Ferropenia y síndrome de las piernas inquietas / Iron deficiency and Restless Legs Syndrome

El síndrome de las piernas inquietas es un trastorno neurológico sensitivo-motor que es infradiagnosticado en la infancia. La etiología es poco clara, pero desempeñan un papel importante los factores genéticos, la disfunción dopaminérgica y los bajos depósitos de hierro. La presentación en niños es muy inespecífica, por lo que puede ser difícil su diagnóstico. Es importante detectar precozmente esta patología por el impacto que tiene en la calidad de vida del paciente. Presentamos el caso de una niña de 4 años que acude por un cuadro compatible con el síndrome de las piernas inquietas asociado a ferropenia que, tras el tratamiento con hierro, presenta mejoría importante hasta desaparecer completamente la clínica. (AU)

Restless Legs Syndrome is a sensory-motor neurological disorder that is underdiagnosed in childhood. The etiology is unclear, but genetic factors, dopaminergic dysfunction and low iron stores play an important role. The presentation in children is very unspecific and diagnosis can sometimes be difficult, it is important to get an early diagnose of this pathology because of its impact on the patient´s quality of life. We present the case of a 4 year old girl who consults for symptoms compatible with Restless Legs Syndrome associated with iron deficiency, who showed significant improvement after iron treatment until the symptoms disappeared completely. (AU)

Halitosis, un signo que hay que tener en cuenta en la infección por Helicobacter pylori / Halitosis, a sign to be considered in Helicobacter pylori infection

La infección por Helicobacter pylori es una causa poco conocida en Pediatría de halitosis. Desde finales del siglo pasado existen estudios que sugieren una asociación entre la halitosis y la infección por el Helicobacter pylori y una mejoría de la misma tras la erradicación de la infección. Presentamos un caso en el que la halitosis es la única manifestación clínica de la infección por Helicobacter pylori, la cual desaparece tras la erradicación de la bacteria (AU)

Helicobacter pylori infection is a less known cause of halitosis in pediatrics. Since the end of the last century there have been studies suggesting an association between halitosis and Helicobacter pylori infection, and its improvement after infection eradication. We present one case in which halitosis appears as the only clinical manifestatiton of Helicobacter pylori infection, which disappears after bacterial eradication (AU)

Antifungal activity of lactic acid bacteria isolated from milk against Penicillium commune, P. nordicum, and P. verrucosum.

Penicillium spp. is considered a major spoilage fungus of cheeses. The use of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with antifungal activity is an interesting possibility of biopreservation. In this study, the isolation and characterization of anti-Penicillium LAB from milk was carried out. Ninety-three milk samples were analysed and a total of 57 strains of LAB active against P. nordicum were isolated, mainly from goat and cow milk. Thirty-four isolates with strong activity were selected and identified, Lacticaseibacillus casei (11), L. paracasei (9) and L. rhamnosus (5) being the dominant species. The antifungal spectrum of these 34 LAB against strains of P. commune and P. verrucosum was investigated. L. casei, L. paracasei and L. rhamnosus were the most active and P. nordicum was the most susceptible fungus. Two isolates (L. casei Lc-51/3 and L. paracasei Lp-25/1) with high antifungal activity showed a moderate to high reduction on the growth of Penicillium nordicum and, in a lesser extent, of P. commune, and also a reducing effect on the ochratoxin A and cyclopiazonic acid production. In addition, these isolates demonstrated activity against several food pahogens. These findings indicate their suitability for the development of protective adjunct starters against spoilage and toxigenic microorganisms in cheese processing.

Adaptación al español y validación de la Escala de Continuidad de Vínculos (ECV) con el ser querido fallecido / Adaptação ao espanhol e validação da escala de continuidade de vínculos (ECV) com o amado falecido / Spanish adaptation and validation of the Continuig Bonds Scale (CBS) with the deceased loved one

Este estudio presenta la validación española de la Escala de Continuidad deVínculos (ECV) compuesta por dos dimensiones: Interiorizada (10 ítems) y exteriorizada(6 ítems). Primero se realizó la traducción-retrotraducción. En la puesta a pruebaparticiparon 255 dolientes de Canarias (España) quienes respondieron mediante encuesta(febrero-marzo 2021). Perfil: mujeres, mediana edad, estudios superiores, laboralmenteactivas, tiempo desde la pérdida de 2-5 años y parentesco más común, progenitores. Laconsistencia interna arrojó un α de Cronbach=0,914 y correlaciones ítems-puntuacióntotal aceptables, en rangos 0,478-0,720. En fiabilidad test-retest las puntuaciones deacuerdo fueron excelentes (CCI=0,889; 0,795-0,940). En validación convergente, unacorrelación con la Escala de inclusión del otro en el yo de rs=-0,402 (p<0,001), niveladecuado. Para la validez de constructo concurrente las puntuaciones totales secorrelacionaron con variables sumatorias de duelo prolongado de Prigerson ydiagnósticos enfermeros NANDA-I: rs=0,568, rs=0,391, rs=0,408, y rs=0,446 (p<0,001).El análisis factorial confirmó dos dimensiones y la varianza total explicada fue 57,153%.Por último, la validez de grupos conocidos mostró diferencias según sexo, parentesco ycausa de muerte. La ECV adaptada y validada al contexto español, ECoVin, resulta uninstrumento válido, fiable y fácil de usar para evaluar la continuidad de vínculos con seresqueridos fallecidos.(AU)

This study presents the Spanish validation of the Continuituing Bonds Scale(CBS) composed of two dimensions: Internalised (10 items) and externalised (6 items).First, translation-retro translation was carried out. A total of 255 mourners from theCanary Islands (Spain) participated in the test and responded through a survey (February-March 2021). Profile: women, middle-aged, higher education, active at work, time sinceloss 2-5 years and most common relationship, parents. Internal consistency yielded aCronbach's α=0.914 and good item-total score correlations, ranging 0.478-0.720. In test-retest reliability, agreement scores were excellent (ICC=0.889; 0.795-0.940). Inconvergent validation, a correlation with the Inclusion of the Other in the Self (IOS) scaleof rs=-0.402 (p<0.001) was adequate. For concurrent construct validity total scorescorrelated with summative variables of Prigerson prolonged grief and NANDA-I nursingdiagnoses: rs=0.568, rs=0.391, rs=0.408, and rs=0.446 (p<0.001). Factor analysisconfirmed two dimensions, and the total variance explained was 57.153%. Finally,known-group validity showed differences according to sex, kinship and cause of death.The CBS adapted and validated to the Spanish context, ECoVin, is a valid, reliable andeasy-to-use instrument to assess the continuity of bonds with deceased loved ones.(AU)

Este estudo apresenta a validação espanhola da Escala de Continuidade deVínculos (ECV) composta por duas dimensões: internalizada (10 itens) e externalizada(6 itens). A tradução-retrotradução foi realizada primeiro. 255 enlutados das IlhasCanárias (Espanha) participaram do teste e responderam por meio de um inquérito(fevereiro-março de 2021). Perfil: mulheres, meia-idade, ensino superior, trabalho ativo,tempo desde a perda de 2-5 anos e relacionamento mais comum, pais. A consistênciainterna rendeu α de Cronbach = 0,914 e correlações item-pontuação total aceitáveis, emintervalos de 0,478-0,720. Na confiabilidade teste-reteste, os escores de concordânciaforam excelentes (ICC = 0,889; 0,795-0,940). Na validação convergente, correlação coma Escala de inclusão do outro no self de rs=-0,402 (p <0,001), nível adequado. Para avalidade de construto concorrente, os escores totais foram correlacionados com asvariáveis de soma do luto prolongado de Prigerson e os diagnósticos de enfermagem daNANDA-I: rs=0,568, rs=0,391, rs=0,408 e rs=0,446 (p <0,001). A análise fatorialconfirmou duas dimensões e a variância total explicada foi de 57,153%. Por fim, avalidade dos grupos conhecidos mostrou diferenças quanto ao sexo, parentesco e causada morte. O ECV adaptado e validado para o contexto espanhol, ECoVin, é uminstrumento válido, confiável e fácil de usar para avaliar a continuidade dos laços comamados falecidos.(AU)

Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron Has Minimum Toxicological Risk on the Germination and Early Growth of Two Grass Species with Potential for Phytostabilization.

Two Poaceae species, Agrostis capillaris and Festuca rubra, were selected for their potential as phytostabilizing plants in multicontaminated soils. These species are resistant to contamination and maintain high concentrations of contaminants at the root level. Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) is an engineered nanomaterial with the ability to stabilize metal(loid)s in soils; its potential toxicological effects in the selected species were studied in a germination test using: (i) control variant without soil; (ii) soil contaminated with Pb and Zn; and (iii) contaminated soil amended with 1% nZVI, as well as in an hydroponic experiment with the addition of nZVI 0, 25, 50 and 100 mg L-1. nZVI had no negative effects on seed germination or seedling growth, but was associated with an increase in shoot growth and reduction of the elongation inhibition rate (root-dependent) of F. rubra seedlings. However, applications of nZVI in the hydroponic solution had no effects on F. rubra but A. capillaris developed longer roots and more biomass. Increasing nZVI concentrations in the growing solution increased Mg and Fe uptake and reduced the Fe translocation factor. Our results indicate that nZVI has few toxic effects on the studied species.

Interactions of two novel stabilizing amendments with sunflower plants grown in a contaminated soil.

Several efficient stabilizing amendments have been recently proposed for the remediation of metal(loid)-contaminated soils. However, information on their interactions with plants, which is a crucial factor in soil environments, are still scarce. An amorphous manganese oxide (AMO) synthesized from organic compounds and nano zerovalent iron (nZVI) have been previously tested as promising stabilizing agents usable both for the stabilization of metals and As. Experiments with rhizoboxes were performed in order to evaluate their influence on the mobility of metal(loid)s in the bulk soil and rhizosphere of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) together with their impact on metal uptake and biomass yield. Generally, AMO proved more efficient than nZVI in all stages of experiment. Furthermore, the AMO effectively reduced water- and 0.01 M CaCl2-extractable fractions of Cd, Pb and Zn. The decreased bioavailability of contaminating metal(loid)s resulted in significant increase of microbial activity in AMO-amended soil. Together with metal(loid) extractability, the AMO was also able to significantly reduce the uptake of metals and ameliorate plant growth, especially in the case of Zn, since this metal was taken up in excessive amounts from the control soil causing strong phytotoxicity and even death of young seedlings. On the other hand, AMO application lead to significant release of Mn that was readily taken up by plants. Resulting Mn concentrations in biomass exceeded toxicity thresholds while plants were showing emergent Mn phytotoxicity symptoms. We highlight the need of such complex studies involving plants and soil biota when evaluating the efficiency of stabilizing amendments in contaminated soils.

Exposure of engineered nanomaterials to plants: Insights into the physiological and biochemical responses-A review.

Recent investigations show that carbon-based and metal-based engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), components of consumer goods and agricultural products, have the potential to build up in sediments and biosolid-amended agricultural soils. In addition, reports indicate that both carbon-based and metal-based ENMs affect plants differently at the physiological, biochemical, nutritional, and genetic levels. The toxicity threshold is species-dependent and responses to ENMs are driven by a series of factors including the nanomaterial characteristics and environmental conditions. Effects on the growth, physiological and biochemical traits, production and food quality, among others, have been reported. However, a complete understanding of the dynamics of interactions between plants and ENMs is not clear enough yet. This review presents recent publications on the physiological and biochemical effects that commercial carbon-based and metal-based ENMs have in terrestrial plants. This document focuses on crop plants because of their relevance in human nutrition and health. We have summarized the mechanisms of interaction between plants and ENMs as well as identified gaps in knowledge for future investigations.

Maghemite nanoparticles and ferrous sulfate for the stimulation of iron plaque formation and arsenic immobilization in Phragmites australis.

Wetland plants are considered as suitable biofilters for the removal of metal(loid)s and other contaminants from waters and wastewaters, due to their ability to accumulate and retain the contaminants in their roots. The iron plaque (IP) on the root surface influences the metal(loid)s retention processes. The stimulation of the IP development on roots of Phragmites australis by the external supply of a novel synthetic nanomaterial (nanomaghemite, nFe2O3) and FeSO4 (alone or in combination) was studied. An hydroponic experiment was carried out to evaluate the iron plaque formation after external iron addition, as well as their influence on arsenic immobilization capacity. Microscopic and spectroscopic techniques were utilized to assess the distribution of Fe and As in the roots. The addition of Fe stimulated the generation of the IP, especially when FeSO4 was involved. The nanoparticles alone were not efficient with regard to IP formation or As adsorption, even though they adhered to the root surface and did not enter into epithelial root cells. The combination of FeSO4 and nFe2O3 was the most effective treatment for improving the As removal capacity, and it seems to be an effective way to enhance the rhizofiltration potential of P. australis in As contaminated (waste)waters.

Root water transport of Helianthus annuus L. under iron oxide nanoparticle exposure.

The application of nanomaterials in commercially available products is increasing rapidly for agriculture, phytoremediation and biotechnology. Since plants suppose the first sink for the accumulation of nanoparticles from the environment, emerging studies have focused on the general consequences for plants and their effects on the biomass production. However, effects on the root surface, as well as blockage of nutrients and water uptake by the roots, may also occur. This experiment was designed to prove if the plant water relations can be affected by the adsorption of nanoparticles on the root surface, causing a consequent stress for the plants. With this goal, plants of Helianthus annuus were previously grown in a hydroponic culture, and at age of 55 days, their roots were exposed to three different concentrations of nanomaghemite (NM) in the hydroponic solution for 5 days: control without NM; 50 and 100 mg l(-1) NM. The main effect was related to the reduction of the root hydraulic conductivity (Lo) and the nutrients uptake. The concentrations of the macronutrients Ca, K, Mg and S in the shoot were reduced relative to the control plants, which resulted in lower contents of chlorophyll pigments. Although stress was not detected in the plants, after the analysis of stress markers like the accumulation of proline or ascorbate in the tissues, reduction of the root functionality by nanoparticles has been identified here, manifested as the effect of NM on Lo. The treatment with 50 mg l(-1) NM significantly reduced the Lo, by up to 57% of its control value, and it was reduced by up to 26% at 100 mg l(-1) NM. These results will be an important factor to take into account with regard to the applicability of NM for long-term use in crops, particularly during privative water conditions.

Biogenic amines in Zamorano cheese: factors involved in their accumulation.

BACKGROUND: Ripened cheese is among fermented food the most often associated with food poisoning from biogenic amines. The influence of ripening time, heat treatment of milk and the effect of using milk from a different ewe breed on the biogenic amine (BA) content of Zamorano cheese was studied by high-performance liquid chromatography. Physicochemical, proteolytic and microbiological parameters were also studied. RESULTS: BA content increased significantly during ripening and their final values were around 400 mg kg(-1). Cheeses elaborated with raw milk duplicated the concentration of BA relative to those elaborated with pasteurized milk (72 °C for 20 s). The average levels of putrescine, spermine and tyramine were higher in cheeses made with a greater proportion of milk from Churra breed. Significant differences in microbial counts and nitrogen soluble in 5% phosphotungstic acid were observed between the different batches. CONCLUSION: Ripening time and heat treatment applied to milk were the factors that exercised the greatest influence upon the concentration of BA in Zamorano cheese.

FATTY ACID PROFILE OF TWO CURED MEAT PRODUCTS: DRY-CURED HAM AND CECINA.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: the aim of this study was to assess the fatty acid profile of two cured meat products of similar manufacturing processes and characteristics, dry-cured ham (JA) and cecina (CE), a type of dry-cured beef. The obtained results were discussed in terms of the effects that each singular fatty acid, when consumed, could have on human health. MATERIALS AND METHODS: for this purpose, 10 samples of 100 g of JA and CE were obtained in local food stores in León, Spain. Lipids were extracted and transesterified, then a gas chromatography-mass was used to analyze the samples. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: results for fatty acid profiles for JA and CE showed significant differences (p < 0.01), with these values for main lipids fractions, saturated fatty acid (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), respectively: 42.86%, 43.27% and 13.87 for JA and 46.87%, 46.96% and 6.20% for CE. SFA and MUFA percentages were slightly higher in CE at the expense of PUFA, specifically in the n-6 series, where values of 11.06% in JA and 3.91% in CE were obtained. In both products, the most prevalent fatty acid was a monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, with percentages of 37.28% in JA and 38.48% in CE. Other fatty acids with higher percentages, with respect to total fat, were two saturated fatty acids: palmitic acid, 20.63% in JA and 22.95% in CE, and stearic acid, 18.65% in JA and 17.14% in CE.

Introducción y objetivos: el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el perfil de ácidos grasos de dos derivados cárnicos curados-madurados, relativamente similares en cuanto a composición y proceso de elaboración: el jamón (JA) y la cecina (CE), haciendo una revisión de los resultados obtenidos desde el punto de vista de los efectos individuales que los principales ácidos grasos de consumo dietético tienen sobre la salud humana. Materiales y métodos: para ello se tomaron 10 muestras de 100 g de jamón y de cecina en distintos establecimientos de la provincia de León, España. Se extrajo la grasa y se metiló para posteriormente realizar el análisis de los ácidos grasos resultantes mediante cromatografía de gases masas. Resultados y discusión: los perfiles lipídicos obtenidos para el JA y la CE presentaron diferencias significativas (p < 0,01), con los siguientes valores para las fracciones lipídicas mayoritarias, ácidos grasos saturados (SFA), ácidos grasos monoinsaturados (MUFA) y ácidos grasos poliinsaturados (PUFA), respectivamente: 42,86%, 43,27% y 13,87 para el JA y 46,87%, 46,96% y 6,20% para la CE. Los porcentajes de SFA y MUFA fueron mayores en la CE en detrimento de los PUFA, en concreto de la serie n-6, para la que se obtuvieron valores de 11,06% en JA y de 3,91% en CE. En ambos productos el ácido graso detectado en mayor cantidad fue un ácido graso monoinsaturado, el ácido oleico, con porcentajes del 37,28% en JA y 38,48% en CE. Otros dos ácidos grasos presentes en porcentajes elevados respecto al total de la grasa fueron dos ácidos grasos saturados: el ácido palmítico, 20,63% en JA y 22,95% en CE, y el ácido esteárico, 18,65% en JA y 17,14% en CE.

Fatty acid profile of two cured meat products: dry-cured ham and cecina / Perfil de ácidos grasos de dos derivados cárnicos curados-madurados: jamón y cecina

Introduction and objectives: the aim of this study was to assess the fatty acid profile of two cured meat products of similar manufacturing processes and characteristics, dry-cured ham (JA) and cecina (CE), a type of dry-cured beef. The obtained results were discussed in terms of the effects that each singular fatty acid, when consumed, could have on human health. Materials and methods: for this purpose, 10 samples of 100 g of JA and CE were obtained in local food stores in León, Spain. Lipids were extracted and transesterified, then a gas chromatography-mass was used to analyze the samples. Results and discussion: results for fatty acid profiles for JA and CE showed significant differences (p < 0.01), with these values for main lipids fractions, saturated fatty acid (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), respectively: 42.86%, 43.27% and 13.87 for JA and 46.87%, 46.96% and 6.20% for CE. SFA and MUFA percentages were slightly higher in CE at the expense of PUFA, specifically in the n-6 series, where values of 11.06% in JA and 3.91% in CE were obtained. In both products, the most prevalent fatty acid was a monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, with percentages of 37.28% in JA and 38.48% in CE. Other fatty acids with higher percentages, with respect to total fat, were two saturated fatty acids: palmitic acid, 20.63% in JA and 22.95% in CE, and stearic acid, 18.65% in JA and 17.14% in CE (AU)

Introducción y objetivos: el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el perfil de ácidos grasos de dos derivados cárnicos curados-madurados, relativamente similares en cuanto a composición y proceso de elaboración: el jamón (JA) y la cecina (CE), haciendo una revisión de los resultados obtenidos desde el punto de vista de los efectos individuales que los principales ácidos grasos de consumo dietético tienen sobre la salud humana. Materiales y métodos: para ello se tomaron 10 muestras de 100 g de jamón y de cecina en distintos establecimientos de la provincia de León, España. Se extrajo la grasa y se metiló para posteriormente realizar el análisis de los ácidos grasos resultantes mediante cromatografía de gases masas. Resultados y discusión: los perfiles lipídicos obtenidos para el JA y la CE presentaron diferencias significativas (p < 0,01), con los siguientes valores para las fracciones lipídicas mayoritarias, ácidos grasos saturados (SFA), ácidos grasos monoinsaturados (MUFA) y ácidos grasos poliinsaturados (PUFA), respectivamente: 42,86%, 43,27% y 13,87 para el JA y 46,87%, 46,96% y 6,20% para la CE. Los porcentajes de SFA y MUFA fueron mayores en la CE en detrimento de los PUFA, en concreto de la serie n-6, para la que se obtuvieron valores de 11,06% en JA y de 3,91% en CE. En ambos productos el ácido graso detectado en mayor cantidad fue un ácido graso monoinsaturado, el ácido oleico, con porcentajes del 37,28% en JA y 38,48% en CE. Otros dos ácidos grasos presentes en porcentajes elevados respecto al total de la grasa fueron dos ácidos grasos saturados: el ácido palmítico, 20,63% en JA y 22,95% en CE, y el ácido esteárico, 18,65% en JA y 17,14% en CE (AU)

Trace elements and nutrients adsorption onto nano-maghemite in a contaminated-soil solution: A geochemical/statistical approach.

Two experiments were carried out to study the competition for adsorption between trace elements (TEs) and nutrients following the application of nano-maghemite (NM) (iron nano-oxide; Fe2O3) to a soil solution (the 0.01molL(-1) CaCl2 extract of a TEs-contaminated soil). In the first, the nutrients K, N, and P were added to create a set of combinations: potential availability of TEs during their interaction with NM and nutrients were studied. In the second, response surface methodology was used to develop predictive models by central composite design (CCD) for competition between TEs and the nutrients K and N for adsorption onto NM. The addition of NM to the soil solution reduced specifically the concentrations of available As and Cd, but the TE-adsorption capacity of NM decreased as the P concentration increased. The CCD provided more concise and valuable information, appropriate to estimate the behavior of NM sequestering TEs: according to the suggested models, K(+) and NH4(+) were important factors for Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, Na, and Zn adsorption (Radj(2)=95%, except for Zn with Radj(2)=87%). The obtained information and models can be used to predict the effectiveness of NM for the stabilization of TEs, crucial during the phytoremediation of contaminated soils.

The use of olive-mill waste compost to promote the plant vegetation cover in a trace-element-contaminated soil.

The applicability of a mature compost as a soil amendment to promote the growth of native species for the phytorestoration of a mine-affected soil from a semi-arid area (SE Spain), contaminated with trace elements (As, Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn), was evaluated in a 2-year field experiment. The effects of an inorganic fertiliser were also determined for comparison. Bituminaria bituminosa was the selected native plant since it is a leguminous species adapted to the particular local pedoclimatic conditions. Compost addition increased total organic-C concentrations in soil with respect to the control and fertiliser treatments, maintained elevated available P concentrations throughout the duration of the experiment and stimulated soil microbial biomass, while trace elements extractability in the soil was rather low due to the calcareous nature of the soil and almost unaltered in the different treatments. Tissue concentrations of P and K in B. bituminosa increased after the addition of compost, associated with growth stimulation. Leaf Cu concentration was also increased by the amendments, although overall the trace elements concentrations can be considered non-toxic. In addition, the spontaneous colonisation of the plots by a total of 29 species of 15 different families at the end of the experiment produced a greater vegetation cover, especially in plots amended with compost. Therefore, the use of compost as a soil amendment appears to be useful for the promotion of a vegetation cover and the phytostabilisation of moderately contaminated soils under semi-arid conditions.

Morphological differentiation among migratory fish species from the Paraná River basin / Diferenciação morfológica entre espécies de peixes migradores da bacia do Rio Paraná

This study characterized the morphological differences among migratory fish species from the Paraná River Basin. A total of 177 adult fish of Leporinus elongatus, Leporinus macrocephalus, Prochilodus lineatus, Salminus brasiliensis, Pimelodus maculatus, Pinirampus pirinampu, Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, Pterodoras granulosus, and Rhaphiodon vulpinus were sampled in the Canal da Piracema, a fish passage system at Itaipu Dam, Paraná River. The migratory species were analyzed through 22 morphometric measurements and fineness ratio to identify morphological patterns related to swimming performance. Four species groups were indicated by the Cluster analysis: I) R. vulpinus; II) P. corruscans; III) L. macrocephalus, L. elongatus, P. lineatus, P. maculatus, and S. brasiliensis - measurements of head height and anal fin length formed this group; and IV) P. granulosus and P. pirinampu - measurements of maximum body width and caudal peduncle width contributed to form this group. The morphometric variables that most contributed to the distinction were head length and mouth width for groups I and II. The species R. vulpinus and P. granulosus differed from other species, showing fineness ratios of 9.4 and 3.7, respectively. Leporinus elongatus, L. macrocephalus, P. lineatus, P. maculatus, and S. brasiliensis showed significant differences from other species, with ratios ranging from 4.57 to 5.19, indicating that these species may be better swimmers. Long-distance migratory species using the Piracema Canal to ascend upstream areas differed morphologically, morphological characteristics such as a narrow caudal peduncle and maximum body length, besides to the values of the fineness ratio, were essential to differentiate the migratory species.

Este estudo caracterizou as diferenças morfológicas entre espécies de peixes migradores da bacia do rio Paraná. Um total de 117 peixes adultos das espécies Leporinus elongatus, Leporinus macrocephalus, Prochilodus lineatus, Salminus brasiliensis, Pimelodus maculatus, Pinirampus pirinampu, Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, Pterodoras granulosus e Rhaphiodon vulpinus foram capturados no Canal da Piracema, um sistema de transposição para peixes na barragem de Itaipu, rio Paraná. As espécies migradoras foram analisadas através de 22 medidas morfométricas e razão fineza para identificar padrões morfológicos relacionados à capacidade natatória. Quatro grupos de espécies foram evidenciados pela Análise de Cluster: I) R. vulpinus; II) P. corruscans; III) L. macrocephalus, L. elongatus, P. lineatus, P. maculatus e S. brasiliensis, medidas de altura de cabeça e comprimento da nadadeira anal formaram este grupo; e IV) P. granulosus e P. pirinampu - medidas de largura máxima do corpo e largura do pedúnculo caudal contribuíram para a formação deste grupo. As variáveis morfométricas que mais contribuíram para distinção dos grupos I e II foram comprimento da cabeça e largura da boca. As espécies R. vulpinus e P. granulosus diferiram das demais, apresentando razão de fineza de 9,4 e 3,7, respectivamente. Leporinus elongatus, L. macrocephalus, P. lineatus, P. maculatus, S. brasiliensis diferiram significativamente das demais espécies com valores de razão fineza que variaram entre 4,57 a 5,19, indicando que estas espécies podem apresentar melhor desempenho natatório. As espécies migradoras de longa distância que utilizam o Canal da Piracema para ascender áreas a montante diferiram morfologicamente, características morfológicas como pedúnculo caudal estreito e largura máxima do corpo, bem como os valores de razão de fineza foram determinantes na diferenciação das espécies aqui analisadas.

The use of a halophytic plant species and organic amendments for the remediation of a trace elements-contaminated soil under semi-arid conditions.

The halophytic shrub Atriplex halimus L. was used in a field phytoremediation experiment in a semi-arid area highly contaminated by trace elements (As, Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn) within the Sierra Minera of La Unión-Cartagena (SE Spain). The effects of compost and pig slurry on soil conditions and plant growth were determined. The amendments (particularly compost) only slightly affected trace element concentrations in soil pore water or their availability to the plants, increased soil nutrient and organic matter levels and favoured the development of a sustainable soil microbial biomass (effects that were enhanced by the presence of A. halimus) as well as, especially for slurry, increasing A. halimus biomass and ground cover. With regard to the minimisation of trace elements concentrations in the above-ground plant parts, the effectiveness of both amendments was greatest 12-16 months after their incorporation. The findings demonstrate the potential of A. halimus, particularly in combination with an organic amendment, for the challenging task of the phytostabilisation of contaminated soils in (semi-)arid areas and suggest the need for an ecotoxicological evaluation of the remediated soils. However, the ability of A. halimus to accumulate Zn and Cd in the shoot may limit its use to moderately-contaminated sites.

Randomised clinical trial of an intensive intervention in the primary care setting of patients with high plasma fibrinogen in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND: We have studied the possible effects of an intensive lifestyle change program on plasma fibrinogen levels, in patients with no cardiovascular disease, with elevated levels of fibrinogen, normal cholesterol levels, and a moderate estimated risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and we have also analysed whether the effect on fibrinogen is independent of the effect on lipids. RESULTS: This clinical trial was controlled, unblinded and randomized, with parallel groups, done in 13 Basic Health Areas (BHA) in l'Hospitalet de Llobregat (Barcelona) and Barcelona city. The study included 436 patients, aged between 35 and 75 years, with no cardiovascular disease, elevated levels of fibrinogen (> 300 mg/dl), cholesterol < 250 mg/dl, 218 of whom received a more intensive intervention consisting of advice on lifestyle and treatment. The follow-up frequency of the intervention group was every 2 months. The other 218 patients followed their standard care in the BHAs. Fibrinogen, plasma cholesterol and other clinical biochemistry parameters were assessed.The evaluation of the baseline characteristics of the patients showed that both groups were homogenous. Obesity and hypertension were the most prevalent risk factors. After 24 months of the study, statistically significant changes were seen between the adjusted means of the two groups, for the following parameters: fibrinogen, plasma cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and body mass index. CONCLUSION: Intensive intervention to achieve lifestyle changes has shown to be effective in reducing some of the estimated CHD factors. However, the effect of intensive intervention on plasma fibrinogen levels did not correlate with the variations in cholesterol. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01089530.

Accumulation of furanocoumarins by Bituminaria bituminosa in relation to plant development and environmental stress.

Bituminaria bituminosa (L.) C.H. Stirton (Fabaceae) accumulates high concentrations of the furanocoumarins (FCs) angelicin and psoralen, which protect against infection and herbivory. The effects on FC accumulation of the exposure of two populations of B. bituminosa to abiotic stress (cold, heat and drought) under field conditions were determined, as well as the effect of temperature under controlled conditions, in hydroponic culture. In field conditions, psoralen and angelicin levels in the leaf dry matter were 400-6000 and 1500-11,000 µg g(-), respectively. There were significant effects of population on the psoralen concentration and psoralen:angelicin ratio. In hydroponic culture, exposure to a diurnal temperature of 33 °C increased FC levels in population Calnegre but not in Llano del Beal, compared with plants grown at 22 °C; however, high summer temperatures in the field (>30 °C) did not coincide with the highest leaf FC levels, since the plants accumulated FCs preferentially in the fruits. Hence, leaf FC levels were higher in winter. Irrigation, to alleviate water stress in the semi-arid conditions, increased the fruit psoralen concentration but produced only minor decreases in leaf FC levels. There was a significant, positive correlation (P < 0.001) between the FC and nitrogen concentrations in the plant organs analysed (both increased in the order: fruits > growing leaves > mature leaves), reflecting their respective contributions to plant fitness. The genetically- and developmentally-regulated accumulation of FCs by B. bituminosa is altered by short-term variations in environmental conditions, particularly temperature.

Physiological responses of Bituminaria bituminosa to heavy metals.

Two hydroponic experiments were performed to study the physiological responses to heavy metals (HMs) of two populations of Bituminaria bituminosa (L.) C.H. Stirton (Fabaceae): one ("C2") from a site contaminated by HMs and one from a non-contaminated site ("LA"). In the first, we studied the effects of elevated concentrations of Zn (12 and 61 µM). Population C2 was more tolerant in terms of root and shoot growth at 61 µM Zn, relative to control plants (1 µM Zn). The similar tissue Zn levels of the two populations suggest that C2 is more tolerant of high tissue Zn. Of the parameters measured that could be related to Zn phytotoxicity (micro and macronutrients, root hydraulic activity, water-extractable Zn and organic acids), none could explain totally the superior tolerance of C2. In the second assay, the effects of Cd (4.4 µM), Cu (7.8 µM) and Zn (76 µM) on plant accumulation of the furanocoumarins (FCs) psoralen and angelicin, which function as feeding deterrents and photo-activated toxins, were assessed. For population C2, all three HMs increased the root FC concentrations, while Cd also raised shoot levels. For LA, Cu raised the root concentrations of both FCs. There was a relationship between plant stress, manifested as proline accumulation and disruption of plant water relations, and increased FC accumulation. Higher tissue levels of FCs likely provide greater protection against bacterial or fungal infection and herbivores.

Group motivational intervention in overweight/obese patients in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in the primary healthcare area.

BACKGROUND: The global mortality caused by cardiovascular disease increases with weight. The Framingham study showed that obesity is a cardiovascular risk factor independent of other risks such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and smoking. Moreover, the main problem in the management of weight-loss is its maintenance, if it is achieved. We have designed a study to determine whether a group motivational intervention, together with current clinical practice, is more efficient than the latter alone in the treatment of overweight and obesity, for initial weight loss and essentially to achieve maintenance of the weight achieved; and, secondly, to know if this intervention is more effective for reducing cardiovascular risk factors associated with overweight and obesity. METHODS: This 26-month follow up multi-centre trial, will include 1200 overweight/obese patients. Random assignment of the intervention by Basic Health Areas (BHA): two geographically separate groups have been created, one of which receives group motivational intervention (group intervention), delivered by a nurse trained by an expert phsychologist, in 32 group sessions, 1 to 12 fortnightly, and 13 to 32, monthly, on top of their standard program of diet, exercise, and the other (control group), receiving the usual follow up, with regular visits every 3 months. DISCUSSION: By addressing currently unanswered questions regarding the maintenance in weight loss in obesity/overweight, upon the expected completion of participant follow-up in 2012, the IMOAP trial should document, for the first time, the benefits of a motivational intervention as a treatment tool of weight loss in a primary care setting. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01006213.