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The study is devoted to pack-powder boriding of ASTM A709 steel in a powder mixture containing boron carbide, potassium fluoroborate and silicon carbide. This surface hardening process is conducted between 1123 and 1273 K for from 2 to 8 h. The formed diiron boride layers are studied by different techniques (scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES), Vickers microhardness testing, surface profilometry, Rockwell-C indentation cohesion and pin-on-disc tests). Kinetically, an integral-method-based approach is applied to calculate the boron diffusivities in Fe2B. The activation energy of the process is deduced and compared to reported data. The same model is ultimately verified by comparing the empirical values of the thickness of the Fe2B layers obtained at 1223 K and 1273 K for 9 h and the predicted values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations ( TLESRs) induced by gastric distension are modulated by the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 ( mGluR5) that influences the vagal reflex loop. We therefore aimed to examine the effects of the selective mGluR5 antagonist mavoglurant ( AFQ056) on the number of TLESRs in dogs and reflux episodes in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD). Methods In a dog model, the number of meal-induced TLESRs was determined after intravenous (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg kg−1) and oral (1, 3, and 10 mg kg−1) doses of mavoglurant with reference to vehicle. In a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-period crossover study, the incidence of meal-induced reflux episodes was assessed by esophageal impedance monitoring after single, oral doses of mavoglurant (50 and 400 mg) or baclofen (40 mg) in 30 patients with moderate to severe GERD. Key Results In dogs, mavoglurant reduced the number of TLESRs after intravenous and oral administration. In patients with GERD, the incidence of postprandial reflux episodes was significantly lower at a dose of 400 mg mavoglurant (−37.5% ; 90% confidence interval [ CI]: −57.8, −17.2), whereas there was no significant difference at 50 mg of mavoglurant compared to placebo. A significantly lower incidence of reflux episodes was also noted with the active comparator baclofen (−50.3%; 90% CI: −66.2, −34.3), thereby validating this study. Conclusions and Inferences These data suggest a potential clinical benefit of mGluR5 antagonists such as mavoglurant in patients with GERD, particularly in those with persisting symptoms despite treatment with proton pump inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In France, a national surveillance plan to monitor congenital Schmallenberg virus (SBV) outbreaks was set up in January 2012, and has shown that SBV had become widespread throughout the country since mid-2011. However, the number of SBV-infected farms cannot accurately be estimated through congenital SBV reporting alone. Therefore, GDS France (National Animal Health Farmers' Organization) conducted serological investigations in cattle and sheep holdings in several departments in spring 2012 to assess SBV exposure in 2011. A serological study was also conducted in the department of Saône-et-Loire (southern Burgundy) to establish an accurate local overview of circulation of virus in 2011 among cattle. The study was conducted following guidelines elaborated by the French Platform for animal health surveillance. Results indicated differences in within-herd seroprevalence between cattle herds and sheep herds in departments where outbreaks of congenital SBV were reported in early 2012 and a great heterogeneity in seroprevalence between areas (even between areas geographically close to each other). In departments which had been severely affected in early 2012, the overall impact of SBV infection in cattle herds during the 2012-2013 calving season will probably be low. On the other hand, given the low proportion of immunised ewes in sheep SBV outbreaks, sheep flocks which were already affected in early 2012 may once again face congenital cases of SBV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schutters SIJ, Dominguez M-d-G, Knappe S, Lieb R, van Os J, Schruers KRJ, Wittchen H-U. The association between social phobia, social anxiety cognitions and paranoid symptoms. Objective: Previous research suggests high levels of comorbidity between social phobia and paranoid symptoms, although the nature of this association remains unclear. Method: Data were derived from the Early Developmental Stages of Psychopathology study, a 10-year longitudinal study in a representative German community sample of 3021 participants aged 14-24 years at baseline. The Munich-Composite International Diagnostic Interview was used to assess social phobia and paranoid symptoms, along with data on social phobia features. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses were conducted. Differential associations with environmental risk factors and temperamental traits were investigated. Results: Lifetime social phobia and paranoid symptoms were associated with each other cross-sectionally (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.31-2.47). Lifetime paranoid symptoms were associated specifically with social anxiety cognitions. Lifetime cognitions of negative evaluation predicted later onset of paranoid symptoms, whereas onset of social phobia was predicted by cognitions of loss of control and fear/avoidance of social situations. Lifetime social phobia and paranoid symptoms shared temperamental traits of behavioural inhibition, but differed in environmental risks. Conclusions: The present study showed that paranoid symptoms and social phobia share similarities in cognitive profile and inhibited temperament. Avoidance appears to be important in the development of social phobia, whereas cannabis use and traumatic experiences may drive paranoid thinking in vulnerable individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Super acid catalysis offers the syntheses of a rich variety of similar but different polymer structures otherwise not easily attainable. By this synthetic method, a set of 22 polymers was prepared and their gas permeability coefficients for pure gases, with their associated ideal selectivity, were measured. An analysis of their selectivity and permeability combination protocol revealed that their membranes have combinations, specifically for the O2/N2, CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 separations, that are in the same order of magnitude as those reported for the polysulfone and some polyimide families. For CO2/N2 separations, polymers CF3PhSO3H-T and CF3Ph-T offer membranes with CO2 permeability coefficients of 83 and 220Barrer, with corresponding selectivity of 31 and 24. In addition, by the systematic incorporation of Me, Ph, flouro atoms or CF3 groups into their chemical structure it is possible to understand the structure/properties relationship of gas transport for this series of polymers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The merozoite surface antigens MSA-2 of Babesia bovis constitute a family of polymorphic GPI-anchored glycoproteins located at the parasite cell surface, that contain neutralization-sensitive B-cell epitopes. These are therefore putative vaccine candidates for bovine babesiosis. It was previously shown that (i) the MSA-2 antigens of the biologically cloned Mo7 strain are encoded by four tandemly organized genes: msa-2a 1, a 2, b and c, and (ii) at least one allele of each of these genes is present in the Argentine R1A strain with a moderate degree of polymorphism. The present work was aimed at defining neutralization-sensitive B-cell epitopes in the MSA-2 family, that are conserved among different B. bovis geographical isolates. To this end, msa-2a, b and c alleles from different isolates from Argentina, USA and Mexico were amplified by PCR, cloned and sequenced. Bioinformatic analysis by ClustalW alignments and B-cell epitope prediction algorithms performed on these sequences allowed the identification of several regions containing putative conserved B-cell epitopes. Four peptides representing these regions: (KDYKTMVKFCN from msa-2a 1; YYKKHIS, from msa-2b; and THDALKAVKQLIKT and ELLKLLIEA from msa-2c) were chemically synthesized, conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin and used to inoculate mice to obtain immune sera. Anti-peptide antibodies recognized B. bovis merozoite extracts in all cases in ELISA tests. In addition, these sera reacted with the surface of merozoites of an Argentine and a Mexican B. bovis strains in immunofluorescence assays, and sera against two of the selected peptides inhibited invasion of erythrocytes by in vitro cultured merozoites. Taken together, the results show that the peptide sequences selected by bioinformatic analysis represent expressed and geographically conserved B. bovis B-cell epitopes that might be strong candidates for development of subunit vaccines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a new algorithm to extract a color graph from a real image so that it can be efficiently represented in a compact way. The proposal presents two main novelties. First, a new PCA-based color feature vector has been defined. This vector is resistant against illumination changes, noise and microtextures. Second, the image is segmented by means of a fast, hierarchical split and merge algorithm based on a pyramid structure that implicitly provides a color graph. In order to test the suitability of the proposed representation technique, simple localization experiments have been conducted in different real environments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effects of the chemical heat treatments of a semianthracite char (AC) on the textural properties and the gasification in air they are investigated. Sample AC first was treated with the LiCl/KCl mixture or the mixture formed by LiCl/IKCl and a metallic oxide, M n = 1, 2O (MgO, CaO, FeO, CoO, NiO, Cu2O or ZnO) at 743, 873 or 1173 K and products obtained they were then washings carefully with water distilled. The information on the textural modifications was deduced of isotherms of CO2 adsorption to 273 K. The reactivity tests were taken to the temperature 808, 823 and 838 K. As resulting from the AC treatments, on developed the microporosity and on increase the air reactivity, in particular, the first effect is greater whim the used mixture went LiCl/KCl/CoO at 1173 K and the second effect are greater when the used mixture went LiCl/KCl/Cu2O at 1173 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Due to the high number of variables involved in mine profitability studies, it is often very difficult to establish connections among them in order to provide a blend of market saleable quality products. In this sense, analytical chemistry together with chemometry are essential and indispensable disciplines to tackle these studies. The aim of this work was to demonstrate the utility of these disciplines to carry out optimization studies of iron mines. For this purpose, one of the most important iron mines of the Iberian Peninsula was chosen, sited in the mountain range of Sierra Menera, near the location of Ojos Negros (Teruel, Spain). Geological, mineralogical and chemical composition of 148 samples was analyzed, corresponding to different depths of three drill holes (named TE1, TE2 and TE3). In particular, aspects concerning to chemical composition are very important, since the mean contents of certain elements, such as phosphorus, sodium and potassium, should be restricted to the established limits to prevent that companies can drive back the raw material if they do not fulfil the necessary requirements. On the other hand, the large number of analysed samples drove us to use a statistical processing of the data. Among other aspects, it provides a way to find possible connections among a high number of variables and classify samples into compositional groups sharing similar composition, in order to limit the mineralised area and to obtain enough information about the amount of those chemical elements associated to iron ores. Data obtained from all these analytical techniques were in good agreement and provide a methodology that can be of wide interest applied to different geological studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy–candidiasis–ectodermal dystrophy syndrome (APECED; OMIM 240300) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder defined by a variable combination of endocrine failure, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), and dystrophy of the dental enamel and nails. APECED is caused by mutations in the autoimmune regulator gene ( AIRE). Alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are diseases with autoimmune pathogeneses, and have been recognized as part of the APECED complex. There are rare reports of other cutaneous manifestations. Objectives We sought to delineate the dermatological features of APECED in an Irish case series with emphasis on timing of their appearance and association with disease severity. Furthermore, we looked for evidence of genotype: phenotype correlation. Finally, we wanted to determine if the ectodermal changes described represent a primary ectodermal dysplasia or whether the ectodermal manifestations are secondary phenomena. Methods Irish patients with APECED were invited to attend a multidisciplinary clinic (Dermatology, Endocrinology, Dentistry and Ophthalmology) held in Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Dublin. Clinical data were compiled from case notes and questionnaires. All patients had a detailed cutaneous examination. Blood samples were obtained for mutational analysis. Results Eighteen patients (seven males and 11 females) from 15 families were interviewed and examined. The mean age at diagnosis was 6 years (range 8 months–18 years). All patients had evidence of CMC, 13 (72%) had candidal onychomycosis or paronychia, six (33%) had AA and two had vitiligo. In the case of two patients the diagnosis was made on recognition of dermatological manifestations and confirmed by mutational analysis. Both patients developed Addison's disease on follow-up. CMC was an early feature, often predating diagnosis (10 of 18). AA and vitiligo presented later, and may reflect more severe disease in these cases. There was no correlation between the AIRE mutations identified on mutational analysis and the clinical presentation. We found no evidence of an isolated nail dystrophy or features consistent with a primary ectodermal dysplasia. Conclusions APECED is a rare but complex and potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease. CMC is a common and early feature; diagnosis at this stage may pre-empt life-threatening endocrinological crises. It is important for dermatologists to be aware of this association as they are likely to be the earliest clinicians who encounter these children. AA and vitiligo in our series occurred in the setting of established disease. The term ‘ectodermal dystrophy’ is misleading as the ectodermal features described in our series and in the literature are most likely to be secondary phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood samples were taken from the ventral coccygeal vein of 15 El Hierro giant lizards (Gallotia simonyi) (seven females and eight males), six La Gomera giant lizards (Gallotia bravoana) (four males and two females) and four Tenerife giant lizards (Gallotia intermedia) (two males and two females), and 31 blood parameters were measured. Among the haematological parameters there were significant differences between the three species in heterophils, azurophils and lymphocytes, but no significant differences in red blood cell count, white blood cell count, haemoglobin, packed-cell volume, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. In terms of blood chemistry there were significant differences between the three species in cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, sodium, chloride, urea, uric acid, total proteins, prealbumin, albumin and gamma globulins, but no significant differences in calcium, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase, bile acids, alpha-1 and alpha-2 globulins and beta globulins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of individual fatty acids on breast cancer in a prospective study of 35?298 Singapore Chinese women aged 45-74 years, who were enrolled during April 1993 to December 1998 (The Singapore Chinese Health Study). At recruitment, each study subject was administered, in-person, a validated, semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire consisting of 165 food and beverage items. As of December 31, 2000, 314 incident cases of breast cancer had occurred. We used the Cox regression methods to examine individual fatty acids in relation to breast cancer risk, with adjustment for age at baseline interview, year of interview, dialect group, level of education, daily alcohol drinking, number of live births, age when menstrual periods became regular, and family history of breast cancer. Consumption of saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fat overall was unrelated to risk. On the other hand, high levels of dietary n-3 fatty acids from fish/shellfish (marine n-3 fatty acids) were significantly associated with reduced risk. Relative to the lowest quartile of intake, individuals in the higher three quartiles exhibited a 26% reduction in risk (relative risk (RR)=0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.58, 0.94)); RRs were similar across the top three quartiles of intake (0.75, 0.75, 0.72, respectively). Overall, there was no association between n-6 fatty acids and breast cancer risk. However, among subjects who consumed low levels of marine n-3 fatty acids (lowest quartile of intake), a statistically significant increase in risk was observed in individuals belonging to the highest vs the lowest quartile of n-6 fatty acid consumption (RR=1.87, 95% CI=1.06-3.27); the corresponding RR for advanced breast cancer was 2.45 (95% CI=1.20-4.97, P for trend=0.01). To our knowledge, these are the first prospective findings linking the intake of marine n-3 fatty acids to breast cancer protection.British Journal of Cancer (2003) 89, 1686-1692. doi:10.1038/sj.bjc.6601340 www.bjcancer.com [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the role of cyanobacterial phytochrome in controlling processes required for adaptation in light-dark and dark-light transitions. Sequence homology and spectral characteristics of histidine kinase protein (Cph1) and phytochrome; Effect of light on messenger RNA levels of Cph1 rcp1; Expression pattern of Cph1 rcp1.

Phenacetin-based analgesics have been linked to the development of renal pelvis cancer and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The relationship between non-phenacetin types of analgesics and kidney cancer is less clear, although laboratory evidence suggests that these drugs possess carcinogenic potential. A population-based case-control study involving 1204 non-Asian RCC patients aged 25-74 and an equal number of sex-, age- and race-matched neighbourhood controls was conducted in Los Angeles, California, to investigate the relationship between sustained use of analgesics and risk of RCC according to major formulation categories. Detailed information on medical and medication histories, and other lifestyle factors was collected through in-person interviews. Regular use of analgesics was a significant risk factor for RCC in both men and women (odds ratio (OR) = 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4-1.9 for both sexes combined). Risks were elevated across all four major classes of analgesics (aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents other than aspirin, acetaminophen and phenacetin). Within each class of analgesics, there was statistically significant increasing risk with increasing level of exposure. Although there was some minor variability by major class of formulation, in general individuals in the highest exposure categories exhibited approximately 2.5-fold increase in risk relative to non- or irregular users of analgesics. Subjects who took one regular-strength (i.e. 325 mg) aspirin a day or less for cardiovascular disease prevention were not at an increased risk of RCC (OR = 0.9, 95% CI = 0.6-1.4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the relation between self-actualization and parenting style. Based on Abraham Maslow's (1954. 1970) theory of motivation and Diana Baumrind's (1971. 1973) research on parenting styles, it was predicted that high self-actualization scores would be positively associated with authoritative parenting and negatively associated with authoritarian parenting. To test the hypotheses, college students were administered the Short Index of Self-Actualization (Jones & Crandull, 1986) and the Parental Authority Questionnaire (Buri, 1991). Correlational analyses offered support for the hypotheses and suggest that an authoritative parenting style may facilitate self-actualization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary human adult lung epithelial cells (ALEC) were established in culture using the most distal parts of the lung to avoid the airways. Immunocytochemical peroxidase staining and semiquantitative flow cytometry were used to characterize the cells in conjunction with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAb). The cells showed a constitutive expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens, patchy expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) and a weak patchy expression of MHC class II antigens (detected using immunocytochemical staining). Incubation of the primary ALEC with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (250 U/ml) stimulated an upregulation of the expression of these three antigens to varying degrees; expression of MHC class I antigens and ICAM-1 molecules showed an up-regulation at 10 hr after the start of the treatment, reaching a peak at 48 hr, maintaining it for the next 24 hr and then, steadily and progressively, losing it towards the end of the experiment at 96 hr. Expression of HLA-DR showed an up-regulation at 17 hr after the start of the treatment, reaching a peak at 72 hr and maintaining it for the next 24 hr. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of ALEC in culture caused an up-regulation of expression of class I antigens and ICAM-1, but not DR. However, when the infected cells were incubated with IFN-γ, an up-regulation in the expression of DR took place. Therefore, within the micro-environment of the transplanted lung the presence of cytokines (IFN-γ) produced by infiltrating activated mononuclear cells, may render the lung epithelial cells capable of acting as antigen-presenting cells, expressing high levels of class I antigens, ICAM-1 and class II antigens, activating CD8 and CD4 cells thus playing a major part in the process of rejection of the lung allograft; themselves becoming a primary target in the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a five-year-old girl with itchy papular eruption and blisters on her legs extending to other parts of her body including the arms, trunk and palms. It mentions that the patient was suffering from atopic dermatitis and irritation to egg, peach and plum. It also notes her diagnosis with lichen planus pemphigoides (LPP) which is considered an autoimmune blistering disease known for its inducement of vesiculobullous skin wounds.

The article presents a study that investigates the impact of Schmallenberg virus (SBV), caused by Orthobunyavirus, on sheep flocks in France. The French local animal health organization Groupements de défense sanitaire (GDS France) conducted a preliminary assessment on sheeps that were positive of SBV. Moreover, GDS found that healthy lambs accounted for 54,939, while 8,395 were dead 12 hours after they were born and 1,214 had deformities.

Abstract: Pancreatic islet transplantations to treat type 1 diabetes often fail to function because of hypoxia. Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) exhibit a high oxygen solubility coefficient and maintain high oxygen partial pressure for extended times. They also serve as oxygen “reservoirs” for harvested organs in pancreas organ transplantation. Previous studies have shown the PFCs display antiadhesive effects on β cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of PFC on islet viability and functionality and on extracellular matrix (ECM) disruption of islets via inhibition of adhesion. Primary cultures of rat islets were incubated for 24 hours in the presence or absence of 3.5% (weight/volume) PFCs in culture media. We studied viability (FDA/PI), stimulation index linked to insulin secretion (ELISA), and expression of insulin and laminin messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Immunostaining was performed on insulin and laminin. Islet viability was similar in the presence or absence of PFCs (about 80%). Stimulation index showed preservation of islet functionality in the presence of PFC (4.9 ± 0.7) as compared with controls (2.8 ± 0.5). Moreover, laminin mRNA expression was lower compared with controls (55% of PFC incubated vs control islets). Immunohistochemistry studies showed preservation of ECM inside the islets in the presence of PFCs versus controls at 24 hours after islet isolation. In conclusion, PFCs preserved islet viability and functionality and prevented ECM disruption. PFCs may represent a new tool for islet preservation in vitro. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) has demonstrated its ability to increase its distribution raising spatially its importance as a vector for zoonotic hemotropic pathogens. In this study, a global ecological niche model of R. microplus was built in different scenarios using Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP), Socio‐Economic Pathway (SSP), and a climatic dataset to determine where the species could establish itself and thus affect the variability in the presentation of the hemotropic diseases they transmit. America, Africa and Oceania showed a higher probability for the presence of R. microplus in contrast to some countries in Europe and Asia in the ecological niche for the current period (1970–2000), but with the climate change, there was an increase in the ratio between the geographic range preserved between the RCP and SSP scenarios obtaining the greatest gain in the interplay of RCP4.5‐SSP245. Our results allow to determine future changes in the distribution of the cattle tick according to the increase in environmental temperature and socio‐economic development influenced by human development activities and trends; this work explores the possibility of designing integral maps between the vector and specific diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing ultrathin nanogranular (NG) metallic films with continuously varying thickness is of great interest for studying regions of criticality and scaling behaviors in the vicinity of quantum phase transitions. In the present work, an ultrathin gold plasmonic NG film was grown on a sapphire substrate by RF magnetron sputtering with an intentional deposition gradient to create a linearly variable thickness ranging from 5 to 13 nm. The aim is to accurately study the electronic phase transition from the quantum tunneling regime to the metallic conduction one. The film structural characterization was performed by means of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, as well as x-ray diffraction and reflectivity techniques, which indicate the Volmer–Weber film growth mode. The optical and electrical measurements show a transition from dielectric-isolated gold NPs towards a continuous metallic network when t becomes larger than a critical value of tM = 7.8 nm. Our results show that the onset of the percolation region occurs when a localized surface plasma resonance transforms to display a Drude component, indicative of free charge carriers. We demonstrate that, by using a continuously varying thickness, criteria for metallicity can be unambiguously identified. The onset of metallicity is clearly distinguished by the Drude damping factor and by discontinuities in the plasma frequencies as functions of thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular DNA is under constant attack by a wide variety of agents, both endogenous and exogenous. To counteract DNA damage, human cells have a large collection of DNA repair factors. Among them, DNA polymerase lambda (Polλ) stands out for its versatility, as it participates in different DNA repair and damage tolerance pathways in which gap-filling DNA synthesis is required. In this work, we show that human Polλ is conjugated with Small Ubiquitin-like MOdifier (SUMO) proteins both in vitro and in vivo , with Lys27 being the main target of this covalent modification. Polλ SUMOylation takes place in the nuclear pore complex and is mediated by the E3 ligase RanBP2. This post-translational modification promotes Polλ entry into the nucleus, which is required for its recruitment to DNA lesions and stimulated by DNA damage induction. Our work represents an advance in the knowledge of molecular pathways that regulate cellular localization of human Polλ, which are essential to be able to perform its functions during repair of nuclear DNA, and that might constitute an important point for the modulation of its activity in human cells. Unlabelled Image • Human Polλ is modified by SUMOylation, both in vitro and in vivo. • SUMOylation mainly targets Polλ lysine 27 (K27) residue. • SUMOylation promotes nuclear localization of Polλ. • Polλ SUMOylation is dependent on the nuclear pore complex-associated E3 ligase RanBP2. • Polλ SUMOylation increases by DNA damage, and allows Polλ recruitment to repair DNA double- strand breaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses a study that identifies two nonsense mutations in families with Brazilian lynch syndrome.

We report on the optical properties in the dielectric regime of gold nanostructured granular thin films fabricated through sputter deposition with a composite target at room temperature and over a wide photon energy range (0.62–4.13 eV) by means of Spectroscopic Ellipsometry. The thickness and the films effective optical constants are successfully determined using an approach based on multiple Gaussian oscillators. In the quasi-static regime, i.e., 2 R ≪ λ , and in the dipole approximation, examining the real and imaginary parts, ε 1 , ε 2 , of the dielectric function, it is shown that the dc optical conductivity is almost negligible ( σ = ωε 0 ε 2 ≪ 10 −5 Ω cm −1 ) and only the capacitive contribution holds for the electron-phonon relaxation in localized surface plasmon of the gold particles. Furthermore, we find that the resonant frequencies ω p becomes red-shifted when the particles are electromagnetically coupled to each other or when the surrounding medium dielectric constant, ε m , increases, thus exhibiting a wide spectral tuning range of 1.95–2.24 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Phenytoin used to prevent seizures linked to brain cancer neurosurgery has shown many undesirable side effects and drug interactions with chemotherapy. Aim: To evaluate the incidence of depression, insomnia, mood instability and early post surgery seizures, after Phenytoin (PHE) vs. Levetiracetam (LEV) monotherapy in patients with brain tumour subjected to a supratentorial brain tumour resection. Methods: A prospective study in patients with supratentorial cancer diagnosis subjected to neurosurgery of resection was done. Patients were consecutive randomized to be treated with PHE (n=26) 15ml/kg IV-bolus, 125mg/8h IV x48 h, 100mg/8 h O x7 days or with LEV (n=34) 500mg/12 h IV x48 h, 500mg/12 h O x 7 days. Clinical, histological, TAC, EEG, seizures and undesirable side effects were analyzed. Results and discussion: 60 patients (53% male, aged 52.5±20 years) with glioblastoma multiform 45%, meningioma 43%, Ewing''s sarcoma 6.7%, others 5.3% (size between 3–6cm, in the right brain site-65.2%, in the frontal lobe-56.2%) were subjected to followed for a week after tumour resection. Undesirable side effects (USE) were (%LEV/%PHE): total (7.3%/31.5%), somnolence (0%/32.8%), headache (6.1%/22.3%), dizziness (0%/25.6%), difficulty with coordination (0%/23.5%), depression (6.2%/18.7%), lack of energy/strength (12.5%/33.8%), insomnia (11.3%/37.9%), mood instability (12.5%/22,6%), leukopenia (0%/16.9%) after surgery (p< 0.05). None of the patients taking Levetiracetam vs. 4 of the patients taking Phenytoin (0% vs. 15.3%) had seizures after surgery (p< 0.05). Conclusion: Levetiracetam showed lower depression, insomnia, mood instability and seizures incidence than Phenytoin after supratentorial tumour neurosurgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), not fully explained by the conventional risk factors. These patients have endothelial dysfunction (ED) as an early process of atherosclerosis, which can be reversed with therapy. Objective To determine the effect of ezetimibe plus pravastatin on endothelial function in patients with SLE after 12 months of treatment. Patients and methods An open study, before and after, which assessed the effect of ezetimibe plus pravastatin treatment, was performed. Twenty two patients (21 women and one man) with diagnosis of SLE were studied, with a mean age 40 ± 5 years. Endothelial dysfunction was evaluated using vascular ultrasound of the brachial artery in order to measure the flow-mediated vasodilation (FMV) basal and after 12 months of treatment with pravastatin 40 mg/day plus ezetimibe 10 mg/day. In addition, a lipid profile: total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), was done. Results We found a basal FMV of 7.58% and 18.22% after 12 months of treatment, with an improvement of 10.64 points 95% CI (7.58–13.58), p < 0.001. TC decreased from 201.3 ± 58.9 mg/dL to 158.06 ± 50.13 mg/dL (p < 0.01); LDL-C from 125.78 ± 44.4 mg/dL to 78.8 ± 32.9 mg/dL (p < 0.001); HDL-C increased from 49.0 ± 16.8 mg/dL to 52.2 ± 13.8 mg/dL (p = 0.077). The basal and final concentrations of CRP were 4.49 and 2.8, respectively, with a mean decrease of 2.11 mg/dL, 95% CI (0.908–3.32), p < 0.002. Both drugs were well tolerated. Conclusion Ezetimibe plus pravastatin significantly improved FMV in patients with SLE, decreasing ED and the lipid profile. This treatment ameliorated an early process of atherosclerosis and a risk factor for CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study we describe the clinical and molecular characteristics of an outbreak due to carbapenem-resistant (CR-KP) producing CTX-M-15 and OXA-48 carbapenemase. Isogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae strains, carbapenem-susceptible (CS-KP) producing CTX-M-15, were also involved in the outbreak. K. pneumoniae Results: From October 2010 to December 2012 a total of 62 CR-KP and 23 CS-KP were isolated from clinical samples of 42 patients (22 had resistant isolates, 14 had susceptible isolates, and 6 had both CR and CS isolates). All patients had underlying diseases and 17 of them (14 patients with CR-KP and 3 with CS-KP) had received carbapenems previously. The range of carbapenem MICs for total isolates were: imipenem: 2 to >32 µg/ml vs. <2 µg/ml; meropenem: 4 to >32 µg/ml vs. <2 µg/ml; and ertapenem: 8 to >32 µg/ml vs. <2 µg/ml. All the isolates were also resistant to gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, and cotrimoxazole. Both types of isolates shared a common PFGE pattern associated with the multilocus sequence type 101 (ST101). The blaCTX-M-15 gene was detected in all the isolates, whereas the blaOXA-48 gene was only detected in CR-KP isolates on a 70 kb plasmid. Conclusions: The clonal spread of ST101 expressing the OXA-48 and CTX-M-15 beta-lactamases K. pneumoniae was the cause of an outbreak of CR-KP infections. CTX-M-15-producing isolates lacking the bla OXA-48 gene coexisted during the outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- This paper aims to present an optimal prototyping technology for the manufacture of occlusal splints. Design/methodology/approach -- To carry out this study, a comparative technique was used to analyze models obtained by different prototyping techniques. Subsequently, further tests were carried out with respect to the manufacturing of splints by means of thermoforming in a vacuum. This involved an analysis of the most important variables such as prototype material, geometric accuracy, surface finish and costs. Findings -- It was found that there is a group of prototyping technologies that are suitable for the manufacture of the models used in the thermoforming of correction splints, the most appropriate technologies being based on ink jet printing (IJP-Objet), ultraviolet photo polymerization and fused deposition modelling due to the fact that they offer an optimal relationship between the cost and the quality of the model required for thermoforming. Practical implications -- The application of rapid prototyping techniques in medicine makes the production of physical models from three-dimensional medical image processing and their subsequent use in different specialties possible. It also makes preoperative planning processes, the production of prostheses and the preparation of surgical templates possible, thereby offering a higher quality of diagnosis, safer surgery and cost and time savings compared to conventional manufacturing technologies. Originality/value -- This paper suggests that there exists a group of prototyping technologies for the manufacture of splints that offer advantages over existing technologies. The results also suggest that, in many cases, the most expensive technology is not the most appropriate: there are other options that provide an optimal model in terms of the cost and the quality needed for thermoforming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing concern regarding the association between certain methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA) genotypes and poor clinical outcome. To assess this issue, a large cohort of 579 subjects with MRSA bacteraemia was prospectively followed from June 2008 to December 2009, in 21 hospitals in Spain. Epidemiology, clinical data, therapy, and outcome were recorded. All MRSA strains were analysed in a central laboratory. Presence of a haematogenous seeding infection was the dependent variable in an adjusted logistic regression model. Of the 579 patients included in the study, 84 (15%) had haematogenous seeding infections. Microdilution vancomycin median MIC ( IQR) was 0.73 (0.38-3) mg/L. Most MRSA isolates ( n = 371; 67%) belonged to Clonal Complex 5 ( CC5) and carried an SCCmec element type IV and agr type 2. Isolates belonging to ST8-agr1- SCCmec IV, ST22-agr1- SCCmec IV and ST228-agr2- SCCmecI-a single locus variant of ST5-accounted for 8%, 9% and 9% of the isolates, respectively. After adjusting by clinical variables, any of the clones was associated with increased risk of haematogenous seeding infections. Higher vancomycin MIC was not identified as an independent risk factor, either. In contrast, persistent bacteraemia ( OR 4.2; 2.3-7.8) and non-nosocomial acquisition (3.0; 1.7-5.6) were associated with increased risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mortality related to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA) bloodstream infection ( BSI) remains high, despite changes in the epidemiology. To analyze the current predictive factors for mortality we conducted a prospective study in a large cohort of patients with MRSA- BSI from 21 Spanish hospitals. Epidemiology, clinical data, therapy and outcome were recorded. All MRSA strains were analysed, including susceptibility to antibiotics and molecular characterization. Vancomycin MICs ( V- MIC) were tested by the E-test and microdilution methods. Time until death was the dependent variable in a Cox regression analysis. Overall, 579 episodes were included. Acquisition was nosocomial in 59% and vascular catheter was the most frequent source (38%). A dominant PFGE genotype was found in 368 (67%) isolates, which belonged to Clonal Complex ( CC)5 and carried SCCmec IV and agr2. Microdilution V- MIC50 and V- MIC90 were 0.7 and 1.0 mg/L, respectively. Initial therapy was appropriate in 66% of episodes. Overall mortality was observed in 179 (32%) episodes. The Cox-regression analysis identified age >70 years ( HR 1.88), previous fatal disease ( HR 2.16), Pitt score >1 ( HR 3.45), high-risk source ( HR 1.85) and inappropriate initial treatment ( HR 1.39) as independent predictive factors for mortality. CC5 and CC22 ( HR 0.52 and 0.45) were associated with significantly lower mortality rates than CC8. V-MIC ≥1.5 did not have a significant impact on mortality, regardless of the method used to assess it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical, laboratory and histological manifestations of patients who received illegal injections of foreign substances for cosmetic purposes.Patients and methods: We studied patients who met the following inclusion criteria: 1) history of application of foreign substances for cosmetic purposes, 2) clinical data of autoimmune disease or non-specific autoimmune manifestation (i.e. arthralgias, myalgia, malaise, fever, and weight loss), 3) detection of autoantibodies in patients’ sera, 4) histological evidence of chronic inflammation and/or granulomatous reaction to foreign body.Results: Fifty female patients aged 44.4 ± 10 years were studied. The mean time between application of foreign substances and onset of symptoms was 4.5 ± 4.3 years. Patients were followed for 12 ± 7.5 years. Forty-one patients were injected with mineral oil, nine patients received other substances: three iodine gadital, one guayacol, one guayacol plus silicone fluid, two collagen, two silicone fluid. The sites of application were: buttocks (36), legs and/or thighs (11), breasts (eight) hands and face (one), face (two) (seven patients received an injection to more than one site). Thirty patients presented with non-specific autoimmune manifestations, whereas 20 patients fulfilled the criteria for a defined autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, overlap syndrome, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, autoimmune thyroiditis, autoimmune hepatitis, and ulcerative colitis.Conclusions: Cases of human adjuvant disease following illegal injections of oil substances for cosmetic purposes are reported. Patients presented with defined autoimmune diseases as well as with non-specific autoimmune manifestations. Illegal injection of these substances could lead to serious local and systemic complications, even to death. These cases represent another model of Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). The use of these substances should be prohibited. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In conclusion, we present herein three teaching cases of active TB infection in psoriasis patients under biological therapy, even after correctly following the infection screening protocols and prescription of low-risk biologic drugs. In addition, real-world data on secukinumab showed patients with untreated LTBI who did not develop reactivation either, although isolated cases of I de novo i TB have also been reported.1 Case 3 had been diagnosed and correctly treated with isoniazid for LBTI prior secukinumab initiation but developed a typical TB infection 3 years later. I Dear Editor, i The increased risk of reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in patients under treatment with anti-TNF-alpha drugs is widely known. [Extracted from the article]

The patient first presented with symptoms of proctitis (rectal bleeding, mucopurulent discharge and tenesmus). First, general symptoms were preceded by a severe proctitis, which seems to be caused directly by monkeypox virus. I Dear Editor i , A 30-year-old male patient visited the Emergency Room (ER) on the 16th May 2022 complaining of a new-onset skin rash associated with systemic symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

BackgroundIt has long been acknowledged that hearing impairment may increase the risk for psychotic experiences. Recent work suggests that young people in particular may be at risk, indicating a possible developmental mechanism.MethodThe hypothesis that individuals exposed to hearing impairment in early adolescence would display the highest risk for psychotic symptoms was examined in a prospective cohort study of a population sample of originally 3021 adolescents and young adults aged 14–24 years at baseline, in Munich, Germany (Early Developmental Stages of Psychopathology Study). The expression of psychosis was assessed at multiple time points over a period of up to 10 years, using a diagnostic interview (Munich Composite International Diagnostic Interview; CIDI) administered by clinical psychologists.ResultsHearing impairment was associated with CIDI psychotic symptoms [odds ratio (OR) 2.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–3.81], particularly more severe psychotic symptoms (OR 5.66, 95% CI 1.64–19.49). The association between hearing impairment and CIDI psychotic symptoms was much stronger in the youngest group aged 14–17 years at baseline (OR 3.28, 95% CI 1.54–7.01) than in the older group aged 18–24 years at baseline (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.24–2.84).ConclusionsThe finding of an age-specific association between hearing impairment and psychotic experiences suggests that disruption of development at a critical adolescent phase, in interaction with other personal and social vulnerabilities, may increase the risk for psychotic symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper examines the influence of the innovation process on organisational learning. To achieve this goal, we decompose innovation into two components, innovativeness and the capacity to innovate. This paper proposes theoretically the concept of Operative Real Options (OROs) and empirically seeks to measure their influence on the relationship between innovation and organisational learning. Using empirical data gathered from 204 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) in European firms, the findings support the hypothesis that innovation and its two components improve the learning process in the organisation. However, we do not find support for the hypothesis that OROs moderate the relation between innovation and learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nadifloxacin has good activity against Propionibacterium acnes as well as against both meticillin-susceptible and -resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA, respectively) and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of this fluoroquinolone against the abovementioned microorganisms, comparing isolates collected in 2007 in Germany, a country where nadifloxacin has been used for the last 2 years, with isolates collected from 2006–2007 in Spain where nadifloxacin has not been used. A collection of P. acnes from Hungary (strains collected during 2005–2006) and a collection of P. acnes from different countries in Europe (collected during 2002) were also included. The activity of nadifloxacin was compared with ciprofloxacin, erythromycin and clindamycin. Susceptibility testing of P. acnes was performed by agar dilution, whereas the susceptibility of the different staphylococci was determined by microdilution. Although the isolates were collected from three different countries (Spain, Hungary and Germany) where the use of quinolones can produce a different effect, no significant differences in the percentages of resistance to nadifloxacin were observed in P. acnes, MSSA, MRSA and S. epidermidis. Therefore, topical antibiotics such as nadifloxacin do not have an additional effect on resistance. Moreover, nadifloxacin presented much better activity than the comparator drugs used in this study against the studied microorganisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]