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The term liquid biopsy (LB) refers to the use of various biological fluids as a surrogate for neoplastic tissue to achieve information for diagnostic, prognostic and predictive purposes. In the current clinical practice, LB is used for the identification of driver mutations in circulating tumor DNA derived from both tumor tissue and circulating neoplastic cells. As suggested by a growing body of evidence, however, there are several clinical settings where biological samples other than tissue could be used in the routine practice to identify potentially predictive biomarkers of either response or resistance to targeted treatments. New applications are emerging as useful clinical tools, and other blood derivatives, such as circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor RNA, microRNAs, platelets, extracellular vesicles, as well as other biofluids such as urine and cerebrospinal fluid, may be adopted in the near future. Despite the evident advantages compared with tissue biopsy, LB still presents some limitations due to both biological and technological issues. In this context, the absence of harmonized procedures corresponds to an unmet clinical need, ultimately affecting the rapid implementation of LB in clinical practice. In this position paper, based on experts’ opinions, the AIOM–SIAPEC-IAP–SIBIOC–SIF Italian Scientific Societies critically discuss the most relevant technical issues of LB, the current and emerging evidences, with the aim to optimizing the applications of LB in the clinical setting., Highlights • In the current clinical practice LB is used for the identification of driver mutations in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). • New applications in tumors other than non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are emerging as useful clinical tools. • Other blood derivatives, together with other biofluids, are an active field of research and may be adopted in the near future. • Despite the evident advantages, liquid biopsy still presents limitations due to both biological and technological issues. • Standardization of the procedures needs to be addressed to ensure widespread implementation in clinical practice.

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a common cause of cancer-related death, due to difficulties in detecting early-stage disease, to its aggressive behaviour, and to poor response to systemic therapy. Therefore, developing strategies for early diagnosis of resectable PC is critical for improving survival. Diabetes mellitus is another major public health problem worldwide. Furthermore, diabetes can represent both a risk factor and a consequence of PC: nowadays, the relationship between these two diseases is considered a high priority for research. New-onset diabetes can be an early manifestation of PC, especially in a thin adult without a family history of diabetes. However, even if targeted screening for patients at higher risk of PC could be a promising approach, this is not recommended in asymptomatic adults with new-onset diabetes, due to the much higher incidence of hyperglycaemia than PC and to the lack of a safe and affordable PC screening test. Prompted by a well-established and productive multidisciplinary cooperation, the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM), the Italian Medical Diabetologists Association (AMD), the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE), and the Italian Society of Pharmacology (SIF) here review available evidence on the mechanisms linking diabetes and PC, addressing the feasibility of screening for early PC in patients with diabetes, and sharing a set of update statements with the aim of providing a state-of-the-art overview and a decision aid tool for daily clinical practice., Highlights • The incidence of PC is increasing and its prognosis is very poor; therefore, early detection is fundamental. • New-onset diabetes may be an early manifestation of PC, often disappearing after its resection. • Screening for PC is not currently recommended among people with new-onset diabetes, due to its high incidence. • Thin subjects >50 years old at the time of diabetes onset, with sudden weight loss and severe hyperglycaemia are at higher risk. • Currently some clinical models are promising for stratifying cancer risk in people with new-onset diabetes.

This chapter describes the importance of PADs for biomarker detection. The screening of disease markers and other biomolecules that related to health conditions have play important roles for an indication of the risk from infections and other diseases. Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) is an excellent option for applications of biomarker detection because it contains all advantages which arise from the paper material. Moreover, the uncomplicated techniques including electrochemistry and colorimetry can be easily applied on PADs for the analytical detection. The detection method can be categorized into three main topics: enzymatic methods, immunoassays, and DNA sensors. Following the main context, other interesting applications also present in this chapter.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is emerging as a global pandemic outbreak. To date, approximately one million deaths and over 32 million cases have been reported. This ongoing pandemic urgently requires an accurate testing device that can be used in the field in a fast manner. Serological assays to detect antibodies have been proven to be a great complement to the standard method of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), particularly after the second week of infection. We have developed a specific and sensitive immunosensor for immunoglobulin detection produced against SARS-CoV-2. Unlike other lateral flow-based assays (LFAs) involving the utilization of multiple antibodies, we have reported a label-free paper-based electrochemical platform targeting SARS-CoV-2 antibodies without the specific requirement of an antibody. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies will interrupt the redox conversion of the redox indicator, resulting in a decreased current response. This electrochemical sensor was proven effective in real clinical sera from patients with satisfactory results. In addition, the proposed format was also extended to antigen detection (the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2), which presents new possibilities for diagnosing COVID-19., Highlights • Electrochemical sensor for COVID-19 diagnostic. • Serological assay for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was demonstrated. • Sensitivity enhancement compared to the traditional LFA devices. • Applicable to real clinical sera with satisfactory results.

In the past few decades, we saw a proliferation of scientific articles available online. This data-rich environment offers several opportunities but also challenges, since it is problematic to explore these resources and identify all the relevant content. Hence, it is crucial that they are appropriately annotated with their relevant concepts so to increase their chance of being properly indexed and retrieved. In this paper, we present R-Classify, a web tool that assists users in identifying the most relevant concepts according to a large-scale ontology of research areas in the field of Computer Science.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been recognized as a global pandemic outbreak, opening the most severe socio-economic crisis since World War II. Different scientific activities have been emerged in this global scenario, including the development of innovative analytical tools to measure nucleic acid, antibodies, and antigens in the nasopharyngeal swab, serum, and saliva for prompt identification of COVID-19 patients and to evaluate the immune response to the vaccine. The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva remains a challenge for the lack of sufficient sensitivity. To address this issue, we developed a novel paper-based immunoassay using magnetic beads to support the immunological chain and 96-well wax-printed paper plate as a platform for color visualization by using a smartphone combined with Spotxel free-charge app. To assess the reliability of the measurement of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, untreated saliva was used as a specimen and the calibration curve demonstrated a dynamic range up to 10 μg/mL, with a detection limit equal to 0.1 μg/mL. The effectiveness of this sustainable analytical tool in saliva was evaluated by comparing the data with the nasopharyngeal swab specimens sampled by the same patients and tested with Real-Time PCR reference method, founding 100% of agreement, even in the case of high Cycle Threshold (CT) numbers (low viral load). Furthermore, the positive saliva samples were characterized by the next-generation sequencing method, demonstrating the capability to detect the Delta variant, which is actually (July 2021) the most relevant variant of concern.

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has emerged as an attractive adsorptive material for antimicrobial agents due to its fine network structure, its large surface area, and its high porosity. In the present study, BC paper was first produced and then lysozyme was immobilized onto it by physical adsorption, obtaining a composite of lysozyme-BC paper. The morphology and the crystalline structure of the composite were similar to that of BC paper as examined by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Regarding operational properties, specific activities of immobilized and free lysozyme were similar. Moreover, immobilized enzyme showed a broader working temperature and higher thermal stability. The composites maintained its activity for at least 80 days without any special storage. Lysozyme-BC paper displayed antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, inhibiting their growth by 82% and 68%, respectively. Additionally, the presence of lysozyme increased the antioxidant activity of BC paper by 30%. The results indicated that BC is a suitable material to produce bioactive paper as it provides a biocompatible environment without compromising the activity of the immobilized protein. BC paper with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties may have application in the field of active packaging.

Although microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) get a lot of attention in the scientific literature, they rarely reach the level of commercialization. One possible reason for this is a lack of application of machine learning techniques supporting the design, optimization and fabrication of such devices. This work demonstrates the potential of two chemometric techniques including design of experiments (DoE) and digital image processing to support the production of μPADs. On the example of a simple colorimetric assay for isoniazid relying on the protonation equilibrium of methyl orange, the experimental conditions were optimized using a D-optimal design (DO) and the impact of multiple factors on the μPAD response was investigated. In addition, this work demonstrates the impact of automatic image processing on accelerating color value analysis and on minimizing errors caused by manual detection area selection. The employed algorithm is based on morphological recognition and allows the analysis of RGB (red, green, and blue) values in a repeatable way. In our belief, DoE and digital image processing methodologies are keys to overcome some of the remaining weaknesses in μPAD development to facilitate their future market entry.

Although fabrication of colorimetric paper-based analytical devices (PADs) has drawn increasing attention recently, the signal readout method is still a crucial challenge on the way to practical exploitations. We herein introduce an integration of digital image processing with a model PAD for easing and improving the signal readout procedure. The colorimetric detection mechanism of PAD relies on in-situ induced yellowish silver nanoparticles via the interaction of silver ions, poly(vinyl alcohol), and ammonia with isoniazid. The observed color value is related with the concentration of isoniazid. The proposed algorithm is based on mathematical morphology recognition, and minimizes the errors arising from manual area selection. Besides, it allows the recognition of both circle and square shapes in 96-well plate and A4 size array designs. Since this algorithm automatically provides the blank-corrected numerical matrixes and image profiles of red, green and blue channels, further investigations such as outlier classification, construction of regression/prediction models and calculation of detection limit can be easily performed. Comparison of signal readout results of the developed algorithm with ImageJ software demonstrates significant improvements in analysis speed, reproducibility, accuracy and color values. Therefore, application of the proposed algorithm is promising as a robust technique for practical applications.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-04T12:39:06Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-07-15 Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Japan JSPS KAKENHI Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) This article presents results of a pulsed UV laser method for the simultaneous reduction of graphite oxide (GO) and patterning of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). This direct laser writing method was applied to the fabrication of graphene-based, in-plane interdigitated micro-supercapacitors (mu-SCs), prepared on free-standing GO paper (10 mu m thick). The electrochemical performance of mu-SCs was studied using two different electrolytes (KOH and NaCl). The results from cyclic voltammetry measurements exhibited typical electrical double layer behavior, with specific capacitances of 9.3 mu F/cm(2) and 13.8 mu F/cm(2) (at a scan rate of 10 mV/s) for KOH and NaCl electrolytes, respectively. The mu-SCs exhibited good performance, with retention of 95% of the original capacitance values after 3400 charge-discharge cycles. When compared to devices obtained by conventional lithographic techniques, the laser fabrication of planar mu-SCs is faster, cost-effective and scalable. We believe this one-step and environmentally friendly laser-assisted method to be a good alternative for the fabrication of flexible energy storage devices. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Toyohashi Univ Technol, Dept Elect & Elect Informat Engn, 1-1 Hibarigaoka,Tempaku Cho, Toyohashi, Aichi 4418580, Japan Ctr Informat Technol Renato Archer CTI, BR-13069901 Campinas, SP, Brazil Univ Campinas UNICAMP, Ctr Semicond Components & Nanotechnol CCS Nano, BR-13083870 Campinas, SP, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Phys, Fac Sci & Technol, BR-19060900 Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil CUHP, Sch Phys & Mat Sci, Dharamshala 176215, HP, India Univ Campinas UNICAMP, Inst Chem, Dept Analyt Chem, POB 6154, BR-13084974 Campinas, SP, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Phys, Fac Sci & Technol, BR-19060900 Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Japan: P18063 JSPS KAKENHI: 18H03841 JSPS KAKENHI: 18F18063 FAPESP: 2017/22186-0 FAPESP: 2013/14262-7

Multichannel intraluminal impedance pH (MII-pH) monitoring currently represents the gold standard diagnostic technique for the detection of gastro-esophageal reflux (GER), since it allows to quantify and characterize all reflux events and their possible relation with symptoms. Over the last ten years, thanks to its strengths and along with the publication of several clinical studies, its worldwide use has gradually increased, particularly in infants and children. Nevertheless, factors such as the limited pediatric reference values and limited therapeutic options still weaken its current clinical impact. Through an up-to-date review of the available scientific evidence, our aim was to produce a position paper on behalf of the working group on neurogastroenterology and acid-related disorders of the Italian Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP) on MII-pH monitoring technique, indications and interpretation in pediatric age, in order to standardise its use and to help clinicians in the diagnostic approach to children with GER symptoms.

In this paper, infrared thermography is applied to the quantitative characterization of optically semi-transparent media by using a newly introduced mathematical model. The method is specifically aimed to the detection and evaluations in graphic features buried beneath the surface of some particular kind of cultural heritage artefacts, such as books and documents. A numerical approach based on the finite element method, is proposed for solving the model equations. The computed thermographic signal depends on different inspected material physical properties, which have been selectively evaluated by comparing the theoretical results with the experimental ones in specifically designed test samples. Thereafter, the model is applied to the analysis of the results obtained in the case of graphic elements buried within samples constituted by the same previously characterized materials.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-10T17:34:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-07-01 In the recent past, wildfires have received much attention both by science and by the media, especially in relation to deforestation, degradation and climate change and when affecting fire-sensitive ecosystems. On the other hand, fire is a natural process in many ecosystems, in particular those to be considered fire-dependent; here, maintaining natural fire regimes is important to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services. In many regions of the world we are still in the need for a better understanding of fire effects on plant populations, communities and ecosystems. For instance, responses of individuals and populations to heat and fire can differ among distinct fire-prone ecosystems, and community level responses often vary depending on historical disturbance regimes or the fire regime as such. Effects on ecosystem processes, e.g. on carbon cycles, can vary greatly in scale and are even more difficult to predict. This adds up to uncertainties regarding appropriate fire management strategies, both in fire-prone and fire-sensitive ecosystems. Here, we introduce a set of opinion papers on fires in Brazil and a forthcoming Virtual Special Issue of Flora - Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants on Fire and vegetation, with contributions expected from a broad range of topics related to fire, plants, and vegetation. This special issue will contribute to the development not only of more knowledge on fire effects on plants and vegetation, but also to advances in fire management policies in different ecosystems around the world. The main issue, after all, is to go beyond simple classification of fires as 'good' or 'bad', but rather to develop strategies to deal with changing fire regimes and their effects in a dynamic world increasingly modified by human actions. Univ Fed Rio Grande do Sul, Dept Bot, Av Bento Goncalves 9500, BR-91501970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Univ Fed Minas Gerais, Ctr Ecol Synth & Conservat, Dept Genet Ecol & Evolucao, Av Antonio Carlos 6627, BR-31270901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Dept Biol, Via Acesso Prof Paulo Donato Castellane S-N, BR-14884000 Jaboticabal, Brazil TU Bergakad Freiberg, Inst Biosci, Leipziger Str 29, D-09599 Freiberg, Germany Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Dept Biol, Via Acesso Prof Paulo Donato Castellane S-N, BR-14884000 Jaboticabal, Brazil

Pt80Rh20 and Pt60Rh40 alloy catalysts were electrodeposited at constant current density from different electrolytic baths on commercial carbon paper in order to be tested for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) and as anodes in a direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC). Pt and Rh anodes prepared in the same form were also examined for comparison. As measured by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalyses, the electrodeposited Pt:Rh atomic ratios were the same as those of the precursors in the bath. X-ray diffraction showed the PtRh alloy formation with mean particle sizes of 8.3 and 7.0 nm for Pt80Rh20 and Pt60Rh40, respectively, and a Pt lattice contraction caused by the Rh addition. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses suggested a Pt lattice strain due to Rh alloying because the Pt4f binding energies were shifted to higher values with respect to that of pure Pt. The onset potentials of the alloy oxidation, CO stripping and ethanol oxidation in the cyclic and linear sweep voltammograms indicated that Pt60Rh40 was the most active for the CO and the ethanol electrooxidation. The apparent activation energies for the EOR on that alloy were also the lowest one, in agreement with its highest activity. These results were explained by the bifunctional mechanism, assuming that Rh contributed with hydroxylated species to favor the removal of the CO-type adsorbed species on Pt sites, and by the effect of Rh on the Pt electronic structure, the lattice strain being dominating over the charge transfer between Rh and Pt. Tests carried out in single DEFCs showed the feasibility of using the Pt60Rh40 electrodeposited electrodes on carbon as the anode in a real fuel cell environment.

Graphical abstract, Highlights • New cobalt metal-organic framework modified carbon cloth/paper (Co-MOF/CC/Paper) hybrid button-sensor. • Portable, robust, and user-friendly electrochemical analytical chip for nonenzymatic glucose sensing. • Effectively increasing the specific area and catalytic sites based on the Co-MOF/CC interface. • Low-cost and simple on-chip application with desired selectivity, stability, and durability in complex biomatrixes., In the growing pandemic, family healthcare is widely concerned with the increase of medical self-diagnosis away from the hospital. A cobalt metal-organic framework modified carbon cloth/paper (Co-MOF/CC/Paper) hybrid button-sensor was developed as a portable, robust, and user-friendly electrochemical analytical chip for nonenzymatic quantitative detection of glucose. Highly integrated electrochemical analytical chip was successfully fabricated with a flexible Co-MOF/CC sensing interface, effectively increasing the specific area and catalytic sites than the traditional plane electrode. Based on the button-sensor, rapid quantitative detection of glucose was achieved in multiple complex bio-matrixes, such as serum, urine, and saliva, with desired selectivity, stability, and durability. With the advantages of low cost, high environment tolerance, ease of production, our nanozyme-based electrochemical analytical chip achieved reliable nonenzymatic electrocatalysis, has great potential for the application of rapid on-site analysis in personalized diagnostic and disease prevention.

Intervention into the present building industry is the main strategy of the European Commission in order to achieve one of its planned aims regarding the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions up to 20% up by 2020 and up to 80% by 2050. Therefore, it is necessary to develop not only energetically efficient but also more environmentally friendly materials. This work presents bio-based propylene glycol and paper waste sludge particles modified polyurethane foams, their physical properties and their prediction models. The conducted research has revealed that paper waste sludge particles negatively affect dimensional changes. In order to eliminate the negative impact of paper waste sludge, bio-based propylene glycol is used. The obtained results have shown that this raw material allows development of dimensionally and structurally stable polyurethane foams used as a thermal insulating layer having the following properties: density in the range of 40–50 kg/m3, compressive strength in the range of 193–243 kPa, thermal conductivity in the range of 0.0349–0.0359 W/(m·K), long-term water absorption in the range of 6–11 vol.% and water vapour transmission factor in the range of 26.2–40.9. On the basis of the results, prediction models are suggested for the most important physical properties of propylene glycol and paper production waste sludge particles modified polyurethane foams.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:55:04Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-08-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) It has been recently suggested that female mate choice, based on sexually selected ornaments, is an important component of social wasps' reproductive biology. The correlates of male ornaments that could be of a female's interest, however, remain to be investigated. Males of the Neotropical paper wasp Polistes simillimus have sexually dimorphic melanin-based black spots on their faces. In this species, male spots work like sexual ornaments, as it has been experimentally demonstrated that females prefer sexual partners with a higher proportion of black pigment on their faces. We have shown that, under laboratory conditions, male sexual ornamentation positively predicts the strength of the melanization immune response and longevity. Therefore, in P. simillimus, melanin-based facial patterns (ornaments) seem to be honest indicators of male quality. Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Filosofia Ciencias & Letras Ribeirao Preto, Dept Biol, Sao Paulo, Brazil Univ Fed Vicosa, Dept Entomol, Vicosa, MG, Brazil Univ Turku, Dept Biol, Turku, Finland Univ Turku, Turku Brain & Mind Ctr, Turku, Finland Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Biociencias Letras & Ciencias Exatas, Dept Zool & Bot, Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, Brazil Univ Fed Vicosa, Dept Biol Geral, Vicosa, MG, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Biociencias Letras & Ciencias Exatas, Dept Zool & Bot, Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, Brazil FAPESP: 2015/05302-0 FAPESP: 2015/25301-9

Success management can bring valuable contributions to improve project results and stakeholders' relationships. However, the success management process must be explicitly integrated into project management approaches, guides and methodologies (such as PMBOK, PRINCE2 or PM2), which is not currently happening. The purpose of this position paper is to discuss the need and importance for this integration and to present a first proposal on how this can be operationalized. To support the position, the methodology of the European Union PM2 was used. The result of the integration demonstrates that it is possible to advance management and raise the level of project success., This work has been supported by FCT-Fundacao para a Ciencia e Tecnologia within the Project Scope: UID/CEC/00319/2019.

Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is an underdiagnosed condition characterised by translational features going beyond the strict field of gastroenterology as it may manifest itself by a variable spectrum of gastric and extra-gastric symptoms and signs. It is relatively common among older adults in different parts of the world, but large variations exist. Helicobacter pylori-related CAG [multifocal] and autoimmune CAG (corpus-restricted) are apparently two different diseases, but they display overlapping features. Patients with cobalamin and/or iron deficiency anaemia or autoimmune disorders, including autoimmune thyroiditis and type 1 diabetes mellitus, should be offered screening for CAG. Pepsinogens, gastrin-17, and anti-H. pylori antibodies serum assays seem to be reliable non-invasive screening tools for the presence of CAG, helpful to identify individuals to refer to gastroscopy with five standard gastric biopsies in order to obtain histological confirmation of diagnosis. Patients with CAG are at increased risk of developing gastric cancer, and they should be estimated with histological staging systems (OLGA or OLGIM). H. pylori eradication may be beneficial by modifying the natural history of atrophy, but not that of intestinal metaplasia. Patients with advanced stages of CAG (Stage III/IV OLGA or OLGIM) should undergo endoscopic surveillance every three years, those with autoimmune CAG every three-five years. In patients with CAG, a screening for autoimmune thyroid disease and micronutrient deficiencies, including iron and vitamin B12, should be performed. The optimal treatment for dyspeptic symptoms in patients with CAG remains to be defined. Proton pump inhibitors are not indicated in hypochlorhydric CAG patients.

Gait analysis is recognized as a useful assessment tool in the field of human movement research. However, doubts remain on its real effectiveness as a clinical tool, i.e. on its capability to change the diagnostic-therapeutic practice. In particular, the conditions in which evidence of a favorable cost-benefit ratio is found and the methodology for properly conducting and interpreting the exam are not identified clearly. To provide guidelines for the use of Gait Analysis in the context of rehabilitation medicine, SIAMOC (the Italian Society of Clinical Movement Analysis) promoted a National Consensus Conference which was held in Bologna on September 14th, 2013. The resulting recommendations were the result of a three-stage process entailing i) the preparation of working documents on specific open issues, ii) the holding of the consensus meeting, and iii) the drafting of consensus statements by an external Jury. The statements were formulated based on scientific evidence or experts’ opinion, when the quality/quantity of the relevant literature was deemed insufficient. The aim of this work is to disseminate the consensus statements. These are divided into 13 questions grouped in three areas of interest: 1) General requirements and management, 2) Methodological and instrumental issues, and 3) Scientific evidence and clinical appropriateness. SIAMOC hopes that this document will contribute to improve clinical practice and help promoting further research in the field.

A major application of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (mu PADs) includes the field of point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. It is important for POC diagnostics to possess properties such as ease-of-use and low cost. However, mu PADs need multiple instruments and fabrication steps. In this study, two different chemicals (Hexamethyldisilazane and Tetra-ethylorthosilicate) were used, and three different methods (heating, plasma treatment, and microwave irradiation) were compared to develop mu PADs. Additionally, an inkjet-printing technique was used for generating a hydrophilic channel and printing certain chemical agents on different regions of a modified filter paper. A rapid and effective fabrication method to develop mu PADs within 10 min Was introduced using an inkjet-printing technique in conjunction with a microwave irradiation method. Environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used for morphology characterization and determining the surface chemical compositions of the modified filter paper, respectively. Contact angle measurements were used to fulfill the hydrophobicity of the treated filter paper. The highest contact angle value (141 degrees +/- 1) was obtained using the microwave irradiation method over a period of 7 min, when the filter paper was modified by TEOS. Furthermore, by using this method, the XPS results of TEOS-modified filter paper revealed Si2p (23%) and Si-O bounds (81.55%) indicating the presence of Si-O-Si bridges and Si(OEt) groups, respectively. The ESEM results revealed changes in the porous structures of the papers and decreases in the pore sizes. Washburn assay measurements tested the efficiency of the generated hydrophilic channels in which similar water penetration rates were observed in the TEOS-modified filter paper and unmodified (plain) filter paper. The validation of the developed mu PADs was performed by utilizing the rapid urease test as a model test system. The detection limit of the developed mu PADs was measured as 1 unit ml(-1) urease enzyme in detection zones within a period of 3 min. The study findings suggested that a combination of microwave irradiation with inkjet-printing technique could improve the fabrication method of mu PADs, enabling faster production of mu PADs that are easy to use and cost-effective with long shelf lives. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:06:27Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-11-01 project Energy and Mobility for Sustainable Regions - EMSURE Primary sludge, from different pulp and paper mills, was used as feedstock in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) processes to produce ethanol. SSF was carried out with Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 26602 yeast and NS 22192 enzymatic extract using 150 g L-1 of carbohydrates (CH) from primary sludge. The effect of sterilization, reduction of enzyme dosage and fed-batch vs. batch conditions were studied. The removal of sterilization can be considered since no contamination or atypical by-products were observed, although SSF efficiency slightly decreased. The reduction of the enzyme dosage from 35 to 15 FPU g(CH)(-1) was successful. Despite of initial mixing difficulties, batch SSF enabled higher ethanol concentration (41.7 g L-1), conversion yield (48.9%) and productivity (0.78 g L-1 h(-1)), compared to the fed-batch process at the same conditions of low enzyme dosage of 5 FPU g(CH)(-1) and high solids content of 21.7%, rarely found in literature. Published by Elsevier Ltd. Univ Coimbra, Fac Sci & Technol, CIEPQPF, Dept Chem Engn, Polo 2,Rua Silvio Lima, P-3030790 Coimbra, Portugal Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Engn & Food Technol, Rua Cristovao Colombo 2265, BR-15054000 Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Engn & Food Technol, Rua Cristovao Colombo 2265, BR-15054000 Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil project Energy and Mobility for Sustainable Regions - EMSURE: CENTRO-07-0224-FEDER-002004

Paper surfaces (Whatman filter papers, Kimwipes®, and Japanese Washi papers) were employed as support for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) deposited by the seed-mediated growth method. The AuNP-modified paper or textile was brought into “weak” (or non-permanent) contact with a glassy carbon electrode and immersed into aqueous electrolyte media. Electrochemical responses for the Fe(CN)64−/Fe(CN)63− redox system in 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) and 1.0 M KCl solutions were investigated by voltammetry and impedance methods. Even for weakly contacted AuNP catalysts of relatively low density faster electron transfer was observed. Particle sizes of at least 20 nm diameter were required. There was no permanent contact from AuNP catalysts to the electrode and the process was therefore termed “weak contact catalysis”. The method is proposed as a rapid and novel catalyst screening tool with potential applications in fuel cell and sensor technologies. Keywords: Modified electrodes, Gold nanoparticles, Electron-transfer reactions, Textile, Paper, Catalyst support, Seed-mediated growth method, Voltammetry, Impedance, Contact-electrocatalysis

Background: The plant pathogens significantly affect quality and marketability of several cereal crops. Of these, seed-borne phytopathogens are responsible for quality and quantity losses in crops on commercial scale. The aim of this study was to isolate and detect the seed-borne mycoflora from seed lots of various bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes widely grown in Bahawalpur division of south Punjab, Pakistan. Methods: Eleven commercial wheat cultivars/genotypes were investigated through standard blotter paper method. The samples were randomly collected from farmer fields and grain markets. The collected samples were brought to the laboratory and analyzed with different methods to detect the mycoflora. Results: Twenty-one fungal species were recovered from seeds lots of diversified gene pool. The most frequently isolated fungi were Alternaria alternata, Fusarium monoliformae, Aspergillus flavus, Helminthosporium spp., Curvularia spp., Bipolaris sorokiniana, Phoma spp. and Penicillium spp. The one devasting fungal specie Alternaria alternata (88.8%) was the dominating species in all wheat genotypes included in the study. Conclusion: These results divulge the presence of fungal pathogens in all wheat cultivars and could exert adverse effect on their allometric traits. So, there is a potential need to control these seed borne pathogens to minimize the crop yield losses. © 2023 The Author(s) King Saud University, KSU This project was supported by Researchers Supporting Project number (RSP2023R5) King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This white paper informs the nuclear astrophysics community and funding agencies about the scientific directions and priorities of the field and provides input from this community for the 2015 Nuclear Science Long Range Plan. It summarizes the outcome of the nuclear astrophysics town meeting that was held on August 21–23, 2014 in College Station at the campus of Texas A&M University in preparation of the NSAC Nuclear Science Long Range Plan. It also reflects the outcome of an earlier town meeting of the nuclear astrophysics community organized by the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics (JINA) on October 9–10, 2012 Detroit, Michigan, with the purpose of developing a vision for nuclear astrophysics in light of the recent NRC decadal surveys in nuclear physics (NP2010) and astronomy (ASTRO2010). The white paper is furthermore informed by the town meeting of the Association of Research at University Nuclear Accelerators (ARUNA) that took place at the University of Notre Dame on June 12–13, 2014. In summary we find that nuclear astrophysics is a modern and vibrant field addressing fundamental science questions at the intersection of nuclear physics and astrophysics. These questions relate to the origin of the elements, the nuclear engines that drive life and death of stars, and the properties of dense matter. A broad range of nuclear accelerator facilities, astronomical observatories, theory efforts, and computational capabilities are needed. With the developments outlined in this white paper, answers to long standing key questions are well within reach in the coming decade.

Scope Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection reactivation is associated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with haematologic malignancy and/or haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, information on this issue is limited. The scope of this position paper is to provide recommendations on HBV screening, monitoring, prophylaxis, treatment and vaccination in the patients described above. Methods These recommendations were developed from one meeting of experts attended by different Italian scientific societies as well as from a systematic literature review (of articles published through December 31, 2016) on HBV infection in haematologic patients and in patients who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation published in the same issue of the journal. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was used to assess each recommendation's quality. Questions addressed These recommendations provide the answers to the following questions: (a) HBV screening and monitoring: Who should be screened before chemotherapy? Which screening tests should be used? Should HBV-DNA detection be used to monitor HBV reactivation before starting antivirals? What is the best timeline to monitor HBV reactivation? (b) Prophylaxis in HBsAg-positive patients: Which antiviral drugs should be used to treat HBsAg-positive patients? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided to HBsAg-positive patients? (c) Prophylaxis in patients with resolved HBV infection: Which patients with resolved HBV infection should receive antiviral prophylaxis? Which antiviral drug should be used? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided? (d) HBV infection management strategy in autologous (auto-HSCT) and allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT): Which HSCT recipients should receive antiviral prophylaxis? Which antiviral drug should be used? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided? (e) Choice of antiviral drugs in the treatment of HBV reactivation: Should third-generation anti-HBV drugs be preferred to first- or second-generation antiviral drugs in the treatment of HBV reactivation with or without hepatitis flare in haematologic patients? (f) Immunization against HBV in patients with haematologic malignancies and/or patients who underwent HSCT: Should these patients be vaccinated? Which HBV vaccination schedule should be adopted? Recommendations Haematologic patients should be screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) plus anti-hepatitis B core protein (HBc), and HBV DNA before chemotherapy. HBV DNA levels should be monitored monthly in all HBV-positive patients who do not receive prophylaxis. HBsAg-positive haematologic patients and those undergoing HSCT should receive third-generation antiviral therapy as prophylaxis. Anti-HBc-positive lymphoma patients and those receiving HSCT should receive antiviral prophylaxis. All HBV-negative haematologic patients should be vaccinated for HBV. The acquisition of data from well-designed studies is desirable in the near future.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the esophagus characterized by symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction, as well as significant esophageal eosinophilia. The entity exists worldwide but has been most extensively studied in Western countries. However, a wide range of symptoms has been noticed such as chest pain or gastro-esophageal reflux disease-like symptoms. Upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy and esophageal biopsies are crucial for the diagnosis. Endoscopy might be normal or reveal typical patterns such as rings, furrows, exudates, edema, and stricture. Two to four biopsies should be performed both in the distal and in the proximal esophagus, and 15 eosinophils per high power field within the esophageal epithelium are the minimal threshold to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis. Allergy testing is recommended, although its impact to orient treatment remains to be demonstrated. Eosinophilic esophagitis treatment includes medical treatment, diet and endoscopic dilation. Proton pump inhibitors are the first-line therapy as up to 50% of patients respond well to proton pump inhibitors irrespective of objective evidence of GERD. Topical viscous corticosteroids or elimination diet are the treatment of choice in case of unresponsiveness to proton pump inhibitors.

Background Sudden and unpredictable changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have profoundly threatened the psychological well-being and increased insecurity among adolescents worldwide. At a critical developmental stage, the well-being of the youth is more vulnerable to adverse environments. This study constructed a moderated mediation model to explore the buffering factors between insecurity and subjective well-being of the youth during the pandemic. Methods During the COVID-19 outbreak in June 2020, data of 5,503 Chinese youth (15–29 years old) were collected via an online questionnaire. Subjective well-being, insecurity, self-control, and hope were measured, and the moderated mediation model was analyzed. Results Findings from this study showed that with the mediating effect of self-control, insecurity negatively predicted subjective well-being, and hope moderated the association between insecurity and self-control. Specifically, the link between insecurity and self-control was stronger when hope was low but weaker when hope was high. Limitations Since this study was mainly conducted in China, and considering the continuous change of the pandemic on a global scale, it is of great significance to conduct cross-cultural and cross-time studies in the future. Conclusions The results demonstrate that self-control and hope play important roles in buffering the negative effects of insecurity on the subjective well-being of adolescents and young adults. The findings provide implications for reducing the negative impact of insecurity from a positive psychology perspective and for youth mental health interventions during public health crises.

Background Social isolation and the impact on mental health is a major concern during COVID-19. Trait equanimity is expected to protect individuals from psychological distress associated with social isolation. The aim of this study is to examine the link between social isolation and psychological distress via the mediator equanimity. It was hypothesised that objective (few social contacts) and perceived social isolation (loneliness) would predict psychological distress and that equanimity would mediate these relationships. Methods Five hundred and seventy-eight adult United States participants were recruited and completed measures of objective social isolation and perceived social isolation (De Jong Gierveld Social Isolation scale), trait equanimity (Phenomenological Experience of Meditative Equanimity Scale), and psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, Short Form, DASS-21). Results Objective social isolation negatively predicted psychological distress, but equanimity did not mediate this relationship. Perceived social isolation positively predicted psychological distress and equanimity mediated this relationship. Limitations This study is limited by its cross-sectional and self-report design and by a United States sample, which may affect the generalisability of findings. Conclusions Rather than a lack of social contact it is the "perceived" nature of isolation that is related to psychological distress and this relationship indirectly operates through trait equanimity. Individuals high in trait equanimity may be better protected from the impact of perceived social isolation. Clinical interventions can be adapted to include equanimity skills to mitigate perceived social isolation for individuals and reduce adverse outcomes.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant mental health consequences for frontline health care workers (FHCWs). However, no known study has examined the prevalence, determinants, or correlates of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in this population. Methods Data were analyzed from a prospective cohort of FHCWs at an urban tertiary care hospital in New York City (NYC). Assessments were conducted during the spring 2020 pandemic peak (Wave 1) and seven months later (Wave 2). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify Wave 1 sociodemographic, occupational, and psychosocial factors associated with PTG at Wave 2, and the association between aspects of PTG with burnout and pandemic-related PTSD symptoms at Wave 2. Results A total 76.8% of FHCWs endorsed moderate or greater PTG; the most prevalent domains were increased appreciation of life (67.0%), improved relationships (48.7%), and greater personal strength (44.1%). Non-White race/ethnicity, greater levels of positive emotions, pandemic-related PTSD symptoms, dispositional gratitude, and feelings of inspiration were independently associated with PTG. At Wave 2, endorsement of spiritual growth during the pandemic was associated with 52% and 44% lower odds of screening positive for pandemic-related PTSD symptoms and burnout, respectively; greater improvement in relationships was associated with 36% lower odds of screening positive for burnout. Limitations Single institution study and use of self-report instruments. Conclusions Nearly 4-of-5 FHCWs report pandemic-related PTG, driven largely by salutogenic factors assessed during the pandemic surge. Interventions to bolster these factors may help promote PTG and mitigate risk for burnout and pandemic-related PTSD symptoms in this population.

Background Unpaid caregivers of adults play critical roles in health care systems by providing care to older adults and those with chronic conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened caregiving needs, forcing some into caregiving roles and disrupting others. We sought to estimate the prevalence of and identify factors associated with adverse mental health symptoms, substance use, and suicidal ideation amongst unpaid caregivers of adults versus non-caregivers. Methods During June 24-30, 2020, surveys were administered to U.S. adults. Quota sampling and survey weighting were implemented to improve sample representativeness of age, gender, and race/ethnicity. Results Of 9,896 eligible invited adults, 5,412 (54.7%) completed surveys and 5,011 (92.6%) met screening criteria and were analyzed, including 1,362 (27.2%) caregivers. Caregivers had higher adverse mental health symptom prevalences than non-caregivers, including suicidal ideation (33.4% vs 3.7%, p

Background With concern over the rise in mental health symptoms associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the present study set out to address the absence of pandemic-specific screening tools for detecting those in Chinese societies who are at-risk for experiencing mental distress due to the pandemic; thus, its aim was to validate the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) and Obsession with COVID-19 Scale (OCS) in Chinese adults. Methods With a two-stage cluster random sampling method, we surveyed 1011 Chinese community-dwelling adults (38.8% men; 41.2 years old on average with an SD of 15.8) in June and July of 2020. Results Our psychometric evaluation results showed that the Chinese version of CAS and OCS retained their original one-dimensional structure and demonstrated measurement invariance across genders. In line with validation studies of the CAS and OCS in other languages, subsequent analyses also provided support to our Chinese version with respect to their satisfactory internal consistency (α = .87 and .73, respectively), and good concurrent validity (i.e., positive associations with negative feelings, excessive time-consumption, subjective distress, and functioning impairment). Limitations Due to constraints of time and cross-sectional design, we only validated CAS and OCS among Chinese adults and did not evaluate their test-retest reliability nor predictive validity. Conclusions Considering the practical benefits of understanding the source of mental symptoms during the pandemic, we recommend the use of CAS and OCS in Chinese communities to facilitate early identification and intervention for those who require clinical attention due to their COVID-19 related anxiety and obsessive thoughts.

Background The mental health of racial/ethnic minority groups in the United States may be disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic due to greater experience of peri-pandemic stressors. Yet, few studies have systematically examined racial/ethnic differences in mental health outcomes in this context. Methods Data came from the COVID-19 Southern Cities Study, a probability-based, cross-sectional study conducted in May/June 2020 among adults living in the metropolitan statistical areas of Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, and New Orleans. Unadjusted and adjusted associations between racial/ethnic identity and past-week depression and/or anxiety symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-2 score ≥ 3 or Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 score ≥ 3), trouble sleeping, physical reactions when thinking about COVID-19, and self-rated worsened mental health due to the pandemic were estimated in separate logistic regression models. Results Over 30% of respondents reported depression and/or anxiety symptoms, 21% reported physical reactions, 25% had trouble sleeping, and 33% worsened mental health since the pandemic began. Adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related characteristics and pandemic-related stressors, odds of anxiety symptoms (odds ratio (OR) 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30–0.95) and worsened mental health (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.36–0.94) were lower among non-Hispanic Black vs. non-Hispanic white respondents. Limitations No diagnostic assessments were used, and results may not be generalizable to later phases of the pandemic and the entire U.S. South. Conclusions Despite greater pandemic-related stressor experience, poor mental health outcomes were not more common among racial/ethnic minority individuals. However, interventions to reduce disparities in stressor experience and promote mental health are needed.

Background: The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted the mental health and well-being of medical personnel, including nursing students. Network analysis provides a deeper characterization of symptom-symptom interactions in mental disorders. The aim of this study was to elucidate characteristics of anxiety and depressive symptom networks of Chinese nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A total of 932 nursing students were included. Anxiety and depressive symptom were measured using the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and two-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2), respectively. Central symptoms and bridge symptoms were identified via centrality indices and bridge centrality indices, respectively. Network stability was examined using the case-dropping procedure. Results: Irritability, Uncontrollable worry, Trouble relaxing, and Depressed mood had the highest centrality values. Three bridge symptoms (Depressed mood, Nervousness, and Anhedonia) were also identified. Neither gender nor region of residence was associated with network global strength, distribution of edge weights or individual edge weights. Limitations: Data were collected in a cross-sectional study design, therefore, causal relations and dynamic changes between anxiety and depressive symptoms over time could not be inferred. Generalizability of findings may be limited to Chinese nursing students during a particular phase of the current pandemic. Conclusions: Irritability, Uncontrollable worry, Trouble relaxing, and Depressed mood constituted central symptoms maintaining the anxiety-depression network structure of Chinese nursing students during the pandemic. Timely, systemic multi-level interventions targeting central symptoms and bridge symptoms may be effective in alleviating co-occurring experiences of anxiety and depression in this population.

Background COVID-19 has introduced novel stressors into American adolescents’ lives. Studies have shown that adolescents adopt an array of coping mechanisms and social supports when contending with stress. It is unclear, though, which strategies are most effective in mitigating daily pandemic-related stress, as few micro-longitudinal studies have explored adolescents’ daily affect during COVID-19. Parental support may also be a critical component of adolescents’ pandemic-related coping, as adolescents’ peer networks have been limited by public health measures. Methods This longitudinal study examined links between stress, coping, parental support, and affect across 14 consecutive days and 6216 assessments from a national sample of adolescents (N=444; Mage=15.0; 60% female; 44% Black/African American, 39% White/Europen American, 9% Latinx, 6% Asian American, 2% Native American) during school closures and state-mandated stay-at-home orders between April 8 and April 21, 2021. Results Adolescents’ health and financial stress predicted increases in same-day (health stress’ effect size = .16; financial stress’ effect size = .11) and next-day negative affect (health stress’ effect size = .05; financial stress’ effect size = .08). Adolescents’ secondary control engagement coping predicted increases in same-day (effect size = .10) and next-day (effect size = .04) positive affect and moderated the link between health stress and negative affect. Parental social support predicted increases in same-day (effect size = .26) and next-day (effect size = .06) positive affect and decreases in same-day (effect size = .17) negative affect and moderated the link between financial stress and negative affect. Limitations Results are indicative of conditions at the immediate onset of COVID-19 and should be interpreted as such. Conclusions Findings provide information as to how health providers and parents can help adolescents mitigate the impact of COVID-19-related health and economic stressors on their psychological well-being. It remains critical to monitor the psychosocial impact of the pandemic on adolescents’ affect while continuing to identify personal and environmental protective factors for reducing harm and maximizing resilience.

The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures have had a profound impact on the emotions, anxiety, and mental health of affected communities. Despite this, there is a lack of knowledge about the possible generational and geographical differences in the effects on the mental health of individuals. This study examines the impact of COVID-19 related quarantine on symptoms of generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) among parents and children (N = 4503). It also compares the outcomes of residents from the initial COVID-19 epicenter of Wuhan to those in surrounding areas. Subgroup analyses were conducted by child and parent samples, and by Wuhan city and other cities in the Hubei province. Propensity score radius matching and ordinary least squares regressions were used to examine the relationship between quarantine and GAD symptoms. Results showed that quarantine had more psychological impact on parents than children, regardless of geographic location. Parents that experienced quarantine in Wuhan city, reported a significantly higher level of symptoms of GAD than those that did not. Parents from other cities showed no such difference. For both children and parents, interpersonal communication about COVID-19 and social media exposure to pandemic-related information were linked to GAD symptoms. Targeted policies and interventions are needed to address the psychological impacts of COVID-19 lockdown.

Background The potential benefits of the COVID-19 lockdown need to be carefully weighed versus the possible impact on people's daily life and negative mental health effects.We aimed to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, insomnia and quality of life before and during the COVID-19 lockdown,identifying subgroups at higher risk of mental distress as a consequence of COVID-19 associated restrictions. Methods Within the Lost in Italy project, a web-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a representative sample of 6003 Italian adults aged 18–74 recruited from April 27 to May 3, 2020, within the nation-wide stay-at-home order. Results The prevalence of depressive symptoms (PHQ-2 ≥ 3) increased from 14.3% before lockdown to 33.2% during lockdown, anxiety symptoms (GAD-2 ≥ 3) from 18.1% to 41.5%, insufficient sleep (≤6 h/day) from 33.7% to 41.1%, unsatisfactory sleep from 17.0% to 38.8% and unsatisfactory quality of life from 13.1% to 42.1%.Overall, 47.7% reported worsened depressive symptoms, 43.6% worsened anxiety symptoms, sleep quantity (31.5%) and quality (35.0%),and 64.1% worsened quality of life.A statistically significant relationship with all mental health outcomes considered was found for women vs. men (multivariate odds ratio,OR between 1.13 and 1.63), for current vs. never smokers (OR between 1.15 and 1.25), and with increasing physical activity (p for trend

The use of human albumin is common in hepatology since international scientific societies support its administration to treat or prevent severe complications of cirrhosis, such as the prevention of post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction after large-volume paracentesis and renal failure induced by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome in association with vasoconstrictors. However, these indications are often disregarded, mainly because the high cost of human albumin leads health authorities and hospital administrations to restrict its use. On the other hand, physicians often prescribe human albumin in patients with advanced cirrhosis for indications that are not supported by solid scientific evidence and/or are still under investigation in clinical trials. In order to implement appropriate prescription of human albumin and to avoid its futile use, the Italian Association for the Study of the Liver (AISF) and the Italian Society of Transfusion Medicine and Immunohaematology (SIMTI) nominated a panel of experts, who reviewed the available clinical literature and produced practical clinical recommendations for the use of human albumin in patients with cirrhosis.

Highlights • The prevalence of depression among Chinese pregnant women was 35.4%. • Drinking, morning sickness, and limited activity were risk factors for depression. • Less attention to fetal movement every day was also a risk factor for depression., Background The prevalence of depression increase with the outbreaks of epidemic disease. The prevalence of depression during the outbreak of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in prenatal and postnatal women was examined in China. Methods 2201 prenatal and postnatal women in mainland China were recruited in this cross-sectional study from February 28th to April 26th, 2020. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression in prenatal and postnatal women. Results The prevalence rate of depression was 35.4%. The risk factors for depression included drinking (p = 0.04; adjusted OR = 2.81, 95%CI: 1.26~6.24), nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (p

BACKGROUND: It is unclear how those with bipolar disorder (BD) have been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aimed to obtain a more detailed understanding of the current mental health needs of these individuals, which is important for both the development of intervention strategies to better manage patient distress and to better prepare for similar circumstances in future. METHODS: The sample comprised 43 individuals with a verified diagnosis of BD and 24 healthy controls. Data about pandemic-related mental health support use, socio-demographics, mood, lifestyle, social rhythm and subjective cognitive dysfunction data were collected and compared between groups. Inter-relationships between scores were also examined. RESULTS: No between-group differences were found in terms of age, sex, living situation, job loss or reduced work hours due to COVID-19. Most patients with BD reported a history of ongoing formal psychological support (68.3%), with most continuing this support throughout the pandemic (82.1%). A large, statistically significant pandemic-related increase in subjective cognitive dysfunction was evident in the BD group. Subjective cognitive dysfunction was significantly associated with negative symptomology, suicidal thoughts, and quality of life ratings. LIMITATIONS: Data was collected in self-report format in an online survey and objective symptom measures were not used at this time CONCLUSION: The absenceof substantial differences between patients and controls in terms of mood symptoms, COVID-19 fear or lifestyle factors and social rhythms suggests a degree of resilience in BD patients; despite large pandemic related increases in subjective cognitive dysfunction.

Highlights • A two-factor structure applied to participants’ coping strategies, namely problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping, and the former was more adopted. • Problem-focused coping was associated with less cyberbullying behaviors while had no correlation with depression. • Emotion-focused coping was found positively correlated with cyberbullying and depression. • The association between emotion-focused coping and depression was mediated by cyberbullying., Background: As a major life stressor now, the COVID-19 pandemic could substantially increase risks of cyberbullying and depression for global people, especially in the context of increased digital interconnectedness and strict social distancing. Though people are adopting different coping strategies, still little is known about their cyberbullying and depression and how the two associated with coping strategies. Methods: A web-based nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted among 5,608 netizens during the peak time of COVID-19 in China. The study collected cross-sectional data on participants’ coping strategies, general cyberbullying behaviors, cyberbullying behaviors specifically to residents of Hubei Province where first COVID-19 case was reported, and depression. Results: A two-factor structure applied to participants’ coping strategies, namely problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping, and the former was more adopted. There existed gender, age, education, and income differences in the coping strategies. Problem-focused coping was associated with less cyberbullying behaviors while had no correlation with depression; emotion-focused coping was found positively correlated with cyberbullying and depression. The association between emotion-focused coping and depression was mediated by cyberbullying. Limitations: The study used cross-sectional design, and its findings should be cautioned to be generalized to other countries, due to the differences in culture, stage of crisis, and government policies on COVID-19. Conclusions: Problem-focused coping was associated with less cyberbullying, and emotion-focused coping predicted cyberbullying and depression. Cyberbullying mediated the correlation between emotion-focused coping and depression. These findings provide new perspectives for interventions on people's coping strategies towards COVID-19 pandemic.

Highlights • A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients admitted to the Psychiatric Emergency Service 90 days before and after March 14th, 2020, the first day of lockdown in Spain due to COVID-19. • During the lockdown the number of admissions decreased by 37.9% while a significant increase in the percentage of patients requiring acute psychiatric hospitalization was observed. • Anxiety spectrum disorders accumulated the greatest decrease in admission rates compared to the three months before lockdown. • A statistically significant increase in admissions rates was found in patients with dementia-like cognitive impairments, autism spectrum, and substance use disorders during the lockdown., Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, a structural reorganization was imposed on public health systems. Psychiatry services were also affected with the imposed reduction of non-urgent consultations. We aim to explore the effect of these changes on a Psychiatry Emergency Service during COVID-19 lockdown in Spain. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on all patients admitted to our Psychiatric Emergency Service 90 days before and after March 14th, 2020, the first day of lockdown in Spain. Extracted data were compared between the two periods. Poisson regression analysis was performed to analyze changes in admission rates. Results 1,958 psychiatric emergency admissions were analyzed. Although the number of admissions decreased by 37.9%, we observed a significant increase in the percentage of acute psychiatric hospitalization during the lockdown. Anxiety spectrum disorders accumulated the greatest significant decrease in admission rates during the lockdown. On the other hand, a significant increase in admissions rates was found in patients with dementia, autism spectrum disorders, and substance use disorders during the lockdown. Limitations This study was conducted in a single psychiatric emergency service, preventing a generalization of our results. The comparison time period might have biased our results due to the influence of external factors. Conclusion Mental health consequences of COVID-19 are becoming apparent. A reduction of admission rates for anxiety disorders might be related telepsychiatry implementation during the lockdown. Other conditions particularly vulnerable to the routine changes and lack of social support have suffered the most, and efforts should be placed to treat these situations.

Highlights • HCWs in Egypt and Saudi-Arabia experienced depression, anxiety, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. • Female sex, age ≤30 years, attending night shifts, and watching/reading COVID-19 news associated with worse psychological disturbances. • Providing psychological support to HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic is an urgent need., Introduction As the Novel Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) was declared by the world health organization a pandemic in March 2020, thousands of healthcare workers (HCWs) worldwide were on the frontlines fighting against the pandemic. Herein, we selected two Middle East countries; Egypt and Saudi Arabia to investigate the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on their HCWs. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a Google survey was used to access HCWs in many hospitals in Egypt and Saudi Arabia between the 14th and 24th of April 2020. The survey assessed HCWs regarding their sociodemographic and occupational features, sleeping hours, and psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Results This study included 426 HCWs (48.4% physicians, 24.2% nurses, and 27.4% other HCWs). Of them, 69% had depression, 58.9% had anxiety, 55.9% had stress, and 37.3% had inadequate sleeping (

Background We aimed to estimate the population prevalence of people with changes in their usual patterns of alcohol use during the early stages of the novel coronavirus pandemic of 2020 (COVID-19) pandemic in Australia; assess the association between mental health status and changes in alcohol use during the pandemic; and examine if the associations were modified by gender and age. Methods This study was an anonymously-completed online self-report survey. Changes in alcohol use were assessed using a single fixed-choice study-specific question. Mental health was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale. Results A total of 13,829 people contributed complete data and were included in the analysis. Overall, about one in five adults reported that they had been drinking more alcohol since the COVID-19 pandemic began than they used to. People were more likely to be drinking alcohol more than they used to if they had more severe symptoms of depression or anxiety. The associations between depressive and anxiety symptoms and increased alcohol use since the COVID-19 pandemic began were consistent between females and males. Limitations Online surveys are less accessible to some groups of people. The data are self-report and not diagnostic. Cross-sectional data can identify associations, not causal relationships. The study was limited to participants from Australia. Conclusions These data indicate that there is a need for public policies focused on alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies should include specific consideration of the needs of people with mental health problems.

Highlights • The estimated self-reported rates of anxiety symptoms and depression symptoms among medical staff were 13.3% and 18.4% respectively under COVID-19 epidemic. • Up to 23.9% investigated medical staff reported having anxiety or depression symptoms. • Psychological interventions for medical staff should be integrated into the strategies for fighting COVID-19., Background It is well known that unexpected pandemic has led to an increase in mental health problems among a variety of populations. Methods In this study, an online non-probability sample survey was used to anonymously investigate the anxiety and depression symptoms among medical staff under the COVID-19 outbreak. The questionnaire included Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Factors associated with anxiety and depression symptoms were estimated by logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 1090 medical staff were investigated in this study. The estimated self-reported rates of anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms and both of the two were 13.3%, 18.4% and 23.9% respectively. Factors associated with self-reported anxiety symptoms include married status (OR=2.3, 95%CI: 1.2, 4.4), not living alone (OR=0.4, 95%CI: 0.2, 0.7), never confiding their troubles to others (OR=2.2, 95%CI: 1.4, 3.5) and higher stress (OR=14.4, 95%CI: 7.8, 26.4). Factors associated with self-reported depression symptoms include not living alone (OR=0.4, 95%CI: 0.3, 0.7), sometimes/often getting care from neighbours (OR=0.6, 95%CI: 0.4, 0.9), never confiding their troubles to others (OR=2.0, 95%CI: 1.3, 3.0) and higher stress (OR=9.7, 95%CI: 6.2, 15.2). Limitations The study was a non-probability sample survey. Besides, scales used in this study can only identify mental health states. Conclusions Under outbreak of COVID-19, self-reported rates of anxiety symptoms and depression symptoms were high in investigated medical staff. Psychological interventions for those at high risk with common mental problems should be integrated into the work plan to fight against the epidemic.

Highlights • Students report moderate-to-severe psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. • Timely and adequate health information has protective psychological effect. • Health care workers are less likely to be psychologically affected. • Home quarantine is associated with depression, anxiety and stress symptoms., Background The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic poses a threat to societies’ mental health. This study examined the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms and identified the factors contributing to psychological impact in the Philippines. Methods A total of 1879 completed online surveys were gathered from March 28-April 12, 2020. Collected data included socio-demographics, health status, contact history, COVID-19 knowledge and concerns, precautionary measures, information needs, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21) and the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R) ratings. Results The IES-R mean score was 19.57 (SD=13.12) while the DASS-21 mean score was 25.94 (SD=20.59). In total, 16.3% of respondents rated the psychological impact of the outbreak as moderate-to-severe; 16.9% reported moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms; 28.8% had moderate-to-severe anxiety levels; and 13.4% had moderate-to-severe stress levels. Female gender; youth age; single status; students; specific symptoms; recent imposed quarantine; prolonged home-stay; and reports of poor health status, unnecessary worry, concerns for family members, and discrimination were significantly associated with greater psychological impact of the pandemic and higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression (p

Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive drugs, with a very short shelf life, in most of the cases. The number of proceedings using radiopharmaceuticals increases each day worldwide and for many countries the price of radiopharmaceuticals can represent a limitation in the offer of this drug for more patients. Nonetheless, the shortage of important radionuclides is a serious issue and may also affect the use and distribution of these drugs for more patients globally, especially in low and middle income countries. In this direction, the need to avoid waste of these drugs is crucial. In this study we have evaluated the stability of two radiopharmaceuticals (MDP and DTPA) under different conditions in order to propose the extension of shelf life. The results showed that is possible to have stable radiopharmaceuticals (both MDP and DTPA) even 24hs post labeling process when storage properly. The data may represent an advance in the field of Radiopharmacy, providing news perspectives for radiopharmaceuticals shelf life. © 2022 Elsevier B.V., E-26//211.207/2021, E-26/202.320/2021; E-26/010.002362/2019, E-26/211.269/2021; Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, CNPq: 301069/2018-2; Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, FAPERJ: E-26/010.000981/2019, E-26/200.815/2021; Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear, CNEN: 01341.011064/2021-71, This study was funded by Carlos Chagas Filho Foundation for Research Support of Rio de Janeiro State ( FAPERJ ) ( Cientista do Nosso Estado : E-26/200.815/2021 ; Rede NanoSáude : E-26/010.000981/2019 , Pesquisa na UEZO : E-26/010.002362/2019 ; Temáticos : E-26/211.269/2021 , Infraestrutura e Pesquisa na UEZO e UERJ : E-26//211.207/2021 , Bolsa de Pós Doutorado Senior (PDS): E-26/202.320/2021 ); CNPq (Bolsa de Produtividade 1B: 301069/2018-2 ) to Ralph Santos-Oliveira; National Nuclear Energy Commission (Bolsa de Pós-doutorado CNEN: 01341.011064/2021-71 ) to Martha Sahylí Ortega Pijeira.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA transmission route was thoroughly investigated in the hospital wastewater, sewage collection network, and wastewater treatment plants. Samples were taken on four occasions from December 2020 to April 2021. The performance of two different wastewater treatment processes of sequencing batch reactor (SBR) and conventional activated sludge (CAS) was studied for virus destruction. For this purpose, liquid phase, solid phase and bioaerosol samples were taken from different units of the investigated wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The results revealed that all untreated hospital wastewater samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The virus detection frequency increased when the number of hospitalized cases increased. Detection of viral RNA in the wastewater collection system exhibited higher load of virus in the generated wastewater in areas with poor socioeconomic conditions. Virus detection in the emitted bioaerosols in WWTPs showed that bioaerosols released from CAS with surface aeration contains SARS-CoV-2 RNA posing a potential threat to the working staff of the WWTPs. However, no viral RNA was detected in the bioaerosols of the SBR with diffused aeration system. Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in WWTPs showed high affinity of the virus to be accumulated in biosolids rather than transporting via liquid phase. Following the fate of virus in sludge revealed that it is completely destructed in anaerobic sludge treatment process. Therefore, based on the results of the present study, it can be concluded that receiving water resources could not be contaminated with virus, if the wastewater treatment processes work properly., Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image