Improvement of photocatalytic activity in the degradation of 4-chlorophenol and phenol in aqueous medium using tin-modified TiO2 photocatalysts

In this work, we present the synthesis of TiO₂ photocatalysts modified with different % mol of tin using the sol-gel method. The materials were characterized using different analytical techniques. The Rietveld refinement, XPS, Raman and UV-Vis techniques confirm the substitution of tin in the TiO₂ structural lattice due to changes in crystal lattice parameters, the low-energy shift of the Sn 3d_5/2 orbital, generation of oxygen vacancies and the decreased band gap and increased BET surface area. The material with 1 mol% tin shows superior catalytic activity compared to the references for the degradation of 40 ppm 4-chlorophenol (3 hours of reaction) and 50 ppm phenol (6 hours of reaction). Reactions fit pseudo first order kinetics in both instances. The increase in photodegradation efficiency was attributed to the generation of energy levels below the TiO₂ conduction band caused by the incorporation of 1% mol of tin, oxygen vacancies, and the heterojunction formed between the brookite-anatase-rutile, causing inhibition of the recombination of the electron (e^-) and hole (h⁺) photogenerated species. The easy synthesis, low cost and increased photodegradation efficiency of the photocatalyst with 1 mol% tin have the potential to favor the remediation of recalcitrant compounds in water.

Non-convulsive status epilepticus as the initial manifestation in a family with cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL)

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is an autosomal dominant small-vessel disease caused by mutations of the NOTCH3 gene. It typically presents with migraine, recurrent brain ischaemia, and cognitive disorders. Seizures rarely present as the initial manifestation, with non-convulsive status epilepticus being even less frequent. We present a series of 3 related patients with this arteriopathy, 2 of whom presented status epilepticus as a manifestation of the disease.

Blood concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium and dietary cation-anion difference in dairy cows

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to identify the effect of pre and postpartum DCAD on serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in peripartum Holstein cows. Blood samples were collected from 56 cows (18 primiparous and 38 multiparous) on days -7, +7, +14 and +28 relative to parturition, to determine serum levels of total and ionized calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and albumin; diet samples for determination of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and DCAD were collected at the same moments and urine samples were collected at day -7 for measurement of urinary pH. Prepartum DCAD was positively correlated with total calcium (p = 0.02) and with corrected total calcium (p = 0.01) at day -7. There was a negative correlation between prepartum DCAD and magnesium levels at day -7 (p = 0.02). No influence of prepartum DCAD on phosphataemia was observed. Postpartum DCAD did not correlate with serum mineral levels at any time point. Our results demonstrate that prepartum DCAD can influence calcium and magnesium homeostasis, but not phosphorus. In addition, parity and time period should be considered when evaluating serum levels of these minerals in Holstein cows during transition period.

Photodegradation of 2,4-D (dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) with Rh/TiO2; comparative study with other noble metals (Ru, Pt, and Au)

In this work the effect of noble metal on the photodegradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid herbicide using TiO₂ as support was studied. The metals and concentration were: Rh, Ru, Pt and Au and 1, 0.98, 1.89, and 1.91 wt% respectively. Rhodium was taken as reference for this experiment. The samples were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-vis absorption spectra, N₂ physisorption (BET Specific Surface Area), High Annular Angle Analysis Darkfield (HAADF) and Transmission Electron Microscopy Scanning (STEM), H₂ chemisorption, optical emission spectroscopy with inductive coupling plasma analysis (ICP-OES), solid fluorescence, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and OH quantification. The presence of the anatase crystalline phase was mostly confirmed in all samples. The band gap decreased with the presence of metal (from 3.24 to 2.92 eV). The specific area was a function of the metal particle size. The metal particle diameter showed the following sequence Pt > Ru > Au > Rh. By XPS, TiO₂ does not manifest changes in oxidation states, but when impregnated with metals, only Pt shows the highest abundance of any oxidized state (Pt²⁺). The presence of metal reveals less electron–hole recombination compared with titanium oxide. The results of photocatalytic activity showed that Pt and Rh are the two metals with the highest mineralization (99.0 and 98.3%, respectively).

The optimum catalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of 2,4-D was Rh (1%)/TiO₂ by UV radiation. The Rh presents a strong metal-support interaction and improves the photocatalytic properties of TiO₂, modifying its band gap energy.

CDDA: extension and analysis of the discrete dipole approximation for chiral systems

Discrete dipole approximation (DDA) is a computational method broadly used to solve light scattering problems. In this work, we propose an extension of DDA that we call Chiral-DDA (CDDA), to study light-chiral matter interactions with the capability of describing the underlying physics behind. Here, CDDA is used to solve and analyze the interaction of a nanoantenna (either metallic or dielectric) with a chiral molecule located in its near field at different positions. Our method allowed to relate near field interactions with far field spectral response of the system, elucidating the role that the nanoantenna electric and magnetic polarizabilities play in the coupling with a chiral molecule. In general, this is not straightforward with other methods. We believe that CDDA has the potential to help researchers revealing some of the still unclear mechanisms responsible for the chiral signal enhancements induced by nanoantennas.

The electronic nose as a rule-out test for tuberculosis in an indigenous population

INTRODUCTION

To end the tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, efficient diagnostic tools are needed. In a previous calibration study, a portable 'point of care' electronic nose device (Aeonose^TM ) proved to be a promising tool in a hospital setting. We evaluated this technology to detect TB in an indigenous population in Paraguay.

METHODS

A total of 131 participants were enrolled. eNose results were compared with anamnesis, physical examinations, chest radiography and mycobacterial cultures in individuals with signs and symptoms compatible with TB. The eNose analysis was performed in two stages: first, the training with a combination of a previous study population plus 47 participants from the new cohort (total n = 153), and second, the 'blind prediction' of 84 participants.

RESULTS

21% of all participants (n = 131) showed symptoms and/or chest radiography abnormalities suspicious of TB. No sputum samples resulted culture positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. Only one patient had a positive smell print analysis. In the training model, the specificity was 92% (95% confidence interval (CI): 85%-96%) and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 95%. In the blind prediction model, the specificity and the NPV were 99% (95% CI: 93%-99%) and 100%, respectively. Although the sensitivity and positive predictive value of the eNose could not be assessed in this cohort due to the small sample size, no active TB cases were found during a one year of follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

The eNose showed promising specificity and negative predictive value and might therefore be developed as a rule-out test for TB in vulnerable populations.

Effect of arginine supplementation on the morphology and function of intestinal epithelia, and serum concentrations of amino acids in pigs exposed to heat stress

The exposure of pigs to heat stress (HS) appears to damage their intestinal epithelia, affecting the absorption of amino acids (AA). Arg is involved in the restoration of intestinal epithelial cells but HS reduces Arg intake. The effect of dietary supplementation with Arg on morphology of intestinal epithelia, AA transporter gene expression, and serum concentration (SC) of free AA in HS pigs were analyzed. Twenty pigs (25.3 ± 2.4 kg BW) were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments: control (0.81% Arg), wheat-soybean meal diet supplemented with L-Lys, L-Thr, DL-Met and L-Trp, and the experimental diet where 0.16% free L-Arg was supplemented to a similar control diet (+Arg). All pigs were individually housed and exposed to HS, fed at libitum with full access to water. The ambient temperature, recorded at 15-min intervals during the 21-d trial, ranged on average from 29.6 to 39.4 °C within the same day. Blood samples were collected on d18 at 1600 h (ambient temperature peak); serum was separated by centrifugation. At the end of the trial, five pigs per treatment were sacrificed to collect samples of mucosa scratched from each small intestine segment. The expression of AA transporters in intestinal mucosa and the SC of AA were analyzed. Villi height was higher (P < 0.01) in duodenum, jejunum, and ileum but the crypt depth did not differ between the control and the +Arg pigs. Supplementation of L-Arg increased the mRNA coding for the synthesis of the cationic AA transporter b 0,+ (P < 0.01) and the neutral AA transporter B 0 (P < 0.05) in duodenum by approximately five-folds and three-folds, respectively, but no effect on mRNA abundance was observed in jejunum and ileum. The supplementation of L-Arg increased serum Arg, His, Met, Thr, Trp, and urea (P < 0.05); tended to increase Val (P < 0.10), but did not affect Ile, Lys, Leu, and Phe. These results indicate that supplementing 0.16% L-Arg to the control diet may help to improve the function of the small intestine epithelium, by increasing the villi height, the abundance of AA transporters, and the SC of most indispensable AA in pigs exposed to HS conditions. However, the lack of effect of supplemental Arg on both Lys SC and weight gain of pigs suggests that increasing the Lys content in the +Arg diet might be needed to improve the performance of HS pigs.

Lipid-induced mononuclear cell cytokine secretion in the development of metabolic aberration and androgen excess in polycystic ovary syndrome

STUDY QUESTION

What is the effect of saturated fat ingestion on mononuclear cell (MNC) TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β secretion and circulating IL-6 levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Women with PCOS exhibit increases in MNC-derived TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β secretion and circulating IL-6 following saturated fat ingestion even in the absence of obesity, and these increases are linked to metabolic aberration and androgen excess.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Cytokine excess and metabolic aberration is often present in PCOS.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A cross-sectional design was used in this study of 38 reproductive-age women.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Groups of 19 reproductive-age women with PCOS (10 lean, 9 obese) and 19 ovulatory controls (10 lean, 9 obese) participated in this study that was performed at a tertiary academic medical centre. TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β secretion was measured from cultured MNC, and IL-6 was measured in plasma from blood sampling while fasting and 2, 3 and 5 h after saturated fat ingestion. Insulin sensitivity was determined using the Matsuda index following an oral glucose tolerance test. Androgen secretion was evaluated with blood sampling while fasting and 24, 48 and 72 h after an HCG injection.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Lean and obese women with PCOS exhibited lipid-induced incremental AUC increases in MNC-derived TNFα (489-611%), IL-6 (333-398%) and IL-1β (560-695%) secretion and in plasma IL-6 levels (426-474%), in contrast with lean control subjects. In both PCOS groups, insulin sensitivity was lower (42-49%) and androgen secretion after HCG injection was greater (63-110%) compared with control subjects. The MNC-derived TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β and circulating IL-6 responses were inversely associated with insulin sensitivity and directly associated with fasting lipids and androgen secretion after HCG injection.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

The sample size of each of the four study groups was modest following group assignment of subjects by body mass.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This study showcases the unique pro-inflammatory contribution of circulating MNC in the development of metabolic aberration and androgen excess in PCOS.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was supported by grant R01 DK107605 to F.G. from the National Institutes of Health, the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute Clinical Research Center which is funded in part by grant UL1TR002529 from the National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Clinical and Translational Sciences Award, and the Indiana University Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases funded by grant P30 DK097512 from the National Institutes of Health. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. No conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise, are declared by the authors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01489319.

FoxO1 is required for high glucose-dependent cardiac fibroblasts into myofibroblast phenoconversion

In the normal heart, cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) maintain extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis, whereas in pathological conditions, such as diabetes mellitus (DM), CFs converse into cardiac myofibroblasts (CMFs) and this CFs phenoconversion increase the synthesis and secretion of ECM proteins, promoting cardiac fibrosis and heart dysfunction. High glucose (HG) conditions increase TGF-β1 expression and FoxO1 activity, whereas FoxO1 is crucial to CFs phenoconversion induced by TGF-β1. In addition, FoxO1 increases CTGF expression, whereas CTGF plays an active role in the fibrotic process induced by hyperglycemia. However, the role of FoxO1 and CTGF in CFs phenoconversion induced by HG is not clear. In this study, we investigated the effects of FoxO1 pharmacological inhibition on CFs phenoconversion in both in vitro and ex vivo models of DM. Our results demonstrate that HG induces CFs phenoconversion and FoxO1 activation. Moreover, AS1842856, a pharmacological inhibitor of FoxO1 activity, prevents CFs phenoconversion and CTGF expression increase induced by HG, whereas these results were corroborated by FoxO1 silencing. Additionally, K252a, a pharmacological blocker of CTGF receptor, prevents HG-induced CFs phenoconversion, which was corroborated with CTGF expression knockdown. Furthermore, through CFs isolation from heart of diabetic rats, we showed that hyperglycemia induces FoxO1 activation, the increase of CTGF expression and CFs phenoconversion, whereas the FoxO1 activity inhibition reverses the effects induced by hyperglycemia on CFs. Altogether, our results demonstrate that FoxO1 and CTGF are necessary for CFs phenoconversion induced by HG and suggest that both proteins are likely to become a potential targeted drug for fibrotic response induced by hyperglycemic conditions.

Non-convulsive status epilepticus as the initial manifestation in a family with cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL)

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is an autosomal dominant small-vessel disease caused by mutations of the NOTCH3 gene. It typically presents with migraine, recurrent brain ischaemia, and cognitive disorders. Seizures rarely present as the initial manifestation, with non-convulsive status epilepticus being even less frequent. We present a series of 3 related patients with this arteriopathy, 2 of whom presented status epilepticus as a manifestation of the disease.

Oral trichomonosis: Description and severity of lesions in birds in Spain

Avian trichomonosis is a parasitic disease caused by the flagellated protozoan Trichomonas gallinae. Columbiformes are the reservoir host of the parasite, with high levels of infection, but also other domestic and wild birds from a variety of orders are susceptible to the infection and development of gross lesions. In this paper we describe the type and severity of lesions in wild birds in four avian orders (Accipitriformes, Falconiformes, Strigiformes and Columbiformes). A total of 94 clinical cases diagnosed of trichomonosis were selected for the categorization of their lesions in the upper digestive tract. The affected birds were classified into three different categories (mild, moderate and severe) based on size (in relation to the tracheal opening), depth and location of the lesions. Mild cases are those with small and superficial lesions far from the oropharyngeal opening; moderate cases possess larger and deeper lesions, and severe cases very large and deep lesions that impede swallowing or affect the skull. Mild lesions were found in 10.6 % of cases; moderate lesions were observed in 18.1 % of the birds and severe lesions in 71.3 %. Treatment outcomes in birds with either mild or moderate lesions were favorable, while severe lesions were related to poor body score, leading to death or euthanasia in most cases. A relationship between severe lesions and avian order was found, with a higher percentage of birds with this type in Falconiformes, Columbiformes and Strigiformes. Multifocal lesions were more frequent in Columbiformes and Falconiformes. In Strigiformes, 93.3 % of birds showed lesions in the upper jaw. This study seeks to further understanding of avian trichomonosis and to provide information that will be useful to veterinarians and related professionals for assessment, prognosis and treatment choice for these birds.

Variations in AXIN2 predict risk and prognosis of colorectal cancer

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and hypodontia are frequent and different diseases with common genes are involved in their etiology. The objective of this study was to identify the association between AXIN2 rs2240308 with hypodontia and CRC.

Patients and methods

This study consisted of 50 individuals with hypodontia, 50 individuals with CRC, and 155 healthy individuals from Colombia. SNP genotyping assays of rs2240308 were performed and family history of cancer in individuals with hypodontia was documented. In silico analysis was implemented to define the genomic profile of the AXIN2 gene associated with CRC. Multivariate analysis, chi square, odd ratio tests, and R software were used for statistical analysis.

Results

AXIN2 rs2240308 showed association with CRC (OR = 5.4 CI: 2.7–10.4; p < 0.001) and with other familial cancer in individuals with hypodontia (p < 0.005 OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.22–6.91). In silico analysis showed that variations in AXIN2 found in CRC patients, were more frequently in earlier stages of tumor and patients who carry variations in the AXIN2 gene have a worse prognosis (p < 0.05). The association between AXIN2 rs2240308 with hypodontia was not significant.

Conclusions

These results suggest that AXIN2 rs2240308 polymorphism is associated with CRC and AXIN2 could be a risk marker for predisposition and prognosis of CRC.

Characterization of the phone-calls made to a poison center related to household and cosmetics products exposition in pediatrics

INTRODUCTION

Household cleaning products and cosmetics are necessary for daily life and widely used by the population. However, their use may not be risk-free, especially when they are not used or stored as recommended. It is important to characterize exposures, as this is useful for developing stra tegies to reduce morbidity, mortality, and health costs associated, especially in the child population.

OBJECTIVE

To describe reports associated with household cleaning products and cosmetics exposure in patients under the age of 12, reported to the Poison Information Center of the Catholic University of Chile (CITUC).

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Descriptive cross-sectional study of phone calls to CITUC during 2016. The analyzed variables were age, sex, product, caller, caller and incident location, ex posure circumstances, exposure route(s), symptoms, and severity from manual records and from the WHO's electronic record software 'INTOX Data Management System'.

RESULTS

3,415 cases met the inclusion criteria. Children under the age of five represented 91% of the exposures, and 58.5% were male. 99.4% were accidental exposures, and 98.6% occurred at home. Family members (57%) and health personnel (42%) made the calls. 68.3% of the patients had no symptoms after exposure. The four products with the highest incidence were household bleach (27.6%), floor cleaners and polishers (13.1%), dish soap (7.9%), and perfume/cologne (5.8%). The main exposure route was by ingestion (89.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Household cleaning products and cosmetics are common causes of exposures especially in children under the age of five. Although these products have a low morbidity and mortality rate, it is important to educate the population to prevent possible poisonings in the child population.

Vertical distribution and aggregation patterns of krill (Crustacea: Euphausiacea) in the Bay of Biscay: interannual and seasonal variability

Studies of krill (Crustacea: Euphausiacea) in oceanic waters of the Bay of Biscay are scarce and restricted to the epipelagic zone, overlooking vertical dynamics such as diurnal vertical migration (DVM). There is a growing interest in acoustically evaluating the biomass of krill in this area, but this requires a good knowledge of its vertical dynamics and aggregation patterns. In this work we employed acoustic data and net samples from two consecutive annual surveys covering a wide off-shelf area of the Bay of Biscay (JUVENA surveys of 2013 and 2014) and four seasonal surveys covering slope and oceanic waters in the Cantabrian Sea (SCAPA surveys of 2015). Vertical dynamics of krill were analyzed in the frame of the environmental seascape. High interannual and seasonal variations in the vertical distribution and aggregation patterns (small swarms, dense aggregations, or loose layers) of krill were observed. The vertical distribution covaried with dissolved oxygen and salinity. According to our findings, the best season to acoustically evaluate krill in the Bay of Biscay is spring, with the bulk of the biomass located above 600 m depth. Moreover, extending the acoustic recording beyond the epipelagic zone is mandatory for any season.

Physically meaningful Monte Carlo approach to the four-flux solution of a dense multilayered system

Due to the complexity of the radiative transfer equation, light transport problems are commonly solved using either models under restrictive assumptions, e.g., N-flux models where infinite lateral extension is assumed, or numerical methods. While the latter can be applied to more general cases, it is difficult to relate their parameters to the physical properties of the systems under study. Hence in this contribution we present, first, a review of a four-flux formalism to study the light transport problem in a plane-parallel system together with a derivation of equations to evaluate the different contributions to the total absorptance and, second, as a complementary tool, a Monte Carlo algorithm with a direct correspondence between its inputs and the properties of the system. The combination of the four-flux model and the Monte Carlo approach provides (i) all convergence warranties since the formalism has been established as a limit and (ii) new added capabilities, i.e., both temporal (transient states) and spatial (arbitrarily inhomogeneous media) resolution. The support between the theoretical model and the numerical tool is reciprocal since the model is utilized to set a Monte Carlo discretization criterion, while the Monte Carlo approach is used to validate the aforementioned model. This reinforces the parallel approach used in this work. Furthermore, we provide some examples to show its capabilities and potential, e.g., the study of the temporal distribution of a delta-like pulse of light.

[Cardiovascular Preparticipation Screening of young population. Position statement of Chilean Scientific Societies]

The Preparticipation Physical Evaluation (PPE), defined as "the health supervision of individuals, prior to the practice of physical activity and/or sports, which seeks to optimize their safe participation in sports and provide an opportunity to identify current and future risks to their health and quality of life", inclu des the Cardiovascular assessment, which aims to screen cardiovascular pathologies with the risk of worsening or sudden death during exercise. Although there is broad international consensus that the use of Pediatric Cardiovascular PPE in young athletes is useful, there is no consensus on whether this should be used in the entire pediatric population or on which is the best strategy to apply. This article presents the position of the scientific societies related to sport, physical activity and child health on the Pediatric Cardiovascular PPE.

Validación del instrumento: Competencias del personal de enfermería en Salud Pública, en el contexto mexicano

Introducción: Cuando se utilicen cuestionarios desarrollados en otros países e idiomas en estudios científicos, además de traducirlos, es necesario su adaptación cultural y validación, el objetivo de esta investigación es contar con un instrumento válido y confiable para evaluar las competencias del personal de enfermería en salud pública, para aplicarlo en el contexto mexicano. Metodología: El estudio fue de tipo descriptivo-transversal, multietápico, la población se integró en 3 grupos para las 3 diferentes etapas, en la primera, por un grupo de 10 expertos en investigación de la Facultad de Enfermería de Tampico, de la Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, México y 17 profesionales que laboran en el primer nivel de atención; en la segunda, 30 profesionales de enfermería y en la tercera 177 profesionales que trabajan en el campo de la salud pública, todos ellos de tres jurisdicciones del Sur de Tamaulipas, México, el muestreo fue por conveniencia. Resultados: En cuanto a los tres procesos que se realizaron para la validación del instrumento, se mostraron resultados adecuados y satisfactorios para su aplicación, ya que en la prueba de V-Aiken se obtuvo un resultado cercano a 1, en el proceso semántico sólo se realizó modificación a una palabra; a través de la prueba piloto se obtuvo un resultado de 0.97 en el alfa de cronbach. Conclusiones: El instrumento se considera válido para iniciar con la evaluación de las mencionadas competencias, para contar con un diagnóstico inicial de las áreas de oportunidad para personal de enfermería.

Biodegradable multi-walled carbon nanotubes trigger anti-tumoral effects

Carbon nanotubes are of huge biotechnological interest because they can penetrate most biological barriers and, inside cells, can biomimetically interact with the cytoskeletal filaments, triggering anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects in highly dividing cells. Unfortunately, their intrinsic properties and bio-persistence represent a putative hazard that relapses their application as therapies against cancer. Here we investigate mild oxidation treatments to improve the intracellular enzymatic digestion of MWCNTs, but preserving their morphology, responsible for their intrinsic cytotoxic properties. Cell imaging techniques and confocal Raman spectroscopic signature analysis revealed that cultured macrophages can degrade bundles of oxidized MWCNTs (o-MWCNTs) in a few days. The isolation of nanotubes from these phagocytes 96 hours after exposure confirmed a significant reduction of approximately 30% in the total length of these filaments compared to the control o-MWCNTs extracted from the cell culture medium, or the intracellular pristine MWCNTs. More interestingly, in vivo single intratumoral injections of o-MWCNTs triggered ca. 30% solid melanoma tumour growth-inhibitory effects while displaying significant signs of biodegradation at the tumoral/peri-tumoral tissues a week after the therapy has had the effect. These results support the potential use of o-MWCNTs as antitumoral agents and reveal interesting clues of how to enhance the efficient clearance of in vivo carbon nanotubes.

Electromagnetic behavior of dielectric objects on metallic periodically nanostructured substrates

In this research, we investigate the electromagnetic behavior of a metallic thin-film with a periodic array of subwavelength apertures when dielectric objects are located on it. The influence of size, geometry and optical properties of the objects on the transmission spectra is numerically analyzed. We study the sensitivity of this system to changes in the refractive index of the illuminated volume induced by the presence of objects with sizes from hundreds of nanometers (submicron-sized objects) to a few microns (micron-sized objects). Parameters such as the object volume within the penetration depth of the surface plasmon in the buffer medium or the contact surface between the object and the nanostructured substrate strongly affect the sensitivity. The proposed system models the presence of objects and their detection through the spectral shifts undergone by the transmission spectra. Also, we demonstrate that these can be used for obtaining information about the refractive index of a micron-sized object immersed in a buffer and located on the nanostructured sensitive surface. We believe that results found in this study can help biomedical researchers and experimentalists in the process of detecting and monitoring biological organisms of large sizes (notably, cells).

Las razas porcinas mediterráneas y su impacto ambiental

El cerdo Ibérico y la mayor parte las razas de cerdos Mediterráneos, han sido consideradas como cerdos autóctonos tradicionalmente vinculados al medio en los que se han desarrollado, con libertad de movimientos y alimentación basada en recursos naturales. Sin embargo, se conoce poco sobre el papel medioambiental desempeñado por estas razas, y en la actualidad, los sistemas productivos respetuosos con el medio están ganado reconocimiento. Además, en el futuro la contaminación generada por las granjas porcinas será objeto de una regulación más rígida de la que existe hoy día, debido a la rápida expansión experimentada por este tipo de producción en los países desarrollados. El 34 % de los gases de efecto invernadero generados en la producción de carne de cerdo, corresponden a las fases de cría y engorde de los animales. Para esta finalidad, España importa maíz y soja de más de 39 países diferentes. Estos flujos de mercado ocasionan una gran cantidad de CO2, y añadido a esto, los sistemas de producción porcina intensivos generan una gran cantidad de purines. En este punto, es importante remarcar los sistemas tradicionales de producción de cerdo Ibérico caracterizados por un ciclo de producción largo y una baja densidad de animales, donde los residuos orgánicos generados no son un problema medioambiental añadido. En conclusión, las implicaciones medioambientales de la producción de cerdos mediterráneos en condiciones extensivas, aún no se han cuantificado y deben ser estudiados. Por tanto, se necesita un mayor número de investigaciones que desarrollen prácticas respetuosas con el medio ambiente evitando así impactos medioambientales innecesarios.

Effectiveness of antismoking drug treatment in patients with psychiatric comorbidity compared with patients without this comorbidity

BACKGROUND

There is a relationship between smoking and some psychiatric disorders, and there is doubt whether antismoking treatment will be more complex because of psychiatric disorder.

AIM

To analyze the differences in treatment success rates among patients without psychiatric disorder and patients with psychiatric disorder who have received complete pharmacological treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the records of patients completely treated at Albacete University Hospital Complex during 2011. The sample comprised 293 patients seen in 2011. We treated only 73 patients and divided them into patients with or without psychiatric disorders. We analyzed the following variables: sex, age, age at smoking onset, previous quitting attempts, cigarettes per day, CO-oximetry, Fagerström test, Richmond test, alcoholism, treatment distribution, treatment failure, success, and relapse.

RESULTS

Of a total sample of 293 patients seen in 2011, 73 patients were treated: 43 were men and 30 were women. Overall, 37% had psychiatric disorder (five men and 22 women). Treatment was successful in 51 (70%) patients. There were no differences between the demographic characteristics of the two groups, except for sex (P<0.05); or regarding success, failure, or relapse; or regarding success analyzed separately according to sex distribution.

CONCLUSION

Smoking cessation treatment is equally effective in patients with and without psychiatric disorders. The characteristics of the patients with psychiatric disorders who completed the pharmacological treatment did not differ in intensity, motivation, or dependence from those with no psychiatric comorbidity. Smoking women have more psychiatric morbidity; however, the treatment is effective.

Proposal for improved mixes to produce concrete masonry units with commonly used aggregates available in the Valley of Mexico

Proposal for improved mixes to produce concrete masonry units with commonly used aggregates available in the Valley of MexicoABSTRACTIn this paper, a proposal is done to update the masonry index compressive strength design value f*m for solid concrete masonry units for the masonry guidelines of Mexico´s Federal District Code (NTCM-2004). Solid units were made by taking into account the characteristics of the most commonly used raw materials available in the Valley of Mexico to fabricate such units in the Metropolitan Area of Mexico City. Different tests were conducted for both raw materials and the obtained concrete units. Based upon test results, it is illustrated why it is much better to design masonry structures based upon the experimental data of the units to be used at the construction site rather than using index values proposed in building codes.Keywords: masonry; concrete masonry units; compressive strength.Propuesta de mejora de mezclas para producir piezas de mampostería de concreto empleando materiales comúnmente disponibles en el Valle de MéxicoRESUMENSe presenta un estudio donde se hace una propuesta para actualizar los valores índices de la resistencia a la compresión de mamposterías (f*m) elaboradas con piezas de concreto especificados en las normas de mampostería vigentes en el Distrito Federal. Se realizó un estudio de mercado, donde se tomaron en cuenta las características de los materiales comúnmente utilizados en la actualidad en el Valle de México para la fabricación de piezas de concreto sólidas, incluyendo los resultados de distintas pruebas de laboratorio realizadas a la materia prima. Con base en estos resultados, se ilustran las ventajas de diseñar a la mampostería con base experimental en lugar de utilizar los valores indicativos que se ofrecen en las normas de mampostería.Palabras clave: mampostería; piezas de concreto; resistencia a la compresión. Proposta de melhoria de traços para produzir blocos de alvenaria de concreto utilizando materiais comumente disponíveis no Vale do México RESUMOApresenta-se um estudo onde se propõe uma atualização dos valores do índice de resistência à compressão da alvenaria (f*m) elaborados com blocos de concreto especificados nas normas de alvenaria em vigor no Distrito Federal. Foi realizado um estudo de mercado, que levou em conta as características dos materiais comumente utilizados atualmente no Vale do México para a fabricação de blocos de concreto sólidos, incluindo os resultados de vários testes de laboratório nas matérias-primas disponíveis. Com base nestes resultados, são apresentadas as vantagens de projetar a alvenaria com base experimental em lugar de usar os valores indicativos oferecidos nas normas de alvenaria.Palavras chave: alvenaria; blocos de concreto; resistência à compressão.

Extension of the Kubelka-Munk theory to an arbitrary substrate: a Monte Carlo approach

In this work we review and-to some extent-upgrade one of the main theories of light flux through homogeneous isotropic media, namely, the Kubelka-Munk (K-M) theory, and in particular the later expansion made by Kubelka to obtain the reflectance of a specimen when a substrate lies underneath. We have completed this solution by calculating the transverse energy density in the specimen and the transmission of the whole. We show that this last result-compatible with Kubelka's upgrade for layered media-also allows for the calculation of the specimen/substrate absorption split. In order to validate these expressions, the results were reproduced by means of a Monte Carlo simulation working on a layered medium under the same assumptions as the K-M theory. Interestingly, the numerical procedure introduces new capabilities in the model regarding the history of any absorbed or outgoing elemental light beam, such as the recording of its time-of-flight through a given system.

Seroprevalence in Household Raised Pigs Indicate High Exposure to GII Noroviruses in Rural Nicaragua

Information about porcine norovirus (PoNoV), genetically similar to human NoV (HuNoV), is limited from rural areas where household-raised pigs are heavily exposed to faecal material which could facilitate transmission. Histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) are known susceptibility factors to NoV in humans and in a germfree piglet model but their role in susceptibility in the porcine population remains unknown. This study reports: (i) the seroprevalence and antibody titres to human norovirus (NoV) VLPs in household raised pigs; (ii) the distribution of HBGAs in relation to NoV IgG antibody titres and further characterization by blocking of GII.4 VLP binding to pig gastric mucins (PGM). The majority of pigs were seropositive to all three VLPs tested (58-70%) with seropositivity and cross-reactivity increasing significantly with age. However, pig sera could not block the binding of NoV GII.4 VLPs (Dijon) to PGM suggesting no previous infection with this genotype. The majority of the pigs were H-positive (84%), a susceptibility factor for human infections. IgG antibody titres were however higher in H-negative (GMT = 247) as compared with H-positive (GMT = 57) pigs, but after age stratification, this difference in antibody titres was only observed in pigs ≤1 month of age. In conclusion, serological data show that the porcine population of Nicaragua is highly exposed to NoV infections, and the association to HBGAs warrants further investigation.

Induction of hyperandrogenism in lean reproductive-age women stimulates proatherogenic inflammation

We determined the effect of hyperandrogenemia as observed in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) on fasting and glucose-stimulated proatherogenic inflammation markers in lean healthy reproductive-age women. Sixteen lean healthy ovulatory reproductive-age women were treated with 130 mg of DHEA or placebo (n=8 each) for 5 days. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA and IL-6 release from mononuclear cells (MNC), plasma IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP), and MNC-derived (matrix metalloproteinase-2) MMP-2 protein were quantified in the fasting state and 2 h after glucose ingestion, before and after treatment. Before treatment, subjects receiving dehydroepinadrosterone (DHEA) or placebo exhibited no differences in androgens, or any proatherogenic inflammation markers while fasting and after glucose ingestion. Compared with placebo, DHEA administration raised levels of testosterone, androstenedione, and DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S), and increased the percent change from baseline in fasting IL-6 mRNA, IL-6 release, plasma IL-6, and CRP and MMP-2 protein. However, there were no differences in any of the proatherogenic inflammation markers following glucose ingestion after DHEA administration. We conclude that in lean reproductive-age women, proatherogenic inflammation in the fasting state increases after raising circulating androgens to levels observed in PCOS. However, this hyperandrogenemia-induced MNC activation does not provoke a similar response to subsequent glucose ingestion.

Influence of pollutants in the magneto-dielectric response of silicon nanoparticles

The influence of the degree of purity of a silicon nanoparticle on its resonances, either electric or magnetic, is assessed by using Mie theory as well as finite-element simulations. In particular, it is shown that the main effect of the increase of absorption due to the pollutants is observed in the magnetic resonances. Concerning Kerker's conditions for the directionality of the scattering [J. Opt. Soc. Am.73, 765 (1983)], it is found that both are strongly shifted when the material's purity is varied. Resistive losses confirm the quenching of magnetic resonances, showing that the region of influence in the magnetic dipole resonance is much larger than in the electric one, although it has been found that losses are not critical for silicon content over 99.50%.

Pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin after multiple subcutaneous and intramuscular administrations in adult ostriches

1. The objective of the study was to evaluate the comparative pharmacokinetic behaviour of enrofloxacin in adult ostriches after single and multiple intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SC) administrations. In addition, tissue tolerance was evaluated. 2. Enrofloxacin was well absorbed, but showed a short permanence after both administration routes. After multiple dose administrations the maximum and minimum peak plasma concentrations were very similar for both routes, obtaining a steady state phase from the second dose that extended until the last evaluated administration. 3. There was no significant accumulation after multiple IM or SC doses; however, there were differences in a fluctuation index after multiple intramuscular administrations that could be related to muscle damage. 4. The different microbiological efficacy indicators (PK/PD indices) obtained, the pharmacokinetic behaviour and CK serum concentrations suggest that subcutaneous enrofloxacin administration of 15 mg/kg every 12 h produce and maintain an efficient concentration of antibiotic that is a safer and more effective therapeutic option than intramuscular administration.

Influence of cool storage before freezing on the quality of frozen-thawed semen samples in dogs

The aim of this study was to determinate the semen quality of frozen-thawed samples that were chilled for up to 2 days before freezing. The ejaculates (n = 18) from six dogs were collected, pooled and divided into six aliquots. The first aliquot (C, control) was frozen in liquid nitrogen using a conventional protocol to reach a final concentration of 100 × 10(6) spermatozoa/ml, 20% egg yolk and 5% glycerol. The remaining five aliquots were diluted with a chilled extender (Tris-glucose and 20% egg yolk) and cooled at 4 °C as follows: R1, the semen was cooled for 1 h; R6, the semen was cooled for 6 h; R12, the semen was cooled for 12 h; R24, the semen was cooled for 24 h and R48, the semen was cooled for 48 h. After the chilling period, a second extender was added (Tris-glucose, 20% egg yolk, 10% glycerol and Equex at 1%) to reach a final composition similar to aliquot C, and then, the semen samples (R1, R6, R12, R24 and R48) were frozen in liquid nitrogen. The post-thaw sperm quality was assessed in 30 straws from each experimental group. After freezing-thawing, the total sperm motility (approximately 60-70%) in the semen chilled for up to 48 h did not show any differences from the samples frozen by the conventional cryopreservation method (63.2%). No significant differences were detected in the percentages of abnormal sperm cells among the fresh semen, the control group and the frozen samples after the different cooling times. Finally, the post-thaw percentages of damaged acrosomes showed a very uniform distribution, with mean values ranging between 7% and 10.5%. The results clearly demonstrated that cooling the semen up to 48 h before freezing did not produce a decrease in the semen quality when was compared with semen frozen by a traditional procedure.