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Slag fuming (SF) is a metallurgical process designed to recycle Zn‐containing slags derived from various industrial residues. To protect the reactor from corrosive molten slag, a deliberate as‐solidified slag layer, known as a freeze lining (FL), is formed on the reactor walls using intense water‐cooled jackets. In this article, a computational‐fluid‐dynamics‐based model capable of simulating FL formation in a SF furnace is presented. To capture the complex multiphase flow dynamics, heat transfer, and FL formation during SF, a volume‐of‐fluid model is coupled with a mixture continuum solidification model. Three phases are considered: gas, liquid bulk slag, and solid slag (FL). Moreover, two types of FL are distinguished: one that solidifies on the reactor wall in the bulk slag region and another that solidifies on the reactor wall in the freeboard region owing to slag splashing. Comparisons between calculated FL thickness and heat fluxes and corresponding industrial data demonstrate satisfactory agreement. In this outcome, the robustness of the model is underscored and confidence in its accuracy is instilled. In the simulation results, valuable insights are provided into the evolution of the fuming process, particularly regarding the slag bath temperature, slag splashing dynamics, FL formation, local heat fluxes through the reactor wall, and global net energy balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is the primary cause of cancer‐related death in women worldwide. Breast cancer subtypes are characterized by different gene expression patterns, which drive their prognostic factors and therapeutic options. Among them, triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the deadliest due to its aggressiveness, high rate of early recurrence and distant metastases, and limited therapeutic options. Despite the recent approval of monoclonal antibodies targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) or its ligand (PD‐L1) for the treatment of TNBC patients with a locally recurrent unresectable or metastatic tumor expressing PD‐L1, their response rate is very modest. It is reported that polymeric nanoparticle (NP)‐based cancer vaccines, co‐entrapping tumor‐associated antigens, Toll‐like receptor ligands and small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting the expression of the immunosuppressive cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 by dendritic cells, sensitized TNBC to the agonist immune checkpoint OX40, inhibiting tumor growth and increasing overall survival. This anti‐tumor immune‐mediated effect is also observed in a luminal type of mammary cancer similar to human disease. Therefore, these synergistic anticancer effects of αOX40 and the antigen‐specific adaptive immunity induced by nanovaccine‐mediated TGF‐β silencing may guide the development of novel combination regimens able to improve the response rate to this aggressive tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Candida spp. is an opportunistic pathogen that causes superficial and invasive infections with nosocomial outbreaks without strict hygiene protocols. Herein, we assessed oral colonisation by Candida spp. in 209 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients between July 2021 and April 2022, conducting clinical, epidemiological, and microbiological characterisation of those developing oral or invasive candidiasis. Methods: Initial oral swabs were collected within 24 h of admission in the ICU, followed by collections on Days 2, 4, 6 and 8. Swabs from denture‐wearing patients, abiotic surfaces, healthcare professionals' hands, and retroauricular regions were also obtained. Recovered yeasts and filamentous fungi were identified using MALDI‐TOF MS and morphological characteristics, respectively. Genetic similarity of Candida spp. isolates was evaluated using Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), and the antifungal susceptibility profile was determined by broth microdilution. Results: In the study, 64.11% of patients were orally colonised by Candida spp. Of these, 80.59% were colonised within the first 24 h. Oral colonisation also occurred on subsequent days: 50%/Day 2, 26.92%/Day 4, and 11.53%/Days 6 and 8. Of the patients, 8.61% had oral candidiasis, mainly pseudomembranous. Among orally colonised patients, 2.23% developed invasive candidiasis. Besides, 89.47% of healthcare professionals evaluated were colonised. MALDI‐TOF MS identified different yeast species, and C. albicans (45.34%), C. tropicalis (15.7%), and C. parapsilosis sensu stricto (9.88%) were the most prevalent. AFLP analysis indicated a high genetic correlation (≥97%) between C. parapsilosis sensu stricto isolates from patients and professionals. Three resistant C. albicans isolates were also found. Conclusion: This study reported a diversity of yeast and filamentous fungi species in ICU patients and highlighted early Candida spp. colonisation risks for invasive candidiasis, as well as the potential horizontal transmission in the nosocomial setting, emphasising the need for effective infection control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning models are widely used in multivariate time series forecasting, yet, they have high computational costs. One way to reduce this cost is by reducing data dimensionality, which involves removing unimportant or low importance information with the proper method. This work presents a study on an explainability feature selection framework composed of four methods (IMV‐LSTM Tensor, LIME‐LSTM, Average SHAP‐LSTM, and Instance SHAP‐LSTM) aimed at using the LSTM black‐box model complexity to its favour, with the end goal of improving the error metrics and reducing the computational cost on a forecast task. To test the framework, three datasets with a total of 101 multivariate time series were used, with the explainability methods outperforming the baseline methods in most of the data, be it in error metrics or computation time for the LSTM model training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fats extracted from bati (Ouratea sp.) and ucuuba (Virola surinamensis) fruit seeds are consumed by the local population. However, important characteristics for its use as food or cosmetic/pharmaceutical raw material are poorly studied. This study describes the fatty acid profile, physicochemical characteristics, bioactive properties, and cytotoxicity of these materials. The results demonstrated that bati fat presents a high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acid (66.06%), with 45.36% of linoleic acid. In contrast, ucuuba fat presented a higher saturated fatty acid percentage (85.75%), especially lauric acid (37.80%). The methanolic fractions of fats show a total phenolic content of 76 mg GAE g−1. The bati and ucuuba fats presented antioxidant activity in vitro by 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical scavenging and inhibition of α‐amylase activity. In addition, the samples showed no toxicity against cell lines of Chinese hamster ovary and human hepatocellular carcinoma. These findings provide relevant and appropriate conditions for applying bati and ucuuba seed fats in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Practical Application: The knowledge gained in the present study will open a new approach for exploiting Ouratea sp. and Virola surinamensis seed fat lipid sources with promising applications in formulating functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products, thereby benefiting a sustainable industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish ectoparasites are one of the pathogens groups that pose great concern to the aquaculture industry. The dinoflagellate Amyloodinium ocellatum is responsible for amyloodiniosis, a parasitological disease with a strong economic impact in temperate and warm water aquaculture, mainly in earthen pond semi‐intensive systems. Amyloodiniosis represents one of the most important bottlenecks for aquaculture and, with the predictable expansion of the area of influence of this parasite to higher latitudes due to global warming it might also be a threat to other aquaculture species that are not yet parasitized by A. ocellatum. This review made a compilation of the existing knowledge about this parasite and the disease associated with it. It was noticed that, except from the life cycle characterisation, detection methods, histopathological analysis, and treatments, there are still a lot of areas that need a further investment in research. Areas like parasite–host interactions, epidemiological models, taxonomy, host physiological responses to parasitism, and genome sequencing, amongst others, can contribute to a better understanding of this disease. These proposed approaches and routes of investigation will enhance and contribute to a more standardised knowledge, creating the opportunity for a better understanding of amyloodiniosis impacts on fish and contributing for the development of new tools against A. ocellatum, that may reduce fish mortality in aquaculture production due to amyloodiniosis outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type 1 gene (PCSK1) is implicated in hypothalamic appetite control. Several studies have addressed the relationship between PCSK1 polymorphisms and obesity, although conflicting results were observed. We tested the potential association of four PCSK1 variants with the risk of overweight/obesity and related variables in Portuguese children. Methods: This is a case–control study, where four PCSK1 variants, rs6230 (c.−101T>C), rs6232 (p.N221D), rs6235 (p.S690T), and rs3811942 (c.*265T>C), were analyzed in Portuguese children (aged 5–13 years‐old). Anthropometric measures were objectively collected and used to provide weight‐for‐age, height‐for‐age, and body mass index (BMI) for age. The indices generated were compared to standard reference values of WHO to obtain the corresponding Z‐scores. Results: Logistic regression, in the dominant model, revealed no significant associations between the four individual PCSK1 variants and the risk of overweight/obesity in the total population. However, stratifying the sample by sex, a marginally significant association was found between the rs6235 minor C‐allele and increased overweight/obesity in boys (n = 345) (OR 1.55 [1.01–2.38] p =.044), but not in girls (n = 340) (OR 0.73 [0.46–1.14] p =.169). Consistently, boys with genotype GG presented lower BMI Z‐score (0.62) when compared to those with the genotypes GC + CC (1.04). Testing for different effects in males versus females, a significant interaction was found between the rs6235 polymorphism and sex for BMI Z‐score (p =.025). Conclusions: Results of this study suggest for a sex‐differentiated association between PCSK1 rs6235 and overweight/ obesity in Portuguese children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourth-generation synchrotron storage rings represent a significant milestone in synchrotron technology, offering outstandingly bright and tightly focused X-ray beams for a wide range of scientific applications. However, due to their inherently tight magnetic lattices, these storage rings have posed critical challenges for accessing lower-energy radiation, such as infrared (IR) and THz. Here the first-ever IR beamline to be installed and to operate at a fourth-generation synchrotron storage ring is introduced. This work encompasses several notable advancements, including a thorough examination of the new IR source at Sirius, a detailed description of the radiation extraction scheme, and the successful validation of our optical concept through both measurements and simulations. This optimal optical setup has enabled us to achieve an exceptionally wide frequency range for our nanospectroscopy experiments. Through the utilization of synchrotron IR nanospectroscopy on biological and hard matter samples, the practicality and effectiveness of this beamline has been successfully demonstrated. The advantages of fourth-generation synchrotron IR sources, which can now operate with unparalleled stability as a result of the stringent requirements for producing low-emittance X-rays, are emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The mechanisms governing the progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) towards steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain elusive. Here, we evaluated the role of hsa‐miRNA‐21‐5p in NASH‐related hepatocarcinogenesis. Methods: Hepatic hsa‐miR‐21‐5p expression was evaluated in two cohorts of patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD (n = 199) or HCC (n = 366 HCC and n = 11 NAFLD‐HCC). Serum/liver metabolomic profiles were correlated with hsa‐miR‐21‐5p in NAFLD obese patients. Wild‐type (WT) and Mir21 KO mice were fed a choline‐deficient, amino acid‐defined (CDAA) diet for 32 and 66 weeks to induce NASH and NASH‐HCC, respectively. Results: In obese individuals, hsa‐miR‐21‐5p expression increased with NAFLD severity and associated with a hepatic lipotoxic profile. CDAA‐fed WT mice displayed increased hepatic mmu‐miR‐21‐5p levels and progressively developed NASH and fibrosis, with livers presenting macroscopically discernible pre‐neoplastic nodules, hyperplastic foci and deregulated cancer‐related pathways. Mir21 KO mice exhibited peroxisome‐proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) activation, augmented mitochondrial activity, reduced liver injury and NAS below the threshold for NASH diagnosis, with the pro‐inflammatory/fibrogenic milieu reversing to baseline levels. In parallel, Mir21 KO mice displayed reduced number of pre‐neoplastic nodules, hepatocyte proliferation and activation of oncogenic signalling, being protected from NASH‐associated carcinogenesis. The hsa‐miRNA‐21‐5p/PPARα pathway was similarly deregulated in patients with HCC‐ or NASH‐related HCC, correlating with HCC markers and worse prognosis. Conclusions: Hsa‐miR‐21‐5p is a key inducer of whole‐spectrum NAFLD progression, from simple steatosis to NASH and NASH‐associated carcinogenesis. The inhibition of hsa‐miR‐21‐5p, leading to a pro‐metabolic profile, might constitute an appealing therapeutic approach to ameliorate NASH and prevent progression towards HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empirical evidence has supported that musical excerpts written in major and minor modes are responsible for evoking happiness and sadness, respectively. In this study, we evaluated whether the emotional content evoked by musical stimuli would transfer to abstract figures when they became members of the same equivalence class. Participants assigned to the experimental group were submitted to a training procedure to form equivalence classes comprising musical excerpts (A) and meaningless abstract figures (B, C, and D). Afterward, transfer of function was evaluated using a semantic differential. Participants in the control group showed positive semantic differential scores for major mode musical excerpts, negative scores for minor mode musical excerpts, and neutral scores for the B, C, and D stimuli. Participants in the experimental groups showed positive semantic differential scores for visual stimuli equivalent to the major modes and negative semantic differential scores for visual stimuli equivalent to the minor modes. These results indicate transfer of function of emotional content present in musical stimuli through equivalence class formation. These findings could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of using emotional stimuli in equivalence class formation experiments and in transfer of function itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The consumption of high‐caloric diets strongly contributes to the development of non‐communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Exercise (along with diet intervention) is one of the primary non‐pharmacological approaches to promote a healthier lifestyle and counteract the rampant prevalence of NCDs. The present study evaluated the effects of exercise cessation after a short period training on the cardiac metabolic and mitochondrial function of female rats. Methods: Seven‐week‐old female Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a control or a high‐fat, high‐sugar (HFHS) diet and, after 7 weeks, the animals were kept on a sedentary lifestyle or submitted to endurance exercise for 3 weeks (6 days per week, 20–60 min/day). The cardiac samples were analysed 8 weeks after exercise cessation. Results: The consumption of the HFHS diet triggered impaired glucose tolerance, whereas the HFHS diet and physical exercise resulted in different responses in plasma adiponectin and leptin levels. Cardiac mitochondrial respiration efficiency was decreased by the HFHS diet consumption, which led to reduced ATP and increased NAD(P)H mitochondrial levels, which remained prevented by exercise 8 weeks after cessation. Exercise training‐induced cardiac adaptations in redox balance, namely increased relative expression of Nrf2 and downstream antioxidant enzymes persist after an eight‐week exercise cessation period. Conclusions: Endurance exercise modulated cardiac redox balance and mitochondrial efficiency in female rats fed a HFHS diet. These findings suggest that exercise may elicit cardiac adaptations crucial for its role as a non‐pharmacological intervention for individuals at risk of developing NCDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) has played an important role in patient selection for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic stroke. We aimed to investigate the agreement between perfusion parametric maps of 3 software packages – RAPID (RapidAI‐IschemaView), Viz CTP(Viz.ai), and e‐CTP(Brainomix) – in estimating baseline ischemic core volumes of near completely/completely reperfused patients. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a prospectively maintained MT database to identify patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion strokes (LVOS) involving the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery M1‐segment and interpretable CTP maps treated during September 2018 to November 2019. A subset of patients with near‐complete/complete reperfusion (expanded thrombolysis in cerebral infarction [eTICI] 2c–3) was used to compare the pre‐procedural prediction of final infarct volumes. Results: In this analysis of 242 patients with LVOS, RAPID and Viz CTP relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF) < 30% values had substantial agreement (ρ = 0.767 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.71–0.81]) as well as for RAPID and e‐CTP (ρ = 0.668 [95% CI = 0.61–0.71]). Excellent agreement was seen for time to maximum of the residue function (Tmax) > 6 seconds between RAPID and Viz CTP (ρ = 0.811 [95% CI = 0.76–0.84]) and substantial for RAPID and e‐CTP (ρ = 0.749 [95% CI = 0.69–0.79]). Final infarct volume (FIV) prediction (n = 136) was substantial in all 3 packages (RAPID ρ = 0.744; Viz CTP ρ = 0.711; and e‐CTP ρ = 0.600). Conclusion: Perfusion parametric maps of the RAPID, Viz CTP, and e‐CTP software have substantial agreement in predicting final infarct volume in near‐completely/completely reperfused patients. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:848–855 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune checkpoint blockade reaches remarkable clinical responses. However, even in the most favorable cases, half of these patients do not benefit from these therapies in the long term. It is hypothesized that the activation of host immunity by co‐delivering peptide antigens, adjuvants, and regulators of the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β expression using a polyoxazoline (POx)‐poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanovaccine, while modulating the tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM) function within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and blocking the anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) can constitute an alternative approach for cancer immunotherapy. POx‐Mannose (Man) nanovaccines generate antigen‐specific T‐cell responses that control tumor growth to a higher extent than poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐Man nanovaccines. This anti‐tumor effect induced by the POx‐Man nanovaccines is mediated by a CD8+‐T cell‐dependent mechanism, in contrast to the PEG‐Man nanovaccines. POx‐Man nanovaccine combines with pexidartinib, a modulator of the TAM function, restricts the MC38 tumor growth, and synergizes with PD‐1 blockade, controlling MC38 and CT26 tumor growth and survival. This data is further validated in the highly aggressive and poorly immunogenic B16F10 melanoma mouse model. Therefore, the synergistic anti‐tumor effect induced by the combination of nanovaccines with the inhibition of both TAM‐ and PD‐1‐inducing immunosuppression, holds great potential for improving immunotherapy outcomes in solid cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telomere biology diseases (TBD) result from defective telomere maintenance, leading to bone marrow failure. The only curative treatment for aplastic anemia related to TBD is a hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT). Although reduced‐intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens decrease transplant‐related mortality, non‐hematological phenotypes represent a major challenge and are associated with poor long‐term follow‐up outcomes. Objective: To describe the outcome of TBD patients transplanted for marrow failure. Study Design: This is a retrospective, single‐center study describing the outcomes of 32 consecutive transplants on 29 patients between 1993 and 2019. Results: The median age at transplantation was 14 years (range, 3–30 years). Most patients received a RIC regimen (n = 28) and bone marrow (BM) from an unrelated donor (n = 16). Four patients received a haploidentical transplant. Chimerism was available for 27 patients with a median time to neutrophil recovery of 20 days (13–36 days). Primary graft failure occurred in one patient, whereas second graft failure occurred in two. Acute GVHD grade II‐IV and moderate to severe chronic GVHD occurred in 22% of patients at risk. Fourteen patients were alive after HCT at the last follow‐up (median, 6 years; 1.4–19 years). The 5‐year overall survival was better after matched sibling donor (MSD) transplantation compared to other hematopoietic stem cell sources (88.9% vs. 47.7%; p =.05; CI = 95%). Overall, 15 patients died after HCT, most of them (n = 11) after the first year of transplant, due to non‐hematological disease progression or complication of chronic GVHD. Conclusions: Hematopoietic cell transplantation is a potentially curative treatment option for TBD, nonetheless the poor outcome reflects the progression of non‐hematologic disease manifestations, which should be considered when transplantation is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We investigate associations between children exposure to stressful events, considering: (1) the period in which the event took place, (2) the type of event, and (3) the cumulative effect of the events on children's weight, height and body mass index (BMI). Methods: A total of 8429 Portuguese children (3349 exposed to at least one stressful event during their lifetime; 50.2% males; mean age = 7.21 ± 1.85 years) were included in the analysis. The occurrence of stressful (i.e., adverse) events was reported in a parental questionnaire; children's weight and height were objectively measured. Results: When the stress event took place in the first 2 years of life, compared with during pregnancy or after the 2 years, children were shorter; but the association was weak and only significant for boys. After adjustment for child's birthweight, gestational age, breastfeeding duration, number of siblings, and father's education, the experience of 3+ stressful events (vs. 1 or 2) was associated with higher weight and height in boys. No interaction effect was found between stress and BMI. Discussion: We found some evidence of associations between exposure to stressful events and physical growth of boys. We highlight the complex relationship between exposure to stressful experiences and children's physical growth, particularly the different effects of specific characteristics of the stress event and the sex differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to describe the relationship between body size, form, and composition, and children's lifestyle on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: This cross‐sectional study comprised 1333 children (9.05 ± 0.75 years; 683 females) living in mainland Portugal. Objective anthropometric measures were collected. Parents answered a standardized questionnaire related with children's lifestyle (e.g., sport participation, screen‐ and sleep‐time) and family socioeconomic status (e.g., parental education). HRQoL was measured using the Portuguese version of the KIDSCREEN‐27. Scores were categorized into low and high using a sex‐specific normative cut‐off from European children. A healthier score was created including positive scores for body weight, abdominal obesity, sport participation, sleep‐ and screen‐time. Results: Body size, form and composition were correlated with children's physical wellbeing. However, sex differences were found in which parameters were associated with wellbeing. Among boys, the body mass index, waist circumference, waist‐to‐height ratio, subscapular and suprailiac skinfold were most correlated with wellbeing, while waist circumference and subscapular skinfold showed the strongest correlations for girls. Sleep duration and sport participation revealed a significant relationship with girls' HRQoL. A logistic regression analysis (adjusted for parental education) revealed that boys scoring 4 or 5 in the healthier index had an increased likelihood of high HRQoL level compared to those fulfilling none. Conclusions: Future programs aimed at reducing obesity, particularly central obesity, and incorporating multiple health indicators and behaviors, such as sport participation and sleep duration may help improve children's health and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer, and its incidence has increased worldwide. About 10% of cases are classified as hereditary melanoma (HM). CDKN2A and CDK4 are the major high‐risk genes. Families are also more prone to develop pancreatic cancer, and different forms of oncological surveillance are recommended. Objectives: Describe the prevalence of CDKN2A/CDK4 germline mutations in melanoma‐prone patients and their phenotypic and histopathological features. Methods: A total of 69 patients meeting the clinical criteria for HM were included in this cross‐sectional descriptive study. Amplification by PCR and genomic sequencing were used. The variants were classified according to American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) criteria. Results: The mean age at first diagnosis of melanoma was 44.8 years (SD ± 17.83). Most patients had phototype II (44.9%), more than 50 melanocytic nevi (76.8%), atypical nevus syndrome (72.5%), history of sunburn (76.8%), and multiple primary melanomas without a family history of this tumor (74.3%). Two hundred melanomas were observed. Most tumors had a Breslow index ≤1.0 mm (84.5%), location in the trunk (60.5%), and superficial spreading histological subtype (22.5%). Four variants were found in CDKN2A exons in seven patients (c.305C>A, c.26T>A, c.361G>A e c.442G>A), two variants in the 5′UTR region in five patients (c.‐25C>T and c.‐33G>C), and two variants in the 3′UTR region in 21 patients (c.*29C>G and c.*69C>T). One likely pathogenic variant (c.305C>A) was identified in one patient (1.4%). No variant was found in CDK4. Conclusion: The prevalence of CDKN2A mutations was 1.4% in Brazilian patients meeting clinical criteria for HM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Using data from the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study examining prevalence of disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBI) in 33 countries, this study explored the prevalence of all 22 disorders in Canada. It examined differences related to geography and sociodemographic factors, health impact and compared these findings to other countries. Methods: The Rome Foundation survey was conducted through the Internet, targeting 2000 Canadian participants. The survey used the validated ROME IV diagnostic questionnaire to identify the 22 DGBI and an in‐depth supplemental questionnaire that included quality assurance techniques. Key Results: There were 2029 respondents with a mean age of 48 years and 50% females. Diagnostic criteria for at least one of the 22 DGBI were met by 41.3%, similar to other countries. Functional constipation, functional diarrhea, and unspecified functional bowel disorders were most common. Irritable bowel syndrome prevalence was 4.2% using Rome IV and 10.1% using ROME III criteria. DGBI were associated with poorer quality of life and increased psychological symptom scores. Prevalence of DGBI ranged from 48% in Quebec to 36% in British Columbia. Prescription pain medication was reported by 17% with DGBI compared to 9% without DGBI and correlated negatively with mental health and physical well‐being. Quebecers and francophones were in limited number but reported higher DGBI prevalence and symptom severity compared to others. Conclusions & Inferences: A large proportion of Canadians suffer from DGBI which seriously impact their well‐being. Findings highlight the need for further research and education, including understanding whether significant regional and cultural differences contribute to DGBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qualitative menu labelling can be defined as descriptive or non‐numerical interpretive labels (e.g. traffic light labelling, healthy food symbols, messages or ingredient lists). Qualitative information seems to have a positive influence on consumers' food choices, particularly in institutional food service establishments, such as in universities. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the influence of different formats of qualitative menu labelling on food choices in university restaurants. This systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) and Synthesis Without Meta‐Analysis (SWiM) and conducted vote counting of studies based on the direction of effect. Studies were retrieved from Cochrane Library, Scopus, MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO and Web of Science databases and reference lists of selected articles. Experimental and quasi‐experimental studies were included. Two independent researchers searched and extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. From the initial search (460 records), four papers were selected, plus one paper identified in a previous study and a further six from an update search, totalling 11 included studies, reporting 14 different interventions (n = 499 174). Types of interventions included the use of symbols and the inclusion of traffic light labelling. Outcomes of interest were food choice, expressed as mean, median or percent healthy food choices or purchases. Qualitative menu labels increased healthy food choices and/or purchase behaviour, with 10 of 12 interventions favouring the intervention (83%; 95%CI 55–95%; p = 0.0386). Most of the studies favouring the intervention used healthy food symbols for healthier foods or food components, alone or in association with another intervention and were of moderate and weak quality. These findings may serve as a basis for the implementation of nutrition information policies in university restaurants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is unclear whether the patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 C‐to‐G single nucleotide polymorphism, resulting in the substitution of isoleucine to methionine at position 148 (I148M), impedes regression of hepatic steatosis when treating non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Objectives: Investigate if carriage of the PNPLA3 148M allele affects the anti‐steatotic efficacy of all possible anti‐NAFLD interventions, identify gaps in current knowledge and provide guidance for individual treatment. Methods: Research available in public databases was searched up to 13 November 2022. Studies were included if a treatment in NAFLD patients decreased hepatic steatosis in the pooled patient group or a PNPLA3 I148M polymorphism subgroup (II/IM/MM). The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk‐Of‐Bias 2 Tool and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: Moderate evidence indicates that NAFLD patients homozygous for the PNPLA3 148M allele benefit less or not at all from omega‐3 carboxylic acids to decrease liver fat, while the PNPLA3 148I allele shows moderate benefit. Low evidence suggests that interventions employing lifestyle changes are more effective to reduce liver fat in NAFLD patients homozygous for the PNPLA3 148M allele compared to patients with wild‐type PNPLA3. Conclusions: NAFLD patients homozygous for the PNPLA3 148M allele might not benefit from omega‐3 carboxylic acids to reduce hepatic steatosis in contrast to patients with wild‐type PNPLA3. Instead, patients with two PNPLA3 148M alleles should be especially advised to adopt lifestyle changes. Genotyping for PNPLA3 I148M should be encouraged in therapeutic studies for NAFLD. Registration Number (Prospero): CRD42022375028. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conditional tail index estimator is introduced which explicitly allows for right‐tail censoring (top‐coding). We show that the factor values used to adjust top‐coded wages have changed over time and depend on individuals' characteristics, occupations and industries, and propose suitable values. Specifically, contrasting the results of our approach with those of a conservative fixed adjustment factor of 1.5 (used in the literature), suggests that wage inequality in 2017 measured with the Gini coefficient is larger than that suggested by the fixed adjustment factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the thymus, thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide a dedicated niche for the selection of functional T cells expressing a highly variable and self‐tolerant T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. In this minireview, we start by summarizing recent studies that have improved our understanding on the composition of cortical TEC and medullary TEC microenvironments. Next, we focus on the molecular processes that control the function of TECs in T‐cell selection. In particular, we discuss the role of cortical TECs in positive selection and the pathways employed by these cells to generate and present selecting self‐peptides:MHC II complexes. Several studies have underscored the role of the β5t‐containing thymoproteasome in the production of unique MHC I‐bound peptides critical for CD8 T‐cell selection. Contrarily, the identity of the molecular determinants that regulate the generation of MHC II‐bound self‐peptides capable of positive selecting CD4 T cells is far more uncertain. We highlight recent advances that interconnect the autophagy‐lysosomal pathway, the presentation of specific sets of self‐peptide:MHC II complexes, and the diversification of CD4 TCR repertoire. Lastly, we discuss how these findings may open up new avenues for deciphering the identity of the MHC I and MHC II ligandome in the thymus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Metrodorea nigra, a Rutaceae species with rhythmic growth, the shoot apex in the dormant stage is enclosed by modified stipules. The young organs are fully covered with peltate secretory trichomes, and these structures remain immersed in a hyaline exudate within a hood‐shaped structure. Our study focused on the morpho‐functional characterization of the peltate trichomes and cytological events associated with secretion.Shoot apices were collected during both dormant and active stages and processed for anatomical, cytochemical and ultrastructural studies.Trichomes initiate secretion early on, remain active throughout leaf development, but collapse as the leaves expand; at which time secretory cavities start differentiation in the mesophyll and secretion increases as the leaf reaches full expansion. The subcellular apparatus of the trichome head cells is consistent with hydrophilic and lipophilic secretion. Secretion involves two vesicle types: the smaller vesicles are PATAg‐positive (periodic acid/thiocarbohydrazide/silver proteinate) for carbohydrates and the larger ones are PATAg‐negative. In the first phase of secretory activity, the vesicles containing polysaccharides discharge their contents through exocytosis with the secretion accumulating beneath the cuticle, which detaches from the cell wall. Later, a massive discharge of lipophilic substances (lipids and terpenes/phenols) results in their accumulation between the wall and cuticle. Release of the secretions occurs throughout the cuticular microchannels.Continued protection of the leaves throughout shoot development is ensured by replacement of the collapsed secretory trichomes by oil‐secreting cavities. Our findings provide new perspectives for understanding secretion regulation in shoot apices of woody species with rhythmic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is widespread evidence of parameter instability in the literature. One way to account for this feature is through the use of time‐varying parameter (TVP) models that discount older data in favor of more recent data. This practice is often known as forgetting and can be applied in several different ways. This paper introduces and examines the performance of different (flexible) forgetting methodologies in the context of the Kalman filter. We review and develop the theoretical background and investigate the performance of each methodology in simulations as well as in two empirical forecast exercises using dynamic model averaging (DMA). Specifically, out‐of‐sample DMA forecasts of Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation and S&P500 returns obtained using different forgetting approaches are compared. Results show that basing the amount of forgetting on the forecast error does not perform as well as avoiding instability by placing bounds on the parameter covariance matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Further evidence on how the Great Recession was associated with childhood obesity is needed, particularly when the world is facing a new and severe economic downturn caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study explores: (1) the direct association of the 2008's economic crisis with eating patterns and body mass index (BMI), among children, independently of their socioeconomic status (SES), and (2) the indirect association between the crisis and children's BMI, by using eating patterns as mediators. Methods: A sample of children (n = 8472, mean age: 7.17 years old, 50.8% male) was recruited in schools from the cities of Porto, Coimbra and Lisbon, Portugal. Children's height and weight were objectively measured; BMI was calculated. Other data were collected by a parental questionnaire. A structural equation modeling studied the associations between the economic crisis impact, eating patterns, and BMI; model was adjusted for SES. Results: Children in families that reported a greater impact of the economic crisis showed higher consumption of unhealthy food items and lower consumption of healthy foods, regardless of SES. Indirectly, children whose parents scored higher in the economic crisis impact had higher BMI mediated by a higher consumption of cakes/chocolates and lower intake of vegetables/salads. Conclusions: The economic crisis was associated with higher BMI and unhealthy eating patterns. Efforts to promote healthy diets and weight are needed at a population level rather than for specific social classes, particularly in the face of a new economic crisis caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study aimed to analyze the association between healthy sleep duration of children and the parental perception of the social/built environment. Methods: A cross‐sectional study was done and a sample of 8273 children (4183 females) aged 6–9 years was observed. Height (cm) and weight (Kg) were measured, and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Participants were classified as normal weight or overweight/obese. Sleep habits, sedentary behaviors (i.e., TV viewing) and environmental variables were assessed by questionnaire. Logistic regressions were used, with adjustments for age, sex, BMI, and sedentary time. Results: Children whose parents reported a positive perception of the built environment in the residential area were 1.21 times more likely to have regular sleep habits during weekdays. Furthermore, children whose parents reported a negative perception of the social environment and safety were 81% more likely to have irregular sleep habits during the weekdays. Conclusions: The present study revealed a positive association between regular sleep during the weekdays and the parental perception of the social/built environment (land use and urban design). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Receptor‐interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) is a key player of regulated necrosis or necroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death possibly governing outcomes in chronic liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Methods: This narrative review is based on literature search using PubMed. Results: RIPK3 activation depends on post‐transcriptional modifications, including phosphorylation, hence coordinating the assembly of macromolecular death complex named 'necrosome', which may also involve diverse mitochondrial components. Curiously, recent studies suggested a potential link between RIPK3 and mitochondrial bioenergetics. RIPK3 can modulate mitochondrial function and quality through the regulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production, sequestration of metabolic enzymes and resident mitochondrial proteins, activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, mitochondrial biogenesis and fatty acid oxidation. Conclusions: Since mitochondrial dysfunction and RIPK3‐mediated necroptosis are intimately involved in chronic liver disease pathogenesis, understanding the role of RIPK3 in mitochondrial bioenergetics and its potential translational application are of great interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Physical activity (PA) is required for healthy growth, development, and maturation and plays an important role in the prevention of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence. Sex‐differences in PA levels are well documented, with boys spending more time in PA, especially in moderate‐to‐vigorous activities. Following the Life History Theory, our aim is to study if PA affects the fat tissues increases during childhood and juvenile phases in both sexes. Methods: Time spent in sedentary, light, and moderate‐to‐vigorous PA levels were measured in a sample of 415 Portuguese children and juveniles (207 females/208 males; aged 6–11 years), using an accelerometer for 7 days. Skinfolds related with body fat were objectively collected and socioeconomic status factors were reported using a parental questionnaire. Results: The outcomes show that girls' and boys' fat variables increased during the end of the childhood and the juvenile phase. However, these variables were differently affected by PA. Girls increased fat variables with the sedentary activity while boys decreased fat variables with moderate‐to‐vigorous PA. Alike, active boys but not girls reduced the fat increase tendency with age. Conclusions: Although both sexes displayed a general fat increment with age, moderate‐to‐vigorous PA dampens the increase only in boys. In fact, active girls increased body fat in the same manner as non‐active girls. From an evolutionary perspective, it could explain sex‐specific somatic strategies related to future reproduction or, with future mating and intrasexual competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reasons underlying the differential tolerance of Actinidia spp. to the pandemic pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) have not yet been elucidated. We hypothesized that differential plant‐defence strategies linked to transcriptome regulation, phytohormones and primary metabolism might be key and that Actinidia chinensis susceptibility results from an inefficient activation of defensive mechanisms and metabolic impairments shortly following infection. Here, 48 h postinoculation bacterial density was 10‐fold higher in A. chinensis var. deliciosa than in Actinidia arguta, accompanied by significant increases in glutamine, ornithine, jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) (up to 3.2‐fold). Actinidia arguta showed decreased abscisic acid (ABA) (0.7‐fold), no changes in primary metabolites, and 20 defence‐related genes that were only differentially expressed in this species. These include GLOX1, FOX1, SN2 and RBOHA, which may contribute to its higher tolerance. Results suggest that A. chinensis' higher susceptibility to Psa is due to an inefficient activation of plant defences, with the involvement of ABA, JA and SA, leading to impairments in primary metabolism, particularly the ammonia assimilation cycle. A schematic overview on the interaction between Psa and genotypes with distinct tolerance is provided, highlighting the key transcriptomic and metabolomic aspects contributing to the different plant phenotypes after infection. Summary Statement: The pandemic bacterium P. syringae pv. actinidiae is currently the most important pathogen affecting kiwifruit productivity worldwide. Given the absence of sustainable and effective mitigation strategies, it is imperative to understand plant tolerance mechanisms that could support crop improvement and better agronomical practices. Here, we found that plant susceptibility to Psa results from an inefficient activation of plant defences, involving the jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways, and leads to impairments in primary metabolism, particularly the ammonia assimilation cycle. Tolerance is most likely due to a more strategic defensive and metabolic readjustment, resulting from the activation of specific defence‐related genes and to the downregulation of the abscisic acid pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We evaluated, for the first time in Portugal, the prevalence of overweight and obesity according to parental education in a population of preschool‐aged Portuguese children in 2009/2010 and 2016/2017. Methods: Anthropometric data were collected in public and private preschools (n = 1996 in 2009/2010; n = 2077 in 2016/2017). Body mass index was calculated and weight status categories were based on the International Obesity Task Force cutoff points. Parental education level was self‐reported. Results: Prevalence of overweight (17.1%–14.1%; p < 0.001) and obesity (6.6%–3.9%, p < 0.001) was lower in 2016/2017 than in 2009/2010, with higher rates being found in the north of the country. Parental education was significantly associated with childhood overweight and obesity and inequalities between low‐ and high‐education increased between the two periods. Conclusions: While a decrease in childhood overweight and obesity were positive findings, the prevalence is still high and shows pronounced socioeconomic differences. Policies for obesity prevention need to be inclusive and tackle inequalities, with interventions tailored to suit local contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola is a widespread Palaearctic migratory wader, with purportedly sedentary populations occurring in the Macaronesian archipelago of the Azores. Here we used microsatellite markers to investigate patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation in these insular birds, and compared Azorean populations with those from mainland Europe. Azorean populations show a (non‐significant) trend for reduced diversity, and low but consistent differentiation from mainland populations; evidence for widespread over‐water migration (in either direction) is weak but must occasionally occur given the recovery of an Azorean ringed bird in France. It is thus likely that the Azorean populations diverged recently from their mainland counterparts, but gene flow is currently restricted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Biofilms of heterotrophic bacteria cover organic matter aggregates and constitute hotspots of mineralization, primarily acting through extracellular hydrolytic enzyme production. Nevertheless, regulation of both biofilm and hydrolytic enzyme synthesis remains poorly investigated, especially in estuarine ecosystems. In this study, various bioassays, mass spectrometry and genomics approaches were combined to test the possible involvement of quorum sensing (QS) in these mechanisms. QS is a bacterial cell–cell communication system that relies notably on the emission of N‐acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs). In our estuarine bacterial collection, we found that 28 strains (9%), mainly Vibrio, Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter isolates, produced at least 14 different types of AHLs encoded by various luxI genes. We then inhibited the AHL QS circuits of those 28 strains using a broad‐spectrum lactonase preparation and tested whether biofilm production as well as β‐glucosidase and leucine‐aminopeptidase activities were impacted. Interestingly, we recorded contrasted responses, as biofilm production, dissolved and cell‐bound β‐glucosidase and leucine‐aminopeptidase activities significantly increased in 4%–68% of strains but decreased in 0%–21% of strains. These findings highlight the key role of AHL‐based QS in estuarine bacterial physiology and ultimately on biogeochemical cycles. They also point out the complexity of QS regulations within natural microbial assemblages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most organic ultraviolet filters are very lipophilic and some of them are difficult to quantify in the environment. This article describes an optimization method for the quantification of these compounds in sand samples with diverse compositions. The standard additions method was used. The search for a unique high‐performance liquid chromatography method to analyze all these filters along with the search for optimal detection conditions are presented in detail. The best extraction solvent was methanol, and the best conditions for analysis and detection involved the use of a high‐performance liquid chromatography system equipped with a biphenyl column (2.6 μm, 150 × 4.6 mm), and an Orbitrap MS detector. We also demonstrated that sample freeze‐drying can induce significant loss of some of the ultraviolet filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder, characterized primarily by postprandial fullness or early satiety and/or pain in the epigastrium with no endoscopic evidence of disease. Psychological therapies have been adapted to the treatment of disordered gut–brain interaction such as FD. We sought to determine if psychological interventions were efficacious in providing symptom management and improving health‐related quality of life in patients suffering from FD. Methods: Data were sorted that belonged to Embase (1947 to January 2020), PsychINFO (1806 to January 2020), and Ovid MEDLINE (1946 to January 2020). Randomized controlled trials using a psychological intervention in adults meeting relevant diagnostic criteria for FD were included. Data including symptom scores and quality of life measures were extracted. A random‐effect model meta‐analysis with standardized mean differences was used. Results: Nine randomized controlled trials were identified that met our inclusion criteria. These were small, single‐centered studies and used varying psychological therapies. Three studies had a sham treatment arm, leading to a high risk of bias in the remaining studies. All the studies reported beneficial effects of psychological treatment on patient's symptoms, some of which persisted up to 1 year. Psychological intervention was associated with an improvement in global FD symptom scores (standardized differences in means −1.33, 95% confidence interval −1.97 to −0.68). Conclusions: Despite the limited data, the available evidence suggests that psychological therapy is beneficial in treating patients with FD and should be considered by treating physicians if available and patients are willing. Large well‐designed, sham controlled trials are needed for this extremely common disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We introduce a new joint test for the order of fractional integration of a multivariate fractionally integrated vector autoregressive (FIVAR) time series based on applying the Lagrange multiplier principle to a feasible generalised least squares estimate of the FIVAR model obtained under the null hypothesis. A key feature of the test we propose is that it is constructed using a heteroskedasticity‐robust estimate of the variance matrix. As a result, the test has a standard χ2 limiting null distribution under considerably weaker conditions on the innovations than are permitted in the extant literature. Specifically, we allow the innovations driving the FIVAR model to follow a vector martingale difference sequence allowing for both serial and cross‐sectional dependence in the conditional second‐order moments. We also do not constrain the order of fractional integration of each element of the series to lie in a particular region, thereby allowing for both stationary and non‐stationary dynamics, nor do we assume any particular distribution for the innovations. A Monte Carlo study demonstrates that our proposed tests avoid the large oversizing problems seen with extant tests when conditional heteroskedasticity is present in the data. We report an empirical case study for a sample of major US stocks investigating the order of fractional integration in trading volume and different measures of volatility in returns, including realised variance. Our results suggest that both return volatility and trading volume are fractionally integrated, but with the former generally found to be more persistent (having a higher fractional exponent) than the latter, when more reliable proxies for volatility such as the range or realised variance are used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a simple and easy to implement procedure to test for changes in persistence. The time‐varying parameter that characterizes persistence changes under the alternative hypothesis is approximated by a parsimonious cosine function. The new test is the minimum of a t‐statistic computed from a test regression that considers a set of reasonable values for a frequency term that is used to evaluate the time‐varying properties of persistence. The asymptotic distributions of the new tests are derived and critical values are provided. An in‐depth Monte Carlo analysis shows that the new procedure has important power gains when compared to the local Generalized Least Squares (GLS) de‐trended Dickey–Fuller type tests under various data generating processes with persistence changes. Moreover, an empirical application to OECD countries' inflation shows that for most series analysed persistence was high in the first half of the sample and subsequently decreased. These results conform with modern macroeconomic theories that point to changes in inflation dynamics in the early 1980s and also with recent empirical evidence against the I(1)−I(0) dichotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To analyse the antimicrobial and biological properties of a new bioceramic intracanal medicament (Bio‐C Temp), and to compare it with two calcium hydroxide‐based intracanal medicaments (Calen® and UltraCal® XS). Methodology: The direct contact and the crystal violet tests were performed to assess the antimicrobial activity of intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis. The cytocompatibility and the effect of the medication on the biology of the human osteoblast‐like cell line (Saos‐2) were evaluated with methylthiazole tetrazolium (MTT), neutral red, alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization (alizarin red) assays. The data were analysed using one‐way anova and Tukey's tests, two‐way anova and Bonferroni's tests, or Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests (α = 0.05). Results: Bio‐C Temp had significantly less antibacterial activity and biofilm biomass reduction than the other intracanal medicaments (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the viability of Saos‐2 exposed to the various intracanal medicaments, except regarding the 1 : 2 dilution, when the Bio‐C Temp group had significantly lower cell viability than the UltraCal® XS and Calen® groups (P < 0.05). Bio‐C Temp induced significantly greater ALP activity than the other intracanal medicaments (P < 0.05) at day 1. Calen® induced significantly greater deposition of mineralized nodules than the other intracanal medicaments (P < 0.05), and no difference was observed between Bio‐C Temp and UltraCal® XS (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Bio‐C Temp had similar cytocompatibility at higher dilutions, and higher or similar induction of ALP activity and deposition of mineralized nodules in comparison with Calen® and UltraCal® XS. However, it had significantly less antibacterial and antibiofilm activity than Calen® and UltraCal® XS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manipulation of cell surfaces in anchorage‐dependent cells can help overcome difficulties presented during cell handling and application. Silica‐based protective mechanisms existing in free‐floating microorganisms may be used as inspiration for sustaining human cell survival in suspension. Gathering on this, herein human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) are partially coated with a hard silica layer that operates as a supporting platform for individual cells in suspension. Inspired by the organic templates involved in biosilicification, a novel chitosan (CHT) derivative displaying fully natural quaternary amine moieties is synthetized via a rapid, one‐pot strategy. Silicification is promoted on individual hASCs surfaces via a two‐step process: a priming step onto previously adhered cell with this CHT derivative, followed by a biocompatible sol–gel process. hASCs holding a silica backpack exhibit enhanced cell survival in suspension conditions and can spread and acquire a more adherent phenotype. This new protocol for cell‐surface modification also provides a new generation of hybrid materials with functionalization of the silica backpack, which can be applied to different areas such as tissue engineering, biosensing, drug delivery, and targeted cell‐based therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic hydroformylation is an important reaction, widely studied by academics and applied in the chemical industry, and it is a paradigmatic example of a chemical reaction that is aligned with most of the Green Chemistry principles. In the last years, the global requirement for more sustainable chemical processes has boosted the development of more active, selective, and reusable hydroformylation catalysts. In this review, we highlight the most recent advances regarding the creation and expansion of reusable catalysts for hydroformylation and sequential processes that use hydroformylation as central reaction. The most relevant strategies for immobilization of hydroformylation catalysts are discussed, along with a critical analysis of their application in synthesis, based on catalytic activity, selectivity, and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, a number of metal‐catalyzed technologies for the functionalization of C−H bonds in carbonaceous aromatic substrates have been developed. However, similar reactions with aza‐heteroaromatic precursors are more challenging and have been much less developed. Herein, we report for the first time catalytic formal cycloadditions of N,S‐heterocycles featuring carboxylic acid substituents, with unsaturated partners (alkynes). The reaction, which works with different symmetrical and unsymmetrical alkynes, produces appealing tricyclic ɑ‐pyrones in a straightforward manner. The optimized conditions established for a model reaction employing thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carboxylic acid as substrate, involved the use of Ag2CO3/AgSbF6 as additives, and proved to be general for different alkynes. Moreover, analogous cycloadditions using thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine‐2‐carboxylic acid and thieno[2,3‐b]pyrazine‐6‐carboxylic acid were successfully developed. Overall, this catalytic technology allows to build, in a single step, an interesting variety of pharmaceutically relevant tricyclic ɑ‐pyrones exhibiting nitrogen and sulfur heteroatoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic changes underpinning drought-induced variations in stem respiration (Rs) are unknown. We measured Rs rates and metabolite and gene expression profiles in Ulmus minor Mill. and Quercus ilex L. seedlings subjected to increasing levels of drought stress to better understand how carbon, nitrogen and energy metabolism interact during drought. In both species, only plants showing extreme stress symptoms - i.e. negligible rates of leaf stomatal conductance and photosynthesis, and high stem dehydration (30-50% of maximum water storage) and contraction (50-150 µm week-1) - exhibited lower Rs rates than well-watered plants. Abundance of low-molecular weight sugars (e.g. glucose and fructose) and sugar alcohols (e.g. mannitol) increased with drought, at more moderate stress and to a higher extent in Q. ilex than U. minor. Abundance of amino acids increased at more severe stress, more abruptly, and to a higher extent in U. minor, coinciding with leaf senescence, which did not occur in Q. ilex. Organic acids changed less in response to drought: threonate and glycerate increased, and citrate decreased although slightly in both species. Transcripts of genes coding for enzymes of the Krebs cycle decreased in Q. ilex and increased in U. minor in conditions of extreme drought stress. The maintenance of Rs under severe growth and photosynthetic restrictions reveals the importance of stem mitochondrial activity in drought acclimation. The eventual decline in Rs diverts carbon substrates from entering the Krebs cycle that may help to cope with osmotic and oxidative stress during severe drought and to recover hydraulic functionality afterwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Necrotizing periodontitis (NP) is an atypical and painful form of periodontal disease, it is described by a promptly progress of ulceration and destruction of periodontal tissues; the NP is commonly linked to HIV‐positive patients. The aim of this report is to present a rare case of severe necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis treated non‐surgically. Case Presentation: A 28‐year‐old dark skin female patient was referred to a dentistry college with the main complaint of spontaneous gingival bleeding and enlargement, oral pain during deglutition and dental hypersensitivity. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed generalized severe periodontal destruction, extensive bleeding, increased biofilm presence and spontaneous suppuration. Medical exams were requested, red and white blood cells were evaluated and among those exams an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for HIV‐1 antibodies, the result reveled reagent to HIV‐1. The diagnosis of NP was assigned based on periodontal parameters such as necrosis and ulceration of the coronal portion of interdental papillae and gingival margin. Treatment established was scaling and root planning plus antibiotics. At 3 months of treatment the clinical and periodontal condition were stable. Conclusion: This case report highlights a severe and generalized form of NP, where periodontal non‐surgical associated with antimicrobials resulted in elimination of the gingival enlargement, necrosis and ulceration of the coronal portion of interdental papillae and significant improvement of periodontal parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repeated cross-sectional studies found sex inequalities in childhood obesity by socio-economic vulnerability Abbreviations SES socio-economic status Childhood obesity is one of the largest global health challenges,1 but a comprehensive approach to the multiple inter-related inequalities in childhood obesity and how they vary overtime is lacking.2 We previously published data on the prevalence of obesity among Portuguese children3; this study focuses on sex inequalities by socio-economic status (SES) among children aged 3-5 and 6-10 at three different time points. Children from low-SES backgrounds also faced a greater risk of overweight and obesity, with stronger inequalities posing greater risks for girls and important implications for offspring. [Extracted from the article]

Summary: We characterised patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) with poor prognosis based on differences in immune infiltration. Different expressions of the tumour cell markers Cyclin D1 and sex‐determining region Y‐box transcription factor 11 (SOX11), and the immune markers cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3), CD4, CD8, CD25, forkhead box protein P3 (FoxP3), T‐box transcription factor TBX21 (T‐bet), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1), programmed‐death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and CD163 were investigated for all‐cause mortality in 282 patients with MCL and time‐to‐progression (TTP) in 106 clinical trial patients. With increasing age, a significantly lower infiltration of CD3+ T lymphocytes was seen. T‐cell infiltration was independent of cellular tumour antigen p53 (p53) expression, Ki‐67, morphology and frequency of tumour cells. The all‐cause mortality was higher in patients with PD‐L1‐expression above cut‐off [hazard ratio (HR) 1·97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·18–3·25, adjusted for sex and MCL International Prognostic Index (MIPI)] and a higher frequency of CD163+ cells (continuously, HR 1·51, 95% CI 1·03–2·23, adjusting for age, sex, morphology, Ki‐67 and p53). In patients treated within the Nordic Lymphoma Group MCL2/3 trials, TTP was shorter in patients with a higher frequency of FoxP3+ cells (HR 3·22, 95% CI 1·40–7·43) and CD163+ cells (HR 6·09, 95% CI 1·84–20·21), independent of sex and MIPI. When combined a higher frequency of CD163+ macrophages and PD‐L1+ cells or high CD163+ macrophages and FoxP3+ regulatory T cells indicated worse outcome independent of established risk factors. The T‐cell infiltrate was in turn independent of molecular characteristics of the malignant cells and decreased with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]