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From 2014 to 2017, two Department of Energy buoys equipped with Doppler lidar were deployed off the U.S. East Coast to provide long-term measurements of hub-height wind speed in the marine environment. We performed simulations of selected cases from the deployment using a 5-km configuration of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, to see if simulated hub-height speeds could produce closer agreement with the observations than existing reanalysis products. For each case we performed two additional simulations: one in which marine surface roughness height was one-way coupled to forecast wave parameters from a stand-alone WaveWatch III (WW3) simulation, and another in which WRF and WW3 were two-way coupled using the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere–Wave–Sediment–Transport (COAWST) framework. It was found that all the 5-km WRF simulations improved 90-m wind speed statistics for the tropical cyclone case of 8 May 2015 and the cold frontal case of 25 March 2016, but not the nor'easter of 18 January 2016. The impact of wave coupling on buoy-level (4 m) wind speed was modest and case dependent, but when present, the impact was typically seen at 90 m as well, being as large as 10% in stable conditions. One-way wave coupling consistently reduced wind speeds, improving biases for 25 March 2016 but worsening them for 8 May 2015. Two-way wave coupling mitigated these negative biases, improved wave field representation and statistics, and mostly improved 4-m wind field correlation coefficients, at least at the Virginia buoy, largely due to greater self-consistency between wind and wave fields. Significance Statement: Using atmospheric models to forecast winds in the environments of offshore wind turbines will be critical in the new energy economy. The models used are imperfect, however, being sometimes too coarse, and may not properly represent the wind field at typical turbine hub heights of 90 m, for which we have limited observations in the marine environment. To help address this gap, two buoys equipped with lidars that measured hub-height winds continuously were deployed off the U.S. East Coast from 2014 to 2017. We used the lidar buoy data to show the benefits of a relatively high-resolution atmospheric model over existing reanalysis products, as well as including both the impacts of waves on winds and vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we compared the phenol content and composition of fruit from the 'Arbequina' cultivar in four Mediterranean (in Andalucía, Southern Iberian Peninsula) and two Sub-Tropical (Canary Islands) locations throughout the harvest period. Two Mediterranean and two Sub-Tropical locations were maintained with drip irrigation, while the remaining two Mediterranean locations were in dry farming. Water availability and harvest date seemed to play more important roles than air temperature on the phenolic content and most of the studied components. The variability associated with location was a result of the high values observed in the two Mediterranean locations in dry farming, with respect to the other four maintained with drip irrigation. Few differences were found among the four drip-irrigated locations, despite the fact that two were Mediterranean and the other two Sub-Tropical. In addition, a sharp decrease was observed during the harvest period for phenolic content and most of the phenolic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The year 2014 is between one of the coldest La Niña events (2011−2012), and one of the most intense warming events between (2013–2016) in the California Current System (CCS). The information provided in this work documents part of the missing information about zooplankton and oceanographic features for the year 2014 along the southern portion of the CCS off the western Coast of Baja California Peninsula (WBCP). The statistical analysis of environmental variables during the summer of 2014 distinguished three regions off the WBCP (north, transitional, and south), in coincidence with changes in zooplankton groups composition. Thermal and saline oceanic fronts off the central region coincided with an increasing abundance of gelatinous zooplankton, where two cold core eddies were present. These mesoscale structures represent physical barriers that seem to determine the distribution limits of planktonic communities. Since no day/night statistical differences in zooplankton composition were found, zooplankton community changes seem more related to the latitudinal environmental changes and mesoscale semi-permanent structures in the middle peninsula. • Environmental variables distinguished three regions off the WBCP. • A total of 25 taxonomic groups of zooplankton were collected in WBCP. • Zooplankton were dominated mainly by copepods and euphausiids organisms. • Zooplankton composition changes were related by oceanographic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nickel-catalyzed N-alkylation of a variety of arylamines via transfer hydrogenation in the absence of pressurized hydrogen and basic or acidic additives was achieved in a tandem reaction. This process was further extended to the C＝N bond reduction and N-alkylation of a variety of imines with ethanol, the latter acting as a hydrogen and acetaldehyde source, which allowed for the reduction and subsequent condensation to yield the corresponding N-alkylated products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthamoeba castellanii is a free-living amoeba found mainly in humid environments and Arcobacter butzleri is an emerging zoonotic pathogen, both can establish in vitro endosymbiotic relationships in the absence of bacterial replication. We analyzed the localization of A. butzleri within A. castellanii establishing their association with endoplasmic reticulum vesicles and mitochondria. Through confocal microscopy, we observed that during the early stages of endosymbiosis, there is not colocalization between amoebic vacuoles containing A. butzleri and mitochondria or ER vesicles of A. castellanii. Considering that energy production of this bacterium occurs via metabolism of amino acids or the tricarboxylic acid cycle, these results contribute to explain the absence of bacterial replication, since A. butzleri would not have access to the nutrients found in endoplasmic reticulum vesicles and mitochondria. In addition, we observe that A. butzleri induces significantly the actin polymerization of A. castellanii during the early stages of endosymbiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blending supplementary cementitious materials with portland cement is one of the current strategies for producing more eco-efficient binders by lowering the energy consumption and CO 2 emissions intrinsic to OPC manufacture. The effect of such additions on heat of hydration and energy performance is a subject of particular interest, for higher heat may reduce the service life of a concrete structure, whilst energy consumption per tonne of binder or megapascal may prove not to be energy-efficient. This paper explores the energy performance of granite sludge (GS) as an active addition to clinker and the effect of this by-product on heat of hydration and eco-efficiency. The findings show that maximum heating and total heat released are lower in the additioned than in the conventional material, with the difference widening at higher replacement ratios. At 35% GS, maximum heating was 36% lower than in OPC and total heat released 24% lower. Optimal energy performance is observed at ratios of 15% to 30% (both inclusive), with the experimental materials requiring less energy (−1.6 kW·h·t−1/MPa – 0.8 kW·h·t−1/MPa) than ordinary cement per megapascal (MPa) of strength. Cements with 15% to 30% granite sludge are consequently eco-efficient. With 15% GS they can be classified as ordinary (>270 J/g at 41 h), with 20% to 30% as low heat cements (<270 J/g at 41 h) and with 35% as very low heat cements (<220 J/g at 41 h). Unlabelled Image • Energy performance of cements bearing granite sludge as an SCM assessed. • Heat of hydration in normal, low heat and very low heat blended cement analysed. • Mechanical performance of eco-friendly cement-based materials determined. • Effect of raw material replacement with waste on building sustainability discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been postulated that the incorporation of cyclic or aromatic groups to the chemical structure of monomers/polymers could improve the mechanical performance of the polymeric materials prepared from them. In this work, N-methacryloyloxyethyl-m-toluidine (MEET) monomer, a compound whose chemical structure is similar to diethylamino ethyl methacrylate (DEAEM) but having an aromatic ring, was synthesized. Acrylic bone cements were prepared using either MEET or DEAEM as co-monomer and a systematic study of the potential influence of adding aromatic structures on the fatigue properties and fracture toughness of such bone cements was performed. Results indicated that the formulations prepared with the aromatic co-monomer (MEET) exhibited a higher fatigue resistance than those containing the aliphatic counterpart (DEAEM), at all co-monomer concentrations. These results confirm the hypothesis that the inclusion of aromatic structures in the bone cement formulations increases the fatigue life of these materials. It was also found that presence of aromatic structures in bone cement formulations improve the fracture toughness of cements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A versatile route has been developed for the synthesis of 2‐arylindoles using a Pd‐catalyzed tandem process. Under reductive conditions, different 2‐arylindoles were synthesized from phenylglyoxal and aniline. This synthetic methodology involves a tandem reaction of four steps with high regioselectivity. Alternatively, 2‐anilinoacetophenones intermediates also can be using to give access to the corresponding 2‐arylindoles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Rapeseed oil cake (ROC) is a biomass of particular interest for biorefinery and food activities, due to its high protein, lignin, polyphenol and fiber contents. An environmental separation process combining ultrafine milling and electrostatic separation was recently developed for proteo-lignocellulosic plant fractionation. Several of the parameters of the fractionation process (milling mode, electrode voltage, charge, particle size, etc.) can affect the efficiency of protein separation and extraction. We assessed the impact of three different mechanical modes of milling — ball milling, impact grinding and jet milling — on the electrostatic separation (ES) of lignin and protein from ROC biomass. The initial biomass and the ES fractions were characterized and correlations were identified between particle colors and sizes and their protein and fiber contents. Mechanical grinding had a significant impact on the surface properties of the particles, influencing their charge and the electrostatic separation of lignin and protein from biomass. The combination of impact grinding and electrostatic separation appear the most efficient and effective technologies for rapeseed oil cake protein concentrate. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Rapeseed oil cake (ROC) is a biomass of particular interest for biorefinery. • Impact of milling mode on Electrostatic Separation (ES) of protein • ES is a sustainable technology for protein and fiber separation. • Energy and separation efficiency of different milling modes coupling to ES • Hybrid fractionation provides high ROC protein purity and is energy efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The granite sludge has been used as SCM in the design of the new blended cements. • Granite quarry dust exhibits no alkali-silica reactivity. • Binder bearing 20% granite quarry dust are low heat cements. • The new cements are apt for aesthetically sensitive applications. • The new blended cements have good durable behaviour. Abstract Cements prepared to new designs in which different types of waste are used as additions must be tested for mechanical strength and durability to ensure their performance will be satisfactory throughout their service life. This study explored the effect of adding 10% or 20% granite quarry dust to cement on properties such as transport (total and capillary water absorption and electrical resistivity), dimensional stability (drying shrinkage and expansion), the alkali-silica reaction, heat of hydration and colour. No alkali-silica reaction was observed in the new materials and expansion and contraction were less intense than in conventional cement. The water absorption and capillary absorption coefficients rose less in the additioned cements than the replacement ratio, whilst their higher resistivity values afforded greater corrosion protection than found in the reference. The inclusion of this waste also prompted a rise in lightness and a decline in peak heat of hydration. The multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) conducted showed that the factors time and replacement ratio affected the properties significantly, whereas the combined effect of the two was statistically significant or otherwise depending on the property analysed. The findings showed that the partial replacement of cement with quarry dust is not detrimental to product durability and the recycled material qualifies as a strength class 42.5, type II/A binder. The materials bearing 20% granite quarry dust, in turn, were found to meet the requirements to qualify as low heat cements (CEM II/A LH). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determine the critical values of lengths of ellipse-like defects in plates made of bone cement produced with various additives. The analysis is performed by using previously studied samples subjected to different soaking periods (0; 3; 6 months) in simulated body fluid. This research is focused on the behavior of samples made of bone cement and containing different additives: diethylaminoethylacrylate, dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate, and diethylaminoethylmethacrylate. The models developed at present make it possible to determine the critical length of defects according to the values of the stress intensity factor. This, in turn, makes it possible to compute the critical number of loading cycles in specific mechanical elements containing elliptic defects. This class of calculations may serve as a basis for the engineering recommendations in the design and risk assessment of actual elements manufactured from this material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present a case of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), misdiagnosed initially as a necrotizing infection that significantly worsened due to repeated surgical debridement and aggressive wound care therapy, almost resulting in limb amputation despite antibiotic therapy. The PG lesions improved after pancytopenia were further investigated, and the diagnosis and treatment of an underlying hematologic malignancy was initiated. The diagnosis and management of PG is challenging given the paucity of robust clinical evidence, lack of standard diagnostic criteria, and absence of clinical practice guidelines. It is imperative that clinicians recognize PG as a clinical diagnosis that must be considered in any patient with enlarging, sterile, necrotic lesions that are unresponsive to prolonged and appropriate antibiotics. Early recognition can prevent devastating sequelae such as deep tissue and bone infections associated with a chronic open wound, severe cosmetic morbidity, and potential limb amputation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last years eggplant has received a great interest as functional food, being classified among top ten vegetables with antioxidant capacity because of its high content of phenolics. This vegetable is rich in the content of anthocyanins in the peel and also rich in the content of phenolic acids in the flesh, being delphinidin derivartives and chlorogenic acid isomers the main phenolic compounds in those anatomic parts, respectively. A lot of studies of eggplant phenolics have been published in the last years, which include a great number of genotypes with a wide fruit diversity in shapes, sizes and colors. The content and the chemical structures of the eggplant phenolics are the topics discussed in the present review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a new straightforward catalytic synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted indoles from α-diketones 1 and N-substituted anilines 2 by employing a palladium(II) trifluoroacetate/1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene ([Pd(tfa)2]/dppf; 1:1.5) under reductive conditions and without an external oxidant. The tandem reaction involves ketoenamine and ketoamine as intermediates and a final dehydration-annulation reaction to obtain the 2,3-disubstituted indole. New palladium hydride species, which catalyze the reaction, could not be isolated but Pd-H species were observed by NMR and IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (FAB+) studies. This work presents a new regioselective route with a plausible mechanism to synthesize 2,3-disubstituted indoles under reductive conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vast volumes of waste generated to quarry ornamental granite constitute both an environmental and a public health hazard. This study assesses the viability of designing new blended cements in which 10% or 20% of the clinker is replaced with granite sludge by analysing the effect of its inclusion on the chemical, rheological, mechanical and microstructural properties of the end product. The later age change in the pore structure of the new mortars induced by the slow pozzolanic kinetics of this supplementary cementitious material (SCM) translates into a narrow difference in the mechanical performance between these and conventional mortars. Despite that difference, the new cements are apt for use in construction, inasmuch as they are compliant with the requirements laid down for Type II/A and IV/A cements in European standard EN 197-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes the analysis of morphology and electrical resistivity (ρ) obtained in the Au/Cu/Si system. The Au/Cu bilayers were deposited by thermal evaporation technique with thicknesses from 50 to 250 nm on SiOx/Si(100) substrates. The Au : Cu concentration ratio of the samples was of 25 : 75 at%. The bilayers were annealed into a vacuum oven with argon atmosphere at 660 K for one hour. The crystalline structures of AuCu and CuSi alloys were confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to study the morphology, final thickness, and the atomic concentration of the alloys formed, respectively. The four-point probe technique was used to measure the electrical resistivity (ρ) in the prepared alloys as a function of thickness. The ρ value was measured and it was numerically compared with the Fuchs–Sondheimer (FS) and the Mayadas–Shatzkes (MS) models of resistivity. Results show values of electrical resistivity between 0.9 and 1.9 μΩ-cm. These values are four times smaller than the values of the AuCu systems reported in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the technological improvements introduced in the production of ornamental granite, sludge is inevitably generated in end product cutting and polishing. The present study constitutes the first attempt to scientifically analyse granite sludge, focusing in particular on its characterisation and pozzolanic activity and the morphological and microstructural changes taking place in both thermally activated waste and in the pozzolan/Ca(OH) 2 system in the first 360 days of reaction. The possible valorisation of this waste as a component of more eco-friendly cements is assessed with a view to furthering the circular economy. The findings show that thermal activation has no beneficial effect on sludge pozzolanicity, which at later ages was similar to the activity observed in other additions such as copper and manganese silicate slag but lower than in silica fume, fly ash and fired clay materials. The granite waste/Ca(OH) 2 system microstructure, in turn, contains C-S-H gels characterised by a low (0.6–1.0) Ca/Si ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium sulfide (CdS) thin films were deposited by chemical bath deposition (CBD) onto polymeric composites with electric field-aligned multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). MWCNT/polysulfone composites were prepared by dispersing low concentrations of MWCNTs within dissolved polysulfone (PSF). An alternating current electric field was “in situ” applied to align the MWCNTs within the dissolved polymer along the field direction until the solvent was evaporated. 80 μm thick solid MWCNT/PSF composites with an electrical conductivity 13 orders of magnitude higher than the conductivity of the neat PSF were obtained. The MWCNT/PSF composites were subsequently used as flexible substrates for the deposition of CdS thin films by CBD. Transparent and adherent CdS thin films with an average thickness of 475 nm were obtained. The values of the energy band gap, average grain size, rms roughness, crystalline structure, and preferential orientation of the CdS films deposited onto the polymeric substrate were very similar to the corresponding values of the CdS deposited onto glass (conventional substrate). These results show that the MWCNT/PSF composites with electric field-tailored MWCNTs represent a suitable option to be used as flexible conducting substrate for CdS thin films, which represents an important step towards the developing of flexible systems for photovoltaic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:A retrospective cohort.Objectives:To report the incidence rates of shoulder injuries diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in tetraplegic athletes and sedentary tetraplegic individuals. To evaluate whether sport practice increases the risk of shoulder injuries in tetraplegic individuals.Setting:Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil.Methods:Ten tetraplegic athletes with traumatic spinal cord injury were selected among quad rugby athletes and had both the shoulders evaluated by MRI. They were compared with 10 sedentary tetraplegic individuals who were submitted to the same radiological protocol.Results:All athletes were male with a mean age of 32.1 years (range 25-44 years, s.d.=6.44). Time since injury ranged from 6 to 17 years, with a mean value of 9.7 years and s.d. of 3.1 years. All sedentary individuals were male with a mean age of 35.9 years (range 22-47 years, s.d.=8.36). Statistical analysis showed a protective effect of sport in the development of shoulder injuries, with a weak correlation for infraspinatus and subscapularis tendinopathy (P=0.09 and P=0.08, respectively) and muscle atrophy (P=0.08). There was a strong correlation for acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) and labrum injuries (P=0.04), with sedentary individuals at a higher risk for these injuries.Conclusion:Tetraplegic athletes and sedentary individuals have a high incidence of supraspinatus tendinosis, bursitis and ACJ degeneration. Statistical analysis showed that there is a possible protective effect of sport in the development of shoulder injuries. Weak evidence was encountered for infraspinatus and subscapularis tendinopathy and muscle atrophy (P=0.09, P=0.08 and P=0.08, respectively). Strong evidence with P=0.04 suggests that sedentary tetraplegic individuals are at a greater risk for ACJ and labrum injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work a strip of a transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) steel was welded using gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and Laser CO2 welding (LBW) processes and the resultant strength and ductility of the welded joints evaluated. It was found that LBW lead to relatively high hardness in the fusion zone, FZ where the resultant microstructure was predominantly martensite. The relative volume fractions of phases developed in the welded regions were quantitatively measured using color metallography combined with X-ray diffraction analyses. It was found that the heat affected zone, HAZ developed the maximum amount of martensite (up to 32%) in the steel welded using LBW besides a mixture of bainite, retained austenite and ferrite phases. In contrast, a relatively low percent of martensite (10.8%) was found in the HAZ when the GMAW process was implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, it is well known that surface interactions play a preponderant role in mechanical operations, which are fundamental in pharmaceutical processing and formulation. Nevertheless, it is difficult to correlate surface behaviour in processes to physical properties measurement. Indeed, most pharmaceutical solids have multiple surface energies because of varying forms, crystal faces and impurities contents or physical defects, among others. In this paper, d -mannitol polymorphs (α, β and δ) were studied through different characterization techniques highlighting bulk and surface behaviour differences. Due to the low adsorption behaviour of β and δ polymorphs, special emphasis has been paid to surface energy analysis by inverse gas chromatography, IGC. Surface energy behaviour has been studied in Henry’s domain showing that, for some organic solids, the classical IGC infinite dilution zone is never reached. IGC studies highlighted, without precedent in literature, dispersive surface energy differences between α and β mannitol, with a most energetically active α form with a γ s d of 74.9 mJ·m −2 . Surface heterogeneity studies showed a highly heterogeneous α mannitol with a more homogeneous β (40.0 mJ.m −2 ) and δ mannitol (40.3 mJ·m −2 ). Moreover, these last two forms behaved similarly considering surface energy at different probe concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasculitis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations from cutaneous to visceral involvement and its prognosis ranges from mild to life-threatening. We report the case of a previously healthy 17-year-old woman with eight months' history of arthralgias and myalgias. Subsequently, she developed facial and lower limbs edema, and hair loss. Two weeks before admission to a secondary level hospital, she developed fever up to 40 ℃ followed by abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, hematemesis and blisters on both legs, reason for which she was hospitalized. With active bullous SLE with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis suspected, she was treated with methylprednisolone pulses without response. After one week of treatment, she was transferred to a tertiary level hospital. On admission she presented acute arterial insufficiency of the lower extremities, respiratory failure with apnea, metabolic acidosis and shock; six hours later she died. Autopsy findings showed active diffuse lupus nephritis and diffuse systemic vasculitis that involved vessels from the skin, brain, myocardium, spleen, iliac and renal arteries. In addition, serositis of the small intestine and colon, acute and chronic pericarditis, pericardial effusion and myocarditis were found. Immunologic tests confirmed SLE diagnosis. In this case the fulminant course was the result of SLE high disease activity, visceral vasculitis of several organs and late diagnosis, referral and treatment. Early diagnosis, and opportune referral to the rheumatologist for intensive treatment can improve the outlook in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The method for concentration of mineral matter at low temperature (about 250 °C), called Low Temperature Ash (LTA) was applied to a sample of coal from the mine “Las Mercedes” located in Colombia southwestern. This method provides better information about the content of mineral matter in natural coal (NC), removing the organic matter more efficiently without significant transformations of mineral phases present in that coal. These results were observed through Mössbauer spectra and X-ray patterns taken from samples of NC, (LTA) and the conventional method of High Temperature Ash (HTA). The results show that the LTA process provides more representative data of the mineral phases for natural coal than that using the conventional HTA process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a pathogen of public health importance. In Chile, the Cordobes/Chilean clone was the predominant healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) clone in 1998. Since then, the molecular epidemiological surveillance of MRSA has not been performed in Southern Chile. We aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of HA-MRSA infections in Southern Chile to identify the MRSA clones involved, and their evolutionary relationships with epidemic international MRSA lineages. A total of 303 single inpatient isolates of S. aureus were collected in the Valdivia County Hospital (2007–2008), revealing 33 % (100 MRSA/303) prevalence for HA-MRSA infections. The SCC mec types I and IV were identified in 97 % and 3 % of HA-MRSA, respectively. All isolates lacked the pvl genes. A random sample ( n = 29) of all MRSA was studied by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), SCC mec subtyping, agr and spa typing, and virulence genes profiling. PFGE analysis revealed the predominance (89 %, 26/29) of pulsotype A and three additional pulsotypes, designated H1, I33, and G1. Pulsotype A (ST5-SCC mecI- spa-t149) is clonally related to the Cordobes/Chilean clone. Pulsotype H1 (ST5-SCC mecIVNT- spa-t002) is genetically related to the Pediatric clone (ST5-SCC mecIV). Pulsotype I33 (ST5-SCC mecIVc- spa-t002) is clonally related by PFGE to the community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) clone spread in Argentina, I-ST5-IVa-PVL +. The G1 pulsotype (ST8-SCC mecIVc- spa-t024) is clonally related to the epidemic USA300 CA-MRSA. Here, we demonstrate the stability of the Cordobes/Chilean clone over time as the major HA-MRSA clone in Southern Chile. The identification of two CA-MRSA clones might suggest that these clones have entered into the healthcare setting from the community. These results emphasize the importance of the local surveillance of MRSA infections in the community and hospital settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper a photoacoustic method is proposed for specific heat capacity measurements in solids using a heat transmission configuration, where illumination takes place at the reference–sample interface. The method involves the use of a liquid reference sample so that it becomes free of instrumental function influence due to effects dependent on the detection cell, the frequency dependence of the microphone response and of the involved electronics. The method is validated with measurements performed in test samples of different materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate cerebral blood flow abnormalities in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) patients without ongoing neurological manifestations. Patients and methods: We included 28 PAPS patients and 28 healthy controls. Carotid Doppler ultrasound, and echocardiographic evaluation were done. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography measured mean flow velocity (MFV) in the carotid siphon, middle, anterior, posterior, intracranial vertebral arteries, and basilar artery (11 cerebral arteries). Results were considered abnormal when the MFV was out of the normal range according to age and/or flow asymmetry and/or more than four arterial segments affected. Results: The mean age of patients was 41.4 ± 11.2 and 39.3 ± 8.6 years in controls. Disease duration was 11 ± 2.7 years. A significant increase in MFV in 7/11 cerebral arteries in PAPS patients, mainly in the middle and anterior cerebral arteries was found compared with controls. A significant association between lupus anticoagulant, history of stroke and obesity with a greater number of affected arteries was found. We did not find an association between MFV and abnormal echocardiography, arterial hypertension and carotid intima-media thickness. Conclusions: Asymptomatic patients with PAPS can have significantly increased MFVs. These alterations may be the consequence of accelerated atherosclerosis, PAPS vasculopathy or both. Whatever the cause, these findings can represent a risk for stroke in PAPS patients that needs the trial of other therapeutic options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, four conditions, siliconosis, Gulf War syndrome (GWS), macrophagic myofasciitis syndrome (MMF) and post-vaccination phenomena, were linked to a previous exposure to an adjuvant, suggesting a common denominator, and it has been proposed to incorporate comparable conditions under a common syndrome entitled Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). We report a case of a female who at the age of 11 years was diagnosed with Still’s disease. At the age of 22 she underwent silicone breast implants and presented with a transient lupus-like syndrome. Then, at 25 years old she had a severe activation of Still’s disease in association with rupture of silicone breast implants. When the prostheses were removed, the clinical picture improved. This case fulfills the criteria for ASIA and complements seven previous reports of Still’s disease in association with silicone breast implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical, laboratory and histological manifestations of patients who received illegal injections of foreign substances for cosmetic purposes.Patients and methods: We studied patients who met the following inclusion criteria: 1) history of application of foreign substances for cosmetic purposes, 2) clinical data of autoimmune disease or non-specific autoimmune manifestation (i.e. arthralgias, myalgia, malaise, fever, and weight loss), 3) detection of autoantibodies in patients’ sera, 4) histological evidence of chronic inflammation and/or granulomatous reaction to foreign body.Results: Fifty female patients aged 44.4 ± 10 years were studied. The mean time between application of foreign substances and onset of symptoms was 4.5 ± 4.3 years. Patients were followed for 12 ± 7.5 years. Forty-one patients were injected with mineral oil, nine patients received other substances: three iodine gadital, one guayacol, one guayacol plus silicone fluid, two collagen, two silicone fluid. The sites of application were: buttocks (36), legs and/or thighs (11), breasts (eight) hands and face (one), face (two) (seven patients received an injection to more than one site). Thirty patients presented with non-specific autoimmune manifestations, whereas 20 patients fulfilled the criteria for a defined autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, overlap syndrome, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, autoimmune thyroiditis, autoimmune hepatitis, and ulcerative colitis.Conclusions: Cases of human adjuvant disease following illegal injections of oil substances for cosmetic purposes are reported. Patients presented with defined autoimmune diseases as well as with non-specific autoimmune manifestations. Illegal injection of these substances could lead to serious local and systemic complications, even to death. These cases represent another model of Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). The use of these substances should be prohibited. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Investigation of the morphology evolution of annealed polycrystalline Au(111) films by atomic force microscopy and x-ray diffraction leads to a continuous model that correlates such an evolution to local interactions between grains triggering different mechanisms of stress accommodation (grain zipping and shear strain) and relaxation (gap filling and grain rotation). The model takes into consideration findings concerning the in-plane reorientation of the grains during the coalescence to provide a comprehensive picture of the grain-size dependence of the interactions (underlying the origin of the growth stress in polycrystalline systems); and in particular it sheds light on the postcoalescence compressive stress as a consequence of the kinetic limitations for the reorientation of larger surface structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:Clinical and radiographic evaluation of the shoulders of tetraplegic and paraplegic patients who attend rehabilitation program.Objectives:The objective of this study is to establish the usefulness of radiography as a trial exam for shoulder pain in spinal cord injured patients.Setting:Hospital das Clinicas-UNICAMP. Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil.Methods:Thirty-two shoulders of 16 patients were evaluated by clinical exam and radiography. Patients were divided into two groups: paraplegic and tetraplegic. A control group of 16 normal volunteer subjects was selected.Results:Shoulder pain was reported in 88.89% of tetraplegic and 42.85% of paraplegic. The time of injury ranged from 1.5-22 years (mean 7.88 years); patients had a mean age of 34.68 years (range, 21-57 years). The acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) space ranged from 0.03-0.7 cm on the right side and 0.15-0.7 cm on the left side, with a mean of 0.37 and 0.41 cm, respectively. No correlation was found between shoulder pain and gender, age or time since injury. There was a trend to correlation between shoulder pain and type of injury with tetraplegic having a tendency to pain symptoms. On average, tetraplegic had smaller ACJ.Conclusions:The small number of patients in this study did not allow us to confirm the hypothesis that X-ray finding may indicate risk for shoulder pain in spinal cord injury patients. A work with a greater number of subjects could demonstrate association between shoulder pain and the reduced acromioclavicular distance, making plain radiography a trial exam for spinal cord-injured patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceptual range is one of the main determinants of dispersal success in fragmented landscapes, which are composed of scattered remnants of original habitat in a matrix of variable composition. How perceptual range varies according to land use is essential information to estimate the functional connectivity of landscapes. We determined for the first time how different types of land use affect the perceptual range of a species, using as model organisms two neotropical marsupials endemic to the Atlantic Forest in Brazil ( Philander frenatus and Didelphis aurita). We released and tracked the movements of 196 individuals in three types of land use commonly found in fragmented landscapes: manioc plantation, mowed pasture and abandoned pasture. We also determined how orientation to the nearest forest fragment is affected by distance to the fragment, wind speed, body mass and sex using a model selection approach. The type of land use affected the perceptual ranges of both marsupials. The estimated perceptual ranges for P. frenatus and D. aurita were 100 and 200 m in the mowed pasture, respectively, 50 and <30 m in the abandoned pasture and 30 and 50 m in the plantation. The orientation of both species decreased with increasing distance to the fragment, but for D. aurita orientation also increased with the wind speed and body mass. These results agree with previous studies depicting a general pattern of increased perceptual range with lower vegetation obstruction in the matrix and larger body mass and wind speed, depending on the use of visual versus olfactory cues by animals. Our findings allow more realistic estimates of functional connectivity in fragmented landscapes based on basic information on the biology of each species and the type of matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Acrosin is an acrosomal protease synthesized as an inactive precursor, proacrosin, which is processed via autoproteolysis into active forms alpha- and beta-acrosin. In this paper, a comparative study on the immunoreactivity of acrosin during in vitro capacitation of frozen and fresh (control) canine sperm using Western blot analysis is reported. Semen samples were obtained by digital stimulation and ejaculates processed as fresh and frozen samples and then capacitated for 0, 30, 60 and 90 min. At each time period, samples were analyzed with monoclonal antibody C5F10 by Western blot. The antibody specifically recognized, in fresh and frozen/thawed spermatozoa, a 40-, 32- and 27-kDa bands corresponding to proacrosin, alpha- and beta-acrosin, respectively, during capacitation. Western immunoblots showed that the beta-acrosin reactivity in fresh sperm was directly proportional to the time of capacitation, whereas a decreased reactivity of active form of acrosin was observed with frozen-thawed sperm (p < 0.05). These results suggest that proacrosin is activated to beta-acrosin earlier in frozen/thawed dog spermatozoa than in fresh dog spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isomalto-oligosaccharides and dextrans of controlled molecular weight of about 10 and 40 kDa were produced using a simple one-step process using engineered L. mesenteroides NRRL B-512F dextransucrase variants. Isomalto-oligosaccharides were produced in a 58% yield by the acceptor reaction with glucose, and reached a degree of polymerization of at least 27 glucosyl units. Reaction conditions for optimal synthesis of dextrans of controlled molecular weight were defined, in respect of initial sucrose concentration and reaction temperature. Thus, we achieved synthesis with impressive yields of 69 and 75% for the 40 and 10 kDa dextran species, respectively. These two dextran sizes are particularly suitable for clinical applications, and are of great industrial demand. Compared with the traditional processes based on chemical hydrolysis and fractionation, which achieve only low yields, the new enzymatic methods offer improvement in quantity, quality and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of the environmental conditions inducing different ecophysiological responses in the different strains and populations of the brine shrimp Artemia should improve the understanding of their biogeographic distribution. Nauplii from two Argentinean brine shrimp populations, Artemia persimilis from Salinas Grandes de Hidalgo (province of La Pampa) and Artemia franciscana from Laguna Mar Chiquita (province of Cordoba), were grown up until adulthood at different salinities (30, 60, 90, 120 gL−1) and temperatures (12, 21, 28°C). The aim was to assess the effects of these different conditions on prereproductive life span and reproductive traits. Results evidenced that at 21 and 28°C, at any salinity, A. franciscana from Laguna Mar Chiquita attained higher survival and fecundity, after a shorter prereproductive period, than A. persimilis from Salinas Grandes de Hidalgo. These data support that A. franciscana, considered a superspecies, exhibits higher phenotypic plasticity than A. persimilis, and that A. persimilis is better adapted to lower temperatures than A. franciscana. These differences in temperature and salinity tolerance could explain the present distribution of these two species in the South Cone in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to know the blood donation characteristics in students of the School of Human Medicine of Universidad de San Martin de Porres, located in the district of La Molina, in the year 2004. The type of study has been observational, descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional, and responds to a correlation design. A questionnaire having in consideration the objective of the study was devised, where the instrument was validated previously complying with international methodological demands. The data were processed in a database, in order to carry out the statistical analyses with the SPSS version 11 package. The qualitative data were classified in frequencies and percent- ages, and differences in percentages were analysed using the chi-square test. Among the most significant results, we found that there is no previous blood donor record, that they are informed that the blood donated to ADANEIN is for children with leukaemia, that the exams that are carried out with the blood donated check for Chagas' disease, hepatitis B and antibodies for HTLV-I and II. We should emphasize from the study, that the great majority of students would donate blood to ADANEIN when requested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic hypertrophic cranial pachymeningitis is a very infrequent disorder. Adequate management is still a matter of debate. We describe the use of low-dose pulse methotrexate in treating a 63-year-old woman with idiopathic hypertrophic cranial pachymeningitis. A weekly scheme with subcutaneous methotrexate was tried. Clinical improvement occurred in one week. Total remission of the clinical and neuro-imaging abnormalities was evident 6 months later, with minimal side effects. The patient is in complete remission after one year of follow-up without treatment. Hence, low-dose weekly subcutaneous methotrexate may be safe and effective in inducing complete and sustained remission of this condition. The experience with subcutaneous methotrexate to treat this entity has never been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to determine the clinical differences at diagnosis and during follow-up between male and female patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). We analysed 68 patients, 30 males and 38 females diagnosed and followed between 1990 and 2003. Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome associated with systemic lupus erythematosus at onset and during follow-up were excluded. The mean age at diagnosis was 31.4 ± 11 years in males and 35.7 ± 11 years in females (NS). The follow-up after diagnosis was 8.7 ± 3.1 years in males and 9.2 ± 2.9 years in females (NS). We did not find significant differences between the two groups with respect to venous and arterial thrombosis. However, in female patients, stroke was more prevalent than in male patients (12/38 versus 3/30, P = 0.03). In contrast, we found a significant prevalence of severe gastrointestinal complications in male compared to female patients (7/30 versus 1/38, P = 0.009). One male patient died due to catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome. This study suggests that clinical course in patients with PAPS may be different with significant prevalence of central nervous system involvement in females and gastrointestinal involvement in males. Factors such as accelerated atherosclerosis, hormones, related to gender could be the explanation of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The financial analysis of the enterprise, in order to know its degree of solvency, can be made from a static or dynamic point of view. Through the static point of view, the analysis is made from the examination of the relevant magnitudes in the balance sheet, that is, a fund analysis, concentrating on the working capital. On the other hand, from the dynamic point of view, this analysis is made from the relevant magnitudes of the Effective Flow State, which constitutes a flow analysis. Both analyses, when applied to a same enterprise, can present contradictory results, with the more significative orientations being the ones that come from the dynamic analysis; this is the reason why currently is much more relevant to use the flow analysis, in which we must put all our efforts to shell its analytical power. The goal of this article is to develop a methodological proposal for the flow analysis based on the information contained in the Effective Flow State, as an appropriate tool to know the degree of solvency of a company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distributional diversity and assemblages of fish larvae in the Gulf of California indicated two main seasonal stages and two transitional periods: in winter, the tropical water mass is confined to the south-east portion of the mouth of the Gulf and larval fish assemblages are dominated by subtropical and temperate-subarctic species; in summer; tropical water invades the Gulf and assemblages are dominated by tropical species. Both seasonal stages are separated by transitional periods coinciding with strong latitudinal temperature gradients. During the autumn and spring transitional periods, the Gulf of California splits into three regions: a northern region where temperate and subarctic species spawn from autumn to spring, a southern region dominated by tropical and subtropical species year round and a central region where tropical and temperate assemblages merge. Seasonal changes in the location of the regions, as well as the borders between them, show expansion and contraction of the northern and southern faunas related to the general oceanic circulation patterns during the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare the clinical findings, laboratory data, functional outcome and chronic damage in male patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We studied 29 male patients with PAPS and 44 with SLE. Clinical findings, laboratory data, lupus damage index (SLICC/ACR DI), and functional outcome in PAPS, were analysed in each group. The mean age atdiagnosis was 29.8 ± 10.4 years in patients with PAPS and 26 ± 10.1 years in SLE patients. The duration of disease was 4.5 ± 2.6 versus 5.2 ± 3.8 years in patients with PAPS and SLE, respectively (P = NS). In patients with PAPS the most frequent clinical manifestations were venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and pulmonary thromboembolism. Patients with SLE had joint, skin and renal involvement more frequently than those with PAPS (P = 0.0001). All PAPS patients had anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL), and 14 patients (48%) had lupus anticoagulant (LA). All SLE patients had antinuclear antibodies (ANAs). Anti-dsDNA antibodies were positive in 39% of SLE patients. Five patients died: one with 'catastrophic' APS and four with SLE. SLICC/ACR-DI score in SLE patients was 1.9 (SD = 1). In PAPS patients poor functional outcome was due to myocardial infarction, pulmonary thromboembolism, stroke and mesenteric thrombosis. Lupus nephritis was the principal organ damage in SLE. In conclusion, in male patients with PAPS and SLE, the clinical manifestations were significantly different. Arterial thrombosis was the major cause of functional impairment and permanent organ damage in PAPS. Renal involvement was the major cause of chronic damage in SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the distribution of phytoplankton and mesozooplankton at the subtropical fronts in Azores, Portugal. Composition of mesozooplankton community; Dominance of flagellate and picoplankton in the phytoplankton biomass; Food requirements of mesozooplankton.

Abstract: A methodology was used to evaluate Low Temperature Ash (LTA) and High Temperature Ash (HTA) through Mössbauer Spectroscopy (MS). Siderite was the only Mössbauer Spectral presenting a good correlation between the spectral area and the ash content obtained by LTA and HTA. The calibration curves obtained for HTA and LTA gave a correlation coefficient of 0.968 and 0.988, respectively. The LTA results present the best correlation, given that this process does not change the original mineral phases. This methodology was the advantageous for easily obtaining coal ash content, through curve ash content vs. MS area, without carrying out ashing processes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The current and next observation seasons will detect hundreds of gravitational waves (GWs) from compact binary systems coalescence at cosmological distances. When combined with independent electromagnetic measurements, the source redshift will be known, and we will be able to obtain precise measurements of the Hubble constant H 0 via the distance–redshift relation. However, most observed mergers are not expected to have electromagnetic counterparts, which prevents a direct redshift measurement. In this scenario, one possibility is to use the dark sirens method that statistically marginalizes over all the potential host galaxies within the GW location volume to provide a probabilistic source redshift. Here we presented H 0 measurements using two new dark sirens compared to previous analyses using DECam data: GW190924 |$\_$| 021846 and GW200202 |$\_$| 154313. The photometric redshifts of the possible host galaxies of these two events are acquired from the DECam Local Volume Exploration Survey (DELVE) carried out on the Blanco telescope at Cerro Tololo. The combination of the H 0 posterior from GW190924 |$\_$| 021846 and GW200202 |$\_$| 154313 together with the bright siren GW170817 leads to |$H_{0} = 68.84^{+15.51}_{-7.74}\, \rm {km\, s^{-1}\, Mpc^{-1}}$|⁠. Including these two dark sirens improves the 68  per cent confidence interval (CI) by 7  per cent over GW170817 alone. This demonstrates that the addition of well-localized dark sirens in such analysis improves the precision of cosmological measurements. Using a sample containing 10 well-localized dark sirens observed during the third LIGO/Virgo observation run, without the inclusion of GW170817, we determine a measurement of |$H_{0} = 76.00^{+17.64}_{-13.45}\, \rm {km\, s^{-1}\, Mpc^{-1}}$|⁠. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Listeriosis is a severe food-borne infection caused by the Gram-positive rod, Listeria monocytogenes. Despite the low incidence (3–8 cases per million), Listeriosis has a case fatality rate of 20–30% as it occurs predominantly in immunocompromised individuals at extremes of age, diabetics and pregnant women. Listeriosis classically presents as a febrile gastroenteritis, isolated bacteremia, meningitis, or maternal-fetal infections. Focal bone and joint infection are rare and primarily involve orthopedic implant devices. Here, we present the first case of Listeria-associated spondylodiscitis. Case presentation: A 79-year-old male presents with acute-on-chronic back pain in the absence of risk factors or exposures, aside from age. On radiological imaging, spondylodiscitis of L3-L4 was diagnosed. Subsequently, a CT-guided biopsy was performed to aid in confirming microbiological aetiology. Listeria monocytogenes was grown in culture and patient received appropriate antibacterial therapy. Conclusion: The case highlights the utility of image-guided tissue sampling in aiding diagnosis and management in patients with vertebral osteomyelitis. It also encourages consideration of uncommon organisms such as Listeria as an etiology of vertebral osteomyelitis, even in the absence of prosthetic implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Listeriosis is a severe food-borne infection caused by the Gram-positive rod, Listeria monocytogenes. Despite the low incidence (3-8 cases per million), Listeriosis has a case fatality rate of 20-30% as it occurs predominantly in immunocompromised individuals at extremes of age, diabetics and pregnant women. Listeriosis classically presents as a febrile gastroenteritis, isolated bacteremia, meningitis, or maternal-fetal infections. Focal bone and joint infection are rare and primarily involve orthopedic implant devices. Here, we present the first case of Listeria-associated spondylodiscitis.Case Presentation: A 79-year-old male presents with acute-on-chronic back pain in the absence of risk factors or exposures, aside from age. On radiological imaging, spondylodiscitis of L3-L4 was diagnosed. Subsequently, a CT-guided biopsy was performed to aid in confirming microbiological aetiology. Listeria monocytogenes was grown in culture and patient received appropriate antibacterial therapy.Conclusion: The case highlights the utility of image-guided tissue sampling in aiding diagnosis and management in patients with vertebral osteomyelitis. It also encourages consideration of uncommon organisms such as Listeria as an etiology of vertebral osteomyelitis, even in the absence of prosthetic implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the long-term risk factors predicting residual/recurrent cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN 2-3) and time to recurrence after large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ).Design: Retrospective study.Setting: Colposcopy clinic.Population: 242 women with CIN 2-3 treated between 1996 and 2006 and followed up until June 2016.Methods: Age, margins, and high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard and unconditional logistic regression models. The cumulative probability of treatment failure was estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis.Main Outcome Measure: Histologically confirmed CIN 2-3, HR-HPV, margins, age.Results: CIN 2-3 was associated with HR-HPV (HR = 30.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.80-246.20), age >35 years (HR = 5.53, 95% CI = 1.22-25.13), and margins (HR = 7.31, 95% CI = 1.60-33.44). HR-HPV showed a sensitivity of 88.8% and a specificity of 80%. Ecto+ /endocervical+ (16.7%), uncertain (19.4%) and ecto- /endocervical+ margins (9.1%) showed a higher risk of recurrence (odds ratio [OR] = 13.20, 95% CI = 1.02-170.96; OR = 15.84, 95% CI = 3.02-83.01; and OR = 6.60, 95% CI = 0.88-49.53, respectively). Women with involved margins and/or who were HR-HPV positive had more treatment failure than those who were HR-HPV negative or had clear margins (P-log-rank <0.001).Conclusions: HR-HPV and margins seem essential for stratifying post-LLETZ risk, and enable personalised management. Given that clear margins present a lower risk, a large excision may be indicated in older women to reduce the risk.Tweetable Abstract: After LLETZ for CIN 2-3, recurrences appear more often in women with positive HR-HPV and involved margins and aged over 35. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, caused by the use of specific treatments as well as health factors directly related to those processes. One of the high-frequency side effects in patients treated with classic and atypical antipsychotics is hyperprolactinemia. It causes alterations in neuroendocrine sphere (amenorrhea, galactorrhea, gynecomastia…), and other mid- and long-term effects (osteoporosis, cardiovascular risk increase and increased risk of developing cancers - specifically in breasts and endometrium). Objectives Check hyperprolactinemia induction by maintained treatment with atypical antipsychotics. Methodology A naturalistic prospective study was conducted following 75 patients on maintenance treatment with a single atypical antipsychotic during 24 months. Anthropometric and laboratory data were collected, along with the presence of different endocrine-metabolic during the 2-year study alterations. Results Changes in prolactin levels were found in a large number of patients, with statistically significant differences between 0 (basal) and 24 months (Basal [M = 26.27; SD = 21], 2 years [M = 38.08, SD = 34.65]; t = −2.758; P = 0.013], with hyperprolactinemia increasing from 46.6% of patients at baseline to 65.5% at 2 years, mainly with paliperidone and risperidone long acting injection (statistically significant increase in both cases) ( Fig. 1 ). Conclusions Paliperidone and risperidone long acting injectable induce increased prolactin levels in patients in long-term antipsychotic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteotechnics is one of the different anatomical preservation techniques and can be defined as the technique designed to prepare, clean, obtain and preserve bone structures that can be used in the teaching, museographic or research field. The osteotechnical technique procedure consists of the following phases: debulk and disjoint, maceration, cooking, cleaning, degreasing, bleaching, and labeling to obtain bone material. Seven phases will be explained in detail, as well as the materials, instruments, quantities of the substances used, and the time required to obtain human bone material. We consider that this article can serve as a guide, given that all the experimentation was carried out with human biological material. This methodological proposal could be consolidated and established based on the experience acquired during the creation of the contemporary skeletal collection of the department of innovation in human biological material (DIMBIH). Therefore, the purpose of our proposal is to provide tools that facilitate the work of those who carry out this work and fundamentally to avoid irreversible or irreparable damage to the osteological material, since it is of great value and difficult to acquire for disciplines as anatomy, veterinary, physical and forensic anthropology, medicine, dentistry and biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphological evolution of thermally annealed polycrystalline gold films was studied in terms of several statistical parameters of the growing surface, determined by x-ray diffraction and scanning probe microscopy, including roughness, in-plane and out-of-plane grain size and local slope distributions. The morphology transformations occur as a result of the balance of attractive and repulsive interactions between surface structures emerging at different length scales, which comprise a competition between stress relaxation via surface currents and strain generation. This balance is responsible for the formation of large multigrain structures via the bundling with in-plane reorientation of neighbouring grains, related to attractive interaction on the short length scale, and the generation of grooves and surface discontinuities between structures repelling each other, on longer length scales. These results shed light on the surface phenomena occurring during post-growth annealing of T-zone structured, polycrystalline gold films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]