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Intervertebral Disc (IVD) degeneration has been associated with a chronic inflammatory response, but knowledge on the contribution of distinct IVD cells, namely CD44, to the progression of IVD degeneration remains elusive. Here, bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) CD44 cells were sorted and compared by gene expression and proteomics with the negative counterpart. NP cells were then stimulated with IL-1b (10 ng/ml) and dynamics of CD44 gene and protein expression was analyzed upon pro-inflammatory treatment. The results emphasize that CD44 has a multidimensional functional role in IVD metabolism, ECM synthesis and production of neuropermissive factors. CD44 widespread expression in NP was partially associated with CD14 and CD45, resulting in the identification of distinct cell subsets. In conclusion, this study points out CD44 and CD44-based cell subsets as relevant targets in the modulation of the IVD pro-inflammatory/degenerative cascade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) can be found in metallic, organic, or inorganic forms, having no function in plant metabolism. This work aimed to evaluate the performance of Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub., an arboreal legume native to South America, in soils contaminated with Pb, based on the analysis of morphophysiological modifications in its leaves and roots, its tolerance index, and its vegetative growth. The experiment was conducted under a completely randomized design, in a greenhouse, using four treatments, namely the control (without lead) and three lead concentrations (100, 300, and 500 mg/kg soil−1), each treatment consisting of five replicates. The fresh and dry weight of leaves, stem, and root and the Tolerance Index for Pb were measured at the end of the experiment. Concerning the leaf anatomy, the thickness of the adaxial epidermis, abaxial epidermis, the palisade and spongy parenchyma, and the total thickness of the leaflets were analyzed. The cross-section vessel element area was evaluated in the root. Nitrate, soluble proteins, and ureides were evaluated in leaves and roots. There was an increase in the thickness of the abaxial epidermis, in the palisade and spongy parenchyma, and the total thickness of the leaflets, and a decrease in the root cross-section vessel element area. The leaves showed an increase in the concentrations of soluble compounds, while the roots showed a decrease in the concentration of these compounds. The species presents a tolerance index superior to 0.7 for all treatments, having survived even at the concentration of 500 mg Pb dm−3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

State-of-the-art 19th century spectroscopy led to the discovery of quantum mechanics, and 20th century spectroscopy led to the confirmation of quantum electrodynamics. State-of-the-art 21st century astrophysical spectrographs, especially ANDES at ESO’s ELT, have another opportunity to play a key role in the search for, and characterization of, the new physics which is known to be out there, waiting to be discovered. We rely on detailed simulations and forecast techniques to discuss four important examples of this point: big bang nucleosynthesis, the evolution of the cosmic microwave background temperature, tests of the universality of physical laws, and a real-time model-independent mapping of the expansion history of the universe (also known as the redshift drift). The last two are among the flagship science drivers for the ELT. We also highlight what is required for the ESO community to be able to play a meaningful role in 2030s fundamental cosmology and show that, even if ANDES only provides null results, such ‘minimum guaranteed science’ will be in the form of constraints on key cosmological paradigms: these are independent from, and can be competitive with, those obtained from traditional cosmological probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 2023 December 12, the star α Orionis will be occulted by asteroid (319) Leona. This represents an extraordinary and unique opportunity to analyse the brightness distribution of Betelgeuse's photosphere with extreme angular resolution by studying light curves from different points on Earth and at different wavelengths. Here we present observations of another occultation by asteroid Leona, on 2023 September 13, whose goal was to determine Leona's projected shape and size in preparation for the December 12th event and its interpretation. The occultation campaign was highly successful with 25 positive detections from 17 different sites and a near miss. The effective diameter in projected area derived from the positive detections was 66 ± 2 km using an elliptical fit to the instantaneous limb. The body is highly elongated, with dimensions of 79.6 ± 2.2 km × 54.8 ± 1.3 km in its long and short axis, respectively, at occultation time. This result, in combination with dense time series photometry of Leona that we recently obtained, together with archival sparse photometry, allowed us to predict the angular size of the asteroid for the Betelgeuse event and to simulate the expected brightness change. Also, an accurate position coming from the occultation is provided, to improve the orbit of Leona. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of soft actuators, Ionomeric Polymer Metal Composites (IPMC)-like devices are a trend, exhibiting large displacement with low applied voltage. Its working mechanism is related to solvated electrolytes migration, thus the number of counterions exchanged with the polymeric membrane plays a key role in the device's performance. Although many kinds of inorganic and organic ions were used, there were few efforts to address a specific concentration value of electrolyte solutions. Ionic liquids (ILs) are used in IPMC to provide electrochemical stability; however, their mechanical performance is usually poor. In this study we aimed to determine a specific value of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([BMIM]Cl) ionic liquid concentration between 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mol L-1 that grants electrochemical stability at different relative humidities with best electromechanical efficiency. We synthesized [BMIM]Cl and characterized it through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Cyclic Voltammetry (CV). The electrochemical behavior of Nafion®/Pt-based IPMC exchanged with IL was studied through Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), CV, and Chronoamperometry (CA). Electromechanical properties were measured through blocking force and displacement. All the IPMC tests were carried out at three distinct controlled humidities (30%, 60%, and 90%). Herein, we tuned the IL concentration in 0.3 mol L-1, delivering electrochemical stability with the best electromechanical yield regardless of the relative humidity. This result will be important when bringing electrolyte mixtures to further enhance the performance and efficiency of these devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature review provides extensive studies focused on the life cycle assessment of wastewater treatment plants. However, few studies have a mitigation perspective, especially concerning water–energy–nutrient nexus or resource recovery systems for warm-weather countries. In this context, this paper aims to evaluate 10 wastewater treatment plants, based on an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket followed by a high rate aerobic pond. The recovery of biosolids, energy, and water, thermal and alkaline hydrolysis, CO2 recirculation to supplement carbon, and a membrane system for microalgae harvesting are tested. The paper uses the OpenLCA 1.9 software to evaluate the following categories: global warming potential and global temperature change potential (IPCC 2013); cumulative energy demand (Ecoinvent); acidification, human toxicity, marine and freshwater eutrophication, marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecotoxicity (ReCiPe (H) v.1.13 2008). Input data consist of a background (from Ecoinvent 3.5 and literature) and foreground mix. The work asses the following environmental aspects: energy, chemical materials use, transportation, and emissions. The results indicate that the scenario considering CO2 recirculation combined with thermal hydrolysis, with higher biosolids and energy production, has the lowest environmental impact for all categories. This result was due to materials manufacture and transportation, and comparative inputs added (natural gas energy, water, and fertilizer). Additionally, transportation variation only affects highly the iron chloride supply scenario. Emissions variation impacted directly on both IPCC categories for all scenarios, due to biogas losses accounted on the upflow anaerobic sludge blanket and anaerobic digester, while energy variation did not affect profoundly any of the scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Currently, different cutoff points for handgrip strength (HGS) have been used to estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia. In addition, the variability of equipment and protocols for this assessment can significantly influence the early detection of this important public health problem. Thus, this review aims to identify the different cutoff points for HGS adopted for older men and women in screening for sarcopenia. Objectives: this review aims to identify the different cutoff points for HGS adopted for older men and women in screening for sarcopenia. Methods: In accordance with the PRISMA 2020 recommendations, which included published studies from the last 10 years, from 6 databases, in 3 different languages. Results: 19.730 references were identified, of which 62 were included for the review. All references analyzed used algorithms and definitions of sarcopenia already known in the literature. Of the studies found, 16 chose to develop cutoff values for HGS based on their own population. The variation in cutoff points was evident when compared between gender and regions of the world. Conclusion: It has become evident that there is a variability of normative values for HGS in sarcopenia screening. In addition, this systematic review shows the difference in the cutoff points used between the consensuses and those developed for each population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereus hildmannianus is a cactus exhibiting morphological and physiological adaptation of its cladodes which ensuring growth in climatic and soil conditions unfavourable for many plant species. Currently, limited water resources and increasing demand for renewable energy make cacti a biomass source for the production of biofuels. Somaclones regenerated from callus in vitro can be a source of new raw material in useful plants. The objective of this work was to determine if the regenerated plants showing two different morphologies present polysaccharide composition different from the wild plant. Somaclones aqueous extraction shows the absence of soluble polysaccharides as mucilage. The alkaline extraction of in vivo cultivated plant showed the presence of starch, type I arabinogalactan, and arabinoxylan and the somaclones showed type I arabinogalactan and arabinoxylan in both morphologies. Hemicelluloses found in the somaclones are not different from in vivo cultivated plants, but somaclones not almost biosynthesize mucilage and starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objectives: To review the clinical findings and outcome in dogs diagnosed with insulinoma, and to assess which factors are predictors of overall survival. Additionally, to describe the neurological manifestations of this population and their correlation with survival. Materials and Methods: Retrospective multicentric study of canine insulinoma cases (2009 to 2020). Signalment, clinical history, neurological examination, diagnostic findings, treatment and outcome were obtained from clinical records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to compare the overall survival. Results: One hundred and sixteen cases were included. Median duration of clinical signs before presentation was 1.5 months. The most common presenting clinical signs were weakness (59.5%), epileptic seizures (33.6%) and changes in consciousness or behaviour (27.6%). Three dogs were suspected to have paroxysmal dyskinesia. Thirty‐two dogs had an abnormal neurological examination, most commonly showing obtundation (28.1%), decreased withdrawal reflexes (21.9%) and absent menace response (18.8%). Overall survival for dogs undergoing surgery (20 months) was significantly longer than in medically treated (8 months; adjusted hazard ratio: 0.33; 95% confidence interval: 0.18, 0.59). Presence of metastases was the only other variable associated with prognosis (adjusted hazard ratio 1.72; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 2.91). Clinical Significance: Clinical signs of canine insulinoma are vague and non‐specific. Weakness, epileptic seizures and changes in mentation or behaviour were the most commonly reported. Obtunded mentation and forebrain neurolocalisation were the main neurological manifestations. Dogs undergoing surgery had a longer overall survival compared to medically treated cases, and dogs with metastasis had a shorter overall survival regardless of treatment modality. Abnormalities in the neurological examination did not correlate with prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A defecation disorder (DD) is a difficulty in evacuation documented by physiological exams. However, this physiological evaluation can be cumbersome, inaccessible and costly. Three "low-cost" tools to evaluate DD-a clinical DD score, the balloon expulsion test (BET) and a digital rectal examination (DRE) score were evaluated as separate or combined tests for DD screening.Methods: This prospective study occurred between January 2015 and March 2019 in the Gastroenterology Department of a tertiary hospital. Besides the gold standard physiological tests, constipated patients answered the clinical DD score and were evaluated by DRE and BET [standard and variable volume (VV)].Results: From 98 constipated patients, 35 (38.9%) were diagnosed with DD according to Rome IV criteria, mainly female (n = 30, 86%) with a median age of 60 years old. The clinical DD score revealed an AUC of 0.417 (SE = 0.07, p = 0.191). The DRE score displayed an AUC of 0.56 (SE = 0.063, p = 0.301). The standard BET displayed a sensitivity of 86%, specificity of 58%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 57% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 86%. The sequential VVBET followed by standard BET improved the BET performance regarding the evaluation of DD, with a sensitivity of 86%, specificity of 67%, PPV of 63% and NPV of 87%. The sequential BET had an OR 8.942, p > 0.001, CI 3.18-25.14, revealing to be the most significant predictor for DD screening.Conclusion: The sequential BET is a low cost, well-performing DD screening tool, appropriate to the Primary Care Setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is the major dose-limiting adverse effect of the clinical use ifosfamide (IFOS). The incidence of this side effect can be as high as 75%. Mesna has been used to reduce the risk of HC, although 5% of patients who get IFOS treatment may still suffer from HC. In previous studies, our group demonstrated that α-phellandrene (α-PHE) possesses anti-inflammatory activity, which opens the door for its study in the attenuation of HC. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential uroprotective effect of the α-PHE in the mouse model of IFOS-induced HC. In order to analyze the reduction of the urothelial damage, the bladder wet weight, hemoglobin content, and the Evans blue dye extravasation from the bladder matrix were evaluated. To investigate the involvement of neutrophil migration and lipid peroxidation and involvement of enzymatic and endogenous non-enzymatic antioxidants, the tissue markers myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde, nitrite/nitrate (NOx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated. TNF-α and IL-1β were measured by ELISA immunoassay technique. The results show that pretreatment with α-PHE significantly reduced urothelial damage that was accompanied by a decrease in the activity of MPO, MDA, and NOx levels and prevention of the depletion of SOD and GSH in bladder tissues. In the assessment of cytokines, α-PHE was able to significantly reduce TNF-α level. However, it does not affect the activities of IL-1β. These data confirm that α-PHE exerts potent anti-inflammatory properties and demonstrates that α-PHE represents a promising therapeutic option for this pathological condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nafion/Pt-based ionic polymer metal composites can be considered smart materials with characteristics that allow it to be used as soft actuators. Its working mechanism is based on solvated counterions moving through hydrophilic sites of the polymer membrane, making it an electrochemical device. Since a minimum of 2 V is needed to actuate, water electrolysis is a drawback that must be overcome, once its occurrence inhibits the properly working of ionomeric polymer/metal composite (IPMC). With individually four distinct counterions incorporated H+, Li+, Na+ and BMIM+— an organic cation from ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium chloride — Nafion/Pt-based IPMCs had their electrochemical properties investigated through cyclic voltammetry, multi-step chronoamperometry and electrical impedance, as well as mass change during exhaustive actuation cycles and their chemical affinity with hydrophilic sites were analysed by quantum mechanics simulation. From the collected data, it was possible to infer that the physical-chemical aspects of counterions play a key role in device-measured property, and BMIM+ prevented early water electrolysis, providing electrochemical stability to the device. Real-time mass-monitored actuation shows that water loss occurs excessively on smaller radius counterions and although the fast reabsorption kinetics, molecular diffusion to the innermost regions of the membrane is slow and does not lead to a recovery of device's performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data corroborate the fact that mass transport is strongly affected by both the limited ionomeric channel width and the interaction between the species and the Nafion side chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the survival of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) in the soil, under field and controlled conditions, and associated with cauliflower crop debris. Under field conditions, the soil temperature influenced the survival of Xcc, and the bacterium survived from 4 to 7 days. Under controlled conditions, the soil type and temperature influenced Xcc survival. Depending on the texture, pH and organic matter content of the soil, the bacterium survived from 10 to 24 days. Xcc survived in the soil for 14 days at 20 °C, and for 4 days when incubated at 30 °C. The soil moisture did not influence Xcc survival of 14 days at the three moisture contents evaluated. Similar behaviour was observed regarding the survival of four Xcc strains in the soil. The longest period of Xcc survival associated with cauliflower debris was 255 days. Our results suggest that the soil is not an important source of inoculum for Xcc. Considering the survival periods of Xcc in cauliflower crop residues under the Brazilian conditions studied, we recommend crop rotation with non-host species of Xcc for 1 year. This information may also be useful for the management of black rot in other brassica-producing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the incidence of elevated serum cardiac troponin I in dogs with acute ischaemic strokes, to evaluate its prognostic value in these patients and characterise a possible relationship between cardiac troponin I elevation in dogs with ischaemic strokes and underlying cardiac dysfunction. Materials and Methods: Prospective study of 18 dogs with acute ischaemic stroke diagnosed by MRI of the brain. Serum cardiac troponin I concentration, trans‐thoracic echocardiography and six‐lead electrocardiography were performed and findings were compared between dogs with good and poor outcome. Results: Serum cardiac troponin I was increased in 17 dogs (median 0.95 ng/mL; range 0.146 to 153). Focal hyperechoic regions of myocardium were visible in two dogs using trans‐thoracic echocardiography and presumed to represent acute infarcts. A significant association was found between cardiac troponin I and creatinine concentrations. No difference in cardiac troponin I concentrations was detected between dogs that experienced good and poor outcomes. Clinically important cardiac dysfunction was identified in two dogs. Clinical Significance: Cardiac troponin I is commonly elevated in patients diagnosed with acute ischaemic stroke but, in this small study population, did not have prognostic value. Larger studies (recruiting a study population of 98 dogs for a power of 0.8 and a 0.05 alpha/critical value) would aid in further investigation of these preliminary results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposes a sludge purging procedure from upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors in small wastewater treatment plants. The following characteristics of the anaerobic sludge supported its development: specific methanogenic activity, biodegradability and dewaterability. The sludge samples from the reactor blanket zone presented low specific methanogenic activity, low biodegradability and good dewaterability. On the other hand, sludge samples from its bed zone showed higher biodegradability and specific methanogenic activity, as well as equivalent dewaterability and excellent sedimentability. These characteristics indicate that the common practice of sludge purging from the bed zone is a mistake and must be avoided. Nevertheless, the sludge blanket usually presents high water contents (total solids < 3%), which can overload hydraulically the drying beds. To prevent this problem, the sludge purge from the blanket zone should be fractionated into three discharges of lower volume during the first 3 days of the dewatering cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicolor visible light emitting near-infrared (NIR)-excited Tm/Ho/Yb-codoped tantalum oxide nanopowders were produced using the sol-gel method. The generation of wide color gamut fluorescence in glass-ceramic with orthorhombic Ta2O5 nanocrystals dispersed into amorphous silica-based matrix is observed. The light emission spectroscopic properties of the rare-earth doped SiO2:Ta2O5 nanocomposites as a function of the tantalum content and temperature of annealing is examined. Simultaneously emitted multicolor fluorescence consisting of blue (480 nm), green (540 nm), and red (650 nm) upconversion signals in the SiO2:Ta2O5 system doped with holmium and thulium and sensitized with ytterbium, is demonstrated. It is also demonstrated that the proper choice of the rare-earth content and the NIR excitation power yielded the generation and control of the three primary colors and allows the emission of a balanced white overall luminescence from the glass-ceramic nanopowder samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial wilt caused by Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens is among the diseases that affect Phaseolus vulgaris L. This disease has been frequently detected in bean fields and causes severe production losses in Brazil. The aim of this research was to examine the genetic diversity existing among twenty-four isolates of C. flaccumfaciens collected from their native and alternative host, and a collection of sixty strains belonging to four phytopathogenic pathovars preserved at the French Collection for Plant-associated Bacteria (CIRM-CFBP) by multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) based on six housekeeping genes (atpD, dnaK, gyrB, ppK, recA and rpoB). A phylogenetic tree with the concatenated sequences of six genes showed high genetic diversity among the strains. For instance, strains belonging to C. f. pv. flaccumfaciens do not cluster together within the species. Similar results were obtained with a minimal MLSA scheme using gyrB and recA, which we propose for reliable identification at the species level of Curtobacterium isolates. No correlation was identified between phylogeny and pathogenicity in the Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens strains analyzed in this work. The specific primers CffFOR2 and CffREV4 designed by Tegli et al. (Letters in Applied Microbiology, 35(4), 331–337, 2002) to detect C. f. pv. flaccumfaciens in naturally infected bean seeds proved to be efficient for the detection of bean-pathogenic strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sets of nanomagnets are often utilized to mimic cellular automata in the design of nanomagnetic logic devices or frustration and emergence of magnetic monopoles in artificial spin ice systems, once that unidirectional arrangement of nanomagnets can behave as artificial spin ice, with frustration arising from second neighbors' dipolar interaction, and present good magnetic monopole mobility due to the low string tension among charges. Here, we present an experimental investigation of magnetic monopole population and mobility as a function of lateral and longitudinal distance among nanomagnets. The observed results could be useful in the nanomagnet logic device design and bring new insights about several possible designs for tuning magnetic monopole unidirectional mobility and transport under a low external magnetic field for further application in magnetricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quasar sample of the fourteenth data release of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS-IV DR14) is used to determine the cosmic homogeneity scale in the redshift range 0.80 < |$z$| < 2.24. We divide the sample into four redshift bins, each one with |$N_{\rm q} \ge 19\, 000$| quasars, spanning the whole redshift coverage of the survey and use two correlation function estimators to measure the scaled counts-in-spheres and its logarithmic derivative, i.e. the fractal correlation dimension, D 2. Using the ΛCDM cosmology as the fiducial model, we first estimate the redshift evolution of quasar bias and then the homogeneity scale of the underlying matter distribution |$r_{\rm {hom}}^{\rm {m}}$|⁠. We find that |$r_{\rm {hom}}^{\rm {m}}$| exhibits a decreasing trend with redshift and that the values obtained are in good agreement with the ΛCDM prediction over the entire redshift interval studied. We, therefore, conclude that the large-scale homogeneity assumption is consistent with the largest spatial distribution of quasars currently available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of bloodmeal sources in triatomine bugs (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) is important in understanding vector–host associations and in measuring the risk for Chagas' disease transmission. The bloodmeal sources of triatomines infected with Trypanosoma cruzi (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) caught in houses in central Brazil (Goiás State and the Federal District) were investigated during 2012–2014. Mitochondrial cytochrome b amplicons were used to identify bloodmeals through high‐resolution melting and DNA sequencing. Most bugs were found to have fed on either humans (45.7%) or chickens (43.1%). Human blood was detected in Triatoma sordida (n = 22/50 bugs), Triatoma pseudomaculata (n = 7/11 bugs), Panstrongylus megistus (n = 10/24 bugs), Panstrongylus geniculatus (n = 1/3 bugs) and Rhodnius neglectus (n = 18/28 bugs) (all: Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Sequencing identified Necromys (Rodentia: Cricetidae) mouse blood in P. geniculatus and Tropidurus (Squamata: Tropiduridae) lizard blood in T. pseudomaculata and T. sordida. These findings reveal new vector–host associations. The present results suggest frequent contact between humans and T. cruzi‐infected triatomines in central Brazil and indicate that Chagas' disease transmission by native vectors is an ongoing threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We have described previously our percutaneous fetoscopic technique for the treatment of open spina bifida (OSB). However, approximately 20-30% of OSB defects are too large to allow primary skin closure. Here we describe a modification of our standard technique using a bilaminar skin substitute to allow closure of large spinal defects. The aim of this study was to report our clinical experience with the use of a bilaminar skin substitute and a percutaneous fetoscopic technique for the prenatal closure of large OSB defects.Methods: Surgery was performed between 24.0 and 28.9 gestational weeks with the woman under general anesthesia, using an entirely percutaneous fetoscopic approach with partial carbon dioxide insufflation of the uterine cavity, as described previously. If there was enough skin to be sutured in the midline, only a biocellulose patch was placed over the placode (single-patch group). In cases in which skin approximation was not possible, a bilaminar skin substitute (two layers: one silicone and one dermal matrix) was placed over the biocellulose patch and sutured to the skin edges (two-patch group). The surgical site was assessed at birth, and long-term follow-up was carried out.Results: Percutaneous fetoscopic OSB repair was attempted in 47 consecutive fetuses, but surgery could not be completed in two. Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) occurred in 36 of the 45 (80%) cases which formed the study group, and the mean gestational age at delivery was 32.8 ± 2.5 weeks. A bilaminar skin substitute was required in 13/45 (29%) cases; in the remaining 32 cases, direct skin-to-skin suture was feasible. There were 12 cases of myeloschisis, of which 10 were in the two-patch group. In all cases, the skin substitute was located at the surgical site at birth. In five of the 13 (38.5%) cases in the two-patch group, additional postnatal repair was needed. In the remaining cases, the silicone layer detached spontaneously from the dermal matrix (on average, 25 days after birth), and the lesion healed by secondary intention. The mean operating time was 193 (range, 83-450) min; it was significantly longer in cases requiring the bilaminar skin substitute (additional 42 min on average), although the two-patch group had similar PPROM rate and gestational age at delivery compared with the single-patch group. Complete reversal of hindbrain herniation occurred in 68% of the 28 single-patch cases and 33% of the 12 two-patch cases with this information available (P < 0.05). In four cases there was no reversal; half of these occurred in myeloschisis cases.Conclusions: Large OSB defects may be treated successfully in utero using a bilaminar skin substitute over a biocellulose patch through an entirely percutaneous approach. Although the operating time is longer, surgical outcome is similar to that in cases closed primarily. Cases with myeloschisis seem to have a worse prognosis than do those with myelomeningocele. PPROM and preterm birth continue to be a challenge. Further experience is needed to assess the risks and benefits of this technique for the management of large OSB defects. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the trophic relationships among closely related species is a way to obtain subsidies for their management and conservation of their habitats. The diets of three co-occurring abundant fish species of the Gerreidae family (Diapterus rhombeus, Eucinostomus argenteus and Eucinostomus gula) in a tropical bay were described. The tested hypothesis was that the three sympatric species present shifts in their use of resource during the ontogenetic development to facilitate their coexistence. Size groups for each species were categorized according to breakpoints in the morphological structures determined by piecewise regression models. Significant overlapping in diets was found for all size classes of D. rhombeus but not for size classes of the Eucinostomus genus. Furthermore, different size classes of D. rhombeus did not overlap diet with size classes of the Eucinostomus genus. The specialization in feeding niches corresponding to growth seems to bring benefits for this group of fish rather than a generalist feeding strategy. The hypothesis of the available resources partitioning was accepted only between the two genera (Diapterus and Eucinostomus), and among size classes of the Eucinostomus genus that seemed to follow the principle of limiting similarity. However, different size classes of D. rhombeus exhibited strong evidence of an intraspecific overlapping of the trophic niche. It seems that different processes related to use of the trophic niche dimension are structuring these closely related fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a carbon replica derived from a vinylbenzenesulfonate-intercalated layered double hydroxide (CR-LDH) was applied to remove the Dicamba organochlorine herbicide from aqueous solution. The samples were characterized by several experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis coupled with differential scanning calorimetry and mass spectrometry (TGA-DSC-MS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, N2 adsorption/desorption and zeta potential analysis. The CR-LDH sample presents a very high specific surface area (2345 m2 g−1). The adsorption experiment typically followed the Langmuir isotherm model and the adsorption kinetics was best fitted with a pseudo second-order model. The maximum adsorption capacity of Dicamba herbicide onto CR-LDH was 279 mg g−1. CR-LDH presented a higher adsorption capacity than other carbon adsorbent materials reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present joint experimental and theoretical work provides in-depth understanding on the morphology and structural, electronic, and optical properties of ZnWO4 nanocrystals. Monoclinic ZnWO4 nanocrystals were prepared at three different temperatures (140, 150, and 160 °C) by a microwave hydrothermal method. Then, the samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction with Rietveld refinement analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electronic microscopy, micro-Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and photoluminescence measurements. First-principles theoretical calculations within the framework of density functional theory were employed to provide information at the atomic level. The band structure diagram, density of states, Raman and infrared spectra were calculated to understand the effect of structural order–disorder on the properties of ZnWO4. The effects of the synthesis temperature on the above properties were rationalized. The band structure revealed direct allowed transitions between the VB and CB and the experimental results in the ultraviolet-visible region were consistent with the theoretical results. Moreover, the surface calculations allowed the association of the surface energy stabilization with the temperature used in the synthesis of the ZnWO4 nanocrystals. The photoluminescence properties of the ZnWO4 nanocrystals prepared at 140, 150, and 160 °C were attributed to oxygen vacancies in the [WO6] and [ZnO6] clusters, causing a red shift of the spectra. The ZnWO4 nanocrystals obtained at 160 °C exhibited excellent photodegradation of Rhodamine under ultraviolet light irradiation, which was found to be related to the surface energy and the types of clusters formed on the surface of the catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nanoparticles of BaCeGdO (BCGO) with x = 0.01 and 0.02 mol% Gd respectively, were synthesized by the polymeric precursor method. The nanocrystals analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) displayed an orthorhombic perovskite-type structure. The sintered samples were characterized using Archimedes method, field emission scanning electronic microscopy (FE-SEM), and dilatometric measurements are reported. The values obtained relative to the average crystallite sizes calculated by the Scherrer equation were found to be dependent on Gd dopant concentration in the samples under investigation. The samples were sintered via both conventional and microwave sintering methods at 1480 °C for 4 h and at 1370 °C for 1 h respectively. By applying a heating rate of 50 °C min in a microwave oven, a satisfactory final density (95.1% of the theoretical density) was obtained using relatively lower temperatures compared to the conventional method. Both sintering methods were successfully employed towards obtaining dense BCGO ceramic. Comparatively, however, domestic microwave sintering was found to bear advantages over conventional sintering. Among such advantages include rapid heating, selective material coupling in addition to the enhancement of reaction kinetics. These relevant merits, in essence, render microwave sintering suitably more attractive for the synthesis of diverse ceramic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lutzomyia subgenus ( Diptera: Psychodidae) includes sibling species with morphologically indistinguishable females. The aims of this study were to analyse variations in the size and shape of wings of species within the Lutzomyia subgenus and to assess whether these analyses might be useful in their identification. Wings ( n = 733) of 18 species deposited in Brazilian collections were analysed by geometric morphometrics, using other genera and subgenera as outgroups. Shape variation was summarized in multivariate analyses and differences in wing size among species were tested by analysis of variance. The results showed significant variation in the sizes and shapes of wings of different Lutzomyia species. Two clusters within the Lutzomyia subgenus were distinguished in analyses of both males and females. In Cluster 1 ( Lutzomyia ischnacantha, Lutzomyia cavernicola, Lutzomyia almerioi, Lutzomyia forattinii, Lutzomyia renei and Lutzomyia battistinii), scores for correct reclassification were high ( females, kappa = 0.91; males, kappa = 0.90), whereas in Cluster 2 ( Lutzomyia alencari, Lutzomyia ischyracantha, Lutzomyia cruzi, Lutzomyia longipalpis, Lutzomyia gaminarai and Lutzomyia lichyi), scores for correct reclassification were low ( females, kappa = 0.42; males, kappa = 0.48). Wing geometry was useful in the identification of some species of the Lutzomyia subgenus, but did not allow the identification of sibling species such as L. longipalpis and L. cruzi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, two pathogenic Rickettsia species have been identified causing tick-borne spotted fever ( SF). The aetiological agent Rickettsia rickettsii causes serious illness, particularly in the south-eastern region of the country. Moreover, the Rickettsia sp. strain Atlantic Rainforest cause milder clinical manifestations in south-eastern, south and north-east regions. This study has sought to analyse predictive factors for fatal SF. A case-control study was performed using disease notification records in Brazil. The cases included were individuals with laboratory confirmation and fatal progression of SF, while the controls included individuals with SF who were cured. A total of 386 cases and 415 controls were identified (1 : 1.1), and the cases and controls were similar in age. The factors identified as being protective against death were reported presence of ticks (odds ratio [ OR], 0.60; 95% confidence interval [ CI], 0.41-0.88), residing in urban areas ( OR, 0.47, 95% CI, 0.31-0.74) and presenting lymphadenopathy ( OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.23-0.82). Males exhibited a greater chance of death ( OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.13-2.18), as did patients who were hospitalized ( OR, 10.82; 95% CI, 6.38-18.35) and who presented hypotension or shock ( OR, 10.80; 95% CI, 7.33-15.93), seizures ( OR, 11.24; 95% CI, 6.49-19.45) and coma ( OR of 15.16; 95% CI, 8.51-27.02). The study demonstrates the severity profile of the SF cases, defined either as the frequency of hospitalization (even in cases that were cured) or as the increased frequency of the clinical complications typically found in critical patients. Opportune clinical diagnosis, a careful evaluation of the epidemiological aspects of the disease and adequate care for patients are determining factors for reducing SF fatality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, ZnWO:Dy nanocrystals containing 0.5, 1, and 2 mol% of Dy were synthesized by a coprecipitation method and grown in a microwave-assisted hydrothermal system at 140 °C for 1 h. X-ray diffraction, Rietveld refinement, and Fourier transform Raman and infrared spectroscopy analyses indicated that each of the crystals had a wolframite-type monoclinic structure, with no other phases present. Structural refinement was carried out to model the distorted octahedral [ZnO], [DyO], and [WO] clusters. Furthermore, transmission scanning electron microscopy images revealed interesting crystal morphologies and a decrease of the average crystal size, which were dependent on the Dy doping concentration. Ultraviolet-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra indicated that the optical band gap increases with increasing replacement of Zn by Dy ions. The photoluminescent properties, chromaticity coordinates, and lifetimes of the ZnWO:Dy nanocrystals were studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs) have generated great interest in regenerative medicine mainly due to their multidifferentiation potential and immunomodulatory role. Although hMSC can be obtained from different tissues, the number of available cells is always low for clinical applications, thus requiring in vitro expansion. Most of the current protocols for hMSC expansion make use of fetal bovine serum (FBS) as a nutrient-rich supplement. However, regulatory guidelines encourage novel xeno-free alternatives to define safer and standardized protocols for hMSC expansion that preserve their intrinsic therapeutic potential. Since hMSCs are adherent cells, the attachment surface and cell-adhesive components also play a crucial role on their successful expansion. This review focuses on the advantages/disadvantages of FBS-free media and surfaces/coatings that avoid the use of animal serum, overcoming ethical issues and improving the expansion of hMSC for clinical applications in a safe and reproducible way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the evident benefits of the access to virtually unlimited computational resources in cloud environments, enterprises and researchers still face upending challenges when deploying applications that deal with sensitive information to the cloud. That is specially true for medical or tax records, for which there are strong legal restrictions to data escrow. In these cases one must be certain that a third party, such as the cloud provider, will never have access to the data. This work presents a solid access control framework that uses hybrid cryptography at client-side and a two-factor authentication technique to guarantee a secure key management protocol. We also demonstrate the use of homomorphic and order-preserving encryption as a viable solution for the computation of regular searches over electronic health records in the cloud, while preserving the confidentiality of clinical data and the privacy of patients, even in the face of a semi-honest, or 'honest, but curious,' cloud provider. We introduce a trusted element, a browser extension, to prevent attacks from malicious cloud providers. The result is evaluated through a full-featured prototype that manages health records modeled with a few OpenEHR archetypes. The prototype can be easily extended to handle any data structure modeled with OpenEHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The N-difluoromethyl triazolo-β-aza-ε-amino acid present in the core of peptides led to constrained conformations due to CH–F and NH–F interactions. Pseudotetrapeptides were obtained in excellent yields directly by click chemistry between azidodifluoroacetamides and alkynes, both linked to an amino acid. This work demonstrates that the N-difluoromethyltriazole scaffold can induce extended structures to β-strand mimics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The term meningoencephalocele ( MEC) describes a herniation of cerebral tissue and meninges through a defect in the cranium, whereas a meningocele ( MC) is a herniation of the meninges alone. Hypothesis/Objectives To describe the clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) characteristics, and outcomes of dogs with cranial MC and MEC. Animals Twenty-two client-owned dogs diagnosed with cranial MC or MEC. Methods Multicentric retrospective descriptive study. Clinical records of 13 institutions were reviewed. Signalment, clinical history, neurologic findings and MRI characteristics as well as treatment and outcome were recorded and evaluated. Results Most affected dogs were presented at a young age (median, 6.5 months; range, 1 month - 8 years). The most common presenting complaints were seizures and behavioral abnormalities. Intranasal MEC was more common than parietal MC. Magnetic resonance imaging identified meningeal enhancement of the protruded tissue in 77% of the cases. Porencephaly was seen in all cases with parietal MC. Cerebrospinal fluid ( CSF) analysis identified mild abnormalities in 4 of 11 cases. Surgery was not performed in any affected dog. Seventeen patients were treated medically, and seizures were adequately controlled with anti-epileptic drugs in 10 dogs. Dogs with intranasal MEC and mild neurologic signs had a fair prognosis with medical treatment. Conclusion and clinical importance Although uncommon, MC and MEC should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young dogs presenting with seizures or alterations in behavior. Medical treatment is a valid option with a fair prognosis when the neurologic signs are mild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work shows that it is possible to synthesize, chemically tailor and optimize the magnetostriction of ferrite nanoparticles and improve the magnetoelectric (ME) response of their multiferroic composites. Thus, Fe3O4 nanoparticles with different sizes have been synthesized by a solvothermal procedure and an oxidative hydrolysis method. The first method results in nanoparticles with 9 nm average size and 167 ppm magnetostriction; the second one in nanoparticles with average sizes of 30 nm and 50 nm and magnetostriction of 17 ppm and 26 ppm, respectively. Furthermore, Fe3O4/P(VDF-TrFE) multiferroic nanocomposites were produced with those nanoparticles, showing ME voltage coefficients (α31) of 920 μV cm−1 Oe−1, 100 μV cm−1 Oe−1 and 150 μV cm−1 Oe−1, respectively, for samples fabricated with nanoparticles with 9 nm, 30 nm and 50 nm average size. The high magnetostrictive response and the biocompatibility of ferrite nanoparticles, together with their anhysteretic magnetic response, enhance their application potential for biomedical applications as well as their use in high performance ME materials for sensors and actuators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doryctobracon brasiliensis (Szépligeti) is a parasitoid larval-pupal of fruit flies and has great potential to be used in biological control programmes as it feeds on other Anastrepha species in addition to Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann). This study investigated the biology of D. brasiliensis at different temperatures to design a life fertility table and determine thermal requirements. The parasitoids were multiplied in larvae of A. fraterculus in air-conditioned chambers at 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 28 and 30°C, 70 ± 20% RH and photophase of 12 h. We determined the number of offspring, sex ratio, longevity of males and females and duration of egg-adult period. The temperature range 18-22°C ensures higher fecundity and at 20°C, and the average number of offspring per female was 152.77 parasitoids. The sex ratio of offspring produced was reduced with increasing temperatures. Longevity of males and females of D. brasiliensis was reduced by increasing temperatures. At 15, 28 and 30°C, there was no development of immature stages. For the temperature range 18-25°C, the duration of egg-adult period of D. brasiliensis was inversely proportional to temperature. At 20 and 22°C, we observed the highest values of net reproduction rate (Ro) and finite reason of increase ( λ), meaning that at the estimated optimum temperature (21°C), the population of D. brasiliensis increased 47 times each generation. The lower temperature threshold for development was 10.01°C and the thermal constant (K) 303.21 degree/days. This information confirms that D. brasiliensis is better suited to temperate environments, which implies a significant potential for the use of D. brasiliensis in the control of A. fraterculus, because most areas occupied by this pest are in temperate regions. In addition, D. brasiliensis is useful in mass rearing systems in laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to conduct a survey examining the impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on patients' and their caregivers' daily activities. Questionnaires were distributed to patients registered in the APDI (Portuguese Association for IBD) database and their respective caregivers in 2007. Of 422 patient respondents, 251 had Crohn's disease (CD) and 171 had ulcerative colitis (UC), with the majority of patients being women (58.1%) and aged over 40 years (37.4%). The number of disease flares experienced by IBD patients was slightly higher for patients with CD than for patients with UC (2.64 vs. 2.34), and surgery was more often required in CD patients as compared to UC patients (42.4 vs. 7%). Sixty percent (60%) of patients reported having no problems with mobility, daily activities, or personal hygiene; however, over half of all patients experienced some pain and anxiety. Adult patients and children and adolescents respectively experienced time off work or school due to their disease but caregivers were not affected in this regard. The caregivers life (N=324) was affected by anxiety, with the major concern reported as the risk of the patient developing cancer. Both IBD patients and caregivers thought that the provision of information on new drugs and contact time with a doctor would have the biggest impact on improving care. The symptoms and complications of IBD have a considerable impact on the lives of patients and their caregivers, and several actions could be taken to improve their care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of prenatal ultrasound measurement of anteroposterior renal pelvis diameter (APD) to discriminate between significant uropathy and idiopathic renal pelvis dilatation. Methods: One-hundred-and-three neonates who were found to have fetal renal pelvis dilatation, defined as presence of an APD > or = 5 mm, underwent systematic investigation for uropathies and were prospectively followed. An ultrasound scan was performed after the first week of postnatal life and all infants underwent a voiding cystourethrogram. Neonates with an APD larger than 10 mm underwent renal scintigraphy. Ultrasound scans, clinical examination and laboratory reviews were scheduled at 6-month intervals. Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed to determine the best cut-offs for APD to identify renal units with significant uropathy as well as those requiring surgical intervention. Significant uropathy was defined as the presence of well-established urinary tract abnormalities or when there was abnormal renal scintigraphy. Results: The estimated area under the curve for APD was 0.900 (95% CI, 0.841-0.942) indicating excellent power to discriminate between idiopathic pelvis dilatation and significant uropathy. The sensitivity and specificity for the 7.5 mm cut-off point were 97.9% and 40.6%, respectively. To identify infants who required surgical intervention, the calculated area under the curve was 0.953 (95% CI, 0.908-0.980). Conclusion: Our results suggest that measurement of APD is an excellent test to identify fetuses with significant uropathy, as well as those requiring postnatal intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Therapeutic drug monitoring is a powerful strategy known to improve the clinical outcomes and to optimise the healthcare resources in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Currently, most of the methods commercially available for the quantification of infliximab ( IFX) are ELISA-based, with a turnaround time of approximately 8 h, and delaying the target dosage adjustment to the following infusion. Aim To validate the first point-of-care IFX quantification device available in the market - the Quantum Blue Infliximab assay (Buhlmann, Schonenbuch, Switzerland) - by comparing it with two well-established methods. Methods The three methods were used to assay the IFX concentration of spiked samples and of the serum of 299 inflammatory bowel diseases ( IBD) patients undergoing IFX therapy. Results The point-of-care assay had an average IFX recovery of 92%, being the most precise among the tested methods. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficients of the point-of-care IFX assay vs. the two ELISA-based established methods were 0.889 and 0.939. Moreover, the accuracy of the point-of-care IFX compared with each of the two reference methods was 77% and 83%, and the kappa statistics revealed a substantial agreement (0.648 and 0.738). Conclusions The Quantum Blue IFX assay can successfully replace the commonly used ELISA-based IFX quantification kits. This point-of-care IFX assay is able to deliver the results within 15 min makes it ideal for an immediate target concentration adjusted dosing. Moreover, it is a user-friendly desktop device that does not require specific laboratory facilities or highly specialised personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the stiffness analysis of multibody systems using the Matrix Structural Analysis--MSA. This methodology allows us to obtain the stiffness matrix of the structure from the stiffness properties of each element. First the MSA method is described and its application is detailed using an L-structure in order to make easy its understanding. Numerical and experimental results obtained for the L-structure and a 6-ṞSS parallel manipulator, follow to prove the validity of the methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high number of Leishmania-responder T cells is found in cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions, suggesting that important immunological events occur at the site of infection. Although activated, cytotoxic and regulatory T cells infiltrating into lesions may influence disease pathogenesis, the role of the T cell differentiation pattern of lymphocytes in lesions is unknown. Our aim was to investigate whether the phase of lesion development (early or late) is influenced by the functional status of cells present in inflammatory infiltrate. Activation, cytotoxity and T cell differentiation molecules were evaluated in lesion mononuclear cells by flow cytometry. The frequency of T cells was correlated with the lesion area ( r = 0·68; P = 0·020). CD4+CD25+ T cells predominated over CD4+CD69+ T cells in early lesions (less than 30 days), whereas late lesions (more than 60 days) exhibited more CD4+CD69+ T cells than CD4+CD25+ T cells. The duration of illness was correlated positively with CD4+CD69+ ( r = 0·68; P = 0·005) and negatively with CD4+CD25+ T cells ( r = −0·45; P = 0·046). Most CD8+ T cells expressed cytotoxic-associated molecules (CD244+), and the percentages were correlated with the lesion area ( r = 0·52; P = 0·04). Both CD4+ and CD8+ effector memory T cells (TEM-CD45RO+CCR7-) predominated in CL lesions and were significantly higher than central memory (TCM-CD45RO+CCR7+) or naive T cells (CD45RO-CCR7+). An enrichment of TEM cells and contraction of naive T cells were observed in lesions in comparison to blood ( P = 0·006) for both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Lesion chronicity is associated with a shift in activation phenotype. The enrichment of TEM and activated cytotoxic cells can contribute to immune-mediated tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]