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Purpose: Central and peripheral chemoreceptors are hypersensitized in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Whether this autonomic alteration occurs in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains little known. We test the hypothesis that the central and peripheral chemoreflex control of muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) is altered in HFpEF. Methods: Patients aged 55–80 years with symptoms of heart failure, body mass index ≤ 35 kg/m2, left ventricular ejection fraction > 50%, left atrial volume index > 34 mL/m2, left ventricular early diastolic filling velocity and early diastolic tissue velocity of mitral annulus ratio (E/e′ index) ≥ 13, and BNP levels > 35 pg/mL were included in the study (HFpEF, n = 9). Patients without heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (non-HFpEF, n = 9), aged-paired, were also included in the study. Peripheral chemoreceptors stimulation (10% O2 and 90% N2, with CO2 titrated) and central chemoreceptors stimulation (7% CO2 and 93% O2) were conducted for 3 min. MSNA was evaluated by microneurography technique, and forearm blood flow (FBF) by venous occlusion plethysmography. Results: During hypoxia, MSNA responses were greater (p < 0.001) and FBF responses were lower in patients with HFpEF (p = 0.006). Likewise, MSNA responses during hypercapnia were higher (p < 0.001) and forearm vascular conductance (FVC) levels were lower (p = 0.030) in patients with HFpEF. Conclusions: Peripheral and central chemoreflex controls of MSNA are hypersensitized in patients with HFpEF, which seems to contribute to the increase in MSNA in these patients. In addition, peripheral and central chemoreceptors stimulation in patients with HFpEF causes muscle vasoconstriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conditions imposed by the Covid-19 outbreaks forced residential care (RC) facilities to experience new challenges and to adopt new practices. The aim of the current study is to analyze how RC facilities have experienced and managed confinement during the 1st wave of the pandemic. A thematic analysis of 20 semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals responsible for managing crisis in RC facilities. The main implications of the confinement measures on RC dynamics and relations were organized in three major themes: Chaos, novelty and organization; reinventing normalization and deconfinement. The pandemic exposes the structural weaknesses of RC, namely mobility of human resources, scarcity of supportive networks, and fragilities in providing comprehensive and integrative care. These factors need to be considered when addressing risk/vulnerability and discussing best practices and policies on child/youth welfare domain. Future studies should explore representations of important key actors as youth, families and other professionals from youth care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypomagnesemia and unhealthy eating patterns are associated with poor glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to associate magnesium status and dietary patterns with glycemic control in T2DM individuals. This cross-sectional study included 147 individuals with T2DM, aged between 19 and 59 years, of both sexes, residents in Sergipe/Brazil. The BMI, waist circumference, %body fat, plasma magnesium, serum glucose, insulin, %HbA1c, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, LDL-c, and HDL-c were analyzed. Eating patterns were identified using a 24-h recall method. Logistic regression models were used to verify the association of magnesium status and dietary patterns with markers of glycemic control by adjusting for sex, age, time of T2DM diagnosis, and BMI. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Magnesium deficiency increased the chance of elevated %HbA1c by 5.893-fold (P = 0.041). Three main dietary patterns were identified: mixed (MDP), unhealthy (UDP), and healthy (HDP). UDP also increased the chance of elevated %HbA1c levels (P = 0.034). T2DM individuals' who presented magnesium deficiency had a higher chance of elevated %HbA1c levels (8.312-fold) and those in the lowest quartile (Q) of the UDP (Q1: P = 0.007; Q2: P = 0.043) had a lower chance of elevated %HbA1c levels. However, the lower quartiles of the HDP were associated with a greater chance of alterations in the %HbA1c level (Q1: P = 0.050; Q2: P = 0.044). No association was observed between MDP and the variables studied. Magnesium deficiency and UDP were associated with a higher chance of inadequate glycemic control in T2DM individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A common practice in scenarios of remote collaboration is to provide a representation from distributed team members, aiming to positively influence the level of social presence and in turn the work effort. Nevertheless, these stimuli can lead to fractured learning experiences, since collaborators need to split attention among the task, the shared information, and the counterpart representation. This paper explored how the last affects social presence, and other dimensions of collaboration, as well as task resolution in scenarios of remote guidance. A user study was conducted, comparing two distinct conditions: traditional video chat (team members representation always visible) and Augmented Reality (AR) annotations (collaborators representation never available). These were selected due to ongoing research with partners from the industry sector, following the insights of a participatory design process. A real-life use-case was considered, i.e., synchronous maintenance task with 4 completion stages that required a remote expert using a computer to guide 37 on-site participants wielding a handheld device. The results of the study are described and discussed based on data analysis, showing that the majority of participants preferred the AR-based condition, despite the absence of the expert representation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potentially toxic elements (PTE) in soil like copper (Cu) have been common in agricultural and mining areas worldwide. The sustainable remediation of these areas has been shown to have high socio-environmental relevance and phytoremediation is one of the green technologies to be considered. The challenge is to identify species that are tolerant to PTE, and to assess their phytoremediation potential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological response of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit and to determine the species tolerance and phytoremediation potential to concentrations of Cu in the soil (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 mg/dm3). The photosynthetic rate was not affected, while the content of chlorophylls decreased as Cu concentrations increased. There was an increased in stomatal conductance and water use efficiency from the treatment of 300. The root biomass and the length were bigger than the shoots, in the treatments above 300. Cu accumulation was greater in the roots than in the shoot of the plants, thus, the Cu translocation index to the shoot was lower. The ability to absorb and accumulate, mainly, Cu in the roots, allowed the development and growth of plants, since the parameters of photosynthesis and biomass accumulation were not affected by the Cu excess. This accumulation in the roots is characterized as a strategy for the phytostabilization of Cu. Therefore, L. leucocephala is tolerant to the Cu concentrations evaluated and has a potential phytoremediation of Cu in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Augmented Reality (AR) is a pillar of the transition to Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing. It can facilitate training, maintenance, assembly, quality control, remote collaboration and other tasks. AR has the potential to revolutionize the way information is accessed, used and exchanged, extending user's perception and improving their performance. This work proposes a Pervasive AR tool, created with partners from the industry sector, to support the training of logistics operators on industrial shop floors. A Human-Centered Design (HCD) methodology was used to identify operators difficulties, challenges, and define requirements. After initial meetings with stakeholders, two distinct methods were considered to configure and visualize AR content on the shop floor: Head-Mounted Display (HMD) and Handheld Device (HHD). A first (preliminary) user study with 26 participants was conducted to collect qualitative data regarding the use of AR in logistics, from individuals with different levels of expertise. The feedback obtained was used to improve the proposed AR application. A second user study was realized, in which 10 participants used different conditions to fulfill distinct logistics tasks: C1 — paper; C2 — HMD; C3 — HHD. Results emphasize the potential of Pervasive AR in the operators' workspace, in particular for training of operators not familiar with the tasks. Condition C2 was preferred by all participants and considered more useful and efficient in supporting the operators activities on the shop floor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual reality shows great potential as an alternative to traditional therapies for motor rehabilitation given its ability to immerse the user in engaging scenarios that abstract them from medical facilities and tedious rehabilitation exercises. This paper presents a virtual reality application that includes three serious games and that was developed for motor rehabilitation. It uses a standalone headset and the user's hands without the need for any controller for interaction. Interacting with an immersive virtual reality environment using only natural hand gestures involves an interaction that is similar to that of real life, which would be especially desirable for patients with motor problems. A study involving 28 participants (4 with motor problems) was carried out to compare two types of interaction (hands vs. controllers). All of the participants completed the exercises. No significant differences were found in the number of attempts necessary to complete the games using the two types of interaction. The group that used controllers required less time to complete the exercise. The performance outcomes were independent of the gender and age of the participants. The subjective assessment of the participants with motor problems was not significantly different from the rest of the participants. With regard to the interaction type, the participants mostly preferred the interaction using their hands (78.5%). All four participants with motor problems preferred the hand interaction. These results suggest that the interaction with the user's hands together with standalone headsets could improve motivation, be well accepted by motor rehabilitation patients, and help to complete exercise therapy at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper and cardboard for food packaging are non-inert materials that can transfer chemical compounds by migration into food. Phthalates, namely dibutyl phthalate (DBP), diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and 2,6-diisopropylnaphthalene (DIPN) are some of the compounds that can migrate into food. In this study, 7 dry foods [wheat flour (2), powdered chocolate (2), cornstarch, toast and biscuit] in paper packaging were evaluated for the presence of DBP, DIBP, DEHP and DIPN by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Only two food samples (powdered chocolate and toast) did not contain any of the studied substances. In the other dry food samples, 1, respectively 2 of the investigated phthalates were detected. DEHP was found in the highest concentration (ranging from 1.56 to 3.85 mg kg− 1), followed by DIBP (ranging from 0.36 to 1.51 mg kg− 1). The values exceeded the migration limits established by Mercosur and European Union legislation by 2.5 to 5 times, indicating the need to improve process control and to adopt stricter good manufacturing practices, in order to avoid exposure of the population to these substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trials regarding physical exercise in dermatomyositis (DM) and polymyositis (PM) are heterogeneous. We aimed to summarize and critically analyze the available evidence to support the hypothesis that exercise is safe and improves strength and aerobic capacity. We performed a systematic review of clinical trials regarding physical exercise in dermatomyositis and polymyositis, without time restriction. We included studies from MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO, and Web of Science, published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, and reporting outcomes related to safety, muscle performance, or aerobic capacity. The certainty of evidence was evaluated in accordance with the GRADE methodology. Meta-analysis was carried using pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence interval as effect measure. We included 19 studies and 298 patients. The certainty of evidence was downgraded due to unbalanced confounding variables. The meta-analysis demonstrated improvements in strength (SMD [95% CI] = 0.61 [0.37–0.85], P <.00001) and aerobic capacity (SMD [95% CI] = 0.82 [0.29–1.34], P =.002), with no difference in creatine phosphokinase levels (SMD [95% CI] = − 0.23 [− 0.5–0.03], P =.08) after the interventions. No exacerbation was reported, and results were favorable in all stages of disease and ages, but might be different in the future with new classification criteria for PM and the inclusion of other idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Novel approaches such as blood flow restriction training and aquatic plyometric exercises were promising. Physical exercise in DM/PM patients of all ages is probably safe and moderately improves muscle strength and aerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug design is an important area of study for pharmaceutical businesses. However, low efficacy, off-target delivery, time consumption, and high cost are challenges and can create barriers that impact this process. Deep Learning models are emerging as a promising solution to perform de novo drug design, i.e., to generate drug-like molecules tailored to specific needs. However, stereochemistry was not explicitly considered in the generated molecules, which is inevitable in targeted-oriented molecules. This paper proposes a framework based on Feedback Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) that includes optimization strategy by incorporating Encoder–Decoder, GAN, and Predictor deep models interconnected with a feedback loop. The Encoder–Decoder converts the string notations of molecules into latent space vectors, effectively creating a new type of molecular representation. At the same time, the GAN can learn and replicate the training data distribution and, therefore, generate new compounds. The feedback loop is designed to incorporate and evaluate the generated molecules according to the multiobjective desired property at every epoch of training to ensure a steady shift of the generated distribution towards the space of the targeted properties. Moreover, to develop a more precise set of molecules, we also incorporate a multiobjective optimization selection technique based on a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework can generate realistic, novel molecules that span the chemical space. The proposed Encoder–Decoder model correctly reconstructs 99% of the datasets, including stereochemical information. The model's ability to find uncharted regions of the chemical space was successfully shown by optimizing the unbiased GAN to generate molecules with a high binding affinity to the Kappa Opioid and Adenosine A 2 a receptor. Furthermore, the generated compounds exhibit high internal and external diversity levels 0.88 and 0.94, respectively, and uniqueness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial chronic disease associated with pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative cardiovascular states. Cilostazol, a selective phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitor (PDE3), is clinically used in the treatment of intermittent claudication and secondary prevention of cerebral infarction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of cilostazol and the molecular mechanisms involved in hypercholesterolemic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control group (C) and control + cilostazol group (C+CILO), that were fed a standard chow diet, and hypercholesterolemic diet group (HCD) and HCD + cilostazol (HCD+CILO) that were fed a hypercholesterolemic diet. Cilostazol treatment started after 30 days for C+CILO and HCD+CILO groups. Animals were administered cilostazol once a day for 15 days. Subsequently, serum and left ventricles were extracted for evaluation of lipid profile, inflammatory, and oxidative biomarkers. The HCD group displayed increased serum lipid levels, inflammatory cytokines production, and cardiac NF-kB protein expression and decreased cardiac Nrf2-mediated antioxidant activity. Conversely, the cilostazol treatment improved all these cardiac deleterious effects, inhibiting NF-kB activation and subsequently decreasing inflammatory mediators, reestablishing the antioxidant properties through Nrf2-mediated pathway, including increased SOD, GPx, and catalase expression. Taken together, our results indicated that cilostazol protects hypercholesterolemia-induced cardiac damage by molecular mechanisms targeting the crosstalk between Nrf2 induction and NF-kB inhibition in the heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision-making processes and decision support systems (DSS) have been improved by a variety of methods originated from several scientific fields, such as information science and artificial intelligence (AI). Situated visualization (SV) allows presenting visual data representations in context and may support better DSS. Its main characteristic is to display data representations near the data referent. As augmented reality (AR) is becoming more mature, affordable, and widespread, using it as a tool for SV becomes viable in several situations. Moreover, it may provide a positive contribution to more effective and efficient decision-making, as the users have contextual, relevant, and appropriate information that fosters more informed choices. As new challenges and opportunities arise, it is important to understand the relevance of intertwining these fields. Based on literature analysis, this paper introduces the main concepts involved, and, through practical examples, addresses and discusses current areas of application, benefits, challenges, and opportunities of using SV through AR to visualize data in context to support better decision-making processes. In the end, a set of guidelines for the design and implementation of DSS based on situated augmented reality are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the effect of blue, red, and white light on the expression of four carotenogenic genes (psy, lyc, bkt, and crtr-r); one gene related to nitrogen metabolism (glb- 1), and another gene related to the absorption of blue light (phot). In addition, both promoter and light–oxygen–voltage (LOV) domain from phot gene were analyzed. Haematococcus pluvialis was grown in 7 followed by 5 days, with complete medium and under stress (nitrogen starvation and different light incidence), respectively. The results support the response to light of phot gene by both gene expression and functional response. Additionally, changes in astaxanthin synthesis and macromolecule accumulation were also observed. Blue and red lights were able to over-regulate all genes within 96 h, including the phot gene. Astaxanthin concentration increased under all conditions. Growth under blue light led to a two- and eightfold increase in astaxanthin content in comparison to growth under red light and white light, respectively. The biomass biochemical composition was evaluated on the 5th day of growth under stress, and the highest protein content was measured in the white light growth. Red light led to the highest biomass carbohydrate content. In sum, the biomass composition and productivity of H. pluvialis varied as a function of light color (wavelength), with the highest protein and astaxanthin productivity observed under white and blue lights, respectively, and the highest carbohydrates and chlorophyll productivity under red light. No variations in lipid productivity were observed in any of the treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem solving in Industry 4.0 often requires collaboration among remote team members, which face increased complexity on their daily tasks and require mechanisms with adaptive capabilities to share and combine knowledge. Augmented Reality (AR) is one of the most promising solutions, allowing taking advantage from seamless integration of virtual and real-world objects, which can be used to provide a shared understanding of the task and context. In this regard, most research works, so far, have been devoted to explore and evolve the necessary technology. However, it is now important to revisit the subject of remote collaboration in relation with AR to understand how much of the collaborative effort can already be supported and identify gaps that should inform further research. In line with this mindset, we adopted a user-centered approach with partners from the industry sector, including participatory design and a focus group with domain experts to probe how AR could provide solutions to support their collaborative efforts. We focused on using tangible artifacts in the form of storyboards to create a shared understanding with target users in remote collaboration. Afterwards, we identify a set of requirements, which we materialize through the design and creation of a collaborative prototype based on sharing of enhanced AR annotations. Finally, we present and discuss the results from a case study on a maintenance context, which provides interesting insights that can be applied to other remote settings, thus facilitating the digitization of the industry sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altered methionine metabolism is associated with weight gain in obesity. The methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT), catalyzing the first reaction of the methionine cycle, plays an important role regulating lipid metabolism. However, its role in obesity, when a plethora of metabolic diseases occurs, is still unknown. By using antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) and genetic depletion of Mat1a, here, we demonstrate that Mat1a deficiency in diet-induce obese or genetically obese mice prevented and reversed obesity and obesity-associated insulin resistance and hepatosteatosis by increasing energy expenditure in a hepatocyte FGF21 dependent fashion. The increased NRF2-mediated FGF21 secretion induced by targeting Mat1a, mobilized plasma lipids towards the BAT to be catabolized, induced thermogenesis and reduced body weight, inhibiting hepatic de novo lipogenesis. The beneficial effects of Mat1a ASO were abolished following FGF21 depletion in hepatocytes. Thus, targeting Mat1a activates the liver-BAT axis by increasing NRF2-mediated FGF21 secretion, which prevents obesity, insulin resistance and hepatosteatosis. High methionine and S-adenosylmethionine serum levels are related with obesity. Here the authors show that knockdown of methionine adenosyltransferase by using antisense oligonucleotides provides beneficial effects in obesity and comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assembly processes require now more than ever a systematic way to improve efficiency complying with increasing product demand. Several industrial scenarios have been using augmented reality (AR) to enhance environments with different types of information and influence the overall user satisfaction and performance. The purpose of this work is to evaluate three different AR-based methods that can be used to support users during the execution of assembly procedures. The AR methods evaluated are handheld mobile AR, indirect AR (showing the augmented scene on a monitor) and see-through head-mounted display. A user study was performed to assess performance, mental and physical workload, as well as acceptance of the aforementioned methods. Results from a thirty participants study did not reveal a best method in terms of performance and user preference, showing that all methods are adequate to support users. However, the study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each method, which may lead to potential advantages in specific use cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality control procedures are essential in many industrial production pipelines. These repetitive and precise tasks are frequently complex, including several steps that must be performed correctly by different operators. To facilitate these, quality control tests are often documented with static media like video recordings, photos, or diagrams. However, the need for the operator to divide attention between the visual instructions and the task, and the lack of feedback lead to slow processes, with potential for improvement. By using augmented reality (AR), operators can focus on the task at hand while receiving visual feedback where it is needed. Nevertheless, existing prototypes are still at early stages, being tested only in laboratory conditions, far from mimicking real scenarios. The major contributions of this work are twofold: first, we present an AR-based quality control system capable of generating virtual content to guide operators by overlaying information in a video stream while performing real-time validation. The system evaluates the current status of the procedure to ensure the automatic progression to the next phase. Second, an evaluation was conducted in an industrial shop floor during 1 week, with seven operators to verify if the system was robust and understand possible efficiency gains when compared to the alternative, i.e., video instructions. Results showed that AR had a significant impact in procedures' execution time (reduction of 36%), while reducing the risk of human errors, which means AR technologies may represent a profitable and sustainable solution when applied to real-world industrial scenarios, in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neural stem cells can generate new neurons in the mouse adult brain in a complex multistep process called neurogenesis. Several factors regulate this process, including neurotransmitters, hormones, neurotrophic factors, pharmacological agents, and environmental factors. Purinergic signaling, mainly the adenosinergic system, takes part in neurogenesis, being involved in cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. However, the role of the purine nucleoside guanosine in neurogenesis remains unclear. Here, we examined the effect of guanosine by using the neurosphere assay derived from neural stem cells of adult mice. We found that continuous treatment with guanosine increased the number of neurospheres, neural stem cell proliferation, and neuronal differentiation. The effect of guanosine to increase the number of neurospheres was reduced by removing adenosine from the culture medium. We next traced the neurogenic effect of guanosine in vivo. The intraperitoneal treatment of adult C57BL/6 mice with guanosine (8 mg/kg) for 26 days increased the number of dividing bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive cells and also increased neurogenesis, as identified by measuring doublecortin (DCX)-positive cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus. Antidepressant-like behavior in adult mice accompanied the guanosine-induced neurogenesis in the DG. These results provide new evidence of a pro-neurogenic effect of guanosine on neural stem/progenitor cells, and it was associated in vivo with antidepressant-like effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered the next major health epidemic with an estimated 25% worldwide prevalence. No drugs have yet been approved and NAFLD remains a major unmet need. Here, we identify MCJ (Methylation-Controlled J protein) as a target for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an advanced phase of NAFLD. MCJ is an endogenous negative regulator of the respiratory chain Complex I that acts to restrain mitochondrial respiration. We show that therapeutic targeting of MCJ in the liver with nanoparticle- and GalNAc-formulated siRNA efficiently reduces liver lipid accumulation and fibrosis in multiple NASH mouse models. Decreasing MCJ expression enhances the capacity of hepatocytes to mediate β-oxidation of fatty acids and minimizes lipid accumulation, which results in reduced hepatocyte damage and fibrosis. Moreover, MCJ levels in the liver of NAFLD patients are elevated relative to healthy subjects. Thus, inhibition of MCJ emerges as an alternative approach to treat NAFLD. Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) disease causes degeneration of the liver, affects about 25% of people globally, and has no approved treatment. Here, the authors show that the therapeutic siRNA-driven silencing of MCJ in the liver is an effective and safe treatment for NAFLD in multiple mouse models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic beverage that affects the serotonergic system and have therapeutic potential for many diseases and disorders, including depression and drug addiction. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the potential toxic effects of ayahuasca on rats after chronic exposure, and the levels of monoamines, their metabolites and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. Female and male rats were treated orally for 28 days with H2O (control), fluoxetine (FLX), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant, or ayahuasca (Aya) at doses of 0.5X, 1X and 2X the ritualistic dose (7 to 10 animals/group). Clinical, hematological and macroscopic results showed that ayahuasca was safe to the rats. Behavior tests conducted one hour after the last treatment showed that male rats from the Aya1 group explored the open field central area less than the control group, and the number of entries in the central area compared to total locomotion was also significantly lower in this group and in the FLX group. The hippocampus was removed for BDNF analysis and the remaining brain was used for monoamine analysis by HPLC-FL. Serotonin levels were significantly higher than control only in the Aya2 female group, while a significant reduction of its metabolite 5-HIAA was observed in the FLX group. Dopamine levels were similar among the experimental groups, but the levels of its metabolite DOPAC increased significantly in the Aya1 and Aya2 groups compared to controls, especially in females, and the DOPAC/dopamine turnover was significantly higher in Aya2 group. The levels of HVA, another dopamine metabolite, did not change with the treatments compared to controls, but HVA/DOPAC ratio was significantly lower in all ayahuasca male groups. Norepinephrine was not detected in any brain sample, and the levels of its metabolite MHPG did not change significantly among the groups. BDNF levels in the hippocampus were significantly higher in the FLX and Aya2 female groups compared to controls when expressed in relation to the total brain weight. The mechanisms involved in the increase in serotonin, dopamine turnover and BDNF levels observed in ayahuasca treated animals should be further investigated in specific brain areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work a 3D printing system based on the use of stereolithography and able to print parts made of two materials is studied. The 3D printing problem is divided into two subproblems. First, the problem of locating UV light emitters capable of reaching all areas of the polymer that constitutes the part to be printed is analyzed with the goal of minimizing the number of used emitters. Next, for each layer of the part the selected emitters are assigned to the areas of the polymer to be reached, with the goals of maximizing the angle of incidence of the UV light on the printing plane and minimizing the number of emitters that need to be activated. Integer linear formulations were introduced in an earlier work for both problems. Here these models are revisited and heuristic and exact methods are developed. Finally, the formulations and methods are analyzed for a case study. The results of the computational experiments are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The meiotic recombination checkpoint blocks meiotic cell cycle progression in response to synapsis and/or recombination defects to prevent aberrant chromosome segregation. The evolutionarily conserved budding yeast Pch2TRIP13 AAA+ ATPase participates in this pathway by supporting phosphorylation of the Hop1HORMAD adaptor at T318. In the wild type, Pch2 localizes to synapsed chromosomes and to the unsynapsed rDNA region (nucleolus), excluding Hop1. In contrast, in synaptonemal complex (SC)–defective zip1Δ mutants, which undergo checkpoint activation, Pch2 is detected only on the nucleolus. Alterations in some epigenetic marks that lead to Pch2 dispersion from the nucleolus suppress zip1Δ-induced checkpoint arrest. These observations have led to the notion that Pch2 nucleolar localization could be important for the meiotic recombination checkpoint. Here we investigate how Pch2 chromosomal distribution impacts checkpoint function. We have generated and characterized several mutations that alter Pch2 localization pattern resulting in aberrant Hop1 distribution and compromised meiotic checkpoint response. Besides the AAA+ signature, we have identified a basic motif in the extended N-terminal domain critical for Pch2's checkpoint function and localization. We have also examined the functional relevance of the described Orc1-Pch2 interaction. Both proteins colocalize in the rDNA, and Orc1 depletion during meiotic prophase prevents Pch2 targeting to the rDNA allowing unwanted Hop1 accumulation on this region. However, Pch2 association with SC components remains intact in the absence of Orc1. We finally show that checkpoint activation is not affected by the lack of Orc1 demonstrating that, in contrast to previous hypotheses, nucleolar localization of Pch2 is actually dispensable for the meiotic checkpoint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the production of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes by solid-state fermentation (SSF) using a microbial consortium of Aspergillus fumigatus SCBM6 and A. niger SCBM1 (AFN extract). The fungal strains were cultivated in sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and wheat bran (WB) as lignocellulosic substrates for 7 days at 30 °C. After SSF, the highest peaks of enzyme production were 150 and 80 U g−1 for β-xylosidase and β-glucosidase at 48 h, 375 U g−1 for xylanase at 96 h, and 80 U g−1 for endoglucanase and 4 U g−1 for cellulase activity on filter paper (FPase) at 144 h. The efficiency of the produced AFN extract was investigated in the enzymatic hydrolysis of crude biomass sorghum (BS) and after the removal of extractives (ES). After saccharification, the glucose and xylose concentrations were 10× superior in ES than in BS hydrolysate (2.5 g L−1 after 12 h). The presence of inhibitors of alcoholic fermentation, such as formic acid, was also reduced in ES hydrolysates, indicating that the removal of extractives positively contributed to the effectiveness of enzymatic hydrolysis of biomass sorghum using AFN extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the oral health status of refugee children in comparison with that of Canadian children. In addition, we investigated the extent to which demographic factors are associated with caries experience in this population. Children with a confirmed refugee status and Canadian children (control group) matched for age and sex composed the study population. A comprehensive review of dental charts was completed to assess children's demographic data, caries experience, oral hygiene and gingival health status. The majority of refugee children had never seen a dentist before their arrival to Canada. Refugee children had significant higher dmft/DMFT scores than Canadian children (7.29 ± 5.1 and 4.47 ± 5, respectively; p < 0.0001). Furthermore, individual factors, such as refugee status (OR = 5.08; 95% CI = 2.31–11.1) and child age (OR = 2.17; 95% CI = 1.04–4.51) were significantly associated with caries experience. Access to appropriate dental care to refugee children should be a key priority for health care providers and policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Lactobacillus plantarum Lp62 is a lactic acid bacteria strain that has been isolated from cocoa beans and exhibited probiotic potential. The influence of oral administration of L. plantarum Lp62 on the growth of rat's pups; on yield, cytokines and milk composition was studied. Methods: Lactobacillus plantarum Lp62 is a lactic acid bacteria strain that has been isolated from cocoa beans. It was administered daily by gavage to Wistar rats (n = 8), from the 7th day before delivery and for 20 days during lactation, in a concentration of 1.44 × 109 CFU/rat. The dam and pups were weighed and milk was collected at 12th and 19th day for determination of protein, triglycerides, cholesterol and lactose by colorimetric assays. TGF-β1 milk levels were analyzed by ELISA. The mammary glands of rats were removed for histological analysis. To detect statistical differences between the groups, tests of mean differences at a significance level of 5% was performed. Results: Supplementation with L. plantarum L62 resulted in significant higher weight of pups (p < 0.05), with similar weight on dams (p > 0.05). The milk yield was not altered by L. plantarum treatment, but the levels of protein, triglycerides and cholesterol were increased (p < 0.05), with no difference in lactose concentration (p > 0.05). Levels of TGF-β1 were higher in the milk of L. plantarum treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The treatment of dams at the end of pregnancy and lactation with L. plantarum Lp62 increased nutritional content of milk, probably contributing to the higher weight of the pups. The higher levels of TGF-β1 in the milk, could promote immune benefits to the pups. Further studies in this field are needed to prove the potential use of L. plantarum Lp62 as a probiotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bemisia tabaci is an important agriculture pests and vector of viruses. The MEAM1 species of B. tabaci, first described in Brazil in the 90s is now the most prevalent species and primary cause of the emergence of begomoviruses in tomatoes. The Mediterranean species (MED) was recently detected in Brazil and is a new concern for Brazilian agriculture. The potential impact of this species as a vector of economically important virus in Brazil is unknown. We therefore evaluated the ability of MED to transmit four whitefly transmitted viruses prevalent in Brazil, Cowpea mild mottle virus (CpMMV, carlavirus), Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV, begomovirus) infecting beans; and the Tomato severe rugose virus (ToSRV, begomovirus), Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV, crinivirus) infecting tomatoes. The colony of MED harbouring the secondary endosymbionts was tested: 14% positive for Hamiltonella and 29% positive for Rickettsia. After six months being maintained on cotton plants, this colony changed the frequency of endosymbionts (97% of Hamiltonella and 1% of Rickettsia) and was denominated as MEDH. Additionally, a colony of MEAM1 (98% positive for Hamiltonella and 91% positive for Rickettsia) was also tested. The viruses were efficiently transmitted by MED, but transmission efficiency varied among the MED and MEDH, being CpMMV, BGMV and ToCV better transmitted by MEDH. Moreover, transmission efficiency of ToSRV and ToCV by MEDH was even significantly better than MEAM1. We conclude that specimens from B. tabaci MED are good vectors of virus infecting tomato and beans in Brazil and populations with Hamiltonella prevalence increased the virus transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2 A: Exploration of the central area of the open field (number of entries) and B: % of central entries Publisher's note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Correction to: Toxicity of ayahuasca after 28 days daily exposure and effects on monoamines and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in brain of Wistar rats The original article can be found online at https://doi.org/10.1007/s11011-020-00547-w. [Extracted from the article]

Affiliation The affiliation "Universidade de Coimbra, CQC-IMS, Department of Chemistry, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal" was missing from Dr. Brito. The correct author name is: Rui M. M. Brito. Author name The incorrect author name is: Rui Brito. [Extracted from the article]

Pixel accuracy in images from high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is ultimately limited by reconstruction error and noise. While for visual analysis this may not be relevant, for computer-aided quantitative analysis in either densitometric, or shape studies aiming at accurate results, the impact of pixel uncertainty must be taken into consideration. In this work, we study several denoising methods: geometric mean filter, Wiener filtering, and wavelet denoising. The performance of each method was assessed through visual inspection, profile region intensity analysis, and global figures of merit, using images from brain and thoracic phantoms, as well as several real thoracic HRCT images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The compound 5-((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTDZ) has recently been shown to inhibit in vitro acetylcholinesterase activity, reduce cognitive damage, and improve neuropsychic behavior in mice, making it a promising molecule to treat depression.This study investigated the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ in mice and its potential mechanisms of action.Molecular docking assays were performed and suggested a potential inhibition of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) by MTDZ. The toxicity study revealed that MTDZ displayed no signs of toxicity, changes in oxidative parameters, or alterations to biochemistry markers, even at a high dose of 300 mg/kg. In behavioral tests, MTDZ administration reduced immobility behavior during the forced swim test (FST) without adjusting the climbing parameter, suggesting it has an antidepressant effect. The antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was negated with the administration of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1A/1B, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, implying the involvement of serotonergic pathways. Moreover, the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was linked to the NO system, as L-arginine pretreatment inhibited its activity. The ex vivo assays indicated that MTDZ normalized ATPase activity, potentially linking this behavior to its antidepressant-like action. MTDZ treatment restricted MAO-A activity in the cerebral cortices and hippocampi of mice, proposing a selective inhibition of MAO-A associated with the antidepressant-like effect of the compound.These findings suggest that MTDZ may serve as a promising antidepressant agent due to its selective inhibition of MAO-A and the involvement of serotonergic and NO pathwaysObjectives: The compound 5-((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTDZ) has recently been shown to inhibit in vitro acetylcholinesterase activity, reduce cognitive damage, and improve neuropsychic behavior in mice, making it a promising molecule to treat depression.This study investigated the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ in mice and its potential mechanisms of action.Molecular docking assays were performed and suggested a potential inhibition of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) by MTDZ. The toxicity study revealed that MTDZ displayed no signs of toxicity, changes in oxidative parameters, or alterations to biochemistry markers, even at a high dose of 300 mg/kg. In behavioral tests, MTDZ administration reduced immobility behavior during the forced swim test (FST) without adjusting the climbing parameter, suggesting it has an antidepressant effect. The antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was negated with the administration of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1A/1B, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, implying the involvement of serotonergic pathways. Moreover, the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was linked to the NO system, as L-arginine pretreatment inhibited its activity. The ex vivo assays indicated that MTDZ normalized ATPase activity, potentially linking this behavior to its antidepressant-like action. MTDZ treatment restricted MAO-A activity in the cerebral cortices and hippocampi of mice, proposing a selective inhibition of MAO-A associated with the antidepressant-like effect of the compound.These findings suggest that MTDZ may serve as a promising antidepressant agent due to its selective inhibition of MAO-A and the involvement of serotonergic and NO pathwaysResults: The compound 5-((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTDZ) has recently been shown to inhibit in vitro acetylcholinesterase activity, reduce cognitive damage, and improve neuropsychic behavior in mice, making it a promising molecule to treat depression.This study investigated the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ in mice and its potential mechanisms of action.Molecular docking assays were performed and suggested a potential inhibition of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) by MTDZ. The toxicity study revealed that MTDZ displayed no signs of toxicity, changes in oxidative parameters, or alterations to biochemistry markers, even at a high dose of 300 mg/kg. In behavioral tests, MTDZ administration reduced immobility behavior during the forced swim test (FST) without adjusting the climbing parameter, suggesting it has an antidepressant effect. The antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was negated with the administration of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1A/1B, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, implying the involvement of serotonergic pathways. Moreover, the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was linked to the NO system, as L-arginine pretreatment inhibited its activity. The ex vivo assays indicated that MTDZ normalized ATPase activity, potentially linking this behavior to its antidepressant-like action. MTDZ treatment restricted MAO-A activity in the cerebral cortices and hippocampi of mice, proposing a selective inhibition of MAO-A associated with the antidepressant-like effect of the compound.These findings suggest that MTDZ may serve as a promising antidepressant agent due to its selective inhibition of MAO-A and the involvement of serotonergic and NO pathwaysConclusions: The compound 5-((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTDZ) has recently been shown to inhibit in vitro acetylcholinesterase activity, reduce cognitive damage, and improve neuropsychic behavior in mice, making it a promising molecule to treat depression.This study investigated the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ in mice and its potential mechanisms of action.Molecular docking assays were performed and suggested a potential inhibition of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) by MTDZ. The toxicity study revealed that MTDZ displayed no signs of toxicity, changes in oxidative parameters, or alterations to biochemistry markers, even at a high dose of 300 mg/kg. In behavioral tests, MTDZ administration reduced immobility behavior during the forced swim test (FST) without adjusting the climbing parameter, suggesting it has an antidepressant effect. The antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was negated with the administration of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1A/1B, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, implying the involvement of serotonergic pathways. Moreover, the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was linked to the NO system, as L-arginine pretreatment inhibited its activity. The ex vivo assays indicated that MTDZ normalized ATPase activity, potentially linking this behavior to its antidepressant-like action. MTDZ treatment restricted MAO-A activity in the cerebral cortices and hippocampi of mice, proposing a selective inhibition of MAO-A associated with the antidepressant-like effect of the compound.These findings suggest that MTDZ may serve as a promising antidepressant agent due to its selective inhibition of MAO-A and the involvement of serotonergic and NO pathwaysGraphical Abstract: The compound 5-((4-methoxyphenyl)thio)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTDZ) has recently been shown to inhibit in vitro acetylcholinesterase activity, reduce cognitive damage, and improve neuropsychic behavior in mice, making it a promising molecule to treat depression.This study investigated the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ in mice and its potential mechanisms of action.Molecular docking assays were performed and suggested a potential inhibition of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) by MTDZ. The toxicity study revealed that MTDZ displayed no signs of toxicity, changes in oxidative parameters, or alterations to biochemistry markers, even at a high dose of 300 mg/kg. In behavioral tests, MTDZ administration reduced immobility behavior during the forced swim test (FST) without adjusting the climbing parameter, suggesting it has an antidepressant effect. The antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was negated with the administration of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1A/1B, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, implying the involvement of serotonergic pathways. Moreover, the antidepressant-like action of MTDZ was linked to the NO system, as L-arginine pretreatment inhibited its activity. The ex vivo assays indicated that MTDZ normalized ATPase activity, potentially linking this behavior to its antidepressant-like action. MTDZ treatment restricted MAO-A activity in the cerebral cortices and hippocampi of mice, proposing a selective inhibition of MAO-A associated with the antidepressant-like effect of the compound.These findings suggest that MTDZ may serve as a promising antidepressant agent due to its selective inhibition of MAO-A and the involvement of serotonergic and NO pathways [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper report on recent and on going work related to the design of a set of hypermedia authoring tools intended to produce courseware, to be used for self learning or distance learning and training environments in a cooperative way. These tools have roots in a standalone hypermedia editor developed to create courseware, to which were added other tools to enhance its usability, namely a hypermedia player to view courseware in self study mode, and a hypermedia browser to create, to navigate and to display graphically the hypermedia document structure. The underlying metaphors are the overhead projector, the transparency and the layer. This system was developed for the MS-Windows environment, supporting OLE technology. We discuss the impact that such technology might have on the 'look and feel' of hypermedia learning material and we describe the implementation of a Hypermedia Editor, Browser and Player tools. Part of this work is carried out in the context of the Co-Learn European project, which is aiming to design and to implement a third generation cooperative learning environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]