In the present work we analyzed the genetic structure of the populations of the terrestrial tortoise Testudo graeca graeca in southeastern Spain, identified as a recent range expansion from North Africa. The study and interpretation of the species' genetic spatial pattern could provide clues to the processes related to the species' arrival and, because of its endangered status, is especially useful in implementing appropriate management measures. We used microsatellite markers to analyze 17 populations located in the coastal region of the species' range in southeastern Spain, and an external group of Algerian tortoises. Three genetic units with a high level of spatial coherence and moderate levels of admixture resulted from a cluster analysis, and an isolation-by-distance pattern covering the entire study area was detected. These results suggest that southeastern Spanish populations show a complex spatial genetic pattern resulting from their isolation from North African populations and their natural dispersal in this region. Finally, our work shows that conservation actions such as captive breeding, introductions or translocations, may have played a relevant role in the modification of the genetic structure of some populations in southeastern Spain. Therefore, these types of conservation measures should be carried out with more caution.

DNA-based methods using informative markers such as single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) are suitable for reliable species identification (SI) needed to enforce compliance with seafood labelling regulations (EU No.1379/2013). We developed a panel of 10 highly informative SNPs to be genotyped by PCR-High resolution melting (HRM) for SI in the Mytilus genus through in silico and in vitro stages. Its fitness for purpose and concordance were assessed by an internal validation process and by the transference to a second laboratory. The method was applicable to identify M. chilensis, M. edulis, M. galloprovincialis and M. trossulus mussels, fresh, frozen and canned with brine, oil and scallop sauce, but not in preserves containing acetic acid (wine vinegar) and tomato sauce. False-positive and negative rates were zero. Sensitivity, expressed as limit of detection (LOD), ranged between 5 and 8 ng/μL. The method was robust against small variations in DNA quality, annealing time and temperature, primer concentration, reaction volume and HRM kit. Reference materials and 220 samples were tested in an inter-laboratory assay obtaining an “almost perfect agreement” (κ = 0.925, p < 0.001). In conclusion, the method was suitable for the intended use and to be applied in the seafood industry.

No abstract

No abstract

Home medical care of patients with terminal illnesses is more and more frequent in the clinical practice in primary care context. This medical practice copes with the challenge to buffer symptoms, taking into account that oral administration for an effective palliative treatment always is not possible. In this setting, subcutaneous via of drug administration can be a plausible alternative because it permits administer higher number of indispensable drugs than by other administration vias. This advantage makes possible an integrative care of the patients in their environment and, in turn, it enhances their quality of life. The aim of this paper is to facilitate the use of subcutaneous via of drug administration by medical staff in primary care. For this, the foundations of subcutaneous administration as well as the methodology and drugs widely administered by this via are described.