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Patients with fibromyalgia syndrome tend to report deficits in cognitive functions; however, there is no clear consensus on which cognitive domains are impaired. The aim of this study was to compare the differences in cognitive performance between a group of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome and a group of pain-free subjects controlling for the covariables anxiety, depression, and sleep quality. In total, 130 patients with fibromyalgia syndrome and 111 pain-free subjects with an average age of 54.96 years completed the evaluation protocol consisting of sociodemographic data, psychological data, and neurocognitive tests. All data were collected from May 2022 to May 2023. Multivariate analyses of covariance (MANCOVAs) were conducted to assess intergroup differences in all neurocognitive tests. MANCOVA analyses showed that the group of patients with fibromyalgia showed a worse cognitive performance than the group of pain-free subjects after controlling for anxiety, depression, and sleep quality. This study found that fibromyalgia patients exhibited worse cognitive performance and executive function than pain-free subjects. Thus, cognitive performance seems to not be related with anxiety, depression, or sleep quality in our sample of women with FMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of biological and emotional variables associated with health-related quality of life in people with long-COVID is needed. Our aim was to identify potential direct and indirect effects on the relationships between sensitization-associated symptoms, mood disorders such as anxiety/depressive levels, and sleep quality on health-related quality of life in people suffering from post-COVID-19 pain. One hundred and forty-six individuals who were hospitalized due to COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic and suffering from long-term post-COVID-19 pain completed different patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including clinical features, symptoms associated with sensitization of the central nervous system (Central Sensitization Inventory), mood disorders (Hospital Anxiety and Depressive Scale), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and health-related quality of life (paper-based five-level version of EuroQol-5D) in a face-to-face interview conducted at 18.8 (SD 1.8) months after hospitalization. Different mediation models were conducted to assess the direct and indirect effects of the associations among the different variables. The mediation models revealed that sensitization-associated symptoms and depressive levels directly affected health-related quality of life; however, these effects were not statistically significant when sleep quality was included. In fact, the effect of sensitization-associated symptomatology on quality of life (β = −0.10, 95% CI −0.1736, −0.0373), the effect of depressive levels on quality of life (β= −0.09, 95% CI −0.1789, −0.0314), and the effect of anxiety levels on quality of life (β = −0.09, 95% CI −0.1648, −0.0337) were all indirectly mediated by sleep quality. This study revealed that sleep quality mediates the relationship between sensitization-associated symptoms and mood disorders (depressive/anxiety levels) with health-related quality of life in individuals who were hospitalized with COVID-19 at the first wave of the pandemic and reporting post-COVID-19 pain. Longitudinal studies will help to determine the clinical implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) patients who present very early (< 4 days) to health-care services generally have severe clinical forms due to rapid progression. Little information exists on the clinical and short-term functional prognosis in patients with very-early GBS (VEGBS). Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. We performed Kaplan-- Meier survival analysis to observe the recovery of independent gait between groups, where a log-rank value < 0.05 was considered significant. All statistical analyzes were performed using SPSS version 22. Results: Ninety-nine patients were included in the study. Mean age was 46.7 ± 16.7 years, 61.9% were male. Regarding nerve conduction studies, the most frequent electrophysiological variants in the very early-onset GBS group were axonal (38.7%). Twenty-three percent were classified as equivocal. In the GBS group > 4 days, the most frequent electrophysiological variant was acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (52.1%). Conclusion: Patients with VEGBS do not present different clinical characteristics, nor severity or poor short-term outcome in our population compared to different GBS presentations. Only mechanical ventilation requirement and distal compound muscle action potential reduction are associated with poor outcome in this subset of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disease characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. Time from symptom onset to confirmed diagnosis has been reported from 8 to 15 months in ALS. Objectives: To describe the frequency of the split hand phenomenon and propose it as an early biomarker for ALS diagnosis. Methods: A retrospective, analytical, descriptive, and single-center observational study was performed. The split hand ratio was determined by dividing distal abductor pollicis brevis/abductor digit minimi compound muscle action potentials; a result < 0.6 was considered present. Results: Fifty-four patients with ALS diagnosis were included in the study. The split hand ratio was identified in 61.5% of patients with definite ALS, in 68.7% with probable ALS, 80% with possible ALS, and in 50% with suspected ALS. The split hand phenomenon was identified in 60% of patients within 12 months of symptom onset. Conclusion: We provide evidence for an additional neurophysiological tool that helps early diagnosis of ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To date, Mexico has more than 1,280,000 confirmed cases and more than 116,000 deaths due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Limited information is available regarding Latin American patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and SARS-CoV-2. Objective: The objective is to describe the presentation, diagnosis, and outcome of patients with GBS associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: We describe four cases of GBS associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in Mexico. Results: Neurological symptoms initiated 2-17 days after the respiratory symptoms. The age group in or patients ranged from 26 to 41 years. Two patients presented with progressive, acute, and symmetric weakness and two with bilateral facial palsy. Patients with GBS diagnosis associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported to have a good outcome after IGIV or plasma exchange therapy. Conclusion: It is important to consider GBS as a potential manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and recall that the diagnosis is based mainly on clinical evaluation. Laboratory and CSF analysis, as well as neurophysiologic studies, should be considered as a complement for diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to analyse the effect of sheep body weight (BW) at mating, mid-pregnancy, lambing, early lactation, mid-lactation and late lactation on milk yield and patterns of milk production. Also, the effects of environmental factors such as number of lambing (NL) and type of lambing (TL) on BW and milk production were analysed. A total of 52 multiparous East Friesian ewes from an experimental flock were used. Ewes were assigned to three different groups according to their BW at each productive stage: low (LBW), moderate (MBW) and high BW (HBW). Lactations were fitted using the mechanistic model described by Pollott. Total milk yield (TMY), peak yield (PY) and time at peak yield (TPY) were also calculated. HBW ewes had consistently higher TMY (p < .001) and PY (p < .05) values, than LBW and MBW in most of productive stage measured. There was a positive linear relationship (p < .05) between TMY and BW in all-productive stage, except at mid-gestation where the relationship was quadratic. HBW ewes weighted at mid-pregnancy showed the highest values of maximum secretion parameter (p = .04) of Pollott model, which could partially explain the better milk yield of HBW ewes. A significant effect of NL on BW (p = .007) and TMY (p = .007) was observed. The BW ewe’s in pregnancy and early lactation is a useful indicator at farm level to improve the milk yield performance in dairy sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: This article proposes an enhanced and less painful procedure to eliminate the flow of hormones from the X organ sinus gland in adult Macrobrachium americanum. Three groups and two controls were analyzed to determine the amount of stress caused by the following: (1) unilateral eyestalk ablation, (2) unilateral eyestalk ablation and covering to allow coagulation, and (3) ligation at the base of the eyestalk. Each group was divided into two subgroups to analyze the effect of treatment with and without Xylocaine. For males and females, the control groups were only manipulated but not ablated. The trauma caused by the treatments in M. americanum was reflected by behaviors related to pain, including tail flicking as a reflex response to allow escape and rubbing the affected area. In addition, we also observed alterations in five behaviors. Four behaviors were directly related to pain and discomfort – non-sheltering, disorientation, recoil and stooping – and the fifth, feeding behavior, was related to the hormonal disorder caused by the extirpation of the X organ sinus gland. The variables that were directly affected by the treatments were bleeding, ligating and hormonal state. The treatment that caused the most significant negative stimulus was ligation. The animals in the ligation group exhibited up to 50% more flicking, 90% more rubbing, 50% more disorientation, and 80% more recoil than the animals in the other subgroups. Ablation without covering to allow coagulation was a moderate significant negative stimulus. Finally, the treatment with the least negative stimulus was the treatment of females using anesthetic and ablation followed by covering to allow coagulation. This subgroup exhibited only 20% more flicking and 20% more rubbing than controls, and only 30% were not sheltered. These prawns also did not show disorientation, recoil or stooping. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The redox behaviour under flowing 5%CO/He and 5%H2/Ar of two Ce0.62Zr0.38O2 mixed oxides is investigated. The samples, hereafter referred to as CZ-MO and CZ-SO, were obtained by application to the same starting material two well established thermal ageing routines. These routines ensured the preparation of oxide samples with significantly different chemical and structural properties. To evaluate their redox behaviour, ultimate oxygen storage capacity (OSC) data were determined from stepwise thermo-gravimetric experiments at temperatures ranging from 473K to 1173K. In good agreement with earlier studies from the literature, both CO-OSC and H2-OSC data show that CZ-MO exhibits a superior reducibility throughout the whole range of temperatures. If CO-OSC and H2-OSC data are compared, we may notice that, in qualitative agreement with the thermodynamic predictions, CO-OSC values are significantly larger than those of H2-OSC at T ≤773K. Above this reference temperature CO-OSC and H2-OSC show much closer values. Though ultimate OSC data are generally assumed to be determined by the thermodynamics of the oxide-reductant system, it is shown that the CO-OSC values recorded at the lowest temperatures are not consistent with this assumption. As in the case of H2-OSC, the low-temperature CO-OSC data are actually determined by kinetic factors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was carried out to assess the cytotoxicity of several new synthetic steroidal saponins against the human myeloid leukemia cell lines (HL-60 and U937) and against human melanoma cells (SK-MEL-1). Several diosgenyl glycosides analyzed showed strong cell growth inhibition which was associated with alterations in cell cycle progression and induction of apoptosis. Studies of cytochrome c release and caspase-9 activation suggest a main role of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in the mechanism of cytotoxicity caused by this kind of compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Apart from analyses for elemental contaminants in field collected specimens, very little is known about the assimilation, accumulation and toxic effects of inorganic contaminants in reptiles. This study examined the chronic accumulation of Cd in a European lacertid lizard (Podarcis carbonelli) following dietary provision of an environmentally realistic concentration of Cd for 21 weeks. Lizards were provided with Cd that had either been biologically incorporated into crickets, or as Cd(NO3)2 added superficially to crickets just prior to feeding. Among both treatment groups Cd accumulated in tissues in the following order of concentration: gut>liver>kidney>carcass. The majority of the Cd was retained within the gut, and transfer to internal organs was low. Morphological indices, brain and plasma cholinesterase activities, gut and liver metallothionein content, and standard metabolic rate were measured as biomarkers of exposure and effect; however, no differences between control lizards and Cd-treated lizards were observed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper reports on the cytotoxic effect induced by a new natural steroidal saponin, icogenin, on the myeloid leukemia cell line HL-60. Icogenin was found to be a cytotoxic compound IC50 2.6 ± 0.9 μM at 72 h, with growth inhibition caused by the induction of apoptosis, as determined by microscopy of nuclear changes and the fragmentation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Simple Summary: The parasites of the Anisakidae family infest mainly marine mammals; however, they have the ability to infest paratenic hosts such as mollusks, small crustaceans and fish. The consumption of meat from animals of aquatic origin favors the acquisition of the disease known as Anisakiasis or Anisakidosis, depending on the species of the infecting parasite. Currently, the identification of the members of this family is carried out through the use of molecular tests, which brings about the generation of new information. The purpose of this review was to identify the genus and species of the Anisakidae family by reviewing scientific papers that used molecular tests to confirm the genus and species. The adaptability of the Anisakidae family to multiple hosts and environmental conditions allows it to have a worldwide distribution. As it is a zoonotic agent and causes non-specific clinical symptoms, it is important to know about the different members of the Anisakidae family, as well as the hosts where they have been collected. Nematodes of the Anisakidae family have the ability to infest a wide variety of aquatic hosts during the development of their larval stages, mainly marine mammals, aquatic birds, such as pelicans, and freshwater fish, such crucian carp, these being the hosts where the life cycle is completed. The participation of intermediate hosts such as cephalopods, shrimp, crustaceans and marine fish, is an important part of this cycle. Due to morphological changes and updates to the genetic information of the different members of the family, the purpose of this review was to carry out a bibliographic search of the genus and species of the Anisakidae family identified by molecular tests, as well as the geographical area in which they were collected. The Anisakidae family is made up of eight different parasitic genera and 46 different species. Those of clinical importance to human health are highlighted: Anisakis pegreffi, A. simplexsensu stricto, Contracaecumosculatum, Pseudoterranova azarazi, P. cattani, P. decipiens and P. krabbei. The geographical distribution of these genera and species is located mainly in the European continent, Asia and South America, as well as in North and Central America and Australia. Based on the information collected from the Anisakidae family, it was determined that the geographical distribution is affected by different environmental factors, the host and the ability of the parasite itself to adapt. Its ability to adapt to the human organism has led to it being considered as a zoonotic agent. The disease in humans manifests nonspecifically, however the consumption of raw or semi-raw seafood is crucial information to link the presentation of the parasite with the disease. The use of morphological and molecular tests is of utmost importance for the correct diagnosis of the genus and species of the Anisakidae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether).The ethanol dehydration and subsequent ethylene oligomerization to short-chain olefins using catalysts based on ZSM-5 zeolite was studied in detail. P, Fe, and Ni were added by incipient wetness impregnation on zeolites with two SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (50 and 80). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, and XPS techniques, while the catalytic activity was evaluated using an isothermal fixed-bed reactor. The impregnation of P, Fe, and Ni significantly improved the formation of the desired C3+ olefins (olefins having three or more C atoms). Particularly, the zeolite with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 50 and impregnated with P, exhibited the highest selectivity (C3+ olefins > 45 wt% at TOS = 5 h) in comparison with the rest of the evaluated catalysts. On the contrary, catalysts with SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 80 showed lower selectivity to C3+ olefins, producing more side products (i.e. paraffins, aromatics and diethyl-ether). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have postulated that the left and right caudal photoreceptors (CPR-L and CPR-R, respectively) of the crayfish show asymmetry of spontaneous activity in darkness and responses induced by white light. Two photopigments have been identified; the first one sensitive to blue light and the second one sensitive to green light. This study explores blue and green monochromatic light responsiveness with respect to both CPR-L and -R, as well as the effects of temperature on these photoreceptors. We performed simultaneous extracellular recordings of the firing rate of action potentials from CPRs of the crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus (n = 12). At room temperature (24 ± 1 °C), CPR-L and -R showed a significant difference in the spikes from most of the comparations. CPRs in the dark exhibited spontaneous asymmetric activity and displayed sensitivity to both monochromatic light sources. CPR responses were light intensity dependent within a range of 1.4 logarithmic intensity units, showing approximately 0.5 logarithmic intensity units more sensitivity to blue than to green light. The CPRs displayed an asymmetrical response to both colors by using a constant light intensity. At 14 (±1) °C, activity in darkness diminished while asymmetry persisted, and the CPRs improved responses for both monochromatic light sources, displaying a significant asymmetry. Here, we provide additional evidence of the asymmetric activity in darkness and light response from the CPRs. The new data allow further investigations regarding the physiological role of caudal photoreceptors in the crayfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has significantly improved life expectancy of HIV-infected patients; nevertheless, it does not eliminate the virus from hosts, so a cure for this infection is crucial. Some strategies have employed the induction of anti-HIV CD8+ T cells. However, the high genetic variability of HIV-1 represents the biggest obstacle for these strategies, since immune escape mutations within epitopes restricted by Human Leukocyte Antigen class I molecules (HLA-I) abrogate the antiviral activity of these cells. We used a bioinformatics pipeline for the determination of such mutations, based on selection pressure and docking/refinement analyses. Fifty HIV-1 infected patients were recruited; HLA-A and HLA-B alleles were typified using sequence-specific oligonucleotide approach, and viral RNA was extracted for the amplification of HIV-1 gag , which was bulk sequenced and aligned to perform selection pressure analysis, using Single Likelihood Ancestor Counting (SLAC) and Fast Unconstrained Bayesian Approximation (FUBAR) algorithms. Positively selected sites were mapped into HLA-I-specific epitopes, and both mutated and wild type epitopes were modelled using PEP-FOLD. Molecular docking and refinement assays were carried out using AutoDock Vina 4 and FlexPepDock. Five positively selected sites were found: S54 at HLA-A*02 GC9, T84 at HLA-A*02 SL9, S125 at HLA-B*35 HY9, S173 at HLA-A*02/B*57 KS12 and I223 at HLA-B*35 HA9. Although some mutations have been previously described as immune escape mutations, the majority of them have not been reported. Molecular docking/refinement analysis showed that one combination of mutations at GC9, one at SL9, and eight at HY9 epitopes could act as immune escape mutations. Moreover, HLA-A*02-positive patients harbouring mutations at KS12, and HLA-B*35-positive patients with mutations at HY9 have significantly higher plasma viral loads than patients lacking such mutations. Thus, HLA-A and -B alleles could be shaping the genetic diversity of HIV-1 through the selection of potential immune escape mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delirium is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the general hospitalized population. Few information exists on risk factors in patients with neurological disease. Objective: This study was to analyze risk factors for delirium in patients presenting to a neurological emergency department. Methods: This study was observational prospective cohort study. We included all patients with neurological disease, admitted to the emergency department with a stay of more than 8 h, in the period from January to April 2022. The confusion assessment method-intensive care unit delirium detection instrument and DSM-5 criteria were applied to all patients. We obtained information on epidemiological, clinical, and paraclinical variables at the time of admission. Through a univariate and multivariate logistic regression model, we analyzed risk factors for delirium. Results: Of 3661 patients treated in the emergency department, 189 patients were included, 60.8% male gender, age 48 ± 19 years; 44 (23.2%) met criteria for delirium, 81% were diagnosed on admission; delirium scale score/index 12 (interquartile range [IQR] 10-12), and duration of delirium 5 (IQR 2-11) days. Clinical history for risk of delirium: previous delirium (odds ratio [OR] 3.9, 95% CI 2.4-6.1, p = 0.003), stroke (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4-3.9, p = 0.009), neurosurgery (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.8, p = 0.024), and use of psychoactive drugs (OR 2.5, CI9 5% 1.3-4.6, p = 0.021). The following variables were independent risk factors for delirium through the multivariate logistic regression model:uncontrolled crisis [OR 5.4 (95% CI 1.2-22.9), p = 0.023], supratentorial structural brain lesion [OR 6.1 (95% CI 1.7-21.2), p = 0.004], and neuroinfection OR 9.6 (95% CI 2.9-31.4), p ≤ 0.001]. Conclusions: The frequency of delirium is 23.2% in patients presenting to the neurological emergency department; uncontrolled epilepsy, neuroinfection, and supratentorial brain lesions are independent risk factors for delirium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hyponatremia occurs in 21-48% of patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). However, little is known about the clinical implications in GBS. Materials and methods: In this observational, cross-sectional study, of patients diagnosed with GBS was conducted. Information used included: demographic clinical variables, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) results, and nerve conduction studies. Patients with sodium levels < 135 meq/L in laboratory studies on admission and before treatment were considered to have hyponatremia. We defined good functional prognosis as the presence of independent gait (Hughes = 2 points) at 3 months of follow-up. Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were initially screen and 31 (14.6%) presented hyponatremia; male gender was predominant with 72%, mean age was 45.9 ± 16 years, mean Modified Medical Research Council (MRC) score was 30.1 ± 17 points, invasive mechanical ventilation requirement was 32%, and the presence of dysautonomia 32%. One hundred and eighty-two nerve conduction studies, and 165 CSF cytochemical samples were collected. In the comparative analyses between the patients with hyponatremia versus without hyponatremia, we observed significant differences in mean age (50.4 ± 14.9 vs. 43.8 ± 16.3, p = 0.03), days of hospitalization (median) (16 [IQR = 7-51] vs. 7 [IQR = 5-12] p = 0.03), dysautonomia (54.8% vs. 28.2%, p = 0.006), protein levels (mgs/dL) in CSF (median) (105 [IQR = 59-165] vs. 39 [IQR = 28-57], p = 0.001), and acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) variant (70.4% vs. 42%, p = 0.011). There was no significant finding in recovery of independent gait at 3 months (34.6% vs. 42.6%, p = 0.51). Conclusion: About 14% of patients with GBS presented with hyponatremia in our series and is associated with presence of dysautonomia, AIDP variant, elevated CSF protein levels and a greater number of days of hospital stay but did not impact functional prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe dengue disease is associated with high viral loads and overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting impairment in the control of dengue virus (DENV) and the mechanisms that regulate cytokine production. Vitamin D3 has been described as an important modulator of immune responses to several pathogens. Interestingly, increasing evidence has associated vitamin D with decreased DENV infection and early disease recovery, yet the molecular mechanisms whereby vitamin D reduces DENV infection are not well understood. Methods and principal findings: Macrophages represent important cell targets for DENV replication and consequently, they are key drivers of dengue disease. In this study we evaluated the effect of vitamin D3 on the differentiation of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) and their susceptibility and cytokine response to DENV. Our data demonstrate that MDM differentiated in the presence of vitamin D3 (D3-MDM) restrict DENV infection and moderate the classical inflammatory cytokine response. Mechanistically, vitamin D3-driven differentiation led to reduced surface expression of C-type lectins including the mannose receptor (MR, CD206) that is known to act as primary receptor for DENV attachment on macrophages and to trigger of immune signaling. Consequently, DENV bound less efficiently to vitamin D3-differentiated macrophages, leading to lower infection. Interestingly, IL-4 enhanced infection was reduced in D3-MDM by restriction of MR expression. Moreover, we detected moderate secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10 in D3-MDM, likely due to less MR engagement during DENV infection. Conclusions/Significance: Our findings reveal a molecular mechanism by which vitamin D counteracts DENV infection and progression of severe disease, and indicates its potential relevance as a preventive or therapeutic candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: HIV-1 infection induces a chronic inflammatory state in which inflammasomes participate. The increase in inflammatory parameters is higher in individuals with active viral replication (progressors) than in those with viral control (HIV-1 controllers). This process triggers metabolic alterations related to changes in the lipid profile, which could increase the risk of cardiovascular events, even in patients with antiretroviral therapy. Objective: To establish whether there was a correlation between the expression of inflammasome components and cardiovascular risk markers in HIV-1 controllers and progressors with or without antiretroviral therapy. Materials and methods: We studied 13 HIV-1 controllers and 40 progressors (19 without antiretroviral therapy and 31 with therapy) and evaluated in them classic markers of cardiovascular risk. Using RT-PCR we quantified the expression of inflammasome components (NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, ASC, IL-1β, IL-18, and caspase-1), TLR2, TLR4, TGF-β, and IL-10. Results: Progressors with antiretroviral therapy had an increased expression of TLR2, TLR4, and IL-18 compared to HIV-1 controllers. They also showed high levels of triglycerides and VLDL, which positively correlated with the expression of the inflammasome components NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, ASC, and caspase-1. Conclusion: Progressors receiving antiretroviral therapy exhibited an increased expression of the inflammasome components, which correlated with the levels of triglycerides and VLDL. This supports the role of inflammation in cardiovascular risk during HIV-1 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Few longitudinal studies have examined associations of child weight trajectories, maternal demandingness and responsiveness during feeding, and child self‐regulation. Objective: We examined if child weight‐for‐length trajectories from 6 weeks to 2 years of age were associated with maternal demandingness and responsiveness at child age 3 years old, and if maternal feeding dimensions predicted child BMI trajectories from 4.5 to 7.5 years among Mexican American children from low‐income families. Child self‐regulation was evaluated as a potential mechanism linking maternal feeding with child BMI. Method: Child (N = 322) weight and length/height were assessed at 10 timepoints from 6 weeks through 7.5 years. Mothers completed the Caregiver Feeding Style Questionnaire when the child was 3 years of age. Results: A steeper slope of weight‐for‐length z scores from 6 weeks to 2 years (indicating more rapid weight gain) was associated with less maternal demands during feeding at 3 years. More maternal demandingness at child age 3 years predicted lower child BMI at 4.5 years, but not trajectories from 4.5 to 7 years. Child self‐regulation was not associated with child BMI from 4.5 to 7.5 years. Conclusion: The findings highlight how the relationship between mothers and children during feeding can be bidirectional and potentially influenced by the developmental stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arboreal marsupial monito del monte (genus Dromiciops, with two recognized species) is a paradigmatic mammal. It is the sole living representative of the order Microbiotheria, the ancestor lineage of Australian marsupials. Also, this marsupial is the unique frugivorous mammal in the temperate rainforest, being the main seed disperser of several endemic plants of this ecosystem, thus acting as keystone species. Dromiciops is also one of the few hibernating mammals in South America, spending half of the year in a physiological dormancy where metabolism is reduced to 10% of normal levels. This capacity to reduce energy expenditure in winter contrasts with the enormous energy turnover rate they experience in spring and summer. The unique life history strategies of this living Microbiotheria, characterized by an alternation of life in the slow and fast lanes, putatively represent ancestral traits that permitted these cold‐adapted mammals to survive in this environment. Here, we describe the ecological role of this emblematic marsupial, summarizing the ecophysiology of hibernation and sociality, updated phylogeographic relationships, reproductive cycle, trophic relationships, mutualisms, conservation, and threats. This marsupial shows high densities, despite presenting slow reproductive rates, a paradox explained by the unique characteristics of its three‐dimensional habitat. We finally suggest immediate actions to protect these species that may be threatened in the near future due to habitat destruction and climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE) presents with consciousness impairment, ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and areflexia. Objective: We aim to describe the clinical, paraclinical, and imaging features of patients with BBE from a tertiary-referral neurological center. Methods: A case series was conducted from an ambispective cohort of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) from 2016 to 2021. Subjects ≥ 18 years and who met Odaka et al. BBE criteria were eligible. Data collected included: age, gender, prior infection, Guillain-Barré disability score (GDS score), time from symptom onset to diagnosis, altered mental state, time from symptom onset to altered mental state, cranial nerve involvement, deep tendon reflexes, ataxia, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) requirement, treatment, inpatient delirium, length of stay (days), and protein levels in CSF analysis. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) were performed, as well as neuroimaging (brain magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and F18-fluorodeoxyglucose PET-CT). Antiganglioside antibodies panel including anti-GQ1b was solicited. results: Four patients (1.7%) met the inclusion criteria. Two patients manifested stupor and two showed somnolence throughout the course of the disease. Three patients required IMV due to bulbar dysfunction. None of the NCS met the criteria for any GBS electrophysiological variant. One patient was positive for IgM GM2 antibodies. One patient underwent 18F-FDG PET-CT, showing generalized cortical hypometabolism. Conclusion: The frequency of BBE in our population is very low (1.7%). IgM GM2 is another anti-ganglioside antibody related to BBE. Imaging studies such as MRI frequently do not present abnormalities and [F18-FDG-PET scan might be a useful study to describe a metabolism pattern to aid the diagnosis of BBE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present novel polyurethanes from renewable materials of castor oil and starch. Castor oil is transesterified with pentaerythritol in order to obtain a wide range of polyols. Yucca starch is converted into glycoside through transglycosylation reactions with ethylene glycol and glycerol. The glycosides from starch are then chemically incorporated to the castor oil polyols by a second transesterification reaction to generate a sequence of polyol-glycosides with a high level of polyhydroxyl content. These products are characterized by the hydroxyl value, viscosity, and specific gravity as a function of the glycoside type content and the kind of castor oil polyol prepared. MALDI TOF mass spectroscopy is used to find the mass fraction of glycosides and polyol-glycosides. Polyurethanes are synthesized from the polyol-glycosides by reaction with isophorone diisocyanate, under different NCO/OH molar ratios. The polymer characterization is accomplished by Fourier transform infrared analysis, tensile stress-strain tests, Shore A hardness, thermogravimetric analysis, chemical We present novel polyurethanes from renewable materials of castor oil and starch. Castor oil is transesterified with pentaerythritol in order to obtain a wide range of polyols. Yucca starch is converted into glycoside through transglycosylation reactions with ethylene glycol and glycerol. The glycosides from starch are then chemically incorporated to the castor oil polyols by a second transesterification reaction to generate a sequence of polyol-glycosides with a high level of polyhydroxyl content. These products are characterized by the hydroxyl value, viscosity, and specific gravity as a function of the glycoside type content and the kind of castor oil polyol prepared. MALDI TOF mass spectroscopy is used to find the mass fraction of glycosides and polyol-glycosides. Polyurethanes are synthesized from the polyol-glycosides by reaction with isophorone diisocyanate, under different NCO/OH molar ratios. The polymer characterization is accomplished by Fourier transform infrared analysis, tensile stress-strain tests, Shore A hardness, thermogravimetric analysis, chemical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavans of D. draco subsp. draco and subsp. ajgal and of D. tamaranae were isolated and identified for a chemotaxonomic survey. A major constituent of all taxa was (2S)-4,7′-dihydroxy-8-methylflavan. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Experiencing eating disorder symptoms is associated with maladaptive outcomes and impairment in functioning. A paucity of research exists examining eating disorder symptoms among ethnic/racial minority women. Using a network analysis, we evaluated core symptoms of eating disorder psychopathology and the degree of association between eating disorder symptoms in a sample of ethnic/racial minority women. Participants were 296 Black, 261 Hispanic, and 261 Asian American women recruited across the United States to complete an online survey. Inclusionary criteria yielded a sample with high eating disorder psychopathology. The Network Comparison Test was used to identify differences in networks between groups and yielded no significant differences between the three ethnic/racial groups. Thus, one network analysis on the entire sample was conducted in the main analyses. However, separate group analyses are presented in the online supplemental materials. Consistent with the transdiagnostic theory of eating disorders, weight concerns (i.e., strong desire to lose weight and fear of weight gain) emerged as central symptoms. Discrepant from findings with predominantly White samples, purging emerged as a central symptom as well, while shape concerns did not. Interestingly, having to weigh oneself weekly, having a flat stomach, fasting, and compulsive exercising were on the periphery of the network. Findings are discussed in terms of clinical implications and comparative similarities and differences when addressing the existing literature. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Canary Islands' indigenous people have been the subject of substantial archaeological, anthropological, linguistic and genetic research pointing to a most probable North African Berber source. However, neither agreement about the exact point of origin nor a model for the indigenous colonization of the islands has been established. To shed light on these questions, we analyzed 48 ancient mitogenomes from 25 archaeological sites from the seven main islands. Most lineages observed in the ancient samples have a Mediterranean distribution, and belong to lineages associated with the Neolithic expansion in the Near East and Europe (T2c, J2a, X3a...). This phylogeographic analysis of Canarian ancient mitogenomes, the first of its kind, shows that some lineages are restricted to Central North Africa (H1cf, J2a2d and T2c1d3), while others have a wider distribution, including both West and Central North Africa, and, in some cases, Europe and the Near East (U6a1a1, U6a7a1, U6b, X3a, U6c1). In addition, we identify four new Canarian-specific lineages (H1e1a9, H4a1e, J2a2d1a and L3b1a12) whose coalescence dates correlate with the estimated time for the colonization of the islands (1st millennia CE). Additionally, we observe an asymmetrical distribution of mtDNA haplogroups in the ancient population, with certain haplogroups appearing more frequently in the islands closer to the continent. This reinforces results based on modern mtDNA and Y-chromosome data, and archaeological evidence suggesting the existence of two distinct migrations. Comparisons between insular populations show that some populations had high genetic diversity, while others were probably affected by genetic drift and/or bottlenecks. In spite of observing interinsular differences in the survival of indigenous lineages, modern populations, with the sole exception of La Gomera, are homogenous across the islands, supporting the theory of extensive human mobility after the European conquest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To assess High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in patients with dengue classified according to the severity of the clinical presentation. Materials and Methods. A descriptive study was carried out with 70 individuals with dengue, classified as no alarm signs (DSSA), with signs of alarm (DCSA), and severe dengue (DG); 15 healthy donors were included as controls (CS). The serum levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were quantified through ELISA, and the HDL levels through serum by a colorimetric test. In addition, the platelet count and the hematocrit percentage were determined. Results. Levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were found to be increased in patients with DENV vs. the healthy controls. Said increase was more evident in patients with dengue and in line with the severity of the clinical presentation. The HDL levels were found to be decreased in patients with dengue versus healthy controls. The correlation analysis showed statistically significant associations between HDL and the platelet number, as well as between the hematocrit percentage and the levels of IL-1β. Conclusions. The increased IL-1β and IL-6 and the decreased HDL levels in the most severe clinical stages suggest that both factors are involved in the development of the pathogenesis and severity. The correlations allow the observation of a potential association between HDL and platelet count, which allows us to provide an approach to the possible role of HDL in the pathogenesis of dengue, but it is still necessary to perform additional studies that will allow to state their importance in the course of the DENV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present-day population structure of La Gomera is outstanding in its high aboriginal heritage, the greatest in the Canary Islands. This was earlier confirmed by both mitochondrial DNA and autosomal analyses, although genetic drift due to the fifteenth century European colonization could not be excluded as the main factor responsible. The present mtDNA study of aboriginal remains and extant samples from the six municipal districts of the island indeed demonstrates that the pre-Hispanic colonization of La Gomera by North African people involved a strong founder event, shown by the high frequency of the indigenous Canarian U6b1a lineage in the aboriginal samples (65%). This value is even greater than that observed in the extant population (44%), which in turn is the highest of all the seven Canary Islands. In contrast to previous results obtained for the aboriginal populations of Tenerife and La Palma, haplogroups related to secondary waves of migration were not detected in La Gomera aborigines, indicating that isolation also had an important role in shaping the current population. The rugged relief of La Gomera divided into several distinct valleys probably promoted subsequent aboriginal intra-insular differentiation that has continued after the European colonization, as seen in the present-day population structure observed on the island. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A formylated triterpene named cladocalol has been isolated from the leaves of Eucalyptus cladocalyx, together with ursulolactone acetate, ursolic acid, 3β-acetate-12,20(29)-lupadien-28-oic acid, β-sitosterol and the known flavonoid eucalyptine. Their structures were mainly established by extensive NMR studies (1H NMR, 13C NMR, DEPT, 1H–1H COSY, HSQC, HMBC) and mass spectroscopy as well as by X-ray crystallographic analysis. In this paper, we report on the cytotoxic effect induced by cladocalol and its derivatives on the myeloid leukemia cell line HL-60. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]