Search

Phosphonated polyethylenimine grafted on iron oxide nanoparticles was used as a magnetic support for loading palladium. This cheap and accessible heterogeneous catalyst demonstrated good efficiency in Suzuki-Miyaura, Mizoroki-Heck, and Tsuji-Trost couplings. The nanocomposite is resistant to harsh conditions and can therefore be recycled up to 10 cycles with high catalyst efficiency.

Novel 2-amino bis(2-phosphonoacetic) acids were prepared by microwave irradiation of a mixture of amine, glyoxylic acid and phosphorous acid. The reaction takes place with various amines including primary and secondary amines and polyamines, but this reaction is more sensitive to steric hindrance of amine than the similar Kabachnik–Fields reaction. Amino acids can be also transformed into the expected bis(2-phosphonoacetic) acids, with the exception of tryptophan, which gives a β-carboline product.

Ricinine is an alkaloid of Ricinus communis that displays numerous biological properties. Ricinine (4-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-dihydropyridine-3-carbonitrile)) and new N-analogues of Ricinine were obtained by the reaction of ethyl α-ethoxyethylidenecyanoacetate with various amines. Earlier, ethyl α-ethoxyethylidenecyanoacetate was easily prepared from ethyl cyanoacetate. Biologically, amines such as tryptamine and histamine were used in order to introduce a second pharmacophore on the target molecule.

In the present work, the synthesis and biological activities of substituted 2-aminopyridine δ-lactone derivatives were achieved. 4,6,6-trimethyl-2-oxo-5,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-3-carbonitrile was synthesised from 4-hydroxy-4-methylpentan-2-one, followed by its transformation in enaminonitrile with DMFDMA. The antioxidant effects of substituted 2-aminopyridine δ-lactone derivatives were evaluated through DPPH assay and revealed a great antioxidant capacity. The antifungal and antibacterial activities were investigated by disc diffusion method against clinical Gram-negative bacteria and against clinical fungi. The study shows moderate to very good antibacterial and antifungal activities for the new substituted 2-aminopyridine δ-lactone derivatives.

Purpurogallin or (6E,8Z)-2,3,4,6-tetrahydroxy-5H-benzo[7]annulen-5-one is a benzotropolone possessing a dienic system and known to inhibit the TLR1/TLR2 activation pathway. We have recently described the easy green synthesis of purpurogallin from pyrogallol catalyzed by a copper complex or by vegetable oxidases. The purpurogallin was acetylated and the tetra-acetate derivative thus obtained was engaged in a Diels–Alder reaction with various dienophiles (benzoquinone, maleic anhydride, ethylmaleimide, phenylmaleimide, etc.). The results obtained are presented and discussed.

After the synthesis of polyethylenimine supported on silica, it has been used as a new and efficient catalyst in Knoevenagel and Michael condensations. The presence of the polyethylenimine in the catalytic system together with silica displays an acido-basic character allows a better catalytic activity in the condensations. Carried out under microwave irradiation, without organic solvent and during short time, the syntheses are respectful towards green chemistry. The solid catalyst can be easily reused. This catalyst has the acido-basic character at the same time.

Wastewater cleaning strategies based on the adsorption of materials are being increasingly considered, but the wide variety of organic pollutants at low concentrations still makes their removal a challenge. The hybrid material proposed here consists of a zwitterionic polyethylenimine polymer coating a magnetic core. Polyethylenimine is phosphonated at different percentages by a one-step process and used to coat maghemite nanoparticles. It selectively extracts high amounts of cationic and anionic contaminants over a wide range of pH values, depending on the adjustable number of phosphonate groups introduced on the polymer. After recovering the nanoparticles with a magnet, pollutants are quantitatively released by repeated washing with low amounts of pH-adjusted water. The material can be reused many times without noticeable loss of efficiency and is designed to resist high temperatures, oxidation and harsh conditions.

A new class of dicationic ionic liquids (ILs) were synthesized for electrochemical applications at high temperatures. The syntheses are based on a dialkylation reaction of N-alkylpiperidine followed by anion exchange. The structures of ILs, based on piperidinium combined with hexafluorophosphate anion, were identified by using 1H, 13C, 19F, 31P NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. ILs’ thermal properties were investigated in the temperature range from −50 to 350 °C by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In the frequency of 10−2–106 Hz range, dielectric measurements were performed on ILs’ samples at various temperatures from −80 to 20 °C, i.e. around the glass transition temperature. The peak relaxation was observed near to this temperature. Also, the conductivity was investigated and the energy activation determined. The temperature dependence of the relaxation times was shown to be governed by the Arrhenius equation.

Metallophthalocyanine complexes are obtained quickly and efficiently by the reaction of phthalodinitrile with hydrated metallic salts without solvent and under microwave irradiation. The use of a modified commercial microwave oven to perform this type of reactions under dry conditions is described. Metallophthalocyanines and metallododecachlorophthalocyanines of some divalent metals can be also obtained from phthalic or tetrachlorophthalic anhydrides with hydrated metallic salt and urea under microwave irradiation and without solvent.

3(2)-Naphthofuranone (1) was condensed in the presence of Al2O3-KF with aromatic aldehydes (4) to give arylidenenaphthofuranones (5a-f) without solvent under focused microwave irradiation.

Abstract Proteins can be targeted for degradation by engineering biomolecules that direct them to the eukaryotic ubiquitination machinery. For instance, the fusion of an E3 ubiquitin ligase to a suitable target binding domain creates a ‘biological Proteolysis-Targeting Chimera’ (bioPROTAC). Here we employ an analogous approach where the target protein is recruited directly to a human E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme via an attached target binding domain. Through rational design and screening we develop E2 bioPROTACs that induce the degradation of the human intracellular proteins SHP2 and KRAS. Using global proteomics, we characterise the target-specific and wider effects of E2 vs. VHL-based fusions. Taking SHP2 as a model target, we also employ a route to bioPROTAC discovery based on protein display libraries, yielding a degrader with comparatively weak affinity capable of suppressing SHP2-mediated signalling.

Abstract The present study examines university students’ acceptance of e-learning according to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). We also investigate the influence of external factors, including self-efficacy with digital media, self-regulated learning, prior experience, and affinity for technology, to extend the model with valid individual factors. Structural equation modeling with maximum-likelihood estimation served to evaluate the proposed research model, which included online questionnaire data from N = 225 undergraduates studying various subjects in 53 universities. The results indicate that the TAM is replicable regarding e-learning for German-speaking university students. Additionally, we found self-regulated learning and affinity for technology to be significantly positively related to the two main components of the TAM, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, implying their importance in technology acceptance. However, self-efficacy with digital media and prior experience showed no significant impact on university students’ technology acceptance. We also found a significant positive relationship between attitudes toward e-learning and behavioral intention, showing that university students with positive attitudes are more willing to use it in the future. Therefore, higher education should consider students’ individual prerequisites for e-learning and support students during the use of e-learning environments, to promote the development of positive experiences and attitudes toward e-learning.

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is positively associated with improved learning achievements during all educational phases. Despite playing an important role in conveying SRL strategies to their students, pre-service often lack knowledge about SRL and imparting it. Therefore, addressing SRL and teaching SRL strategies to students seems relevant to pre-service teacher training. The present study aims to analyze pre-service teachers’ SRL profiles in asynchronous and synchronous digital learning environments and compares their influence on training effectiveness. As part of a pre-post design, a total of N = 141 pre-service teachers participated in the study, and questionnaires on SRL strategy use and an SRL knowledge test were used. A latent profile analysis indicated a three-class solution (low, moderate, high SRL), revealing significant differences regarding SRL strategy use but not for SRL knowledge. These findings enable a person-centered approach to develop digital learning environments and provide insight into specific learner behavior.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the challenges of vaccination and the infectious risks among the elderlies. However, immunization rates for recommended vaccines in this population are insufficient in France. We aimed in this study to identify the levers and obstacles to vaccination among seniors, and to establish the arguments that could lead to some new vaccination behaviors. A qualitative survey based on 14 semi-structured interviews was conducted with people aged 65 and over, living at home in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region (France) from March to May 2022. The interviews were recorded, entirely transcribed, then subjected to a thematic content analysis. The results show that participants are keen to preserve their health by maintaining their physical capacity, taking regular exercise and eating a balanced diet. However, vaccination was not mentioned as a mean of preventing infectious diseases. Infections were not perceived as a cause for concern. Furthermore, the physical and cognitive consequences of infectious diseases, which could result in a loss of autonomy, were not known. These elements could be a good lever to bring hesitant elderly people to reconsider their position toward vaccination. Vaccines were not seen as a strategy to prevent loss of autonomy among elderlies. Since vaccines against influenza, COVID-19, shingles, pneumococcus have proved to be effective in protecting against cardiovascular events, this argument might be the starting point for a prevention campaign for the elderly.

Après une synthèse des évolutions majeures qui se sont produites depuis 15 ans en termes de réglementation, de politiques publiques, de production, de consommation et de recherches dans le domaine de l'agriculture biologique (AB), cet avant-propos présente le sommaire de ce numéro spécial consacré à l'élevage biologique. Les articles issus, en majorité, de travaux conduits par INRAE et ses collaborateurs dans le cadre de programmes dédiés à l’AB, analysent les conditions et le potentiel de développement de l’élevage bio avec des regards techniques, économiques et organisationnels.

Summary: Human genetic studies of critical COVID-19 pneumonia have revealed the essential role of type I interferon-dependent innate immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conversely, an association between the HLA-B∗15:01 allele and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in unvaccinated individuals was recently reported, suggesting a contribution of pre-existing T cell-dependent adaptive immunity. We report a lack of association of classical HLA alleles, including HLA-B∗15:01, with pre-omicron asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in unvaccinated participants in a prospective population-based study in the United States (191 asymptomatic vs. 945 symptomatic COVID-19 cases). Moreover, we found no such association in the international COVID Human Genetic Effort cohort (206 asymptomatic vs. 574 mild or moderate COVID-19 cases and 1,625 severe or critical COVID-19 cases). Finally, in the Human Challenge Characterisation study, the three HLA-B∗15:01 individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed symptoms. As with other acute primary infections studied, no classical HLA alleles favoring an asymptomatic course of SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified.

The management of the açai palm, a species of the Euterpe genus, has grown in recent years mainly for the extraction of palm heart and the pulp of the fruit called açai. After the extraction of the’ pulp, there is a significant generation of residues, as the discarded seeds account for approximately 85% of the fruit. Therefore, this research aims to characterize the açai seed after fruit processing, as well as to evaluate the potential of thermally processed seed for use in soil-cement bricks. The seed morpho-anatomy tests were performed, including moisture content, loss of ignition, ash content, thermogravimetry, fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction of the ground seeds. Tests on thermally processed seeds included readings by X-ray diffraction and laser granulometry. After evaluating the properties of the ash, it was incorporated into soil-cement mixtures in proportions of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%, replacing the clinker content of LC3 (Limestone Calcined Clay Cement). Based on the results obtained, soil-cement bricks were produced with a composition of 90% soil and 10% LC3, with the LC3 cement clinker being replaced by 20% açai seed ash. The results indicate the potential for the application of açai seed ash in soil-cement bricks on a practical scale, demonstrating that the ash enhances soil stabilization and increases the compressive strength of the soil-cement matrix due to its smaller particle size compared to that of the soil grains. This not only reduces the amount of cement required for the matrix but also offers environmental sustainability through the utilization of seed waste. The study underscores the potential of applying açai seed ash in the context of environmentally significant alternative technologies and sustainable practices, emphasizing the promise of the properties found in discarded açai seeds.

Abstract In the Late Cretaceous, northern and southern hemispheres evolved distinct dinosaurian faunas. Titanosaurians and abelisaurids dominated the Gondwanan continents; hadrosaurids, ceratopsians and tyrannosaurs dominated North America and Asia. Recently, a lambeosaurine hadrosaurid, Ajnabia odysseus, was reported from the late Maastrichtian phosphates of the Oulad Abdoun Basin Morocco, suggesting dispersal between Laurasia and Gondwana. Here we report new fossils from the phosphates of Morocco showing lambeosaurines achieved high diversity in the late Maastrichtian of North Africa. A skull represents a new dwarf lambeosaurine, Minqaria bata. Minqaria resembles Ajnabia odysseus in size, but differs in the ventrally positioned jugal facet and sinusoidal toothrow. The animal is small, ~ 3.5 m long, but the fused braincase shows it was mature. A humerus and a femur belong to larger hadrosaurids, ~ 6 m long, implying at least three species coexisted. The diversity of hadrosaurids in Europe and Africa suggests a dispersal-driven radiation, with lambeosaurines diversifying to take advantage of low ornithischian diversity. African lambeosaurines are small compared to North American and Asia hadrosaurids however, perhaps due to competition with titanosaurians. Hadrosaurids are unknown from eastern Africa, suggesting Moroccan hadrosaurids may be part of a distinct insular fauna, and represent an island radiation.

Abstract Background Previous studies reported that poor sleep quality (PSQ) was associated with musculoskeletal pains (MSP) and poor physical performance in athletes. Objective The current study aimed at determining PSQ and its associations with MSP in some sub-Saharan athletes. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted among 205 highly trained and 115 elite athletes (aged: 25 ± 2 years, Body mass index: 22.8 ± 0.9 kg/m2) in Dakar, Senegal, during a competitive season in a variety of sport disciplines including athletics, basketball, football, rugby, wrestling, tennis. Quality of sleep and MSP were assessed using the French version Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and French version of Nordic questionnaire respectively. Pain on body joints during a week was defined as seven-day MSP (MSP-7d) and PSQ for a PSQI > 5. Results 27.8% (95%CI: 23.2–32.9) of the overall sample suffered PSQ, with 33.7% (95%CI: 24.7–44.0) in basketball and 24.7% (95%CI: 16.9–34.6) in football. According to athletic status and gender, PSQ was more prevalent among highly trained (66.3; 95%CI: 55.9–75.3) and men (69.7%; 95%CI: 59.5–78.7). Among athletes with PSQ 43.8% (95%CI: 33.9–54.2) suffered MSP-7d, with 36.6%; highly trained (95%CI: 23.7–42.9) and 28.1% female. Considering body region, hips/thigh (14.6%; 95% CI: 8.74–23.4) and upper back (13.5%; 95%CI: 7.88 -21, 1) were more affected. Basketball players were more affected from MSP (MSP-7d = 38.5%; 95%CI: 24. 9–54.1) on high on wrists/hands (MSP-7d = 44.4%; 95%CI: 18.9 -73.3; P = 0.04). Based on athletic status, MSP-7d were higher on highly trained necks (100%; 95%CI: 56.1–100; p = 0.04). PSQ was associated with basketball (OR: 3.062, 95%CI: 1.130–8.300, p = 0.02) compared to Athletic. PSQ and MSP-7d were associated on Wrist/hands (OR: 3.352, 95%CI: 1.235–9.099, p = 0.01), and at the upper back (OR: 5.820, 95%CI: 2.096–16.161, p = 0.0007). Conclusion These results indicate that PSQ is considerable among Senegalese athletes and is associated with MSP during a week. Hence, we recommend to look for strategies optimizing good quality of sleep in order to reduce pains, to improve health.

Despite the immense need for effective treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI), no successful repair strategy has yet been clinically implemented. Multifunctional biomaterials, based on porcine adipose tissue-derived extracellular matrix (adECM) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), were recently shown to stimulate in vitro neural stem cell growth and differentiation. Nevertheless, their functional performance in clinically more relevant in vivo conditions remains largely unknown. Before clinical application of these adECM-rGO nanocomposites can be considered, a rigorous assessment of the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of these biomaterials is required. For instance, xenogeneic adECM scaffolds could still harbour potential immunogenicity following decellularization. In addition, the toxicity of rGO has been studied before, yet often in experimental settings that do not bear relevance to regenerative medicine. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess both the in vitro as well as in vivo safety of adECM and adECM-rGO scaffolds. First, pulmonary, renal and hepato-cytotoxicity as well as macrophage polarization studies showed that scaffolds were benign in vitro. Then, a laminectomy was performed at the 10th thoracic vertebra, and scaffolds were implanted directly contacting the spinal cord. For a total duration of 6 weeks, animal welfare was not negatively affected. Histological analysis demonstrated the degradation of adECM scaffolds and subsequent tissue remodeling. Graphene-based scaffolds showed a very limited fibrous encapsulation, while rGO sheets were engulfed by foreign body giant cells. Furthermore, all scaffolds were infiltrated by macrophages, which were largely polarized towards a pro-regenerative phenotype. Lastly, organ-specific histopathology and biochemical analysis of blood did not reveal any adverse effects. In summary, both adECM and adECM-rGO implants were biocompatible upon laminectomy while establishing a pro-regenerative microenvironment, which justifies further research on their therapeutic potential for treatment of SCI.

Introduction Africa is experiencing a gradual demographic shift due to rising life expectancy and increasing urbanisation. In sub-Saharan Africa, elderly individuals typically reside with their children. The rise in life expectancy by almost a decade and the prevalence of precarious living conditions raise concerns about the sustainability of the healthcare system, which has traditionally relied on intergenerational solidarity.Methods The research aims to analyse the evolving role of older adults in Cameroonian society and to examine the potential impact of this change on intergenerational relationships and the health of older adults. A qualitative methodology was employed, using intergenerational focus groups in Cameroon.Results Traditionally, older adults held a central role in knowledge transmission through discourse. However, the modernisation of society is challenging this position.The emergence of new technologies, particularly communication tools, is leading to a questioning of older adults’ experiential knowledge. Societal changes are contributing to a decline in respect for older adults in discourse. Older adults deplore these societal changes and fear for their place in society while young people are questioning the central role of older people in society.Discussion These changes could reduce the sense of usefulness of older people, with negative consequences for their health. Several studies have highlighted the impacts of ageism on the health of older adults in industrialised countries. However, there are little data on the impact of the marginalisation of older adults on their health in industrialising societies. Further research is needed to study the impact on the health of older adults.

Abstract Background The Emergency unit of the hospital (Department) (ED) is the fastest and most common way for most French general practitioners (GPs) to respond to the complexity of managing older adults patients with multiple chronic diseases. In 2013, French regional health authorities proposed to set up telephone hotlines to promote interactions between GP clinics and hospitals. The main objective of our study was to analyze whether the hotlines and solutions proposed by the responding geriatrician reduced the number of hospital admissions, and more specifically the number of emergency room admissions. Methods We conducted a multicenter observational study from April 2018 to April 2020 at seven French investigative sites. A questionnaire was completed by all hotline physicians after each call. Results The study population consisted of 4,137 individuals who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the 4,137 phone calls received by the participants, 64.2% (n = 2 657) were requests for advice, and 35.8% (n = 1,480) were requests for emergency hospitalization. Of the 1,480 phone calls for emergency hospitalization, 285 calls resulted in hospital admission in the emergency room (19.3%), and 658 calls in the geriatric short stay (44.5%). Of the 2,657 calls for advice/consultation/delayed hospitalization, 9.7% were also duplicated by emergency hospital admission. Conclusion This study revealed the value of hotlines in guiding the care of older adults. The results showed the potential effectiveness of hotlines in preventing unnecessary hospital admissions or in identifying cases requiring hospital admission in the emergency room. Hotlines can help improve the care pathway for older adults and pave the way for future progress. Trial registration Registered under Clinical Trial Number NCT03959475. This study was approved and peer-reviewed by the Ethics Committee for the Protection of Persons of Sud Est V of Grenoble University Hospital Center (registered under 18-CETA-01 No.ID RCB 2018-A00609-46).

Paleoneurological studies of mosasaurids are few and limited to old partial reconstructions made from latex casts on Platecarpus and Clidastes. Here, the brain endocasts of three specimens of the early mosasaurid Tethysaurus nopcsai from the Turonian of Morocco are reconstructed for the first time by using micro-computed tomography. Comparisons between Tethysaurus and the later Platecarpus and Clidastes show that distinct endocranial organizations have occurred within the clade through time, including differences in the flexure of the endocast and the size of the parietal eye. The physiological consequences of such variability remain unclear and further investigations are required to better interpret these variations. In addition, the endocast of Tethysaurus was compared to those of extant anguimorphs, iguanians, and snakes, using landmark-based geometric morphometrics. The results revealed that Tethysaurus exhibits a unique combination of endocranial features compared to extant toxicoferans. Contrary to previous statements, we find no strong resemblance in endocast morphology between Tethysaurus and varanids. Rather, the endocast of Tethysaurus shows some morphological similarities with each of the clades of anguimorphs, iguanians, and snakes. In this context, while a notable phylogenetic signal is observed in the variability of squamate endocasts, it is premature to establish any phylogenetic affinities between mosasaurids and extant squamates based solely on endocast morphologies.

Background: The positivity of anti-RNP autoantibodies as biological criteria for the diagnosis of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) has recently divided the rheumatology community. Autoantigenicity of the U1-snRNP complex tends to generate multiple autoantibodies against RNP-A, -C and -70 KDa or Sm proteins. The aim of this study is to identify the most informative autoantibodies in clinical practice, in particular, to contribute to differential diagnosis between MCTD and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: Sera from 74 patients positive for anti-RNP autoantibodies were selected over a period of one year of laboratory practice. Autoantibodies directed against extractable nuclear antigen, RNP proteins (A, C, 70 KDa) and 40 kDa fragments of RNP-70 KDa were investigated by using quantitative fluoroenzymatic assay and Western blot analysis. Results: Among the 74 patients, 40 patients were diagnosed with SLE, 20 with MCTD, six with another autoimmune disease, three with SARS-CoV-2 infection, three with cancer and two were healthy. No preferential clinical association of IgG or IgM autoantibodies directed against each of the RNP proteins was found between SLE and MCTD. In contrast, the proportion of autoantibodies directed against the RNP component within the U1-snRNP complex showed a significantly higher RNP index in patients with MCTD than in those with SLE (p = 0.011), with good performance (sensitivity: 69.2%, specificity: 88.9%). Conclusions: The analysis of the proportion of the different autoantibodies directed against the U1-snRNP complex is more informative than the analysis of each autoantibody separately. A follow-up of patients could be informative about the interest of the RNP index as a predictor of disease evolution.

Abstract The human α7 nicotinic receptor is a pentameric channel mediating cellular and neuronal communication. It has attracted considerable interest in designing ligands for the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders. To develop a novel class of α7 ligands, we recently generated two nanobodies named E3 and C4, acting as positive allosteric modulator and silent allosteric ligand, respectively. Here, we solved the cryo-electron microscopy structures of the nanobody-receptor complexes. E3 and C4 bind to a common epitope involving two subunits at the apex of the receptor. They form by themselves a symmetric pentameric assembly that extends the extracellular domain. Unlike C4, the binding of E3 drives an agonist-bound conformation of the extracellular domain in the absence of an orthosteric agonist, and mutational analysis shows a key contribution of an N-linked sugar moiety in mediating E3 potentiation. The nanobody E3, by remotely controlling the global allosteric conformation of the receptor, implements an original mechanism of regulation that opens new avenues for drug design.

Abstract Background Living areas in developing countries impact seriously lifestyle by modifying energy consumption and energy expenditure. Thus, urbanization is associated with less practice of physical activity (PA), a leading cause of metabolic syndrome (MetS) which prevalence vary in African countries. The present study aimed to assess the effect of PA on MetS according to urbanization level in the littoral region, Cameroon. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in three geographical settings (urban, semi-urban, and rural) in the littoral region in Cameroon. A total of 879 participants were included (urban: 372, semi-urban: 195 and rural: 312). MetS was defined according to the International Federation of Diabetes 2009. The level of PA was assessed using the Global Physical Activity questionnaire. Results Low level of PA was (P

Abstract Detection of molecules is a key issue for many applications. Surface enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA) uses arrays of resonant nanoantennas with good quality factors which can be used to locally enhance the illumination of molecules. The technique has proved to be an effective tool to detect small amount of material. However, nanoresonators can detect molecules on a narrow bandwidth so that a set of resonators is necessary to identify a molecule fingerprint. Here, we introduce an alternative paradigm and use low quality factor resonators with large radiative losses (over-coupled resonators). The bandwidth enables to detect all absorption lines between 5 and 10 μm, reproducing the molecular absorption spectrum. Counterintuitively, despite a lower quality factor, the system sensitivity is improved and we report a reflectivity variation as large as one percent per nanometer of molecular layer of PMMA. This paves the way to specific identification of molecules. We illustrate the potential of the technique with the detection of the explosive precursor 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT). There is a fair agreement with electromagnetic simulations and we also introduce an analytic model of the SEIRA signal obtained in the over-coupling regime.

Abstract Background Anti-Jo-1 autoantibodies represent essential markers in the diagnosis of antisynthetase syndrome (ASS). In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate whether their concentrations and fluctuations could both respectively reflect the severity and evolution of ASS. Methods Between 2015 and 2020, clinical and biological features of ASS patients with at least one positive measure of anti-Jo-1 autoantibody were collected. At each serum sampling, we assessed myositis activity by using the Myositis Intention to Treat Activities Index (MITAX) and compared anti-Jo-1 concentrations with ASS severity, anti-Jo-1 concentrations between patients with and without active disease, and changes in anti-Jo-1 concentrations with disease activity. Results Forty-eight patients with ASS had at least one positive determination of anti-Jo-1 concentration. Among them, twenty-nine patients had at least two determinations of anti-Jo-1 autoantibody in their follow-up. We showed that these autoantibody concentrations were significantly correlated with MITAX (r = 0.4, p = 0.03) and creatine kinase concentration (r = 0.34, p = 0.002) and that they were significantly higher in patients with active disease than in those with inactive disease (91.7 IU/L vs 44.4 IU/L, p = 0.016). During follow-up, we found a significant correlation between fluctuations of anti-Jo-1 autoantibody concentrations and MITAX score (r = 0.7, p

BackgroundAlthough the health benefits of physical activity (PA) are recognized, prostate cancer patients do not follow PA recommendations. Barriers to PA, whether physical, environmental or organizational, are known. Furthermore, even when these barriers are overcome, this achievement is not systematically accompanied by lifestyle change. Many strategies have shown to be effective in increasing patient adherence to PA. This study aims to assess the feasibility and the viability of the Acti-Pair program which combines three strategies: peer support, a personalized and realistic PA project, and support from health and adapted physical activity professionals in a local context.Methods and analysisWe conducted a pilot study utilizing a mixed qualitative and quantitative methodology, employing feasibility and viability assessments. Quantitative assessments included recruitment, retention adherence rates, process and potential effectiveness (PA and motivation) indicators; while qualitative methods were used to evaluate the program's practicality, suitability and usefulness. Indicators of potential effectiveness were assessed before and after the intervention using a Wilcoxon test for matched data. Qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews conducted by two researchers with various program stakeholders. The study lasted for 3 years.ResultsTwenty-four patients were recruited over a 25-month period. Forty-two percent of patients completed the program 3 months after the beginning. We recruited 14 peers and trained nine peers over a 10-month period. The program was coordinated extensively by adapted PA professionals, while health professionals were involved in recruiting patients and peers. Self-reporting of moderate to vigorous PA was increased after the Acti-Pair program initiation [42.86 (30.76) at baseline to 53.29 (50.73)]. Intrinsic motivation significantly increased after participation in the Acti-Pair program [1.76 (1.32) before the intervention vs. 2.91 (1.13) after the intervention]. The key player to support the Acti-Pair program in the field has been the PA support system. The main challenge has been the difficulty of health professionals in promoting PA.DiscussionThis pilot study has shown that the Acti-Pair program is feasible and viable. It will allow us to extend the peer support intervention to other contexts and assess the effectiveness of this intervention and its generalization.

The historically important mosasaur fossil (known as ‘le grand animal fossile des carrières de Maestricht’) has been known as Mosasaurus hoffmanni for almost two centuries now. Recently, it has been proposed to amend the spelling of the species name, by adding a second ‘i’ to the species epithet. We present historical evidence to the contrary, and recommend, following article 33.2.3.1 of the ICZN, to retain the specific epithet hoffmanni.

Winemaking is one of the oldest biotechnology techniques in the world. The wine industry generates 20 million tons of by-products, such as wastewater, stalk, lees, pomace, and stems, each year. The objective of this research project is to valorize wine industry by-products by producing a functional beverage via the fermentation of grape pomace with the kombucha consortium. In this study, grape pomace kombucha was produced under different conditions, and the concentration of the added sucrose in addition to the fermentation duration and temperature were varied. Overall, fermentation was characterized by the consumption of sugars and the production of organic acids and ethanol. An improvement in the concentrations of the total polyphenols and anthocyanins was observed in the developed product (i.e., up to 100%). Moreover, an enhancement of the antioxidant potential by 100%, as well as increases of 50 to 75% in the anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities, was noted.

The main objective of infant follow-on formulas, consumed from the age of 6 to 12 months, is to mimic the composition of breast milk in order to meet the nutritional needs of infant. In this context, their composition is governed in Europe by a strict regulation that has evolved in 2020 to force manufacturers to improve the nutritional profile of the formulas. The objective of this dataset was to collect the ingredient lists and nutritional values of infant follow-on formulas present on the world market with a focus on the lipid fraction. The data collection was carried out from December 2020 to April 2021 directly on the product packaging or on the websites of the different brands. Only “classic” infant follow-on formulas that are widely consumed were listed. Thus, the ingredient lists and nutritional values of 91 infant formulas were collected. The nutritional values are systematically presented for 100 g of powder, for 100 Kcal and for 100 mL of formula. The sources of fats, emulsifiers and vitamins A and E were also extracted from the ingredient lists. This dataset can be used as a tool for the formulation of infant follow-on formulas or to situate the positioning of products in relation to the market.

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal pains (MSPs) in sport are cause of poor performances and loss of competition in athletes. The present study aimed at determining the prevalence of MSPs with regard to sport disciplines and athletic status. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 Senegalese professional and amateur athletes practicing football, basketball, rugby, tennis, athletics, and wrestling. Rates of MSPs in the past year (MSPs-12) and week (MSPs-7d) were assessed using standard questionnaires. Results Overall proportions of MSPs-12 and MSPs-7d were 70 and 74.2%, respectively. MSPs-12 were more frequently reported on shoulders (40.6%), neck (37.1%) and hips/thigh (34.4%), while MSPs-7d were predominant on hips/thigh (29.5%), shoulders (25.7%), and upper back (17.2%). Proportions of MSPs-12 and MSPs-7d varied significantly by sport disciplines, with highest values among basketball players. Again, highest MSPs-12 proportions on shoulders (29.7%, P = 0.02), wrists/hands (34.6%, P = 0.001), (40.2%, P = 0.0002), and knees (38.8%, P = 0.002) were seen among basketball players. High proportions of MSPs-7d were seen on shoulders (29.6%, P = 0.04) for tennis players, wrists/hands (29.4%, P = 0.03) for basketball and football players, and hips/thigh (38.8%, P

Abstract Aggressive intrasegmental recurrence (AIR) is a form of local recurrence associated with a dismal prognosis and defined by multiple nodules or by an infiltrative mass with a tumor thrombus, occurring in the treated segment, after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to identify radiological and/or histological characteristics of tumor biopsy predictive of AIR. We retrospectively analyzed patients treated by No-Touch multi-bipolar RFA (mbpRFA) for a first HCC with a systematic per-procedural tumor biopsy positive for diagnosis of HCC. The first recurrence was classified as non-aggressive local recurrence, AIR or intrahepatic distant recurrence. 212 patients were included (168 men; mean age 67.1 years; mean tumor size 28.6 mm, 181 cirrhosis). AIR occurred in 21/212 patients (10%) and was associated with a higher risk of death (57% in patients with AIR vs 30% without AIR, p = 0.0001). Non-smooth tumor margins, observed in 21% of the patients and macro-trabecular massive histological subtype, observed in 12% of the patients were independently related to a higher risk of AIR (HR: 3.7[1.57;9.06], p = 0.002 and HR:3.8[2.47;10], p = 0.005 respectively). Non smooth margins at imaging and macro-trabecular massive histological subtype are associated with AIR and could be considered as aggressive features useful to stratify therapeutic strategy.

Abstract Rationale Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a primary brain tumor with poor prognosis. The U.S. food and drug administration approved the use of the anti-VEGF antibody bevacizumab in recurrent GBM. However, resistance to this treatment is frequent and fails to enhance the overall survival of patients. In this study, we aimed to identify novel mechanism(s) responsible for bevacizumab-resistance in CD146-positive glioblastoma. Methods The study was performed using sera from GBM patients and human GBM cell lines in culture or xenografted in nude mice. Results We found that an increase in sCD146 concentration in sera of GBM patients after the first cycle of bevacizumab treatment was significantly associated with poor progression free survival and shorter overall survival. Accordingly, in vitro treatment of CD146-positive glioblastoma cells with bevacizumab led to a high sCD146 secretion, inducing cell invasion. These effects were mediated through integrin αvβ3 and were blocked by mucizumab, a novel humanized anti-sCD146 antibody. In vivo, the combination of bevacizumab with mucizumab impeded CD146 + glioblastoma growth and reduced tumor cell dissemination to an extent significantly higher than that observed with bevacizumab alone. Conclusion We propose sCD146 to be 1/ an early biomarker to predict and 2/ a potential target to prevent bevacizumab resistance in patients with glioblastoma.

Purpose: Companies that manufacture poles generate several negative environmental impacts, whose extent needs to be assessed to find ways to mitigate them. Methods: In this research, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was used as a methodology to measure the potential environmental impacts throughout the poles' life cycle. Primary data (amount of cement, gravel, sand, steel rebars, energy, water) were collected from industries located in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, and information from the Ecoinvent 3.7.1 database (transport, solid waste, liquid effluents, particulate matter) was used. Results and discussion: The literature addresses pole production from a different perspective, making this study relevant to disseminate the life cycle thinking in concrete pole production. However, the literature points to a correlation trend for ecotoxicity and human toxicity indicators, as well as the results found in this research. Waste disposal stands out as an important source of impact for these industries, confirming the necessity of efficient management of these materials at the end of their lifespan and during the production process. The scenario analysis showed that is possible to reduce the potential impacts of these industries. Conclusion: The reuse of waste within the industry itself is feasible (using a shredder for this purpose) and can contribute to decreasing the extraction of natural deposits in various production processes related to the poles' life cycle and reducing their accumulation in the environment. The use of inputs from closer suppliers is a strategy that contributes to mitigating the potential impact of gaseous emissions, reducing the impact that generates global warming and climate change. In addition, other papers show viable alternatives in different scenarios, based on complex laboratory studies. Nevertheless, his approach shows how impacts can be mitigated with the adoption of simple actions such as the reuse of effluents and residues from these industries. It is possible to redefine the production process through a scenario close to the ideal, bringing environmental sustainability to the sector.

In aerodynamics, characterizing the aerodynamic behavior of aircraft typically requires a large number of observation data points. Real experiments can generate thousands of data points with suitable accuracy, but they are time-consuming and resource-intensive. Consequently, conducting real experiments at new input configurations might be impractical. To address this challenge, data-driven surrogate models have emerged as a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative. They provide simplified mathematical representations that approximate the output of interest. Models based on Gaussian Processes (GPs) have gained popularity in aerodynamics due to their ability to provide accurate predictions and quantify uncertainty while maintaining tractable execution times. To handle large datasets, sparse approximations of GPs have been further investigated to reduce the computational complexity of exact inference. In this paper, we revisit and adapt two classic sparse methods for GPs to address the specific requirements frequently encountered in aerodynamic applications. We compare different strategies for choosing the inducing inputs, which significantly impact the complexity reduction. We formally integrate our implementations into the open-source Python toolbox SMT, enabling the use of sparse methods across the GP regression pipeline. We demonstrate the performance of our Sparse GP (SGP) developments in a comprehensive 1D analytic example as well as in a real wind tunnel application with thousands of training data points.