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In this study, the behavior of slow‐release urea capsules is investigated for bioremediation purposes. The urea capsules (u/PUA/HG) are produced by an emulsion system (O/W) containing a double coating of polyurea (internal) and gelatin hydrogel (external), using for both toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI) as a reagent. The slow‐release system are characterized by Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy by ATR, optical microscopy, swelling index test (%), and urea release test (%). Eco‐toxicological studies are carried out to evaluate the toxicity of composites using germination (and root growth) of lettuce seeds. Also, preliminary study is conducted based on assessed of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa microbial behavior in the presence of composites. The characterization results indicate the effective coating of the urea granules. However, the FTIR analysis reveals an excess of unreacted TDI in the u/PUA/HG sample. Furthermore, there is an observed inhibition of both root growth and germination that corresponds to the quantity of the sample and TDI used. Notably, there is a notable 70% increase in microbial growth compared to the control group after 48 h. Upon concluding the urea release test spanning 144 h, a significant 43% reduction is observed for u/PUA/HG at 24°C. Additionally, there is a delay of 119 h in the total release time at 36°C, when compared to u/PUA. Collectively, the outcomes of this study strongly suggest the potential of u/PUA/HG as a bio‐stimulant, particularly in its effect on P. aeruginosa growth. These findings highlight its promising application as a bioremediator in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) added to the exercise or superimposed on voluntary contractions on patient‐reported outcomes measures (PROMs) in people with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: This systematic review was described according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were obtained from a systematic literature search in five electronic databases (PubMed, PEDro, LILACS, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus) in April 2022. We described the effects of intervention according to each PROMs (scores for Pain; Self‐reported functional ability; Symptoms (hear clicking, swelling, catching, restricted range of motion, and stiffness); Daily living function; Sports function; and Quality of life) and used a random‐effect model to examine the impact of NMES plus exercise on pain compared with exercise in people with knee OA. Results: Six RCTs (n = 367) were included. In the qualitative synthesis, the systematic literature analysis showed improvement in pain after NMES plus exercise compared with exercise alone in three studies. The other three studies revealed no difference between groups in pain, although similar improvement after treatments. In the meta‐analysis, NMES at a specific joint angle combined with exercise was not superior to exercise alone in pain management (standardized mean difference = −0.33, 95% CI = −1.05 to 0.39, p = 0.37). There was no additional effect of NMES on exercise on self‐reported functional ability, stiffness, and physical function compared with exercise alone. In only one study, symptoms, activities of daily living, sports function, and quality of life improved after whole‐body electrostimulation combined with exercise. Conclusion: This review found insufficient evidence for the effectiveness of NMES combined with exercise in treating knee OA considering PROMs. While pain relief was observed in some studies, more high‐quality clinical trials are needed to support the use of NMES added to the exercise in clinical practice. Electrical stimulation in a whole‐body configuration combined with exercise shows promise as an alternative treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Takeaways: Hamilton, Ont., has an older, elaborate water distribution system, with high levels of nonrevenue water (NRW). The city was determined to reduce its NRW, so it conducted a leak detection pilot study to explore advanced technologies that could improve detection efforts. With a 95.6% accuracy rate from the pilot test results, the city implemented a full‐scale, proactive leak detection program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The idea of sustainable development highlights the need to address economic, social, and environmental aspects to preserve the rights and needs of future generations. This paper proposes an association between stakeholder theory (ST) and Actor‐Network Theory (ANT) that can better explain the dynamics of actors in the energy sector, in the context of sociotechnical transitions to sustainability. By selectively examining the way in which different researchers perceive this subject, we intend to address how the engagement of the stakeholders can promote sociotechnical transitions in the energy sector trough the connection between ST and ANT. We aim to characterize the dynamics of stakeholder's engagement in sociotechnical transitions in the context of sustainability in the energy sector, trough the connection of the two theories. A narrative literature review was performed on scientific databases. The results showed that sociotechnical transitions in the energy sector require the involvement of multiple actors with different interests and that ST associated with ANT provides a good basis for research on this theme. The association of both theories highlights the importance of ST to enhance cooperation in the areas of clean energy research and technology, providing a theoretical tool for understanding the dynamics of transitions and its different pathways. For future studies, it is recommended to deepen the relationship between human and non‐human actors and their role as stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integration of social‐emotional learning (SEL) content and vocabulary within read‐alouds of multicultural literature provides powerful learning contexts for enhancing young children's social problem‐solving, language development, and comprehension. Multicultural literature allows children to gain greater understanding of themselves and others through exploration of lives, realities and experiences of characters within texts. In this article, we offer a culturally sustaining pedagogical and social‐emotional learning framework, and criteria to guide educators' selection of multicultural picturebooks with social‐emotional learning themes for read‐alouds. We describe key features of recommended picturebooks and teaching suggestions for promoting vocabulary and social‐emotional learning through read‐alouds with young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide a comprehensive review of plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) in HIV‐positive patients and report a case of HIV‐associated oral plasmablastic lymphoma. We complied and discussed demographic, clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, therapeutic and prognostic features of 105 cases reported in English and Spanish literature. The inclusion criteria were documented cases of confirmed PBL of the oral cavity in HIV‐positive patients. Only cases with definitive microscopic diagnosis of PBL and description of HIV infection were included. Reports with insufficient clinical information of the patients were excluded. The literature review revealed 105 cases of HIV‐associated oral PBL in 46 published manuscripts. In addition, we reported the case of an aggressive oral PLB arising in a 30‐year‐old HIV‐positive female. This study provides a comprehensive review of clinical and microscopical landscape of PBL. Additionally, our data suggest that case reports should be more rigorous and detailed about the clinical findings, in order to facilitate the understanding of the clinical presentation pattern of oral PBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine how family relationships relate to stress and mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic response in Ontario, Canada. Background: Generally, families are pillars of strength during times of stress and burden. However, enduring stressors, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, may challenge the cohesion and caregiving functions of families. Researchers are just beginning to explore stressors associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic, family functioning, and mental health in the general population. Rooted in stress process theory, the current study disentangles the complex pathways through which COVID‐19‐pandemic–related stressors and family cohesion and family conflict are associated with the mental health of the general population in Ontario, Canada. Method: Data were collected using an online survey from April 22, 2020, to May 22, 2020. Through convenience sampling, 933 individuals were recruited from the general population in Ontario, Canada. Results: Findings suggest that COVID‐19‐pandemic–related stressors are associated with anxiety directly and indirectly through eroding family cohesion and exacerbating family conflicts. Conclusion: By looking into family cohesion and family conflicts simultaneously, this investigation has taken a nuanced approach to studying the influence of COVID‐19‐pandemic–related stressors on family functioning. Implications: These findings suggest that efforts to assist families in bolstering cohesiveness may be helpful. Further, diminishing family conflicts, especially during community or global disasters, such as epidemics, pandemics, or natural disasters, should be a focus in both practice and future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and disabling but seem particularly tractable to investigation with translational neuroscience methodologies. Neuroimaging has informed our understanding of the neurobiology of anxiety disorders, but research has been limited by small sample sizes and low statistical power, as well as heterogenous imaging methodology. The ENIGMA‐Anxiety Working Group has brought together researchers from around the world, in a harmonized and coordinated effort to address these challenges and generate more robust and reproducible findings. This paper elaborates on the concepts and methods informing the work of the working group to date, and describes the initial approach of the four subgroups studying generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobia. At present, the ENIGMA‐Anxiety database contains information about more than 100 unique samples, from 16 countries and 59 institutes. Future directions include examining additional imaging modalities, integrating imaging and genetic data, and collaborating with other ENIGMA working groups. The ENIGMA consortium creates synergy at the intersection of global mental health and clinical neuroscience, and the ENIGMA‐Anxiety Working Group extends the promise of this approach to neuroimaging research on anxiety disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid the COVID‐19 pandemic, students, families, and educators have faced unprecedented challenges. These challenges have disproportionately impacted racially/ethnically diverse, low‐income communities because of long‐standing health system, socioeconomic, and educational inequities. With closures of schools, libraries, and childcare centers, many students were disconnected from their community and did not have access to books. Parents' and educators' concerns centered around students falling behind academically and socially. In this article, we explain the motivation and rationale for a social justice initiative to provide students of color from low‐poverty areas with access to high‐quality multicultural children's literature at home. We describe our literacy partnership with a local after‐school program serving participant students and families, research underpinning the initiative, and our process for selecting high‐quality multicultural literature book sets and offer suggestions about how to facilitate comprehension and motivational support for home‐based reading. We also offer a list of recommended literature and discuss outcomes and implications of this project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to analyse vertical ground reaction force (Fz) and oxygen uptake (VO2) responses in six different water-based exercises performed at different cadences by postmenopausal women. Twelve postmenopausal women (57.3 ± 2.6 years, 158.1 ± 6.9 cm, 69.1 ± 10.9 kg) voluntarily took part in the study. Participants completed six sessions corresponding to maximal tests for each water-based exercise. Then, two sessions were performed for the experimental protocols, which comprised the performance of three exercises at three cadences (80, 100 and 120 b min-1), with Fz and VO2 measurements. Peak (Fzpeak) and impulse of Fz were determined. In addition, VO2 percentages relative to maximal VO2 (VO2max) values obtained in each maximal test were expressed as %VO2max. Data were analysed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures (α = 0.05). As results, significant differences were found in Fzpeak and impulse between the water-based exercises, with similar VO2 and %VO2max values between them for each cadence. In addition, with the increasing cadence, Fzpeak (0.20-0.80 BW), VO2 (5.3-9.4 ml kg-1 min-1) and %VO2max (32.1-57.6%) values increased, while impulse (0.20-0.07 N.s/BW) values were reduced. Therefore, for a same physiological intensity, postmenopausal women experience different Fz loads during different water-based exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strategic approach of corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be associated with sustainable practices, being considered as a source of value creation that generates competitive advantage and superior performance for companies. This perspective notes that the use of economic, social, and environmental resources and capacities can individually contribute to improving business performance (BP). The present study analyzes the strategic influence of the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of CSR on the performance of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Using a sample of 103 companies based in Brazil, the results indicate that SMEs can strategically use their resources and related capacities mainly for social and environmental issues, followed by the economic dimension of CSR, as an opportunity to create value and generate advantage competitive with rivals. Additionally, these three dimensions of CSR, with emphasis on the social aspect, can also provide better levels of BP in SMEs compared to competitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of five instruments used for irrigant agitation during the removal of calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] paste in simulated internal root resorption (IRR) cavities created in extracted maxillary central incisors. Methodology: Seventy maxillary central incisors with a single canal were selected. The canals were accessed and instrumented with Reciproc R50, then the roots were split in the bucco‐lingual direction and the halves separated. Simulated IRR cavities were created, in both halves of the roots, 5 mm from the apex with a spherical bur. The specimens were reconstructed with cyanoacrylate glue and allocated into seven groups: negative control – no treatment; positive control – filled with Ca(OH)2 without performing any irrigation protocol; the other groups were divided according to the instrument used for irrigant agitation, namely: Ultrasonic, EndoActivator®, EDDY®, XP‐endo® Finisher and XP‐endo® Shaper. The specimens were cleaved and analysed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, to compare the Ca(OH)2 remnants between them. Then, the IRR cavities created by the burs were cleaned and subjected to a protocol of demineralization with 20% nitric acid, the roots reconstructed, and the irrigant agitation methods, as well as the microscopic analysis was repeated. Analysis of the images of Ca(OH)2 remaining in the simulated IRR cavities after irrigation was performed by two calibrated examiners based on a previously established scoring system. The data were statistically compared by Kruskal–Wallis test, Mann–Whitney U‐test and Wilcoxon tests, with the significance level set at 5%. Results: There was a significant difference in the effectiveness of the instruments in relation to the cavity creation method (bur vs. bur/acid) and evaluation method (optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) (P < 0.05). The XP‐endo® Finisher and EDDY® groups were associated with significantly more effective removal of Ca(OH)2 when the IRR cavities were created using the acid protocol and analysed by scanning electron microscopy. Conclusion: None of the instruments tested were able to completely remove the Ca(OH)2 paste from the simulated IRR cavities; however, the EDDY® and XP‐endo® Finisher removed more Ca(OH)2 in the bur/acid cavity creation method analysed by scanning electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work analyzes whether discrimination of chain branching models is possible in addition diene polymerizations, based solely on average molecular weights and monomer conversions monitored during the reaction course, as usually performed in most quality control labs of industrial plants. In addition, it is verified whether the analyzed models present enough flexibility to fit data generated with the other rival models. Three kinetic models are considered, and kinetic parameters are varied in order to represent average molecular weights and monomer conversions that are typically found in addition diene polymerizations. The results show that model discrimination is indeed feasible with few experiments, even when only average molecular weights measured through GPC analyses are available, which can be of significant practical importance at plant site for critical characterization of product properties and process performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is thought to be closely related to ingrowth of new blood vessels. However, the impact of anti‐angiogenic factors in the maintenance of IVD avascularity remains unknown. Tenomodulin (Tnmd) is a tendon/ligament‐specific marker and anti‐angiogenic factor with abundant expression in the IVD. It is still unclear whether Tnmd contributes to the maintenance of IVD homeostasis, acting to inhibit vascular ingrowth into this normally avascular tissue. Herein, we investigated whether IVD degeneration could be induced spontaneously by the absence of Tnmd. Our results showed that Tnmd was expressed in an age‐dependent manner primarily in the outer annulus fibrous (OAF) and it was downregulated at 6 months of age corresponding to the early IVD degeneration stage in mice. Tnmd knockout (Tnmd−/−) mice exhibited more rapid progression of age‐related IVD degeneration. These signs include smaller collagen fibril diameter, markedly lower compressive stiffness, reduced multiple IVD‐ and tendon/ligament‐related gene expression, induced angiogenesis, and macrophage infiltration in OAF, as well as more hypertrophic‐like chondrocytes in the nucleus pulposus. In addition, Tnmd and chondromodulin I (Chm1, the only homologous gene to Tnmd) double knockout (Tnmd−/−Chm1−/−) mice displayed not only accelerated IVD degeneration, but also ectopic bone formation of IVD. Lastly, the absence of Tnmd in OAF‐derived cells promoted p65 and matrix metalloproteinases upregulation, and increased migratory capacity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In sum, our data provide clear evidences that Tnmd acts as an angiogenic inhibitor in the IVD homeostasis and protects against age‐related IVD degeneration. Targeting Tnmd may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for attenuating age‐related IVD degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Models of maturity in corporate social responsibility (CSRM) and in sustainable innovation (SIM) allow us to evaluate how a company is evolved in a given area, so that it can trace a strategic path of improvements in the economic, social, and environmental dimensions. This study developed maturity models seeking to verify the influence of CSRM on the SIM and of these dimensions in the business performance (BP). The analysis, grounded on resource‐based theory, used structural equation modeling with a sample of 154 Brazilian companies. It was found that CSRM exerts influence on the SIM and that both positively influence the BP. The use of these models can assist companies in creating value, generating competitive advantage, and promoting superior performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liposoluble molecules are a group of compounds that display potent biological and therapeutic properties. The present study aimed to identify liposoluble molecules produced by Ganoderma lipsiense grown in red rice medium using solid‐state fermentation (SSF) techniques, and to investigate the antigiardial and antibacterial activities potential of extracts in vitro. Eighteen fatty acids and derivatives were identified by gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis in G. lipsense extract. Qualitative (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance) characterizations identified the steroid ergosta‐6,22‐diene‐3β,5α,8α‐triol in purified hexane subfraction (HEXsf) F19 isolated from hexane fraction (HEXf) of crude extract (CE). Ergosta‐6,22‐diene‐3β,5α,8α‐triol exhibited significant inhibitory activity against Giardia duodenalis throphozoites (93.6%) in in vitro assays. CE and HEXf inhibited 95.38% and 92.74% of the G. duodenalis throphozoites in 100 µg mL−1, whereas CE and their fractions dichloromethane (DCMf) and ethyl acetate (EAf) showed antibacterial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus at 500 µg mL−1. Importantly, some liposoluble compounds produced and identified in G. lipsiense are unpublished for this species. This is first report for the production of ergosta‐6,22‐diene‐3β,5α,8α‐triol by G. lipsiense and its antiparasitic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability of two resin‐based composites photo‐activated by two light curing units (LCU) with different irradiances. Materials and Methods: Hundred disc‐shaped specimens (2‐mm thick) of a nanofilled (FZ‐ FiltekTM Z350 XT, 3M ESPE) and a microhybrid (ED—Empress® Direct, Ivoclar Vivadent) composites were photo‐activated with two LCU: Valo® Cordless, Ultradent (VA—1800 mW/cm2) or Radii‐cal, SDI (RA—900 mW/cm2). Samples (n = 5) were immersed during 12 days in distilled water (WT), orange juice (OJ), red wine (RW), coffee (CF), or Brazilian tea (BT). CIELAB coordinates were obtained using a spectrophotometer (Easyshade 4.0, Vita Zahnfabrik) before (T0) and after (T1) immersion. CIEDE2000 color difference (ΔE00) and whiteness index for dentistry (WID) were calculated. Data was analyzed by two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05%). Results: FZ light‐activated by VA showed higher L* and WID values (T0) and lower ΔE00 values after immersion in WT, OJ, and RW. However, there was no effect of both factors on ΔE00 when samples were immersed in BT and CF. ED light‐activated by RA showed significant higher C* values (p ≤ .05). Conclusions: The nanofilled composite photo‐activated with higher irradiance showed greater L* and WID values and better color stability. However, all samples immersed in colored beverages showed ΔE00 values above the acceptability threshold. Clinical Significance: Initial color of resin‐based composites can change after immersion in staining beverages. However, the best color stability was obtained by the nanocomposite photo‐activated by a light‐curing unit of higher irradiance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The optimal surgical treatment of splenic flexure neoplasm is still not well defined. Extended right hemicolectomy (ERH) and left colic resection (LCR) have been proposed but conclusive evidence concerning postoperative morbidity and oncological results is lacking. The aim of this study was to analyse the short‐term outcomes after surgery for splenic flexure cancer with regard to surgical procedure and surgeon's specialty. Methods: This was a multicentre study on patients who underwent surgery for primary colon cancer of the splenic flexure. Results: From 2004 to 2015, 324 patients fulfilled the criteria for inclusion into the study; 270 (83.4%) had elective surgery while 54 (16.6%) had emergency resection: 158 (48.8%) underwent ERH and 166 (51.2%) LCR; 176 (54.3%) procedures were performed by colorectal surgeons, 148 (46.7%) by general surgeons. In the ERH group a significantly higher rate of emergency operations was carried out (P = 0.005). After elective surgery, no significant differences between ERH and LCR concerning 30‐day mortality (3.3% vs 2.0%) and the need for reoperation (10.6% vs 7.4%) were found. Nodal harvesting was significantly higher in the ERH and colorectal surgeon groups in any clinical scenario. At multivariate analysis, age and smoking habit were predictive of the need for reoperation and major morbidity while the general surgeon group showed a higher risk of anastomotic failure (OR = 1.92; P = 0.168). Conclusion: We analysed the largest series in literature of curative resections for splenic flexure tumours. The optimal procedure still remains debatable as ERH and LCR appear to achieve comparable short‐term outcomes. Surgeon's specialty seems to positively affect patient's outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The wine industry produces tons of pomace that, in a circular economy model, should be valorised. The phenols fraction of grape pomace represents a source of food colorants, but also of natural food preservatives. Furthermore, the pomace contains dietary fibre, unsaturated lipids, antioxidants and minerals that have been recognised as wholesome and technologically useful. The main drawback of using grape pomace is represented by its chemical and microbiological instability. Different authors proposed strategies to overcome these limitations, and different approaches for the use of grape pomace as an ingredient have been described. Here, we sum up the chemical and microbiological solutions for the stabilisation of grape pomace, describing the approaches used to transform this waste in a functional ingredient, and comparing the physiochemical characteristics of the resulting products. We further describe the studies concerning sensory aspects of the products by enriching animal fleshes with different pomace powder preparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C‐factor analysis helps a Canadian water utility target trenchless pipe lining repair for cost‐effective asset renewal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This work proposes a procedure for simultaneous parameters identifiability and estimation in metabolic networks in order to overcome difficulties associated with lack of experimental data and large number of parameters, a common scenario in the modeling of such systems. As case study, the complex real problem of parameters identifiability of the Escherichia coli K-12 W3110 dynamic model was investigated, composed by 18 differential ordinary equations and 35 kinetic rates, containing 125 parameters. With the procedure, model fit was improved for most of the measured metabolites, achieving 58 parameters estimated, including 5 unknown initial conditions. The results indicate that simultaneous parameters identifiability and estimation approach in metabolic networks is appealing, since model fit to the most of measured metabolites was possible even when important measures of intracellular metabolites and good initial estimates of parameters are not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, adaptive orthogonal collocation and a Monte Carlo method are used to compute the molecular weight distributions (MWD) of ethylene/1,9-decadiene copolymers produced with a constrained geometry catalyst. Predictions from each model are compared to each other and to the experimental MWDs, allowing for the evaluation of relative strengths and weaknesses of each mathematical modeling method. Comparisons with experimental results indicate that the rate of macromonomer incorporation in the growing polymer chains decays with the macromonomer radius of gyration. In all cases, the proposed models are able to fit appropriately the available experimental MWDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the peak anterior–posterior (Fy) and medio–lateral (Fx) ground reaction forces (GRFs) of women performing stationary running at different intensities in aquatic and dry land environments. Fourteen young women performed the stationary running exercise at three cadences (first ventilatory threshold, second ventilatory threshold and maximum effort, as determined during exercise in water) in aquatic and dry land environments. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyse the data (α = .05). As a result, significantly lower peak Fy anterior, Fy posterior, Fx medial and Fx lateral values were observed for the aquatic environment, except for the Fy posterior at the first ventilatory threshold. Significant differences were observed between cadences in the peak Fy anterior, Fy posterior, Fx medial and Fx lateral values, with higher values for the cadence corresponding to maximum effort compared to the first ventilatory threshold, except for the Fy posterior and Fx medial in the aquatic environment. The results indicate that the horizontal GRFs are reduced in the aquatic environment and depend on the intensity of stationary running exercise performance. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the periodontal profile of -candidates for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.Methods: This cross-sectional prospective study was performed from March 2014 to March 2015. After an initial interview, eligible individuals were evaluated by the following clinical parameters: visible plaque, bleeding on probing, probing depth, and clinical attachment level at six sites per tooth, excluding third molars.Results: Thirty-six candidates for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) were clinically assessed. Eight (22%) patients were diagnosed with gingivitis and 21 (58%) of them with periodontitis. The gingival bleeding was statistically correlated with the percentage of sites with visible plaque (p < 0.0001; r = 0.630) and did not correlate with the number of platelets (p = 0.643, r = -0.082).Conclusions: The candidates for allogeneic HSCT studied showed a high prevalence of periodontal diseases with unmonitored local infection before transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long chain branches improve the viscoelastic properties of polyolefins and make them easier to process. The frequency of long chain branching in polyethylenes made with coordination catalysts can be substantially increased by copolymerizing ethylene with small amounts of nonconjugated dienes using an adequate catalyst. In this work, the kinetics of copolymerization of ethylene and 1,9-decadiene is investigated using a constrained geometry catalyst in a solution polymerization semi-batch reactor, and a novel mathematical model is proposed to describe the resulting molecular weight distributions. A hybrid approach, combining particle swarm optimization, parameter identifiability procedures, and the Gauss-Newton method is applied to estimate the model parameters. The proposed mechanism includes macromonomer reincorporation through pendant double bonds that result from diene incorporation. The predicted long chain branching frequencies are validated by Monte Carlo simulation. Experimental average molecular weights and ethylene feed flow rates are successfully predicted by both methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, Monte Carlo methods were used to simulate olefin polymerization with coordination catalysts: the Direct method (DM), the First Reaction method (FRM), the Next Reaction method (NRM), and the τ-Leaping method. The first three methods are exact stochastic simulation algorithms (SSA), while the τ-Leaping is an approximate method with faster computation times. It is shown that all four methods predict similar polymer microstructures, but require significantly different computation times. The τ-Leaping method is the fastest, being recommended when complex polymerization mechanisms are being investigated. The NRM, because of its intelligent data storage and handling approach, is the best among the SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different values of the kinetic rate constants have been reported for initiator decompositions carried out in microwave and conventional batch reactors. The present work analyzes the confidence regions of kinetic parameters estimated for the thermal decomposition of two initiators, potassium persulfate (KPS) and 2-2′-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (V-50), which confirm the difference between the parameters obtained in microwave and conventional reactors. Moreover, by assuming no changes in kinetics under microwave heating, the temperature and volume of hot spots required to explain the apparent increase of kinetic rate constants are calculated. The results suggest that formation of hot spots may explain the observed effects without the occurrence of additional phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monte Carlo methods are heuristic algorithms that use probabilities to select an outcome among several possible events in a given process. Monte Carlo methods are useful in polymer reaction engineering because they can predict the molecular architecture of polymers with details that cannot be easily captured by any other modeling technique. One of the advantages of Monte Carlo simulation is that one does not need to solve differential or algebraic equations to predict the microstructures of polymers. This article reviews the literature on steady-state and dynamic Monte Carlo methods in polymer reaction engineering. We hope to convince the readers that playing dice regularly can be a great asset to polymer reactors engineers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe and compare ballet dancers' cardiorespiratory responses, muscle damage and oxidative stress levels during a ballet class (practice of isolated ballet exercises performed with barre/hand-rail support and across-the-floor movements to improve technical skills) and rehearsal (practice of ballet choreography involving technical-artistic skills to improve dancers' performance for shows). The 12 advanced female ballet dancers undertook three exercise sessions: maximum effort test, class and rehearsal. Heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (V̇O2) were continuously measured. Lactate was determined before 15 min and after class and rehearsal. Blood was sampled pre, post and 48 h after class and rehearsal for creatine kinase (CK), lipid peroxides (LPO) and glutathione analysis (GSSG/GSH). Class was of lower intensity than rehearsal as shown byV̇O2, HR and lactate values:V̇O2(mL.kg−1.min−1): 14.5±2.1 vs 19.1±1.7 (p <0.001); HR (bpm.min−1): 145.7±17.9 vs 174.5±13.8 (p <0.001); lactate (mmol.L−1): 4.2±1.1 vs 5.5±2.7 (p =0.049). CK (IU) increased following class and rehearsal, remaining high 48 h after: class (pre = 109.3±48.5; post = 144±60; 48 h = 117.2±64.6); rehearsal (pre = 78.6±52.1; post = 122±70.7; 48 h = 104.9±89.5). LPO (µM) increased from pre-class (1.27±0.19) to post-class (1.41±0.19) and went down after 48 h (1.20±0.22). No LPO time-course changes followed the rehearsal. GSSG/GSH decreased 48 h after class and rehearsal. Greater increases in LPO post-class suggest it promotes CK release by an oxidative membrane-damage mechanism. Physiological increases of LPO and CK in class indicate it prepares the dancers for exercise-induced oxidative stress and muscle damage during rehearsals. Ballet dancers' muscle damage and oxidative stress responses seem not to be dependent on exercise intensity based onV̇O2responses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although the link between altered stem cell properties and tissue aging has been recognized, the molecular and cellular processes of tendon aging have not been elucidated. As tendons contain stem/progenitor cells ( TSPC), we investigated whether the molecular and cellular attributes of TSPC alter during tendon aging and degeneration. Comparing TSPC derived from young/healthy (Y- TSPC) and aged/degenerated human Achilles tendon biopsies (A- TSPC), we observed that A- TSPC exhibit a profound self-renewal and clonogenic deficits, while their multipotency was still retained. Senescence analysis showed a premature entry into senescence of the A- TSPC, a finding accompanied by an upregulation of p16INK4A. To identify age-related molecular factors, we performed microarray and gene ontology analyses. These analyses revealed an intriguing transcriptomal shift in A- TSPC, where the most differentially expressed probesets encode for genes regulating cell adhesion, migration, and actin cytoskeleton. Time-lapse analysis showed that A- TSPC exhibit decelerated motion and delayed wound closure concomitant to a higher actin stress fiber content and a slower turnover of actin filaments. Lastly, based on the expression analyses of microarray candidates, we suggest that dysregulated cell-matrix interactions and the ROCK kinase pathway might be key players in TSPC aging. Taken together, we propose that during tendon aging and degeneration, the TSPC pool is becoming exhausted in terms of size and functional fitness. Thus, our study provides the first fundamental basis for further exploration into the molecular mechanisms behind tendon aging and degeneration as well as for the selection of novel tendon-specific therapeutical targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2-Deoxy- D-glucose (2DG) is a synthetic glucose analogue that inhibits glycolysis and blocks cancer cell growth. In this report, we evaluated the role of 2DG in the induction of cell death in human metastatic melanoma cells. We have also examined the effects of 2DG in combined treatments with four different pro-apoptotic agents: ( i) Temozolomide (TMZ), a chemotherapic drug commonly used to treat metastatic melanoma, ( ii) Pyrimethamine (Pyr), a pro-apoptotic antifolate drug recently reappraised in cancer therapy, ( iii) Cisplatin (CisPt), a drug capable of directly binding to DNA ultimately triggering apoptosis of cancer cells and ( iv) the kinase inhibitor Staurosporine (STS), a prototypical inducer of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. We found that 2DG per se: ( i) induced a cell cycle arrest in G0/ G1, ( ii) promoted autophagy, ( iii) was ineffective in inducing apoptosis in association with the chemotherapic drug TMZ, whereas ( iv) it was synergistic with CisPt and STS pro-apoptotic drugs through a mechanism involving changes of mitochondrial homeostasis. Conversely, ( v) 2DG hindered the pro-apoptotic effects of Pyr via a mechanism involving either the block of cell cycle in G0/ G1 or the modification of the free radical production of the cell, i.e., decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increasing the production of reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Moreover, a clear-cut autophagic response involving endoplasmic reticulum remodelling was detectable. Since autophagic cytoprotection has been suggested to contribute to the induction of chemoresistance, these results could provide useful clues as concerns the use of 2DG as anticancer agent in combinatory protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ectomycorrhizal (ECM) symbiosis can cause both positive and negative feedback with trees under elevated CO2. Positive feedback arises if the additional carbon (C) increases both nutrient uptake by the fungus and nutrient transfer to the plant, whereas negative feedback results from increased nutrient uptake and immobilization by the fungus and reduced transfer to the plant. Because species of ECM fungi differ in their C and nitrogen (N) demand, understanding fungal species-specific responses to variation in C and N supply is essential to predict impacts of global change. We investigated fungal species-specific responses of ECM Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris) seedlings under ambient and elevated CO2 (350 or 700 μL L−1 CO2) and under low and high mineral N availability. Each seedling was associated with one of the following ECM species: Hebeloma cylindrosporum, Laccaria bicolor and Suillus bovinus. The experiment lasted 103 days. During the final 27 days, seedlings were labeled with 14CO2 and 15N. Most plant and fungal parameters were significantly affected by fungal species, CO2 level and N supply. Interactions between fungal species and CO2 were also regularly significant. At low N availability, elevated CO2 had the smallest impact on the photosynthetic performance of seedlings inoculated with H. cylindrosporum and the largest impact on seedlings with S. bovinus. At ambient CO2, increasing N supply had the smallest impact on seedlings inoculated with S. bovinus and the largest on seedlings inoculated with H. cylindrosporum. At low N availability, extraradical hyphal length increased after doubling CO2 level, but this was significant only for L. bicolor. At ambient CO2, increasing N levels reduced hyphal length for both H. cylindrosporum and S. bovinus, but not for L. bicolor. We discuss the potential interplay of two major elements of global change, elevated CO2 and increased N availability, and their effects on plant growth. We conclude that increased N supply potentially relieves mycorrhiza-induced progressive N limitation under elevated CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate self and parent reports on quality of life (QoL) and psychological adjustment of youths with type 1 diabetes, in comparison to a general paediatric population, and identify relationships between disease duration, metabolic control and psychological parameters. Research design and methods: Participants included 70 youths with type 1 diabetes and their parents. They were compared with 70 non-diabetic subjects. Data were analyzed in the whole group and in subgroups aged 6–10, 11–13 and 14–18 yr. All cases performed pediatric QoL, Child Behaviour Checklist, filled in by parents, and Youth Self-Report, filled in by youths. Data were compared with haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values and disease duration. Results: Self-reports showed a psychological adjustment of youths with type 1 diabetes similar to that of controls. Parent reports showed that parents of children with type 1 diabetes were more worried than those of controls (p < 0.01). Adolescents showed a worse QoL and more frequent psychological disturbances. In this group, for youth and parent reports, HbA1c levels correlated positively with psychological problems (p < 0.05) and negatively with QoL (p < 0.05). Only for parent reports, in the whole group and in subgroups aged 6–10 and 11–13 yr, disease duration correlated positively with psychological adjustment (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Before adolescence, youths with type 1 diabetes showed only slight problems in psychological adjustment and QoL, with an association with disease duration reported by parents. In adolescence, both youths and their parents reported more emotional and behavioural problems, independent of disease duration. Better metabolic control and psychological well-being seemed directly related. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extra-cellular production of a novel galactose oxidase from Fusarium acuminatum using submerged fermentation was studied. Glucose (1.0% w/v) was used as the sole carbon source. Maximum galactose oxidase production (approximately 4.0 U/ml) was obtained when fermentation was carried out at 25 °C, with orbital shaking (100 rpm) and an initial medium of pH 7.0, for 96 h, using a 2% (v/v) inoculum made from a homogenized four-day-old liquid culture, in the presence of copper, manganese, and magnesium. The enzyme was purified by one-step affinity chromatography, with a recovery of 42% of the initial activity. The purified enzyme ran as a single band of 66 kDa in SDS-PAGE. Optimal pH and temperature for the enzyme activity were 8.0 and 30 °C, respectively. The enzyme was thermoinactivated at temperatures above 60 °C. The purified enzyme was active toward various substrates, including galactose, dihydroxyacetone, guar gum, lactose, melibiose, methyl-galactopyranoside, and raffinose. SDS was an inhibitor but EDTA, Tween 80, NH4+, Na+, Mg2+, K+, and glycerol were not. The Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) for galactose was estimated to be 16.2 mM, while maximal velocity (Vmax) was 0.27 μmol of H2O2 · ml–1 · min–1. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The aim here was to separately assess mycorrhizal fungal and plant responses under elevated atmospheric CO2, and to test a mycocentric model that assumes that increased carbon availability to the fungus will not automatically feed back to enhanced plant growth performance. • Meta-analyses were applied across independent studies. Responses were compared in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, and ECM and AM plants. • Responses of both mycorrhizal fungi and mycorrhizal plants to elevated CO2 were significantly positive. The response ratio for ECM fungi was 1.34 (an increase of 34%) and for AM fungi 1.21 (21%), indicating a significantly different response. The response ratio for ECM plants was 1.26, similar to that of AM plants (1.25). Fractional colonization proved to be an unsuitable fungal parameter. Evidence was found for the mycocentric view in ECM, but not in AM systems. • Fungal identity and plant identity were important parameters that affected response ratios. The need for better descriptors of fungal and plant responses is emphasized. New Phytologist (2005) doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2005.01458.x © New Phytologist (2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The aim here was to separately assess mycorrhizal fungal and plant responses under elevated atmospheric CO2, and to test a mycocentric model that assumes that increased carbon availability to the fungus will not automatically feed back to enhanced plant growth performance. • Meta-analyses were applied across independent studies. Responses were compared in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, and ECM and AM plants. • Responses of both mycorrhizal fungi and mycorrhizal plants to elevated CO2 were significantly positive. The response ratio for ECM fungi was 1.34 (an increase of 34%) and for AM fungi 1.21 (21%), indicating a significantly different response. The response ratio for ECM plants was 1.26, similar to that of AM plants (1.25). Fractional colonization proved to be an unsuitable fungal parameter. Evidence was found for the mycocentric view in ECM, but not in AM systems. • Fungal identity and plant identity were important parameters that affected response ratios. The need for better descriptors of fungal and plant responses is emphasized. New Phytologist (2005) doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2005.01458.x © New Phytologist (2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Centiloid scale (CL) represents an attempt to standardize amyloid imaging to create a measure of global cortical β‐amyloid deposition using positron emission tomography (PET). The CL approach transforms standard uptake value ratio (SUVR) into values ranging from 0 to 100. This study aims to investigate the brain amyloid load in SuperAgers (SA), healthy age‐matched controls (ACs), and healthy middle‐aged controls (MCs). Method: Thirty cognitively healthy individuals were evaluated with a cognitive screening and the Rey Auditory‐Verbal Learning Test (A7 list). They underwent an amyloid PET image with PIB were acquired in 3D mode from 40 to 60 minutes after injection using a PET/CT scanner (Discovery 600, GE Healthcare). Image analysis was performed using the PMOD software ‐ PNEURO tool (PMOD Technologies). SUVR was transformed to CTX (Global Cortical Target region) using the whole cerebellum (WC) as reference. The equation used to convert SUVR to CL is CL=100 (SUVR‐0.987)/1.019 and fits the parameters described previously. Result: Total sample included 10 MCs (58.7±5.52 years‐old; A7 = 10.7±3.4), 10 ACs (83.5±4.2 years‐old; A7 = 6.9±1.7) and 10 SA (83.3±2.63 years‐old; A7 = 11.4±2.01). No significant difference was observed in the group analysis between amyloid SUVR between MC, SA, and AC groups (p=0.084). However, the mean CL values were for MCs: 0.65±6.5 CL; ACs: 31.20±34.5 CL; SA: 21.2±33.7 CL. The SuperAgers group exhibited a similar amyloid‐β burden compared with AC, even though A7‐RAVLT test results were significantly different (p=0.001). Conclusion: The CL approach was successfully implemented in various cognitive aging trajectories using the [11C]PiB PET. SuperAgers exhibited a similar amyloid‐β load to that of age‐matched healthy controls in both SUVR and CL analyses. Tau studies could help to find a better relationship between biomarker load and cognitive behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the results of in vitro and in vivo investigations on the effect of prostacyclin (PGI2) on polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) challenged with immune complexes (IC). In vitro, PGI2 does not affect the interaction of IC with PMN membrane receptors, but prevents the ensuing PMN aggregation and secretion of platelet-activating factor, a lipid mediator responsible for immune-induced PMN aggregation. In vivo, the infusion of PGI2 in New Zealand white rabbits injected with IC prevents IC-induced neutropenia and thrombocytopenia as well as the embolization of PMN into the pulmonary peripheral capillary network. These results suggest a physiological role for PGI2 in modulating the interaction between IC and PMN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]