differences in factors such as promoter strength, presence of a silencing suppressor, or nature of the promoter. In addition to quantification of GFP intensity, the image series were also used to generate time-lapse animations using ImageReady. Time-lapse animations revealed that the clear majority of cells displayed a relatively rapid increase in GFP expression, followed by a slow decline. Some cells occasionally displayed a sudden loss of fluorescence, which may be associated with rapid cell death. Apparent transport of GFP across the membrane and cell wall to adjacent cells was also observed. Time lapse animations provided additional information that could not otherwise be obtained using GFP Intensity profiles or single time point image collections.

Estimación de la grasa y muscular en bailarines adolescentes de ballet y danza / Estimation of fat mass muscle mass of adolescent dancers' ballet and dance

La estimación de la composición corporal caracteriza morfofuncionalmente a sujetos de las artes danzarias y deportes. En el campo danzario cubano se enuncia una delgadez mayor para los bailarines de ballet respecto a los de danza moderna y folclórica (DMF) en las definiciones diferenciales de belleza escénica corporal de las especialidades. La composición de la masa corporal se asocia significativamente a la clasificación de gordura-delgadez del danzante, pues se vincula espacialmente con un volumen corporal. El propósito de esta investigación es determinar sí son semejantes las características de la composición corporal de los bailarines estudiantes de nivel avanzado de ballet y DMF. Se midieron antropométricamente estudiantes cubanos de la Escuela Nacional de Ballet y la Escuela Nacional de Danza Moderna y Folclórica, con un rango de edad cronológica entre 15 y 18 años. Se emplearon para la estimación de la masa grasa y muscular las ecuaciones del método multicompartimental de Ross y Kerr. Se estimaron los indicadores de la composición corporal a través de los métodos bicompartimentales usados en los grupos deportivos de élite de Cuba. Las estudiantes de DMF presentaron porcentajes grasos mayores que las de ballet, lo que se vincula positivamente a probabilidades menores de eficiencia morfo funcional del movimiento técnico transitivo. Las bailarinas de ballet mostraron porcentajes grasos promedios (19,4%) en el rango de normalidad (15,0-20,0%)de las deportistas de élite cubanas, mientras el promedio de DMF fue mayor (21,9%). Para los varones de las dos especialidades se registraron similitudes en los indicadores de la composición corporal; ambos grupos refirieron promedios de porcentaje graso en el rango de los atletas élite cubanos(7,0-12,0%) (AU)

The study of body composition allows characterizing the morpho-functionality of subjects of dance arts and sports .At the Cuban dancing field is stated a higher slenderness for ballet dancer than for dancers of modern-folkloric dance (MFD). This statement is a fundamental part of the differential definitions of body scenic beauty among specialties. The composition of body mass is significantly associated in the fatness-slenderness classification of dancers, because it is directly related with a spatial body volume. The purpose of this research is to determine if there are similarities between the body composition characteristics of student dancers of superior level from ballet and MFD. There were anthropometrically measured groups of Cuban students from National Ballet School and National Modern-Folkloric Dance School; a range of chronological age between 15-18 years old. To asses fat and muscle mass were used the equations of multicompartimental method of Ross and Kerr. There were estimated the index of body composition across the bicompartimental methods used in elite sportsmen’s groups from Cuba. The female students of MFD showed higher quantities of fat mass percents than ballet dancers. This is positively linked to less probabilities of morpho-functional efficiency of technical transitive movement. The female ballet dancers registered fat mass percent’s average (19.4%) in the normal range (15.0-20.0%)of Cuban elite athletes, while the average of MFD dancers was higher (21.9%). The body composition indexes were similar between both types of male dancers; both groups presented fat mass percent’s average in the normal range of Cuban elite athletes (7.0-12.0%) (AU)

A soybean (Glycine max) polyubiquitin promoter gives strong constitutive expression in transgenic soybean.

The success of plant genetic transformation relies greatly on the strength and specificity of the promoters used to drive genes of interest. In this study, we analyzed gfp gene expression mediated by a polyubiquitin promoter (Gmubi) from soybean (Glycine max) in stably transformed soybean tissues. Strong GFP expression was observed in stably transformed proliferative embryogenic tissues. In whole transgenic plants, GFP expression was observed in root tips, main and lateral roots, cotyledons and plumules in young plants as well as in leaf veins, petioles, flower petals, pollen, pods and developing seeds in mature plants. GFP expression was localized mainly in epidermal cells, leaf mesophyll, procambium and vascular tissues. Introduction of an intron-less version of the Gmubi promoter (Gmupri) displayed almost the same GFP expression pattern albeit at lower intensities. The Gmubi promoter showed high levels of constitutive expression and represents an alternative to viral promoters for driving gene expression in soybean.

Estimación antropométrica de la forma corporal de bailarines profesionales de ballet / Anthropometrical estimation of the human shape of professional ballet dancers

Las diferencias morfológicas entre los bailarines de ballet, danza moderna y folklórica están bien confirmadas en los criterios empíricos de evaluación técnica de los maestros de especialidad. El propósito de esta investigación es determinar si las características de la forma corporal de los bailarines elites de ballet son específicas de esta manifes- tación artística. Se estudiaron antropométricamente bai- larines de las compañías Ballet Nacional, Danza Nacional y Folclórico Nacional de Cuba. Siguiendo el criterio de selección de los maestros, en cuanto a figura y desempeño técnico artístico, se midieron los mejores bailarines de cada compañía; edades entre 18 y 40 años. Para determinar la forma corporal, se aplicó un protocolo antropométrico de 10 mediciones y se utilizó el método del somatotipo de Heath-Carter. El somatotipo de las bailarinas de ballet, Ecto-Mesomórfico en promedio, fue significativamente diferente al de las bailarinas de danza folklórica. El soma- totipo de los bailarines, Meso-Ectomórfico en promedio, fue similar estadísticamente al de las otras especialidades de danza. Las categorías somatotípicas más representadas para las bailarinas de ballet fueron la Ectomórfico Balan- ceado (50%) y la Ecto-Mesomórfico (40%); en el sexo mas- culino fue predominante la categoría Meso-Ectomórfico (90%). Los bailarines de ballet de ambos sexos presentaron distribuciones de frecuencias somatotípicas en menos categorías y significativamente diferentes que las de danza moderna y folklórica. La forma corporal fue específica para los bailarines elites de ballet Se reafirmaron los criterios empíricos que sustentan las diferencias morfológicas entre los tipos de bailarines para la estimación antropométrica de la forma corporal (AU)

The morphological differences among ballet, modern and folkloric dancers are well confirmed in the empirical criterions of technical evaluation for specialty teachers. The purpose of this research is assessing if the human shape of professional ballet dancers are specific for this artistic spe- cialist. It was anthropometrical studied dancers of National Ballet, National Dance and National Folkloric companies from Cuba. It was measured the best dancers, ages between 18 and 40 years old, following the selection criterions of expert teachers about figure and technical-artistic perfor- mance. An anthropometric protocol of 10 measurements was applied in order to determine the human shape, using the Heath-Carter somatotype method. The somatotype of female ballet dancers, Ecto-Mesomorfic on average, were significantly different that those of female folkloric dancers. The somatotype of male ballet dancers, Meso-Ectomorfic on average, were statically similar that those of others dan- cer specialties. The somatotypes of female ballet dancers were mainly distributed in 2 categories, Balanced Ectomor- fic (50%) and Meso-Ectomorfic (40%) while most of male dancers were classified like Ecto-Mesomorfic (90%). Both sexes of ballet dancer registered somatotypic frequencies distributions in few categories, significantly different, than modern and folkloric distributions. The human shape was specific for the elite ballet dancers. There were confirmed the empirical criterion of specialty teachers which support differences among kinds of dancers for the anthropometric estimation of human shape (AU)

Density currents in the Chicago River: characterization, effects on water quality, and potential sources.

Bidirectional flows in a river system can occur under stratified flow conditions and in addition to creating significant errors in discharge estimates, the upstream propagating currents are capable of transporting contaminants and affecting water quality. Detailed field observations of bidirectional flows were made in the Chicago River in Chicago, Illinois in the winter of 2005-06. Using multiple acoustic Doppler current profilers simultaneously with a water-quality profiler, the formation of upstream propagating density currents within the Chicago River both as an underflow and an overflow was observed on three occasions. Density differences driving the flow primarily arise from salinity differences between intersecting branches of the Chicago River, whereas water temperature is secondary in the creation of these currents. Deicing salts appear to be the primary source of salinity in the North Branch of the Chicago River, entering the waterway through direct runoff and effluent from a wastewater-treatment plant in a large metropolitan area primarily served by combined sewers. Water-quality assessments of the Chicago River may underestimate (or overestimate) the impairment of the river because standard water-quality monitoring practices do not account for density-driven underflows (or overflows). Chloride concentrations near the riverbed can significantly exceed concentrations at the river surface during underflows indicating that full-depth parameter profiles are necessary for accurate water-quality assessments in urban environments where application of deicing salt is common.

BIOTRANSFORMACIÓN DE LOS SUSTRATOS 2-FENILETANOL Y ACETOFENONA CON EL HONGO FITOPATÓGENO Colletotrichum acutatum / BIOTRANSFORMATION OF 2-PHENYLETHANOL AND ACETOPHENONE BY THE PLANT PATHOGENIC FUNGUS Colletotrichum acutatum / BIOTRANSFORMAÇÃO DOS SUBSTRATOS 2-FENILETANOL E ACETOFENONA COM O FUNGO FITOPATOGÊNICO Colletotrichum acutatum

En este estudio se evaluaron las biotransformaciones realizadas por el hongo fitopatógeno Colletotrichum acutatum, sobre los sustratos 2-feniletanol 1 y acetofenona 2; los procesos se realizaron en el medio de cultivo líquido Czapeck-Dox a temperatura promedio de 24 oC, humedad relativa entre 45 y 60%, y agitación a 150 rpm en un agitador orbital tipo shaker. En la biotransformación a partir del sustrato 1 se obtuvieron los productos metabólicos 1-fenil-1,2-etanodiol 3, (2-metoxietil) benceno 4 y acetato de 2-feniletilo 5, y desde el sustrato 2 los compuestos 1-fenil-1,2-etanodiol 3, 1-feniletanol 6 y 2-feniletanol 1. Los productos de la transformación microbiana se identificaron mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (CG-EM), y resonancia magnética nuclear de protón y carbono (RMN 1H y 13C). Se observó una tendencia marcada del patógeno a producir hidroxilaciones sobre el sustituyente del anillo aromático; igualmente, tiene la capacidad de reducir el grupo carbonilo y esterificar los grupos hidroxilo de alcoholes primarios. Se discute una posible ruta metabólica para la transformación de los sustratos.

The microbial transformation of 2-phenilethanol 1 and acetophenone 2 was investigated using the plant pathogenic fungus Colletotrichum acutatum; the process was carried out in liquid media culture Czapeck-Dox at an average temperature of 24 oC, a relative humidity between 45% and 60% and with agitation in a shaker at 150 rpm. The biotransformation of the substrate 1 produced the metabolic products 1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol 3, (2- methoxyethyl)benzen 4 and 2-phenylethyl acetate 5, and from substrate 2 were obtained the compounds 1-phenyl- 1,2-ethanediol 3, 1-phenylethanol 6 and 2-phenylethanol 1. The structures of metabolic products were determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance of proton and of carbon (1H and 13C NMR). The process has a strong tendency of the pathogen to produce hydroxylations on the substituents attached to the aromatic ring. Additionally, C. acutatum was effective to reduce the carbonyl group and produce esterification reactions in the hydroxyl groups from primary alcohols. The metabolic pathway of both substrates is discussed.

Neste estudo foi analisada as biotransformaçoes feitas pelo fungos fitopatogênico Colletotrichum acutatum, nos substratos 2-feniletanol 1 e acetofenona 2; os processos forem feitos no meio de cultura Czapeck-Dox a uma temperatura média de 24 °C, umidade relativa entre 45 e 60% e agitação 150 rpm em um agitador orbital tipo shaker. Na biotransformaçao do substrato 1 é obtido os produtos metabólicos 1-fenil-1,2-etanodiol 3, (2-metoxietil) benceno 4 e acetato de 2-feniletilo 5, e do substrato 2 os compostos 1-fenil- 1,2-etanodiol 3, 1-feniletanol 6 e 2- feniletanol 1. Os produtos da transformação microbial forem identificados por meio do cromatografia de gás acoplada ao espectrometria da massas (CG-EM) e ressonância magnética nuclear de hidrogênio e de carbono (RMN 1H e 13C). Uma tendência marcada do patógeno é observada para produzir hidroxilaçoes na cadeia lateral do anel aromático; também tem a capacidade de reduzir ao grupo carbonilo e esterificar dos grupos hidroxilo da função álcool primária. Uma rota metabólica possível para a transformação das substratos é discutida.

Caracterizacióndde las propiedades y la estabildad del color de soluciones de los antranoides prenilados ferruginina a y ?-hidroxiferruginina a / Characterizatio of colour properties and stability of solutions of prenylated anthranoids ferruginin a and ? -hydroxyferruginin a / Caraterizaçãodass propriedades e a estabilidade da cor das souções dos antraanoides prenilados ferruginina a e ? -hidroxiferruginina a

Se evaluaron las propiedades del color y la estabilidad a diferentes factores (temperatura y pH) de soluciones de los antranoides prenilados ferruginina A (FRA) y ?-hidroxiferruginina A (HFA), obtenidos a partir de las bayas de las especies Vismia guianensis y V. baccifera ssp. ferruginea. El estudio de la influencia de la temperatura sobre las características espectrales reveló que las soluciones en propilenglicol de la FRA y la HFA son relativamente estables al calor a las temperaturas de 50 y 80 °C , mientras que a 100 y 150 °C presentaron cambios ligeros en la intensidad (e) y tonalidad (?vis-max, coordenadas colorimétricas CIE L* a* b*). Adicionalmente, las variaciones del color (?vis-max, e) para los antranoides en el rango de pH 1,0-11,0 durante 60 días de almacenamiento a 4 y 25 °C , demostraron una mayor estabilidad del color en condiciones de refrigeración y pH 6,0 y 8,0, la cual fue superior para las soluciones de HFA. Las buenas características de los compuestos los hacen potencialmente útiles como colorantes naturales en la industria de los cosméticos, textil y farmacológica.

Colour properties and stability to different factors (temperature and pH) of solutions of prenylated anthranoids ferruginin A (FRA) and ? -hydroxyferruginin A (HFA), obtained from berries of Vismia guianensis and V. baccifera ssp. ferruginea, were evaluated. Spectral characteristics influenced by different temperatures, revealed that the solutions in propylenglycol of the FRA and HFA were relatively stable to the heat to temperatures of the 50 and 80 °C , whereas to temperatures of 100 and 150 °C they displayed slight changes in the intensity ( e ) and tonality ( ? vis-max, colorimetric co-ordinates in the CIE L* a* b* scale). Additionally, colour variation ( ? vis-max, e ) for both anthranoids in the pH range 1.0 - 11.0 during a period of 60 days storage at 4 and 25 °C , showed higher colour stability in refrigerated conditions and pH values of 6.0 and 8.0, being better for solutions of HFA. The good characteristics of compounds make them potentially useful like natural colourants in the textile, cosmetic and pharmacological industry.

Foram avaliadas as propriedades da cor e a estabilidade de fatores diferentes (temperatura e pH) de soluções dos antranoides prenilados ferruginina A (FRA) e ? -hidroxiferruginina A (HFA), obtidos das bagas das espécies Vismia guianensis e V. baccifera ssp. ferruginea. O estudo da influência da temperatura nas características espectrais mostra que as soluções em etilenglicol da FRA e a HFA foram relativamente estáveis ao calor para as temperaturas de 50 e 80 °C , enquanto para temperaturas de 100 e 150 °C apresentaram mudanças leves na intensidade ( e ) e tonalidade ( ? vis-max, coordenadas CIE L* a* b*). Além do mais, as variações da cor ( ? vis-max, e ) dos antranoides no rango de pH 1,0-11,0 durante 60 dias de armazenamento a 4 e 25 °C mostraram uma estabilidade maior em condições refrigerasão e em valores de pH de 6,0 e de 8,0, sendo melhor para soluções do HFA. As características boas dos compostos os fazem potencialmente úteis como corantes naturais nas indústrias das cosméticas, têxtil e farmacêutica.

Capsaicina intravesical: una alternativa en pacientes con vejiga hiperactiva idiopática de difícil manejo / Capsaicin: an alternative for patients with idiopathic overactive blandder not responders to usually treatment

La capsaicina, principal componente de los pimientos, tiene la posibilidad de inhibir los influjos aferentes de las fibras C desmielinizadas de la vejiga posterior a su colación intravesical. En elpresente estudio se practicó instalación de capsaicina intravesical a 1 milimolar, bajo anestesia general a 15 pacientes con diagnóstico clínico y urodinámico de vejiga hiperactiva idiopática que no responde o tienen contraindicado el tratamiento convencional. Se obtuvo respuesta clínica y urodinámica en 86 por ciento de los pacientes con un promedio de duración de la misma de 6 meses. Se concluye que la capsaicina intravesical es una excelente alternativa para el tratamiento de la vejiga hiperactiva de dificil manejo