Neuropsychological profiles in first-episodes psychosis and their relationship with clinical, metacognition and social cognition variables.

An increasing interest in the assessment of neuropsychological performance variability in people with first-episode psychosis (FEP) has emerged. However, its association with clinical and functional outcomes requires further study. Furthermore, FEP neuropsychological subgroups have not been characterized by clinical insight or metacognition and social cognition domains. The aim of this exploratory study was to identify specific groups of patients with FEP based on neuropsychological variables and to compare their sociodemographic, clinical, metacognition and social cognition profiles. A sample of 149 FEP was recruited from adult mental health services. Neuropsychological performance was assessed by a neuropsychological battery (WAIS-III; TMT; WSCT; Stroop Test; TAVEC). The assessment also included sociodemographic characteristics, clinical, functional, metacognition and social cognition variables. Two distinct neuropsychological profiles emerged: one neuropsychological impaired cluster (N = 56) and one relatively intact cluster (N = 93). Significant differences were found between both profiles in terms of sociodemographic characteristics (age and level of education) (p = 0.001), clinical symptoms (negative, positive, disorganized, excitement and anxiety) (p = 0.041-0.001), clinical insight (p = 0.038-0.017), global functioning (p = 0.014), as well as in social cognition domains (emotional processing and theory of mind) (p = 0.001; p = 0.002). No significant differences were found in metacognitive variables (cognitive insight and 'jumping to conclusions' bias). Relationship between neurocognitive impairment, social cognition and metacognition deficits are discussed. Early identifying of neuropsychological profiles in FEP, characterized by significant differences in clinical and social cognition variables, could provide insight into the prognosis and guide the implementation of tailored early-intervention.

Efficacy of a transdiagnostic internet-based program for adolescents with emotional disorders: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: The Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A) is a well-established transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral therapy (T-CBT) intervention. The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of the program Learn to Manage your Emotions [Aprende a Manejar tus Emociones] (AMtE), a self-applied transdiagnostic internet-delivered program based on the Spanish version of the UP-A. This is the first transdiagnostic internet-based program designed for the treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents. METHOD: A sample of Spanish adolescents with a primary diagnosis of an anxiety and/or depressive disorder (n = 58; age range = 12-18 years; 78.3% girls; 90% Caucasian) were randomly allocated to receive AMtE (n = 28) or the UP-A via videocall (n = 30). Pre-treatment, post-treatment and 3-month follow-up data were collected using self-reports and clinician-rated measures of anxiety, depression, positive and negative affect, anxiety sensitivity and emotional avoidance. RESULTS: Based on generalized estimating equations (GEE) models, both intervention programs were effective in significantly reducing self-reported anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms and clinician-rated severity of anxiety and depression, as well as self-reported transdiagnostic outcome variables. CONCLUSIONS: Data provide empirical support for the efficacy of AMtE as a transdiagnostic online CBT treatment for anxiety and depressive disorders in adolescents. No marked nor consistent differences were observed between the UP-A and AMtE, highlighting the potential usefulness of the online self-administered AMtE program.

Effectiveness of family metacognitive training in mothers with psychosis and their adolescent children: a multicenter study protocol.

Background: More than half of women with psychosis take care of their children despite the difficulties caused by the disease. Additionally, these kids have a higher risk of developing a mental health disorder. However, no interventions have been developed to meet these needs. Metacognitive Training (MCT) is a psychological intervention that has demonstrated its efficacy in improving cognitive insight, symptom management and social cognition in people with first-episode psychosis (FEP). Additionally, MCT has shown better results in women than men with FEP. This study aims to adapt and evaluate the efficacy of MCT-F in mothers and adolescent children in an online group context with the main purpose of improving family relationships, cognitive awareness and symptoms in women with psychosis and increase their children's knowledge of the disease and their functioning. As secondary objectives, it also aims to evaluate improvements in metacognition, social cognition, symptoms, protective factors and self-perception of stigma. Materials and methods: A quasi-experimental design with participants acting as their own control will be carried out. Forty-eight mothers with psychosis and their adolescent children (between 12 and 20 years old) recruited from a total of 11 adult mental health care centers will receive MCT-F. Participants will be evaluated 11 weeks before the intervention (T1), at baseline (T2), and post-intervention (T3) with a cognitive insight scale, as a primary outcome. Measures of metacognitive and social cognition, symptoms, cognitive functioning, family and social functioning, protective factors (self-esteem, resilience, and coping strategies) and self-perceived stigma will be addressed as secondary outcomes. Assessment will also address trauma and attachment in mothers and, lastly, the feasibility and acceptability of MCT-F in both participant groups. Discussion: This will be the first investigation of the efficacy, acceptability, and viability of the implementation of MCT-F. The results of this study may have clinical implications, contributing to improving mothers' with psychosis and adolescents' functioning and better understanding of the disease, in addition to the possible protective and preventive effect in adolescents, who are known to be at higher risk of developing severe mental disorders.Clinical trial registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier [NCT05358457].

Family Metacognitive Training (MCT-F): Adapting MCT to Mothers with Psychosis and Their Adolescent Children.

Over half of women with psychosis are mothers. Research suggests that mothers with psychosis face unique challenges affecting both their mental health prognosis and their relationship with their children. Moreover, those children have a higher risk of developing a mental disorder. Notwithstanding, interventions specifically tailored to these families remain largely uncovered. Metacognitive Training (MCT) has demonstrated its efficacy in improving cognitive insight, symptom management, and social cognition in people with psychosis. However, there is no evidence of the efficacy of MCT in a family setting (MCT-F). This study describes the first adaptation of MCT for mothers with psychosis and their adolescent children in an online group setting. The phases (assessment, decision, adaptation, production, topical experts' integration) of the ADAPT-ITT model were systematically applied through a participatory approach (n = 22), including a first-person perspective and involving qualitative (e.g., topical expert literature review and consensus groups, interviews, thematic analyses) and quantitative methods. While MCT's core components were retained, participants guided adaptations both in content and delivery. The findings suggest the importance of community engagement and sharing decision-making processes to demonstrate the acceptability and feasibility of the adapted intervention. Employing a structured approach such as the ADAPT-ITT model ensures readiness of the new training for efficacy trials.

The influence of gender in cognitive insight and cognitive bias in people with first-episode psychosis: an uncontrolled exploratory analysis.

PURPOSE: Previous studies have investigated the role of gender in clinical symptoms, social functioning, and neuropsychological performance in people with first-episode psychosis (FEP). However, the evidence of gender differences for metacognition in subjects with FEP is still limited and controversial. The aim of the present study was to explore gender differences in cognitive insight and cognitive biases in this population. METHODS: Cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 104 patients with FEP (35 females and 69 males) recruited from mental health services. Symptoms were assessed with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, cognitive insight with the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale, and cognitive bias by the Cognitive Biases Questionnaire for Psychosis. The assessment also included clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS: After controlling for potential confounders (level of education, marital status, and duration of psychotic illness) analysis of covariance revealed that males presented greater self-reflectiveness (p = 0.004) when compared to females. However, no significant differences were found in self-certainty and composite index of the cognitive insight scale, as in the cognitive biases assessed. CONCLUSIONS: Gender was an independent influence factor for self-reflectiveness, being better for males. Self-reflectiveness, if shown to be relatively lacking in women, could contribute to the design of more gender-sensitive and effective psychotherapeutic treatments, as being able to self-reflect predicts to better treatment response in psychosis.

Continuous prolonged prone positioning in COVID-19-related ARDS: a multicenter cohort study from Chile.

BACKGROUND: Prone positioning is currently applied in time-limited daily sessions up to 24 h which determines that most patients require several sessions. Although longer prone sessions have been reported, there is scarce evidence about the feasibility and safety of such approach. We analyzed feasibility and safety of a continuous prolonged prone positioning strategy implemented nationwide, in a large cohort of COVID-19 patients in Chile. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), conducted in 15 Intensive Care Units, which adhered to a national protocol of continuous prone sessions ≥ 48 h and until PaO2:FiO2 increased above 200 mm Hg. The number and extension of prone sessions were registered, along with relevant physiologic data and adverse events related to prone positioning. The cohort was stratified according to the first prone session duration: Group A, 2-3 days; Group B, 4-5 days; and Group C, > 5 days. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess whether the duration of prone sessions could impact safety. RESULTS: We included 417 patients who required a first prone session of 4 (3-5) days, of whom 318 (76.3%) received only one session. During the first prone session the main adverse event was grade 1-2 pressure sores in 97 (23.9%) patients; severe adverse events were infrequent with 17 non-scheduled extubations (4.2%). 90-day mortality was 36.2%. Ninety-eight patients (24%) were classified as group C; they exhibited a more severe ARDS at baseline, as reflected by lower PaO2:FiO2 ratio and higher ventilatory ratio, and had a higher rate of pressure sores (44%) and higher 90-day mortality (48%). However, after adjustment for severity and several relevant confounders, prone session duration was not associated with mortality or pressure sores. CONCLUSIONS: Nationwide implementation of a continuous prolonged prone positioning strategy for COVID-19 ARDS patients was feasible. Minor pressure sores were frequent but within the ranges previously described, while severe adverse events were infrequent. The duration of prone session did not have an adverse effect on safety.

Prevention of Depression and Anxiety in Subclinical Adolescents: Effects of a Transdiagnostic Internet-Delivered CBT Program.

Anxiety and depressive symptoms are common problems in adolescence that could be addressed by means of preventive interventions. Even though transdiagnostic cognitive behavior therapy (T-CBT) is potentially an ideal strategy to deal with anxiety and depression, it has rarely been used for preventive purposes. In addition, so far, no study has used internet-delivered T-CBT to prevent anxiety and depression in adolescents. This study aimed to examine the utility of AMTE, an internet-delivered T-CBT program, for the indicated prevention of anxiety and depression in adolescents. AMTE was applied to 30 adolescents (56.7% females, age range = 12-18 years, Mage = 14.00, SDage = 1.89) who showed subclinical symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Participants were assessed at pre- and post-treatment and follow-up (3 months). We found that after the program, the symptoms of self-reported anxiety and depression, clinician-rated symptom severity, and self-reported and parent-reported severity of the main problems had significantly improved. In addition, there were significant improvements in anxiety sensitivity and emotional avoidance. Finally, we found high feasibility and acceptability of the program. AMTE is feasible and potentially effective for the indicated prevention of anxiety and depression as well as of clinical transdiagnostic factors, in adolescents.

Effects of Coronavirus Fears on Anxiety and Depressive Disorder Symptoms in Clinical and Subclinical Adolescents: The Role of Negative Affect, Intolerance of Uncertainty, and Emotion Regulation Strategies.

Fears related to COVID-19 ("coronavirus fears") have emerged as a new psychological effect of the current COVID-19 pandemic and have been associated with psychological distress and impairment. Other adverse effects include an increase in anxiety and depression symptoms and the respective disorders. The purpose of the current study was to examine the incremental validity of coronavirus fears and transdiagnostic factors in the prediction of the severity of anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms. A sample of 144 adolescents [aged 12-18 years, 55 boys (38.2%) and 89 girls (61.8%)] most of whom showed elevated levels of anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms completed several self-report measures online assessing coronavirus fears, transdiagnostic vulnerability and protective factors, and emotion regulation strategies. Results based on a series of hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that coronavirus fears, negative affect, intolerance of uncertainty, acceptance/tolerance, rumination and suppression explained unique variance in the severity of anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms. Path analysis demonstrated that acceptance/tolerance, rumination and suppression mediated the association between higher level transdiagnostic factors and the severity of major depressive disorder symptoms. Findings provide support for the hierarchical transdiagnostic model of emotional disorders and suggest that clinicians should be aware of coronavirus fears. Also, the results warrant the need to consider transdiagnostic vulnerability and protective processes in the new protocols for the treatment of emotional disorders.

Changes in Body Size during Early Growth Are Independently Associated with Arterial Properties in Early Childhood.

Nutritional status in early life stages has been associated with arterial parameters in childhood. However, it is still controversial whether changes in standardized body weight (z-BW), height (z-BH), BW for height (z-BWH) and/or body mass index (z-BMI) in the first three years of life are independently associated with variations in arterial structure, stiffness and hemodynamics in early childhood. In addition, it is unknown if the strength of the associations vary depending on the growth period, nutritional characteristics and/or arterial parameters analyzed. AIMS: First, to compare the strength of association between body size changes (Δz-BW, Δz-BH, Δz-BWH, Δz-BMI) in different time intervals (growth periods: 0-6, 0-12, 0-24, 0-36, 12-24, 12-36, 24-36 months (m)) and variations in arterial structure, stiffness and hemodynamics at age 6 years. Second, to determine whether the associations depend on exposure to cardiovascular risk factors, body size at birth and/or on body size at the time of the evaluation (cofactors). Anthropometric (at birth, 6, 12, 24, 36 m and at age 6 years), hemodynamic (peripheral and central (aortic)) and arterial (elastic (carotid) and muscular (femoral) arteries; both hemi-bodies) parameters were assessed in a child cohort (6 years; n =632). The association between arterial parameters and body size changes (Δz-BW, Δz-BH, Δz-BWH, Δz-BMI) in the different growth periods was compared, before and after adjustment by cofactors. RESULTS: Δz-BW 0-24 m and Δz-BWH 0-24 m allowed us to explain inter-individual variations in structural arterial properties at age 6 years, with independence of cofactors. When the third year of life was included in the analysis (0-36, 12-36, 24-36 m), Δz-BW explained hemodynamic (peripheral and central) variations at age 6 years. Δz-BH and Δz-BMI showed limited associations with arterial properties. CONCLUSION: Δz-BW and Δz-BWH are the anthropometric variables with the greatest association with arterial structure and hemodynamics in early childhood, with independence of cofactors.

Stroke volume and cardiac output non-invasive monitoring based on brachial oscillometry-derived pulse contour analysis: Explanatory variables and reference intervals throughout life (3-88 years).

BACKGROUND: Non-invasive assessment of stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and cardiac index (CI) has shown to be useful for the evaluation, diagnosis and/or management of different clinical conditions. Through pulse contour analysis (PCA) cuff­based oscillometric devices would enable obtaining ambulatory operator-independent non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring. There are no reference intervals (RIs), when considered as a continuum in childhood, adolescence and adult life, for PCA-derived SV [SV(PCA)], CO [CO(PCA)] and CI [CI(PCA)]. The aim of the study were to analyze the associations of SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) with demographic, anthropometric, cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) and hemodynamic parameters, and to define RIs and percentile curves for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA), considering the variables that should be considered when expressing them. METHODS: In 1449 healthy subjects (3-88 years) SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) were non-invasively obtained (Mobil-O-Graph; Germany). ANALYSIS: associations between subject characteristics and SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) levels (correlations; regression models); RIs and percentiles for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) (parametric methods; fractional polynomials). RESULTS: Sex, age, and heart rate would be explanatory variables for SV, CO, and CI levels. SV levels were also examined by body height, while body surface area (BSA) contributing to evaluation of CO and CI. CVRFs exposure did not contribute to independently explain the values of the dependent variables. SV, CO and CI levels were partially explained by the oscillometric-derived signal quality. RIs and percentiles were defined. CONCLUSIONS: Reference intervals and percentile for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA), were defined for subjects from 3-88 years of age, results are expressed according to sex, age, heart rate, body height and/or BSA.

Clinical Utility of an Internet-Delivered Version of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (iUP-A): A Pilot Open Trial.

The Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A; Ehrenreich-May et al., 2018) has been shown to be effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents with emotional disorders. Internet-delivered psychological treatments have great potential to improve access to evidence-based psychological therapy since they are associated with reduced human and economic costs and less social stigma. Recently, our group developed an online version of the UP-A (the iUP-A) for the treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents. The aim of this pilot trial was to test the clinical utility of the iUP-A in a small sample (n = 12) of adolescents with elevated anxiety and/or depressive symptoms. Intention-to-treat and completer analyses revealed pre- to post-intervention self-reported decreases of anxiety and depressive symptoms, anxiety sensitivity, emotional avoidance, panic disorder symptoms, panic disorder severity, generalized anxiety disorder symptoms, pathological worry, and major depressive disorder symptoms. We found high feasibility and acceptability of the program with all participants and responsible parents reporting an improvement in the adolescents' ability to cope with emotions. Results suggest that the iUP-A may provide a new approach to improve access to treatment for anxious and depressive adolescents in Spain; however, further research must be conducted before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Aortic pressure and forward and backward wave components in children, adolescents and young-adults: Agreement between brachial oscillometry, radial and carotid tonometry data and analysis of factors associated with their differences.

Non-invasive devices used to estimate central (aortic) systolic pressure (cSBP), pulse pressure (cPP) and forward (Pf) and backward (Pb) wave components from blood pressure (BP) or surrogate signals differ in arteries studied, techniques, data-analysis algorithms and/or calibration schemes (e.g. calibrating to calculated [MBPc] or measured [MBPosc] mean pressure). The aims were to analyze, in children, adolescents and young-adults (1) the agreement between cSBP, cPP, Pf and Pb obtained using carotid (CT) and radial tonometry (RT) and brachial-oscillometry (BOSC); and (2) explanatory factors for the differences between approaches-data and between MBPosc and MBPc.1685 subjects (mean/range age: 14/3-35 y.o.) assigned to three age-related groups (3-12; 12-18; 18-35 y.o.) were included. cSBP, cPP, Pf and Pb were assessed with BOSC (Mobil-O-Graph), CT and RT (SphygmoCor) records. Two calibration schemes were considered: MBPc and MBPosc for calibrations to similar BP levels. Correlation, Bland-Altman tests and multiple regression models were applied. Systematic and proportional errors were observed; errors´ statistical significance and values varied depending on the parameter analyzed, methods compared and group considered. The explanatory factors for the differences between data obtained from the different approaches varied depending on the methods compared. The highest cSBP and cPP were obtained from CT; the lowest from RT. Independently of the technique, parameter or age-group, higher values were obtained calibrating to MBPosc. Age, sex, heart rate, diastolic BP, body weight or height were explanatory factors for the differences in cSBP, cPP, Pf or Pb. Brachial BP levels were explanatory factors for the differences between MBPosc and MBPc.

Arterial Structural and Functional Characteristics at End of Early Childhood and Beginning of Adulthood: Impact of Body Size Gain during Early, Intermediate, Late and Global Growth.

An association between nutritional characteristics in theearlylife stages and the state of the cardiovascular (CV) system in early childhood itself and/or at the beginning of adulthood has been postulated. It is still controversial whether changes in weight, height and/or body mass index (BMI) during childhood or adolescence are independently associated with hemodynamics and/or arterial properties in early childhood and adulthood. AIMS: First, to evaluate and compare the strength of association between CVproperties (at 6 and 18 years (y)) and (a) anthropometric data at specific growth stages (e.g., birth, 6 y, 18 y) and (b) anthropometric changes during early (0-2 y), intermediate (0-6 y), late (6-18 y) and global (0-18 y) growth. Second, to determine whether the associations between CVproperties and growth-related body changes depend on size at birth and/or at the time of CVstudy. Third, to analyze the capacity of growth-related body size changes to explain hemodynamic and arterial properties in early childhood and adulthood before and after adjusting for exposure to CV risk factors. Anthropometric, hemodynamic (central, peripheral) and arterial parameters (structural, functional; elastic, transitional and muscular arteries) were assessed in two cohorts (children, n = 682; adolescents, n = 340). Data wereobtained and analyzed following identical protocols. RESULTS: Body-size changes in infancy (0-2 y) and childhood (0-6 y) showed similar strength of association with CV properties at 6 y. Conversely, 0-6, 6-18 or 0-18 ychanges were not associated with CV parameters at 18 y. The association between CV properties at 6 yand body-size changes during growth showed: equal or greater strength than the observed for body-size at birth, and lower strength compared to that obtained for current z-BMI. Conversely, only z-BMI at 18 y showed associations with CV z-scores at 18 y. Body size at birth showed almost no association with CVproperties at 6 or 18 y. CONCLUSION: current z-BMI showed the greatest capacity to explain variations in CV properties at 6 and 18 y. Variations in some CV parameters were mainly explained by growth-related anthropometric changes and/or by their interaction with current z-BMI. Body size at birth showed almost no association with arterial properties at 6 or 18 y.

New antibacterial and 5-lipoxygenase activities of synthetic benzyl phenyl ketones: Biological and docking studies.

We investigated twelve benzyl phenyl ketone derivatives which are synthetic precursors of isoflavonoids that are shown be good 5-hLOX inhibitors, especially those that have the catechol group, but these precursors never have been assayed as 5-hLOX inhibitors being a novelty as inhibitors of the enzyme, due to sharing important structural characteristics. Screening assays, half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and kinetic assays of all the studied molecules (5 µg/ml in media assay) showed that 1-(2,4-dihydroxy-3-methylphenyl)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-ethanone (K205; IC50 = 3.5 µM; Ki = 4.8 µM) and 1-(2,4-dihydroxy-3-methylphenyl)-2-(2-nitrophenyl)-ethanone (K206; IC50 = 2.3 µM; Ki = 0.7 µM) were potent, selective, competitive and nonredox inhibitors of 5-hLOX. Antioxidant behavior was also assayed by DPPH, FRAP, and assessing ROS production, and those with antibacterial and antiproliferative properties relating to 1-(2,4-dihydroxy-3-methylphenyl)-2-(2-chlorophenyl)-ethanone (K208) established it as the most interesting and relevant compound studied, as it showed nearly 100% inhibition of bacterial growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Finally, docking studies were done that helped to characterize how the inhibitor structures correlated to decreased 5-hLOX activity.

Peripheral and Central Aortic Pressure, Wave-Derived Reflection Parameters, Local and Regional Arterial Stiffness and Structural Parameters in Children and Adolescents: Impact of Body Mass Index Variations.

AIM: The aim was to analyze and compare the associations between body mass index (BMI) and structural and functional cardiovascular variables measured in children and adolescents. METHODS: 609 healthy subjects (mean age/range 12/4-18 years, 45% females) were studied. Subjects' BMI and the corresponding z-scores (z-BMI) were determined. Cardiovascular measurements: peripheral and aortic blood pressure (BP), aortic wave-derived parameters, common carotid, femoral and brachial artery diameters and stiffness, carotid intima-media thickness, carotid-radial and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (crPWV, cfPWV) and cfPWV/crPWV ratio. Cardiovascular data were standardized (z-scores) using equations (fractional polynomials) obtained from a sub-group (reference population, n = 241) non-exposed to cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs). Simple and multiple regression models were obtained for the associations between cardiovascular z-scores and z-BMI and/or z-BMI, age, sex and CVRFs. RESULTS: z-BMI was associated with standardized cardiovascular variables, regardless of age, sex and CVRFs. BP (peripheral rather than aortic) was the variable with the greatest variations associated with z-BMI. Systolic (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP; in that order) were the variables with the highest variations associated with z-BMI. Carotid, but not femoral or brachial stiffness showed BP-dependent variations associated with z-BMI. Arterial diameters were associated with z-BMI, without differences among arteries. CONCLUSION: In children and adolescents, z-BMI was gradually and positively associated with haemodynamic (peripheral and central BP) and vascular parameters (structural and functional) with independence of age, sex and other CVRFs (Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, Smoke, Diabetes). There were differences in the associations depending on the arteries studied and on whether central or peripheral haemodynamic parameters were analyzed.

Generación de un inoculante acelerador del compostaje / Production of a compost accelerator inoculant

Se realizó el compostaje de una mezcla de estiércol de ovino más paja. Se extrajo inóculo de 5 diferentes fases del proceso de compostaje (a los 18, 23, 28, 33 y 38 días de iniciado) y se evaluó su efecto en la reducción del tiempo de biotransformación de un compost de estiércol de ovino. Las muestras se conservaron en un ultracongelador, después se liofilizaron para obtener el inóculo y se agregaron 50 g a cada tratamiento en la segunda fase experimental. En dicha fase se establecieron seis tratamientos: C = paja (P) + estiércol de ovino (E), T1= P+E +inóculo de 18 días de iniciado el proceso de compostaje (I18), T2= P + E+I23, T3= P + E +128, T4= P + E + I33, T5= P + E + I38, con 3 repeticiones. Estos tratamientos se colocaron en una cámara de ambiente controlado con 45% de humedad relativa y a 30°C. Al mismo tiempo, se colocaron frascos con 50 g de material para medir la producción diaria y la acumulación de CO2, la temperatura, el pH, la conductividad eléctrica, la materia orgánica, el nitrógeno (N), el carbono total, la relación C:N, el tamaño de partícula y la densidad aparente. La producción de CO2 en los tratamientos T2 y T5 mostró diferencia significativa (p < 0,05) de respecto de los demás tratamientos, lo que demuestra que el inóculo de estos tratamientos aceleró la dinámica de los microorganismos y el proceso de compostaje. La calidad y la madurez del compost se garantizan a medida que disminuye la cantidad de CO2.

Composting was performed using a mixture of ovine manure and straw. Inoculum was extracted at five different phases of the composting process (18, 23, 28, 33 and 38 days after the start of the composting process) and its effect on reducing biotransformation time was evaluated in the composted ovine manure. The samples were preserved in a deep freezer, then lyophilized to obtain the inoculum, 50g of which was added to each treatment in the second experimental phase. Six treatments were established; C = straw (P) + ovine manure (E), T1 = P+ E+ inoculum 18 days after the start of the composting process (I18), T2 = P + E + I23, T3 = P + E +128, T4 = P + E +133, T5 = P + E +138, with three replications. Treatments were placed in a controlled-environment chamber at 45% relative humidity and 30°C along with flasks containing 50 g of material to measure daily production, CO2 accumulation, temperature, pH, electric conductivity (dS/m), organic matter (%), total nitrogen (%), total carbon (%), C: N ratio, particle size (Tp) and bulk density (g/l). CO2 production (mg) showed a significant difference (p <.05) of treatments T2 and T5 with respect to the others, which demonstrated that the inoculum of these treatments accelerated the dynamics of microorganisms and the composting process. The quality and maturity of the compost are guaranteed as the amount of CO2 decreases.

Forward and Backward Aortic Components and Reflection Indexes in Children and Adolescents: Determinants and Role in High Pressure States.

BACKGROUND: High blood pressure states (HBP) would differ in wave components and reflections indexes, which could associate clinical and prognostic implications. The study aims: 1) to characterize the association of aortic wave components and reflection parameters (backward [Pb], forward [Pf], Pb/Pf ratio and augmentation index [AIx]) with demographic, anthropometric, hemodynamic and arterial parameters in healthy children and adolescents; 2) to generate multivariate prediction models for the associations, to contribute to understand the main determinants of Pf, Pb, Pb/Pf and AIx; 3) to identify if differences in wave reflection indexes observed in HBP could be explained by differences in the analyzed parameters. METHODS: Healthy children and adolescents (n=816, females: 386; Age: 3-20 years) were studied. EVALUATIONS: central aortic pressure and wave components (Pb, Pf, Pb/Pf and AIx determination with SphygmoCor [SCOR] and Mobil-o-Graph [MOG]); anthropometric assessment; regional arterial stiffness (carotid-femoral, carotid-radial pulse wave velocity [PWV] and PWV ratio); carotid intima-media thickness; carotid and femoral distensbility; cardiac output; systemic vascular resistances (SVR). Simple and multiple regression models were constructed to determine aortic wave parameters; the main explanatory variables. Normotensive and HBP groups were compared. Differences in wave reflection indexes were analyzed before and after controlling for explanatory variables. Equivalences between SphygmoCor and Mobil-O-Graph data were assessed (correlation and Bland-Altman analyses). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were systematic and proportional differences between the data obtained with SphygmoCor and Mobil-O-Graph devices. Heart rate (HR), peripheral pulse pressure, height and weight were the variables that isolated (simple associations) or combined (multiple associations), showed the major capability to explain interindividual differences in Pf, Pb, Pb/Pf and AIx. Arterial stiffness also showed explanatory capacity, being the carotid the artery with the major contribution. HBP associated higher Pf, Pb, AIx and lower Pb/Pf ratio. Those findings were observed together with higher weight, arterial stiffness and HR. After adjusting for anthropometric characteristics, HR, cardiac output and SVR, the HBP group showed greater Pf and Pb. Then, Pf and Pb characteristics associated with HBP would not be explained by anthropometric or hemodynamic factors. Evaluating wave components and reflection parameters could contribute to improve the comprehension and management of HBP states.

Increases in Peripheral Systolic Pressure Levels and Z-score Associate Gradual Aortic Pressure Increase and Functional Arterial Impairment in Children and Adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Arterial changes associated with children and adolescents high blood pressure (HBP) states would vary depending on the arterial type, arterial indexes considered and/or on blood pressure (BP) levels. AIMS: To determine in children and adolescents: 1) if there is gradual structural-functional arterial impairment associated with gradual peripheral (brachial) systolic BP (pSBP) level or z-score increases, and 2) whether subjects with HBP levels and those with normal BP differ in the profiles of arterial changes associated with pSBP deviations. METHODS: 1005 asymptomatic children and adolescents were included. Clinical, anthropometric and arterial non-invasive evaluations were performed. Heart rate, brachial BP, aortic BP and wavederived parameters (i.e. augmentation index), carotid and femoral diameters, blood velocities and elastic modulus, carotid intima-media thickness and aortic pulse wave velocity, were obtained. Two groups were assembled: Reference (without cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs); n=379) and HBP (n=175). Additionally, subjects were ascribed to groups according to their pSBP z-scores (z-score ≤ 0, 0< z-score < 1 or z-score ≥ 1). Age and sex-related mean and standard deviation equations were obtained for each variable (Reference group). Using those equations, data (entire population) were converted into z-scores. Groups were compared (absolute and z-scored variables) before and after adjusting for cofactors (ANOVA/ANCOVA). Linear regression analyses were done considering: pSBP and z-pSBP (independent) and absolute levels and z-scores for hemodynamic and arterial indexes (dependent variables). Differences in hemodynamic and arterial levels and z-scores variations (dependent) associated with variations in pSBP and z-pSBP (independent variable) were assessed. The slopes of the models for Reference and HBP groups were compared. CONCLUSION: HBP states associate hemodynamic and arterial changes not explained by exposure to other CVRFs, anthropometric or demographic factors. The higher the pSBP deviations from ageand sex-expected mean value in the Reference group, the higher the hemodynamic and arterial indexes deviation. The pSBP-related variations in hemodynamic and arterial indexes would not differ depending on whether HBP states are present or not.

[Production of a compost accelerator inoculant]. / Generación de un inoculante acelerador del compostaje.

Composting was performed using a mixture of ovine manure and straw. Inoculum was extracted at five different phases of the composting process (18, 23, 28, 33 and 38 days after the start of the composting process) and its effect on reducing biotransformation time was evaluated in the composted ovine manure. The samples were preserved in a deep freezer, then lyophilized to obtain the inoculum, 50g of which was added to each treatment in the second experimental phase. Six treatments were established; C=straw (P)+ovine manure (E), T1=P+ E+inoculum 18 days after the start of the composting process (I18), T2=P+E+I23, T3=P+E+I28, T4=P+E+I33, T5=P+E+I38, with three replications. Treatments were placed in a controlled-environment chamber at 45% relative humidity and 30°C along with flasks containing 50g of material to measure daily production, CO2 accumulation, temperature, pH, electric conductivity (dS/m), organic matter (%), total nitrogen (%), total carbon (%), C: N ratio, particle size (Tp) and bulk density (g/l). CO2 production (mg) showed a significant difference (p ≤.05) of treatments T2 and T5 with respect to the others, which demonstrated that the inoculum of these treatments accelerated the dynamics of microorganisms and the composting process. The quality and maturity of the compost are guaranteed as the amount of CO2 decreases.

Comparative Analysis of Arterial Parameters Variations Associated with Inter-Individual Variations in Peripheral and Aortic Blood Pressure: Cross-Sectional Study in Healthy Subjects Aged 2-84 years.

INTRODUCTION: The association between arterial parameters and blood pressure (BP) interindividual variations could depend on the arterial segment, BP component (systolic, SBP; diastolic, DBP; pulse pressure, PP) and/or on whether central (cBP) or peripheral (pBP) BP variations are considered. AIM: To assess and compare arterial parameters variations associated with interindividual variations in cBP and pBP. METHODS: Healthy subjects (n = 923; 488 males, 2-84 years) were included. pBP and cBP waves were obtained (Mobil-O-Graph; SphygmoCor). Arterial diameter, intima-media thickness, local elastic modulus (carotid, CEM; brachial, BEM; femoral, FEM) and regional (carotid-radial and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity; crPWV and cfPWV) arterial stiffness were determined. Associations between BP and arterial parameters interindividual variations were analyzed and compared (correlations; linear regressions; slopes comparisons) considering data transformed into z-scores. RESULTS: Given a variation in z-cSBP or z-pSBP, z-CEM, z-FEM and z-cfPWV (stiffness indexes), were among the parameters with major BP-associated variations. z-crPWV and z-cfPWV, rather than local stiffness indexes were the parameters with major variations associated with z-DBP variations. z-cPP or z-pPP were associated with z-CEM and z-FEM variations, but not with brachial or regional stiffness variations. Most of the arterial parameters-BP slopes did not show significant differences when considering a variation in z-cSBP and z-pSBP. z-CEM and z-FEM were mainly associated with z-cPP and z-pPP variations, respectively. CONCLUSION: Disregard of age and sex, the variations in arterial parameters associated with BP interindividual variations showed differences depending on whether variations were central or peripheral; in SBP, DBP or PP and depending on the arterial segment considered.