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Detecting the association of genetic variants to the response of biological therapy represents an important advance in developing a personalized therapy. The aim of this work was to study the association of polymorphisms with an optimal response to tildrakizumab in patients with psoriasis in a real‐life clinical practice. Ninety patients with plaque psoriasis recruited from—Spanish hospitals receiving tildrakizumab for at least 24 weeks were genotyped for 180 polymorphisms. Optimal response to tildrakizumab was evaluated by absolute PASI ≤1 at 6 and 12 months. Polymorphisms corrected for weight and disease duration with an FDR <0.15 were included in a multiple regression model. Sixty three percent of patients achieved an absolute PASI ≤1 at 6 months, while 71% did so after 12 months. Disease duration (>27 years) and weight (>76 kg) were associated with treatment response; after correcting by these factors, no association (FDR >0.15) was found for any polymorphism and response to tildrakizumab at 6 months. The analysis at 12 months identified the genotype GG for rs610604 (TNFAIP3), CT for rs9373839 (ATG5), and delCTGT/delCTGT for rs72167053 (PDE4D) as risk factors to not achieve an optimal response (PASI ≤1), while CT for rs708567 (IL17RC) was protective, independently of weight and disease duration (FDR <0.15). The final multivariable model at 12 months showed an AUC of 0.90 (95% CI 0.82 to −0.98). We identified a set of polymorphisms that could be helpful to identify psoriatic patients with an optimal response to tildrakizumab at 12 months in real‐world practice conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrogenic carbon (PyC) is a significant component of the global soil carbon pool due to its longer environmental persistence than other soil organic matter components. Despite PyC's persistence in soil, recent work has indicated that it is susceptible to loss processes such as mineralization and leaching, with the significance and magnitude of these largely unknown at the hillslope and watershed scales. We present a review of the work concerning dissolved PyC transport in soil and freshwater. Our analysis found that the primary environmental controls on dissolved PyC (dPyC) transport are the formation conditions and quality of the PyC itself, with longer and higher temperature charring conditions leading to less transport of dPyC. While correlations between dPyC and dissolved organic carbon in rivers and other pools are frequently reported, the slope of these correlations was pool‐dependent (i.e., soil‐water, precipitation, lakes, streams, rivers), suggesting site‐specific environmental controls. However, the lack of consistency in analytical techniques and sample preparation remains a major challenge to quantifying environmental controls on dPyC fluxes. We propose that future research should focus on the following: (a) consistency in methodological approaches, (b) more quantitative measures of dPyC in pools and fluxes from soils to streams, (c) turnover times of dPyC in soils and aquatic systems, and (d) improved understanding of how mechanisms controlling the fate of dPyC in dynamic post‐fire landscapes interact. With more refined quantitative information about the controls on dPyC transport at the hillslope and landscape scale, we can increase the accuracy and utility of global carbon models. Key Points: Burn intensity of pyrogenic carbon (PyC) controls its dissolution and aqueous transportFrom headwater streams to oceans dissolved PyC increases in radiocarbon age, implying environmental persistenceEnvironmental controls, including climate, topography, biota, parent material, and time, impact the pool size and flux of dissolved PyC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comprehensive mapping of resistivities in depth and its interpretation is of great importance to unravel the electrical properties of deep‐seated rocks, providing significant insights into the structure of the crust. The first 3D resistivity model for Portugal mainland is here reported using data from 31 broadband MT soundings spaced 50 × 50 km apart. The model shows large crustal volumes with contrasting resistivity values. The central and northern regions are characterized by a high resistivity crustal domain spreading in‐depth (103–105 Ω.m) that correlates well with voluminous granitoid bodies and high‐grade metamorphic rocks. To the west and the south, roughly corresponding to the Portuguese Western Shore and the South Portuguese Zone (SPZ) respectively, the crustal resistivity tends to decrease unevenly to values between 1 and 103 Ω.m. Interconnected graphite in structural discontinuities, possibly forming a regional mid‐crustal décollement at ≈13–15 km depth, are highlighted by multiple low resistivity crustal domains (1–100 Ω.m). Similarly, the model reveals a very large E‐W low resistivity crustal domain in SPZ possibly representing a deep‐seated major décollement. The present study aims to contribute to a better understanding of the physical properties characterizing the concealed crust in Portugal mainland, providing also indirect information on its composition and structure. Plain Language Summary: Portugal is located in the western part of Europe and most of its geological background is part of the Iberian Massif, an ancient block of continental lithosphere composed of several geotectonic units that differ in rock composition and structure. The geological characteristics of these main units, as well as the structures that separate them, potentially generate distinctive geoelectric signatures. Over the years, most electromagnetic surveys have been carried out on a regional scale. The focus has always been on the specific features of certain zones of the Portugal mainland, so it has not been possible to obtain a complete picture of the large‐scale structures that extend over the entire crust, especially in the northern part of the country. Therefore, the 3D resistivity model obtained through an electromagnetic method called Magnetotelluric (MT), allows us to have a complete image of the crust up to ≈40 km deep. The results contribute to a better characterization of the crust and reveal that the crustal segment extending beneath the central and northern regions of the Portuguese mainland is much less heterogeneous than its southern counterpart, providing important information to issues addressed in various fields of geosciences (e.g., Space Weather, Mineral, and Hydrocarbon exploration). Key Points: We present the first 3D resistivity model of Portugal mainland using data from 31 broadband Magnetotelluric stations spaced in 50 × 50 gridDescription of the large‐scale resistive/conductive crustal domains characterized by a less heterogeneous central and northern regionsInterconnected graphite in structural discontinuities, possibly forming a regional mid‐crustal decollement [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equatorial (Esq) and blanketing (Esb) sporadic (Es) layers occur due to the Equatorial Electrojet Current (EEJ) plasma instabilities and tidal wind components, respectively. Both Esq and Esb layers can appear concurrently over some Brazilian equatorial regions due to the peculiar geomagnetic field configuration in this sector. Previous works indicate that the inclination angle limit for the Esq occurrence in ionograms is 7°. However, we found evidence that regions more distant can also experience such equatorial dynamics during disturbed periods. In this context, we deeply investigated this EEJ influence expansion effect by analyzing the Esq layers in regions not so close to the magnetic equator during a high‐speed solar wind stream event that occurred on May 05 and 06, 2018. To explain these atypical Esq layer occurrences, we considered the Es layer parameters obtained from digital ionosondes over the Brazilian regions, São Luís (dip: 9.5°), and Araguatins (dip: 10.5°). We use magnetometer data and a model named MIRE (E Region Ionospheric Model) to validate this mechanism. The results show that the eastward electric field of the Gradient Drift instability in the EEJ is effective during the magnetic storm main phase in the boundary equatorial magnetic sites, creating the Esq layers. Thus, the EEJ plasma irregularity superimposes the wind shear mechanism, changing the Es layer dynamics during disturbed periods over the magnetic equator boundary sites. Therefore, this work establishes new findings of the EEJ influence expansion dynamics in the Es layer formation over the Brazilian regions, which was considered in MIRE for the first time. Key Points: The equatorial (Esq) and blanketing (Esb) layers occur in the border equatorial magnetic sites during a high‐speed solar event, indicating competing formation mechanismsThe observational data show that the Equatorial Electrojet (EEJ) is still effective in the boundary equatorial magnetic sites during disturbed timesThe simulations prove that the daytime eastward electric field of the EEJ instability is responsible for the unexpected Esq layer cases [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymorphisms associated with optimization of biological therapy through drug dose reduction in moderate-to-severe psoriasis We recruited 120 patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis from the Dermatology Department of "Hospital Universitario La Princesa" in Madrid treated with etanercept (52.5%), adalimumab (30.8%) and/or ustekinumab (16.7%) (Fig. a). 50/120 patients were subjected to a second biological drug cycle and 13 to a third cycle (total 183 cycles). New polymorphisms associated with response to anti-TNF drugs in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. [Extracted from the article]

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Background: It is known that exposure to either arsenic or hyperglycemia can induce male reproductive damages. However, their combined effects on male reproductive organs are still unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated morphological and functional parameters of the testis, epididymis, and spermatozoa in diabetic rats exposed to arsenate. Materials and methods: Diabetes was induced in male rats by intraperitoneal streptozotocin injection. While a set of healthy and diabetic animals received saline solution (negative control and diabetes control, respectively), the other set received 10 mg/L sodium arsenate (arsenic control and diabetes + arsenic groups, respectively) for 40 days in drinking water. Testosterone concentration, daily sperm production, sperm counts in the testis and epididymis, and sperm parameters were evaluated in the groups. Moreover, testis and epididymis were subjected to antioxidant enzymes analysis, micromineral determination, and histopathological evaluation. Results: Arsenate exposure reduced serum testosterone concentration in healthy animals and worsened this reduction in diabetic rats. In addition, the number of spermatozoa in testis and epididymis tissues, as well as the daily sperm production, was decreased in these groups. Sperm parameters such as motility, morphology, and integrity of acrosomal and plasma membranes were impaired in health animals exposed to arsenate. The combination of diabetes and arsenate, in turn, increased only the percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology. Moreover, the proportion of arsenic increased in the testis and epididymis of both groups receiving arsenate. Its bioaccumulation in these organs caused an imbalance in antioxidant enzymes activities and mineral content in healthy animals, enhancing these changes in diabetic rats. Testicular pathologies occurred mainly in animals co‐exposed to diabetes and arsenate. Conclusion: Our results indicate that arsenate exposure enhances several damages to male reproductive functions in diabetic rats, mainly by impairing testosterone levels and inducing nitrosative stress in testis and epididymis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop a set of core outcomes to be minimally reported in trials on induction of labour.Design: Two-round Delphi survey and consensus meeting.Population: Four stakeholder groups: midwives, obstetricians, neonatologists, and women's representatives.Methods: Protocol registered with COMET (Registration Number: 695). Stakeholders rated reported outcomes for importance (1-limited to 9-critical). The median rating of each outcome was calculated. The consensus criteria to include outcomes were as follows: ≥70% participants rated outcomes as critical and <15% rated outcomes as limited importance. Outcomes that did not achieve consensus were taken to round two and, if there was still no consensus, to the final consensus meeting.Main Outcome Measures: Outcomes in trials of induction of labour.Results: Of the 159 invited participants, 54% (86/159) completed the first round, and 83% completed the second round (71/86). The core outcome set included 28 core outcomes in four domains: Short-term maternal outcomes (n = 18)-cardiorespiratory arrest, damage to internal organs, death, haemorrhage, hysterectomy, infection, intensive care admission, length of hospital stay, mode of delivery, need for more than one induction agent, oxytocin augmentation, postnatal depression, pulmonary embolus, satisfaction with care, stroke, time from induction to delivery, uterine hyperstimulation, uterine scar dehiscence/rupture; short-term offspring outcomes (n = 8)-admission to the neonatal unit, birth trauma, death, hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy/need for therapeutic hypothermia, meconium aspiration syndrome, need for respiratory support, infection, and seizures; long-term maternal outcomes (n = 1)-operative pelvic floor repair; long-term offspring outcomes (n = 1)-disability including neurodevelopmental delay.Conclusion: Trials on induction of labour should include this core outcome set to standardise reporting.Tweetable Abstract: International multistakeholder Delphi study identifies a core outcome set for trials on induction of labour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis prevalence has been traditionally considered equal in men and women.1 Nonetheless, recent studies have shown that psoriasis also presents sex differences, with a higher severity and prevalence in males.2 Therefore, we hypothesized that these differences may be partially explained by sex-specific methylation differences. To elucidate this, we propose to explore sex-associated differentially methylated CpG sites (DMS) in psoriasis datasets from DNA methylation arrays obtained from the repository Gene Expression Omnibus (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/). The global analysis combining all the data sets showed that the number of psoriasis-related genes common to the three data sets was 2455 in females and 6646 in males. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), is a major citrus pest that transmits the bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and Ca. L. americanus associated with huanglongbing (HLB) disease. Diaphorina citri population densities can affect the effectiveness of its monitoring and sampling methods. Thus, we compared different methods for adult D. citri monitoring in groves with and without insecticide application programmes. Four short‐term experiments were carried out, each one lasting four consecutive weeks. In these experiments, sticky cards with different colours (yellow, light green, green and dark green), sweep net, two suction device models, visual inspection and stem tap sampling were assessed. Two long‐term experiments were conducted for 4.5 and 5 years, in which only yellow sticky card and visual inspection for D. citri monitoring were assessed. For the short‐term experiments, psyllids were detected by all monitoring methods during all sampling periods in areas without chemical control. However, in areas with psyllid control via fortnightly and monthly applications of insecticides, only sticky cards, regardless of their colour, were able to detect the presence of D. citri. Similarly, for the long‐term experiments, yellow sticky cards were more effective than visual inspection for detecting and quantifying D. citri in all areas with or without insecticide application. Therefore, in areas where HLB is present and chemical control of psyllid is required, sticky cards are the most reliable option for monitoring D. citri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of emotional functioning in the development and maintenance of obesity has been investigated, but the literature is poorly integrated. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to explore emotional processing impairments in obesity. PubMed, Web of Knowledge and PsycINFO databases were searched in March 2016, yielding 31 studies comparing emotional processing competencies in individuals with obesity, with or without binge eating disorder (BED), and control groups. Meta-analyses demonstrated that individuals with obesity had higher scores of alexithymia ( d = 0.53), difficulty in identifying feelings ( d = 0.34) and externally oriented thinking style ( d = 0.31), when compared with control groups. On other competencies, patients with obesity, especially those with comorbid BED, reported lower levels of emotional awareness and difficulty in using emotion regulation strategies, namely, reduced cognitive reappraisal and acceptance, and greater suppression of expression. No evidence of impaired ability to recognize emotions in others or verbally express emotions was found. A general emotion-processing deficit in obesity was not supported. Instead, an emotional avoidance style may occur modulating later responses of emotion regulation. Additional research is needed to extend the comprehension of these conclusions and the role of BED in emotional functioning in obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: To investigate the relationships of biological, behavioral, familial, and environmental characteristics with siblings´ physical activity (PA) levels as well as the intrapair resemblance in PA. Methods: The sample comprises 834 (390 females) biological siblings [brother‐brother (BB), sister‐sister (SS), brother‐sister (BS)] aged 9 to 20 years. Total PA index (TPAI) was estimated by questionnaire. Information on potential behavioral, familial, and environmental correlates was obtained by self‐report; body mass index (BMI), biological maturation, and physical fitness were measured. Multilevel models were used to analyze siblings´ clustered data, and sibling resemblance was estimated with the intraclass correlation (ρ). Results: On average, younger sibs, those more physically fit, and those with more parental support had greater TPAI. Further, BB pairs had higher TPAI levels than SS or BS pairs, but also had greater within‐pair variance. When adjusted for all covariates, SS pairs demonstrated greater resemblance in TPAI (ρ = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.38–0.68) than BS (ρ = 0.26, 95%CI = 0.14–0.43) or BB pairs (ρ = 0.18, 95%CI = 0.06–0.44). Conclusions: Age, physical fitness, and parental support were the best predictors of TPAI levels. A moderate level of resemblance in TPAI was observed in SS pairs, while lower resemblance was found for BS and BB pairs. These findings may be due to differences in the roles of shared genetic factors, familial, and environmental characteristics across different sibling types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new magnetotelluric (MT) survey comprising 17 MT soundings throughout a 30 km long N30°W transect in the Iberian autochthons domain of NW Iberia (Central Iberian Zone) is presented. The 2‐D inversion model shows the resistivity structure of the continental crust up to 10 km depth, heretofore unavailable for this region of the Variscan Orogen. The MT model reveals a wavy structure separating a conductive upper layer underlain by a resistive layer, thus picturing the two main tectonic blocks of a large‐scale D2 extensional shear zone (i.e., Pinhel shear zone). The upper layer represents a lower grade metamorphic domain that includes graphite‐rich rocks. The lower layer consists of high‐grade metamorphic rocks that experienced partial melting and are associated with granites (more resistive) emplaced during crustal thinning. The wavy structure is the result of superimposed crustal shortening responsible for the development of large‐scale D3 folds (e.g., Marofa synform), later deflected and refolded by a D4 strike‐slip shear zone (i.e., Juzbado‐Penalva do Castelo shear zone). The later contribution to the final structure of the crust is marked by the intrusion of postkinematic granitic rocks and the propagation of steeply dipping brittle fault zones. Our study demonstrates that MT imaging is a powerful tool to understand complex crustal structures of ancient orogens in order to design future prospecting surveys for mineral deposits of economic interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent hypothesis has suggested that Earth's inner core nucleated during the Mesoproterozoic, as evidenced by a rapid increase in the paleointensity (ancient geomagnetic field intensity) record; however, paleointensity data during the Paleoproterozoic and Mesoproterozoic period are limited. To address this problem, we have determined paleointensity from samples from three Paleoproterozoic Avanavero mafic sills (Amazonian Craton, Brazil): Cotingo, 1,782 Ma, Puiuà, 1,788 Ma, and Pedra Preta, 1,795 Ma. We adopted a multiprotocol approach for paleointensity estimates combining Thellier-type IZZI and LTD-IZZI methods, and the nonheating Preisach protocol. We obtained an average VDM value of 1.3 ± 0.7 × 1022Am2 (Cotingo) of 2.0 ± 0.4 × 1022Am2 (Puiuà) and 6 ± 4 × 1022Am2 (Pedra Preta); it is argued that the Cotingo estimate is the most robust. Our results are the first data from the upper Paleoproterozoic for South America and are comparable to data available from other regions and similar periods. The new data do not invalidate the hypothesis of that Earth's inner core nucleated during the Mesoproterozoic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Re-ensiling of previously ensiled forage has been a common practice in Brazil, and the use of inoculants may provide a means of reducing dry-matter ( DM) loss. This study aimed to determine the effect of re-ensiling and the use of microbial inoculants on the quality of sorghum silage. Treatments were presence/absence of an inoculant ( Lactobacillus plantarum and Propionibacterium acidipropionici) in the silage, and the re-ensiling, or not, of the material after 24 h of exposure to air, and these were tested in a factorial 2 × 2 design. Losses due to gas, effluent and total DM were assessed, as were the fermentation characteristics, chemical composition, aerobic stability, and aerobic counts of microorganisms. Effluent loss was higher in re-ensiled silage, and these silages had lower lactic acid content and higher levels of acetic and propionic acids. The in vitro DM digestibility was lower in the re-ensiled sorghum silages. The re-ensiled silage had higher aerobic stability. The inoculant only increased the acetic acid content of the silage. The re-ensiling of sorghum silage increased effluent loss by 71·2%, and reduced DM digestibility by 5·35%. The use of inoculant did not influence the quality of sorghum silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the association between individual and school characteristics associated with the number of school days children comply with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity ( MVPA) recommendations. Sample comprises 612 Portuguese children, aged 9-11 years, from 23 schools. Time spent in MVPA was measured by accelerometry, while individual-level correlates were obtained by anthropometry and questionnaires. School-level variables were collected by questionnaire, and accelerometer wear time and season were also considered. Maximum likelihood estimates of model parameters were obtained via a multilevel analysis with children as level-1, and school as level-2. Children who spent more time in sedentary activities and girls were less likely to comply with MVPA/daily. More mature children and those who use active transportation to school were more likely to attain the PA recommendation. Furthermore, greater accelerometer wear time and spring season increased the chance to achieve the recommended MVPA. In terms of school-level correlates, a greater number of available facilities was negatively associated with children MVPA compliance. Given the set of variables, our results showed that individual characteristics seem to be more relevant for children's compliance rates with PA/day than school context variables, which should be taken into account in the implementation of school policies and practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Climate change is expected to have a major impact on the world's environment, economy and society, especially in African countries such as Angola due to the dependence of many vital sectors on climate variability (e.g. agriculture) and their low adaptive capacity. With the advances in the availability of climate model data sets provided by programs such as the CORDEX, Angola can benefit from studies on future climate change using high-spatial-resolution data, which have previously been absent for this region. The purpose of this study is to analyse the projected changes in temperature and precipitation over Angola during the 21st century based on four regional climate models ( RCMs). The spatial and temporal changes were analysed using a high- and medium-low radiative forcing scenario to consider the uncertainty in greenhouse gas emissions. Changes in the average annual precipitation, average annual temperature and a drought index are studied for short-, mid- and long-term projections. Compared to the reference period, relevant changes are projected in temperature and precipitation indices for the different models under both emission scenarios. These changes include an increase in both the maximum and minimum temperature of up to 4.9 °C by the end of the century and an intensification of droughts. The precipitation projections are highly variable - increasing and decreasing - across the region and dependent on the RCMs. Despite these differences, the precipitation generally decreases over time (approximately −2% by 2100), with the southern region experiencing a stronger decrease in precipitation. Further investigation is needed to minimize projections uncertain, as the annual mean precipitation was overestimated by three of the RCMs (especially in the northern coastal units). Overall, these projected changes in climate can have important implications for the future of Angola, because they are expected to magnify existing problems, thus creating new risks for human and natural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study suggests several analogue bandwidth mismatch compensation techniques for time-interleaved analogue-to-digital converters. All the techniques adjust the equivalent on-resistance of the track and hold (T/H) under calibration. Simulations of a two-channel time interleaved T/H running at fs = 4 GHz shows the effectiveness of the proposed compensations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of the spatiotemporal distribution of soil volumetric water content (θ) is fundamental to agriculture, ecology, and earth science. Given the labor intensive and inefficient nature of determining θ, apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) measured by electromagnetic induction has been used as a proxy. A number of previous studies have employed inversion algorithms to convert ECa data to depth-specific electrical conductivity (σ) which could then be correlated to soil θ and other soil properties. The purpose of this study was to develop a spatiotemporal inversion algorithm which accounts for the temporal continuity of ECa. The algorithm was applied to a case study where time-lapse ECa was collected on a 350 m transect on seven different days on an alfalfa farm in the USA. Results showed that the approach was able to map the location of moving wetting front along the transect. Results also showed that the spatiotemporal inversion algorithm was more precise (RMSE = 0.0457 cm3/cm3) and less biased (ME = −0.0023 cm3/cm3) as compared with the nonspatiotemporal inversion approach (0.0483 cm3/cm3 and ME = −0.0030 cm3/cm3, respectively). In addition, the spatiotemporal inversion algorithm allows for a reduced set of ECa surveys to be used when non abrupt changes of soil water content occur with time. To apply this spatiotemporal inversion algorithm beyond low induction number condition, full solution of the EM induction phenomena can be studied in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background It is necessary to determine the incidence and risk factors for tuberculosis ( TB), as well as strategies to assess and treat latent tuberculosis infection ( LTBI) in lung transplant recipients. Methods A retrospective cohort study of 398 lung transplant recipients was performed. Episodes of TB were studied and the incidence rate was calculated. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze specific variables as potential risk factors for TB. Results Median follow-up was 558 days (range 1-6636). Six cases (1.5%) of TB were documented in 398 transplant patients. The incidence density of TB was 406.3 cases/105 patient-years (95% confidence interval [ CI] 164.7-845), which is higher than in the general population (13.10 cases/105 person-years). All cases occurred in the period 1993-2006, when the tuberculin skin test ( TST) and treatment of LTBI in positive TST patients were not part of the protocol. Pretransplant computed tomography ( CT) showed residual lesions in 50% of patients who developed TB, although the TST was negative and the chest radiograph was inconclusive. Multivariate analysis identified the presence of residual lesions in the pretransplant chest CT (odds ratio [ OR] 11.5, 95% CI 1.9-69.1, P = 0.008), use of azathioprine ( OR 10.6, 95% CI 1.1-99.1, P = 0.038), and use of everolimus ( OR 6.7, 95% CI 1.1-39.8, P = 0.036) as independent risk factors for TB. Conclusions Residual lesions in the pretransplant chest CTs and the use of azathioprine and mTOR inhibitors are associated with the risk of TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To implement management plans, the salt content across affected fields and with depth needs mapping. In this study, we developed a method to map the distribution of normal, uniformly saline, and inverted salinity profiles. we did this by establishing a linear regression (LR) between calculated true electrical conductivity (σ) and electrical conductivity of the saturated soil-paste extract (ECe). we estimated σ by inverting the apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) collected from a DuALEM-421. The ECa values were collected along 13 parallel transects spaced 50 m apart. The inversion was performed using a quasi-three-dimensional model available in the EM4soil software, where we chose the full solution and S1 inversion algorithm with a damping factor (λ) of 0.3. using cross-validation, the quasi-three-dimensional model yielded a high accuracy (RMSE = 5.28 ds m-1), small bias (mean error [ME] = -0.03 ds m-1), and large R2 (0.88) and Lin's concordance (0.93). while slightly better results were achieved using individual LRs established at each depth increment overall (i.e., RMSE = 4.35 ds m-1, ME = -0.17 ds m-1, R2 = 0.92, and Lin's concordance = 0.96) and with the DUALEM-421 ECa, the inversion approach requires the development of a single LR (i.e., ECe = 4.1253 + 0.0167s), which enables efficiencies in estimating salinity and allows ECe to be estimated at any depth where s was estimated within a three-dimensional electromagnetic conductivity image. This can improve understanding of the cause and best management of salinity. Improvements in accuracy and bias can be achieved by collection of ECa on more closely spaced transects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil in arid and semi-arid areas is often markedly saline, which can severely limit agricultural productivity. Increasingly, geophysical methods are being implemented to map the levels and areal extent of soil salinity. One of the most effective methods is electromagnetic ( EM) induction with instruments designed to measure apparent soil electrical conductivity ( ECa). This study describes the generation of electromagnetic conductivity images ( EMCIs) by inverting ECa data obtained with the EM38 and EM31 devices along two closely-spaced transects by the EM inversion approach in the EM4Soil package. The EM38 ECa data are shown to be a more effective predictor of soil ECe. Calibration equations based on calculated true electrical conductivity (σ) and measured electrical conductivity of a saturated soil-paste extract ( ECe) provide reliable estimates of ECa. The patterns of σ in a test of the method in soil developed over thick alluvium on a clay plain in central New South Wales, Australia, compare favourably with existing pedological mapping; the mounds and depressions of gilgai were strongly differentiated from the more sandy alluvial sediments that characterize prior stream channels. The overall approach is potentially useful for generating a single calibration equation that can be used to predict ECe at various depths in the soil. Improvements in EMCI modelling can also be sought by joint inversion of EM with other geophysical datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are expressed mainly in natural killer cells and specifically recognize human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules. The repertoire of KIR genes and KIR-HLA pairs is known to play a key role in the susceptibilities to and the outcomes of several diseases, including malaria. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of KIR genes, KIR genotypes and KIR-HLA pair combinations in a population naturally exposed to malaria from Brazilian Amazon. All 16 KIR genes investigated were present in the studied population. Overall, 46 KIR genotypes were defined. The two most common genotypes in the Porto Velho communities, genotypes 1 and 2, were present at similar frequencies as in the Americas. Principal component analysis based on the frequencies of the KIR genes placed the Porto Velho population closer to theVenezuela Mestizos,USA California hispanic and Brazil Paraná Mixed in terms of KIR gene frequencies. This analysis highlights the multi-ethnic profile of the Porto Velho population. Most of the individuals were found to have at least one inhibitory KIR-HLA pair. Seventy-five KIR-HLA pair combinations were identified. The KIR-2DL2/3_HLA-C1, KIR3DL1_HLA-Bw4 and KIR2DL1_HLA-C2 pairs were the most common. There was no association between KIR genes, KIR genotypes or KIR-HLA pair combinations and malaria susceptibility in the studied population. This is the first report on the distribution of KIR and known HLA ligands in the Porto Velho population. Taken together, these results should provide baseline information that will be relevant to population evolutionary history, malaria and other diseases studies in populations of the Brazilian Amazon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective It has been demonstrated that periodontitis induces systemic inflammation, which may impair endothelial function leading to increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of simvastatin on systemic inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction induced by periodontitis. Material and Methods Wistar rats were subjected to ligature-induced experimental periodontitis. Eight days after the procedure, the ligature and sham groups were randomly assigned to receive simvastatin or vehicle once a day until the 14th day, when the effects of acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside on blood pressure were evaluated. Blood samples were collected and evaluated for plasma interleukin-6 C, -reactive protein and lipids. The maxilla and mandible were removed for bone loss analysis. Results Simvastatin treatment reduced systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction induced by periodontitis. Furthermore, simvastatin improved the blood lipid profile and reduced alveolar bone loss. Conclusion Simvastatin treatment, in addition to the improvement on serum lipid profile, may reduce other predictors of cardiovascular events associated with periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In coastal--estuarine agricultural landscapes, shallow and often saline water tables are problematic because they limit agricultural productivity. To understand the dynamics of rainfall events and tidal influences, natural resource management baseline data need to be collected to describe the heterogeneous nature of the soil and interactions with fluctuating ground-water tables, particularly in areas characterized by coastal acid sulfate soil. Electromagnetic induction instruments are increasingly being used because they measure the apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa, mS m-1), which is related to soil salinity and hydrologic properties. Our aim was to demonstrate how the ECa data from a DUALEM-421 can be used in conjunction with inversion software (EM4Soil) to develop electromagnetic conductivity images, which are two-dimensional cross-sections of estimates of the true electrical conductivity (s, mS m-1). We show how the estimates of σ can be related to the electrical conductivity of a saturated soil paste extract (ECe, dS m-1) across an estuarine landscape and situated within Quaternary fluvial sediments adjacent to Rocky Mouth Creek on the far northern coast of New South Wales, Australia. Our results indicate that a good linear relationship (r² = 0.70) can be established between σ and ECe, and the results reflect the existing soil landscape units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As neurological diseases in horses share many overlapping clinical signs, the veterinarian is required to know how to perform a focused evaluation of this system as well as how to carry out complementary examinations to establish an aetiological diagnosis. This is a case report of an ataxic horse presenting with an extradural haematoma in the region of the 7th cervical vertebra. The 7-year-old Criollo mare presented with clinical signs of ataxia grade 3 (scale 1-5) in all limbs and a proprioceptive deficit. Radiological evaluation did not show bone changes or narrowing of the cervical canal. Samples of blood, serum and cerebrospinal fluid were collected and tested negative for antibodies to equine herpes virus type 1-4, Trypanosoma evansi and Sarcocystis neurona. The disease evolution was followed over a 4-week period, after which the animal showed worsening overall clinical signs, and thus euthanasia was performed. A necropsy did not reveal macroscopic changes in any organs, except for an extradural haematoma in the region of the 7th cervical vertebra causing spinal cord compression. Histological examinations showed that the nodular lesion consisted of fibrovascular tissue, granulation tissue at different stages of maturation, red blood cells, cellular debris, fibrin and macrophages. The white matter of the ventral horn of the spinal cord contained degenerative lesions. In addition, the brain tested negative for rabies virus encephalitis. Based on the history, the laboratory test results, anamnesis and the lesion observed at necropsy, it was concluded that the ataxia was due to spinal cord compression, which was caused by an extradural haematoma in the region of the 7th cervical vertebra. Evaluation of the equine neurological system is highly important in localising the area of lesions, and complementary examinations are useful in differentiating between diseases affecting this system. Spinal cord compression injuries, such as extradural haematomas, are rarely reported in the literature, and their pathophysiology is difficult to understand. Nevertheless, they should be included in the differential diagnosis of ataxia in horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture in the semi-arid and arid areas of the world requires irrigation. However, in these areas, soils naturally contain large amounts of sodium (sodic) which can cause amongst other things, surface crusting on the topsoil or structural instability in the subsoil. The exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) needs to be mapped to guide the application of gypsum. Whilst geostatistical techniques, such as ordinary, co- and 3-D kriging have been used, they have often been criticized because they are unable to take into account soil knowledge concerning distribution, processes and factors of formation. The use of digital soil mapping methods which couple remote or proximally sensed data with soil information is increasingly becoming useful because of the production of high-resolution ancillary data. In this study, we first invert (using EM4Soil software) the electrical conductivity ( σa - mS/m) of DUALEM-421 data collected along a single transect. In doing this, we generate a 2-dimensional electromagnetic conductivity image (EMCI). We couple the estimates of electrical conductivity ( σ - mS/m) at 0.30 m depth increments down to 1.5 m with measured soil ESP. We compare the results of inversion using various possible coil array configurations of the DUALEM-421 to determine a suitable set of data. We conclude that the use of the DUALEM-41 is optimal ( r2 = 0.70). We use the calibration to estimate ESP along adjacent transects where we also generate EMCI. We are thus able to estimate ESP at various depths across a clay plain and an associated prior stream channel. We conclude that the collection of additional transects of DUALEM-421 data as well as the use of a quasi-3-D inversion modelling approach would improve prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective It has been demonstrated that periodontitis induces a systemic inflammation, which may impair endothelial function. Cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2) is an important enzyme in the inflammatory process and is responsible for prostacyclin production. We hypothesised that in periodontitis, an increase in vascular COX-2 expression may occur, which in turn may have a role in vascular homeostasis. Thus, we evaluated the vascular effects of COX-2 inhibition in an experimental rat model of periodontitis. Material and Methods Experimental periodontitis was induced in rats by placing a cotton ligature around the cervix of both sides of the mandibular first molars and maxillary second molars. Sham-operated rats had the ligature removed immediately after the procedure. Mesenteric vessels were obtained for the study of COX-2 expression, and blood samples were collected for nitric oxide quantification. In another set of experiments, animals received etoricoxib (10 mg/kg/d, v.o.) or vehicle, and alveolar bone loss and cardiovascular parameters were evaluated. Results We observed an increase in COX-2 expression in mesenteric vessels harvested from animals with periodontitis, which was accompanied by a reduction in nitric oxide content. Etoricoxib treatment impaired the endothelium-dependent reduction in blood pressure in rats with periodontitis. Conclusion Periodontitis increases vascular COX-2 expression, which is important in the maintenance of vascular homeostasis in this model. Despite the limitations of an animal study, these findings may have important implications regarding the safety of using selective COX-2 inhibitors in patients with periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new catechol- O-methyltransferase inhibitors has led to an improvement in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, despite the fact that the soluble isoform has been extensively investigated, few studies have been published concerning membrane isoform chromatographic recovery and bioactivity levels. In this work, chromatographic profiles of both catechol- O-methyltransferase isoforms were compared using quaternary amine as a ligand to evaluate its activity levels and recovery rates. Results show that both proteins required different conditions for adsorption; the soluble isoform adsorption was performed at low ionic strength, while the membrane isoform required increasing linear salt gradient. However, the application of 0.5% Triton X-100 promoted membrane isoform adsorption even at low ionic strength. Indeed, chromatographic conditions of both isoforms became similar when detergents were applied. The developed methods also appear to be highly effective in bioactivity recovery, presenting rates of 107% for soluble protein and 67 and 91% for membrane isoform without and with detergents, respectively. The chromatographic strategies with and without detergents resulted in a 4.3- and sevenfold purification, respectively, corresponding to specific activity values of 331 and 496 nmol/h/mg. Thus, the use of Q-sepharose as anion exchanger was effective in the recovery of both enzymes, which is a requirement for further kinetic and pharmacological trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human leukocyte antigen ( HLA)- B27 is the mostly known major histocompatibility complex ( MHC) gene associated with ankylosing spondylitis ( AS). Nonetheless, there is substantial evidence that other MHC genes appear to be associated with the disease, although it has not yet been established whether these associations are driven by direct associations or by linkage disequilibrium ( LD) mechanisms. We aimed to investigate the contributions of HLA class I and II alleles and B27-haplotypes for AS in a case-control study. A total of 188 HLA-B27 AS cases and 189 HLA-B27 healthy controls were selected and typed for HLA class I and II by the Luminex polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific oligonucleotide probe ( PCR-SSOP) method. Allelic and haplotypic distributions were estimated by maximum likelihood method using Arlequin v3.11 and statistical analysis were performed by Stata10.1. No associations were found between non- HLA-B27 loci and AS susceptibility, but several associations were observed for phenotypic features of the disease. DRB1* 08 was identified as a risk factor for uveitis and DQB1* 04 seems to provide protection for AS severity (functional, metrological and radiological indexes). A*02/ B27/C*02/ DRB1*01/ DQB1*05 [ P<0.0001; odds ratio ( OR) = 39.06; 95% confidence interval ( CI) (2.34-651)] is the only haplotype that seems to confer susceptibility to AS. Moreover, the haplotype A*02/ B27/C*01/ DRB1*08/ DQB1*04 seems to provide protection for disease functional and radiological repercussions. Our findings are compatible with the hypothesis that other genes within the HLA region besides HLA-B27 might play some role in AS susceptibility and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the daily frequency of self-monitoring of blood glucose and glycaemic control, demographic and socio-economic status in patients with Type 1 diabetes under routine clinical care in Brazil. Methods This was a cross-sectional, multi-centre study conducted between December 2008 and December 2010 in 28 public clinics in 20 Brazilian cities. The data were obtained from 3176 patients, aged 22 ± 11.8 years, of whom 56.3% were female and 57.4% were Caucasian. The mean time since diabetes diagnosis was 11.7 ± 8.1 years. Results The prevalence of self-monitoring of blood glucose was 88.5%. There was a significant increase in self-monitoring frequency associated with female gender, lower ages, more intensive diabetes management and higher socio-economic status. A correlation between HbA1c levels and the daily frequency of self-monitoring was observed ( rs = -0.13; P = 0.001). The mean HbA1c levels were related to the daily frequency of self-monitoring ( P < 0.001) without additional benefit to patients who performed self-monitoring more than four times daily (9.2, 11.2, 10.2,15.2 and 15% for one, two, three, four, five or more self-monitoring tests daily, respectively; P < 0.0001). Conclusions The majority of our patients (88.5%) performed three or more self-monitoring tests daily, with more frequent testing reported by females, younger patients, those on intensive insulin regimens and of higher socio-economic status. No additional benefit was found in patients who performed self-monitoring more than four times daily. The diabetes care team must improve patients' education regarding self-monitoring of blood glucose and its benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between the subgingival colonization by Candida albicans and other yeasts with the severity of chronic periodontitis ( CP). Material and Methods After sample size calculation, 40 patients with CP and 20 healthy subjects ( HS) were included in the study. Cases of slight-moderate ( MCP, n = 23) and severe CP ( SCP, n = 17) were defined according to the Centers for Disease Control/American Association of Periodontology classification. Subgingival samples were acquired using sterile paper-points from the sulcus or the deepest periodontal pocket of each healthy and subject with CP, respectively, and were cultured aerobically on three selective media. Yeast colonies that grew on the surface of plates were later identified by biochemical reactions. Statistical tests were used to analyze the association between subgingival yeast colonization (number of yeast-positive individuals and colony forming units ( CFU) per subject) and periodontal disease status, considering statistical significance when P < 0.05. Results Although several yeast species were found ( C. parapisilosis, Rhodotorula sp., C. dubliniensis and C. tropicalis), only C. albicans was present in all the patients with yeast-positive CP. Twelve patients (30%) with CP presented yeasts in the subgingival biofilm while only three patients (15%) in the HS group were positive for these microorganisms. No statistical difference was found between the CP and HS groups ( P = 0.084). However, when the CP group was divided on the basis of severity, statistical differences were observed between the SCP and MCP groups (47% vs. 17%, P = 0.043), and between the SCP and HS groups (47% vs. 15%, P = 0.033). No statistical difference was observed between the MCP and HS groups (17% vs. 15%, P = 0.832). High densities of yeasts were found only in patients with MCP and SCP (mean and range 61.25 (0-100) CFU/plate and mean and range 51 (0-101) CFU/plate, respectively). Conclusion In this group of patients, subgingival colonization of some yeasts, especially C. albicans, was associated with the severity of CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In urban landscapes, information is required to describe the heterogeneous nature of pedological and hydrological resources. This is particularly the case in areas previously used as municipal landfills. Increasingly, geophysical techniques such as electromagnetic (EM) induction are being used. Here we describe how a single-frequency and multiple-coil EM instrument can be used in conjunction with a one-dimensional spatially constrained quasi-three-dimensional inversion algorithm to map electrical conductivity (σ). The algorithm is briefly described and then applied to soil apparent electrical conductivity (σa) data observed with a DUALEM-421 and across a former municipal landfill at Astrolabe Park in Daceyville, Sydney. The results are presented as isosurface maps of σ. In general, the results compare favorably with existing knowledge and previous research results performed within a highly modified aeolian sand landscape. Specifically, the isosurface maps allow us to discern a gradient in, as well as identify contiguous corridors of, σ, which allow us to infer the likely location of leachate plume flow paths and their origin. The results demonstrate how EM instruments can provide rapid measurements of σa. In addition, coupled to a one-dimensional spatially constrained quasi-three-dimensional inversion algorithm, the data enable robust estimates of σ, which may be useful for informing future natural resource management and research needs in a decommissioned municipal landfill at Astrolabe Park, which is impacted by a leachate plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY This work describes a methodology to simulate free surface incompressible multiphase flows. This novel methodology allows the simulation of multiphase flows with an arbitrary number of phases, each of them having different densities and viscosities. Surface and interfacial tension effects are also included. The numerical technique is based on the GENSMAC front-tracking method. The velocity field is computed using a finite-difference discretization of a modification of the Navier-Stokes equations. These equations together with the continuity equation are solved for the two-dimensional multiphase flows, with different densities and viscosities in the different phases. The governing equations are solved on a regular Eulerian grid, and a Lagrangian mesh is employed to track free surfaces and interfaces. The method is validated by comparing numerical with analytic results for a number of simple problems; it was also employed to simulate complex problems for which no analytic solutions are available. The method presented in this paper has been shown to be robust and computationally efficient. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out to study the effects of low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) on weight loss and cardiovascular risk factors (search performed on PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Scopus databases). A total of 23 reports, corresponding to 17 clinical investigations, were identified as meeting the pre-specified criteria. Meta-analysis carried out on data obtained in 1,141 obese patients, showed the LCD to be associated with significant decreases in body weight (−7.04 kg [95% CI −7.20/−6.88]), body mass index (−2.09 kg m−2[95% CI −2.15/−2.04]), abdominal circumference (−5.74 cm [95% CI −6.07/−5.41]), systolic blood pressure (−4.81 mm Hg [95% CI −5.33/−4.29]), diastolic blood pressure (−3.10 mm Hg [95% CI −3.45/−2.74]), plasma triglycerides (−29.71 mg dL−1[95% CI −31.99/−27.44]), fasting plasma glucose (−1.05 mg dL−1[95% CI −1.67/−0.44]), glycated haemoglobin (−0.21% [95% CI −0.24/−0.18]), plasma insulin (−2.24 micro IU mL−1[95% CI −2.65/−1.82]) and plasma C-reactive protein, as well as an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.73 mg dL−1[95%CI 1.44/2.01]). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and creatinine did not change significantly, whereas limited data exist concerning plasma uric acid. LCD was shown to have favourable effects on body weight and major cardiovascular risk factors; however the effects on long-term health are unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a worldwide health problem that is highly related to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The achievement of response to the current standard of care-pegylated interferon plus ribavirin-has recently been described to be associated with single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) near the IL-28B gene. Additionally, baseline expression levels of genes involved in interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs) have been found to be related to treatment outcome. In the present study, 285 patients were genotyped for 63 SNPs within genes of the IFN signaling pathway (IPGs) and ISGs. Two ISG polymorphisms-OASL rs12819210 (odds ratio (OR) = 2.1, P = 0.03) and IFIT1 rs304478 (OR = 2.5, P = 0.01)-were found to be independent predictive factors of sustained virological response (SVR) after adjusting for other clinical covariates. Furthermore, the predictive value of IL-28B SNP was notably improved by simultaneous genotyping of rs12819210 and rs304478, particularly in patients with the worst prognosis (viral genotype 1, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.74). In conclusion, ISG SNPs could constitute a valuable tool for individualizing CHC therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Please cite this paper as: Santos F, Sheehy O, Perreault S, Ferreira E, Berard A. Exposure to anti-infective drugs during pregnancy and the risk of small-for-gestational-age newborns: a case-control study. BJOG 2011;118:1374-1382. Objective To determine the association between anti-infective exposure during the last two trimesters of pregnancy and the risk of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) newborns. Design Case-control study within the Québec Pregnancy Registry. Setting Province of Québec, Canada. Sample Analyses were performed on prospectively collected data of 63 338 pregnant women that met eligibility criteria for the study (8192 cases and 55 146 controls). Methods Unconditional logistic regression models were used to quantify the association between exposure to anti-infective drugs and the risk of SGA. Main outcome measures A case of SGA was defined as a pregnancy resulting in a baby that weighs below the tenth percentile, adjusted for gestational age and gender, according to the Canadian gender-specific reference curves. A control was defined as a pregnancy resulting in a baby that weighs greater or equal to the tenth percentile, adjusted for gestational age and gender. Results Exposure to all combined anti-infective drugs was not associated with the risk of SGA (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.91-1.04). The use of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim was associated with SGA (OR 1.61; 95% CI 1.16-2.23), whereas the use of urinary anti-infective drugs decreased the risk (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.65-0.97). Conclusions Exposure to sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim during the last two trimesters of pregnancy was associated with SGA. Further research is needed to address the use of other therapeutic alternatives in the management of infections that predispose infants being born SGA in pregnant women with other risk factors for this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid waste poses a serious health risk when it is disposed of inadequately because water-based solutions derived from the decomposition of solid waste products (leachate) can enter groundwater systems via plumes. To assess the public health risk and potential ecological impacts, we require knowledge on the pedological and hydrogeological settings in which waste is disposed. This is particularly the case in coarse textured highly permeable soil. To rapidly collect data, geophysical methods such as direct current (dc) resistivity techniques have been used. Moreover, non-contact electromagnetic (EM) induction instruments have also been employed. The aim of this research was to demonstrate how the inversion using a 1-dimensional inversion algorithm with lateral constraints of the apparent electrical conductivity ( σa) measured in the horizontal coplanar (HCP) and perpendicular co-planar arrays (PRP) of a DUALEM-421 EM induction probe can be used to develop a two-dimensional model of the true electrical conductivity ( σ) within a Quaternary aeolian sand in the Tuggerah Soil Landscape southeast of Sydney in Australia. Our results from 2D models of σ accord with estimates of bulk electrical conductivity ( σb) of a leachate plume and uncontaminated groundwater, the stratigraphy of the Tuggerah soil landscape unit and the depth of sand used to landscape the decommissioned landfill. Further research is needed to determine the origin of the plume and a quasi-3D modelling approach is applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Int J Dent Hygiene , 2011; 149-154 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2010.00476.x. Stroski ML, de Souza Dal Maso AM, Wambier LM, Chibinski ACR, Pochapski MT, Santos FA, Wambier DS. Clinical evaluation of three toothbrush models tested by schoolchildren. The aim of this single-blind cross-over study was to compare the performance of three different toothbrush models in the control of dental biofilm and maintaining a healthy gingival condition. Twenty-seven schoolchildren (aged 9-10 years) participated in the study. Three toothbrushes with different bristle arrangements were used: T1 - bristles on the same plane, straight arrangement; T2 - bristles on different planes, straight arrangement; T3 - bristles on different planes, straight and circular arrangement. The participants were then randomly divided into three groups for brushing with one of the three toothbrushes. Each experimental period lasted 15 days each, with three daily brushings and a 7-day washout interval was used between periods. The oral hygiene and gingival bleeding indices were recorded by a single, calibrated examiner blind to the brush used. Bristle wear was measured with a digital calliper at the end of each period. The data were analysed using parametric ( and Student's t-test) and non-parametric (Cochran's Q and McNemar) tests. The toothbrushes achieved similar results ( P > 0.05) for the clinical parameters investigated. The three models exhibited a similar degree of bristle wear ( P > 0.05). The arrangement of the bristles had little influence over the removal of biofilm and gingival conditions. Thus, there is no clinical justification for replacing conventional toothbrushes with more expensive models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Prostaglandin (PG) D(2) has emerged as a key mediator of allergic inflammatory pathologies and, particularly, PGD(2) induces leukotriene (LT) C(4) secretion from eosinophils. Here, we have characterized how PGD(2) signals to induce LTC(4) synthesis in eosinophils.Experimental Approach: Antagonists and agonists of DP(1) and DP(2) prostanoid receptors were used in a model of PGD(2) -induced eosinophilic inflammation in vivo and with PGD(2) -stimulated human eosinophils in vitro, to identify PGD(2) receptor(s) mediating LTC(4) secretion. The signalling pathways involved were also investigated.Key Results: In vivo and in vitro assays with receptor antagonists showed that PGD(2) -triggered cysteinyl-LT (cysLT) secretion depends on the activation of both DP(1) and DP(2) receptors. DP(1) and DP(2) receptor agonists elicited cysLTs production only after simultaneous activation of both receptors. In eosinophils, LTC(4) synthesis, but not LTC(4) transport/export, was activated by PGD(2) receptor stimulation, and lipid bodies (lipid droplets) were the intracellular compartments of DP(1) /DP(2) receptor-driven LTC(4) synthesis. Although not sufficient to trigger LTC(4) synthesis by itself, DP(1) receptor activation, signalling through protein kinase A, did activate the biogenesis of eosinophil lipid bodies, a process crucial for PGD(2) -induced LTC(4) synthesis. Similarly, concurrent DP(2) receptor activation used Pertussis toxin-sensitive and calcium-dependent signalling pathways to achieve effective PGD(2) -induced LTC(4) synthesis.Conclusions and Implications: Based on pivotal roles of cysLTs in allergic inflammatory pathogenesis and the collaborative interaction between PGD(2) receptors described here, our data suggest that both DP(1) and DP(2) receptor antagonists might be attractive candidates for anti-allergic therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin interacts with its own polar transport to influence cell polarity and tissue patterning. Research over the past decade has started to deliver new insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive and regulate polar auxin transport. The most prominent auxin efflux protein, PIN1, has subsequently become a crucial component of auxin transport models because it is now known to direct auxin flow and maintain local auxin gradients. Recent molecular and genetic experiments have allowed the formulation of conceptual models that are able to interpret the role of (i) auxin, (ii) its transport, and (iii) the dynamics of PIN1 in generating temporal and spatial patterns. Here we review the current mathematical models of patterning in two specific developmental contexts: lateral shoot and vein formation, focusing on how these models can help to untangle the details of auxin transport-mediated patterning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which aims to establish a model for environmental variables that shows seasonal cycles, fluctuations, and correlations to analyze the Portuguese coastal upwelling system from 1941-2000. In the study, reference cell coding and parameter estimation were performed. Results offer selective information on the association between sea surface temperature and wind in the Portuguese coast.

The purpose of this research was to evaluate molar furcation entrances and the width of periodontal curette blades used in periodontal instrumentation. Materials and methods:  One hundred extracted molars (50 upper and 50 lower) were analysed. The furcation entrances were measured using orthodontic wires of different predetermined diameters: 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8 and 0.9 mm. McCall 17–18, Gracey 5–6 and Gracey 5–6 mini-five curette blades were measured at their anterior (AT), middle (MT) and posterior (PT) thirds by a single trained investigator, through the use of a digital caliper. Results:  The results showed significant differences ( P < 0.0001) in relation to furcation entrances. The buccal upper molar furcations showed the narrowest dimensions. In relation to the blade diameter, significant differences among the instruments were found for their MT and PT ( P < 0.0001), but not for the AT ( P = 0.183). Significant differences were found among curette manufacturers. Nineteen per cent of evaluated furcations presented entrances <0.60 mm and 75% of the blades at their AT presented width >0.60 mm. Conclusions:  These findings demonstrated that some molar furcation entrances could not be adequately instrumented with the tested curettes. The use of other hand instruments, such as periodontal files, rotating instruments and ultrasonic devices should be taken into consideration during periodontal therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]