Changes in general and abdominal obesity in children at 4, 6 and 9 years of age and their association with other cardiometabolic risk factors.

Temporary changes in childhood obesity and their association with cardiometabolic risk factors have been receiving increased attention. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in general (GO) and abdominal (AO) obesity in children from 4 to 9 years of age and their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors at 9 years of age. This study includes 1344 children from the Longitudinal Childhood Obesity Study (ELOIN). Physical examinations performed at 4, 6 and 9 years of age and a blood sample was only taken at 9 years of age. Changes in obesity from 4 to 9 years of age were estimated using Body Mass Index and waist circumference. Participants were classified into four groups according to GO and AO: (1) stable without obesity (no obesity at all three measurements); (2) remitting obesity at 9 years (obesity at 4 and/or 6 years but not at 9 years); (3) incident or recurrent obesity at 9 years (obesity only at 9 years, at 4 and 9 years or at 6 and 9 years); and (4) stable or persistent with obesity (obesity at 4, 6 and 9 years). Dyslipidemia and dysglycemia were defined by the presence of at least one altered parameter of the lipid or glycemic profile. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated using logistic regression. Compared with children without GO at all ages, those with persistent GO had an OR of 3.66 (95% CI: 2.06-6.51) for dyslipidemia, 10.61 (95% CI: 5.69-19.79) for dysglycemia and 8.35 (95% CI: 4.55-15.30) for high blood pressure. The associations were fairly similar in the case of AO, with ORs of 3.52 (95% CI: 1.96-6.34), 17.15 (95% CI: 9.09-32.34) and 8.22 (95% CI: 4.46-15.15), respectively, when comparing persistent versus stable without AO. Children with incident obesity at 9 years presented a moderate cardiometabolic risk that was nevertheless higher compared to those stable without obesity, whereas those with remitting obesity did not show any significant associations. CONCLUSION: Incident, and especially, persistent obesity, is associated with an increased cardiometabolic risk. The very early prevention of obesity, with a focus on nutrition, physical activity and sedentary behaviour, as well as tracking growth from birth to age 5, should be a priority to prevent the burden of cardiometabolic disease with consequences for adulthood. WHAT IS KNOWN: • General and abdominal obesity has been shown to be associated with other cardiometabolic risk factors such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and hypertension. • Temporary changes in obesity and their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors have not been sufficiently explored in childhood. WHAT IS NEW: • Children with incident, and especially persistent, general and/or abdominal obesity, had an increased risk of dyslipidemia, dysglycemia and high blood pressure. •Remitting obesity was not associated with an increased cardiometabolic risk.

Role of Early Assesment of Diuresis and Natriuresis in Detecting In-Hospital Diuretic Resistance in Acute Heart Failure.

Background and Purpose: European Guidelines recommend early evaluation of diuresis and natriuresis after the first administration of diuretic to identify patients with insufficient diuretic response during acute heart failure. The aim of this work is to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of patients with insufficient diuretic response according to this new algorithm. Methods: Prospective observational single centre study of consecutive patients with acute heart failure and congestive signs. Clinical evaluation, echocardiography and blood tests were performed. Diuretic naïve patients received 40 mg of intravenous furosemide. Patients on an oupatient diuretic regimen received 2 times the ambulatory dose. The diuresis volume was assessed 6 h after the first loop diuretic administration, and a spot urinary sample was taken after 2 h. Insufficient diuretic response was defined as natriuresis <70 mEq/L or diuresis volume <600 ml. Results: From January 2020 to December 2021, 73 patients were included (59% males, median age 76 years). Of these, 21 patients (28.8%, 95%CI 18.4; 39.2) had an insufficient diuretic response. Diuresis volume was <600 ml in 13 patients (18.1%), and 12 patients (16.4%) had urinary sodium <70 mEq/L. These patients had lower systolic blood pressure, worse glomerular filtration rate, and higher aldosterone levels. Ambulatory furosemide dose was also higher. These patients required more frequently thiazides and inotropes during admission. Conclusion: The diagnostic algorithm based on diuresis and natriuresis was able to detect up to 29% of patients with insufficient diuretic response, who showed some characteristics of more advanced disease.

Evaluation of Particleboards Made from Giant Reed (Arundo donax L.) Bonded with Cement and Potato Starch.

There is a general concern about the rationalization of resources and the management of waste. Plant residues can contribute to the development of new non-polluting construction materials. The objective of this study was to valorize a plant residue such as the giant reed and obtain a particleboard with cement using potato starch as a plasticizer in a manufacturing process involving compression and heat. The influence of cement and starch in different proportions and its stability over time were analyzed. Finally, their physical and mechanical properties were evaluated and compared to European Standards. High-quality sustainable particleboards (boards with high structural performance) were obtained and can be classified as P6 according to European Standards. Mechanical properties were improved by increasing the starch content and pressing time, whereas greater resistance to water was obtained by increasing the cement content. Giant reed particles seem to tolerate the alkalinity of the cement since there was no sign of degradation of its fibers. The use of these residues in the manufacture of construction materials offers a very attractive alternative in terms of price, technology and sustainability.

Usefulness of natriuresis to predict in-hospital diuretic resistance.

BACKGROUND: Urinary sodium excretion predicts long-term adverse events after discharge in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). The role of natriuresis as an early marker of poor diuretic response during an AHF episode has been scarcely investigated. We sought to evaluate whether early natriuresis or its change during heart failure hospitalization is associated with the development of in-hospital diuretic resistance (DR). METHODS: This was a prospective, observational single center study of consecutive patients with AHF. Urine electrolytes were estimated from a spot urine sample within the first 6 hours following the first diuretic dose and 48 hours after admission. In-hospital DR was defined as poor diuretic response based on diuretic efficiency metrics and persistent congestion despite an intensive diuretic protocol. RESULTS: Between January and December 2018, 143 patients were admitted for AHF. Of these, 102 fulfilled the inclusion criteria (60% males, median age 77 years [interquartile range [IQR]: 69-83), and 20 patients (19.6%) met the definition of DR. Early natriuresis was lower in patients with DR than in non-resistant patients (46 mEq/L [IQR: 38.5-80.0] vs 97.5 mEq/L [IQR: 70.5-113.5], P<0.001). Urinary sodium <50 mEq/L increased the risk of developing in-hospital DR (risk ratio: 5.011 [95% confidence interval 2.408-10.429], P<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for early natriuresis to predict DR was 0.791 (95% confidence interval 0.681-0.902, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Initial natriuresis can predict in-hospital DR. Patients with urinary sodium <50 mEq/L have an increased risk of early resistance to diuretic treatment.

A bacterial light response reveals an orphan desaturase for human plasmalogen synthesis.

Plasmalogens are glycerophospholipids with a hallmark sn-1 vinyl ether bond. These lipids are found in animals and some bacteria and have proposed membrane organization, signaling, and antioxidant roles. We discovered the plasmanylethanolamine desaturase activity that is essential for vinyl ether bond formation in a bacterial enzyme, CarF, which is a homolog of the human enzyme TMEM189. CarF mediates light-induced carotenogenesis in Myxococcus xanthus, and plasmalogens participate in sensing photooxidative stress through singlet oxygen. TMEM189 and other animal homologs could functionally replace CarF in M. xanthus, and knockout of TMEM189 in a human cell line eliminated plasmalogens. Discovery of the human plasmanylethanolamine desaturase will spur further study of plasmalogen biogenesis, functions, and roles in disease.

[Assessment of beverage consumption, dietary water intake and adequacy to the recommendations of a group of Spanish schoolchildren from 7 to 12 years old]. / Evaluación del consumo de bebidas, ingesta dietética de agua y adecuación a las recomendaciones de un colectivo de escolares españoles de 7 a 12 años.

INTRODUCTION: the dietary water and the intake of beverages play a relevant role in the dietary and hydration patterns of children and few studies provide an overview of them. Objetives: to assess the dietary intake of water, its adaptation to the recommendations and its distribution throughout the day, and the average consumption of beverages by a group of Spanish schoolchildren. MATERIAL AND METHODS: a sample of 262 schoolchildren (139 boys and 123 girls) between seven and 12 years old was studied. A three-day dietary record (one day in weekend) was kept to assess beverage consumption. Dietary water intake obtained was compared to EFSA's adequate intake (AI) and other recommendations, its distribution throughout the day was studied, and personal and anthropometric date were collected too. The data were processed using DIAL and SPSS. RESULTS: the beverages consumed in greatest quantity were water as a beverage, milk and commercial juices and nectars. The average dietary water intake was 1,401 ± 432 ml/day (42% from food and 58% from beverages). Only 20.2% of schoolchildren were above the AIs. Dietary water intake was significantly higher at all intakes in the day in those schoolchildren who were above AIs. CONCLUSIONS: based on our results, 79.8% of children do not cover the AIs. For this reason it is important improve their hydration patterns. In this aspect, water as a beverage plays a key role to cover the recommendations.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la ingesta dietética de agua y el consumo de bebidas juegan un papel relevante en los hábitos de hidratación y alimentación de la población infantil y escasos estudios nos ofrecen una visión global de los mismos. OBJETIVOS: evaluar la ingesta dietética de agua y el consumo de bebidas, su adecuación a las recomendaciones y su distribución a lo largo del día en un colectivo de escolares españoles. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se estudió una muestra de 262 escolares (123 niñas) entre siete y 12 años. Se realizó un registro dietético de tres días (uno de ellos festivo) para evaluar el consumo de bebidas. Se comparó la ingesta dietética de agua obtenida con las ingestas adecuadas (IA) marcadas por la EFSA y por otros organismos y se estudió su distribución a lo largo del día. También se procedió a recoger datos personales y antropométricos. Los datos fueron procesados mediante DIAL y SPSS. RESULTADOS: las bebidas más consumidas fueron agua de bebida, leche y zumos comerciales y néctares. La ingesta dietética media de agua fue de 1.401 ± 432 ml/día (42% aportada por alimentos y 58% por bebidas). Solo el 20,2% de los escolares superaron las IA. La ingesta dietética de agua fue significativamente superior en todos los momentos del día en aquellos escolares que superaron las IA establecidas. CONCLUSIÓN: el 79,8% de los escolares no alcanza las IA, por lo que es importante mejorar sus pautas de hidratación, jugando el agua de bebida un papel clave a la hora de alcanzar las recomendaciones.

Evaluación del consumo de bebidas, ingesta dietética de agua y adecuación a las recomendaciones de un colectivo de escolares españoles de 7 a 12 años / Assessment of beverage consumption, dietary water intake and adequacy to the recommendations of a group of Spanish schoolchildren from 7 to 12 years old

Introducción: la ingesta dietética de agua y el consumo de bebidas juegan un papel relevante en los hábitos de hidratación y alimentación de la población infantil y escasos estudios nos ofrecen una visión global de los mismos. Objetivos: evaluar la ingesta dietética de agua y el consumo de bebidas, su adecuación a las recomendaciones y su distribución a lo largo del día en un colectivo de escolares españoles. Material y métodos: se estudió una muestra de 262 escolares (123 niñas) entre siete y 12 años. Se realizó un registro dietético de tres días (uno de ellos festivo) para evaluar el consumo de bebidas. Se comparó la ingesta dietética de agua obtenida con las ingestas adecuadas (IA) marcadas por la EFSA y por otros organismos y se estudió su distribución a lo largo del día. También se procedió a recoger datos personales y antropométricos. Los datos fueron procesados mediante DIAL y SPSS. Resultados: las bebidas más consumidas fueron agua de bebida, leche y zumos comerciales y néctares. La ingesta dietética media de agua fue de 1.401 ± 432 ml/día (42% aportada por alimentos y 58% por bebidas). Solo el 20,2% de los escolares superaron las IA. La ingesta dietética de agua fue significativamente superior en todos los momentos del día en aquellos escolares que superaron las IA establecidas. Conclusión: el 79,8% de los escolares no alcanza las IA, por lo que es importante mejorar sus pautas de hidratación, jugando el agua de bebida un papel clave a la hora de alcanzar las recomendaciones

Introduction: the dietary water and the intake of beverages play a relevant role in the dietary and hydration patterns of children and few studies provide an overview of them. Objetives: to assess the dietary intake of water, its adaptation to the recommendations and its distribution throughout the day, and the average consumption of beverages by a group of Spanish schoolchildren. Material and methods: a sample of 262 schoolchildren (139 boys and 123 girls) between seven and 12 years old was studied. A three-day dietary record (one day in weekend) was kept to assess beverage consumption. Dietary water intake obtained was compared to EFSA's adequate intake (AI) and other recommendations, its distribution throughout the day was studied, and personal and anthropometric date were collected too. The data were processed using DIAL and SPSS. Results: the beverages consumed in greatest quantity were water as a beverage, milk and commercial juices and nectars. The average dietary water intake was 1,401 ± 432 ml/day (42% from food and 58% from beverages). Only 20.2% of schoolchildren were above the AIs. Dietary water intake was significantly higher at all intakes in the day in those schoolchildren who were above AIs. Conclusions: based on our results, 79.8% of children do not cover the AIs. For this reason it is important improve their hydration patterns. In this aspect, water as a beverage plays a key role to cover the recommendations

D-dimer and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels to predict venous thromboembolism recurrence after discontinuation of anticoagulation for cancer-associated thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: Optimal duration of anticoagulation for cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) remains unclear. This study assessed D-dimer (DD) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels after the withdrawal of anticoagulation treatment to predict the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence among patients with CAT. METHODS: Prospective, multicentre study to evaluate CAT with ≥3 months of anticoagulation that was subsequently discontinued. Blood samples were taken when patients stopped the anticoagulation and 21 days later to determine the DD and hs-CRP levels. All patients were followed up for 6 months to detect VTE recurrence. RESULTS: Between 2013 and 2015, 325 patients were evaluated and 114 patients were ultimately enrolled in the study. The mean age was 62 ± 14 years and nearly 40% had metastasis. Ten patients developed VTE recurrence within 6 months (8.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.3-15.5%). The DD and hs-CRP levels after 21 days were associated with VTE recurrence. The subdistribution hazard ratios were 9.82 for hs-CRP (95% CI: 19-52) and 5.81 for DD (95% CI: 1.1-31.7). CONCLUSIONS: This study identified that hs-CRP and DD were potential biomarkers of VTE recurrence after discontinuation of anticoagulation in CAT. A risk-adapted strategy could identify low-risk patients who may benefit from discontinuation of anticoagulation.

[Evolution in the supply of non-alcoholic beverages in the last 25 years: reduction of sugar as a critical nutrient and use of sweeteners]. / Evolución en la oferta de bebidas no alcohólicas en los últimos 25 años: reducción de azúcar como nutriente crítico y uso de edulcorantes.

INTRODUCTION: in recent years, consumers have been changing their food requirements, but always based on food safety as the primary premise. Among these advances, it has been realised the reduction and elimination of sugar and the use of sweeteners in non-alcoholic beverages, allowing these products to be adapted to the requirements of health organizations regarding the content of simple sugars. OBJECTIVES: to know the evolution of non-alcoholic beverages in Spain during the last 25 years, focusing on the reduction of sugar and the use of sweeteners. MATERIAL AND METHODS: bibliographic review of the available scientific literature and legislation. RESULTS: the development and innovation in the composition of non-alcoholic beverages has made it possible to reduce the amount of sugar in these beverages more than 45% in the sugar content per litre in the total supply of beverages since 2000 and to reduce the sugar content in certain beverages. For this reason, it has growth the number of drinks without sugar or without added sugar. CONCLUSION: there is an increasing supply and options of lower-sugar and sugar-free beverages.

INTRODUCCIÓN: durante estos últimos años los consumidores han ido variando sus exigencias en cuanto a los alimentos, pero siempre han mantenido como primera premisa la seguridad alimentaria. Dentro de estos avances, cabe destacar la reducción y la eliminación del azúcar y del uso de edulcorantes en bebidas no alcohólicas, lo que ha permitido que estos productos puedan adaptarse a los requerimientos de las organizaciones de salud en lo relativo al contenido de azúcares simples. OBJETIVOS: conocer la evolución de las bebidas no alcohólicas en España durante los últimos 25 años, sobre todo en la reducción de azúcar y en el uso de edulcorantes. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: revisión bibliográfica de la literatura científica disponible, además de la legislación al respecto. RESULTADOS: el desarrollo y la innovación en la composición de las bebidas no alcohólicas ha permitido reducir la cantidad de azúcar, lo que ha permitido que, en algún caso, desde el año 2000 se haya reducido en más de un 45% el contenido de azúcar por litro en el total de la oferta de bebidas y haya contenidos más bajos en azúcar en determinadas bebidas, a lo que hay que añadir la existencia cada vez más numerosa de bebidas sin azúcar o sin azúcar añadido. CONCLUSIÓN: cada vez hay mayor oferta y opciones de bebidas con contenidos más bajos de azúcar o sin azúcar.

Evolución en la oferta de bebidas no alcohólicas en los últimos 25 años: reducción de azúcar como nutriente crítico y uso de edulcorantes / Evolution in the supply of non-alcoholic beverages in the last 25 years: reduction of sugar as a critical nutrient and use of sweeteners

Introducción: durante estos últimos años los consumidores han ido variando sus exigencias en cuanto a los alimentos, pero siempre han mantenido como primera premisa la seguridad alimentaria. Dentro de estos avances, cabe destacar la reducción y la eliminación del azúcar y del uso de edulcorantes en bebidas no alcohólicas, lo que ha permitido que estos productos puedan adaptarse a los requerimientos de las organizaciones de salud en lo relativo al contenido de azúcares simples. Objetivos: conocer la evolución de las bebidas no alcohólicas en España durante los últimos 25 años, sobre todo en la reducción de azúcar y en el uso de edulcorantes. Material y métodos: revisión bibliográfica de la literatura científica disponible, además de la legislación al respecto. Resultados: el desarrollo y la innovación en la composición de las bebidas no alcohólicas ha permitido reducir la cantidad de azúcar, lo que ha permitido que, en algún caso, desde el año 2000 se haya reducido en más de un 45% el contenido de azúcar por litro en el total de la oferta de bebidas y haya contenidos más bajos en azúcar en determinadas bebidas, a lo que hay que añadir la existencia cada vez más numerosa de bebidas sin azúcar o sin azúcar añadido. Conclusión: cada vez hay mayor oferta y opciones de bebidas con contenidos más bajos de azúcar o sin azúcar

Introduction: in recent years, consumers have been changing their food requirements, but always based on food safety as the primary premise. Among these advances, it has been realised the reduction and elimination of sugar and the use of sweeteners in non-alcoholic beverages, allowing these products to be adapted to the requirements of health organizations regarding the content of simple sugars. Objectives: to know the evolution of non-alcoholic beverages in Spain during the last 25 years, focusing on the reduction of sugar and the use of sweeteners. Material and methods: bibliographic review of the available scientific literature and legislation. Results: the development and innovation in the composition of non-alcoholic beverages has made it possible to reduce the amount of sugar in these beverages more than 45% in the sugar content per litre in the total supply of beverages since 2000 and to reduce the sugar content in certain beverages. For this reason, it has growth the number of drinks without sugar or without added sugar. Conclusion: there is an increasing supply and options of lower-sugar and sugar-free beverages

Physical activity and sedentary behavior impacts on dietary water intake and hydration status in Spanish schoolchildren: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The importance of maintaining an adequate hydration status and the complexity of the water balance make it necessary to study the lifestyle factors that can influence or modify these variables. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hydration status and dietary water intake for a sample of Spanish schoolchildren from 7 to 12 years old and their associations with physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors. METHODS: A total of 242 schoolchildren was studied (49.17% females). A 24-hour urine sample was collected from each child, and the urine volume and osmolality were measured to estimate the hydration status (adequate hydration ≤800 mOsm/kg). In addition, a 3-day dietary record was completed to evaluate their water intake according to EFSA parameters. Dietary information was processed with DIAL software, and a statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Student's t-test was used to study the normal variables, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for those that were not normal. In the case of the categorical variables, the Z and Chi-Square proportions tests were used. The Bonferroni test was used to adjust the values in multiple comparisons. To evaluate the influence of these lifestyles on the urine osmolality, a 2-way ANOVA and an odds ratio were used. RESULTS: A total of 48.3% of the sample presented an adequate hydration status, and the percentage was significantly higher in females (p = 0.003). Only 20.9% showed an adequate intake of dietary water. The lifestyle influence reveals that more inactive and non-sedentary schoolchildren were adequately hydrated (p = 0.008). PA (practice ≥1 h/day) was associated with a higher risk of having an inadequate hydration status, even when accounting for sex and other lifestyle factors (OR = 1.753(1.006-3.054), p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately half of the participants presented an inadequate hydration status (which was higher in males than in females). PA (practice ≥1 h/day) was associated with a higher risk of inadequate hydration. This fact highlighted the importance of raising awareness about hydration in children, especially in ones who are more active.

The evolution of nutritional information and communication about food and beverages the last 50 years / Evolución de la información y comunicación nutricional en los alimentos y bebidas en los últimos 50 años

INTRODUCTION: Nutritional information directed to consumers has evolved in some key aspects such as nutritional parameters, qualitative characteristics of the product and the necessary requirements for their communication. OBJECTIVES: To provide a general overview of legislative developments in nutrition communication in the last 50 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature review of available literature and European and Spanish Regulations. RESULTS: The main changes have occurred on the two key regulations. Regulation 1924/2006 covering for the first times in Europe the characteristics that must be declared by foods and beverages to make certain nutritional claims and their commercial communications. Additionally, Regulation 432/2012 provides a positive list of health claims. On the other hand, Regulation 1169/2011 offers an updated view of the information provided to the consumer, the compulsory and voluntary aspects of it and its application in the labeling, presentation and advertising of food and beverage products. In addition, there are other regulations and initiatives, at the non-institutional level, to promote this communication with the consumer, such as GDAs or color schemes, based on the dietary reference intakes of different nutrients included in Regulation 1169/2011. CONCLUSION: Food legislation has tried to regulate the existing situation in the market by creating a harmonized framework to guarantee the consumer protection, offering nutritional information based in the scientific evidence and increasingly comprehensive and understandable.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la evolución de la información nutricional dirigida al consumidor ha sufrido un cambio sustancial en aspectos clave como los parámetros nutricionales, características cualitativas del producto y en los requisitos necesarios para su comunicación, tanto comercial como no comercial. OBJETIVOS: ofrecer una visión general de la evolución legislativa en materia de comunicación nutricional en los últimos 50 años. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: revisión bibliográfica de la literatura disponible, así como del cuerpo legislativo en derecho alimentario. RESULTADOS: los principales cambios se han producido en base a dos reglamentos clave. Reglamento 1924/2006, que recoge por primera vez en Europa las características que deben cumplir los alimentos y bebidas para realizar determinadas declaraciones nutricionales y sus comunicaciones omerciales. Adicionalmente, el Reglamento 432/2012, que ofrece una lista positiva de alegaciones de salud. Por otra parte, el Reglamento 1169/2011 ofrece una visión actualizada de la información facilitada al consumidor, los aspectos obligatorios y voluntarios de la misma y su aplicación en el etiquetado, presentación y publicidad de los productos alimenticios. Asimismo existen otras reglamentaciones e iniciativas a nivel no institucional para fomentar esta comunicación con el consumidor, como las CDO (cantidades diarias orientativas) o los esquemas de colores, basados en las ingestas de referencia de nutriciones del Reglamento 1169/2011. CONCLUSIÓN: la legislación alimentaria ha tratado de regular la situación existente en el mercado creando un marco armonizado en el territorio de la Unión Europea para garantizar los derechos del consumidor, ofreciendo información nutricional totalmente verídica y basada en la evidencia científica, cada vez más completa y comprensible.

Caulobacter crescentus CdnL is a non-essential RNA polymerase-binding protein whose depletion impairs normal growth and rRNA transcription.

CdnL is an essential RNA polymerase (RNAP)-binding activator of rRNA transcription in mycobacteria and myxobacteria but reportedly not in Bacillus. Whether its function and mode of action are conserved in other bacteria thus remains unclear. Because virtually all alphaproteobacteria have a CdnL homolog and none of these have been characterized, we studied the homolog (CdnLCc) of the model alphaproteobacterium Caulobacter crescentus. We show that CdnLCc is not essential for viability but that its absence or depletion causes slow growth and cell filamentation. CdnLCc is degraded in vivo in a manner dependent on its C-terminus, yet excess CdnLCc resulting from its stabilization did not adversely affect growth. We find that CdnLCc interacts with itself and with the RNAP ß subunit, and localizes to at least one rRNA promoter in vivo, whose activity diminishes upon depletion of CdnLCc. Interestingly, cells expressing CdnLCc mutants unable to interact with the RNAP were cold-sensitive, suggesting that CdnLCc interaction with RNAP is especially required at lower than standard growth temperatures in C. crescentus. Our study indicates that despite limited sequence similarities and regulatory differences compared to its myco/myxobacterial homologs, CdnLCc may share similar biological functions, since it affects rRNA synthesis, probably by stabilizing open promoter-RNAP complexes.

Evolución de la información y comunicación nutricional en los alimentos y bebidas en los últimos 50 años / The evolution of nutritional information and communication about food and beverages the last 50 years

Introducción: la evolución de la información nutricional dirigida al consumidor ha sufrido un cambio sustancial en aspectos clave como los parámetros nutricionales, características cualitativas del producto y en los requisitos necesarios para su comunicación, tanto comercial como no comercial. Objetivos: ofrecer una visión general de la evolución legislativa en materia de comunicación nutricional en los últimos 50 años. Materiales y métodos: revisión bibliográfica de la literatura disponible, así como del cuerpo legislativo en derecho alimentario. Resultados: los principales cambios se han producido en base a dos reglamentos clave. Reglamento 1924/2006, que recoge por primera vez en Europa las características que deben cumplir los alimentos y bebidas para realizar determinadas declaraciones nutricionales y sus comunicaciones comerciales. Adicionalmente, el Reglamento 432/2012, que ofrece una lista positiva de alegaciones de salud. Por otra parte, el Reglamento 1169/2011 ofrece una visión actualizada de la información facilitada al consumidor, los aspectos obligatorios y voluntarios de la misma y su aplicación en el etiquetado, presentación y publicidad de los productos alimenticios. Asimismo existen otras reglamentaciones e iniciativas a nivel no institucional para fomentar esta comunicación con el consumidor, como las CDO (cantidades diarias orientativas) o los esquemas de colores, basados en las ingestas de referencia de nutriciones del Reglamento 1169/2011. Conclusión: la legislación alimentaria ha tratado de regular la situación existente en el mercado creando un marco armonizado en el territorio de la Unión Europea para garantizar los derechos del consumidor, ofreciendo información nutricional totalmente verídica y basada en la evidencia científica, cada vez más completa y comprensible (AU)

Introduction: Nutritional information directed to consumers has evolved in some key aspects such as nutritional parameters, qualitative characteristics of the product and the necessary requirements for their communication. Objectives: To provide a general overview of legislative developments in nutrition communication in the last 50 years. Materials and methods: Literature review of available literature and European and Spanish Regulations. Results: The main changes have occurred on the two key regulations. Regulation 1924/2006 covering for the first times in Europe the characteristics that must be declared by foods and beverages to make certain nutritional claims and their commercial communications. Additionally, Regulation 432/2012 provides a positive list of health claims. On the other hand, Regulation 1169/2011 offers an updated view of the information provided to the consumer, the compulsory and voluntary aspects of it and its application in the labeling, presentation and advertising of food and beverage products. In addition, there are other regulations and initiatives, at the non-institutional level, to promote this communication with the consumer, such as GDAs or color schemes, based on the dietary reference intakes of different nutrients included in Regulation 1169/2011. Conclusion: Food legislation has tried to regulate the existing situation in the market by creating a harmonized framework to guarantee the consumer protection, offering nutritional information based in the scientific evidence and increasingly comprehensive and understandable (AU)

Discovery of 8-Trifluoromethyl-3-cyclopropylmethyl-7-[(4-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl)methyl]-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]pyridine (JNJ-46356479), a Selective and Orally Bioavailable mGlu2 Receptor Positive Allosteric Modulator (PAM).

Positive allosteric modulators of the metabotropic glutamate 2 receptor have generated great interest in the past decade. There is mounting evidence of their potential as therapeutic agents in the treatment of multiple central nervous system disorders. We have previously reported substantial efforts leading to potent and selective mGlu2 PAMs. However, finding compounds with the optimal combination of in vitro potency and good druglike properties has remained elusive, in part because of the hydrophobic nature of the allosteric binding site. Herein, we report on the lead optimization process to overcome the poor solubility inherent to the advanced lead 6. Initial prototypes already showed significant improvements in solubility while retaining good functional activity but displayed new liabilities associated with metabolism and hERG inhibition. Subsequent subtle modifications efficiently addressed those issues leading to the identification of compound 27 (JNJ-46356479). This new lead represents a more balanced profile that offers a significant improvement on the druglike attributes compared to previously reported leads.

Hydration: certain basic aspects for developing technical and scientific parameters into the nutrition knowledge / Hidratación: determinados aspectos básicos para el desarrollo científico-técnico en el campo de la nutrición.

Introduction: Hydration is defined as the water intake coming from food and beverages. Its study has become an area by itself, within the nutrition field. Meaning that in 2010 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved the water intake recommendations, but the study of this topic implies a rigorous methodology, which represents several issues. Objective: Showing as a glance the main methodological issues in hydration studies. Material and methods: Bibliographic revision of scientific literature. Results: The main methodological issues presented are: sample selection (investigation field and sample design), selection of the method to evaluate hydration status (dilution techniques, bioelectrical impedance, plasmatic and urinary indicators, changes in body composition, water losses and clinic symptoms) selection of the method to evaluate water intake (biomarker, questionnaires, informatics programs, smartphone use, 24-h register, dietary history and food frequency questionnaire), and the main sources of hydration. Conclusions: Hydration status should be understood as a routine model, with daily frequency, according to gender, age, physical activity and environmental conditions. Furthermore, the correct design of the methodology has a special importance in order to take into account all the aspects

Introducción: la hidratación se define como el aporte de agua proveniente de alimentos y bebidas. Su estudio constituye desde hace unos años un área en sí misma dentro de la nutrición, que ha supuesto que en 2010 la European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) aprobara las recomendaciones de ingesta de agua; pero el estudio del estado de hidratación implica un elevado nivel metodológico que presenta ciertos desafíos. Objetivo: ofrecer una visión general de los principales problemas metodológicos en estudios sobre el estado de hidratación. Material y métodos: revisión de la bibliografía científica existente. Resultados: los principales problemas metodológicos presentes son: selección de la muestra (ámbito de investigación y diseño muestral), selección del método de evaluación del estado de hidratación (técnicas de dilución, impedancia bioeléctrica, indicadores plasmáticos y urinarios, cambios en la composición corporal, pérdidas de agua y síntomas clínicos), selección del método de valoración de la ingesta de agua (biomarcadores, cuestionarios, programas informáticos, uso de smartphones, registro 24 h, historia dietética y frecuencia de consumo de alimentos), así como sus principales fuentes dietéticas. Conclusiones: el estado de hidratación debe ser entendido como un modelo rutinario, de frecuencia diaria y variable en función de la edad, sexo, actividad física y condiciones ambientales; por todo ello es de especial importancia un correcto diseño metodológico capaz de recoger estos matices.

Extraction of phenolic compounds from virgin olive oil by deep eutectic solvents (DESs).

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are "green" solvents, applied in this study for the extraction of phenolic compounds from virgin olive oil (VOO). Different combinations of DES consisting of choline chloride (ChCl) in various mixing ratios with sugars, alcohols, organic acids, and urea, as well as a mixture of three sugars were used. The yields of the DES extractions were compared with those from conventional 80% (v/v) methanol/water. DES showed a good solubility of phenolic compounds with different polarities. The two most abundant secoiridoid derivatives in olive oil, oleacein and oleocanthal, extracted with ChCl/xylitol and ChCl/1,2-propanediol showed an increase of 20-33% and 67.9-68.3% with respect to conventional extraction, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first time that phenolic compounds have been extracted from VOO oil using DES. Our results suggest that DES offers an efficient, safe, sustainable, and cost effective alternative to methanol for extraction of bioactive compounds from VOO.

Hidratación: determinados aspectos básicos para el desarrollo científico-técnico en el campo de la nutrición / Hydration: certain basic aspects for developing technical and scientific parameters into the nutrition knowledge

Introducción: la hidratación se define como el aporte de agua proveniente de alimentos y bebidas. Su estudio constituye desde hace unos años un área en sí misma dentro de la nutrición, que ha supuesto que en 2010 la European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) aprobara las recomendaciones de ingesta de agua; pero el estudio del estado de hidratación implica un elevado nivel metodológico que presenta ciertos desafíos. Objetivo: ofrecer una visión general de los principales problemas metodológicos en estudios sobre el estado de hidratación. Material y métodos: revisión de la bibliografía científica existente. Resultados: los principales problemas metodológicos presentes son: selección de la muestra (ámbito de investigación y diseño muestral), selección del método de evaluación del estado de hidratación (técnicas de dilución, impedancia bioeléctrica, indicadores plasmáticos y urinarios, cambios en la composición corporal, pérdidas de agua y síntomas clínicos), selección del método de valoración de la ingesta de agua (biomarcadores, cuestionarios, programas informáticos, uso de smartphones, registro 24 h, historia dietética y frecuencia de consumo de alimentos), así como sus principales fuentes dietéticas. Conclusiones: el estado de hidratación debe ser entendido como un modelo rutinario, de frecuencia diaria y variable en función de la edad, sexo, actividad física y condiciones ambientales; por todo ello es de especial importancia un correcto diseño metodológico capaz de recoger estos matices (AU)

Introduction: Hydration is defined as the water intake coming from food and beverages. Its study has become an area by itself, within the nutrition field. Meaning that in 2010 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved the water intake recommendations, but the study of this topic implies a rigorous methodology, which represents several issues. Objective: Showing as a glance the main methodological issues in hydration studies. Material and methods: Bibliographic revision of scientific literature. Results: The main methodological issues presented are: sample selection (investigation field and sample design), selection of the method to evaluate hydration status (dilution techniques, bioelectrical impedance, plasmatic and urinary indicators, changes in body composition, water losses and clinic symptoms) selection of the method to evaluate water intake (biomarker, questionnaires, informatics programs, smartphone use, 24-h register, dietary history and food frequency questionnaire), and the main sources of hydration. Conclusions: Hydration status should be understood as a routine model, with daily frequency, according to gender, age, physical activity and environmental conditions. Furthermore, the correct design of the methodology has a special importance in order to take into account all the aspects (AU)

Estudio exploratorio sobre el uso de instrumentos de evaluación cognitiva y neuropsicológica en centros de personas mayores de Galicia / An exploratory study on the use of cognitive and neuropsychological assessessments in centres for the elderly in Galicia

Introducción: La evaluación cognitiva es una herramienta fundamental en los centros de mayores a la hora de planificar la atención e individualizar la intervención. La Sociedade Galega de Xerontoloxía e Xeriatría ha constituido un Grupo de Trabajo sobre Evaluación Cognitiva y Neuropsicológica con el objetivo de estudiar los instrumentos empleados e identificar los principales retos en esta área. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio exploratorio a través de encuesta en línea a los socios de la Sociedade Galega de Xerontoloxía e Xeriatría entre diciembre de 2013 y enero de 2014. Participaron 49 profesionales, de los cuales 26 eran profesionales de la psicología y 10 de la medicina. Resultados: Se encuentra un consenso en el uso del MMSE como instrumento de cribado y del GDS como escala global de la demencia. Existe mayor variabilidad en las baterías generales para la valoración de las demencias (CAMCOG-R, ADAS-Cog, Test Barcelona abreviado) y en el uso de pruebas específicas y de baterías de deterioro severo. Conclusiones: Se sugiere un riesgo de polarización del sector, en el que un porcentaje elevado de profesionales emplearía unos pocos instrumentos generales y un porcentaje pequeño un número elevado de instrumentos específicos. Se subraya la necesidad de un consenso que facilite el desempeño, objetive las necesidades formativas, maximice la relación entre evaluación e intervención cognitiva y proporcione herramientas para valorar el cambio (AU)

Introduction: Cognitive assessment is a fundamental tool in centres for the elderly when planning individualized care and intervention. The Galician Society of Gerontology and Geriatrics (Sociedade Galega of Xerontoloxía and Xeriatría) has formed a Working Group on Cognitive and Neuropsychological Assessment, with the aim of studying the tools used and to identify the main challenges in this area. Material and methods: An exploratory study was conducted via an online questionnaire with Sociedade Galega of Xerontoloxía and Xeriatría members between December 2013 and January 2014. It was completed by 49 professionals, of whom 26 were professionals in psychology and 10 medical doctors. Results: Consensus was found on the use of the MMSE as a screening tool, as well as the Global Deterioration Scale for dementia. There is a wide variation in the choice of general batteries of tests for the assessment of dementia (CAMCOG-R, ADAS-Cog, abbreviated Barcelona Test), and of the use of specific tests and a severe impairment battery. Conclusions: The risk of bias in the sector is suggested, with a high percentage of general practitioners using a few tools, and a small percentage using a large number of specific tools. The need for a consensus is stressed in order to facilitate assessment, objectify training needs, maximize the relationship between assessment and cognitive intervention, and provide tools to assess change (AU)

Structure-function dissection of Myxococcus xanthus CarD N-terminal domain, a defining member of the CarD_CdnL_TRCF family of RNA polymerase interacting proteins.

Two prototypes of the large CarD_CdnL_TRCF family of bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP)-binding proteins, Myxococcus xanthus CarD and CdnL, have distinct functions whose molecular basis remain elusive. CarD, a global regulator linked to the action of several extracytoplasmic function (ECF) σ-factors, binds to the RNAP ß subunit (RNAP-ß) and to protein CarG via an N-terminal domain, CarDNt, and to DNA via an intrinsically unfolded C-terminal domain resembling eukaryotic high-mobility-group A (HMGA) proteins. CdnL, a CarDNt-like protein that is essential for cell viability, is implicated in σA-dependent rRNA promoter activation and interacts with RNAP-ß but not with CarG. While the HMGA-like domain of CarD by itself is inactive, we find that CarDNt has low but observable ability to activate ECF σ-dependent promoters in vivo, indicating that the C-terminal DNA-binding domain is required to maximize activity. Our structure-function dissection of CarDNt reveals an N-terminal, five-stranded ß -sheet Tudor-like domain, CarD1-72, whose structure and contacts with RNAP-ß mimic those of CdnL. Intriguingly, and in marked contrast to CdnL, CarD mutations that disrupt its interaction with RNAP-ß did not annul activity. Our data suggest that the CarDNt C-terminal segment, CarD61-179, may be structurally distinct from its CdnL counterpart, and that it houses at least two distinct and crucial function determinants: (a) CarG-binding, which is specific to CarD; and (b) a basic residue stretch, which is also conserved and functionally required in CdnL. This study highlights the evolution of shared and divergent interactions in similar protein modules that enable the distinct activities of two related members of a functionally important and widespread bacterial protein family.