Time-dependent integrity during storage of natural surface water samples for the trace analysis of pharmaceutical products, feminizing hormones and pesticides

Monitoring and analysis of trace contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and pesticides require the preservation of the samples before they can be quantified using the appropriate analytical methods. Our objective is to determine the sample shelf life to insure proper quantification of ultratrace contaminants. To this end, we tested the stability of a variety of pharmaceutical products including caffeine, natural steroids, and selected pesticides under refrigerated storage conditions. The analysis was performed using multi-residue methods using an on-line solid-phase extraction combined with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-LC-MS/MS) in the selected reaction monitoring mode. After 21 days of storage, no significant difference in the recoveries was observed compared to day 0 for pharmaceutical products, while for pesticides, significant losses occurred for DIA and simazine after 10 days (14% and 17% reduction respectively) and a statistically significant decrease in the recovery was noted for cyanazine (78% disappearance). However, the estrogen and progestogen steroids were unstable during storage. The disappearance rates obtained after 21 days of storage vary from 63 to 72% for the feminizing hormones. Overall, pharmaceuticals and pesticides seem to be stable for refrigerated storage for up to about 10 days (except cyanazine) and steroidal hormones can be quite sensitive to degradation and should not be stored for more than a few days

Brown dwarfs and very low mass stars in the Praesepe open cluster: a dynamically unevolved mass function?

[Abridged] In this paper, we present the results of a photometric survey to identify low mass and brown dwarf members of the old open cluster Praesepe (age of 590[+150][-120]Myr and distance of 190[+6.0][-5.8]pc) and use this to infer its mass function which we compare with that of other clusters. We have performed an optical (Ic-band) and near-infrared (J and Ks-band) photometric survey of Praesepe with a spatial coverage of 3.1deg^2. With 5sigma detection limits of Ic=23.4 and J=20.0, our survey is sensitive to objects with masses from about 0.6 to 0.05Msol. The mass function of Praesepe rises from 0.6Msol down to 0.1Msol and then turns-over at ~0.1Msol. The rise observed is in agreement with the mass function derived by previous studies, including a survey based on proper motion and photometry. Comparing our mass function with that for another open cluster with a similar age, the Hyades (age ~ 600Myr), we see a significant difference. Possible reasons are that dynamical evaporation has not influenced the Hyades and Praesepe in the same way, or that the clusters did not have the same initial mass function, or that dynamical interactions have modified the evolution of one or both clusters. Although a difference in the binary fractions of the clusters could cause the observed (i.e. system) mass functions to differ, measurements in the literature give no evidence for a significant difference in the binary fractions of the two clusters. Of our cluster candidates, six have masses predicted to be equal to or below the stellar/substellar boundary at 0.072Msol.Comment: 11 pages, 11 figures, accepted for publication in A&A. Higher resolution of Figures 2-3-4-5 in A&A published version. Revised version corrected for Englis

Recommendations for ophthalmologic practice during the easing of COVID-19 control measures

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper provides recommendations for medical eye care during the easing of control measures after lockdown. The guidelines presented are based on a literature review and consensus among all Spanish Ophthalmology Societies regarding protection measures recommended for the ophthalmologic care of patients with or without confirmed COVID-19 in outpatient, inpatient, emergency and surgery settings. We recommend that all measures be adapted to the circumstances and availability of personal protective equipment at each centre and also highlight the need to periodically update recommendations as we may need to readopt more restrictive measures depending on the local epidemiology of the virus. These guidelines are designed to avoid the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among both patients and healthcare staff as we gradually return to normal medical practice, to prevent postoperative complications and try to reduce possible deficiencies in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of the ophthalmic diseases. With this update (5th) the Spanish Society of Ophthalmology is placed as one of the major ophthalmology societies providing periodic and systematized recommendations for ophthalmic care during the COVID-19 pandemic

NEOTROPICAL XENARTHRANS: a data set of occurrence of xenarthran species in the Neotropics

Xenarthrans – anteaters, sloths, and armadillos – have essential functions for ecosystem maintenance, such as insect control and nutrient cycling, playing key roles as ecosystem engineers. Because of habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting pressure, and conflicts with 24 domestic dogs, these species have been threatened locally, regionally, or even across their full distribution ranges. The Neotropics harbor 21 species of armadillos, ten anteaters, and six sloths. Our dataset includes the families Chlamyphoridae (13), Dasypodidae (7), Myrmecophagidae (3), Bradypodidae (4), and Megalonychidae (2). We have no occurrence data on Dasypus pilosus (Dasypodidae). Regarding Cyclopedidae, until recently, only one species was recognized, but new genetic studies have revealed that the group is represented by seven species. In this data-paper, we compiled a total of 42,528 records of 31 species, represented by occurrence and quantitative data, totaling 24,847 unique georeferenced records. The geographic range is from the south of the USA, Mexico, and Caribbean countries at the northern portion of the Neotropics, to its austral distribution in Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, and Uruguay. Regarding anteaters, Myrmecophaga tridactyla has the most records (n=5,941), and Cyclopes sp. has the fewest (n=240). The armadillo species with the most data is Dasypus novemcinctus (n=11,588), and the least recorded for Calyptophractus retusus (n=33). With regards to sloth species, Bradypus variegatus has the most records (n=962), and Bradypus pygmaeus has the fewest (n=12). Our main objective with Neotropical Xenarthrans is to make occurrence and quantitative data available to facilitate more ecological research, particularly if we integrate the xenarthran data with other datasets of Neotropical Series which will become available very soon (i.e. Neotropical Carnivores, Neotropical Invasive Mammals, and Neotropical Hunters and Dogs). Therefore, studies on trophic cascades, hunting pressure, habitat loss, fragmentation effects, species invasion, and climate change effects will be possible with the Neotropical Xenarthrans dataset

A new class of glycomimetic drugs to prevent free fatty acid-induced endothelial dysfunction

Background: Carbohydrates play a major role in cell signaling in many biological processes. We have developed a set of glycomimetic drugs that mimic the structure of carbohydrates and represent a novel source of therapeutics for endothelial dysfunction, a key initiating factor in cardiovascular complications. Purpose: Our objective was to determine the protective effects of small molecule glycomimetics against free fatty acid­induced endothelial dysfunction, focusing on nitric oxide (NO) and oxidative stress pathways. Methods: Four glycomimetics were synthesized by the stepwise transformation of 2,5­dihydroxybenzoic acid to a range of 2,5­substituted benzoic acid derivatives, incorporating the key sulfate groups to mimic the interactions of heparan sulfate. Endothelial function was assessed using acetylcholine­induced, endotheliumdependent relaxation in mouse thoracic aortic rings using wire myography. Human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) behavior was evaluated in the presence or absence of the free fatty acid, palmitate, with or without glycomimetics (1µM). DAF­2 and H2DCF­DA assays were used to determine nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, respectively. Lipid peroxidation colorimetric and antioxidant enzyme activity assays were also carried out. RT­PCR and western blotting were utilized to measure Akt, eNOS, Nrf­2, NQO­1 and HO­1 expression. Results: Ex vivo endothelium­dependent relaxation was significantly improved by the glycomimetics under palmitate­induced oxidative stress. In vitro studies showed that the glycomimetics protected HUVECs against the palmitate­induced oxidative stress and enhanced NO production. We demonstrate that the protective effects of pre­incubation with glycomimetics occurred via upregulation of Akt/eNOS signaling, activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway, and suppression of ROS­induced lipid peroxidation. Conclusion: We have developed a novel set of small molecule glycomimetics that protect against free fatty acidinduced endothelial dysfunction and thus, represent a new category of therapeutic drugs to target endothelial damage, the first line of defense against cardiovascular disease

Transición nutricional en Latinoamérica: doble carga de la malnutrición y medidas de intervención

Fundamento: El sobrepeso y la obesidad conviven con la desnutrición en Latinoamérica, representando un serio problema de salud pública denominado doble carga de la malnutrición. La vida sedentaria y la dieta de alta densidad calórica son los principales determinantes de esta situación. Con este trabajo se pretende evaluar la transición nutricional y sus consecuencias, así como conocer las propuestas de intervención que se han llevado a cabo en esta región. Material y métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica a través de PubMed, Web of Science y Google Scholar, y una búsqueda de información relevante de organismos internacionales como la OMS o la FAO. Estas búsquedas se realizaron a través de los términos “Double burden” AND “Malnutrition” AND “Developing countries”, entre otros. Finalmente, se seleccionaron 12 artículos. Resultados: La doble carga de la malnutrición se ha visto evidenciada en Argentina (7-33% sobrepeso en adultos), Guatemala (31% de los adolescentes presentan desnutrición, frente a 18,3% que son obesos), Brasil (12,9% de sobrepeso en la población infantil, además de 23,3% de retraso del crecimiento) y Ecuador (25,3% de niños presentan retraso del crecimiento). Con respecto a las propuestas de mejora puestas en marcha, en Colombia, Chile y México se han llevado a cabo con éxito varias intervenciones a nivel escolar, disminuyendo la prevalencia del síndrome metabólico (44% a 16%). Conclusiones: Los niños y adolescentes corresponden a la población más vulnerable de desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles, evidenciando una situación de doble carga de la malnutrición. Las medidas de intervención mixtas, así como la elaboración de leyes que regulen la publicidad y etiquetado de productos alimenticios, constituyen un eficaz plan de acción contra la situación de transición nutricional.Background: Overweight and obesity coexist with undernutrition in Latin America, representing a serious public health problem called double burden of malnutrition. A sedentary lifestyle and a high calorie density diet are the main determinants of this situation. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the nutritional transition and its consequences, as well as to learn about the intervention proposals that have been made in this region. Material and methods: A literature review was carried out through PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, and a review of relevant information from international organizations such as WHO or FAO. This search was carried out using the terms “Double burden” AND “Malnutrition” AND “Developing countries”, among others. Finally, 12 articles were selected. Results: The double burden of malnutrition has been evidenced in Argentina (7- 33% overweight in adults), Guatemala (31% of adolescents are underweight, compared to 18,3% who are obese), Brazil (12,9% overweight in child population and 23,3% are stunted) and Ecuador (25,3% of children are stunted). While in Colombia, Chile and Mexico several interventions have been successfully implemented at school levels, decreasing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (from 44% to 16%). Conclusions: Children and adolescents correspond to the most vulnerable population for the development of chronic non communicable diseases, evidencing a situation of double burden of malnutrition. Mixed intervention measures, as well as the drafting of laws regulating the advertising and labelling of food products, constitute an effective plan of action against the situation of nutritional transition

Transición nutricional en Latinoamérica: doble carga de la malnutrición y medidas de intervención

Fundamento: El sobrepeso y la obesidad conviven con la desnutrición en Latinoamérica, representando un serio problema de salud pública denominado doble carga de la malnutrición. La vida sedentaria y la dieta de alta densidad calórica son los principales determinantes de esta situación. Con este trabajo se pretende evaluar la transición nutricional y sus consecuencias, así como conocer las propuestas de intervención que se han llevado a cabo en esta región. Material y métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica a través de PubMed, Web of Science y Google Scholar, y una búsqueda de información relevante de organismos internacionales como la OMS o la FAO. Estas búsquedas se realizaron a través de los términos “Double burden” AND “Malnutrition” AND “Developing countries”, entre otros. Finalmente, se seleccionaron 12 artículos. Resultados: La doble carga de la malnutrición se ha visto evidenciada en Argentina (7-33% sobrepeso en adultos), Guatemala (31% de los adolescentes presentan desnutrición, frente a 18,3% que son obesos), Brasil (12,9% de sobrepeso en la población infantil, además de 23,3% de retraso del crecimiento) y Ecuador (25,3% de niños presentan retraso del crecimiento). Con respecto a las propuestas de mejora puestas en marcha, en Colombia, Chile y México se han llevado a cabo con éxito varias intervenciones a nivel escolar, disminuyendo la prevalencia del síndrome metabólico (44% a 16%). Conclusiones: Los niños y adolescentes corresponden a la población más vulnerable de desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles, evidenciando una situación de doble carga de la malnutrición. Las medidas de intervención mixtas, así como la elaboración de leyes que regulen la publicidad y etiquetado de productos alimenticios, constituyen un eficaz plan de acción contra la situación de transición nutricional.Background: Overweight and obesity coexist with undernutrition in Latin America, representing a serious public health problem called double burden of malnutrition. A sedentary lifestyle and a high calorie density diet are the main determinants of this situation. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the nutritional transition and its consequences, as well as to learn about the intervention proposals that have been made in this region. Material and methods: A literature review was carried out through PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, and a review of relevant information from international organizations such as WHO or FAO. This search was carried out using the terms “Double burden” AND “Malnutrition” AND “Developing countries”, among others. Finally, 12 articles were selected. Results: The double burden of malnutrition has been evidenced in Argentina (7- 33% overweight in adults), Guatemala (31% of adolescents are underweight, compared to 18,3% who are obese), Brazil (12,9% overweight in child population and 23,3% are stunted) and Ecuador (25,3% of children are stunted). While in Colombia, Chile and Mexico several interventions have been successfully implemented at school levels, decreasing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (from 44% to 16%). Conclusions: Children and adolescents correspond to the most vulnerable population for the development of chronic non communicable diseases, evidencing a situation of double burden of malnutrition. Mixed intervention measures, as well as the drafting of laws regulating the advertising and labelling of food products, constitute an effective plan of action against the situation of nutritional transition

Residuos de plaguicidas en aguas superficiales de lav region de Chile. Estudio prospectivo

A study was done of seasonal variations of pesticide contents in waters of the Aconcagua river basin and Aromos dam in the V Region of Chile by solid phase extraction (SPE) and Chromatographic determination with GC-ECD, GC-FPD and HPLC-DAD. The waters of the Aconcagua river get contaminated as a result of phytosanitary treatments from San Felipe to the mouth in Concon with the pesticides lindane, diazinon, oxyfluorfen and dicofol at levels below the international standard, and with azinphos-methyl, methabenzthiazuron, lenacil, diflubenzuron and atrazine at levels above the European standards. Waters flowing into the valley are free from pesticide as far as Los Andes. At Aromos dam atrazine coming from Limache valley was quantified at minimum levels. The environmental behaviour of these pesticides was estimated by the log Pow index, the physical chemical characteristics of the waters, and regional rainfall