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Malaria remains an important and challenging infectious disease, and novel antimalarials are required. Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), the main breakdown product of benzyl glucosinolate, is present in all parts of Tropaeolum majus L. (T. majus) and has antibacterial and antiparasitic activities. To our knowledge, there is no information on the effects of BITC against malaria. The present study evaluates the antimalarial activity of aqueous extracts of BITC and T. majus seeds, leaves, and stems. We used flow cytometry to calculate the growth inhibition (GI) percentage of the extracts and BITC against unsynchronized cultures of the chloroquine-susceptible Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 − GFP strain. Extracts and/or compounds with at least 70% GI were validated by IC50 estimation against P. falciparum 3D7 − GFP and Dd2 (chloroquine-resistant strain) unsynchronized cultures by flow cytometry, and the resistance index (RI) was determined. T. majus aqueous extracts showed some antimalarial activity that was higher in seeds than in leaves or stems. BITC's GI was comparable to chloroquine's. BITC's IC50 was similar in both strains; thus, a cross-resistance absence with aminoquinolines was found (RI < 1). BITC presented features that could open new avenues for malaria drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene has gained great relevance in the engineering community in the development of nanotechnologies. Studying the mechanical behavior of graphene nanoplates subjected to a magnetic field has become an important concern in the development of nanodevices, such as nanocomposites, nanosensors, and nanoelectromechanical systems. Given this scenario, this work aims at investigating the dynamic behavior of graphene nanoplates embedded in an elastic medium – which can be the case in graphene-reinforced nanocomposites – and subjected to a in-plane unidirectional magnetic field. The interaction of the graphene nanoplate with the surrounding elastic medium is represented by means of a Winkler elastic foundation. The influence of the in-plane unidirectional magnetic field is represented by the Lorentz force. The bending deformation is modeled using a first-order shear deformation theory, and the material is assumed to follow an isotropic nonlocal elasticity theory. The generalized finite element method (GFEM) is used for the numerical analysis. The approximation spaces are built from the homogeneous p version of GFEM using partition of units (PUs) with regularity C k , k = 2 , 4. The study takes into account various dynamic conditions, including forced, unforced, and free vibrations. The influence of the approximation space smoothness on the first fundamental frequency is evaluated for free and unforced problems. The analysis involves a parametric assessment of the nanoplates' sizes, the magnetic field's strength, and the nanoscale coefficient. The influence of the approximation smoothness is also examined for the case of forced vibrations by analyzing the vertical displacement at the plate center as well as both softening and resonance phenomena. The results obtained using the proposed numerical framework are compared with those from (i) molecular dynamics (MD); (ii) Hermite C 1 finite elements; (iii) Lagrangian C 0 finite element; and (iv) semi-analytical solutions (which are used as reference solution). This study found that high regularity models correctly predicted the nanoplate dynamic behavior accounting for the effective structural stiffness due to nonlocal effects and the presence of a magnetic field. In this sense, high regularity approximation spaces yielded findings that were substantially more accurate than high order FEM C 0 simulations. • Impact of the approximation space smoothness in the modeling of graphene nanoplates. • Comprehensive nonlocal continuum, variational, and discrete formulation are addressed. • Both external magnetic field and surrounding elastic medium effects are modeled. • Using high regularity models to address vibrations problems effectively reproduced the phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing, allows the fabrication of complex parts, which are impossible or very expensive to produce using traditional processes. That is the case for dinnerware and artworks (stoneware, porcelain and clay-based products). After the piece is formed, the greenware is fired at high temperatures so that these pieces gain its mechanical strength and aesthetics. The conventional (gas or resistive heating elements) firing usually requires long heating cycles, presently requiring around 10 h to reach temperatures as high as 1200 °C. Searching for faster processes, 3D-printed stoneware were fired using microwave (MW) radiation. The pieces were fired within 10% of the conventional processing time. The temperature were controlled using a pyrometer and monitored using Process Temperature Control Rings (PTCRs). An error of 1.25% was calculated between the PTCR (1207 ± 15 °C) and the pyrometer (1200 °C). Microwave-fast-fired pieces show similar mechanical strength to the references and to the electrically fast-fired pieces (41, 46 and 34 (N/mm2), respectively), presenting aesthetic features closer to the reference. Total porosities of ~4%, ~5% and ~9% were determined for microwave, electrically fast-fired and reference samples. Numerical studies have shown to be essential to better understand and improve the firing process using microwave radiation. In summary, microwave heating can be employed as an alternative to stoneware conventional firing methods, not compromising the quality and features of the processed pieces, and with gains in the heating time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural determinants of the interaction of the G‐quadruplex (G4) motif found in precursor miRNA 149 (rG4) with the acridine orange derivative C8, a G4 ligand stabilizer possessing anticancer activity, and the protein nucleolin (overexpressed in cancer cells) were investigated by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. For the rG4/C8 complex, the results revealed a strong stabilizing interaction between the aromatic core and the iodinated ring of the C8 ligand with the rG4 structure. The NMR study revealed also different interaction patterns between nucleolin and rG4 and nucleolin and rG4/C8 complex. In the absence of the ligand, rG4 establishes interactions with polar residues of the protein while for the rG4/C8 complex, these contacts are mainly established with amino acids that have hydrophobic side chains. However, nucleolin chemical shift perturbation studies in the presence of rG4 or rG4/C8 reveal the same location between domains 1 and 2 of the protein, which suggests that the rG4 and rG4/C8 complex bind in this region. This puzzling structural study opens a new framework to study rG4/ligand/nucleolin complexes that might impact the biogenesis of miRNA 149. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A characterization of different uses and conflicts for the use of water in the hydrographical water basin of the river Paraguaçu is extremely important from the point of view of its maintenance and efficient working, mainly through different times and places, so permitting the results that have been met to be consolidated. The sum of usage is major in the tracts that are under observation, above all in agriculture, which takes place altering the physical and natural features of the water basin and so gives rise to conflicts between the people who irrigate and the local population. In the description of the behaviour of the water basin of Paraguaçu it was used The System of Availability of Hydrological Data (HIDROWEB), which was under the responsibility of the National Agency of Waters -ANA. with which it was realized the data collection, the correction and analysis of the three historical series of fluviometric stations, which were installed in different points of the water basin, thus offering proportional graphics of the hydrological variations, for example of the medias maxima and minima discharges. As a consequence, in the three fluoviometric stations studied, it is well known the reduction of the values of the discharges: maxima and minima. Besides, through the Pluviometric Station of Maguge' it was made possible to realize a comparison between the rainfall and the monthly average discharges. It has been accessed the dependence from the rainfall for the sustenance of the discharges for a long period of time, in the events of water-system shortage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to an invading pathogen such as multidrug-resistant bacteria. Despite recent advancements, sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, resulting in a significant global impact and burden. This condition affects all age groups, with clinical outcomes mainly depending on a timely diagnosis and appropriate early therapeutic intervention. Because of the unique features of nanosized systems, there is a growing interest in developing and designing novel solutions. Nanoscale-engineered materials allow a targeted and controlled release of bioactive agents, resulting in improved efficacy with minimal side effects. Additionally, nanoparticle-based sensors provide a quicker and more reliable alternative to conventional diagnostic methods for identifying infection and organ dysfunction. Despite recent advancements, fundamental nanotechnology principles are often presented in technical formats that presuppose advanced chemistry, physics, and engineering knowledge. Consequently, clinicians may not grasp the underlying science, hindering interdisciplinary collaborations and successful translation from bench to bedside. In this review, we abridge some of the most recent and most promising nanotechnology-based solutions for sepsis diagnosis and management using an intelligible format to stimulate a seamless collaboration between engineers, scientists, and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawkes processes with exponential kernels are a ubiquitous tool for modeling and predicting event times. However, estimating their decay parameter is challenging, and there is a remarkable variability among decay parameter estimates. Moreover, this variability increases substantially in cases of a small number of realizations of the process or due to sudden changes to a system under study, for example, in the presence of exogenous shocks. In this work, we demonstrate that these estimation difficulties relate to the noisy, non-convex shape of the Hawkes process' log-likelihood as a function of the decay. To address uncertainty in the estimates, we propose to use a Bayesian approach to learn more about likely decay values. We show that our approach alleviates the decay estimation problem across a range of experiments with synthetic and real-world data. With our work, we support researchers and practitioners in their applications of Hawkes processes in general and in their interpretation of Hawkes process parameters in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Monogenic forms of diabetes that develop with autosomal dominant inheritance are classically aggregated in the Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) categories. Despite increasing awareness, its true prevalence remains largely underestimated. We describe a Portuguese cohort of individuals with suspected monogenic diabetes who were genetically evaluated for MODY-causing genes. Methods: This single-center retrospective cohort study enrolled patients with positive genetic testing for MODY between 2015 and 2021. Automatic sequencing and, in case of initial negative results, next-generation sequencing were performed. Their clinical and molecular characteristics were described. Results: Eighty individuals were included, 55 with likely pathogenic/pathogenic variants in one of the MODY genes and 25 MODY-positive family members, identified by cascade genetic testing. The median age at diabetes diagnosis was 23 years, with a median HbA1c of 6.5%. The most frequently mutated genes were identified in HNF1A (40%), GCK (34%) and HNF4A (13%), followed by PDX1, HNF1B, INS, KCNJ11 and APPL1. Thirty-six unique variants were found (29 missense and 7 frameshift variants), of which ten (28%) were novel. Conclusions: Our data highlights the importance of genetic testing in the diagnosis of MODY and the establishment of its subtypes, leading to more personalized treatment and follow-up strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frontal sinus keratoma or cholesteatoma is a rare disease of paranasal sinuses and presents as a slow-growing mass that becomes symptomatic as it grows to the surrounding structures. Intracranial complications are not a common presentation and are potentially life-threatening. Frequently the final diagnosis is only made intraoperatively because several other frontal sinus tumors behave likewise. Definitive treatment requires complete removal of the keratoma, and a combined endoscopic and external frontal sinus approach is a good treatment option. In this report, we presented a 68-year-old female with frontal sinus cholesteatoma with diagnostic and therapeutic features of this pathology with the review of the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on 21st ISPAD Science School for Physicians taking place between 22–26 May 2022 in Prague, Czech Republic. Topics include increasing diabetes skills and knowledge from diabetes care in the principles of diabetes research methodology; and identification of the target population accelerating the clinical development of therapies preventing symptomatic disease.

Mild hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, whose mechanisms between them are not well-known. In the present study, we evaluated the emotional behavior and neurochemical pathways (ATPases, glutamate homeostasis, and cell viability) in amygdala and prefrontal cortex rats subjected to mild hyperhomocysteinemia (in vivo studies). The ex vivo effect of homocysteine on ATPases and redox status, as well as on NMDAR antagonism by MK-801 in same structures slices were also performed. Wistar male rats received a subcutaneous injection of 0.03 µmol Homocysteine/g of body weight or saline, twice a day from 30 to 60th–67th days of life. Hyperhomocysteinemia increased anxiety-like behavior and tended to alter locomotion/exploration of rats, whereas sucrose preference and forced swimming tests were not altered. Glutamate uptake was not changed, but the activities of glutamine synthetase and ATPases were increased. Cell viability was not altered. Ex vivo studies (slices) showed that homocysteine altered ATPases and redox status and that MK801, an NMDAR antagonist, protected amygdala (partially) and prefrontal cortex (totally) effects. Taken together, data showed that mild hyperhomocysteinemia impairs the emotional behavior, which may be associated with changes in ATPase and glutamate homeostasis, including glutamine synthetase and NMDAR overstimulation that could lead to excitotoxicity. These findings may be associated with the homocysteine risk factor on psychiatric disorders development and neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

G-rich aptamers such as AS1411 are small oligonucleotides that present several benefits comparatively to monoclonal antibodies, since they are easier to manufacture and store, have small size and do not stimulate an immune response. We analyzed AT11-B1, a modified sequence of AT11 (itself a modified version of AS1411), in which one thymine was removed from the bulge region. We studied G-quadruplex (G4) formation/stabilization using PhenDC3, PDS, BRACO-19, TMPyP4 and 360A ligands by different biophysical techniques, namely circular dichroism (CD), Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET-melting) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The CD spectra showed that AT11-B1 adopts a predominant G4 of parallel topology when the buffer contains KCl or when ligands are added. PhenDC3 induced a Δ T m of 30 °C or more of the G4 structure as shown by CD- and FRET-melting experiments. The ligands demonstrate high affinity for AT11-B1 G4 and the NMR studies revealed that the AT11-B1 G4 involves four G-tetrad layers. The in silico studies suggest that all ligands bind AT11-B1 G4, namely, by stacking interactions, with the possible exception of PDS that may bind to the loop/groove interface. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations revealed that nucleolin (NCL) interacts with the AT11-B1 G4 structure through the RNA binding domain (RBD) 2 and the 12-residue linker between RBD1,2. Moreover, AT11-B1 G4 was internalized into a NCL-positive tongue squamous cell carcinoma cell line. In a nutshell, this study may help the identification of the ligands scaffolds to bind and stabilize AT11-B1, improving the targeting towards NCL that is overexpressed in cancer cells. • The G-quadruplex structure of AT11-B1 can be stabilized by different ligands. • PhenDC3 showed a remarkable stabilizer effect in the G-quadruplex structure of AT11-B1. • The binding mode of each ligand and nucleolin was unveiled by molecular dynamics. • The formation of the complex between AT11-B1, ligands and nucleolin was showed by PAGE. • AT11-B1 was internalized into a nucleolin-positive tongue squamous carcinoma cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The following report describes the evaluation of the ISPAD Science School for Physicians (ISSP) and for Healthcare Professionals (ISSHP) in terms of their efficiency and success. Methods: All past attendees from 2000–2019 ISSP and 2004–2019 ISSHP programs were invited to respond to an online survey to assess perceived outcomes of the programs on career development, scientific enhancement, scientific networking, and social opportunities. Results: One‐third of the past ISSP (129/428), and approximately 43% of the past ISSHP attendees (105/245) responded to the surveys. Most of ISSP attendees reported that the programs supported their career (82%) by helping to achieve a research position (59%), being engaged with diabetes care (68%) or research (63%) or starting a research fellowship (59%). Responders indicated that ISSP was effective in increasing interest in diabetes research (87%) and enhancing the number (66%) and quality (83%) of scientific productions, and promotion of international collaborations (86%). After the ISSP, 34% of responders received research grants. From the first round of the ISSHP survey (2004–2013), responders reported have improved knowledge (60%), gained more confidence in research (69%), undertaken a research project (63%), and achieved a higher academic degree (27%). From the second round (2014–2019), participants indicated that the program was valuable/useful in workplace (94%) through understanding (89%) and conducting (68%) research and establishing communication from other participants (64%) or from faculty (42%). After the ISSHP, 17% had received awards. Conclusions: From the participants' viewpoint, both programs were effective in improving engagement with diabetes research, supporting career opportunities, increasing scientific skills, and enhancing networking and research activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleolin protein is involved in a plethora of cellular pathways across the nucleolus, nucleus, and cytoplasm. The association of its RNA-binding domain (RBD) and its RGG (arginine–glycine–glycine-rich) domain allows it to interact with G-quadruplex structures in nucleic acids. We highlight evidence that the nucleolin/G-quadruplex partnership is of extensive relevance to neurodegenerative disease, cancer, and viral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinolinic acid (QUIN) is an important agonist of NMDA receptors that are found at high levels in cases of brain injury and neuroinflammation. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate neuroprotection strategies capable of neutralizing the effects of the QUIN on the brain. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a provitamin that has an important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. This work aims to evaluate the possible neuroprotective effect of CoQ10 against the toxicity caused by QUIN. Striatal slices from 30-day-old Wistar rats were preincubated with CoQ10 25–100 μM for 15 min; then, QUIN 100 μM was added to the incubation medium for 30 min. A dose–response curve was used to select the CoQ10 concentration to be used in the study. Results showed that QUIN caused changes in the production of ROS, nitrite levels, activities of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione content, and damage to proteins and lipids. CoQ10 was able to prevent the effects caused by QUIN, totally or partially, except for damage to proteins. QUIN also altered the activities of electron transport chain complexes and ATP levels, and CoQ10 prevented totally and partially these effects, respectively. CoQ10 prevented the increase in acetylcholinesterase activity, but not the decrease in the activity of Na+,K+-ATPase caused by QUIN. We also observed that QUIN caused changes in the total ERK and phospho-Akt content, and these effects were partially prevented by CoQ10. These findings suggest that CoQ10 may be a promising therapeutic alternative for neuroprotection against QUIN neurotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To describe the natural history, evaluate the long-term prognosis, and identify predictors of a favorable outcome of childhood migraines in a cohort of children who had been diagnosed with migraine 25 years before. Methods: One hundred eighteen children with headache (ages 2 to 15), observed in a headache outpatient clinic of a University Hospital in 1994, by one of the authors, were revaluated in 2019/2020 by a standardized telephone interview specifying headache characteristics, treatment, precipitants, and family history. Headache diagnosis at follow-up was based on ID-Migraine and confirmed by a semistructured interview. Results: Revaluation was achieved for 88 (75%) patients (43 with migraine), 47 women and age average 41.2 ± 3.2. Over the follow-up (average 25.5 years), 33% of the patients had experienced remission, 41% maintained the same diagnosis, and 26% evolved into a different headache. Sixty six percent reported an improvement. Only eight patients were attending regular consultations because of headache. Male sex came out as the only predictor of a favorable outcome. Conclusion: Most patients (66%) with pediatric headache continue to experience headache although reporting a significant improvement. Boys tended to remit more often than girls. This data suggests that age, genetics, and hormonal factors may play an important role in migraine phenotypic expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work analyzed the technical viability of the use of granite rock fines (GRF) for the manufacture of portland cement. The simultaneous influence of the contents of MgO, SO3 , and alkalis (Na2O and K2O) present in the GRF in the formation of the mineralogical phases of the portland clinker was evaluated. Laboratory clinkers with replacement of clay by GRF at contents of 50% and 100% were characterized by X-ray diffraction and used to produce portland cement. Then, the physical–mechanical properties of this cement were evaluated. The addition of GRF replacing 25% and 50% clay increased the content of alite (C3S) in the clinkers and stabilized the C3S M3 and C3A orthorhombic polymorphs due to the presence of MgO and Na2O in their composition. Cements made with replacement contents of 50% and 100% of clay by GRF showed higher compressive strength than reference cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of urban expansion in the Metropolitan Region of Belém (MRB), we analyze the logic of action of certain business groups and the relationship with the trend of spreading of the urbanmetropolitan fabric nucleated by the city of Belém. The analysis stems from the emergence of supermarket retail groups as an expression of a metropolitan economy organized around the modern tertiary sector, especially commerce and services, of which two business groups stand out, "Líder" and "Y. Yamada". Despite of acting to intensify the logic of metropolitan expansion, the groups act in a strategically different way in terms of locational choices. The methodological path of the research is comprised of three stages: systematic literature review, survey and document analysis, systematic field observations with subsequent production of cartography of the observed processes and statistical data collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct measurement of speed in induction motors is costly and requires maintenance. Thus, sensorless techniques for estimating or predicting the speed in three-phase induction motors represent a feasible and economical solution. This work considers a single time delay neural network as a speed estimator in two different strategies of stator field-oriented induction motor drive: direct current and torque control. Time delay neural network makes the estimated signal robust against noise, that is usually found in switched power systems, and against disturbances on the input signals, since the estimator is not dependent only on instantaneous values. The synchronous speed and the electromagnetic torque, which are usual quantities in field oriented drives, are the inputs of the proposed neural estimator. In order to have a robust estimator facing induction motor parameter variations, the procedure of training and validating the neural networks are conducted with three different induction motors, from simulations to the experimental tests. An embedded system is also presented, and the scheme is tested considering various speed and load torque levels with different control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial competition and environmental concerns lead to the exploration of alternative and energy‐efficient technologies for ceramic materials processing. The main objective of this work was to present microwave heating as a viable option for stoneware processing. Stoneware functional properties are presented and discussed, with emphasis on impact strength, water absorption, porosity, and color. Microstructure analyses show that microwave‐ and gas‐fired samples have higher densifications than electrically fired samples. A relevant finding for processing conditions is that microwave firing requires temperatures approximately 100°C lower than those required by conventional firing. Microwave‐fired samples' rupture energies are approximately twice (0.57 ± 0.06 (J)) those of the reference samples (0.26 ± 0.03 (J)), and their water absorptions are approximately one‐half (1.5% at 1170°C and 0.8% at 1190°C) of those of the reference samples (2.0%), whereas the water absorption of electrically fired samples at 1180°C has been estimated to be 7.5%. Color analysis also evidences a shift to lower microwave firing temperatures, what is attributed to the enhanced transformations promoted by microwave heating when comparing with the transformations promoted by conventional (gas or electric) heating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: School burnout remains a prevalent problem among adolescents; it is associated with low academic achievement and school dropout risk, in turn linked to a whole host of deleterious developmental outcomes. The current longitudinal study sought to better understand the developmental course of school burnout by testing whether poor sleep and problematic internet use each uniquely and additively explained the variance in school burnout over time. Method: Data were collected four times over 18 months, 6 months apart from N = 405 adolescents, grades 9 to 11. Results: Sleep quality, but not quantity, was significantly associated with the school burnout intercept (β = −0.29); no effects were found for the slope. Problematic internet use was also significantly associated with the intercept (β =.44), but not the slope. In a combined model, both sleep quality and problematic internet use significantly predicted the school burnout intercept. The slope was only predicted by age (β = −0.21). Conclusions: The study found partial support for the hypotheses that both poor sleep quality and problematic internet use predicted school burnout, intercept only, not the rate of change. The evidence suggests that school burnout increased across high school; however, the rate of increase slowed with age. In contrast to some previous work, study findings highlight the importance of separately considering both poor sleep and problematic internet use in understanding the development of school burnout during adolescence. N = 229 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coffee growing is the third agricultural activity with greater economic importance in Rondônia and is going through a technical modernization process. Thus, this work proposes a spatio-temporal periodization of coffee production in the state, pointing out the tecnical characteristics used in each period, understanding the spatial trasnformations in Rondonia during it's territorial development and integrating science in coffee production. Aside from periodize the activity to understand the modernization process of coffee growing, we understand that throughout history, have been formed three major coffee production regions at the state: Cacoal's region; Zona da Mata and Vale do Guaporé's region; lastly Machadinho D'Oeste's region. The development of productive coffee regions results from territorial division of labor and specialization, integrating spatial circuit of coffee production at the local, nacional and international scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work develops a closed-form yield criterion applicable to porous materials with pressure-dependent matrix presenting tension–compression asymmetry (Mises–Schleicher–Burzyński material) containing parallel cylindrical voids. To develop the strength criterion, the stress-based variational homogenization approach due to Cheng et al. (Int J Plast 55:133–151, 2014) is extended to the case of a hollow cylinder under generalized plane strain conditions subjected to axisymmetric loading. Adopting a strictly statically admissible trial stress field, the homogenization procedure results in an approximate yield locus depending on the current material porosity, tension–compression material asymmetry, the mean lateral stress, and an equivalent shear stress. The analytical criterion provides exact solutions for purely hydrostatic loading. Theoretical results are compared with finite element (FE) simulations considering cylindrical unit-cells with distinct porosity levels, different values of the tension–compression asymmetry, and a wide range of stress triaxialities. Based on comparisons, the theoretical results are found to be in good agreement with FE simulations for most of the loading conditions and material features considered in this study. More accurate theoretical predictions are provided when higher material porosities and/or lower tension–compression asymmetries are considered. Overall, the main outcome of this work is a closed-form yield function proving fairly accurate predictions to engineering applications, in which pressure-dependent and tension–compression asymmetric porous materials with cylindrical voids are dealt with. This can be the case of honeycomb structures or additively manufactured materials, in which metal matrix composites are employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaporins (APQs) belong to the major intrinsic protein superfamily and play a key role in the transport of water and other solutes across cell membranes. Coffea canephora is an evergreen shrub used for making instant coffees. Genome analysis of C. canephora identified 33 putative aquaporin genes assigned to five subfamilies including seven plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIP), 9 tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIP), 11 NOD26-like intrinsic proteins (NIP), 3 small basic intrinsic proteins (SIP), and 3 X intrinsic proteins (XIP). Generally, the AQPs gene structure was conserved within each subfamily, with exon numbers ranging from one to five. The prediction of the aromatic/arginine selectivity filter (ar/R) and Froger's positions indicated a noticeable difference in substrate specificity between subfamilies. Synteny analysis revealed high conservation of aquaporin genes in coffee. In silico expression analysis of the CcAQPs genes indicated that they were differentially expressed in various tissues. Members of CcPIPs and CcTIPs subfamilies were validated by real-time quantitative analysis in leaves of two genotypes of C. canephora with contrasting responses to water deficit (clone 14: drought-tolerant and clone 109A: drought-susceptible). Under severe water deficit, the relative expression of isoforms of both genes decreased in clone 14 compared with that under the irrigated condition, while clone 109A showed comparatively higher mRNA levels, with the exception of CcPIP1;2 in the stress condition. This study was the first to characterize and validate aquaporin genes in C. canephora in response to water deficit, and the findings may provide insights for biotechnological approaches to increase tolerance to drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to identify the mobile applications available for the teaching of physical examination and nursing procedures and how they have contributed to the teaching-learning process in nursing graduation. Method: integrative literature review, conducted in April 2020, according to predefined protocol and PRISMA recommendations. Results: the applications Oiva®, Vital Easy®, Whatsapp®, Facebook® and e-mails were identified as usable in the teachinglearning process in nursing graduation, contributing to greater interaction between students and professors, clarification of doubts and as a source of information for lookup. Conclusion: the use of mobile applications is relevant in the teaching-learning process in nursing graduation, because they provide opportunities for the exchange of experiences and information between individuals belonging to different realities, expanding access to content, enabling engagement, limiting geographical barriers and adapting to specific realities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of literature is conducted in the field of cruise shipping, indicating a research gap in what concerns the regional analysis of the specific characteristics of cruise shipping in the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Passenger traffic in major cruise ports in this region and seasonality throughout the period of 2007–2016 is analyzed, including a comparison with the West Mediterranean. The number and market segment of cruise ships operating in this region is discussed and cruise terminal characteristics are compared. A database of cruise ships that compose the world fleet is presented and a number of its technical characteristics are discussed. This database is used to further characterize cruise shipping in selected Atlantic and Mediterranean ports of different sizes. The fleet composition in these ports is compared with the world fleet. The distribution of nautical distances between ports in the two areas is compared and its consequences for itinerary planning are discussed. Limitations in smaller ports in the Atlantic coast are identified. Conclusions are drawn regarding cruise shipping in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus diasease (COVID‐19) is an infectious disease that started in Wuhan, China in late 2019 and later spread around the world. Diabetes has been recognized as a possible risk factor for COVID‐19 complications. Objective: International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) investigated perceptions, challenges and experience of health care professionals (HCP) taking care of children and young people with diabetes worldwide during COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods: From 21st April to 17th May 2020, during COVID‐19 pandemic, a web‐based survey was sent to ISPAD members and former participants of ISPAD conferences by email. Results: Responders from 215 diabetes centers from 75 countries completed the survey. Majority were from UK (35; 16.3%), USA (20; 9.3%), and India (15; 7%). HCP were mostly pediatric endocrinologists (64%). During COVID‐19 pandemic, 16.5% of responders continued face‐to‐face consultation while most changed to telephone (32%) or video (18%) consultations. 19% reported a shortage of medical supplies. 22% reported a delay in diagnosis of patients with new‐onset diabetes, while 15% reported a higher incidence of DKA. 12% reported having one or more patients with COVID‐19. Most of the 86 children and adolescents with diabetes and COVID‐19 had only mild/moderate symptoms, while 5 required admission to an intensive care unit. No deaths were reported. Conclusions: This large global survey during COVID‐19 pandemic showed that many HCP adapted to the pandemic by resorting to telemedicine. One fourth of HCP reported delays in diagnosis and an increased rate of DKA. The emergence of COVID‐19 pandemic had an important impact on family's behavior that might have led to increase in diabetic ketoacidosis presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an overview of the macroscopic properties of porcelain tableware fired in a microwave furnace with six magnetrons (each with a nominal power of 900 W) operating at the frequency of 2.45 GHz. The dependence of firing temperature on physical properties such as shrinkage, water absorption, apparent porosity, bulk density, and impact resistance was analyzed. Emphasis is on the differences in the macroscopic properties of microwave and conventionally (gas and electric) fired porcelain. Batches were fired from room temperature up to above the optimum firing temperature (1380°C). Results show similar macroscopic properties for both firing methods, microwave heating required lower firing temperatures (between 1300°C and 1350°C), and shorter processing times (about 70 minutes). The main differences between microwave and electric firing methods occur in a temperature band of 300°C above the porcelain eutectic temperature (close to 1000°C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is to evaluate the effect of different organoclays on the properties of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/organoclay systems. PBAT/organoclay nanocomposites containing 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% of three different commercial organically modified clays (Cloisite® C10A, C20A and C30B) were prepared as a masterbatch in a laboratory internal mixer, let down to the appropriate concentration in a co-rotating twin-screw extruder, and test specimens were injection molded. Nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) as a function of clay identity and content. XRD results showed a significant increase in the interlayer spacing of the clay, suggesting that intercalated structures were obtained with all systems investigated, as confirmed by TEM. Organoclay incorporation into PBAT resulted in lower melt crystallization temperatures compared with the neat polymer, particularly in PBAT/C30B nanocomposites, slightly improved thermal stability, increased stiffness and no changes in the glass transition temperature. Compounding PBAT with up to 7.5% of C10A, C20A or C30B organoclays is an option to improve the performance of PBAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litterfall production contributes to the flow models and carbon content essential for ecosystem dynamics. The objective of the present study was to assess litterfall production rates in the Costinha mangrove forests, São Francisco River Estuary, Sergipe state, Brazil. To this end, litterfall production in the study area was monitored in five stratified stations (A, B, C, D and E) using the same channels as dividers. Ten (10) 0.25 m² litter collectors, totaling 120 litterbags, were allocated to each forest station for monthly monitoring lasting two years. The collected material was separated into fractions: leaf, flower, fruit, branch and twig, stipule and miscellaneous, and leaves and fruits were separated by species. The average litterfall production was 13.53 ton ha-1.year-1 in the first year and 13.21 ton ha-1.year-1 in the second year, with no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) between the years during the evaluation period. Generally, litterfall production in fractions presented the following descending order: leaves > branches and twigs > stipules > fruits and propagules > miscellaneous > flowers, with the leaf fractions accounting for 71.46% of the production. The Costinha mangrove forest showed variable litterfall production rates throughout the study period, but there was an increasing trend in leaf fall in warmer seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleic acid aptamers have emerged as an attractive class of carrier molecules due to their ability to bind with high affinity to specific ligands; their high chemical flexibility; as well as tissue penetration capability. RNA G-quadruplex (rG4) sequences have been described as structures with high stability and selectivity towards cancer cells. Recently, precursor microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) have been described as new G4 forming molecules. Surface nucleolin (NCL) is a known target of aptamer G4 AS1411 and is overexpressed on prostate cancer cells when compared with normal cells. We have shown that the sequence 5′ GGGAGGGAGGGACGGG 3′ found in pre-miR-149 forms a rG4 parallel structure, which can bind NCL. Also, another rG4 sequence with a longer loop was evaluated in terms of G4 formation, stabilization and binding affinity to NCL. Both rG4s sequences were studied as supramolecular carriers for the cancer-selective delivery of acridine ligand C 8. The rG4s-C 8 complexes showed high affinity (K D = 10−6 M) and stabilization (T m > 30 °C). The affinity of the rG4s-C 8 complexes against NCL was in the low nanomolar range, indicating that C 8 did not affect NCL binding. Noteworthy, the short loop rG4-C 8 complex showed selective antiproliferative effects in prostate cancer cells when compared with normal prostatic cells. The stability and nuclease resistance of rG4 and rG4-C 8 complex were evaluated in biological conditions and revealed the maintenance of G4 structure and complex stability. Furthermore, confocal microscopy studies confirmed the potential of rG4s-C 8 complexes in the targeting of prostate cancer cells. Overall, it is here demonstrated that the rG4 found in pre-miR-149 can be used as a cancer-selective delivery carrier of C 8 to prostate cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homocysteine (HCY) has been linked to oxidative stress and varied metabolic changes that are dependent on its concentration and affected tissues. In the present study we evaluate parameters of energy metabolism [succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), complex II and IV (cytochrome c oxidase), and ATP levels] and oxidative stress [DCFH oxidation, nitrite levels, antioxidant enzymes and lipid, protein and DNA damages, as well as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related (Nrf2) protein abundance] in amygdala and prefrontal cortex of HCY-treated rats. Wistar male rats were treated with a subcutaneous injection of HCY (0.03 µmol/g of body weight) from the 30th to 60th post-natal day, twice a day, to induce mild hyperhomocysteinemia (HHCY). The rats were euthanatized without anesthesia at 12 h after the last injection, and amygdala and prefrontal cortex were dissected for biochemical analyses. In the amygdala, mild HHCY increased activities of SDH and complex II and decreased complex IV and ATP level, as well as increased antioxidant enzymes activities (glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase), nitrite levels, DNA damage, and Nrf 2 protein abundance. In the prefrontal cortex, mild HHCY did not alter energy metabolism, but increased glutathione peroxidase, catalase and DNA damage. Other analyzed parameters were not altered by HCY-treatment. Our findings suggested that chronic mild HHCY changes each brain structure, particularly and specifically. These changes may be associated with the mechanisms by which chronic mild HHCY has been linked to the risk factor of fear, mood disorders and depression, as well as in neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The induction motor speed is an important quantity in an industrial process and can be used indirectly in flow, pressure, and drive control. However, the direct measurement of speed compromises the driver system and control, increasing the implementation cost. Speed estimators are usually based on a mathematical model of the induction motor, but it is typically necessary to obtain the parameters of the motors. Thus, this work proposes an artificial neural network approach to estimate the mechanical speed of induction motors in a stator flux-oriented vector control by direct current control and direct torque control. In this proposed strategy, no machine parameters adaptation is needed. The neural speed estimators, without weight change, are tested in two different motors to evaluate its robustness. First, by simulation, the neural networks are trained with constant machine parameters and then the estimator performance is evaluated under stator and rotor resistance variation. After that, the same neural estimators are experimentally tested, with another machine, under the variation of motor load torque and speed reference operating point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor manufacturing is a highly innovative branch of industry, where a high degree of automation has already been achieved. For example, devices tested to be outside of their specifications in electrical wafer test are automatically scrapped. In this paper, we go one step further and analyze test data of devices still within the limits of the specification, by exploiting the information contained in the analog wafermaps. To that end, we propose two feature extraction approaches with the aim to detect patterns in the wafer test dataset. Such patterns might indicate the onset of critical deviations in the production process. The studied approaches are: 1) classical image processing and restoration techniques in combination with sophisticated feature engineering and 2) a data-driven deep generative model. The two approaches are evaluated on both a synthetic and a real-world dataset. The synthetic dataset has been modeled based on real-world patterns and characteristics. We found both approaches to provide similar overall evaluation metrics. Our in-depth analysis helps to choose one approach over the other depending on data availability as a major aspect, as well as on available computing power and required interpretability of the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was characterize the floristic diversity and the phytosociological structure of the mangrove in the São Francisco River estuary in order to contribute to the conservation of this ecosystem. Thirtyfour sampling sites were selected, according to ongoing structural mosaic in the region ranging from 100 to 400 m between themselves, in a total useful area of 0.7625 ha. The evaluated parameters were: density of live and dead trunks; living and dead Basal Area; Absolute Frequency, Relative Frequency and Importance Value. Three typical mangrove species of the São Francisco estuary were found such as Avicennia germinans (L.) Stearn, Rhizophora mangle L. and Laguncularia racemosa (L.) Gaertn. F. Gaertn. The forest height ranged from 2.88 to 15.63 m, the DBH from 3.95 to 19.74 cm, live basal area from 4.22 to 47.83 m² ha-1 and dead basal area from 0.50 to 59.63 m² ha-1. The living trunks density ranged from 375.00 to 9100.00 trunks ha-1 and dead trunk density from 100-2800 trunks ha-1. The described results in this study demonstrated that the mangrove forests presents a structural variability that may be associated with environmental characteristics (marine erosion) and anthropogenic factors. The peculiarities of each site emphasize the importance of preventive actions in the ecosystem conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology for delimiting the potential hinterland of container terminals that consists in calculating the minimum generalised costs from load centers to different container terminals, using one of a set of possible intermodal or unimodal transportation solutions. Generalised costs include transportation costs, handling costs and transit time costs. The models of the transportation infrastructure network (roads, railway lines, ports, intermodal terminals) and of transportation and handling costs are described, including the definition of nonlinear unitary transportation costs. The methodology and models are implemented in a computer code and applied in a case study focused on the characterization of container terminal potential hinterlands across the western Iberian Peninsula. The results allow the identification of the main hinterland of different terminals in a multi-port system and the analysis of the effects of intermodal terminals in promoting a regionalization process, enabling the characterization of 'island formations'. A hinterland contestability index is proposed and used to evaluate the degree of competition between container terminals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Plasma and digesta osmolarity was greater in broilers at 4 days of age. • Sialic acid secretion and caliciform cell count were reduced with age. • Supplemental betaine reduced digesta osmolality and caliciform cells. • The high fibre diet reduced the number of caliciform cells. Abstract Supplemental betaine has been reported to have osmoprotectant properties, thereby supporting intestinal integrity and health, which could benefit young birds during early gut development. Therefore, an experiment was designed to determine the influence of dietary fibre and supplemental betaine on mucus production as well as blood and digesta osmolality of broiler chicks from hatch to 14 days of age. A total of 250 day-old Cobb 500 male broiler chicks were allocated to 16 cages with 15 broiler chicks each. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted of two feed formulations; low and high (added rice bran) fibre diets and 4 levels of betaine (0, 1, 3 or 5 kg/tonne). At hatch, blood and duodenum samples were collected from ten broiler chicks that were not allocated to a cage. On days 4, 9 and 14, five birds/cage (10 birds/treatment) were selected and sacrified for blood, duodenum and digesta collection. Mucus production was assessed by the determination of sialic acid content of digesta samples and goblet cell count in the duodenum. Osmolality in both digesta and plasma samples was also determined. Sialic acid secretion decreased (P < 0.05) with bird age while goblet cell count was only reduced (P < 0.05) at 14 d compared with 4 and 9 d. Supplementation of 5 kg/tonne of betaine in diets reduced (P < 0.05) sialic acid secretion in the low fibre diet, while goblet cell count was reduced (P < 0.05) by the inclusion of either rice bran or betaine at 5 kg/tonne. Osmolality of the digesta was higher (P < 0.05) at 4 d compared with 9 d and 14 d, while inclusion of 1 kg/tonne of betaine reduced (P < 0.05) digesta osmolality independent of age. Plasma osmolality was also greater (P < 0.05) at 4 d, but no effect of fibre or betaine was observed. Overall, mucus production was elevated at 4 d which may be correlated with the higher osmolality in both digesta and plasma at this age. Inclusion of an osmoprotectant such as betaine may reduce these effects due to a reduction in the osmolality of the digesta which would consequently reduce stimulation of goblet cell differentiation and mucus production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coffea arabica L. is an important agricultural commodity, accounting for 60% of traded coffee worldwide. Nitrogen (N) is a macronutrient that is usually limiting to plant yield; however, molecular mechanisms of plant acclimation to N limitation remain largely unknown in tropical woody crops. In this study, we investigated the transcriptome of coffee roots under N starvation, analyzing poly-A+ libraries and small RNAs. We also evaluated the concentration of selected amino acids and N-source preferences in roots. Ammonium was preferentially taken up over nitrate, and asparagine and glutamate were the most abundant amino acids observed in coffee roots. We obtained 34,654 assembled contigs by mRNA sequencing, and validated the transcriptional profile of 12 genes by RT-qPCR. Illumina small RNA sequencing yielded 8,524,332 non-redundant reads, resulting in the identification of 86 microRNA families targeting 253 genes. The transcriptional pattern of eight miRNA families was also validated. To our knowledge, this is the first catalog of differentially regulated amino acids, N sources, mRNAs, and sRNAs in Arabica coffee roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell surface proteome of the foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes, the etiological agent of listeriosis, is critical for understanding the physiological processes associated with stress resistance and persistence in the environment. In this context, the most widespread mode of growth for bacterial cells in natural and industrial environments is in biofilms. Cell surface proteins are, however, challenging to characterize because of their low abundance and poor solubility. Moreover, cell surface protein extracts are usually contaminated with cytoplasmic proteins that constitute the main signal in proteomic analysis. This study aimed to compare the efficiency of three methods to extract and explore surface proteins of L. monocytogenes growing in a biofilm: trypsin shaving, biotinylation, and cell fractionation. Peptide separation and identification were performed by shotgun proteomics using high-performance liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The biotinylation method was the most effective in extracting surface proteins, with the lowest rate of contamination by cytoplasmic proteins. Although presenting a higher contamination rate in cytoplasmic proteins, the other two techniques allowed the identification of additional surface proteins. Seven proteins were commonly retrieved by the three methods. The extracted proteins belong to several functional classes, involved in virulence, transport, or metabolic pathways. Finally, the three extraction methods seemed complementary and their combined use improved the exploration of the bacterial surface proteome. These new findings collectively inform future discovery and translational proteomics for clinical, environmental health, and industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor (KIR) genes encode cell surface molecules that recognize HLA molecules and modulate the activity of natural killer (NK) cells. KIR genes exhibit presence and absence polymorphism, which generates a variety of gene‐content haplotypes in worldwide populations. KIR gene‐content variation is implicated in many diseases and is also important for placentation and transplantation. Because of the complexity of KIR polymorphism, variation in this family is still mostly studied at the gene‐content level, even with the advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) methods. Gene‐content determination is generally expensive and/or time‐consuming. To overcome these difficulties, we developed a method based on multiplex polymerase chain reaction with specific sequence primers (PCR‐SSP) followed by melting curve analysis that allows cost‐effective, precise and fast generation of results. Our method was 100% concordant with a gel‐based method and 99.9% concordant with presence and absence determination by NGS. The limit of detection for accurate typing was 30 ng of DNA (0.42 μM) with 260/230 and 260/280 ratios as low as 0.19 and of 0.44. In addition, we developed a user‐friendly Java‐based computational application called killerPeak that interprets the raw data generated by Viia7 or QuantStudio 7 quantitative PCR machines and reliably exports the final genotyping results in spreadsheet file format. The combination of a reliable method that requires low amount of DNA with an automated interpretation of results allows scaling the KIR genotyping in large cohorts with reduced turnaround time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) cryogel was synthesized by cryogelation. • Purification of Influenza DNA vaccine was achieved using poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) cryogel. • Economic and efficient method to purify Influenza DNA vaccine. Abstract Influenza virus is a huge financial and social burden for health care systems over the world. Currently, traditional approaches are not effective in the fight of the epidemy and new alternatives like DNA vaccines have been developed. However, the downstream process of DNA vaccines is a constant challenge in the biotechnology industry. Cryogels has several advantages over traditional supports and have been tested as stationary phase in chromatographic separations. In this work, a method based on poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) cryogel was used to purify the plasmid NTC7482-41H-VA2 HA, which express the Influenza hemagglutinin gene. For this purpose, the cryogel was synthesized by cryo-polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The purification of supercoiled isoform of the plasmid NTC7482-41H-VA2 HA from a clarified lysate sample was achieved in a two-step experiment using NaCl and the dynamic binding capacity of pHEMA cryogel was determined. The assessment of DNA vaccine allowed to conclude that the level of contaminants such as proteins, genomic DNA, RNA and endotoxins are in accordance with FDA agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ovariectomy (OVX), a surgical model of menopause, and/or vitamin D (VIT D) supplementation on oxidative status, DNA damage, and telomere length in hippocampus of rats at two ages. Ninety-day-old (adult) or 180-day-old (older) female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: SHAM, OVX, VIT D, and OVX + VIT D. Thirty days after OVX, rats were supplemented with VIT D (500 IU/kg) by gavage, for a period of 30 days. Results showed that OVX altered antioxidant enzymes, increasing the activities of catalase in adult rats and superoxide dismutase in older rats. VIT D per se increased the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase in older rats, but not in adult rats. VIT D supplementation to OVX (OVX + VIT D) rats did not reverse the effect of OVX on catalase in adult rats, but it partially reversed the increase in superoxide dismutase activity in older rats. OVX increased DNA damage in hippocampus of adult and older rats. VIT D per se reduced DNA damage, and when associated to OVX, it partially reversed this alteration. Additionally, OVX caused a telomere shortening in older rats, and VIT D was able to reverse such effect. Taken together, these results demonstrate that surgical menopause in rats causes hippocampal biochemical changes and VIT D appears, at least in part, to act in a beneficial way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folds are commonly found in association with ductile shear zones. However, superimposed folding contemporaneous with shearing is rarely reported. Here, we describe a macroscopic fold interference pattern with geometry intermediate between types 1 and 2 related to development of adjacent transcurrent shear zones. The interference fold pattern is located in a compartment bounded, on the eastern side, by an ENE-trending, dextral shear zone that connects with a NE-trending, sinistral shear zone, and, on the western side, by a NE-trending sinistral shear zone. A first folding episode produced NW-trending, SW-verging inclined folds and a later one NE-trending, upright folds. Folds of the first event are attributed to a local contractional strain field induced by the growth of the shear zones with opposed kinematics whereas the later folding episode and nucleation of the western shear zone reflects regional NW-SE contraction. Folding of a macro-scale NW-trending fold by NE-trending folds produced the fold interference structure. In contrast with most cases of types 1 and 2 fold interference patterns, in the present case no change on the orientation of regional stress axes is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MALDI-TOF Mass spectrometry Imaging (MSI) is a surface-sampling technology that can determine spatial information and relative abundance of analytes directly from biological samples. Human listeriosis cases are due to the ingestion of contaminated foods with the pathogenic bacteria Listeria monocytogenes . The reduction of water availability in food workshops by decreasing the air relative humidity (RH) is one strategy to improve the control of bacterial contamination. This study aims to develop and implement an MSI approach on L. monocytogenes biofilms and proof of concept using a dehumidified stress condition. MSI allowed examining the distribution of low molecular weight proteins within the biofilms subjected to a dehumidification environment, mimicking the one present in a food workshop (10 °C, 75% RH). Furthermore, a LC-MS/MS approach was made to link the dots between MSI and protein identification. Five identified proteins were assigned to registered MSI m / z , including two cold-shock proteins and a ligase involved in cell wall biogenesis. These data demonstrate how imaging can be used to dissect the proteome of an intact bacterial biofilm giving new insights into protein expression relating to a dehumidification stress adaptation. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD010444 . Biological significance The ready-to-eat food processing industry has the daily challenge of controlling the contamination of surfaces and machines with spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. In some cases, it is a lost cause due to these microorganisms' capacity to withstand the cleaning treatments, like desiccation procedures. Such a case is the ubiquitous Gram-positive Bacterium Listeria monocytogenes . Its surface proteins have particular importance for the interaction with its environment, being important factors contributing to adaptation to stress conditions. There are few reproducibly techniques to obtain the surface proteins of Gram-positive cells. Here, we developed a workflow that enables the use of MALDI imaging on Gram-positive bacterium biofilms to study the impact of dehumidification on sessile cells. It will be of the most interest to test this workflow with different environmental conditions and potentially apply it to other biofilm-forming bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this article is to examine the economic effects of some provisions on the Federal Constitution of Brazil. The Constitution of Brazil is one of the longest and most detailed constitutional texts in the world. We find that both because of the specific provisions of the text, but also by the political economy implications of the sheer length, the Brazilian Constitution tends to increase governmental spending. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transient hypothyroidism can present itself as clinically asymptomatic or with few symptoms. Early treatment with levothyroxine (L-T4) prevents complications related to this disorder. We report a case of a male infant with concomitant short bowel syndrome and transient hypothyroidism treated with rectal L-T4. A 4-month-and-10-day-old boy with previous gastroschisis underwent multiple surgical approaches for small bowel resection and developed short bowel syndrome. We suspected hypothyroidism because of jaundice (direct bilirubin up to 59 mg/dL), the absence of evacuation, oral diet intolerance, and intestinal dysmotility. Because of a thyrotropin level of 34.45 &#181kIU/mL and a free thyroxine level of 0.64 ng/dL, the diagnosis was confirmed. Because fasting was demanding, we started the patient on rectal diluted L-T4. After 4 weeks, the patient had spontaneous peristalsis, improvement of jaundice (direct bilirubin: 4.6 mg/dL), and normalized free thyroxine and thyrotropin values. In the present case, the patient was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and was on absolute fasting. An alternative route of drug administration was warranted. We empirically prescribed rectal diluted L-T4 when intravenous and suppository L-T4 were not available. This method was proven to be safe and effective in improving the patient's clinical and biochemical status. Rectal L-T4 is a possible alternative route of administration to treat hypothyroidism in patients who are unable to take the medication orally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis is still a major public health problem and has been worrying health authorities. Tuberculosis is directly related to social determinants, a fact that has been involving governments with intersectoral actions to reduce the vulnerability of the population to health. Objective: To describe the profile of re-entry cases after abandonment of tuberculosis treatment in the city of Salvador, Bahia, from 2006 to 2015, comprising sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral factors of the individuals. Method: This is a descriptive and exploratory spatio-temporal ecological study performed through secondary data available in the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System. The data obtained were stored and consolidated for calculation of the absolute and relative frequency variables, re-entry incidence rate after abandonment, and Spearman correlation. Then, the information obtained was used to make graphs and tables. Results: There were 1,611 re-entry cases with predominance of males, 30 to 49 years old, self-declared brown skin color, and the level of complete fundamental education, with tuberculosis presenting as pulmonary and HIV negative. The health districts of Cabula/Beiru, Subúrbio Ferroviário, and São Caetano/Valéria presented higher incidence rates. Conclusion: The profile found is consistent with the individuals with the highest incidence rates of the disease, as well as higher rates of tuberculosis mortality throughout the country. The education level of the individual was presented as a crucial factor for greater re-entry to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]