The impact of the genotype on the prevalence of classical scrapie at population level

Total number and genotypes of animals in holdings selected for the genotype & cull option in the Compulsory Scrapie Flock Scheme (CSFS) in Great Britain were extracted from the National Scrapie Plan data warehouse. The association between various genotype-related measures and scrapie prevalence infection was tested using zero-inflated negative binomial models with the counts of positive cases as dependent variable, and country, number of flocks in the scheme, flock size, surveillance source and the following genotype-related measurements: the centered-log ratios (clr) oof the 15 genotypes, of the proportions of the 5 alleles at codons 136, 154 and 171, of the proportions of the 5 NSP types, and two flock-susceptibility risk indicators, as explanatory variables. A total of 319341 genotyped animals from 168 holdings were included in the analysis. An increased proportion of the ARR/ARR genotype corresponded to a decrease in the number of scrapie cases. ARR/AHQ, AHQ/VRQ, ARH/VRQ and ARQ/VRQ genotypes, NSP type V, ARH, ARQ, AHQ and VRQ alleles and the low and high-susceptibility risk indicators are all associated with an increase risk in the number of scrapie cases

Acceptability of positive technologies by patients with eating disorders: Results from a Randomized Control Trial

The present study is aimed to analyze acceptability ratings of positive technologies reported by patients with eating disorders. 54 patients were enrolled in a randomized control trial with two experimental conditions. In the intervention group (n=29), participants performed the best possible self exercise, through positive technologies, for one month. Likewise, participants in the control group (n=25) had to write about their daily activities also through technology. Acceptability levels were rated at the end of the one-month training. Results showed that participants of both conditions reported appropriate levels of satisfaction with the exercises and the technologies and they also perceived the exercises as useful. These results suggest that positive technologies can serve as a supporting tool delivering interventions aimed to improve positive emotions and well-being in clinical samples

Implementation of a positive psychology group program in an inpatient eating disorder service. A pilot Study

Context: Eating disorders (ED) are very difficult conditions to treat. Therefore, interventions in this field are shifting their main target towards the disorder's impact in quality of life, rather than ED symptomatology in itself. In this sense, a focus in the promotion of positive emotions and well-being is emerging in order to ameliorate the harmful effects caused by ED. However, evidence of potential benefits of this type of interventions is still scarce. Purpose: This study introduces a 4-week positive psychology group program specifically designed for ED patients' needs and to present data about feasibility and acceptability. Method: Seven female inpatients of an eating disorder service aged from 13 to 38 years old attended the group. Measures of affect and optimistic thinking were taken before the program and after each session. Results: The program was very well rated by participants, and there was no attrition. Furthermore, possible benefits were found in terms of optimistic thinking at the end of the group program, and these benefits were noticeable, but non-significant, in the case of affect. Conclusions: This study opens the door to conduct larger and controlled studies for testing interventions aimed at promoting positive emotions and well-being in ED populations. Thus, these interventions could support the efficacy of current treatments in order to improve patients' quality of life

Expression of Homing Receptors in IgM+IgD+CD27+ B Cells and Their Frequencies in Appendectomized and/or Tonsillectomized Individuals

Q4Q3Pacientes apendicectomizados y/o amigdalectomizadosBackground: In humans, blood circulating IgM+IgD+CD27+ B cells are considered analogous to those described in the marginal zone of the spleen and are involved in important immunological processes. The homing receptors they express, and the organs involved in their development (for example, intestinal organs in rabbits) are only partially known. We recently reported that this population is heterogeneous and composed of at least two subsets: one expressing high levels of IgM – IgMhi B cells – and another low levels – IgMlo B cells. Objectives: To evaluate the expression of homing receptors on IgD+CD27+ IgMhi and IgMlo B cells and quantify their frequencies in blood of control and appendectomized and/or tonsillectomized volunteers. Materials and Methods: Using spectral flow cytometry, the simultaneous expression of 12 previously reported markers that differentiate IgMhi B cells and IgMlo B cells and of α4β7, CCR9, CD22 and CCR10 were evaluated in blood circulating B cells of control and appendectomized and/or tonsillectomized volunteers. Results The existence of phenotypically defined IgMlo and IgMhi B cell subsets was confirmed. They differentially expressed intestinal homing receptors, and the expression of α4β7 and CCR9 seems to determine new IgM subpopulations. IgMlo and IgMhi B cells were detected at lower frequencies in the appendectomized and/or tonsillectomized volunteers relative to controls. Conclusions: Human blood circulating IgD+CD27+ IgMlo and IgMhi B cell subsets differentially express homing receptors, and it is necessary to investigate if mucosal organs are important in their development.https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0817-2718https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6973-7639https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0265-0563https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6623-5337Revista Internacional - IndexadaA2N

Simulation of a biorefinery process as learning tool in chemical engineering degree

Currently, the search for alternative biomass to be used as renewable sources for energy production is one of the most important challenges to achieve a sustainable growth based on a bioeconomy strategy (Mendes et al., 2009). In this context, lignocellulosic waste are a renewable, clean, inexpensive and with high availability for the manufacture of biofuels. In this sense, the main objective of this study was the simulation and design of engineering processes that allows the valorization of lignocellulosic waste and the obtaining of biofuels as alternative to fossil fuels. This goal implies the practical application of the theoretical knowledge acquired by the student during the chemical engineering degree. Specifically, the students designed and simulated a biorefinery process that consisted of a Kraft pulping process as starting point of two main lines of production: (1) Process I: production of bioethanol and (2) Process II: direct and indirect production of dimethylether (DME), both from lignocellulosic biomass (Fig.1). Two commercial simulation packages, ASPEN HYSYS® and UNISIM were used to simulate the production of dimethylether and bioethanol, respectively. The first step was determining a strategic situation for the installation of the biorefinery. The central area of Andalusia (between the municipalities of Lucena and Antequera) was considered the most adequate area to develop the installation of the biorefinery plant after evaluating the biomass available inside of 100 kms of distance around this place. Specifically, different biomass mixtures were considered in order to ensure the viability of a constant inlet flow of biomass in the biorefinery. In function of this inlet flow of biomass, the installations were designed and dimensioned in each stage of the process. The student carried out a wide revision of state of the art to decide the most adequate processes among different alternatives to obtain dimethylether and bioethanol. The different stages selected as the most adequate in each line of the process can be observed in Fig.1. Moreover, the students evaluated the different alternatives for the valorisation and optimization of the by-products generated in each stage of the process in order to minimize the consuming of chemical compounds and energy requirements. Therefore, the students learnt to develop a real engineering process more sustainable and friendly with the environment. To sum up, the used of programs to simulate the transformation of lignocellulosic biomass in biofuels, such as, bioethanol or dimethylether, which is a process with several social, environmental and economic advantages, was an interesting learning tool for students of chemical engineering degree. Keywords Bioethanol, design, dimethylether, Kraft pulping process, simulations. References Mendes, C.V.T., Carvalho, M.G.V.S., Baptista, C.M.S.G., Rocha, J.M.S., Soares, B.I.G., Sousa, G.D.A., 2009. Valorisation of hardwood hemicelluloses in the kraft pulping process by using an integrated biorefinery concept. Food Bioproduct Process 87:197–207.Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech MINECO: Proyecto CTQ2015-68654-

El Mejor Self Posible: Una intervención dirigida a generar emociones positivas. Resultados preliminares

La vivencia de emociones positivas promueve un pensamiento más abierto y flexible y nos fortalece frente a la adversidad. Desde el campo de la psicología positiva se han desarrollado diferentes estrategias que potencian la aparición de emociones positivas. Una de estas intervenciones es imaginar el Mejor Self Posible, una técnica de pensamiento futuro positivo que requiere que la persona se visualice en un futuro en el que todo se ha desarrollado del mejor modo posible. El objetivo del presente estudio es analizar la eficacia de esta intervención en la generación de emociones positivas y de optimismo, utilizando Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TICs) para tratar de potenciar sus efectos. Se trata de un estudio experimental preliminar, de una sola sesión, cuya muestra está formada por 12 sujetos (M= 23,4 años) reclutados de la población general. Para analizar los resultados se tomaron medidas de afecto (PANAS) y expectativas futuras (SPT) antes y después de realizar el ejercicio. En cuanto al afecto, los resultados arrojan un aumento significativo de afecto positivo tras realizar la sesión; mientras que en las medidas de expectativas futuras, se observa una disminución, no significativa, en expectativas futuras negativas al terminar la sesión.Experiencing positive emotions promotes open and flexible thinking and strengthens us against adversity. In the field of positive psychology different strategies that boost the appearance of positive emotions have been developed. One of these interventions is to imagine the Best Possible Self, a positive future thinking technique that consists in visualizing a future where everything has gone the best possible way. The goal of the present study is to analyze the efficacy of this intervention increasing the appearance of positive emotions and optimism, using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to maximize their effects. This is a one session preliminary experimental study, with a sample of 12 individuals (M=23.4 years) recruited from the general population. In order to analyze the results, measures of affect (PANAS) and future expectancies (SPT) were administered before and after each manipulation. Regarding affect, results show a significant increase in positive affect after the session. On the contrary, in the measures of future expectancies, results show a non-significant decrease in negative future expectancies at the end of the session

Incrementando el bienestar: Una revisión de intervenciones dirigidas a promover estados emocionales positivos

La experiencia de emociones positivas, como alegría y satisfacción, tiene numerosos beneficios físicos, sociales e intelectuales para el individuo (Sheldon y Lyubomirsky, 2006). Una gran variedad de estudios han investigado la eficacia de diferentes intervenciones dirigidas a promover estados emocionales positivos. El objetivo del presente trabajo es realizar una revisión de las principales intervenciones positivas dirigidas a mejorar el bienestar. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de la última década, a través de diferentes bases de datos, combinando palabras clave como: «positive interventions », «well-being», «positive psychology» y «happiness». La búsqueda dio como resultado una serie de intervenciones autoaplicadas dirigidas a promover emociones positivas. Dichas intervenciones incluyen estrategias cognitivas y conductuales simples, tales como: escribir cartas de agradecimiento, realizar actos bondadosos e identificar fortalezas personales, entre otros (Layous y Lyubomirsky, 2012). Por otra parte, se ha comprobado que determinadas características de las actividades y ciertos factores personales pueden modular la eficacia de las intervenciones (Vázquez et al., 2006). Los trabajos de investigación sobre este tema ponen de manifiesto que estas estrategias son efectivas incrementando el bienestar y disminuyendo la aparición de sintomatología depresiva (Sin y Lyubomirsky, 2009). A nivel clínico, dichas estrategias pueden ayudar a aumentar la eficacia de los actuales tratamientos psicológicos y mejorar los programas de prevención de recaídas (Vázquez et al., 2006). En este sentido, la Psicología Positiva puede proporcionar una mejor resistencia ante estresores intensos cuando quienes los sufren perciben, además de las consecuencias negativas, algunos elementos positivos en lo sucedido (Vázquez y Pérez Sales, 2003).Experiencing positive emotions, like joy and contentment, holds numerous social, intellectual and physical benefits for the individual (Sheldon & Lyubomirsky, 2006). A high variety of studies have analysed the efficacy of different interventions aimed to boost positive emotional states. The goal of this study is to review the main positive interventions targeting to improve well-being. We have carried out a literature review over the last decade through several databases, combining different keywords: Positive interventions, well-being, positive psychology, and happiness. This research has resulted in a series of self-administered interventions aimed to promote positive emotions. These interventions involve simple cognitive and behavioural strategies, such as: writing gratitude letters, performing acts of kindness, and identifying personal strengths, among others (Layous & Lyubomirsky, 2012). Moreover, it has been proven that certain characteristic of the activities and some personal factors can affect the efficacy of the interventions (Vazquez, et al., 2006). The research on this topic shows that these strategies are effective as they increase psychological well-being and decrease depressive symptoms (Sin & Lyubomirsky, 2009). At a clinical level, these strategies could help increasing the efficacy of the current psychological treatments and could improve the relapse prevention programs (Vázquez, et al., 2006). In this sense, Positive Psychology can provide a better resistance against intense stressors when those who suffer perceive, apart from the negative consequences, some positive elements in what has happened (Vázquez & Pérez Sales, 2003)

Relapses and obstetric outcomes in women with multiple sclerosis planning pregnancy

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effect of discontinuation of different disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) before pregnancy with respect to the occurrence of relapses and pregnancy outcomes. Methods Women with multiple sclerosis who desire to bear children were followed prospectively. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and the information on the use of DMTs were collected. A multivariate analysis was used to assess the relationship between relapses and the prior use of different DMTs. Results The present study assessed 75 consecutive pregnancy plans (66 women), 65 of which resulted in pregnancy. The mean age of the participants was 32.1 ± 4.2 years, and the mean disease duration was 6.1 ± 4.2 years. No relapses before pregnancy were reported in the group of women who maintained their DMT until pregnancy confirmation, while 14 relapses were reported in 12/42 women (29%) who discontinued DMT before pregnancy. During pregnancy, patients on natalizumab or fingolimod before pregnancy had a higher rate of relapses. Most women restarted their previous DMT after delivery within the first trimester. The relapse rate in postpartum was 0.07. Conclusions Disease-modifying therapies received influences the risk of relapse and disease progression from women who are planning pregnancy. The risk of relapse during pregnancy was significantly higher in the group of women treated with natalizumab or fingolimod compared to the group of women treated with interferon beta or glatiramer acetate. The postpartum risk of relapses was lower than that found in previous reports

Changes in bioaccessibility, polyphenol profile and antioxidant potential of flours obtained from persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki) co-products during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

The aim was to evaluate (i) the phenol and flavonoid recovery and bioaccessibility indexes, (ii) the stability of individual polyphenolic compounds and (iii) the antioxidant activity of persimmon flours (cultivars ‘Rojo Brillante’ and ‘Triumph’) during the in vitro digestion. The recovery index for phenolic and flavonoid content was dependent on flour type and digestion phase. After the dialysis phase, the bioaccessibility for phenolic compounds from both flours was similar; for flavonoids it was higher in ‘Triumph’ than ‘Rojo Brillante’ flour. After in vitro digestion, 13 polyphenolic compounds were detected in both flours, of which only six were detected in the intestinal phase. Their antioxidant activity (ABTS%+, FRAP and DPPH) decreased after intestinal phase, while their chelating activity (FIC assay) increased in both flours. So, persimmon flours could be included in the formulation of foods to improve either their scarcity of bioactive compounds or an unbalanced nutritional composition

Exploring the Incorporation of a Positive Psychology Component in a Cognitive Behavioral Internet-Based Program for Depressive Symptoms. Results Throughout the Intervention Process

Traditionally, evidence-based treatments for depression have focused on negative symptoms. Different authors describe the need to include positive affect as a major target of treatment. Positive psychology aims to fill this gap. Reaching everyone in need is also important, and Internet-based interventions can help in this task. The present study is a secondary analysis derived from a randomized controlled trial aimed to test the efficacy of an Internet-based intervention for patients with depressive symptoms. This intervention consisted of an 8-module Internet-based program that combined four modules based on cognitive-behavioral therapy strategies and four modules based on positive psychology strategies. The main goal of this secondary analysis is to report the data collected after each module from the participants who completed the intervention, explore the changes throughout the intervention process, and examine the changes observed in the different variables before versus after the introduction of the positive psychology component. A total of 103 patients completed the intervention. At pre-, post-intervention, and post-module evaluations, they completed positive and negative affect, depression, and anxiety measures. Negative affect and anxiety decreased significantly during the implementation of the cognitive-behavioral therapy and positive psychology modules. However, depression and positive affect improved only after the introduction of the positive psychology modules. This is the first study to explore, throughout the intervention process (module by module), the incorporation of a positive psychology component in an Internet-based program. Results suggest that positive psychology techniques might have an impact on clinical symptomatology, and they emphasize the need to include these techniques to achieve a more profound change in positive functioning measures