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Post‐translational modifications of lysine in histones, as methylation and acetylation, have well established functions in epigenetics and are emerging as important actors in broader biological regulation. Currently, the detection of acetylated lysine (Kac) in water solution as free amino acid or protein residue remains challenging. Acetylated lysine is a neutral amino acid, and the lack of ion–dipole interactions causes the decrease in binding affinity displayed by synthetic molecular receptors with respect to the other lysine modifications. Here, we report molecular modeling calculations and 1H NMR experiments to investigate the binding properties of two different calix[4]pyrrole receptors towards Kac. Computational analyses reveal that tetra‐aryl‐extended calix[4]pyrrole (1) preferentially binds the cis‐Kac conformer over the trans one due to steric considerations and more favorable interactions. Experimental 1H NMR titration experiments confirm the formation of a 1 : 1 complex between receptor 1 and cis‐Kac, with a Ka exceeding 103 M−1. Conversely, the super‐aryl‐extended calix[4]pyrrole 2 is less efficient in binding Kac, due to unfavorable solvation/desolvation effects, as proven by 1H NMR experiments. Moreover, receptor 1 showed a higher affinity for Kac over other lysine modifications, such as methylated lysines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article seeks to understand the Brazilian authoritarian legacy and its relationship with the recent episodes of censorship of the art and cultural production. The research produced a survey of cultural productions censored and/or attacked target by conservative groups in Brazil between June 2017 and March 2020. Cases that fit three criteria were analyzed: target of conservative action judgment or criminalization of art, productions with national repercussions in the mainstream media, and productions that involved reaction or mobilization in defense of art and freedom of speech. We argue that the current scenario of democratic rupture encouraged the country’s authoritarian movements, which contributed to trigger several episodes of censorship. We start from the concepts of authoritarianism, censorship and freedom of expression combined with content analysis to develop such thinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unpaved roads often are in poor condition, especially in developing countries, due to limited resources, resulting in discomfort, accident risk, vehicle operating costs (VOCs), freight transport damage, and difficulties accessing essential services by rural populations. Previous studies proposed methods that do not enable a complete and cost-effective unpaved road evaluation in the context of an integrated unpaved road management system (URMS). Developing global condition indexes is crucial in establishing a hierarchical classification of the whole road network, rationalizing resource allocation, and facilitating planning maintenance and rehabilitation candidate projects within a medium to long timeframe. The Global Quality Index of Unpaved Roads (GQIUR) development in this work provides data for management at the network and project levels, allowing the evaluation of riding quality and both distress at specific road sections. The GQIUR combines the Ride Quality Index of Unpaved Roads (RQIUR), proposed in this study, with the Unsurfaced Road Condition Index (URCI). By capturing data from cameras, accelerometers, and Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors on smartphones affixed to a vehicle's windshield, it is possible to determine the RQIUR by evaluating ride quality while traveling. Recording surface distresses during walking surveys allows URCI calculation. The URCI and RQIUR classification was established based on the existing literature and the practicality of URMS. The GQIUR incorporates these attributes in a balanced manner, considering the comparable importance of the URCI and RQIUR for managers and users. The evaluation covered more than 10 km of unpaved roads. Asphalt and cobblestone pavement samples were compared with unpaved road data. GIS application to the GQIUR shows the general classification of unpaved roads. Unpaved roads present structural and functional distresses, and gravel roads cause excessive vibrations due to roughness and loose aggregates. The method enables priority section identification in a practical, objective, and cost-effective manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest phylogenetic and taxonomic studies emphasizing Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae) have significantly altered the relationships between its taxa. In this work, we inferred a phylogeny for the Brazilian phyllocladiferous species of Phyllanthus, traditionally included within Phyllanthus sects. Choretropsis and Xylophylla from eastern Brazil and Caribbean, respectively. Our analysis demonstrated that Brazilian phyllocladiferous species has no relation to P. sect. Xylophylla from the Caribbean, but sect. Choretropsis, as it currently stands, does not form a monophyletic group. Thus, phylloclades arose in Phyllanthus at least in five distinct clades. Most species of sect. Choretropsis are recovered among representatives of other groups (sects. Antipodanthus and Phyllanthus subsect. Claussenianii), but no macromorphological feature could be traced for the clades we recovered. One exception is a clade containing P. dracenoides, P. gladiatus and P. pedicellatus, species with dracenoid habit and exclusive to the humid dense forests along Atlantic Forest domain, for which we describe a new section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic wounds (CWs) are a growing issue for the health care system. Their treatment requires a synergic approach to reduce both inflammation and the bacterial burden. In this work, a promising system for treating CWs was developed, comprising cobalt-lignin nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in a supramolecular (SM) hydrogel. First, NPs were obtained through cobalt reduction with phenolated lignin, and their antibacterial properties were tested against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains. The anti-inflammatory capacity of the NPs was proven through their ability to inhibit myeloperoxidase (MPO) and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), which are enzymes involved in the inflammatory process and wound chronicity. Then, the NPs were loaded in an SM hydrogel based on a blend of α-cyclodextrin and custom-made poly(ether urethane)s. The nano-enabled hydrogel showed injectability, self-healing properties, and linear release of the loaded cargo. Moreover, the SM hydrogel's characteristics were optimized to absorb proteins when in contact with liquid, suggesting its capacity to uptake harmful enzymes from the wound exudate. These results render the developed multifunctional SM material an interesting candidate for the management of CWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solvothermal reactions between three bis-pyridine-bis-amide ligands containing a fluorene scaffold bearing different substituents on the C9 position (CH2, 1; CMe2, 2; C＝O, 3) with 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (H2ndca) and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O led to the isolation of three new microporous mixed-ligand MOFs (PUM310, containing 1; PUM310Me2, containing 2; PUM310CO, containing 3). The structural characterization conducted with X-ray quality single crystals revealed parallel polycatenated frameworks of thick layers in all cases, corresponding to the topological type 5,6L18. The entangled nets contain complete and truncated Zn-paddle wheels. In the truncated paddle wheel, a pyridine of the bis-amide linker has been replaced by a DMF molecule. Solvent removal leads to framework rearrangement, as evidenced by XRPD analysis performed on desolvated PUM310, with consequent framework shrinkage as also evidenced by volumetric adsorption analyses. The three MOFs are fluorescent in the solid state. The optical spectra are indicative of a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) involving ndca2− as an excitation energy donor and the bis-pyridine linkers as acceptors, with a FRET efficiency close to 100% in the case of PUM310CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dorsal periaqueductal gray is a midbrain structure implicated in the control of defensive behaviors and the processing of painful stimuli. Electrical stimulation or optogenetic activation of excitatory neurons in dorsal periaqueductal gray results in freezing or flight behavior at low and high intensity, respectively. However, the output structures that mediate these defensive behaviors remain unconfirmed. Here we carried out a targeted classification of neuron types in dorsal periaqueductal gray using multiplex in situ sequencing and then applied cell-type and projection-specific optogenetic stimulation to identify projections from dorsal periaqueductal grey to the cuneiform nucleus that promoted goal-directed flight behavior. These data confirmed that descending outputs from dorsal periaqueductal gray serve as a trigger for directed escape behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, the phytochemical profile of commercial pollen samples was investigated using different analytical approaches. The samples pollen composition was monitored by optical microscopy. The infrared spectrum of the ethanol extractable material form different pollen samples indicated the specific presence of an aromatic portion in samples dominated by pollens from arboreal species of sweet chestnut pollen grains (e.g. Castanea sativa Mill. and Prunus). In addition, the UPLC‐PDA analysis showed the ubiquitarian presence of an array of different derivatives confirmed as hydroxylated cinnamoyl derivatives of spermidine (major) and of spermine (minor). This profile appeared to be associated with the sample botanical origin. Samples dominated by chestnut honey pollen grains showed the highest content in total amount of these derivatives, with a peculiar profile dominated by the presence of N1, N5, N10‐tricaffeoyl spermidine. The results showed that their average chemical composition is quantitatively and qualitatively correlated to their botanical origin, suggesting the feasibility of this approach as a practical tool to monitor plant population using honeybee pollen as a bioindicator of the impact of natural and anthropic processes at the local and global level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence can maximize perirolandic glioblastoma (GBM) resection with low rates of postoperative sequelae. Our purpose was to present the outcomes of our experience and compare them with other literature reports to investigate the potential influence of different intraoperative monitoring strategies and to evaluate the role of intraoperative data on neurological and radiological outcomes in our series. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed our prospectively collected database of GBM involving the motor pathways. Each patient underwent tumor exeresis with intraoperative 5-ALA fluorescence visualization. Our monitoring strategy was based on direct stimulation (DS), combined with cortical or transcranial MEPs. The radiological outcome was evaluated with CRET vs. residual tumor, and the neurological outcome as improved, unchanged, or worsened. We also performed a literature review to compare our results with state-of-the-art on the subject. Results: Sixty-five patients were included. CRET was 63.1%, permanent postoperative impairment was 1.5%, and DS's lowest motor threshold was 5 mA. In the literature, CRET was 25–73%, permanent postoperative impairment 3–16%, and DS lowest motor threshold was 1–3 mA. Our monitoring strategy identified a motor pathway in 60% of cases in faint fluorescent tissue, and its location in bright/faint fluorescence was predictive of CRET (p < 0.001). A preoperative motor deficit was associated with a worse clinical outcome (p < 0.001). Resection of bright fluorescent tissue was stopped in 26%, and fluorescence type of residual tumor was associated with higher CRET grades (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Based on the data presented and the current literature, distinct monitoring strategies can achieve different onco-functional outcomes in 5-ALA-guided resection of a glioblastoma (GBM) motor pathway. Intraoperatively, functional and fluorescence data close to a bright/vague interface could be helpful to predict onco-functional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is associated with late complications that can impair the quality of life (QoL) of patients for years after transplant. The purpose of the present study was to determine the difference in the QoL of adults that underwent allo‐HSCT in childhood and adolescence compared with not transplanted adults. Methods: In this prospective case–control cross‐sectional study, we included patients aged ≥18 years that received an allo‐HSCT during childhood or adolescence and subsequently survived at least 2 years after transplantation. The control group consisted of blood donors matched for age and sex. QoL assessment was performed using the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) Health Survey, Portuguese version 2. Results: Thirty‐four transplanted patients and controls were included. 58.8% were male, and the median age at transplant was 13.5 years (range, 4–17 years). The median follow‐up was 11.5 years (range, 2.0–23.0 years). The most common late effect was skeletally followed by endocrine complications. Patients with these late complications had the worst QOL in the following dimensions: physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, and mental health. When compared to the control group, patients had a lower score in two dimensions: physical functioning and role physical. Conclusions: Although skeletal and endocrine complications of transplant patients in childhood have an impact on physical functioning, most parameters of QoL of these patients in adulthood are similar to healthy individuals of the same age and gender. Early detection and long‐term monitoring of late complications can prevent impairment of the QoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a potent method for analyzing chiral substances and is commonly used in the enantioseparation and chiral purity control of pharmaceuticals from different matrices. The adoption of Quality by Design (QbD) concepts in analytical method development, optimization and validation is a widespread trend observed in various analytical approaches including chiral CE. The application of Analytical QbD (AQbD) leads to the development of analytical methods based on sound science combined with risk management, and to a well understood process clarifying the influence of method parameters on the analytical output. The Design of Experiments (DoE) method employing chemometric tools is an essential part of QbD-based method development, allowing for the simultaneous evaluation of experimental parameters as well as their interaction. In 2022 the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) released two draft guidelines (ICH Q14 and ICH Q2(R2)) that are intended to encourage more robust analytical procedures. The ICH Q14 guideline intends to harmonize the scientific approaches for analytical procedures' development, while the Q2(R2) document covers the validation principles for the use of analytical procedures including the recent applications that require multivariate statistical analyses. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the new prospects for chiral CE method development applied for the enantiomeric purity control of pharmaceuticals using AQbD principles. The review also provides an overview of recent research (2012–2022) on the applicability of CE methods in chiral drug impurity profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding data on race, racialized populations, and anti-racism in Canada can be a complex process when conducting research. One source of data is the Census of Canada which has been collecting sociodemographic data since 1871. However, the collection of racial, ethnic, or Indigenous data has changed throughout the years and from Census to Census. In response to the need for more support in finding ethno-racial and Indigenous data, the Ontario Council of University Libraries' Ontario Data Community has created an online guide to provide guidance, in part, about the terminology used for Indigenous and racialized identities over time in the Census. In this article, the modifications to how ethno-racial origin questions have been asked, and the ongoing changes to sociocultural perceptions impacting the Census are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A software for the Master Sintering Curve (MSC) approach has been developed using Python language. An interface with simple steps allows the user to insert data from shrinkage results followed for conversion to densification view and built curves based on MSC theory. The simple software language allows easy adaptation to external users and their specific issues, aiming to improve the sintering phenomena investigation. Finally, three ceramic materials have been analyzed, demonstrating the software operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the circadian rhythm on canine laboratory parameters is yet to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate possible fluctuations that occur on laboratory tests of healthy dogs following overnight and over-day fasting. For this purpose, 20 adult clinically healthy dogs were enrolled in the study. Venous blood samples were obtained 7:00 am (ONF, overnight fasting) and at 7:00 pm (ODF, over-day fasting) at the same day, following a 12-hour period of respectively overnight and over-day fasting for hematological, biochemical and oxidative stress assessment. The erythrogram showed significant reduction of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measured by the cell counter following ODF. The only change seen on the leukogram was a lower lymphocyte count following ODF. No significant changes were found on platelet count, although ODF was associated with decreased mean platelet volume (MPV) and total plasma protein (TPP). ODF caused a significant reduction of total cholesterol, ALP, phosphate and triglycerides. On oxidative stress parameters, ODF reduced total oxidant capacity (TOC) and increased lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, the time of fasting can partly influence hematological, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in dogs significantly, which warrants standardization of fasting period prior to laboratory tests in dogs, especially during research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Achalasia may evolve to sigmoid megaesophagus in 10–15% of patients and is usually treated with esophagectomy, which has high morbi-mortality. Many surgeons debate the applicability of the Heller myotomy for treating sigmoid megaesophagus. This study intents to analyze the effectiveness of myotomy for treating patients with sigmoid megaesophagus. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Lilacs and Embase alongside manual search of references. The inclusion criteria were clinical trials, cohort, case-series; patients with sigmoid megaesophagus and esophageal diameter ≥ 6 cm; and patients undergoing primary myotomy. The exclusion criteria were reviews, case reports, cross-sectional studies, editorials, letters, congress abstracts, full-text unavailability; previous surgical treatment for achalasia; and pediatric or animal model studies. No restrictions on language and date of publication, and no filters were applied. Subgroups analyses were performed to assess the laparoscopic myotomy perioperative outcomes. Besides, subgroup analyses were performed to assess the long-term outcomes of the studies with a follow-up time > 24 months. To verify heterogeneity, the I2 test was used. The random effects were applied, and the fixed model was evaluated as sensitivity analysis. To assess risk of bias and certainty of evidence, the tools ROBINS-I and GRADE were used, respectively. Registration number: CRD42020199667. Results: Sixteen articles were selected, encompassing 350 patients. The mean age ranged from 36 to 61 years old, and the mean follow-up ranged from 16 to 109 months. Complications rate was 0.08 (CI: 0.040–0.153; P  = 0.01). Need for retreatment rate was 0.128 (CI: 0.031–0.409; P  = 0.01). The probability of good or excellent outcomes after myotomy was 0.762 (CI: 0.703–0.812; P  < 0.01). Postoperative mortality rate was 0.008 (CI: 0.004–0.015; P  < 0.01). Conclusion: Surgical myotomy is an option for avoiding esophagectomy in achalasia, with a low morbi-mortality rate and good results. It is effective for most patients and only a minority will demand retreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Phyllanthus with phylloclades endemic to the State of Bahia is described here. Phyllanthus dracaenoides can be recognized for its peculiar habit that resembles a species of Dracaena, a very unusual height of up to 7 m, the plagiotropic phylloclades spirally arranged, and its vermiform cincinni. Notes on its habitat, taxonomic affinity, conservation status, geographic distribution, illustrations, and photographs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, several strategies have been developed for the treatment of transthyretin-related amyloidosis, whose complex clinical manifestations involve cardiomyopathy and polyneuropathy. In view of this, transthyretin stabilizers represent a major cornerstone in treatment thanks to the introduction of tafamidis into therapy and the entry of acoramidis into clinical trials. However, the clinical treatment of transthyretin-related amyloidosis still presents several challenges, urging the development of new and improved therapeutics. Bearing this in mind, in this paper, the most promising among the recently published transthyretin stabilizers were reviewed. Their activity was described to provide some insights into their clinical potential, and crystallographic data were provided to explain their modes of action. Finally, structure–activity relationship studies were performed to give some guidance to future researchers aiming to synthesize new transthyretin stabilizers. Interestingly, some new details emerged with respect to the previously known general rules that guided the design of new compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital platforms are transformed into stages of diverse movements of political and cultural mobilization. Cancellations are configured as one of the new repertoires that the Internet has made available to the social groups involved. Given this scenario, the focus of the article is pointed out as a culture of cancellation that suffers and loses democratic, and these processes are not excluded. Arguments that such mobilizations can (a) activate political polarization and encourage hate speech; while it can (b) guide important debates in the public sphere and pressure the decision-making of institutions. We therefore propose an exploratory qualitative analysis on different cancellations. Conclude that the culture of cancellation incites the process of politicization, schedules important debates in the public sphere, and performs depoliticization steps by stimulating hate speech and virtual lynching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) and papillectomy (EP) are associated with a non‐negligible risk of post‐procedural bleeding. Despite first‐line endoscopic hemostasis being achieved by several methods, patients may experience bleeding persistence or recurrence. In such cases, fibrin glue (FG) injection may be used as a rescue therapy before more invasive approaches. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic FG injection to treat refractory post‐ES and post‐EP bleeding. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from patients with refractory immediate or delayed bleeding following ES or EP, between October 2007 and November 2019, at a single institution. Clinical success was defined as bleeding control after FG injection. Results: Overall, 70 patients were included. Clinical success was reached in 64 (91.4%) patients after one session of FG injection. Of six (8.6%) patients in whom the treatment failed, one required subsequent insertion of a fully covered self‐expanding metal stent (FC‐SEMS) due to immediate massive bleeding, while five experienced bleeding recurrence. Such events were managed with an additional session of FG injection that failed in two cases. Therefore, one patient underwent FC‐SEMS plus selective embolization, whereas the other underwent diagnostic arteriography. No severe periprocedural complications occurred. Two cases of intrabiliary glue migration were treated by endoscopic removal with a retrieval basket. Conclusions: Rescue therapy with endoscopic FG injection appears to be effective and safe to treat refractory post‐ES and post‐EP bleeding. Further studies are required to confirm these preliminary data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose — Several surgical approaches are used in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). In this randomized controlled trial we compared gait, risk of fall, self-reported and clinical measurements between subjects after direct superior approach (DSA) versus posterolateral approach (PL) for THA. Patients and methods — Participants with DSA (n = 22; age 74 [SD 8.9]) and PL (n = 23; age 72 [7.7]) underwent gait analysis, risk of fall assessment and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) before (PRE), 1 month (T1) and 3 months after (T3) surgery. Data on bleeding and surgical time was collected. Results — DSA resulted in longer surgical times (90 [14] vs. 77 [20] min) but lower blood loss (149 [66] vs. 225 [125] mL) than PL. DSA had lower risk of fall at T3 compared with T1 and higher TUG scores at T3 compared with T1 and PRE. PL improved balance at T3 compared with T1 and PRE. Spatiotemporal gait parameters improved over time for both DSA and PL with no inter-group differences, whereas DSA, regarding hip rotation range of motion, showed lower values at T3 and T1 compared with PRE and, furthermore, this group had lower values at T1 and T3 compared with PL. All foregoing comparisons are statistically signficant (p < 0.05) Interpretation — DSA showed longer surgical time and lower blood loss compared with PL and early improvements in TUG, spatiotemporal, and kinematic gait parameters, highlighting rapid muscle strength recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the compositional analysis of the amino acids released by the acidic hydrolysis of the vaccine antigens was approached as an alternative to the dye-binding methods, for improvement of the quality control. In particular, the Analytical Quality by Design principles were undertaken in optimizing the hydrolysis conditions of the antigens to be applied prior to the quantitation by UHPLC-UV. Bexsero was used as a case study; it is a recombinant meningococcal B vaccine and one of its critical quality attributes is the content of the three core protein antigens, namely Neisseria Heparin Binding Antigen, factor H binding protein and Neisseria adhesin A, in the final formulation. Conventionally, the proteins quantitation is carried out by dye-binding assays. Analytical Target Profile was defined as the accurate determination of amounts of the Bexsero antigens. The Critical Method Parameters were chosen by means of the cause-effect matrix. A Face Centered Design was used to select the experiments to investigate the process and finally a Method Operable Design Region with a risk of failure of 5% was defined. The selected working point for routine use was: hydrolysis time, 17 hrs; temperature, 112 °C; 6 M HCl volume, 300 µl; antioxidant 90% phenol volume, 5 µl. [Display omitted] • Antigens Content Determination by UHPLC-UV. • Optimization of Hydrolysis Conditions of Amino Acid Analysis. • MODR definition by means of Design of Experiments and Monte Carlo simulations. • Quality risk assessment and AQbD for biopharmaceutical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incidental radiation exposure to the heart during lung cancer radiotherapy is associated with radiation-induced heart disease and increased rates of mortality. By considering the respiratory-induced motion of the heart it is possible to create a radiotherapy plan that results in a lower overall cardiac dose. This approach is challenging using current clinical practices: manual contouring of the heart is time consuming, and subject to inter- and intra-observer variability. In this work, we investigate the feasibility of our previously developed, atlas-based, automatic heart segmentation tool to delineate the heart in four-dimensional x-ray computed tomography (4D-CT) images. We used a dataset comprising 19 patients receiving radiotherapy for lung cancer, with 4D-CT imaging acquired at 10 respiratory phases and with a maximum intensity projection image generated from these. For each patient, one of four experienced radiation oncologists contoured the heart on each respiratory phase image and the maximum intensity image. Automatic segmentation of the heart on these same patient image sets was achieved using a leave-one-out approach, where for each patient the remaining 18 were used as an atlas set. The consistency of the automatic segmentation relative to manual contouring was evaluated using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and mean absolute surface-to-surface distance (MASD). The DSC and MASD are comparable to inter-observer variability in clinically acceptable whole heart delineations (average DSC > 0.93 and average MASD < 2.0 mm in all the respiratory phases). The comparison between automatic and manual delineations on the maximum intensity images produced an overall mean DSC of 0.929 and a mean MASD of 2.07 mm. The automatic, atlas-based segmentation tool produces clinically consistent and robust heart delineations and is easy to implement in the routine care of lung cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. A link has finally been established between magnetars and fast radio burst (FRB) sources. Within this context, a major issue that remains unresolved pertains to whether sources of extragalactic FRBs exhibit X/γ-ray outbursts and whether this is correlated with radio activity. If so, the subsequent goal is to identify these sources. Aims. We aim to constrain possible X/γ-ray burst activity from one of the nearest extragalactic FRB sources currently known. This is to be done over a broad energy range by looking for bursts over a range of timescales and energies that are compatible with those of powerful flares from extragalactic magnetars. Methods. We followed up on the observation of the as-yet nearest extragalactic FRB source, located at a mere 149 Mpc distance, namely, the periodic repeater FRB 180916.J0158+65. This took place during the active phase between 4 and 7 February 2020, using the Insight–Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope (Insight–HXMT). By taking advantage of the combination of broad-band wavelengths, a large effective area, and several independent detectors at our disposal, we searched for bursts over a set of timescales from 1 ms to 1.024 s with a sensitive algorithm that had been previously characterised and optimised. Moreover, through simulations, we studied the sensitivity of our technique in the released energy-duration phase space for a set of synthetic flares and assuming a range of different energy spectra. Results. We constrain the possible occurrence of flares in the 1−100 keV energy band to E <  1046 erg for durations Δ t <  0.1 s over several tens of ks exposure. Conclusions. We can rule out the occurrence of giant flares similar to the ones that were observed in the few cases of Galactic magnetars. The absence of reported radio activity during our observations prevents us from making any determinations regarding the possibility of simultaneous high-energy emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The asymptotic (i.e. large n) behaviour of pairs of ring polymers can depend on whether or not they are topologically linked and on the link complexity. We study this problem for pairs of linked polygons on the simple cubic lattice using a Monte Carlo method that, by keeping the link type fixed, can sample pairs of polygons whose individual lengths can fluctuate. By considering different prime links and linked pairs with knotted components we study how the link complexity affects the connective constant and the entropic exponent of these systems. We present numerical evidence that, in the large n limit, the entropically favoured situation corresponds to one component growing with n while the second component (and so the linked portion) has contour length o(n). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study consists of an analysis of the discursive strategies around the hashtag #PrimeiroAssedio, which was consolidated as a campaign for debate on harassment on social networks by the feminist blog Think Olga. The goal is to understand through which of these strategies the campaign spread on the internet and became an act of discursive activism. For this. 213 tweets were collected in 2015. made up to one month after the launch of the campaign and analyzed according to its content. The analysis revealed that encouraging selfreporting and the hashtag format were the main strategies of the campaign, as well as a starting point for other debates and interactions, which helped to consolidate the debate as digital activism, despite its spontaneous development in an environment of disputing repertoires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Optimum postsurgical healing requires appropriate dressing use. OBJECTIVE This study assessed effectiveness and tolerance of a novel, hydrocellular dressing in dermatologic surgery using validated tools, describing its use in clinical practice, and comparing surgeons' and patients' perceptions of scar evolution. METHODS This study examined direct suture closures of surgical excisions of small- to medium-sized skin lesions on the extremities or trunk. Dressings were changed 3 times/week. The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scales (POSAS) were used to assess outcomes. Data were collected at Day 0 (D0, FLC application), Day 15 to 21 (D15--21, suture removal), and Day 45 (D45) postprocedure by the surgeon and the patient. RESULTS There were 128 patients (mean age: 55.1 years, 56.1% women). Mean length and width of the excisions were 3.5 · 1.65 cm and the most common FLC applied was 8 · 8 cm (67.7%). Most scars had normal pigmentation, pliability, and height at D15 to 21 and D45, as reported by patients and surgeons using VSS. Patient scores on visual analog scale (VAS) were high (>8/10) and global satisfaction measured by POSAS was generally high (>7/10 at D15--21; >8/10 at D45). CONCLUSION These dressings were effective in managing surgical excisions, as assessed by VSS, VAS, and POSAS. Further controlled studies investigating various dressings in wound repair are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify clinical and/or functional variables predictive of successful oxygen-weaning among older patients affected by respiratory insufficiency undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. Retrospective study. Data are from 154 patients aged 65 years and older (mean age = 78.1 years; female 50.6%) admitted to a pulmonary rehabilitation unit to follow an in-patient program. Patients must require oxygen therapy at admission. All patients performed the 6-Minute Walking Test at admission and before discharge as well as a spirometry at a steady state. Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify positive and negative predictors of successful oxygen weaning. Successful oxygen weaning was obtained in 47 participants (30.5%). The restrictive pattern was associated with a 4-fold likelihood of successful oxygen weaning at the end of the rehabilitation program compared with the obstructive one. A positive association was also found for arterial oxygenation index (PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio) at baseline. A decreased likelihood of successful oxygen weaning was reported for the subjective dyspnea perception score at exertion evaluated with a modified Borg scale. The restrictive pattern, PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio, and modified Borg dyspnea scale score under exertion were significantly associated with successful oxygen-weaning. The identified predictors may support clinicians at precociously identifying patients who may not require oxygen therapy after discharge. Therefore, these findings would make it possible for clinicians to better tailor the rehabilitation program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death in developed countries, with a rising incidence over time. Lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery are the mainstays of bariatric therapy, even though burdened by several limitations in terms of efficacy or safety. Bariatric endoscopy has been developed in the last decades as a minimally invasive alternative, aimed to bridge the gap between conservative and interventional conventional therapies. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the bariatric and metabolic available endoscopic procedures and to drive the choice of the right procedure for the right patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to measure the relationship between the female profile, a construct formed by human capital and social capital, market orientation (customer orientation, competition orientation, and cross-functional coordination), and organizational performance measured (economic, social, and environmental). A sample of 190 female hotel managers from two Bolivian heritage cities (Sucre and Potosí) was investigated. This study is cross-sectional in nature and the scale used was Likert. Structural equation modeling with partial least squares was applied to determine the relationship between variables. The results show a significant relationship between the female managerial profile with market orientation and organizational performance. It is concluded that local governments must promote the hotel sector due to its economic potential in the cities included in this study. In addition, governments must generate friendly environments that contribute to improving the performance of female managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology that mainly affects middle-aged women, with no racial predilection.[1] Based on the modified World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for OLP proposed by van der Meij and van der Waal,[2] definitive diagnosis depends on the clinicopathological correlation, and requires the presence of bilateral, more or less symmetrical reticular lesions, a well-defined band-like zone of lymphocytes, and signs of liquefaction degeneration of the basal cell epithelial layer. Histopathological examination of all OLP patients (29/29; 100%) and nine OLL patients (32.1%) showed liquefactive degeneration of basal cell layer and a band-like lymphocytic infiltrate in the subepithelial connective tissue (Figure). Hyperparakeratinization was observed in 21 OLP patients (72.4%) and 17 OLL patients (60.7%), and apoptotic bodies were found in five OLP (17.2%) and five OLL patients (17.8%), particularly in the basal epithelial cell layer. [Extracted from the article]

The role of the topology and its relation with the geometry of biopolymers under different physical conditions is a nontrivial and interesting problem. Aiming at understanding this issue for a related simpler system, we use Monte Carlo methods to investigate the interplay between writhe and knotting of ring polymers in good and poor solvents. The model that we consider is interacting self-avoiding polygons on the simple cubic lattice. For polygons with fixed knot type, we find a writhe distribution whose average depends on the knot type but is insensitive to the length N of the polygon and to solvent conditions. This “topological contribution” to the writhe distribution has a value that is consistent with that of ideal knots. The standard deviation of the writhe increases approximately as N in both regimes, and this constitutes a geometrical contribution to the writhe. If the sum over all knot types is considered, the scaling of the standard deviation changes, for compact polygons, to ∼N0.6. We argue that this difference between the two regimes can be ascribed to the topological contribution to the writhe that, for compact chains, overwhelms the geometrical one, thanks to the presence of a large population of complex knots at relatively small values of N. For polygons with fixed writhe, we find that the knot distribution depends on the chosen writhe, with the occurrence of achiral knots being considerably suppressed for large writhe. In general, the occurrence of a given knot thus depends on a nontrivial interplay between writhe, chain length, and solvent conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calculations for the J=0 bound states associated with the two title molecular systems are carried out using distributed Gaussian function approach and using the sum of two-body potential approximation to describe the overall interactions. The results yield one bound state for the neutral trimer and three bound states for the anionic triatom. The relative values of dissociation energies place the first dissociation threshold at the H emission for the neutral complex and at the He emission for the corresponding anion. The general spatial properties of the various bound states are analyzed on both systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using a lattice Boltzmann scheme that solves the Beris-Edwards equations of motion describing liquid-crystal hydrodynamics, we study the response of cholesterics to shear and Poiseuille flows. The geometry we focus on is a flow along the direction of the helical axis, which is known to give rise to permeation. For both shear and Poiseuille flow we find that the boundary conditions on the director field are crucial in determining the rheological properties of the liquid crystal. For helices pinned at the boundaries, a small forcing leads to a large viscosity increase whereas a stronger forcing induces a sharp decrease towards the Newtonian value. This shear thinning behavior is in agreement with experiments and previous analytic results. If, on the other hand, the director is free to rotate at the walls, different behaviors are found depending on the symmetry of the steady-state primary flow. Some of the cases considered are compared to a similar imposed flow but with the helix lying perpendicular to the plates, for which no viscosity increase is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present Monte Carlo results on a model of polymers in a condensed phase, over a range of monomer densities. We imagine cutting a cube out of the system. This cube will typically have several polymer molecules running through its interior, and starting and ending on the boundary. These subchains will be mutually entangled and we present a way to assess the extent of entanglement complexity as a function of the monomer density and the number of subchains in the cube. The model is a set of k self-avoiding and mutually avoiding walks, properly embedded in the cube. © 2004 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study shear flow in liquid crystal cells with elastic deformations using a lattice Boltzmann scheme that solves the full, three-dimensional Beris–Edwards equations of hydrodynamics. We consider first twisted and hybrid aligned nematic cells, in which the deformation is imposed by conflicting anchoring at the boundaries. We find that backflow renders the velocity profile non Newtonian, and that the director profile divides into two regions characterized by different director orientations. We next consider a cholesteric liquid crystal, in which a twist deformation is naturally present. We confirm the presence of secondary flow for small shear rates, and are able to follow the dynamical pathway of shear-induced unwinding, for higher shear rates. Finally, we analyze how the coupling between shear and elastic deformation can affect shear banding in an initially isotropic phase. We find that for a nematic liquid crystal, elastic distortions may cause an asymmetry in the dynamics of band formation, whereas for a cholesteric, shear can induce twist in an initially isotropic sample. © 2004 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosonography-guided gallbladder drainage versus percutaneous cholecystostomy in very high-risk surgical patients with acute cholecystitis: an international randomised multicentre controlled superiority trial (DRAC 1). In this case, acute cholecystitis was complicated by gangrenous cholecystitis, which is a severe form of acute cholecystitis characterized by ischemia and necrosis of the gallbladder wall [3]. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a persistent hydropic gallbladder suggesting stent dysfunction. [Extracted from the article]

In order to understand how women have built their repertoires to consolidate their political role, Viviane Gonçalves Freitas, in the book Quatro décadas de lutas por direitos (2018), analyzes the frameworks of four alternative Brazilian feminist journals. From the intersectionality of gender, race and class, the author traces the agendas of struggles, and discusses which feminisms are treated in the newspapers Nós Mulheres (1976-1978), Mulherio (1981-1988), Nzinga Informativo (1985-1989) and Fêmea (1992-2014).. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The central objective of the paper is to understand how hashtag mobilization efforts can produce policy processes for social networking forums. Through an exploratory analysis of the hashtag Chega de Fiufiu on the Twitter platform, we intend to understand how a conversation generated in these mobilizations connect with the private, public and government spheres and the politicization process. An analysis reveals that the incentive for hashtag reporting served as a starting point for further debate and interaction, which helped to consolidate an agenda as public demand, consolidating as well as activism digital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topological entanglements severely interfere with important biological processes. For this reason, genomes must be kept unknotted and unlinked during most of a cell cycle. Type II topoisomerase (TopoII) enzymes play an important role in this process but the precise mechanisms yielding systematic disentanglement of DNA in vivo are not clear. Here we report computational evidence that structural-maintenance-of-chromosomes (SMC) proteins--such as cohesins and condensins--can cooperate with TopoII to establish a synergistic mechanism to resolve topological entanglements. SMC-driven loop extrusion (or diffusion) induces the spatial localization of essential crossings, in turn catalyzing the simplification of knots and links by TopoII enzymes even in crowded and confined conditions. The mechanism we uncover is universal in that it does not qualitatively depend on the specific substrate, whether DNA or chromatin, or on SMC processivity; we thus argue that this synergy may be at work across organisms and throughout the cell cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudotachylyte veins are solidified frictional melt generated by localized highstrain- rate deformation, and they are commonly considered to be reliable geological indicators of seismic slip. While originally thought to occur primarily in the upper crust, field studies suggest pseudotachylyte can also form far below the frictional-viscous transition. This implies a more complex inter play between brittle and crystal-plastic deformation in crustal-scale fault systems. We report a new example of deep pseudo tachylyte from the Paleoproterozoic granulite-facies strikeslip Cora Lake shear zone in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Multiple generations of pseudotachylyte have been variably overprinted by plastic deformation and growth of high-grade metamorphic mineral assemblages (including garnet, ortho pyroxene, and/or clinopyroxene). Undeformed pseudotachylyte generation surfaces locally display sinistral offsets, and deformed pseudotachylyte shows unambiguous shear sense indicators compatible with left-lateral Cora Lake shear zone kinematics. The vein networks are commonly proximal to and inherit kinematically compatible semibrittle shear fractures. Thermobarometry and modeling of mineral stability fields for the overprinted pseudotachylyte suggest vein generation between 0.7 and 0.8 GPa and 700 °C and 800 °C (corresponding to depths from 24 to 28 km). Combined with the kinematic compatibility and the well-constrained regional exhumation history, this suggests that the Cora Lake pseudotachylyte formed contemporaneously with the waning stages of deformation in the shear zone and constitutes one of the deepest examples of fault-related pseudotachylyte yet reported in North America. Evidence exists for several possible formation mechanisms, including in situ generation via ductile shear heating--induced plastic instabilities, as well as from interaction with earthquakes nucleating in the overlying brittle fault system. All of these possible mechanisms ultimately suggest a more rheologically complex environment than might typically be expected for these lower-crustal pressure and temperature conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The importance of adopting a risk-based approach has been tackled. • The analytical quality by design is thoroughly described in every step. • Recent papers regarding the application of a risk-based approach have been reviewed. Abstract Pharmaceutical regulatory bodies increasingly require the implementation of systematic approaches in pharmaceutical product development. Quality control methods play a key role in the control strategy of drugs manufacturing to assure their quality. A risk-based approach in the analytical method development is strongly recommended to ensure that the method performances fit the purpose of the method during its entire life-cycle. In the last decade, analytical quality by design (AQbD), as risk management oriented methodology, has been progressively integrated with method development for fulfilling this objective. This approach has successfully allowed the quality to be designed into the analytical processes by obtaining a deep understanding of the procedures. In this paper the AQbD workflow and its application in the development of methods to be used for pharmaceutical quality control have been treated and discussed. Recent publications regarding how AQbD has been applied in separation techniques were reviewed. The different development strategies have been also showcased, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages, in order to give a useful overview. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • This special issue explores the multiple natures of language, differences in what language may be. • The people whose language practices we study often have very different ideas of what these are. • These cast doubt on the universality of language as general category of which particular languages are instances. • In naturalist ontologies, language is one of the primary features said to set humans and nonhumans apart. • In Amerindian ontologies, language is part of the original common condition and shared by humans and nonhumans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper addresses instances in which another person's speech is made one's own. Starting with the presentation of reported speech practices in daily conversations, then moving to semi-ritual retellings, speech play and the capture of another's voice by force, it finally brings examples of voicing nonhumans in ritual discourse. Drawing on studies of reported speech, voicing and capture in Amazonia and elsewhere, it suggests a possible connection between these different modalities of using another's speech. Reporting, taking and voicing speech, here, are related acts, but with a decreasing distance between animator and author. Finally, the paper argues that Amerindian understandings of the voice are a step in understanding the meaning of reference in the Amerindian linguistic natures. Highlights • This paper argues that reporting, capturing and voicing speech are acts in which there is a decreasing distance between animator and author. • It is the first linguistic description of reported speech amongst the Araweté. • The paper further argues that Amerindian understandings of the voice are a step in understanding the meaning of reference in the Amerindian linguistic natures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroGeo had the opportunity to experiment with the ZEB Horizon instrument to acquire a piezometric well in 3D. The scenario is not the easiest to detect. This type of wells, in fact, extends in depth for several tens of meters and with traditional scanning systems it is practically impossible to obtain a complete 3D acquisition of the subject. With the ZEB Horizon Mobile Mapping System it was possible to acquire the well. The subject presents itself as a 30 m deep piezometric well with a diameter of 3.6 m, with a high difficulty of acquisition: the extremely regular surfaces of the well have made the survey activity with the SLAM technique very complex, the algorithm that generates the 3D point cloud model must be extremely powerful in order to be able to generate a correct data even in a condition of extreme surface homogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is commonly recognized that the observed increase in global mean annual air temperature is strongly related to the increase in global carbon dioxide concentration C, and that both these variables are related to global development. It remains, however, unclear the degree to which local mean annual urban air temperature T is affected by local variables such as annual precipitation depth P and urban area extent A. This study assumes that A is a proxy of local development and C is a proxy of global development and investigates the commingled effects of A, P, and C on T by using long-term annual data observed over the years 1881–2019 from the Modena Observatory in Italy. Linear relationships between T, C and A are found to be spurious since all these series have a monotonic increasing trend with time. Parametric analytic models like logistic functions are found to lack flexibility. Smoothing splines can only give insights into the strength of the relationships but not on their shape defining the functional relationship between variables. Advanced nonlinear models like generalized additive models, instead, are found to combine flexibility in a parametric form, and appear therefore to be suitable models for explaining the complex relationships between A, P, and C on T. The different models are evaluated using traditional goodness of fit statistics like R2, AIC, BIC, and a new index of relation IR which is introduced to jointly evaluate the goodness-of-fit of relationships between variables that may either be dependent or independent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the inheritance of sickle cell disease and G6PD deficiency in a specific family group. It explains that sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the β-globin gene, resulting in abnormal hemoglobin production. The article also discusses the different genotypes and haplotypes associated with sickle cell disease. Additionally, it delves into G6PD deficiency, a genetic disease linked to the X chromosome, and describes the specific variant found in the family. The article concludes by presenting the family's descent history and the results of screening tests for mutations. The study provides valuable information for accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic guidance for G6PD deficiency and hemoglobinopathies, highlighting the importance of preventative measures and informed reproductive decisions. [Extracted from the article]

A capillary electrophoresis method for the simultaneous determination of the enantiomeric purity and of impurities of the chiral calcimimetic drug cinacalcet hydrochloride has been developed following Quality by Design principles. The scouting phase was aimed to select the separation operative mode and to identify a suitable chiral selector. Among the tested cyclodextrins, (2-carboxyethyl)-β-cyclodextrin and (2-hydroxypropyl)-γ-cyclodextrin (HPγCyD) showed good chiral resolving capabilities. The selected separation system was solvent-modified capillary zone electrophoresis with the addition of HPγCyD and methanol. Voltage, buffer pH, methanol concentration and HPγCyD concentration were investigated as critical method parameters by a multivariate strategy. Critical method attributes were represented by enantioresolution and analysis time. A Box-Behnken Design allowed the contour plots to be drawn and quadratic and interaction effects to be highlighted. The Method Operable Design Region (MODR) was identified by applying Monte-Carlo simulations and corresponded to the multidimensional zone where both the critical method attributes fulfilled the requirements with a desired probability π ≥ 90%. The working conditions, with the MODR limits, corresponded to the following: capillary length, 48.5 cm; temperature, 18 °C; voltage, 26 kV (26–27 kV); background electrolyte, 150 mM phosphate buffer pH 2.70 (2.60–2.80), 3.1 mM (3.0–3.5 mM) HPγCyD; 2.00% (0.00–8.40%) v/v methanol. Robustness testing was carried out by a Plackett-Burman matrix and finally a method control strategy was defined. The complete separation of the analytes was obtained in about 10 min. The method was validated following the International Council for Harmonisation guidelines and was applied for the analysis of a real sample of cinacalcet hydrochloride tablets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work was aimed at developing an in vitro method able to provide rapid and reliable evaluation of drug absorption through buccal mucosa. Absorption simulator apparatus endowed with an artificial membrane was purposely developed by experimental design. The apparent permeation coefficient (P app ) through excised porcine buccal mucosa of naproxen, selected as model drug, was the target value to obtain with the artificial membrane. The multivariate approach enabled systematic evaluation of the effect on the response (P app ) of simultaneous variations of the variables (kind of lipid components for support impregnation and relative amounts). A screening phase followed by a response-surface study allowed optimization of the lipid-mixture composition to obtain the desired P app value, and definition of a design space where all mixture components combinations fulfilled the desired target at a fixed probability level. The method offers a useful tool for a quick screening in the early stages of drug discovery and/or in preformulation studies, improving efficiency and chance of success in the development of buccal delivery systems. Further studies with other model drugs are planned to confirm the buccal absorption predictive capacity of the developed membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of these notes is to provide an introduction to the topic of statistical topology. With this name we refer to a combination of ideas and techniques from statistical mechanics and knot theory used to study the entanglement properties of fluctuating filaments. Some questions that we are going to address are the following: (i) What is a knot and how can we identify it? (ii) Which is the probability of finding a random curve that is knotted? (iii) How complex are these knots? (iv) How big are they? To try to partially answer these questions we will make use of few paradigmatic problems and try to investigate them by providing some “state of the art” theoretical and numerical techniques. Exercises and lists of open problems will be provided too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]