Discrimination of n-3 Rich Oils by Gas Chromatography

Exploring the capabilities of instrumental techniques for discriminating n-3 rich oils derived from animals is a very important though much neglected area that was emphasized more than 100 years ago. In this study the potential of gas chromatography (GC) for discriminating full fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles from fish (cod liver and salmon) and marine mammal (seal and whale) oils is evaluated by means of principal component analysis (PCA). The FAME profiles from plant oils such as rapeseed, linseed and soy oils and seven different brands of n-3 supplements are also used in the discrimination process. The results from the PCA plots can reliably distinguish between plant, n-3 supplements, fish and marine mammal oils. By removing the contribution of the n-3 supplements and plant oils it is possible to discriminate between types of fish and marine animal oils. GC offers a rapid, simple and convenient means of discriminating oils from different species, brands and grades

New national and regional bryophyte records, 52

Marchantia paleacea is a new species for the Umbria Region and is rare in central and southern Italy. This record is in a Site of Community Importance (SCI) IT5220017 and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) of the Natura 2000 EU-wide network due to the presence of the 7220* ‘Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion)’ Annexe I priority habitat. The particular environment, with a gorge and waterfall, created a very special microclimate that allowed the establishment of interesting liverworts and mosses

Prescribing restrictions – a necessary strategy among some European countries to enhance future prescribing efficiency?

<p class="abstract">The unsustainable growth in pharmaceutical expenditure has resulted in multiple initiatives across Europe to lower prices of generics and enhance their utilisation. These include prescribing restrictions. However, there have been concerns with their impact on subsequent quality of care as well as their influence in reality. OBJECTIVES: (a) Review the influence of prescribing restrictions and whether there are any differences depending on their nature and drug classes; (b) Ascertain whether prescribing restrictions can be added to existing demand-side measures to further enhance prescribing efficiency; (c) Whether they compromise subsequent quality of care. RESULTS: Prescribing restrictions have a variable impact on subsequent utilisation of patented protected products versus generics in a class, with their influence depending on the nature and follow-up of the restrictions rather than the class of drug. This is seen among the proton pump inhibitors, statins, and renin-angiotensin drugs. Prescribing restrictions can be successfully added to existing measures to further enhance prescribing efficiency, and do not appear to compromise subsequent quality of care. CONCLUSIONS: Prescribing restrictions can be a successful strategy as countries strive to maintain the European ideals for healthcare. However, care is needed when planning these programmes: else health authorities could be disappointed with their outcome.</p

Viral Diversity in Autochthonous Croatian Grapevine Cultivars

A survey was conducted on nine autochthonous grapevine cultivars grown along the Croatian coastal region. In total, 48 vines (44 from germplasm collection, 4 from vineyards) originating from 23 sites were tested for 26 viruses using molecular methods. Results revealed high infection rates with Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 (GLRaV-3); Grapevine virus A (GVA, both 91.7%); Grapevine fleck virus (GFkV, 87.5%); and Grapevine rupestris stem pitting-associated virus (GRSPaV, 83.3%). Other detected viruses were: Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV); Grapevine leafroll-associated viruses 1, 2, and strains of 4 (GLRaV-1, GLRaV-2, GLRaV-4); Grapevine viruses B, D, F (GVB, GVD, GVF); Grapevine red globe virus (GRGV); Grapevine vein feathering virus (GVFV); Grapevine Syrah virus 1 (GSyV-1); and Grapevine Pinot gris virus (GPGV). No virus-free vine was found. Mixed infections were determined in all vines, the number of viruses in a single vine ranged from three to nine. GLRaV-3 variant typing confirmed presence of group I, II, and III. Four vines with leaf deformation and mottling were positive for GPGV. Seven viruses (GLRaV-4-like group, GVD, GVE, GVF, GRGV, GSyV-1, and GVFV) were detected for the first time in Croatia. This survey confirmed the deteriorated sanitary status of autochthonous Croatian grapevine cultivars