Lipid-Encapsuled Grape Tannins Prevent Oxidative-Stress-Induced Neuronal Cell Death, Intracellular ROS Accumulation and Inflammation.

The central nervous system (CNS) is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress and inflammation, which affect neuronal function and survival. Nowadays, there is great interest in the development of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds extracted from natural products, as potential strategies to reduce the oxidative/inflammatory environment within the CNS and then preserve neuronal integrity and brain function. However, an important limitation of natural antioxidant formulations (mainly polyphenols) is their reduced in vivo bioavailability. The biological compatible delivery system containing polyphenols may serve as a novel compound for these antioxidant formulations. Accordingly, in the present study, we used liposomes as carriers for grape tannins, and we tested their ability to prevent neuronal oxidative stress and inflammation. Cultured catecholaminergic neurons (CAD) were used to establish the potential of lipid-encapsulated grape tannins (TLS) to prevent neuronal oxidative stress and inflammation following an oxidative insult. TLS rescued cell survival after H2O2 treatment (59.4 ± 8.8% vs. 90.4 ± 5.6% H2O2 vs. TLS+ H2O2; p < 0.05) and reduced intracellular ROS levels by ~38% (p < 0.05), despite displaying negligible antioxidant activity in solution. Additionally, TLS treatment dramatically reduced proinflammatory cytokines' mRNA expression after H2O2 treatment (TNF-α: 400.3 ± 1.7 vs. 7.9 ± 1.9-fold; IL-1ß: 423.4 ± 1.3 vs. 12.7 ± 2.6-fold; p < 0.05; H2O2 vs. TLS+ H2O2, respectively), without affecting pro/antioxidant biomarker expression, suggesting that liposomes efficiently delivered tannins inside neurons and promoted cell survival. In conclusion, we propose that lipid-encapsulated grape tannins could be an efficient tool to promote antioxidant/inflammatory cell defense.

Nematicidal activity of furanoeremophilenes against Meloidogyne incognita and Nacobbus aberrans.

BACKGROUND: While searching for novel small molecules for new organic pesticide agents against plant-parasitic nematodes, we found that the hexane extract from the roots of Senecio sinuatos and its main secondary metabolite, 3ß-angeloyloxy-6ß-hydroxyfuranoeremophil-1(10)-ene (1), possess nematicidal activity against the second stage juvenile (J2) of Meloidogyne incognita and Nacobbus aberrans. Both species reduce yield of various vegetable crops. These results encouraged us to synthesize esters 3-9 formed by diol 2, obtained by alkaline hydrolysis of 1 and acetic anhydride, benzoic acid, 2-nitrobenzoic acid, 2-bromobenzoic acid, 4-nitrobenzoic acid, 4-bromobenzoic acid, and 4-methoxybenzoic acid, respectively. The nematicidal activity of these esters was evaluated and compared with that of the free benzoic acids. RESULTS: Natural product 1 and derivatives 2-9 were obtained and characterized by their physical and spectroscopic properties, including one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments; X-ray diffraction analysis established their absolute configuration. The nematicidal activity of compounds 1-9 was assessed in vitro against M. incognita and N. aberrans J2 and was compared to activity shown by benzoic acid, 2-nitrobenzoic acid, 2-bromobenzoic acid, 4-nitrobenzoic acid, 4-bromobenzoic acid, and 4-methoxybenzoic acid. The esters suppressed nematodes more than free benzoic acid. Nacobbus aberrans J2 were suppressed, with compounds 5, 6, and 8 being the most active. CONCLUSION: Esters formed by 3ß,6ß-dihydroxyfuranoeremophil-1(10)-ene and ortho- or para-substituted benzoic acids containing electron acceptor groups had nematicidal activity against N. aberrans. These compound can potentially serve as a model for the development of new organic nematicidal agents. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of enriched-potassium diet on cardiorespiratory outcomes in experimental non-ischemic chronic heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a global health problem. Increased sympathetic outflow, cardiac arrhythmogenesis and irregular breathing patterns have all been associated with poor outcomes in CHF. Several studies showed that activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) play a key role in CHF pathophysiology. Interestingly, potassium (K+) supplemented diets showed promising results in normalizing RAS axis and autonomic dysfunction in vascular diseases, lowering cardiovascular risk. Whether subtle increases in dietary K+ consumption may exert similar effects in CHF has not been previously tested. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary K+ supplementation on cardiorespiratory alterations in rats with CHF. METHODS: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent volume overload to induce non-ischemic CHF. Animals were randomly allocated to normal chow diet (CHF group) or supplemented K+ diet (CHF+K+ group) for 6 weeks. Cardiac arrhythmogenesis, sympathetic outflow, baroreflex sensitivity, breathing disorders, chemoreflex function, respiratory-cardiovascular coupling and cardiac function were evaluated. RESULTS: Compared to normal chow diet, K+ supplemented diet in CHF significantly reduced arrhythmia incidence (67.8 ± 15.1 vs. 31.0 ± 3.7 events/hour, CHF vs. CHF+K+), decreased cardiac sympathetic tone (ΔHR to propranolol: - 97.4 ± 9.4 vs. - 60.8 ± 8.3 bpm, CHF vs. CHF+K+), restored baroreflex function and attenuated irregular breathing patterns. Additionally, supplementation of the diet with K+ restores normal central respiratory chemoreflex drive and abrogates pathological cardio-respiratory coupling in CHF rats being the outcome an improved cardiac function. CONCLUSION: Our findings support that dietary K+ supplementation in non-ischemic CHF alleviate cardiorespiratory dysfunction.

Chemical Characterization of Plant Extracts and Evaluation of their Nematicidal and Phytotoxic Potential.

Nacobbus aberrans ranks among the "top ten" plant-parasitic nematodes of phytosanitary importance. It causes significant losses in commercial interest crops in America and is a potential risk in the European Union. The nematicidal and phytotoxic activities of seven plant extracts against N. aberrans and Solanum lycopersicum were evaluated in vitro, respectively. The chemical nature of three nematicidal extracts (EC50,48h ≤ 113 µg mL-1) was studied through NMR analysis. Plant extracts showed nematicidal activity on second-stage juveniles (J2): (≥87%) at 1000 µg mL-1 after 72 h, and their EC50 values were 71.4-468.1 and 31.5-299.8 µg mL-1 after 24 and 48 h, respectively. Extracts with the best nematicidal potential (EC50,48h < 113 µg mL-1) were those from Adenophyllum aurantium, Alloispermum integrifolium, and Tournefortia densiflora, which inhibited L. esculentum seed growth by 100% at 20 µg mL-1. Stigmasterol (1), ß-sitosterol (2), and α-terthienyl (3) were identified from A. aurantium, while 1, 2, lutein (4), centaurin (5), patuletin-7-ß-O-glucoside (6), pendulin (7), and penduletin (8) were identified from A. integrifolium. From T. densiflora extract, allantoin (9), 9-O-angeloyl-retronecine (10), and its N-oxide (11) were identified. The present research is the first to report the effect of T. densiflora, A. integrifolium, and A. aurantium against N. aberrans and chemically characterized nematicidal extracts that may provide alternative sources of botanical nematicides.

Effects of enriched-potassium diet on cardiorespiratory outcomes in experimental non-ischemic chronic heart failure

BACKGROUND: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a global health problem. Increased sympathetic outflow, cardiac arrhythmogenesis and irregular breathing patterns have all been associated with poor outcomes in CHF. Several studies showed that activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) play a key role in CHF pathophysiology. Interestingly, potassium (K+) supplemented diets showed promising results in normalizing RAS axis and autonomic dysfunction in vascular diseases, lowering cardiovascular risk. Whether subtle increases in dietary K+ consumption may exert similar effects in CHF has not been previously tested. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary K+ supplementation on cardiorespiratory alterations in rats with CHF. METHODS: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent volume overload to induce non-ischemic CHF. Animals were randomly allocated to normal chow diet (CHF group) or supplemented K+ diet (CHF+K+ group) for 6 weeks. Cardiac arrhythmogenesis, sympathetic outflow, baroreflex sensitivity, breathing disorders, chemoreflex function, respiratory- cardiovascular coupling and cardiac function were evaluated. RESULTS: Compared to normal chow diet, K+ supplemented diet in CHF significantly reduced arrhythmia incidence (67.8 ± 15.1 vs. 31.0 ± 3.7 events/hour, CHF vs. CHF+K+), decreased cardiac sympathetic tone (ΔHR to propranolol: - 97.4 ± 9.4 vs. - 60.8 ± 8.3 bpm, CHF vs. CHF+K+), restored baroreflex function and attenuated irregular breathing patterns. Additionally, supplementation of the diet with K+ restores normal central respiratory chemoreflex drive and abrogates pathological cardio-respiratory coupling in CHF rats being the outcome an improved cardiac function. CONCLUSION: Our findings support that dietary K+ supplementation in non-ischemic CHF alleviate cardiorespiratory dysfunction.

Quality of life in elderly people after a hip fracture: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Hip fracture is an important social and medical problem due to its increasing prevalence, the consequences for health and the economic impact on the health care system, but there is no doubt that it also has repercussions on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Hence the importance of understanding and determining the impact of the condition on everyday life from the perspective of the patient's physical, emotional and social well-being. PURPOSE: To determine the impact of hip fracture on HRQoL of people over the age of 65 1 month after surgery, related factors and the effects on functional ability and mood. METHODS: Prospective observational study conducted in the traumatology units of two university hospitals in the province of Cáceres with consecutive sampling of all patients over the age of 65 admitted for hip fracture surgery during the study period. Sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded at the time of admission and prospectively at the follow-up visit 1 month later. Clinical, social, quality of life (EQ-5D-), basic functional and instrumental capacity (Barthel Index (BI) and Lawton & Brody Scale), and geriatric depression (Yesavage) variables were collected. RESULTS: The study included 224 patients with a median age of 84.6 years (SD ± 6.1), 76.3% were female. Charlson's comorbidity was 5.3 (SD ± 1.2). The EQ-5D index decreased from 0.62 (SD ± 0.35) to 0.16 at 1 month follow up (SD ± 0.20) p <  0.001. The mean Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of EQ-5D decreased from 72.8 (SD ±15.8) to 48.3 (SD ± 17.2) p <  0.001. All dimensions of EQ-5D showed a significant reduction from the time of pre-fracture status to 1 month after surgery. Independent factors associated with HRQoL 1 month after surgery were pre-fracture status Barthel Index score, Lawton and Brody scale, presence of depression, and type of surgery. CONCLUSIONS: After a hip fracture, patients experience considerable deterioration in their HRQoL, especially in self-care, daily activities, and mobility. There is also a significant decline in functional capacity for both the basic and instrumental activities of daily living. One month after surgery, HRQoL is a long way from pre-fracture levels.

Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) Score as a Predictor of All-Cause Mortality at 3 Months in Stroke Patients.

Malnutrition is frequently observed in patients after stroke and is associated with poor outcomes. Patients at risk of malnutrition may be identified with several nutrition screening tools, but no nutritional screening tool has been validated for use with stroke patients. The aim of this study was to explore the ability of the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score to predict 3-month mortality in stroke patients. METHOD: Patients were recruited from consecutive admissions at a hyperacute stroke unit and were screened for risk of malnutrition (light, moderate, or severe) using CONUT scores. At the next visit, 3-month outcomes were obtained. RESULTS: Of the 164 recruited patients, 51.2% were male. Mean patient age was 77.7 (SD = 7.0) years, and 85.8% of patients had an ischemic stroke. There was a significant difference in the survival rate (p < .001) at 3 months between patients with moderate risk for malnourishment compared to the other patients. The multivariate regression Cox model showed that moderate risk of malnourishment, according to the CONUT score, increased the risk for death at 3 months (hazard ratio = 1.086; 95% CI [1.057, 8.305]; p < .039). CONCLUSION: The CONUT score has predictive validity for all-cause mortality in stroke patients after 3 months, both in hospital and after discharge. Further prospective multicenter studies with larger samples are needed to clarify the usefulness of the CONUT score in the prognosis of all-cause mortality in stroke patients.

Six new and one known species of Geomonhystera (Nematoda, Monhysteridae) from moss, an epiphytic plant and soil in México and Ecuador.

Six new species of Geomonhystera (Nematoda, Monhysterida: Monhysteridae) Andrássy, 1981, are described and illustrated, five from México and one from Ecuador. The new species have many features in common and in common with at least several other species of the genus. Consequently, those features individually are not very useful for species-level diagnosis. They include the cuticular striation which, under light microscopy, ranges from fine to apparently smooth; however, scanning electron micrographs reveal very fine cuticular striation on all the new species. All the new species have a few body setae scattered along the length of the body and the vulval lips of females are slightly protruding. As for other species of the genus, there is considerable overlap in the ranges of standard morphometric characters so a combination of standard and additional morphometrics, as well as qualitative characters, is necessary for species separation. Geomonhystera mexiquense sp. n., collected from moss on a rock and on the trunk of Quercus crassipes in Juchitepec, México State, México, has outer labial setae that are unsegmented and 44-67% of the head width, the cephalic setae are thin, unsegmented and 31-50% of the head width; the vulval lips protrude slightly. Geomonhystera michoacana sp. n., collected from moss on a rock in Tzararacua National Park, Uruapan, Michoacan State, México, has a very finely-striated cuticle which appears almost smooth and bears rare cervical and caudal setae; the tail is long, 15-17% of the body length, and the rectum also is long, 23-32 (27±2.0) µm. Geomonhystera longispiculata sp. n., collected from an epiphytic plant in the botanical garden of the Ecology Institute in Jalapa, Veracruz State, México, is distinguished from all the species of the genus by the long, slender spicules, 55-85 (75±3.0) µm. The cuticle has conspicuous fine striation and there are somatic setae scattered along the body. Geomonhystera ecuatoriana sp. n., collected from moss on the trunk of Scalesia pedunculata growing on the twin volcanoes of Isla Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador, has fine cuticular striation and a few small body setae; the unsegmented outer labial setae are 42-54% of the head width and the cephalic setae are thin, unsegmented and 33-45% of the head width; the vulval lips protrude slightly and the vulva-anus distance is 37-48 µm or 2.1-2.5 times anal body diameter. Males of G. ecuatoriana have slightly arcuate spicules, 35 µm long. Geomonhystera galindoi sp. n., collected from moss on the trunk of Quercus peduncularis in San Pablo Ixzayo, Texcoco, México State, México, has fine cuticlar striation and a few fine body setae, the vulval lips are slightly protruding; the vulva-anus distance is 35-50 (41±0.9) µm, 1.5-2.2 (1.9±0.2) times anal body diameter. Males of G. galindoi are slightly ventrally curved with the posterior end strongly curved, giving the body a hook-shaped appearance. Geomonhystera chiautzingoensis sp. n., collected from moss on the trunk of Crataegus mexicana in Chiautzingo, Puebla State, México, has exceedingly fine striation of the cuticle and outer labial and cephalic setae that are less than 50% of the head width. Additionally, G. dubia Siddiqi Shahina, 2004 was sollected in soil samples around a plum tree (Prunus sp.) in the garden of Montecillo Campus, Colegio de Postgraduados, Texcoco, México State, México This species has a small body with fine cuticular striation and a few sparsely-distributed body setae; the outer labial and cephalic setae are unsegmented, 5-8 and 3-5 µm long, 56-80% and 33-50% of the head width, respectively; the vulval lips protrude slightly but are sometimes flush with the body contour.

Evolución de la tentativa suicida atendida por los Servicios de Emergencias Médicas de Castilla-La Mancha tras la crisis económica / Attempted suicides attended by emergency services during the economic recession in Castile-La Mancha, Spain

Objetivo: Investigar la evolución de la tentativa suicida en Castilla La Mancha entre 2006 y 2015, y su correlación con factores sociodemográficos y económicos. Método: Estudio de una serie de casos incidentes de tentativa suicida atendidos por los Servicios de Emergencias Médicas de Castilla La Mancha entre 2006 y 2015. Se recogieron el número de incidentes y variables demográficas, sociales y económicas. Las tasas fueron estandarizadas de manera directa, tomando como referencia al total de población de la región. El impacto del cambio temporal de las tasas se estudió con modelos de Poisson segmentados. La correlación con los indicadores económicos se evaluó con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: Se atendieron 1.308 incidentes de tentativa suicida, de los cuales 711 (55,8%) fueron en mujeres. La distribución global reveló máximos entre los años 2007 y 2013. Se obtuvo una razón de tasas estandarizadas un 23% mayor en las mujeres que en los hombres, un 10% más en Toledo que en Albacete, y un 20% mayor en 2007-2008 y un 30-40% mayor entre 2012-2015 que previamente a la crisis. La tasa fue mayor en las cohortes en edad laboral. La tasa se correlacionó principalmente con las tasas de hogares con dificultad para llegar a fin de mes (0,29 p < 0,01), riesgo de pobreza/exclusión regional (0,285, p<0,01) y paro regional (0,265, p<0,01). Conclusiones: La tasa de tentativa suicida se ha incrementado durante la crisis económica. La tasa muestra una correlación variable con indicadores socioeconómicos

Objective: To investigate changes in attempted suicide rates in Castile-La Mancha between 2006 and 2015 and the correlation with sociodemographic and economic indicators. Methods: Study of attempted suicides attended by the emergency medical services of Castile-La Mancha between 2006 and 2015. We obtained records of the number of incidents and recorded sociodemographic and economic variables. Rates were standardized by direct reference to regional population figures, and change over time was studied by means of segmented Poisson regression models. The correlation with economic indicators was assessed with the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 1308 attempted suicides were attended; 711 (55.8%) were made by women. The years 2007 and 2013 saw the highest numbers of attempts. The population-standardized suicide rates were 23% higher in women than in men, 10% higher in Toledo than in Albacete, 20% higher in 2007-2008 and 30% to 40% higher between 2012 and 2015 than before the crisis began. Rates were higher in age brackets in which employment is usual. Rates correlated most strongly with economic strain (difficulty making it to the end of the monthly pay cycle) (r=0.29, P<.01), risk of poverty/exclusion in the region (r=0.285, P<.01), and the unemployment rate in the region (r=0.265, P<.01). Conclusions: Suicide rates rose during the economic recession. There were variable correlations between socioeconomic indicators and attempted suicide rates

Olive Oil Consumption and Bone Microarchitecture in Spanish Women.

Olive oil has been demonstrated to enhance various cardiometabolic risk factors. However, to our knowledge, the association between olive oil intake and cortical and trabecular bone microarchitecture has never been evaluated in Spanish women. We aimed to examine the association between olive oil intake and cortical and trabecular bone microarchitecture. We analyzed 523 women aged 50 (9) year, range (23⁻81) year. Participants underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography scans. Dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D, energy and olive oil (g/day) were assessed by a self-administered food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). After adjustment for potential confounding factors (calcium (mg/day), vitamin D (µg/day) energy (Kcal/day), age, body mass index (BMI) (kg/m²), menopausal status, and osteoporotic diagnosis (normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis)), there were significant increases in volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) (mg/cm³) (p < 0.01) in the group with a higher intake of olive oil. Total, trabecular and cortical bone density were positively correlated with olive oil intake. The dietary intake of olive oil was significantly associated with vBMD in multiple regression analysis; total density: olive oil intake (g/day) standardized ß = 0.185 (p < 0.001), trabecular density: olive oil intake (g/day) standardized ß = 0.186 (p < 0.001) and cortical density olive oil intake (g/day) standardized ß = 0.114 (p = 0.008). We conclude that the dietary intake of olive oil is positively associated with a better vBMD in Spanish women.

Patrón de uso de la terapia electroconvulsiva en España: propuestas para una práctica óptima y un acceso equitativo / Pattern of electroconvulsive therapy use in Spain: Proposals for an optimal practice and equitable access

Objetivos. Analizar en términos cuantitativos y cualitativos la situación del uso de la terapia electroconvulsiva (TEC) en España en la actualidad, así como explorar aquellos aspectos que pudieran condicionar su utilización. Metodología. Encuesta transversal en todas las unidades psiquiátricas existentes en España a fecha 31/12/2012. Resultados. El 54,9% de las unidades estudiadas aplicaban TEC, resultando en una tasa de aplicación de 0,66 por 10.000 habitantes. Existen amplias variaciones en las tasas de aplicación entre comunidades autónomas (0,00-1,39) y provincias (0,00-3,90). La TEC se indicó en el período estudiado a una media de 25,5 pacientes en los centros que disponían de la técnica, y a 4,5 en los centros que remitían a otros para aplicarla (p=0,000), pero con amplias diferencias entre centros. Conclusiones. El número de centros que disponen de TEC en España es uno de los más elevados entre los países occidentales, pero la tasa de aplicación de esta técnica continúa siendo una de las más bajas, existiendo además marcadas diferencias entre las distintas comunidades autónomas, e incluso entre provincias y centros hospitalarios de una misma comunidad autónoma. Parece preciso implementar estrategias de planificación sanitaria y de formación para reducir la heterogeneidad observada en la prescripción y aplicación de la TEC en España (AU)

Objectives. The main aims of our study were to estimate the current rates and pattern of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) use in Spain, as well as exploring the causes that may be limiting its use in our country. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted covering every psychiatric unit in Spain as of 31 December 2012. Results. More than half (54.9%) of the psychiatric units applied ECT at a rate of 0.66 patients per 10,000 inhabitants. There are wide variations with regard to ECT application rates between the different autonomous communities (0.00-1.39) and provinces (0.00-3.90). ECT was prescribed to a mean of 25.5 patients per hospital that used the technique and 4.5 in referral centre (P=.000), but wide differences were reported in the number of patients who were prescribed ECT from hospital to hospital. Conclusions. Although the percentage of psychiatric units applying ECT in our country is among the highest in the world, the ECT application rate in Spain is among the lowest within western countries. Large differences in ECT use have been reported across the various autonomous communities, provinces and hospitals. Thus, health planning strategies need to be implemented, as well as promoting training in ECT among health professionals, if these differences in ECT use are to be reduced (AU)

Pattern of electroconvulsive therapy use in Spain: Proposals for an optimal practice and equitable access. / Patrón de uso de la terapia electroconvulsiva en España: propuestas para una práctica óptima y un acceso equitativo.

OBJECTIVES: The main aims of our study were to estimate the current rates and pattern of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) use in Spain, as well as exploring the causes that may be limiting its use in our country. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted covering every psychiatric unit in Spain as of 31 December 2012. RESULTS: More than half (54.9%) of the psychiatric units applied ECT at a rate of 0.66 patients per 10,000 inhabitants. There are wide variations with regard to ECT application rates between the different autonomous communities (0.00-1.39) and provinces (0.00-3.90). ECT was prescribed to a mean of 25.5 patients per hospital that used the technique and 4.5 in referral centre (P=.000), but wide differences were reported in the number of patients who were prescribed ECT from hospital to hospital. CONCLUSIONS: Although the percentage of psychiatric units applying ECT in our country is among the highest in the world, the ECT application rate in Spain is among the lowest within western countries. Large differences in ECT use have been reported across the various autonomous communities, provinces and hospitals. Thus, health planning strategies need to be implemented, as well as promoting training in ECT among health professionals, if these differences in ECT use are to be reduced.

Attempted suicides attended by emergency services during the economic recession in Castile-La Mancha, Spain. / Evolución de la tentativa suicida atendida por los Servicios de Emergencias Médicas de Castilla-La Mancha tras la crisis económica.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate changes in attempted suicide rates in Castile-La Mancha between 2006 and 2015 and the correlation with sociodemographic and economic indicators. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Study of attempted suicides attended by the emergency medical services of Castile-La Mancha between 2006 and 2015.We obtained records of the number of incidents and recorded sociodemographic and economic variables. Rates were standardized by direct reference to regional population figures, and change over time was studied by means of segmented Poisson regression models. The correlation with economic indicators was assessed with the Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: A total of 1308 attempted suicides were attended; 711 (55.8%) were made by women. The years 2007 and 2013 saw the highest numbers of attempts. The population-standardized suicide rates were 23% higher in women than in men, 10% higher in Toledo than in Albacete, 20% higher in 2007-2008 and 30% to 40% higher between 2012 and 2015 than before the crisis began. Rates were higher in age brackets in which employment is usual. Rates correlated most strongly with economic strain (difficulty making it to the end of the monthly pay cycle) (r=0.29, P<.01), risk of poverty/exclusion in the region (r=0.285, P<.01), and the unemployment rate in the region (r=0.265, P<.01). CONCLUSION: . Suicide rates rose during the economic recession. There were variable correlations between socioeconomic indicators and attempted suicide rates.

OBJETIVO: Investigar la evolución de la tentativa suicida en Castilla La Mancha entre 2006 y 2015, y su correlación con factores sociodemográficos y económicos. METODO: Estudio de una serie de casos incidentes de tentativa suicida atendidos por los Servicios de Emergencias Médicas de Castilla La Mancha entre 2006 y 2015. Se recogieron el número de incidentes y variables demográficas, sociales y económicas. Las tasas fueron estandarizadas de manera directa, tomando como referencia al total de población de la región. El impacto del cambio temporal de las tasas se estudió con modelos de Poisson segmentados. La correlación con los indicadores económicos se evaluó con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. RESULTADOS: . Se atendieron 1.308 incidentes de tentativa suicida, de los cuales 711 (55,8%) fueron en mujeres. La distribución global reveló máximos entre los años 2007 y 2013. Se obtuvo una razón de tasas estandarizadas un 23% mayor en las mujeres que en los hombres, un 10% más en Toledo que en Albacete, y un 20% mayor en 2007-2008 y un 30-40% mayor entre 2012-2015 que previamente a la crisis. La tasa fue mayor en las cohortes en edad laboral. La tasa se correlacionó principalmente con las tasas de hogares con dificultad para llegar a fin de mes (0,29 p < 0,01), riesgo de pobreza/exclusión regional (0,285, p < 0,01) y paro regional (0,265, p < 0,01). CONCLUSIONES: La tasa de tentativa suicida se ha incrementado durante la crisis económica. La tasa muestra una correlación variable con indicadores socioeconómicos.

Five new species of the family Trischistomatidae (Nematoda: Enoplida) from North and Central America, with keys to the species of Trischistoma and Tripylina.

Three new species of Trischistoma and two new species of Tripylina (Trischistomatidae) are described. Trischistoma ripariana n. sp. was collected in the surface organic material and upper rhizosphere soil on a stream bank in Oakville, California, USA. It is characterized by a short, thin body, the vulva at 79-83%, a small index c (17-29) and a short tail, 34-57 µm. Trischistoma corticulensis n. sp. was found in moss on tree bark in a tropical forest at the La Mancha Ecological Institute, Veracruz State, México. The vulva is at 67-73% and the tail is elongate conoid (51-84 µm). Trischistoma helicoformis n. sp. was collected on lichen growing on tree bark near the Carretera Interamericana in Costa Rica. It is characterized by its spiral shape after fixation, the tail length (76-101 µm), a very small index c (10-14.5) and very small sclerotised pieces around the vagina. Tripylina rorkabanarum n. sp. was collected from moss on tree bark in a tropical forest at the La Mancha Ecological Institute. It is characterized by the presence of two cervical setae, the position of the subventral teeth posterior to the dorsal tooth, the absence of sclerotized pieces around the vagina and the distance of the dorsal tooth from the anterior, 10-15 µm. Tripylina iandrassyi n. sp. was collected from soil around a banana tree at the La Mancha Ecological Institute. It is characterized by the presence of a post-uterine sac, well-developed buccal lips, subventral teeth located posterior to the dorsal tooth, one cervical seta in females and two in males, and by spicules not completely surrounded by a muscular sheath.

Five new species of the genus Tripylella (Nematoda: Enoplida: Tripylidae).

Five new species of the genus Tripylella are described, two from México, one from Fátima, Portugal, one from Quito, Ecuador, and one from California, USA. Tripylella mexicana sp. n. is characterized by its short body (average 0.74 mm), short pharynx (average 161 µm), short tail (average 117 µm), presence of an excretory pore and small setae distributed sparsely along the body, the presence of body pores, the posterior position of the subventral teeth in relation to the small dorsal tooth with all teeth in contiguous stomal chambers, the finely-striated cuticle with many anastomoses, the non-protruding vulval lips, and the presence of sclerotized pieces in the vulval region. Tripylella muscusi sp. n. is characterized by its body length (average 0.94 mm), pharynx length (average 201 µm), tail length (average 140 µm), the anterior position of the subventral teeth in relation to the small dorsal tooth in a single stomal chamber, the presence of an excretory pore, the presence of body pores and sparse somatic setae, the finely-striated cuticle with sparse anastomoses, protruding vulval lips and sclerotized oval-shaped pieces present in the vulval region. Tripylella quitoensis sp. n. is characterized by the short body length (average 0.72 mm), the short outer labial setae, the short pharynx (average 175 µm), the location of the anterior subventral teeth and posterior dorsal tooth in the same stomal chamber, the short tail (average 98 µm), the apparent absence of an excretory pore, presence of body pores, presence of somatic setae, a finely-striated cuticle, non-protruding vulval lips, and very small oval sclerotized pieces in the vulva. Tripylella fatimaensis sp. n. is characterized by the short body, (average 0.74 mm) long, by the length of the pharynx (average 180 µm), the length of the tail (average 110 µm) and in the length of its reduced diameter portion, 45-58 µm, the presence of an excretory pore, body pores and three pairs of caudal setae (one pair each latero-ventral, latero-dorsal and ventral). Tripylella dentata sp. n. is characterized, and differs from all the species of the genus, by the presence of two adjacent stomal chambers, with two large teeth, one dorsal and one ventral, in the posterior stomal chamber and two subventral teeth in the anterior smaller chamber, short body (average 0.85 mm), pharynx length (average 209 µm), tail length (average 115 µm), the apparent absence of an excretory pore, the presence of two cervical setae in a lateral position, and by the presence of conspicuous pores along the body.

Electroconvulsive Therapy Practice in Spain: A National Survey.

OBJECTIVES: The use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in Spain has not been systematically evaluated since 2000 to 2001. The aim of this study is to assess the current use of ECT in Spain. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted covering every psychiatric unit in Spain as of December 31, 2012. RESULTS: About 93.2% of the centers answered the questionnaire. About 54.9% of the psychiatric units applied ECT at a rate of 0.66 patients per 10,000 inhabitants. Wide variations existed among the different autonomous communities and provinces. Written informed consent was obtained in all the facilities. About 38.2% of ECT-treated patients were 65 years or older. About 55.7% were women. Depressive episodes were the main indication for ECT (80.2%). All the facilities applied modified ECT. No sine wave current devices are currently used in Spain. Bifrontotemporal ECT was elective in 85% of the hospitals, bifrontal in 13.3%, and unilateral in 1.8%. Stimulus titration methods were elective in 8.6% of the centers. The decision to end ECT relied on the psychiatrist's clinical impression in 89.4% of the centers and on rating scales in 10.6%. The ECT training was mandatory in 56.5% of the centers. CONCLUSIONS: The ECT practice has significantly improved in Spain in recent years. Overall, Spanish facilities seem to comply with established clinical guidelines; however, specific concerns were identified, meaning there is still further scope for improvement.

Mechanical properties and ultrastructural characteristics of a glass fiber-reinforced composite.

PURPOSE: To examine the ultrastructural characteristics of a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) and its behavior in vitro as a framework for fixed partial dentures (FPDs). METHODS: A total of 40 specimens were prepared using extracted teeth fixed in methacrylate blocks as supports for the FPD, then the specimens were divided into four groups depending on whether a retaining box was used to fix the FPD to the support teeth, and on whether a composite pontic was assembled on top of the fibers. Fracture testing was performed in a universal testing machine (1 mm/minute). Fracture strength values and failure types were statistically compared for each group. RESULTS: Using retaining boxes did not improve the mechanical behavior of the restorative system. The weakest element of the system was the composite tooth constructed on top of the FRC.

Una Experiencia de Terapia de grupo con niños en edad de latencia / One experience of therapy group with latency age children

El presente trabajo describe nuestra experiencia clínica del trabajo terapéutico con un grupo de niños en edad de latencia, con la técnica de juego, realizado en nuestro centro público durante un curso escolar (AU)

The present work describe our clinic experience with a group of children in the latency period, working with play technique in context of group therapy during a school year (AU)