Influence of environmental factors on the occurrence of gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematodes in the red fox in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

Human-induced ecosystem fragmentation is one of the drivers causing wildlife migration from their natural habitats to urban areas, among other reasons. The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most abundant wild canid in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Water scarcity may result in areas shared by synanthropic fox populations and domestic animals becoming hotspots for parasite transmission. This study describes the gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematode species affecting fox populations in these semi-arid areas and the influence of environmental variables on parasite abundance. A total of 167 foxes collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Region of Murcia (SE Spain) were analysed. Parasite abundance and spatial distribution were evaluated using environmental variables and host characteristics with a Generalised Linear Model and the Moran index. Eleven species (seven from the gastrointestinal tract and four from the cardiopulmonary tract) were described. The influence of biotic and abiotic variables was studied for Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Temperature, humidity and areas of forest or agricultural land influenced the abundance of these parasites, providing optimal conditions for free-living stages of the direct life cycle nematodes and intermediate hosts. Absolute abundance distribution maps showed defined locations for C. vulpis, T. canis and T. leonina. The results for U. stenocephala, T. canis and T. leonina were particularly important as their higher abundance levels were found close to anthropized areas, which need to be carefully evaluated to prevent transmission of these nematodes between domestic and wild canids and human health.

Serological and molecular survey of canine distemper virus in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes): Exploring cut-off values and the use of protein A in ELISA tests.

The wide distribution and ecological plasticity of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) make it a potential reservoir for many infectious diseases shared with domestic and wild carnivores. One of such diseases is canine distemper, which is caused by an RNA virus and its main domestic reservoir is the dog. However, other carnivores can also participate in its maintenance, as shown by the recent upsurge of reported cases in wildlife in many parts of the world, and by the fact that red foxes may act as true reservoirs for canine distemper virus (CDV). The lack of validated serological tests for wildlife or other non-target species may be a handicap for monitoring this virus. In this study, serological assays were compared in 147 red fox sera using a commercial ELISA validated for its use in dogs and a non-specific modified ELISA with Protein A peroxidase conjugate to detect bound antibodies. In addition, the presence of CDV RNA in brain, spleen, lung, and liver samples from 144 foxes was investigated by a RT-qPCR. Through the comparison of the results of both ELISAs and the use of a finite mixture model of the optical density values obtained by both techniques, we adjusted the cut-off point of the commercial ELISA to obtain the seroprevalence in foxes. The overall seroprevalence detected was 53.7% (79/147) and 57.1% (84/147) by the commercial and modified ELISA, respectively, with a moderate agreement according to Cohen's Kappa statistic (κ = 0.491, z = 5.97, p < 0.0001). CDV RNA was detected in 30 out of 144 foxes, which resulted in 20.8% of CDV-infected foxes. At individual level, the results obtained by relating the serological status and the presence/absence of RNA in different organs were explained in terms of the pathogenesis of the infection. Our results highlight the convenience of adjusting the cut-off point when using an ELISA assay developed in domestic dogs for its use in foxes. Moreover, Protein A is confirmed to be a good alternative to be used in red foxes, presenting a good reactivity towards its IgG.

Impacto de la diabetes, la desnutrición y la sarcopenia en el pronóstico de los pacientes hospitalizados en Medicina Interna / Impact of diabetes, malnutrition and sarcopenia on the prognosis of patients admitted to Internal Medicine

Objetivo Describir los pacientes hospitalizados en medicina interna en términos de desnutrición y sarcopenia, en función de la presencia o no de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2), así como evaluar la mortalidad a corto y largo plazo relacionada con ambas. Métodos Estudio de cohortes, unicéntrico, que recoge pacientes consecutivos ingresados en Medicina Interna en mayo y octubre del 2021. La desnutrición se determinó mediante el Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) y la sarcopenia mediante SARC-F y dinamometría. Se excluyó a los pacientes hospitalizados más de 48 h. Resultados Se analiza a 511 pacientes, 49,1% varones, edad media de 75,2±15 años, 210 (41,1%) DM2. Se generan 6 grupos (diseño 2 × 3) en función de la presencia de DM2 y del estado nutricional acorde con el resultado del MNA-SF: 12-14 puntos, sin riesgo; MNA-SF 8-12 puntos, alto riesgo; MNA-SF 0-7 puntos, desnutridos. Los pacientes con DM2 y desnutridos tenían significativamente mayor sarcopenia, comorbilidad, inflamación y úlceras por presión. Los principales determinantes de mortalidad intrahospitalaria fueron la sarcopenia (OR 1,27, IC del 95%, 1,06-1,54, p=0,01), la comorbilidad (OR 1,27, IC del 95%, 1,08-1,49, p=0,003) y la inflamación (OR 1,01, IC del 95%, 1,00-1,02, p=0,02). El pronóstico a 120 días fue peor entre los pacientes desnutridos (p=0,042). Conclusión Los pacientes ingresados con DM2 presentan similar grado de desnutrición que el resto, pero con mayor sarcopenia. Esta sarcopenia, junto a la inflamación y la comorbilidad determinan un peor pronóstico. La identificación activa y temprana de la desnutrición y la sarcopenia, y su abordaje posterior podrían mejorar el pronóstico de los pacientes (AU)

Objective To describe patients hospitalized in internal medicine in terms of malnutrition and sarcopenia, depending on the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), as well as to evaluate short- and long-term mortality related to both. Methods Cross-sectional, single-center study, which included consecutive patients admitted to internal medicine in May and October 2021. Malnutrition was determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and sarcopenia using SARC-F and handgrip strength. Patients hospitalized for more than 48h are excluded. Results Five hundred and 11patients were analyzed, 49.1% male, mean age 75.2±15 years, 210 (41.1%) DM2. Six groups (2×3 design) are generated based on the presence of DM2 and the nutritional status according to the result of the MNA-SF: 12–14 points, without risk; MNA-SF 8–12 points, high risk; MNA-SF 0–7 points, malnourished. Malnourished patients with DM2 had significantly higher sarcopenia, comorbidity, inflammation, and pressure ulcers. The main determinants of in-hospital mortality were sarcopenia (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.06–1.54, p=0.01), comorbidity (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.08–1.49, p=0.003) and inflammation (OR 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, p=0.02). The 120-day prognosis was worse among malnourished patients (p=0.042). Conclusion Patients admitted with DM2 have a similar degree of malnutrition than the rest, but with greater sarcopenia. This sarcopenia, together with inflammation and comorbidity determine a worse prognosis. The active and early identification of malnutrition and sarcopenia and their subsequent approach could improve the prognosis of patients (AU)

Impact of diabetes, malnutrition and sarcopenia on the prognosis of patients admitted to internal medicine.

OBJECTIVE: To describe patients hospitalized in internal medicine in terms of malnutrition and sarcopenia, depending on the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), as well as to evaluate short- and long-term mortality related to both. METHODS: Cross-sectional, single-center study, which included consecutive patients admitted to internal medicine in May and October 2021. Malnutrition was determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and sarcopenia using SARC-F and handgrip strength. Patients hospitalized for more than 48 h are excluded. RESULTS: 511 patients were analyzed, 49.1% male, mean age 75.2 +/- 15 years, 210 (41.1%) DM2. 6 groups (2 × 3 design) are generated based on the presence of DM2 and the nutritional status according to the result of the MNA-SF: 12-14 points, without risk; MNA-SF 8-12 points, high risk; MNA-SF 0-7 points, malnourished. Malnourished patients with DM2 had significantly higher sarcopenia, comorbidity, inflammation, and pressure ulcers. The main determinants of in-hospital mortality were sarcopenia (OR 1.27, 95%CI 1.06-1.54, p = 0.01), comorbidity (OR 1.27, 95%CI 1,08-1,49, p = 0.003) and inflammation (OR 1.01, 95%CI 1.00-1.02, p = 0.02). The 120-day prognosis was worse among malnourished patients (p = 0.042). CONCLUSION: Patients admitted with DM2 have a similar degree of malnutrition than the rest, but with greater sarcopenia. This sarcopenia, together with inflammation and comorbidity determine a worse prognosis. The active and early identification of malnutrition and sarcopenia and their subsequent approach could improve the prognosis of patients.

First report of Metathelazia capsulata in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Europe and new contributions to its identification.

Metathelazia capsulata is a lungworm that inhabit in the bronchi and bronchioles from mammal carnivore species, which life cycle is unknown. M. capsulata-like spirurid nematodes were isolated at necropsy from the respiratory tract of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from the Region of Murcia (SE Spain). The main objective of this study was to describe in detail the morphometric features of these nematodes, as well as to report some molecular markers. The principal morphometric difference compared to previous M. capsulata descriptions was the shorter total length for both males and females (6.6 mm and 7.4 mm, respectively). In addition, the mean values of buccal cavity depth and distance between the excretory pore and the anterior end of the nematode were also lower than those previously reported. On the other hand, sequence data of the mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (rDNA) genes of M. capsulata were described, being the first time that molecular markers are reported for the genus Metathelazia and also for the entire family Pneumospiruridae. Based on data available from GenBank, these results indicate that M. capsulata sequences are closely related to the family Rhabdochonidae, which is assumed to belong to superfamily Thelazioidea, a superfamily including the family Pneumospiruridae, but also suggest the distant relations with the family Thelaziidae. This is the first time that M. capsulata is reported in red fox from Europe. This study provides valuable information for future phylogenetic studies on Metathelazia spp. nematodes and, in general, on species of the family Pneumospiruridae.

Flying across Europe: the case of the spread of Chaunocephalus ferox on a black stork (Ciconia nigra).

The annual migration of birds involves a very large number of inter-continental and intra-continental movements in which thousands of bird species participate. These migrations have been associated with the spread of pathogens worldwide, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. This study describes the case of a black stork (Ciconia nigra) that was ringed at the nest in Latvia and died five months later in the south-east of the Iberian Peninsula. Post-mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was electrocution. In addition, a massive infection by the trematode Chaunocephalus ferox (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) causing severe granulomatous lesions throughout the small intestine was detected. This is the first report of C. ferox infection in a black stork in the Iberian Peninsula, a trematode that, due to the severe lesions it causes, can affect the health of C. ferox-infected wild birds, particularly in severely infected long-distance migrants. The dispersal of platyhelminths associated with migratory birds is discussed. After the ringing at the nest, the black stork was sighted in Central Europe one month before its capture, and the trematodes found by necropsy were mostly mature adults. Consequently, we estimate that this juvenile animal acquired the infection during its migration in a European area other than the Iberian Peninsula, evidencing a long-distance parasite spread through its migratory host. Our study highlights that bird ringing can be used to understand the epidemiological implications that bird migratory behaviour may have on the dispersal of parasites.

Pearsonema plica in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from semi-arid areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

The nematode Pearsonema plica is a parasite infecting the urinary bladder of carnivores, with a described prevalence ranging from 1 to 90%. This parasite needs earthworms as intermediate host to complete its life cycle, being the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) a definitive host. The objective of this study was to analyse the prevalence and intensity of P. plica in the red fox population from the Region of Murcia (SE Spain), an area with semi-arid Mediterranean climate. The urinary bladder, kidneys and ureters of 167 red foxes were collected at necropsy, opened and observed to detect adult parasites. The influence of host variables (sex, age and body condition using Kidney Fat Index) and environmental variables (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Normalized Difference Moisture Index, Bare Soil Index, temperature, radiation, evapotranspiration, precipitation, Corine Land Cover categories and distance to urban areas) were evaluated using a Generalised Linear Model. Moran index was used to evaluate the parasite spatial aggregation. The prevalence found was very low (2.4%; median abundance 0 nematodes per fox; median intensity 7.5 nematodes per parasitized fox), which contrast with those described in other red fox populations in Europe. Environmental variables had a significant influence on the occurrence of P. plica, being NDMI, mean summer precipitation, percentage of forest and agricultural areas positively associated with P. plica abundance. The south-eastern Iberian Peninsula has a semi-arid climate that hinders the development of the life cycle of this nematode, which justifies its occurrence in specific areas where there are the suitable environmental conditions for the presence of earthworms. However, although semi-arid Mediterranean areas do not seem to be favourable carnivores to be parasitized by P. plica, we cannot underestimate the risk that exists in those areas where, either naturally or by human activity, there are environmental factors that favor the presence of this nematode.

First report of a hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) parasitized by Harpirhynchus nidulans in the Iberian Peninsula.

Some avian Harpirhynchidae mites live under the skin and develop cutaneous cysts. Despite the obvious lesions that these parasites can produce, little is currently known about the behavioural disturbances that cyst-forming mites may cause in infected wild birds. We report an infection by Harpirhynchidae mites in a hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) in southeast Spain. The bird was easily captured due to its inability to fly. During clinical examination it was found to have multiple severe traumatic injuries, possibly due to a blow or a fall, as result of which the bird was euthanized. At necropsy, the hawfinch was found to be in good body condition. Two yellowish and friable mite-filled cysts were detected in the subalar region of both wings. Mites were morphologically identified as Harpirhynchus nidulans, and histological analysis of the cystic lesions was also performed. This is the first time that the occurrence of a hawfinch infected by H. nidulans in the Iberian Peninsula has been reported.

Density assessment and reporting for Phlebotomus perniciosus and other sand fly species in periurban residential estates in Spain.

Green periurban residential areas in Mediterranean countries have flourished in the last decades and become foci for leishmaniasis. To remedy the absence of information on vector ecology in these environments, we examined phlebotomine sand fly distribution in 29 sites in Murcia City over a 3-year period, including the plots of 20 detached houses and nine non-urbanized sites nearby. We collected 5,066 specimens from five species using "sticky" interception and light attraction traps. The relative frequency of the main Leishmania infantum vector Phlebotomus perniciosus in these traps was 32% and 63%, respectively. Sand fly density was widely variable spatially and temporally and greatest in non-urbanized sites, particularly in caves and abandoned buildings close to domestic animal holdings. Phlebotomus perniciosus density in house plots was positively correlated with those in non-urbanized sites, greatest in larger properties with extensive vegetation and non-permanently lived, but not associated to dog presence or a history of canine leishmaniasis. Within house plots, sand fly density was highest in traps closest to walls. Furthermore, the study provides a guideline for insect density assessment and reporting and is envisioned as a building block towards the development of a pan-European database for robust investigation of environmental determinants of sand fly distribution.

Evaluation of the Baermann-Wetzel method for detecting lungworm larvae in wild ruminants from faecal samples.

Lungworms can exert a negative impact on wild ruminant fitness; for this reason, the diagnosis of the associated diseases is an important prevention measure. The Baerman-Wetzel technique is the most usual method for the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary nematodes and is based on the active migration and movement of their first-stage larvae. Pulmonary tissue samples are frequently used for the post-mortem diagnosis of these parasites, but this kind of sample is not always available and easy to obtain. Faecal samples represent a more accessible choice for parasite monitoring. This work aimed to evaluate the agreement between the results obtained by the Baermann-Wetzel technique when samples of lung parenchyma or faeces from wild ruminants are used. A good level of agreement as well as a similar sensitivity between the two types of sample were observed, validating the use of faecal samples as a less invasive and cost-effective alternative for the monitoring of lungworm in wild ruminant populations.

Protective properties of Avène Thermal Spring Water on biomechanical, ultrastructural and clinical parameters of human skin.

BACKGROUND: Thermal Spring Water (TSW) has been recognized to have beneficial effects on skin; however, the mechanisms underlying these are not completely elucidated. AIMS: We compared the effects of Avène TSW with mineral-rich (MR) TSW on the biomechanical properties of the skin using mechanistic ex vivo assays and clinical studies. METHODS: Ex vivo studies included the effect of both TSWs on the structure of the surface of human skin explants using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); mineral elemental content on the skin surface using SEM coupled to energy dispersing X-ray spectroscopy; and the stress properties of the stratum corneum (SC) when exposed to dehydration. Human clinical studies were conducted to compare the soothing effect of TSWs after a dermatological chemical peeling of face skin and to evaluate the overall sensitive scale of consumers using Avène TSW for 7 days. RESULTS: Both TSWs preserved surface skin ultrastructure; however, crystals formed from MR-TSW were needle-like and formed small grains, present in clusters heterogeneously spread over the surface. Needle crystals were mainly composed of calcium, while small clusters were mainly composed of sulphur. By contrast, Avène TSW-formed crystals composed of sodium and chlorine only were regular in shape and homogeneously distributed across the skin surface. Peak stress of SC layers was increased by MR-TSW, whereas Avène TSW showed a comparatively reduced effect on dehydration and stress. The difference in the two TSW types was reflected in clinical findings comparing postpeeling redness after TSW application. Avène TSW significantly decreased postpeeling redness, while MR-TSW increased it. The overall sensitive scale of consumers was decreased by 47% using Avène TSW for 7 days. CONCLUSIONS: Avène TSW decreases postpeeling redness and soothes sensitive skin in human volunteers. Mechanistic studies suggested that differences in biomechanical effects could be linked to differences in calcium content of the TSW.

Experiencia en estapedostomías en Hospital del Salvador entre 2012 y 2018 / Stapedotomy experience at Hospital del Salvador between 2012 and 2018

INTRODUCCIÓN: La otoesclerosis es una enfermedad de presumible origen metabólico que determina la fijación de la cadena osicular. La estapedostomía con instalación de prótesis es la cirugía de elección en la actualidad para esta patología. OBJETIVO: Describir experiencia y resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico de pacientes con otoesclerosis en el Hospital del Salvador entre los años 2012 y 2018. Material y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo mediante revisión de fichas clínicas de pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente en nuestro servicio desde enero de 2012 hasta septiembre de 2018 con sospecha de otoesclerosis. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron en total 52 cirugías a 45 pacientes, 40 vía microscópica, 10 vía endoscópica y 2 mixtas, se utilizaron dos modelos de prótesis, Schuknecht - type piston and wire y Stapes-Prothesen. El promedio tonal puro (PTP) por vía aérea prequirúrgico fue de 65 dB, con una diferencia ósea-aérea (gap) promedio de 36 dB. El PTP promedio posquirúrgico fue de 35 dB con gap promedio de 9 dB, logrando en promedio una mejoría de 31 dB en la vía aérea y 27 dB de cierre de gap. El 92% de los pacientes intervenidos lograron mejoría con respecto al gap posoperatorio. CONCLUSIÓN: La estapedostomía es una intervención que si bien no está exenta de complicaciones, ha demostrado ser segura y tener buenos resultados auditivos en la mayoría de los pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: Otosclerosis is a presumable metabolic disease that determines ossicular chain fixation. Stapedotomy with prosthesis installation is the surgery of choice for this pathology at present. AIM: To describe the experience and results of the surgical treatment of patients with otosclerosis in the Hospital del Salvador between 2012 and 2018. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical records were reviewed of patients treated surgically in our department from January 2012 to September 2018 with suspicion of otosclerosis. RESULTS: A total of 52 surgeries were performed in 45 patients, 42 via microscopy and 10 via endoscopy, two models of prostheses were used Schuknecht - type piston and wire y Stapes-Prothesen. The pure tonal average (PTP) by pre-surgical air was 65 dB, with an average air gap (gap) of 36 dB. The average post-surgical PTP was 35 dB with an average gap of 9 db, achieving on average an improvement of 31 dB in the airway and 27 dB of gap closure. 92% of the patients who underwent surgery improved with respect to the postoperative gap. CONCLUSION: The stapedotomy is an intervention that although not free of complications, has been shown to be safe and have good hearing results in most patients.

Historia del manejo de rinitis atrófica / The history of the treatment of atrophic rhinitis

La rinitis atrófica es una enfermedad crónica progresiva caracterizada por dilatación anormal de las cavidades nasales con atrofia de la mucosa, submucosa y cornetes nasales subyacentes. Los factores etiopatogénicos aún son desconocidos. Su presentación clínica consiste en congestión nasal paradójica asociado a secreciones viscosas, con presencia de costras secas de mal olor. La higiene nasal con irrigación de alto volumen y baja presión es el estándar de tratamiento médico. El tratamiento quirúrgico busca reducir el tamaño de las cavidades nasales y promover la regeneración de la mucosa nasal así como también su vascularización y lubricación. A lo largo de la historia se han descrito múltiples procedimientos quirúrgicos que han buscado estrechar la cavidad nasal para permitir el paso de aire de forma más fisiológica. Por otra parte, se han propuesto intervenciones radicales como el cierre de las fosas nasales para disminuir los síntomas y mejorar la calidad de vida. En este artículo se resumen los principales manejos y procedimientos propuestos junto con sus resultados y conclusiones. Si bien la mayoría de las técnicas descritas ya no se utilizan en la actualidad, es importante conocerlas ya que aún existen pacientes que fueron sometidos a ellas pudiendo presentar complicaciones y/o efectos adversos.

Atrophic rhinitis is a chronic progressive disease characterized by abnormal dilatation of the nasal cavities with atrophy of the mucosa, nasal submucosa and underlying nasal turbinates. The etiopathogenic factors are still unknown. Its clinical presentation consists of paradoxical nasal congestion associated with viscous secretions, usually with the presence of dry, bad-smelling crusts. Nasal hygiene with high pressure irrigation remains the standard of medical treatment. Surgical treatment seeks to reduce the size of nasal cavities and promote regeneration of nasal mucosa as well as its vascularization and lubrication. Throughout history, multiple surgical procedures have been described that have sought the narrowing of the nasal cavity to allow the passage of air more physiologically. On the other hand, radical interventions have been proposed such as the closure of the nostrils to reduce symptoms and improve quality. This article summarizes the main proposed procedures along with their results and conclusions. Although most of the techniques described are no longer used today, it is important to know them since there are still patients who were subjected to them and may present complications and / or adverse effects.

Comparative Evaluation of Bond Strength of Self-Etching and Total Etch Dental Adhesive Systems to Dentin of Deciduous and Permanent Teeth / Evaluación Comparativa de la Fuerza de Unión de los Sistemas de Adhesivo Dental Autograbado y Grabado Total para la Dentina de Dientes Deciduos y Permanentes

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to analyze the bond strength of total-etch and self-etch adhesive systems to dentin of primary and permanent teeth. Methods: Thirty sound naturally exfoliated primary molars deciduous teeth (DT) and thirty sound permanent bicuspids permanent teeth (PT) were randomly divided into six groups (n=10 per group) according to two commercial adhesive systems: Adper Single Bond 2; 3M ESPE (Total-etch) and Adper Easy Bond; 3M ESPE (selfetch and total-etch). Specimens submitted to cyclic loading in a universal Instron testing machine. Bond strength values (MPa) were analyzed by ANOVA test and Duncan post hoc test (a=0.05). Results: Mean values were higher in PT compared to DT. In deciduous teeth, no significantly differences observed. Total etch AdperTM Single Bond 2 showed significantly higher bond strength than self-etch AdperTM with additional acid etching in PT (p=0.031). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the highest bond strength was found in dentin tissue of PT with total etch AdperTM employing the adhesive the Single Bond 2 of one step self-etch.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la fuerza de unión de los sistemas adhesivos de grabado total y autograbado a la dentina de los dientes primarios y permanentes. Métodos: treinta sonidos exfoliaron naturalmente los molares primarios dientes caducifolios (DT) y treinta sonidos. Los dientes permanentes de los premolares permanentes (PT) se dividieron aleatoriamente en seis grupos (n = 10 por grupo) de acuerdo con dos sistemas adhesivos comerciales: Adper Single Bond 2; 3M ESPE (Grabado total) y Adper Easy Bond; 3M ESPE (autograbado y grabado total). Muestras sometidas a carga cíclica en una máquina universal de pruebas Instron. Los valores de resistencia de la unión (MPa) se analizaron mediante la prueba ANOVA y la prueba post hoc de Duncan (a = 0.05). Resultados: Los valores medios fueron mayores en PT en comparación con DT. En dientes deciduos, no se observaron diferencias significativas. Total etch AdperTM Single Bond 2 mostró una fuerza de unión significativamente mayor que la autograbado AdperTM con grabado ácido adicional en PT (p = 0.031). Conclusión: Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que la mayor fuerza de unión se encontró en el tejido de dentina de PT con grabado total AdperTM empleando el adhesivo Single Bond 2 de autograbado de un solo paso.

Safety and efficacy of a mesenchymal stem cell intramammary therapy in dairy cows with experimentally induced Staphylococcus aureus clinical mastitis.

Although, antibiotics are effective in the treatment of bovine mastitis, they do not address the regeneration of mammary glandular tissue and have been associated to the increment in antimicrobial resistance worldwide. Considering the necessity of alternative therapies for this disease of high economic impact and the reported regenerative and antibacterial effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs), we evaluated the safety and efficacy of an allogenic MSC-based intramammary therapy in dairy cows with experimentally induced Staphylococcus aureus clinical mastitis. In a safety trial, heifers were inoculated intramammarily with a 2.5 × 107-suspension of bovine fetal AT-MSCs on experimental days 1 and 10. Animals were evaluated clinically on a daily basis during a 20-day experimental period and blood samples were collected for hemogram determination and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) isolation. In an efficacy trial, Holstein Friesian cows were inoculated with S. aureus and treated intramammarily with vehicle (NEG; days 4 and 10), antibiotics (ATB; days 4 and 5) or a suspension of 2.5 × 107 AT-MSCs (MSC; days 4 and 5). Cows were clinically evaluated daily and milk samples were collected for somatic cell count (SCC) and colony forming units (CFU). Blood samples were collected for serum haptoglobin and amyloid A determination. Intramammary administration of two doses of bovine fetal AT-MSCs in healthy cows did not induce changes in clinical or hematological variables, and gene expression profiles in PBLs associated to activation (CD4, CD8, CD25, CD62L and CD69) and proinflammatory cytokines (CCL2, CCL5, IL2, CXCL3, IFNγ, and TNFα). Quarters of MSC group of cows had similar SCC log/mL in milk compared to infected quarters of ATB or NEG cows. However, quarters of MSC cows had lower CFU log/mL in milk compared to quarters of NEG cows. Intramammarily inoculation of repeated doses of 2.5 × 107 allogenic AT-MSCs did not induce clinical or immunological response in healthy cows. Moreover, MSC-intramammary treatment reduced bacterial count in milk of cows with S. aureus clinical mastitis compared to untreated cows. This work provides initial evidence for the safety and efficacy of an allogenic MSC-based intramammary therapy for the treatment of bovine mastitis.

Nasopharyngeal bot flies in red deer (Cervus elaphus) from southern Spain.

The nasopharyngeal bot flies Pharyngomyia picta and Cephenemyia auribarbis (Diptera: Oestridae) are parasites that have an impact on the health of wild ruminants. Little is known about their biological and epidemiological characteristics in multi-host habitats such as the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park (CNP), in south-east Spain. This paper describes the main epidemiological features of bot fly larvae parasitising the population of red deer in CNP during 2003-2005. The results reveal an overall bot fly prevalence of 37.5%, with a P. picta and C. auribarbis co-infection rate of 12.5%. Although the statistical analyses were not significant(p > 0.05), a higher prevalence in males and in calves was observed, which has to be explained from a multifactorial viewpoint. Unfavourable climatic conditions during January induced the overwintering of larvae inside the host and, accordingly, a higher prevalence of the first instar (L1) was detected, while a higher prevalence of L2 and L3 was recorded in February and March. Further studies are needed to investigate in more detail the environmental characteristics that influence the chronobiology of bot flies in south-east Spain.

Les mouches nasopharyngées Pharyngomyia picta et Cephenemyia auribarbis (Diptera : Oestridae) sont des parasites qui affectent la santé des ruminants sauvages. Leurs caractéristiques biologiques et épidémiologiques au sein d'habitats tels que le Parc naturel des Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas (CNP) dans le sud-est de l'Espagne, où cohabitent de nombreuses espèces hôtes, sont mal connues. Les auteurs présentent les résultats d'une étude conduite de 2003 à 2005 visant à décrire les principales caractéristiques épidémiologiques de l'infestation par des larves de mouches dans les populations de cerfs élaphes du CNP. D'après les résultats de l'étude, la prévalence globale des mouches s'élève à 37,5 % avec un taux de co-infestation par P. picta et C. auribarbis atteignant 12,5 %. Bien que les analyses statistiques n'aient pas donné de résultats significatifs (p < 0,05), une prévalence plus élevée a été observée chez les mâles et les chevreuils, phénomène qui doit être expliqué dans une perspective multifactorielle. Les conditions climatiques défavorables durant le mois de janvier ont prolongé l'hivernage des larves au sein de l'hôte, ce qui s'est traduit par une prévalence plus élevée du premier stade larvaire (L1), tandis qu'en février et en mars les stades L2 et L3 étaient les plus fréquents. Des études complémentaires devront être menées afin d'élucider plus en détail les facteurs environnementaux susceptibles d'influer sur la chronobiologie de ces mouches dans le sud-est de l'Espagne.

Las moscas causantes de miasis nasofaríngea Pharyngomyia picta y Cephenemyia auribarbis (orden Diptera, familia Oestridae) son parásitos perjudiciales para la salud de los rumiantes salvajes. Poco se sabe acerca de sus características biológicas y epidemiológicas en hábitats donde hay múltiples hospedadores, como es el caso del Parque Natural de las Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas (CNP), situado en el sudeste de España. Los autores describen las principales características epidemiológicas que afectan a las larvas de moscas de la miasis que parasitan a la población de ciervos del CNP según un estudio realizado desde 2003 hasta 2005. Los resultados revelan una prevalencia global de estas moscas del 37,5%, con una tasa de coinfección por P. picta y C. auribarbis del 12,5%. Aunque los análisis estadísticos no arrojaron un resultado significativo (p > 0,05), se observó una prevalencia superior en machos y ciervos jóvenes, hecho que debe explicarse desde una perspectiva multifactorial. Las desfavorables condiciones climáticas predominantes en enero propiciaron la diapausa invernal de las larvas en los hospedadores, lo que a su vez explica que se detectase una mayor prevalencia de larvas de primer estadio (L1), mientras que en febrero y marzo se registró una mayor prevalencia de larvas de segundo y tercer estadio (L2 y L3). Se requieren más investigaciones para estudiar con mayor detalle las características ambientales que influyen en la cronobiología de las moscas causantes de miasis en el sudeste de España.

Spatio-temporal patterns of sarcoptic mange in red deer and Iberian ibex in a multi-host natural park.

The reliance on multiple hosts to survive is what makes the management and control of multi-host infectious agents challenging. Sarcoptes scabiei causes sarcoptic mange in a wide range of mammal species with ungulates being an important host. Little is known about the role different ungulates play in sustaining endemic transmission of the disease and no study has yet to describe the long-term multi-host sarcoptic infestation dynamics in free-ranging wildlife. Here, we explore 24 years of sarcoptic mange infestation data for two Mediterranean ungulate species, red deer and Iberian ibex, living in the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park of southern Spain. The temporal analysis showed a clear seasonal pattern of infestation in both ungulates with a peak in early spring and a decline throughout the summer. The spatial analysis, however, showed that caprinae rather than cervidae is the most competent host for sarcoptic mange spreading and persistence. Considering that few studies have described the spatio-temporal pattern of mange outbreaks for long periods of time, the information reported in this work aims to improve our understanding of sarcoptic mange epizootic in wild ruminant populations.

Evaluación de los niveles de NT-proBNP en los derrames pleurales de origen cardíaco / Evaluation of NT-proBNP levels in pleural effusions of cardiac origin

Objetivo: Evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico del fragmento amino-terminal del péptido natriurético (NT-proBNP) en líquido pleural (LP) y suero (S) en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva (ICC) y valorar su utilidad en la identificación de derrames pleurales (DPs) de origen cardiogénico, frente a los criterios de Light y gradiente de proteínas (PT). Material y métodos: Se analizaron 21 DPs (42,85% trasudados) de los cuales, siete fueron secundarios a ICC. La precisión diagnóstica del NT-proBNP en LP y S y de los criterios de Light se obtuvo mediante el área bajo la curva (AUC). Resultados: NT-proBNP en S presenta mejor rentabilidad diagnóstica (AUC:0,889) que su determinación en LP, criterios de Light y gradiente de PT. Valores por encima de 1.053 pg/ml identifican la etiología cardíaca del derrame con una sensibilidad del 83% y una especificidad del 100%. De los derrames cardiogénicos clasificados erróneamente por el criterio de Light LDH (LP/S), NT-proBNP en S identifica correctamente la totalidad de los derrames (100%). Conclusión: La determinación de NT-proBNP en LP para diferenciar la naturaleza trasudativa de los DPs de origen cardiogénico, no resulta de utilidad en la práctica clínica. En derrames cuya etiología sea dudosa, las concentraciones séricas de NT-proBNP pueden ser útiles para el diagnóstico de ICC

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the N-terminal pro-natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in pleural fluid (PF) and serum, in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and assess its usefulness in the identification of cardiogenic pleural effusions, against the Light's criteria and protein gradient (PT). Material and Methods: We analyzed 21 DP (42.85% transudates) of which seven were secondary to CHF. The diagnostic accuracy of NT-proBNP in LP and S and the Light's criteria was obtained using the area under the curve (AUC). Results: The serum determination of NT-proBNP presents the best diagnostic yield (AUC: 0.889) than its determination in PF, Light's criteria and protein gradient. Values above 1,053 pg/ml identify the cardiac etiology of the effusion with a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 100%. Of the patients misclassified by the Light LDH criteria (LP/S), NT-proBNP in S correctly identifies all of the effusions (100%). Conclusion: The determination of NT-proBNP in pleural fluid to differentiate the transudative nature of cardiogenic pleural effusions, is not useful in clinical practice. In effusions whose etiology is doubtful, seric concentrations of NT-proBNP may be useful for the diagnosis of CHF

Amino Acid-Functionalized Polyelectrolyte Films as Bioactive Surfaces for Cell Adhesion.

Surfaces were prepared with polyelectrolyte derivatives of poly(styrene- alt-maleic anhydride) (PSMA) functionalized with amino acids of different hydropathy indices, with the aim of evaluating the effect of the chemical functionality of polyelectrolytes on SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell adhesion. Functionalizing PSMA derivatives with l-glutamine, l-methionine, and l-tyrosine yielded PSMA-Gln, PSMA-Met, and PSMA-Tyr polyelectrolytes, respectively. We first studied the adsorption behavior of PSMA functionalized with amino acids on silicon wafer surfaces modified with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane at pH 4.0 and 7.0 and at low and high ionic strengths. The highest rate of polyelectrolyte adsorption was at pH 4.0 and high ionic strength and was higher with the glutamine and tyrosine films. The advance contact angles (θA) of the polyelectrolyte surfaces showed a moderate effect of ionic strength and pH on polyelectrolyte film wettability, with PSMA-Tyr being slightly more hydrophobic. Atomic force microscopy images of the polyelectrolyte surfaces showed two types of morphology: the well-defined globular nanostructure of PSMA-Met and PSMA-Tyr and densely packed nanofibrous-like structure of PSMA-Gln. The highest level of ionic strength caused a slight decrease in the size of the nanostructure that formed the surface domains, which was reflected in the degree of surface roughness. Cell adhesion assays with the polyelectrolyte film showed that SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells cultured on PSMA-Met present a well-extended morphology characterized by a stellate shape, with five or more actin-rich thin processes, whereas SH-SY5Y cells that were seeded on PSMA-Gln and PSMA-Tyr have a round morphology, with fewer and shorter processes. These results indicate that it is possible to modulate the surface characteristics of polyelectrolyte films based on their chemical functionality and environmental parameters such as pH and ionic strength in order to evaluate their effect on cell adhesion. Thus, surfaces prepared from polyelectrolytes functionalized with amino acids are an attractive and simple platform for cell adhesion, which can be used in developing biomaterials with modulated surface properties.