Sachs' free data in real connection variables

We discuss the Hamiltonian dynamics of general relativity with real connection variables on a null foliation, and use the Newman-Penrose formalism to shed light on the geometric meaning of the various constraints. We identify the equivalent of Sachs' constraint-free initial data as projections of connection components related to null rotations, i.e. the translational part of the ISO(2) group stabilising the internal null direction soldered to the hypersurface. A pair of second-class constraints reduces these connection components to the shear of a null geodesic congruence, thus establishing equivalence with the second-order formalism, which we show in details at the level of symplectic potentials. A special feature of the first-order formulation is that Sachs' propagating equations for the shear, away from the initial hypersurface, are turned into tertiary constraints; their role is to preserve the relation between connection and shear under retarded time evolution. The conversion of wave-like propagating equations into constraints is possible thanks to an algebraic Bianchi identity; the same one that allows one to describe the radiative data at future null infinity in terms of a shear of a (non-geodesic) asymptotic null vector field in the physical spacetime. Finally, we compute the modification to the spin coefficients and the null congruence in the presence of torsion.Comment: 23 pages + Appendix, 2 figures. v2: Improved text and some amendments throughout, added more details on the relation between 2+2 foliations and null tetrads, updated references. Version submitted for peer reviewing. v3: Few minor amendments, footnote added on a null congruence in the presence of torsion; matches published versio

A new methodological approach in the diagnosis of extra-medullary lymphomas: the role of classical and molecular cytogenetics.

Lymphomas are a group of heterogeneous malignant neoplasms involving B, T and NK lymphocytes. Their localization is predominantly lymph node, but frequently they can diffuse to the bone marrow. Cytogenetic analysis, required for a correct diagnosis, prognosis and therapy is harder when the lymphoma is extra-medullary: in these cases Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) analysis is commonly applied, performed on interphase nuclei coming from sections of lymph node tissue. However, this method has some limitations: 1) it is based on the use of locus specific probes and it provides targeted information; 2) the outcome of FISH investigations is strongly conditioned by the correct processing of the biopsy sample and by the presence of a sufficient amount of neoplastic cells. The aim of this work is trying to optimize the tissue taken by lymph node biopsy in a patient with suspected extra-medullary lymphoma, producing cell cultures added with a specific combination of B-cell mitogen named DSP30 with Interleukin 2, the same used in the BM cultures. On this "enriched" and correctly processed sample, we performed a complete analysis of the karyotype that, in some cases, allowed to identify additional chromosomal alterations comparing to those highlighted by FISH analysis. Based on the obtained results, we believe that we have developed an ideal protocol to improve the cytogenetic analysis of lymphomas, including the different types of cell culture, the use of an appropriate mitogen and the analyses made by conventional and molecular cytogenetics. Our methodological approach, moreover, allows storing cells suspension, bioptical and histological samples, that can be used also later to perform molecular genetic investigations

A new methodological approach in the diagnosis of extra-medullary lymphomas: the role of classical and molecular cytogenetics.

Lymphomas are a group of heterogeneous malignant neoplasms involving B, T and NK lymphocytes. Their localization is predominantly lymph node, but frequently they can diffuse to the bone marrow. Cytogenetic analysis, required for a correct diagnosis, prognosis and therapy is harder when the lymphoma is extra-medullary: in these cases Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) analysis is commonly applied, performed on interphase nuclei coming from sections of lymph node tissue. However, this method has some limitations: 1) it is based on the use of locus specific probes and it provides targeted information; 2) the outcome of FISH investigations is strongly conditioned by the correct processing of the biopsy sample and by the presence of a sufficient amount of neoplastic cells. The aim of this work is trying to optimize the tissue taken by lymph node biopsy in a patient with suspected extra-medullary lymphoma, producing cell cultures added with a specific combination of B-cell mitogen named DSP30 with Interleukin 2, the same used in the BM cultures. On this "enriched" and correctly processed sample, we performed a complete analysis of the karyotype that, in some cases, allowed to identify additional chromosomal alterations comparing to those highlighted by FISH analysis. Based on the obtained results, we believe that we have developed an ideal protocol to improve the cytogenetic analysis of lymphomas, including the different types of cell culture, the use of an appropriate mitogen and the analyses made by conventional and molecular cytogenetics. Our methodological approach, moreover, allows storing cells suspension, bioptical and histological samples, that can be used also later to perform molecular genetic investigations

A gauge-invariant symplectic potential for tetrad general relativity

We identify a symplectic potential for general relativity in tetrad and connection variables that is fully gauge-invariant, using the freedom to add surface terms. When torsion vanishes, it does not lead to surface charges associated with the internal Lorentz transformations, and reduces exactly to the symplectic potential given by the Einstein-Hilbert action. In particular, it reproduces the Komar form when the variation is a Lie derivative, and the geometric expression in terms of extrinsic curvature and 2d corner data for a general variation. The additional surface term vanishes at spatial infinity for asymptotically flat spacetimes, thus the usual Poincare charges are obtained. We prove that the first law of black hole mechanics follows from the Noether identity associated with the covariant Lie derivative, and that it is independent of the ambiguities in the symplectic potential provided one takes into account the presence of non-trivial Lorentz charges that these ambiguities can introduce.Comment: 19 pages. V2: some amendments to the text, typos corrected, updated references and more details in Section 5. Matches published versio

Clima laboral y satisfacción personal en docentes de la Institución Educativa "Rosa de América" Iquitos 2015

The objective of this research was: To determine the extent to which it correlates the Work Climate and Personal Satisfaction in Teachers of the Educational Institution "Rosa de América" - Iquitos 2015. The problems raised in the study are: To what extent does the Work Climate and Personal Satisfaction in Teachers of the Educational Institution "Rosa de America" in Iquitos correlate in 2015?. The study belonged to correlational research because it allowed to know the degree of correlation between the variables: Work Climate and Personal Satisfaction. The research design was that of the non-experimental research and the specific design was the correlational transectional one. the population consisted of 47 teachers and and the sample was represented by 100%of the population. The selection of the sample was intentionally non-probabilistic. The results show that the work environment correlates with personal satisfaction with a magnitude greater than 40%. It was concluded that the work environment correlates with a magnitude greater than 40% with personal satisfaction in teachers of the “Rosa de América” Educational Institution in Iquitos in 2015. We recommend to the directors of the “Rosa de América” Educational Institution in Iquitos, to raise their work environment so that the personnel working in said organization are 100% satisfied.El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la medida en que correlaciona el Clima Laboral y Satisfacción Personal en docentes de la Institución Educativa “Rosa de América” - Iquitos 2015. Los problemas planteados en el estudio son: ¿En qué medida correlaciona el Clima Laboral y Satisfacción personal en docentes de la Institución Educativa “Rosa de América” de Iquitos en el año 2015?. El estudio perteneció a la investigación de tipo correlacional, porque Permitió conocer el grado de correlación entre las variables: Clima Laboral y Satisfacción personal. - El diseño de investigación fue el de la Investigación no experimental y el diseño Específico fue el transeccional correlacional porque se recolecto datos en el mismo lugar y en el mismo momento. La población estuvo conformada por 47 docentes y la muestra lo representó el 100% de la población. Los resultados demuestran que el clima laboral correlaciona con la Satisfacción Personal con una magnitud mayor de 40% en los Docentes de la Institución “Rosa de América de Iquitos en el año 2015”. Se arribó a la conclusión de que el Clima Laboral correlaciona con una magnitud mayor que 40% con la satisfacción personal en docentes de la Institución Educativa “Rosa de América” de Iquitos en el año 2015.Recomendamos a los directivos de la Institución Educativa “Rosa de América” de Iquitos, elevar su clima laboral a fin de que el personal que labora en dicha organización se encuentre satisfechos al 100

Characterization of Upper Limb Impairments at Body Function, Activity, and Participation in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis by Behavioral and EMG Assessment: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating and disabling disease which primarily affects individuals in their early life between 20 and 40 years of age. MS is a complex condition, which may lead to a variety of upper limb (UL) dysfunctions and functional deficits. Objective: To explore upper limb impairments at body function, activity, and participation in persons with MS (PwMS) and severe hand dexterity impairment by behavioral and surface electromyography (sEMG) assessments. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study involved 41 PwMS with severe hand dexterity impairment stratified according to the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) into mild-moderate (n = 17; EDSS, 1-5.5), severe ambulant (n = 15; EDSS, 6-6.5), and severe nonambulant (n = 9; EDSS, 7-9.5). Behavioral outcome measures exploring body function, activity, and participation were administered. The sEMG activity of six upper limb muscles of the most affected side was measured during a reaching task. Results: The most severe group was significantly older and more affected by secondary progressive MS than the other two groups. Positive significant associations between UL deterioration and impairments at different International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health domains were noted in the most severe group. The progressive decline in manual dexterity was moderately to strongly associated with the deterioration of the overall UL activity (\u3c1 = 0.72; p < 0.001) and disuse (amount of use \u3c1 = 0.71; p < 0.001; quality of movement \u3c1 = 0.77; p < 0.001). There was a low correlation between manual dexterity and UL function (\u3c1 = 0.33; p = 0.03). The muscle activation pattern investigated by sEMG was characterized by a decrease in modularity and timing delay in the wrist extensor muscles activation in the severe ambulant patients (EDSS, 6-6.5). Similar impairments were observed in the proximal muscles (anterior deltoid) in the more advanced stages (EDSS 65 7). Conclusion: Behavioral assessment, together with measures of muscle activation patterns, allows investigating the pathophysiology of UL impairments in PwMS across progressive neurological disability severity to implement task-specific rehabilitation interventions

Role of Tonsillar Chronic Inflammation and Commensal Bacteria in the Pathogenesis of Pediatric OSA

Immune responses at the boundary between the host and the world beyond are complex and mucosal tissue homeostasis relies on them. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a syndrome suffered by children with hypertrophied tonsils. We have previously demonstrated that these tonsils present a defective regulatory B cell (Breg) compartment. Here, we extend those findings by uncovering the crucial role of resident pro-inflammatory B and T cells in sustaining tonsillar hypertrophy and hyperplasia by producing TNFα and IL17, respectively, in ex vivo cultures. Additionally, we detected prominent levels of expression of CD1d by tonsillar stratified as well as reticular epithelium, which have not previously been reported. Furthermore, we evidenced the hypertrophy of germinal centers (GC) and the general hyperplasia of B lymphocytes within the tissue and the lumen of the crypts. Of note, such B cells resulted mainly (IgG/IgM)+ cells, with some IgA+ cells located marginally in the follicles. Finally, by combining bacterial culture from the tonsillar core and subsequent identification of the respective isolates, we determined the most prevalent species within the cohort of OSA patients. Although the isolated species are considered normal oropharyngeal commensals in children, we confirmed their capacity to breach the epithelial barrier. Our work sheds light on the pathological mechanism underlying OSA, highlighting the relevance taken by the host immune system when defining infection versus colonization, and opening alternatives of treatment.Fil: Sarmiento Varon, Lindybeth. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; ArgentinaFil: de Rosa, Javier Enrique. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; ArgentinaFil: Rodriguez, Raquel Rosa. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Fernandez, Pablo Mariano. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Billordo, Luis Ariel. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; ArgentinaFil: Baz, Placida. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; ArgentinaFil: Beccaglia, Gladys. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Spada, Nicolás. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Mendoza, F. Tatiana. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica. Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica; ArgentinaFil: Barberis, María Claudia. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica. Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica; ArgentinaFil: Vay, Carlos. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica. Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica; ArgentinaFil: Arabolaza, M. Elena. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Paoli, Bibiana Patricia. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; ArgentinaFil: Arana, Eloisa. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Medicina. Hospital de Clínicas General San Martín; Argentin

Inconsistencies in Guidelines for Visual Health Surveillance of VDT Workers

Objectives: In Europe, 25% of workers use video display terminals (VDTs). Occupational health surveillance has been considered a key element in the protection of these workers. Nevertheless, it is unclear if guidelines available for this purpose, based on EU standards and available evidence, meet currently accepted quality criteria. The aim of this study was to appraise three sets of European VDT guidelines (UK, France, Spain) in which regulatory and evidence-based approaches for visual health have been formulated and recommendations for practice made. Methods: Three independent appraisers used an adapted AGREE instrument with seven domains to appraise the guidelines. A modified nominal group technique approach was used in two consecutive phases: first, individual evaluation of the three guidelines simultaneously, and second, a face-to-face meeting of appraisers to discuss scoring. Analysis of ratings obtained in each domain and variability among appraisers was undertaken (correlation and kappa coefficients). Results: All guidelines had low domain scores. The domain evaluated most highly was Scope and purpose, while Applicability was scored minimally. The UK guidelines had the highest overall score, and the Spanish ones had the lowest. The analysis of reliability and differences between scores in each domain showed a high level of agreement. Conclusions: These results suggest current guidelines used in these countries need an update. The formulation of evidence-base European guidelines on VDT could help to reduce the significant variation of national guidelines, which may have an impact on practical application.This study was supported by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health at Work of the Spanish Work and Immigration Ministry (INSHT). Project reference: 606/UAL/PVDVIS

Phthalates and Bisphenol A: presence in blood serum and follicular fluid of italian women undergoing assisted reproduction techniques

Background: folliculogenesis is a strictly regulated process that may be affected by endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) through sometimes not so clear molecular mechanisms. Methods: we conducted a multicentric observational study involving six fertility centers across Italy, prospectively recruiting 122 women attending a fertility treatment. Recruited women had age ≤42 years, and normal ovarian reserve. Blood and follicular fluid samples were taken for EDCs measurement using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and each woman completed an epidemiological questionnaire. Results: The main EDCs found were monobutyl phthalate (MBP) (median blood: 8.96 ng/mL, follicular fluid 6.43 ng/mL), monoethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) (median blood: 9.16 ng/mL, follicular fluid 7.68 ng/mL) and bisphenol A (BPA) (median blood: 1.89 ng/mL, follicular fluid 1.86 ng/mL). We found that serum MBP concentration was significantly associated with the considered area (p < 0.001, adj. mean: 7.61 ng/mL, 14.40 ng/mL, 13.56 ng/mL; Area 1: Milan–Turin, Area 2: Rome–Naples; Area 3: Catania–Bari, respectively) but negatively with home plastic food packaging (p = 0.004). Follicular MBP was associated with irregular cycles (p = 0.019). No association was detected between EDCs and eating habits and other clinical and epidemiological features. Conclusions: This study represents the first Italian biomonitoring of plastic EDCs in follicular fluid, laying the basis for future prospective evaluation on oocyte quality before assisted reproduction techniques (ART

Pattern of care for re-irradiation in locally recurrent rectal cancer: a national survey on behalf of the AIRO gastrointestinal tumors study group

PurposeRadical resection (R0) represents the best curative treatment for local recurrence (LR) rectal cancer. Re-irradiation (re-RT) can increase the rate of R0 resection. Currently, there is a lack of guidelines on Re-RT for LR rectal cancer. The Italian Association of Radiation and clinical oncology for gastrointestinal tumors (AIRO-GI) study group released a national survey to investigate the current clinical practice of external beam radiation therapy in these patients.Material and methodsIn February 2021, the survey was designed and distributed to members of the GI working group. The questionnaire consisted of 40 questions regarding center characteristics, clinical indications, doses, and treatment techniques of re-RT for LR rectal cancer.ResultsA total of 37 questionnaires were collected. Re-RT was reported as an option for neoadjuvant treatment in resectable and unresectable disease by 55% and 75% of respondents, respectively. Long-course treatment with 30-40 Gy (1.8-2 Gy/die, 1.2 Gy bid) and hypofractionated regimen of 30-35 Gy in 5 fractions were used in most centers. A total dose of 90-100 Gy as EqD2 dose (& alpha;/& beta; = 5 Gy) was delivered by 46% of the respondents considering the previous treatment. Modern conformal techniques and daily image-guided radiation therapy protocols were used in 94% of centers.ConclusionOur survey showed that re-RT treatment is performed with advanced technology that allow a good management of LR rectal cancer. Significant variations were observed in terms of dose and fractionation, highlighting the need for a consensus on a common treatment strategy that could be validated in prospective studies