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Pediatric suprasellar tumors represent a unique and intricate challenge in the landscape of pediatric neuro-oncology. We conducted an in-depth literature review, focusing on large clinical trials and major publications in pediatric suprasellar tumors, particularly craniopharyngiomas and germ cell tumors, to provide a comprehensive perspective on the challenges in the diagnosis, treatment, and molecular aspects of these tumors. Nestled within the critical confines of the suprasellar region, these tumors manifest against the backdrop of crucial growth and developmental processes. The suprasellar region, housing the pituitary gland and surrounding structures, plays a pivotal role in orchestrating hormonal regulation and growth. The emergence of tumors within this delicate terrain introduces a complex array of challenges, encompassing neurological, endocrinological, and developmental dimensions from damage to the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. This article provides a thorough exploration of pediatric craniopharyngiomas and germ cell tumors, elucidating their clinical presentations, treatment modalities, and outcomes. The focused analysis aims to deepen our understanding of these tumors by offering insights for refined clinical management and improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sleep disruption (SD) alters multiple cancer pathway genes in wild-type (WT) mouse cortex. • In AcPb null mice, SD-induced expression of multiple cancer pathways are attenuated. • SD-induced upregulation of the IL1/IL17/Lcn2 axis, which is linked to sleep regulation and brain cancer prognosis, is attenuated in AcPb null mice. • SD promotes a pro-tumor environment through AcPb-modulated pathways. Interleukin-1β (IL1), a pleiotropic cytokine, is involved in sleep regulation, tumor ontogeny, and immune responses. IL1 receptor adaptor proteins, including the IL1 receptor accessory protein (AcP), and its neuron-specific isoform, AcPb, are required for IL1 signaling. The AcPb isoform is resultant from alternate splicing of the AcP transcript. Our previous studies using AcPb null (AcPb-/-) mice characterized its participation in sleep regulation and emergent neuronal/glial network properties. Here, we investigated the impact of acute sleep disruption (SD) on brain cancer-related pathways in wild-type (WT) and AcPb-/- mice, employing RNA sequencing methods. In WT mice, SD increased AcPb mRNA levels, but not AcP mRNA, confirming prior similar work in rats. Transcriptome and pathway enrichment analyses demonstrated significant alterations in cancer, immune, and viral disease-related pathways in WT mice after SD, which were attenuated in AcPb-/- mice including multiple upregulated Src phosphorylation-signaling-dependent genes associated with cancer progression and metastasis. Our RNAseq findings, were analyzed within the context of The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) data base; revealing an upregulation of sleep- and cancer-linked genes (e.g., IL-17B, IL-17RA, LCN2) across various tumors, including brain tumors, compared to normal tissues. Sleep-linked factors, identified through TCGA analyses, significantly impact patient prognosis and survival, particularly in low-grade glioma (LGG) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. Overall, our findings suggest that SD promotes a pro-tumor environment through AcPb-modulated pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to establish a graphical relationship between sediment concentration (C) and water discharge (Q) during flood events in the Isser catchment. Hysteresis, indicating a time lag between discharge flow (Q) and suspended sediment concentration (SSC) curves, varies based on sediment availability, event magnitude, and sequence. Based on the 2026 data pairs of water discharge and suspended sediment concentration (Q-SSC), we have selected 22 flood events. The most frequent hysteresis loops were complex (10 loops), with 08 clockwise loops, 02 figure-eight loops, and 02 anti-clockwise loops. Complex hysteresis loops accounted for 63% of solid loads and 37% of water discharge loads, while 50% of total water yield and 23% of total sediment yield were associated with clockwise loops. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that water discharge load, mean concentration, maximum concentration, and concentration at the flow discharge peak are key variables influencing hysteresis patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Amorphous calcium phosphates (ACPs) represent a family of bioactive compounds particularly relevant to bone regeneration. However, due to their intrinsic metastability, their processing into 3D‐shaped materials cannot be undergone by conventional sintering methods and requires cold sintering approaches. Also, their microstructure and local compositional changes still have to be explored in detail. To this aim, spectroscopy techniques are particularly appealing to probe local chemical environments at the microscale. Concerning ACPs, one question regards the distribution of (hydrogenated) phosphate species, as they may lead to various evolutionary trends. In this contribution, we purposely exploited the laser–beam interaction through Raman mapping to trigger the in situ HPO42−‐to‐P2O74− transformation. Analysis by a multivariate approach allowed us to spot P2O74− clusters resulting from HPO42−‐rich initial domains. Moreover, a blue shift of the ν1PO43− band was noticed in the close vicinity of these clusters, thus evidencing a local evolution of the chemical composition of the ACP. These results, corroborated by differential thermal analysis, demonstrate the relevance of using the laser–sample interaction through local heating to probe the spatial evolution induced, in our case, by an ultrafast compaction process. Comparison of outcomes obtained using two different laser/power strategies finally evidenced the need to adapt the Raman analytical conditions to the behavior of the metastable material to analyze. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enamel remineralization, which attempts to generate a mineral layer structurally similar to native enamel and restore its mechanical properties, remains a significant challenge. Here, rationally designed peptide amphiphile (PA) molecules bind to amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) particles via electrostatic interactions, imparting anisotropic properties that drive PA‐modified ACP to form spindle‐shaped aggregates. Furthermore, some residual PA molecules may further regulate crystallization and facilitate the formation of well‐aligned hydroxyapatite bundles. Additionally, the involvement of PA can mediate the ordered deposition and fusion of ACP on the enamel surface, and construct the crystalline‐amorphous mineralization front with a continuous structure. This mineralization front ensures epitaxially oriented growth of enamel crystals and achieves a structurally ordered mineral layer similar to that of native enamel, while the mechanical performance is effectively restored. More significantly, the thickness of the newly formed mineral layer can be augmented through cyclic remineralization, benefitting the design of products intended for practical enamel repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research evidence suggests that a lack of engagement with palliative care and advance care planning could be attributed to a lack of knowledge, presence of misconceptions and stigma within the general public. However, the importance of how death, dying and bereavement are viewed and experienced has been highlighted as an important aspect in enabling public health approaches to palliative care. Therefore, research which explores the public views on strategies to facilitate engagement with palliative care and advance care planning is required. Methods: Exploratory, qualitative design, utilising purposive random sampling from a database of participants involved in a larger mixed methods study. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted (n = 28) and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Thematic findings were mapped to the social-ecological model framework to provide a holistic understanding of public behaviours in relation to palliative care and advance care planning engagement. Results: Three themes were generated from the data: "Visibility and relatability"; "Embedding opportunities for engagement into everyday life"; "Societal and cultural barriers to open discussion". Evidence of interaction across all five social ecological model levels was identified across the themes, suggesting a multi-level public health approach incorporating individual, social, structural and cultural aspects is required for effective public engagement. Conclusions: Public views around potential strategies for effective engagement in palliative care and advance care planning services were found to be multifaceted. Participants suggested an increase in visibility within the public domain to be a significant area of consideration. Additionally, enhancing opportunities for the public to engage in palliative care and advance care planning within everyday life, such as education within schools, is suggested to improve death literacy and reduce stigma. For effective communication, socio-cultural aspects need to be explored when developing strategies for engagement with all members of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advance care planning (ACP) is becoming increasingly important in medical care. Some suggest standardized approaches to initiate ACP with all older adults. However, the idea of patient-centered care suggests more nuanced approaches tailored to individual older adults' needs. This study investigated how older adults with different views and needs about ACP can be approached in an adequate and most beneficial way by health care professionals. Methods: We used questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and informal conversations with older adults, living in their own homes, who volunteered to take part in our research. The research was participatory as we collaborated closely with practice partners and we used the obtained findings immediately and continuously to inform the next steps of our research throughout the process. Results: We identified three subgroups of older adults with differential needs regarding ACP-related activities: The first group avoids talking about their needs and wishes for care towards the end of life. These older people benefit from activities, which aim at motivating them to concern themselves with ACP-related topics. The second group consists of older adults who are in principle open for ACP-conversations but do not initiate these themselves. This group either trusts their next-of-kin or their healthcare professional to act in accordance with their wishes or does not bring up the topic in order to avoid confronting relevant others with possibly unpleasant topics. This group of people benefits from information about ACP and from healthcare professionals initiating the ACP process. The third group of older people initiates the ACP process themselves, gathers information, and takes the necessary steps for ACP. With this group it remains relevant to check carefully whether they have indeed taken all relevant steps and shared the information with all relevant involved care institutions and relatives. Conclusions: We propose a model to simplify adjustments of ACP to individuals' needs. Our suggested approach might contribute to increasing the motivation of older people to engage in ACP conversations if these are more closely related to their own needs. Further, it might also contribute to simplifying the individual shaping of the ACP process for healthcare professionals as our suggested model offers clear guidance for approaching different types of older people in different ways. The suggested approach may in future be used for training health care professionals in the conduct of ACP conversations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Changes in the health care delivery system have altered the way internal medicine (IM) is practiced, with inclusion of subspecialty advanced care practitioners (ACPs) as vital members of the health care team. Methods ACPs are provided the clinical settings and educational resources within an academic center to become competent in recognizing and managing common and complicated infectious diseases (ID). The ID ACP will be given progressive responsibility with expectations for achievement of milestones as they develop into competent practitioners. We seek to ensure quality, cost-effective, and comprehensive patient-centered care on the ID service in the inpatient and ambulatory settings in compliance with national standards and scope of practice recommendations and regulations. Results In recognition of the expanding role of ACPs, we developed a curriculum and guidelines in the subspecialty of ID. Conclusions Our proposal greatly adds to the available literature for ACPs to provide the full spectrum of ID practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is a major producer of honey and is internationally recognized for the quality of this product. To assess the quality of the product, physicochemical analyses were carried out. In this sense, samples of honey from the eleven agroecological zones of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, were analyzed for moisture content, pH, reducing sugars, apparent sucrose, water activity, diastase enzyme, color, and Lund reaction. Sixty-five samples of honey collected in the 2018-2019 harvest and 50 in the 2019-2020 harvest were analyzed. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance and the Scott & Knott test (p<0.05) with the aid of scripts written in the R language. Principal component analysis (PCA) was also applied to the physicochemical dataset to verify possible sample groupings between the agroecological zones of the State and interactions between the variables. Moisture and apparent sucrose contents of the honey showed the greatest discrepancies in their values regarding what is permitted by the Brazilian legislation. Three agroecological zones were correlated in terms of the data found. PCA showed that moisture, pH, and water activity were relevant physicochemical parameters for grouping and discriminating samples. From the results herein shown, it is perceived the need for continuous monitoring of honey produced in Santa Catarina State, as well as the qualification of beekeepers for harvesting, processing, and storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefit from the strong coordination property, lanthanide metal ions have been used as competitive reagents to modulate the fluorescence changes of the system. However, lanthanide metal ions as inducers for aggregation-induced emission enhancement in nanosystems is rare. Herein, we report a "turn on–off-on" fluorescent switch for cascade detection of acid phosphatase (ACP) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) based on the competitive coordination of samarium ions (Sm3+). Novel copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) with long wavelength emission (614 nm) stabilized by glutathione (GSH) and glycylglycine (Gly-Gly) have been confirmed to have AIE property. With the continuous aggregation of GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs under the induction of Sm3+, the fluorescence of the system increased to achieve the "turn-on" process. The coordinated behaviour between Sm3+ and GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs is discussed. Due to the strong metal coordination ability of ATP, the Sm3+ coordinated with the GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs is competed out, resulting in the fluorescence "turn-off" process of the system. As the substrate of enzymatic hydrolysis of ACP, with the continuous hydrolysis of ATP by ACP, Sm3+ coordinates with GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs again, which leads to the AIE effect and realize the fluorescence "turn-on" process of the system. This strategy results in ATP linear range of 0.508 ~ 120.0 μM with a detection limit of 0.508 μM (S/N = 3) and ACP linear range of 0.011 ~ 30.0 U·L−1 with a detection limit of 0.011 U·L−1 (S/N = 3). Application to biologic samples was successful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims was to analyze the influence of extraction method and geographical origin on the quality of olive oils. Thirty samples of the "Moroccan Picholine" variety were collected from three types of crushers (hydraulic press, two-phase and three-phase) in four cities of the main Moroccan olive-growing region, Fes-Meknes, during the 2021 and 2022 harvest seasons. Oils from this region are generally of virgin and extra virgin olive oils quality, according to the International Olive Council, with high levels of oleic acid reaching up to 80.12 ± 1.94% for oils produced in Meknes, two-phase triturations. Two-phase extracted oils from Fez and Meknes show the highest MUFA/PUFA (monounsaturated fatty acids/ polyunsaturated fatty acids) ratios and lower quality parameters, indicating richness in monounsaturated fatty acids and improved oxidative stability. Polyphenol levels varied significantly between the cities of Fez, Meknes, Taounate and Taza, reaching 307.31 ± 17.44 mg/kg GAE for Fez, with notable differences (p < 0.05). In addition, chlorophyll and carotenoid levels differed significantly according to the type of extraction and the city of origin (p = 0.004 and p = 0.042, respectively). Principal component analysis identified three distinct groups based on extraction method and geographical location, highlighting the importance of these factors in obtaining olive oils with the specific characteristics sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminium composite panel ACP is used as an outer decoration for building facade cladding. In general, these frontal faces of buildings are exposed to weather conditions, like (temperature, rain, wind speed, etc.). The aim of present research is investigating the wind speed influence upon the fatigue life for the ACP under a range of wind speeds varying between (4 m/s) and to (17 m/s). The mechanical properties of ACP were measured by tensile and fatigue tests. Three specimens of the tensile test were fabricated according to standard dimensions. The bending stress was applied as amplitude load, and the number of cycles to failure was recorded and plotted in the (S-N) curve. The fatigue limit was detected according to the number of cycles (106). Three models of the ACP material were simulated, using the software ANSYS version 15 at different areas (0.8, 1, and 1.2 m2), and a safety factor was detected that was generated by the fatigue load. The results manifested that the fatigue limit of the ACP material is around 2.3 MPa. The outcomes elucidated that the decrease in applied load leads to an increase in the number of cycles to failure owing to the fatigue load. On the other hand, the safe wind speed is (14.8 m/s) for the (0.8 m2) area, while (13 m/s) and (11 m/s) can be safe in the design for the areas (1 m2) and (1.2 m2), respectively. The commercial (ACP) can be used as an external decoration in Baghdad city in any tested area if the wind speed does not exceed 11 m/s due to its ability to carry out the atmospheric conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Guidelines recommend Advance Care Planning (ACP) for seriously ill older adults to increase the patient-centeredness of end-of-life care. Few interventions target the inpatient setting. Objective: To test the effect of a novel physician-directed intervention on ACP conversations in the inpatient setting. Design: Stepped wedge cluster-randomized design with five 1-month steps (October 2020–February 2021), and 3-month extensions at each end. Setting: A total of 35/125 hospitals staffed by a nationwide physician practice with an existing quality improvement initiative to increase ACP (enhanced usual care). Participants: Physicians employed for ≥ 6 months at these hospitals; patients aged ≥ 65 years they treated between July 2020–May 2021. Intervention: Greater than or equal to 2 h of exposure to a theory-based video game designed to increase autonomous motivation for ACP; enhanced usual care. Main measure: ACP billing (data abstractors blinded to intervention status). Results: A total of 163/319 (52%) invited, eligible hospitalists consented to participate, 161 (98%) responded, and 132 (81%) completed all tasks. Physicians' mean age was 40 (SD 7); most were male (76%), Asian (52%), and reported playing the game for ≥ 2 h (81%). These physicians treated 44,235 eligible patients over the entire study period. Most patients (57%) were ≥ 75; 15% had COVID. ACP billing decreased between the pre- and post-intervention periods (26% v. 21%). After adjustment, the homogeneous effect of the game on ACP billing was non-significant (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.88–1.06; p = 0.42). There was effect modification by step (p < 0.001), with the game associated with increased billing in steps 1–3 (OR 1.03 [step 1]; OR 1.15 [step 2]; OR 1.13 [step 3]) and decreased billing in steps 4–5 (OR 0.66 [step 4]; OR 0.95 [step 5]). Conclusions: When added to enhanced usual care, a novel video game intervention had no clear effect on ACP billing, but variation across steps of the trial raised concerns about confounding from secular trends (i.e., COVID). Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov; NCT 04557930, 9/21/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have identified a corazonin G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) gene in the tick Ixodes scapularis , which likely plays a central role in the physiology and behavior of this ectoparasite. This receptor gene is unusually large (1.133 Mb) and yields two corazonin (CRZ) receptor splice variants, where nearly half of the coding regions are exchanged: CRZ-Ra (containing exon 2, exon 3, and exon 4 of the gene) and CRZ-Rb (containing exon 1, exon 3, and exon 4 of the gene). CRZ-Ra codes for a GPCR with a canonical DRF sequence at the border of the third transmembrane helix and the second intracellular loop. The positively-charged R residue from the DRF sequence is important for coupling of G proteins after activation of a GPCR. CRZ-Rb, in contrast, codes for a GPCR with an unusual DQL sequence at this position, still retaining a negatively-charged D residue, but lacking a positively-charged R residue, suggesting different G protein coupling. Another difference between the two splice variants is that exon 2 from CRZ-Ra codes for an N-terminal signal sequence. Normally, GPCRs do not have N-terminal signal sequences, although a few mammalian GPCRs have. In the tick CRZ-Ra, the signal sequence probably assists with inserting the receptor correctly into the RER membrane. We stably transfected Chinese Hamster Ovary cells with each of the two splice variants and carried out bioluminescence bioassays that also included the use of the human promiscuous G protein G 16. CRZ-Ra turned out to be selective for I. scapularis corazonin (EC 50 = 10−8 M) and could not be activated by related neuropeptides like adipokinetic hormone (AKH) and AKH/corazonin-related peptide (ACP). Similarly, also CRZ-Rb could only be activated by corazonin, although about 4-fold higher concentrations were needed to activate it (EC 50 = 4 x 10−8 M). The genomic organization of the tick corazonin GPCR gene is similar to that of the insect AKH and ACP receptor genes. This similar genomic organization can also be found in the human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor gene, confirming previous conclusions that the corazonin, AKH, and ACP receptor genes are the true arthropod orthologues of the human GnRH receptor gene. [Display omitted] • The tick Ixodes scapularis transmits serious human diseases, such as Lyme disease. • G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial for the physiology of ticks. • Tick-specific neuropeptide GPCRs would be excellent drug targets to kill ticks. • We identified a large tick GPCR gene (1.133 Mb), coding for two splice variants. • Each splice variant encodes a specific GPCR for the tick neuropeptide corazonin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional air-conditioning pipes made from materials such as copper and aluminum have limitations in terms of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The use of composite materials offers a promising alternative to overcome these limitations due to improving the mechanical properties of air-conditioning pipes by incorporating composite materials. The paper explores the mechanical properties of composite materials and their potential to enhance the strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion of air-conditioning pipes. Whereas gas leakage issues have developed into one of the most significant issues in air conditioning organizations, the solution to these issues looks forward to improving the gas connection pipes in air conditioning companies and enhancing their durability. The goal of the study presented in this research paper is to improve gas pipes by adding insulating and supporting layers to increase the pipe's durability, such as layers of carbon and fiber. Through Simulation, materials have been added at various angles and directions to determine the best accessible condition to improve the condition of the ionization tube. The results revealed that the presence of carbon fiber layers at angles of 45 degrees from the inner diameter and 90 degrees from the outer diameter provides the best accessible condition and results in the least amount of distortion, with the best case's deformation reaching 0.157 meters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusion expression is widely employed to enhance the solubility of recombinant proteins. However, removal of the fusion tag is often required due to its potential impact on the structure and activity of passenger proteins. Tobacco etch virus (TEV) protease is widely used for this purpose due to its stringent sequence recognition. In the present work, fusion to the acyl carrier protein from E. coli fatty acid synthase (ACP) significantly increased the yield of recombinant soluble TEV, and the ACP tag also greatly improved TEV stability. The cleavage activity of TEV was not affected by the ACP fusion tag, and ACP-TEV retained high activity, even at unfavourable pH values. Moreover, ACP-TEV could be efficiently modified by co-expressed E. coli holo-ACP synthase (AcpS), leading to covalent attachment of 4′-phosphopantetheine (4′-PP) group to ACP. The sulfhydryl group of the long, flexible 4′-PP chain displayed high specific reactivity with iodoacetyl groups on the solid support. Thus, TEV could be immobilised effectively and conveniently via the active holo-ACP, and immobilised TEV retained high cleavage activity after a long storage period and several cycles of reuse. As a low-cost and recyclable biocatalyst, TEV immobilised by this method holds promise for biotechnological research and development. Key points: • The ACP tag greatly increased the soluble expression and stability of TEV protease. • The ACP tag did not affect the cleavage activity of TEV. • The holo-ACP Tag effectively mediated the covalent immobilisation of TEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This expertise aims to present and analyse the bailout measures for salvaging the economy during the global pandemic COVID-19 in Slovenia in 2020 - 21, with an emphasis on the tourism industry. Based on the data obtained, the authors of the article sought to determine whether the Government of the Republic of Slovenia has tackled bailing out of the tourism sector in the right way or not and whether its measures to mitigate the effects of the epidemic have been successful or not. The government has tackled the problem of salvaging both the entire economy and, in particular, the tourism industry over ten so called Anti-Corona Packages (ACPs), which sought to ensure the liquidity of the economy (tourism) and the preservation of jobs. The analysis showed that the measures taken were timely and well targeted, placing Slovenia at the very top of countries which dealt best with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for qualitatively and quantitatively enhanced food production, necessary for feeding a progressively increasing World population, requires the adoption of new and sustainable agricultural protocols. Among them, limiting the waste of fertilizers in the environment has become a global target. Nanotechnology can offer the possibility of designing and preparing novel materials alternative to conventional fertilizers, which are more readily absorbed by plant roots and, therefore, enhance nutrient use efficiency. In this context, during the last decade, great attention has been paid to calcium phosphate nanoparticles (CaP), particularly nanocrystalline apatite and amorphous calcium phosphate, as potential macronutrient nano-fertilizers with superior nutrient-use efficiency to their conventional counterparts. Their inherent content in macronutrients, like phosphorus, and gradual solubility in water have been exploited for their use as slow P-nano-fertilizers. Likewise, their large (specific) surfaces, due to their nanometric size, have been functionalized with additional macronutrient-containing species, like urea or nitrate, to generate N-nano-fertilizers with more advantageous nitrogen-releasing profiles. In this regard, several studies report encouraging results on the superior nutrient use efficiency showed by CaP nano-fertilizers in several crops than their conventional counterparts. Based on this, the advances of this topic are reviewed here and critically discussed, with special emphasis on the preparation and characterization approaches employed to synthesize/functionalize the engineered nanoparticles, as well as on their fertilization properties in different crops and in different (soil, foliar, fertigation and hydroponic) conditions. In addition, the remaining challenges in progress toward the real application of CaP as nano-fertilizers, involving several fields (i.e., agronomic or material science sectors), are identified and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been widely held that Carl Rogers was strongly negative towards diagnoses as useless and even harmful. However, during the analysis of his work, it appears that he used, without prejudice, the traditional diagnoses of psychopathology, as can be seen in works such as Psychotherapy and Personality Change (1954), Psychotherapy and its Impact (1967) and On Personal Power (1977). In our opinion, your attitude would be based on a pragmatic approach to communication. However, with the paradigm shift assumed in December 1940, from the biomedical to the “new therapies”, C. Rogers started to use, without expressly mentioning it, a new diagnostic device. This “tool”, based on the six necessary and sufficient conditions for therapeutic change, constitutes a relational “means of diagnosis” and, in our perspective, consistent with the attitude of trust in the client’s capacity for self-organization, a fundamental element for the development of the therapeutic process. In this sense, the present article aims to describe C. Rogers’ “journey” and his consistency of thought regarding the diagnostic process and its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Advance care planning is a key preparatory step in ensuring high-quality palliative and end of life care, and should be considered as a process, beginning with community-level conversations among lay persons. There is, however, indication that death talk among community-dwelling adults is not occurring, and there is a dearth of research examining why this is the case. This study aims to provide the first examination of barriers and facilitators to talking about death and dying among the general population in a UK region (Northern Ireland), and to provide a novel application of health behaviour change theory towards developing a theoretical understanding of the sources of this behaviour.Methods: The study involved qualitative analysis of responses (n = 381 participants) to two open-ended questions within a cross-sectional online survey, with recruitment via social media of adults currently living in Northern Ireland. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted on open text responses per question, with the barriers and facilitators mapped on to health behaviour change models (the Behaviour Change Wheel COM-B and the Theoretical Domains Framework).Results: The findings evidence a myriad of barriers and facilitators to engaging in death talk, with themes aligning to areas such as lack of acceptance of death in social contexts and fear of upsetting self or others, and a need to improve interpersonal communication skills for facilitating conversations and improve knowledge of the existing services around death and dying. A theoretical understanding of the drivers of death talk is presented with findings mapped across most components of the COM-B Behaviour Change Model and the Theoretical Domains Framework.Conclusions: This study contributes to a small but emergent research area examining barriers and facilitators to talking about death and dying. Findings from this study can be used to inform new public health programmes towards empowering adults to have these conversations with others in their community towards upstreaming advance care planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with terminal illnesses hospitalized with acute deteriorations often suffer from unnecessary/inappropriate therapies at the end of their lives. Appropriate advance care planning (ACP) practices aligned to patients' goals of care may mitigate this. Materials and methods: To explore the rationale for clinical decision-making in hospitalized patients with terminal illnesses and formulate a practice pathway to streamline care. Between May and December 2018, a questionnaire survey with three case vignettes derived from intensive care unit (ICU) patients was emailed to ICU, respiratory and renal doctors, and nurses in two Sydney hospitals. Respondents chose various management options ranging from all active therapies to palliation. The primary outcome was the proportion of responses for each management option. With these and a thematic analysis of responses to identify barriers to ACP practice, a practice pathway was formulated. Results: Of the 310 invited clinicians, 178 responded (57.4%). About 89.2% of respondents reported caring for dying patients frequently. Sixty percent saw patients suffering from prolonged therapies. Most respondents deemed patients in the case vignettes to be terminally ill, warranting ACP discussions. However, many still wanted to treat the acute deterioration with active ICU-level interventions. Most respondents reported being comfortable in having ACP discussions. Conclusion: The survey showed discordance between the stated opinions and the choice of management options for terminally ill patients with acute deteriorations; possibly due to the lack of a considered approach in choosing management options that align with medical consensus and the patient's/family's wishes, a practice pathway is suggested to improve management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bone scaffold added to the dental alveolus immediately after an extraction avoids bone atrophy and deformity at the tooth loss site, enabling rehabilitation with implants. Photobiomodulation accelerates bone healing by stimulating blood flow, activating osteoblasts, diminishing osteoclastic activity, and improving the integration of the biomaterial with the bone tissue. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation with LED at a wavelength of 850 nm on bone quality in Wistar rats submitted to molar extraction with and without a bone graft using hydroxyapatite biomaterial (Straumann® Cerabone®). Forty-eight rats were distributed among five groups (n = 12): basal (no interventions); control (extraction) (basal and control were the same animal, but at different sides); LED (extraction + LED λ = 850 nm); biomaterial (extraction + biomaterial), and biomaterial + LED (extraction + biomaterial + LED λ = 850 nm). Euthanasia occurred at 15 and 30 days after the induction of the extraction. The ALP analysis revealed an improvement in bone formation in the control and biomaterial + LED groups at 15 days (p = 0.0086 and p = 0.0379, Bonferroni). Moreover, the LED group had better bone formation compared to the other groups at 30 days (p = 0.0007, Bonferroni). In the analysis of AcP, all groups had less resorption compared to the basal group. Bone volume increased in the biomaterial, biomaterial + LED, and basal groups in comparison to the control group at 15 days (p < 0.05, t-test). At 30 days, the basal group had greater volume compared to the control and LED groups (p < 0.05, t-test). LED combined with the biomaterial improved bone formation in the histological analysis and diminished bone degeneration (demonstrated by the reduction in AcP), promoting an increase in bone density and volume. LED may be an important therapy to combine with biomaterials to promote bone formation, along with the other known benefits of this therapy, such as the control of pain and the inflammatory process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report shows that there is a lack of a legal framework in Japan to protect patients' right during the end‐of‐life period, which hinders the implementation of ACP in medical practice. This report suggests that legal support can contribute to the advancement of ACP while addressing cultural differences. Advance Care Planning has been widely advocated in Japan, but it has not yet taken root. The collective decision making culture in Japan may unconsciously overpower or ignore the patients' wishes, hence legal support can mitigate its negative impacts on ACP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Citrus cultivation is affected in many parts of the world because of a devastating disease, huanglongbing (HLB) or citrus greening. In Florida, nearly all commercial citrus is compromised due to HLB, and the disease has spread to other citrus-growing regions of the United States, California and Texas. In California, testing Asian citrus psyllids (ACPs) for the HLB pathogen has been an essential part of integrated pest management. ACP and HLB surveys are essential for disease management in areas where HLB is not widespread. We developed improved ACP traps that can be deployed in the field along with the standard yellow sticky traps. The reusable traps were designed with Rhinoceros computer software and a 3D printer. These traps can be deployed for several months and provide a dynamic sampling mechanism for an improved disease survey strategy. In the present study, ACPs from the 3D-printed traps are collected in a preservative and appear suitable for HLB testing. The evaluation of traps in Florida and California under laboratory, greenhouse, and field conditions indicates that the 3D-printed traps can capture ACPs with about the same efficiency as the sticky traps. They are easy to handle and provide an important field tool for HLB management. Citrus huanglongbing (HLB) is a severe problem for citrus cultivation. The disease management programs benefit from improved field tools suitable for surveying the ACP vector (Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)) and the associated pathogen. In the present study, we utilize three-dimensional (3D) printers and design tools to develop traps that can capture and preserve ACPs. Three novel, 3D-printed traps were designed and evaluated: stem trap, and cylinder traps 1 and 2. The traps and yellow sticky cards were deployed weekly for 8 months in 2 non-commercial citrus groves in Florida; in California, the traps were evaluated for 12 months in field cages and 4 citrus groves. The stem traps captured lower numbers of ACPs at all experimental sites compared to the cylinder traps. Capture rates in the cylinder traps were comparable to the sticky trap, making the device a viable tool for monitoring field ACPs. The two main advantages of using the reusable 3D traps over standard methods of ACP and HLB surveys include dynamic sampling that can be conducted year-round and the capture of ACPs that can be preserved and tested. Improved trapping may facilitate quick management decisions and mitigate HLB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advance care planning allows patients to share their preferences for medical care with the aim of ensuring goal-concordant care in times of serious illness. The morbidity and mortality of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the importance and public visibility of advance care planning. However, little is known about the frequency and quality of advance care planning documentation during the pandemic. Aim: This study examined the frequency, quality, and predictors of advance care planning documentation among hospitalized medical patients with and without COVID-19. Design: This retrospective cohort analysis used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with advance care planning documentation. Setting/participants: This study included all adult patients tested for COVID-19 and admitted to a tertiary medical center in San Francisco, CA during March 2020. Results: Among 262 patients, 31 (11.8%) tested positive and 231 (88.2%) tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. The rate of advance care planning documentation was 38.7% in patients with COVID-19 and 46.8% in patients without COVID-19 (p = 0.45). Documentation consistently addressed code status (100% and 94.4% for COVID-positive and COVID-negative, respectively), but less often named a surrogate decision maker, discussed prognosis, or elaborated on other wishes for care. Palliative care consultation was associated with increased advance care planning documentation (OR: 6.93, p = 0.004). Conclusion: This study found low rates of advance care planning documentation for patients both with and without COVID-19 during an evolving global pandemic. Advance care planning documentation was associated with palliative care consultation, highlighting the importance of such consultation to ensure timely, patient-centered advance care planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a new self-learning parallel control method, which is based on adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) technique, is developed for solving the optimal control problem of discrete- time time-varying nonlinear systems. It aims to obtain an approximate optimal control law sequence and simultaneously guarantees the convergence of the value function. Establishing the time-varying artificial system by neural networks in a certain time-horizon, a control-sequence-improvement ADP algorithm is developed to obtain the control law sequence. For the first time, the criteria of the parallel execution are presented, such that the value function is proven to converge to a finite neighborhood of the optimal performance index function. Finally, numerical results and analysis are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the parallel control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Casein-Phosphopeptide of Amorphous-Calcium-Phosphate (CPP-ACP) promotes dental remineralization and revers of early carious lesion; however, the clinical evidence is limited. OBJECTIVE: Compare the preventive and remineralizing effect of CPP-ACP in two presentations: chewing gum and cream for self-application on permanent teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical trial carried out in students aged 11 to 13 years, with a duration of three months. Permanent premolar and molar surfaces were included: free of caries and with incipient carious lesions. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups: a) Chewing gum with CPP-ACP; b) Self-apply cream with CPP-ACP and, c) control. They brushed their teeth with a sodium fluoride toothpaste. For data analysis, median and percentile were calculated and Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests were used. RESULTS: Ninety students aged 11 to 13 years were studied for three months. A total of 971 permanent premolar and molar surfaces were included: 843 caries-free and 128 with incipient carious lesions. A decrease in fluorescence values was found. The medians of the differences between the baseline value and after each treatment in teeth without caries were: chewing gum: -2 (-5.0)); cream group: -1 (-3.1) and control group: -1 (-3.1). p = 0.001. For those teeth with incipient lesions, the medians were: gum: -15 (-19, -2), cream: -10 (-14, -5) and control -10 (-16, -4) with significant differences between the gum group with that of pasta and control (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: CPP-ACP plus brushing with fluoridated-toothpaste showed remineralizing effect and limited the advancement of incipient carious lesions, with greater efficacy for chewing gum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group, established in June 1975 by the Georgetown Agreement, was generally seen as an emanation of the European Union (EU). This article presents a non-EU-centric perspective by discussing various initiatives aimed at fostering intra-ACP cooperation and promoting common ACP positions in international settings. Furthermore, it analyses various threats to the survival of the ACP Group, some linked to its allegedly ineffective performance as an organisation, others related to the rise of competitors, most notably the African Union. Importantly, it delves into the reform process that culminated in the adoption of the revised Georgetown Agreement in December 2019, which transformed the ACP Group into the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), with the aim of establishing it as a relevant and influential global actor and reducing its dependence on the EU. In revisiting the evolution of the OACPS, this article identifies an intentions–capability gap, specifically between the often grandiose statements of official discourse and the institutional and financial resources devoted to implementing stated objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advance care planning is considered an important issue in end‐of‐life care for older adults. The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic has interrupted the healthcare system and end‐of‐life care tremendously. This review aimed to explore available articles on advance care planning amid the pandemic and analyze qualitatively. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched on February 2021 using the relevant keywords. Retrieved articles were screened applying inclusion criteria. Any article describing advance care planning during the COVID‐19 era was included. A qualitative content analysis was conducted. In total, 20 articles incorporating 5542 participants from five countries were included. Among the articles, eight were primary studies and the rest were perspective papers or secondary analysis. From the qualitative content analysis six major themes emerged namely palliative care, lack of coordination among acute care, hospital palliative care, and long‐term care, community‐based advance care planning, real‐time dissemination of scientific information on the regional pandemic situation, online system and legislation. The COVID‐19 pandemic had decreased the uptake of advance care planning. Findings of the review suggested simplification of the procedure regarding advance care planning, implementation of community‐based advance care planning and utilization of online resources to enhance the process. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 779–787. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Divertor Tokamak Test. • DTT. • FMEA. • FFMEA. • Safety analysis. • ACP. The Divertor Tokamak Test (DTT) facility will emit ionizing radiation during its operation, both due to d -D (deuterium-deuterium) reactions and to accelerating electrons and other particles within the plasma. Therefore, the plant shall be designed and operate according to the Italian legislation and regulations applicable to facilities using ionizing radiations. The licensing process involves the execution of safety analyses dedicated to demonstrating compliance with the legal limits in the various operational phases and in the incidental/accidental conditions that could occur. Accordingly, safety analyses begin at an early stage of the project development. A functional failure mode and effect analysis (FFMEA) was performed when the DTT design was at conceptual level. The output of this first assessment was the identification of a set of safety concerns and a set of hazards (e.g. possible source terms). Preliminary reference accident sequences have also been outlined for the transient deterministic analyses to be performed in order to demonstrate that safety requirements are met and that structural containment is not challenged. Evaluations of source terms such as tritium, activated dust in the plasma chamber and activated corrosion products (ACPs) in cooling circuits have started and are still ongoing. In parallel, as the design has progressed significantly, component-level failure mode and effects analyses (FMEA) have been initiated, as well as deterministic assessments. FMEAs allow the confirmation/identification of the complete set of hazards, the possible initiating events and the selection of reference accident sequences. Deterministic assessments will evaluate the possible consequences related to the reference accidents and demonstrate compliance with safety limits. In this work, the following studies are presented: • functional analysis, which defines the process and safety functions provided by the systems, structures and components (SSC) in the DTT; • the functional FMEA in terms of methodology used and results obtained when the design was only in a pre-conceptual phase; • the analysis of ACPs related to the primary heat transfer system (PHTS) of the vacuum vessel (VV); • the FMEA at component level both in terms of results obtained and design improvements necessary to reduce safety risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Device-related thrombus (DRT) has been considered an Achilles' heel of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO). However, data on DRT prediction remain limited.Objectives: This study constructed a DRT registry via a multicenter collaboration aimed to assess outcomes and predictors of DRT.Methods: Thirty-seven international centers contributed LAAO cases with and without DRT (device-matched and temporally related to the DRT cases). This study described the management patterns and mid-term outcomes of DRT and assessed patient and procedural predictors of DRT.Results: A total of 711 patients (237 with and 474 without DRT) were included. Follow-up duration was similar in the DRT and no-DRT groups, median 1.8 years (interquartile range: 0.9-3.0 years) versus 1.6 years (interquartile range: 1.0-2.9 years), respectively (P = 0.76). DRTs were detected between days 0 to 45, 45 to 180, 180 to 365, and >365 in 24.9%, 38.8%, 16.0%, and 20.3% of patients. DRT presence was associated with a higher risk of the composite endpoint of death, ischemic stroke, or systemic embolization (HR: 2.37; 95% CI, 1.58-3.56; P < 0.001) driven by ischemic stroke (HR: 3.49; 95% CI: 1.35-9.00; P = 0.01). At last known follow-up, 25.3% of patients had DRT. Discharge medications after LAAO did not have an impact on DRT. Multivariable analysis identified 5 DRT risk factors: hypercoagulability disorder (odds ratio [OR]: 17.50; 95% CI: 3.39-90.45), pericardial effusion (OR: 13.45; 95% CI: 1.46-123.52), renal insufficiency (OR: 4.02; 95% CI: 1.22-13.25), implantation depth >10 mm from the pulmonary vein limbus (OR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.57-3.69), and non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (OR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.22-2.97). Following conversion to risk factor points, patients with ≥2 risk points for DRT had a 2.1-fold increased risk of DRT compared with those without any risk factors.Conclusions: DRT after LAAO is associated with ischemic events. Patient- and procedure-specific factors are associated with the risk of DRT and may aid in risk stratification of patients referred for LAAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we propose to use the principle of available data derived from the NIPALS (Nonlinear estimation by Iterative Partial Least Square) algorithm to work on the Principal Components Analysis (PCA) in the presence of missing data. This proposal is important since it does not perform data imputation, nor are individuals discarded from the database; the proposed method works with the available pairs to form the quasicorrelation matrices in 𝑹𝒑 and in 𝑹𝒏; the spectral decomposition of these matrices allows through the transition relations to realize a conventional PCA. From the simulation study carried out, it was found that as the percentage of missing data increases, the inertia explained in the first factorial plane decreases. The solution algorithm was developed under the R programming environment and the code is appended for free use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family Orchidaceae is widely recognized for its mutualistic relationship with their pollinators, however, the knowledge about the most diverse monocotyledonous group on the planet it is still limited. Here, we recognized the ecological requirements and modeled the habitat preferences for Catasetum bicolor and C. ochraceum (Subfamily: Epidendroideae). We used climatic and bioclimatic data along with species' occurrences records in a) Principal Components Analysis (PCA) to screen for the most influential variables; and, b) a maximum entropy algorithm (Maxent) for habitat suitability modeling. Also, preliminary conservation status and probable priority areas for monitoring and conservation were identified. Both species differed in their habitat preferences as shown by the altitudinal range. Factors screened by PCA were associated to temperature (average, minimum, seasonality), solar radiation, and precipitation of the driest and warmest months. The variables that influenced the most in the modeling process for C. bicolor were solar radiation, temperature seasonality, and its annual range; while for C. ochraceum were the precipitation of the driest month and solar radiation. Areas with habitat suitable conditions were identified in countries (Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela) and biomes (humid and dry tropical, and subtropical forests) with highly dynamic land cover changes. The studied species were found to be in an endangered status based on their area of occupancy (< 76 km2). However, considering their extent of occurrence (> 20000 km2), they are in a status of less concern. These findings may be relevant for future monitoring plans and planning for ex-situ and in-situ conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work constitutes the first phytosociological analysis of saltmarshes on the Angolan coast. Sixty-five relevés were carried out resulting in the description of six new plant associations. These saltmarshes are characterized by a lower floristic richness when compared to the Holarctic saltmarshes. Eighteen taxa were identified, some of them succulent. Saltmarshes occur from the mouth of the Cunene River to the Cuanza River, although in this last part they are already very impoverished. In the Cuanza river, saltmarshes occupy only a narrow strip in the inner sector of the mangroves in contact with continental ecosystems and are often made up of just one taxon, Sarcocornia natalensis subsp. affinis. Mangroves reach their southern limit in the city of Lobito, although they are almost extinct there. The occurrence and distribution of saltmarshes are affected by the Cold Benguela Current, that influences the west coast of Africa between Cabo da Boa Esperança and Benguela. The height of the saltmarsh's platforms colonized by halophyte, sub-halophyte or halotolerant plants determines the flooding period and thus the plant community's floristic composition. Soil granulometry also plays an important role in the spatial organization of plant communities. One of the main originalities of Angolan saltmarshes is the predominance of fine sandy or sandy-loam soil texture as a consequence of the proximity of the Namibe desert. The PCA segregated the different plant communities described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One central question surrounding the biosynthesis of fatty acids and polyketide‐derived natural products is how the 4′‐phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase) interrogates the essential acyl carrier protein (ACP) domain to fulfill the initial activation step. The triggering factor of this study was the lack of structural information on PPTases at physiological pH, which could bias our comprehension of the mechanism of action of these important enzymes. Structural and functional studies on the family II PPTase PptAb of Mycobacterium abscessus show that pH has a profound effect on the coordination of metal ions and on the conformation of endogenously bound coenzyme A (CoA). The observed conformational flexibility of CoA at physiological pH is accompanied by a disordered 4′‐phosphopantetheine (Ppant) moiety. Finally, structural and dynamical information on an isolated mycobacterial ACP domain, in its apo form and in complex with the activator PptAb, suggests an alternate mechanism for the post‐translational modification of modular megasynthases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the concentration of PM10 and PM2.5 andidentifies the sources of pollution in the districts of San Juan de Lurigancho (SJL) and Puente Piedra (PPD) located in the eastern and northern zones of the Metropolitan area of Lima,Peru. The samples were collected between April and May 2017 by the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (SENAMHI). The concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5, measured using gravimetric techniques, ex ceeded the international (WHO) and national reference values; with max imum values for PM10 and PM2.5 of 160 and 121.56 µ g/m3 in PPD and 295.06 and 154.58 µ g/m3 in SJL respectively. Pollution sources were identified using the Positive Matrix Factorization Model (PMF 5.0) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and showed similar sources for both districts. In SJL, sources were determined to be a combination of vehicular traffic and the resuspension of soil dust, marine aerosols and iron and steel industry by-products, while in PPD they consisted of the resuspension of soil dust, vehicular traffic, industrial activity and marine aerosols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to determine the chemical composition of the essential oil of Origanum compactum, from the region of Meknes (Morocco), and their antimicrobial effect, and on the other hand, to carry out a comparison between the chemical composition of this essential oil with the six regions of Morocco: Larache, Chefchaouen, Al Hoceïma, Tetouan, Taounate and Rabat. The essential oils of Origanum compactum thus obtained were analyzed and identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). To determine the similarities and dissimilarities between the chemical compositions of the essential oil of Origanum compactum from the Meknes region with the other six regions of Morocco, we performed the principal component analysis (ACP). Regarding antimicrobial activity, the essential oils of Origanum compactum have shown significant inhibitory activity against the bacteria and molds studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing reproductive success is an essential part of evolution for both sexes. Females can optimize mating by avoiding superfluous mating advances and insemination, since both take time away from other activities and may incur costs related to sperm receipt. While many separate-sexed organisms are known to exhibit mate avoidance, much less is known about this for simultaneous hermaphrodites. We addressed this here, using a simultaneously hermaphroditic species that can choose to mate in either of the two sex roles during each mating interaction. Recently, avoidance behaviours in response to natural matings were observed in the hermaphroditic pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis , potentially deterring insemination. To disentangle whether such behaviours are mediated by the mechanical act of mating or the receipt of accessory gland proteins and/or sperm, we intravaginally injected individuals with control or test fluids. Our results show that the avoidance behaviours, crawl-out and biting, were more frequently expressed when individuals were inseminated with accessory gland proteins and/or sperm. These behavioural components of the recipient increased time in courtship prior to insemination, which is concordant with the hypothesis that the partner tries to discourage the potential sperm donor from inseminating. Understanding the mechanism underlying the effects that molluscan accessory gland proteins induce contributes to our understanding of the molecular basis of the recipient's (behavioural) responses as well as how such biochemical postcopulatory strategies evolve. • Reproduction can be optimized by avoiding surplus mating advances and inseminations. • Being inseminated takes time and can incur costs related to sperm receipt. • Simultaneous hermaphrodites cope with this while serving both reproductive interests. • Accessory gland proteins and/or sperm are found to induce crawl-out and biting. • Earlier reported avoidance behaviours seem to be used to discourage new sperm donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic hydrogel-amorphous calcium phosphate composites are promising candidates to substitute biologically sourced scaffolds for bone repair. While the hydrogel matrix serves as a template for stem cell colonisation, amorphous calcium phosphate s provide mechanical integrity with the potential to stimulate osteogenic differentiation. Here, we utilise composites of poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels and differently stabilised amorphous calcium phosphate to investigate potential effects on attachment and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. We found that functionalisation with integrin binding motifs in the form of RGD tripeptide was necessary to allow adhesion of large numbers of cells in spread morphology. Slow dissolution of amorphous calcium phosphate mineral in the scaffolds over at least 21 days was observed, resulting in the release of calcium and zinc ions into the cell culture medium. While we qualitatively observed an increasingly mineralised extracellular matrix along with calcium deposition in the presence of amorphous calcium phosphate-loaded scaffolds, we did not observe significant changes in the expression of selected osteogenic markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel technique of cultivating autologous blood with gold particles; then separating the gold particles and cells from the serum and injecting the conditioned serum into affected plantar fascia. A first-time report of the safety and efficacy in treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciosis in an Olympic equestrian. A single patient with clinical signs, symptoms and ultrasound evidence of plantar fasciosis was treated with four intra-ligamentous GOLDIC® injection therapy. The Olympic jumper was evaluated by Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), and Global Rating of Change (GRoC) score(s) before injection and at 6-month follow-up. VAS, FADI, and GRoC scores showed substantial and marked improvement clinically. The subject was able to return to sport without limitations after 8 weeks. The initial result demonstrates that the treatment regimen is safe, and efficacious. The subject demonstrated reduction of pain, and improved function that allowed return to high level competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tricalcium phosphate-hydroxyapatite (TCP/HA) is an important composite ceramic ubiquitously applied in biomedicine research. In this work, a novel design and synthesizing method for preparation of TCP/HA composites is proposed consisting in suspension mixing amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and hydroxyapatite (HA) ceramic powders with different weight ratios, and their compaction under a uniaxial pressure of 200 MPa and sintering at 1150 °C for 2 h. The obtained sintered bodies exhibited optimum hardness and fracture toughness of 5 GPa and 1.27 MPa m1/2, and values significantly improved as compared with those obtained with the traditional mechanical mixing method. The mechanical enhancement mechanism was mainly attributed to the good ACP and HA phase dispersion and ACP crystallization. SEM and HRTEM observations showed the suspension mixing method to allow amorphous spherical ACP and crystalline rod-like HA particles with size around 50 nm to uniformly disperse at the nano scale in the composite powder, which contributes to the excellent sinter ability. Furthermore, XRD results indicate that after sintering, nearly 100% of amorphous spherical ACP transformed to the crystalline β-TCP, which results in the nanoparticle shrinkage, porosity reduction and composite densification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU is vigorously pursuing Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) in its trade and aid relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. Justifying the EPAs as being 'development friendly', EU officials promise that aid support to private sector development (PSD) in ACP countries will make free trade systems 'win–win'. This article, based on the authors' semi-structured interviews conducted in Ghana and Nigeria, examines the perspectives of cocoa stakeholders vis-à-vis EPAs and PSD. Applying critical discourse analysis to interview transcripts, it underscores areas of overlap and, crucially, divergence among cocoa stakeholders' own narratives on PSD support in the context of EPAs and the official legitimating discourse of EU institutions. In the process, the article draws critical attention to cocoa business interviewees' concerns regarding the impact of premature trade liberalisation. It also underscores cocoa stakeholders' concerns that EU PSD promises are not being fulfilled in terms of actual tangible benefits for business people in this vital ACP export sector. Accordingly, the article contributes to, and corroborates, an existing critical scholarly literature which problematises the strategic functions of donor PSD discourse in presenting free trade reforms as being 'pro-poor' in the post-Washington Consensus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella is a facultative intracellular pathogen that invades epithelial cells of the intestine using the SPI‐1 Type 3 secretion System (T3SS). Insertion of the SPI‐1 T3SS translocon is facilitated by acylation of the translocator SipB, which involves a protein–protein interaction with the acyl carrier protein IacP. Using nuclear magnetic resonance and biological tests, we identified the residues of IacP that are involved in the interaction with SipB. Our results suggest that the 4′‐phosphopantetheine group that functionalizes IacP participates in the interaction. Its solvent exposition may rely on two residues highly conserved in acyl carrier proteins associated with T3SS. This study is the first to address the specificity of acyl carrier proteins associated with T3SS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The satisfaction of PNS visitors is influenced by quantitative and qualitative variables that must be identified and analyzed for optimization. The object of this work is to analyze them in the public use of the ENP, in application to the National Park of Aigüestortes. The explanatory variables have been studied with the Principal Components Analysis, the Chi-square Automatic Interactions Detection and the PLS-SEM, to assess their influence and explanation of the satisfaction and loyalty of the ecotourist visitor. A great reflection of the measurable variables, global value, recommendations and satisfaction through the people, is shown in the dependent variable Global Satisfaction of the Visitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It's known that meteorological variables are directly related to the behavior of atmospheric pollutants. This work aimed at studying the influence of some meteorological variables (temperature, wind speed and relative humidity) in the variation of inhalable Particulate Matter concentration (PM10). The study used data collected from 2010 to 2014, in cities Americana, Jundiaí, Paulínia and Piracicaba, located in São Paulo State. The relation among meteorological variables and PM10 was studied by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). It was obtained that three Principals Components explained more than 90% of data variability. Besides, it was found that PM10 and relative humidity had a stronger correlation (around 42%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic hydrogel-amorphous calcium phosphate composites are promising candidates to substitute biologically sourced scaffolds for bone repair. While the hydrogel matrix serves as a template for stem cell colonisation, amorphous calcium phosphate s provide mechanical integrity with the potential to stimulate osteogenic differentiation. Here, we utilise composites of poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels and differently stabilised amorphous calcium phosphate to investigate potential effects on attachment and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. We found that functionalisation with integrin binding motifs in the form of RGD tripeptide was necessary to allow adhesion of large numbers of cells in spread morphology. Slow dissolution of amorphous calcium phosphate mineral in the scaffolds over at least 21 days was observed, resulting in the release of calcium and zinc ions into the cell culture medium. While we qualitatively observed an increasingly mineralised extracellular matrix along with calcium deposition in the presence of amorphous calcium phosphate-loaded scaffolds, we did not observe significant changes in the expression of selected osteogenic markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Commission has the legal right of initiative to propose both legislative and non-legislative actions, including in areas where competence is shared with the member states such as development policy. This article uses the case of ACP-EU relations to show the trade-offs between the Commission's right of initiative to promote the European interest, and its own interests in the field of development policy. It presents detailed empirical observations of Commission-Presidency dynamics during the preparation of the Union's negotiating mandate for ACP-EU relations after the expiration of the Cotonou agreement in 2020. In this process, the Commission had considerable control over the calendar and on the substance of Council Working Group exchanges, while the rotating Council Presidency had comparatively little influence on the process. Developments during the first half of 2018 increased political uncertainty and raise questions marks as to the longer-term effectiveness of the Commission's post-Cotonou strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Consensus has been reached on the need to integrate palliative care in the follow-up examinations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. We analyzed the survival from the initiation of follow-up by a palliative home care team (PHCT) and described the needs and end-of-life process. Setting and Design: This study was a prospective observational cohort study of advanced COPD patients referred to a PHCT. Sociodemographic variables, survival from the start date of follow-up using the Kaplan–Meier model, health resource consumption, perceived quality of life, main symptomatology, opioid use, and advanced care planning (ACP) were analyzed. Results: Sixty patients were included. The median survival was 8.3 months. Forty-two patients died at the end of the study (85% at home or in palliative care units). The most frequent cause of death was respiratory failure in 39 patients (93%), with 29 of these patients requiring sedation (69%). Dyspnea at rest, with an average of 5 (standard deviation [SD] 2) points, was the main symptom. Fifty-five patients (91%) required opioids for symptom control. The median score in the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire was 72 (SD 13). The mean number of visits by the home team was 7 (SD 6.5). The mean number of admissions during the monitoring period was 1.5 (SD 0.15). Conclusions: The characteristics of the cohort appear suitable for a PHCT. The follow-up care provided by our multidisciplinary unit decreased the number of hospitalizations, favored the development of ACP, and enabled death at home or in palliative care units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • TLR4 deficiency enhances spatial learning and memory in an age- and sex-dependent manner. • TLR4 deficient mice show differential expression of regulators of interleukin-1 signaling. • TLR4 may contribute to age-related increases in anxiety-like behavior in females. Abstract Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) is a transmembrane receptor that initiates an immune response following a bacterial infection or host derived molecules associated with cellular distress. Beyond triggering inflammation, TLR4 has been implicated in modulating behavioral and cognitive processes in a physiologically normal state, as young adult TLR4 deficient mice show learning enhancements in select tasks. Currently unknown is whether these benefits are present in both sexes and persist with aging. The present study evaluated spatial memory, anxiety-like behavior, and central levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules in young (4–5 months) and aged (18–19 months) TLR4 deficient (TLR4−/−) and wild-type (WT) male and female mice. Results confirmed that TLR4−/− mice show enhanced spatial memory compared to WT mice. These effects were age- and sex-specific, as memory retention was superior in the TLR4−/− young males and aged females. While TLR4−/− mice showed age-related changes in behavior, these changes were attenuated relative to aged WT mice. Further, aged TLR4−/− mice showed differential expression of molecules involved in interleukin (IL)-1 signaling in the hippocampus. For instance, aged TLR4−/− females showed heightened expression of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) and the IL-1 accessory proteins AcP and AcPb. Collectively, these data provide the initial evidence that TLR4 deficiency enhances cognitive function and modulates the inflammatory profile of the hippocampus in a sex- and age-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 110 ha dump, located in the Akrach shallow aquifer area in Morocco, was studied in order to characterize the quality of groundwater around the landfill, to delineate the contaminated area and to determine the factors favouring the contamination of groundwater. This dump is located in the city of Oum Azza (15 km south from Rabat), (Map 1). between the Akrach River in the west and the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Dam in the east. To assess groundwater pollution from this landfill, piezometric monitoring and Hydrochemical analyses were conducted on 22 wells. The results highlight a significant degradation in the groundwater quality, especially in the parts located in the direct vicinity downstream the dump. In the impacted areas, electrical conductivity was above 1100 μS cm-1, bicarbonates were higher than 508 mg L-1, chlorides, sulphate, and nitrates contents were higher than 850, 200 and 1 mg L-1, respectively. In addition we found high cadmium (50 - 100 μg L-1) and chromium (40 - 230 μg L-1) contents, i.e. much higher than the WHO guidelines for drinking or irrigation water. A principal component analysis conducted on this dataset highlights the absence of a prevalent principal component (PC), with the variance distributed across many PCs. The mechanisms responsible for the chemical variance of the hydro system are therefore numerous and fairly balanced in terms of influence. Finally, a hierarchical classification brings out three groups of observations, each group corresponding to a level of pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]