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A pilot-scale study on sludge treatment reed beds investigated the combined effects of earthworms and Arundo donax on sewage sludge dewatering and residual sludge quality. Four units were tested: one planted with earthworms, one planted without earthworms, one unplanted with earthworms, and one control, each unit replicated. Over a year, 24 cycles of sludge (dry and volatile solid contents of 24.71 g.L -1 , and 19.14 g.L -1 ) were fed onto the units at a sludge loading rate: 43.59 kg.DS.m -2 .year -1 . Afterward, the units experienced 132 days of resting period, increasing dry solids from 21 to 70 % and decreasing volatile solids from 81 to 69 % on average (40 % sludge volume reduction). The bottom layers of the planted unit with earthworms showed a 30 % reduction in volatile solids, indicating improved sludge stabilization. Macronutrient abundance in the residual sludge followed the sequence N > Ca > P > K > S > Mg. The planted unit with earthworms reduced micronutrient concentrations by 22 % compared to the control unit (Fe > Na > Mn > B > Mo). Earthworms also played a key role in reducing heavy metal concentrations by 11 % compared to the planted unit without earthworms (Zn > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd). Heavy metal levels in the residual sludge met EU and Portugal standards, with a 99.9 % reduction in Escherichia coli and fecal coliforms. Cost estimation showed centrifugation and W-STRB scenarios cost 167 and 183 €.PE -1 for a ten-year operation, with O&M costs of 7 and 3 €.PE -1 .year -1 , respectively., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Many stroke survivors still present with upper-limb paresis six months post-stroke, impacting their autonomy and quality of life (QoL). We designed an enriched Music-supported Therapy (eMST) program to reduce disability in this population. We evaluated the eMST's effectiveness in improving functional abilities and QoL in chronic stroke individuals compared to the conventional motor program Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP)., Methods: We conducted a pragmatic two-arm parallel-group randomized controlled trial with a 3-month follow-up and masked assessment. The eMST involved playing instruments during individual self-administered and group music therapy sessions. The GRASP consisted of self-administered motor exercises using daily objects. Both interventions were completed at home with telemonitoring and involved four one-hour weekly sessions for 10 weeks. The primary outcome was upper-limb motor function measured with the Action Research Arm Test. Secondary outcomes included motor impairment, daily life motor performance, cognitive functions, emotional well-being, QoL, self-regulation, and self-efficacy. Intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses were conducted including participants who discontinued the intervention and those who completed it entirely, respectively., Results: Fifty-eight chronic stroke patients were randomized to the eMST-group (n = 26; age: 64.2 ± 12.5; 6 [23.1%] females; 2.8 ± 2.9 years post-stroke), and the control group (n = 32; age: 62.2 ± 12; 8 [25%] females; 1.8 ± 6.2 years post-stroke). The eMST-group had more participants achieving a clinically relevant improvement in motor impairment post-intervention than the control group for the ITT (55% vs 21.6%; OR = 4.5 (95% CI 1.4-14); p = .019) and PP analyses (60% vs 20%; OR = 6 (95% CI 1.5-24.7); p = .024), sustained at follow-up. The eMST-group reported greater improvements in emotion (difference = 11.1 (95% CI 0.8-21.5; p = 0.36) and participation (difference = 10.3 (95% CI 0.6-25.9); p = 0.41) subscales of QoL, and higher enjoyment during the sessions (difference = 1 (95% CI 0.3-1.5); p = 0.12). No changes were found in other outcomes., Conclusion: eMST demonstrated superiority over conventional motor rehabilitation program in enhancing upper-limb functions and QoL in chronic stroke individuals., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04507542)., (© 2024. Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Mental health problems often begin in early childhood and could predict psychiatric and behavioral outcomes. Prenatal factors such as maternal nutrition have an impact on neurodevelopment. This study aims to investigate the association between maternal dietary patterns and emotional and behavioral problems in 4-year-old children., Methods: Within a cohort of 205 mother-child pairs, three maternal dietary patterns were identified: 'Sweet and Superfluous', 'Fish and Vegetables' and 'Meat and Cereals'. Child behavior was evaluated by means of the Child Behavior Checklist 1.5-5 (CBCL 1.5-5), the Teacher's Report Form 1.5-5 (TRF 1.5-5), and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Preschool Version (BRIEF-P). Multivariable analysis determined associations between maternal dietary patterns and their children's behavior., Results: Maternal adherence to the 'Sweet and Superfluous' pattern was positively associated with externalizing and depressive problems in children. The 'Meat and Cereals' pattern was linked to a higher risk for attention, hyperactivity and depressive problems as somatic complaints. Conversely, the 'Fish and Vegetables' pattern was associated with a reduced risk of hyperactivity problems. All these associations were more pronounced in girls than in boys., Conclusions: Maternal diet during pregnancy is associated with the emotional and behavioral development of children at 4 years of age., Impact: Previous research on prenatal dietary patterns and children's behavior is inconclusive. In our study, children of mothers who had higher intakes of sugar and processed foods during pregnancy were more likely to have emotional and behavioral problems at age 4, especially girls. A high-quality diet characterized by fish and vegetable consumption during pregnancy was associated with reduced anxiety and hyperactivity problems in girls. Our findings highlight the importance of prenatal nutrition for child neurodevelopment., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to the International Pediatric Research Foundation, Inc.)

Aim: Transbronchial cryobiopsies are increasingly used for the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD), but there is a lack of published information on the features of specific ILD in cryobiopsies. Here we attempt to provide pathological guidelines for separating usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (FHP) and connective tissue disease-associated ILD (CTD-ILD) in cryobiopsies., Methods: We examined 120 cryobiopsies from patients with multidisciplinary discussion (MDD)-established CTD-ILD and compared them to a prior series of 121 biopsies from patients with MDD-established IPF or FHP., Results: A non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) pattern alone was seen in 36 of 120 (30%) CTD-ILD, three of 83 (3.6%) FHP and two of 38 (5.2%) IPF cases, statistically favouring a diagnosis of CTD-ILD. The combination of NSIP + OP was present in 29 of 120 (24%) CTD-ILD, two of 83 (2.4%) FHP and none of 38 (0%) IPF cases, favouring a diagnosis of CTD-ILD. A UIP pattern, defined as fibroblast foci plus any of patchy old fibrosis/fibrosis with architectural distortion/honeycombing, was identified in 28 of 120 (23%) CTD-ILD, 45 of 83 (54%) FHP and 27 of 38 (71%) IPF cases and supported a diagnosis of FHP or IPF. The number of lymphoid aggregates/mm 2 and fibroblast foci/mm 2 was not different in IPF, CTD-ILD or FHP cases with a UIP pattern. Interstitial giant cells supported a diagnosis of FHP or CTD-ILD over IPF, but were infrequent., Conclusions: In the correct clinical/radiological context the pathological findings of NSIP, and particularly NSIP plus OP, favour a diagnosis of CTD-ILD in a cryobiopsy, but CTD-ILD with a UIP pattern, FHP with a UIP pattern and IPF generally cannot be distinguished., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Sludge treatment reed bed planted (STRB) with Phragmites australis (P.australis) and Arundo donax (A.donax) was assessed in the presence of Eisenia fetida under control condition during the dry season. Worm-planted units were fed with mixed sewage sludge (dry and volatile solids of 29.44 g DS.L -1 and 24.23 g VS.L -1 ). Sludge loading rates (SLR) of 50, 60, and 70 kg DS m -2  year -1 were examined to assess dewatering efficiency. Surface layers in units with P.australis and A.donax achieved DS of 80 and 81% at a loading rate of 50 kg DS m -2  year -1 , while their subsurface DS were 41 and 25%, respectively. Units with A.donax experienced plant loss when subjected to SLR exceeding 60 kg DS m -2  year -1 . More than 10 cm of residual sludge accumulated on the top of units after a 2-month final rest. Evapotranspiration was greater in the unit with P.australis (5.23 mm day -1 ) compared to the unit with A.donax (4.24 mm day -1 ) while both were fed with 70 kg DS m -2  year -1 . Water loss contributions from residual sludge layer, drained water, and evapotranspiration were 3, 46, and 51%, respectively. Units with P.australis indicated 20% higher water loss compared to units with A.donax. Although the drained water quality improved over time, it did not meet standard limits. The residual sludge layer contained macro and micronutrients, and heavy metals with a significant elemental order of N > Ca > P > S > mg > K (N:P:K = 31:8:1), Fe > Na > B > Mn > Mo and Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd. Overall, STRB could be a sustainable alternative technology to conventional sewage sludge management techniques., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background : Although the impact of tumor-immune infiltrate has been reported on differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) behavior, the expression of immune checkpoints [programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1)] alone has not been able to predict response to immunotherapies. We aimed to identify tumor-infiltrating immune cells and checkpoints associated with DTC. Methods : We performed multiplex immunofluorescence on deparaffinized thyroid tissue collected at thyroidectomy from 17 adults with DTC to characterize the tumor immune microenvironment for leukocytes (CD45+), T cells (CD3+), T regulatory cells (Tregs) (CD3+FOXP3+), CD4 + T cells (CD3+CD4 + ), CD8+ T cells (CD3+CD8+), macrophages (CD68+), M2 macrophages (CD68+CD163+), M1 Macrophages (CD68+ inducible nitric oxide synthase [iNOS]+), and immune checkpoints PD-1 and PD-L1. We compared the mean percentage expression of immune markers between tumor and adjacent thyroid tissue from the same patient by paired t -test and performed spatial analysis along the tumor's leading edge. Results : Immune checkpoints PD-1 and PD-L1 showed a significant increase in expression intratumorally as compared to adjacent thyroid tissue ( p < 0.05). A higher trend for M2 macrophages was observed intratumorally compared to adjacent tissue. Along the leading edge, PD-L1 expression correlated negatively with CD45 and positively with CD163 intratumorally. On exploratory analysis, there was a nonsignificant trend for higher FOXP3 but less CD8 and iNOS expression in tumor from DTC with ( n = 3) versus without distant metastases ( n = 14). There was a nonsignificant trend for higher CD58 and iNOS expression in DTC with ( n = 7) than without thyroiditis ( n = 10). Conclusions : Higher tumoral PD-1 and PD-L1 expression indicate their role in DTC occurrence. A trend for more Tregs and M2 macrophages but less M1 macrophages intratumorally in patients with distant metastatic DTC, suggests their potential role as prognostic biomarkers. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to compare various clinicopathologic severities to harness tumor microenvironment for cancer prognostication and therapy.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, populations living further away from urban centers faced immense difficulties accessing health services. This study aims to analyze how Brazilian remote rural municipalities faced the COVID-19 pandemic based on their political, structural, and organizational response to access to healthcare. A qualitative study of multiple cases was conducted with thematic and deductive content analysis of 51 interviews conducted with managers and healthcare professionals in 16 remote rural municipalities in the states of Rondônia, Mato Grosso, Tocantins, Piauí, Minas Gerais, and Amazonas. With their socio-spatial dynamics and long distances to reference centers, the remote rural municipalities responded to the demands of the pandemic but did not have their needs met promptly. They preserved communication with the population, reorganized the local system centered on primary health care (PHC), and changed the functioning of healthcare units, exceeding the limits of their responsibilities to provide the necessary care and awaiting referral to other levels of complexity. They faced a shortage of services, gaps in assistance in the regional network, and inadequate healthcare transport. The pandemic reiterated PHC's difficulties in coordinating care, exposing care gaps in reference regions. The equitable and resolute provision of the local health system in the remote rural municipalities implies inter-federative articulation in formulating and implementing public policies to ensure the right to health.

There is an increasing prevalence of psychological issues in childhood. Lifestyle factors during pregnancy, including maternal nutrition, have been linked to children's behavioural development. This study aims to assess the impact of adherence to the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy on the behavioural problems of children at the age of 4. A total of 231 mother-child pairs were assessed. Maternal adherence to the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy was estimated using a relative Mediterranean Diet Score (rMED). Behavioural outcomes were evaluated through the Child Behaviour Checklist 1½--5, Teacher's Report Form 1½-5, and Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Preschool Version questionnaires. The results indicated that a higher rMED score during pregnancy was associated with a reduced probability of obtaining a clinical score for total problems (OR = 0.42; 95% IC from 0.21 to 0.85), including externalising (OR = 0.29; 95% IC from 0.14 to 0.62), attention problems (OR = 0.32; 95%IC from 0.15 to 0.70), attention-deficit/hyperactivity problems (OR = 0.36; 95% IC from 0.15 to 0.87), oppositional defiant problems (OR = 0.06; 95% IC from 0.06 to 0.75), and depressive problems (OR = 0.38; 95% IC from 0.15 to 0.96). This study highlights the importance of maternal diet, especially Mediterranean diet, during gestation for proper child development., (© 2024 The Author(s). Maternal & Child Nutrition published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated between 2 to 11 million species, of which only about 155 000 have been named. Most fungi are invisible to the unaided eye, but they represent a major component of biodiversity on our planet, and play essential ecological roles, supporting life as we know it. Although approximately 20 000 fungal genera are presently recognised, the ecology of most remains undetermined. Despite all this diversity, the mycological community actively researches some fungal genera more commonly than others. This poses an interesting question: why have some fungal genera impacted mycology and related fields more than others? To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited fungal genera. A thorough database search of the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed was performed to establish which genera are most cited. The most cited 10 genera are Saccharomyces , Candida , Aspergillus , Fusarium , Penicillium , Trichoderma , Botrytis , Pichia , Cryptococcus and Alternaria . Case studies are presented for the 100 most cited genera with general background, notes on their ecology and economic significance and important research advances. This paper provides a historic overview of scientific research of these genera and the prospect for further research. Citation: Bhunjun CS, Chen YJ, Phukhamsakda C, Boekhout T, Groenewald JZ, McKenzie EHC, Francisco EC, Frisvad JC, Groenewald M, Hurdeal VG, Luangsa-ard J, Perrone G, Visagie CM, Bai FY, Błaszkowski J, Braun U, de Souza FA, de Queiroz MB, Dutta AK, Gonkhom D, Goto BT, Guarnaccia V, Hagen F, Houbraken J, Lachance MA, Li JJ, Luo KY, Magurno F, Mongkolsamrit S, Robert V, Roy N, Tibpromma S, Wanasinghe DN, Wang DQ, Wei DP, Zhao CL, Aiphuk W, Ajayi-Oyetunde O, Arantes TD, Araujo JC, Begerow D, Bakhshi M, Barbosa RN, Behrens FH, Bensch K, Bezerra JDP, Bilański P, Bradley CA, Bubner B, Burgess TI, Buyck B, Čadež N, Cai L, Calaça FJS, Campbell LJ, Chaverri P, Chen YY, Chethana KWT, Coetzee B, Costa MM, Chen Q, Custódio FA, Dai YC, Damm U, de Azevedo Santiago ALCM, De Miccolis Angelini RM, Dijksterhuis J, Dissanayake AJ, Doilom M, Dong W, Alvarez-Duarte E, Fischer M, Gajanayake AJ, Gené J, Gomdola D, Gomes AAM, Hausner G, He MQ, Hou L, Iturrieta-González I, Jami F, Jankowiak R, Jayawardena RS, Kandemir H, Kiss L, Kobmoo N, Kowalski T, Landi L, Lin CG, Liu JK, Liu XB, Loizides M, Luangharn T, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Makhathini Mkhwanazi GJ, Manawasinghe IS, Marin-Felix Y, McTaggart AR, Moreau PA, Morozova OV, Mostert L, Osiewacz HD, Pem D, Phookamsak R, Pollastro S, Pordel A, Poyntner C, Phillips AJL, Phonemany M, Promputtha I, Rathnayaka AR, Rodrigues AM, Romanazzi G, Rothmann L, Salgado-Salazar C, Sandoval-Denis M, Saupe SJ, Scholler M, Scott P, Shivas RG, Silar P, Souza-Motta CM, Silva-Filho AGS, Spies CFJ, Stchigel AM, Sterflinger K, Summerbell RC, Svetasheva TY, Takamatsu S, Theelen B, Theodoro RC, Thines M, Thongklang N, Torres R, Turchetti B, van den Brule T, Wang XW, Wartchow F, Welti S, Wijesinghe SN, Wu F, Xu R, Yang ZL, Yilmaz N, Yurkov A, Zhao L, Zhao RL, Zhou N, Hyde KD, Crous PW (2024). What are the 100 most cited fungal genera? Studies in Mycology 108 : 1-411. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.108.01., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (© 2024 Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute.)

This study evaluated the impact of incorporating earthworms (Eisenia fetida) on the drained water quality from a sludge treatment reed bed. The experiment encompassed four setups of treatment beds in two replicates: planted with Arundo donax and addition of earthworms, planted without earthworms, unplanted with earthworms, and treatment bed without plants nor earthworms as control. The units were fed every two weeks with mixed sewage sludge, a blend of primary and secondary sludge over 24 cycles. The mixed sewage sludge had mean dry and volatile solid contents of 24.71 g.DS.L -1 (± 13.67) and 19.14 g.VS.L -1 (± 10.29) resulting a sludge loading rate of 43.59 kg.DS.m -2 .year -1 (± 14.49). The inclusion of earthworms in the planted unit reduced release masses of total suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand, nitrate and phosphorous by 43, 45, 75 and 45 % compared to the planted unit. Plant biomass production increased by 43 % with the earthworm presence. The removal efficiency of the units improved after a ramp-up phase (after six months feeding) of which the concentration of TSS, COD and Escherichia coli met limits for water reuse while nitrogen components and phosphorous surpassed the limits. The planted unit with earthworms removed 99 and 99 % of TSS and COD, respectively. Overall, water loss namely through evapotranspiration and earthworm hydration need, positively correlated with pollutant concentration, and earthworm-planted unit had 46 % higher water loss compared to control unit., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Primary infection with one of four dengue virus serotypes (DENV1-4) may generate antibodies that protect or enhance subsequent secondary heterotypic infections. However, the characteristics of heterotypic cross-reactive antibodies associated with protection from symptomatic infection and severe disease are not well-defined. We selected plasma samples collected before a secondary DENV heterotypic infection that was classified either as dengue fever (DF, n = 31) or dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome (DHF/DSS, n = 33) from our longstanding pediatric cohort in Nicaragua. We screened various antibody properties to determine the features correlated with protection from DHF/DSS. Protection was associated with high levels of binding of various antibody isotypes, IgG subclasses and effector functions, including antibody-dependent complement deposition, ADCD. Although the samples were derived from DENV-exposed, Zika virus (ZIKV)-naïve individuals, the protective ADCD association was stronger when assays were conducted with recombinant ZIKV antigens. Further, we showed that a complement-mediated virion lysis (virolysis) assay conducted with ZIKV virions was strongly associated with protection, a finding reproduced in an independent sample set collected prior to secondary heterotypic inapparent versus symptomatic DENV infection. Virolysis was the main antibody feature correlated with protection from DHF/DSS and severe symptoms, such as thrombocytopenia, hemorrhagic manifestations, and plasma leakage. Hence, anti-DENV antibodies that cross-react with ZIKV, target virion-associated epitopes, and mediate complement-dependent virolysis are correlated with protection from secondary symptomatic DENV infection and DHF/DSS. These findings may support the rational design and evaluation of dengue vaccines and development of therapeutics., Competing Interests: Competing interests EH laboratory received research funds from Takeda Vaccines Inc. to test samples from vaccine recipients. EH served on one-time advisory boards for Merck and Takeda. The other authors declare no competing interests.

Introduction: Balance and postural control impairments are common in stroke patients, increasing fall risk and limiting their daily and social activities. Current research lacks comprehensive studies evaluating the efficacy and long-term effects of task-specific training on balance and postural control among stroke patients, especially when considering biomechanical and posturographic assessments., Patients and Methods: A randomized controlled trial included 63 subacute stroke patients recruited from the outpatient rehabilitation department. Participants were randomly assigned to the MRP group (n=32), receiving task-specific training based on MRP, or the CPT group (n=31), receiving conventional physical therapy. Both groups completed an 8-week intervention (3 sessions/week; 1 h./session). Balance and postural control were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and posturography., Results: The MRP group exhibited significantly larger improvements than the CPT group in both BBS scores (p=0.001, d=2.98, 95% CI [2.25, 3.70]) and Balance Index scores (p=0.001, d=2.83, 95% CI [2.12, 3.53]) after the intervention. These improvements were sustained at 3-month follow-up., Discussion: The findings suggest that task-specific training based on MRP is more effective than CPT for improving balance and postural control. The MRP intervention may enhance the motor learning and neural plasticity of the patients, leading to better functional outcomes. However, the study's open-label design represents a limitation, and further research with adequate blinding is needed., Conclusion: Task-specific training based on MRP was superior to CPT for improving balance and postural control in subacute stroke patients. Participants undergoing MRP exhibited significant and clinically relevant improvements that were sustained at follow-up., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Protected and conserved areas (PCAs) are key ecosystem management tools for conserving biodiversity and sustaining ecosystem services and social cobenefits. As countries adopt a 30% target for protection of land and sea under the Global Biodiversity Framework of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, a critical question emerging is, which 30%? A risk-based answer to this question is that the 30% that returns the greatest reductions in risks of species extinction and ecosystem collapse should be protected. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List protocols provide practical methods for assessing these risks. All species, including humans, depend on the integrity of ecosystems for their well-being and survival. Africa is strategically important for ecosystem management due to convergence of high ecosystem diversity, intense pressures, and high levels of human dependency on nature. We reviewed the outcomes (e.g., applications of ecosystem red-list assessments to protected-area design, conservation planning, and management) of a symposium at the inaugural African Protected Areas Congress convened to discuss roles of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems in the design and management of PCAs. Recent progress was made in ecosystem assessment, with 920 ecosystem types assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria across 21 countries. Although these ecosystems spanned a diversity of environments across the continent, the greatest thematic gaps were for freshwater, marine, and subterranean realms, and large geographic gaps existed in North Africa and parts of West and East Africa. Assessment projects were implemented by a diverse community of government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and researchers. The assessments have influenced policy and management by informing extensions to and management of formal protected area networks supporting decision-making for sustainable development, and informing ecosystem conservation and threat abatement within boundaries of PCAs and in surrounding landscapes and seascapes. We recommend further integration of risk assessments in environmental policy and enhanced investment in ecosystem red-list assessment to fill current gaps., (© 2023 The Authors. Conservation Biology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society for Conservation Biology.)

Introduction: Upper and lower limb spasticity is commonly associated with central nervous system disorders including stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury, but little is known about the concurrent treatment of upper and lower limb spasticity with botulinum toxins., Objective: To evaluate onabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) utilization and to determine if concurrent onabotA treatment of the upper and lower limbs has supported improvements in participants with spasticity., Design: Sub-analysis of a 2-year, international, prospective, observational registry (ASPIRE, NCT01930786)., Setting: International clinic sites (54)., Participants: Adult spasticity participants across etiologies, who received ≥1 concurrent onabotA treatment of the upper and lower limbs during the study., Intervention: Participants were treated with onabotA at the clinician's discretion., Outcomes: Baseline characteristics and outcomes of disability (Disability Assessment Scale [DAS]), pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale [NPRS]), participant satisfaction, physician satisfaction, and quality of life (QoL; Spasticity Impact Assessment [SIA]) were evaluated. Adverse events were monitored throughout the study., Results: Of 744 participants enrolled, 730 received ≥1 dose of onabotA; 275 participants received treatment with onabotA in both upper and lower limbs during ≥1 session; 39.3% of participants were naïve to onabotA for spasticity. The mean (SD) total dose per treatment session ranged from 421.2 (195.3) to 499.6 (188.6) U. The most common baseline upper limb presentation was clenched fist (n = 194, 70.5%); lower limb was equinovarus foot (n = 219, 66.9%). High physician and participant satisfaction and improvements in pain, disability and QoL were reported after most treatments. Nine participants (3.3%) reported nine treatment-related adverse events; two participants (0.7%) reported three serious treatment-related severe adverse events. No new safety signals were identified., Conclusion: More than a third of enrolled participants received at least one concurrent onabotA treatment of the upper and lower limbs, with reduced pain, disability, and improved QoL after treatment, consistent with the established safety profile of onabotA for the treatment of spasticity., (© 2024 The Authors. PM&R published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.)

The need to find alternative materials to replace aqueous amine solutions for the capture of CO 2 in post-combustion technologies is pressing. This study assesses the CO 2 sorption capacity and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity of three dicationic ionic liquids with distinct anions immobilized in commercial mesoporous silica support (SBA- 15). The samples were characterized by UART-FTIR, NMR, Raman, FESEM, TEM, TGA, Magnetometry (VSM), BET and BJH. The highest CO 2 sorption capacity and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity were obtained for sample SBA@DIL&#95;2FeCl 4 [at 1 bar and 25 °C; 57.31 (±0.02) mg CO 2 /g; 12.27 (±0.72) mg CO 2 /g]. The results were compared to pristine SBA-15 and revealed a similar sorption capacity, indicating that the IL has no impact on the CO 2 sorption capacity of silica. On the other hand, selectivity was improved by approximately 3.8 times, demonstrating the affinity of the ionic liquid for the CO 2 molecule. The material underwent multiple sorption/desorption cycles and proved to be stable and a promising option for use in industrial CO 2 capture processes., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

A flood event affecting Pindal Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site, introduced a substantial amount of external sediments and waste into the cave. This event led to the burial of preexisting sediments, altering the biogeochemical characteristics of the cave ecosystem by introducing heightened levels of organic matter, nitrogen compounds, phosphorus, and heavy metals. The sediments included particulate matter and waste from a cattle farm located within the water catchment area of the cavity, along with diverse microorganisms, reshaping the cave microbial community. This study addresses the ongoing influence of a cattle farm on the cave ecosystem and aims to understand the adaptive responses of the underground microbial community to the sudden influx of waste allochthonous material. Here, we show that the flood event had an immediate and profound effect on the cave microbial community, marked by a significant increase in methanogenic archaea, denitrifying bacteria, and other microorganisms commonly associated with mammalian intestinal tracts. Furthermore, our findings reveal that one year after the flood, microorganisms related to the flood decreased, while the increase in inorganic forms of ammonium and nitrate suggests potential nitrification, aligning with increased abundances of corresponding functional genes involved in nitrogen cycling. The results reveal that the impact of pollution was neither recent nor isolated, and it was decisive in stopping livestock activity near the cave. The influence of the cattle farm has persisted since its establishment over the impluvium area, and this influence endures even a year after the flood. Our study emphasizes the dynamic interplay between natural events, anthropogenic activities, and microbial communities, offering insights into the resilience of cave ecosystems. Understanding microbial adaptation in response to environmental disturbances, as demonstrated in this cave ecosystem, has implications for broader ecological studies and underscores the importance of considering temporal dynamics in conservation efforts., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Depressive symptoms are associated with various conditions and can exacerbate the outcome of somatic diseases. Transdiagnostic symptom-based approaches provide treatment flexibility, and exercise has demonstrated benefits beyond clinical symptoms. This work aimed to synthesise and establish the effects of exercise-based interventions on global functioning and quality of life in adults with transdiagnostic depressive symptoms, as well as their impact on clinical symptoms., Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO databases were searched from inception to April 2023. Eligibility criteria included randomised controlled trials involving adults with transdiagnostic depressive symptoms who received exercise-based interventions and provided details of the interventions. Comparators included treatment as usual or other active control groups. The Cochrane quality assessment tool was used for quality assessment., Results: Fifteen articles involving 2064 participants were included. Data on study design, sample, intervention characteristics, and outcomes were extracted. Several trials demonstrated the expected positive effects of exercise on functioning (7/15). Most results supported the benefits of adjunctive exercise interventions on illness outcomes., Limitations: The studies had methodological limitations, including small sample sizes and an underrepresentation of somatic diseases., Conclusions: The functional consequences of exercise-based interventions targeting depressive symptoms are often understudied. Incorporating exercise routinely as an add-on treatment for transdiagnostic depressive symptoms could improve overall functioning, quality of life, and symptom severity. There is a need to expand the focus of exercise-based interventions to incorporate functional outcomes. Future research should address the methodological limitations and include a wider range of participants, including those with somatic diseases., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: A high rate of hospitalized patients for COVID-19 had dysphagia, frequently underdiagnosed, and not treated, inducing a prolonged dysphagia with protracted recovery. Specific treatments and protocols have not been well described yet., Aim: Given the potential benefits of respiratory muscle training (IEMT) and neuromuscular stimulation (NMES) in dysphagia treatment, this study aimed to assess the feasibility of the protocol used for treating dysphagia in patients who experienced prolonged hospitalization for COVID-19., Design: Observational, descriptive, prospective study., Setting: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of a tertiary University hospital., Population: Fifty-eight COVID-19 patients were admitted for intensive rehabilitation (March 2020 to October 2021) were prospectively studied., Methods: Dysphagia was diagnosed using videofluoroscopy and treated with a 3-week protocol adapted from neuromuscular stimulation (NMES) in a motor threshold and inspiratory/expiratory muscle strength training (IEMST), five sets of five repetitions three times daily for 3 weeks. Feasibility was assessed with adherence, outcomes achieved, and occurrence of adverse/unexpected events. Respiratory function (peak cough flow, maximal inspiratory/expiratory pressures) and swallow function (Penetration-Aspiration Scale and Bolus Residue Scale measured by videofluoroscopy) were recorded descriptive statistics, Student's t test for numerical data, and Wilcoxon Test for ordinal variables were applied. SPPSS vs28 and STATA version 15.1 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA) were used for statistical analysis. P values 0.05 were considered significant., Results: Dysphagia was highly prevalent in severe COVID-19 patients (86.6%); all respiratory and swallow parameters improved after a 3-week intervention and 12 of 18 patients dependent on tube feeding resumed a normal diet (66.7%; McNemar P=0.03), and 84.09% attended a no restriction diet at discharge. Adherence to treatment was 85%. No significant adverse events were detected., Conclusions: We conclude that a structured swallowing-exercise training intervention based on IEMT and NMES is feasible and safe in prolonged hospitalization post-COVID patients., Clinical Rehabilitation Impact: To describe rehabilitation protocols used to treat dysphagia in post-COVID patients will help us to optimize the available techniques in each center and to induce a faster recovery avoiding potential complications.

Surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis (SAP) is widely used to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSI), but there is uncertainty as to what the proportion of SSI reduction is. Therefore, it is difficult for surgeons to properly weigh the costs, risks and benefits for individual patients when deciding on the use of SAP, making it challenging to promote antimicrobial stewardship in primary practice settings. The objective of this study was to map the veterinary evidence focused on assessing the effect of SAP on SSI development and in order to identify surgical procedures with some research evidence and possible knowledge gaps. In October 2021 and December 2022, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase and MEDLINE were systematically searched. Double blinded screening of records was performed to identify studies in companion animals that reported on the use of SAP and SSI rates. Comparative data were available from 34 out of 39123 records screened including: eight randomised controlled trials (RCT), 23 cohort studies (seven prospective and 16 retrospective) and three retrospective case series representing 12476 dogs and cats in total. Extracted data described peri- or post-operative SAP in nine, and 25 studies, respectively. In the eight RCTs evaluating SAP in companion animals, surgical procedure coverage was skewed towards orthopaedic stifle surgeries in referral settings and there was large variation in SAP protocols, SSI definitions and follow-up periods. More standardized data collection and agreement of SSI definitions is needed to build stronger evidence for optimized patient care., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement This article was based upon work by investigators from the COST Action European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment (CA18217), supported by European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST); see: www.enovat.eu and www.cost.eu. None of the authors has any other financial or personal relationships that could inappropriately influence or bias the content of the paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

A one-year study of sludge treatment reed bed assisted with earthworms (W-STRB) was conducted in a temperate climate. The effects of using Eisenia fetid and Arundo donax on W-STRB water balance (WB) and dewatering efficiency (DE) were investigated. Four different bed configurations were tested: worm-planted (WP), planted (P), worm-control (W), and control (C), duplicated resulting in a total of eight units. The beds received a total of 24 cycles of mixed sewage sludge twice per month (average loading rate: 43.59 kg.DS. m -2 .year -1 ). It was found seasonal variation played a significant role in WB and DE. During the dry season, the thickness of the residual sludge (RS) layer was less than 1 cm, with a dry solid (DS) content of over 80%, in contrast, the wet season indicated an increase in RS thickness to nearly 30 cm (DS < 15 % for all units). The WP unit exhibited the lowest RS accumulation, 22% less than the P, W, and C units. The subsurface layer had a 5% lower volatile solids (VS) content compared to the surface layers. After 132 days of a final resting, WP unit had the highest RS volume reduction of 65 % (DS = 71 % and VS = 53 %) and a RS thickness of 6 cm indicating a 10 % higher stabilization compared to P unit. The population of earthworms was 30% higher in the WP unit compared to the W unit. As the subsurface DS exceeded 20 % during the dry season, the population increased. The WP unit showed a 43% higher above-ground plant biomass compared to the P unit. In WB analysis, evapotranspiration (ET) was 46% higher in the WP unit (average daily ET = 5.44 mm in the dry season). The main process of water loss was through drainage and Awhile water content in RS layer was 57 % during feeding period. The water percolation rate of all units decreased by 99%, particularly during the wet season, reaching less than 0.1 m.day -1 ., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Anhedonia refers to the diminished capacity to experience pleasure. It has been described both as a symptom of depression and an enduring behavioral trait that contributes its development. Specifically, in stroke patients, anhedonia has been closely linked to depression, resulting in reduced sensitivity to everyday pleasures and intrinsic motivation to engage in rehabilitation programs and maintain a healthy active lifestyle. This condition may hinder patients' recovery, diminishing their autonomy, functioning, and quality of life., Objective: We aimed to explore the prevalence and level of anhedonia and those variables that might be associated in patients with both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke at subacute and chronic phases of the disease., Methods: We conducted an exploratory cohort study with a sample of 125 patients with subacute and chronic stroke presenting upper-limb motor deficits. We measured participants' level of anhedonia with four items from the Beck Depression Inventory-II that describe the symptoms of this condition: loss of pleasure, loss of interest, loss of energy, and loss of interest in sex. We also collected demographic and clinical information and evaluated motor and cognitive functions as well as levels of depression, apathy, and various mood states. The results were compared to a sample of 71 healthy participants of similar age, sex, and level of education., Results: Stroke patients demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence (18.5-19.7%) and level of anhedonia compared to the healthy controls (4.3%), regardless of stroke phase, level of motor impairment, and other clinical variables. Furthermore, post-stroke anhedonia was associated with lower levels of motivation and higher levels of negative mood states such as fatigue and anger in the long term. Importantly, anhedonia level was superior in stroke patients than in healthy controls while controlling for confounding effects of related emotional conditions., Conclusion: This study provides novel evidence on the prevalence, level and factors related to anhedonia post-stroke. We emphasize the importance of assessing and treating anhedonia in this population, as well as conducting large-scale cohort and longitudinal studies to test its influence on long-term functional and emotional recovery., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Segura, Vilà-Balló, Mallorquí, Porto, Duarte, Grau-Sánchez and Rodríguez-Fornells.)

The presence of micropollutants, such as caffeine (CAF), has been detected throughout the world, since conventional treatment plants are not able to properly degrade them. CAF is a widely consumed stimulant, and has been demanding the development of efficient methodologies for its removal. Aiming at the agriculture waste valorization, a new hydrochar was developed based on chemical and thermal modification of peach stones (mod-PS) for CAF removal from water and from a synthetic mixture. The morphology, functional groups and surface electrical charge of the adsorbent were characterized by SEM, FTIR and zeta potential, respectively. Regarding CAF adsorption performance, the equilibrium time was reached at 480 min and the pseudo-second-order model presented the best fit for the experimental data. The maximum adsorption capacity was 68.39 mg g -1 (298 K) and the Langmuir model exhibited a better fit for the isothermal data. The thermodynamic properties confirmed that the process was exothermic, spontaneous and reversible. The main adsorption mechanisms were hydrogen bonds and π-interactions. The global removal efficiency was satisfactory in the synthetic mixture simulating real wastewater (67%). Therefore, the proposed new hydrochar has potential application as a low-cost adsorbent for CAF removal.

Background: Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen. This fungus can acquire resistance to azole antifungals due to different mutations in the cyp51A gene. Azole resistance has been observed in several continents and appears to be a globally distributed phenomenon. Specific mutations in cyp51A that lead to azole resistance, such as the TR34/L98H modification, have been reported., Aims: To evaluate the azole resistance in clinically isolated A. fumigatus strains., Methods: As a result of our passive surveillance strategy, a total of 23 A. fumigatus isolates from clinical origins were identified through a phylogenetic analysis using the ITS region and β-tubulin gene fragments, and typed with the CSP microsatellite. Azole susceptibility profiles were performed by disk diffusion and microdilution broth methodologies according to CLSI guidelines., Results: Here we describe, for the first time, the detection of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates from clinical origins in Chile with mutations in the cyp51A gene. In addition to the TR34/L98H mutation, one isolate exhibited an F46Y/M172V/E427K-type mutation. Furthermore, microsatellite typing based on cell surface protein (CSP) was performed, showing the t02 (TR34/L98H), t15 (F46Y/M172V/E427K) and t01 (susceptible clinical isolates) genotypes., Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the presence of mutations related to azole resistance in A. fumigatus strains isolated from clinical samples in Chile. In order to obtain information that may help to tackle the spread of antifungal resistance among A. fumigatus populations, and to ensure the efficacy of future treatments against aspergillosis, a further research is necessary., (Copyright © 2024 Asociación Española de Micología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Seasonal variations in cardiorespiratory diseases may be influenced by air pollution and meteorological factors. This work aims to highlight the relevance of a complete seasonal characterization of the pollutant-meteorological factors and cardio-respiratory mortality in Portugal and the relationships between health outcomes and environmental risk factors. To this end, air pollution and meteorological variables along with health outcomes were analyzed at national level and on a monthly basis for the period of 2011-2020. It was found that cardiorespiratory mortality rates during winter were 44% higher than during the summer. Furthermore, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters of 10 and 2.5 μm (μm) or smaller (PM 10 and PM 2.5 ), carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) showed a seasonal variability with the highest concentrations during winter while ozone (O 3 ) presented higher concentrations during spring and summer. PM 10 , PM 2.5 and NO 2 , showed a positive correlation between seasons, indicating similar patterns of behavior. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) applied to pollutant-meteorological and cardiorespiratory mortality data indicates a strong linear correlation between pollutant-meteorological factors and health outcomes. The first canonical correlation was 0.889, and the second was 0.545, both statistically significant (p-value < 0.001). The CCA results suggest that there is a strong association between near-surface temperature, relative humidity, PM 10 , PM 2.5 , CO and NO 2 and health outcomes. The results of this study provide important information of the seasonal variability of air pollutants and meteorological factors in Portugal and their associations with cardiorespiratory mortality., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Suicide by vehicle-assisted strangulation resulting in decapitation is a rare occurrence, characterized by a high kinetic energy mechanism that produces a clean-cut appearance in the decapitation area. Often resembling an incisive wound, this particular finding can mislead local authorities into investigating the case as a homicide. This case report describes an adult male who accelerated his vehicle after tying a nylon rope around his neck and securing it to a metallic structure on the wall. Furthermore, we conducted a brief review of cases published within the last ten years, summarizing the most prevalent findings associated with these incidents. By analyzing previously reported cases alongside our own, we aim to consolidate the prevailing patterns observed in vehicle-assisted strangulation cases. This underscores the paramount importance of thorough scene analysis by the medico-legal team and emphasizes the significance of subsequent necropsy findings in accurately discerning the manner of death., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background & Aims: Up to 30% of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 had oropharyngeal dysphagia, particularly those in the ICU. Many cases remained underdiagnosed due to difficulties in conducting instrumental evaluations during the pandemic. Consequently, screening tests were mandatory during this period., Objectives: To evaluate the accuracy of the volume-viscosity swallow test (V-VST), compared to gold standard videofluoroscopy, for screening dysphagia in a post-COVID cohort of patients., Material and Methods: We conducted a prospective single-center study involving 58 post-COVID adult patients with no previous history of dysphagia. Blinded raters performed the index V-VST upon admission and a standardized videofluoroscopy (VFSS, the reference test) within 72 h of patient intake. Oropharyngeal residue was considered a sign of impaired efficacy. Cough, decreased oxygen saturation, and voice changes were noted as signs of impaired safety. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values, and likelihood ratios were calculated for V-VST results and compared to the gold standard., Results: Patients (aged 59.98 (SD11.53) years) spent a mean of 46.98 (SD 28.43) days in ICU, 33.76 (SD34.88) days with tracheostomy, and 19.46 (SD13.26) days in the NeuroRehabilitation Unit. The V-VST showed the following properties, compared to VFSS: sensitivity 55.6%, specificity 62.9%, positive predictive value 44.5%, negative predictive value 37.1%, and accuracy 61.5%., Conclusion: The V-VST showed mild accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, compared to VFSS. Therefore, it should not be used as a stand-alone test for screening dysphagia in patients with a history of COVID., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2023 European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared.

In the absence of sunlight, caves harbor a great diversity of microbial colonies to extensive biofilms with different sizes and colors visible to the naked eye. One of the most widespread and visible types of biofilm are those with yellow hues that can constitute a serious problem for the conservation of cultural heritage in many caves, such as Pindal Cave (Asturias, Spain). This cave, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its Paleolithic parietal art, shows a high degree of development of yellow biofilms that represents a real threat to the conservation of painted and engraved figures. This study aims to: 1) identify the microbial structures and the most characteristic taxa composing the yellow biofilms, 2) seek the linked microbiome reservoir primarily contributing to their growth; 3) seed light on the driving vectors that contribute to their formation and determine the subsequent proliferation and spatial distribution. To achieve this goal, we used amplicon-based massive sequencing, in combination with other techniques such as microscopy, in situ hybridization and environmental monitoring, to compare the microbial communities of yellow biofilms with those of drip waters, cave sediments and exterior soil. The results revealed microbial structures related to the phylum Actinomycetota and the most characteristic bacteria in yellow biofilms, represented by the genera wb1-P19, Crossiella, Nitrospira, and Arenimonas. Our findings suggest that sediments serve as potential reservoirs and colonization sites for these bacteria that can develop into biofilms under favorable environmental and substrate conditions, with a particular affinity for speleothems and rugged-surfaced rocks found in condensation-prone areas. This study presents an exhaustive study of microbial communities of yellow biofilms in a cave, which could be used as a procedure for the identification of similar biofilms in other caves and to design effective conservation strategies in caves with valuable cultural heritage., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study analyzed fire-pollutant-meteorological variables and their impact on cardio-respiratory mortality in Portugal during wildfire season. Data of burned area, particulate matter with a diameter of 10 or 2.5 μm (μm) or less (PM 10 , PM 2.5 ), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), ozone (O 3 ), temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, aerosol optical depth and mortality rates of Circulatory System Disease (CSD), Respiratory System Disease (RSD), Pneumonia (PNEU), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Asthma (ASMA), were used. Only the months of 2011-2020 wildfire season (June-July-August-September-October) with a burned area greater than 1,000 ha were considered. Principal component analysis was used on fire-pollutant-meteorological variables to create two indices called Pollutant-Burning Interaction (PBI) and Atmospheric-Pollutant Interaction (API). PBI was strongly correlated with the air pollutants and burned area while API was strongly correlated with temperature and relative humidity, and O 3 . Cluster analysis applied to PBI-API divided the data into two Clusters. Cluster 1 included colder and wetter months and higher NO 2 concentration. Cluster 2 included warmer and dried months, and higher PM 10 , PM 2.5 , CO, and O 3 concentrations. The clusters were subjected to Principal Component Linear Regression to better understand the relationship between mortality and PBI-API indices. Cluster 1 showed statistically significant ( p -value < 0.05) correlation ( r ) between RSDxPBI ( r RSD  = 0.58) and PNEUxPBI ( r PNEU  = 0.67). Cluster 2 showed statistically significant correlations between RSDxPBI ( r RSD  = 0.48), PNEUxPBI ( r PNEU  = 0.47), COPDxPBI ( r COPD  = 0.45), CSDxAPI ( r CSD  = 0.70), RSDxAPI ( r CSD  = 0.71), PNEUxAPI ( r PNEU  = 0.49), and COPDxAPI ( r PNEU  = 0.62). Cluster 2 analysis indicates that the warmest, driest, and most polluted months of the wildfire season were associated with cardio-respiratory mortality., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest relevant to this study., (© 2023 The Authors. GeoHealth published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Geophysical Union.)

Transbronchial cryobiopsy (TBCB) is increasingly used for the diagnosis of fibrosing interstitial pneumonias, but there are few detailed descriptions of the pathologic findings in such cases. It has been proposed that a combination of patchy fibrosis and fibroblast foci with an absence of alternative features is diagnostic of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP; ie, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis [IPF]) in TBCB. In this study, we reviewed 121 TBCB in which a diagnosis of fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (FHP; n = 83) or IPF (n = 38) was made by multidisciplinary discussion and evaluated a range of pathologic features. Patchy fibrosis was found in 65 of 83 (78%) biopsies from FHP and 32of 38 (84%) biopsies from UIP/IPF cases. Fibroblast foci were present in 47 of 83 (57%) FHP and 27 of 38 (71%) UIP/IPF cases. Fibroblast foci/patchy fibrosis combined did not favor either diagnosis. Architectural distortion was seen in 54 of 83 (65%) FHP and 32 of 38 (84%) UIP/IPF cases (odds ratio [OR] for FHP, 0.35; P = .036) and honeycombing in 18 of 83 (22%) and 17 of 38 (45%), respectively (OR, 0.37; P = .014). Airspace giant cells/granulomas were present in 13 of 83 (20%) FHP and 1 of 38 (2.6%) UIP/IPF cases (OR for FHP, 6.87; P = .068), and interstitial giant cells/granulomas in 20 of 83 (24%) FHP and 0 of 38 (0%) UIP/IPF (OR, 6.7 x 10 6 ; P = .000). We conclude that patchy fibrosis plus fibroblast foci can be found in TBCB from both FHP and UIP/IPF. The complete absence of architectural distortion/honeycombing favors a diagnosis of FHP, as does the presence of airspace or interstitial giant cells/granulomas, but these measures are insensitive, and many cases of FHP cannot be separated from UIP/IPF on TBCB., (Copyright © 2023 United States & Canadian Academy of Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In Portugal, the lifetime prevalence of DSH in adolescents is situated between 16% and 35% (Duarte et al., 2020a; Gouveia-Pereira et al., 2016). Help-seeking is an important facilitator to stop these behaviors, although it is known that most individuals who engage in self-harm do not ask for help (Rowe et al., 2014). Study one (n = 222) examines the differences between two groups of young adults with a history of deliberate self-harm (participants who asked for help and participants who did not ask for help) regarding these behaviors' severity and diversity, suicidal ideation, and family conflicts. Participants completed a self-report questionnaire which included an open-ended question focused on the reasons that may or may not contribute for seeking help. Significant differences between the two groups were found for all variables and are further discussed, followed by a qualitative analysis concerning the help-seeking motives. Study two (n = 110) used a self-report questionnaire to analyze the expectations of young adults with a history of deliberate self-harm concerning their social support network and the role of healthcare workers when they asked or thought about asking for help. These expectations included contents related with problem-solving, confidentiality, understanding and trust, support, and unburdening. Identifying facilitators and barriers to help-seeking can be a relevant step in planning and managing interventions within deliberate self-harm. Future directions and limitations are discussed., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest All authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Cachaça is a Brazilian beverage obtained from the fermentation of sugarcane juice (sugarcane spirit) and is considered one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages in the world with a strong economic impact on the northeastern Brazil, more specifically in the Brejo. This microregion produces sugarcane spirits with high quality associated to edaphoclimatic conditions. In this sense, analysis for sample authentication and quality control that uses solvent-free, environmentally friendly, rapid and non-destructive methods is advantageous for cachaça producers and production chain. Thus, in this work commercial cachaça samples using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) were classified based on geographical origin using one-class classification Data-Driven in Soft Independent Modelling of Class Analogy (DD-SIMCA) and One-Class Partial Least Squares (OCPLS) and predicted quality parameters of alcohol content and density based on different chemometric algorithms. A total of 150 sugarcane spirits samples were purchased from the Brazilian retail market being 100 from Brejo and 50 from other regions of Brazil. The one-class chemometric classification model was obtained with DD-SIMCA using the Savitzky-Golay derivative with first derivative, 9-point window and 1st degree polynomial as preprocessing algorithm and sensibility was 96.70 % and specificity 100 % in the spectral range 7,290-11,726 cm -1 . Satisfactory results were obtained in the model constructs for density and the chemometric model, iSPA-PLS algorithm with baseline offset as preprocessing, obtained root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.0011 mg/L and Relative Error of Prediction (REP) of 0.12 %. The chemometric model for alcohol content prediction used the iSPA-PLS algorithm with Savitzky-Golay derivative with first derivative, 9-point window and 1st degree polynomial as algorithm as preprocessing obtaining RMSEP and REP of 0.69 and 1.81 % (v/v), respectively. Both models used the spectral range from 7,290-11,726 cm -1 . The results reflected the potential of vibrational spectroscopy coupled with chemometrics to build reliable models for identifying the geographical origin of cachaça samples for predicting quality parameters in cachaça samples., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Whole-genome alignment allows researchers to understand the genomic structure and variation among genomes. Approaches based on direct pairwise comparisons of DNA sequences require large computational capacities. As a consequence, pipelines combining tools for orthologous gene identification and synteny have been developed. In this manuscript, we present the latest functionalities implemented in NGSEP 4, to identify orthogroups and perform whole genome alignments. NGSEP implements functionalities for identification of clusters of homologus genes, synteny analysis and whole genome alignment. Our results showed that the NGSEP algorithm for orthogroups identification has competitive accuracy and efficiency in comparison to commonly used tools. The implementation also includes a visualization of the whole genome alignment based on synteny of the orthogroups that were identified, and a reconstruction of the pangenome based on frequencies of the orthogroups among the genomes. NGSEP 4 also includes a new graphical user interface based on the JavaFX technology. We expect that these new developments will be very useful for several studies in evolutionary biology and population genomics., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Oropharyngeal dysphagia can be highly concerning in hospitalized patients, increasing morbidity and mortality, making its early identification essential. We aimed to characterize dysphagia and its association with aspiration pneumonia and mortality in a tertiary hospital in Barcelona, Spain., Methods: Using data from all hospital discharges during the period 2018-2021, we identified the characteristics of patients with dysphagia and their distribution among hospital departments through the minimum data set, which codifies patients' diagnoses according to the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10). We used logistic regression models to assess the association between dysphagia, aspiration pneumonia and mortality., Results: Dysphagia was present in 2.4% of all hospital discharges and was more frequent in older patients and in men. The diagnoses most frequently associated with dysphagia were aspiration pneumonia (48.2%) and stroke (14%). Higher prevalence of dysphagia was found in the acute geriatric unit (10.3%), neurology (7.6%) and internal medicine (7.5%) wards. Dysphagia was associated with aspiration pneumonia, aOR = 8.04 (95%CI, 6.31-10.25), and independently increased the odds of death among hospitalized patients, aOR = 1.43 (95%CI, 1.19-1.73)., Conclusions: We conclude that dysphagia is a prevalent and transversal condition, increasing the risk of mortality in all patients, and efforts should be intensified to increase its early detection and correct management., (© 2022 Stichting European Society for Clinical Investigation Journal Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The environmental impact of biowaste generated during animal production can be mitigated by applying a circular economy model: recycling, reinventing the life cycle of biowaste, and developing it for a new use. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding sugar concentrate solutions obtained from the nanofiltration of fruit biowaste (mango peel) to slurry from piglets fed with diets incorporating macroalgae on biogas production performance. The nanofiltration of ultrafiltration permeates from aqueous extracts of mango peel was carried out using membranes with a molecular weight cut-off of 130 Da until a volume concentration factor of 2.0 was reached. A slurry resulting from piglets fed with an alternative diet with the incorporation of 10% Laminaria was used as a substrate. Three different trials were performed sequentially: (i) a control trial (AD 0 ) with faeces resulting from a cereal and soybean-meal-based diet (S0); (ii) a trial with S 1 (10% L. digitata ) (AD 1 ), and (iii) an AcoD trial to assess the effect of the addition of a co-substrate (20%) to S1 (80%). The trials were performed in a continuous-stirred tank reactor (CSTR) under mesophilic conditions (37.0 ± 0.4 °C), with a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 13 days. The specific methane production (SMP) increased by 29% during the anaerobic co-digestion process. These results can support the design of alternative valorisation routes for these biowastes, contributing to sustainable development goals.

We designed, synthesized, and characterized a Raman nanoprobe made of dye-sensitized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) that can selectively target biomarkers of breast cancer cells. The nanoprobe is composed of Raman-active dyes encapsulated inside a SWCNT, whose surface is covalently grafted with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) at a density of ∼0.7% per carbon. Using α-sexithiophene- and β-carotene-derived nanoprobes covalently bound to an antibody, either anti-E-cadherin (E-cad) or anti-keratin-19 (KRT19), we prepared two distinct nanoprobes that specifically recognize biomarkers on breast cancer cells. Immunogold experiments and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images are first used to guide the synthesis protocol for higher PEG-antibody attachment and biomolecule loading capacity. The duplex of nanoprobes was then applied to target E-cad and KRT19 biomarkers in T47D and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Hyperspectral imaging of specific Raman bands allows for simultaneous detection of this nanoprobe duplex on target cells without the need for additional filters or subsequent incubation steps. Our results confirm the high reproducibility of the nanoprobe design for duplex detection and highlight the potential of Raman imaging for advanced biomedical applications in oncology.

The main objective was to assess the feasibility of an intensive rehabilitation program (IRP) for stroke patients; and secondly, to detect eventual age-related differences in content, duration, tolerability, and safety in a prospective observational cohort of patients diagnosed with subacute stroke, admitted to inpatient rehabilitation (BRAIN-CONNECTS project). Activities during physical, occupational and speech therapy, and time dedicated to each one were recorded. Forty-five subjects (63.0 years, 77.8% men) were included. The mean time of therapy was 173.8 (SD 31.5) minutes per day. The only age-related differences when comparing patients ≥65 and <65 years were a shorter time allocated for occupational therapy (-7.5 min (95% CI -12.5 to -2.6), p = 0.004) and a greater need of speech therapy (90% vs. 44%) in the older adults. Gait training, movement patterns of upper limbs, and lingual praxis were the most commonly performed activities. Regarding tolerability and safety, there were no losses to follow-up, and the attendance ratio was above 95%. No adverse events occurred during any session in all patients. Conclusion: IRP is a feasible intervention in patients with subacute stroke, regardless of age, and there are no relevant differences on content or duration of therapy.

Introduction: The use of social media is an extremely popular activity, with an average time spent of two and a half hours daily. The number of users continues to rise, with 4.65 billion around the world in 2022, approximately 58.7% of the world population. A rising number of studies show that a minority of these persons will develop a behavioral addiction on social media. The aim of this study was to understand if the use of a specific social media platform predicts increased addictive potential., Material and Methods: A cross-sectional sample of 300 persons (aged 18 years-old or older, 60.33% female), completed an online survey including sociodemographic questions, data regarding the use of social media and the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS). Linear and logistic regression models were performed to determine the risk for each media platform., Results: Instagram® use was a significant predictor of higher scores on the BSMAS (B 2.51; p < 0.0001; CI 1.33 - 3.69). The use of other platforms including Facebook® (B -0.31), Twitter® (B 1.38) and Pinterest® (B -0.15) was not found to predict a higher risk of social media addiction., Conclusion: Instagram® scored a higher grade in BSMAS scale, with statistical significance, which could suggest a higher addictive potential. More research is needed to establish the direction of this relationship, since the cross-sectional study design does not allow inferences about directionality.

Building de novo genome assemblies for complex genomes is possible thanks to long-read DNA sequencing technologies. However, maximizing the quality of assemblies based on long reads is a challenging task that requires the development of specialized data analysis techniques. We present new algorithms for assembling long DNA sequencing reads from haploid and diploid organisms. The assembly algorithm builds an undirected graph with two vertices for each read based on minimizers selected by a hash function derived from the k-mer distribution. Statistics collected during the graph construction are used as features to build layout paths by selecting edges, ranked by a likelihood function. For diploid samples, we integrated a reimplementation of the ReFHap algorithm to perform molecular phasing. We ran the implemented algorithms on PacBio HiFi and Nanopore sequencing data taken from haploid and diploid samples of different species. Our algorithms showed competitive accuracy and computational efficiency, compared with other currently used software. We expect that this new development will be useful for researchers building genome assemblies for different species., (© 2023 Gonzalez-Garcia et al.)

Agriculture is one of the economic activities with the most potential in Colombia, given its climatic and geographical conditions. Bean cultivation is classified as climbing, which grows in a branched way, and bushy, whose growth occurs up to 70 cm. The objective of this research was to study zinc and iron sulfates in different concentrations as fertilizers capable of increasing the nutritional value of kidney beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.), whose strategy is known as biofortification, and thus determine the most effective sulfate. The methodology details the sulfate formulations, their preparation, the application of additives, sampling and quantification methods of total iron, total zinc, °Brix, carotenoids, chlorophylls a, b, and antioxidant capacity using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method in leaves and pods. As for the results, it was found that biofortification with iron sulfate and zinc sulfate is a strategy that favors the country's economy and human health, because it allows the increase of minerals, antioxidant capacity and total soluble solids.

Protection against Plasmodium falciparum , which is primarily antibody-mediated, requires recurrent exposure to develop. The study of both naturally acquired limited immunity and vaccine induced protection against malaria remains critical for ongoing eradication efforts. Towards this goal, we deployed a customized P. falciparum PhIP-seq T7 phage display library containing 238,068 tiled 62-amino acid peptides, covering all known coding regions, including antigenic variants, to systematically profile antibody targets in 198 Ugandan children and adults from high and moderate transmission settings. Repeat elements - short amino acid sequences repeated within a protein - were significantly enriched in antibody targets. While breadth of responses to repeat-containing peptides was twofold higher in children living in the high versus moderate exposure setting, no such differences were observed for peptides without repeats, suggesting that antibody responses to repeat-containing regions may be more exposure dependent and/or less durable in children than responses to regions without repeats. Additionally, short motifs associated with seroreactivity were extensively shared among hundreds of antigens, potentially representing cross-reactive epitopes. PfEMP1 shared motifs with the greatest number of other antigens, partly driven by the diversity of PfEMP1 sequences. These data suggest that the large number of repeat elements and potential cross-reactive epitopes found within antigenic regions of P. falciparum could contribute to the inefficient nature of malaria immunity., Competing Interests: MR, KK, ED, NT, ST, AK, JR, JR, KT, CD, IS, BG No competing interests declared, IR Reviewing editor, eLife, JD Paid scientific advisor for Allen & Co. Paid scientific advisor for the Public Health Company, Inc and holds stock options. Founder and holding stock options in VeriPhi Health, Inc, (© 2023, Raghavan et al.)

Staphylococcus spp. represents the main mastitis agents in ruminants and contaminants of milk due to their expressive capacity to make biofilms. The aims in this study was evaluate evaluated the antimicrobial activity of Mauritia flexuosa L. extracts against Staphylococcus spp. adhered to a stainless steel surface. Two isolates from cows with clinical mastitis were evaluated; one was identified as Staphylococcus aureus, and the other Staphylococcus haemolyticus. Additionally the ATCC 25923 strain, S. aureus from human was evaluated. The chemical profile obtained from gas chromatography revealed the presence of carbohydrates, organic acids, and flavonoids. The minimum bactericidal concentrations of the ethanolic extract (EE) and aqueous extract (AE) were 4.4 and 5.82 mg/mL, respectively. After EE treatment at 4.4 mg/mL for 2.5 min, total removal of mature biofilms grown on stainless steel coupons was observed (reduction by 3.85-4.81 log units). This extract from M. flexuosa shows potential as an effective sanitizer and may represent a natural alternative against Staphylococcus spp.

In this study, we describe a case report of gonococcal arthritis in a Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patient. Although several mechanisms favor disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) in patients immunosuppressed by SLE, this association is rarely reported in literature. We performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the etiologic agent involved and molecular analysis using a global collection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains. Ours is the only sample derived from synovial fluid identified in this collection, the others being from the usual anatomical sites. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by disk diffusion and Etest, and WGS was conducted to determine multilocus sequence typing profiles, group isolates based on core genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), and identify virulence genes and antimicrobial resistance determinants. The N. gonorrhoeae samples in the global collection were highly heterogeneous. The SNP tree had a total 19,532 SNPs in 320 samples. Our sample displayed resistance to ciprofloxacin (MIC = 2 μg/mL) and tetracycline (zone diameter = 0 mm) belonged to ST 1588 and was not closely related to any isolate in the global collection of N. gonorrhoeae strains. The isolate had genetic features related to beta-lactam, tetracycline and quinolone resistance. Seventy-one virulence genes were identified in our sample, belonging to the following classes: adherence, efflux pump, immune modulator, invasion, iron uptake, protease and stress adaptation. Moreover, no virulence genes for immune evasion and toxin were identified., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors whose names are listed above certify that they have NO affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest or non-financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript., (Copyright © 2022 Institut Pasteur. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Public perceptions of water-related issues are still under-researched topics. The current paper intends to explore a local community's perceptions regarding household water purification (HWP) strategies, namely before and after trying a new method: moringa seeds powder (moringa-teabag)., Methods: In September 2020, six focus group discussions (N = 65) assessing perceptions about the usefulness of Moringa oleifera Lam (Moringaceae) as a HWP method (before moringa-based HWP trials), and questionnaires (N = 104) evaluating successes and identifying difficulties (after one week of moringa-based HWP trials). Participants were all women aged over 18 years, living in Ondame, Biombo region, Guinea-Bissau. Data were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative approaches., Results: The focus group discussions revealed that people are aware of the fact that water can transmit diseases. Although certain persons showed concern about shallow well water safety, people generally underestimate the risk, as they trust tubewell water. Not everyone had an understanding of what water contamination is, or the concept of medical importance. Some respondents declared they use traditional methods such as boiling and bleach to treat water before drinking. However, those who reported no kind of treatment indicated reasons such as lack of time, cost, and bleach's taste and smell. In the questionnaire, more than half of the participants (68%) reported treating water before consumption. Nevertheless, these results are not consistent with our field notes. Participants demonstrated a strong belief in the capacity of moringa-teabags to purify water and even consider them better or much better (81%) than other methods. Participants asked for more information on moringa-teabag for household water purification., Conclusion: More information on water treatment and water safety would help to raise public awareness about waterborne diseases. These findings could be used to promote greater adherence to moringa-based HWP as an alternative to household water treatment., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Sludge Treatment Reed Beds (STRBs) have been used worldwide over the past few decades. This review aims to overarchingly identify and appraise the currently available knowledge of STRB technology and discern climatic patterns through Meta-Analysis (MA). We systematically searched Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases (up to Dec 2021) via a combination of keywords to identify English-language studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Of 142 potential articles, 73 studies met the present review objectives and inclusion criteria. Four STRB classifications including typical STRB, earthworm STRB, Sludge Treatment Electro Wetland (STEW), and earthworm STEW were found since 1990. The data and information on STRBs' configuration, operational parameters in terms of location, type of sewage sludge, study scale, Sludge Loading Rate (SLR), Dry Solid (DS), the proportion of Volatile Solid to DS (VS/DS), and their association with the feeding and resting modes were extracted from the selected articles. The analysis was focused on the interconnections between operational parameters and system efficiency for Temperate type 1 (low intensity of solar radiation), Temperate type 2 (high intensity of solar radiation), and Tropical climates. Based on MA, we found the average SLRs of 50, 70, and 101 Kg.DM.m -2 .year -1 for Temperate type 1, Temperate type 2, and Tropical climates respectively, and DS during the feeding of 33 %, 35 %, and 40 %. A qualitative comparison of Arid and Polar climates was also performed given the reduced number of studies available in these climates. The volume of the sludge reduced was 60 % higher and the height of accumulated sludge was annually 2 cm in the earthworm STRBs, and STEWs compared to typical STRBs, which was 6 cm annually in Tropical climates. Correlation analysis, media characterization, list of plant species, and the removal efficiency of STRBs in the residual sludge and leachate are mentioned as well., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale (DARS) is a novel questionnaire to assess anhedonia of recent validation. In this work, we aim to study the equivalence between the traditional paper-and-pencil and the digital format of DARS. Sixty-nine patients filled the DARS in a paper-based and digital versions. We assessed differences between formats (Wilcoxon test), validity of the scales [Kappa and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs)], and reliability (Cronbach's alpha and Guttman's coefficient). We calculated the comparative fit index and the root mean squared error (RMSE) associated with the proposed one-factor structure. Total scores were higher for paper-based format. Significant differences between both formats were found for three items. The weighted Kappa coefficient was approximately 0.40 for most of the items. Internal consistency was greater than 0.94, and the ICC for the digital version was 0.95 and 0.94 for the paper-and-pencil version ( F = 16.7, p < 0.001). Comparative Adjustment Index was 0.97 for the digital DARS and 0.97 for the paper-and-pencil DARS, and RMSE was 0.11 for the digital DARS and 0.10 for the paper-and-pencil DARS. We concluded that the digital DARS is consistent in many respects with the paper-and-pencil questionnaire, but equivalence with this format cannot be assumed without caution.

Background . Metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common secondary thyroid malignancies. Diagnosis can be challenging, particularly if presenting many years after initial diagnosis. We reviewed clinicopathologic features and immunoprofile of metastatic clear cell RCC in thyroid. Design. We identified 17 patients from 2003-2021. Clinical data were obtained from medical records, and slides were retrieved and reviewed. Results . Seventeen patients (12 male and 5 female) included 12 thyroidectomies, 3 core biopsies, 1 excisional biopsy, and 1 fine-needle aspiration. The average patient age was 68.7 years (range, 45-88 years). Sixteen patients had history of clear cell RCC, and in 1 patient, the clear cell RCC was discovered after the thyroid metastasis was found. Thyroid gland metastases were on average diagnosed 90.7 months after the diagnosis of the renal primary (range, 24-240 months). Patients presented with a new palpable mass (n = 11) or dyspnea/stridor (n = 1). Five tumors were incidentally found via surveillance imaging. In 2 patients, metastases occurred within follicular thyroid neoplasms. All metastases showed conspicuous sinusoidal vasculature between the tumor nests and areas of myxoid degeneration. A prominent thick fibromuscular pseudocapsule was evident in 10 resections. Immunohistochemistry (n = 5) showed that the metastases were positive for PAX8, CA9, and CD10, while negative for keratin 7, thyroglobulin, and TTF1. Conclusions . Metastatic clear cell RCC involving the thyroid gland is infrequent and typically occurs remotely after the initial diagnosis. Cytologic and histologic features may show significant overlap with primary thyroid lesions. Immunohistochemistry can help reliably distinguish metastases from primary thyroid neoplasms.

ABSTRACT The combined approach of specific surface area (SSA), porosity, microprobe analysis (EMPA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with EDX and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) provided the mica mineral physico-chemical and morphological characterisation. The electrostatic surface properties were assessed through the determination of the Point of Zero Charge (pH PZC ) by the drift method and the electrokinetic mica mineral features represented by the Isoelectric Point (pH IEP ) which was carried out through zeta potential measurements. Adsorption tests were performed to correlate the surface charge behaviour of the mica mineral and its influence on the adsorption efficiency of two different dyes, namely: Safranin Orange (SO), as a cationic dye and Reactive Black 5 (RB5), as an anionic dye. The higher adsorption capacity SO dye was observed at pH 9 and achieved almost 83% of removal, while RB5 dye adsorption on mica surface had the highest result, about 45% of removal efficiency, on pH of 3. In both cases, the main mechanism identified that drove this results is the electrostatic force of attraction between the adsorbent edge surface charge (pH-dependent) and the ionic nature (anionic or cationic) of the pollutant dyes particles. The preliminary adsorption experiments demonstrated that the raw grounded mica mineral has a greater potential associated with its application on cationic dye removal in wastewater. The present study aimed to detail the main characteristics of the mica mineral in order to evaluate the potential use of such mineral residues in the removal efficiency of contaminated wastewater.

Obesity is a chronic disease that impairs skeletal muscle function, affects the ability to contract, and promotes the development of fatigue. For this reason, the study of treatments that seek to reduce the harmful effects of obesity on muscle tissue has been deepened. Diazoxide treatment and various exercise protocols have been proposed to protect skeletal muscle against oxidative stress and its effects. However, the intensity and duration of exercise combined with diazoxide that would obtain the best results for improving skeletal muscle function in obese rats is unknown. To this end, this study evaluated the effects of three different exercise intensities combined with diazoxide on contraction capacity, resistance to fatigue, markers of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, ROS, and glutathione redox status of skeletal muscle. The results showed that treatments with diazoxide and exercise at different intensities improved muscle contraction capacity by reducing oxidative stress during obesity, with the best results being obtained with low-intensity exercise in combination with diazoxide. Therefore, these results suggest that diazoxide and low-intensity exercise improve muscle function during obesity by decreasing oxidative stress with the same efficiency as a moderate-intensity exercise protocol.

Sinonasal leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare and aggressive mesenchymal tumor with smooth muscle differentiation. The sinonasal tract is an unusual primary site for LMS, as scant smooth muscle exists in this location, with only 75 cases reported in the English literature including the case presented herein. Sinonasal LMS is considered an aggressive head and neck tumor with significant potential for recurrence and metastasis. Since recurrence is high and the potential for late metastasis exists, lifelong follow-up in these patients would be beneficial, especially among those with previous history of RB., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)