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Contains fulltext : 283317.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) OBJECTIVES: To perform a survey among all European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) radiologist members to gather representative data regarding the clinical use of breast DWI. METHODS: An online questionnaire was developed by two board-certified radiologists, reviewed by the EUSOBI board and committees, and finally distributed among EUSOBI active and associated (not based in Europe) radiologist members. The questionnaire included 20 questions pertaining to technical preferences (acquisition time, magnet strength, breast coils, number of b values), clinical indications, imaging evaluation, and reporting. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Chi-square test of independence, and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: Of 1411 EUSOBI radiologist members, 275/1411 (19.5%) responded. Most (222/275, 81%) reported using DWI as part of their routine protocol. Common indications for DWI include lesion characterization (using an ADC threshold of 1.2-1.3 x 10(-3) mm(2)/s) and prediction of response to chemotherapy. Members most commonly acquire two separate b values (114/217, 53%), with b value = 800 s/mm(2) being the preferred value for appraisal among those acquiring more than two b values (71/171, 42%). Most did not use synthetic b values (169/217, 78%). While most mention hindered diffusion in the MRI report (161/213, 76%), only 142/217 (57%) report ADC values. CONCLUSION: The utilization of DWI in clinical practice among EUSOBI radiologists who responded to the survey is generally in line with international recommendations, with the main application being the differentiation of benign and malignant enhancing lesions, treatment response assessment, and prediction of response to chemotherapy. Report integration of qualitative and quantitative DWI data is not uniform. KEY POINTS: * Clinical performance of breast DWI is in good agreement with the current recommendations of the EUSOBI International Breast DWI working group. * Breast DWI applications in clinical practice include the differentiation of benign and malignant enhancing, treatment response assessment, and prediction of response to chemotherapy. * Report integration of DWI results is not uniform.

De novo malignancies (DNMs) following liver transplantation (LT) have been reported as 1 of the major causes of late mortality, being the most common cause of death in the second decade after LT. The overall incidence of DNMs is reported to be in the range of 3.1% to 14.4%, and the incidence is 2- to 3-fold higher in transplant recipients than in age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Long-term immunosuppressive therapy, which is the key in maintaining host tolerance and achieving good long-term outcomes, is known to contribute to a higher risk of DNMs. However, the incidence and type of DNM also depends on different risk factors, including patient demographics, cause of the underlying chronic liver disease, behavior (smoking and alcohol abuse), and pre-existing premalignant conditions. The estimated standardized incidence ratio for different DNMs is also variable. The International Liver Transplantation Society-Spanish Society of Liver Transplantation Consensus Conference working group on DNM has summarized and discussed the current available literature on epidemiology, risk factors, management, and survival after DNMs. Recommendations for screening and surveillance for specific tumors, as well as immunosuppression and cancer-specific management in patients with DNM, are summarized.

Background: Ketogenic dietary therapies (KDT) are used as a treatment in childhood epilepsy. However, their mechanism has not yet been established. The main objective of this study was to determine the changes in the transcriptomic profile induced by KDT in children with epilepsy in order to shed light on its possible mechanisms. Methods: Eight children with refractory epilepsy were enrolled in the study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained before and after the children were treated with KDT for a minimum of 6 months. RNA was extracted and mRNA and miRNA profiling were performed and analyzed. Results: Our intervention with KDT significantly reduced the seizure number in seven of the eight paediatric patients treated and caused important changes in their gene expression profile. Our study reveals modifications in the transcription of 4630 genes and 230 miRNAs. We found that the genes involved in the protection against epileptic crises were among those mainly changed. These genes collectively encode for ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, and synapse structural proteins. Conclusions: Together our results explain the possible mechanisms of KDT and reinforce its clinical importance in the treatment of epilepsy. © 2022 The Author(s). Published by IMR Press.

Patients with chronic kidney disease have a higher risk of fractures than the general population due to the added factor of uraemia. Although the mechanisms behind uraemia associated fractures are not fully understood, it is widely accepted that the decrease in bone mineral content and alteration in bone architecture both increase bone fragility. As chronic kidney disease progresses, the risk of fracture increases, especially once the patient requires dialysis. Among the many causes of the increased risk are advanced age, amenorrhoea, steroid exposure, decreased vitamin D, increased parathyroid hormone (PTH), malnutrition and chronic inflammation. Serum phosphorus, whether high or very low, seems to correlate with the risk of fracture. Moreover, increased serum phosphate is known to directly and indirectly affect bone metabolism through the development of adaptive hormonal mechanisms aimed at preventing hyperphosphataemia, such as the increase in PTH and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and the reduction in calcitriol. These adaptive mechanisms are less intense if the intestinal absorption of phosphorus is reduced with the use of phosphorus captors, which seem to have a positive impact in reducing the risk of fractures. We describe here the possible mechanisms associating serum phosphorus levels, the adaptive mechanisms typical in kidney disease and the use of drugs to control hyperphosphataemia with the risk of fractures. We found no studies in the literature providing evidence on the influence of different treatments on the risk of fractures in patients with chronic kidney disease. We suggest that control of phosphorus should be an objective to consider. (C) 2020 Sociedad Espanola de Nefrologia. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.

In the last three decades, childhood obesity has become a 21st century epidemic, a product of social development. The purpose of this study was to analyze the repercussions that overweight and obesity have for the basic motor skills of a group of children in primary school, as well as their interrelations. We analyzed a sample of 287 students from Spain, aged between 8 and 12 years. Anthropometric data were taken to determine their Body Mass Index (BMI). A scale of assessment of basic motor skills was used to evaluate their motor skills. The BMI data revealed that 11% of this sample was considered obese, and 26% was overweight. Children showed higher competence in locomotor skills than in object control and turn and rolling skills, for which motor competence levels were lower. Likewise, there was an inverse relationship between BMI and basic motor skills; children with obesity had the lowest levels of motor skills, and there was a significant difference regarding non-obese children (p

X Congreso Geológico de España, 5-7 Julio 2021, Vitoria - Gasteiz, El Trabajo de Investigación de Bachillerato es una de las herramientas de divulgación y enseñanza de las Ciencias de la Tierra para alumnos preuniversitarios interesados en esta ciencia. La potenciación desde la Universidad hacia los centros educativos de Enseñanza Secundaria de la transferencia del conocimiento científico en el ámbito de la Geología, así como de otras ciencias, es el eje principal que se presenta en el Proyecto FORCES (Foment de la Recerca en els Centres de Secundària; http:// www.ub.edu/cere/forces/). Desde el Instituto de Desarrollo Profesional de la Universitat de Barcelona (UB) se han creado puentes entre facultades de la UB y dichos centros educativos, presentándose el caso de la Facultat de Ciències de la Terra. En FORCES se facilitan las herramientas para vincular el Trabajo de Investigación obligatorio de Bachillerato; el estudiante cuenta con el apoyo de su tutor y con el seguimiento de uno o varios profesores-investigadores del ámbito universitario. Ello amplia el marco de trabajo del alumno y le ofrece focos de interés no disponibles en los centros de Educación Secundaria, abriendo la posibilidad de colaboraciones científicas con el grupo investigador y disponer de sus herramientas, conocimientos e instrumental. Unir a la docencia universitaria la experiencia del contacto con futuros estudiantes enriquece la visión del profesorado, al situarlo en el punto de vista del estudiante de bachillerato, facilitando la comunicación de conocimientos e incorporando nuevas metodologías didácticas. Los temas geológicos tratados son amplios, teniendo como eje común la visión geológica de procesos cotidianos o próximos al alumno de Bachillerato., The High School Research Work is one of the tools of dissemination and teaching of Earth Sciences to pre-university students. The strengthening from the University to Secondary School of the transfer of scientific knowledge in the field of Geology, as well as other sciences, is the aim of the FORCES Project (Promotion of Research in High Schools; http://www.ub.edu/cere/ forces/). The Professional Development Institute (IDP-ICE) of the University of Barcelona (UB) has forged close ties between these educational centers and the different faculties of the UB, including the Faculty of Earth Sciences. FORCES provides the necessary tools to link the compulsory Research Work of the Baccalaureate students, so that the student not only has the support of his advisor, but also the follow-up of one or several professors and/or researchers. This broadens the student’s work frame and helps her/him focusing on possible areas not achievable in the context of Secondary School centers, such as establishing scientific collaborations with university research groups and thus using their tools, knowledge and analytical instruments. On the other hand, meeting prospective students enriches the professors’ vision by placing it in the mind of the High School student, improving the communication of knowledge in a more meaningful way and incorporating new teaching methodologies. Geological topics addressed are broad, having as a common thread the geological vision of everyday processes or scientific issues close to the Baccalaureate student’s daily life.

The Ensembl project (http://www.ensembl.org) is a comprehensive genome information system featuring an integrated set of genome annotation, databases and other information for chordate and selected model organism and disease vector genomes. As of release 47 (October 2007), Ensembl fully supports 35 species, with preliminary support for six additional species. New species in the past year include platypus and horse. Major additions and improvements to Ensembl since our previous report include extensive support for functional genomics data in the form of a specialized functional genomics database, genome-wide maps of protein-DNA interactions and the Ensembl regulatory build; support for customization of the Ensembl web interface through the addition of user accounts and user groups; and increased support for genome resequencing. We have also introduced new comparative genomics-based data mining options and report on the continued development of our software infrastructure.

La sobrecarga asistencial y los cambios organizativos frente a la pandemia de COVID-19 podrían estar repercutiendo en la atención al ictus agudo en la Comunidad de Madrid. Métodos: Encuesta estructurada en bloques: características del hospital, cambios en infraestructura y recursos, circuitos de código ictus, pruebas diagnósticas, rehabilitación y atención ambulatoria. Análisis descriptivo según el nivel de complejidad en la atención del ictus (disponibilidad o no de unidad de ictus y de trombectomía mecánica). Resultados: De los 26 hospitales del SERMAS que atienden urgencias en adultos, 22 cumplimentaron la encuesta entre el 16 y 27 de abril. El 95% han cedido neurólogos para atender a pacientes afectados por la COVID-19. Se han reducido camas de neurología en el 89,4%, modificado los circuitos en urgencias para ictus en el 81%, con circuitos específicos para sospecha de infección por SARS-CoV2 en el 50%, y en el 42% de los hospitales los pacientes con ictus agudo positivos para SARS-CoV2 no ingresan en camas de neurología. Ha mejorado el acceso altratamiento, con trombectomía mecánica las 24 h en el propio hospital en 10 hospitales, y sehan reducido los traslados interhospitalarios secundarios. Se ha evitado el ingreso de pacientescon ataque isquémico transitorio o ictus leve (45%) y se han incorporado consultas telefónicaspara seguimiento en el 100%.Conclusiones: Los cambios organizativos de los hospitales de la Comunidad de Madrid frente ala pandemia por SARS-Co2 han modificado la dedicación de recursos humanos e infraestructurasde las unidades de neurología y los circuitos de atención del ictus, realización de pruebasdiagnósticas, ingreso de los pacientes y seguimiento The overload of the healthcare system and the organisational changes made inresponse to the COVID-19 pandemic may be having an impact on acute stroke care in the Regionof Madrid.Methods: We conducted a survey with sections addressing hospital characteristics, changes ininfrastructure and resources, code stroke clinical pathways, diagnostic testing, rehabilitation,and outpatient care. We performed a descriptive analysis of results according to the level ofcomplexity of stroke care (availability of stroke units and mechanical thrombectomy).Results: The survey was completed by 22 of the 26 hospitals in the Madrid Regional HealthSystem that attend adult emergencies, between 16 and 27 April 2020. Ninety-five percent ofhospitals had reallocated neurologists to care for patients with COVID-19. The numbers of neuro-logy ward beds were reduced in 89.4% of hospitals; emergency department stroke care pathwayswere modified in 81%, with specific pathways for suspected SARS-CoV2 infection established in50% of hospitals; and SARS-CoV2-positive patients with acute stroke were not admitted to neu-rology wards in 42%. Twenty-four hour on-site availability of mechanical thrombectomy wasimproved in 10 hospitals, which resulted in a reduction in the number of secondary hospitaltransfers. The admission of patients with transient ischaemic attack or minor stroke was avoi-ded in 45% of hospitals, and follow-up through telephone consultations was implemented in100%.Conclusions: The organisational changes made in response to the SARS-Co2 pandemic in hos-pitals in the Region of Madrid have modified the allocation of neurology department staff andinfrastructure, stroke units and stroke care pathways, diagnostic testing, hospital admissions,and outpatient follow-up

Purpose: The objective was to assess the ability of the volar locking plate to maintain the radiographic parameters over the time in elderly patients with complex intra-articular distal radius fractures. Methods: Prospective cohort of 66 consecutive patients with mean age of 68 (range 60–81) years and AO type C fractures treated with volar locking plate. Radiographic measurements were performed pre and post-operatively at each follow-up. Clinical assessment was made by Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, range of motion, and grip strength. Results: The mean post-operative follow-up was 31 (range, 24–47) months. The most difficult parameters to restore intra-operatively were volar tilt and radial height, while radial inclination and ulnar variance were restored in a high rate of patients. There was significant loss of reduction within four post-operative months in volar tilt (p = 0.001) and radial height (p = 0.029). Mean radiographic parameters had no changes from four months to final evaluation. At final follow-up, 50.1% of the patients had all radiographic parameters restored in comparison with the noninvolved wrist, but 83.3% had all radiographic parameters within a functional range (p = 0.001). No significant relationship between radiographic and functional outcomes was found (p = 0.474). Conclusions: This study found that volar locking plate fixation for displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures in elderly patients was an effective procedure to obtain success functional outcomes. Although reduction loss in volar tilt and radial height occurred within four first months, volar plate was able to maintain fracture stabilization with radiographic parameters within functional range over the time in most patients of these elderly patients.

BACKGROUND: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a multisystemic dendritic cell proliferation that is relatively uncommon in adults. Central nervous system LCH outside the pituitary gland is even more uncommon. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report the case of a 42-year-old man who had complained of right-side hemicranial pain and left arm minor paresis. The symptoms were due to a right insular lobe heterogeneous-enhancing lesion associated with extensive vasogenic edema. The first diagnostic impression suggested glioblastoma multiforme or localized metastasis. The thoracic, abdominal, pelvic computed tomography scan only detected small upper lung inactive nodules suggesting silent focal LCH. A very hard lesion was almost completely removed through a pterional craniotomy approach, with no fluorescence after aminolevulinic acid infusion. The intraoperative biopsy findings ruled out glioma but could not confirm lymphoma. The definitive cerebral biopsy findings showed lymphocytes and histiocytes (CD1a(+), S-1001(+)), with a diagnosis of intracerebral parenchymal LCH. Fractioned radiotherapy resulted in clinical and radiological remission. CONCLUSIONS: The present case is so rare it should not be used as a guide. We probably will never see a single intraparenchymal supratentorial central nervous system LCH lesion. However, we hope our report will help colleagues in the future with the thought process.

Background: Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) yields several parameters that have not been tested in response evaluation to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Purpose: To evaluate and compare in reference to histopathology findings the ability of DTI and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI to monitor response to NAC. Study Type: Retrospective. Population: Twenty patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Field Strength/Sequence: 1.5T MRI axial, bilateral T 2 -weighted, DTI, and DCE-MRI. Assessment: A standardized blinded image analysis at pixel resolution generated color-coded maps of DTI and DCE parameters. Statistical Tests: Pearson's correlation analysis and Bland–Altman plots of the DTI and DCE size changes and of the pathological final residual tumor diameter and DCE or DTI final diameter, from pre- to post-NAC. Spearman coefficient of rank correlation between the DTI and DCE size changes from pre- to post-NAC and Miller and Payne (M&P) pathological response grading. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses to differentiate between responders to nonresponders on the basis of the DTI and DCE percent size changes and the changes in DTI parameters. Results: DTI and DCE changes in the cancers' diameter and volume from pre- to post-NAC exhibited high and significant Pearson correlation (r = 0.82 P = 1.2 × 10 -5 ). The DTI volume changes exhibited a significant Spearman coefficient rank correlation (0.68, P = 0.001) with the pathological M&P grading and differentiated between responders and nonresponders with area-under-the-curve (AUC) of 0.83 ± 0.10. A similar AUC for differentiating responders from nonresponders was exhibited by the changes in the highest diffusion coefficient (0.84 ± 0.11) and the mean diffusivity (0.83 ± 0.11). The DTI residual-tumor-diameter showed a high and significant Pearson correlation (r = 0.87 P = 1.2 × 10 -6 ) to pathology tumor diameter. Data Conclusion: DTI monitors changes in cancer size and diffusion tensor parameters in response to NAC with an accuracy equivalent to that of DCE, enabling differentiation of responders from nonresponders and assessment of residual tumor size in high congruence with pathology. Level of Evidence: 1. Technical Efficacy: Stage 4. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1080–1090. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine

This article summarises the information that should be provided to women and referring physicians about breast ultrasound (US). After explaining the physical principles, technical procedure and safety of US, information is given about its ability to make a correct diagnosis, depending on the setting in which it is applied. The following definite indications for breast US in female subjects are proposed: palpable lump; axillary adenopathy; first diagnostic approach for clinical abnormalities under 40 and in pregnant or lactating women; suspicious abnormalities at mammography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); suspicious nipple discharge; recent nipple inversion; skin retraction; breast inflammation; abnormalities in the area of the surgical scar after breast conserving surgery or mastectomy; abnormalities in the presence of breast implants; screening high-risk women, especially when MRI is not performed; loco-regional staging of a known breast cancer, when MRI is not performed; guidance for percutaneous interventions (needle biopsy, pre-surgical localisation, fluid collection drainage); monitoring patients with breast cancer receiving neo-adjuvant therapy, when MRI is not performed. Possible indications such as supplemental screening after mammography for women aged 40-74 with dense breasts are also listed. Moreover, inappropriate indications include screening for breast cancer as a stand-alone alternative to mammography. The structure and organisation of the breast US report and of classification systems such as the BI-RADS and consequent management recommendations are illustrated. Information about additional or new US technologies (colour-Doppler, elastography, and automated whole breast US) is also provided. Finally, five frequently asked questions are answered. Teaching Points US is an established tool for suspected cancers at all ages and also the method of choice under 40. For US-visible suspicious lesions, US-guided biopsy is preferred, even for palpable findings. High-risk women can be screened with US, especially when MRI cannot be performed. Supplemental US increases cancer detection but also false positives, biopsy rate and follow-up exams. Breast US is inappropriate as a stand-alone screening method.

Objectives: While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered a helpful diagnostic tool in breast imaging, discussions are ongoing about appropriate protocols and indications. The European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) launched a survey to evaluate the utilisation of breast MRI in clinical practice. Methods: An online survey reviewed by the EUSOBI board and committees was distributed amongst members. The questions encompassed: training and experience; annual breast MRI and MRI-guided-intervention workload; examination protocols; indications; reporting habits and preferences. Data were summarised and subgroups compared using ?2 test. Results: Of 647 EUSOBI members, 177 (27.4%) answered the survey. The majority were radiologists (90.5%), half of them based in academic centres (51.9%). Common indications for MRI included cancer staging, treatment monitoring, high-risk screening and problem-solving, and differed significantly between countries (p=0.03). Structured reporting and BI-RADS were mostly used. Breast radiologists with =10 years of experience preferred inclusion of additional techniques, such as T2/STIR (p=0.03) and DWI (p=0.08) in the scan protocol. MRI-guided interventions were performed by a minority of participants (35.4%). Conclusions: The utilisation of breast MRI in clinical practice is generally in line with international recommendations. There are substantial differences between countries. MRI-guided interventions and functional MRI parameters are not widely available. Key points: • MRI is commonly used for the detection and characterisation of breast lesions. • Clinical practice standards are generally in line with current recommendations. • Standardised criteria and diagnostic categories (mainly BI-RADS) are widely adopted. • Younger radiologists value additional techniques, such as T2/STIR and DWI. • MRI-guided breast biopsy is not widely available. © 2017, The Author(s).

The early detection of relapse following primary surgery for non-small-cell lung cancer and the characterization of emerging subclones, which seed metastatic sites, might offer new therapeutic approaches for limiting tumour recurrence. The ability to track the evolutionary dynamics of early-stage lung cancer non-invasively in circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has not yet been demonstrated. Here we use a tumour-specific phylogenetic approach to profile the ctDNA of the first 100 TRACERx (Tracking Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Evolution Through Therapy (Rx)) study participants, including one patient who was also recruited to the PEACE (Posthumous Evaluation of Advanced Cancer Environment) post-mortem study. We identify independent predictors of ctDNA release and analyse the tumour-volume detection limit. Through blinded profiling of postoperative plasma, we observe evidence of adjuvant chemotherapy resistance and identify patients who are very likely to experience recurrence of their lung cancer. Finally, we show that phylogenetic ctDNA profiling tracks the subclonal nature of lung cancer relapse and metastasis, providing a new approach for ctDNA-driven therapeutic studies.

This article summarises the information to be offered to women about mammography. After a delineation of the aim of early diagnosis of breast cancer, the difference between screening mammography and diagnostic mammography is explained. The need to bring images and reports from the previous mammogram (and from other recent breast imaging examinations) is highlighted. Mammography technique and procedure are described with particular attention to discomfort and pain experienced by a small number of women who undergo the test. Information is given on the recall during a screening programme and on the request for further work-up after a diagnostic mammography. The logic of the mammography report and of classification systems such as R1-R5 and BI-RADS is illustrated, and brief but clear information is given about the diagnostic performance of the test, with particular reference to interval cancers, i.e., those cancers that are missed at screening mammography. Moreover, the breast cancer risk due to radiation exposure from mammography is compared to the reduction in mortality obtained with the test, and the concept of overdiagnosis is presented with a reliable estimation of its extent. Information about new mammographic technologies (tomosynthesis and contrast-enhanced spectral mammography) is also given. Finally, frequently asked questions are answered. Key Points: • Direct digital mammography should be preferred to film-screen or phosphor plates. • Screening (in asymptomatic women) should be distinguished from diagnosis (in symptomatic women). • A breast symptom has to be considered even after a negative mammogram. • Digital breast tomosynthesis increases cancer detection and decreases the recall rate. • Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography can help in cancer detection and lesion characterisation. © 2016, The Author(s).

OBJECTIVE: To determine if a relationship exists between pregnancy rates obtained in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (lVF) with donor eggs and levels of thyroid stimulating hormone greater than 2.5 mlU/L but still within a range considered normal. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective comparative cohort study. With prior approval of the Ethics Committee, 233 patients undergoing IVF with donor eggs, in a two-year period, were included. Patients were grouped depending on the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level. Pregnancy rates were compared. Statistical analysis was made with the Chi-square test. RESULTS: Pregnancy rates, depending on the TSH level, were 56.6% in patients with TSH levels below 2.49 mU/L vs. 21.6%, in patients with levels above 2.5 mU/L. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Mild abnormalities of thyroid function may adversely affect the pregnancy rates in patients un- dergoing in vitro fertilization with donor eggs. A possible alteration in endometrial function may be associated.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether patients age 65 years and over with a recent stroke or TIA benefit from statin treatment to a similar degree as younger patients. METHODS: The 4,731 patient cohort in the SPARCL study was divided into an elderly group (65 and over) and a younger group. The primary endpoint (fatal or nonfatal stroke) and secondary endpoints were analyzed, with calculation of the hazard ratio (HR) and p values from a Cox regression model. RESULTS: There were 2,249 patients in the elderly group and 2,482 in the younger group. The baseline LDL (133 mg/dL) and total cholesterol were comparable in the two groups. The elderly and younger groups had a 61.4 mg/dL and 58.7 mg/dL decrease in mean LDL during the trial. The primary endpoint was reduced by 26% in younger patients (HR 0.74, 0.57-0.96, p = 0.02) and by 10% in elderly subjects (HR 0.90, 0.73-1.11, p = 0.33). A test of heterogeneity for a treatment-age interaction was not significant (p = 0.52). The risk of stroke or TIA (HR 0.79, p = 0.01), major coronary events (HR 0.68, p = 0.035), any coronary heart disease event (HR 0.61, p = 0.0006), and revascularization procedures (HR 0.55, p = 0.0005) was reduced in the elderly group. CONCLUSIONS: There was no heterogeneity in the stroke reduction seen with atorvastatin in the elderly and younger groups. Cardiac events and revascularization procedures were also lower in both the elderly and younger subgroups treated with atorvastatin. These results support the use of atorvastatin in elderly patients with recent stroke or TIA.

Oral presentation given at the 13th Joint MMM-Intermag Conference held in San Diego (CA, US), January 11-15th, 2016. Session EI Magnetic Fluids and Separations., In this work, the use of magnetic force microscopy (MFM) to acquire images of magnetic nanostructures in liquid environments is presented. Optimization of the MFM signal acquisition in liquid environments is performed and it is applied to characterize the magnetic signal of magnetite nanoparticles in vitro. The ability for detecting magnetic nanostructures in liquid environments and its potential in fields such as nanomedicine or nanobiotechnology is discussed.

The Ensembl project (http://www.ensembl.org) seeks to enable genomic science by providing high quality, integrated annotation on chordate and selected eukaryotic genomes within a consistent and accessible infrastructure. All supported species include comprehensive, evidence-based gene annotations and a selected set of genomes includes additional data focused on variation, comparative, evolutionary, functional and regulatory annotation. The most advanced resources are provided for key species including human, mouse, rat and zebrafish reflecting the popularity and importance of these species in biomedical research. As of Ensembl release 59 (August 2010), 56 species are supported of which 5 have been added in the past year. Since our previous report, we have substantially improved the presentation and integration of both data of disease relevance and the regulatory state of different cell types.

International audience; The Ensembl project (http://www.ensembl.org) is a comprehensive genome information system featuring an integrated set of genome annotation, databases and other information for chordate and selected model organism and disease vector genomes. As of release 47 (October 2007), Ensembl fully supports 35 species, with preliminary support for six additional species. New species in the past year include platypus and horse. Major additions and improvements to Ensembl since our previous report include extensive support for functional genomics data in the form of a specialized functional genomics database, genome-wide maps of protein–DNA interactions and the Ensembl regulatory build; support for customization of the Ensembl web interface through the addition of user accounts and user groups; and increased support for genome resequencing. We have also introduced new comparative genomics-based data mining options and report on the continued development of our software infrastructure.

Trabajo presentado en la conferencia Fuerzas y Túnel (FyT2014), celebrada en San Sebastián del 27 al 29 de agosto de 2014., Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) working in high vacuum (HV) conditions is a valuable technique due to its sensitivity and versatility. In this work we present different experiments in carbon-based materials. We use the HV-AFM to perform different experiments on graphitic surfaces like graphene and graphene oxide (GO). Graphene can be described as one-atom thick layer of graphite. For many applications, the interaction of graphene and GO with the supporting substrate and with adjacent layers plays a relevant role in properties such as adhesion, charge transfer [1], doping level etc. Furthermore, it is important to take into account the presence of atmospheric contaminants for a correct interpretation of experimental data [2]. Finally, we have studied the influence of a pressure difference onto the mechanical properties of suspended graphene membranes [3]. We have studied the diffusion through these membranes as a function of the kinetic diameter of the gas molecules [4] (Figure 1).

Background and Purpose— In SPARCL, treatment with atorvastatin 80 mg daily reduced stroke risk in patients with recent stroke or TIA and no known coronary heart disease by 16% versus placebo over 4.9 years of follow-up. The purpose of this secondary analysis was to determine whether men and women similarly benefited from randomization to statin treatment. Methods— The effect of sex on treatment-related reductions in stroke and other cardiovascular outcomes were analyzed with Cox regression modeling testing for sex by treatment interactions. Results— Women (n=1908) constituted 40% of the SPARCL study population. At baseline, men (n=2823) were younger (62.0±0.21versus 63.9±0.27 years), had lower systolic BPs (138.1±0.35 versus 139.5±0.47 mm Hg), higher diastolic BPs (82.2±0.20 versus 81.0±0.25 mm Hg), more frequently had a history of smoking (73% versus 38%), and had lower total cholesterol (207.0±0.54 versus 218.9±0.67 mg/dL) and LDL-C levels (132±0.45 versus 134±0.57 mg/dL) than women. Use of antithrombotics and antihypertensives were similar. After prespecified adjustment for region, entry event, time since event, and age, there were no sex by treatment interactions for the combined risk of nonfatal and fatal stroke (treatment Hazard Ratio, HR=0.84, 95% CI 0.68, 1.02 in men versus HR=0.84, 95% CI 0.63, 1.11 in women; treatment×sex interaction P =0.99), major cardiac events (HR=0.61, 95% CI 0.42, 0.87 in men versus HR=0.76, 95% CI 0.48, 1.21 in women; P =0.45), major cardiovascular events (HR=0.78, 95% CI 0.65, 0.93 in men versus HR=0.84, 95% CI 0.65, 1.07 in women; P =0.63), revascularization procedures (HR=0.50, 95% CI 0.37, 0.67 in men versus HR=0.76, 95% CI 0.46, 1.24 in women; P =0.17), or any CHD event (HR=0.54, 95% CI 0.41, 0.72 in men versus 0.67 95% CI 0.46, 0.98 in women; P =0.40). Conclusion— Stroke and other cardiovascular events are similarly reduced with atorvastatin 80 mg/d in men and women with recent stroke or TIA.

Lampreys are representatives of an ancient vertebrate lineage that diverged from our own ~500 million years ago. By virtue of this deeply shared ancestry, the sea lamprey (P. marinus) genome is uniquely poised to provide insight into the ancestry of vertebrate genomes and the underlying principles of vertebrate biology. Here, we present the first lamprey whole-genome sequence and assembly. We note challenges faced owing to its high content of repetitive elements and GC bases, as well as the absence of broad-scale sequence information from closely related species. Analyses of the assembly indicate that two whole-genome duplications likely occurred before the divergence of ancestral lamprey and gnathostome lineages. Moreover, the results help define key evolutionary events within vertebrate lineages, including the origin of myelin-associated proteins and the development of appendages. The lamprey genome provides an important resource for reconstructing vertebrate origins and the evolutionary events that have shaped the genomes of extant organisms.

Interleukins are proteins involved in the immune system and have been related to the endocrine regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as well as to the secretion of ACTH, prolactin (PRL), GH and, possibly, LH. Like interleukin-6 (IL-6), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is synthesized in the pituitary gland and stimulates prolactin secretion. The aim of the present study was to address whether Interleukin 6 is involved in the regulation of VIP, as well as other factors involved in the regulation of prolactin such as dopamine, TRH and estradiol. Accordingly, we performed an in vitro study on monolayer cultures of rat pituitary cells, neutralizing the possible paracrine effect of IL-6 by immunosuppressing the protein by treatment with polyclonal antibody against IL-6 over 1, 3, 6 or 24 hours and then determining the degree of proliferation of VIP cells using double immunocytochemical labelling for VIP or PRL and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). As a control, the effects of immunosuppression on the proliferation of PRL-positive cells were analyzed. Immunosuppression of IL-6 induced modifications in the cellular and nuclear size of VIP-positive cells, indicating an inhibitory process. Moreover, immunosuppression induced a significant decrease in the proliferation rate of PRL-positive or VIP-positive cells for all time-points analyzed. Similar effects on the proliferation rate of PRL-positive cells were found. The results of the present study demonstrate that IL-6 is involved in the regulation of the activity and proliferation of pituitary VIPproducing cells and suggest that, without ruling out a direct effect of IL-6 on prolactin cells, IL-6 could regulate prolactin by acting on pituitary VIP.

In November 2010, the Spanish Society of Liver Transplantation (Sociedad Española de Trasplante Hepático, SETH) held a consensus conference. One of the topics of debate was liver transplantation in patients with hepatitis C. This document reviews (i) the natural history of post-transplant hepatitis C, (ii) factors associated with post-transplant prognosis in patients with hepatitis C, (iii) the role of immunosuppression in the evolution of recurrent hepatitis C and response to antiviral therapy, (iv) antiviral therapy, both before and after transplantation, (v) follow-up of patients with recurrent hepatitis C and (vi) the role of retransplantation.

The Ensembl project (http://www.ensembl.org) provides genome resources for chordate genomes with a particular focus on human genome data as well as data for key model organisms such as mouse, rat and zebrafish. Five additional species were added in the last year including gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys) and Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) bringing the total number of supported species to 61 as of Ensembl release 64 (September 2011). Of these, 55 species appear on the main Ensembl website and six species are provided on the Ensembl preview site (Pre!Ensembl; http://pre.ensembl.org) with preliminary support. The past year has also seen improvements across the project.

Conferencia invitada presentada en la 14th International Conference on Noncontact AFM, celebrada en Lindau (Alemania)., Improving spatial resolution, data acquisition times and material properties imaging are some long established goals in atomic force microscopy (AFM). Currently, the most promising approaches to reach those goals involve the excitation and detection of several frequencies of the tip’s oscillation. Usually those frequencies are associated with either the higher harmonics of the oscillation or the eigenmodes of the cantilever. Bimodal AFM is an emerging multifrequency technique that is characterized by a high signal-to-noise ratio and the versatility to measure simultaneously different forces. The method is also compatible with molecular resolution imaging under the application of sub-50 pN peak forces.

The remarkable increase of wild ungulates populations in Aragon during the last 50 years, both in numbers and distribution, has made population monitoring a need for effective management of these species. In parallel to their raising numbers, problems related to crop damage and collisions with vehicles are growing. In this situation there has been a shift in the management goals from conservation to population control. Different methods have been used in the surveys: postal enquiries for distribution, battues, distance sampling, night spotlight surveys and indirect ones based on transect and plot counts of pellet groups. Surveys started in 1985 for red deer, 1990 for wild boar and Iberian wild goat, 1995 for chamois and 2002 for roe deer, gradually becoming a population monitoring program. The surveys are carried out by rangers and wildlife consultants under the coordination and supervision of the Fish and Game Service of the Aragon Government. The ungulate populations are still growing (wild boar, wild goat, red and roe deer), are relatively stabilised (fallow deer, feral goat), fluctuate due to diseases (chamois) or show small populations limited to fenced states (Barbary sheep, mouflon). Hunting bags went from 1,100 to 36,000 during an eleven-year period (1990-2009): 303 chamois, 1,173 wild goats, 2,141 roe deer, 2,424 red deer and 29,595 wild boars, showing a trend which is still increasing. The main tool is therefore hunting quota and its verification through hunting bags declarations, damages to crops and car crashes, and population trend and abundance., La importante expansión de las poblaciones de ungulados silvestres en Aragón desde los años 50 del siglo XX hasta la actualidad, tanto en superficie ocupada como en abundancia de ejemplares, ha hecho necesario el seguimiento de las mismas para su adecuada gestión. Su incremento en las dos últimas décadas, junto con el importante aumento de daños agrícolas y colisiones con vehículos, ha motivado un importante cambio en los criterios gestores; pasando de la conservación y fomento al control e incluso reducción de efectivos. Los métodos utilizados para el seguimiento de las poblaciones fueron: encuestas quincenales de distribución, batidas, muestreos de distancia, captura – recaptura, fareos nocturnos y muestreos indirectos basados en el conteo de grupos de excrementos en transectos y parcelas fijas. Los seguimientos se comenzaron a realizar en 1985 en el caso del ciervo, 1990 en el jabalí y cabra montesa, 1995 en el sarrio y 2002 en el corzo, habiéndose convertido paulatinamente en una verdadera monitorización poblacional. Los seguimientos son realizados por Agentes de Protección de la Naturaleza del Gobierno de Aragón y asistencias técnicas externas, bajo la supervisión y coordinación de los responsables administrativos. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que, algunas poblaciones continúan su expansión e incremento (jabalí, ciervo, corzo, cabra montesa), otras se encuentran relativamente estabilizadas (gamo, cabra doméstica asilvestrada), y unas pocas fluctúan debido a enfermedades (sarrio) o muestran presencias testimoniales prácticamente reducidas a cercados (arruí, muflón). Las capturas declaradas han pasado de 1.100 a 36.000 en 11 años (1999-2009): 303 sarrios, 1.173 cabras montesas, 2.141 corzos, 2.424 ciervos y 29.595 jabalíes, con una tendencia al incremento que aún no ha finalizado. El instrumento fundamental por lo tanto son los cupos de caza y su verificación se realiza a partir de las declaraciones de capturas, los daños a la agricultura y accidentes automovilísticos y la tendencia y abundancia poblacional.

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Introducción: Se ha descrito una disminución de los niveles de 25 hidroxivitamina D (25[OH]D) en los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC). Conocemos que el efecto pleiotrópico de la vitamina D va más allá del metabolismo mineral. Objetivos: Los objetivos del estudio fueron: 1) determinar los niveles de 25(OH) D en pacientes con ERC seguidos en consulta de prediálisis, y 2) analizar características clínicas y bioquímicas de los pacientes con respecto a los niveles de 25(OH)D y los posibles factores predictivos de la deficiencia en 25(OH)D. Pacientes y métodos: Realizamos un estudio observacional en 79 pacientes con ERC. Analizamos datos clínicos y parámetros bioquímicos en cuanto a nutrición, inflamación y metabolismo mineral en relación con los niveles de 25(OH)D. Se consideró deficiencia de 25(OH)D si los niveles eran inferiores a 15 ng/ml. Resultados: Cuarenta y un pacientes (52%) presentaron deficiencia de 25(OH)D. Comparando los datos analizados según los niveles de vitamina 25(OH)D mayores o menores de 15 ng/ml, el grupo de pacientes con deficiencia en 25(OH)D tenían: más edad (70 ± 11,97 frente a 61 ± 14,5; p = 0,005), mayor índice de masa corporal (IMC) (30 ± 4,06 frente a 27,1 ± 5,08; p = 0,017), y mayor proteinuria (1,42 g/24 h [0,53-2,96] frente a 0,51 [0,20-1,48]; p = 0,009). La hormona paratiroidea (PTH) se encontraba más elevada (359 [239-658] frente a 233 [129-323]; p = 0,000), y más pacientes recibieron tratamiento con calcitriol oral (28 [62%] frente a 17 [37,8%]; p = 0,024). El porcentaje de diabéticos fue mayor en este grupo (20 [76,9%] frente a 6 [23%]; p = 0,002). En el análisis multivariante, la presencia de diabetes (OR: 5,713; IC95% [1,43-22,77]; p = 0,014), el aumento de PTH (OR: 13,38; IC95% [2,94-60,89]; p = 0,001), y la proteinuria más elevada (OR: 4,41; IC95% [1,12-17,25]; p = 0,033) fueron factores predictivos independientes de la deficiencia en 25(OH)D. Conclusiones: Los pacientes con ERC tienen alta prevalencia de deficiencia de 25(OH)D. El aumento de PTH, la elevación de la proteinuria, y la presencia de diabetes fueron factores predictivos independientes de la deficiencia en 25(OH)D.