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This study used sedimentary archives obtained from a high-standing terrace along the coastal zone of the Coquimbo region to reconstruct past extreme events (floods and tsunamis). Using sedimentological (grain size), geochemical (XRF), and geochronological (14C and 137Cs) analyses, we identified nine flood deposits (1957, 1965, 1984, 1987, 1991, 1997, 2002, 2015, and 2017) and one tsunami deposit (1922). The sedimentary flood record appears complete for the last 70 years and is useful for reconstructing paleoflood events, highlighting the relevance of coastal high-standing terraces to improve our understanding of the frequency of floods in Chilean coastal areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence-based practice (EBP) refers to the integration of scientific evidence into the clinical setting. This study aimed to determine whether Latin American physiotherapists use EBP, analyze the associated factors, barriers, and facilitators, and examine the relationships between these elements in clinical practice. To conduct this cross-sectional study, the web-based questionnaire survey method was chosen. Survey was self-administered questionnaires to assess understanding of various EBP-related terms and determine their knowledge and ability to apply these concepts in clinical practice. The association between attitudes, awareness, and knowledge scores and the demographic data such as age group, years of experience, professional membership registry, and self-reported education was assessed. The questionnaire was distributed to a total of 5000 physical therapists, of which 4099 (82%) responded from seven Latin American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, México, Perú, and Venezuela), between June 1, 2020, and May 31, 2024. Overall, the physical therapists had positive attitudes, beliefs, and interests in EBP. Their educational background, knowledge, and skills related to assessing and interpreting information were associated to the use of EBP. In addition, 53% of respondents indicated that lack of time was the main obstacle to the use of EBP. The top 3 barriers included insufficient time (53%), lack of information resources (20.8%), and lack of research tools (13.6%). Among Latin American physical therapists, individual characteristics workplace, clinical experience, educational background, and demographic characteristics, may behave as facilitators or barriers when performing an EBP. Thus, identifying methods and strategies to support physical therapists in adopting EBP in the Latin American is necessary. The academization of physiotherapy training might change this in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a conceptual approach to assign a "mathematical meaning" to the non-local function χ (r , r ′) . Mathematical evaluation of this kernel remains difficult since it is a function depending on six Cartesian coordinates. The idea behind this approach is to look for a limit process in order to explore mathematically this non-local function. According to our approach, the bra ⟨ χ r ′ ξ | is the linear functional that corresponds to any ket | ψ ⟩ , the value ⟨ r ′ | ψ ⟩ . In condensed writing ⟨ χ r ′ ξ | ⟨ r | ψ ⟩ = ⟨ r ′ | ψ ⟩ , and this is achieved by exploiting the sifting property of the delta function that gives it the sense of a measure, i.e. measuring the value of ψ (r) at the point r ′ . It is worth noting that ⟨ χ r ′ ξ | is not an operator in the sense that when it is applied on a ket, it produces a number ψ (r = r ′) and not a ket. The quantity χ r ′ ξ (r) proceed as nascent delta function, turning into a real delta function in the limit where ξ → 0 . In this regard, χ r ′ ξ (r) acts as a limit of an integral operator kernel in a convolution integration procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we first introduce some types of set relations on the power set of n-dimensional Euclidean spaces which are proposed by Kuroiwa–Tanaka–Ha and Jahn–Ha. We also mention new types of cancellation laws of set relations. Second, we introduce a complete lattice-valued problem on the power set of n-dimensional Euclidean spaces proposed by Hamel et al. Applying nonlinear scalarizing technique in complete lattice, we present a new type of minimal element theorem and generalized Ekeland’s variational principles in complete lattice optimization problem. We also present an existence theorem of minimal solutions related to the famous Takahashi’s minimization theorem in complete lattice optimization problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop worldwide. Contaminated maize kernels pose a significant mycotoxin exposure risk for humans in Latin America. Fumonisins, the most prevalent mycotoxin in maize, typically occur during pre-harvest conditions leading to significant economic losses. Various factors, including weather conditions, may influence this contamination. This study aimed to determine the association between fumonisin B1 (FB1) contamination, prevalence of Fusarium verticillioides, weather conditions and kernel quality in the two primary maize production areas in Costa Rica (Brunca and Chorotega). All maize samples (100%) showed FB1 contamination, with higher concentrations in samples from Brunca region, consistent with the presence of F. verticilliodes. Weather conditions appeared to play an important role in this contamination, since Brunca region had the highest mean temperature and relative humidity after maize silking (R1) and the total monthly rainfall in this region was significantly higher during the last two months of maize cultivation (grain-filling and physiological maturity stages R3 to R6). Interestingly, this study found a negative correlation between grain damage and kernel contamination with FB1 and F. verticillioides. The concentration of mineral nutrients in kernels from both regions was largely similar. Most nutrients in kernels exhibited a negative correlation with FB1, particularly nitrogen. Zinc and phosphorus were the only nutrients in kernels showing a positive correlation with FB1 in samples from the Brunca region. The results highlight elevated levels of FB1 contamination in maize and contribute to a better understanding of pre-harvest factors influencing FB1 contamination in tropical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: In this study, a small set of 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions that proceed at the same exothermicity is presented. Our main objective was to extend the application of the reaction force constant concept to gain an understanding of the reactivity principles. Inspired by a recent article where we show that the Bell-Evans-Polanyi principle is fulfilled under the condition of an equal degree of (a)synchronicity, here, we demonstrate that the reaction force constant is also a suitable descriptor to quantify the principle of non-perfect synchronization proposed by Bernasconi as a way to understand deviations from the Bell-Evans-Polanyi principle. Methods: Reaction profiles V (ξ) , F (ξ) , and κ (ξ) were performed at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level of theory. The stabilizing interactions were characterized using the energy decomposition analysis combined with the natural orbitals for chemical valence, EDA-NOCV, method. The present work was done using Gaussian 09 and Multiwfn programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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As urban land use expands, understanding the conservation of biodiversity in urban settings becomes increasingly important. Urban areas contain a wide range of remnant natural, semi-natural and anthropogenic woodlands but the biodiversity of these woodlands is not well studied. Urban woodlands are usually constrained in size and subject to management which may not be focused on promoting biodiversity. As a habitat of critical importance, the characteristics of urban woodlands need to be better understood to maximise their biodiversity within a limited footprint in the urban landscape. We used repeat line-transect surveys and rapid woodland structure habitat assessments to investigate the habitat associations of butterflies in ten woodland patches representing a range of sizes (between 1 and 40 ha), ages and woodland characteristics in the urban habitat matrix of Milton Keynes, UK. We found that ancient woodland sites supported every species detected, but the butterfly communities of amenity and roadside woodlands had similar species richness, diversity and abundance, regardless of size. Butterfly species richness was strongly associated with both woodland area and structural complexity at a site-scale, but only with structural complexity on a transect scale. Simpson diversity showed no correlation with any variable at the site scale, but strong correlation with structural complexity on transects. Abundance only correlated with area at the site scale. Our results suggest that management techniques that introduce structural complexity within urban woodlands may be an effective way to support butterfly richness and diversity in contexts where woodland areas cannot be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermoscopy has been used for the non-invasive diagnosis of demodicosis. Several studies have evaluated the usefulness of this tool in the diagnosis, however, there are differences in the gold standard (SSSB or KOH test) and criteria of positivity used between studies. Added to this, is the lack of controls and objective quantification of the usefulness of dermoscopic signs in clinically observable and relevant ranges. To validate the usefulness of dermoscopy for the diagnosis of demodicosis by calculating the performance indicators for the different dermoscopic signs. Retrospective intrapatient case-control study, which included adults with suspicion of demodicosis. Dermoscopic photographs and scraping of healthy and lesional skin were obtained. Samples were analyzed microscopically by trained personnel. Photographs were evaluated by determining the presence of Demodex tails (DT), dilated follicular openings (DFO) and dilated blood vessels (DBV) in pre-defined ranges. 64 patients were included (total = 256 samples); the presence of demodex on skin scraping was seen in 69%. Under dermoscopy, the presence of DT in range 11–20/field had a positive likelihood ratio (LR) of 12.10 (95%CI 6.52–22.45) and negative LR 0.32 (95%CI 0.23–0.45). Combined and dichotomized performance for at least one positive sign under dermoscopy (DT > 10/field, DFO > 10/field or DBV > 50% of the field): positive LR 7.14 (95%CI 4.80-10.62) and negative LR 0.11 (95%CI 0.06–0.22). The presence of DT, DFO or DBV has a high correlation with a positive mite test, so the diagnosis of demodicosis could be made only through dermoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two skew Hadamard matrices are considered SH-equivalent if they are similar by a signed permutation matrix. This paper determines the number of SH-inequivalent skew Hadamard matrices of order 36 for some types. We also study ternary self-dual codes and association schemes constructed from the skew Hadamard matrices of order 36. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Proton-based, definitive chemoradiotherapy (P-CRT) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) previously showed comparable survival outcomes with the surgery-based therapy, i.e., neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by esophagectomy (NAC-S), in a single-institutional study. This study aimed to validate this message in a Japanese multicenter study. Methods: Eleven Japanese esophageal cancer specialty hospitals have participated. A total of 518 cases with clinical Stage I–IVA ESCC between 2010 and 2019, including 168 P-CRT and 350 NAC-S patients, were enrolled and long-term outcomes were evaluated. Propensity-score weighting analyses with overlap weighting for confounding adjustment were used. Results: The 3-year overall survival (OS) of the P-CRT group was equivalent to the NAC-S group (74.8% vs. 72.7%, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61–1.25). Although, the 3-year P-CRT group progression–free survival (PFS) was inferior to the NAC-S group (51.4% vs. 59.6%, HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.04–1.85), the progression P-CRT group cases showed better survival than the NAC-S group (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.38–0.88), largely because of salvage surgery or endoscopic submucosal dissection for local progression. The survival advantage of P-CRT over NAC-S was more pronounced in the cT1–2 (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.29–1.26) and cStage I–II (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.24–1.07) subgroups, although this trend was not evident in other populations, such as cT3–4 and cStage III–IVA. Conclusions: Proton-based CRT for ESCC showed equivalent OS to surgery-based therapy. Especially for patients with cT1–2 and cStage I–II disease, proton-based CRT has the potential to serve as a first-line treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Damming rivers by landslides and ensuing outburst flooding is a common and potentially hazardous phenomenon worldwide, especially in tectonically active regions. Remarkable examples are the damming of the upper course of the San Pedro River (SPR) in south Chile during the 1960 Chile earthquake (M9.5) and its predecessor in 1575. Outburst floods following both events had tragic consequences for downstream communities. Here, we study both events from multiple sources of information, including previously published and newly found historical records, satellite imagery, LiDAR topography, and sedimentological and geomorphological field observations. We present the first detailed geomorphic map of the region. Morphological similarities between ancient deposits at the SPR and those associated with the 1960 earthquake suggest that the SPR has been dammed repeatedly in the past. The steep incision of the SPR and the sediments of glacio-lacustrine origin in the surrounding slopes facilitate the initiation of large landslides. The knowledge gained from studying these past events provides important implications for future risk assessments. We propose that besides large earthquakes, smaller and more frequent earthquakes as well as changes in land use, can also result in river-damming events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As smart homes become increasingly interconnected, it is crucial to ensure their security against cyber threats. This research focuses on improving anomaly detection within smart home environments through the application of unsupervised learning methods. Unlike traditional methods that require prior knowledge of specific attack types, unsupervised methods learn from normal operational data, identifying anomalies as deviations from this norm. This study investigates the impact of hyperparameter tuning on the effectiveness of these methods compared to their default settings. This research aims to identify optimal strategies for the configuration of unsupervised learning algorithms in smart home environments. We applied four models (Elliptic Envelope, Isolation Forest, Local Outlier Factor, and One-class SVM) in four datasets (Bot-IoT, IoTID20, N-baiot, and Ton-IoT). Our findings indicate a significant improvement in performance with hyperparameter optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological data collection often overlooks short-term environmental variations, potentially leading to under- or over-estimation of species abundance and ineffective conservation actions. This study investigated the complex relationship between oceanic and meteorological processes and the short-term abundance patterns of two economically important fish species in Bahía Santa Elena, a tropical bay on the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Using two months of continuous acoustic telemetry data from 14 Colorado (Lutjanus colorado) and 16 Pacific dog (Lutjanus novemfasciatus) snappers, we investigated temporal and spatial changes in their relative abundance patterns. A wavelet analysis revealed dominant diurnal and semidiurnal frequencies in both species. The observed semi-diurnal and diurnal periodicity in fish abundance was correlated with water level and sunlight, particularly near the mangrove in the inner bay, suggesting that both species may be using these habitats for food and shelter during periods of high tide and at night. Understanding how oceanic and meteorological conditions influence the dynamics of marine organisms in coastal environments, particularly those that are often exploited by fisheries is crucial for developing effective management and conservation approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the problem of the drift parameter estimation for a non-Gaussian long memory Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process driven by a Hermite process. To estimate the unknown parameter, discrete time high-frequency observations at regularly spaced time points and the least squares estimation method are used. By means of techniques based on Wiener chaos and multiple stochastic integrals, the consistency and the limit distribution of the least squares estimator of the drift parameter have been established. To show the computational implementation of the obtained results, different simulation examples are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the adoption and scope of genetic testing continue to expand, interpreting the clinical significance of DNA sequence variants at scale remains a formidable challenge, with a high proportion classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUSs). Genetic testing laboratories have historically relied, in part, on functional data from academic literature to support variant classification. High-throughput functional assays or multiplex assays of variant effect (MAVEs), designed to assess the effects of DNA variants on protein stability and function, represent an important and increasingly available source of evidence for variant classification, but their potential is just beginning to be realized in clinical lab settings. Here, we describe a framework for generating, validating and incorporating data from MAVEs into a semi-quantitative variant classification method applied to clinical genetic testing. Using single-cell gene expression measurements, cellular evidence models were built to assess the effects of DNA variation in 44 genes of clinical interest. This framework was also applied to models for an additional 22 genes with previously published MAVE datasets. In total, modeling data was incorporated from 24 genes into our variant classification method. These data contributed evidence for classifying 4043 observed variants in over 57,000 individuals. Genetic testing laboratories are uniquely positioned to generate, analyze, validate, and incorporate evidence from high-throughput functional data and ultimately enable the use of these data to provide definitive clinical variant classifications for more patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental temperature strongly influences the adaptation dynamics of amphibians, whose limited regulation capabilities render them susceptible to thermal oscillations. A central element of the adaptive strategies is the transcription factors (TFs), which act as master regulators that orchestrate stress responses, enabling species to navigate the fluctuations of their environment skillfully. Our study delves into the intricate relationship between TF expression and thermal adaptation mechanisms in the Rhinella spinulosa populations. We sought to elucidate the dynamic modulations of TF expression in prometamorphic and metamorphic tadpoles that inhabit two thermally contrasting environments (Catarpe and El Tatio Geyser, Chile) and which were exposed to two thermal treatments (25 °C vs. 20 °C). Our findings unravel an intriguing dichotomy in response strategies between these populations. First, results evidence the expression of 1374 transcription factors. Regarding the temperature shift, the Catarpe tadpoles show a multifaceted approach by up-regulating crucial TFs, including fosB, atf7, and the androgen receptor. These dynamic regulatory responses likely underpin the population's ability to navigate thermal fluctuations effectively. In stark contrast, the El Tatio tadpoles exhibit a more targeted response, primarily up-regulating foxc1. This differential expression suggests a distinct focus on specific TFs to mitigate the effects of temperature variations. Our study contributes to understanding the molecular mechanisms governing thermal adaptation responses and highlights the resilience and adaptability of amphibians in the face of ever-changing environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Divided-mind approaches to the conflict involved in self-control are pervasive. According to an influential version of the divided-mind approach, self-control conflict is a dispute between affective reactions and “cold” cognitive processes. I argue that divided-mind approaches are based on problematic bipartite architectural assumptions. Thus views that understand self-control as “control of the self” might be better suited to account for self-control. I subsequently aim to expand on this kind of view. I suggest that self-control conflict involves a rivalry between narrative self-models aimed at reducing error, analogous to model rivalry in binocular rivalry paradigms. This approach straightforwardly accounts for the sense of conflict that is characteristic of self-control within a unified-mind approach, and among its other explanatory advantages, it directly aligns with current views that account for addiction in terms of maladaptive self-representational processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with Down syndrome, the genetic condition caused by trisomy 21, exhibit strong inter-individual variability in terms of developmental phenotypes and diagnosis of co-occurring conditions. The mechanisms underlying this variable developmental and clinical presentation await elucidation. We report an investigation of human chromosome 21 gene overexpression in hundreds of research participants with Down syndrome, which led to the identification of two major subsets of co-expressed genes. Using clustering analyses, we identified three main molecular subtypes of trisomy 21, based on differential overexpression patterns of chromosome 21 genes. We subsequently performed multiomics comparative analyses among subtypes using whole blood transcriptomes, plasma proteomes and metabolomes, and immune cell profiles. These efforts revealed strong heterogeneity in dysregulation of key pathophysiological processes across the three subtypes, underscored by differential multiomics signatures related to inflammation, immunity, cell growth and proliferation, and metabolism. We also observed distinct patterns of immune cell changes across subtypes. These findings provide insights into the molecular heterogeneity of trisomy 21 and lay the foundation for the development of personalized medicine approaches for the clinical management of Down syndrome. Here, the authors reveal variability in chromosome 21 gene overexpression among individuals with Down syndrome, identifying three distinct molecular subtypes. Each subtype exhibits unique biosignatures and immune profiles, offering new insights into the complex biology of Down syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oropharyngeal dysphagia, or difficulty initiating swallowing, is a frequent problem in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and can lead to aspiration pneumonia. The efficacy of pharmacological options is limited. Postural strategies, such as a chin-down manoeuvre when drinking, have had some degree of success but may be difficult for people who have other limitations such as dementia or neck rigidity, to reproduce consistently. Using a user-centred design approach and a multidisciplinary team, we developed and tested an anti-choking mug for people with PD that helps angle the head in the optimum position for drinking. The design reflected anthropometric and ergonomic aspects of user needs with features including regulation of water flow rate and sip volume, an inner slope, a thickened handle and a wide base, which promoted a chin-down posture when used. Prototype testing using digital technology to compare neck flexion angles (the primary outcome), plus clinical outcomes assessed using standard tools (Swallowing Clinical Assessment Score in Parkinson's Disease (SCAS-PD) and Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) Parts II and III), found significant improvements in a range of parameters related to efficient swallowing and safe drinking when using the anti-choking mug versus a sham mug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) can generate acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), requiring advanced management within the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) using invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV However, managing this phenomenon has seen learning and improvements through direct experience. Therefore, this study aims were to describe the assessment of the different IMV variables in patients with post-COVID-19 hospitalized in the ICU and their relation with mortality. Observational and retrospective study. The sample was divided into two, the surviving group (SG) and the non-surviving group (NSG). Clinical data were extracted from the electronic clinical file and the respiratory therapist record sheet. The following information was obtained: Patient medical history: gender, age, co-morbidities, arterial gases, days on IMV, and IMV parameters. Out of a total of 101 patients, the total mortality was 32%. There was a significant decrease in respiratory rate (RR) (29.12 ± 4.24–26.78 ± 3.59, p = 0.006), Driving pressure (DP) (11.33 ± 2.39–9.67 ± 1.84, p = 0.002), Ventilatory rate (VR) (2.26 ± 0.66–1.89 ± 0.45, p = 0.001) and a significant rise in Static compliance (Cest) (35.49 ± 8.64–41.45 ± 9.62, p = 0.003) and relation between Arterial oxygen pressure/Inspirated oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2) (201.5 ± 53.98- 227.8 ± 52.11, p = 0.008) after 72 h of IMV, within the NSG compared to the SG. Apart from these points, multi-morbidity (HR = 3.208, p = 0.010) and DP (HR = 1.228, p = 0.030) and VR variables (HR = 2.267, p = 0.027) had more death probabilities. The results of this study indicate that there was a significant increase in RR, DP, VR, and CO2 and a significant drop in Cest and PaO2/FiO2 among the NSG compared with the SG. Apart from this, the DP and VR variables, multi-morbidity and being male. have more possibility of death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corneal tissues indirectly obtain nutritional needs and oxygen to maintain their homeostasis, and therefore, benzalkonium chloride (BAC) containing ocular instillations for medical therapy may, in turn, induce toxic effects more than expected in corneal tissues, especially the inside stroma layer. Methods: To evaluate the effects of very low concentrations (10−8%, 10−6%, or 10−4%) of BAC on human corneal stroma, we used two-dimensional (2D) cultures of human corneal stromal fibroblast (HCSF) cells and carried out the following analyses: (1) cell viability measurements, (2) Seahorse cellular bio-metabolism analysis, and (3) the expression of ECM molecules and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress–related molecules. Results: In the absence and presence of 10−8%, 10−6%, or 10−4% concentrations of BAC, cell viability deteriorated and this deterioration was dose-dependent. The results showed that maximal mitochondrial respiration was decreased, the mRNA expression of most of ECM proteins was decreased, and ER stress–related molecules were substantially and dose-dependently down-regulated in HCSFs by the BAC treatment. Conclusions: The findings reported herein indicate that the presence of BAC, even at such low concentrations, is capable of causing the deterioration of cellular metabolic functions and negatively affecting the response to ER stress in HCSF cells resulting in a substantially decreased cellular viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If M is a nonzero finitely generated module over a commutative Noetherian local ring R such that M has finite injective dimension and finite Gorenstein dimension, then it follows from a result of Holm that M has finite projective dimension, and hence a result of Foxby implies that R is Gorenstein. We prove that the same conclusion holds for certain nonzero finitely generated modules that have finite injective dimension and finite reducing Gorenstein dimension, where the reducing Gorenstein dimension is a finer invariant than the classical Gorenstein dimension, in general. Along the way, we also prove new results, independent of the reducing dimensions, concerning modules of finite Gorenstein dimension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to develop and assess a modified healthy aging index (HAI) among Chileans aged 60 years and older and compare its predictive ability for all-cause mortality risk with the frailty index (FI). Methods: This prospective study analyzed data from the Chilean National Health Survey (CNHS) conducted in 2009–2010. We included 847 adults with complete data to construct the HAI and FI. The HAI comprised five indicators (lung function, systolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, cognitive status, and glomerular filtration rate), while the FI assessed frailty using a 36-item scale. HAI scores were calculated by summing the indicator scores, ranging from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating poorer health. Receiver operating curves (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess predictive validity. Associations with all-cause mortality were assessed using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted by confounders. Results: The mean HAI score was 4.06, while the FI score was 0.24. The AUC for mortality was higher for the HAI than the FI (0.640, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.601 to 0.679 vs. 0.586, 95% CI 0.545 to 0.627). After adjusting for confounders, the FI showed a higher mortality risk compared to the HAI (2.63, 95% CI 1.76 to 3.51 vs. 1.16, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.26). Conclusion: The FI and HAI were valid predictors for all-cause mortality in the Chilean population. Integrating these indices into research and clinical practice can significantly enhance our capacity to identify at-risk individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization as part of the goal of universal vaccination coverage by 2030 for all individuals. The global under-five mortality rate declined from 59% in 1990 to 38% in 2019, due to high immunization coverage. Despite the significant improvements in immunization coverage, about 20 million children were either unvaccinated or had incomplete immunization, making them more susceptible to mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to identify predictors of incomplete vaccination among children under-5 years in East Africa. An analysis of secondary data from six east African countries using Demographic and Health Survey dataset from 2016 to the recent 2021 was performed. A total weighted sample of 27,806 children aged (12–35) months was included in this study. Data were extracted using STATA version 17 statistical software and imported to a Jupyter notebook for further analysis. A supervised machine learning algorithm was implemented using different classification models. All analysis and calculations were performed using Python 3 programming language in Jupyter Notebook using imblearn, sklearn, XGBoost, and shap packages. XGBoost classifier demonstrated the best performance with accuracy (79.01%), recall (89.88%), F1-score (81.10%), precision (73.89%), and AUC 86%. Predictors of incomplete immunization are identified using XGBoost models with help of Shapely additive eXplanation. This study revealed that the number of living children during birth, antenatal care follow-up, maternal age, place of delivery, birth order, preceding birth interval and mothers' occupation were the top predicting factors of incomplete immunization. Thus, family planning programs should prioritize the number of living children during birth and the preceding birth interval by enhancing maternal education. In conclusion promoting institutional delivery and increasing the number of antenatal care follow-ups by more than fourfold is encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dual descriptor potential (DDP) has appeared in several papers, It is proposed as a local reactivity descriptor within the framework of the Conceptual Density Functional Theory and as a complementary tool of the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) rather than the dual descriptor (DD). DDP provides information concerning the most energetically favorable sites to undergo nucleophilic and electrophilic attacks. Unlike the dual descriptor, DDP is directly related with energy. Furthermore, the DDP seems to depure the scalar field, allowing us to unveil the predominance of nucleophilic and electrophilic regions on a molecule. This is in stark contrast to the dual descriptor, which tends to scatter around the molecule, hindering the interpretation of the local reactivity on regions that exceed the atomic volume. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that DDP is represented as a 3D picture. To assess its capability to describe interaction among molecules, DDP was tested on some molecular systems, along with MEP. Results show that the joint use of these tools helps in the understanding of certain experimental evidences, serving as an alternative to the molecular orbital theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Culture of muscle cells from livestock species has typically involved laborious enzyme-based approaches that yield heterogeneous populations with limited proliferative and myogenic differentiation capacity, thus limiting their use in physiologically-meaningful studies. This study reports the use of a simple explant culture technique to derive progenitor cell populations from porcine muscle that could be maintained and differentiated long-term in culture. Fragments of semitendinosus muscle from 4 to 8 week-old piglets (n = 4) were seeded on matrigel coated culture dishes to stimulate migration of muscle-derived progenitor cells (MDPCs). Cell outgrowths appeared within a few days and were serially passaged and characterised using RT-qPCR, immunostaining and flow cytometry. MDPCs had an initial mean doubling time of 1.4 days which increased to 2.5 days by passage 14. MDPC populations displayed steady levels of the lineage-specific markers, PAX7 and MYOD, up until at least passage 2 (positive immunostaining in about 40% cells for each gene), after which the expression of myogenic markers decreased gradually. Remarkably, MDPCs were able to readily generate myotubes in culture up until passage 8. Moreover, a decrease in myogenic capacity during serial passaging was concomitant with a gradual increase in the expression of the pre-adipocyte markers, CD105 and PDGFRA, and an increase in the ability of MDPCs to differentiate into adipocytes. In conclusion, explant culture provided a simple and efficient method to harvest enriched myogenic progenitors from pig skeletal muscle which could be maintained long-term and differentiated in vitro, thus providing a suitable system for studies on porcine muscle biology and applications in the expanding field of cultured meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) occurs both in humans and domestic species. It has a particularly high incidence in pigs, and is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality as well as impaired postnatal growth. A key feature of IUGR is impaired muscle development, resulting in decreased meat quality. Understanding the developmental origins of IUGR, particularly at the molecular level, is important for developing effective strategies to mitigate its economic impact on the pig industry and animal welfare. The aim of this study was to characterise transcriptional profiles in the muscle of growth restricted pig foetuses at different gestational days (GD; gestational length ~ 115 days), focusing on selected genes (related to development, tissue injury and metabolism) that were previously identified as dysregulated in muscle of GD90 fetuses. Muscle samples were collected from the lightest foetus (L) and the sex-matched foetus with weight closest to the litter average (AW) from each of 22 Landrace x Large White litters corresponding to GD45 (n = 6), GD60 (n = 8) or GD90 (n = 8), followed by analyses, using RT-PCR and protein immunohistochemistry, of selected gene targets. Expression of the developmental genes, MYOD, RET and ACTN3 were markedly lower, whereas MSTN expression was higher, in the muscle of L relative to AW littermates beginning on GD45. Levels of all tissue injury-associated transcripts analysed (F5, PLG, KNG1, SELL, CCL16) were increased in L muscle on GD60 and, most prominently, on GD90. Among genes involved in metabolic regulation, KLB was expressed at higher levels in L than AW littermates beginning on GD60, whereas both IGFBP1 and AHSG were higher in L littermates on GD90 but only in males. Furthermore, the expression of genes specifically involved in lipid, hexose sugar or iron metabolism increased or, in the case of UCP3, decreased in L littermates on GD60 (UCP3, APOB, ALDOB) or GD90 (PNPLA3, TF), albeit in the case of ALDOB this only involved females. In conclusion, marked dysregulation of genes with critical roles in development in L foetuses can be observed from GD45, whereas for a majority of transcripts associated with tissue injury and metabolism differences between L and AW foetuses were apparent by GD60 or only at GD90, thus identifying different developmental windows for different types of adaptive responses to IUGR in the muscle of porcine foetuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a method to generate scalar–tensor theories with Weyl symmetry, starting from arbitrary purely metric higher derivative gravity theories. The method consists in the definition of a conformally-invariant metric g ^ μ ν , that is a rank (0,2)-tensor constructed out of the metric tensor and the scalar field. This new object has zero conformal weight and is given by ϕ 2 / Δ g μ ν , where (- Δ) is the conformal dimension of the scalar. As g μ ν has conformal dimension of 2, the resulting tensor is trivially a conformal invariant. Then, the generated scalar–tensor theory, which we call the Weyl uplift of the original purely metric theory, is obtained by replacing the metric by g ^ μ ν in the action that defines the original theory. This prescription allowed us to define the Weyl uplift of theories with terms of higher order in the Riemannian curvature. Furthermore, the prescription for scalar–tensor theories coming from terms that have explicit covariant derivatives in the Lagrangian is discussed. The same mechanism can also be used for the derivation of the equations of motion of the scalar–tensor theory from the original field equations in the Einstein frame. Applying this method of Weyl uplift allowed us to reproduce the known result for the conformal scalar coupling to Lovelock gravity and to derive that of Einsteinian cubic gravity. Finally, we show that the cancellation of the volume divergences in the theory given by the conformal scalar coupling to Einstein–Anti-de Sitter gravity is achieved by the Weyl uplift of the original theory augmented by counterterms, which is relevant in the framework of conformalrenormalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the removal capability of Fe/Al contamination of Indian camphorweed (Pluchea indica; hereafter, P. indica) using different growth substrates (100% sand, gardening soil, vermiculite, and zeolite). In addition, the study aimed at observing the physio-morphological adaptation strategies of P. indica under excess Fe/Al levels in a controlled greenhouse environment. After a 4-week treatment, P. indica plants under excess Fe in the 100% sand substrate exhibited signs of decay and eventually death. In contrast, the growth performances of P. indica under gardening soil substrate remained sustained even when exposed to Fe/Al stress. Under zeolite substrate, Fe in the root tissues was 23.1 and 34.7 mg g–1 DW after 1 and 4 weeks of incubation, respectively. In addition, Al in the root tissues also increased to 1.54 mg g–1 DW after 1 week and 1.59 mg g–1 DW after 4 weeks, when subjected to 20 mM Al treatment. Zeolite was observed to be a promising substrate to regulate the uptake of Fe (3.31 mg plant–1) and Al (0.51 mg plant–1) by the root tissues. The restriction of Fe and Al in the root and a low translocation to the leaf organ was indicated by a low translocation factor (< 1.0). High Fe concentrations in the root and leaf tissues negatively affected root elongation, and the net photosynthetic rate decreased by > 40% compared to positive control. Gas exchange parameters and leaf temperature were found the most sensitive to Fe/Al stress. Moreover, the limited transpiration rate under Fe/Al stress caused an increase of the leaf temperature and crop stress index. The findings suggest that P. indica grown using zeolite substrate may serve as a good model system for constructed wetlands, storing excess Al in the root tissues without any significant growth inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muntingia calabura is a neotropical tree. It is a reforestation tree that grows quickly. It has been neglected as a forest tree for a variety of reasons. However, M. calabura may be a viable alternative food and bioenergy source due to its ability to grow in hard conditions and, the fruit is nutritious. The fruit maturity stage is indicated by color change. There were three stages of maturity: the unripe stage with dull green color, mid ripe stage with green-yellow color, and ripe stage with red color: the total sugars and bioactive components were investigated. Total sugar increased in every maturity stage. The fruits are high in phenolic compounds, which are known for their antioxidant properties. In every stage of fruit ripeness, fructose was the most abundant sugar. M. calabura fruits were combined with the robust yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae used for bioethanol production. The maximum ethanol productivity (30.531 g/L) was achieved after 48 h of fermentation. Overall, this study suggested that M. calabura fruits extract can be utilized for healthy bioactive compounds consumption as well as production of bioethanol in order to meet the energy demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reason why the local softness (LS) and the local hyper-softness (LHS) allow comparisons of local reactivities among molecular systems of similar or different sizes is analyzed. We evidenced this scaling behavior on these functions by means of their working formulae. This feature bases on the scaling capacity of LS and LHS according to the molecular size. The Fukui function (FF), and the dual descriptor (DD) do not satisfy that property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocompatible polymers bearing hydrolyzable groups such as polyesters are a source of raw materials to prepare common and specific materials, due to their degradability properties under mild conditions; for instance, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is a polymer broadly used in electrospinning to produce fibrous and degradable materials. In this work, we explored the synthesis, characterization, and conditions to prepare fibrous materials made of PCL homopolymers showing different degrees of polymerization and PCL-PEO block copolymers possessing different molecular-weight, which have been synthesized by ring-opening polymerization (ROP). The obtained polymers were characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and GPC. The synthesized polymers were used to prepare fibrous materials by the electrospinning method, which were characterized by SEM, wettability, tensile test, and DSC. We found that low molecular-weight polymers cannot produce tangible materials; however, the addition of block copolymers containing the hydrophilic PEO unit produced porous materials where the fiber diameter decreased, also turning hydrophilic as the PEO chain length increased in the block copolymer. Thus, these materials can be projected towards specific applications, such as their use in tissue engineering. The role of PCL-PEO block copolymers as additives in the fabrication of PCL-based materials concerning structuration and control of fiber size, hydrophilia, and mechanical properties is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In parallel with the obesity and diabetes epidemics, steatotic liver disease (SLD) has emerged as a major global public health concern. The mainstay of therapy is counseling on weight loss and increased exercise. However, such lifestyle modifications infrequently lead to success. We aimed to identify barriers to diet and lifestyle modification in patients with SLD. Methods: Patients with SLD completed a 14-item questionnaire that assigned barriers to healthy eating to three categories: lack of knowledge, lack of self-control, and lack of time, with a higher summary score indicating more perceived barriers. We administered assessments of health literacy and physical activity. We analyzed the data using descriptive statistics and ordinal regression analysis. Results: We included 151 participants with a median age of 64; 54% were female and 68.2% were Hispanic. Median BMI was 31.9 kg/m2. Most respondents, 68.2%, had low health literacy and were either underactive, 29.1% or sedentary, 23.2%. Lack of self-control was the strongest barrier to achieving a healthy lifestyle, followed by lack of knowledge. Lack of time was not significant barrier. Patients with the most significant barriers were more likely to have obesity, low health literacy, and be sedentary. Discussion: Lack of self-control and knowledge are the greatest barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle in patients with SLD. Future clinical interventions should integrate education that targets various health literacy levels with behavioral approaches to improve a sense of agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based solid lubricants are excellent options to reduce friction and wear, especially with the carbon capability to adopt different allotropes forms. On the macroscale, these materials are sheared on the contact along with debris and contaminants to form tribolayers that govern the tribosystem performance. Using a recently developed advanced Raman analysis on the tribolayers, it was possible to quantify the contact-induced defects in the crystalline structure of a wide range of allotropes of carbon-based solid lubricants, from graphite and carbide-derived carbon particles to multi-layer graphene and carbon nanotubes. In addition, these materials were tested under various dry sliding conditions, with different geometries, topographies, and solid-lubricant application strategies. Regardless of the initial tribosystem conditions and allotrope level of atomic ordering, there is a remarkable trend of increasing the point and line defects density until a specific saturation limit in the same order of magnitude for all the materials tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coffee husks, a by-product of dry coffee processing, present a disposal problem in coffee-producing countries. Valorization of this residue is necessary to reduce its environmental impact and improve benefits to the producer. This study evaluated the antioxidant effect of coffee husks on physicochemical properties and sensory liking of fresh sausages packaged in aerobic (AEP) or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) (20% CO2 + 80%N2). Fresh sausages were prepared with different antioxidants: no addition (control C), sodium nitrite (T2), sodium nitrite + sodium erythorbate + BHA/BHT blend (T3), sodium nitrite + coffee husk 1% (T4), sodium nitrite + coffee husk 2% (T5). Physicochemical properties (TBARs, carbonyl content, pH and instrumental color) were analyzed to evaluate the effect of added synthetic and natural antioxidants on fresh sausages. A sensory test (n = 100) was conducted to assess consumer liking of fresh sausages stored in AEP and MAP. The addition of coffee husks reduced lipid oxidation in fresh sausages, especially under MAP packaging, but did not affect carbonyl content. Consumers reported lower liking scores for products packed in MAP. The addition of coffee husks did not affect the degree of liking. Valorization of coffee husks as an antioxidant in fresh meat products is a viable natural option for the meat industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valid and reliable measurements are necessary to understand and monitor age-related changes. Aims: To describe the factor structure and provide validity evidence of a neuropsychological and a physical testing batteries using factor analysis. Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of data from the Epidemiology and Development of Alzheimer's Disease (EDAD) project. Community-dwelling adults aged 55 to 85 years underwent comprehensive physical and neuropsychological assessments. An exploratory factor analysis was performed on both assessment batteries. The models were later confirmed with a random subsample using confirmatory factor analysis. Results: Data from 238 adults (163 females and 75 males) was included. The neuropsychological model revealed a four-factor structure formed by "Executive Functioning", "Verbal Memory", "Logical Memory", and "Labeling And Reading" (Extraction Sums of Squared Loadings [ESSL] = 56.41% explained variance; Standardized Root Mean Square Residual [SRMSR] = 0.06; Comparative Fit Index [CFI] = 0.98). The physical model was formed by a two-factor structure including "Health-related Fitness and "Functional Fitness" (ESSL = 50.54% explained variance; SRMSR = 0.07; CFI = 0.93). Discussion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyze the structure of comprehensive testing batteries for the Latin-American older adults. Our analysis contributes to the understanding of theoretical constructs that are evaluated in the EDAD project. Conclusion: Our findings provide validity evidence for simplified and reduced testing batteries, which imply shorter testing times and fewer resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonamides, which are drugs commonly prescribed in hospital and outpatient settings, have historically been associated with a high incidence of hypersensitivity reactions. It is believed that there is an increased risk of cross-reactions with other drugs that contain this functional group in their structure. However, it has not been conclusively established that the sulfonamide group is the sole cause of hypersensitivity reactions, as non-antibiotic sulfonamides do not share the same accessory groups with antibiotic sulfonamides. Therefore, cross-reactivity between different types of sulfonamides and sulfonamide-type antibiotics is not clearly demonstrated, and allergic reactions may involve other mechanisms. Misinformation about this topic can lead to inappropriate use of alternative antibiotics with lower efficacy or higher adverse effects, contributing to antibiotic resistance. It is crucial to individualize and monitor patients with a history of allergies to sulfonamide-type antibiotics when introducing a new drug containing sulfa and manage any adverse reactions promptly. Desensitization protocols may be a viable option for patients who specifically benefit from these antibiotics, particularly those who are immunosuppressed. This article provides a descriptive bibliographic review to update information on sulfa allergy, its prevalence, management, and recommendations to prevent such reactions and optimize pharmacotherapy, without underusing these drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied diverse prenylated intrinsically disordered regions (PIDRs) of Ras and Rho family small GTPases using long timescale atomistic molecular dynamics simulations in an asymmetric model membrane of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylserine (PS) lipids. Here we show that conformational plasticity is a key determinant of lipid sorting by polybasic PIDRs and provide evidence for lipid sorting based on both headgroup and acyl chain structures. We further show that conformational ensemble-based lipid recognition is generalizable to all polybasic PIDRs, and that the sequence outside the polybasic domain (PBD) modulates the conformational plasticity, bilayer adsorption, and interactions of PIDRs with membrane lipids. Specifically, we find that palmitoylation, the ratio of basic to acidic residues, and the hydrophobic content of the sequence outside the PBD significantly impact the diversity of conformational substates and hence the extent of conformation-dependent lipid interactions. We thus propose that the PBD is required but not sufficient for the full realization of lipid sorting by prenylated PBD-containing membrane anchors, and that the membrane anchor is not only responsible for high affinity membrane binding but also directs the protein to the right target membrane where it participates in lipid sorting. Conformational plasticity is a key determinant of lipid sorting by polybasic prenylated intrinsically disordered regions and lipid sorting might be based on both headgroup and acyl chain structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two approaches are applied to the set-valued optimization problem. The following problems have been examined by Corley, Luc and their colleagues: Take the union of all objective values and then search for (weakly, properly, etc.) minimal points in this union with respect to the vector ordering. This approach is called the vector approach to set optimization. The concept shifted when the set relations were popularized by Kuroiwa–Tanaka–Ha at the end of the twentieth century. They introduced six types of set relations on the power set of topological vector space using a convex ordering cone C with nonempty interior. Therefore, this approach is called the set relation approach to set optimization. For a given vector optimization problem, several approaches are applied to construct a dual problem. A difficulty lies in the fact that the minimal point in vector optimization problem is not necessarily a singleton, though it becomes a subset of the image space in general. In this paper, we first present new definitions of set-valued conjugate map based on comparison of sets (the set relation approach) followed by introducing some types of weak duality theorems. We also show convexity and continuity properties of conjugate relations. Lastly, we present some types of strong duality theorems using nonlinear scalarizing technique for set that is generalizations of Gerstewitz's scalarizing function for the vector-valued case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a streamlined proof that any Einstein-AdS space is a solution of the Lu, Pang and Pope conformal gravity theory in six dimensions. The reduction of conformal gravity into Einstein theory manifestly shows that the action of the latter can be written as the Einstein-Hilbert term plus the Euler topological density and an additional contribution that depends on the Laplacian of the bulk Weyl tensor squared. The prescription for obtaining this form of the action by embedding the Einstein theory into a Weyl-invariant purely metric theory, was dubbed Conformal Renormalization and its resulting action was shown to be equivalent to the one obtained by holographic renormalization. As a non-trivial application of the method, we compute the Noether-Wald charges and thermodynamic quantities for topological black hole solutions with generic transverse section in Einstein-AdS6 theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bees are essential to maintain the agriculture sector and provide not only pollination services, but also bee products. Honey is one of the most recognized products obtained from bees. In this sector, little attention has been paid to their environmental and economic performance, and their integration into the eco-efficiency concept. Consequently, this study analyzes the eco-efficiency level of honey production systems, identifying key resources to improve economic performance and reduce environmental impacts. Methods: Eco-efficiency is assessed by means of an indicator approach defined as the ratio between environmental and economic performance. The environmental one is measured by using the life cycle assessment (LCA), while the economic one is measured through profits, combining the life cycle cost (LCC) and income. The dataset corresponds to a sample of Chilean beekeepers considering a cradle-to-gate approach. The functional unit is 1 kg of honey produced. The productive factors covered are feeds, medicines, diesel, electricity, and disposable inputs. The LCA is carried out by using the software OpenLCA, and the ReCiPe midpoint method, while background data are obtained from the Ecoinvent v3.8 database. The economic data are analyzed using MS Excel®. Results and discussion: Feeds are identified as the main contributor to the environmental and economic impacts, mainly due to sugar rations, i.e., a mix of sugar and water. In addition, most of the beekeepers used a higher amount of sugar for preparing these rations, compared with the quantity recommended in the literature. Diesel is another important source of environmental and economic impacts for beekeepers, mainly consumed for hive visits. Thus, reducing the frequency of visits or locating hives closer to beekeepers would improve their eco-efficiency performance. Concerning medicines, oxalic acid is the main contributor to environmental impacts, while amitraz is the main responsible in terms of costs, due to the higher dose applied compared with the literature. The environmental and economic impacts of electricity and disposable inputs are negligible. Conclusions: Feeds, medicines and diesel are the main contributors to the environmental and economic performance of the set of beekeepers analyzed, mainly due to the high amount consumed. Thus, focusing on these factors, beekeepers could improve their eco-efficiency performance by reducing both environmental impacts and cost, while increasing profit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a streamlined proof that any Einstein-AdS space is a solution of the Lu, Pang and Pope conformal gravity theory in six dimensions. The reduction of conformal gravity into Einstein theory manifestly shows that the action of the latter can be written as the Einstein-Hilbert term plus the Euler topological density and an additional contribution that depends on the Laplacian of the bulk Weyl tensor squared. The prescription for obtaining this form of the action by embedding the Einstein theory into a Weyl-invariant purely metric theory, was dubbed Conformal Renormalization and its resulting action was shown to be equivalent to the one obtained by holographic renormalization. As a non-trivial application of the method, we compute the Noether-Wald charges and thermodynamic quantities for topological black hole solutions with generic transverse section in Einstein-AdS6 theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) screening in saliva is increasingly recommended. The aim of our study was to correlate the performance of a point-of-care rapid molecular test with CMV real time PCR (CMV RT-PCR) detection, using saliva pool-testing in newborns under a universal screening strategy. Saliva swabs were prospectively collected from newborns < 21 days old and tested by Alethia-LAMP-CMV assay in pools of 5 samples. In positive pools, subjects were tested individually and by saliva and urine CMV RT-PCR. A subset of negative pools were studied with both techniques and viral loads in whole blood were determined in positive patients. From 1,642 newborns included in 328 pools, 8 were confirmed by urine CMV RT-PCR, (cCMV prevalence 0,49%). The PPA and NNA of the pooled saliva Alethia-LAMP-CMV testing were 87,5% and 99,8% with a negative and positive predictive value of 99,9% and 77,7%, respectively. Two false positives were detected (0,12%). A subset of 17 negative pools (85 samples), studied by saliva CMV RT-PCR, showed 100% concordance. Conclusion: CMV pool-testing using a rapid molecular test in saliva proved feasible when compared to PCR gold standards. This strategy could improve cost-effectiveness for cCMV universal neonatal screening, based on the low prevalence of the infection and could be a more affordable approach in less developed regions with reduced detection capacity. What is Known: • cCMV is the most frequent congenital infection and a leading nongenetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss and brain disease. • Universal screening could allow early detection of congenitally infected infants, improving clinical outcome. • Saliva PCR is the preferred and non-invasive test for newborn cCMV screening. What is New: • The feasibility of a universal cCMV screening by pool-testing in saliva using a rapid test in pools of 5 samples. • PPA and NPA were 87,5 and 99,8% compared to CMV PCR in urine. • This strategy could be relevant specially in LMIC where detection capacity is reduced and could improve cost-effectiveness. • cCMV prevalence in our center was 0,49%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multiplication of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) variety LAICA 04-809 by direct organogenesis was evaluated using four cultivation systems: (1) the traditional system which uses a semisolid medium and (2) three temporary immersion systems with liquid medium (RITA®, BIT®, and SETIS™). In addition, three planting densities (10, 30, and 50 mL of medium per explant) were studied for each system as initial inoculum. Sucrose consumption was observed in all temporary immersion systems after 4 weeks of culture. Photomixotrophic metabolism was identified in all three temporary immersion systems evaluated (RITA®, BIT®, and SETIS™). In addition, at density of 30 mL medium/explant, the BIT® bioreactor generated the highest number of quality shoots (425.33 ± 24.58). No hyperhydricity was observed in the explants. In TISs, the 50 mL volume of medium per explant obtained the highest multiplication coefficient (RITA® 25.53 ± 11.42, BIT® 20.08 ± 4.1 and SETIS™ 11.47 ± 1.27). The results of this study suggest that the combination of the BIT® system with the 50 mL volume of medium/explant represents the best conditions for mass propagation of sugarcane shoots after four weeks of cultivation. Key message: The response of in vitro multiplication of sugarcane depends on the type TISs and the planting density (mL of media per explant). Higher quality of shoots was obtained with BIT®. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based products can be integrated with the available interventions, that provide better vector control efficiencies. However, since most of the studies were conducted in the laboratory, the effectiveness and duration of the insecticidal properties under field conditions are less understood. This study investigated ethnomedicinal plant extract larvicidal and residual effects against Anopheles gambiae s. l. under semi-field conditions. The ethnomedicinal survey was conducted in the Benatsemay district, South Omo Zone, southern Ethiopia. In this study, leaves of Abutilon bidentatum, Hypoestes forskaolii, and Hchyranthes aspera species were found to have insecticidal effects against mosquitoes in the study district. Consequently, the larvicidal activities of solvent extracts from such plants were tested against susceptible lab colonies and wild larvae. The residual efficacy of the extract was evaluated at a dose of 100.54 ppm for five weeks. Larval mortality was recorded after 24 and 48 h. The highest larvicidal activity was observed in the hexane, acetone, and methanol extracts of A. bidentatum, with each extract causing 100% mortality. Moreover, strong larvicidal activity was observed in the hexane extract of A. bidentatum, with LC50 and LC90 values of 40.77 and 100.54 ppm, respectively. The residual efficacy was extended for three weeks. The results suggest A. bidentatum crude leaf extracts can potentially be used to control of Anopheles gambiae s.l. Further studies are needed to isolate and characterize bioactive compounds and their modes of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Why local softness and local hyper-softness are more appropriate local reactivity descriptors than dual descriptor and Fukui functions?" published in the Journal of Mathematical Chemistry. The correction addresses an error in the sequence of inequalities after Equation (23), specifically involving an extra 1/2 factor. It clarifies that the working formula for the Fukui function can be given by any of the three working equations defined in Equation (6), and that the 1/2 factor is already included in the definition of the variable η, as indicated in Equation (3). The correction does not invalidate the mathematical demonstration and involves replacing certain variables with others. The publisher maintains a neutral stance on jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. The text is authored by Jorge I. Martínez-Araya. [Extracted from the article]

Liquid biopsy, in particular circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis, has paved the way for a new noninvasive approach to cancer diagnosis, treatment selection and follow-up. As a crucial step in the analysis, the extraction of the genetic material from a complex matrix needs to meet specific requirements such as high specificity and low loss of target. Here, we developed a new generation of microfluidic fluidized beds (FBs) that enable the efficient extraction and preconcentration of specific ctDNA sequences from human serum with flow rates up to 15 µL/min. We first demonstrated that implementation of a vibration system inducing flow rate fluctuations combined with a mixture of different bead sizes significantly enhanced bead homogeneity, thereby increasing capture efficiency. Taking advantage of this new generation of high-throughput magnetic FBs, we then developed a new method to selectively capture a double-stranded (dsDNA) BRAF mutated DNA sequence in complex matrices such as patient serum. Finally, as proof of concept, ligation chain reaction (LCR) assays were performed to specifically amplify a mutated BRAF sequence, allowing the detection of concentrations as low as 6 × 104 copies/µL of the mutated DNA sequence in serum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]