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Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Los nodulos tiroideos requieren con frecuencia evaluacion mediante ecografia y puncion aspiracion con aguja fina (PAAF). No obstante, la PAAF no permite la diferenciacion entre adenoma y carcinoma folicular en lesiones de tipo IV segun la clasificacion de Bethesda. Esto provoca numerosas intervenciones quirurgicas innecesarias porque no es posible garantizar el caracter benigno de las lesiones, ni siquiera cuando la mayoria de las muestras corresponden a adenomas o incluso a otras lesiones benignas. El objetivo de este estudio es establecer si hay caracteristicas ecograficas que nos ayudarian a pronosticar el riesgo de malignidad de los nodulos con un diagnostico anatomopatologico de neoplasia folicular para conseguir un abordaje mas conservador de los nodulos sin sospecha de malignidad. Material y metodos Estudiamos 61 nodulos en 61 pacientes (51 mujeres y 10 varones) que se habian sometido a intervencion quirurgica de la glandula tiroides y tenian resultados histopatologicos de adenoma o carcinoma folicular. Se analizaron diversas caracteristicas ecograficas de los nodulos (composicion, ecogenicidad, borde, estado de calcificacion, presencia de halo y sospecha general de malignidad segun el observador) y se establecio su correlacion con el analisis histopatologico. Resultados Observamos una relacion estadisticamente significativa entre el carcinoma folicular y la presencia de calcificaciones, bordes mal definidos y la sospecha o impresion general del observador (definida por sospecha clara de signos ecograficos de malignidad, como calcificacion, borde mal definido y un nodulo solido marcadamente hipoecoico; y signos ecograficos de benignidad, como composicion ecogenica predominantemente quistica y presencia de halo hipoecogenico perinodular). Sin embargo, todas estas caracteristicas han mostrado una sensibilidad baja en el estudio que nos ocupa (30%, 30% y 50%, respectivamente). En cambio, la ausencia del signo de halo ha demostrado una sensibilidad del 100% y un valor predictivo negativo del 100% en nuestro estudio. Conclusiones La presencia de calcificaciones, los bordes mal definidos y la impresion o sospecha general de malignidad se asocian con un riesgo mayor de carcinoma folicular en nodulos tiroideos de tipo IV segun la clasificacion de Bethesda, pero su ausencia no permite pronosticar el caracter benigno de estos nodulos. En cambio, cuando se observa una lesion con signo de halo, deberia considerarse una neoplasia folicular benigna.

Climate change effects on host–parasite interactions have been poorly studied in arid or semi-arid habitats. Here, we conducted an experiment aimed to increase the temperature inside European roller Coracias garrulus nest boxes located in a semi-arid habitat on different nest-site types to look for effects on different ectoparasite abundances and nestling growth. Average nest temperature was slightly higher in heated nests than in control nests, although differences were not statistically significant. However, relative humidity was significantly lower at night in heated nests as compared to control nests. The abundance of sand flies, mites and carnid flies was significantly higher in heated, less humid, nests while biting midge abundance was significantly lower in heated nests. Other ectoparasites were not significantly affected by treatment. Relative humidity was high even in heated nests, reaching more than 60%. Sand fly abundance was higher in nests located in sandstone walls, while mite abundance was higher in isolated farmhouses. In addition, sand fly prevalence was higher in nests located in isolated farmhouses and sandstone walls. Heat treatment, nest-site type or ectoparasite abundances did not affect the nestling body mass, wing length or their growth at different nestling ages., This study was funded by the project CGL2015-67789-C2-1-P (MINECO/FEDER). Also, this project is part of the project PGC2018-097426-B-C21 and PGC2018-097426-B-C22 funded by MCIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/ and by ‘ERDF A way of making Europe’.

This work presents an assessment of the mechanical adhesion and corrosion resistance of the hybrid PMMA-SiO2 coatings applied to an X52 steel substrate. The hybrid composite coating was obtained by dispersing the nanoparticles of SiO2 into a polymeric matrix of PMMA in concentrations of 1.0 wt.%. The study of corrosion behavior in synthetic seawater was carried out using electrochemical techniques. The results were complemented by optical and scanning electron microscopy characterization. The corrosion and the adhesion measurements of the coatings displayed excellent performance in corrosion resistance, and the iron phosphate method for surface preparation also improved the adhesion and corrosion resistance.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection in Chile remains as a public and private health-care system’s challenge, with a prevalence of the infection over 70%. Nowadays, antibiotic treatment of the infection is mandatory to prevent the arising of severe associated diseases but failures in the eradication therapy mainly due to clarithromycin resistance has been observed worldwide and first line eradication therapy seems to be not effective anymore in several geographical areas. Thus, health-care systems are committed to maintain an epidemiological surveillance upon the evolution of the antibiotic resistance of this priority 2 pathogen. OBJECTIVE: This work reports a 10 years surveillance of the primary antibiotic resistance of H. pylori clinical isolates at the Biobío region-Chile, and the evolution of resistance toward amoxicillin, clarithromycin, levofloxacin, metronidazole, and tetracycline among the species. METHODS: H. pylori strains were investigated during the periods 2005-2007 (1435 patients analysed) and 2015-2017 (220 patients analysed) by inoculating a saline homogenate biopsy onto the surface of Columbia agar (Oxoid, Basingstoke, UK) - supplemented with 7% horse red blood cells plus DENT inhibitor (Oxoid, Basingstoke, UK) - following by incubation at 37ºC under 10% CO2 atmosphere for five days. Antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates was assessed using the disk diffusion test in Müeller-Hinton agar supplemented with 7% horse red blood cells followed by incubation for further three days under 10% CO2 atmosphere. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS v22 software and P values

The detection of pathological conditions related to the twelve cranial pairs represents a significant challenge for both clinicians and radiologists; imaging techniques are fundamental for the management of many patients with these conditions. In addition to knowledge about the anatomy and pathological entities that can potentially affect the cranial pairs, the imaging evaluation of patients with possible cranial pair disorders requires specific examination protocols, acquisition techniques, and image processing. This article provides a review of the most common symptoms and syndromes related with the cranial pairs that might require imaging tests, together with a brief overview of the anatomy, the most common underlying processes, and the most appropriate imaging tests for different indications.

Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is involved in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and in its cardiovascular complications. One of the approaches proposed to decrease IS is the administration of synbiotics. This work aimed to search for a probiotic strain capable to decrease serum IS levels and mix it with two prebiotics (inulin and fructooligosaccharide (FOS)) to produce a putative synbiotic and test it in a rat CKD model. Two groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were nephrectomized. One group (Lac) received the mixture for 16 weeks in drinking water and the other no (Nef). A control group (C) included sham-nephrectomized rats. Serum creatinine and IS concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). Optical microscopy and two-photon excitation microscopy was used to study kidney and heart samples. The Lac group, which received the synbiotic, reduced IS by 0.8% while the Nef group increased it by 38.8%. Histological analysis of kidneys showed that the Lac group increased fibrotic areas by 12% and the Nef group did it by 25%. The synbiotic did not reduce cardiac fibrosis. Therefore, the putative synbiotic showed that function reducing IS and the progression of CKD in a rat model, but no heart protection was observed.

Thyroid nodules frequently require ultrasound and Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) evaluation. However, FNA cytology does not allow differentiation between follicular adenoma and carcinoma on Bethesda type IV lesions. This situation leads to many unnecessary surgical procedures because it is not possible to assure the benignity of the lesions, even when most of the specimens correspond to adenomas or even other benign lesions. The objective in this study is to establish if there are any US characteristics that would help us to predict the risk of malignancy of nodules with a pathological diagnosis of follicular neoplasm in order to achieve a more conservative management for non-suspicious nodules.We studied 61 nodules in 61 patients (51 women and 10 men) that underwent thyroid surgery and had histopathological results of either follicular adenoma or carcinoma. Different US characteristics of the nodules were analysed (composition, echogenicity, margin, calcification status, the presence of halo and overall observer suspicion of malignancy) and were correlated with the histopathological analysis.We have found a statistically significant association between the presence of calcifications, ill-defined borders and overall observer suspicion or impression (defined by well-known suspicious for malignancy ultrasonographic features, such as calcification, poorly defined margin, and a markedly hypoechoic solid nodule; and benign ultrasonographic features, such as predominantly cystic echogenic composition and the presence of a perinodular hypoechogenic halo) with follicular carcinoma. However all those features have shown low sensitivities in the present study (30%, 30% and 50%, respectively). On the other hand, the absence of halo sign has shown a sensitivity of 100% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% in our study.The presence of calcifications, ill-defined borders and the overall impression or suspicion of malignancy are associated with a higher risk for follicular carcinoma in Bethesda type IV thyroid nodules but their absence does not allow to predict benignity in these nodules. Inversely, when a halo sign lesion is observed, benign follicular neoplasm should be considered.

Resumen Objetivos Establecer una correlacion entre 4 mediciones realizadas en la tomografia axial computarizada preoperatoria y la presencia de via aerea dificil, y con la prediccion clinica de la misma, en pacientes intervenidos mediante cirugia otorrinolaringologica. Material y metodos Se realizo un estudio observacional, retrospectivo, usando como fuente de informacion las historias clinicas de 104 pacientes intervenidos bajo anestesia general e intubacion endotraqueal por enfermedad oncologica durante un periodo de 36 meses. Sobre la base de los hallazgos obtenidos en las pruebas de imagen preoperatorias se realiza un analisis de regresion logistica multivariante, donde las variables dependientes son grados extremos de visualizacion de la glotis (Cormack III-IV) o la presencia de predictores de intubacion dificultosa (Mallampati III-IV). Se introdujeron en dicho modelo un total de 4 factores tomograficos y clinicos de via aerea dificil. Resultados En el grupo Cormack III-IV, en el modelo multivariante los resultados no fueron estadisticamente significativos cuando se comparaban con los predictores tomograficos (p > 0,05; IC 95% distancia de la epiglotis a la pared faringea posterior 0,030-2,31; distancia de la base de la lengua a la pared faringea posterior 0,018-1,37). En el grupo Mallampati III-IV, en el modelo multivariante unicamente la distancia de las cuerdas vocales a la pared faringea posterior muestra resultados clinicamente significativos (p Conclusiones En el abordaje de la via aerea actualmente nos podemos apoyar en los predictores correspondientes al examen fisico para adelantarnos a situaciones que pongan en riesgo la oxigenacion y la ventilacion de nuestros pacientes. Aunque aun los datos son insuficientes para recomendar las pruebas de imagen en este ambito, parece que en un futuro pueden sumarse al examen fisico para aumentar el rendimiento diagnostico.

Objectives To establish a correlation between 4 measurements made on preoperative computed axial tomography and the presence of difficult airway, as well as its clinical prediction in patients undergoing otorhinolaryngological surgery. Materials and methods A retrospective, observational study was carried out using the information gathered from the clinical notes of 104 patients undergoing general anaesthesia and endotracheal intubation for oncological otorhinolaryngological surgery over a period of 36 months. Based on the findings in the preoperative imaging tests, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, where the dependent variable was the presence of extreme grades of visualisation of the glottis visualisation (Cormack III–IV) or the presence of predictors of difficult intubation (Mallampati III–IV). This resulted in a total of 4 tomographic and clinical factors of difficult airway being introduced in this model. Results In the Cormack III–IV group, the results were not statistically significant in the multivariate model when compared to the tomography predictors, distance from epiglottis to posterior pharyngeal wall (95% CI; 0.030–2.31, p Conclusions In the approach to the airway, reliance on predictors is based on physical examination to anticipate situations that put oxygenation and ventilation of the patients at risk. There are still insufficient data to recommend imaging tests in this area, however it seems that in the future they may be added to the diagnostic performance of physical examination as predictors of difficult airway.

The resolution of the Photovoltaic modules electrical using mathematical models can be addressed in different ways. Depending on the degree of precision required, several options are available, which will require more or less computational resources in order to solve it. The simplified models have the advantage that they require less resources than the non-simplified ones. This is possible since some parameters are omitted and, therefore, their effect is consequently discarded. In this sense, the herein proposed Photovoltaic module implicit equation model resolution procedure allows to obtain the characteristic current voltage curves, considering all the implied electrical parameters. Furthermore, it is proved that referred model, in comparison with the simplified one, evidences that this one is providing results with a low percentage of error.

Nowadays, the development of the photovoltaic (PV) technology is consolidated as a source of renewable energy. The research in the topic of maximum improvement on the energy efficiency of the PV plants is today a major challenge. The main requirement for this purpose is to know in real-time the working point of each of the PV modules that integrate the PV field and improve their performance. For this purpose, a Power Line Communications (PLC) based Smart Monitoring and Communications Module, which is able to monitor at PV level their operating parameters, has been developed at the University of Malaga. This device can check if any of the panels is suffering any type of overriding performance, due to a malfunction or partial shadowing of its surface. In this paper, the data acquisition system is described and subsequently the solution of the most energy-efficient path was arised from information acquired in real-time. Through graph theory and Minkoski’s paths have been possible to deduce the recursive programming algorithm that generate a dynamic reconfiguration to solve this problem.

Introduction Mainly due to the high percentage of infection and the ineffectiveness of treatments, Helicobacter pylori is a global health problem. Knowing the age at acquisition is key to preventing the infection. Patients Sixty-seven mothers and their respective children participated. To evaluate the presence of H. pylori, the faeces of the mother and her child were analysed using the HpSA antigen test. Results 71.6% (48/67) of pregnant mothers were positive for H. pylori at the term of their pregnancy. In newborns, 8.96% (6/67) of them showed H. pylori colonisation/persistent infection. During the first month of life, a prevalence and incidence of infection of 23.9% and 13%, respectively, was observed. Conclusion Overall, the results suggest that there is a high risk of H. pylori infection during the first month of life, even of the persistent type.

Searching for bacterial probiotics active upon Helicobacter pylori continue to be an important clinical challenge because of the increased prevalence of this highly priority pathogen in humans. In this work, we assess the in vivo anti-H. pylori SS1 (cagA+/vacAs2m2+) properties of a previously isolated human gastric probiotic strain Lactobacillus fermentum UCO-979C by using a Meriones unguiculatus (Mongolian gerbil) model. Animals were administered with a saline suspension of L. fermentum UCO-979C or H. pylori SS1 as negative and positive control for H. pylori colonisation controls, prior to assayed the challenge group that was administered with these two species per animal for detecting protective activity of the probiotic strain against colonisation. The results showed that L. fermentum UCO-979C strongly inhibited the colonisation of H. pylori decreasing up to 87% of the colonisation in the antrum by the pathogen, suggesting that this probiotic strain has a strong probiotic activity against H. pylori in the most valuable animal model for in vivo assays nowadays.

Introduction: Alpha-thalassemia is the most common hemoglobinopathy with a variable clinical manifestation depending on the number of allele mutations (asymptomatic/mild anemia if 1–2 allele mutations, severe disease if 3–4 allele mutations). A study was conducted from May 2011 on hemoglobinopathies found in the neonatal screening in the autonomous community of the Basque Country (CAPV). Objectives: To analyze the impact of alpha-thalassemia in this area and the effectiveness of its neonatal screening. Methods: A review was made of patients with a positive gene study for alpha-thalassemia over a 2-year period (2012–2013) and an analysis was made of the age at diagnosis, ethnic group, analytical result, and treatment. Results: The genetic study was performed on 107 patients, of which 61 had some mutation, with 62% having one allele mutation and 38% with two alleles. The mean age at diagnosis was 31 years, with 28% being younger than eighteen years old. Most of the patients were European with a significant number of Africans (26%) and Arabs (13%). All patients were asymptomatic, and 28% had mild anemia. Two patients were diagnosed by neonatal screening. Most of them did not need any treatment or only required iron therapy. Conclusions: The detection of one or two alpha gene mutations has no clinical impact, but allows genetic counseling. No patient was found with 3–4 mutations or severe symptoms in our region. Contrary to the diagnosis of other diseases, our results do not support that routine neonatal screening for alpha-thalassemia has any clinical impact in our community. Resumen: Introducción: La alfa-talasemia es la hemoglobinopatía más frecuente de expresión clínica variable en función del número de alelos mutados (1–2 alelos mutados: asintomático/anemia leve, 3–4 alelos mutados: enfermedad grave). Desde mayo de 2011 se ha añadido el estudio de hemoglobinopatías al screening neonatal en la Comunidad Autónoma del País Vasco (CAPV). Objetivos: Valorar el impacto de la alfa-talasemia en nuestro medio y la utilidad del screening neonatal en su detección. Método: Revisión de pacientes con estudio genético positivo para alfa-talasemia durante 2 años (2012–2013) y estudio de la edad al diagnóstico, etnia, resultados analíticos y tratamiento. Resultados: Se realizó un estudio genético de alfa-talasemia a 107 pacientes, de los cuales 61 presentaron alguna mutación. El 62% tenía un alelo mutado y el 38%, 2 alelos. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 31 años, con un 28% menores de 18 años. La mayoría eran de procedencia europea con un porcentaje no desdeñable de africanos (26%) y árabes (13%). Todos los pacientes estudiados estaban asintomáticos con anemia leve en el 28%. Dos pacientes fueron diagnosticados por screening neonatal. La mayoría de pacientes no requirió tratamiento o precisó ferroterapia. Conclusiones: La presencia de una o 2 mutaciones en los genes alfa carece de repercusión clínica, y el único interés de su estudio es que permite el consejo genético. En nuestro entorno no hemos encontrado pacientes con 3–4 mutaciones ni con sintomatología grave. A diferencia de lo que ocurre con otras enfermedades, nuestros resultados no apoyan que el screening neonatal de alfa-talasemia tenga un impacto significativo en nuestro entorno.

Resumen: Introducción: La alfa-talasemia es la hemoglobinopatía más frecuente de expresión clínica variable en función del número de alelos mutados (1-2 alelos mutados: asintomático/anemia leve, 3-4 alelos mutados: enfermedad grave). Desde mayo de 2011 se ha añadido el estudio de hemoglobinopatías al screening neonatal en la Comunidad Autónoma del País Vasco (CAPV). Objetivos: Valorar el impacto de la alfa-talasemia en nuestro medio y la utilidad del screening neonatal en su detección. Método: Revisión de pacientes con estudio genético positivo para alfa-talasemia durante 2 años (2012-2013) y estudio de la edad al diagnóstico, etnia, resultados analíticos y tratamiento. Resultados: Se realizó un estudio genético de alfa-talasemia a 107 pacientes, de los cuales 61 presentaron alguna mutación. El 62% tenía un alelo mutado y el 38%, 2 alelos. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 31 años, con un 28% menores de 18 años. La mayoría eran de procedencia europea con un porcentaje no desdeñable de africanos (26%) y árabes (13%). Todos los pacientes estudiados estaban asintomáticos con anemia leve en el 28%. Dos pacientes fueron diagnosticados por screening neonatal. La mayoría de pacientes no requirió tratamiento o precisó ferroterapia. Conclusiones: La presencia de una o 2 mutaciones en los genes alfa carece de repercusión clínica, y el único interés de su estudio es que permite el consejo genético. En nuestro entorno no hemos encontrado pacientes con 3-4 mutaciones ni con sintomatología grave. A diferencia de lo que ocurre con otras enfermedades, nuestros resultados no apoyan que el screening neonatal de alfa-talasemia tenga un impacto significativo en nuestro entorno. Abstract: Introduction: Alpha-thalassemia is the most common hemoglobinopathy with a variable clinical manifestation depending on the number of allele mutations (asymptomatic/mild anemia if 1-2 allele mutations, severe disease if 3-4 allele mutations). A study was conducted from May 2011 on hemoglobinopathies found in the neonatal screening in the autonomous community of the Basque Country (CAPV). Objectives: To analyze the impact of alpha-thalassemia in this area and the effectiveness of its neonatal screening. Methods: A review was made of patients with a positive gene study for alpha-thalassemia over a 2-year period (2012-2013) and an analysis was made of the age at diagnosis, ethnic group, analytical result, and treatment. Results: The genetic study was performed on 107 patients, of which 61 had some mutation, with 62% having one allele mutations and 38% with two alleles. The mean age at diagnosis was 31 years, with 28% being younger than eighteen years old. Most of the patients were European with a significant number of Africans (26%) and Arabs (13%). All patients were asymptomatic, and 28% had mild anemia. Two patients were diagnosed by neonatal screening. Most of them did not need any treatment or only required iron therapy. Conclusions: The detection of one or two alpha gene mutations has no clinical impact, but allows genetic counseling. No patient was found with 3-4 mutations or severe symptoms in our region. Contrarily to the diagnosis of other diseases, our results does not support that routine neonatal screening for alpha-thalassemia has any clinical impact in our community.

The detection of pathological conditions related to the twelve cranial pairs represents a significant challenge for both clinicians and radiologists; imaging techniques are fundamental for the management of many patients with these conditions. In addition to knowledge about the anatomy and pathological entities that can potentially affect the cranial pairs, the imaging evaluation of patients with possible cranial pair disorders requires specific examination protocols, acquisition techniques, and image processing. This article provides a review of the most common symptoms and syndromes related with the cranial pairs that might require imaging tests, together with a brief overview of the anatomy, the most common underlying processes, and the most appropriate imaging tests for different indications.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of a novel self-autonomous reactor technology (capable of working with solar irradiation and artificial UV light) for water treatment using aniline as model compound. This new reactor design overcomes the problems of the external mass transfer effect and the accessibility to photons occurring in traditional reaction systems. The UV-light source is located inside the rotating quartz drums (where TiO2 is immobilized), allowing light to easily reach the water and the TiO2 surface. Several processes (UV, H2O2, Solar, TiO2, Solar/TiO2, Solar/TiO2/H2O2 and UV/Solar/H2O2/TiO2) were tested. The synergy between Solar/H2O2 and Solar/TiO2 processes was quantified to be 40.3% using the pseudo-first-order degradation rate. The apparent photonic efficiency, ζ, was also determined for evaluating light utilization. For the Solar/TiO2/H2O2 process, the efficiency was found to be practically constant (0.638-0.681%) when the film thickness is in the range of 1.67-3.87 μm. However, the efficiency increases up to 2.67% when artificial UV light was used in combination, confirming the efficient design of this installation. Thus, if needed, lamps can be switched on during cloudy days to improve the degradation rate of aniline and its mineralization. Under the optimal conditions selected for the Solar/TiO2/H2O2 process ([H2O2] = 250 mg/L; pH = 4, [TiO2] = 0.65-1.25 mg/cm2), 89.6% of aniline is degraded in 120 min. If the lamps are switched on, aniline is completely degraded in 10 min, reaching 85% of mineralization in 120 min. TiO2 was re-used during 5 reaction cycles without apparent loss in activity (

To establish a correlation between 4 measurements made on preoperative computed axial tomography and the presence of difficult airway, as well as its clinical prediction in patients undergoing otorhinolaryngological surgery.A retrospective, observational study was carried out using the information gathered from the clinical notes of 104 patients undergoing general anaesthesia and endotracheal intubation for oncological otorhinolaryngological surgery over a period of 36 months. Based on the findings in the preoperative imaging tests, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, where the dependent variable was the presence of extreme grades of visualization of the glottis visualisation (Cormack III-IV) or the presence of predictors of difficult intubation (Mallampati III-IV). This resulted in a total of 4 tomographic and clinical factors of difficult airway being introduced in this model.In the Cormack III-IV group, the results were not statistically significant in the multivariate model when compared to the tomography predictors, distance from epiglottis to posterior pharyngeal wall (95% CI; 0.030 - 2.31, P.05), and the distance from the base of the tongue to the posterior pharyngeal wall (95% CI; 0.018-1.37, P.05). In the Mallampati III-IV group, in the multivariate model only the distance from the vocal cords to the posterior pharyngeal wall showed clinically significant results (95% CI; 0.104 - 8.53, P.05).In the approach to the airway, reliance on predictors is based on physical examination to anticipate situations that put oxygenation and ventilation of the patients at risk. There are still insufficient data to recommend imaging tests in this area, however it seems that in the future they may be added to the diagnostic performance of physical examination as predictors of difficult airway.

This paper presents a new algorithm that synergistically combines data from three different parts of the spectrum (near-, shortwave- and thermalinfrared) to produce reliable burned area maps. It is based on the use of a variation of the BAIM (Burned Area Index) together with hotspot information. In particular, the study presented herein uses an image from the AWiFS (Advanced Wide Field Sensor) sensor dated on the 21st of August 2006, MODIS (MODerate resolution Imaging Spectrometer) hotspot detected during the first twenty days of August as well as ancillary maps and information. Developed methodology was tested in Galicia (North-West Spain) where hundreds of forest fires occurred during the first twenty days of August 2006. Burned area maps and results were validated using fire statistics from both the Spanish Ministry of Environment and the Galician Forest Service. Reached results showed that this method would be of great interest at regional to national scales, since it was proved to be quick, accurate and cost-effective.

Introduction Hospital admission is frequently a major health transition for older adults, related with physical and mental disability that may persist after hospital discharge. We aimed to describe changes in physical and cognitive status in hospitalized older subjects, both during hospital admission and 3 months after hospital discharge, and to search for risk factors of impairment in physical and cognitive function. Methods Randomized sample of all patients over 65 years admitted during a 5-month period, both for urgent or elective care. Basic and instrumental ADL and mental status were assessed on admission, at hospital discharge, and 3 months after discharge. Predictors of physical and mental disability were assessed. Results Hundred and ninety-nine patients, mean age 75.9 years, were included. At hospital discharge, 16.5% of them had suffered a meaningful decrease in basic ADL, 24.6% in instrumental ADL, and 30.2% in cognitive tests. Three months later, 12.1% of those not lost or dead still reduced ability to perform basic ADL, 21.1% in instrumental ADL, and 35.2% had reduced cognitive scoring. In multivariate analysis, admission to surgical departments and discharge to a nursing home were related to loss of basic ADL; urgent admission and being widowed were related to loss of instrumental ADL; and older age, urgent admission, polypharmacy, and nursing home admission were related to reduced cognitive performance. Conclusions Physical and cognitive status change with hospitalization and after hospital discharge in older subjects. Some risk factors can be identified that predict these changes and allow for specific targeting of patients for preventive interventions.

The effect that climatic changes can exert on parasitic interactions represents a multifactor problem whose results are difficult to predict. The actual impact of changes will depend on their magnitude and the physiological tolerance of affected organisms. When the change is considered extreme (i.e. unusual weather events that are at the extremes of the historical distribution for a given area), the probability of an alteration in an organisms’ homeostasis increases dramatically. However, factors determining the altered dynamics of host-parasite interactions due to an extreme change are the same as those acting in response to changes of lower magnitude. Only a deep knowledge of these factors will help to produce more accurate predictive models for the effects of extreme changes on parasitic interactions. Extreme environmental conditions may affect pathogens directly when they include free-living stages in their life-cycles and indirectly through reduced resource availability for hosts and thus reduced ability to produce efficient anti-parasite defenses, or by effects on host density affecting transmission dynamics of diseases or the frequency of intraspecific contact. What are the consequences for host-parasite interactions? Here we summarize the present knowledge on three principal factors in determining host-parasite associations; biodiversity, population density and immunocompetence. In addition, we analyzed examples of the effects of environmental alteration of anthropogenic origin on parasitic systems because the effects are analogous to that exerted by an extreme climatic change [Current Zoology 57 (3): 390–405, 2011].

Resumen: Objetivos: Los ensayos clínicos llevados a cabo con el interferón beta (INFB) en esclerosis múltiple remitente recidivante (EMRR) han mostrado que reducen la tasa de brotes. Sin embargo, no todos los pacientes responden a este tratamiento, si bien aún no hay un absoluto consenso a propósito de la definición de respuesta al tratamiento. Las razones para este fracaso terapéutico no son conocidas, y probablemente hay factores genéticos implicados, como se ha mostrado con los polimorfismos de los genes que codifican la interleuquina 10 o el interferón gamma. El papel del gen de la apolipoproteína E (APOE) en la EM ha sido investigado en los últimos años y no parece aumentar el riesgo de aparición de la enfermedad ni influir en su severidad. Variaciones en este gen influyen en la respuesta al tratamiento con inhibidores de la colinesterasa en la enfermedad de Alzheimer o a las estatinas en la hipercolesterolemia. Esto podría tener implicaciones futuras en la EM. Material y métodos: Hemos revisado retrospectivamente 38 pacientes diagnosticados de EMRR (32 mujeres y 6 varones) tratados con INFB durante al menos dos años. Los criterios para llevar a cabo el tratamiento eran uniformes de acuerdo con las indicaciones del Comité asesor para el tratamiento de la EM. Recogimos datos acerca de la edad y tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad. Al cabo de dos años del inicio del tratamiento los pacientes fueron clasificados como respondedores o no-respondedores de acuerdo con los criterios clínicos disponibles, basados en la presencia de brotes, evolución de la discapacidad, o ambos. El genotipo APOE se determinó de muestras sanguíneas utilizando métodos validados de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se estudió la correlación entre la condición de respondedor o no respondedor y la presencia de los alelos E2 o E4. Resultados: Veinte pacientes (52,6%) recibían INFB1b subcutáneo (Betaferón®), 13 (34,2%) INFB1a intramuscular (Avonex®) y 5 (13,2%) INFB1a subcutáneo (Rebif®). Dos pacientes (5,2%) eran heterocigotos para el alelo E2 y 9 (23,7%) para el alelo E4. Ningún paciente era homocigoto para E2 o E4. La presencia o no de estos alelos no se correlacionó con la respuesta al tratamiento de acuerdo con las 10 variables estudiadas. Conclusión: Tras los resultados de un metanálisis que no muestran influencia del gen APOE en la susceptibilidad o severidad de la EM, no hemos encontrado en nuestra serie influencia de este gen en la respuesta de pacientes con EMRR al INFB. En cualquier caso, series más extensas son necesarias para validar estos resultados. Abstract: Objective: Clinical trials with interferon beta in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) have demonstrated a reduction in the relapse rate. Nevertheless, not all patients respond to this treatment, although there is no consensus regarding the definition of response to therapy. The reasons for this failure are not known but genetic factors probably influence this, as has been previously shown with Interleukin 10 or Interferon gamma polymorphisms.The role of apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene in MS has been investigated and does not appear to increase risk for MS or influence disease severity. Interestingly APOE variation influences response to cholinesterase inhibitor treatment in Alzheimer disease or to statins in hypercholesterolemia. This might have future implications for MS. Material and methods: We retrospectively reviewed 38 RRMS patients (32 females and 6 males) treated with interferon beta (INFbeta) over at least two years. Criteria for treatment were uniform accordingly to an “Advisory Committee for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis”. We collected data variables including age, age of onset, clinical type or disease duration. Patients were classified, two years after the start of treatment, as responders and non-responders based upon clinical criteria available in the literature, which rely on the presence of relapses, increase of disability, or both. APOE genotype was determined from blood samples using validated polymerase chain reaction methods. Correlation between patient responding status with allele E2 or E4 was tested. Results: A total of 20 patients (52.6%) received subcutaneous INFbeta1b (Betaferón®), 13 (34.2%) INFbeta1a intramuscular (Avonex®), and 5 (13.2%) subcutaneous INFbeta1a (Rebif®). We found 2 patients (5.2%) heterozygous for the E2 allele and 9 (23.7%) for the E4 allele. No patient was homozygous for E2 or E4. Comparison of patients with and without E2 or E4 allele showed no significant differences in any of the ten therapy response variables assessed. Conclusion: Findings of a recent meta-analysis have not supported a role for APOE in MS susceptibility or severity. We have not found, in our data, any influence of this gene in the RRMS response to INFbeta. However, larger series would be required to validate these results. Palabras clave: Esclerosis múltiple, Respuesta al tratamiento, Farmacogenética, APOE, Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, Treatment response, Pharmacogenetics, APOE

Uric acid (UA) is an endogenous antioxidant. Some studies have described that multiple sclerosis (MS) patients have lower serum UA levels than controls, although it has not been established whether UA is primarily deficient, or secondarily reduced due to its scavenging activity. UA has also been proposed as an indicator of disease activity. We, retrospectively, reviewed 478 serum UA levels obtained in 94 MS patients. Ninety samples were collected during a relapse. Correlation between UA levels obtained during a relapse or in a relapse-free period, and comparison between UA and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score was tested using a two-tailed Student's t test and Spearman correlation coefficients test. UA levels were significantly lower when measured during a relapse (n 90) than in a remission period (n 368) (r -0.16, p 0.003) UA levels measured outside a relapse inversely correlated with EDSS score (r -0.15, p 0.001). Lower uric acid levels in MS patients are associated with clinical relapse. This is the first description of an inverse correlation of serum UA levels with disability as assessed by EDSS score.

Objective: Clinical trials with interferon beta in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) have demonstrated a reduction in the relapse rate. Nevertheless, not all patients respond to this treatment, although there is no consensus regarding the definition of response to therapy. The reasons for this failure are not known but genetic factors probably influence this, as has been previously shown with Interleukin 10 or Interferon gamma polymorphisms.The role of apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene in MS has been investigated and does not appear to increase risk for MS or influence disease severity. Interestingly APOE variation influences response to cholinesterase inhibitor treatment in Alzheimer disease or to statins in hypercholesterolemia. This might have future implications for MS. Material and methods: We retrospectively reviewed 38 RRMS patients (32 females and 6 males) treated with interferon beta (INFbeta) over at least two years. Criteria for treatment were uniform accordingly to an “Advisory Committee for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis”. We collected data variables including age, age of onset, clinical type or disease duration. Patients were classified, two years after the start of treatment, as responders and non-responders based upon clinical criteria available in the literature, which rely on the presence of relapses, increase of disability, or both. APOE genotype was determined from blood samples using validated polymerase chain reaction methods. Correlation between patient responding status with allele E2 or E4 was tested. Results: A total of 20 patients (52.6%) received subcutaneous INFbeta1b (Betaferon®), 13 (34.2%) INFbeta1a intramuscular (Avonex®), and 5 (13.2%) subcutaneous INFbeta1a (Rebif®). We found 2 patients (5.2%) heterozygous for the E2 allele and 9 (23.7%) for the E4 allele. No patient was homozygous for E2 or E4. Comparison of patients with and without E2 or E4 allele showed no significant differences in any of the ten therapy response variables assessed. Conclusion: Findings of a recent meta-analysis have not supported a role for APOE in MS susceptibility or severity. We have not found, in our data, any influence of this gene in the RRMS response to INFbeta. However, larger series would be required to validate these results. Resumen: Objetivos: Los ensayos clínicos llevados a cabo con el interferón beta (INFB) en esclerosis múltiple remitente recidivante (EMRR) han mostrado que reducen la tasa de brotes. Sin embargo, no todos los pacientes responden a este tratamiento, si bien aún no hay un absoluto consenso a propósito de la definición de respuesta al tratamiento. Las razones para este fracaso terapéutico no son conocidas, y probablemente hay factores genéticos implicados, como se ha mostrado con los polimorfismos de los genes que codifican la interleuquina 10 o el interferón gamma. El papel del gen de la apolipoproteína E (APOE) en la EM ha sido investigado en los últimos años y no parece aumentar el riesgo de aparición de la enfermedad ni influir en su severidad. Variaciones en este gen influyen en la respuesta al tratamiento con inhibidores de la colinesterasa en la enfermedad de Alzheimer o a las estatinas en la hipercolesterolemia. Esto podría tener implicaciones futuras en la EM. Material y métodos: Hemos revisado retrospectivamente 38 pacientes diagnosticados de EMRR (32 mujeres y 6 varones) tratados con INFB durante al menos dos años. Los criterios para llevar a cabo el tratamiento eran uniformes de acuerdo con las indicaciones del Comité asesor para el tratamiento de la EM. Recogimos datos acerca de la edad y tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad. Al cabo de dos años del inicio del tratamiento los pacientes fueron clasificados como respondedores o no-respondedores de acuerdo con los criterios clínicos disponibles, basados en la presencia de brotes, evolución de la discapacidad, o ambos. El genotipo APOE se determinó de muestras sanguíneas utilizando métodos validados de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se estudió la correlación entre la condición de respondedor o no respondedor y la presencia de los alelos E2 o E4. Resultados: Veinte pacientes (52,6%) recibían INFB1b subcutáneo (Betaferón®), 13 (34,2%) INFB1a intramuscular (Avonex®) y 5 (13,2%) INFB1a subcutáneo (Rebif®). Dos pacientes (5,2%) eran heterocigotos para el alelo E2 y 9 (23,7%) para el alelo E4. Ningún paciente era homocigoto para E2 o E4. La presencia o no de estos alelos no se correlacionó con la respuesta al tratamiento de acuerdo con las 10 variables estudiadas. Conclusión: Tras los resultados de un metanálisis que no muestran influencia del gen APOE en la susceptibilidad o severidad de la EM, no hemos encontrado en nuestra serie influencia de este gen en la respuesta de pacientes con EMRR al INFB. En cualquier caso, series más extensas son necesarias para validar estos resultados. Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, Treatment response, Pharmacogenetics, APOE, Palabras clave: Esclerosis múltiple, Respuesta al tratamiento, Farmacogenética, APOE

There is evidence for the role of oxidative stress in severe dengue pathogenesis. However, previous observational studies presents certain methodological limitations, which may affect its internal and external validity. This study was a case-control analysis of patients with severe dengue and dengue with warning signs, to evaluate the serum protein carbonyls-PCOs and lipid hydroperoxides-LOOHs levels and activities of superoxide dismutases-SODs (MnSOD, Cu/ZnSOD and total SOD), as potential prognosis indicators of severity in dengue patients, using binary logistic regression analysis and strategy of double cross-validation. Therefore, the study population was subdivided into a derivation group (pediatric patients, Barranquilla-Colombia) and an external validation group (children and adults patients, National Institute of Health of Peru). PCOs was the only oxidative stress markers that showed a strongest association with the severity of dengue, both in children and adults. In the derivation group, the optimal cut-off point was estimated at 5.29 nmol/mg of protein, and in the external validation group, it was 5.77 nmol/mg of protein. The prognostic models based on these two diagnostic thresholds showed a high discriminatory capacity of dengue severity, external reproducibility, geographic transportability, and typical characteristics of diagnostic validity and safety of screening tests.

[EN] The management of forest resources should be based on reliable measurements of individual standing trees. At the beginning, these measurements allow us to estimate equations and models, which in turn are used to be applied to similar individuals with the objective of estimate variables such as timber volume at plot or stand level. Traditionally, these measurements required the destruction of several standing trees. The present work intends the construction of three-dimensional models of standing trees by terrestrial photogrammetry. With this purpose, four plots were sampled in the MUP n°39 (Madrid) in each of which 5 representative trees were measured and photographed. For the measurement of standing trees, we used: tree caliper, Criterion RD1000 dendrometer and Vertex III hipsometer. The images were taken with a non-metric Canon IXUS 85 IS camera. Three-dimensional models were constructed from the images using VisualSFM software. Subsequently, measurements were made on these models using Meshlab software. The evaluation is performed by comparing the diameters measured on the 3D models with those obtained by other validated measurement methodology (using the Criterion RD1000 laser dendrometer). No significant differences were found between those measurements made with the Criterion and those made on the 3D models. Wood volume estimation of standing trees using photogrammetry is a sound alternative with potential for the next years., [ES] La gestión eficiente de las masas forestales necesita de la medición de árboles individuales de manera precisa. A partir de dichas mediciones se elaboran ecuaciones y modelos que posteriormente pueden aplicarse a ejemplares de similares características, con el objetivo de estimar variables derivadas como el volumen maderable. De manera tradicional, la obtención de dichas mediciones requería el apeo de ejemplares. En este trabajo se evalúa una nueva metodología de medición, basada en la reconstrucción de modelos 3D de árboles mediante métodos fotogramétricos terrestres. Dentro del MUP (Monte de Utilidad Pública) n°39 (Madrid) se seleccionaron 4 parcelas, en cada una de las cuales se midieron y fotografiaron 5 pies. Para la medición se emplearon: forcípula, dendrómetro Criterion RD1000 e hipsómetro Vertex III. Las imágenes se tomaron con una cámara no métrica Canon IXUS 85 IS. A partir de las imágenes se construyeron modelos tridimensionales usando el software VisualSFM (Structure from Motion). Sobre esos modelos se realizaron posteriormente medidas por medio del software Meshlab. La evaluación se realiza a través de la comparación de los diámetros medidos en los modelos 3D con los obtenidos por medio de otra metodología de medición ya validada (usando el dendrómetro láser Criterion RD1000). No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las mediciones realizadas con Criterion y las realizadas sobre el modelo 3D. La cubicación de árboles en pie por medio de métodos fotogramétricos es una alternativa fiable con potencial de desarrollo en los próximos años.