The patterns of population differentiation in a Brassica rapa core collection

With the recent advances in high throughput profiling techniques the amount of genetic and phenotypic data available has increased dramatically. Although many genetic diversity studies combine morphological and genetic data, metabolite profiling has yet to be integrated into these studies. For our study we selected 168 accessions representing the different morphotypes and geographic origins of Brassica rapa. Metabolite profiling was performed on all plants of this collection in the youngest expanded leaves, 5 weeks after transplanting and the same material was used for molecular marker profiling. During the same season a year later, 26 morphological characteristics were measured on plants that had been vernalized in the seedling stage. The number of groups and composition following a hierarchical clustering with molecular markers was highly correlated to the groups based on morphological traits (r = 0.420) and metabolic profiles (r = 0.476). To reveal the admixture levels in B. rapa, comparison with the results of the programme STRUCTURE was needed to obtain information on population substructure. To analyze 5546 metabolite (LC–MS) signals the groups identified with STRUCTURE were used for random forests classification. When comparing the random forests and STRUCTURE membership probabilities 86% of the accessions were allocated into the same subgroup. Our findings indicate that if extensive phenotypic data (metabolites) are available, classification based on this type of data is very comparable to genetic classification. These multivariate types of data and methodological approaches are valuable for the selection of accessions to study the genetics of selected traits and for genetic improvement programs, and additionally provide information on the evolution of the different morphotypes in B. rapa. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00122-010-1516-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users

Comparative Methods for Association Studies: A Case Study on Metabolite Variation in a Brassica rapa Core Collection

Background Association mapping is a statistical approach combining phenotypic traits and genetic diversity in natural populations with the goal of correlating the variation present at phenotypic and allelic levels. It is essential to separate the true effect of genetic variation from other confounding factors, such as adaptation to different uses and geographical locations. The rapid availability of large datasets makes it necessary to explore statistical methods that can be computationally less intensive and more flexible for data exploration. Methodology/Principal Findings A core collection of 168 Brassica rapa accessions of different morphotypes and origins was explored to find genetic association between markers and metabolites: tocopherols, carotenoids, chlorophylls and folate. A widely used linear model with modifications to account for population structure and kinship was followed for association mapping. In addition, a machine learning algorithm called Random Forest (RF) was used as a comparison. Comparison of results across methods resulted in the selection of a set of significant markers as promising candidates for further work. This set of markers associated to the metabolites can potentially be applied for the selection of genotypes with elevated levels of these metabolites. Conclusions/Significance The incorporation of the kinship correction into the association model did not reduce the number of significantly associated markers. However incorporation of the STRUCTURE correction (Q matrix) in the linear regression model greatly reduced the number of significantly associated markers. Additionally, our results demonstrate that RF is an interesting complementary method with added value in association studies in plants, which is illustrated by the overlap in markers identified using RF and a linear mixed model with correction for kinship and population structure. Several markers that were selected in RF and in the models with correction for kinship, but not for population structure, were also identified as QTLs in two bi-parental DH populations

Implementation of sensory stimulation technology in an interactive room for the diffusion of wine making activities

The present innovation project attempts to bolster the promotion and diffusion of wine-making activities through the introduction of 'dynamic sensory stimulation' technology (DSS). The first objective of this paper is to describe the implementation of an interactive lounge that uses this technology for the display of some organoleptic characteristics of pisco and wine. DSS technology is outfitted with synchronized equipment which provides the visitors with an integral, sensory experience consisting of climatic stimulation, similar to the one of the vineyard (principally in regard to temperature and relative humidity); olfactory stimulation with different aromas via a controlled spray (simulating the collection of smells associated with the processes of fermentation and distillation); scientific-gustatory stimulation (technical tasting); and audiovisual stimulation through images and sounds typical of a vineyard. The paper's second aim is to describe the perception and satisfaction level of the visitors of the interactive lounge. The results indicate that it is possible to utilize DSS technology in an interactive lounge in order to further the diffusion of wine-making activities in Arequipa, Peru

A Multi-disciplinary Overview of Chagas in Periurban Peru

There are between 8 and 11 million cases of America Human Trypanosomiasis, commonly known as Chagas disease, in Latin America. Chagas is endemic in southern Peru, especially the Arequipa region, where it has expanded from poor, rural areas to periurban communities. This paper summarizes the findings of four studies in periurban Arequipa: on determinants of disease-vector infestation; on prevalence, spatial patterns, and risk factors of Chagas; on links between migration, settlement patterns, and disease-vector infestation; and on the relationship between discordant test results and spatially clustered transmission hotspots. These studies identified two risk factors associated with the disease: population dynamics and the urbanization of poverty. Understanding the disease within this new urban context will allow for improved public health prevention efforts and policy initiatives. Discovered in 1909 by Brazilian physician Carlos Chagas, American Human Trypanosomiasis is a chronic and potentially life-threatening illness found throughout Latin America (Moncayo, 2003). Indeed, it is estimated that there are between 8 and 11 million cases in Mexico and Central and South America (Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2009). Chagas disease, as it is most commonly known, is endemic in southern Peru, especially in the region of Arequipa. Once thought to be limited to poor, rural areas, the disease is now appearing in the periurban communities that surround Arequipa City, the capital of the region (Cornejo del Carpio, 2003). Understanding the urbanization of Chagas disease will allow public health and medical professionals to better combat the further transmission of the disease. After providing an overview of Chagas and introducing the scope of the disease in Latin America, this paper will summarize the findings of four recent studies conducted in periurban districts in Arequipa. Ultimately, this paper seeks to identify the risk factors associated with Chagas infection in Arequipa’s periurban communities

Principios éticos en el uso de las bases de datos en salud para la investigación

The generation of multiple personal and health data occurs within various processes related to health care services, health surveillance, scientific research, among others. These data can serve as sources of information for monitoring indicators related to individual and community health conditions, as well as for conducting research that can be used for health decision-making and the generation of public policies. However, it is necessary that the use of these health databases be under strict methodological and ethical parameters, so, in this article, we analyze general and methodological aspects of the use of health databases for research. We also identify the benefits, risks, ethical concerns, and recommendations for the appropriate use of health databases.La generación de múltiples datos personales y de salud se da dentro de diversos procesos relacionados a la atención en los servicios de salud, en la vigilancia sanitaria, en la investigación científica, entre otros. Estos datos pueden servir como fuentes de información para el seguimiento de los indicadores relacionados a las condiciones de salud individual y comunitaria, así como para realizar investigaciones que sirvan para la toma de decisiones en salud y la generación de políticas públicas. Sin embargo, es necesario que el uso de estas bases de datos de salud sea bajo estrictos parámetros metodológicos y éticos, por lo que, en este artículo, analizamos aspectos generales y metodológicos del uso de bases de datos en salud para la investigación. Así mismo, identificamos los beneficios, los riesgos, las preocupaciones éticas y recomendaciones para el uso adecuado de bases de datos en salud

Motility and recovery of alpaca (Vicugna pacos) spermatozoa after centrifugation in a density gradient solution

Background: One of the factors limiting successful processing of alpaca (Vicugna pacos) semen is the viscosity of seminal plasma. The viscous nature of the collected ejaculate has hindered sperm cryopreservation as well as artificial insemination (AI) under field conditions. Aims: The objective of this investigation was to evaluate recovery, motility, and plasma membrane integrity of alpaca spermatozoa after centrifugation in one of two different solutions at one of three different combinations of speed and time. Methods: A total of 24 ejaculates was recovered from seven reproductively sound Huacaya males using a modified artificial vagina (AV) after training the animals for semen collection. A 2 × 3 factorial treatment arrangement was utilized for this study. Ejaculates were divided into fractions for centrifugation in one of two solutions (Tris extender or PureSperm®80 density gradient solution) at one of three combinations of speed and time (492 × g for 15 min, 1968 × g for 10 min, or 4448 × g for 7 min). The experiment was replicated eight times. Results: Analysis revealed that centrifugation at 4448 × g for 7 min in PureSperm®80 provided a high recovery rate of spermatozoa with the highest sperm motility and functional integrity of plasma membrane post-centrifugation. Conclusion: Results suggest that adoption of this procedure (centrifugation at 4448 × g for 7 min in PureSperm®80) in the initial processing of alpaca ejaculates may enhance subsequent ability to use semen for AI and other assisted reproductive biotechnologies in this speciesFil: Gómez Quispe, O. E.. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina; Perú. Universidad Nacional Micaela Bastidas de Apurímac; PerúFil: Gutiérrez Reynoso, G. A.. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina; PerúFil: Gallegos Cardenas, A.. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina; PerúFil: Fumuso, Fernanda Gabriela. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; ArgentinaFil: Asparrin, M.. Fundo Mallkini de Michael & Cia S.A.; PerúFil: Asparrin Del Carpio, M.. Fundo Mallkini de Michael & Cia S.A.; PerúFil: Jara, C. W.. Fundo Mallkini de Michael & Cia S.A.; PerúFil: Ponce, D.. Vivanco International SAC; PerúFil: Miguel, M.. Vivanco International SAC; PerúFil: Youngs, C. R.. Iowa State University; Estados UnidosFil: Vivanco, H. W.. Vivanco International SAC; Per

Evaluation of an immunodot blot technique for the detection of antibodies against Taenia solium larval antigens

Immunodiagnostic tests represent an important tool for diagnosis of cysticercosis, the disease caused by cysticerci of Taenia solium. Accurate diagnosis of neurocysticercosis (NCC) requires costly neuroimaging techniques (magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography), which are seldom affordable for people in endemic countries. Hence, new low-cost diagnostic methods offering good sensitivity and specificity are needed. Here, we studied four immunodiagnostic tests immunodot blot Tsol-p27, a commercial ELISA, and Western blot Tsol-p27/TsolHSP36, and compared them with a commercial enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) that we regarded as the gold standard method. The analyzed serum samples were obtained from 160 patients: 94 epileptics suspected of NCC, six individuals confirmed NCC-positive, and 60 with positive (30) or negative (30) serology for Chagas diseases. Of the 100 serum samples from epileptic patients, 13 were positive and 87 negative by EITB. Compared to Western blot Tsol-p27, immunodot blot Tsol-p27 offered similar specificity (97.8% vs. 95.6%) but better sensitivity (86.7% vs. 76.4%). The ELISA was similar to the immunodot blot Tsol-p27 regarding both sensitivity and specificity. Western blot TsolHSP36 provided the lowest sensitivity (61.9%) and specificity (86.1%). None of the antibodies in the serum samples from the Chagas control groups were recognized by immunodot blot Tsol-p27. Our results indicate that the immunodot blot Tsol-p27 provides good sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, considering the simplicity and low cost of this test, it might be preferable as a diagnostic method in poorly equipped laboratories in endemic countries

Plan de negocios de servicios de entretenimiento para el adulto mayor - Club Tayta

El envejecimiento poblacional es un fen?meno demogr?fico mundial al cual el Per? no es ajeno. Conforme trascurren los a?os se observa que la pir?mide poblacional se va invirtiendo, entre otras cosas porque la esperanza de vida ha ido aumentando de manera sostenida y la tasa de natalidad ha ido disminuyendo. Sus consecuencias, unidas a las caracter?sticas sociales, econ?micas y culturales del pa?s, tienden a afectar la calidad de vida de la poblaci?n adulto mayor y al propio proceso de envejecimiento. Aunque el Estado ha establecido un marco normativo y ha dispuesto el despliegue de diversas instituciones que permitan que los adultos mayores disfruten de una vejez activa y participativa en la comunidad, el alcance real de estas iniciativas es que se prioriza el cuidado de la salud f?sica dejando de lado aspectos sociales importantes como el entretenimiento. En ese contexto se plantea el ?Plan de Negocios de Servicios de Entretenimiento para el Adulto Mayor - Club Tayta?, como una alternativa que brinda servicios de entretenimiento especialmente dise?ados para el adulto mayor, mediante el desarrollo de talleres y actividades que les haga sentirse ?tiles, importantes y parte activa de la sociedad, elevando as? su calidad de vida