Search

The Random Variable Transformation (RVT) technique has been applied in recent years to analyze a wide variety of dynamic models formulated via random differential equations. The applicability of this technique has usually been focused on problems where an explicit solution of the underlying deterministic problem is available. This fact limits the usefulness of the RVT method. This note aims to point out that the RVT technique can be successfully applied without this requirement by showing a wider range of potential applications including very general classes of single-species models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine effects of parity (primiparous vs. multiparous), seasonal heat stress at calving (summer vs. winter), and time postpartum on some parameters associated with colostrum quality in Holstein cows reared in the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Forty-seven cows (11 primiparous and 36 multiparous) expected to calve during summer, and 46 cows during winter (14 primiparous and 32 multiparous) were randomly selected. Management and feeding before and after parturition were similar for cows in both seasons. After parturition, colostrum from all cows was evaluated for volume, weight, temperature, density, and content of fat, protein, solids non-fat (SNF), and immunoglobulins (IGG). Data were analyzed with a model that included effects of parity status, calving season, and time postpartum, as well as all interactions. Colostrum produced in summer was warmer (P < 0.01) by almost 6 °C than winter colostrum, while colostrum from multiparous was warmer (P = 0.02) by 1.2 °C than that produced by primiparous cows. Colostrum volume and weight were not impacted by parity, calving season or time postpartum. Density, protein, and SNF content in colostrum were higher (P < 0.01) in multiparous vs. primiparous cows, as well as at parturition (0 h postpartum) than at 12 h postpartum (P < 0.01). At calving (0 h), spring colostrum had higher fat content (P < 0.01) and lower (P < 0.01) IGG concentration than that collected in summer, and no difference (P > 0.05) between seasons was observed for these components at 12 h postpartum. Multiparous cows produced colostrum with higher (P < 0.01) IGG concentrations than primiparous cows. In conclusion, only 0-h colostrum and that from multiparous cows was categorized as "Excellent," meanwhile the colostrum produced under summer heat stress was characterized as "Good" with reduced fat content. While the lacteal secretion collected at 12 post-partum still classified as colostrum, substantially lower contents of IGG, protein, fat, and SNF decreased its classification to "Poor" from the classification of "Excellent" at 0 h postpartum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We pilot-tested an encounter conversation aid to support shared decision making (SDM) between patients with thyroid nodules and their clinicians. Objective: Characterize the clinician feedback after providing care to patients with thyroid nodules using a tool to promote SDM conversations during the clinical encounter, and evaluate how clinicians used the tool during the visit. Methods: Mixed method study in two academic centers in the U.S., including adult patients presenting for evaluation of thyroid nodules and their clinicians. We thematically analyzed interviews with clinicians after they used the SDM tool in at least three visits to characterize their feedback. Additionally, investigators evaluated visits recordings to determine the extent to which clinicians engaged patients in the decision-making process (OPTION score, scale 0 to 100, higher levels indicating higher involvement), the tool's components used (fidelity), and encounter duration. Using a post-visit survey, we evaluated the extent to which clinicians felt the tool was easy to use, helpful, and supportive of the patient-clinician collaboration. Results: Thirteen clinicians participated in the study and used the SDM tool in the care of 53 patients. Clinicians thought the tool was well-organized and beneficial to patients and clinicians. Clinicians noticed a change in their routine with the use of the conversation aid and suggested it needed to be more flexible to better support varying conversations. The median OPTION score was 34, the fidelity of use 75%, and the median visit duration 17 min. In most encounters, clinicians agreed or strongly agreed the tool was easy to use (86%), helpful (65%), and supported collaboration (62%). Conclusion: Clinicians were able to use a SDM tool in the care of patients with thyroid nodules. Although they wished it were more flexible, they found on the whole that its use in the clinical encounter was beneficial to patients and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fracture probabilities derived from the original FRAX model for Brazil were compared to those from an updated model based on more recent regional estimates of the incidence of hip fracture. Fracture probabilities were consistently lower in the updated FRAX model. Despite large differences between models, differences in the rank order of fracture probabilities were minimal. Objective: Recent epidemiological data indicate that the risk of hip fracture in Brazil is lower than that used to create the original FRAX model. This paper describes the epidemiology of hip fracture in Brazil and the synthesis of an updated FRAX model with the aim of comparing this new model with the original model. Methods: Hip fracture rates from three cities in three regions were combined, weighted by the population of each region. For other major fractures, incidence rates for Brazil were estimated using Swedish ratios for hip to other major osteoporotic fracture (humerus, forearm or clinical vertebral fractures). Mortality estimates were taken from the UN. Results: Compared to the original FRAX model, the updated model gave lower 10-year fracture probabilities in men and women at all ages. Notwithstanding, there was a very close correlation in fracture probabilities between the original and updated models (r > 0.99) so that the revisions had little impact on the rank order of risk. Conclusion: The disparities between the original and updated FRAX models indicate the importance of updating country-specific FRAX models with the advent of significant changes in fracture epidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An inflammatory microenvironment has been shown to increase risk for malignant melanoma, suggesting that melanoma may be related to a pro-inflammatory state. Though Hashimoto's thyroiditis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, there are no investigations of its relationship with melanoma. We aim to determine if Hashimoto's increases risk of developing melanoma. A retrospective, validated cohort of patients with a diagnosis of Hashimoto's between 2005 and 2020 were identified using the Olmsted County database. Patients were age and sex matched to controls without a Hashimoto's diagnosis. The primary outcomes were development of melanoma and time to first melanoma diagnosis. 4805 patients were included in the study, with 1726 (36%) having a diagnosis of Hashimoto's. Hashimoto's patients had no significant difference in risk of melanoma (relative risk 0.96, 95% CI 0.78–1.17) or nonmelanoma skin cancer (relative risk 0.95, 95% CI 0.86–1.06) compared with matched controls. This suggests that the local proinflammatory environment present in Hashimoto's does not contribute significantly to melanoma risk. Larger studies may be needed to further characterize the relationship between these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alloys of the aluminum bronze system contain 5–14wt% Al that can be heat treated giving as result of different microstructures that were characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. This work aimed at investigating the influence of the microstructures of a Cu-9Al-3Ag alloy obtained after normalizing and annealing heat treatments, on the corrosion behavior in a saline medium containing 0.5 M sodium chloride, NaCl. The corrosion effect on the phases compounding the overall microstructures as result of immersing the samples in the corrosive medium was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry, potentiodynamic polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that normalizing and annealing heat treatments redefined the distribution of the α phase and, in addition led to formation of proeutectoid pearlite (α + γ2), which is a microstructural constituent configured similarly to that present in diverse carbon steels, though in this case displaying a sequence of alternate lamellae of α and γ2, respectively. From the results of the linear polarization plots, the maximum anodic potentials became apparent, just like the regions where the trend of the graph gave the impression that passivation were to gain control. Likewise, the Tafel plots and impedance tests evidenced that the as-cast and normalized samples exhibited a better resistance to corrosion, at variance with the results of the annealed sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports a simple, low-cost, and environmentally friendly method to synthesize Ni-Co alloy nanoparticles (Ni-CoNPs) onto a glassy carbon electrode, GCE, and its use towards the efficient urea electrooxidation in basic aqueous media. Ni-CoNPs were directly electrodeposited onto the GCE surface, GCE/Ni-CoNPs by a single potentiostatic step, from the leached liquor of the cathode powder of spent Ni-MH batteries using the reline deep eutectic solvent, DES, as leaching agent, and electrolytic bath. The GCE/Ni-CoNPs were immersed in a 1 M KOH, 0.33 M urea aqueous solution and used as anode for urea electrochemical oxidation. The mass activity of this electrode depicted a maximum value of 27,900 mAmg−1 cm−2 at ca 0.5 V vs. Ag/AgCl and a steady state mass activity of 1690 mAmg−1 cm−2 during the potentiodynamic and potentiostatic evaluation. The performance of the GCE/Ni-CoNPs electrode reported in this work is similar or better than other electrodes reported for this purpose using more sophisticated, time-consuming, and costly methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low-cost biosorbent obtained from the Palomino Fino grape seed, a Sherry wine industry by-product, has been proposed as a way of valorising this material. The biomass was characterised obtaining values of 0.68 ± 0.05 g mL−1 for bulk density, 1.02 ± 0.09 g mL−1 for apparent density and 33.3% for porosity. The pHpzc was 5.2 and the surface negative charge value was 2.4 ± 0.2 mmol g−1. The analysis of surface morphology showed differences due to the sorption. The results showed a promising potential for chromium(VI) removal from aqueous solutions. The studies were carried out in batch scale and a 23 factorial design was applied for the optimisation of the process. A percentage of 91.7 ± 0.6% was achieved for the biosorption of Cr(VI) under optimal conditions using pH 5.5, 15 g/L of biosorbent and 8 h of contact time. The biosorption capacity showed a remarkable linearity from 0 to 2 mmol L−1 Cr(VI) and a precision of 0.64% for the removal of 1 mmol L−1 of metal. Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm equations and the parameters of six kinetic models were used in the equilibrium modelling and identifying the mechanism of the biosorption. The combination of physical and chemical sorption mechanisms was proposed for the chromium removal with a high maximum sorption capacity (qmax = 208.3 mg g−1). Thermodynamic parameters indicated the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the chromium removal. The successful biosorption was based on the special grape seed components with a relevant content in antioxidant and lignocellulosic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize the feedback of patients with thyroid nodules receiving care using a shared decision making (SDM) tool designed to improve conversations with their clinicians related to diagnostic options (e.g. thyroid biopsy, ultrasound surveillance). Methods: Investigators qualitatively analyzed post-encounter interviews with patients to characterize their feedback of a SDM tool used during their clinical visits. Additionally, investigators counted instances of diagnostic choice awareness and of patients' expression of a diagnostic management preference in recordings of clinical encounters of adult patients presenting for evaluation of thyroid nodules in which the SDM tool was used. Results: In total, 53 patients (42 (79%) women); median age 62 years were enrolled and had consultations supported by the SDM tool. Patients were favorable about the design of the SDM tool and its ability to convey information about options and support patient-clinician interactions. Patients identified opportunities to improve the tool through adding more content and improve its use in practice through training of clinicians in its use. There was evidence of diagnostic choice awareness in 52 (98%) of these visits and patients expressed a diagnostic management preference in 40 (76%). Conclusion: User centered design including feedback from patients and real life observation supports the use of the SDM tool to facilitate collaboration between patients and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An array of spin torque nano-oscillators (STNOs), coupled by dipolar interaction and arranged on a ring, has been studied numerically and analytically. The phase patterns and locking ranges are extracted as a function of the number N, their separation, and the current density mismatch between selected subgroups of STNOs. If N ≥ 6 for identical current densities through all STNOs, two degenerated modes are identified an in-phase mode (all STNOs have the same phase) and a splay mode (the phase makes a 2 π turn along the ring). When inducing a current density mismatch between two subgroups, additional phase shifts occur. The locking range (maximum current density mismatch) of the in-phase mode is larger than the one for the splay mode and depends on the number N of STNOs on the ring as well as on the separation. These results can be used for the development of magnetic devices that are based on STNO arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We give some structural formulas for the family of matrix-valued orthogonal polynomials of size 2 × 2 introduced by C. Calderón et al. in an earlier work, which are common eigenfunctions of a differential operator of hypergeometric type. Specifically, we give a Rodrigues formula that allows us to write this family of polynomials explicitly in terms of the classical Jacobi polynomials, and write, for the sequence of orthonormal polynomials, the three-term recurrence relation and the Christoffel–Darboux identity. We obtain a Pearson equation, which enables us to prove that the sequence of derivatives of the orthogonal polynomials is also orthogonal, and to compute a Rodrigues formula for these polynomials as well as a matrix-valued differential operator having these polynomials as eigenfunctions. We also describe the second-order differential operators of the algebra associated with the weight matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, hexa-substituted cyclotriphosphazenes bearing 1,3,4-oxadiazole groups as fluorophores were employed in the formation of thin films. The cyclotriphosphazenes compounds as well as the films exhibited photoluminescence with emission in the UV-blue region. Fluorescence quantum yields of cyclotriphosphazenes range between 0.04 and 0.10. The bandgap of cyclotriphosphazenes was 4 eV showing properties of wide bandgap semiconductors. The morphological characterization of the films by SEM and AFM showed homogeneous surfaces without defects. The optical properties of cyclotriphosphazenes are different when they are in solution and thin films because of favorable binding supramolecular interactions. In thin films, the supramolecular interaction enhances the optical properties of these materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Parr 1341 plain jacket calorimeter was assembled and calibrated with certificated benzoic acid pellets (NIST Standard Material Reference 39j), the energy equivalent, ε(calor) = (9930.1 ± 2.2) J K−1, was obtained from five standardization tests. The static bomb adiabatic calorimeter in the oxygen atmosphere was tested with acetanilide and after was used to calculate the standard molar enthalpies of formation in solid phase at 298.15 K, of 4,4'-methylenedi(phenylene isocyanate) and of three polyamide-imides chemically synthesized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern AI-based clinical decision support models owe their success in part to the very large number of predictors they use. Safe and robust decision support, especially for intervention planning, requires causal, not associative, relationships. Traditional methods of causal discovery, clinical trials and extracting biochemical pathways, are resource intensive and may not scale up to the number and complexity of relationships sufficient for precision treatment planning. Computational causal structure discovery (CSD) from electronic health records (EHR) data can represent a solution, however, current CSD methods fall short on EHR data. This paper presents a CSD method tailored to the EHR data. The application of the proposed methodology was demonstrated on type-2 diabetes mellitus. A large EHR dataset from Mayo Clinic was used as development cohort, and another large dataset from an independent health system, M Health Fairview, as external validation cohort. The proposed method achieved very high recall (.95) and substantially higher precision than the general-purpose methods (.84 versus.29, and.55). The causal relationships extracted from the development and external validation cohorts had a high (81%) overlap. Due to the adaptations to EHR data, the proposed method is more suitable for use in clinical decision support than the general-purpose methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tsunami warning centres face the challenging task of rapidly forecasting tsunami threat immediately after an earthquake, when there is high uncertainty due to data deficiency. Here we introduce Probabilistic Tsunami Forecasting (PTF) for tsunami early warning. PTF explicitly treats data- and forecast-uncertainties, enabling alert level definitions according to any predefined level of conservatism, which is connected to the average balance of missed-vs-false-alarms. Impact forecasts and resulting recommendations become progressively less uncertain as new data become available. Here we report an implementation for near-source early warning and test it systematically by hindcasting the great 2010 M8.8 Maule (Chile) and the well-studied 2003 M6.8 Zemmouri-Boumerdes (Algeria) tsunamis, as well as all the Mediterranean earthquakes that triggered alert messages at the Italian Tsunami Warning Centre since its inception in 2015, demonstrating forecasting accuracy over a wide range of magnitudes and earthquake types. Probabilistic tsunami forecasting (PTF) defines an approach to tsunami early warning based on uncertainty quantification, enhancing forecast accuracy and enabling rational decision making. PTF is here developed for near-source tsunami warning, and tested in hindcasting mode over a wide range of past earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The abdominal wall and musculoskeletal tendons share many anatomic, physiologic, and functional characteristics. This review aims to highlight these similar characteristics and to present a rationale why the treatment principles of successful musculoskeletal tendon reconstruction, including principles of surgical technique and physical therapy, can be used in the treatment of complex abdominal wall reconstruction or ventral hernia repair. Methods: The MEDLINE/PubMed database was used to identify published literature relevant to the purpose of this review. Conclusions: There are several anatomical and functional similarities between the linea alba and musculoskeletal tendons. Because of this reason, many of the surgical principles for musculoskeletal tendon repair and ventral hernia repair overlap. Distribution of tension is the main driving principle for both procedures. Suture material and configuration are chosen to maximize tension distribution among the tissue edges, as seen in the standard of care multistrand repairs for musculoskeletal tendons, as well as in the small bites for laparotomy technique described in the STITCH trial. Physical therapy is also one of the mainstays of tendon repair, but surprisingly, is not routine in ventral hernia repair. The evidence surrounding physical therapy prehabilitation and rehabilitation protocols in other disciplines is significant. This review challenges the fact that these protocols are not routinely implemented for ventral hernia repair, and presents the rationale and feasibility for the routine practice of physical therapy in ventral hernia repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kuroshio Extension (KE) is the inertial meandering jet formed by the convergence of the Kuroshio and Oyashio currents in the Northern Pacific. It is widely mentioned in the literature that the KE variability is bimodal on interannual to decadal time scale. The nature of this low frequency variability (LFV) is still under debate; intrinsic oceanic mechanisms are known to play a fundamental role in the phenomenon but there is also evidence from observations that the KE LFV is connected with changes in broader patterns associated with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, which is in its turn generated by the dominant decadal mode of the sea level pressure variability in the North Pacific. We investigate the respective contributions of oceanic and atmospheric drivers of the KE variability by taking advantage of the OCCIPUT 1/4° global model dataset: it consists in an ensemble of 50 ocean–sea ice hindcasts performed over the period 1960–2015 (hereafter OCCITENS), and in a one-member 330-year climatological simulation (hereafter OCCICLIM). In this context, OCCITENS simulates both the intrinsic and forced variability, while OCCICLIM simulates the "pure" intrinsic variability. We explore several features of the KE, finding analogies between the OCCICLIM and OCCITENS datasets with autonomous and non-autonomous dynamical systems respectively. This approach aims to apply concepts from the dynamical systems theory on complex and realistic ocean simulations. In this framework, the results suggest that both oceanic and atmospheric drivers control the KE LFV, and that the effect of the low-frequency atmospheric forcing reduces the phase space region explored by the system through synchronization mechanisms. The system's intrinsic variability can be paced, and therefore clustered over the system's pullback attractor under the effect of the time dependent forcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of evidence on timing, frequency, and duration of postoperative endocrine, radiologic, and ophthalmologic assessments that should be performed after pituitary surgery (PS). However, it is known that careful optimization of treatment and follow-up strategies as well as a multidisciplinary approach may have a significant impact on long-term outcomes, improving surgical results, minimize complications and facilitate their correct treatment if occurring, and optimize the hormonal, ophthalmological, and radiological reassessment throughout the follow-up. Considering that there are no specific guidelines on the postoperative management of patients with pituitary tumors (PT), we present our protocol for the postoperative management of patients with PT. It has been elaborated by the multidisciplinary team of a Spanish Pituitary Tumor Center of Excellence (PTCE) that includes at least one neurosurgeon, ENT, neuroradiologist, neuro-ophthalmologist, endocrine pathologist and endocrinologist specialized in pituitary diseases. We elaborated this guideline with the aim of sharing our experience with other centers involved in the management of PT thereby facilitating the postoperative management of patients submitted to PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural, microstructural, dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of the (0.95-x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.05BaTiO3-xK0.5Na0.5NbO3 (BNT-BT-KNN) lead-free ceramics with 0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.06 were studied. Samples were synthesized through the mechanochemically activated solid-state method and structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman-spectroscopic studies, whereas the microstructure of all samples was analyzed by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM). When KNN concentration and temperature were increased, the transition from a ferroelectric to relaxor state was detected by ferroelectric-loop measurements. Furthermore, the high-energy storage efficiency values at room temperature obtained for samples with x ≥ 0.04 confirm the suitability of these ceramics for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fractures are common in individuals with COPD and occur at higher bone mass values than expected. COPD appears to be an important risk factor for bone fragility. Introduction: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures, but screening and prophylactic measures to prevent both disorders are often neglected in this population. This case-control study assessed the prevalence of osteopenia, osteoporosis, and fractures in patients with COPD, and identified potential risk factors for fractures in this population. Methods: Overall, 91 patients with COPD (COPD group; COPDG) and 81 age- and sex-matched controls (control group; CG) were assessed with bone mineral density (BMD), thoracic/lumbar spine radiographs, and serum PTH and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels. The occurrence of prior fractures was retrieved from clinical history. Results: The prevalence of total fractures in the COPDG was 57.1% (odds of fracture 4.7 times greater compared with the CG), and the femoral neck T-score emerged as the best predictor of fractures. Compared with the CG, the COPDG had lower spine and femoral BMD (p ≤ 0.01) and 25(OH)D levels (p = 0.01) and 2.6 times greater odds of osteoporosis. Among men, vertebral fractures were more prevalent in the COPDG versus CG (25.9% vs. 6.5%, respectively, p = 0.01). The odds of fracture increased with femoral neck T-scores ≤ − 2.7 in the CG and ≤ − 0.6 in the COPDG. Conclusion: These results add robust evidence to an increased odds of osteoporosis and fractures in COPD. Fractures in the COPDG occurred at higher BMD values than expected, suggesting that COPD may be an independent marker of fracture risk, reinforcing a need for regular osteoporosis screening with BMD measurement and prophylaxis of fractures in patients with this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the maternal–fetal outcomes of CAB-induced pregnancies in patients with prolactinoma in a large cohort. Methods: The prevalence of tumor growth, miscarriage, preterm, low birth weight, congenital malformations and impairment in neuropsychological development in children among women treated with CAB were assessed in a Brazilian multicentre retrospective observational study, Results: We included 194 women with a mean age of 31 (17–45) years, 43.6% presenting microadenomas and 56.4% macroadenomas, at prolactinoma diagnosis. In 233 pregnancies, CAB was withdrawn in 89%, after pregnancy confirmation. Symptoms related to tumor growth occurred in 25 cases, more frequently in macroadenomas. The overall miscarriage rate was 11%, although higher in the subgroup of patients with CAB maintainance after pregnancy confirmation (38% vs. 7.5%). Amongst the live-birth deliveries, preterm occurred in 12%, low birth weight in 6% and congenital malformations in 4.3%. Neuropsychological development impairment was reported in 7% of cases. Conclusions: Our findings confirm previous results of safety in maternal and fetal outcomes in CAB-induced pregnancies; nevertheless, CAB maintenance after pregnancy confirmation was associated with higher miscarriage rate; result that must be further confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasion by Gleditsia triacanthos L. (honey locust) along the banks of Pampean streams and rivers appears to induce profound changes in species richness, macrophyte cover, and producer biomass. Seasonal effects of the invasion on macrophytes cover and biomass of seston, periphyton, and benthos were studied at three low order streams from the Pampas region (name them here), in sections with and without invasion of honey locust. We hypothesized that light reduction by honey locusts reduces macrophyte coverage and algal biomass, thereby modifying the structure of the stream communities. Incident light and nutrient concentrations showed differences between invaded and not invaded reaches. Stream sections with tree canopy showed a negative correlation with the percentage of macrophyte cover (R = -0.41, p < 0.05). In the three streams, the biomass of seston, periphyton and benthos was reduced in summer, when canopy cover was most developed. This study demonstrates that a high degree of honey locust invasion modifies the structure of aquatic communities of Pampean streams therefore urgent action is needed. Options for honey locust management are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2nd International Conference on Controversies in Vitamin D was held in Monteriggioni (Siena), Italy, September 11-14, 2018. The aim of this meeting was to address ongoing controversies and timely topics in vitamin D research, to review available data related to these topics and controversies, to promote discussion to help resolve lingering issues and ultimately to suggest a research agenda to clarify areas of uncertainty. Several issues from the first conference, held in 2017, were revisited, such as assays used to determine serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration, which remains a critical and controversial issue for defining vitamin D status. Definitions of vitamin D nutritional status (i.e. sufficiency, insufficiency and deficiency) were also revisited. New areas were reviewed, including vitamin D threshold values and how they should be defined in the context of specific diseases, sources of vitamin D and risk factors associated with vitamin D deficiency. Non-skeletal aspects related to vitamin D were also discussed, including the reproductive system, neurology, chronic kidney disease and falls. The therapeutic role of vitamin D and findings from recent clinical trials were also addressed. The topics were considered by 3 focus groups and divided into three main areas: 1) "Laboratory": assays and threshold values to define vitamin D status; 2) "Clinical": sources of vitamin D and risk factors and role of vitamin D in non-skeletal disease and 3) "Therapeutics": controversial issues on observational studies and recent randomized controlled trials. In this report, we present a summary of our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, piezoceramics of (1−x)(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3–x(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3, (1−x)BNT–xKNN, in the compositional range 0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.07, were prepared by a mechanochemically activated solid-state method. The structural phase formation and microstructural, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties were studied. Although changes, in symmetry of the perovskite structure, were not detected with the composition (i.e., from a perspective of its intrinsic properties), the microstructural evolution was strongly dependent on the content of the KNN phase (i.e., based on its extrinsic properties). Specifically, KNN favoured the formation of a microstructure with cubic grains, typical morphology of the alkaline niobate ceramics. After KNN addition, both the maximum permittivity temperature and the long-range to short-range ordered transition temperature were reduced. Additionally, ferroelectric loops and strain deformation curves also reflect the long-range to short-range order evolution with KNN addition and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of granular sludge from biological treatment plants can become an economically and environmentally viable process as a renewable source of energy. It is available in most countries, and its application can diversify the local energy potential. However, in order to achieve such benefits and make possible the development of more efficient conversion processes, prior knowledge of the composition of these materials is essential. In this sense, samples of granular sludge were obtained from upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors for the treatment of: (1) poultry slaughterhouse waste (Tietê—SP); (2) poultry slaughterhouse waste (Pereiras—SP); (3) wastewater treatment plant (São Carlos—SP) and (4) a mix of sludges 1, 2 and 3. Biogas generation tests in anaerobic batch reactors fed with sodium acetate and glucose separately as carbon sources were performed with samples 1, 2, 3 and 4, at initial pH 7.0 and 30 °C. Characteristic decomposition profiles were observed in the granular sludge tested. The two poultry slaughterhouse waste (samples 1 and 2) presented higher proportions of organic substrate molecules for the methanogenesis than the sanitary sewage sludge (sample 3), thus facilitating the production of the highest biogas, as verified in the tests carried out. The thermal characterization of the samples was relevant to the methane generation tests demonstrating the potential for the generation of this fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine aluminum fractions in the fine earth of acidic soils under different land uses (forest, pasture and cultivation) and in the river bed sediments of the headwater of the Mero River in order to identify and quantify Al-bearing phases to assess Al mobility and potential bioavailability (environmental availability) in the monitoring area. Sequential extraction is used to evaluate the Al partitioning into six fractions operationally defined: soluble/exchangeable/specifically adsorbed, bound to manganese oxides, associated with amorphous compounds, aluminum bound to oxidizable organic matter, associated with crystalline iron oxides, and residual fraction (aluminum within the crystal lattices of minerals). The mean concentration of total aluminum (24.01 g kg−1) was similar for the three considered uses. The mean percentage of the aluminum fractions, both in soils and sediments, showed the following order: residual fraction ≫ amorphous compounds ≈ crystalline iron oxides > water-soluble/exchangeable/specifically adsorbed > bound to oxidizable organic matter ≈ Mn oxides. However, in the soils, the amorphous compounds and water-soluble/exchangeable/specifically adsorbed fraction showed considerable differences between some types of uses, the percentage of aluminum linked to amorphous compounds being higher in forest soils (16% of total Al) compared to other uses (mean about 8% of total Al). The highest values of water-soluble/exchangeable/specifically adsorbed Al were also found in forest soils (mean 8.6% of the total Al versus about 4% of pasture and cultivation), which is consistent with the lower pH and higher organic matter content in forest soils. Nevertheless, the potentially bioavailable fraction (sum of the first three fractions) is low, suggesting very low geoavailability of this element in both soils and sediments; hence, the possibility to affect the crops and water quality is minimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report the influence of synthesis conditions on the (1 − x)Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–xBaTiO3 (BNT–BT) system, obtained by the conventional solid-state reaction method with a mechanochemical activation step through two alternative synthesis routes on piezoelectric properties. Samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman microspectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was confirmed that the stabilization of a morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) meaningfully improved the piezoelectric activity. Here, we report that the stabilization of the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) region in the BNT–BT ceramic systems depended on the selected synthesis pathway. Indeed, samples prepared by the direct mechanochemical activation of all mixed BNT–BT reactants showed a correlation between dielectric and ferroelectric properties and a clear sequence in the permittivity values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an important greenhouse gas. Emissions of this gas are generated by the combustion of fossil fuels, mainly in the transportation sector worldwide. Biofuel is a promising alternative instead of diesel considering that it allows a reduction on the emissions of polluting gases. In Brazil, there is a large program on the use of biofuels, which according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This work shows the N2O emissions resulting from combustions of diesel/beef tallow biodiesel blends of B7, B15, B20, B25, B35, and B50. In parallel, another experiment was done with fuel sample adopted by a bus fleet from São Paulo using blends comprising 10% of sugarcane diesel in diesel (CD10) and blends with beef tallow biodiesel of CD10: CD-B15, CD-B20, CD-B25, CD-B35, and CD-B50. The photoacoustic spectroscopy technique coupled to a quantum cascade laser (QCL) was used to detect N2O. Concentrations of the emissions were detected in the range of 5.3 to 7.4 ppmv for diesel/beef tallow biodiesel blends combustion and in the range of 4.3 to 11.0 ppmv for diesel/sugar cane diesel/beef tallow biodiesel blends combustion. The technique used was very sensitive and selective to identify and determine the emission concentrations of N2O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although machine learning models are increasingly being developed for clinical decision support for patients with type 2 diabetes, the adoption of these models into clinical practice remains limited. Currently, machine learning (ML) models are being constructed on local healthcare systems and are validated internally with no expectation that they would validate externally and thus, are rarely transferrable to a different healthcare system. In this work, we aim to demonstrate that (1) even a complex ML model built on a national cohort can be transferred to two local healthcare systems, (2) while a model constructed on a local healthcare system's cohort is difficult to transfer; (3) we examine the impact of training cohort size on the transferability; and (4) we discuss criteria for external validity. We built a model using our previously published Multi-Task Learning-based methodology on a national cohort extracted from OptumLabs® Data Warehouse and transferred the model to two local healthcare systems (i.e., University of Minnesota Medical Center and Mayo Clinic) for external evaluation. The model remained valid when applied to the local patient populations and performed as well as locally constructed models (concordance:.73–.92), demonstrating transferability. The performance of the locally constructed models reduced substantially when applied to each other's healthcare system (concordance:.62–.90). We believe that our modeling approach, in which a model is learned from a national cohort and is externally validated, produces a transferable model, allowing patients at smaller healthcare systems to benefit from precision medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase of antimicrobial resistances due to the widespread use of antibiotics, the search of new probiotics to control aquaculture diseases has a growing public interest. The aim of this study was to isolate bacteria with antimicrobial effect from the gut of marine healthy fishes and select lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as potential probiotics, being strains considered as generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA). Of a total of 45 Gram-positive strains with antimicrobial activity found in a screening of the gut microbiota of 13 marine fishes, nine were identified as LAB by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. LAB strains (five Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, two Enterococcus spp., one Lactobacillus plantarum, and one Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides) also showed a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against aquaculture pathogens such as Vibrio harveyi, V. splendidus, and Photobacterium damselae and survived in experimental gastrointestinal conditions when grown in culture media modified with different values of pH and bile salts. These results showed the potential of LAB obtained from the indigenous microbiota of wild marine fishes for use as probiotics in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a two-layer depth-integrated non-hydrostatic system with improved dispersion relations. This improvement is obtained through three free parameters: two of them related to the representation of the pressure at the interface and a third one that controls the relative position of the interface concerning the total height. These parameters are then optimized to improve the dispersive properties of the resulting system. The optimized model shows good linear wave characteristics up to k H ≈ 10 , that can be improved for long waves. The system is solved using an efficient formally second-order well-balanced and positive preserving hybrid finite volume/difference numerical scheme. The scheme consists of a two-step algorithm based on a projection-correction type scheme. First, the hyperbolic part of the system is discretized using a Polynomial Viscosity Matrix path-conservative finite-volume method. Second, the dispersive terms are solved using finite differences. The method has been applied to idealized and challenging physical situations that involve nearshore breaking. Agreement with laboratory data is excellent. This technique results in an accurate and efficient method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is an increasing medical problem with complex diagnostics and controversial surgical management. It causes a series of dysfunctions in the gynecological, urinary, and anorectal organs. Numerous procedures have been proposed to treat these conditions, but in recent years, ventral mesh rectocolposacropexy (VMRCS) has emerged as the procedure of choice for the surgical treatment of POP, especially by a laparoscopic approach. This surgical technique limits the risk of autonomic nerve damage, and the colpopexy allows the correction of concomitant prolapse of the middle compartment. However, symptoms derived from anterior compartment prolapse remain a major morbidity and sometimes require an additional procedure. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of laparoscopic prosthetic rectocolposacropexy (LRCS) and colposacropexy (LCS) procedures performed to manage combined multicompartmental POP.Methods: Between November 2008 and December 2017, 38 patients with symptomatic POP underwent rectocolposacropexy (RCS) or colposacropexy (CS) by a laparoscopic approach. Demographics, mortality, morbidity, hospital stay, and functional outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.Results: The median operating time was 200 min (IQR 160-220). Additional simultaneous surgery for POP was performed in nine cases: five suburethral slings and four hysterectomies were performed. No mortality was recorded. The conversion rate was 7.89%. There were two intraoperative complications (5.26%): one enterotomy and one urinary bladder tear. Late complications occurred in 5.26% of cases. After a mean follow-up of 20 months, constipation was completely resolved or improved in 83.33% of patients, urinary stress incontinence was resolved or improved in 52.94%, and gynecological symptomatology was resolved or improved in 93.75%. The recurrence rate was 5.26%.Conclusions: Laparoscopic mesh rectocolposacropexy and colposacropexy are safe and effective techniques associated with very low morbidity. In the medium term, they provide good results for POP and associated symptoms, but urinary symptomology has a worse outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming to search for new sensors of drugs and vehicles for their transportation, in this work is studied the growth of iron clusters, Fenn ≤ 4, on the surface of the B12N12 cage. Results of the quantum-simulation, done with time-dependent density functional theory, shows that the Fe4 cluster growths on a hexagonal face of the octahedral B12N12 cage. Tetrahedral (T) and parallelogram (P) forms of Fe4 are stabilized by adsorption, yielding B12N12/Fe4-T, with multiplicity (M) of 13, and B12N12/Fe4-P, with M = 9, nanocomposites. The T system behaves as semiconductor and the second one shows a semimetal pattern. The global quantum descriptors for the P composite indicate high polarity, low average chemical reactivity, and lower work function, 0.05 eV, as compared to that of the T form, 0.40 eV. That is, the B12N12/Fe4-P system is promising for the design of sensor devices or nanovehicle of organic molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planetary wave-breaking can lead to large-scale atmospheric circulation anomalies and favour high-impact weather occurrences. For example, the simultaneous occurrence of anti-cyclonic wave-breaking to the south of the North Atlantic jet and cyclonic wave-breaking to the north, here termed double wave-breaking, has been linked to heightened frequencies of explosive cyclones in the Atlantic basin and destructive windstorms over Western and Continental Europe. The present study analyses the long-term temporal variability of wintertime cyclonic and anti-cyclonic wave-breaking, and the resulting double wave-breaking, in the North Atlantic. We use reanalysis data, proxy reconstructions of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and a 1000-year coupled global climate model equilibrium simulation under constant pre-industrial forcing. The wave-breaking wavelet spectra highlight a significant ultra-centennial variability in double wave-breaking frequency, which is largely mirrored in the variability of the NAO. However, we note that the NAO wavelet spectra in the different datasets display significant discrepancies. The low-frequency wave-breaking variability is reflected in long-term anomalies of the large-scale atmospheric circulation in the Euro-Atlantic sector. The 100-year periods with the most and least double wave-breaking occurrences display significant and opposite anomalies in both upper and lower-level wind, as well as in the frequency of extreme temperature events and in the magnitude of wind destructiveness over Europe. The latter broadly resembles the wind destructiveness anomalies associated with individual double wave-breaking instances in reanalysis data. The existence of low-frequency variability in an atmospheric pattern related to high-impact weather events has important implications for the study and interpretation of climate change projections and of possible future NAO changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]