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Reckling Peak (RKP) 17085 is a newly classified Antarctic CM chondrite that preserves a complex alteration history characterized by mild aqueous alteration (CM2.7), overprinted by a short‐lived thermal metamorphic event (heating stage III [<750°C]), and affected by low‐grade terrestrial weathering. This meteorite contains abundant Fe‐rich bands within the fine‐grained matrix, composed of micron‐scale Fe‐oxyhydroxide minerals. They are interpreted as "alteration fronts" arising due to the dissolution and transport of Fe (typically <500 μm) before being abruptly deposited. This alteration texture is relatively rare among hydrated carbonaceous chondrites, with only five reported instances to date (Murchison, Murray, Allan Hills 81002, Miller Range 07687, and Northwest Africa 5958). Evidence from RKP 17085 suggests that early aqueous alteration operated as multiple geochemically isolated microenvironments, which moved outwards from local point sources within the matrix. Low permeability fine‐grained rims on chondrules appear to have acted as barriers to fluid flow, controlling the migration of fluid across the parent body. Furthermore, the higher porosity regions within the altered fine‐grained matrix represent either void space generated by the dehydration of hydrated minerals during post‐hydration metamorphism and/or sites of ice accretion (water‐ice or C‐bearing ices) preserved within a mildly altered primitive matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most research on mass murderers to date has focused on perpetrators of male sex, while research on perpetrators of female sex has been relegated to case reports and series. We aimed to more fully examine the phenomenon of female‐perpetrated mass murder. We analyzed 1715 worldwide incidents of personal‐cause mass murder from 1900 to 2019, identifying 105 (6%) events perpetrated by females. We defined mass murder as any event involving at least three fatalities, not including the perpetrator, using any method. We identified cases of mass murder from English‐language databases of mass murder or murder in print or online. There were no significant differences in age and race between female and male perpetrators. Relative to males, female perpetrators were significantly less likely to employ firearms in their mass murders, using them in less than half of cases, compared to over 70% for males. The prevalence of psychotic signs and symptoms among female mass murderers was more than double that among males (25.7% vs. 12.5%, p < 0.01), while the rate of nonpsychotic psychiatric or neurological conditions was also much greater among female perpetrators (29.5% vs. 17.1%, p < 0.01). Over half of female perpetrators took or attempted to take their own lives. More than three‐quarters of mass murders by females involved at least one family member as a victim. This study underscores sex‐specific differences in the perpetration of mass murder and the need for further research to understand how insights about such dynamics might lead to the development of more effective and informed intervention policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study adopts an in vitro method to recapitulate the behavior of Saos‐2 cells, using a system composed of a perfusion bioreactor and poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) scaffold fabricated using the low‐cost thermally‐induced phase separation (TIPS) technique. Four distinct scaffold morphologies with different pore sizes were fabricated, characterized by Scanning electron microscopy and micro‐CT analysis and tested with osteosarcoma cells under static and dynamic environments to identify the best morphology for cellular growth. In order to accomplish this purpose, cell growth and matrix deposition of the Saos‐2 osteosarcoma cell line were assessed using Picogreen and OsteoImage assays. The obtained data allowed us to identify the morphology that better promotes Saos‐2 cellular activity in static and dynamic conditions. These findings provided valuable insights into scaffold design and fabrication strategies, emphasizing the importance of the dynamic culture to recreate an appropriate 3D osteosarcoma model. Remarkably, the gradient scaffold exhibits promise for osteosarcoma applications, offering the potential for targeted tissue engineering approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oral microbiota is a highly complex and diversified part of the human microbiome. Being located at the interface between the human body and the exterior environment, this microbiota can deepen our understanding of the environmental impacts on the global status of human health. This research topic has been well addressed in Westernized populations, but these populations only represent a fraction of human diversity. Papua New Guinea hosts very diverse environments and one of the most unique human biological diversities worldwide. In this study we performed the first known characterization of the oral microbiome in 85 Papua New Guinean individuals living in different environments, using a qualitative and quantitative approach. We found a significant geographical structure of the Papua New Guineans oral microbiome, especially in the groups most isolated from urban spaces. In comparison to other global populations, two bacterial genera related to iron absorption were significantly more abundant in Papua New Guineans and Aboriginal Australians, which suggests a shared oral microbiome signature. Further studies will be needed to confirm and explore this possible regional‐specific oral microbiome profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To identify peripheral blood cellular correlates of active pericarditis and to verify whether peripheral blood neutrophils, lymphocytes and the neutrophil to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are associated with disease phenotype or prognosis. Methods: Observational prospective study on a cohort of 63 patients with idiopathic pericarditis followed for 12 months after each pericarditis recurrence. Two distinct analyses were performed: the "index attack" analysis focused on the first pericarditis episode in each patient, while the "all attacks" analysis included all episodes occurring during the study. Results: Absolute and relative neutrophilia and lymphopenia, together with high NLR, were observed during active pericarditis, as compared with disease remission, at both analyses. Neutrophils showed a positive correlation with plasma C‐reactive protein levels, while lymphocyte count showed a negative correlation. Relative neutrophil count was higher, and lymphocyte count lower in patients with pleural effusion; a higher NLR and lower absolute lymphocyte count were observed in those with peritoneal involvement. No correlations were found between peripheral blood neutrophil or lymphocyte counts and size of pericardial effusion, or with the presence of myocardial involvement. Peripheral neutrophilia, lymphopenia and NLR during acute attacks predicted the number of recurrences in the following 12 months. Conclusions: Peripheral blood neutrophilia and lymphopenia are typical of acute idiopathic pericarditis. Acute attacks of pericarditis are associated with neutrophilia and lymphopenia, as compared with disease remission. During acute attacks, neutrophilia and lymphopenia reflect the extent of serosal inflammation and could help to customize therapeutic management after remission has been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on spatial thinking requires reliable and valid measures of individual differences in various component skills. Spatial perspective taking (PT)—the ability to represent viewpoints different from one's own—is one kind of spatial skill that is especially relevant to navigation. This study had two goals. First, the psychometric properties of four PT tests were examined: Four Mountains Task (FMT), Spatial Orientation Task (SOT), Perspective‐Taking Task for Adults (PTT‐A), and Photographic Perspective‐Taking Task (PPTT). Using item response theory (IRT), item difficulty, discriminability, and efficiency of item information functions were evaluated. Second, the relation of PT scores to general intelligence, working memory, and mental rotation (MR) was assessed. All tasks showed good construct validity except for FMT. PPTT tapped a wide range of PT ability, with maximum measurement precision at average ability. PTT‐A captured a lower range of ability. Although SOT contributed less measurement information than other tasks, it did well across a wide range of PT ability. After controlling for general intelligence and working memory, original and IRT‐refined versions of PT tasks were each related to MR. PTT‐A and PPTT showed relatively more divergent validity from MR than SOT. Tests of dimensionality indicated that PT tasks share one common PT dimension, with secondary task‐specific factors also impacting the measurement of individual differences in performance. Advantages and disadvantages of a hybrid PT test that includes a combination of items across tasks are discussed. This study examined the psychometric properties of four tests of spatial perspective‐taking using item response theory, as well as relations with general intelligence, working memory, and mental rotation. Three showed good construct validity. Tests shared a common dimension, with secondary task‐specific factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While mass murders involving academic settings, especially using firearms, are of grave, growing public concern, identifying consistent patterns to aid prevention has proved challenging. Although some characteristics, such as male sex, have been routinely associated with these events, another hypothesized risk factor, severe mental illness, has been less reliably predictive. We isolated cases of mass murder perpetrated at least in part at schools, colleges, and universities from the Columbia Mass Murder Database (CMDD) and categorized them by location (within or outside of the US), and whether firearms were used. Demographic similarities and differences between groups were analyzed statistically wherever possible. We examined 82 incidents of mass murder, by any means, involving academic settings. Nearly half of all incidents (47.6%), and most involving firearms (63.2%), were U.S.‐based, whereas those not involving firearms largely occurred elsewhere (88.0%). Consistent with previous reports, perpetrators of mass shootings involving academic settings are primarily Caucasian (66.7%) and male (100%). Severe mental illness (i.e., psychosis) was absent in the majority of perpetrators (firearms: 80.7%; nonfirearms: 68.0%). About half (45.6%) of mass school shootings ended with the perpetrator's suicide. When present, psychotic symptoms are more associated with mass murders in academic settings involving means other than firearms. The question of whether perpetrators of such incidents may perceive their actions as a kind of final act might enhance policy development and/or how law enforcement intervenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attributes and behavioral patterns of female homicide offenders have been less explored than those of males, particularly in crimes that involve aggravating factors such as dismemberment and mutilation. This study explored the patterns of female murderers who engage in postmortem dismemberment and/or mutilation of victims, contrasting these with the patterns of males who display these same behaviors. Cases were obtained from Radford‐Florida Gulf Coast University Database and public sources, and then analyzed for specific characteristics of the crimes. An informational form was used to derive quantitative parameters. Statistical significance between sex and variables such as motive, dismemberment/mutilation style, and level of organization during the crime were examined. The majority of the cases were consistent with a defensive style. However, 23% of the cases involving females followed an offensive style compared to 33% among males. The nature of prior relationships between offenders and their victims was noteworthy, with the victims of males being largely strangers and the victims of females being primarily known to them. In comparison to males, females were markedly organized. These differences may emphasize aspects of psychological drives and pleasure‐seeking that was more commonly seen among men, who often targeted strangers and were motivated by sadism in 25% of the cases. Dismemberment perpetrated by women primarily followed a defensive style that aimed to dispose of evidence, which would be congruent with the assumption that the murder occurred within a prior background of interpersonal partner violence toward the female perpetrator or other family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of an in vitro 3D model for the growth of the nasal mucosa cells can improve the therapy and the study of pathological states for subjects with chronic airway conditions. We have previously characterized a system consisting of a scaffold with an internal channel and a perfusion bioreactor with two independent flows provided by an external and an internal circuit, respectively. In this paper, this system was designed as a model of the nasal cavity, in which cells, grown on the inner surface of the scaffold channel, would be in contact at the same time with both culture medium, supplied by the external circuit, and air, provided with the internal flow. To ensure adequate nutrient supply to the cells in the scaffold channel, the radial diffusion of the culture medium through the porous matrix was evaluated first in qualitative and, then, in quantitative terms, demonstrating the capability of the system to control the value and direction of this flux. As a preliminary study, the culture of epithelial cells in the scaffold channel is also discussed in static, maintaining the air–liquid interface condition for up to 3 weeks. Despite minor abnormalities, such as a gap between cell layers and some detachments from the scaffold, the scaffold ensured cell survival and growth during the experimental time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The experiences of culturally diverse individuals at clinical high‐risk for psychosis (CHR) is not well studied. Exploratory research needs to examine whether differences exist between racial/ethnic groups within the CHR population. Understanding experiences of Latinx patients is of importance, as the Latinx population represents the most rapidly growing paediatric population in the United States and they face significant barriers to mental health treatment. Because Latinx persons experience high rates of mental illness‐based stigma and discrimination in their communities, they may face additional stigma‐based barriers to CHR treatment. Method: Twenty‐six participants (15 Latinx, 11 non‐Latinx white/NLW) who met CHR criteria based on the Structured Interview for Psychosis‐Risk Syndromes (SIPS) were interviewed regarding stigma associated with CHR identification and symptoms. Using a consensus‐based open‐coding thematic analysis approach, data were analysed for stigma, discrimination, and coping responses. Results: Instances of internalization of stereotypes appeared to be more salient to NLW participants than Latinx participants, and Latinx participants reported seemingly more anticipated rejection from stereotypes than NLW participants. Experiences of discrimination also appeared to be more salient to Latinx participants than NLW participants. Moreover, Latinx participants reported evidently greater instances of discrimination across anticipated, individual, and structural discrimination. Finally, while covering strategies appeared to be more salient to NLW's, Latinx clients more often described using secrecy as well as a greater range of coping responses, including empowerment. Conclusion: While the experience of anticipated rejection appeared to be more salient to Latinx CHR participants and they seemingly report more secrecy than NLW, they also engaged in empowerment‐related coping strategies. Future research should continue to explore the roles of cultural values in influencing coping strategies among CHR individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospun scaffolds exhibiting high physical performances with the ability to support cell attachment and proliferation are attracting more and more scientific interest for tissue engineering applications. The inclusion of inorganic nanoparticles such as nanosilica and nanoclay into electrospun biopolymeric matrices can meet these challenging requirements. The silica and clay incorporation into polymeric nanofibers has been reported to enhance and improve the mechanical properties as well as the osteogenic properties of the scaffolds. In this work, for the first time, the physical and biological properties of polylactic acid (PLA) electrospun mats filled with different concentrations of nanosilica and nanoclay were evaluated and compared. The inclusion of the particles was evaluated through morphological investigations and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology of nanofibers was differently affected by the amount and kind of fillers and it was correlated to the viscosity of the polymeric suspensions. The wettability of the scaffolds, evaluated through wet contact angle measurements, slightly increased for both the nanocomposites. The crystallinity of the systems was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry highlighting the nucleating action of both nanosilica and nanoclay on PLA. Scaffolds were mechanically characterized with tensile tests to evaluate the reinforcing action of the fillers. Finally, cell culture assays with pre‐osteoblastic cells were conducted on a selected composite scaffold in order to compare the cell proliferation and morphology with that of neat PLA scaffolds. Based on the results, we can convince that nanosilica and nanoclay can be both considered great potential fillers for electrospun systems engineered for bone tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We sought to explore the complex phenomenological overlap between obsessive and compulsive symptoms (OCS), and attenuated positive symptoms among 156 young people at clinical high‐risk (CHR) for psychosis. Methods: In order to explore the hypothesis that OCS of an implausible nature might optimally predict future transition to syndromal psychosis, ideas associated with obsessive and compulsive experiences elicited by clinical measures were thematically categorized as "plausible" or "implausible." Results: While OCS were found to be common in our CHR sample, we did not find that implausible OCS themes were predictive of conversion. Conclusion: Given the absence of qualitative differences between OCS and early psychotic symptoms, we propose that clinicians encountering adolescent or young adult patients with new‐onset OCD or OCS in the past year should monitor such symptoms for a minimum of 2 years to assess for the possible emergence of psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological sex could affect the natural history of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. We enrolled all COVID‐19 patients admitted to two COVID‐19 hospitals in Milan in a prospective observational study. The primary outcome was death during the study period and the secondary outcome was critical disease at hospital admission. The association(s) between clinically relevant, noncollinear variables, and the primary outcome was assessed with uni‐ and multivariable Logistic regression models. A total of 520 patients were hospitalized of whom 349 (67%) were males with a median age 61 (interquartile range: 50–72). A higher proportion of males presented critically ill when compared to females (30.1% vs. 18.7%, p <.046). Death occurred in 86 (24.6%) males and 27 (15.8%) females (p =.024). In multivariable analysis age (per 10 years more) (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.83 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 1.42–2.35], p <.0001), obesity (AOR: 2.17 [95% CI: 1.10–4.31], p =.026), critical disease at hospital admission (AOR 6.34 [95% CI: 3.50–11.48], p <.0001) were independently associated to higher odds of death whereas gender was not. In conclusion, a higher proportion of males presented critically ill at hospital admission. Age, critical disease at hospital admission, obesity, anemia, D‐dimer, estimated glomerular filtration rate, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase predicted death in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Fuelled by genomics advances, recent emphasis on the concept of "precision medicine," and public optimism towards genetic advances, it is important to understand how those who are considered to be at clinical high‐risk for psychosis (CHR) perceive possible benefits of genetic testing to inform future stakeholder education efforts. Methods: Semistructured interviews were completed with 20 participants who met CHR criteria. Coding for genetic optimism was completed. Results: Participants endorsed many conceptualizations of the link between genetics, the development of psychosis, and the benefits of genetic testing. Specifically, themes emerged surrounding how genetic testing may lead to greater genetic knowledge and tailored treatment. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that CHR participants generally endorse several precision psychiatry concepts, including how genetic testing may lead to tailored treatment advances. This knowledge may aid development of best communication practices regarding forthcoming genetic advances in diagnosis and treatment among CHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac amyloidosis is a serious and progressive infiltrative disease that is caused by the deposition of amyloid fibrils at the cardiac level. It can be due to rare genetic variants in the hereditary forms or as a consequence of acquired conditions. Thanks to advances in imaging techniques and the possibility of achieving a non‐invasive diagnosis, we now know that cardiac amyloidosis is a more frequent disease than traditionally considered. In this position paper the Working Group on Myocardial and Pericardial Disease proposes an invasive and non‐invasive definition of cardiac amyloidosis, addresses clinical scenarios and situations to suspect the condition and proposes a diagnostic algorithm to aid diagnosis. Furthermore, we also review how to monitor and treat cardiac amyloidosis, in an attempt to bridge the gap between the latest advances in the field and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prenatal exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) has been implicated as a risk factor for the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), though the conditions under which this elevated risk occurs are unclear. Animal literature demonstrates that antibiotic use, which affects the composition of the maternal gut microbiota, modifies the effect of MIA on neurodevelopmental outcomes in the offspring. The aim of this study was to assess whether antibiotic use during pregnancy modifies the association between MIA and subsequent risk of ASD, in a prospective birth cohort with 116 ASD cases and 860 typically developing (TD) child controls. There was no evidence of interaction between fever or genitourinary infection and antibiotic use on the odds of ASD in unadjusted or adjusted analyzes. However, we found evidence of an interaction between flu, specifically in second trimester, and antibiotic use at any point during pregnancy on the odds of ASD in the child. Among women who received an antibiotic during pregnancy, flu in trimester two was not associated with ASD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.99 [0.43–2.28]). Among women who were not exposed to an antibiotic at any point during pregnancy, flu in second trimester was significantly associated with increased odds of ASD (aOR = 4.05 [1.14–14.38], P =.03), after adjustment for child sex, child birth year, maternal age, gestational age, C‐section delivery, and low birthweight. These findings should be treated as hypothesis‐generating and suggest that antibiotic use may modify the influence that MIA has on autism risk in the child. Lay Summary We looked at whether the association between activation of the immune system during pregnancy and risk of the child developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) differed among women who did or did not take an antibiotic at any point during pregnancy. We examined 116 children with ASD and 860 without ASD and found that flu in second trimester was associated with increased ASD, but only among women who did not take an antibiotic during pregnancy. No other immune activation exposures seemed to interact with antibiotic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial lighting may be an interesting opportunity for the cultivation of microalgae as an alternative to natural sunlight. In particular, light emitting diodes (LEDs) can be employed to tailor the lighting to the microalgal culture in a controlled mode in order to create flashing light. In order to establish the effect of the flashing frequency on growth and biochemical composition of a model microalga, a quasi‐isoactinic reactor, in which the light distribution is almost homogeneous, was set up. In this work, it was employed for the cultivation of the heterokont Nannochloropsis gaditana in two growth media with limiting and nonlimiting nutrients. The combined effect of nutrient concentration and flashing frequency on the growth, lipid content, fatty acid content, and pigment content was assessed for the first time. The results indicate that both nutrient concentration and flashing frequency influence the above‐mentioned parameters. In particular, under flashing light conditions, an increase of lipid content and a decrease of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and chlorophyll are observed when nutrients are deficient, while the opposite effects are shown when nutrients are abundant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classification of violent behavior, including dismemberment and mutilation, has become increasingly more significant. This study uses a data‐driven classification system based upon knowledge drawn from the pertinent literature, and examination of cases of offenders who have dismembered or mutilated their victims. The latter were extracted from the Serial Killer Database, as well as media sources, and assessed for characteristics of the perpetrators and victim(s). An informational form was developed and used to establish quantitative parameters and objectively extract pertinent information that could be used for comparison and pattern analysis. Motives and styles, as well as the organized/disorganized dichotomy for murder and dismemberment/mutilation, were examined for each case. The majority of cases demonstrated defensive styles (60%), with the second most common being offensive styles (26%), which differs from previous studies that do not exclude older cases. Additionally, 68% of cases reflected organized patterns for both murder and the acts of dismemberment or mutilation. The results support a data‐driven classification system that may serve as a foundational model for the investigation of specific motives of this type of deviant behavior in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of the Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security–Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS‐REx) mission is to return to Earth a pristine sample of carbonaceous material from the primitive asteroid (101955) Bennu. To support compositional mapping of Bennu as part of sample site selection and characterization, we tested 95 spectral indices on visible to near infrared laboratory reflectance data from minerals and carbonaceous meteorites. Our aim was to determine which indices reliably identify spectral features of interest. Most spectral indices had high positive detection rates when applied to spectra of pure, single‐component materials. The meteorite spectra have fewer and weaker absorption features and, as a result, fewer detections with the spectral indices. Indices targeting absorptions at 0.7 and 2.7–3 μm, which are attributable to hydrated minerals, were most successful for the meteorites. Based on these results, we identified a set of 17 indices that are most likely to be useful at Bennu. These indices detect olivines, pyroxenes, carbonates, water/OH‐bearing minerals, serpentines, ferric minerals, and organics. Particle size and albedo are known to affect band depth but had a negligible impact on interpretive success with spectral indices. Preliminary analysis of the disk‐integrated Bennu spectrum with these indices is consistent with expectations given the observed absorption near 3 μm. Our study prioritizes spectral indices to be used for OSIRIS‐REx spectral analysis and mapping and informs the reliability of all index‐derived data products, including a science value map for sample site selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target of this work was to prepare a RGDC functionalized hybrid biomaterial via TIPS technique to achieve a more efficient control of osteoblast adhesion and diffusion on the three‐dimensional (3D) scaffolds. Starting from a crystalline poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) and an amorphous α,β‐poly(N‐2‐hydroxyethyl) (2‐aminoethylcarbamate)‐d,l‐aspartamide‐graft‐polylactic acid (PHEA‐EDA‐g‐PLA) copolymer, blend scaffolds were characterized by an appropriate porosity and pore interconnection. The PHEA‐EDA‐PLA interpenetration with PLLA improved hydrolytic susceptibility of hybrid scaffolds. The presence of free amino groups on scaffolds allowed to tether the cyclic RGD peptide (RGDC) via Michael addition using the maleimide chemistry. Cell culture test carried out on preosteoblastic cells MC3T3‐E1 incubated with scaffolds, has evidenced cell adhesion and proliferation. Furthermore, the presence of distributed bone matrix on all scaffolds was evaluated after 70 days compared to PLLA only samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Research has shown that young adults at clinical high risk (CHR) for developing psychosis have the capability to recognize that they have a problem and initiate mental health services, yet there is a paucity of theoretically based research examining this decision‐making process. This is critical to study because there are high rates of underutilization of mental health services among these young people. The following study explored the decision‐making process among young adults at CHR in order to understand mental health services utilization at a CHR clinic. Methods: Semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 30 young adults at CHR between the ages of 18 and 30, from an Eastern city in the United States. The study applied the unified theory of behaviour (UTB), a decision‐making framework for health behaviour, to examine service use. Content analysis with multiple coders was used. Results: The most salient constructs discussed when participants envisioned seeking services at the clinic included attitudes or beliefs about help‐seeking, social image beliefs and emotional reactions towards seeking services. Differences in UTB responses emerged depending on whether participants were engaged in clinical services and research at the time of the interview or just taking part in research follow‐ups. Conclusion: When designing future interventions to increase service utilization among young adults at CHR, programs can address health beliefs such as how services at the clinic can improve symptoms, stigma and difficult emotions such as fear and shame about seeking services, and particularly among young people who are more ambivalent about seeking clinical services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security‐Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS‐REx) mission observed the Moon during the spacecraft's Earth gravity assist in 2017. From the spacecraft view, the lunar phase was 42°, and the in‐view hemisphere was dominated by anorthositic highlands terrain. Lunar spectra obtained by the OSIRIS‐REx Visible and InfraRed Spectrometer show evidence of several candidate absorption features. We observe the 2.8‐μm hydration band, confirming the spectral results from other missions, but detected in full‐disk spectra. We also tentatively identify weak spectral features near 0.9 and 1.3 μm, consistent with lunar regolith containing a mixture of plagioclase and orthopyroxene minerals, as expected for highlands terrain. Plain Language Summary: The Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security‐Regolith Explorer mission obtained observations of Earth and the Moon during a 2017 gravity assist maneuver. The Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security‐Regolith Explorer Visible and InfraRed Spectrometer acquired several spectra that covered the fully illuminated portion of the Moon. These spectra show absorption features consistent with the mineral mixtures expected in the lunar Highlands terrains. Near‐simultaneous images show that the side of the Moon that was visible is dominated by this type of terrain. In addition, an infrared absorption, consistent with water‐bearing minerals, is also observed, confirming the spectral identifications made by previous missions that have observed the Moon. Key Points: The OSIRIS‐REx mission obtained observations of Earth and the Moon during a 2017 gravity assist maneuverVisible and near‐infrared spectra of the Moon show features consistent with plagioclase‐dominated mixtures expected in highlands terrainThe 2.8‐μm hydration band is observed in full‐disk spectra, confirming previous spacecraft observations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Executive Summary: Return of samples from the surface of Mars has been a goal of the international Mars science community for many years. Affirmation by NASA and ESA of the importance of Mars exploration led the agencies to establish the international MSR Objectives and Samples Team (iMOST). The purpose of the team is to re‐evaluate and update the sample‐related science and engineering objectives of a Mars Sample Return (MSR) campaign. The iMOST team has also undertaken to define the measurements and the types of samples that can best address the objectives. Seven objectives have been defined for MSR, traceable through two decades of previously published international priorities. The first two objectives are further divided into sub‐objectives. Within the main part of the report, the importance to science and/or engineering of each objective is described, critical measurements that would address the objectives are specified, and the kinds of samples that would be most likely to carry key information are identified. These seven objectives provide a framework for demonstrating how the first set of returned Martian samples would impact future Martian science and exploration. They also have implications for how analogous investigations might be conducted for samples returned by future missions from other solar system bodies, especially those that may harbor biologically relevant or sensitive material, such as Ocean Worlds (Europa, Enceladus, Titan) and others. Summary of Objectives and Sub‐Objectives for MSR Identified by iMOST: Objective 1Interpret the primary geologic processes and history that formed the Martian geologic record, with an emphasis on the role of water.IntentTo investigate the geologic environment(s) represented at the Mars 2020 landing site, provide definitive geologic context for collected samples, and detail any characteristics that might relate to past biologic processesThis objective is divided into five sub‐objectives that would apply at different landing sites. 1.1Characterize the essential stratigraphic, sedimentologic, and facies variations of a sequence of Martian sedimentary rocks.IntentTo understand the preserved Martian sedimentary record.SamplesA suite of sedimentary rocks that span the range of variation.ImportanceBasic inputs into the history of water, climate change, and the possibility of life1.2Understand an ancient Martian hydrothermal system through study of its mineralization products and morphological expression.IntentTo evaluate at least one potentially life‐bearing "habitable" environmentSamplesA suite of rocks formed and/or altered by hydrothermal fluids.ImportanceIdentification of a potentially habitable geochemical environment with high preservation potential.1.3Understand the rocks and minerals representative of a deep subsurface groundwater environment.IntentTo evaluate definitively the role of water in the subsurface.SamplesSuites of rocks/veins representing water/rock interaction in the subsurface.ImportanceMay constitute the longest‐lived habitable environments and a key to the hydrologic cycle.1.4Understand water/rock/atmosphere interactions at the Martian surface and how they have changed with time.IntentTo constrain time‐variable factors necessary to preserve records of microbial life.SamplesRegolith, paleosols, and evaporites.ImportanceSubaerial near‐surface processes could support and preserve microbial life.1.5Determine the petrogenesis of Martian igneous rocks in time and space.IntentTo provide definitive characterization of igneous rocks on Mars.SamplesDiverse suites of ancient igneous rocks.ImportanceThermochemical record of the planet and nature of the interior.Objective 2Assess and interpret the potential biological history of Mars, including assaying returned samples for the evidence of life.IntentTo investigate the nature and extent of Martian habitability, the conditions and processes that supported or challenged life, how different environments might have influenced the preservation of biosignatures and created nonbiological "mimics," and to look for biosignatures of past or present life.This objective has three sub‐objectives: 2.1Assess and characterize carbon, including possible organic and pre‐biotic chemistry.SamplesAll samples collected as part of Objective 1.ImportanceAny biologic molecular scaffolding on Mars would likely be carbon‐based.2.2Assay for the presence of biosignatures of past life at sites that hosted habitable environments and could have preserved any biosignatures.SamplesAll samples collected as part of Objective 1.ImportanceProvides the means of discovering ancient life.2.3Assess the possibility that any life forms detected are alive, or were recently alive.SamplesAll samples collected as part of Objective 1.ImportancePlanetary protection, and arguably the most important scientific discovery possible.Objective 3Quantitatively determine the evolutionary timeline of Mars.IntentTo provide a radioisotope‐based time scale for major events, including magmatic, tectonic, fluvial, and impact events, and the formation of major sedimentary deposits and geomorphological features.SamplesAncient igneous rocks that bound critical stratigraphic intervals or correlate with crater‐dated surfaces.ImportanceQuantification of Martian geologic history.Objective 4Constrain the inventory of Martian volatiles as a function of geologic time and determine the ways in which these volatiles have interacted with Mars as a geologic system.IntentTo recognize and quantify the major roles that volatiles (in the atmosphere and in the hydrosphere) play in Martian geologic and possibly biologic evolution.SamplesCurrent atmospheric gas, ancient atmospheric gas trapped in older rocks, and minerals that equilibrated with the ancient atmosphere.ImportanceKey to understanding climate and environmental evolution.Objective 5Reconstruct the processes that have affected the origin and modification of the interior, including the crust, mantle, core and the evolution of the Martian dynamo.IntentTo quantify processes that have shaped the planet's crust and underlying structure, including planetary differentiation, core segregation and state of the magnetic dynamo, and cratering.SamplesIgneous, potentially magnetized rocks (both igneous and sedimentary) and impact‐generated samples.ImportanceElucidate fundamental processes for comparative planetology.Objective 6Understand and quantify the potential Martian environmental hazards to future human exploration and the terrestrial biosphere.IntentTo define and mitigate an array of health risks related to the Martian environment associated with the potential future human exploration of Mars.SamplesFine‐grained dust and regolith samples.ImportanceKey input to planetary protection planning and astronaut health.Objective 7Evaluate the type and distribution of in‐situ resources to support potential future Mars exploration.IntentTo quantify the potential for obtaining Martian resources, including use of Martian materials as a source of water for human consumption, fuel production, building fabrication, and agriculture.SamplesRegolith.ImportanceProduction of simulants that will facilitate long‐term human presence on Mars. Summary of iMOST Findings: Several specific findings were identified during the iMOST study. While they are not explicit recommendations, we suggest that they should serve as guidelines for future decision making regarding planning of potential future MSR missions. The samples to be collected by the Mars 2020 (M‐2020) rover will be of sufficient size and quality to address and solve a wide variety of scientific questions.Samples, by definition, are a statistical representation of a larger entity. Our ability to interpret the source geologic units and processes by studying sample sub sets is highly dependent on the quality of the sample context. In the case of the M‐2020 samples, the context is expected to be excellent, and at multiple scales. (A) Regional and planetary context will be established by the on‐going work of the multi‐agency fleet of Mars orbiters. (B) Local context will be established at field area‐ to outcrop‐ to hand sample‐ to hand lens scale using the instruments carried by M‐2020.A significant fraction of the value of the MSR sample collection would come from its organization into sample suites, which are small groupings of samples designed to represent key aspects of geologic or geochemical variation.If the Mars 2020 rover acquires a scientifically well‐chosen set of samples, with sufficient geological diversity, and if those samples were returned to Earth, then major progress can be expected on all seven of the objectives proposed in this study, regardless of the final choice of landing site. The specifics of which parts of Objective 1 could be achieved would be different at each of the final three candidate landing sites, but some combination of critically important progress could be made at any of them.An aspect of the search for evidence of life is that we do not know in advance how evidence for Martian life would be preserved in the geologic record.  In order for the returned samples to be most useful for both understanding geologic processes (Objective 1) and the search for life (Objective 2), the sample collection should contain BOTH typical and unusual samples from the rock units explored.  This consideration should be incorporated into sample selection and the design of the suites. The retrieval missions of a MSR campaign should (1) minimize stray magnetic fields to which the samples would be exposed and carry a magnetic witness plate to record exposure, (2) collect and return atmospheric gas sample(s), and (3) collect additional dust and/or regolith sample mass if possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We sought to examine attenuated first‐rank symptoms (FRS) and subcomponents of the Unusual Thought Content (P.1.) section of the Structured Interview for Psychosis‐Risk Syndromes (SIPS) to investigate the robust relationship between total P.1. and conversion. We hypothesized that attenuated FRS would drive the association and, additionally, be most predictive of a schizophrenia diagnosis. Method: We assessed 189 clinical high‐risk participants. Two independent raters separately scored attenuated FRS and each subcomponent of P.1. as if each were the only symptom reported. Total P.1. was also scored. Participants were evaluated for conversion up to 2 years. Results: While total P.1. score significantly predicted conversion in the 54 converters, attenuated FRS, which were relatively uncommon in this sample, nor any subcomponent of P.1., was independently predictive. FRS did not predict conversion to schizophrenia among 35 subjects. Conclusion: Although attenuated FRS, and subcomponents of P.1. of the SIPS, did not significantly predict transition to psychosis, our results support previous research affirming the value of total P.1. score as a tool for predicting conversion to psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine the prospective association between multivitamin supplementation during pregnancy and biomarker measures of maternal plasma folate and vitamin B12 levels at birth and child's Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) risk.Methods: This report included 1257 mother-child pairs, who were recruited at birth and prospectively followed through childhood at the Boston Medical Center. ASD was defined from diagnostic codes in electronic medical records. Maternal multivitamin supplementation was assessed via questionnaire interview; maternal plasma folate and B12 were measured from samples taken 2-3 days after birth.Results: Moderate (3-5 times/week) self-reported supplementation during pregnancy was associated with decreased risk of ASD, consistent with previous findings. Using this as the reference group, low (≤2 times/week) and high (>5 times/week) supplementation was associated with increased risk of ASD. Very high levels of maternal plasma folate at birth (≥60.3 nmol/L) had 2.5 times increased risk of ASD [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3, 4.6] compared to folate levels in the middle 80th percentile, after adjusting for covariates including MTHFR genotype. Similarly, very high B12 (≥536.8 pmol/L) showed 2.5 times increased risk (95% CI 1.4, 4.5).Conclusion: There was a 'U shaped' relationship between maternal multivitamin supplementation frequency and ASD risk. Extremely high maternal plasma folate and B12 levels at birth were associated with ASD risk. This hypothesis-generating study does not question the importance of consuming adequate folic acid and vitamin B12 during pregnancy; rather, raises new questions about the impact of extremely elevated levels of plasma folate and B12 exposure in-utero on early brain development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is phenotypically and etiologically heterogeneous, with evidence for genetic and environmental contributions to disease risk. Research has focused on the prenatal period as a time where environmental exposures are likely to influence risk for ASD. Epidemiological studies have shown significant associations between prenatal exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA), caused by infections and fever, and ASD. However, due to differences in study design and exposure measurements no consistent patterns have emerged revealing specific times or type of MIA exposure that are most important to ASD risk. No prior studies have examined prenatal MIA exposure and ASD risk in an under-represented minority population of African ancestry. To overcome these limitations, we estimated the association between prenatal exposure to fever and maternal infections and ASD in a prospective birth cohort of an understudied minority population in a city in the United States. No association was found between prenatal exposure to genitourinary infections or flu and the risk of ASD in a nested sample of 116 ASD cases and 988 typically developing controls in crude or adjusted analyses. Prenatal exposure to fever was associated with increased ASD risk (aOR 2.02 [1.04-3.92]) after adjustment for educational attainment, marital status, race, child sex, maternal age, birth year, gestational age, and maternal smoking. This effect may be specific to fever during the third trimester (aOR 2.70 [1.00-7.29]). Our findings provide a focus for future research efforts and ASD prevention strategies across diverse populations. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1878-1890. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary We looked at whether activation of the immune system during pregnancy increases the chance a child will develop ASD. We examined 116 children with ASD and 988 children without ASD that came from a predominantly low income, urban, minority population. We found that having the flu or genitourinary tract infections during pregnancy is not related to the child being diagnosed with ASD. However, we did find children were at increased risk for ASD when their mothers had a fever during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Fetal exposure to maternal anti- SSA/Ro antibodies is necessary but not sufficient for the development of autoimmune congenital heart block ( CHB), suggesting that other factors, such as fetal genetic predisposition, are important. Given the previously described association between major histocompatibility complex alleles and CHB risk, we undertook the present study to test the hypothesis that a variant form of HLA-C Asn80Lys, which binds with high affinity to an inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor ( KIR) and thus renders natural killer ( NK) cells incapable of restricting inflammation, contributes to the development of CHB. Methods Members of 192 pedigrees in the US and Europe (194 cases of CHB, 91 unaffected siblings, 152 fathers, 167 mothers) and 1,073 out-of-study controls were genotyped on the Immunochip single-nucleotide polymorphism microarray. Imputation was used to identify associations at HLA-C Asn80Lys (Asn, C1; Lys, C2) and KIR. Tests for association were performed using logistic regression. McNemar's test and the pedigree disequilibrium test ( PDT) were used for matched analyses between affected and unaffected children. Results Compared with out-of-study controls of the same sex, the C2 allele was less frequent in the mothers (odds ratio [ OR] 0.63, P = 0.0014) and more frequent in the fathers ( OR 1.40, P = 0.0123), yielding a significant sex-by-C2 interaction ( P = 0.0002). The C2 allele was more frequent in affected siblings than in unaffected siblings ( OR 3.67, P = 0.0025), which was consistent with the PDT results ( P = 0.016); these results were observed in both sexes and across the US and European cohorts. There was no difference in the frequency of the inhibitory KIR genotype ( KIR AA) between affected and unaffected children ( P = 0.55). Conclusion These data establish C2 as a novel genetic risk factor associated with CHB. This observation supports a model in which fetuses with C2 ligand expression and maternal anti- SSA/Ro positivity may have impaired NK cell surveillance, resulting in unchecked cardiac inflammation and scarring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main parameters affecting autotrophic algae cultures is photon absorption distribution inside the photobioreactor. This clearly depends on the geometry of both the radiation source and the photobioreactor, as well as on algae suspension optical properties. In this work the local volumetric rate of photon absorption LVRPA in a cross-section of a horizontal-pipe photobioreactor was investigated by means of simplified Monte Carlo simulations. In particular, the fate of a number of photons perpendicularly hitting the photobioreactor circular section was simulated in relation to different values of algae concentration. The model takes into account refraction/reflection phenomena at the air/photobioreactor-wall interface. Simulation results show that radiation distribution inside the photobioreactor is quite strongly affected by reflection/refraction at the air-reactor interface. In particular, dark zones (not revealed when neglecting reflection/refraction phenomena) are observed in conjunction with unexpected radiation intensification in other zones. These phenomena are bound to affect photobioreactor performance and should therefore be considered if effective photobioreactor models are sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis ( CHR) exhibit neurocognitive deficits in multiple domains. The aim of this study is to investigate whether several components of neurocognition are predictive of conversion to psychosis. Methods Fifty-two CHR individuals were assessed with the Structured Interview for Psychosis Risk Syndromes and completed a battery of neurocognitive tests at baseline including measures of executive functioning, attention, working memory, processing speed and reaction time. Neurocognitive functioning at baseline was scored based on an external normative control group. Most subjects were followed for 2.5 years to determine conversion status. Results Significant differences in neurocognitive functioning between CHR individuals and the control group were present in all domains. Twenty-six per cent of the participants converted to psychosis within 9.8 (standard deviation = 8.0) months on average (median 9 months), but there were no significant differences in neurocognition converters and non-converters. Conclusions Individuals at CHR have deficits in neurocognitive functioning, but such deficits do not appear to be related to conversion risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Diffusion Induced Phase Separation (DIPS) is a currently used technique to produce porous membranes for a large variety of applications. A strong limitation is represented by the occurrence of a dense skin, which is formed during the process, highly reducing the membrane permeability. To overcome this issue, two modifications of the standard DIPS protocol were investigated: the use of coagulation baths composed by a solvent/nonsolvent mixture and the desiccation in a controlled environment, by modulating the partial pressure of nonsolvent vapor. An appropriate choice of coagulation bath composition, together with an appropriate desiccation protocol (i.e., the use of a nonsolvent vapor), will produce a skinless membrane, and offers the chance to control the morphology of both membrane surfaces. These results underline the importance of post-treatment stage in membrane preparation via phase separation, thus suggesting that membrane washing/drying stage will affect the final morphology. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42151. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bubble formation at variously inclined submerged nozzles, fed with a continuous gas flow rate, is investigated. The average liquid velocity induced by bubble motion is determined, leading to a simple correlation for estimation of the liquid velocities induced by the repeated passage of bubbles. An effective model for the prediction of bubble sizes at their detachment from vertical nozzle orifices is presented which encompasses a bound expansion stage, followed by an accelerated expansion phase, and ends by an original bubble detachment criterion. The existence of a liquid-phase effective entrainment velocity, generated by the continuous passage of the bubble stream, is quantified and included in the model. Model predictions are found to correlate well with experimental and literature data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Thermally induced phase separation is a fabrication technique for porous polymeric structures. By means of easy-to-tune processing parameters, such as system composition and demixing temperature, a vast latitude of average pore dimensions, pore size distributions, and morphologies can be obtained. The relation between demixing temperature and morphology was demonstrated via cloud point curve measurement and foams fabrication with controlled thermal protocols, for the model system poly- l-lactide-dioxane-water. The morphologies obtained at a temperature lower than cloud point showed a closed-pore architecture, suggesting a 'nucleation-and-growth' separation mechanism, which produced larger pores at higher holding times. Conversely, the porous structures attained when holding the sample above the cloud point exhibited open pores with dimensions independent of time, denoting a phase separation occurring during sample freezing. Finally, the influence of the cooling rate on final morphology was investigated, showing a clear correlation with microstructure and pore size. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 979-983 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the analyses results of two bulk Terminal Particles, C2112,7,171,0,0 and C2112,9,171,0,0, derived from the Jupiter-family comet 81P/Wild 2 returned by the Stardust mission. Each particle embedded in a slab of silica aerogel was pressed in a diamond cell. This preparation, as expected, made it difficult to identify the minerals and organic materials present in these particles. This problem was overcome using a combination of three different analytical techniques, viz. FE- SEM/ EDS, IR, and Raman microspectroscopy that allowed identifying the minerals and small amounts of amorphous carbon present in both particles. TP2 and TP3 were dominated by Ca-free and low-Ca, Mg-rich, Mg,Fe-olivine. The presence of melilite in both particles is supported by IR microspectroscopy, but is not confirmed by Raman microspectroscopy, possibly because the amounts are too small to be detected. TP2 and TP3 show similar silicate mineral compositions, but Ni-free and low-Ni, subsulfur (Fe,Ni)S grains are present in TP2 only. TP2 contains indigenous amorphous carbon hot spots; no indigenous carbon was identified in TP3. These nonchondritic particles probably originated in a differentiated body. This work found an unanticipated carbon contamination following the FE- SEM/ EDS analyses. It is suggested that organic materials in the embedding silica aerogel are irradiated during FE- SEM/ EDS analyses creating a carbon gas that develops a strong fluorescence continuum. The combination of the selected analytical techniques can be used to characterize bulk Wild 2 particles without the need of extraction and removal of the encapsulating aerogel. This approach offers a relatively fast sample preparation procedure, but compressing the samples can cause spurious artifacts, viz. silica contamination. Because of the combination of techniques, we account for these artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, tubular poly-left-lactic acid scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering applications were produced by an innovative two-step method. The scaffolds were obtained by performing a dip-coating around a nylon fiber, followed by a diffusion induced phase separation process. Morphological analysis revealed that the internal lumen of the as-obtained scaffold is equal to the diameter of the fiber utilized; the internal surface is homogeneous with micropores 1-2 μm large. Moreover, a porous open structure was detected across the thickness of the walls of the scaffold. An accurate analysis of the preparation process revealed that it is possible to tune up the morphology of the scaffold (wall thickness, porosity, and average pore dimension), simply by varying some experimental parameters. Preliminary in vitro cell culture tests were carried out inside the scaffold. The results showed that cells are able to grow within the internal surface of the scaffolds and after 3 weeks they begin to form a 'primordial' vessel-like structure. Modeling predictions of the dip-coating process display always an underestimate of experimental data (dependence of wall thickness upon extraction rate). POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess fetal and maternal outcomes in women with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Prospectively collected data on 99 women with SSc from 25 Italian centers were analyzed retrospectively. Women with SSc were observed during 109 pregnancies (from 2000 to 2011), and outcomes were compared to those in the general obstetric population (total of 3,939 deliveries). The maternal age at conception was a mean ± SD 31.8 ± 5.3 years, and the median disease duration at conception was 60 months (range 2-193 months). Results SSc patients, compared to the general obstetric population, had a significantly increased frequency of preterm deliveries (25% versus 12%) and severe preterm deliveries (<34 weeks of gestation) (10% versus 5%), intrauterine growth restriction (6% versus 1%), and babies with very-low birth weight (5% versus 1%). Results of multivariable analysis showed that corticosteroid use was associated with preterm deliveries (odds ratio [OR] 3.63, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.12-11.78), whereas the use of folic acid (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.10-0.91) and presence of anti-Scl-70 antibodies (OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.08-0.85) were protective. The disease remained stable in most SSc patients, but there were 4 cases of progression of disease within 1 year from delivery, all in anti-Scl-70 antibody-positive women, 3 of whom had a disease duration of <3 years. Conclusion Women with SSc can have successful pregnancies, but they have a higher-than-normal risk of preterm delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, and babies with very-low birth weight. Progression of the disease during or after pregnancy is rare, but possible. High-risk multidisciplinary management should be standard for these patients, and pregnancy should be avoided in women with severe organ damage and postponed in women with SSc of recent onset, particularly if the patient is positive for anti-Scl-70 antibodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric membranes are currently adopted in water purification processes, such as reverse osmosis (RO) and membrane distillation (MD). This latter technique is very promising for separation effectiveness and energy savings. A valuable and effective MD unit must be equipped with polymeric membranes that exhibit specific properties, for example, hydrophobicity, a narrow pore size range, a high water penetration pressure, and a large vapor permeability. In this work, we present and examine the main features of membranes for MD processes, with the aim of experimentally evaluating the related performances. Scanning electron microscopy analysis was carried out for a first estimate of the pore size distribution; this showed a discrepancy between the nominal pore size and the actual distribution. Vapor flux under typical water purification conditions was measured for different commercial membranes, and values as high as 35 kg m−2 h−1 were observed. Polytetrafluoroethylene membranes were more permeable for both of the MD configurations tested. The liquid entry pressure (LEP) showed an irreversible decrease in the early operation cycles related to microstructural modifications. A LEP reversible decrease with increasing temperature was observed; this showed that in the membrane selection, the nominal LEP value had to be corrected for the temperature effect for the correct choice. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most injection molding simulation packages use the no‐flow temperature (NFT) as a means of determining whether the polymer flows or is solid. The NFT is not well defined, and a standard method for measuring it does not exist. A sensitivity analysis of the filling stage has been carried out with two different packages [VISI Flow (Vero Software Limited, Gloucestershire, UK) and Moldflow (Autodesk, Inc., San Rafael, CA)] to estimate the influence of the NFT on the main processing parameters. The NFT has a large influence on the thickness of the frozen layer, but it does not appreciably affect the filling pressure. Because the NFT affects the frozen layer, an effect on the estimation of shrinkage and warpage is expected. Software packages have also been compared, and similar simulations have been found to produce contrasting results. A simple correlation for NFT estimation, derived from the Cross–Williams–Landel–Ferry equation, is proposed for both amorphous and semicrystalline polymers. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfusion of human foetal heart with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies induces transient heart block. Anti-Ro/SSA antibodies may cross-react with T- and L-type calcium channels, and anti-p200 antibodies may cause calcium to accumulate in rat heart cells. These actions may explain a direct electrophysiological effect of these antibodies. Congenital complete heart block is the more severe manifestation of so-called “Neonatal Lupus”. In clinical practice, it is important to distinguish in utero complete versus incomplete atrioventricular (AV) block, as complete AV block to date is irreversible, while incomplete AV block has been shown to be potentially reversible after fluorinated steroid therapy. Another issue is the definition of congenital AV block, as cardiologists have considered congenital blocks detected months or years after birth. We propose as congenital blocks detected in utero or within the neonatal period (0–27 days after birth). The possible detection of first degree AV block in utero, with different techniques, might be a promising tool to assess the effects of these antibodies. Other arrhythmias have been described in NL or have been linked to anti-Ro/SSA antibodies: first degree AV block, in utero and after birth, second degree (i.e. incomplete block), sinus bradycardia and QT prolongation, both in infants and in adults, ventricular arrhythmias (in adults). Overall, these arrhythmias have not a clinical relevance, but are important for research purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In April 2008, 585 tortoises illegally imported into Italy from North Africa were examined for the presence of ticks. Of these, 221 tortoises (37.8%) were infested with a mean intensity of 3.9 ± 3.1 ticks (range 1–17 ticks). A total of 798 ticks (672 males, 125 females and one nymph) were collected and identified as Hyalomma aegyptium (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae). The overall male : female ratio observed was 5 : 1. The prevalence and mean intensity [±standard deviation (SD)] of ticks were higher among male (67.4%, 4.0 ± 3.2) than female (55.6%, 3.8 ± 3.1) tortoises, although this difference was not significant. By contrast, the prevalence and mean intensity of ticks were significantly higher on tortoises weighing >100 g (61.5%, 4.0 ± 3.2) compared with tortoises weighing <100 g (12.1%, 2.1 ± 1.1). Of the infested tortoises, 89.8% had ticks on their hind limbs, 21.0% on forelimbs, 18.6% on the tail and pre-anal area, and 4.8% on the head; thus the hind limbs were evidently the preferred attachment site. The present report highlights the need to develop surveillance systems to prevent the introduction and spreading of exotic ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Italy and other European countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]