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• Polymicrobial infections common in pediatric pulmonary exacerbations. • Most polymicrobial infections treated with antibiotics that cover all bacteria. • Prior complete antibiotic coverage predicts subsequent complete coverage. No data exist to guide antibiotic selection among people with CF (PwCF) with respiratory cultures positive for multiple CF-related bacteria (polymicrobial infections). This study aimed to describe the number of polymicrobial in-hospital treated pulmonary exacerbations (PEx), to determine the proportion of polymicrobial PEx where antibiotics were prescribed with activity against all bacteria detected (termed complete antibiotic coverage), and to determine clinical and demographic factors associated with complete antibiotic coverage. Retrospective cohort study using the CF Foundation Patient Registry-Pediatric Health Information System dataset. Children aged 1–21 years with an in-hospital treated PEx from 2006 to 2019 were eligible for inclusion. Bacterial culture positivity was based on any positive respiratory culture in the 12 months prior to a study PEx. A total of 4,923 children contributed 27,669 total PEx of which 20,214 were polymicrobial; of these, 68% of PEx had complete antibiotic coverage. In regression modeling, a prior PEx with complete antibiotic coverage for MRSA was associated with a higher likelihood of having complete antibiotic coverage at a subsequent study PEx (OR (95% CI) 3.48 (2.50, 4.83)). The majority of children with CF hospitalized for polymicrobial PEx were prescribed complete antibiotic coverage. Prior PEx treatment with complete antibiotic coverage predicted complete antibiotic coverage at a future PEx for all bacteria studied. Studies are needed comparing outcomes of polymicrobial PEx treated with different antibiotic coverages to optimize PEx antibiotic selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Professional practices are not guided primarily by theoretical knowledge, but by practical experience. • While cultural competencies and specific technical knowledge on the part of professionals are essential for supporting LGBTIQ adolescents, professionals also need skills to redirect adult-centric relationships that concentrate power exclusively in the adults. • Professionals with a higher level of training or stronger commitment to sexual and gender diversity were found to be better equipped with the tools and skills necessary to provide support to LGBTIQ adolescents. • Professional practices are heterogeneous and tend to develop in an unmethodological way. • Adults must listen to adolescents to understand their needs, experiences, expectations, and perceptions regarding sexuality and gender. Since the 2010s, LGBTIQ children have become increasingly visible in Spain, a visibility reflected in their inclusion in public policies at both national and regional levels. Regions such as Catalonia and Madrid have passed legislation that creates specific services and protocols to protect these children. However, the actual impact of these laws and services has not yet been assessed. This article analyses the results of 35 interviews with stakeholders in addition to four focus groups containing 24 adolescents, focusing on the knowledge, practices, experiences and needs of the two groups. Despite the differences between the regions, the results are similar: although professionals can be supportive, they need both more knowledge and clearer directions regarding how to focus their interventions with LGBTIQ children, while adolescents need adults to listen to them and confront and combat their adultist biases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite advances in the treatment of high energy proximal tibia fractures, including the utilization of staged management with external fixation, the infection rate remains high. Overlap between external fixator pin sites and definitive internal fixation has been proposed as a risk factor for infection.Methods: This retrospective study reviews 244 patients with staged knee-spanning external fixation followed by delayed definitive internal fixation at two separate level one trauma centers. Presence of pin-plate overlap as well as several other known risk factors for infection were recorded and measured to include open fractures, compartment syndrome, operative time and number of incisions. Development of deep infection was the primary outcome. Both univariate and multivariate statistics were applied to determine differences in rates of infection.Results: 65 (26.6%) patients had presence of pin-plate overlap while 179 (73.4%) patients had no overlap. There were no differences between overlapping and non-overlapping groups with respect to other infectious risk factors. Deep infection occurred in 34 (13.9%) total patients, 18 (27.7%) were in patients with pin-plate overlap and 16 (8.9%) in those without overlap. (P = 0.003; RR 3.01, 95% CI 1.51-4.76).Discussion: This large, multicenter study demonstrated a statistically significant association between pin-plate overlap and the development of deep infection in tibial plateau fractures. On multivariate analysis, pin-plate overlap was identified as an independent risk factor for infection. When treating these complex injuries, surgeons should consider the definitive fixation construct when placing external fixation pins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Persistent MRSA infection is often associated with clinical decline. • Neither haemolysis nor biofilm formation differ between early to chronic infection. • Anaerobic growth conditions alter biofilm formation and haemolysis of MRSA. • Anaerobic growth affects antibiotic susceptibility varying by antibiotic class. Chronic methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in CF is associated with worse outcomes compared to early or intermittent infection. This observation could be related to adaptive bacterial changes such as biofilm formation or anaerobic growth. MRSA isolates stored from incident and during chronic (>2 years) infection were included at two study sites. MRSA isolates were characterised by spa -typing, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, biofilm formation and haemolysis under aerobic and anaerobic culture conditions. Paired MRSA isolates from 49 patients were included. Mean age at incident infection was 9.7±1.2 years with mild to moderate lung disease (FEV 1 74±4% predicted). Twenty-five subjects showed progression of disease/symptoms after onset of MRSA with significantly increased use of antibiotics. Most isolates belonged to t002 (38%) and t008 (36%) spa -types and 8 patients had a change in spa -type over time. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed few differences between incident and late isolates but significantly lower MIC under anaerobic vs. aerobic conditions for vancomycin, fusidic acid, rifampin but higher MIC for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Biofilm formation and haemolysis did not differ by stage of infection or disease course but both were lower under anaerobic conditions (biofilm p =0.018; haemolysis p =0.002) in multi-variate analyses that included study site, growth condition and stage of infection. Persistent MRSA infection is frequently associated with clinical decline. Anaerobic growth conditions, which occur in CF airways, affect the expression of virulence factors and antibiotic susceptibility of MRSA more than duration of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First systematic review including studies employing EEG and fMRI-based protocols. • Data from 24 studies (480 patients in experimental and 194 in the control groups). • Most studies showing symptom improvement superior to the control group(s). • Positive linear trends showing improved study quality across years. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Neurofeedback training has been suggested as a potential additional treatment option for MDD patients not reaching remission from standard care (i.e., psychopharmacology and psychotherapy). Here we systematically reviewed neurofeedback studies employing electroencephalography, or functional magnetic resonance-based protocols in depressive patients. Of 585 initially screened studies, 24 were included in our final sample (N = 480 patients in experimental and N = 194 in the control groups completing the primary endpoint). We evaluated the clinical efficacy across studies and attempted to group studies according to the control condition categories currently used in the field that affect clinical outcomes in group comparisons. In most studies, MDD patients showed symptom improvement superior to the control group(s). However, most articles did not comply with the most stringent study quality and reporting practices. We conclude with recommendations on best practices for experimental designs and reporting standards for neurofeedback training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the changes in brain (T brain) and abdominal (T abd) temperatures in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) following fatiguing exercise. Male normotensive Wistar rats (NWRs) and SHRs were used at 16 weeks of age. Their arterial pressure was measured by tail plethysmography prior to the experiments to confirm the hypertensive status of the SHRs. Then, the rats underwent implantation of an abdominal temperature sensor to measure T abd and a guide cannula in the frontal cortex to enable the insertion of a thermistor to measure T brain. After a familiarization period, each animal was subjected to incremental speed exercises until fatigue in either a temperate (25 °C) or warm (32 °C) environment, followed by a 60-min post-exercise period at the same temperature at which they exercised. T brain , T abd and tail-skin temperature (T skin) were measured every min throughout the experiments. SHRs exhibited higher T abd values than NWRs, and these higher values were transiently and persistently observed at 25 °C and 32 °C, respectively. For example, at 32 °C, T abd was 0.84 °C higher in SHRs at the 25th min (large effect size). In contrast, regardless of the ambient temperature, SHRs exhibited similar T brain values as NWRs, indicating preserved T brain regulation following exercise in hypertensive rats. SHRs presented higher T skin during the last half of the post-exercise period at 25 °C, whereas no inter-group differences were observed at 32 °C. In conclusion, the present results highlight that SHRs, an animal model that mimics uncontrolled essential hypertension in humans, exhibited greater impairments in regulating T abd than T brain during the post-exercise period. • Rats show greater reductions in abdominal than in brain temperature after exercise. • Hypertensive rats properly regulate their brain temperature after exercise. • Hypertensive rats have impaired abdominal temperature regulation after exercise. • The impaired abdominal temperature regulation in SHRs is more prolonged in the heat. • Hypertensive rats have preserved cutaneous (tail) heat loss after exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The prevalence of dyspnea after a stroke was 44%. • Dyspnea is associated with activity limitations and restrictions in community participation after a stroke. • Stroke survivors, who had dyspnea, were six times more likely to report activity limitations and two times more likely to report restrictions in social participation. Dyspnea is a relevant outcome to be taken into consideration during stroke rehabilitation. Prevalence, severity, and effects of this condition on individuals with stroke remain uncertain. This study investigated the prevalence and severity of dyspnea after a stroke, as well the associations between dyspnea, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. A telephone-based survey was conducted with 285 individuals with stroke. The survey included information regarding the onset and severity of the dyspnea, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Prevalence of dyspnea was reported as percentage of individuals who had the symptom. Chi-square tests were used to investigate the associations between dyspnea, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Relative risks and respective 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Out of the 285 participants, 124 (44%) reported having dyspnea after stroke. Severe symptoms were reported by 51% of the participants with dyspnea. In addition, dyspnea limited activity and restricted social participation in 85% and 49% of the participants, respectively. Dyspnea was significantly correlated with activity limitations (r = 0.87; 95% CI 0.82–0.92; p < 0.01) and participation restrictions (r = 0.53; 95% CI 0.46–0.62; p < 0.01). The analyses indicated that individuals with dyspnea were more likely to report that it limited their activities (RR: 6.5; 95% CI 4.3–9.9) and restricted social participation (RR: 1.7; 95% CI 1.5–2.0). Dyspnea is an important symptom after stroke and showed to be associated with activity limitations and restrictions in community participation. Earlier detection of dyspnea in people with stroke, followed by appropriate management, is strongly recommended and has the potential to improve activity and social participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • CDMetaPOP now allows spatially-explicit, individual-based simulations of two species. • A hybrid index distinguishes parental species and their hybrids. • Species-specific growth relationships and mating behaviors are now possible. • Temperature-based fitness and selection relationships can be implemented. • CDMetaPOP is a valuable tool for exploring hybridization dynamics in diverse systems. Abstract Spatially-explicit individual-based simulation models provide a valuable tool for exploring complex ecological and evolutionary processes that are not easily empirically measured. Here, we present modifications of a spatially-explicit individual-based simulation model (CDMetaPOP) to accommodate a two-species system and simulations involving interspecific hybridization. We first describe how a hybrid (H) index is used to distinguish individuals of interspecific descent from those of either parental species. User-defined thresholds provide flexibility in the degree of admixture tolerated for classifying 'pure' individuals. We then detail relationships further informed by the H index, including individual growth, temperature-based fitness and selection, and mate preference behavior. Empirically derived species- and system-specific information can be incorporated into these relationships, for example, to produce differential growth among hybrids and parental species. Lastly, we demonstrate an application of this simulation framework by exploring the relative effects of temperature-based selection, mate preference behavior, and hybrid fitness on the rate and spatial extent of sympatric hybridization between two native riverine fish species, bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma), in the upper Skagit River system (United States and Canada). Results from this demonstration provide guidance for future empirical studies of bull trout, a federally threatened species. Understanding factors that contribute to the initiation and maintenance of hybridization, as well as the ecological and evolutionary consequences of this phenomenon, is of increasing importance given shifting species ranges due to large-scale landscape modification and a changing global climate. Our framework can be used to study a wide range of hybridization dynamics in any terrestrial or aquatic system, including comparisons of distinct environmental conditions or potential management responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Since its introduction in the early 1990s, endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms has had a steady upward trend and is the primary mode of treatment for most intracranial aneurysms. Concurrently, the need for retreatment of aneurysms after previous endovascular treatment has continued to increase, some of which can only be treated with microsurgical techniques. The factors that dictate outcomes in this group of patients are incompletely understood. Objective To study factors contributing to patient outcomes after microsurgical treatment of aneurysms with previous endovascular treatment. Methods The records of the senior author (D.L.B.) since 2002 were retrospectively reviewed for aneurysms treated after previous endovascular treatment. Demographics, treatment details, and imaging were reviewed for all patients. A systematic review of the literature on microsurgical treatment of aneurysms previously treated by endovascular therapy was also conducted. Results A total of 91 patients were identified from the retrospective review. Mean age at the time of initial treatment was 49 ± 12.68 years. Most patients initially presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage before initial endovascular treatment, with only 11 patients (12%) presenting with incidentally discovered lesions. Modified Rankin Scale score at discharge after initial treatment was good (0–3) in 81.4% of cases. Functional outcomes at the last known follow-up showed a modified Rankin Scale score of 0–3 in 77 patients (84.6%). Only aneurysm neck size was found to be a significant predictor of surgical complications (Wald χ2 = 10.79; P = 0.0010) with an odds ratio of 2.32 (95% confidence interval, 1.40–3.83) for a 2-mm increase in neck size. Systematic review identified 37 studies who were used to pool data on 370 patients. Although type of surgery was identified as a predictor of poor outcomes, this was significantly confounded by Hunt and Hess grade in the systematic review. Conclusions Favorable outcomes can be obtained even for highly complex cerebral aneurysms that have failed endovascular treatment at high-volume cerebrovascular centers. Initial presentation grade and aneurysm size are important predictors of final patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of force and power are inherent properties of skeletal muscle, and regulated by contractile proteins within muscle fibers. However, skeletal muscle integrity and function also require strong connections between muscle fibers and their extracellular matrix (ECM). A well-organized and pliant ECM is integral to muscle function and the ability for many different cell populations to efficiently migrate through ECM is critical during growth and regeneration. For many neuromuscular diseases, genetic mutations cause disruption of these cytoskeletal-ECM connections, resulting in muscle fragility and chronic injury. Ultimately, these changes shift the balance from myogenic pathways toward fibrogenic pathways, culminating in the loss of muscle fibers and their replacement with fatty-fibrotic matrix. Hence a common pathological hallmark of muscular dystrophy is prominent fibrosis. This review will cover the salient features of muscular dystrophy pathogenesis, highlight the signals and cells that are important for myogenic and fibrogenic actions, and discuss how fibrosis alters the ECM of skeletal muscle, and the consequences of fibrosis in developing therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fracture-related infection (FRI) remains an issue in the treatment of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. FRI in this study was 13.8%. • Radiographic parameters including fracture length, tibial widening, initial displacement, and fibula fracture are associated with FRI. • Surgeons treating these injuries should utilize the identified radiographic parameters to identify patients at risk of FRI. High energy tibial plateau fractures are fraught with complications, particularly fracture-related infection (FRI). Previous studies have evaluated patient demographics, fracture classification, and injury characteristics as risk factors for FRI in patients with these injuries. This study evaluated the relationship between radiographic parameters (fracture length relative to femoral condyle width (FLF ratio), initial femoral displacement (FD ratio), and tibial widening (TW ratio)) and fracture-related infection following internal fixation in high energy bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. 225 patients treated for bicondylar tibial plateau fractures at two level I trauma centers were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics, fracture classification, and radiographic measurements were analyzed to determine association with FRI. The rate of FRI was 13.8%. Increased fracture length, FLF ratio, FD ratio, TW ratio, and fibula fracture were each associated with FRI on regression analysis, independent of clinical variables. Cutoff values were identified for each parameter and patients were risk stratified based on these radiographic parameters. High-risk patients had a 2.68- and 12.36-times risk of FRI compared to medium and low-risk patients, respectively. This study is the first to examine the relationship between radiographic parameters and FRI in high energy bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Fracture length, FLF ratio, FD ratio, TW ratio, and fibula fracture were identified as radiographic parameters associated with FRI. More importantly, risk stratifying patients based on these parameters accurately identified patients at increased risk of FRI. Not all bicondylar tibial plateau fractures are created equal and radiographic parameters can be utilized to help identify the bad actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Distal femur fractures remain difficult injuries to effectively treat with this study observing a fracture related infection (FRI) rate of 8% and nonunion rate of 13%. • Allogenic blood transfusions were not associated with patients developing a nonunion. (P = 0.91). • Allogenic blood transfusions were associated with FRI (P <0.001) and the association increased in a dose-dependent manner with increasing blood transfusions. Distal femur fractures are common injuries that remain difficult for orthopedic surgeons to treat. High complication rates, including nonunion rates as high as 24% and infection rates of 8%, can lead to increased morbidity for these patients. Allogenic blood transfusions have previously been identified as risk factors for infection in total joint arthroplasty and spinal fusion surgeries. No studies have explored the relationship between blood transfusions and fracture related infection (FRI) or nonunion in distal femur fractures. 418 patients with operatively treated distal femur fractures at two level I trauma centers were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics were collected including age, gender, BMI, medical comorbidities, and smoking. Injury and treatment information was also collected including open fracture, polytrauma status, implant, perioperative transfusions, FRI, and nonunion. Patients with less than three months of follow up were excluded. 366 patients were included in final analysis. One hundred thirty-nine (38%) patients received a perioperative blood transfusion. Forty-seven (13%) nonunions and 30 (8%) FRI were identified. Allogenic blood transfusion was not associated with nonunion (13% vs 12%, P = 0.87), but was associated with FRI (15% vs 4%, P <0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis identified a dose dependent relationship between number of perioperative blood transfusions and FRI: total transfusion ≥2 U PRBC RR= 3.47(1.29, 8.10, P = 0.02), ≥3 RR= 6.99 (3.01, 12.40, P <0.001), and ≥4 RR= 8.94 (4.03, 14.42, P <0.001). In patients undergoing operative treatment of distal femur fractures, perioperative blood transfusions are associated with increased risk of fracture related infection, but not the development of a nonunion. This risk association increases in a dose-dependent relationship with increasing total blood transfusions received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic cathinones, frequently referred to as “bath salts”, have significant abuse potential, and recent evidence suggests that these novel psychoactive substances can also produce cognitive deficits as well as cytotoxic effects. However, most of these latter findings have been obtained either using high concentrations in vitro or following non-contingent high dose administration in vivo. The present study utilized a model of long-term voluntary binge-like self-administration to determine potential detrimental effects of synthetic cathinones on cognitive function and their known underlying neural circuits, collectively referred to as neurocognitive dysfunction. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were allowed to self-administer the cocaine-like synthetic cathinone 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV, 0.03 mg/kg/infusion i.v.) in 96-hr sessions, or saline as a control. A total of five 96-hr sessions were conducted, each separated by 3 days of abstinence in the home cage. Three weeks following the last 96-hr session, animals underwent assessment of cognitive function using spatial object recognition (SOR) and novel object recognition (NOR) tasks, after which brains were harvested and assessed for neurodegeneration using FluoroJade C (FJC). Compared to animals self-administering saline, animals self-administering MDPV demonstrated (1) robust drug intake that escalated over time, (2) deficits in NOR but not SOR, and (3) neurodegeneration in the perirhinal and entorhinal cortices. These results indicate that repeated binge-like intake of MDPV can induce neurocognitive dysfunction. In addition, utilization of rodent models of extended binge-like intake may provide insight into potential mechanisms and/or approaches to prevent or reverse the detrimental effects of abused substances on cognitive and neurobiological functioning. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled ‘Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.’ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Canes are usually prescribed for individuals with stroke with the purpose of improving walking and increasing safety. However, there is no consensus regarding the clinical effects of these aids on walking and participation. Objective: This study will examine the efficacy of the provision of a cane to improve walking and increase participation after stroke. Methods: This is a two-arm, prospectively registered, randomized trial with concealed allocation, blinded measurers, and intention-to-treat analysis. Fifty individuals with chronic stroke, categorized as slow or intermediate walkers (walking speeds ≤0.8 m/s), will participate. The experimental group will receive a single-point cane and instructions to use the cane anytime they need to walk. The control group will receive a placebo intervention, consisting of selfstretching exercises of the lower limb muscles and instructions to not use assistive devices. The primary outcome will be comfortable walking speed. Secondary outcomes will include walking step length, walking cadence, walking capacity, walking confidence, and participation. Outcomes will be collected by a researcher blinded to group allocation at baseline (Week 0), after intervention (Week 4), and one month beyond intervention (Week 8). Conclusion: The provision of a single-point cane may help improving walking of slow and intermediate walkers after stroke. If walking is enhanced, the benefits may be carried over to participation, and individuals may experience greater free-living physical activity at home and in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragmentation is a major threat to the integrity of stream ecosystems and maintaining connectivity is a primary goal for conservation to promote natural system functioning. In human dominated systems with extensive anthropogenic fragmentation, resource managers are faced with prioritizing restoration actions to provide the most cost-effective conservation strategies. Road crossings, particularly poorly designed culverts, limit fish passage and thus population connectivity and access to seasonally important resources. Culvert assessment protocols, such as the one developed by the North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity Collaborative (NAACC), are useful tools for managers to evaluate culvert passability and prioritize restoration actions across broad spatial extents, however the justification of such protocols requires empirical field based investigations. In this study we collected Brook Trout genetic samples from 28 headwater streams, of which 17 were separated by a culverted road crossing and 11 were included as a comparison to natural genetic structuring. The objectives of this research were to 1) determine what effect culverts had on the genetics of Brook Trout populations, 2) evaluate the ability of the NAACC culvert assessment protocol to predict genetic patterns and 3) identify the culvert characteristics that best explained genetic variability. We found significant increases in genetic differentiation at sites with culverts compared to those without, but no differences in genetic diversity metrics. Although the NAACC classifications did not predict the extent of genetic differentiation, the openness ratio of culverts (cross sectional area/length) was significantly correlated, suggesting it may need to receive a higher weighting in assessment protocols. Our results highlight the necessity to match appropriate prioritization strategies with desired management objectives in order to design the most effective conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lightweight materials that are simultaneously strong and stiff are desirable for a range of applications from transportation to energy storage to defense. Micro- and nanolattices represent some of the lightest fabricated materials to date, but studies of their mechanical properties have produced inconsistent results that are not well captured by existing lattice models. We performed systematic nanomechanical experiments on four distinct geometries of solid polymer and hollow ceramic (Al 2 O 3 ) nanolattices. All samples tested had a nearly identical scaling of strength ( σ y ) and Young's modulus ( E ) with relative density ( ρ ¯ ), ranging from σ y ∝ ρ ¯ 1.45 to ρ ¯ 1.92 and E ∝ ρ ¯ 1.41 to ρ ¯ 1.83 , revealing that changing topology alone does not necessarily have a significant impact on nanolattice mechanical properties. Finite element analysis was performed on solid and hollow lattices with structural parameters beyond those realized experimentally, enabling the identification of transition regimes where solid-beam lattices diverge from existing analytical theories and revealing the complex parameter space of hollow-beam lattices. We propose a simplified analytical model for solid-beam lattices that provides insight into the mechanisms behind their observed stiffness, and we investigate different hollow-beam lattice parameters that give rise to their aberrant properties. These experimental, computational and theoretical results uncover how architecture can be used to access unique lattice mechanical property spaces while demonstrating the practical limits of existing beam-based models in characterizing their behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Magnetic resonance images (MRI) show detectable anatomical and functional differences between individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and healthy subjects. Moreover, machine learning techniques have been proposed as tools to identify potential biomarkers and, ultimately, to support clinical diagnosis. However, few studies to date have investigated feature selection (FS) influences in OCD MRI-based classification.Methods: Volumes of cortical and subcortical structures, from MRI data of 38 OCD patients (split into two groups according symptoms severity) and 36 controls, were submitted to seven feature selection algorithms. FS aims to select the most relevant and less redundant features which discriminate between two classes. Then, a classification step was applied, from which the classification performances before and after different FS were compared. For the performance evaluation, leave-one-subject-out accuracies of Support Vector Machine classifiers were considered.Results: Using different FS algorithms, performance improvement was achieved for Controls vs. All OCD discrimination (19.08% of improvement reducing by 80% the amount of features), Controls vs. Low OCD (20.10%, 75%), Controls vs. High OCD (17.32%, 85%) and Low OCD vs. High OCD (10.53%, 75%). Furthermore, all algorithms pointed out classical cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuitry structures as relevant features for OCD classification.Limitations: Limitations include the sample size and using only filter approaches for FS.Conclusions: Our results suggest that FS positively impacts OCD classification using machine-learning techniques. Complementarily, FS algorithms were able to select biologically plausible features automatically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Medical tourism is increasingly popular for elective cosmetic surgical procedures. However, medical tourism has been accompanied by reports of post-surgical infections due to rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM). The authors’ experience working with patients with RGM infections who have returned to the USA after traveling abroad for cosmetic surgical procedures is described here. Methods Patients who developed RGM infections after undergoing cosmetic surgeries abroad and who presented at the Montefiore Medical Center (Bronx, New York, USA) between August 2015 and June 2016 were identified. A review of patient medical records was performed. Results Four patients who presented with culture-proven RGM infections at the sites of recent cosmetic procedures were identified. All patients were treated with a combination of antibiotics and aggressive surgical treatment. Conclusions This case series of RGM infections following recent cosmetic surgeries abroad highlights the risks of medical tourism. Close monitoring of affected patients by surgical and infectious disease specialties is necessary, as aggressive surgical debridement combined with appropriate antibiotic regimens is needed to achieve cure. Given the increasing reports of post-surgical RGM infections, consultants should have a low threshold for suspecting RGM, as rapid diagnosis may accelerate the initiation of targeted treatment and minimize morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragmented landscapes reduce gene flow and impair long term population viability. Stream networks are particularly susceptible to fragmentation because dispersal is constrained to linear upstream and downstream movements. Despite these potential effects, infrequent migrations can maintain genetic diversity and as few as one migrant per generation (OMPG) is commonly suggested as sufficient gene flow to minimize losses in genetic diversity. However, demography varies by taxa, space and time, making such a generalized rule of thumb unlikely to be applicable across a diverse array of fragmentation scenarios and species. We utilized a demogenetic model to evaluate the OMPG rule and simulate the influence of population demographics on the rate of genetic changes following fragmentation in a headwater meta-population of brook trout ( Salvelinus fontinalis) . A single migrant per generation increased allelic diversity by an average of 15% and decreased genetic differentiation by 31% following 40 years of simulations compared to complete isolation, however OMPG was not sufficient to prevent significant changes in within- or between-population genetic metrics in all but the largest population scenario ( N = 500). Less than 10 individuals were typically required to achieve no changes in both genetic metrics, yet this pattern was dependent on the source populations and will be context-specific given the population sub-structuring in a given stream network. Sensitivity analyses indicated the parameter controlling the proportion of mature females spawning annually was the most influential on population genetic responses in isolated populations, suggesting that when fewer females contribute to each generation the population is more likely to experience rapid changes in allelic frequency through genetic drift. This finding supports the use of metrics such as effective population size and the number of effective breeders in predicting population stability and viability following fragmentation. Variability in population dynamic processes and associated responses to fragmentation suggest that generalized rule of thumbs for management should be used with caution. Particularly when violations of the underlying theoretical assumptions exist, consideration of demographic processes (i.e. vital rates, species specific life history strategies and dispersal) and genetic structuring will allow for more appropriate conservation recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An approach to colorimetric detection of corrosion inhibitors using a portable sensor; • The detection was performed using an Arduino microcontroller photoelectric sensor. • The sensor was able to detect color intensities in the function of the RGB channels; • The colorimetric protocol was based on a reaction of the TBPE and QAs; • As a proof of concept an analysis of a Corton corrosion inhibitor was performed. In this work, we report a complete and portable analytical instrumentation dedicated to the colorimetric analysis of corrosion inhibitors. The construction of the analytical tool was planned based on carousel architecture and it involves a simple combination of a 3D-printed holder containing eight circular zones and an Arduino microcontroller photoelectric sensor. In addition, paper-based analytical devices (PAD) were manufactured in the form of microzones using manual cutting and assembled in the 3D printed holder for performing colorimetric measurements of quaternary amines in wastewater samples from the petroleum industry. A blue dye was used as a model color and the obtained pixels responses through the proposed analytical tool and well-known smartphone-based analysis revealed similar colorimetric intensities, thus clearly demonstrating the high performance of the 3D-printed analytical instrumentation. The target colorimetric reaction occurs via the interaction of ammonium quaternary present in corrosion inhibitors composition with the chromogen 3′, 3″, 5′, 5″ – tetrabromophenolphthalein-ethyl-ester (TBPE) in an acidic medium. Detailed optimization of the colorimetric reaction involving the ammonium quaternary was successfully performed, as well as the evaluation of possible physical–chemical interferences (pH, carbonate levels, and temperature) mostly usual in produced water from petroleum pipelines. Recovery studies of ammonium quaternary in real produced water samples exhibited acceptable performance (88 to 121%). Thus, the obtained results successfully demonstrated that the proposed 3D-printed analytical system associated with PADs offers a huge potential to be used for colorimetric detection of corrosion inhibitors in wastewater samples and it can be used in the point-of-need involving the petroleum industry field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New composites were elaborated using ZrC and SiC powders and the Spark Plasma Sintering process. The samples were polished at 4 different levels in order to compare the influence of surface roughness and temperature (1400 and 1600 K) on the characteristics of the oxide layers. By XRD analysis, it was confirmed that polishing and temperature level provoked changes in the crystalline structure. SEM imaging coupled to EDS microanalysis showed that the oxide layer was made of zirconia grains with silica at the grain boundaries. Nano-indentation was used to analyze the influence of the initial surface roughness and temperature on the hardness of the oxide layer. At 1400 K, the initial polishing has favored the growth of a hard oxide layer, which could be probably correlated to the higher crystallinity of the oxide. At 1600 K, it seems that a rougher initial surface favors the hardness of the oxide layer, which could be correlated to a better adherence between the oxide layer and the substrate. Both phenomena (crystallinity and adherence) would be in competition to reduce the fragility of the oxide layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fast growing literature of multisensory emotion integration notwithstanding, the chemical senses, intimately associated with emotion, have been largely overlooked. Moreover, an ecologically highly relevant principle of “inverse effectiveness”, rendering maximal integration efficacy with impoverished sensory input, remains to be assessed in emotion integration. Presenting minute, subthreshold negative (vs. neutral) cues in faces and odors, we demonstrated olfactory-visual emotion integration in improved emotion detection (especially among individuals with weaker perception of unimodal negative cues) and response enhancement in the amygdala. Moreover, while perceptual gain for visual negative emotion involved the posterior superior temporal sulcus/pSTS, perceptual gain for olfactory negative emotion engaged both the associative olfactory (orbitofrontal) cortex and amygdala. Dynamic causal modeling (DCM) analysis of fMRI timeseries further revealed connectivity strengthening among these areas during crossmodal emotion integration. That multisensory (but not low-level unisensory) areas exhibited both enhanced response and region-to-region coupling favors a top-down (vs. bottom-up) account for olfactory-visual emotion integration. Current findings thus confirm the involvement of multisensory convergence areas, while highlighting unique characteristics of olfaction-related integration. Furthermore, successful crossmodal binding of subthreshold aversive cues not only supports the principle of “inverse effectiveness” in emotion integration but also accentuates the automatic, unconscious quality of crossmodal emotion synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Recent studies have investigated the role of the p53 gene family in reproductive processes. Each member of the gene family acts through different mechanisms: p53 is involved in genomic stability and regulation of blastocyst implantation; p63 acts as a regulator of the quality and maturation of oocytes; and p73 controls the meiotic spindle. Polymorphisms in the genes of the p53 family have been associated with female infertility. One polymorphism in MDM2 , the main regulator of the p53 family, has also been associated with this condition. Although polymorphisms in the TP53 gene have been related to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), there have been no studies associating polymorphisms in p63 and p73 with RPL. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of polymorphisms in the TP63 (rs17506395), TP73 (rs2273953, rs1801173), and MDM2 (SNP309, rs2279744) genes as risk factors for RPL. Study design A case–control study was conducted in 153 women with RPL and 143 fertile women with at least two living children and no history of pregnancy loss. Molecular analysis was performed by TaqMan Allelic Discrimination assay. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 20.0 and the chi-square test, Student's t -test, Mann–Whitney test and logistic regression to compare the evaluated characteristics between both groups and RPL outcome. Results The allelic and genotypic frequencies did not differ between the groups when analyzed separately, however, the interaction between the TP63 TT and MDM2 TT genotypes was shown to increase the risk of RPL (OR = 2.19, CI 95%: 1.28–3.75, p = 0.004), even when adjusted for alcohol consumption, smoking, number of pregnancies and ethnicity (OR = 1.97, CI 95%: 1.27–3.58, p = 0.025). Conclusions Our results suggest that genes from the p53 family proteins, evaluated here, have an influence on the risk of RPL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To systematically review the available evidence on the efficacy of walking training associated with virtual reality-based training in patients with stroke. The specific questions were: Is walking training associated with virtual reality-based training effective in increasing walking speed after stroke? Is this type of intervention more effective in increasing walking speed, than non-virtual reality-based walking interventions? Method: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials was conducted. Participants were adults with chronic stroke and the experimental intervention was walking training associated with virtual reality-based training to increase walking speed. The outcome data regarding walking speed were extracted from the eligible trials and were combined using a meta-analysis approach. Results: Seven trials representing eight comparisons were included in this systematic review. Overall, the virtual reality-based training increased walking speed by 0.17 m/s (IC 95% 0.08 to 0.26), compared with placebo/nothing or non-walking interventions. In addition, the virtual reality-based training increased walking speed by 0.15 m/s (IC 95% 0.05 to 0.24), compared with non-virtual reality walking interventions. Conclusions: This review provided evidence that walking training associated with virtual reality-based training was effective in increasing walking speed after stroke, and resulted in better results than non-virtual reality interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the influence of hand dominance on the maintenance of gains after home-based modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT). Method: A previous randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the addition of trunk restraint to the mCIMT. Twenty-two chronic stroke survivors with mild to moderate motor impairments received individual home-based mCIMT with or without trunk restraints, five times per week, three hours daily over two weeks. In this study, the participants were separated into dominant group, which had their paretic upper limb as dominant before the stroke (n=8), and non-dominant group (n=14) for analyses. The ability to perform unimanual tasks was measured by the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and the Motor Activity Log (MAL), whereas the capacity to perform bimanual tasks was measured using the Bilateral Activity Assessment Scale (BAAS). Results: Analysis revealed significant positive effects on the MAL amount of use and quality of the movement scales, as well as on the BAAS scores after intervention, with no differences between groups. Both groups maintained the bimanual improvements during follow-ups (BAAS-seconds 0.1, 95% CI –10.0 to 10.0), however only the dominant group maintained the unilateral improvements (MAL-amount of use: 1.5, 95% CI 0.7 to 2.3; MAL-quality: 1.3, 95% CI 0.5 to 2.1). Conclusions: Upper limb dominance did not interfere with the acquisition of upper limb skills after mCIMT. However, the participants whose paretic upper limb was dominant demonstrated better abilities to maintain the unilateral gains. The bilateral improvements were maintained, regardless of upper limb dominance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the strength deficits of the shoulder complex after stroke and to characterize the pattern of weakness according to type of movement and type of isokinetic parameter. Method: Twelve chronic stroke survivors and 12 age-matched healthy controls had their shoulder strength measured using a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. Concentric measures of peak torque and work during shoulder movements were obtained in random order at speeds of 60°/s for both groups and sides. Type of movement was defined as scapulothoracic (protraction and retraction), glenohumeral (shoulder internal and external rotation) or combined (shoulder flexion and extension). Type of isokinetic parameter was defined as maximum (peak torque) or sustained (work). Strength deficits were calculated using the control group as reference. Results: The average strength deficit for the paretic upper limb was 52% for peak torque and 56% for work. Decreases observed in the non-paretic shoulder were 21% and 22%, respectively. Strength deficit of the scapulothoracic muscles was similar to the glenohumeral muscles, with a mean difference of 6% (95% CI -5 to 17). Ability to sustain torque throughout a given range of motion was decreased as much as the peak torque, with a mean difference of 4% (95% CI -2 to 10). Conclusions: The findings suggest that people after stroke might benefit from strengthening exercises directed at the paretic scapulothoracic muscles in addition to exercises of arm elevation. Clinicians should also prescribe different exercises to improve the ability to generate force and the ability to sustain the torque during a specific range of motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant embryogenic cell culture allows mass propagation and genetic manipulation, but the mechanisms that determine the fate of these totipotent cells in somatic embryos have not yet been elucidated. Here, we performed label-free quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics analyses to determine signaling events related to sugarcane somatic embryo differentiation, especially those related to protein phosphorylation. Embryogenic calli were compared at multiplication (EC0, dedifferentiated cells) and after 14 days of maturation (EC14, onset of embryo differentiation). Metabolic pathway analysis showed enriched lysine degradation and starch/sucrose metabolism proteins during multiplication, whereas the differentiation of somatic embryos was found to involve the enrichment of energy metabolism, including the TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. Multiplication-related phosphoproteins were associated with transcriptional regulation, including SNF1 kinase homolog 10 (KIN10), SEUSS (SEU), and LEUNIG_HOMOLOG (LUH). The regulation of multiple light harvesting complex photosystem II proteins and phytochrome interacting factor 3-LIKE 5 were predicted to promote bioenergetic metabolism and carbon fixation during the maturation stage. A motif analysis revealed 15 phosphorylation motifs. The [D-pS/T-x-D] motif was overrepresented during somatic embryo differentiation. A protein-protein network analysis predicted interactions among SNF1-related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2), abscisic acid-responsive element-binding factor 2 (ABF2), and KIN10, which indicated the role of these proteins in embryogenic competence. The predicted interactions between TOPLESS (TPL) and histone deacetylase 19 (HD19) may be involved in posttranslational protein regulation during somatic embryo differentiation. These results reveal the protein regulation dynamics of somatic embryogenesis and new players in somatic embryo differentiation, including their predicted phosphorylation motifs and phosphosites. [Display omitted] • SAHH, SAM1/3 and AGO1 proteins participate in differentiation of somatic embryos. • TPL, SEU, ABF2, KIN10, LEU and SNRK2 are related to embryogenic competence. • Somatic embryo differentiation involves regulation of calcium-dependent kinases. • SPT, PSI–P, LHCB2.1, LHCB4.1 and LHCB6 regulation promotes photomorphogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Interpreting complex microbiota in infective contexts is a pressing challenge. [•] Potentially, associations can be interpreted spuriously as causal. [•] We argue for the need to include ecological theory in clinical interpretation. [•] Cystic fibrosis lung infections are used as an illustrative model system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recent findings implicate group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR2/3) in the reinforcing effects of psychostimulants and have identified these receptors as potential treatment targets for drug addiction. Here, we investigated the effects of mGluR2/3 stimulation on cue- and drug-primed reinstatement in rats with different histories of methamphetamine (METH) self-administration training, under two conditions: 16 daily sessions of short access (90 min/day, ShA), or 8 daily sessions of short access followed by 8 sessions of long access (6 h/day, LgA). Following self-administration and subsequent extinction training, rats were pretreated with the selective mGluR2/3 agonist LY379268 (variable dose, 0–3 mg/kg), exposed to METH-paired cues or a priming injection of METH (1 mg/kg), and tested for reinstatement of METH-seeking behavior. LgA rats self-administered greater amounts of METH during the second half of training, but when pretreated with vehicle, ShA and LgA rats showed cue- and drug-primed reinstatement at equivalent response rates. However, LgA rats demonstrated greater sensitivity to mGluR2/3 stimulation with attenuated responding during cue-induced reinstatement after 0.3 mg/kg and higher doses of LY379268, whereas ShA rats decreased cue-induced reinstatement behavior following 1.0 mg/kg and 3.0 mg/kg LY379268. Additionally, both LgA and ShA rats exhibited decreased METH-primed reinstatement behavior following 0.3 mg/kg and higher doses of LY379268. A separate group of control rats was trained to self-administer sucrose pellets, and demonstrated attenuated cue-induced sucrose-seeking behavior following 1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg LY379268. Together, the results indicate that LY379268 has differential attenuating effects on cue-induced reinstatement behavior in rats with different histories of METH intake. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled ‘Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors’. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study we perform a continuous Morlet wavelet transform method in time series of secondary cosmic rays and 1AU interplanetary medium parameters for the interval from October 2001 to October 2002. The near 13.5-day periodicity was obtained during late 2001, and it was remarkable for muon data. Even though some works have pointed out that the main activations of the 13.5day recurrence in near-Earth solar wind are related, e.g., with the heliosheet crossings or to the occurrence at 1AU of two high speed streams approximately 180° apart in solar longitude per solar rotation, we aim to show that the period of about half the solar rotation during the end months of 2001 present in muon time series was apparently due to the occurrence of non-recurrent interplanetary disturbances. The interconnections among successive Forbush decreases, recovery phases and gradual muon depressions (associated with corotating interaction regions) seem to play an important role in such 13.5-day periodicity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of different instructions for the assessment of maximum walking speed during the ten-meter walking test with chronic stroke subjects. Methods: Participants were instructed to walk under four experimental conditions: (1) comfortable speed, (2) maximum speed (simple verbal command), (3) maximum speed (modified verbal command–“catch a bus”) and (4) maximum speed (verbal command + demonstration). Participants walked three times in each condition and the mean time to cover the intermediate 10 meters of a 14-meter corridor was registered to calculate the gait speed (m/s). Repeated-measures ANOVAs, followed by planned contrasts, were employed to investigate differences between the conditions (α=5%). Means, standard deviations and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: The mean values for the four conditions were: (1) 0.74m/s; (2) 0.85 m/s; (3) 0.93 m/s; (4) 0.92 m/s, respectively, with significant differences between the conditions (F=40.9; p<0.001). Comfortable speed was significantly slower than the maximum speed, indicating that the participants were able to increase speeds when required. Significant differences were observed between the second condition with the third (p=0.002; 95%CI=-0.13 to -0.03) and the fourth conditions (p=0.004; 95%CI=-0.12 to -0.02) with no differences between the third and fourth conditions (p=1.00; 95%CI=-0.04 to 0.05). Conclusions: The results indicated that simple verbal commands were not sufficient to capture maximum gait speed with chronic stroke subjects. Thus, for clinical assessments and research purposes, where measurements of the maximum gait speed are necessary, modified verbal commands or demonstration strategies could be employed by physical therapists to ensure accurate information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of different instructions for the assessment of maximum walking speed during the ten-meter walking test with chronic stroke subjects. Methods: Participants were instructed to walk under four experimental conditions: (1) comfortable speed, (2) maximum speed (simple verbal command), (3) maximum speed (modified verbal command–“catch a bus”) and (4) maximum speed (verbal command + demonstration). Participants walked three times in each condition and the mean time to cover the intermediate 10 meters of a 14-meter corridor was registered to calculate the gait speed (m/s). Repeated-measures ANOVAs, followed by planned contrasts, were employed to investigate differences between the conditions (α=5%). Means, standard deviations and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: The mean values for the four conditions were: (1) 0.74m/s; (2) 0.85 m/s; (3) 0.93 m/s; (4) 0.92 m/s, respectively, with significant differences between the conditions (F=40.9; p<0.001). Comfortable speed was significantly slower than the maximum speed, indicating that the participants were able to increase speeds when required. Significant differences were observed between the second condition with the third (p=0.002; 95%CI=-0.13 to -0.03) and the fourth conditions (p=0.004; 95%CI=-0.12 to -0.02) with no differences between the third and fourth conditions (p=1.00; 95%CI=-0.04 to 0.05). Conclusions: The results indicated that simple verbal commands were not sufficient to capture maximum gait speed with chronic stroke subjects. Thus, for clinical assessments and research purposes, where measurements of the maximum gait speed are necessary, modified verbal commands or demonstration strategies could be employed by physical therapists to ensure accurate information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Thrombin helps to activate Factor XIII (FXIII) by hydrolyzing the R37-G38 peptide bond. The resultant transglutaminase introduces cross-links into the fibrin clot. With the development of therapeutic coagulation factors, there is a need to better understand interactions involving FXIII. Such knowledge will help predict ability to activate FXIII and thus ability to promote/hinder the generation of transglutaminase activity. Kinetic parameters have been determined for a series of thrombin species hydrolyzing the FXIII (28–41) V34X activation peptides (V34, V34L, V34F, and V34P). The V34P substitution introduces PAR4 character into the FXIII, and the V34F exhibits important similarities to the cardioprotective V34L. FXIII activation peptides containing V34, V34L, or V34P could each be accommodated by alanine mutants of thrombin lacking either the W60d or Y60a residue in the 60-insertion loop. By contrast, FXIII V34F AP could be cleaved by thrombin W60dA but not by Y60aA. FXIII V34P is highly reliant on the thrombin W215 platform for its strong substrate properties whereas FXIII V34F AP becomes the first segment that can maintain its K m upon loss of the critical thrombin W215 residue. Interestingly, FXIII V34F AP could also be readily accommodated by thrombin L99A and E217A. Hydrolysis of FXIII V34F AP by thrombin W217A/E217A (WE) was similar to that of FXIII V34L AP whereas WE could not effectively cleave FXIII V34P AP. FXIII V34F and V34P AP show promise for designing FXIII activation systems that are either tolerant of or greatly hindered by the presence of anticoagulant thrombins. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffer typically from bacterial infections of their airways. Whilst current antibiotic-based treatment of these infections has brought much benefit to patients, it has been difficult to make either direct or indirect assessments of the in vivo efficacy of any specific treatment used. Traditional culture-based assessment has for example been rarely used to determine the direct impact of therapy on the bacteria in the airways. Instead, the “success” of a treatment is most often gauged through measures of respiratory and general health. New culture-independent approaches though are emerging that offer much promise here however in allowing a more comprehensive evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy. These new methods offer an opportunity to examine bacterial outcomes rather than host outcomes alone. Application of these novel techniques in a systematic way will lead to the rationalisation and, likely greater still individualisation, of therapy for CF patients. This review discusses host and microbiological factors that may influence antibiotic efficacy. Moreover, the degree to which the inherent complexity of CF respiratory infections complicates the process of determining treatment impact and the need to identify more robust microbiological outcome measures will also be reviewed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two new chemometric electrochemical techniques based on generalized two-dimensional correlation are tested and validated. Two-dimensional cyclic voltammetry (2DCV) involves synchronous and asynchronous correlations between two identical sets of cyclic voltammograms; while correlation electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (CEQCM) is a hybrid correlation between a set of charge vs. potential curves and a set of mass variation vs. potential curves. A model system with two Fe(III)/Fe(II) pairs is set up to evaluate the reliability and advantages of these two techniques. 2DCV analysis indicates that the charging of poly(vinyl ferrocene)/solution interface (non-faradic process) has a negative influence on the heterogeneous electron transfer (faradic process). CEQCM analysis clearly identifies which Fe(III)/Fe(II) pair is responsible for the mass variation of the poly(vinyl ferrocene) network. This is the first attempt that a two-dimensional correlation has been applied to electrochemical methods. We expect more electrochemical techniques will be expanded into two-dimensional analyses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular degenerative disorder caused by the absence of dystrophin protein. It is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and cycles of degeneration/regeneration accompanying chronic muscle damage and repair. Canine models of muscular dystrophy, including the dystrophin-deficient golden retriever muscular dystrophy (GRMD), are the most promising animal models for evaluation of potential therapies, however canine-specific molecular tools are limited. In particular, few immune reagents for extracellular epitopes marking canine satellite cells (muscle stem cells) are available. We generated an antibody to the satellite cell marker syndecan-4 that identifies canine satellite cells. We then characterized isolated satellite cells from GRMD muscle and wildtype muscle by several in vitro metrics, and surprisingly found no significant differences between the two populations. We discuss whether accumulated adverse changes in the muscle environment rather than cell-intrinsic defects may be implicated in the eventual failure of satellite cell efficacy in vivo. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In tropical shrimp ponds, the increasing of feed input, concomitantly with the stocking shrimp biomass, induces an eutrophication of the ecosystem. Although difficult to maintain, its stability is required to guarantee the success of the culture. A 110-day period of phytoplankton and bacterioplankton stock and dynamics in an earthen pond (1.2ha area, 1m depth) was monitored using flow cytometry to provide baseline information on community characteristics and ecosystem instability. Seven autotrophic cell types were identified over the whole sampling period. Prokaryotic cells included Synechococcus sp., a group named UNK which presented an atypical new flow cytometric signature and picoeukaryotes (PEUK). Nanophytoplankton cells were represented by 4 groups: NAN1, NAN2, NAN3 and Cryptophytes. During the first part of the survey, picophytoplankton dominated the phytoplanktonic assemblage. The mean abundance of total cells (up to 8×106 cellsmL−1) was among the highest recorded in marine and brackish waters. Bacterial abundance and production ranged from 0.8 to 5.1×107 cellsmL−1 and from 30 to 110μgCL−1 h−1. A shift from pico to nanophytoplankton abundance was observed for a few days from d 96. During this period, heterotrophic bacteria production and abundance suddenly dropped, implying a change in the functioning of the microbial loop. This shift was concomitant with a significant shrimp mortality outbreak due to Vibrio penaeicida, the etiological agent of a disease known as Syndrome 93, which affects the shrimp industry in New Caledonia. This survey suggests that flow cytometric analysis could be used for the monitoring of aquaculture systems to improve our understanding of the complex phytoplankton and bacterial dynamics of these systems and its potential influence on disease development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Since 1993 the participation of Portuguese pharmacies to the national Syringe Exchange Programme (SEP) has remained high. However, no national guidelines or standard procedures are available regarding the provision of this service. We aimed to describe practices and attitudes toward syringe dispensing and other harm reduction strategies in Portuguese pharmacies. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. All pharmacies in Portugal (n=2775) were invited to participate. The questionnaire addressed SEP ever involvement and discontinuation; injection equipment policies; problems and needs in service provision. RESULTS: Participation rates were 69.6% among pharmacies involved in SEP and 42.7% in those not involved in the programme. Among current providers, 64.3% followed a strict 'one-for-one' policy and 21.6% established limits on the number of syringes distributed. Syringe selling was reported by 76.2%. One-tenth of pharmacies supervised methadone consumption Problems in service provision were experienced by 12.8% of respondents. Need for increased training and improvement of referral pathways were frequently reported. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacy-based harm reduction interventions in Portugal have tended to follow strict policies favouring conservative approaches. Training and feedback adaptation seem indispensable to avoid service discontinuation and boost an activity with an essential humanitarian dimension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, we introduce a new analytical form based on the q-exponential function to build three-dimensional reactive surfaces. The quality of this new function is tested by fitting the ab initio potential energy surface (PES) to the ground state Na+HF reaction. The thermal rate constant and reactive probabilities were determined considering this new PES. The obtained properties agree with those found for other PES available in literature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

As a new generation of culture-independent analytical strategies emerge, the amount of data on polymicrobial infections will increase dramatically. For these data to inform clinical thinking, and in turn to maximise benefits for patients, an appropriate framework for their interpretation is required. Here, we use cystic fibrosis (CF) lower airway infections as a model system to examine how conceptual and technological advances can address two clinical questions that are central to improved management of CF respiratory disease. Firstly, can markers of the microbial community be identified that predict a change in infection dynamics and clinical outcomes? Secondly, can these new strategies directly characterize the impact of antimicrobial therapies, allowing treatment efficacy to be both assessed and optimized? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Protection–deprotection steps, which are usually needed for regioselective alkylation of pyrimidine deoxynucleosides, can be avoided by choosing the appropriate solvent. The combined effects of low dielectric constant and possible sodium chelation by pyrimidine nucleosides may account for the unexpected regioselectivity observed in THF. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa with mutations in the transcriptional regulator LasR chronically infect the airways of people with cystic fibrosis (CF), yet the prevalence and clinical implications of lasR mutant infection are unknown. Methods: In an exploratory study, we screened 166 P. aeruginosa isolates from 58 CF patients for LasR inactivation and mucoidy, and compared clinical characteristics among source patients. Results: lasR mutation prevalence was comparable to that of mucoidy, the best-described CF-adapted phenotype, but affected patients were on average approximately 2 years younger. In a regression analysis, lung function decline with age was worse among patients with lasR mutant infection than in those without, similar to the effect of mucoidy. Conclusions: Culture positivity for lasR mutant P. aeruginosa may serve as a marker of early CF adaptive change of prognostic significance. Furthermore, as LasR inactivation alters susceptibility to antibiotics, infection with lasR mutant P. aeruginosa may impact response to therapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Identifying 14-3-3 isoform-specific substrates and functions may be of broad relevance to cell signaling research because of the key role played by this family of proteins in many vital processes. A multitude of ligands have been identified, but the extent to which they are isoform-specific is a matter of debate. Herein we demonstrate, both in vitro and in vivo, a specific, functionally relevant interaction of human 14-3-3γ with the molecular scaffold KSR1, which is mediated by the C-terminal stretch of 14-3-3γ. Specific binding to 14-3-3γ protected KSR1 from epidermal growth factor-induced dephosphorylation and impaired its ability to activate ERK2 and facilitate Ras signaling in Xenopus oocytes. Furthermore, RNA interference-mediated inhibition of 14-3-3γ resulted in the accumulation of KSR1 in the plasma membrane, all in accordance with 14-3-3γ being the cytosolic anchor that keeps KSR1 inactive. We also provide evidence that KSR1-bound 14-3-3γ heterodimerized preferentially with selected isoforms and that KSR1 bound monomeric 14-3-3γ. In sum, we have demonstrated ligand discrimination among 14-3-3 isoforms and shed light on molecular mechanisms of 14-3-3 functional specificity and KSR1 regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The enterococcal bacteriocin (enterocin) AS-48 is a broad-spectrum cyclic peptide. Enterocin AS-48 was tested against Bacillus coagulans in three vegetable canned foods: tomato paste (pH 4.64), syrup from canned peaches (pH 3.97), and juice from canned pineapple (pH 3.65). When vegetative cells of B. coagulans CECT (Spanish Type Culture Collection) 12 were inoculated in tomato paste supplemented with 6μg/ml AS-48 and stored at different temperatures, viable cell counts were reduced by approximately 2.37 (4°C), 4.3 (22°C) and 3.0 (37°C) log units within 24h storage. After 15-days storage, no viable cells were detected in any sample. Strain B. coagulans CECT 561 showed a poor survival in tomato paste, but surviving cells were also killed by AS-48. The bacteriocin was also very active against B. coagulans CECT 12 vegetative cells in juice from canned pineapple stored at 22°C, and slightly less active in syrup from canned peaches. In food samples supplemented with 1.5% lactic acid, enterocin AS-48 (6μg/ml) rapidly reduced viable counts of vegetative cells below detection limits within 24h storage. Addition of glucose and sucrose (10% and 20%) significantly increased bacteriocin activity against vegetative cells of B. coagulans CECT 12. Enterocin AS-48 had no significant effect on B. coagulans CECT 12 spores. However, the combined application of AS-48 and heat (80–95°C for 5min) significantly increased the effect of thermal treatments on spores. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel method for integrating the time-dependent Schrödinger equation is presented. Hydrodynamic quantum trajectories are used to adaptively define the boundaries and boundary conditions of a fixed grid. The result is a significant reduction in the number of grid points needed to perform accurate calculations. The Eckart barrier, along with uphill and downhill ramp potentials, was used to evaluate the method. Excellent agreement with fixed boundary grids was obtained for each example. By moving only the boundary points, stability was increased to the level of the full fixed grid. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a spoilage-causing bacterium in fruit juices. Control of this bacterium by enterocin AS-48 from Enterococcus faecalis A-48-32 is described. Enterocin AS-48 was active against one A. acidocaldarius and three strains of A. acidoterrestris tested. In natural orange and apple juices incubated at 37 °C, vegetative cells of A. acidoterrestris DSMZ 2498 were inactivated by enterocin AS-48 (2.5 μg/ml) and no growth was observed in 14 days. In commercial fruit juices added of AS-48 (2.5 μg/ml) and inoculated with vegetative cells or with endospores of strain DSMZ 2498, no viable cells were detected during 90 days of incubation at temperatures of 37 °C, 15 °C or 4 °C, except for apple, peach and grapefruit juices inoculated with vegetative cells and incubated at 37 °C which were protected efficiently for up to 60 days. Remarkably, in all commercial fruit juices tested, no viable cells were detected as early as 15 min after incubation with the bacteriocin. Endospores incubated for a very short time (1 min) with increasing bacteriocin concentrations were inactivated by 2.5 μg/ml AS-48. Electron microscopy examination of vegetative cells and endospores treated with enterocin AS-48 revealed substantial cell damage and bacterial lysis as well as disorganization of endospore structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]