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The association of bacteria resistant to potentially toxic metals (PTMs) with plants to remove, transfer, or stabilize these elements from the soil is an appropriate tool for phytoremediation processes in metal-contaminated environments. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of Rhizobium sp. LBMP-C04 for phytoremediation processes and plant growth promotion in metal-contaminated soils. Functional annotation allowed us to predict a variety of genes related to PTMs resistance and plant growth promotion in the bacterial genome. Resistance genes are mainly associated with DNA repair, and the import or export of metals in bacterial cells to maintain cell homeostasis. Genes that promote plant growth are related to mechanisms of osmotic stress tolerance, phosphate solubilization, nitrogen metabolism, biological nitrogen fixation, biofilm formation, heat shock responses, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthesis, tryptophan, and organic acids metabolism. Biochemical tests indicated that Rhizobium sp. LBMP-C04 can solubilize calcium phosphate and produce siderophores and IAA in vitro in the presence of the PTMs Cd2+,Cu2+,Cr3+,Cr6+, Zn2+, and Ni2+. Results indicate the possibility of using Rhizobium sp. LBMP-C04 as a potentially efficient bacterium in phytoremediation processesin environments contaminated by PTMs and simultaneously promote plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the effect of charter schools on the diversity of nearby traditional public schools (TPSs) and neighborhoods in New York City. We employ a difference-in-differences approach that exploits the variation in the expansion of the charter sector between grades in the same school. This approach allows us to isolate the effect of charter schools from other neighborhood demographic changes. Our results show small positive effects of charter school expansion on TPS diversity as measured by the entropy score. This change is explained by small increases in the number of White students attending nearby TPSs and larger reductions in the number of Black and Hispanic students in these schools. We also find descriptive evidence that while both neighborhoods and TPSs are slightly more diverse following charter school expansion, schools are changing faster than their surrounding neighborhoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Inhibitor of differentiation 4 (ID4) is a dominant-negative regulator of basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factors. The expression of ID4 is dysregulated in various breast cancer subtypes, indicating a potential role for ID4 in subtype-specific breast cancer development. This study aims to elucidate the epigenetic regulation of ID4 within breast cancer subtypes, with a particular focus on DNA methylation and chromatin accessibility. Methods: Bioinformatic analyses were conducted to assess DNA methylation and chromatin accessibility in ID4 regulatory regions across breast cancer subtypes. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted to identify related gene sets. Transcription factor binding within ID4 enhancer and promoter regions was explored. In vitro experiments involved ER+ breast cancer cell lines treated with estradiol (E2) and Tamoxifen. Results: Distinct epigenetic profiles of ID4 were observed, revealing increased methylation and reduced chromatin accessibility in luminal subtypes compared to the basal subtype. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) implicated estrogen-related pathways, suggesting a potential link between estrogen signaling and the regulation of ID4 expression. Transcription factor analysis identified ER and FOXA1 as regulators of ID4 enhancer regions. In vitro experiments confirmed the role of ER, demonstrating reduced ID4 expression and increased methylation with estradiol treatment. Conversely, Tamoxifen treatment increased ID4 expression, indicating the potential involvement of ER signaling through ERα in the epigenetic regulation of ID4 in breast cancer cells. Conclusion: This study shows the intricate epigenetic regulation of ID4 in breast cancer, highlighting subtype-specific differences in DNA methylation and chromatin accessibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the acute effect of community‐level homicides on early childhood language development and explores the moderating role of maternal efficacy and satisfaction in Chile. It uses data from the 2017 wave of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Survey of Chilean Children (N = 1194, Mage: 52.8 months, 52% girls). Children in municipalities with homicides 1 month before the Peabody Picture Vocabulary assessment scored between 0.18 and 0.41 SDs lower compared to children in the same municipality but for whom homicides happened after the assessment. On average, higher maternal satisfaction appears to have a protective effect, though it dissipates in the most violent municipalities. Evidence that higher maternal efficacy protects children from the negative effects of violence is inconclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the effect of the OxyContin reformulation and the subsequent heroin crisis on grandparent caregiving in the United States—grandparents who are primarily responsible for their grandchildren. The empirical approach is a difference-in-differences and a series of event studies that exploit variation in the timing of the reformulation of OxyContin and geographic variation in pre-reformulation rates of nonmedical use of OxyContin across states. I find that a standard deviation increase in pre-reformulation nonmedical use of OxyContin leads to higher grandparent caregiving. Increases range from 2.5 to 8.5%, on average, relative to the baseline mean. This change is more pronounced among grandparents between 46 and 65 years of age. When I examine changes in heroin-related mortality as a possible mechanism, I find modest increases in grandparent caregiving when no parents are present or when no or only one parent is present of 1.80 and 1.50% of the baseline mean, on average. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feeding and habitat habits of 12 gomphotheres Cuvieronius hyodon from the Pleistocene of Costa Rica were inferred using carbon and oxygen isotopic ratios of tooth enamel. The results indicate that these animals fed mainly on C3 plants and lived in forested areas and those specimens that lived in high altitudes and latitudes consumed more C3 plants compared to those that lived in low areas or low latitudes. This indicates that, in Costa Rica, the gomphotheres were specialists in the consumption of this type of plants, similar to that shown in some specimens from North and South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Id on Line. Revista de Psicologia is the property of Id on Line Revista Multidisciplinar e de Psicologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: This systematic review examined the existing literature to determine the evidence supporting the efficacy of online group treatments for anxiety-, obsessive-compulsive- and trauma-related disorders (AOTDs). Methods: A systematic review using the PUBMED, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials databases with no language, date, or study design filters was performed. The inclusion criteria comprised studies that examined individuals who had received a formal diagnosis of AOTDs, were aged 18 years or older, and had baseline and endpoint assessments of symptom severity using formal tools. Results: Five studies on social anxiety disorder (SAD), four on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and one on tic disorders (TDs) were found. The studies were open-label (n = 2) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 8), with five of the RCTs being non-inferiority trials. Most studies were conducted in the US and investigated psychological CBT based interventions via internet-based therapies (IBT: n = 4), video teleconferencing (VTC: n = 5) or a combination of both (n = 1). In SAD, IBT studies associated with a clinician assisted web-based forum (here termed "forum-enhanced" studies) were superior to waiting lists and not inferior to similar versions that were also "forum enhanced" but self-guided, "telephone enhanced" by a contact with a non-specialist, and "email enhanced" by a contact with a clinician individually. Studies involving VTC have shown comparable effectiveness to in-person interventions across some online group CBT based treatments for PTSD. Two open trials also demonstrated symptoms reductions of social anxiety and tics through VTC. Conclusion: There is evidence supporting the effectiveness of online group treatments for SAD and PTSD. Further studies from different research groups may be needed to replicate the use of these and other forms of online treatments in individuals with SAD, PTSD, and other clinical populations, such as OCD, panic disorder, agoraphobia and specific phobias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This embedded mixed method research study examined the pre-service teachers' (PST) technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) towards their readiness and self-efficacy considering their foresight challenges in online Science teaching internship. It is revealed that PSTs have adequate levels of expertise in TPACK, ranging from moderate to ample in all areas, interconnected with their reflected moderate levels of readiness and self-efficacy. The results of partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) showed that out of all areas of TPACK, only the pedagogical knowledge (PK) manifested a significant relationship with the PSTs' readiness and self-efficacy in the online teaching internship. PSTs were challenged by their issues, uncertainties toward teaching training, complicated roles of teacher interns, concerns on TPACK, and external threats. In conclusion, the PSTs are proficient and prepared enough to perform an upright Science lesson delivery and have excellent classroom management skills, albeit with some challenges as teachers in online education. Moreover, a pre-service science teacher who is well-oriented and well-prepared is already on the journey to meet accomplishment and proficiency. Training on online pedagogies and mentorship is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that safety is a key environmental factor that promotes health, understanding the relationship between built environment features around transit station areas and crime may shed light on how to foster healthy communities. Yet, there is limited work that has examined how the combination of different built environment features around transit correlate with different crimes. We addressed this issue in this study using data from Chicago (IL). First, we used cluster analysis to classify stations in Chicago in a spectrum from transit-oriented development (TOD) to transit-adjacent development (TAD) categories depending on their built environment characteristics: central business district (CBD)–TOD, TOD, hybrid, and TAD. Then, we identified the block groups that fell within a 1-mile network distance of each of these station areas and used propensity score matching to find adequate comparison block groups for them. Results from our analyses show that CBD station areas with the highest activity density, land use diversity, amenity richness, accessibility, and walkability (i.e., CBD–TOD) were the safest. In contrast, TOD areas with medium activity density and land use diversity but high amenity richness, walkability, and accessibility appeared to be the least safe. That said, low levels across these built environment features as found in TAD station areas also correlated with higher crime. These findings suggest the importance of balancing amenity richness and accessibility with density and land use diversity. Areas rich in amenities but with lower levels of land use diversity and density may attract crime victims and offenders while facilitating spaces in which the availability of eyes on the street or guardians is low. As such, these station areas may be poor promoters of healthy communities if high crime rates deter people from engaging in active mobility promoted by greater walkability, connectivity, and amenity richness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The capacity to deliver essential health services has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly due to lockdown restrictions. Telemedicine provides a safe, efficient, and effective alternative that addresses the needs of patients and the health system. However, there remain implementation challenges and barriers to patient adoption in resource-limited settings as in the Philippines. This mixed methods study aimed to describe patient perspectives and experiences with telemedicine services, and explore the factors that influence telemedicine use and satisfaction. Methods: An online survey consisting of items adapted from the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Clinician & Group Adult Visit Survey 4.0 (beta) and the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) was completed by 200 participants aged 18 to 65 years residing in the Philippines. A subsample of 16 participants was interviewed to provide further insights on their experiences. We used descriptive statistics to analyze survey data and thematically analyzed data from interviews guided by the principles of grounded theory. Results: Participants were generally satisfied with telemedicine, and found it to be an efficient and convenient means of receiving healthcare. About 3 in 5 perceived telemedicine as affordable, with some finding telemedicine costs to be high and comparable to in-person consultations. Our results suggest that participants preferred telemedicine services, especially in cases where they feel that their condition is not urgent and does not need extensive physical examination. Safety against COVID-19, privacy, accessibility, and availability of multiple communication platforms contributed to patient satisfaction with telemedicine. Negative perceptions of patients on quality of care and service related to their telemedicine provider, inherent limitations of telemedicine in the diagnosis and management of patients, perceived high costs especially for mental health conditions, and poor connectivity and other technological issues were barriers to telemedicine use and satisfaction. Conclusion: Telemedicine is viewed as a safe, efficient, and affordable alternative to receiving care. Expectations of patients on costs and outcomes need to be managed by providers to increase satisfaction. Continued adoption of telemedicine will require improvements in technology infrastructure and technical support for patients, training and performance evaluation of providers to ensure quality of care and service, better patient communication to meet patient needs, and integration of telemedicine services in remote areas that have limited access to medical services. Telemedicine, to realize its full potential, should be centered in health equity – addressing patient barriers and needs, reducing health disparities across population groups and settings, and providing quality services to all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can be technically challenging given the proximity of the popliteal artery to the PCL tibial insertion. This "no-safe zone" makes some knee surgeons less confident and willing to perform this surgical procedure. Surgical technique: We present a PCL tibial inlay reconstruction technique using a set of instruments involving three tools (a slot cut, a bone plug positioner, and an impactor). Conclusion: This set of instruments allows a more reproducible posteromedial approach and to produce a PCL tibial slot in a posterior cruciate ligament inlay reconstruction with the patient supine in bicruciate ligament injury reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Urban Studies (Sage Publications, Ltd.) is the property of Sage Publications, Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Individuals with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) often feel compelled to perform (compulsive) behaviors, thus raising questions regarding their free will beliefs and experiences. In the present study, we investigated if free will related cognitions (free will beliefs or experiences) differed between OCD patients and healthy subjects and whether these cognitions predicted symptom changes after a one-year follow up. Methods: Sixty OCD outpatients were assessed for their beliefs in and experiences of free will at baseline and after one year of treatment. A subsample of 18 OCD patients had their beliefs compared to 18 age and gender matched healthy controls. A regression analysis was performed to investigate whether free will cognitions at baseline were able to predict long-term OCD severity scores. Results: Patients with OCD and healthy controls do not seem to differ in terms of their beliefs in free will (U = 156.0; p = 0.864). Nonetheless, we found significant negative correlation between (i) duration of illness and strength of belief in determinism (ρ = -0.317; p = 0.016), (ii) age and perception of having alternative possibilities (ρ = -0.275; p = 0.038), and (iii) symptoms' severity and perception of having alternative possibilities (ρ = -0.415; p = 0.001). On the other hand, the experience of being an owner of ones' actions was positive correlated with the severity of symptoms (ρ = 0.538; p < 0.001) and were able to predict the severity of OCD symptoms at the follow up assessment. Conclusions: Older individuals or those with a greater severity of symptoms seem to have a perception of decreased free will. In addition, patients with a longer duration of illness tend to have a lower strength of belief in determinism. Finally, the experience of being the owner of the compulsions, along with the baseline severity of symptoms, can be a predictor of a worse outcome in the OCD sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the impact of home country natural disasters on the academic performance of immigrant students in New York City public schools. It provides credible evidence of these effects by exploiting the exogenous timing of natural disasters relative to testing dates in models with student fixed effects. Natural disasters in the home country lower immigrant students' test scores in reading by 0.051 standard deviation, and by 0.028 standard deviation in mathematics. This paper provides strong evidence that the home country is an important out-of-school factor shaping immigrant students' academic success and shows that children are affected by distal contexts in which they do not directly participate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alveolar ridge preservation has become a very common procedure following tooth extraction. This study presents a clinical, histologic, and histomorphometric analysis of postextraction bone changes using nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (nc-HA) and exposed high-density polytetrafluoroethylene (d-PTFE) membrane. A total of 10 extraction sockets were treated. Clinical measurements were taken after tooth extraction with a customized acrylic stent to ensure the same measurement points. At 6 months, clinical measurements were repeated and bone specimens taken. An overall bone reduction was observed. The histologic and histomorphometric analysis revealed newly formed bone (25.92% ± 18.78%), soft tissue (28.55% ± 9.73%), and residual graft particles (15.43% ± 11.08%). Further studies are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of this technique over the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an exposed high-density polytetrafluoroethylene (d-PTFE) membrane in preventing epithelial migration in postextraction sockets. For this purpose, a histologic description of the newly formed soft tissue underlying the membrane is presented. The periodontal status of the adjacent teeth was also evaluated to assess the gingival response. Ten premolar extraction sockets were treated. After tooth extraction, the sockets were filled with nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite and covered with d-PTFE membranes. Subperiosteal pockets were created to ensure the stability of the membranes. Membranes were left intentionally exposed and were atraumatically removed after 28 days. At that time, a bioptic specimen of the newly formed soft tissue under the membranes was taken. All the histologic samples showed a dense connective tissue without epithelial cells and no signs of foreign body reaction. No significant variation of the periodontal indices was observed on the teeth adjacent to the extraction sites. The study results indicate that exposed d-PTFE membranes can prevent epithelial migration in healing sockets without consequences on the periodontal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Psocial is the property of Revista de Investigacion en Psicologia Social and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: To assess and compare topographic features and preosteoblastic cell responses of a new hydrothermally treated, calcium-incorporated surface against other commercially available implant surfaces. Materials and Methods: Four different surfaces were the subject of comparison in this study: machined (MC), resorbable blast media (RBM), sandblasted/large-grit/acid-etched (SLA), and calcium-incorporated SLA (Ca-SLA). Surface morphology and roughness were first characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and white light interferometer, respectively. Preosteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells were then cultured on the titanium surfaces. Cell morphology was observed at 24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, and 15 days by SEM; differentiation was assessed at 7, 11, and 15 days by assaying alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteocalcin (OCN) levels. Results: Surface characterization revealed nanotopographic features on Ca-SLA. At topographic analysis, SLA and Ca-SLA showed similar roughness values. Significant differences in cell differentiation parameters were found only at 15 days between the SLA surfaces (both Ca-incorporated and nonincorporated) and MC. Conclusion: Collectively, this study demonstrated that hydrothermal treatment determines the formation of nanotopography without altering the SLA microtopography. Moreover, Ca-SLA and SLA induce MC3T3-E1 cell differentiation at comparable levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The nature and existence of free will have been debated for centuries. Since some psychiatric disorders are known to interfere with one's ability to control their actions and thoughts (e.g., schizophrenia), the investigation of the psychiatric facet of free will beliefs seems to be relevant. In this systematic review, we were interested in clarifying if and how having a mental disorder affects individuals' beliefs in free will by comparing psychiatric vs. non-psychiatric samples. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases was performed between 04 and 09 November 2020. The search strategy included "free will" and related constructs and terms related to DSM-5 mental disorders characterized by psychotic, compulsive, avoidant, or impulsive symptoms. Eligible designs of studies included case-control and cohort studies. Study selection took place in committee meetings consisting of six researchers. Quality assessment of the selected studies was performed through the Joanna Briggs Institute Appraisal Checklist for Case Control Studies. Results: After removing duplicates, a total of 12,218 titles/abstracts were screened. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed, and three articles were eventually selected. Conclusions: It is not possible to provide unequivocal confirmation that having a mental disorder can or cannot affect someone's belief in free will. Studies with different mental disorders should be conducted in this field. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42018109468. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNP)/graphene/Nafion modified glassy carbon electrodes were fabricated for the determination of trace amounts of cadmium (Cd2+) and lead (Pb2+) via anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV). The electrode modifiers and the ASV parameters were optimized. The fabricated electrode was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. A linear relationship between anodic peak current and heavy metal concentration was obtained in the range of 25 parts per billion (ppb) to 250 ppb. The limit of detection of the modified electrode is 25 ppb for both Cd2+ and Pb2+, while the limits of quantitation are 155.7 ppb for Cd2+ and 159.5 ppb for Pb2+. Real sample analysis using corn plant and soil samples was performed to show the utility of the fabricated electrode in sensing applications. Trace amounts of Cd2+ and Pb2+ were found in the said samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays the development of sustainable technologies for the effective production of polymeric materials that can be used as biomaterials will be of importance. In this work, cellulose (CEL) was purified from potato peel waste (PPW) and used to produce electrospun nanofibers for tissue engineering applications. The purified CEL was solubilized in copper ethylenediamine (Cuen) and the electrospun nanofibers was produced through electrospinning technique in diameter range of 250–500 nm at electrical field strength of 20 kV. To confirm the applicability of the electrospun CEL scaffolds in tissue engineering, in vitro BALB-3T3 fibroblastic cell adhesion and cell proliferation tests were employed in this study. Cell viability was evaluated by staining with ethidium bromide (EtBr) and acridine orange (AO) to evaluate the possible effects of cytotoxicity of the CNF scaffolds. Fluorescence studies confirmed that BALB-3T3 viable cells attached and spread throughout the CEL scaffold. The attachment and spreading of viable cells suggests that electrospun CEL scaffolds support growth of BALB-3T3 fibroblasts cells and suggests that PPW can be a useful source of raw material for the production of scaffolds for tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of subjective well-being in children and adolescents has had different focuses and orientations; this research paper's approach on that theme lies in conceiving children as active agents, as the protagonists of the aforementioned research (Sen 2000), focusing on their own outlook and using their own words (Ben-Arieh et al. 2013; Benatuil and Laurito 2016; Mieles and Tonon 2015). Leisure during childhood is highly relevant to children's development (Fattore et al. 2017; Leyra Fatou and Bárcenas Viñas 2014; Peñalba 1999) and may be considered as a fundamental right, vital to children's development process (Lasén Díaz 2000). Thus, the study of leisure is relevant, since it promotes higher satisfaction and well-being (Schütz and Stum 2017). This article analyzed the use of free time, free-time activities and children's well-being in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Moreover, this paper formed part of the international research network The Children's Worlds, through the project Estudiar la calidad de vida y el bienestar de niños y niñas en la provincia de Buenos Aires (The Study of quality of life and well-being of boys and girls in Buenos Aires Province), conducted by the UNI-COM team of Universidad Nacional de Lomas de Zamora (UNLZ) and supported by LOMASCyT Program-UNLZ. The total sampling consisted of 1062 children, in this article it is considered a number of 373 ten-year old children, studying at public and private institutions. The instrument used was the ISCWeB. The results show that children are highly satisfied with the use of their free time. Regarding the activities they indulge in, watching television is the most frequent; while reading for pleasure and studying with friends are the least frequent. Also the link between subjective well-being and the use of free time was verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leigh syndrome (LS) is a mitochondrial progressive encephalopathy characterized by bilateral symmetric necrotic lesions of the central nervous system. Maternally inherited Leigh Syndrome (MILS) represents ∼10–20% of LS. Mutations in MT-ATP6 are the most common, being m.8993T > C/G the classical mutations. Molecular diagnosis for mitochondrial diseases is always a challenge and Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) of mitochondrial DNA can be an initial test for molecular diagnosis, although it is not widely used. We present a MILS patient in which MLPA was able to detect the common m.8993 T > G mutation and serve as a first approach for the definite molecular diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the relationship between the timing of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments and participation in school lunch and breakfast using the National Household Food Acquisition and Purchase Survey. An event study approach examines participation over the five‐day window before and after the SNAP payment. We find that school lunch participation decreases by 17–23 percentage points immediately after the SNAP payment among 11–18 year olds while breakfast drops by 19–36 percentage points. The decline begins the day prior to payment. We find no effects for 5–10 year olds. Models examining participation over the full SNAP month using individual fixed effects yield similar findings. Among teenagers, participation in school lunch and breakfast decline in the first two weeks of the SNAP month, increasing afterward. Non‐school meals show the opposite pattern. Overall, results indicate SNAP households rely more on school lunch and breakfast toward the end of the SNAP month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to characterise international trends in the use of psychotropic medication, psychological therapies, and novel therapies used to treat obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Methods: Researchers in the field of OCD were invited to contribute summary statistics on the characteristics of their samples. Consistency of summary statistics across countries was evaluated. Results: The study surveyed 19 expert centres from 15 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States) providing a total sample of 7,340 participants. Fluoxetine (n = 972; 13.2%) and fluvoxamine (n = 913; 12.4%) were the most commonly used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications. Risperidone (n = 428; 7.3%) and aripiprazole (n = 415; 7.1%) were the most commonly used antipsychotic agents. Neurostimulation techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep brain stimulation, gamma knife surgery, and psychosurgery were used in less than 1% of the sample. There was significant variation in the use and accessibility of exposure and response prevention for OCD. Conclusions: The variation between countries in treatments used for OCD needs further evaluation. Exposure and response prevention is not used as frequently as guidelines suggest and appears difficult to access in most countries. Updated treatment guidelines are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon and oxygen stable isotope values in the dental enamel of fossils were used to infer the diet and habitat of the extinct equids Calippus hondurensis, Dinohippus mexicanus, and Protohippus gidleyi, the gomphothere Gomphotherium hondurensis, and the llama Hemiauchenia vera of the Early-Late Hemphillian (Hh2) from San Gerardo de Limoncito, Puntarenas province, Costa Rica. The results suggest that these mammals fed mainly on C3 plants and lived in clearings of rainforests. This contrasts with previous studies from North America that indicated that the same species lived in forest savannas and fed mainly on C4 plants, but it is similar to the results obtained from the palynological record of the area, as well as with several vegetation models suggesting the presence of humid tropical forest during the Miocene in Central America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon and oxygen stable isotope values in the dental enamel of fossils were used to infer the diet and habitat of the extinct equids Calippus hondurensis, Dinohippus mexicanus, and Protohippus gidleyi, the gomphothere Gomphotherium hondurensis, and the llama Hemiauchenia vera of the Early-Late Hemphillian (Hh2) from San Gerardo de Limoncito, Puntarenas province, Costa Rica. The results suggest that these mammals fed mainly on C3 plants and lived in clearings of rainforests. This contrasts with previous studies from North America that indicated that the same species lived in forest savannas and fed mainly on C4 plants, but it is similar to the results obtained from the palynological record of the area, as well as with several vegetation models suggesting the presence of humid tropical forest during the Miocene in Central America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological and surface roughness changes in dental root samples following periodontal scaling by hand curette, piezoelectric ultrasonic devices or a combination of these. Methods: Twenty‐four monoradicular teeth extracted as a result of periodontal disease were divided into 4 groups: Group A was treated by piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler Piezon® Master 400; Group P by piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler PiezoSmart®; Group C using Gracey curette 7/8; Group AC by a combined technique of piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler Piezon® Master 400 and Gracey curette 7/8. The treated samples were then analysed using a white light interferometer and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: Roughness analysis revealed major surface alterations in Group C (Sa = 24.98 μm); the samples treated using the combined technique (Group AC) showed reduced but still significant alteration (Sa = 14.48 μm), while samples treated with the piezoelectric ultrasonic devices (Group A and Group P) presented the lowest roughness values (Sa = 8.99 and Sa = 4.45 μm, respectively). A significant difference was found between groups C and P (P = 0.036). SEM analysis confirmed the roughness analysis revealing non‐homogeneous surfaces in Group C, while a less morphological alteration was noted in the other groups. Conclusion: All periodontal devices used in this in vitro study produced a certain degree of surface alteration. Hand curettes appear to have a major impact on surface integrity compared with piezoelectric ultrasonic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane bagasses from three experimental sugarcane hybrids and a mill‐reference sample were used to compare the efficiency and mode of action of acid and alkaline sulfite pretreatment processes. Varied chemical loads and reaction temperatures were used to prepare samples with distinguished characteristics regarding xylan and lignin removals, as well as sulfonation levels of residual lignins. The pretreatment with low sulfite loads (5%) under acidic conditions (pH 2) provided maximum glucose yield of 70% during enzymatic hydrolysis with cellulases (10 FPU/g) and β‐glucosidases (20 UI/g bagasse). In this case, glucan enzymatic conversion from pretreated materials was mostly associated with extensive xylan removal (70–100%) and partial delignification occurred during the pretreatment. The use of low sulfite loads under acidic conditions required pretreatment temperatures of 160°C. In contrast, at a lower pretreatment temperature (120°C), alkaline sulfite process achieved similar glucan digestibility, but required a higher sulfite load (7.5%). Residual xylans from acid pretreated materials were almost completely hydrolysed by commercial enzymes, contrasting with relatively lower xylan to xylose conversions observed in alkaline pretreated samples. Efficient xylan removal during acid sulfite pretreatment and during enzymatic digestion can be useful to enhance glucan accessibility and digestibility by cellulases. Alkaline sulfite process also provided substrates with high glucan digestibility, mainly associated with delignification and sulfonation of residual lignins. The results demonstrate that temperature, pH, and sulfite can be combined for reducing lignocellulose recalcitrance and achieve similar glucan conversion rates in the alkaline and acid sulfite pretreated bagasses. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:944–951, 2018 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Culex coronator complex of the mosquito subgenus Culex includes five currently recognized species: Cx. camposi, Cx. coronator, Cx. ousqua, Cx. usquatissimus and Cx. usquatus. Because of the confusing taxonomic history of the complex, we aimed to clarify the specific status of these nominal forms based on an examination of holotypes and lectotypes and molecular data from other specimens. Critical assessment of published descriptions and study of type specimens revealed that the known distributions of the five species overlap considerably and exhibit biotic sympatry in some areas. Sequences from the COI barcode region and complete mitochondrial genomes were used to assess the relationships and degree of genetic divergence of the species and two newly discovered morphological forms, Cx. coronator Forms 1 and 2. Genetic distances in the COI dataset varied from 0.00 to 2.67%, with the largest relative divergence being 4.41 between specimens of Cx. coronator and Cx. coronator Form 1. Bayesian Poisson tree process analysis of the COI barcode region also failed to provide support for the nominal species. Evidence from the morphological and molecular data thus leads us to conclude (at least provisionally) that the Cx. coronator complex is a single polymorphic species. The forms constitute a monophyletic group but there is no support for the specific status of the five nominal forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Old-growth forests are terrestrial ecosystems with the highest level of biodiversity and the main environments for the study of conservation and dynamics of the forest system. In Mediterranean Europe, two millennia of human exploitation deeply altered the structural complexity of the native forests. Some animal groups, including insects, may be used as a proxy of such changes. In this paper we explored the possible effects of forest management on the functional diversity (species traits) of carabid beetle communities. Three old-growth forests of the Sila National Park were sampled by pitfall traps set up in pure beech, beech-silver fir and Calabrian black pine forests. In each forest, five managed vs. five unmanaged stands were considered. Managed sites were exploited until the sixties of the past century and then left unmanaged. More than 6000 carabid specimens belonging to 23 species were collected. The functional diversity in carabid groups is influenced by forest management especially in beech and beech-silver fir stands. Body size, specialized predators, endemic species and forest species were negatively affected by stand management. On the contrary, omnivorous ground beetles populations (or species) with a high dispersal power (macropterous) and large geographic distribution were positively influenced by stand management. In pine forests the old-growth community seems less sensitive to past management and more affected by soil evolution. Soil erosion and disturbance may reduce species diversity of ground beetles. Anyway, the composition of the carabid community shows that 50-60 years of forest restoration are enough for the reconstruction of a fairly diverse assemblage reflecting a "subclimax" situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ground beetles as indicators of past management of old-growth forests in the Sila National Park. Old-growth forests are terrestrial ecosystems with the highest level of biodiversity and the main environments for the study of conservation and dynamics of the forest system. In Mediterranean Europe, two millennia of human exploitation deeply altered the structural complexity of the native forests. Some animal groups, including insects, may be used as a proxy of such changes. In this paper we explored the possible effects of forest management on the functional diversity (species traits) of carabid beetle communities. Three old-growth forests of the Sila National Park were sampled by pitfall traps set up in pure beech, beech-silver fir and Calabrian black pine forests. In each forest, five managed vs. five unmanaged stands were considered. Managed sites were exploited until the sixties of the past century and then left unmanaged. More than 6000 carabid specimens belonging to 23 species were collected. The functional diversity in carabid groups is influenced by forest management especially in beech and beech-silver fir stands. Body size, specialized predators, endemic species and forest species were negatively affected by stand management. On the contrary, omnivorous ground beetles populations (or species) with a high dispersal power (macropterous) and large geographic distribution were positively influenced by stand management. In pine forests the old-growth community seems less sensitive to past management and more affected by soil evolution. Soil erosion and disturbance may reduce species diversity of ground beetles. Anyway, the composition of the carabid community shows that 50-60 years of forest restoration are enough for the reconstruction of a fairly diverse assemblage reflecting a "subclimax" situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic arterial hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular disease. Therefore, adequate control of blood pressure is of enormous importance. One of the many fixed-dose single-pill antihypertensive formulations available on the market is the combination of nebivolol and hydrochlorothiazide. The objective of this study was to develop two distinct high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry methods to simultaneously quantify nebivolol and hydrochlorothiazide in human plasma. The methods were employed in a bioequivalence study, the first assay involving a nebivolol fixed-dose single-pill formulation based on healthy Brazilian volunteers. Nebilet HCT™ (nebivolol 5 mg + hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg tablet, manufactured by Menarini) was the test formulation. The reference formulations were Nebilet™ (nebivolol 5 mg tablet, manufactured by Menarini) and Clorana™ (hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg tablet, manufactured by Sanofi). For both analytes, liquid-liquid extraction was employed for sample preparation and the chromatographic run time was 3.5 min. The limits of quantification validated were 0.02 ng/mL for nebivolol and 1 ng/mL for hydrochlorothiazide. Since the 90% CI for Cmax, AUC(0-last) and AUC(0-inf) individual test/reference ratios were within the 80-125% interval indicative of bioequivalence, it was concluded that Nebilet HCT™ is bioequivalent to Nebilet™ and Clorana™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Culex bidens and C. interfor, implicated in arbovirus transmission in Argentina, are sister species, only distinguishable by feature of the male genitalia; however, intermediate specimens of the species in sympatry have been found. Fourth-instar larvae and females of both species share apomorphic features, and this lack of clear distinction creates problems for specific identification. Geometric morphometric traits of these life stages also do not distinguish the species. The aim of the present study was to assess the taxonomic status of C. bidens and C. interfor using two mitochondrial genes and to determine the degree of their reproductive isolation using microsatellite loci. Sequences of the ND4 and COI genes were concatenated in a matrix of 993 nucleotides and used for phylogenetic and distance analyses. Bayesian and maximum parsimony inferences showed a well resolved and supported topology, enclosing sequences of individuals of C. bidens (0.83 BPP, 73 BSV) and C. interfor (0.98 BPP, 97 BSV) in a strong sister relationship. The mean K2P distance within C. bidens and C. interfor was 0.3% and 0.2%, respectively, and the interspecific variation was 2.3%. Bayesian clustering also showed two distinct mitochondrial lineages. All sequenced mosquitoes were successfully identified in accordance with the best close match algorithm. The low genetic distance values obtained indicate that the species diverged quite recently. Most morphologically intermediate specimens of C. bidens from Córdoba were heterozygous for the microsatellite locus GT51; the significant heterozygote excess observed suggests incomplete reproductive isolation. However, C. bidens and C. interfor should be considered good species: the ventral arm of the phallosome of the male genitalia and the ND4 and COI sequences are diagnostic characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Origini is the property of Gangemi Editore S.P.A. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Origini is the property of Gangemi Editore S.P.A. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)