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The primary aim was to investigate how respiration rate and inhalation/exhalation ratio influence self‐reported state anxiety during a single slow diaphragmatic breathing exercise session. Eight hundred and twenty‐eight participants completed the study at two separate geographical locations (Poland and Spain). Participants performed a 10‐min online guided breathing exercise. Respiration rates were sampled from a continuous uniform distribution (ranging from 6 to 12 breaths/min). Similarly, inhalation/exhalation ratios were treated as continuous variables and sampled from a uniform distribution for each participant. An application programed for this experiment displayed visual and auditory cues adjusted for each participant. Before and after the breathing exercise, each participant filled in the Current Anxiety Level Measure questionnaire. Self‐trait anxiety was measured with the Clinically Useful Anxiety Outcome Scale. A linear regression model showed that respiration rate, trait anxiety, pre‐test anxiety, and nationality (Polish/Spanish) were positively related to post‐test anxiety levels. Adding quadratic terms of respiration rate and inhalation/exhalation ratio did not improve model fit. Polish participants exhibited higher post‐test anxiety levels compared with the Spanish subsample. Age was negatively associated with post‐test anxiety. No significant relationships between inhalation/exhalation ratio and post‐test anxiety level were found. Slower respiration rates during a single‐session breathing exercise are linearly associated with lower post‐test anxiety levels in a large and varied sample. This study is the largest to date and may offer further guidance for predicting expected effect sizes for the relationships between anxiety and respiratory dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European red mite Panonychus ulmi (Koch) is widely distributed and it can severely affect pome fruit crops, particularly apple. Pest outbreaks are related to an overuse of non-selective pesticide treatments that lead to the development of resistance and the absence of natural enemies in the orchard. A key aspect to optimize the use of pesticide treatments in the context of IPM is to increase the knowledge on the biology and ecology of the pest to better predict population dynamics and outbreaks. For the European red mite, knowledge on the conditions that lead to diapause breaking by winter eggs is essential to model population dynamics. To increase this knowledge, winter eggs were collected during field surveys in northen Spain during three years and egg hatching was monitored under controlled temperature and photoperiod conditions in the laboratory. The "number of days exposed to cold temperatures" was the most significant factor that positively affected hatching of overwintering eggs. The time required for 50% of the egg population to hatch (T50%) was also negatively modulated by the duration of exposure to cold temperature. The temperature threshold for postdiapause eggs development collected from the field was estimated between 5 and 6 ºC in 2005 and 2007, respectively. Moreover, the degree-days required for post diapause development were estimated between 263.2 and 270.3, depending on the year of collection. Collectively, we provide additional information on the diapause termination and postdiapause development of the European red mite that may effectively contribute to optimize pest population models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies on palliative care have assessed the phenomenon of Information Concealment (IC), confirmed its relevance and emphasised the need to have a scale for its assessment. The aim of this study was to design and validate such an instrument. The sample comprised 150 palliative caregivers (23 men and 127 women). The dimensionality of the items of the Information Concealment Scale for Caregivers (ECOI) was assessed using Exploratory Factor Analysis and an optimal implementation of parallel analysis. Reliability and criterion validity were analysed using sample data. The ECOI comprises three factors: Concealment or dissimulation about the disease, misrepresentation of the real situation and control of the information. The scale has excellent reliability and shows criterion validity. Therefore, the ECOI is a reliable and valid instrument to objectively measure IC among Spanish caregivers in palliative care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social support plays a crucial role in the quality of life of people with chronic pain. The Informal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain Inventory assesses two functions of received social support: the promotion of autonomy and the promotion of dependence. The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to adapt this instrument for its use in the Spanish population. The sample comprised 256 individuals with chronic pain. Participants were recruited through two local associations of people with fibromyalgia, a physiotherapy unit and a hospital pain unit. The data were collected in Spain between October 2018 and January 2020. The structure of the questionnaire was analysed using confirmatory factor analysis, average variance extracted, composite reliability and internal consistency indexes, and inter‐correlations between the scales. The criterion‐related validity of the instrument was analysed by investigating its relationship with pain intensity, positive and negative affect, daily functioning, activity impairment, wellbeing and satisfaction with life. The structure with the best fit had four related factors: emotional social support for the promotion of autonomy; instrumental social support for the promotion of autonomy; emotional social support for the promotion of dependence and instrumental social support for the promotion of dependence. The scales showed adequate internal consistency. An association was found between higher levels of instrumental social support for the promotion of dependence and higher levels of pain‐related disability and decreased daily functioning. An association was also found between the promotion of autonomy and increased satisfaction with life. The Spanish version of the inventory shows appropriate psychometric properties. In the setting of disability prevention, this instrument is useful in assessing the support relationships between people with chronic pain and their relatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youth is a period characterized by impulsiveness and risk-taking. This population often feels invulnerable and has a strong motivation to seek out their identity. These characteristics make it a risky age period for an unwanted pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge about sexuality and contraception among nursing students at the University of Jaen. The students completed a 16-item questionnaire assessing their knowledge level about sexuality and contraception. A bivariate analysis was performed using the Kruskal–Wallis H and Mann–Whitney U tests. Later, an ordinal logistic regression model was generated. The sample consisted of 130 participants, with an average age of 20.36 years. The level of knowledge about sexuality and contraception was moderately high, 10.38 points out of 16. The factors associated with the probability of accordingly presenting a high level of knowledge were being a woman, having studied in a public institution, not having used any contraceptive method in the first sexual experience, and wishing to use a contraceptive pill in future sexual relations. In conclusion, the knowledge level about sexuality and contraception is high, although it is necessary to assess whether this level of high knowledge translates to the use of contraceptive methods in future sexual experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of engineering applications requires the use of maximum values of rainfall intensity and wind speed related to short recording intervals, which can often only be estimated from available less exhaustive records. Given that many locations lack exhaustive climatic records that would allow accurate empirical correlations between different recording intervals to be identified, generic equations are often used to estimate these extreme values. The accuracy of these generic estimates is especially important in fields such as the study of wind-driven rain, in which both climatic variables are combined to characterise the phenomenon. This work assesses the reliability and functionality of some of these most widespread generic equations, analysing climatic datasets gathered since 2008 in 109 weather stations in Spain and the Netherlands. Considering multiple recording intervals at each location, it is verified that most of these generic estimations, used especially in the study of wind-driven rain, have functional limitations and can cause significant errors when characterising both variables for subdaily intervals and extreme conditions. Finally, an alternative approach is proposed to accurately extrapolate extreme values of both variables related to any subdaily recording interval in a functional manner and from any available records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Around 40 percent of women in Spain are unable to achieve orgasm during coital relations, although most can do so through other means. Many of these women do not seek treatment, even though this situation may affect their sexual and relational life. Female Orgasm Disorder (FOD) treatment has seen little innovation since the 1980s. The growing acceptance, technological development, and focus on diversity have contributed to the flourishing of the sex toy industry. This sector has enabled the development of therapeutic devices that have already demonstrated usefulness in addressing other female and male sexual dysfunctions, often making treatments more Accessible. However, more scientific studies are needed on this topic. Objective: Present the results of the utility and safety of using a vibrating device in the management of situational female orgasm disorder (FOD) in a group of women from Spain. Methods: A case report study of an observational, descriptive, prospective nature, involving 19 women undergoing treatment, that meet criteria for lifelong, situational FOD from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) was conducted in Murcia, Spain, from January 2022 to July 2023. Patients were 18 years or older, generally healthy as evidenced by medical history, were sexually active, in a current relationship of 3 months or longer, and participation was voluntary. Patients did not meet criteria for PTSD, psychosis or dissociative disorders, depression or bipolar disorders, were not pregnant or in menopause and did not use drugs known to interfere with sexual functioning. Main outcome measures were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) domain for orgasm at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks, as well as the success rate of achieving orgasm during coital relations. Treatment consisted of an educational session where a vibrating device called Crescendo II® and its accompanying resource of different positions, Play Book was provided, along with instructions for using the device during coital relations. Results: Patients had a mean age of 31.19 years (range 27–53). An improvement was observed in the average scores at six and twelve weeks in FSFI orgasmic domain, (mean pre = 1.62 (SD) = 0.42, mean post six weeks = 3.47 (SD) = 1.26, mean post twelve weeks = 3.43 (SD) = 1.25). The success rate (orgasm achievement during intercourse) at the end of the study was 90.47%. Conclusions: This case series suggests that the use of a vibration device could be an effective and safe therapeutic option for female situational anorgasmia in addition to reducing the length and cost of treatment. Future research with experimental designs should confirm the clear potential of the use of these devices in treating FOD and clarify issues related to the most appropriate amplitude and frequency of vibration, as well as the possible long-term effects of using these types of vibration devices in patients. Disclosure: Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Mysteryvibe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated efficacy and safety of palbociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, in heavily-pretreated hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (mBC) patients during the compassionate use program in Spain from February 2015 to November 2017. Patient data were collected retrospectively from 35 hospitals in Spain. Patients with HR+/HER2- mBC who had progressed on ≥4 treatments for advanced disease were eligible. A total of 219 patients received palbociclib in combination with aromatase inhibitors (110; 50.2%), fulvestrant (87; 39.7%), tamoxifen (8; 3.6%) or as single agent (10; 4.6%). Mean age of the patients was 58 years; 31 patients (16.1%) were premenopausal and 162 (83.9%) were postmenopausal at the beginning of treatment with palbociclib. Patients had received a median of 3 previous lines of endocrine therapy (ET) for advanced disease. Real-world tumor response (rwTR) and clinical benefit rate were 5.9% (n = 13) and 46.2% (n = 101), respectively. The median real world progression-free survival (rwPFS) was 6.0 months (95% CI 5.7–7.0) and the median overall survival was 19.0 months (95% CI 16.4–21.7). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant difference in median rwPFS in patients treated with palbociclib plus fulvestrant depending on the duration of prior treatment with fulvestrant monotherapy (>6 versus ≤6 months; HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.37–2.73, p < 0.001). The most frequently reported toxicities were neutropenia, asthenia, thrombopenia and anemia. Palbociclib can be an effective and safe treatment option in patients with heavily pretreated endocrine-sensitive mBC, especially in those with longer PFS to previous ET. • CDK4/6 inhibitors combined with endocrine therapy have been widely accepted as a new standard therapy for hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer patients in first or second line. • Palbociclib alone or in combination with aromatase inhibitors, fulvestrant, or tamoxifen was effective and safe in heavily pretreated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer patients. • Palbociclib could be of higher benefit to patients with endocrine-sensitive disease that had a long duration of response to previous endocrine therapy. • Real-world evidence of effectiveness and safety of use of palbociclib in heavily pretreated advanced breast cancer patients complements data from randomized clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Our specific objectives were to (a) estimate detection probabilities of nocturnal bird species, after taking into account survey‐specific covariates, and (b) investigate the influence of site‐specific covariates on owl and nightjar abundance, integrating effects of imperfect detection. Innovation: We conceived a survey protocol to estimate probabilities of detection and estimates of abundance of owls and nightjars in a large area, the Basque Country, northern Spain. Main Conclusions: Our results show that detection probability was strongly influenced by playback broadcast and by observer experience. Date irregularly affected species according to their reproductive periods, and we also found that vocal activity gradually diminished proportionally to the hour after sunset. Tawny owl (Strix aluco) was the most abundant and widely distributed species. Its abundance was positively related to forest areas (mainly pine timber forests) and decreased in large urban and agricultural areas. Open space species were less common. Barn owls (Tyto alba), little owls (Athene noctua), Eurasian scops owls (Otus scops) and long‐eared owls (Asio otus) avoided forest areas, but showed different responses to agriculture, grass‐fields, scrub and urban areas. Finally, European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) was moderately frequent, and its abundance was favoured by scrub areas and, weakly, by eucalyptus patches, whereas it was negatively affected by large forest areas. We have shown that it is fundamental to consider the effects of survey‐specific covariates in the methodology design and analytical development. Our results also indicate some ecological adaptations and population changes in the nocturnal bird community following an increase in urbanization and in the extent of timber plantations, and also the simplification of natural habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), selenium (Se) and arsenic (As) concentrations in internal tissues of 72 striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) from Murcia Region (Mediterranean coastline) have been investigated for the first time. Hg showed the highest concentration, followed by Se, Cd, As and Pb. In general, the levels of metal found in this study were similar to those described in similar studies in the Mediterranean Sea. However, in some adult specimens, Hg liver concentrations were related with toxic effects in cetacean. A significant correlation was observed with age, likewise between Se and Hg and Cd in tissues, which agree with detoxify effect attributed to Se through inert complex formation. Molar ratio Hg:Se in liver was close to 1:1 in some specimens, which would indicate overload of the Hg-Se detoxify function and compromised health. These results could contribute to a better knowledge of the distribution of these persistent pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea. • First study about trace metals on stranded cetacean in Western Mediterranean, Murcia coatline. Spain. • Hg, Cd, Pb, As and Se were detected in internal tissues from striped dolphins from the Murcia Region. • Hg liver levels in some adults of striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) are related with toxic effects in cetacean. • Ratio Hg:Se in liver from some adults specimens suggest overload of the Hg-Se detoxify function and compromised health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined copulatory behaviour in the Bonelli´s Eagle (Aquila fasciata) at nesting sites in the eastern zone of the Baetic Cordillera, southern Spain, between 2010 and 2012. We observed the copulatory behaviour of 15 pairs during the pre-laying period. Bonelli´s Eagles commenced sexual activity ca. 69 days before egg-laying. Ninety-six percent of mounting attempts were successful. Bonelli´s Eagle pairs averaged 99.8 copulation attempts per clutch, with an average copulation frequency of 0.86 copulation attempts per day. Pairs displayed a daily bimodal pattern of copulation activity, with copulations occurring most frequently in the evening. We used our data to test three predictions with regard to the paternity assurance hypothesis. Prediction 1, that within-pair copulations increase with local breeding density, was rejected because our models showed no evidence for it. Prediction 2, that within-pair copulations increase during the female fertile period, was marginally supported. Finally, Prediction 3, that mate attendance increases during the female fertile period, was also rejected because mate-guarding did not increase as the fertile period approached. However, mate-guarding was positively correlated with within-pair copulation frequency. Moderate copulation rates compared to other raptors and the absence of mate-guarding suggest that, in the study area, Bonelli´s Eagles exhibit only partially adaptive behaviour to assure their paternity. A possible explanation could be related to the low number of extra-pair encounters observed (opportunities for which appear to be rare), although the gradual increase in within-pair copulations during the female fertile period is consistent with the sperm competition hypothesis. The results are discussed based on the signalling hypothesis, which proposes that raptors signal territory ownership to conspecifics, and possibly to other raptor species, by copulating frequently and conspicuously in the defended nesting area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the use of WebQuests as an activity to combine competencybased learning and digitalization in a CLIL context through social tasks. In the 21st century, people need to use the knowledge they acquire in multiple scenarios. Thus, the educational system must provide learning contexts where students develop competences so that they are able to apply the knowledge they need in a culturally heterogeneous world. Integrated learning advocates the use of social tasks in bilingual scenarios. In order to solve a problem or explore an issue while creating a specific learning product, students connect different types of knowledge and thus acquire a more contextualized perspective of learning as a socially relevant activity. This kind of learning can be perceived as a bridge between the students' educational context and daily lives. The digitalization of education is crucial for understanding how society advances and works as many of the jobs that appear in the future will require digital literacy. In this paper, an example of a WebQuest in a CLIL class in Spain is presented as a model for competency-based learning and digitalization through a social task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The relation between age and mortality after hip fracture was analyzed in elderly patients. 5.5% of the 31,884 patients died. Compared to those 65-74 years old, the multivariate OR for mortality for those 75-84 and ≥85 were 2.11 (95% CI: 1.61-2.77) and 4.10 (95% CI: 3.14-5.35). Purpose: To analyze the impact of Elixhauser comorbidities on the relation between age and mortality after hip fracture in elderly patients. Methods: Cross-sectional study of the population ≥65 years old hospitalized in Spain in 2013 with a diagnosis of fall-related hip fracture in the Basic Minimum Set Data (BMSD). The impact of Elixhauser comorbidities on the association between mortality and age groups (65-74, 75-84, ≥85) was analyzed by logistic regression models with progressive adjustment for demographic variables and comorbidities introduced individually. Results: We identified 31,884 patients, 5.5% of which died during hospitalization. Compared with those 65-74 years old, the multivariate OR of mortality for those 75-84 and ≥85 years old decreased from 2.23 (95% CI: 1.71-2.90) and 4.57 (95% CI: 3.54-5.90) to 2.11 (95% CI: 1.61-2.77) and 4.10 (95% CI: 3.14-5.35), respectively after adjustment for comorbidities. The OR of mortality for men was 1.77 (95% CI: 1.58-1.98) compared to women. The comorbidities with higher OR for mortality were congestive heart failure (OR: 3.88; 95% CI: 3.42-4.41), metastasis (OR: 3.44; 95% CI: 2.27-5.20), fluid and electrolyte disorders (OR: 2.95; 95% CI: 2.47-3.52), coagulation deficiencies (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 2.08-3.96), and liver disease (OR: 2.40; 95% CI: 1.82-3.17). Conclusions: The association between age and mortality after hip fracture remains after adjusting for numerous comorbidities. However, some potentially controllable disorders are associated with an increased risk for mortality, thus, improving their management could benefit survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No abstract available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total wood CO 2 efflux (R w ) varies vertically within individual trees, and leaves experience large variations in foliar respiration (R f ) rates over their life spans and during daily periods. Therefore, accurate sampling approaches are required to improve aboveground autotrophic respiration (R Aa ) estimations in stand-scale carbon cycling studies. We scaled-up R w (comprising stem and branch CO 2 efflux; ES and EB, respectively) and R f from biometric and flux-chamber measurements taken between 2011 and 2013 in a Spanish black pine ( Pinus nigra Arn. ssp. salzmannii ) forest at an unburnt (UB) site and a low burn-severity (LS) site. We measured seasonal ES at breast height (1.30 m) on 9 trees at each site, which was also vertically examined on 5 of those trees. We also measured seasonal R f in current- and previous-year needles on 3 trees at each site, and quantified R f variations in darkness and light. Finally, we compared complex and simple scale-up methods which did or did not account for the vertical variation in R w and the effects of leaf ageing and light inhibition on R f , respectively. The simple methods underestimated the annual stand-level stem, branch, and total wood respiration ≈ 35%, 55%, and 41%, respectively, and overestimated annual stand-level whole-canopy foliage respiration ≈ 43% at both sites. Both methods provided similar annual stand-level R Aa estimates, although the complex methods improved estimations of the relative contribution of R Aa components. Thus, based on the complex methods the mean annual R Aa at the stand-level was 4.53 ± 0.25 and 4.45 ± 0.12 Mg C ha − 1 year − 1 at the UB and LS sites, respectively. Our data also confirmed that the low-severity fire did not alter the R Aa rates. Collectively, this study reveals that complex approaches, applicable in other forest ecosystems, enhance the accuracy of partitioning R Aa sources by reducing the error in scaling-up in chamber-based measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnabotA) is effective in Chronic Migraine (CM) during first year of treatment and longer. In real clinical setting, CM patients with acute Medication Overuse (MO) or concurrently receiving oral preventatives are treated with OnabotA. We aim to assess evolution of CM patients beyond first year on OnabotA. Methods: Data were retrospectively collected in three headache units. We analyzed cases who had received at least five sessions of OnabotA according to PREEMPT protocol. We continued OnabotA therapy when a reduction of number of headache days of at least 30% was achieved. Results: We included 115 patients (98 females, 17 males) who completed 7.6 ± 2.3 (5-13) OnabotA procedures. Previously they had not responded to topiramate and, at least, one other preventative. Age at inclusion was 45.3 ± 12 (14-74) years, and latency between CM onset and OnabotA therapy was 43.1 ± 38.2 (6-166) months. At first OnabotA session 92 patients (80%) fulfilled MO criteria and 107 (93%) received a concurrent oral preventative. In 42 cases (36.5%) OnabotA dose was increased over 155 units. After first year in 57 out of 92 patients (61.9%) MO was discontinued. Among those receiving preventatives, in 52 out of 107 they were retired (48.6%). In 22 cases (19.1%) OnabotA administration was delayed to the fourth or fifth month and in 12 (10.4%) it was temporally stopped. Finally, in 18 patients (15.7%) OnabotA was discontinued due to lack of efficacy beyond first year of treatment. Conclusion: Our results suggest that discontinuation of acute medication overuse and oral preventive therapies are achievable objectives in long-term using of OnabotA in CM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of haematocrit and biochemical parameters is considered a useful tool for diagnosis of health status in birds. However, an adequate interpretation requires reference values for each species. Moreover, factors such as age and sex should also be taken into account, as it is well known that they can also influence several parameters. For these reasons, serum biochemical parameters (albumin, calcium, phosphorus, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, triglycerides, creatine kinase, γ-glutamyltransferase, glucose, lactate dehydrogenase, total proteins and uric acid) were studied in 15 adults (6 males and 9 females) and 258 chicks of free-living Eurasian eagle owl ( Bubo bubo), one of the owls with the largest distribution range worldwide. Most blood clinical parameters were higher in nestlings than in adults, but only significantly for alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus and uric acid. On the contrary, γ-glutamyltransferase was significantly lower in nestlings. In adults, sex differences were not significant. Haematocrit was studied in 13 adults (2 males and 11 females) and 162 nestlings, and levels were significantly higher in adults than in nestlings. Because samples were obtained from healthy free-living individuals and the values fall within the range of levels considered physiological for similar species, we suggest that can be used as reference values for Eurasian eagle owls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the 949 and 434 cases of mortality of Booted Eagle Aquila pennata and Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus, respectively, recorded by wildlife rehabilitation centres in Spain over a 16-year period (1990-2006) shows that power lines (19.5 and 35.2 %, respectively) and killing (32.5 and 22.9 %, respectively) were the main known causes of death. Multinomial regression models were used to analyse geographical and temporal variations in the causes of death. For the Booted Eagle, both factors (zone and year) were statistically significant, while there were only significant temporal variations for the Short-toed Snake Eagle. In the Booted Eagle, killing occurred more frequently than expected in the east and north of the country compared to the other Spanish regions. Power line casualties were significantly more frequent in the southern and eastern regions, and less common in the north. In both species, the multinomial models indicate that while the number of cases of killing significantly decreased during the 16 years studied, power line casualties increased. Our study suggests that human-induced mortality continues to be the main factor contributing to mortality for Spanish Booted Eagles and Short-toed Snake Eagles. Since a reduction in the mortality caused by human activities is a priority in the conservation strategies for raptor species, management guidelines are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective of this research article is to analyse the use of humour as a semantic resource in the advertising campaigns of Spain's General Directorate of Traffic and identify the emotions expressed in the ads that use this resource. Methods: An interdisciplinary methodological approach is used to review previous research on humour as a resource for the development of the content and form of advertising messages. A historical review of the graphic advertising of the General Directorate of Traffic is offered to establish when and how humour has been used in the configuration of its advertising messages. The universe under study consists of all the graphic advertisements circulated by the General Directorate of Traffic from 1959 to 2009 (a total of 246 ads). Results and conclusions: The results confirm the presence of humour as a semantic resource in the advertising campaigns of Spain's General Directorate of Traffic across the decades under study. The ads that use humour associate this resource with the objectives, messages and types of emotions the General Directorate of Traffic aims to project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work intends to check the efficiency of the 3-PG model (Physiological Principles in Predicting Growth) (Landsberg and Waring in For Ecol Manag 95:209-228, ) in the simulation of biomass growth for a natural Mediterranean maritime pine forest with two canopy layers comprising different species ( Pinus pinaster Ait. subsp. mesogeensis and Quercus ilex L. subsp. ballota) in the Cuenca Mountains, Spain, that had previously been subject to thinning. We assigned a dominant ( P. pinaster Ait.) and a subdominant ( Quercus ilex L.) component, individually parameterised. The competition between dominant and subdominant layers was simulated with specific modifications to the input solar radiation, precipitation, evapotranspiration and available soil water without any structural change to the model. Data from three study sites were used: control (C, no thinning over 30 years), treatment 1 (T1, light thinning, with thinning operations carried out in January 2004) and treatment 2 (T2, moderate thinning, with thinning operations carried out in January 2002). The data were divided into two sets: (1) A model data set from C site was used to parameterise 3-PG, and (2) an independent testing data set from the T1 and T2 sites was used to test growth predictions made by 3-PG. We report successful outcome its parameterisation, obtaining accurate predictions compared to the long-term field measurements acquired from thinned stands. Results show that the current implementation of the 3-PG slightly over- and underestimated biomass components for both pine and oak after thinning. However, values for the coefficient of efficiency (EC) were very high for both species (0.85-0.99). According to the results, the 3-PG may provide a feasible tool for estimating biomass growth and guiding forest management in natural Mediterranean maritime pine forest stands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new degrees in Spanish universities generated as a result of the Bologna process, stress a new dimension: the generic competencies to be acquired by university students (leadership, problem solving, respect for the environment, etc.). At Universidad Politécnica de Madrid a teaching model was defined for two degrees: Graduate in Computer Engineering and Graduate in Software Engineering. Such model incorporates the training, development and assessment of generic competencies planned in these curricula. The aim of this paper is to describe how this model was implemented in both degrees. The model has three components. The first refers to a set of seven activities for introducing mechanisms for training, development and assessment of generic competencies. The second component aims to coordinate actions that implement the competencies across courses (in space and time). The third component consists of a series of activities to perform quality control. The implementation of generic competencies was carried out in first year courses (first and second semesters), together with the planning for second year courses (third and fourth semesters). We managed to involve a high percentage of first-year courses (80%) and the contacts that have been initiated suggest a high percentage in the second year as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we look into the role of mentors in student training given it is of paramount importance and at times both unknown and undefined. We studied this issue through research conducted in three Spanish universities using Creswell's biphasic model along with sequential data triangulation. We obtained information by interviewing mentors and applying an electronic questionnaire. The results show that basically mentors are available for students in student training, facilitate their integration in the center. The study indicates that conceptualizing and operationalizing mentoring functions is difficult, however, they set up a reference for the development of student training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are still considerable uncertainties about soil functioning in semi-arid Mediterranean ecosystems. Hence, studies that have focused on Juniperus species in thermophilic Mediterranean woodlands are practically non-existent. This study provides a survey of the effects of (i) woodland maturity (mature and young woodlands), (ii) vegetation cover ( Juniperus thurifera L. trees, Rosmarinus officinalis L. shrubs and semi-wooded grasslands) and (iii) growing season (spring, summer and autumn) on soil enzymatic activity (urease, alkaline phosphatase and β-glucosidase) and microbiological characteristics (microbial biomass C (MBC), basal respiration (Br), and microbial and metabolic quotients) in thermophilic Spanish Juniper woodlands. The results showed that mature woodland maintained a greater enzymatic and microbiological activity than the more productive young woodland. The advanced communities of Juniperus trees and Rosmarinus shrubs exhibited greater enzymatic and microbial activity than grassland areas. Soil biological characteristics were strongly affected by the season. Significant β-glucosidase activity and Br were observed in the summer, as a consequence of the greater organic matter availability for microbes, despite the reduced soil moisture availability. Thus, foliar abscission in trees and shrubs and withering in grasslands seem to control soil biological activity. Hence, we hypothesize that microbial communities that are adapted to drought exist. In contrast, the presence of greater N and P content in summer seems to reduce the urease and phosphatase activities. In addition, the more advanced communities ( Juniperus and Rosmarinus covers, especially in mature woodland) showed an inherent trend towards efficiency in C utilization throughout the growing seasons, thus increasing the MBC at the end of the growing season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine insecticides (OCs) were analysed in 58 Eurasian Eagle owl (Bubo bubo) unhatched eggs collected between 2004 and 2009 in Southeastern Spain. Levels of p,p′-DDE were found to be higher than in eggs laid by other European owls in the same decade, probably due to the greater agricultural activity in our study area. Compared to other European raptors, exposure to PCBs can be considered intermediate, but low to PBDEs. Land use differences and prey availability were the rationale to divide the study area in two subareas in further assessments. Temporal trends of HCB, p,p′-DDE, β-HCH, PCBs and PBDEs were significantly different in each subarea, generally increasing over time in the Southern but decreasing or remaining stable in the Northern. On the contrary, levels of cyclodienes tended to decrease in both subareas. Dietary shifts with a greater amount of birds are suggested as a cause for increasing organochlorine loads in raptors. This may explain the increasing trend in the Southern territories. However, due to the proximity of most of these nests to Cartagena, an important industrial city, increasing environmental pollution cannot be ruled out. Although average levels of the compounds analysed are below threshold levels, 17% of the samples exceeded 400pgg−1 ww (wet weight), the LOAEC for Total TEQs. Moreover, a negative correlation between TEQ concentrations and the metabolizable fraction of PCBs (F prob =0.0018) was found when TEQs values were above 10pgg−1 ww. This could be indicative of hepatic enzymes induction in the birds exposed at higher concentrations, which are mainly breeding in the Southern subarea. These females could be suffering from Ah-receptor-related toxic effects, some of which have been related to altered bird reproduction. Finally, a significant negative correlation between p,p′-DDE levels and eggshell thickness (r =−0.469, p <0.001) was observed, with about 17% of eggshell thinning for eggs with p,p′-DDE levels above 100μgg −1 lw. The persistence of this degree of thinning over a period of time has been related to population declines in other raptor species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The study demonstrates the importance, in general, of adopting a geographical (integral) approach and local analysis to determine flood risk in small Mediterranean basins, where normally there is no surface runoff. At the same time, it highlights the possibilities afforded by a post-flood study. More specifically, the study seeks to identify the factors that aggravated the impact of the extreme flood event in the tourist town of Calpe (Alicante, Spain) on 12 October 2007. Our results stress the high volume of discharge that can be generated by small basins in the Mediterranean following intense rainfall events that may exceed 200 mm/day. For the 4.6 km2 drainage network studied here, we calculate a maximum discharge of 143 m3/s, for a return period of 500 years. This natural risk (high potential discharge in what are usually dry basins) is exacerbated by the socio-economic transformations that have taken place along the Mediterranean coast. The expansion of urban land use has increased vulnerability to flooding in highly attractive tourist zones that are now at high risk of flooding. The municipal area recognised as presenting a class “2” qualitative vulnerability (on a scale from 1 to 6, where 1 is the most vulnerable) rose from 1% to 34% between 1956 and 2002. Changes to the basins and the traditional drainage systems in endorheic zones have also increased vulnerability to flood events. For example, the area occupied by the mouth of the main basin analysed here has fallen from 2.4 ha in 1956 to just 0.7 ha in 2002. The study’s main conclusions point to the need to introduce hydrological monitoring networks in small drainage systems in ephemeral river basins. It also stresses the importance of implementing structural actions to facilitate surface runoff discharge. In the mid-to-long term we conclude that there should be a declassification of urban land use zones at high risk of flooding. Moreover, detailed (local) studies which adopt an integral approach in their post-flood analyses should be undertaken to identify levels of flood risk and the appropriate land use regulations required. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Acta Pediátrica Española is the property of Ediciones Mayo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Hydrothermic features in Galicia (northwest Spain) have been used since ancient times for therapeutic purposes. A characterization of these thermal waters was carried out in order to understand their behaviour based on inorganic pattern and water-rock interaction mechanisms. In this way 15 thermal water samples were collected in the same hydrographical system. The selected thermal water samples were classified using principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) regression analysis in two groups according to their chemical composition: group I with the young water samples and group II with the samples with longest water-rock contact time. This classification agreed with the results obtained by the use of geothermometers and hydrogeochemical modelling, where the samples were classified into two categories according their residence time in the reservoir and their water-rock interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Sport & Health Research is the property of Journal of Sport & Health Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Three different systems of designating protected areas in a Mediterranean region in southeastern Spain were studied, referring to their effectiveness and efficiency for protecting both the breeding territories and the suitable habitat of a set of ten raptor species. Taking into consideration the varying degrees of endangerment of these species, a map of multispecies conservation values was also drawn up and superimposed on the three protected-area systems studied. In order to compare the levels of protection afforded by the three systems, we considered two indices that measured their relative effectiveness and efficiency. The effectiveness estimated the proportion of territories or optimal habitat protected by the networks while efficiency implicitly considered the area of each system (percentage of breeding territories or optimal habitat protected per 1% of land protected). Overall, our results showed that the most efficient system was that formed by the set of regional parks and reserves (17 protected breeding territories per 100 km), although, given its small total area, it was by far the least effective (only protecting the 21% of the breeding territories of all species and 17% of the area of high conservation value). The systems formed by the Special Protection Areas (designated under the EU 'Birds Directive') and by the Special Conservation Areas (designated under the EU 'Habitats Directive') notably increased the percentages of protected territories of all species (61%) and area of high conservation value (57%), but their efficiency was not as high as expected in most cases. The overall level of protection was high for all species except for the Lesser Kestrel ( Falco naumanni), an endangered falcon that inhabits pseudo-steppe and traditional agricultural habitats, which are clearly underrepresented in the protected-area network of the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research on the distribution of soft-bottom sipunculans in the San Pedro del Pinatar coast in Spain. It also aims to analyse potential influence of three anthropogenic factors such as sewage outfall, brine discharge, and fish farm cages on said distribution. The samples collected were sorted based on their shape and size classes. The abundance of species including Thysanocardia procera, Phascolion strombus, and Phascolosoma granulatum were recorded in every station studied. Aspidosiphon muelleri muelleri was noted to be the dominant specie observed.

In order to biomonitor lead contamination in Southeastern Spain, 218 blood samples from 28 to 30-day old Eurasian Eagle Owl chicks ( Bubo bubo) born between 2003 and 2007 were analysed. In general, mean lead levels showed that chicks were exposed to background concentrations. However, mean levels in chicks born in an ancient and abandoned mining site ('Sierra Minera Cartagena-La Union') or in their surroundings (Geometric mean (GM) = 5.83 μg/dl, range 0.49-25.61 μg/dl), an area highly polluted by lead and other metals, were significantly higher ( p < 0.001) than the rest of the population (GM = 1.66 μg/dl, range = Non detected-18.37 μg/dl). Because δ-ALAD activity is considered the best biomarker for lead exposure and effect in birds, the activity of this enzyme was also evaluated and correlated with lead levels in blood. In this study, low levels of blood lead inhibited δ-ALAD, even when lead concentrations were lower than the limits described by other authors in raptors. Adverse effects caused by this inhibition may occur when blood lead levels were above 15 μg/dl, although only eight chicks presented these concentrations in their blood. Sampling site also influenced enzymatic activity, since it decreased about 60% in the polluted area in relation to the rest. For all these reasons, further research regarding risk assessment for lead exposure in Eagle Owls nesting in the polluted area is advisable. Our results suggest that the Eurasian Eagle Owl can be considered a suitable sentinel animal for monitoring lead contamination and δ-ALAD activity can be used as a sensitive biomarker for lead exposure and effect in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine whether immigrant status is associated with late initiation of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) and/or poor response to antiretrovirals. Methods: GESIDA 5808 is a multicenter, retrospective cohort study (inclusion period January 2005 through December 2006) of treatment-naïve patients initiating HAART that compares HIV-infected patients who are immigrants with Spanish-born patients. A late starter (LS) was defined as any patient starting HAART with a CD4+ lymphocyte count <200 cells/μL and/or diagnosis of an AIDS-defining illness before or at the start of therapy. The primary endpoint was time to treatment failure (TTF), defined as virological failure (VF), death, opportunistic infection, treatment discontinuation/switch (D/S), or missing patient. Secondary endpoints were time to treatment failure as observed data (TTO; censoring missing patients) and time to virological failure (TVF; censoring missing patients and D/S not due to VF). Results: LS accounted for 56% of the patients. Lower educational and socioeconomic level and intravenous drug use (IVDU) were associated with categorization as LS, but immigrant status was not. Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio [HR]; 95% CI) between LS and non-LS patients showed no differences in TTF (0.97; 0.78-1.20) or TTO (1.18; 0.88-1.58), although it did reveal a difference in TVF (1.97; 1.18-3.29). CD4+ lymphocyte recovery was equivalent for both LS and non-LS patients (159 vs 173). Conclusions: In our cohort, immigrant status was not shown to be related to late initiation of HAART. Although LS patients did not have a longer TTF for any reason, TVF was significantly shorter. Despite universal free access to HAART in Spain, measures to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of HIV infection are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) is actually included in the IUCN as vulnerable species. Its main European population is located in southeastern Spain. Although a great deal of information has been acquired on the internal medicine and survey and even parasitological fauna on these animals, there are no references about contaminants levels in this species. The objectives of this study were to compare the levels of two metals (cadmium and lead) in the blood of spur-thighed tortoises from two different populations, one from Southeastern of Spain (n = 22) and the other from North of Africa (n = 39), kept in captivity at the Santa Faz Recuperation Centre (Alicante, Spain) and to investigate the relationship between their blood levels of lead and their blood δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity. Blood lead and cadmium concentrations were higher in tortoises from African than in those from Spain. Moreover, a negative and significant correlation (P<0.05) was found between δ-ALAD activity and blood lead levels, indicating the suitability of this enzyme as biomarker for lead in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the influence of six different citrus rootstocks on the incidence of the citrus leafminer, Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), and the aphid species, Aphisgossypii Glover and A. spiraecola Patch (Hemiptera: Aphididae), on 'Clementine de Nules' trees (Citrus clementina Hort. ex Tan.). Sampling was conducted during 2005 and 2006 in a grove of 3-yr-old trees in southern Spain with six rootstocks arranged in a completely randomized block design. Incidence (i.e., degree of infestation) and availability of resources for herbivores were assessed bi-weekly, and in addition, a "flushing index" was estimated as the number of young shoots (as a percentage of total shoots) susceptible to herbivore injury. Our results showed that contrasting factors affected the incidence of populations of P. citrella, A. gossypii, and A. spiraecola on 'Clementine de Nules'. Incidence of P. citrella was significantly dependent on the flushing pattern observed throughout the study, whereas the reverse was true for the aphid species. Among these, A. spiraecola had similar levels of incidence regardless of rootstock, whereas A. gossypii were found almost exclusively on leaves of 'Clementine de Nules' grafted on 'Cleopatra mandarin' (Citrus reshni Hort. ex Tan). Potential implications of these results on pest control are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Initial studies on the pressure from environmental contaminants on raptor populations in Spain date back to the 1980s, and they have been carried out from a range of viewpoints using a range of sentinel raptor species. However, there is no national monitoring scheme, and therefore the research carried out has been sporadic both spatially and temporally. The exposure to metals has not varied over time, except in the case of lead, whose concentration in eggs and tissues has diminished. In general, the concentrations of metals detected in raptor samples from Spain are generally low and not sufficient to produce toxic effects. Excepting DDT and DDE, most organochlorine-based pesticides in raptors from Spain have diminished over the last 2 decades. The concentrations of DDE found in the eggs of various species could in part explain problems in the reproductive success of raptors in Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finding of the field notebooks of Gustavo Schulze brought to light the unpublished studies that this Mexican-German geologist carried out in the Picos de Europa and neighbouring areas from 1906 to 1908. These notebooks, full of lucid geological interpretations, along with part of the interesting fossil materials that Dr. Schulze collected in northern Spain, were donated in 1953 to the University of Tübingen. Presumably, this donation reflected Dr. Schulze's assumption that he never would be able to publish his materials himself. However, a document recently discovered, shows that one year after, in 1954, Dr. Schulze addressed a formal application to the Government of Spain, in which he explained the significance of his studies in the Cantabrian Mountains and asked for financial support to acomplish the research commenced nearly 50 years earlier. This document, bearing remarkable historical importance, is included in this paper, together with the analysis of the personality and outstanding scientific figure of Dr. Schulze. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the patterns of habitat use of six radio-tagged booted eagles (Hieraaetus pennatus) in a Special Protection Area (SPA) in southeastern Spain. Variable percentages of radio locations (20.8-72.0 %) and home range areas (45.2-81.3 %) lay outside the SPA limits. A model selection procedure showed that habitat use was mainly influenced by habitat type and the distance to the nest. Edges and open lands were the most selected habitat types at long distances, while the probability of forest use strongly decreased with the distance. We conclude that effective conservation strategies for this species should encourage not only the protection of the forest nesting habitats, but also the traditional agricultural practices of the surrounding agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To identify several strains of Mesorhizobium amorphae and Mesorhizobium tianshanense nodulating Cicer arietinum in Spain and Portugal, and to study the symbiotic genes carried by these strains. Methods and Results: The sequences of 16S-23S intergenic spacer (ITS), 16S rRNA gene and symbiotic genes nodC and nifH were analysed. According to their 16S rRNA gene and ITS sequences, the strains from this study were identified as M. amorphae and M. tianshanense. The type strains of these species were isolated in China from Glycyrrhiza pallidiflora and Amorpha fruticosa nodules, respectively, and are not capable of nodulating chickpea. These strains carry symbiotic genes, phylogenetically divergent from those of the chickpea isolates, whose nodC and nifH genes showed more than 99% similarity with respect to those from Mesorhizobium ciceri and Mesorhizobium mediterraneum, the two common chickpea nodulating species in Spain and Portugal. Conclusions: The results from this study showed that different symbiotic genes have been acquired by strains from the same species during their coevolution with different legumes in distinct geographical locations. Significance and Impact of the Study: A new infrasubspecific division named biovar ciceri is proposed within M. amorphae and M. tianshanense to include the strains able to effectively nodulate Cicer arietinum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a 7-year research project in a forested area of southeastern Spain, we studied territorial occupancy and reproductive success in a Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus population. We monitored 65 territories, gathering information on 406 occupancy events and 229 breeding attempts, including those of two potential competitors, the Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis and the Common Buzzard Buteo buteo. Generalized linear mixed models were used to explain occupancy and productivity, by evaluating the relative contribution of three different types of variables (habitat, competition and past events) and considering territory as a random effect. We examined a set of a priori hypothesized models, together with a number of additional models, and selected the best models following an information-theoretic approach. Our best models related territorial occupancy and productivity to previous breeding success (the fledging of one or two young), which appeared to be the most important factor determining the probability of reoccupation and the reproductive output in the subsequent year. The best occupation model revealed that the probabilities of occupancy were also conditioned by a competition variable (intraspecific nearest-neighbour distance) and two habitat variables (the location of the nest on the valley slope and the distance to the nearest forest track). Unlike the best occupation model, however, the selected model for reproductive output did not incorporate any competition variable besides previous breeding success, but included another two habitat variables (the effects of trunk height and NNE orientation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No abstract available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the use of lead-tissue levels in the European kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in evaluating environmental contamination in different areas of southeastern Spain. It evaluates the consequences of leaded gasoline restrictions on environmental exposure to lead in the European kestrel sampled in the Mediterranean area of the region of Murcia, Spain far from potential sources of metal contamination. Liver, kidney, brain and bone samples from adult European kestrels were obtained over two periods, both before and after restrictions were placed on leaded fuel, 1995-97 and 2001, respectively.

In this article we have adapted productivity analysis to the case of a cost model using a quadratic cost function and discrete data. The main theoretical result is a productivity index that can be decomposed into modified versions of the contribution of technical change and the effect of the variations in the scale of production. This framework has been applied to the study of the Spanish electric sector from 1985 to 1996. during which relevant regulatory changes were introduced in order to increase productivity. For this, a normalized quadratic cost function was estimated. The results show important productivity gains with both technical change and scale effect playing important roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of organohalogenated compounds of environmental concern due to similar characteristics as the well-studied legacy persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that typically show environmental persistence, biomagnification and toxicity. Nevertheless, PFAS are still poorly regulated internationally and in many aspects poorly understood. Here, we studied liver and muscle concentrations in five cetacean species stranded at the southeastern coast of Spain during 2009–2018. Twelve of the fifteen targeted compounds were detected in >50% of the liver samples. Hepatic concentrations were significantly higher than those in muscle reflecting the particular toxicokinetics of these compounds. Bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus showed the highest hepatic ΣPFAS (n = 5; 796.8 ± 709.0 ng g−1 ww) concentrations, followed by striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba (n = 29; 259.5 ± 136.2 ng g−1 ww), sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus (n = 1; 252.8 ng g−1 ww), short-beaked common dolphin Delphinus delphis (n = 2; 240.3 ± 218.6 ng g−1 ww) and Risso's dolphin Grampus griseus (n = 1; 78.7 ng g−1 ww). These interspecies differences could be partially explained by habitat preferences, although they could generally not be related to trophic position or food chain proxied by stable N (δ15N) and C (δ13C) isotope values, respectively. PFAS profiles in all species showed a similar pattern of concentration prevalence in the order PFOS>PFOSA>PFNA≈PFFUnA>PFDA. The higher number of samples available for striped dolphin allowed for evaluating their PFAS burden and profile in relation to the stranding year, stable isotope values, and biological variables including sex and length. However, we could only find links between δ15N and PFAS burdens in muscle tissue, and between stranding year and PFAS profile composition. Despite reductions in the manufacturing industry, these compounds still appear in high concentrations compared to more than two decades ago in the Mediterranean Sea and PFOS remains the dominating compound. Image 1 • PFASs was measured in five endemic Mediterranean cetacean' species. • PFAS burdens are higher than those reported two decades ago. • PFOS and PFOSA are the dominant PFAS components of profiles. • Concentrations were higher in the coastal bottlenose dolphin. • Trophic position explains PFAS muscle burdens of striped dolphin. Main findings: First study conducted in more than two decades of PFAS in stranded western Mediterranean. Despite its phase-out in the EU some of the PFAS burdens found can be considered high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The damaging effects caused by the penetration of rainwater into building façades require considering for their design the exposure to the two main climatic factors inducing this penetration: wind-driven rain and the simultaneous wind pressure. The characterisation of these exposures for each possible façade orientation of a building requires analysing exhaustive wind direction records, which significantly increases the calculation effort and prevents calculation in locations without such records. This study examines the possibility to avoid this directional analysis, equally obtaining a functional and reliable exposure characterisation. For this purpose, daily climatic datasets were analysed from 920 weather stations subjected to various environmental and topographic conditions in Mexico, Norway and Spain, and the directional and scalar exposures to wind-driven rain and driving-rain wind pressure were determined at each location. The results show that the maximum directional exposure can be adequately approximated using the scalar exposure value, without the use of wind direction records. Considering the usual constructive practice of using a single façade design for the entire building, this simple and functional characterisation of the expected exposure on the most unfavourable orientation provides a significant support for the design decisions of practitioners. • Analysis of wind-driven rain and simultaneous wind pressure in 920 sites. • Correlation between scalar exposures and maximum directional exposures by location. • Functional extrapolation of maximum directional exposure from a simple scalar value. • Influence of climatic and dataset time resolution factors over correlation validity. • Reduction of calculation effort and analysis of sites with limited climatic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an unusual case of fungal pneumonia caused by Penicillium brevicompactum in a young Staffordshire bull terrier with laryngeal paralysis and distemper in Spain. The bull terrier had been treated with antimicrobial drugs with no positive response. After being diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis, mycotic pneumonia and distemper, the dog was given oxygen supplementation with nasal catheters, intravenous corticosteroids and sedation prior to treatment.

• FAO estimations fit irrigation needs (IN) of Mediterranean avocados groves. • Over-irrigation of avocados does not involve better yields. • Leaf water potential is a good plant-based water stress indicator in avocado. • Water supply below IN negatively affects yield and fruit quality in avocado. The subtropical Mediterranean climate of southeastern Andalusian coast allows Spain to be the largest European producer of subtropical fruit, with the avocado as the main representative. In this region, precipitations are scarce and erratic and limit water availability for irrigation. Under this climatic uncertainty, appropriate water use is required for assuring crop environmental sustainability and increasing water productivity (WP) of avocado orchards. For this purpose, it is necessary to evaluate if current water endowments in the region match crop water requirements and to what extent water use can be improved. In this study, water productivity was assessed in a mature avocado (cv. 'Hass') orchard along six consecutive seasons. The physiological and agronomical responses of avocado trees to five water treatments (T1-T5) were also evaluated during two consecutive seasons. Water amounts supplied by irrigation were compared with FAO's estimations. For the six seasons, averaged FAO irrigation needs were 7916 ± 395 m3 ha−1 season−1 but averaged water supplied was 6503 ± 328 m3 ha−1 season−1 (˜18% below FAO's) with yields 11 ± 2 t ha−1, meaning a WP of 1.7 kg m-3. FAO's recommendations matched T2 and irrigation over or below T2 affected avocado yield, fruit quality (i.e. size) and WP. Water supplies 15% above FAO's (T3) did not involve better yields but decreased WP. Conventional irrigation for mature orchards (T1) was ˜20% lower than FAO's and entailed yield decreases (˜16%) but similar fruit sizes and WP. Water supplies 40% and 60% below FAO's (T4 and T5, respectively) caused significant water stress and decreased yields and fruit quality of avocado trees but increased WP. These effects were more noticeable during the productive season, in which T5 trees showed weakening symptoms and marked fruit drop. Results are discussed in the context of viability of avocado cropping in the Mediterranean region under low water resource scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]