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It is poorly understood how solid peripheral tumors affect brain neuroimmune responses despite the various brain‐mediated side effects and higher rates of infection reported in cancer patients. We hypothesized that chronic low‐grade peripheral tumor‐induced inflammation conditions microglia to drive suppression of neuroinflammatory responses to a subsequent peripheral immune challenge. Here, Balb/c murine mammary tumors attenuated the microglial inflammatory gene expression responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and live Escherichia coli (E. coli) challenges and the fatigue response to an E. coli infection. In contrast, the inflammatory gene expression in response to LPS or a toll‐like receptor 2 agonist of Percoll‐enriched primary microglia cultures was comparable between tumor‐bearing and ‐free mice, as were the neuroinflammatory and sickness behavioral responses to an intracerebroventricular interleukin (IL)‐1β injection. These data led to the hypothesis that Balb/c mammary tumors blunt the neuroinflammatory responses to an immune challenge via a mechanism involving tumor suppression of the peripheral humoral response. Balb/c mammary tumors modestly attenuated select circulating cytokine responses to LPS and E. coli challenges. Further, a second mammary tumor/mouse strain model (E0771 tumors in C57Bl/6 mice) displayed mildly elevated inflammatory responses to an immune challenge. Taken together, these data indicate that tumor‐induced suppression of neuroinflammation and sickness behaviors may be driven by a blunted microglial phenotype, partly because of an attenuated peripheral signal to the brain, which may contribute to infection responses and behavioral side effects reported in cancer patients. Finally, these neuroimmune effects likely vary based on tumor type and/or host immune phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant species richness is an important property of ecosystems that is altered by grazing. In a semiarid environment, we tested the hypotheses that (1) small‐scale herbaceous plant species richness declines linearly with increasing grazing intensity by large ungulates, (2) precipitation and percent sand interact with grazing intensity, and (3) response of herbaceous plant species richness to increasing intensity of ungulate grazing varies with patch productivity. During January–March 2012, we randomly allocated 50, 1.5‐m × 1.5‐m grazing exclosures within each of six 2500 ha study sites across South Texas, USA. We counted the number of herbaceous plant species and harvested vegetation in 0.25‐m2 plots within exclosures (ungrazed control plots) and in the grazed area outside the exclosures (grazed treatment plots) during October–November 2012–2019. We estimated percent use (grazing intensity) based on the difference in herbaceous plant standing crop between control plots and treatment plots. We selected the negative binomial regression model that best explained the relationship between grazing intensity and herbaceous plant species richness using the Schwarz‐Bayesian information criterion. After accounting for the positive effect of precipitation and percent sand on herbaceous plant species richness, species richness/0.25 m2 increased slightly from 0% to 30% grazing intensity and then declined with increasing grazing intensity. Linear and quadratic responses of herbaceous plant species richness to increasing grazing intensity were greater for the least productive patches (<15.7 g/0.25 m2) than for productive patches (≥15.7 g/0.25 m2). Our results followed the pattern predicted by the intermediate disturbance hypothesis model for the effect of grazing intensity on small‐scale herbaceous plant species richness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we study the existence of positive solutions for the following class of semipositone quasilinear problems: −ΔΦu=λf(x,u)+b(u)−ainΩ,u>0inΩ,u=0on∂Ω,$$\begin{equation*} {\left\lbrace \def\eqcellsep{&}\begin{array}{rclcl}-\Delta _{\Phi } u & = & \lambda f(x,u)+b(u)-a & \mbox{in} & \Omega , \\[3pt] u& > & 0 & \mbox{in} & \Omega , \\[3pt] u & = & 0 & \mbox{on} & \partial \Omega , \end{array} \right.} \end{equation*}$$where Ω⊂RN$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^N$ is a bounded domain, N≥2$N\ge 2$, λ,a>0$\lambda ,a > 0$ are parameters, f(x,u)$ f(x,u)$ is a Caractheodory function, and b(t)$b(t)$ has a critical growth with relation to the Orlicz–Sobolev space W01,Φ(Ω)$W_0^{1,\Phi }(\Omega)$. The main tools used are variational methods, a concentration compactness theorem for Orlicz–Sobolev space and some priori estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let Mn$M^n$ be either a simply connected space form or a rank‐one symmetric space of the noncompact type. We consider Weingarten hypersurfaces of M×R$M\times \mathbb {R}$, which are those whose principal curvatures k1,⋯,kn$k_1,\dots ,k_n$ and angle function 훩$\varTheta$ satisfy a relation W(k1,⋯,kn,훩2)=0$W(k_1,\dots ,k_n,\varTheta ^2)=0$, being W a differentiable function which is symmetric with respect to k1,⋯,kn$k_1,\dots , k_n$. When ∂W/∂ki>0$\partial W/\partial k_i>0$ on the positive cone of Rn$\mathbb {R} ^n$, a strictly convex Weingarten hypersurface determined by W is said to be elliptic. We show that, for a certain class of Weingarten functions W, there exist rotational strictly convex Weingarten hypersurfaces of M×R$M\times \mathbb {R}$ which are either topological spheres or entire graphs over M. We establish a Jellett–Liebmann‐type theorem by showing that a compact, connected and elliptic Weingarten hypersurface of either Sn×R$\mathbb {S}^n\times \mathbb {R}$ or Hn×R$\mathbb {H}^n\times \mathbb {R}$ is a rotational embedded sphere. Other uniqueness results for complete elliptic Weingarten hypersurfaces of these ambient spaces are obtained. We also obtain existence results for constant scalar curvature hypersurfaces of Sn×R$\mathbb {S}^n\times \mathbb {R}$ and Hn×R$\mathbb {H}^n\times \mathbb {R}$ which are either rotational or invariant by translations (parabolic or hyperbolic). We apply our methods to give new proofs of the main results by Manfio and Tojeiro on the classification of constant sectional curvature hypersurfaces of Sn×R$\mathbb {S}^n\times \mathbb {R}$ and Hn×R$\mathbb {H}^n\times \mathbb {R}$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dolutegravir/rilpivirine (DTG/RPV) is an effective antiretroviral (ART) regimen endorsed by clinical trials as a switch therapy. The aim of our study was to analyse the efficacy and safety of DTG/RPV in real‐world clinical practice. Methods: Observational, multicentre study of patients who started DTG/RPV. Efficacy, adverse events and metabolic changes at 48 weeks were analysed. Results: A total of 348 patients were included; median time of HIV infection was 21.1 years, 33.7% were AIDS cases; median nadir CD4 was 160 cells/μL; 90.5% had received ≥3 lines of ART and 179 (53.8%) had prior virological failure. Convenience (43.5%), toxicity/intolerance (28.4%) and interactions (17.0%) were the main reasons for starting DTG/RPV. Previous regimens were protease inhibitors (PI) (31.6%), non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) (20.4%) and integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI) (14.9%). Efficacy (HIV‐RNA <50 copies/mL) at 48 weeks was 89.7% (95% CI 86.1–92.6) by intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and 94.2% (95% CI 91.3–96.4) by on treatment (OT); 10 patients (3.1%) were not suppressed (3 had abandoned ART). There was a mean decrease in triglycerides, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, glutamic–pyruvic transaminase (GPT), gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase; creatinine increased with a decrease in glomerular filtration rate. Conclusions: This study confirms the effectiveness, tolerability and safety of DTG/RPV in real‐world clinical practice in a different population from clinical trials, with many years of infection, low CD4 nadir, several previous treatment lines, more than half with virological failures, and one‐third diagnosed with AIDS. The switch to DTG/RPV was safe with few discontinuations due to adverse effects. Modifications of the lipid and liver profiles were favourable. There were no relevant changes in kidney function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we hypothesized that shifts in the kinetic parameters of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes may occur as a consequence of seasonal environmental disturbances and would reflect the level of adaptation of the bacterial community to the organic matter of the ecosystem. We measured the activities of enzymes that play a key role in the bacterial growth (leucine aminopeptidase, β‐ and α‐glucosidases) in surface coastal waters of the Eastern Cantabrian Sea and determined their kinetic parameters by computing kinetic models of distinct complexity. Our results revealed the existence of two clearly distinct enzymatic systems operating at different substrate concentrations: a high‐affinity system prevailing at low substrate concentrations and a low‐affinity system characteristic of high substrate concentrations. These findings could be the result of distinct functional bacterial assemblages growing concurrently under sharp gradients of high‐molecular‐weight compounds. We constructed an ecological network based on contemporaneous and time‐delayed correlations to explore the associations between the kinetic parameters and the environmental variables. The analysis revealed that the recurring phytoplankton blooms registered throughout the seasonal cycle trigger the wax and wane of those members of the bacterial community able to synthesize and secrete specific enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shipwrecks have been accidentally and deliberately deployed worldwide, becoming artificial reefs for tourist attractions and habitats for marine species. Recreational divers often visit wrecks and post images on Instagram – a popular social network for image circulation. Here we evaluated if such images could be used as a data source for surveying sea turtles in shipwrecks and assessing diver–sea turtle interactions. We targeted the coast of Pernambuco in Brazil, which has over 100 shipwrecks. We inspected public videos and photos posted on Instagram from October 2010 to April 2020. We used 20 tags in our search, which led to 2353 images (210 videos; 2143 photos). A total of 220 posts depicted sea turtles (189 photos and 31 videos; 41 sea turtles in videos and 199 in photos) and their enhanced quality‐facilitated species identification. We detected Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle), Chelonia mydas (green sea turtle) and Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill sea turtle). Turtles were found in 13 shipwrecks, all with bathymetry up to 30 m. Photos and videos provided the same proportion of images of each turtle species. Nevertheless, from a temporal perspective, this scenario changed. All three species were observed in photo posts in 4 of the 9 full years considered, whereas all three species were only observed in 1 year in the video posts. We registered four types of diver–turtle interactions from videos: 'abrupt approach, chase, touch and pose'. We classified 'abrupt approach, chasing and touching' behaviours as major disturbances as they altered the turtles' behaviours. We classified 'pose' as a minor disturbance as it caused no apparent change in turtle behaviour. Chasing was the most frequently observed interaction. Instagram is a useful complementary tool that can aid in the surveillance of sea turtles in shipwrecks. However, the limitations of this type of data and adequate data filtering criteria must be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long‐term coexistence of sympatric species is dependent on segregation in at least one of three niche dimensions: space, time or feeding habits. Hunting by people can influence species' temporal and spatial patterns and consequently affect their coexistence. We tested the hypothesis that hunting influences spatial and temporal patterns of coexistence of two sympatric deer species (Mazama americana and Mazama nemorivaga) in central Amazonia. We described deer hunting patterns using data from an 18‐year community‐based hunting monitoring program and predicted the spatial distribution of deer hunting trips. We used camera traps to (1) estimate the habitat use patterns of each species through conditional occupancy, (2) evaluate whether these species interact and (3) assess how modelled hunting intensity affects deer habitat occupancy. We also tested the temporal overlap of activity time between both species and hunters. We did not find evidence of hunting effects on occupancy and interaction, nor of spatial segregation among the deer species. M. americana was primarily nocturnal and M. nemorivaga primarily diurnal. The overlap between species' temporal activities was relatively low, suggesting temporal niche segregation between species. Hunting activity was mainly diurnal and overlapped with M. nemorivaga active hours. However, we found that M. americana was more frequently hunted than M. nemorivaga. The probability of daytime activity was not influenced by hunting intensity. Temporal segregation, with asynchrony of activity periods, seems to be the mechanism behind the coexistence of M. americana and M. nemorivaga in Central Amazonia. The absence of hunting effects on brocket deer species in our study area suggests a low impact of harvest on both species' behaviour. This indicates that contexts of low human density and large extensions of pristine forests can enable hunted brocket deer populations to be sustained through source‐sink dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In snakes, behavioral differences between sex and body size can positively influence locomotor performance and metabolic rate. Evidence suggests that larger body size can positively influence the locomotor performance of snakes and affect the metabolic rate of individuals. However, the influence of sexual variation on locomotor performance may not be entirely explained by the variation in body morphology, but also by sexual behavior. Herein, we investigated the locomotor performance, resting metabolic rate, and enzyme activities in the biochemical metabolic pathways of the sexually dimorphic snake Tomodon dorsatus. We used 20 females and 14 males to measure the sprint speed as a proxy for locomotor performance and oxygen consumption to assess the metabolic rate. We also measured the maximum activity of the enzymes: lactate dehydrogenase and citrate synthase in the intercostal skeletal muscle, liver, and heart. Individual snout–vent length was related to tail length, body mass, and sex but was not with the maturity. Males of T. dorsatus are faster than females, and sprint speed and oxygen consumption were found to not be correlated. Males also had higher metabolic rate, while enzyme activities were similar in males and females. These results contributed to understanding the sexual variation in the reproductive behavior of T. dorsatus. Although the results on locomotor performance do not support the hypothesis that locomotion in the species is favored by sexual dimorphism, the increased locomotor performance in males can be explained by courtship behavior. On the other hand, sexual dimorphism and smaller body size can explain the increased metabolic rates in males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Spain is close to HCV microelimination, so rates of recently acquired HCV infection (RAHC) should decrease. Nowadays, men who have sex with men (MSM) carry the highest risk of HCV acquisition. Our aim was to estimate the incidence of and the factors associated with RAHC, together with reinfection rates, among patients sexually infected by HIV. Methods: Primary RAHC infection was diagnosed when anti‐HCV antibody seroconversion was documented. In anti‐HCV positive patients, initially without HCV viraemia, a diagnosis of reinfection was established if plasma HCV RNA was detected. Results: All 350 patients tested negative for anti‐HCV at baseline and had at least one follow‐up visit. Among them, there were 16 RAHC cases from 2016 to 2019. RAHC incidence rates [IR (95% confidence interval, CI)] per 100 person‐years were 3.77 (0.5–12.9) in 2016, 1.85 (0.6–4.3) in 2017, 1.49 (0.4–3.8) in 2018 and 1.98 (0.6–4.5) in 2019. Only previous sexually transmitted infections [incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 18.23, 95% CI: 1.93–172.1; P = 0.011], male sex (IRR = 8.33, 95% CI: 1.38–54.15; P = 0.026) and sharing chem‐sex drugs (IRR: 4.93, 95% CI: 1.17–20.76; P = 0.030), were independently associated with RAHC. Four out of 42 (9.5%) patients became reinfected. Conclusions: The incidence of RAHC among HIV‐infected patients showed a decrease after 2016, although a lower but steady incidence of residual cases still remains. HCV reinfections showed a similar pattern. New infections were associated with sharing chem‐sex drugs among MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures are conduits for fluid flow in low‐permeability geological formations. Multiphase flow properties of fractures are important in natural processes and in engineering applications such as the evaluation of the sealing capacity of caprocks and productivity of hydrocarbon‐bearing tight rocks. Investigations of flow and transport through fractures typically focus on the effects of fracture geometric and mechanical factors such as aperture, roughness, and compressibility. The wettability of the fracture surfaces and its influence on microscale interfacial phenomena and macroscale effective transport properties are seldom studied. Here, we investigated the effect of heterogeneous wetting properties on the displacement of water by supercritical CO2 through a series of lattice Boltzmann method simulations. The results show the evolution of the CO2 plume within a fracture is controlled by both the roughness of the aperture field and the wetting distribution. We combined these factors into a capillary pressure map that can be related to the macroscopic flow behavior of the fracture. We observed that heterogeneous wetting distributions promote the residual trapping of water where lower capillary pressures allowed for isolated water pockets in higher capillary pressure zones. Analysis of fracture unsteady relative permeability shows the effect of wetting on permeability evolution and provides support for the viscous‐coupling relative permeability model. Finally, analysis of the steady‐state relative permeability and saturation demonstrates a strong correlation between permeability and the standard deviation of the capillary pressure field. Thus, characterizing the distribution of wetting properties of fractures is crucial to understanding multiphase fracture flow and transport properties. Key Points: Heterogeneous wettability distributions promote residual saturation during multiphase flow in fracturesThe evolution of unsteady permeability in fractures is partially controlled by the distribution of wettabilitySteady‐state relative permeability and saturation are strongly correlated to the standard deviation of the capillary pressure field [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific knowledge of species and the ecosystems they inhabit is the cornerstone of modern conservation. However, research effort is not spread evenly among taxa (taxonomic bias), which may constrain capacity to identify conservation risk and to implement effective responses. Addressing such biases requires an understanding of factors that promote or constrain the use of a particular species in research projects. To this end, we quantified conservation science knowledge of the world's extant non‐marine mammal species (n = 4108) based on the number of published documents in journals indexed on Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science™. We use an innovative hurdle model approach to assess the relative importance of several ecological, biogeographical and cultural factors for explaining variation in research production between species. The most important variable explaining the presence/absence of conservation research was scientific capacity of countries within the range of the species, followed by body mass and years since the taxonomic description. Research volume (more than one document) was strongly associated with number of years since the data describing on that species, followed by scientific capacity within the range of species, high body mass and invasiveness. The threat status was weakly associated to explain the presence/absence and research volume in conservation research. These results can be interpreted as a consequence of the dynamic interplay between the perceived need for conservation research about a species and its appropriateness as a target of research. As anticipated, the scientific capacity of the countries where a species is found is a strong driver of conservation research bias, reflecting the high variation in conservation research funding and human resources between countries. Our study suggests that this bias could be most effectively reduced by a combination of investing in pioneering research, targeted funding and supporting research in countries with low scientific capacity and high biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate in a laboratory setting the effects of Endosequence BC Sealer HiFlow (Brasseler USA, Savannah, GA, USA), a novel calcium silicate‐based sealer developed for use in warm canal filling techniques, on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Methodology: Eluates of EndoSequence BC Sealer HiFlow (BCHiF) (Brasseler USA), EndoSequence BC Sealer (BCS) (Brasseler USA) and AH Plus (AHP) (Dentsply DeTrey GmbH, Konstanz, Germany) were placed in contact with hPDLSCs. The characterization of the chemical elements of the root canal sealers was assessed using scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis (SEM‐EDX). Inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) was used to determine the ion release of the sealers. MTT assay and wound healing techniques were used to determine cell viability and migration, respectively. Cell morphology and cell attachment were assessed using a direct contact technique of hPDLSCs onto the surface of the sealers and analysed by SEM. The bioactivity potential was carried out with the Alizarin Red and qPCR testing methods. The statistical differences were evaluated using one‐way anova and Tukey's test (P < 0.05). Results: ICP‐MS and EDX revealed significantly more zirconium in BCHiF than BCS (P < 0.05), whereas BCS had slightly higher levels of Ca2+ than BCHiF (P < 0.05). The cell viability assay revealed no relevant differences between BCS and BCHiF when compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Both BCS and BCHiF had similar rates of cell migration to the control group at 24 and 48 h. Cell morphology and adhesion capacity were also similar for BCS and BCHiF groups, whilst the AHP group was associated with reduced adhesion capacity. The Alizarin Red assay revealed a significant difference between the BCS and the control group (P < 0.001), as well as for the BCHiF group (P < 0.001). Finally, BCS and BCHiF promoted overexpression of osteo/cementogenic genes. Conclusions: In general, EndoSequence BC Sealer HiFlow possesses suitable biological properties to be safely used as a root canal filling material and promote increased expression of oste/cementogenic genes by hPDLSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most arcs show systematic temporal and spatial variations in magmatism with clear shifts in igneous rock compositions between those of the magmatic front (MF) and those in the backarc (BA). It is unclear if similar magmatic polarity is seen for extensional continental arcs. Herein, we use geochemical and isotopic characteristics coupled with zircon U‐Pb geochronology to identify the different magmatic style of the Iran convergent margin, an extensional system that evolved over 100 Myr. Our new and compiled U‐Pb ages indicate that major magmatic episodes for the NE Iran BA occurred at 110–80, 75–50, 50–35, 35–20, and 15–10 Ma. In contrast to NE Iran BA magmatic episodes, compiled data from MF display two main magmatic episodes at 95–75 and 55–5 Ma, indicating more continuous magmatism for the MF than for the BA. We show that Paleogene Iran serves as a useful example of a continental arc under extension. Our data also suggest that there is not a clear relationship between the subduction velocity of Neotethyan Ocean beneath Iran and magmatic activity in Iran. Our results imply that the isotopic compositions of Iran BA igneous rocks do not directly correspond to the changes in tectonic processes or geodynamics, but other parameters such as the composition of lithosphere and melt source(s) should be considered. In addition, changes in subduction zone dynamics and contractional versus extensional tectonic regimes influenced the composition of MF and BA magmatic rocks. These controls diminished the geochemical and isotopic variations between the magmatic front and backarc. Plain Language Summary: Most arcs show systematic temporal and spatial variations in magmatism with a clear shift in the composition of igneous products between those of the magmatic front and those in the backarc (BA). Our U‐Pb ages for the NE Iran BA identify five magmatic episodes for the NE Iran backarc, which occurred at 110–80 million years ago (Ma), 75–50, 50–35, 35–20, and 15–10 Ma. The 110–80 Ma magmatic episode was a time of strong regional extension due to subduction initiation along the Zagros suture zone, while the younger episodes reflect maturation of the magmatic arc. The first magmatic episode is represented by magmas dominated by inputs from the underlying mantle, as does the next episode (75–50 Ma). The third pulse (50–35 Ma) shows increasing contributions from the underlying crust. The fourth magmatic pulse occurred at 35–20 Ma, and the volume of these magmas was less than other magmatic pulses. The final pulse in the NE Iran BA (15–10 Ma) suggests that there was a change in magmatic architecture beneath the BA. Magmatic pulses at 110–80 and 50–35 Ma accompanied extension, while others accompanied compression due to collision with Arabia. Contribution of continental crust components was highest for the 50–35 Ma magmatic episode. Key Points: Late Mesozoic‐Cenozoic active continental margin in Iran was characterized by vigorous magmatism in magmatic front and backarcIran back‐arc flare‐up occurred in two pulses at 110–80 and 50–35 Ma., while other pulses at 75–50, 35–20, and 15–10 Ma show magmatic lullsIn contract to NE Iran BA magmatic episodes, the magmatic front indicates a continuous magmatism from 95 to 5 Ma [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simulation of atomic relaxation relies on data libraries with tabulated partial fluorescence yield values of radiative transitions, commonly derived from the Evaluated Atomic Data Library (EADL). However, recent studies support that the data library EADL could be improved by adopting Scofield's Hartree‐Fock calculations instead of current Scofield's Hartree‐Slater calculations. This work presents a bibliography overview of relevant atomic parameter values in order to verify the partial fluorescence yields presented in EADL. The references include libraries and articles, in which the atomic parameter values were theoretically calculated, experimentally measured, or obtained with semi‐empirical and empirical fitting formulas. We present a comparison of total K‐shell fluorescence yields and partial K‐L2, K‐L3, K‐M2, K‐M3 fluorescence yields that are either obtained directly from its references, or are derived from atomic parameters presented in these references. Additionally, we obtain comprehensive partial fluorescence yield values from the combination of semi‐empirical and empirical fitting functions from different references. The comparisons performed in this work confirm that total K‐shell, partial K‐L2, and partial K‐L3 fluorescence yield values, obtained from Scofield's Dirac‐Slater calculations have better agreement with the most recent empirical values. Partial K‐M2, and partial K‐M3 fluorescence yield values obtained from Scofield's Dirac‐Fock calculation have better agreement with the most recent empirical values. Therefore, further studies should be performed before changing the EADL data library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The objective of this study was to compare accuracies of different Bayesian regression models in predicting molecular breeding values for health traits in Holstein cattle. The dataset was composed of 2505 records reporting the occurrence of retained fetal membranes (RFM), metritis (MET), mastitis (MAST), displaced abomasum (DA), lameness (LS), clinical endometritis (CE), respiratory disease (RD), dystocia (DYST) and subclinical ketosis (SCK) in Holstein cows, collected between 2012 and 2014 in 16 dairies located across the US. Cows were genotyped with the Illumina BovineHD (HD, 777K). The quality controls for SNP genotypes were HWE P‐value of at least 1 × 10−10; MAF greater than 0.01 and call rate greater than 0.95. The FImpute program was used for imputation of missing SNP markers. The effect of each SNP was estimated using the Bayesian Ridge Regression (BRR), Bayes A, Bayes B and Bayes Cπ methods. The prediction quality was assessed by the area under the curve, the prediction mean square error and the correlation between genomic breeding value and the observed phenotype, using a leave‐one‐out cross‐validation technique that avoids iterative cross‐validation. The highest accuracies of predictions achieved were: RFM [Bayes B (0.34)], MET [BRR (0.36)], MAST [Bayes B (0.55), DA [Bayes Cπ (0.26)], LS [Bayes A (0.12)], CE [Bayes A (0.32)], RD [Bayes Cπ (0.23)], DYST [Bayes A (0.35)] and SCK [Bayes Cπ (0.38)] models. Except for DA, LS and RD, the predictive abilities were similar between the methods. A strong relationship between the predictive ability and the heritability of the trait was observed, where traits with higher heritability achieved higher accuracy and lower bias when compared with those with low heritability. Overall, it has been shown that a high‐density SNP panel can be used successfully to predict genomic breeding values of health traits in Holstein cattle and that the model of choice will depend mostly on the genetic architecture of the trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tumor is indicated by the arrow. gl In some types of fetal malformation, it is difficult to establish the relationship between normal and pathological tissues using traditional medical imaging or render the individual anatomical characteristics and borders between normal and pathological tissues. However, these methods extract automatically data on the intensity of the contrast created by ultrasound or MRI and cannot reproduce the characteristics and boundaries of the tissues. Fetal epignathus: texture analysis beyond surface of tissue using three-dimensional reconstruction models from ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging data. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Our objective was to identify patient factors associated with being untreated for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in HIV‐coinfected patients. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was carried out. HIV‐infected patients with active chronic HCV infection included in the HERACLES cohort (NCT02511496) constituted the study population. The main study outcome was receipt of HCV direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) treatment from 1 May 2015 to 1 May 2017. The population was divided into patients who were receiving HCV treatment during follow‐up and those who were not. Results: Of the 15 556 HIV‐infected patients in care, 3075 (19.7%) presented with chronic HCV infection and constituted the study population. At the end of the follow‐up, 1957 patients initiated HCV therapy (63.6%). Age < 50 years, absence of or minimal liver fibrosis, being treatment‐naïve, HCV genotype 3 infection, being in the category of people who inject drugs using opioid substitutive therapy (OST‐PWID), and being in the category of recent PWID were identified as significant independent risk factors associated with low odds of DAA implementation. When a multivariate analysis was performed including only the PWID population, both OST‐PWID [odds ratio (OR) 0.552; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.409–0.746) and recent PWID (OR 0.019; 95% CI 0.004–0.087) were identified as independent factors associated with low odds of treatment implementation. Conclusions: We identified factors, which did not include prioritization of a DAA uptake strategy, that limited access to HCV therapy. The low treatment uptake in several populations seriously jeopardizes the elimination of HCV infection in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the influence of sludge age (SA) on the production of electricity from a cyclically fed glycerol–based microbial fuel cell. Under the same hydraulic retention time, different volumes of sludge were extracted from the anode compartment, thereby modifying the SA. Such changes affect the electrochemical performance, the organic matter biodegradation and consequently, the coulombic efficiency. A sludge volume of 0.01 L (corresponding to a SA of 24 d) appears to be optimal, because this favors the development of electricity–generating microorganisms (EGM). Shorter SA times wash EGM out of the system and promote growth of the fermenter (mainly acidogenic bacteria), whereas a longer SA reduces the microbial population. A final product analysis identified that short SAs provide favorable conditions in which higher concentrations of short–chain organic acids are detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We read with interest the article by W. Chen,[1] where they hypothesize that juvenile gangrenous vasculitis of the scrotum (JGVS) may be the male counterpart of Lipschütz ulcers (LU). JGVS has been used to depict the abrupt appearance of scrotal ulcerations in young males, preceded by fever and pharyngeal symptoms, with no abnormalities in laboratory and microbiologic studies and non-specific signs of vasculitis in histological examination. Although difficult to estimate the rate, recurrence of LU is described.[[1], [3]] One of our three patients presented a recurrent scrotal ulcer after 4 years, with no association with EBV or streptococcal pharyngitis. [Extracted from the article]

Summary: Crop–weed competition is extensively studied in weed science. The additive design, in which weed density varies and the crop density is kept constant, is the most commonly utilised design in plant competition studies. The additive design is important to calculate economic weed thresholds and improve weed control decision‐making. Crop–weed competition studies are usually conducted by weed scientists, who sometimes report misleading conclusions because of lack of statistical knowledge needed for data analysis of such studies. Therefore, the objective of this manuscript is to provide the concept of additive design and demonstrate the model selection approach for describing crop–weed density relationship to non‐statisticians. We evaluated three models routinely used in the literature to interpret data from additive designs, including polynomial quadratic, sigmoid and rectangular hyperbola curves. Based on the described statistical criteria, we demonstrated the rectangular hyperbola to be the most appropriate model to describe data from an additive design study looking at Richardia brasiliensis and Commelina benghalensis competition with maize (Zea mays). Moreover, we describe step‐by‐step how to perform the statistical analysis in R software and interpret the results of crop–weed competition studies. We suggest the use of the rectangular hyperbola as a standardised model for crop–weed competition in additive design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Increased soil erosion, pressure on agricultural land, and climate change highlight the need for new management methods to mitigate soil loss. Management strategies should utilize comparable data sets of long‐term soil erosion monitoring across multiple environments. Adaptive soil erosion management in regions with intense precipitation requires an understanding of inter‐annual variability in sediment yield (SY) at regional scales. Here, a novel approach is proposed for analysing regional SY. We aimed to (i) investigate factors controlling inter‐ and intra‐annual SY, (ii) combine seasonality and time compression analyses to explore SY variability and (iii) discuss management implications for different Mediterranean environments. Continuous SY measurements totalling 104 years for eight small catchments were used to describe SY variability, which ranged from 0 to 271 t/ha/year and 0 to 116 t/ha/month. Maximum SY occurs in spring to summer for catchments with oceanic climates, while semi‐arid or dry summer climates experience SY minimums. We identified three time compression patterns at each time scale. Time compression was most intense for catchments with minimum SY in spring to summer. Low time compression was linked to very high soil loss, low run‐off and sediment production thresholds, and high connectivity. Reforestation, grassland and terracing changed SY magnitudes and time compression, but failed to reduce SY for large storm events. Periods with a high probability of high SY were identified using a combination of intra‐annual SY variability, seasonality analysis, and time compression analysis. Focusing management practices on monthly flow events, which account for the majority of SY, will optimise returns in Mediterranean catchments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge of atomic fundamental parameters, such as the mass attenuation coefficients or fluorescence yields with low uncertainties, is of decisive importance in elemental quantification involving X‐ray fluorescence analysis techniques. For example, several databases giving the mass attenuation coefficients are accessible and frequently used within a large community of users. These compilations are most often in good agreement for photon energies in the hard X‐ray ranges. However, they significantly differ for low photon energies and around the absorption edges of the elements. In the case of the fluorescence yields, some authors made a review of measured values found in the literature. However, reliable measurements are not so many illustrating the inherent difficulties. Mass attenuation coefficients of tin were determined experimentally in the photon energy range from 100 eV to 35 keV by using monochromatized synchrotron radiation at SOLEIL (France). The fluorescence yields of the 3 L‐subshells of tin were also determined using a reflection geometry setup and the X‐ray fluorescence setup of Physikalisch‐Technische Bundesanstalt. The Coster–Kronig factors for the tin L‐shells were also experimentally determined. The application of high‐accuracy experimental techniques resulted in low uncertainty mass attenuation coefficients and L‐subshell fluorescence yields that are directly compared with existing databases and with updated relativistic configuration mixing Dirac–Fock calculations including Quantum electrodynamics (QED) corrections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study evaluated the effects of increasing concentrations of spray‐dried yeast cell wall (YCW) in diets for healthy adult cats on apparent nutrient digestibility and on bacterial composition and fermentation products in the stool. Fourteen cats with an average weight of 4.40 ± 1.05 kg and an average age of 6.2 ± 0.54 years were used and assigned to treatments in an unbalanced randomized block design (by experimental period) with two blocks and three or four cats per diet in each block. Treatments included: control (0% YCW), 0.2% YCW, 0.4% YCW and 0.6% YCW, totalling seven animals per experimental diet. We found that YCW did not affect body weight, nutrient and food intake, faecal production, faecal score, faecal pH or urine output (p > .05). Regarding faecal bacteria, we observed a linear reduction in Clostridium perfringens, a quadratic reduction in Escherichia coli, and linear increases in Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp. (p < .05) with the inclusion of YCW. Regarding the faecal short‐chain fatty acid profile, butyrate, valerate, total biogenic amines, putrescine, cadaverine and histamine increased linearly (p < .05) with the inclusion of YCW. It was concluded that in healthy adult cats, consumption of YCW modulates the faecal bacterial populations, with an increased presence of beneficial bacteria and a reduction in some potentially pathogenic bacteria. It was concluded that YCW modulated the levels of fermentation products. There was an increase in fermentation products coming from carbohydrate metabolism, an important effect that can potentially benefit the intestinal health of cats. The consumption of YCW also increased the fermentation of nitrogen compounds, which have not yet been defined as deleterious or beneficial. The fermentability of carbohydrates and nitrogen compounds may be associated. Therefore, YCW may cause rapid fermentation of both classes of compounds by enhancing the fermentability of one class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Membranes design for guided tissue engineering have been studied to aid in cell viability and function as tissue barriers. Two asymmetric resorbable membranes for guided bone regeneration (GBR) were produced: chitosan/pectin/poly‐caprolactone (PECm) and poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyethylenimine/poly(ethylene glycol) (PVAm). Both membranes were characterized by physical, chemical, mechanical, degradation rate, and in vitro biological assessment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the membranes asymmetry, in which PECm asymmetry is given by roughness and chemical composition, while PVAm's only by differences in porosity. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) identified chemical groups and bonds between polymers. Both sides of PVAm revealed to be hydrophobic, whereas the PECm presented one side with higher hydrophobicity than the other. In vitro biological assessment disclosed that PECm presented a higher cell adhesion growth pattern than PVAm, where it seemed to occur a delay in proliferation due to initial low cell adhesion. Both developed membranes are suitable for GBR, since both membranes fulfil the requirements to be used as a tissue barrier. The PECm has an additional role in cell viability that was not observed in the PVAm. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2141‐2150, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents: Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are known to regulate reproductive events in polyovulatory species, but their function and regulation in monovulatory species remain to be fully characterized. Using a well‐established in vivo model, we found that bovine granulosa cells from follicles near the deviation stage express mRNA for the three NP receptors (NPR1, NPR2 and NPR3), but not for NP precursors (NPPA, NPPB and NPPC). The abundance of NPR3 mRNA was higher in dominant compared to subordinate follicles at the expected time of follicular deviation. After deviation, mRNA for all NP receptors was significantly more abundant in the dominant follicle. Intrafollicular inhibition of oestrogen receptors downregulated NPR1 mRNA in dominant follicles. In granulosa cells from preovulatory follicles, NPPC mRNA increased at 3 and 6 h after systemic GnRH treatment, but decreased at 12 and 24 h to similar levels observed in samples collected at 0 h. After GnRH treatment, NPR1 mRNA was upregulated at 24 h, NPR3 mRNA gradually decreased after 3 h, while NPR2 mRNA was not regulated. The mRNA expression of the enzyme FURIN increased at 24 h after GnRH treatment. These findings revealed that the expression of mRNA encoding important components of the NP system is regulated in bovine granulosa cells during follicular deviation and in response to GnRH treatment, which suggests a role of NP system in the modulation of these processes in monovulatory species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the long‐term response to antiretroviral treatment (ART) based on atazanavir/ritonavir (ATZ/r)‐, darunavir/ritonavir (DRV/r)‐, and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r)‐containing regimens. Methods: Data were analysed for 5678 EuroSIDA‐enrolled patients starting a DRV/r‐, ATZ/r‐ or LPV/r‐containing regimen between 1 January 2000 and 30 June 2013. Separate analyses were performed for the following subgroups of patients: (1) ART‐naïve subjects (8%) at ritonavir‐boosted protease inhibitor (PI/r) initiation; (2) ART‐experienced individuals (44%) initiating the new PI/r with a viral load (VL) ≤500 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL; and (3) ART‐experienced patients (48%) initiating the new PI/r with a VL >500 copies/mL. Virological failure (VF) was defined as two consecutive VL measurements >200 copies/mL ≥24 weeks after PI/r initiation. Kaplan–Meier and multivariable Cox models were used to compare risks of failure by PI/r‐based regimen. The main analysis was performed with intention‐to‐treat (ITT) ignoring treatment switches. Results: The time to VF favoured DRV/r over ATZ/r, and both were superior to LPV/r (log‐rank test; P < 0.02) in all analyses. Nevertheless, the risk of VF in ART‐naïve patients was similar regardless of the PI/r initiated after controlling for potential confounders. The risk of VF in both treatment‐experienced groups was lower for DRV/r than for ATZ/r, which, in turn, was lower than for LPV/r‐based ART. Conclusions: Although confounding by indication and calendar year cannot be completely ruled out, in ART‐experienced subjects the long‐term effectiveness of DRV/r‐containing regimens appears to be greater than that of ATZ/r and LPV/r. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Refill friction stir spot welding is a solid‐state process technology that is suitable for welding lightweight materials in similar or dissimilar overlapped configuration. In this study, the fatigue behaviour of single overlapped spot joints of AA2024‐T3 was studied. To statistically analyse the fatigue data, a 2‐parameter Weibull distribution was deployed, considering several reliabilities ( Re = 0.99,  Re = 0.90,  Re = 0.5,  Re = 0.10). To obtain an optimized weld parameter according to the fatigue behaviour, 2 different weld conditions were studied, taking into account the effect of the hook formation. The microstructure analyses and microhardness profiles showed great similarity in both weld conditions. However, these conditions presented distinct interfacial hook profiles, in which the interfacial hook downward represented better fatigue life and infinite fatigue life at 15% of the maximum strength load. The fracture surfaces obtained from 3 different fracture modes were investigated by using scanning electron microscopy; the crack was tracked and described according to its fracture mechanisms from its initiation until the final failures. It was observed that the crack is initiated at hook profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents: The effects of Morus nigra ethanolic extract, without or with addition of supplements associated or not with FSH, on in vitro culture of ovine secondary follicles were evaluated. In experiment 1, isolated secondary follicles were cultured for 12 days in α‐MEM alone (control) or in different concentrations of M. nigra extract (MN 0.025; 0.05 or 0.1 mg/ml). In experiment 2, culture media were α‐MEM supplemented with BSA, insulin, transferrin, selenium, glutamine, hypoxanthine and ascorbic acid (α‐MEM+) or this medium associated with FSH (α‐MEM+ + FSH), or 0.1 mg/ml M. nigra without supplements (MN 0.1) or supplemented (MN 0.1+) without or with FSH (MN 0.1+ + FSH). In experiment 1, 0.1 mg/ml M. nigra showed the highest percentages (p < .05) of normal follicles and fully grown oocytes, besides a higher follicular diameter than α‐MEM and other M. nigra extract concentrations. Moreover, MN 0.1 showed lower (p < .05) glutathione (GSH) levels and similar (p > .05) mitochondrial activity compared to α‐MEM. In experiment 2, MN 0.1+ + FSH showed similar results (p > .05) to α‐MEM+ + FSH for all parameters evaluated, except for the daily growth rate, which was higher (p < .05) in MN 0.1+ + FSH. The GSH levels were higher in MEM+ than all treatments. In addition, oocytes from follicles cultured in MN 0.1+ + FSH showed ability to resume meiosis. In conclusion, M. nigra extract (0.1 mg/ml) added by supplements and FSH can be an efficient medium for ovine secondary follicle development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The technical quality of root canal treatment (RCT) may impact on the outcome. The quality of education received during undergraduate school may be linked to the quality of treatment provided in general dental practice. In this context, the aim of this systematic review was to answer the following focused questions: (i) What is the frequency of acceptable technical quality of root fillings, assessed radiographically, performed by undergraduate students? (ii) What are the most common errors assessed radiographically and reported in these treatments? For this purpose, articles that evaluated the quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students were selected. Data were collected based on predetermined criteria. The key features from the included studies were extracted. GRADE‐tool assessed the quality of the evidence. MAStARI evaluated the methodological quality, and a meta‐analysis on all studies was conducted. At the end of the screening, 24 articles were identified. Overall frequency of acceptable technical quality of root fillings was 48%. From this total, 52% related to anterior teeth, 49% to premolars and 26% to molars. The main procedural errors reported were ledge formation, furcation perforation, apical transportation and apical perforation. The heterogeneity amongst the studies was high (84–99%). Five studies had a high risk of bias, eight had a moderate risk, and 11 had low risk. The overall quality of evidence identified was very low. The conclusion was that technical quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students is low, which may reveal that endodontic education has limited achievement at undergraduate level. A plan to improve the quality of root fillings, and by extrapolation the overall quality of root canal treatment, should be discussed by the staff responsible for endodontic education and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we aim at achieving the most accurate quantitative determination of the composition of exoskeletons of bivalves from Tagus estuary with Energy Dispersive X‐ray Fluorescence. Samples from the shells of clams ranging from the Bronze Ages to the 16th century A.D. belonging to the Museu Arqueológico de Almada, and also from the shells of clams collected recently in the same region, were analyzed for comparison of the trace element composition and detection of heavy metals. The analysis was performed with 2 Energy Dispersive X‐ray Fluorescence setups, one with triaxial geometry and another with a conventional geometry and vacuum capabilities. Samples were pressed as pellets, and the spectra collected with both setups were evaluated using standardless fundamental parameter based software's implemented in each setup, and by comparing with standard reference materials of similar matrix. The comparison of the results obtained with different methods lead to the conclusion that the most realistic results were obtained with calibration curves obtained with external standards and correction the fluorescent intensities with the Compton scattering peak. When comparing the obtained concentrations for all the analyzed periods, results showed a decrease of Fe in the 12th Century. Regarding the environmental current state of the Tagus estuary, there were no heavy metals detected above the safety regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In breast cancer patients, the expression statuses of oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) are crucial in the choice of treatment. Receptor expression in metastatic lesions can differ from the primary tumour. The aim of our study was to analyse the utility of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) to obtain samples allowing the identification of ER, PR and HER2 expression in patients with mediastinal metastases of breast cancer. Patients and methods: The clinical files of all patients with a final diagnosis of breast cancer mediastinal metastases diagnosed by EBUS‐TBNA in our institution were retrospectively analysed. The ability of EBUS‐TBNA to obtain samples that allowed hormone receptor and HER2 expression analysis was calculated. Results: Twenty‐four patients were included. ER, PR and HER2 assessments could be performed in 22, 20 and 22 patients, respectively. In 20 of the 24 patients it was possible to investigate all three types of receptor expression. In the remaining four cases, where ER, PR or HER2 expression tests could not be performed, it was due to a lack of tissue. In cases with adequate results for EBUS‐TBNA and the primary tumour agreement was greater for ER (16/19) and HER2 (12/14) than PR (8/17). Based on receptor status, there was a change in the choice of treatment for five patients. Conclusion: In patients with breast cancer mediastinal metastases, ER, PR and HER2 expression can be assessed in samples obtained by EBUS‐TBNA whenever a sufficient tissue sample is collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Physical stressors, such as man‐made obstacles, are considered one of the main causes that negatively affect freshwater fish. Even small weirs may impact fish populations, including potamodromous cyprinids, by partially or totally blocking upstream migratory movements. Some studies have addressed the effect of key hydraulic parameters on upstream movements past small weirs, but little is known on how these parameters interact to induce swimming or jumping behaviour in negotiating such obstacles. This study aims to evaluate the passage behaviour (swimming vs. jumping) of Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei), a potamodromous species, over an experimental small broad‐crested weir, considering the effect of different plunge pool depths (D), waterfall heights (H), and weir discharges (Q). Results revealed that passage behaviour was highly dependent on combinations of plunge pool depths and waterfall heights. Barbel navigated most configurations by swimming (overall outcomes: 81.5% swimming vs. 18.5% jumping), except the ones with the higher waterfall heights (25 cm) tested. Therefore, higher waterfalls proved to be preponderant in the switching of passage behaviour from swimming to jumping. Regarding the discharge over the 1‐m‐wide weir (overall outcomes: 85% swimming vs. 15% jumping), contrary to what was expected, there was no evidence that passage behaviour was discharge‐related, for the range of discharges tested (25–100 L/s). These results are useful to identify potential migration obstacles and should be taken into consideration in river restoration projects and when designing fishways for potamodromous cyprinids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An analysis of the atmospheric branch of the hydrological cycle by means of a 15 km resolution numerical integration performed using Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) nested in ERA Interim is presented. Two WRF experiments covering the period 2010–2014 were prepared. The first one (N) was configured as in standard numerical downscaling experiments. The second one (D), with the same parameterizations, included a step of 3DVAR data assimilation every 6 h. Apart from comparing our results with ERA Interim data, several observational data sets were used to validate the precipitable water (radiosondes and MODIS data), precipitation (EOBS, ECA&D, TRMM, and GPCP), or evaporation (GLEAM). The verification results showed that the D experiment systematically performs better than N and in many instances, too, better than the forcing reanalysis. According to the results, the leading terms of the water balance are the tendency of the precipitable water, the divergence of moisture flux, evaporation, and precipitation. No spatial patterns were recognizable for the annual accumulated evaporation, but the effect of the Atlantic fronts was detected in the precipitation patterns. The transboundary moisture fluxes through the contour of the Iberian Peninsula behave differently depending on the season during 2010–2014. During winter, they show a net moisture import through the boundaries. During spring, summer, or autumn moisture is exported specially through the Mediterranean coast, and only during midday, this feature is reversed due to sea breezes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the associations between muscular fitness and inflammatory biomarkers and to investigate the relationship between muscular fitness and selected clustered inflammatory biomarkers in adolescents. This is a cross-sectional analysis with 529 adolescents (267 girls) aged 12-18 years. Handgrip strength and standing long jump tests assessed MF. Continuous scores of clustered inflammatory biomarkers (sum of Z-scores of C-reactive protein [ CRP], C3, C4, fibrinogen, and leptin); metabolic risk factor ( MRF) score (sum of Z-scores of SBP, triglycerides, ratio total cholesterol [ TC]/ HDL, HOMA- IR, and waist circumference [ WC]) were computed. Regression analyses showed an inverse association between muscular fitness score (β=−.204; P<.021) and clustered score of inflammatory biomarkers, adjusted for age, sex, pubertal stage, socioeconomic status, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, cardiorespiratory fitness ( CRF), MRF score, and body fat. Analysis of covariance showed that adolescents with an adverse inflammatory profile with low levels of muscular fitness exhibit the poorest MRF score ( F3,525=6.461; P<.001), adjusted for age, sex, pubertal stage, socioeconomic status, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, CRF, and body fatness. The inflammatory state seems to explain a significant part of the highest MRF score and in adolescents with high inflammatory status and low muscular strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic periapical lesions (CPLs) are common lesions of the oral cavity and are the result of caries, tooth fracture, iatrogenic causes, or factors causing contamination and pulp necrosis. Inflammatory cells participate in the expansion of CPLs by releasing factors that stimulate or inhibit osteolytic activity. The objective of this study was to investigate the participation of RANKL, TNF-α, cathepsin K, IL-33, and OPG in the development of radicular cysts (RCs) and periapical granulomas (PGs).Methods: Paraffin-embedded sections of 30 RCs and 22 PGs were submitted to immunohistochemistry.Results: Immunoexpression of the proteins studied was observed in the epithelium and capsule of RCs, as well as in connective tissue of PGs. The expression of the osteoclastogenic factors studied differed significantly in RCs and PGs (P < .001), with lower expression of OPG in RCs. In PGs, the lowest expression was observed for cathepsin K. Comparison of the 2 lesions showed a similar participation of RANKL and IL33, while a significant difference was observed for OPG (P < .001), TNF-α (P = .002), and cathepsin K (P = .016). No association of the expression of the proteins with lesions size was observed.Conclusions: This study demonstrated the participation of RANKL, TNF-α, IL-33, cathepsin K, and OPG in the development of RCs and PGs, with emphasis on the highest immunoreactivity of cathepsin in RCs and TNF-α and OPG in PGs. OPG possibly determines the slower growth of PGs compared to RCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the effects of maternal nutrition ( MN) and foetal sex on the intestinal development of bovine foetuses throughout different days of gestation ( DG). Forty-four multiparous, dry Holstein × Gyr cows with average initial body weight of 480 ± 10 kg were fed the same diet of either restricted feeding at 1.15% of body weight ( CO, n = 24) or fed ad libitum (overnourished, ON, n = 20). Six cows from CO group and five cows from ON group were slaughtered at 139, 199, 241 and 268 DG, and foetuses were necropsied to evaluate the intestinal development. The mass, length and density of foetal intestines were not affected by MN (p ≥ 0.260). An interaction between MN and DG was observed for the villi length of jejunum (p = 0.006) and ileum (p < 0.001). Villi length of jejunum and ileum was higher (p < 0.10) in foetuses from ON-fed cows than in foetuses from CO-fed cows at 139 DG. However, at 199 DG, the villi length of jejunum and ileum of foetuses from CO-fed cows was higher than in foetuses from ON-fed cows. Despite these differences, MN did not affect the villi length of jejunum and ileum at 268 DG (p > 0.10). Female foetuses had greater small intestine mass (p = 0.093), large intestine mass (p = 0.022), small intestine mass in proportion to body mass (p = 0.017) and large intestine mass in proportion to body mass (p < 0.001) than male foetuses. Female foetuses had also longer small intestine (p = 0.077) and greater small intestine density (p = 0.021) and villi length of jejunum (p = 0.001) and ileum (p = 0.010) than males. We conclude that MN affects the pathway for the development of foetal villi length throughout the gestation in bovine foetuses without changing the final villi length. Female foetuses had higher intestinal mass, density and villi length than males during the foetal phase in bovines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the ability of a Glass Reinforced Hydroxyapatite Composite (GRHC), in a new microporous pellet formulation with autologous bone marrow concentrate (BMC), to enhance bone regeneration and new bone formation. Ninety non-critical sized bone defects were created in the femurs of nine Merino breed sheep and randomly left unfilled (group A), filled with GRHC pellets alone (group B) or filled with GRHC pellets combined with BMC (group C). The sheep were sacrificed at 3 weeks (three sheep), 6 weeks (three sheep) and 12 weeks (three sheep) and histological analysis (Light Microscopy-LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histomorphometric analysis (HM) were performed. At 3, 6, and 12 weeks, HM revealed an average percentage of new bone of 48, 72, 83%; 25, 73, 80%, and 16, 38, 78% for Groups C, B and A respectively (significantly different only at 3 weeks p < 0.05). LM and SEM evaluation revealed earlier formation of well-organized mature lamellar bone in Group C. This study demonstrates that the addition of a bone marrow concentrate to a glass reinforced hydroxyapatite composite in a pellet formulation promotes early bone healing. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:1176-1182, 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To examine emotion processing in euthymic bipolar patients ( EBP) compared to healthy controls. In addition, to determine whether or not there is an association between emotion processing and psychosocial functioning. Material and methods A sample of 60 EBP and 60 healthy controls matched for age, gender, education level, and premorbid intelligence were studied. All subjects were assessed using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery ( MCCB) and two additional executive function measures: the Trail Making Test-Part B and the Stroop Test. Emotion processing was examined using the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test ( MSCEIT). Psychosocial functioning was assessed using the Functional Assessment Short Test ( FAST). Results Euthymic bipolar patients obtained lower scores than controls in all MSCEIT measures except for the using emotions branch. Likewise, EBP obtained a worse performance than healthy controls in all neurocognitive domains. Correlation between MSCEIT strategic area measures and FAST total score was found ( r = −0.311; P < 0.016). Regression analysis showed that residual depressive symptomatology explains a 9.1% of the variance in functional outcome. MSCEIT strategic area score explained an additional 8.6%. Neurocognition did not increase the percentage of the variance explained by emotion processing. Conclusions Euthymic bipolar patients exhibit deficits in emotion processing. Emotion processing is associated with social functioning in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feasibility of joining 1.6-mm-thick sheets of AA2198-T8 by the novel friction spot welding technology and the resulting microstructural features on the welds cross sections were assessed, with further evaluation of the process parameters on the weld performance. Besides the intrinsic discontinuity related to the interface between the sheets, the hook feature was found to be inherent to the welding process, and its morphology was determinant to the weld performance and fracture mode. A beneficial response on the shear strength was achieved with the minimization of the hook feature because of the absence of a potential site for crack nucleation, although the generation of other defects, depending on the combination of parameters, could erase this benefit. Through statistical analysis, the most influent parameters on the weld performance were plunge depth and welding time. In the present study, regardless of the weld discontinuities, the optimum shear strength revealed a satisfactory performance in mechanical terms for aerospace applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Intestinal immune activation is involved in irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) pathophysiology. While most dietary approaches in IBS involve food avoidance, there are fewer indications on food supplementation. Palmithoylethanolamide, structurally related to the endocannabinoid anandamide, and polydatin are dietary compounds which act synergistically to reduce mast cell activation. Aim To assess the effect on mast cell count and the efficacy of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in patients with IBS. Methods We conducted a pilot, 12-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre study assessing the effect of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin 200 mg/20 mg or placebo b.d. on low-grade immune activation, endocannabinoid system and symptoms in IBS patients. Biopsy samples, obtained at screening visit and at the end of the study, were analysed by immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunoassay, liquid chromatography and Western blot. Results A total of 54 patients with IBS and 12 healthy controls were enrolled from five European centres. Compared with controls, IBS patients showed higher mucosal mast cell counts (3.2 ± 1.3 vs. 5.3 ± 2.7%, P = 0.013), reduced fatty acid amide oleoylethanolamide (12.7 ± 9.8 vs. 45.8 ± 55.6 pmol/mg, P = 0.002) and increased expression of cannabinoid receptor 2 (0.7 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.8, P = 0.012). The treatment did not significantly modify IBS biological profile, including mast cell count. Compared with placebo, palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin markedly improved abdominal pain severity ( P < 0.05). Conclusions The marked effect of the dietary supplement palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin on abdominal pain in patients with IBS suggests that this is a promising natural approach for pain management in this condition. Further studies are now required to elucidate the mechanism of action of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in IBS. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01370720. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is generally accepted that liming ameliorates soil acidity. However, the method of lime application is thought by many to influence its effectiveness in acid soils. In this study, we wanted to assess the degree of effectiveness of surface-applied lime and lime incorporated into the soil on soil structural attributes and water retention of a Dystrudept soil in the SE region of the State of Paraná, Brazil. Lime was added at the rate of 15 t/ha to soil through: (i) surface broadcasting, (ii) incorporation via ploughing and harrowing, (iii) incorporation via subsoiling and harrowing. A control treatment with zero lime application was included in the experiment. The addition of lime by surface broadcasting resulted in significant reductions in soil bulk density ( BD) and macroporosity (Ma) and increases in total porosity ( TP) and microporosity (Mi) of the top soil layer (0-0.10 m). The reverse was the case in the 0.10- to 0.20-m soil layer; where lime was incorporated via ploughing and harrowing, increases in BD and reductions in TP and Ma were observed. Addition of lime also significantly increased soil water retention, with maximum retention recorded from soil amended with surface broadcast lime. Changes in soil chemical attributes (increases in pH, Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents; reductions in potential acidity and Al3+ content) were responsible for the changes observed in structural and physical attributes, and water retention. Bearing in mind the lower application costs, improvement in the soil chemical attributes for plant development and soil physical quality, surface broadcast lime can be considered a promising alternative for no-till farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We have previously shown that meal ingestion induces cognitive perception (sensations) with a hedonic dimension (well-being) that depends on the characteristics of the meal and the appropriateness of the digestive response. The aim of the present study is to identify metabolomic biomarkers of the cognitive response to meal ingestion. Methods In 18 healthy subjects, the response to a test meal (Edanec, 1 kcal/mL) ingested until maximum satiation (50 mL/min) was assessed. Perception measurements and blood samples were taken before, at the end of the meal, and 20 min after ingestion. The cognitive response and the hedonic dimension were measured on 10 cm scales. Metabolomic analysis was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and values of triglycerides, insulin, peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) were determined using conventional laboratory techniques. Key Results Ingestion up to maximum satiation induced sensation of fullness and decreased digestive well-being. The total amount ingested by each subject correlated with the basal sensation of hunger, but not with other sensations or blood metabolite levels. Immediately after ingestion, satiation correlated with an increase in glucose ( R = 0.49; p = 0.038) and valine levels ( R = 0.48; p = 0.043). Twenty-minutes after finalizing ingestion, triglyceride levels had significantly increased which correlated with the recovery in well-being ( R = 0.48; p = 0.046) and the decrease in desire to eat a food of choice ( R = −0.56; p = 0.016). The increase in lipids inversely correlated with abdominal discomfort ( R = −0.51; p = 0.032). Conclusions & Inferences Cognitive and hedonic responses to meal ingestion correlate with changes in circulating metabolites, which may serve as objective biomarkers of perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gall inducers use these structures as shelters and sources of nutrition. Consequently, they cause multiple physiological changes in host plants., We studied the impact caused by seed coat galls of a braconid wasp on the performance of fruits, seeds and seedlings of tree Inga laurina. We tested whether these seed galls are 'nutrient sinks' with respect to the fruit/seed of host plant, and so constrain the reproductive ability and reduce seedling longevity. We measured the influence of such galls on the secondary compounds, fruit and seed parameters, seed viability and germination and seedling performance., Inga laurina has indehiscent legumes with polyembryonic seeds surrounded by a fleshy sarcotesta rich in sugars. The galls formed inside the seed coat and galled tissues presented higher phenol concentrations, around 7-fold that of ungalled tissues. Galls caused a significant reduction in parameters such as fruit and seed size, seed weight and the number of embryos. Fluctuating asymmetry (a stress indicator) was 31% higher in leaves of galled seed plants in comparison to ungalled seed plants. However, the negative effects on fruit and seed parameters were not sufficient to reduce seed germination (except the synchronization index) or seedling performance (except leaf area and chlorophyll content)., We attributed these results to the ability of I. laurina to tolerate gall attack on seeds without a marked influence on seedling performance. Moreover, because of the intensity of seed galling on host plant, we suggest that polyembryony may play a role in I. laurina reproduction increasing tolerance to seed damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of patient's biological differences in waiting time for kidney transplantation is well known and has been a subject of extensive debate and struggle in transplantation community. Our purpose was to evaluate patient's access to kidney transplantation in Portugal, regarding their degree of allosensitization and blood type. A retrospective cohort study including 1020 candidates for kidney transplantation between 01 January 2010 and 31 December 2011 in transplant unit Centro Hospitalar do Porto was performed. The deceased donor organ offer by blood type decreased with the calculated panel reactive antibody ( cPRA) increase for A and B blood groups candidates, while in 0 blood group candidates, a significant reduction in organ offer was only observable in hypersensitized ( HS) ones. As a consequence, the median waiting time was also significantly higher in 0 blood group patients, when compared to the remaining groups. However, waiting time increased extensively with cPRA regardless blood type, especially HS patients with increases of 368%, 632%, 486%, and 140% for blood groups A, B, AB, and 0, respectively, when compared to each blood group global median waiting time. Our study shows that important measures need to be undertaken in order to mitigate the huge disadvantage that HS and 0 blood type patients naturally have. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatogonial stem cells are being exploited in many species as a tool to recover fertility, but may also be used to manipulate the genetic pool. Whatever the purpose, these cells must be fully characterized and easily identifiable, and our goal was to improve this procedure in the domestic cat, used as an animal model for endangered felid species and for some human diseases/physiological processes. We have therefore screened several markers that might be used to distinguish and study the undifferentiated spermatogonia population in situ and in vitro via immunohistochemistry applied to tissue sections and whole mounts of the domestic cat seminiferous tubules. Our results show that, although they label the cytoplasm and nucleus of gonocytes and spermatogonia in prepubertal animals, PGP9.5 and FoxO1 cannot be considered markers of undifferentiated spermatogonia in adult animals, as almost all spermatogonia, namely type A and B, express these proteins. Nonetheless, the Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA lectin) was able to label the cell surface and cytoplasm of a small type A spermatogonial population in the adult animals. Analysis of the number and distribution of the DBA-labeled cells showed they were present in low number, which did not vary with epithelium seminiferous stage. Morphometric analysis revealed that DBA-labeled cells present tropism to a peculiar area of the seminiferous tubules, namely the area in direct contact with Leydig cells. Whole mounts of DBA-stained seminiferous tubules revealed the arrangement of DBAstained cells in small clones up to eight cells. Noteworthy, the clonal cells presented variable staining intensity suggesting the existence of asymmetric distribution of O-glycosylated proteins within each clone. Our results strongly suggest that the DBA lectin is a marker of undifferentiated spermatogonia in domestic cat, and illustrate the peculiar characteristics of spermatogonial stem cell development and organization in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Deficient prepulse inhibition ( PPI) of the startle response, indicating sensorimotor gating deficits, has been reported in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aimed to assess sensorimotor gating deficits in patients with euthymic bipolar. Furthermore, we analysed the relationships between PPI and clinical and cognitive measures. Method Prepulse inhibition was measured in 64 patients with euthymic bipolar and in 64 control subjects matched for age, gender, education level and smoking status. Clinical characteristics and level of functioning were assessed in all participants using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale ( HDRS), Young Mania Rating Scale ( YMRS) and Functioning Assessment Short Test ( FAST). Cognition was evaluated using the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia Consensus Cognitive Battery ( MCCB) and the Stroop test as an additional measure of executive function. Results Compared with controls, patients with bipolar disorder exhibited PPI deficits at 60- and 120-millisecond prepulse-pulse intervals. Among patients with bipolar disorder, PPI was correlated with the social cognition domain of the MCCB. PPI was not significantly correlated with other clinical, functional and neurocognitive variables in either group. Conclusions Our data suggest that PPI deficit is a neurobiological marker in euthymic bipolar disorder, which is associated with social cognition but not with other clinical, functional or cognitive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]