Racial disparities with PRN medication usage in inpatient psychiatric treatment.

Racial disparities in psychiatric diagnoses and treatment have significant public health implications, contributing to inequities in healthcare outcomes. We specifically examined racial disparities regarding pro re nata (PRN), or as needed, medications. Data from 14,616 encounters across 2019-2020 within Community Health Network's inpatient psychiatric setting in Indianapolis, Indiana were included in this study. Due to the demographic sample size, analyses were narrowed to Black and White patients. Primary outcomes included comparisons across race for all PRN administrations and PRN administrations of antipsychotics vs. non-antipsychotics. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between race and PRN administrations by medication category, including all antipsychotics vs. non-antipsychotics overall, hydroxyzine, and lorazepam, independently. Significant differences in the percentage of administrations between Black and White patients were observed. Black patients received more PRN medications overall (71.0%) compared to White patients (67.7%) (p < 0.01). Further, while 17.7% of Black patients were administered PRN antipsychotics, this was true for only 8.2% of White patients (p < 0.001). When comparing antipsychotic PRNs with non-antipsychotic, hydroxyzine, and lorazepam PRNs, independently, Black patients were 58% (OR 1.58, p < 0.001), 109% (OR 2.09, p < 0.001), and 32% (OR 1.32, p < 0.001), more likely to receive antipsychotic PRNs, respectively, than White patients, controlling for sex, age, length of stay, and psychotic disorder diagnosis. Our study identifies yet another area of medical care with significant racial disparities. In this analysis of PRN medications during psychiatric admission, we identified significant differences in medication utilization by race. This information provides a basis for further investigation of disparities in patient-centered data.

Urea-Comprising Single Core Diketopyrrolopyrrole Derivatives: Exploring the Synthesis, Self-Assembly and Charge Transport Properties.

Supramolecular electronics exploits the distinctive features stemming from noncovalent interactions, guiding the self-assembly of molecules to craft materials endowed with customized electronic functionalities. Hydrogen-bonded materials, characterized by their capacity to establish dynamic and stable networks, introduce an extra dimension to the development of supramolecular electronic systems. This study presents a comparative analysis of two remarkably small semiconductors utilizing diketopyrrolopyrrole functionalized with urea units as hydrogen-bonding motifs, strategically positioned at opposing ends of the conjugated core. We show how the subtle distinction in functionalization not only influences morphology and self-assembly dynamics via hydrogen-bonding and π-π stacking formation, but also holds significant consequences for ultimate charge transport properties. Our observations into the interplay of noncovalent interactions provide valuable insights and strategic pathways for the design of novel materials with enhanced electronic characteristics.

Has it always paid to be rich? Income and cause-specific mortality in southern Sweden 1905-2014.

Socio-economic differences in mortality are among the most pervasive characteristics of Western societies. While the mortality gradient by income is well established for the period after 1970, knowledge about the origins of this gradient is still rudimentary. We analyse the association between income and cause-specific adult mortality during the period 1905-2014 in an area of southern Sweden, using competing-risk hazard models with individual-level longitudinal data for over 2.2 million person-years and over 35,000 deaths. We find that the present-day income gradient in adult mortality emerged only in the period after the Second World War and did so for the leading causes of death and for men and women largely simultaneously.

Functional electrical stimulation therapy controlled by a P300-based brain-computer interface, as a therapeutic alternative for upper limb motor function recovery in chronic post-stroke patients. A non-randomized pilot study.

Introduction: Up to 80% of post-stroke patients present upper-limb motor impairment (ULMI), causing functional limitations in daily activities and loss of independence. UMLI is seldom fully recovered after stroke when using conventional therapeutic approaches. Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy (FEST) controlled by Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is an alternative that may induce neuroplastic changes, even in chronic post-stroke patients. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effects of a P300-based BCI-controlled FEST intervention, for ULMI recovery of chronic post-stroke patients. Methods: A non-randomized pilot study was conducted, including 14 patients divided into 2 groups: BCI-FEST, and Conventional Therapy. Assessments of Upper limb functionality with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), performance impairment with Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and spasticity through Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) were performed at baseline and after carrying out 20 therapy sessions, and the obtained scores compared using Chi square and Mann-Whitney U statistical tests (𝛼 = 0.05). Results: After training, we found statistically significant differences between groups for FMA (p = 0.012), ARAT (p < 0.001), and FIM (p = 0.025) scales. Discussion: It has been shown that FEST controlled by a P300-based BCI, may be more effective than conventional therapy to improve ULMI after stroke, regardless of chronicity. Conclusion: The results of the proposed BCI-FEST intervention are promising, even for the most chronic post-stroke patients often relegated from novel interventions, whose expected recovery with conventional therapy is very low. It is necessary to carry out a randomized controlled trial in the future with a larger sample of patients.

Draft Genome Sequence Resource of Erwinia sp. Strain INIA01, a Phytopathogen Isolated from a Diseased Stalk of Peruvian Maize.

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of Erwinia sp. strain INIA01, a bacterium isolated from lesions of Zea mays from northern Peru. This genome possesses two circular replicons, a 4.2-Mb chromosome, and a 438-kb plasmid.

Ventriculomegalia leve fetal aislada. Comunicación de un caso

La ventriculomegalia es un marcador del desarrollo cerebral anormal por lo cual es causa de preocupación cuando está presente. Tiene una prevalencia de 0,3 a 1/1000 nacidos vivos y es más frecuente en fetos varones. La ventriculomegalia es definida como el diámetro atrioventricular de los ventrículos laterales mayor o igual a 10 mm. La medida de 10-15 mm constituye la ventriculomegalia leve mientras valores > 15 mm constituye la ventriculomegalia severa. La ventriculomegalia puede ser aislada o estar asociada con otras anomalías incluyendo hallazgos estructurales anormales, anomalías cromosómicas o infecciones prenatales en cerca del 50-84% de los casos. Si la ventriculomegalia es leve y aislada, el resultado más frecuente es la normalidad. La sobrevida de los recién nacidos con ventriculomegalia leve aislada es alta, con reportes del 93-98%. La probabilidad de un neurodesarrollo normal es mayor al 90% y no será diferente al de la población general, por lo cual, ante una ventriculomegalia leve aislada, después de una completa evaluación, la gestante debe ser informada que el pronóstico es favorable y que probablemente el niño será considerado normal. Presentamos un caso de ventriculomegalia leve fetal izquierda aislada detectada en la ecografía prenatal de las 20 semanas, a quien se le realizó controles neurosonográficos seriados, amniocentesis genética y estudio de infecciones prenatales, siendo estos dos últimos normales y evidenciándose resolución de la ventriculomegalia, así como control posparto dentro de los límites de la normalidad.

Ventriculomegaly is a marker of abnormal brain development and is a cause for concern when present. It has a prevalence of 0.3-1/1000 live births and is more frequent in male fetuses. Ventriculomegaly is defined as the atrioventricular diameter of the lateral ventricles greater than or equal to 10 mm. A measurement of 10-15 mm constitutes mild ventriculomegaly while values >15 mm constitute severe ventriculomegaly. Ventriculomegaly may be isolated or associated with other anomalies including abnormal structural findings, chromosomal abnormalities or prenatal infections in about 50-84% of cases. If ventriculomegaly is mild and isolated, the most frequent outcome is normal. Survival of newborns with isolated mild ventriculomegaly is high, with reports of 93-98%. The probability of normal neurodevelopment is greater than 90% and will not be different from that of the general population. Therefore, in the presence of isolated mild ventriculomegaly, after a complete evaluation, the pregnant woman should be informed that the prognosis is favorable, and that the child will probably be considered normal. We present a case of isolated mild left ventriculomegaly detected in the prenatal ultrasound at 20 weeks, who underwent serial neurosonographic controls, genetic amniocentesis and study of prenatal infections, the latter two being normal and showing resolution of ventriculomegaly, as well as postpartum control within the limits of normality.

Somatic mutations in tumor and plasma of locoregional recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer using a next-generation sequencing panel: A preliminary study.

BACKGROUND: We explore the utility of TruSight Tumor 170 panel (TST170) for detecting somatic mutations in tumor and cfDNA from locoregional recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). METHODS: Targeted NGS of tumor DNA and plasma cfDNA was performed using TST170 panel. In addition, a set of somatic mutations previously described in HNSCC were selected for validating in tumor, plasma, and saliva by digital droplet PCR. RESULTS: The TST170 panel identified 13 non-synonymous somatic mutations, of which five were detected in tumoral tissue, other five in plasma cfDNA, and three in both tissue and plasma cfDNA. Of the eight somatic mutations identified in tissue, three were also identified in plasma cfDNA, showing an overall concordance rate of 37.5%. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study shows the possibility to detect somatic mutations in tumor and plasma of HNSCC patients using a single assay that would facilitate the clinical implementation of personalized medicine in the clinic.

Synthesis and Characterization of Palladium Pincer Bis(carbene) CCC Complexes.

The metalation of the DIPPCCC (DIPPCCC = bis(diisopropylphenyl-imidazol-2-ylidene)phenyl) ligand platform with Pd was achieved under mild conditions by reacting [H3(DIPPCCC)]Cl2 with Pd(OAc)2 at room temperature in the presence of 3.1 equiv of LiN(SiMe3)2. The resulting complexes (DIPPCCC)PdX (X = Cl or Br) were oxidized by two-electron oxidants PhICl2, Br2, and BTMABr3. All the complexes were crystallographically characterized, and analysis of structural parameters around the ligand scaffold show no evidence of a ligand-centered radical, rendering the metal center in the oxidized species, (DIPPCCC)PdX3 (X = Cl or Br), a formal PdIV oxidation state. Unlike their NiIV analogues, these PdIV complexes are stable to air and moisture. The addition of styrene to (DIPPCCC)PdBr3 resulted in the clean reduction of PdIV to PdII, along with the formation of the halogenated alkane. The oxidation to PdIV and subsequent return to PdII upon reduction, as opposed to formation of PdIII species, showcases the accessibility of high-valent palladium DIPPCCC complexes.

Implementation of High Intensity Interval Training and Autoregulatory Progressive Resistance Exercise in a Law Enforcement Training Academy.

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of implementing autoregulatory progressive resistance exercise (APRE) and high intensity interval training (HIIT) methodologies to improve physical fitness and occupational physical ability in police cadets. Two law enforcement academy classes were stratified into a standard care academy training cohort (SC; n=32, m=27, f=5) and a high performance cohort (HP; n=31; m=27, f=4) that utilized APRE and HIIT methodologies during a 17-week academy training program. Demographic, internal loading parameters, anthropometric, fitness outcomes (i.e., 1.5-mile run, 1-repetition maximum bench press, sit-up repetitions, push-up repetitions, & 300m run) and timed completion of a occupation physical ability test (OPAT) were collected at three academy time points (entrance, mid-point and exit). Mixed factor (time vs. group) repeated measures ANOVA were used to evaluate the effects of the training intervention on performance outcomes. Significance was set at p<0.05. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in all fitness outcomes except the OPAT from entrance to exit tests (p<0.05). The HP experienced greater improvements in push-up performance compared to the SC (p<0.001). OPAT time decreased in both groups from entrance to midpoint, but significantly increased from baseline to exit (p<.05). Despite similar inter-group fitness improvements, the HP reported lower session RPE values (p<0.01), indicating fitness adaptations occurred at a lower internal load. This study demonstrated the feasibility of successfully implementing APRE and HIIT methodologies within a cadet population. Furthermore, these methodologies produced similar improvements in cadet fitness and occupational performance at a lower internal load.

Diversidad específica y taxonómica de la ictiofauna del Río Amacuzac, Morelos, México / Specific and taxonomic diversity of the ichthyofauna of the Amacuzac River, Morelos, Mexico

Resumen Introducción: La diversidad de una comunidad biológica es el resultado de procesos ecológicos e históricos, los cuales, analizados en conjunto, producen una mejor comprensión de las causas que la generan. Objetivo: Actualizamos y analizamos la diversidad específica y taxonómica de la ictiofauna del río Amacuzac, México. Métodos: Durante cinco temporadas de muestreo (2019-2020), recolectamos peces de diez sitios en el río y aplicamos un análisis de conglomerados a las variables del hábitat. Resultados: Recolectamos 7 638 individuos, siete de especies nativas y nueve no nativas, incluyendo Copadichromis borleyi, un nuevo registro para el Amacuzac. La riqueza por sitio osciló entre ocho y 13 especies. Las variables del hábitat definieron cuatro grupos. Las especies más abundantes fueron: Poeciliopsis gracilis, Poecilia maylandi y Amatitlania nigrofasciata. Las especies menos abundantes fueron: Pterygoplichtys pardalis, Ilyodon whitei, Copadichromis borleyi e Ictalurus punctatus. Las especies más relevantes fueron: A. nigrofasciata, Amphilophus istlanus, Andinoacara rivulatus, Notropis boucardi, Oreochormis sp., P. maylandi, P. gracilis y Thorichthys maculipinis. Las especies más restringidas fueron: Atherinella balsana, C. borleyi e I. punctatus. Conclusiones: Las especies en peligro de extinción, A. istlanus y N. boucardi, aun prevalecen en el río. Además, se muestra un aumento en el número de especies no nativas. Analizar la diversidad desde dos perspectivas, aporta una visión más completa de los cambios que se dan en el Río Amacuzac como consecuencia del establecimiento de especies, información que es importante para futuras estrategias de conservación.

Abstract Introduction: The diversity of a biological community is the result of ecological and historical processes, which, when analyzed jointly, produce a better understanding of the causes that generate it. Objective: We update and analyze the specific and taxonomic diversity of the ichthyofauna of the Amacuzac River, Mexico. Methods: During five sampling seasons (2019-2020) we collected fishes from ten sites in the river and applied a cluster analysis to habitat variables. Results: We collected 7 638 individuals; seven were native species and nine were non-native, including Copadichromis borleyi, a new record for the Amacuzac. Richness per site ranged from eight to 13 species. Habitat variables defined four groups. The most abundant species were Poeciliopsis gracilis, Poecilia maylandi and Amatitlania nigrofasciata. The least abundant species were: Pterygoplichtys pardalis, Ilyodon whitei, Copadichromis borleyi and Ictalurus punctatus. The most prevalent species were: A. nigrofasciata, Amphilophus istlanus, Andinoacara rivulatus, Notropis boucardi, Oreochormis sp., P. maylandi, P., gracilis and Thorichthys maculipinis. The most restricted species were: Atherinella balsana, C. borleyi and I. punctatus. Conclusions: Endangered species such as A. istlanus and N. boucardi are still prevalent in the river, but non-native species continue to increase. Analyzing the diversity from two perspectives provides a more complete view of the changes taking place in the Amacuzac River as a consequence of species establishment, information that is important for future conservation strategies.

Gestación ectópica sobre cicatriz de cesárea

Los embarazos ectópicos en la cicatriz de cesárea previa constituyen una patología infrecuente. Representan la forma más rara de gestación ectópica y ocurren en 1 de cada 2,000 embarazos. En las últimas décadas se está produciendo un aumento de su incidencia relacionado con el aumento del número de cesáreas. Su clínica inconsistente puede retrasar su diagnóstico, por lo que requiere un alto grado de sospecha para su identificación. El diagnóstico se realiza principalmente con la ecografía transvaginal, mediante hallazgo del saco gestacional en la cicatriz de la histerotomía. La escasez de casos reportados en la literatura imposibilita la estandarización de un correcto tratamiento. La insuficiente información disponible junto con las potenciales graves complicaciones hace de esta patología un desafío para todo especialista. Presentamos un caso de gestación ectópica en la cicatriz de cesárea previa que fue diagnosticado ecográficamente y resuelta con tratamiento médico con metotrexato. Se evidencia la importancia del seguimiento, tanto clínico como ecográfico y de los niveles de βhCG hasta la resolución completa.

Ectopic pregnancies in the scar of previous cesarean section are an infrequent pathology. They represent the rarest form of ectopic gestation and occur in 1 in 2.000 pregnancies. In recent decades there has been an increase in its incidence related to the increase in the number of cesarean sections. Its inconsistent clinical presentation may delay its diagnosis, so it requires a high degree of suspicion for its identification. The diagnosis is mainly made with transvaginal ultrasound, by finding of the gestational sac in the hysterotomy scar. The scarcity of cases reported in the literature makes it impossible to standardize correct treatment. The insufficient information available together with the potential serious complications make this pathology a challenge for every specialist. We present a case of ectopic pregnancy in the scar of a previous cesarean section which was diagnosed ultrasonographically and resolved with medical treatment with methotrexate. The importance of followup, both clinical and with ultrasound and βhCG levels until complete resolution, is evident.

Cranioplasty with cryopreserved autologous bone in craniectomized patients due to brain trauma, a current and safe option: Experience of 97 cases.

BACKGROUND: Cranioplasty is the used method in neurosurgery for repairing cranial bone defects. In our environment, the most widely used material is cryopreserved autologous bone (ABCp). OBJECTIVE: A retrospective observational study was proposed in order to analyze complications in patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy for brain trauma, with subsequent cranioplasty with ABCp. METHOD: Patients who underwent cranioplasties with consecutive ABCp performed at our institution over a four-year period (2016-2019) with subsequent follow-up were included, collecting multiple variables in relation to the appearance of complications. RESULTS: 113 cranioplasties were performed, of which 85.8% (n = 97) were performed with ABCp. Mainly with frontotemporoparietal bone defect (94.84%) performed late (> 3 months) in 91.76%. The complication rate was 16.49%, the most significant being the infection of the surgical site (n = 8, 8.24%), the presence of intracranial hematoma (n = 3, 3.09%) and the reabsorption of the autologous bone (n = 2, 2.06%), meriting surgical management in nine of them (9.27%). CONCLUSIONS: ABCp is a valid and safe option, which meets the basic characteristics to consider it the ideal material, with an acceptable rate of complications, biocompatible, with osteogenic potential, adequate protection of the brain and decrease in surgery costs.

ANTECEDENTES: La craneoplastia es el método utilizado en neurocirugía para reparar los defectos óseos craneanos. En nuestro medio, el material utilizado mayormente es el hueso autólogo criopreservado (HACp). OBJETIVO: Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo observacional para analizar las complicaciones en pacientes sometidos a craniectomía descompresiva por trauma craneoencefálico y realización de craneoplastia con HACp. MÉTODO: Se incluyeron pacientes que fueron sometidos a craneoplastias con HACp consecutivas realizadas en un periodo de 4 años (2016-2019) con seguimiento posterior, recabando múltiples variables en relación con la aparición de complicaciones. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron 113 craneoplastias, de las cuales el 85.8% (n = 97) fueron realizadas con HACp, principalmente con defecto óseo frontotemporoparietal (94.84%), realizadas de forma tardía (> 3 meses) en el 91.76%. El índice de complicaciones fue del 16.49%, siendo las más significativas la infección del sitio quirúrgico (n = 8, 8.24%), la presencia de hematoma endocraneano (n = 3, 3.09%) y la reabsorción del hueso autólogo (n = 2, 2.06%), ameritando manejo quirúrgico en nueve ocasiones (9.27%). CONCLUSIONES: El HACp es una opción válida y segura, la cual cumple con las características para considerarlo el material ideal, con un aceptable índice de complicaciones, biocompatible, con potencial osteogénico, adecuada protección encefálica y disminución de los costos de la cirugía.

Miniature structured illumination microscope for in vivo 3D imaging of brain structures with optical sectioning.

We present a high-resolution miniature, light-weight fluorescence microscope with electrowetting lens and onboard CMOS for high resolution volumetric imaging and structured illumination for rejection of out-of-focus and scattered light. The miniature microscope (SIMscope3D) delivers structured light using a coherent fiber bundle to obtain optical sectioning with an axial resolution of 18 µm. Volumetric imaging of eGFP labeled cells in fixed mouse brain tissue at depths up to 260 µm is demonstrated. The functionality of SIMscope3D to provide background free 3D imaging is shown by recording time series of microglia dynamics in awake mice at depths up to 120 µm in the brain.

Fetal surgery for obstructive ureterocele using an ultrasound-guided needle laser ablation technique: a case series.

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive ureterocele is an intravesical cystic dilation of the distal end of the ureter associated with anhidramnios and dilation of both renal pelvises. METHODS: This is a case-series of prenatally diagnosed ureterocele. Cases were selected at a third level reference hospital in Monterrey Mexico between 2010 and 2018. Eligible patients for fetal therapy were selected when bilateral hydronephrosis and severe oligohydramnios were found before 26+0 weeks of gestation. The fetal intervention comprised an ultrasound-guided needle laser technique for ureterocele ablation. RESULTS: There were six cases of prenatal diagnosed of ureterocele, two cases showed anhidramnios at 23 weeks of gestation and were considered obstructive ureterocele. For these two cases, fetal surgery was performed using laser ablation of the ureterocele through an ultrasound-guided needle. In both, the urinary tract was decompressed, and the volume of amniotic fluid improved allowing to carry both pregnancies until term, one of them vaginally and the other by cesarean section. In the postnatal follow-up of both cases, the first neonate died due to neonatal asphyxia at 48-hours, and the second neonate required removal of the abnormal collecting system. CONCLUSIONS: The use of ultrasound-guided laser ablation for the decompression of obstructive ureterocele is a safe and feasible technique in extremely premature fetuses that could allow survival of the affected fetus until term. Patients receiving an early prenatal diagnosis of obstructive ureterocele may benefit from fetal therapy to reduce the risk of lung hypoplasia and stillbirth.Established factsPrenatal mortality of bilateral obstructive ureterocele is up to 45%.Only a few techniques have been described for the management of prenatally bilateral obstructive ureterocele; among them, the puncturing of the ureterocele which may require more than one intervention during fetal, laser by fetoscopy which may increase the risk of postoperative complications, and ultrasound-guided laser fulguration which seems to be effective and safe.Novel insightsThe present is the first description of a case series on ureteroceles comprising two ultrasound-guided laser therapy as an effective treatment for bilateral obstructive ureterocele requiring a single intervention.The use of ultrasound-guided laser in obstructive cases avoids fatality and lung hypoplasia due to severe oligohydramnios. Still, the neonatal prognosis of the affected side at two years of age remains unchanged.

Condiciones de alojamiento de los terneros en crianzas artificiales de tambo y su relación con el estrés por frío / Housing conditions of dairy calves and its relationship with cold stress

Resumen El estrés por frío en los terneros puede ser muy perjudicial para su salud y rendimiento futuro. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de las condiciones de manejo de la crianza artificial y su relación con estrés por frío en terneros de tambo. Se evaluaron 160 terneros durante las primeras horas de la mañana, y se registró si los animales poseían capa o no y si disponían o no de cama. Se observó si contaban con reparo para limitantes climáticas. También se registró la temperatura rectal y si temblaban o no. Se consideró que terneros con temperatura rectal igual o inferior a 37,2 °C se encontraban en estrés por frio. El análisis estadístico de los datos se hizo mediante la prueba no paramétrica de Chi cuadrado y se calculó la probabilidad de ocurrencia mediante Odds Ratio. Encontrándose que los terneros en condiciones de estrés presentaron 4,93 veces mayor probabilidad de temblar; que disponer de cama fue favorable para prevenir el estrés (0,027), que las capas plásticas incrementaron la probabilidad de sufrir de estrés (0,006) y que proveer reparo a los animales tiene un efecto positivo en la prevención del estrés por frío (p = 0,027) en los terneros de tambo.

Abstract Cold stress in calves can be very detrimental to their health and performance. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of artificial rearing management conditions and their relationship to cold stress in dairy calves. A total of 160 calves were evaluated during the early morning hours and it was recorded whether or not the animals had cape and whether or not they had bed in pens. Also, it was observed if they had protection for climatic limitations. Rectal temperature and whether or not they were shivering were also recorded. Calves with rectal temperature equal to or lower than 37.2 °C were considered to be in cold stress. The statistical analysis of the data was performed using the non-parametric Chi-square test and the probability of occurrence was calculated using Odds Ratio. It was found that calves under stress conditions were 4.93 times more likely to shiver; that having bed in pens was favorable for preventing stress (0.027), that plastic cape increased the probability of suffering from stress (0.006) and that providing shelter to animals had a positive effect on the prevention of cold stress (p = 0.027) in dairy calves.

The Importance of Spin State in Chiral Supramolecular Electronics.

The field of spintronics explores how magnetic fields can influence the properties of organic and inorganic materials by controlling their electron's spins. In this sense, organic materials are very attractive since they have small spin-orbit coupling, allowing long-range spin-coherence over times and distances longer than in conventional metals or semiconductors. Usually, the small spin-orbit coupling means that organic materials cannot be used for spin injection, requiring ferromagnetic electrodes. However, chiral molecules have been demonstrated to behave as spin filters upon light illumination in the phenomenon described as chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect. This means that electrons of certain spin can go through chiral assemblies of molecules preferentially in one direction depending on their handedness. This is possible because the lack of inversion symmetry in chiral molecules couples with the electron's spin and its linear momentum so the molecules transmit the one preferred spin. In this respect, chiral semiconductors have great potential in the field of organic electronics since when charge carriers are created, a preferred spin could be transmitted through a determined handedness structure. The exploration of the CISS effect in chiral supramolecular semiconductors could add greatly to the efforts made by the organic electronics community since charge recombination could be diminished and charge transport improved when the spins are preferentially guided in one specific direction. This review outlines the advances in supramolecular chiral semiconductors regarding their spin state and its influence on the final electronic properties.

Risk assessment of climate change impacts on Mediterranean coastal wetlands. Application in Júcar River Basin District (Spain).

Sea level rise (SLR) produced by climate change affects severely coastal ecosystems which are currently being impacted by sea level rise in many parts of the world. In relation with coastal wetlands, the most relevant induced effect will occur on water and soil's salt content, especially in areas below sea level. This could lead into a reduction of habitat for the wetlands' biota. In this context, this research assesses the SLR related risk in the Júcar River Basin District (JRBD). Hazard, exposure, impact, vulnerability, and risk maps have been elaborated. The design and application of measures is prioritized in those areas classified as Very High risk with the aim of improving coastal ecosystems' climate change adaptation. In Western Mediterranean coast, average sea level (ASL) will rise 0.16 m (2026-2045) and 0.79 m (2081-2100) referred to the reference period (1986-2005). High-end scenarios indicate that ASL will rise 1.35 m-1.92 m (2081-2100). The risk analysis results show that 90% of JRBD area affected by SLR, corresponds to coastal wetlands. Half of the affected area belongs to L'Albufera de Valencia wetland with 32.44 km2 below sea level, which represents a water volume of 42.64 hm3 (2026-2045) and a surface between 72.53 and 138.96 km2 representing from 118.36 to 289.70 hm3 (2081-2100). In the case of L'Albufera de Valencia the impact will be throughout the 21st century, the average rate of SLR will leap from 4 to 11 cm per decade, therefore MSL will reach the current wetland levels by 2040-2045. This makes necessary to modify the lake's management rules, which will lead to an increase of 40 hm3 in water storage and a reduction in water's renewal time compared to current rates (from 15 to 5 times a year).

Prediction of low birth weight with hypoglycemia in glucose tolerance test.

OBJECTIVE: Determine the value of the combination of fasting glucose less than the 10th percentile (FG < p10) during 75 gram oral glucose tolerance test (75g OGTT) with maternal characteristics to predict low birth weight (LBW) established by Intergrowth-21st tables. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of pregnant women who was underwent 75g OGTT between 24 and 28.6 weeks. The 10th percentile fasting glucose of the population was determined at 65 mg/dL and women with risk factors that could modify fetal weight, including those related to intrauterine growth restriction, were excluded. Two groups were formed: group FG < p10 and group with normal fasting glucose. The main finding was the diagnosis of LBW. The association between FG < p10, maternal characteristics and LBW was established by multivariate logistic regression. The predictive performance of the models constructed was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) analysis. RESULTS: 349 women were eligible for study, of whom 66 (18.91%) had FG < p10; neonates in this group had lower birth weights (2947.28 g and 3138.26 g, p = 0.001), higher frequencies of LBW (25% and 6.81%, p < 0.001) and of weights < 2500 g in term births (8.6% and 2.3%, p = 0.034). The basal prediction model consisted of nulliparity by achieving an AUC of 60%, while the addition of FG < p10 resulted in the significant improvement of the previous model (AUC 72%, DeLong: p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: In pregnant women without factors that could modify fetal weight, the predictive model created by combining FG < p10 during 75g OGTT with nulliparity was significantly associated with increased risk of LBW. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04144595.

Effect of a Law Enforcement Academy Training Program on Validated Fitness Outcomes of Cadets.

ABSTRACT: Martinez, GJ and Abel, MG. Effect of a law enforcement academy training program on validated fitness outcomes of cadets. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 955-962, 2021-The purpose of this investigation was to assess the efficacy of a law enforcement training program on physical fitness outcomes in police cadets. A convenience sample of 138 male and 8 female police cadets participated in a 23-week law enforcement training academy with validated fitness assessments conducted at entrance, midpoint, and exit from the academy. Demographic, anthropometric, and fitness data (i.e., 1.5-mile run, 1 repetition maximum bench press, sit-up repetitions, push-up repetitions, and 300-m run) were retrospectively collected. Analysis of variance was used to identify the influence of training on fitness outcomes over time and between cadet subgroup stratifications. Statistical significance for this study was set at p ≤ 0.05. All cadet subgroups (specialty-stratified and sex-stratified cohorts) exceeded the validated fitness standards on academy entrance and exit (p ≤ 0.01). The entire cohort significantly improved all fitness outcomes throughout the training program. Furthermore, improvements in all fitness outcomes were significantly greater from entrance to midpoint (4.4-35.7%, p ≤ 0.001) vs. midpoint to exit (1.2-15.4%, p < 0.05). Specifically, there were greater relative improvements in push-ups and sit-ups (57.5 and 28.7%, respectively; p < 0.001) compared with bench press (13.8%, p < 0.001), 300-m run (5.8%, p < 0.001), and 1.5-mile run (12.1%, p < 0.001). Regarding female cadets, the average relative improvement in fitness outcomes from entrance to exit assessments was superior compared to male counterparts for all fitness tests except sit-ups. Moreover, the specialty cadets produced lower 1.5-mile run times than nonspecialty cadets throughout the academy. Overall, the academy improved occupationally relevant fitness outcomes, with greater improvements occurring earlier in the academy.

Prediction of low birth weight with hypoglycemia in glucose tolerance test / Predicción de bajo peso al nacer con hipoglucemia en la prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: Determine the value of the combination of fasting glucose less than the 10th percentile (FG < p10) during 75 gram oral glucose tolerance test (75g OGTT) with maternal characteristics to predict low birth weight (LBW) established by Intergrowth-21st tables. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of pregnant women who was underwent 75g OGTT between 24 and 28.6 weeks. The 10th percentile fasting glucose of the population was determined at 65 mg/dL and women with risk factors that could modify fetal weight, including those related to intrauterine growth restriction, were excluded. Two groups were formed: group FG < p10 and group with normal fasting glucose. The main finding was the diagnosis of LBW. The association between FG < p10, maternal characteristics and LBW was established by multivariate logistic regression. The predictive performance of the models constructed was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) analysis. RESULTS: 349 women were eligible for study, of whom 66 (18.91%) had FG < p10; neonates in this group had lower birth weights (2947.28 g and 3138.26 g, p = 0.001), higher frequencies of LBW (25% and 6.81%, p < 0.001) and of weights < 2500 g in term births (8.6% and 2.3%, p = 0.034). The basal prediction model consisted of nulliparity by achieving an AUC of 60%, while the addition of FG < p10 resulted in the significant improvement of the previous model (AUC 72%, DeLong: p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: In pregnant women without factors that could modify fetal weight, the predictive model created by combining FG < p10 during 75g OGTT with nulliparity was significantly associated with increased risk of LBW. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04144595.

RESUMEN OBJETIVO: Determinar el valor de la combinación de la glucosa en ayunas menor que el percentil 10 (GA < p10) durante la prueba de tolerancia oral a la glucosa con 75 gramos (PTG-75g) con características maternas para predecir bajo peso al nacer (BPN) establecido mediante tablas de Intergrowth-21st. MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte prospectivo de mujeres embarazadas que se realizaron PTG-75g entre las 24 y 28.6 semanas. Se determinó el percentil 10 de glucosa en ayunas de la población en 65 mg/dL y fueron excluidas aquellas mujeres con factores de riesgo que pudieran modificar el peso fetal incluyendo los relacionados con la restricción del crecimiento intrauterino. Se formaron dos grupos: grupo GA < p10 y grupo con glucosa en ayunas normal. El hallazgo principal fue el diagnóstico de BPN. La asociación entre GA < p10, características maternas y BPN se estableció mediante regresión logística multivariante. El desempeño predictivo de los modelos construidos fue evaluado por el análisis de la curva característica operativa del receptor (ROC) y del área bajo la curva (ABC). RESULTADOS: Fueron elegibles para estudio 349 mujeres, de las cuales 66 (18,91%) tuvieron GA < p10; los neonatos de este grupo tuvieron pesos al nacer más bajos (2947.28 g y 3138.26 g, p = 0,001), frecuencias más altas de BPN (25% y 6,81%, p < 0,001) y de pesos < 2500 g en nacimientos de término (8,6% y 2,3%, p = 0,034). El modelo basal de predicción consistió en nuliparidad al lograr un ABC del 60%, mientras que al añadir la GA < p10 se obtuvo la mejora significativa del modelo previo (ABC 72%, DeLong: p = 0,005). CONCLUSIONES: En mujeres embarazadas sin factores que pudieran modificar el peso fetal, el modelo predictivo creado combinando GA < p10 durante la PTG-75g con nuliparidad estuvo asociado significativamente con riesgo incrementado de BPN. REGISTRO: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04144595.