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Theobroma grandiflorum is a perennial fruit tree native to the Amazon region. As a perennial species with continuous production throughout the years, breeders should seek well‐conducted trials, accurate phenotyping and adequate statistical models for genetic evaluation and selection that can leverage the information provided by the repeated measures. We evaluated 13 models with different covariance structures for genetic and residual effects for T. grandiflorum evaluation, using an unbalanced dataset with 34 hybrids from the triple‐crossing of nine parents, planted in a randomized complete block design. For nine consecutive years, the fruit yield of these hybrids was evaluated. Each model had its goodness‐of‐fit tested by the Akaike information criterion. The most adequate model for estimating the variance components and the breeding values were modelled with the first‐order heterogeneous autoregressive for residual effects and third‐order factor analytic for genetic effects. From this model, we used the factor analytic selection tools for selecting the top 10 families, providing a genetic gain of 10.42%. These results are important not only for T. grandiflorum breeding but also to show that in any repeated measures' data from fruit‐bearing perennial species the modelling of genetic and residual effects should not be neglected. Core Ideas: Modelling the covariance structure of random effects leads to higher accuracy and genetic gains.Factor Analytic Selection Tools are suitable for performing selection in repeated measures context.The modelling of genetic and residual effects should not be neglected for fruit‐bearing perennial species.Theobroma grandiflorum breeding may also benefit from early selection and precocious multi‐environment trials [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of choice for spinal anesthesia‐induced hypotension during cesarean section is phenylephrine. As this vasopressor can cause reflex bradycardia, noradrenaline is a suggested alternative. This randomized double‐blinded controlled trial included 76 parturients undergoing elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Women received noradrenaline in bolus doses of 5 mcg or phenylephrine in bolus doses of 100 mcg. These drugs were used intermittently and therapeutically to maintain systolic blood pressure ≥ 90% of its baseline value. The primary study outcome was bradycardia incidence (<60 bpm) with intermittent bolus administration of these drugs. Secondary outcomes included extreme bradycardia (<40 bpm), number of bradycardia episodes, hypertension (systolic blood pressure > 120% of baseline value), and hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90% of baseline value and requiring vasopressor use). Neonatal outcomes per the Apgar scale and umbilical cord blood gas analysis were also compared. The incidence of bradycardia in both groups (51.4% and 70.3%, respectively; p = 0.16) were not significantly different. No neonates had umbilical vein or artery pH values below 7.20. The noradrenaline group required more boluses than phenylephrine group (8 vs. 5; p = 0.01). There was no significant intergroup difference in any of the other secondary outcomes. When administered in intermittent bolus doses for the treatment of postspinal hypotension in elective cesarean delivery, noradrenaline, and phenylephrine have a similar incidence of bradycardia. When treating hypotension related to spinal anesthesia in obstetric cases, strong vasopressors are commonly administered, thought these can also have side effects. This trial assessed bradycardia after bolus administration of noradrenaline or phenylephrine, and found no difference in risk for clinically meaningful bradycardia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early stages of wheat breeding programs often contain large number of plants in segregating populations that must be selected. Selecting the best populations and plants in those stages is not an easy task, making it necessary to use robust methodologies that facilitate the selection process. The goals of this work were to evaluate different methods for the selection of individual plants in early wheat breeding stages, compare the efficiency of each method, and suggest the most suitable one for implementation in wheat breeding programs. An experiment with 56 F2 segregant populations derived from a complete diallel, together with eight parents, was conducted and evaluated for grain yield (g pL−1). Analysis of variance and mixed model analysis were applied to obtain the genetic parameters and predict genotypic values. Four selection strategies were designed: mass selection and other three mixed model‐based methods (individual best linear unbiased prediction [BLUPI]; simulated individual best linear unbiased prediction [BLUPIS]; and modified simulated individual best linear unbiased [BLPISM]). The genotypic variability among and within populations allowed the selection of superior genotypes. Simple linear regression analysis and Spearman correlation analysis allowed to conclude that BLUPIS and BLUPISM are equivalent to BLUPI. The BLUPIS and BLUPISM should be used because they easily indicate for the selection of plants in populations with positive genetic effects, dismissing the evaluation of individual plants. Core Ideas: Individual evaluation of wheat plants for further selection is time‐consuming, laborious and costly.Simulated individual best linear unbiased prediction (BLUPIS) and modified simulated individual best linear unbiased (BLUPISM) are optimal approaches for selecting wheat genotypes since they do not require individual evaluation of plants.Populations with negative genotypic effects are automatically eliminated.BLUPIS and BLUPISM should be adopted by public Brazilian wheat breeding programs due to high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genotype‐by‐environment interaction (GEI) is a major concern in tropical maize breeding. Here, we used factor analytic mixed models (FAMM) to study GEI in a tropical maize dataset. Our goal was to select high‐performance and stable hybrids using factor analytic selection tools (FAST) derived from FAMM outputs. Because the dataset comprised two different planting seasons, we also investigated differences in the genetic gains between seasonal and general selection (i.e., for both seasons simultaneously). The trials were installed in a lattice design with 36 hybrids containing two replicates and blocks with six plants each. We evaluated 53 hybrids and seven checks in 48 environments, represented by a combination of locations, years and seasons. We fitted the FAMMs with distinct sets of factors. The best‐fitted FAMM was selected considering a parsimony‐explained variance balance. Using the best FAMM for both seasonal and general analyses, we estimated the following selection tools: overall performance (OP$\textit{OP}$); root mean square deviation (RMSD$\textit{RMSD}$), which represents general stability; and responsiveness , which represents specific stability. We selected hybrids based on an index built with OP$\textit{OP}$ and RMSD$\textit{RMSD}$. Five and three hybrids were selected considering both general and seasonal analyses for the first and second season, respectively. Two hybrids were amongst the top eight for both seasonal analyses (i.e., only first season and only second season simultaenously). Higher genetic gains may be obtained by employing FAMM and using FAST in each season rather than analysing both seasons in a joint fashion. Core Ideas: Factor analytic selection tools are suitable for recommending maize genotypes in multi‐environment trials.A seasonal selection approach provides higher genetic gains.High‐performance and stable single‐cross hybrids were recommended for tropical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A suitable statistical model for the analysis of repeated measures is a prerequisite for an accurate genetic selection of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) genotypes. Thus, the objectives of this study were to (a) evaluate homoscedastic and heteroscedastic repeatability models, (b) estimate the optimal number of harvest years for genetic selection, and (c) identify and select biparental crosses with high productivity, witches' broom (Moniliophthora perniciosa Stahel & Philips‐Mora) resistance, stability, and adaptability. Twenty biparental crosses were evaluated in a complete randomized blocks design, with seven replications and 12 trees per plot for 10 harvest years. Evaluated traits were number of healthy fruits (NHF), number of symptomatic fruits for witches' broom (NWBF), dry bean weight (DBW), and fruit index (FI). Variance components were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood, and genotypic values were predicted by best linear unbiased prediction. The best‐fitted repeatability model for each trait was indicated by Akaike's information criterion. The additive index was used for simultaneous selection for productivity, witches' broom resistance, stability, and adaptability. The heteroscedastic repeatability model showed the best fit for all traits. For HF, WBF, and FI, two and seven harvest years were sufficient for selection aiming at recombination and recommendation, respectively. For NWBF, evaluated only from the seventh year onwards, one harvest year was enough for recombination and three for recommendation. Five biparental crosses with high productivity, witches' broom resistance, stability, and adaptability were selected for recombination and/or for competition trials for recommendation. Such results can help define efficient strategies and optimize cacao breeding programs. Core Ideas: Heteroscedastic repeatability model was more suitable than homoscedastic repeatability model.Two and seven harvest years were necessary for selection for recombination and recommendation, respectively.Additive index allowed genetic gains for productivity and disease resistance traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential negative effects on human health of water disinfectants used in swimming pools. Among the disinfection options, the approaches using chlorine‐based products have been typically preferred. Chlorine readily reacts with natural organic matter that are introduced in the water mainly through the bathers, leading to the formation of potentially harmful chlorination by‐products (CBPs). The formation of CBPs is of particular concern since some have been epidemiologically associated with the development of various clinical manifestations. The higher the concentration of volatile CBPs in the water, the higher their concentration in the air above the pool, and different routes of exposure to chemicals in swimming pools (water ingestion, skin absorption, and inhalation) contribute to the individual exposome. Some CBPs may affect the respiratory and skin health of those who stay indoor for long periods, such as swimming instructors, pool staff, and competitive swimmers. Whether those who use chlorinated pools as customers, particularly children, may also be affected has been a matter of debate. In this article, we discuss the current evidence regarding the health effects of both acute and chronic exposures in different populations (work‐related exposures, intensive sports, and recreational attendance) and identify the main recommendations and unmet needs for research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anaphylaxis is increasing at pediatric age; however, its characterization is hampered by underdiagnosis and underreporting. The aim of this study was to identify the causes of anaphylaxis in children and adolescents in Portugal, thus contributing to a better knowledge of its etiology, clinical manifestations, and management. Methods: During a 10‐year period, a nationwide notification system for anaphylaxis was implemented, with voluntary reporting by allergists. Data on 533 patients under 18 years of age with anaphylaxis were included. Results: Mean age was 8.5 ± 4.9 years, 61% were male; 45% had asthma. Mean age at the first anaphylaxis episode was 5.3 ± 4.7 years (ranging from 1 month to 17 years of age), 63% at pre‐school age. Most reactions occurred at home (57%). Food‐induced anaphylaxis was the leading cause (77%). The main culprit foods were cow's milk (32%), tree nuts (16%), shellfish (13%), egg (12%), fresh fruits (11%), fish (8%), and peanut (8%). Other causes included drugs (11%), insect sting (5%), cold‐induced anaphylaxis (4%), exercise‐induced anaphylaxis (2%), latex (1%), and idiopathic anaphylaxis (1%). Most patients (83%) were admitted to the emergency department; only 46% received adrenaline treatment. Recurrence of anaphylaxis occurred in 41% of the patients (3 or more episodes in 21%). An adrenaline autoinjector was used in 9% of the patients. Conclusions: In the Portuguese pediatric population, food is the leading cause of anaphylaxis. Undertreatment with adrenaline and high recurrence of anaphylaxis highlight the need to improve both the diagnosis and the therapeutic management of this life‐threatening entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial variation is a recurrent issue in field trials and can cause obstacles in terms of genetic selection. Analyses that account for spatial variation within location can lead breeders to predict genetic values accurately across locations in multi‐environment trials (METs). The present study aims to fit spatial models for analyzing soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed composition traits using a two‐stage analysis pipeline and to assess its efficiency relative to a single‐stage analysis setting. Seed protein content (SPC), seed oil content (SOC), and seed storage protein content (SSP) data were collected from 283 soybean genotypes tested in four environments (C1, C2, V1, and V2). In Stage 1 of the two‐stage analysis, a randomized complete block (RCB) design model as well as four two‐dimensional first‐order (AR1 ⊗ AR1) spatial models were fit in each dataset to determine the most suitable model for genetic prediction. Predicted genetic values were used as input data for Stage 2. The most used spatial model [5] in Stage 1 of this study had accommodated local and global residuals. The autocorrelation estimates depicted spatial trends, especially in terms of rows, while column autocorrelation coefficients were low for C1 and C2 because of the limited number of blocks and their short length. Broad‐sense heritability, mean accuracy, and selection gains were greater for all traits in the two‐stage analysis than in the single‐stage analysis. The two‐stage analysis leveraged the spatial model fitting in the Stage 1 and proved to be advantageous for soybean seed composition breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction norms fitted through random regression models (RRM) have been widely used in animal and plant breeding for analyses of genotype × environment (G × E) interaction. However, in annual crops, they remain unexplored. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the applicability and efficiency of RRM fitted through Legendre polynomials as a tool to recommend cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) genotypes. To this end, a data set with 12 genotypes of cotton evaluated in 10 environments for fiber length (FL) and fiber fineness was used. The restricted maximum likelihood/best linear unbiased prediction (REML/BLUP) procedure was used to estimate the variance components and to predict the genetic values. Results showed that there was genetic variability among cotton genotypes and that the reaction norms over the environmental gradient illustrated the G × E interaction. Very high selective accuracies (rĝg>0.90) were found for both traits in all environments, which indicates high reliability in the genotype's recommendation. The areas under the reaction norms were calculated for the recommendation of genotypes for unfavorable, favorable, and overall environments. Regarding genotypes recommendation, areas under reaction norms allow recommending genotypes for unfavorable and favorable environments, as well as for overall recommendation, for both traits. This study is the first considering reaction norms fitted through RRM for the recommendation of cotton genotypes and demonstrated the potential of this technique in cotton breeding, besides its great potential to deal with G × E interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the growing demand of the soybean consumer market, cultivars increasingly early, productive and resistant to biotic and abiotic stress are sought. Several populations are obtained in soybean breeding programmes, but progeny are selected without being weighted for their respective population effect. As a consequence, progeny originating from high‐merit populations may be discarded too early. Given this scenario, this study proposes to employ the selection index with progeny and population effect via best linear unbiased prediction (SIPP‐BLUP) for the genetic selection of early and productive soybean progeny. A total of 180 progeny derived from three populations were evaluated for yield‐related traits. Genetic gains from selection, Spearman correlation and coincidence index were used to check the efficiency of the models with and without the population effect. The SIPP‐BLUP index achieved greater selection accuracy and was efficient in the identification and future selection of early soybean progeny. Therefore, this study demonstrates that soybean breeding programmes should consider the population effect via SIPP‐BLUP in progeny selection to obtain future lines that really contribute to genetic gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic component of tissue architecture that physically supports cells and actively influences their behavior. In the context of bone regeneration, cell-secreted ECMs have become of interest as they reproduce tissue-architecture and modulate the promising properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). We have previously created an in vitro model of human osteoblast-derived devitalized ECM that was osteopromotive for MSCs. The aim of this study was to identify ECM regulatory proteins able to modulate MSC differentiation to broaden the spectrum of MSC clinical applications. To this end, we created two additional models of devitalized ECMs with different mineralization phenotypes. Our results showed that the ECM derived from osteoblast-differentiated MSCs had increased osteogenic potential compared to ECM derived from undifferentiated MSCs and non-ECM cultures. Proteomic analysis revealed that structural ECM proteins and ribosomal proteins were upregulated in the ECM from undifferentiated MSCs. A similar response profile was obtained by treating osteoblast-differentiating MSCs with Activin-A. Extracellular proteins were upregulated in Activin-A ECM, whereas mitochondrial and membrane proteins were downregulated. In summary, this study illustrates that the composition of different MSC-secreted ECMs is important to regulate the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. These models of devitalized ECMs could be used to modulate MSC properties to regulate bone quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, ash from sugarcane waste was used in the synthesis of biosilica using alkaline extraction followed by acid precipitation. Different parameters that could influence the silica particle synthesis were evaluated. The ash and synthesized biosilica were characterized by a combination of spectroscopic and chemical techniques such as XRD, XRF, SEM, particle size analyser, N2 adsorption analysis, TGA, and FTIR. The best condition for biosilica production was achieved with fusion method and aging temperature of 80°C for 1 h during gel formation. X-ray powder diffraction pattern confirms the amorphous nature of synthesized silica. The purity of the prepared silica was 99% silica which was confirmed by means of XRF. The experimental data suggest that the sugarcane waste ash could be converted into a value-added product, minimizing the environmental impact of disposal problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We propose a right lateral (90-120° RAO) with 30° cranial angiographic view to expose the bifurcation of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) when previously used routine projections were inefficient at clearly showing this region.Background: Little has been published in the medical literature regarding angiographic projections dedicated to special anatomies.Methods: A total of 84 patients were subjected to the proposed projections. A reproducibility study, conducted with the participation of 2 independent observers, judged the effectiveness of the proposed projection. The Prevalence and Bias Adjusted Kappa (PABAK) index, with a 95% confidence interval (CI), was used to demonstrate the intensity of intra/inter-observer agreement.Results: The proposed projection was efficient in 79% of the angiograms, with agreement of 0.76 (0.6-0.9; P ≤ 0.001). The origins and the proximal segments of: the anterior descending coronary artery were exposed in 89% of the angiograms, agreement of 0.86 (0.7-1.0; P ≤ 0.001); the circumflex artery were exposed in 83% of the angiograms, with agreement of 0.72 (0.5-1.0; P ≤ 0.001); and the intermediate branch, when present, were exposed in 89% of the angiograms, agreement of 0.79 (0.6-1.0; P ≤ 0.001).Conclusion: The right lateral (90-120° RAO) with 30° cranial projection is effective, safe, and reproducible. In special situations where routine projections fail, this proposed projection can reveal important details of the anatomy of the bifurcation of the LMCA during conventional coronary angiography or be the working projection during coronary angioplasty. (J Interven Cardiol 2016;29:293-299). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test for Children ( CARATKids) is the first questionnaire that assesses simultaneously allergic rhinitis and asthma control in children. It was recently developed, but redundancy of questions and its psychometric properties were not assessed. This study aimed to (i) establish the final version of the CARATKids questionnaire and (ii) evaluate its reliability, responsiveness, cross-sectional validity, and longitudinal validity. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted in 11 Portuguese centers. During two visits separated by 6 wk, CARATKids, visual analog scale scales and childhood asthma control test were completed, and participant's asthma and rhinitis were evaluated by his/her physician without knowing the questionnaires' results. Data-driven item reduction was conducted, and internal consistency, responsiveness analysis, and associations with external measures of disease status were assessed. Results Of the 113 children included, 101 completed both visits. After item reduction, the final version of the questionnaire has 13 items, eight to be answered by the child and five by the caregiver. Its Cronbach's alpha was 0.80, the Guyatt's responsiveness index was −1.51, and a significant (p < 0.001) within-patient change of CARATKids score in clinical unstable patients was observed. Regarding cross-sectional validity, correlation coefficients of CARATKids with the external measures of control were between 0.45 and −0.69 and met the a priori predictions. In the longitudinal validity assessment, the correlation coefficients between the score changes of CARATKids and those of external measures of control ranged from 0.34 to 0.46. Conclusion CARATKids showed adequate psychometric properties and is ready to be used in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Correlate arterial lactate levels during the intraoperative period of children undergoing cardiac surgery and the occurrence of complications in the postoperative period. Aim: Arterial lactate levels can indicate hypoperfusion states, serving as prognostic markers of morbidity and mortality in this population. Background: Anesthesia for cardiac pediatric surgery is frequently performed on patients with serious abnormal physiological conditions. During the intraoperative period, there are significant variations of blood volume, body temperature, plasma composition, and tissue blood flow, as well as the activation of inflammation, with important pathophysiological consequences. Methods/Materials: Chart data relating to the procedures and perioperative conditions of the patients were collected on a standardized form. Comparisons of arterial lactate values at the end of the intraoperative period of the patients that presented, or not, with postoperative complications and frequencies related to perioperative conditions were established by odds ratio and nonparametric univariate analysis. Results: After surgeries without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), higher levels of arterial lactate upon ICU admission were observed in patients who had renal complications (2.96 vs 1.31 m m) and those who died (2.93 vs 1.40 m m). For surgeries with CPB, the same association was observed for cardiovascular (2.90 m m × 2.06 m m), renal (3.34 vs 2.33 m m), respiratory (2.98 vs 2.12 m m) and hematological complications (2.99 vs 1.95 m m), and death (3.38 vs 2.40 m m). Conclusion: Elevated intraoperative arterial lactate levels are associated with a higher morbidity and mortality in low- and medium-risk procedures, with or without CPB, in pediatric cardiac surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cite this article: Skevaki CL, Maggina P, Santos AF, Alves RR, Antolin-Amerigo D, Borrego LM, Bretschneider I, Butiene I, Couto M, Fassio F, Gardner J, Xatzipsalti M, Hovhannisyan L, Hox V, Makrinioti H, O'Neil SE, Pala G, Rudenko M, Santucci A, Seys S, Sokolowska M, Whitaker P, Heffler E. The 10th anniversary of the Junior Members and Affiliates of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011: 22: 754-757. Abstract This year is the 10th anniversary of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Junior Members and Affiliates (JMAs). The aim of this review is to highlight the work and activities of EAACI JMAs. To this end, we have summarized all the initiatives taken by JMAs during the last 10 yr. EAACI JMAs are currently a group of over 2380 clinicians and scientists under the age of 35 yr, who support the continuous education of the Academy's younger members. For the past decade, JMAs enjoy a steadily increasing number of benefits such as free online access to the Academy's journals, the possibility to apply for Fellowships and the Mentorship Program, travel grants to attend scientific meetings, and many more. In addition, JMAs have been involved in task forces, cooperation schemes with other scientific bodies, organization of JMA focused sessions during EAACI meetings, and participation in the activities of EAACI communication platforms. EAACI JMA activities represent an ideal example of recruiting, training, and educating young scientists in order for them to thrive as future experts in their field. This model may serve as a prototype for other scientific communities, several of which have already adapted similar policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]