Search

Introduction and objectives: Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is a viable option to mitigate bleeding and stroke risks in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who are not eligible for oral anticoagulation. Its safety and efficacy in cancer patients remain unclear due to their exclusion from trials. This study aimed to compare short- and long-term LAAO outcomes between cancer and non-cancer patients. Methods: Retrospective single centre study of 361 consecutive patients who underwent LAAO between april-2010 and december-2023 were included. Short-term outcomes included periprocedural complications, 30-day hospital readmission and mortality. Long-term outcomes included the composite of stroke, bleeding, and mortality and each component assessed separately. Results: The study included 93 cancer patients (54 % active, 46 % in remission) and 268 non-cancer patients. Baseline characteristics were similar, including ischemic and bleeding risk profiles (CHA2DS2-VASc: 4.5 ± 1.4 vs. 4.4 ± 1.5; HAS-BLED: 3.3 ± 0.9 vs. 3.2 ± 0.9), previous stroke and total bleeding events. Short-term outcomes showed no significant differences in periprocedural complications (7 % vs. 6 %), 30-day readmission (2 % vs. 3 %), or 30-day mortality (0 % vs. 1.5 %). Over 32 months, there was no significant difference regarding the composite endpoint (p = 0.067), stroke (SHR 0.54; p = 0.25) or bleeding events (SHR 1.36; p = 0.35). LAAO was effective in terms of stroke reduction in cancer and non-cancer patients (p = 0.027 and p = 0.006, respectively). All-cause mortality rates were higher in cancer patients (p = 0.002), mainly due to cancer progression and infections. Conclusions: LAAO procedure was safe and effective in both populations. Cancer patients experienced higher rates of all-cause mortality, with no differences in stroke and bleeding outcomes between groups.

Abstract Background The allometric body shape index (ABSI) and hip index (HI), as well as multi-trait body shape phenotypes, have not yet been compared in their associations with inflammatory markers. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between novel and traditional anthropometric indexes with inflammation using data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) and UK Biobank cohorts. Methods Participants from EPIC (n = 17,943, 69.1% women) and UK Biobank (n = 426,223, 53.2% women) with data on anthropometric indexes and C-reactive protein (CRP) were included in this cross-sectional analysis. A subset of women in EPIC also had at least one measurement for interleukins, tumour necrosis factor alpha, interferon gamma, leptin, and adiponectin. Four distinct body shape phenotypes were derived by a principal component (PC) analysis on height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist (WC) and hip circumferences (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). PC1 described overall adiposity, PC2 tall with low WHR, PC3 tall and centrally obese, and PC4 high BMI and weight with low WC and HC, suggesting an athletic phenotype. ABSI, HI, waist-to-height ratio and waist-to-hip index (WHI) were also calculated. Linear regression models were carried out separately in EPIC and UK Biobank stratified by sex and adjusted for age, smoking status, education, and physical activity. Results were additionally combined in a random-effects meta-analysis. Results Traditional anthropometric indexes, particularly BMI, WC, and weight were positively associated with CRP levels, in men and women. Body shape phenotypes also showed distinct associations with CRP. Specifically, PC2 showed inverse associations with CRP in EPIC and UK Biobank in both sexes, similarly to height. PC3 was inversely associated with CRP among women, whereas positive associations were observed among men. Conclusions Specific indexes of body size and body fat distribution showed differential associations with inflammation in adults. Notably, our results suggest that in women, height may mitigate the impact of a higher WC and HC on inflammation. This suggests that subtypes of adiposity exhibit substantial variation in their inflammatory potential, which may have implications for inflammation-related chronic diseases.

Summary: Background: Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption has been linked with higher risk of mortality. This multi-centre study investigated associations between food intake by degree of processing, using the Nova classification, and all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Methods: This study analyzed data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. All-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality due to cancer, circulatory diseases, digestive diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease served as endpoints. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Substitution analyses were also performed. Findings: Overall, 428,728 (71.7% female) participants were included in the analysis and 40,016 deaths were documented after 15.9 years of follow-up. UPFs (in percentage grams per day [g/d]) were positively associated with all-cause mortality (HRs per 1-SD: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02,1.05), as well as mortality from circulatory diseases (1.09; 95% CI: 1.07,1.12), cerebrovascular disease (1.11; 95% CI: 1.05,1.17), ischemic heart disease (1.10; 95% CI: 1.06,1.15), digestive diseases (1.12; 95% CI: 1.05,1.20), and Parkinson’s disease (1.23; 95% CI: 1.06,1.42). No associations were found between UPFs and mortality from cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. Replacing processed and UPFs with unprocessed/minimally processed foods was associated with lower mortality risk. Interpretation: In this pan-European analysis, higher UPF consumption was associated with greater mortality from circulatory diseases, digestive diseases, and Parkinson’s disease. The results support growing evidence that higher consumption of UPFs and lower consumption of unprocessed foods may have a negative impact on health. Funding: l’Institut National du Cancer, and World Cancer Research Fund International.

The blockchain ecosystem has seen a huge growth since 2009, with the introduction of Bitcoin, driven by conceptual and algorithmic innovations, along with the emergence of numerous new cryptocurrencies. While significant attention has been devoted to established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the continuous introduction of new tokens requires a nuanced examination. In this article, we contribute a comparative analysis encompassing deep learning and quantum methods within neural networks and genetic algorithms, incorporating the innovative integration of EGARCH (Exponential Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity) into these methodologies. In this study, we evaluated how well Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithms predict "buy" or "sell" decisions for different cryptocurrencies, using F1 score, Precision, and Recall as key metrics. Our findings underscored the Adaptive Genetic Algorithm with Fuzzy Logic as the most accurate and precise within genetic algorithms. Furthermore, neural network methods, particularly the Quantum Neural Network, demonstrated noteworthy accuracy. Importantly, the X2Y2 cryptocurrency consistently attained the highest accuracy levels in both methodologies, emphasizing its predictive strength. Beyond aiding in the selection of optimal trading methodologies, we introduced the potential of EGARCH integration to enhance predictive capabilities, offering valuable insights for reducing risks associated with investing in nascent cryptocurrencies amidst limited historical market data. This research provides insights for investors, regulators, and developers in the cryptocurrency market. Investors can utilize accurate predictions to optimize investment decisions, regulators may consider implementing guidelines to ensure fairness, and developers play a pivotal role in refining neural network models for enhanced analysis.

Resumen: Antecedentes y objetivo: No se dispone de datos españoles sobre el coste asociado al linfoma cutáneo de células T (LCCT). Además, la incorporación de nuevos tratamientos hace necesario analizar el coste real de la enfermedad. El estudio MICADOS analizó dos objetivos principales: Por un lado, evaluó el impacto en la calidad de vida en los pacientes con LCCT, y por otro lado, estudió los costes de la enfermedad. En esta publicación se recoge el segundo de los objetivos del estudio. Métodos: El coste de la enfermedad se estudió bajo la perspectiva del Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) con un horizonte temporal de un año. Participaron 23 dermatólogos y hematólogos de 15 hospitales públicos españoles. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos con LCCT del tipo micosis fungoide (MF) y síndrome de Sézary (SS). Resultados: Se incluyeron 141 pacientes, el 57,4% masculinos, con una edad media de 63,6 años (IC 95%: 61,4-65,7). Los costes directos anuales medios por pacientes del estudio fueron de 34.214€, siendo de 11.952,47€ en estadio I, 23.506,21€ en estadio II, 38.771,81€ en estadio III y 72.748,84€ en estadio IV. El coste anual directo total estimado de todos los pacientes en España con MF/SS resultó en 78.301.171€, donde el 81% de los costes fueron atribuibles a pacientes en estadio I, el 7% al estadio II, el 6% al estadio III y el 6% al estadio IV. Conclusiones: Este estudio ofrece una evaluación precisa del coste directo del LCCT en pacientes con MF/SS en España, mostrando costes que varían sustancialmente en función del estadio. Los costes soportados por el paciente y los costes indirectos deberán considerarse en futuras investigaciones. Abstract: Background and objective: The cost of treating cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in Spain is unknown. With the advent of new treatments, it is more important than ever to gain an accurate picture of the true costs involved. The MICADOS study had 2 primary objectives: 1) to evaluate the impact of CTCL on patient quality of life, and 2) to evaluate the costs associated with the disease. This article reports the results of the cost analysis. Methods: We estimated the cost of treating CTCL over a period of 1 year from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. Twenty-three dermatologists and hematologists from 15 public hospitals analyzed data for adult patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sézary syndrome (SS). Results: A total of 141 patients (57.4% male) with a mean age of 63.6 years (95% CI: 61.4-65.7 years) were included. The mean direct annual cost of treating CTCL was €34,214 per patient. The corresponding costs by stage were €11,952.47 for stage I disease, €23,506.21 for stage II disease, €38,771.81 for stage III disease, and €72,748.84 for stage IV disease. The total direct annual cost of treating MF/SS in public hospitals in Spain was estimated at €78,301,171; stage I disease accounted for 81% of all costs, stage II for 7%, and stages III and IV for 6% each. Conclusions: The MICADOS study offers an accurate picture of the direct cost of treating CTCL in patients with MF/SS in Spain and shows that costs vary significantly according to disease stage. Patient-borne and indirect costs should be analyzed in future studies.

SfM-MVS (Structure from Motion -Multi View Stereo) photogrammetry is a cost-effective and versatile technique used, among other applications, for the three-dimensional (3D) modelling of archaeological heritage sites and artistic objects. Traditional photogrammetry primarily derives the calibration parameters of the camera and the exterior orientation variables from ground control points (GCPs), obtained by means of a GPS, and tie points (TPs). The SfM-MVS approach simultaneously computes both the relative projection geometry and a set of sparse 3D points. However, when these techniques must be used with difficult-to-reach objects, the process is very complex and implies the use of expensive pieces of equipment. For these reasons, this study develops a new procedure to obtain 3D scale models using of a low-cost Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). To achieve good dimensional accuracy, a scaling tool has been designed which can be carried by the aircraft and deployed on the top of object. By means of this tool it is possible to determine the object actual size, scale the 3D model and then verify the operability and quality of the measurements obtained. The new method has been validated by comparing point clouds and distances. The results showed an error of less than 1 mm in almost 90% of the point cloud and a mean relative error of 1.49%. The procedure is therefore simple, effective and allows the use of SfM-MVS photogrammetry techniques indoors or outdoors on objects, which due to their complex location, it is impossible to use scaling references and their reconstruction is only feasible with sophisticated and expensive technical means.

Objetivo: describir las características de los pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio sin lesiones coronarias obstructivas (MINOCA), así como sus desenlaces cardiovasculares a dieciocho meses. Materiales y método: estudio de cohortes, ambispectivo, de los pacientes que fueron llevados a angiografía coronaria por diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM), entre los años 2015 y 2019. Se seleccionó el grupo de MINOCA y obtuvieron datos de desenlaces como reconsultas y eventos cardiovasculares mayores a dieciocho meses. Resultados: de los 433 pacientes incluidos, 141 (33%) cumplían definición de MINOCA; el dolor torácico y los equivalentes anginosos fueron las manifestaciones clínicas más prevalentes (62 y 62.4% respectivamente). La mayoría se presentaron con IAM sin elevación del ST (92.1%), con FEVI ≥ 50% (42.6%). En el seguimiento a dieciocho meses, se obtuvieron datos de 102 pacientes, de los que el 22% reconsultó y 18% presentó reinfarto. La mortalidad durante el seguimiento fue del 12% por causa cardiovascular y del 36% por todas las causas. Conclusiones: se encontró una mayor proporción de MINOCA respecto a lo descrito en la literatura y con predominio de manifestaciones clínicas atípicas. Es llamativo, igualmente, el alto porcentaje importante de preinfartos y muerte de origen cardiovascular durante el seguimiento de esta cohorte.

Abstract As the interest in alternative Li‐based energy storage technologies increased during the last years, zinc emerged as a promising candidate. Despite several advantages over Li, Zn cycling stability is still a major issue. In this article, the use of near‐neutral electrolytes (non‐expensive 2 M ZnSO4) with the addition of different additives (dimethylsulfoxide and tetratethylammonium chloride) is proposed as a solution. The Zn deposition/dissolution electrochemistry has been evaluated and the cycling stability was determined in Zn//Zn symmetric coin‐cells. Hybrid supercapacitors were also assembled and tested in a range of 0.2 V–1.8 V for 2000 cycles, using activated carbon electrodes as cathode and Zn foil as anode. The results show that dimethylsulfoxide strongly inhibits the Zn deposition process, evidenced by a decrease in the cathodic current density, as well as in the dissolution peak. DMSO affects the deposition mechanism, whereas tetratethylammonium chloride reduces the exchange current density, consistent with the adsorption of tetraethylammonium ions on the Zn surface. A synergy between both additives leading to further inhibition of Zn2+ reduction is observed allowing cycling up to 250 hours for Zn//Zn devices. In addition, the performance of hybrid supercapacitors has also improved showing better capacity and extended cycle life.

The rising popularity of e-scooters in urban areas highlights the importance of understanding potential collision dynamics and consequences to enhance rider safety, especially since 80% of fatalities for these vulnerable road users result from incidents involving motor vehicles. This study aims to identify potential injury mechanisms of e-scooter riders involved in frontal impacts against Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and a Human Body Model (HBM). Six impact scenarios at 25 km/h were simulated: on the passenger's side door (1-SD), on the trunk door (2-TD), on the bonnet (3-FB), on the bonnet from the side (4-SB), on the windshield from the side (5-SW), and finally, on the bonnet with an offset (6-FO). A wide range of Injury Risk Criteria (IRCs) was analyzed, including A3MS, HIC15, BrIC, DAMAGE, Cmax and PC Score, and head contact forces were output. Injury Risk Curves were then used to calculate the probability and severity of the sustained injuries predicted by the mentioned IRCs. Overall, the results corresponding to the most injurious scenarios suggested serious (30% to 40% overall probability) and critical (45% probability for the 4-SB scenario) brain, moderate head (30% probability for scenarios 1-SD and 2-TD), and serious thoracic (26% to 78% overall probability) injuries. Additionally, in two scenarios (1-SD and 2-TD), the e-scooter rider's mandible impacted against the vehicle's roof side rail and rear spoiler, involving potential anterior-posterior serious mandible fractures. The conclusions reached in this study help to understand potential injury sources and provide valuable information for the design of specific safety systems or the creation or improvement of e-scooter legislation.

Abstract Background Excess body fatness and hyperinsulinemia are both associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. However, whether women with high body fatness but normal insulin levels or those with normal body fatness and high levels of insulin are at elevated risk of breast cancer is not known. We investigated the associations of metabolically defined body size and shape phenotypes with the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer in a nested case–control study within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. Methods Concentrations of C‐peptide—a marker for insulin secretion—were measured at inclusion prior to cancer diagnosis in serum from 610 incident postmenopausal breast cancer cases and 1130 matched controls. C‐peptide concentrations among the control participants were used to define metabolically healthy (MH; in first tertile) and metabolically unhealthy (MU; >1st tertile) status. We created four metabolic health/body size phenotype categories by combining the metabolic health definitions with normal weight (NW; BMI

Abstract Background The Mediterranean diet has been associated with lower risk of breast cancer (BC) but evidence from prospective studies on the role of Mediterranean diet on BC survival remains sparse and conflicting. We aimed to investigate whether adherence to Mediterranean diet prior to diagnosis is associated with overall and BC-specific mortality. Methods A total of 13,270 incident breast cancer cases were identified from an initial sample of 318,686 women in 9 countries from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. Adherence to Mediterranean diet was estimated through the adapted relative Mediterranean diet (arMED), a 16-point score that includes 8 key components of the Mediterranean diet and excludes alcohol. The degree of adherence to arMED was classified as low (score 0–5), medium (score 6–8), and high (score 9–16). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the association between the arMED score and overall mortality, and Fine-Gray competing risks models were applied for BC-specific mortality. Results After a mean follow-up of 8.6 years from diagnosis, 2340 women died, including 1475 from breast cancer. Among all BC survivors, low compared to medium adherence to arMED score was associated with a 13% higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.13, 95%CI 1.01–1.26). High compared to medium adherence to arMED showed a non-statistically significant association (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.84–1.05). With no statistically significant departures from linearity, on a continuous scale, a 3-unit increase in the arMED score was associated with an 8% reduced risk of overall mortality (HR3-unit 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.97). This result sustained when restricted to postmenopausal women and was stronger among metastatic BC cases (HR3-unit 0.81, 95% CI: 0.72–0.91). Conclusions Consuming a Mediterranean diet before BC diagnosis may improve long-term prognosis, particularly after menopause and in cases of metastatic breast cancer. Well-designed dietary interventions are needed to confirm these findings and define specific dietary recommendations.

Background and objective: The cost of treating cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in Spain is unknown. With the advent of new treatments, it is more important than ever to gain an accurate picture of the true costs involved. The MICADOS study had 2 primary objectives: 1) to evaluate the impact of CTCL on patient quality of life, and 2) to evaluate the costs associated with the disease. This article reports the results of the cost analysis. Methods: We estimated the cost of treating CTCL over a period of 1 year from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. Twenty-three dermatologists and hematologists from 15 public hospitals analyzed data for adult patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sézary syndrome (SS). Results: A total of 141 patients (57.4% male) with a mean age of 63.6 years (95% CI: 61.4-65.7 years) were included. The mean direct annual cost of treating CTCL was €34,214 per patient. The corresponding costs by stage were €11,952.47 for stage I disease, €23,506.21 for stage II disease, €38,771.81 for stage III disease, and €72,748.84 for stage IV disease. The total direct annual cost of treating MF/SS in public hospitals in Spain was estimated at €78,301,171; stage I disease accounted for 81% of all costs, stage II for 7%, and stages III and IV for 6% each. Conclusions: The MICADOS study offers an accurate picture of the direct cost of treating CTCL in patients with MF/SS in Spain and shows that costs vary significantly according to disease stage. Patient-borne and indirect costs should be analyzed in future studies. Resumen: Antecedentes y objetivo: No se dispone de datos españoles sobre el coste asociado al linfoma cutáneo de células T (LCCT). Además, la incorporación de nuevos tratamientos hace necesario analizar el coste real de la enfermedad. El estudio MICADOS analizó dos objetivos principales: Por un lado, evaluó el impacto en la calidad de vida en los pacientes con LCCT, y por otro lado, estudió los costes de la enfermedad. En esta publicación se recoge el segundo de los objetivos del estudio. Métodos: El coste de la enfermedad se estudió bajo la perspectiva del Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) con un horizonte temporal de un año. Participaron 23 dermatólogos y hematólogos de 15 hospitales públicos españoles. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos con LCCT del tipo micosis fungoide (MF) y síndrome de Sézary (SS). Resultados: Se incluyeron 141 pacientes, el 57,4% masculinos, con una edad media de 63,6 años (IC 95%: 61,4-65,7). Los costes directos anuales medios por pacientes del estudio fueron de 34.214€, siendo de 11.952,47€ en estadio I, 23.506,21€ en estadio II, 38.771,81€ en estadio III y 72.748,84€ en estadio IV. El coste anual directo total estimado de todos los pacientes en España con MF/SS resultó en 78.301.171€, donde el 81% de los costes fueron atribuibles a pacientes en estadio I, el 7% al estadio II, el 6% al estadio III y el 6% al estadio IV. Conclusiones: Este estudio ofrece una evaluación precisa del coste directo del LCCT en pacientes con MF/SS en España, mostrando costes que varían sustancialmente en función del estadio. Los costes soportados por el paciente y los costes indirectos deberán considerarse en futuras investigaciones.

The article considers the actual reflection of the transhumanistic concept in various fields of scientific knowledge. This concept has recently aroused genuine interest both because of its direction and because of its own contradictions. The discussion that has unfolded around this concept allows to evaluate all the pros and cons of the implementation of the transhumanist idea, which requires improving the physical condition of a person through the use of the most advanced technologies, among which biotechnology occupies an important place. Their use generates contextual social, economic and political problems. In this regard, it is necessary to investigate the process of emergence and development of transhumanistic risks, as well as the possibility of managing them on the basis of both traditional and original tools, taking into account the specifics of the transhumanistic approach. In the article, the authors present a study of the formation of transhumanistic risks associated with the creation and use of artificial intelligence, as well as the possibility of risk management in the transhumanistic space. The threat is increasing due to the growing globalization, interconnectedness and the speed of change in the world. These trends are generally useful, but present new challenges, including new types of transhumanistic risks associated with the use of artificial intelligence. It is more difficult to predict them than any other known risks. Conceptual options for assessing the situation developing in the transhumanistic space together represent a new vector transhumanistic risk management theory and practice development.

Phosphoproteomics is a promising tool for identifying biomarkers of treatment response in cancer. Here, the authors analyse proteomics profiling of HER2-negative female breast cancer patients and identify potential predictors of paclitaxel response.

Abstract Chronic inflammatory diseases are associated with hematopoietic lineage bias, including neutrophilia and anemia. We have recently identified that the canonical inflammasome mediates the cleavage of the master erythroid transcription factor GATA1 in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). We report here that genetic inhibition of Nlrp1 resulted in reduced number of neutrophils and increased erythrocyte counts in zebrafish larvae. We also found that the NLRP1 inflammasome in human cells was inhibited by LRRFIP1 and FLII, independently of DPP9, and both inhibitors regulated hematopoiesis. Mechanistically, erythroid differentiation resulted in ribosomal stress‐induced activation of the ZAKα/P38 kinase axis which, in turn, phosphorylated and promoted the assembly of NLRP1 in both zebrafish and human. Finally, inhibition of Zaka with the FDA/EMA‐approved drug Nilotinib alleviated neutrophilia in a zebrafish model of neutrophilic inflammation and promoted erythroid differentiation and GATA1 accumulation in K562 cells. In conclusion, our results reveal that the NLRP1 inflammasome regulates hematopoiesis and pave the way to develop novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of hematopoietic alterations associated with chronic inflammatory and rare diseases.

Introduction: Pertussis is a respiratory infection caused by bacteria of the genus Bordetella, mainly pertussis and parapertussis species. Despite the high vaccination coverage in developed countries, it is considered a re-emerging disease that is also underreported and underdiagnosed, especially in patients who do not require hospital referral. Material and methods: Descriptive, prospective and multicentre study of pertussis diagnosis and contact investigation in 17 primary care paediatric clinics through collection of samples for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing over a period of 4 years and after the implementation of routine vaccination against pertussis during pregnancy. Results: Pertussis was diagnosed in a total of 50 patients; the estimated incidence in these years was higher compared to previous rates in the paediatric age group. Fourteen percent of the cases occurred in children aged less than 1 year. The mean age was 6.7 years. Cough was present in 100% of cases, followed in frequency by vomiting and rhinorrhoea. Only 1 patient required hospital admission, and none died or developed complications. B. pertussis was the predominant causative agent. Only 40% knew the source of infection. In 26% of the cases, pertussis was confirmed in contacts of the patient by PCR, and in 46% it was suspected based on the clinical presentation but without microbiological confirmation. Conclusions: Access to diagnostic tests (PCR) for pertussis in primary care allows us to optimise its diagnosis and treatment, to break the chain of transmission, to know the real incidence rates and to assess the impact of routine vaccination of pregnant women on this disease. Resumen: Introducción: La tos ferina es una infección respiratoria causada por bacterias del género Bordetella, principalmente por las especies pertussis y parapertussis. A pesar de las altas coberturas vacunales en países desarrollados, está considerada como una enfermedad reemergente existiendo, además, una infranotificación y un infradiagnóstico especialmente en los pacientes que no precisan derivación hospitalaria. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y multicéntrico de diagnóstico de casos de tos ferina, así como el estudio de sus contactos en 17 consultas de pediatría de atención primaria mediante la toma de muestras para realización de técnicas de PCR (reacción en cadena de la polimerasa) a lo largo de cuatro años y tras la implantación de la vacunación sistemática de la tos ferina en el embarazo. Resultados: Se diagnostican un total de 50 pacientes; la tasa de incidencia estimada en estos años fue superior a las publicadas en edad pediátrica. Un 14% de los casos sucedieron en menores de 1 año. La media de edad fue de 6,7 años. La tos estuvo presente en el 100% de los casos, seguida de los vómitos y rinorrea como síntomas más frecuentes. Sólo 1 paciente precisó ingreso y ninguno falleció ni presentó complicaciones. B. pertussis fue el agente causal predominante. Sólo un 40% conocía la fuente de contagio. En un 26% de los casos se comprobó mediante PCR tos ferina en sus contactos y en un 46% se sospechó clínicamente, aunque sin confirmación microbiológica. Conclusiones: El acceso a pruebas diagnósticas (PCR) para tos ferina en Atención Primaria permite optimizar su diagnóstico y tratamiento, cortar la cadena de transmisión, conocer las tasas de incidencia reales y valorar el impacto de la vacunación sistemática de las embarazadas en esta enfermedad.

Resumen: Objetivo: Describir la financiación pública a proyectos de investigación sobre salud LGTBIQ + en España. Método: Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo observacional de alcance descriptivo. Se revisaron los proyectos concedidos en la convocatoria pública de Proyectos de Investigación en Salud del Instituto de Salud Carlos III entre 2013 y 2019. Se consultó el portal del Fondo de Investigación en Salud para identificar los proyectos de salud financiados que incluían, total o parcialmente, al colectivo LGTBIQ + . Se calcularon las frecuencias absolutas y relativas de los proyectos LGTBIQ + sobre el total de los proyectos financiados, así como los porcentajes por año de concesión, tema, población específica LGTBIQ + y financiación recibida. Resultados: Solo el 0,4% (n = 16) de los 4404 proyectos financiados y el 0,3% del presupuesto otorgado en la convocatoria incluyeron total o parcialmente al colectivo LGTBIQ + . Los proyectos LGTBIQ + se centraban mayoritariamente en hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (n = 14) y en el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) (n = 11). El número de proyectos LGTBIQ + financiados disminuyó entre 2013 (n = 6) y 2019 (n = 0). Conclusiones: En España, los proyectos de investigación sobre salud LGTBIQ + financiados con fondos públicos son escasos. Los pocos estudios financiados se centran en hombres y en el VIH, por lo que no se genera suficiente conocimiento sobre otros temas o poblaciones específicas. Es necesario fomentar la investigación en salud de las personas LGTBIQ + para mitigar las inequidades en salud, ofrecer servicios de salud inclusivos y mejorar la salud de tres millones de personas LGTBIQ + residentes en España. Abstract: Objective: To describe the public funding of research on LGTBIQ + health in Spain. Method: We conducted an observational and descriptive study. We sought research projects dealing with LGTBIQ + health funded by the research projects grant from the Instituto Carlos III from 2013 to 2019. We consulted the webpage and the FIS portal and we identified projects that included LGTB community, totally or partially. We estimated the absolute and relative frequencies of LGTBIQ + projects in relation to total funded projects; and we described the LGTBIQ + funded projects by year of funding, topics, LGTBIQ + subpopulation, or funding. Results: Only 0,4% (n = 16) of 4404 funded projects included —totally or partially— LGTBIQ + community, which represents only 0,3% of the funding. LGTBIQ + projects mainly focused on men who have sex with men (n = 14) and the human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) (n = 11). The number of funded LGTBIQ + projects decreased from 2013 (n = 6) to 2019 (n = 0). Conclusions: Research projects on LGTBIQ + health are scarce in Spain. Current funding for research on LGTBIQ + health is insufficient to care for population other than HIV and men within LGTBIQ + . There is a compelling necessity to promote the LGTBIQ + health research to mitigate health disparities, to offer inclusive health services, and to improve healthcare of about 3 million LGTBIQ + people living in Spain.

The effects of temperature, irradiance, and other environmental variables on photosynthesis in seagrasses are well understood. However, little information is available regarding the effects of the nitrate concentration in seawater on the photosynthetic characteristics of marine vegetation. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of the nitrate concentration in seawater on the effective quantum yield of the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa. Cymodocea nodosa shoots were incubated under different irradiance levels and with different nitrate concentrations. In contrast, a decrease in transmittance and an exponential increase in the absorptance of the shoots were observed as a function of increasing nitrate levels. Furthermore, the effective quantum yield of photosystem II (ΦPSII) in C. nodosa shoots increased exponentially as the nitrate concentration in the media increased. The ΦPSII values in the shoots decreased as irradiance increased and reached minimum values at solar noon or 2 h afterward. However, the decrease of ΦPSII values was 4-fold greater in shoots incubated under full solar radiation (100% natural incident irradiance, Eo) compared to those of shoots incubated with 20% Eo. The ΦPSII values decreased to almost zero in shoots pre-incubated with no nitrate (0 μM NO3–), whereas ΦPSII values in shoots pre incubated with 25 and 100 μM NO3– decreased by approximately 25% of their initial values. Collectively, these results indicate that nitrogen levels in seawater regulate the effective quantum yield values of C. nodosa, which suggests that the photosynthetic characteristics of this seagrass might be regulated by fluctuating nitrate levels in the water column such as those that are observed in upwelling regions.

This paper builds on the European project MiCREATE, which aimed to explore and stimulate migrant children and youth reception and inclusion in educational and social systems by adopting a child-centred approach at educational practice and policy levels. We focus on the role of the students’ local and immigrant families in this often-challenging process. We have evidence of the vital role of families in children and youth education. However, research mainly focuses on teachers when discussing issues related to the reception and inclusion of migrant students in schools, often forgetting that families and children/youth are also critical elements in these processes. In this project, we have explored the roles expected and developed by local and foreign families in facilitating and accompanying schools and students on these not-always-easy paths using various methods and activities. This paper focuses on aspects of the MiCREATE project related to the crucial role of families in their children’s social and educational experiences in the host country. It is based on fieldwork carried out in 16 schools in Spain, including teachers, families, students, educational community members and policymakers. Art-based research methods, open-ended interviews and focus groups provided a broad picture of the different views and expectations of all those involved in formal education. From the thematic analysis of the participants’ contributions, results emerge around two main focuses: (1) difficulties migrant families face in getting involved in school life, such as cultural clashes, school segregation, migrant families’ environment and the difference between primary school and secondary schools; (2) more general and specific initiatives that facilitate migrant family involvement in school life.

Resumen: En este documento de actualización presentamos dos temas trascendentes, uno en la adolescencia y otro en la etapa del lactante: la prevención del consumo de tabaco (CT) en la adolescencia y el uso profiláctico de la vitamina K para prevenir la enfermedad hemorrágica del recién nacido (EHRN). Abstract: Two important topics about children and adolescents in our primary care activity are presented in this update document: tobacco smoking prevention in adolescence and prophylaxis with vitamin K to prevent the hemorrhagic disease of the newborn.

Abstract Background This study investigated the effect of the Feel4Diabetes-intervention, a 2-year multilevel intervention, on energy balance-related behaviors among European families at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Intervention effects on self-reported physical activity, sedentary behavior and eating behaviors were investigated across and within the participating countries: Belgium, Finland, Greece, Spain, Hungary and Bulgaria. Methods Families were recruited through schools, located in low socio-economic status areas. In total, 4484 families at risk for developing type 2 diabetes were selected using the FINDRISC-questionnaire. Parents’ and children’s energy balance-related behaviors data were collected by questionnaires at three time points (baseline, mid- and post intervention). Families assigned to the intervention group were invited to participate in a 2-year school-, community-, and family-based intervention to promote a healthier lifestyle, including counseling sessions (first intervention year) and text messages (second intervention year). Families assigned to the control group received standard care, including medical check-up results and recommendations and tips regarding a healthy lifestyle. To assess the intervention-effects, Mixed Models were conducted using the R-Package “lmer “with R v3.2. Results Significant intervention effects were found on a certain number of families’ lifestyle behaviors. Significant favorable intervention effects were detected on parents’ water consumption and consumption of fruit and vegetables, and on children’s consumption of sweets and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Analyses by country revealed significant favorable intervention effects on water consumption and on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in Belgian parents and on fruit and vegetable consumption among Belgian children, on sweets consumption among Spanish parents and children, and on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among Finnish children. Unfavorable intervention effects were found on the consumption of soft drinks and sugar-containing juices among Hungarian children and parents, while when examining the intervention effects for the overall population and per country, 10 from the 112 investigated outcome variables were improved in the intervention group compared to the control group (9%). Conclusions The Feel4Diabetes-intervention managed to improve a certain number of targeted lifestyle behaviors while the intervention was not effective on a large number of targeted lifestyle behaviors. The findings of the current study are encouraging, but further research is needed on how we can further improve effectiveness of lifestyle interventions to prevent type 2 diabetes in families at risk. Trial registration The Feel4Diabetes-study is registered with the clinical trials registry http://clinicaltrials.gov , ID: 643708.

The article is devoted to the study of the organization of the work of enterprises in the intercultural space. The authors consider the cross-cultural approach as a cross-cutting process that leads to significant changes within organizations and society and which manifests itself through interaction that functions as a generating element of the exchange of ideas and knowledge. Culture becomes the driving force of the processes taking place in international companies, where people interact freely, focusing on achieving common goals of their development, understanding their own characteristics and differences, which inevitably leads to high productivity of the organization and increased motivation of its partners.The paper considers the management of the organization’s cross-cultural space in the context of three main elements: cross-culturality, competencies and interaction in the workplace. In the course of their activities, enterprises are faced with the peculiarities of the organization of work in an intercultural space, which, as a rule, consist in the mental differences of business representatives of different cultures. In the process of interaction, difficulties may arise due to the lack of a deep understanding of the ethnic characteristics of the partner, its history, culture, etc. In this regard, the authors recommend pay attention to the quality of the acquired cross-cultural competencies of the participants of the business dialogue. Organizations should invest in the cross-cultural knowledge of their employees to increase the efficiency and productivity of internationally organized businesses.Modern organizations tend to view business processes as knowledge processes. The creation of knowledge includes its further expansion, development, improvement and application in the organization. Modern business organizations are looking for ways to create additional knowledge values through identifying, applying, and using them in a unique way, and this is a process that is part science, part art, and part pure luck. Effective management of the knowledge that people from different cultures bring, as well as the spaces in which they will interact, сontribute to strengthening the corporate image of the organization and its positioning in the international market.

Eisenia arborea (sensu Ecklonia arborea) is the kelp with the greatest latitudinal distribution on the Northeastern Pacific Coast. It is harvested in Mexico in small amounts for abalone farm fodder and occasionally exported to Asia for human consumption. Because the high-energy environment where it naturally grows limits its sustainable harvest, we explored the domestication and cultivation of this kelp on the west coast of Baja California, Mexico. The life history of E. arborea was completed in the laboratory following traditional methods for kelp cultivation. Gametophytes became reproductive approximately 50 days after spore release and sporophytes were visible to the naked eye after 80 days. When sporophytes reached 2–3 cm, they were transplanted to two sites on long-line systems: in an open bay (Todos Santos Bay) and in a shallow coastal lagoon (San Quintín Bay). At both sites, full differentiation occurred 6 to 8 months after deployment, with fertile blades occurring within a year. Once individuals reached maximum size, blades were harvested by pruning. Monthly, regrowth of pruned blades and new blade addition were measured. Pruned individuals reached the same weight as controls in three months. On the basis of these results, a seasonal seeding program was implemented at a third site where the presence of natural Eisenia is rare due to the lack of hard substrate but was hypothesized to provide appropriate conditions for kelp cultivation (Santa María Bay). Cultures were deployed at three different depths and growth was correlated with season, depth, and temperature. Only cultures seeded in winter developed successfully at this site. This study shows that the culture of E. arborea in a variety of ocean conditions is possible; however, site selection and seasonality are important considerations. Because E. arborea is perennial, it can be harvested periodically during the year thereby increasing yield, and because it is the warmest tolerant kelp species, it is an ideal target for ocean farming and commercial cultivation, considering climate change.

Abstract In an attempt to evaluate the susceptibility of the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus to bacterial agents, a population naturally infected with a Wolbachia pipientis wPipSJ native strain was tested against the action of three bacterial mosquitocides, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis, Bacillus wiedmannii biovar thuringiensis and Lysinibacillus sphaericus. Tests were carried out on mosquito larvae with and without Wolbachia (controls). Cx. quinquefasciatus naturally infected with the native wPipSJ strain proved to be more resistant to the pathogenic action of the three mosquitocidal bacterial strains. Additionally, wPipSJ was fully characterised using metagenome-assembled genomics, PCR–RFLP (PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) and MLST (MultiLocus Sequence Typing) analyses. This Wolbachia strain wPipSJ belongs to haplotype I, group wPip-III and supergroup B, clustering with other mosquito wPip strains, such as wPip PEL, wPip JHB, wPip Mol, and wAlbB; showing the southernmost distribution in America. The cytoplasmic incompatibility phenotype of this strain was revealed via crosses between wildtype (Wolbachia +) and antibiotic treated mosquito populations. The results of the tests with the bacterial agents suggest that Cx. quinquefasciatus naturally infected with wPipSJ is less susceptible to the pathogenic action of mosquitocidal bacterial strains when compared with the antibiotic-treated mosquito isoline, and is more susceptible to B. thuringiensis subsp. israelensis than to the other two mosquitocidal agents.

Introduction: The admission of minors into adult psychiatric units is a problem due to the lack of adequate resources and epidemiology data. Objective: The aim of this study is to describe and analyse the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of minors that were admitted into the Short-Stay Psychiatric Hospitalisation Unit of Caceres, Spain. Materials and methods: A retrospective, observational, and descriptive study was conducted on a sample of patients between 12 and 18 years-old admitted to the Psychiatric Unit. The study period was between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018. Results: A total of 79 patients, with a mean age of 15.72 (±1.65) years, were included. Almost all of them (93.6%) had a personal psychiatric history. The most common diagnoses at discharge in males were disruptive, impulse-control and conduct disorders, and mood disorders in females. A history of substance consumption was present in 40.6%, and was more common in males, which led to a worse prognosis. The mean stay was 5.4 (±4.7) days. Prolongation of the mean stay was associated with a history of previous psychiatric admissions, the number of diagnoses at discharge, a greater number of drugs at discharge, and those that received long-acting injectable antipsychotic drugs (P

Resumen: Introducción: El ingreso de menores en unidades de hospitalización de psiquiatría de adultos constituye un problema debido a la ausencia de recursos adecuados y de datos epidemiológicos. Objetivo: Describir y analizar las características sociodemográficas y clínicas de los menores que ingresaron en la Unidad de Hospitalización Breve de Psiquiatría en Cáceres. Sujetos y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. La muestra estuvo definida por pacientes de edades comprendidas entre los 12 y los 18 años, hospitalizados en la unidad de psiquiatría. El periodo de evaluación fue entre el 1 de enero del 2014 y el 31 de diciembre del 2018. Resultados: Se incluyeron 79 pacientes. La edad media fue de 15,72 (± 1,65) años. El 93,6% presentaron antecedentes psiquiátricos personales. El diagnóstico al alta más frecuente en los varones fueron los trastornos destructivos del control de impulsos; en las mujeres los trastornos afectivos. El 40,6% presentaron antecedentes de consumo de sustancias, siendo más frecuente en varones, lo cual empeoraba el pronóstico. La estancia media fue de 5,4 (± 4,7) días. La prolongación de la estancia media se relacionó con los antecedentes de ingresos psiquiátricos previos, el número de diagnósticos al alta, un mayor número de fármacos al alta y aquellos que recibieron antipsicóticos inyectables de liberación prolongada (p

Serological controls for diseases of viral origin in animal production systems and the identification of factors associated with infections are decisive elements to establish prevention and control measures. The aim of this study was to establish the serological status for Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) and Enzootic Bovine Leukemia (EBL) viruses in Blanco Orejinegro (BON) cattle from Colombia, and to identify the factors associated with seropositivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 498 animals of all age groups and physiological states of the BON breed were selected, belonging to 14 herds located in 6 states of Colombia, in which a survey with 27 questions was conducted. By means of the chi-square test, possible factors associated with seropositivity against the 2 viruses were identified. A sample of 4 ml of blood was taken from each animal to extract plasma and make indirect Elisa tests to detect antibodies against both pathogens. General seropositivity of 27,1% was obtained for EBL, finding as factors associated with seropositivity the inadequate disposition of placental tissues after delivery of the cows and the non-performance of serological tests on new animals entering the herd. For BVD, seropositivity obtained was 50,6%, and the factors associated with seropositivity identified were having had a history of the disease in the herd, and using semen from bulls that are not known to be free for the infection. We suggest establishing control measures considering the factors associated with each viral infection to limit their expansion in the BON cattle production systems of Colombia.

Resumen: En este documento de actualización presentamos cuatro temas trascendentes para la infancia y la adolescencia en nuestra actividad de atención primaria: el apoyo a la lactancia materna, la promoción de la actividad física, la prevención de lesiones infantiles por accidente de tráfico y el cribado de depresión mayor. Abstract: Four important topics about children and adolescents in our Primary Care activity are presented in this update document: support for breastfeeding, promotion of physical activity, prevention of child injuries due to traffic accidents, and screening for major depression

Abstract Despite numerous demonstrations that the immune system is activated in heart failure, negatively affecting patients' outcomes, no definitive treatment strategy exists directed to modulate the immune system. In this review, we present the evidence that B cells contribute to the development of hypertrophy, inflammation, and maladaptive tissue remodelling. B cells produce antibodies that interfere with cardiomyocyte function, which culminates as the result of recruitment and activation of a variety of innate and structural cell populations, including neutrophils, macrophages, fibroblasts, and T cells. As B cells appear as active players in heart failure, we propose here novel immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies that target B cells and their products.

Abstract Background Although there are many interventions targeting childhood obesity prevention, only few have demonstrated positive results. The current review aimed to gather and evaluate available school-based intervention studies with family involvement targeting dietary, physical activity and sedentary behaviors among primary schoolchildren and their families, in order to identify the most effective strategies. Methods Studies published between 2000 and January 2015 were retrieved from scientific electronic databases and grey literature. The databases used included MEDLINE/PubMed, Web-of-Science, CINAHL and Scopus. Included studies had to be experimental controlled studies and had duration over 1 school year, had family involvement, combined PA and dietary behaviors and were implemented in school setting. A complementary search was executed to update the review to cover the period from February 2015 to January 2019. Results From the studies examined (n = 425), 27 intervention programs (33 publications) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Among these, 15 presented significant effect on weight status and/ or overweight/ obesity or clinical indices, 3 presented significant effect on most energy balance-related behaviors (EBRBs) while 9 presented significant effect on some/few EBRBs or determinants. Strategies implemented in effective interventions were: teachers acting as role-models and being actively involved in the delivery of the intervention, school policies supporting the availability of healthy food and beverage choices and limiting unhealthy snacks, changes in the schoolyard, in the recess rules and in the physical education classes to increase physical activity, and involving parents in the intervention via assignments, meetings, informative material and encouraging them to improve the home environment. Use of incentives for children, social marketing techniques, collaboration with local stakeholders were found to increase effectiveness. Programs that focused only on educational sessions and material for parents, without promoting relevant environmental and policy changes, were found to be less effective. Cultural adaptations have been suggested to increase the intervention’s acceptance in specific or vulnerable population groups. Conclusions Several effective strategies were identified in the reviewed programs. Outcomes of the current review were taken into account in developing the Feel4Diabetes-intervention and summed up as recommendations in the current work in order to facilitate other researchers designing similar childhood obesity prevention initiatives.

The main objective in this paper is to analyze the impact of cross-cultural communication on increasing business profitability. In order to do that, the research is based on three main concepts: cross-cultural skills, which are considered in our study one the most strategical tools for companies’ success, concerning both the profitability and the image of any company. Cross-cultural communication, as stated by the anthropologist Edward Hall in his book The Hidden Dimension. Hall is most associated with proxemics, the study of the human use of space within the context of culture. Bearing in mind Hall’s considerations, the paper emphasized the need and importance of cross-cultural education for employees, as long as the goal of the companies is to position themselves internationally. Intercultural communication. Hall’s ideas have also had a significant impact in communication theory, especially intercultural communication, where it inspired research on spatial perception that continues to this day. In the digital economy, there are different indicators for measuring the level of cross-cultural skills within a company: a financial indicator such as return on sales has an important role. Sales play a fundamental role in the activities of any company and they are causally related to the cross-cultural skills of employees and entrepreneurs concerning company’s management. Business management style as well as the type of cross-cultural communication existing in the company will determine the international position of any company. Communication and cross-cultural skills contribute to a positive image of the company, since these are skills pointing out at companies with multilingual staff, with personal and professional experience living and working in different countries, experts on using innovative technologies, characteristics which will strongly impact on final profitability results. The paper concludes focusing on the importance for all the international companies to invest in the concept of intercultural communication and cross-cultural skills as a way of behaving in business, since these skills will reward them with increasing ratios of business profitability in international markets.

Abstract Background The clinical and economic burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus on society is rising. Effective and efficient preventive measures may stop the increasing prevalence, given that type 2 diabetes mellitus is mainly a lifestyle-driven disease. The Feel4Diabetes-study aimed to tackle unhealthy lifestyle (unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and excess weight) of families with a child in the first grades of elementary school. These schools were located in regions with a relatively low socio-economic status in Belgium, Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Hungary and Spain. Special attention was paid to families with a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods The aim of this paper is to describe the detailed methodology of the intervention’s cost-effectiveness analysis. Based on the health economic evaluation of the Toybox-study, both a decision analytic part and a Markov model have been designed to assess the long-term (time horizon of 70 year with one-year cycles) intervention’s value for money. Data sources used for the calculation of health state incidences, transition probabilities between health states, health state costs, and health state utilities are listed. Intervention-related costs were collected by questionnaires and diaries, and attributed to either all families or high risk families only. Conclusions The optimal use of limited resources is pivotal. The future results of the health economic evaluation of the Feel4Diabetes-study will contribute to the efficient use of those resources.

Abstract Background Assessment of diet and physical activity and their determinants still remains a demanding task, especially when the objective is to evaluate the efficacy of lifestyle interventions. In the context of the Feel4Diabetes study (a European community based intervention study in families with school aged children and at high risk of developing diabetes), we aimed to develop questionnaires for the assessment of food-frequency and eating behaviors, and physical activity and sedentary behaviors in both parents and school-aged children and a questionnaire for overall family’s energy balance-related behaviors. Methods Questionnaires were developed to be used in 6 countries under standardized harmonization procedures and included questions regarding not only food intake and physical activity, but also questions of their determinants. A reliability study was conducted in 191 pairs of parents and their children (N = 191). Parents completed the questionnaires on two occasions, within a 1–2 week interval. Reliability was tested by the intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) of test-retest. Results Most of the questions in all questionnaires had excellent reliability, assessed as an ICC of > 0.810. Mean ICCs for food-frequency and eating behaviors questionnaires were 0.838 and 0.787, and for physical activity and sedentary behaviors questionnaires were 0.734 and 0.793, in adults and children respectively. Mean ICC for overall family’s energy balance-related behaviors and their determinants was 0.659. Conclusion The developed questionnaires showed acceptable reliability and may be valuable tools in the assessment of children’s and parents’ behaviors related to diet, physical activity, sedentary behavior and overall energy balance in school- and community-based interventions.

Background and AimThe association of a metabolically healthy status with the practice of physical activity (PA) remains unclear. Sedentarism and low PA have been linked to increased cardiometabolic risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the PA levels in metabolically healthy (MH) or unhealthy (MU) prepubertal children with or without overweight/obesity.MethodsA total 275 children (144 boys) with 9 ± 2 years old were selected for the GENOBOX study. PA times and intensities were evaluated by accelerometry, and anthropometry, blood pressure, and blood biochemical markers were analyzed. Children were considered to have normal weight or obesity, and further classified as MH or MU upon fulfillment of the considered metabolic criteria.ResultsClassification resulted in 119 MH children (21% with overweight/obesity, referred to as MHO) and 156 MU children (47% with overweight/obesity, referred to as MUO). Regarding metabolic profile, MHO showed lower blood pressure levels, both systolic and diastolic and biochemical markers levels, such as glucose, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance, triglycerides and higher HDL-c levels than MUO (P < 0.001). In addition, MHO children spent more time in PA of moderate intensity compared with MUO children. In relation to vigorous PA, MH normal weight (MHN) children showed higher levels than MUO children. Considering sex, boys spent more time engaged in moderate, vigorous, and moderate–vigorous (MV) PA than girls, and the number of boys in the MH group was also higher.ConclusionPrepubertal MHO children are less sedentary, more active, and have better metabolic profiles than their MUO peers. However, all children, especially girls, should increase their PA engagement, both in terms of time and intensity because PA appears to be beneficial for metabolic health status itself.

Background: The databases of children’s anthropometric parameters are often outdated, rarely representative and are not always available at an international level. Objectives: To present children’s anthropometric parameters in six European countries that contributed to the Feel4Diabetes project and find country-specific differences. Design/Setting: The Feel4Diabetes study was performed between 2016 and 2018, targeting children in Belgium, Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Hungary and Spain. The current study presents data from the baseline and the yearly follow-up anthropometric measurements. Subjects: In total, 20,832 measurements of children (48.7% boys) between 6 and 10 years of age were conducted. Main outcome measure: weight, height, BMI. Results: Belgian boys had the lowest body weight and height, while Greek boys had the highest body weight, and Finnish had the highest body height. The highest proportion of overweight (percentile above 85%) and obese boys (percentile above 95%) was in Greece, followed by Hungarian, Spanish, Bulgarian and Finnish boys. In contrast, Belgian boys had the lowest ratio in both categories. Among girls, Greece had the highest; Belgium had the lowest body weight; Finland was the highest in all age categories. The ratio in the overweight range was the highest in Greece, followed by Spanish, Bulgarian and Hungarian girls, who were second in the obese category. Finnish girls had lower and Belgian girls had the lowest ratio in both BMI categories. All the detailed data are presented in tables, and the trends are figures. Conclusions: Our study presents fresh and comparable anthropometric data of children between 6 and 10 years of age in six European countries, supporting the need for appropriate obesity prevention.

This article is based on the research project APREN-DO aimed at exploring how secondary school teachers learn. Using an inclusive research approach and visual and narrative methods, we conducted the study with teachers rather than focusing on teachers. Twenty-eight secondary school teachers in the province of Barcelona (Spain) created their learning cartographies, showing what, how, where, with whom, and with what they learn. They then narrated their cartographies and discussed the notions of learning and educational practice in the 21st century. This paper summarizes the results and conclusions about teachers’ learning environments, specificities and considerations regarding their learning, and their thoughts about educational practices. Finally, we present and discuss teachers’ reflections and proposals for redesigning educational practice taking into account the need to contemplate the different literacies and competences that exist in today’s society, encouraging student participation based on their interests and particularities, providing a space for affections and emotions, and prioritizing the personalization of students’ learning and the skill of learning to learn.

More mechanistic studies are needed to reveal the hidden details of in vivo-induced trained immunity. Here, using a Candida albicans live vaccine mouse model we show that vaccination protects mice against a secondary infection and increases the number of bone marrow, and especially, splenic trained monocytes. Moreover, vaccination expands and reprograms hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) early during infection and mobilize them transiently to the spleen to produce trained macrophages. Trained HSPCs are not only primed for myeloid cell production but also reprogramed to produce a greater amount of proinflammatory cytokines in response to a second challenge. Additionally, their adoptive transfer is sufficient to protect mice against reinfection. Mechanistically, autocrine GM-CSF activation of HSPCs is responsible for the trained phenotype and essential for the vaccine-induced protection. Our findings reveal a fundamental role for HSPCs in the trained immune protective response, opening new avenues for disease prevention and treatment.

Culex quinquefasciatus is a cosmopolitan species widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Due to its long history of close association with humans, the transmission of arboviruses and parasites have an important role in veterinary and public health. Adult females feed mainly on birds although they can also feed on humans and other mammals. On the other hand, larvae are able to feed on a great diversity of microorganisms, including microalgae, present in natural or artificial breeding sites with a high organic load. These two particularities, mentioned above, are some of the reasons why this mosquito is so successful in the environment. In this work, we report the identification of a microalga found during field sampling in artificial breeding sites, in a group of discarded tires with accumulated rainwater. Surprisingly, only one of them had a bright green culture without mosquito larvae while the other surrounding tires contained a large number of mosquito larvae. We isolated and identified this microorganism as Neochloris aquatica, and it was evaluated as a potential biological control agent against Cx. quinquefasciatus. The oviposition site preference in the presence of the alga by gravid females, and the effects on larval development were analyzed. Additionally, microalga effect on Cx. quinquefasciatus wild type, naturally infected with the endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia (w+) and Wolbachia free (w-) laboratory lines was explored. According to our results, even though it is chosen by gravid females to lay their eggs, the microalga had a negative effect on the development of larvae from both populations. Additionally, when the larvae were fed with a culture of alga supplemented with balanced fish food used as control diet, they were not able to reverse its effect, and were unable to complete development until adulthood. Here, N. aquatica is described as a biological agent, and as a potential source of bioactive compounds for the control of mosquito populations important in veterinary and human health.