A simplified implementation of the stationary liquid mass balance method for on-line OUR monitoring in animal cell cultures

This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: [Fontova, A. , Lecina, M. , López‐Repullo, J. , Martínez‐Monge, I. , Comas, P. , Bragós, R. and Cairó, J. J. (2018), A simplified implementation of the stationary liquid mass balance method for on‐line OUR monitoring in animal cell cultures. J. Chem. Technol. Biotechnol. doi:10.1002/jctb.5551], which has been published in final form at [doi:10.1002/jctb.5551]. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.BACKGROUND: Compared with other methods, the stationary liquid mass balance method for oxygen uptake rate (OUR) determination offers advantages in terms of estimation accuracy and reduction of stress. However, the need for sophisticated instrumentation, like mass flow controllers and gas analysers, has historically limited wider implementation of such a method. In this paper, a new simplified method based on inexpensive valves for the continuous estimation of OUR in animal cell cultures is evaluated. The determination of OUR values is based on accurate operation of the dissolved oxygen (DO) control loop and monitoring of its internal variables. RESULTS: The method developed was tested empirically in 2¿L bioreactor HEK293 batch cultures. OUR profiles obtained by a dynamic method, global mass balance method and the developed simplified method were monitored and compared. The results show how OUR profile obtained with the proposed method better follows the off-line cell density determination. The OUR estimation frequency was also increased, improving the method capabilities and applications. The theoretical rationale of the method was extended to the sensitivity analysis which was analytically and numerically approached. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed the proposed method to be not only cheap, but also a reliable alternative to monitor the metabolic activity in bioreactors in many biotechnological processes, being a useful tool for high cell density culture strategies implementation based on OUR monitoring.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Exploring the potential of deep eutectic solvents (DES) in bioactive natural product research: from DES to NaDES, THEDES, and beyond

Background Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have garnered significant interest in natural products research, owing to their green and natural attributes in comparison to conventional solvents. However, the approach of demonstrating that DESs are superior extractants has led to an underestimation of their full potential in this field. This perspective disregards crucial challenges related to their practical application and potential scalability, mainly the difficulty of target component separation from intermolecular network forming by DESs. Conversely, the DESs unique features can enhance aspects such as solubilization, stabilization, and storage of natural products, as well as improve their biological activities. By addressing key challenges and limitations, we aim to provide valuable insights into the potential of DESs in this domain. Methodology In this review, we conducted an exhaustive literature search to gather relevant articles about DESs and their applications in bioactive natural product research. The gathered literature was analyzed, and a systematic thematic categorization was performed, emphasizing studies where the use of DESs yielded relevant outcomes that could potentially present an advantage in the exploration of bioactive natural products. The approach in structuring this review aimed to provide an overview of the potential and challenges associated with DESs in the domain of bioactive natural product research, transcending their conventional role as mere extraction solvents. Results Through this critical analysis of the literature, this review delves into the potential of DESs as effective solvents for the solubilization, stabilization, and storage of bioactive natural products. In addition, it highlights the ability of DESs to improve the biological activities of natural products, as well as to be used as formulation media for the transport of pharmaceutical active ingredients. By revealing these advances, the review contributes to a more complete understanding of DESs and its applicability in the field of bioactive natural products research. Conclusions The studies compiled in this review underscore the expanded potential of DESs, beyond extraction, finding relevance in the realm of natural products research. Notably, they contribute to enhancing the desired attributes of the final product, signifying a promising avenue for future advancements in this field

Existence of FGFR1-5-HT1AR heteroreceptor complexes in hippocampal astrocytes. Putative link to 5-HT and FGF2 modulation of hippocampal gamma oscillations

The majority of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 1-serotonin 1 A receptor (FGFR1-5-HT1AR) heterocomplexes in the hippocampus appeared to be located mainly in the neuronal networks and a relevant target for antidepressant drugs. Through a neurochemical and electrophysiological analysis it was therefore tested in the current study if astrocytic FGFR1-5-HT1AR heterocomplexes also exist in hippocampus. They may modulate the structure and function of astroglia in the hippocampus leading to possible changes in the gamma oscillations. Localization of hippocampal FGFR1-5-HT1AR heterocomplexes in astrocytes was found using in situ proximity ligation assay combined with immunohistochemistry using glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoreactivity as a marker for astroglia. Acute i.c.v. treatment with 8-OH-DPAT alone or together with basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) significantly increased FGFR1-5-HT1AR heterocomplexes in the GFAP positive cells, especially in the polymorphic layer of the dentate gyrus (PoDG) but also in the CA3 area upon combined treatment. No other hippocampal regions were studied. Also, structural plasticity changes were observed in the astrocytes, especially in the PoDG region, upon these pharmacological treatments. They may also be of relevance for enhancing the astroglial volume transmission with increased modulation of the neuronal networks in the regions studied. The effects of combined FGF2 and 5-HT agonist treatments on gamma oscillations point to a significant antagonistic interaction in astroglial FGFR1-5-HT1AR heterocomplexes that may contribute to counteraction of the 5-HT1AR-mediated decrease of gamma oscillations.The work was supported by the Swedish Medical Research Council, Sweden (62X-00715-50-3) to KF, by Parkinson Fonden, Sweden to KF, and by Hjärnfonden, Sweden (F02018-0286), Hjärnfonden, Sweden (F02019-0296) and Karolinska Institutet Forskningsstiftelser, Sweden to D.O.B-E. D.O.B-E belongs to the “Academia de Biólogos Cubanos” group, Cuba. This work was also supported by the Proyecto Puente, Spain and the UMA18-FEDERJA-100, Spain to MN. . Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech

Rendimientos de maíz en siembras de segunda durante la campaña 2019-2020, en la EEA El Colorado, Formosa

El maíz, es un cultivo de alto potencial de rendimiento, qué responden a los incrementos de insumos, buenas prácticas agrícolas y buenas condiciones ambientales (Graso, 2020; Miglioratí, 2021). La expansión de la agricultura y la intensificación de la producción ganadera condujo a la mayor utilización de áreas marginales (Giorda y Ortiz, 2012), la agricultura se desplazó a zonas donde antes se hacía ganadería (Bendersky y Flores, 2011). El rendimiento promedio de maíz aumentó de 2.994,0 kg ha-1 a 4.500,0 kg ha-1, desde la campaña 2002-2003 a la 2018-2019 en la provincia de Formosa (Estimaciones Agrícolas, 2020).Fil: Ibarra Zamudio, Walter Osvaldo. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria El Colorado; ArgentinaFil: Gimenez, Laura Itati. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias; Argentina; ArgentinaFil: Sosa Rolon, Nora Beatriz. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria El Colorado; ArgentinaFil: Vicentino, Rodolfo Antonio. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria El Colorado; ArgentinaFil: Basik, Esteban Jorge. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria El Colorado; ArgentinaFil: Encina Arce, Esteban Ramon. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria El Colorado; Argentin

Evaluación de acaricidas en el control del ácaro rojo del té (Olygonychus yothersi)

Las dosis 250, 400 y 500 cm3/ha de fenpiroximato (Scarmite) mostraron una eficiencia superior a 80% en el control del ácaro rojo del té. La eficiencia de acequinocyl (Kanemite) en dosis de 200 cm3/ha fue superior a 66% durante este ensayo. El azufre fue el p.a, que presentó la menor eficiencia en el control de esta plaga. En función de los resultados encontrados existen productos con eficiente control del ácaro rojo del té que pueden ser utilizados como reemplazantes del dicofol, único permitido actualmente.Fil: Ohashi, Diana Virginia. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Cerro Azul; ArgentinaFil: Mayol, Ramon Marcelo. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Cerro Azul; ArgentinaFil: Sosa, Domingo Alberto. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Cerro Azul; ArgentinaFil: Alsina, Mario. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Antonelli, Leandro. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Lescano, Carlos. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Lillieskold, Guillermo. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Lozano, Gabriel. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Munaretto, Luis. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Meczak, Roxana. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; ArgentinaFil: Statkiewcs, Héctor. Convenio Asistencia Técnica INTA-Empresas Tealeras; Argentin

Aplicación de irradiación Gamma en duraznos mínimamente procesados para mejorar la textura y calidad sensorial, y prevenir el desarrollo fúngico

La manipulación y las operaciones mecánicas como el cortado, limitan la vida útil de frutas mínimamente procesadas, al acelerarse el proceso de maduración e incrementarse la susceptibilidad al pardeamiento enzimático y a la contaminación microbiana. Para prevenir estos problemas, la aplicación de tecnologías emergentes representa una activa área de investigación. Desde hace unos años, se ha ensayado la aplicación de irradiación gamma en productos frutihortícolas, con fines tales como la inhibición de la brotación y del desarrollo microbiano, y el retraso de la maduración y senescencia. El CAA ha sido recientemente modificado (Cap. III, Art. 174, Resolución N° 13 -E/2017), promoviéndose la aplicación de esta tecnología en distintos productos, incluidas las frutas y hortalizas frescas. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la materia prima y de la aplicación de tratamientos de irradiación, sobre la calidad y vida útil de duraznos mínimamente procesados.Fil: Colletti, Analía. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Instituto Tecnología de Alimentos; Argentina. Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica (ANPCyT); Argentina.Fil: Denoya, Gabriela Inés. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Instituto Tecnología de Alimentos; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina.Fil: Budde, Claudio Olaf. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria San Pedro; Argentina.Fil: Gabilondo, Julieta. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Estación Experimental Agropecuaria San Pedro; Argentina.Fil: Rodriguez, Anabel. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Instituto Tecnología de Alimentos; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina.Fil: Horak, Celina. Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica. Gerencia Aplicaciones Tecnológicas de Radiaciones; Argentina.Fil: Pachado, José. Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica. Gerencia Aplicaciones Tecnológicas de Radiaciones; Argentina.Fil: Lires, Carla. Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica. Centro Atómico Ezeiza; Argentina.Fil: Garitta, Lorena. Instituto Superior Experimental de Tecnología Alimentaria (ISETA). Departamento de Evaluación Sensorial de Alimentos; 9 de Julio. Buenos Aires; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina.Fil Pieroni, Victoria. Instituto Superior Experimental de Tecnología Alimentaria (ISETA). Departamento de Evaluación Sensorial de Alimentos; 9 de Julio. Buenos Aires; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina.Fil: Gugole, Fernanda. Instituto Superior Experimental de Tecnología Alimentaria (ISETA). Departamento de Evaluación Sensorial de Alimentos; 9 de Julio. Buenos Aires; Argentina. Comisión de Investigaciones Científicas de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (CIC); Argentina.Fil: Sosa, Miriam. Instituto Superior Experimental de Tecnología Alimentaria (ISETA). Departamento de Evaluación Sensorial de Alimentos; 9 de Julio. Buenos Aires; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina.Fil: Vaudagna, Sergio Ramon. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Instituto Tecnología de Alimentos; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Argentina. Universidad de Morón (UM); Argentina.Fil: Polenta, Gustavo Alberto. Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). Instituto Tecnología de Alimentos; Argentina

European Journalism Observatory- a platform for training and professional networks in the Faculty of Information Sciences

The launching of a Spanish platform within the Observatory will serve as a training laboratory for undergraduate and graduate students of the Faculty of Information Sciences at the same time as for establishing a professional media network in and outside Spain. The European Journalism Observatory (EJO) is a network of 14 non-profit media research institutes in 11 countries where Spain continue to be the missing element. All researchers in the EJO network actively strive to transfer their knowledge to the media industry as well as interested publics outside the scientific community, as a platform to enable online availability of at least a portion of many publications in several languages

Divergent Cortical Generators of MEG and EEG during Human Sleep Spindles Suggested by Distributed Source Modeling

Background: Sleep spindles are,1-second bursts of 10–15 Hz activity, occurring during normal stage 2 sleep. In animals, sleep spindles can be synchronous across multiple cortical and thalamic locations, suggesting a distributed stable phaselocked generating system. The high synchrony of spindles across scalp EEG sites suggests that this may also be true in humans. However, prior MEG studies suggest multiple and varying generators. Methodology/Principal Findings: We recorded 306 channels of MEG simultaneously with 60 channels of EEG during naturally occurring spindles of stage 2 sleep in 7 healthy subjects. High-resolution structural MRI was obtained in each subject, to define the shells for a boundary element forward solution and to reconstruct the cortex providing the solution space for a noise-normalized minimum norm source estimation procedure. Integrated across the entire duration of all spindles, sources estimated from EEG and MEG are similar, diffuse and widespread, including all lobes from both hemispheres. However, the locations, phase and amplitude of sources simultaneously estimated from MEG versus EEG are highly distinct during the same spindles. Specifically, the sources estimated from EEG are highly synchronous across the cortex, whereas those from MEG rapidly shift in phase, hemisphere, and the location within the hemisphere. Conclusions/Significance: The heterogeneity of MEG sources implies that multiple generators are active during huma

Effect of aliskiren on post-discharge outcomes among diabetic and non-diabetic patients hospitalized for heart failure: insights from the ASTRONAUT trial

Aims The objective of the Aliskiren Trial on Acute Heart Failure Outcomes (ASTRONAUT) was to determine whether aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, would improve post-discharge outcomes in patients with hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) with reduced ejection fraction. Pre-specified subgroup analyses suggested potential heterogeneity in post-discharge outcomes with aliskiren in patients with and without baseline diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods and results ASTRONAUT included 953 patients without DM (aliskiren 489; placebo 464) and 662 patients with DM (aliskiren 319; placebo 343) (as reported by study investigators). Study endpoints included the first occurrence of cardiovascular death or HHF within 6 and 12 months, all-cause death within 6 and 12 months, and change from baseline in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) at 1, 6, and 12 months. Data regarding risk of hyperkalaemia, renal impairment, and hypotension, and changes in additional serum biomarkers were collected. The effect of aliskiren on cardiovascular death or HHF within 6 months (primary endpoint) did not significantly differ by baseline DM status (P = 0.08 for interaction), but reached statistical significance at 12 months (non-DM: HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.64-0.99; DM: HR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.91-1.47; P = 0.03 for interaction). Risk of 12-month all-cause death with aliskiren significantly differed by the presence of baseline DM (non-DM: HR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.50-0.94; DM: HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.15-2.33; P < 0.01 for interaction). Among non-diabetics, aliskiren significantly reduced NT-proBNP through 6 months and plasma troponin I and aldosterone through 12 months, as compared to placebo. Among diabetic patients, aliskiren reduced plasma troponin I and aldosterone relative to placebo through 1 month only. There was a trend towards differing risk of post-baseline potassium ≥6 mmol/L with aliskiren by underlying DM status (non-DM: HR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.71-1.93; DM: HR: 2.39, 95% CI: 1.30-4.42; P = 0.07 for interaction). Conclusion This pre-specified subgroup analysis from the ASTRONAUT trial generates the hypothesis that the addition of aliskiren to standard HHF therapy in non-diabetic patients is generally well-tolerated and improves post-discharge outcomes and biomarker profiles. In contrast, diabetic patients receiving aliskiren appear to have worse post-discharge outcomes. Future prospective investigations are needed to confirm potential benefits of renin inhibition in a large cohort of HHF patients without D