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The article's objective is to characterize the Project Business Model under the Canvas philosophy and determine its importance in designing business plans for new science and technology-based enterprise projects by defining a strategic management system. The research problem stems from the high mortality rate of this type of companies. Therefore, a descriptive methodology is used based on relevant bibliographic reviews to identify the existing models' elements. Among the most outstanding results, this proposal outlines a new business model with a three-dimensional vision, which responds to the needs a newly created company faces in different periods of its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents updates in the diagnostics systems, magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) calculations and simulations of microwave heating scenarios of the small modular Stellarator of Costa Rica 1 (SCR-1). Similarly, the design of a flexible bolometer and magnetic diagnostics (a set of Mirnov coils, Rogowski coils and two diamagnetic loops) are introduced. Furthermore, new MHD equilibrium calculations for the plasma of the SCR-1 device were performed using the VMEC code including the poloidal cross-section of the magnetic flux surfaces at different toroidal positions, profiles of the rotational transform, magnetic well, magnetic shear and total magnetic field norm. Charged particle orbits in vacuum magnetic field were computed by the magnetic field solver BS-SOLCTRA (Vargas et al. In 27th IAEA Fusion Energy Conference (FEC 2018), 2018. IAEA). A visualization framework was implemented using Paraview (Solano-Piedra et al. In 23rd IAEA Technical Meeting on the Research Using Small Fusion Devices (23rd TM RUSFD), 2017) and compared with magnetic mapping results (Coto-Vílchez et al. In 16th Latin American Workshop on Plasma Physics (LAWPP), 2017, pp. 43–46). Additionally, simulations of microwave heating scenarios were performed by the IPF-FDMC full-wave code. These simulations calculate the conversion of the ordinary waves to extraordinary waves and allow us to identify the location where the conversion takes place. Finally, the microwave heating scenarios for the $330^{\circ }$ toroidal position are presented. The microwave heating scenarios showed that the O–X–B mode conversion is around 12–14 %. It was possible to identify the spatial zone where the conversion takes place (upper hybrid frequency). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper takes stock of the WSF experience and the running out of steam of the pink wave in Latin America. It is written from the perspective of radical feminism in the region to interrogate the interrelations between the multiple systems of power formed by patriarchy, capitalism and colonialism and their impact on people's lives, arguing that feminist struggles for sexual and reproductive rights, for the right to decide, for a secular state that breaks the religious tutelage over women's bodies, along with many kinds of other struggles, demand not only recognition but also the defence of diverse ways of life and visions of the world. In these struggles, the paper claims, it is fundamental to expand the epistemological and social space and to recover other cultural matrices and frameworks of meaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND. Laparoscopic surgical skills are a contemporary requirement for general surgeons, urologists and gynecologists. Laparoscopic surgical simulators are the ideal methods to achieve this purpose. However, the more realistic the simulator, the higher its cost. Thus most of the high-tech simulators are out of the reach of the surgical trainees. We present “TrianguLap” a low-cost, portable, tablet-based laparoscopic surgical simulator that enhances laparoscopic surgical skills. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After a 30 min practice session with the “TrianguLap” simulator, 10 advanced laparoscopic surgeons answered a written survey giving their opinion regarding their educational experience with the laparoscopic surgical simulator. RESULTS: All 10 interviewed surgeons agreed that TrianguLap’s design is very practical and totally portable. Also they confirmed that it is a very useful tool to develop and practice several laparoscopic skills. All but one surgeons considered its cost to be accessible and that it closely resembles the real surgical experience for intrecorporeal suturing. CONCLUSIONS: Practicing several laparoscopic skills on the TrianguLap simulator enhances the educational experience of the surgical trainee by accelerating the learning process. It is a low-cost and totally portable surgical simulation device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon and nitrogen removal potential of an innovative anoxic-aerobic photobioreactor configuration operated with both internal and external recyclings was evaluated under different cyanobacterial-bacterial sludge residence times (9-31 days) during the treatment of wastewaters with low C/N ratios. Under optimal operating conditions, the two-stage photobioreactor was capable of providing organic carbon and nitrogen removals over 95% and 90%, respectively. The continuous biomass recycling from the settler resulted in the enrichment and predominance of rapidly-settling cyanobacterial-bacterial flocs and effluent suspended solid concentrations lower than 35 mg VSS L-¹. These flocs exhibited sedimentation rates of 0.28-0.42 m h-1 but sludge volumetric indexes of 333-430 ml/g. The decoupling between the hydraulic retention time and sludge retention time mediated by the external recycling also avoided the washout of nitrifying bacteria and supported process operation at biomass concentrations of 1000-1500 mg VSS L-¹. The addition of additional NaHCO3 to the process overcame the CO2 limitation resulting from the intense competition for inorganic carbon between cyanobacteria and nitrifying bacteria in the photobioreactor, which supported the successful implementation of a nitrification-denitrification process. Unexpectedly, this nitrification-denitrification process occurred both simultaneously in the photobioreactor alone (as a result of the negligible dissolved oxygen concentrations) and sequentially in the two-stage anoxic-aerobic configuration with internal NO3-/NO2- recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the frequency of anti-N. Caninum antibodies in two sheep herds in the department of Córdoba, Colombia. Materials and methods. The study was performed in the department of Córdoba (Colombia) in two sheep farms that had a clinical history of abortions and death of adult animals; 28 female adults of creole hair (camura) breed were sampled at random. A recombinant peptide from the parasite (NcGRA1) was used in DOT-ELISA tests and the serum was diluted 1:200. Results. This study reports for the first time in this department, and the country the anti-N. Caninum in 78.6% (22/28) of the sheep sampled. Conclusions. These results confirm the Neospora caninum infection in sheep and the need for new studies linking the presence of the parasite with clinical manifestations in different regions of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Evaluate and characterize the clinical and histopathological aspects of cutaneous Pythiosis in calves the department of Córdoba, Colombia. Materials and methods. A descriptive, non-probabilistic, convenience study was conducted in animals. 14 calves were with skin Pythiosis were analyzed, which underwent clinical and histopathologic characterization using hematoxylin-eosin and Grocott staining. Results. Clinically, the animals developed humid skin ulcers with abundant fibrin bloody exudation, some had irregular surface nodules and bleeding and in some cases, yellowish white caseous material. Lesions were located in most cases, on the distal parts of the limbs and the ventro-lateral region of the neck. Histopathologically, in hematoxylin-eosin staining, pyogranulomas and a multiple central area constituted by agglomerates of eosinophiis and neutrophils, some of them surrounded by macrophages and giant cells (Splendore-Hoeppli reaction) were observed. The Grocott stain showed multiple septate and partially branched, ¡ntralesional, straight, brown hyphae. Conclusions. The definitive diagnosis of the disease was based on epidemiology, macroscopic characteristics of lesions and histopathologic findings, as being conclusive diagnostic methods for bovine cutaneous Pythiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analysed the humoral immune response to glatiramer acetate (GA, Copaxone) in 20 multiple sclerosis patients treated with GA, 20 patients not treated with GA and 20 normal control subjects. Using an ELISA for detection of total GA-reactive immunoglobulins (all isotypes), all treated patients but also 3/20 untreated and 8/20 healthy subjects scored positive at 1:20 plasma dilutions. At higher dilutions, 5/20 treated patients and two healthy donors had relatively high levels of anti-GA antibodies. Isotype and IgG subclass analysis revealed that the two antibody-positive normal subjects had IgM and small titers of IgG1 or IgG2 antibodies. In contrast, 18 of 20 GA-treated patients, had low but significant titers of GA-reactive IgG4 antibodies. This finding is consistent with the previously described GA-mediated induction of T-helper 2 (TH2)-like regulatory T cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have demonstrated the net anabolic potential of a mid-region fragment of human parathyroid hormone (hPTH), and a protease resistant mutein derived from it, to stimulate growth of skeletal-derived tissues. The fragment hPTH (28–48), lacking the N-terminal amino acids necessary for stimulation of adenylate cyclase, and therefore unable to stimulate bone resorption by osteoclasts, was compared with the protease-resistant double-mutein hPTH (28–48) F34M L37T, full-length hPTH (1–84), the protease resistant form hPTH (1–84) L37T, 17β estradiol (E2), and the combination of mid-region fragments of PTH and E2. The hormones, at concentrations spanning a 100-fold range, were given by 14 injections (6/week, excluding Saturday), to 17-day-old female Wistar-derived rats. At the low concentration of 200 ng/day of PTH (1–84), or the molar equivalent of the fragment, and 50 ng E2, all the hormones increased significantly the specific activity of creatine kinase (CK; a marker of skeletal cell proliferation) in tibial diaphysis and epiphysis, the width of the cortical bone in the humeral diaphysis, and the number of cells in the proliferating zone of the humeral epiphyseal growth plate. At a 10-fold lower concentration of both PTH and E2, CK specific activity was synergistically stimulated in both diaphyseal bone and epiphyseal cartilage. However, PTH mid-region fragments at a dose of 1 μg/day did not increase trabecular bone volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress on the small modular stellarator SCR-1: new diagnostics and heating scenarios. The original version of this article was published with an editor's name misspelled in the acknowledgements. Progress on the small modular stellarator SCR-1: new diagnostics and heating scenarios - ERRATUM. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction. Even though certain technical limitations associated with the small size of the patients were taken for granted in the advent of pediatric robotic surgery, we could now be facing a paradigm shift challenging these old beliefs. Materials and methods. A retrospective study of patients undergoing Da-Vinci-Xi(IS4000)-assisted urological surgery from May 2022 to October 2023 was carried out. Patients were divided into two groups –Group A < 15 kg and Group B ≥ 15 kg. Operating times, hospital stay, and intra- and postoperative complications were compared. Results. 17 patients (9 in Group A, 8 in Group B) underwent surgery. Median age was 29 months (A) and 109 months (B) (p< 0.001). Median weight was 12.0 kg (A) and 31.5 kg (p< 0.001). Operating time was 162 min (A) and 130 min (p= 0.203). Console time was 99 min (A) and 70 min (B) (p= 0.065). Mean hospital stay was 2 days (A) and 3 days (B) (p= 0.41). No differences were found in terms of intraoperative (p= 0.453) or postoperative (p= 0.485) complications. Conclusion. Even though operating on younger children seemed more complicated than on older ones in the advent of robotic surgery, the results in our series were similar. The fact patients under 12 months of age were not included means larger studies are required to prove this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis is a rare, chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by the destruction of interlobular bile ducts, leading to cholestasis and liver fibrosis. Whether elafibranor, an oral, dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α and δ agonist, may have benefit as a treatment for primary biliary cholangitis is unknown. METHODS In this multinational, phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we randomly assigned (in a 2:1 ratio) patients with primary biliary cholangitis who had had an inadequate response to or unacceptable side effects with ursodeoxycholic acid to receive once-daily elafibranor, at a dose of 80 mg, or placebo. The primary end point was a biochemical response (defined as an alkaline phosphatase level of <1.67 times the upper limit of the normal range, with a reduction of ≥15% from baseline, and normal total bilirubin levels) at week 52. Key secondary end points were normalization of the alkaline phosphatase level at week 52 and a change in pruritus intensity from baseline through week 52 and through week 24, as measured on the Worst Itch Numeric Rating Scale (WI-NRS; scores range from 0 [no itch] to 10 [worst itch imaginable]). RESULTS A total of 161 patients underwent randomization. A biochemical response (the primary end point) was observed in 51% of the patients (55 of 108) who received elafibranor and in 4% (2 of 53) who received placebo, for a difference of 47 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], 32 to 57; P<0.001). The alkaline phosphatase level normalized in 15% of the patients in the elafibranor group and in none of the patients in the placebo group at week 52 (difference, 15 percentage points; 95% CI, 6 to 23; P=0.002). Among patients who had moderate-to-severe pruritus (44 patients in the elafibranor group and 22 in the placebo group), the least-squares mean change from baseline through week 52 on the WI-NRS did not differ significantly between the groups (-1.93 vs. -1.15; difference, -0.78; 95% CI, -1.99 to 0.42; P=0.20). Adverse events that occurred more frequently with elafibranor than with placebo included abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with elafibranor resulted in significantly greater improvements in relevant biochemical indicators of cholestasis than placebo. (Funded by GENFIT and Ipsen; ELATIVE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04526665.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Primary biliary cholangitis is a rare, chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by the destruction of interlobular bile ducts, leading to cholestasis and liver fibrosis. Whether elafibranor, an oral, dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) a and 8 agonist, may have benefit as a treatment for primary biliary cholangitis is unknown. METHODS In this multinational, phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we randomly assigned (in a 2:1 ratio) patients with primary biliary cholangitis who had had an inadequate response to or unacceptable side effects with ursodeoxycholic acid to receive once-daily elafibranor, at a dose of 80 mg, or placebo. The primary end point was a biochemical response (defined as an alkaline phosphatase level of <1.67 times the upper limit of the normal range, with a reduction of ≥15% from baseline, and normal total bilirubin levels) at week 52. Key secondary end points were normalization of the alkaline phosphatase level at week 52 and a change in pruritus intensity from baseline through week 52 and through week 24, as measured on the Worst Itch Numeric Rating Scale (WI-NRS; scores range from 0 [no itch] to 10 [worst itch imaginable]). RESULTS A total of 161 patients underwent randomization. A biochemical response (the primary end point) was observed in 51% of the patients (55 of 108) who received elafibranor and in 4% (2 of 53) who received placebo, for a difference of 47 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], 32 to 57; P<0.001). The alkaline phosphatase level normalized in 15% of the patients in the elafibranor group and in none of the patients in the placebo group at week 52 (difference, 15 percentage points; 95% CI, 6 to 23; P=0.002). Among patients who had moderate-to-severe pruritus (44 patients in the elafibranor group and 22 in the placebo group), the least-squares mean change from baseline through week 52 on the WI-NRS did not differ significantly between the groups (-1.93 vs. -1.15; difference, -0.78; 95% CI, -1.99 to 0.42; P=0.20). Adverse events that occurred more frequently with elafibranor than with placebo included abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with elafibranor resulted in significantly greater improvements in relevant biochemical indicators of cholestasis than placebo. (Funded by GENFIT and Ipsen; ELATIVE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04526665.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deposition of high-quality metal-organic framework (MOF) films is still challenging but offers potential applications in gas storage, catalysis, sensing, lighting, and solar energy harvesting. This work reports a single-step, simple, fast and inexpensive method for in situ synthesis and deposition of crystalline luminescent Tb 2 (BDC) 3 (Tb = terbium) (BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) MOF films using ultrasonic spray deposition on top of several types of substrates including glass slides, metal oxides films, filter paper, and polyimide sheets. The glass supported films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), profilometry, infrared (IR), and luminescence spectroscopies. As expected, the emission spectra present high-intensity characteristic emission bands of the sensitized terbium luminescence for all the films. Nevertheless, the temperature of the substrate, during deposition, plays a crucial role in the final structural and morphological characteristics of the MOFs, which in turn, dramatically modifies the excitation features. The MOF-film synthesis/deposition method here reported can be extended to other MOF structures and substrates. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the presence of Pantoea citrea, causal agent of pink disease, in pineapple fields in Mexico. Results of pathogenicity tests in vitro, pigment production and slice pigmentation suggest that Pantoea citrea is the causal agent of pink disease. In June 2003, pineapple fruits cv. Smooth Cayenne that grow in fields of the Cuenca del Papaloapan region of Mexico were sampled. Nine bacterial creamy isolates reveal a pale yellow color were recovered from the interior of visually intact fruits on LB agar plates. Pathogenicity of P. citrea was demonstrated in a hypersensitivity test.

We initiate in this paper the study of analytic properties of the Liouville heat kernel. In particular, we establish regularity estimates on the heat kernel and derive non-trivial lower and upper bounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from several adult human tissues are reported to be a promising tool for regenerative medicine. In order to broaden the array of tools for therapeutic application, we isolated a new population of cells from adult human testis termed gonadal stem cells (GSCs). GSCs express CD105, CD166, CD73, CD90, STRO-1 and lack hematopoietic markers CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR which are characteristic identifiers of MSCs. In addition, GSCs express pluripotent markers Oct4, Nanog, and SSEA-4. GSCs propagated for at least 64 population doublings and exhibited clonogenic capability. GSCs have a broad plasticity and the potential to differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic cells. These studies demonstrate that GSCs are easily obtainable stem cells, have growth kinetics and marker expression similar to MSCs, and differentiate into mesodermal lineage cells. Therefore, GSCs may be a valuable tool for therapeutic applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective. To evaluate the bio-compatibility and bone-conductivity properties of a hydroxyapatite-lignin compound Implanted in rabbit's shinbone. Material and methods. 20 rabbits (New Zealand race) were used for the experiments. In each animal, the left tibia was treated experimentally whereas the right tibia was used as experimental control. Using a manual drill, we bore a hole approximately 4mm diameter that reached the medullar canal. Each of these was subsequently treated with two tablets of the hydroxyapatite-lignln compound equivalent to 400 mg which were used to fill up the bone damage. The same surgical procedure was performed in the group of control, without using the compound. The histological evaluations were conducted at 8, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days post surgery based on four animals each time. Results. Comparison between experimental and control groups evidenced that at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days post-surgery there was an accelerated bone formation and extensive bone healing In the treated group. Conclusions. The hydroxyapatite- lignin compound allowed the growth of bone tissue from the edges to the center of the bone damage at a higher and more organized rate than in the control group. We also found the hydroxyapatite-lignin compound integrate well Into the bone tissue, which -in addition to the observations presented above - allowed us to recommend it as a biocompatible and oseoconductor substitute in the case of bone damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of its high nutritional value, the possible usefulness of Lepidum peruvianum (maca) was assayed, as a possible culture medium for Trypanosoma cruzi. Under experimental conditions, T. cruzi epimastigota were incubated in four biphasic different culture media including Lepidum peruvianum (maca), and they were compared against BHI culture medium as a control. The inclusion of maca in the culture media allowed Trypanosoma cruzi growth; it was determined that the medium containing blood-enriched maca amongst its solid components and a maca infusion in the liquid phase had better growth (3,41 x 105 parasites/mL) compared to the other culture media after five days (p<0,05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Several scoring systems predict mortality in alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH), including the Maddrey discriminant function (mDF) and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score developed in the United States, Glasgow alcoholic hepatitis score in the United Kingdom, and age, bilirubin, international normalized ratio, and creatinine score in Spain. To date, no global studies have examined the utility of these scores, nor has the MELD-sodium been evaluated for outcome prediction in AH. In this study, we assessed the accuracy of different scores to predict short-term mortality in AH and investigated additional factors to improve mortality prediction. METHODS: Patients admitted to hospital with a definite or probable AH were recruited by 85 tertiary centers in 11 countries and across 3 continents. Baseline demographic and laboratory variables were obtained. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at 28 and 90 days. RESULTS: In total, 3,101 patients were eligible for inclusion. After exclusions (n = 520), 2,581 patients were enrolled (74.4% male, median age 48 years, interquartile range 40.9-55.0 years). The median MELD score was 23.5 (interquartile range 20.5-27.8). Mortality at 28 and 90 days was 20% and 30.9%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for 28-day mortality ranged from 0.776 for MELD-sodium to 0.701 for mDF, and for 90-day mortality, it ranged from 0.773 for MELD to 0.709 for mDF. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for mDF to predict death was significantly lower than all other scores. Age added to MELD obtained only a small improvement of AUC. DISCUSSION: These results suggest that the mDF score should no longer be used to assess AH's prognosis. The MELD score has the best performance in predicting short-term mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Placenta for eight sows, 3 in early pregnancy (28 days), 2 in the middle third of gestation (69 days) and 3 at term pregnancy (112 days) were examined by optic microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The swine placenta, key organ for the success of the pregnancy, is characterised to be diffuse and epitheliochorial. In uterine luminal endometrium attachment of trophoblast fetal with maternal epithelium were observed. In this maternofetal interface of placenta the 28 days pregnancy the spaces between cell and cell were observed; these spaces could be central form of alimentation histiotrophe in this gestational period. The uterine cells contain electron-dense granules connected by narrow cisterns. At the 69-day stage of gestation the epithelial cells have more cell activity because they have nucleolo for cell and this is characteristic of cell division. The maternofetal interface of the placenta at the 69-day stage of gestation is more developed that maternofetal interface at the 28 days of gestation. Placenta at term show trofoblastic cells where it was observed many secretion of proteins and process characteristics of the apoptosis. The knowledge of the architecture and development of the placental areas through the different gestational periods, will allow to understand the immunoendocrine phenomenon that sustains the swine gestation. In this work, ultrastructural placental morphology from different periods of gestation was compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: PIPAC (Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy is a technique that allows laparoscopic administration of aerosol chemotherapy in the peritoneum. This procedure is utilized for treatment of carcinomatosis, for debulk abdominal tumors, increasing resectability, or for palliation of abdominal symptoms. Aim: To present the first two cases of PIPAC performed in Chile, technical considerations and review of the literature. Patients and Method: The way this program was started at Clínica Las Condes is presented. The technique is described. This procedure was performed in two females, both with refractory ascites due to carcinomatosis. Results: The procedure was uneventfully and patients were discharged 24 hours later. Both patients showed important reduction of ascites, maintained at 6 months of follow-up. Discussion: PIPAC is a safe emerging technique, with low complication rate. It is indicated in carcinomatosis of colonic and ovarian origin and in selected cases of pancreatic, bile duct and gastric carcinomatosis. More prospective, randomized studies should be done to stablish its exact role. Conclusions: PIPAC is a feasible technique to perform in our country. Preliminary results are encouraging and no complications were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2020, Chilean women surgeons gathered to discuss different problems affecting the development of a career in surgery. Through the history of the medicine and surgery in Chile, there have been several legal and cultural barriers that have kept women out of this specialty. One of this problem is the lack of knowledge of who were the first female surgeons and the lack of awareness of that there are women that can be leaders as well as male surgeons. So, generations of medical students and residents continue thinking that surgery might be a man's job. The purpose of this investigation is to reveal who went and are the first women surgeon in this country, not only in their time but also in their specialty, so we all know that there were and there still are pioneers among us. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agave durangensis is a wild endemic species of Mexico, which supports a regional mescal industry. The reproduction of A. durangensis is mainly sexual, conferring it a high variability. For the mescal manufacturing, A. durangensis is collected from wild populations, affecting their reproductive success and demographic performance. We evaluated the morphological variation, carbohydrate content, and genetic structure of A. durangensis plants coming from a single mother plant, to identify lines with some agroindustry potential. Three different morphological and genetic groups were distinguished. According to Mantel tests (r = 0.71), statistical correlations between morphological (Mahalanobis distance) and genetic (Fst) distances (r= 0.71), as well as between carbohydrate content similarity matrix and morphological traits (r= 0.477) were found. The high correlation values suggested that the use of genetic markers combined with morphological traits could be useful as a tool for the selection of high carbohydrate production lines to establish cultivars, which would have conservational implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Refractory ascites ( RA) is a frequent complication of cirrhosis, requiring large volume paracentesis or placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS). The automated low-flow ascites pump (alfapump, Sequana Medical AG, Zurich, Switzerland) is an innovative treatment option for patients with RA. Aim To assess safety and efficacy of this treatment in patients with a contraindication to TIPSS. Methods Fifty-six patients (43 males; mean age 62 years) from centres in Germany, Switzerland, UK and Spain were included and followed for up to 24 months. Complications, device deficiencies, paracentesis frequency and patient survival were recorded. Results At the time of this analysis, 3 patients completed the 24-month observation period, monitoring of 3 was ongoing, 9 underwent liver transplantation, 17 patients were withdrawn due to serious adverse events and 23 patients died. Most frequently observed technical complication was blocking of the peritoneal catheter. Twenty-three pump-related reinterventions (17 patients) and 12 pump exchanges (11 patients) were required during follow-up. The pump system was explanted in 48% of patients (in 17 patients due to serious adverse events, in 9 at the time of liver transplantation and in 1 due to recovery from RA). Median frequency of paracentesis dropped from 2.17 to 0.17 per month. Conclusions The alfapump can expand therapeutic options for cirrhotic patients with RA. Continuous drainage of ascites in a closed loop automated system led to significant reduction in paracentesis frequency. Technical and procedural improvements are required to reduce the rate of adverse events and reinterventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Los Humeros is one of the main Pleistocene silicic volcanic complexes and the third geothermal field in exploitation in Mexico. It is located in the eastern sector of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (TMVB) and has a long and complex geologic evolution involving the formation of at least two large nested calderas associated with very large ignimbrite-forming eruptions during the last 0.46 Ma (Ferriz and Mahood, 1984). Due to its young activity, it has an active geothermal field (Yáñez and García, 1980) producing about 65 MW. Several wells for both exploration and exploitation of geothermal fluids have been drilled in the caldera interior, showing the subsurface stratigraphy and structure of the volcanic center. A revised lithostratigraphic characterization of Los Humeros subsurface together with petrographic, geochemical and 40 Ar/ 39 Ar-based geochronology data support correlation of rock formations at depth with surface geology. This study shows the very heterogeneous nature of the subsurface stratigraphy of Los Humeros volcanic complex, helping to refine its internal structure and evolution. This provides a more realistic configuration of the heterogeneities of the geothermal reservoir and the vertical and lateral distribution of permeable conditions controlling the configuration of the geothermal reservoir. These results can be important to guide the prospection of potential areas for the possible expansion of the geothermal field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hospital mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis ( SBP) is high despite albumin treatment, particularly in those with worse liver and/or renal function. Aim To determine the independent predictive factors of in-hospital mortality and to create and validate a predictive model of mortality in patients with SBP. Methods We analysed all cirrhotic patients with high-risk SBP (serum urea ≥11 mmol/L and/or serum bilirubin ≥68 μmol/L) between 2001 and 2011. We developed a predictive model of in-hospital mortality and validated this in a different cohort. Results We included 118 high-risk SBP episodes treated with antibiotics and albumin. In-hospital mortality was 33/118 (28%). The independent predictive factors of in-hospital mortality at SBP diagnosis were serum urea, blood leucocyte count, Child-Pugh score and mean arterial pressure. A predictive model including these four variables showed a discrimination accuracy ( AUC) of 0.850, 95% CI 0.777-0.922. A cut-off point of 0.245 showed a sensitivity of 0.85 and specificity of 0.75. The in-hospital mortality was 28/49 (57.1%) in patients with a model value ≥0.245, and 5/69 (7.2%) in patients with a model value <0.245 ( P < 0.001). The validation series included 161 patients with an in-hospital mortality of 40/161 (24.8%), 30/77 (39.0%) in patients with a model value ≥0.245, and 10/84 (11.9%) in those with a model value <0.245 ( P < 0.001). Conclusions We developed and validated a predictive model of mortality that includes serum urea, blood leucocyte count, Child-Pugh score and mean arterial pressure in high-risk patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. These findings may help to identify patients who would benefit from additional therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary biliary cholangitis (formerly called primary biliary cirrhosis) can progress to cirrhosis and death despite ursodiol therapy. Alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels correlate with the risk of liver transplantation or death. Obeticholic acid, a farnesoid X receptor agonist, has shown potential benefit in patients with this disease.Methods: In this 12-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial, we randomly assigned 217 patients who had an inadequate response to ursodiol or who found the side effects of ursodiol unacceptable to receive obeticholic acid at a dose of 10 mg (the 10-mg group), obeticholic acid at a dose of 5 mg with adjustment to 10 mg if applicable (the 5-10-mg group), or placebo. The primary end point was an alkaline phosphatase level of less than 1.67 times the upper limit of the normal range, with a reduction of at least 15% from baseline, and a normal total bilirubin level.Results: Of 216 patients who underwent randomization and received at least one dose of obeticholic acid or placebo, 93% received ursodiol as background therapy. The primary end point occurred in more patients in the 5-10-mg group (46%) and the 10-mg group (47%) than in the placebo group (10%; P<0.001 for both comparisons). Patients in the 5-10-mg group and those in the 10-mg group had greater decreases than those in the placebo group in the alkaline phosphatase level (least-squares mean, -113 and -130 U per liter, respectively, vs. -14 U per liter; P<0.001 for both comparisons) and total bilirubin level (-0.02 and -0.05 mg per deciliter [-0.3 and -0.9 μmol per liter], respectively, vs. 0.12 mg per deciliter [2.0 μmol per liter]; P<0.001 for both comparisons). Changes in noninvasive measures of liver fibrosis did not differ significantly between either treatment group and the placebo group at 12 months. Pruritus was more common with obeticholic acid than with placebo (56% of patients in the 5-10-mg group and 68% of those in the 10-mg group vs. 38% in the placebo group). The rate of serious adverse events was 16% in the 5-10-mg group, 11% in the 10-mg group, and 4% in the placebo group.Conclusions: Obeticholic acid administered with ursodiol or as monotherapy for 12 months in patients with primary biliary cholangitis resulted in decreases from baseline in alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin levels that differed significantly from the changes observed with placebo. There were more serious adverse events with obeticholic acid. (Funded by Intercept Pharmaceuticals; POISE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01473524; Current Controlled Trials number, ISRCTN89514817.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of three feeding levels on the pathogenesis and establishment of H. contortus upon the first infection of parasite-naïve Pelibuey hair sheep lambs. Forty-two 6-month-old hair sheep lambs (24 ± 4 kg) raised parasite free from birth were used. The lambs were assigned to 3 groups (n = 14), and each was fed a diet designed for different daily weight gain (DWG): 75 g/d (Diet 1), 125 g/d (Diet 2) and 200 g/d (Diet 3). After four weeks of diet adaptation, 10 lambs/group were infected with 450 L 3 H. contortus /kg BW (infected), and 4 lambs/group were kept parasite-free (NInf). DWG, hematocrit (Ht), hemoglobin (Hb), peripheral eosinophils (EOS), IgG concentration against H. contortus , and eggs per gram (EPG) of feces were measured in each lamb from day 14 before infection until day 29 postinfection (PI). On day 29 PI, the lambs were slaughtered to determine the total number of adult parasites (TAW), the length of the female worms, and the number of eggs in utero (EIU). Each group reached the expected DWG (P = 0.001), and there was no effect of infection or the diet × infection interaction. Ht was lower in infected lambs than in NInf lambs, and this difference was significant for animals on Diets 1 and 2 (P = 0.044). From day 14 PI onward, Hb was lower in the infected lambs than in the NInf lambs (P = 0.001). Furthermore, compared with NInf lambs, the infected lambs had higher EOS from day 7 PI and higher IgG from day 14 PI. Neither EOS nor IgG were affected by diet. Lambs on Diet 3 had lower EPG during patency than those fed Diets 1 or 2 (days 25 and 28 PI; P = 0.002). Furthermore, lambs fed Diet 3 had lower TAW (Diet 1 vs 3 P = 0.037; Diet 2 vs 3 P = 0.049) and EIU (P = 0.004) than lambs fed Diet 1 or 2. Lambs were resilient to infection regardless of diet. Although EOS and IgG were higher in all infected animals than in Ninf animals, EPG, TAW and EIU decreased only in lambs fed Diet 3. Thus, a diet targeting a DWG of 200 g/d can significantly limit the establishment of H. contortus in Pelibuey lambs infected for the first time. • Effect of three feeding levels on the Haemonchus contortus establishment in Pelibuey lambs was studied. • Lambs consuming Diets 1 and 2 (weight gain of 75 g/d and 125 g/d, respectively) had similar worm burdens. • Compared to other Diets, lambs consuming Diet 3 (weight gain of 200 g/d) reduced their worm burden and fecundity. • Pelibuey lambs showed resilience to infection irrespective of the diet consumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Improve the nutritional value of mechanized sugarcane residues inoculating the fungus Fomes sp. EUM1. Materials and methods. The fungus Fomes was inoculated according to a 0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3% (w/v) treatment and incubated at a temperature of 35°C for 7, 10 and 13 days. It was obtained DM, OM, CP, ash, NDF and ADF and the effective degradation of DM, NDF and ADF, with an experimental factorial design of 3X3 and a completely randomized design. The factors were growing days in an Erlenmeyer flask (7, 10, and 13) and inoculum percentage (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3). The data were analyzed with the SAS statistical package. Results. Statistical significance was found in the interaction of the fungus growing days by percentage of inoculum, in the variables: DM, CP and pH. The NDF and ADF factor differed in the percentage of inoculum. Effective degradation showed significant for the same type of interaction in all the variables studied. Conclusions. The inoculation of the fungus increased ADF degradation by only 0.2% of the inoculum percentage, without any effect on effective degradation due to the use of soluble fractions at the beginning of the incubation. It is considered that the degradation occurs in stages that are important to consider for determining treatments to maximize the beneficial effects of the fungus in terms of ruminant nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition, Table 2: "Baseline characteristics by country according to sex" reported incorrect female age data for Columbia, France, and Brazil. The correct age data should read: Colombia, female (n = 7), 52 (51-61); France, female (n = 5), 55 (40-60); and Brazil, female (n = 9), 43 (30-49). [Extracted from the article]

Background/Aims: To determine the factors associated with virological response (VR), HBeAg loss or the emergence of adefovir (ADV)-related mutations in ADV-treated chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with lamivudine (LAM) resistance. Methods: Fifty-four LAM-resistant CHB patients (46% HBeAg-positive) were treated with ADV monotherapy (n =28) or ADV plus LAM (n =26) for a mean of 30.4 months. Results: Thirty-eight patients (70.4%) achieved VR defined as HBV-DNA levels <104 copies/ml within the first 12 months of treatment. Six (24%) of 25 HBeAg-positive patients exhibited HBeAg loss and 20% seroconverted to anti-HBe. Eight patients (14.8%) developed ADV-related mutations. In the multivariate analysis, female gender (HR=0.20, 95% CI: 0.05–0.76, p =0.018), HBeAg-negative (HR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.14–0.96, p =0.040) and low baseline HBV-DNA levels (HR=0.65, 95% CI: 0.45–0.95, p =0.027) were independent predictors of VR, whereas low HBV-DNA levels (HR=0.36, 95% CI: 0.11–1.20, p =0.095) and HBV-genotype D (HR=0.06, 95% CI: 0.004–0.84, p =0.037) independently predicted HBeAg loss. Conclusions: ADV therapy suppresses viral replication in more than 70% of LAM-R patients. Factors associated with virologic response are female gender, HBeAg-negative status and low baseline serum HBV-DNA levels. Genotype D HBV infection and low baseline HBV-DNA levels independently predict HBeAg loss. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A simulation model was developed to predict performance of growing steers grazing tropical pastures. The model is deterministic and integrates the effects of protein and energy intake from forages and supplements. Protein deposition was predicted by the PDI system. Energy balance was based on the California Net Energy System with modifications for animal activity and heat stress. Three output results of average daily gain (ADG) were obtained with the model: from energy (ADGe), from PDIN (ADGpdin) and from PDIE (ADGpdie). The model was validated using data from five experiments (29 treatments) conducted in the humid tropics of Mexico. The model did not accurately predict weight loss in steers based on energy or protein intake. Estimation of ADG from energy intake was successful in only six treatments, under-estimating gain by 30% with ADGe. Gain was predicted by ADGpdin in only one treatment, showing a general under-estimation of 40%. Values of ADGpdie were similar to the observed values in 10 treatments, under-estimating gain in 70% of the observed values. Prediction of performance in grazing steers in tropical conditions requires more information about environmental factors, as well as precise and accurate determinations of intake. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of the study was to assess the incidence and the cumulative probability of cytolytic and cholestatic hepatotoxicity during antiretroviral treatment in a group of HIV HCV haemophiliacs. We evaluated 47 patients that received 246 courses of antiretroviral treatment [98 courses of pre-highly active antiretroviral therapy (pre-HAART) and 148 HAART treatments]. Liver function tests were assessed at baseline of each treatment, after 1 month and at least every 4 months thereafter. Cytolytic and cholestatic hepatotoxicity was recorded. Of the 246 treatments, 28 (12.45%) were followed by cytolytic hepatotoxicity and 32 (13%) by cholestatic hepatotoxicity. Cytolytic hepatotoxicity was similar in HAART (16/148; 10.8%) and in pre-HAART treatment (12/98; 12.2%) and cholestatic hepatotoxicity was more frequent in HAART (29/148; 19.6%) than in pre-HAART treatment (3/98; 3.1%) ( P < 0.001). The actuarial probability of developing cytolytic and cholestatic hepatotoxicity at 10 years of onset of antiretroviral treatments was 39% and 56%, respectively. Most enzyme elevations were asymptomatic, but in eight cases therapy was discontinued or changed and in one case a cirrhotic patient died of progressive liver failure. In HIV HCV haemophiliacs, the cumulative probability of developing hepatotoxicity during follow-up is high and although in the most cases the toxicity is mild, fatal cases can occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of nailfold capillary abnormalities and extrahepatic signs of connective tissue disease in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), as compared to patients with other chronic liver diseases. ƒWe evaluated 22 patients with PBC and 15 patients with other chronic liver diseases as a control group. Nailfold capillaroscopy was performed by two observers blinded to clinical findings using a Wild M3 stereomicroscope with an Intralux 5000 Volpi cold light lamp. ƒWe detected nailfold capillary abnormalities in 20 out of 22 (91%) PBC patients. Twelve of these 20 patients (54%) showed capillary alterations characteristic of systemic sclerosis. In the control group only two out of 15 patients (13%) presented alterations and in both cases they were a non-specific type. The presence of nailfold capillary abnormalities was significantly greater in PBC patients than in the control group (P<0.001). Eleven out of the 22 PBC patients (50%) had extrahepatic signs of connective tissue disease and most of them were related to systemic sclerosis; patients with other chronic liver diseases did not present rheumatic manifestations (P<0.001). In PBC patients there was a significant association between systemic sclerosis capillary pattern and rheumatic manifestations (P<0.03). ƒThe high prevalence of nailfold capillary abnormalities characteristic of systemic sclerosis in patients with PBC and the correlation with sclerodermal manifestations suggests that this capillaroscopic finding could be a useful indicator to investigate rheumatic manifestations in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nephrotoxicity is one of the most common side effects of long-term immunosuppressive therapy with calcineurin inhibitors. We describe a case of distal renal tubular acidosis secondary to tacrolimus administration. A 43-year-old man with end-stage liver disease due to hepatitis C and B virus infections and alcoholic cirrhosis received a liver transplantation under immunosuppressive treatment with tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. In the postoperative period, the patient developed hyperkalemic hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, with a normal serum anion gap and a positive urinary anion gap, suggesting distal renal tubular acidosis. We excluded other causes of hyperkalemia. Administration of intravenous bicarbonate, loop diuretics, and oral resin exchanger corrected the acidosis and potassium levels. Distal renal tubular acidosis is one of several types of nephrotoxicity induced by tacrolimus treatment, resulting from inhibition of potassium secretion in the collecting duct. Treatment to correct the acidosis and hyperkalemia should be promptly initiated, and the tacrolimus dose adjusted when possible. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent an attractive avenue for cellular therapies targeting degenerative diseases. MSC in vitro expansion is required in order to obtain therapeutic numbers during the manufacturing process. It is known that culture conditions impact cellular properties and behavior after in vivo transplantation. In this study, we aimed at evaluating the benefit of hypoxic culturing of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells on cell fitness and whole genome expression and discussed its implication on cellular therapies targeting orthopedic diseases such as chronic lower back pain.Methods: Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) were isolated from fresh human anticoagulated whole bone marrow and were cultured side by side in atmospheric (20% O2) and hypoxic (5% O2) oxygen partial pressure for up to 3 passages. Stem cell fitness was assessed by clonogenic assay, cell surface marker expression and differentiation potential. Whole genome expression was performed by mRNA sequencing. Data from clonogenic assays, cell surface marker by flow cytometry and gene expression by quantitative PCR were analyzed by two-tailed paired Student's t-test. Data from mRNA sequencing were aligned to hg19 using Tophat-2.0.13 and analyzed using Cufflinks-2.1.1.Results: Hypoxic culturing of hBMMSCs had positive effects on cell fitness, as evidenced by an increased clonogenicity and improved differentiation potential towards adipocyte and chondrocyte lineages. No difference in osteoblast differentiation or in cell surface markers were observed. Only a small subset of genes (34) were identified by mRNA sequencing to be significantly dysregulated by hypoxia. When clustered by biological function, these genes were associated with chondrogenesis and cartilage metabolism, inflammation and immunomodulation, cellular survival, migration and proliferation, vasculogenesis and angiogenesis.Conclusions: Hypoxic culturing positively impacted hBMMSCs fitness and transcriptome, potentially improving inherent properties of these cells that are critical for the development of successful cellular therapies. Hypoxic culturing should be considered for the in vitro expansion of hBMMSCs during manufacturing of cellular therapies targeting orthopedic disorders such as lower back pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to characterize the chronically infected general hepatitis C virus (HCV) population in Barcelona using a highly sensitive subtyping method that can identify the 67 recognized HCV subtypes and diagnose mixed infection by various genotypes/subtypes in a single individual. The resulting information has implications for selecting optimal direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment for each patient and establishing public healthcare policies in our setting. Methods Consecutive HCV patients (treatment-naïve or interferon-based failures) attending Vall d'Hebron Hospital outpatient clinics from February 2015 to May 2016 ( N = 1473) were included in the study. Patient samples were characterized using HCV subtyping by next-generation ultra-deep pyrosequencing. Results The following genotypes (G) were found: G1 (1126/1473 (76.4%)), G4 (145/1473 (9.8%)), G3 (135/1473 (9.2%)), G2 (51/1473 (3.5%)), and G5 (1/1473 (0.1%)). Twenty-two subtypes were seen: 1b (790/1473 (53.6%)), 1a (332/1473 (22.5%)), 3a (133/1473 (9.0%)), 4d (105/1473 (7.1%)), 4a (29/1473 (2.0%)), and 2c (25/1473 (1.7%)), with 16 low-prevalence subtypes accounting for the remaining 3.0% (44/1473). There was a worrisome 1.0% (15/1473) of mixed infections. G2 (51/1473 (3.5%)) showed a high level of heterogeneity. Analyses by age groups showed a predominance of G1b over G1a (428/506 (84.6%) vs. 24/506 (4.7%)) in patients born before 1950 ( N = 506/1473), and similar percentages of these subtypes in those born between 1951 and 1975 ( N = 834/1473) (315/834, 37.8% vs. 266/834, 31.9%) and after 1976 ( N = 133/1473) (47/133, 35.3% vs. 42/133, 31.6%). Conclusions Subtype distribution showed a higher level of heterogeneity than was expected, particularly for G2. Prevalence of mixed infections was around 1%. HCV subtype distribution related to patient age group suggested that patients born from 1936 to 1975 in our setting should undergo screening for the infection. Next-generation sequencing enabled better classification of candidates for DAA-based treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents abstracts on gene expression which include regulation of gene expression during the development of cortico-thalamic connection, regulation of protein gene expression by heavy metals and how the MyT1 family recruits histone deacetylase to regulate neural transcription.

The response of transport in low density (line average ) plasmas to electron cyclotron resonance heating (ECH) power, 100 kW ≲ QECH ≲ 400 kW, is documented for the TJ-II Heliac-type stellarator. Radially resolved electron heat balance shows no significant differences between boron or lithium coating of the vacuum chamber walls. The main trends in electron heat transport are found to be similar to other stellarator/heliotron devices and are compatible with neoclassical calculations in the bulk of the plasma. According to our calculations the heat fluxes are anomalous near the edge, ρ ≳ 0.8 where ρ is the normalized minor radius, but the uncertainties there are large. Particle transport in the density gradient region, ρ ≈ 0.8, has little sensitivity to the variation of heating power and is compatible with neoclassical predictions. Neoclassical transport of particles and electron heat is found to be dominant in the gradient regions of typical ECH plasmas of the TJ-II Heliac. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]