bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BODY IRON STATUS INDICATORS AND INFLAMMATION INDICATORS DURING INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE THERAPY IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTES
Authors: CORRÊA Fernanda F , SDEPANIAN Vera L
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) consists of the induction and maintenance remission of the disease. Iron status indicators would be useful for the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia, whereas the inflammation indicators would be for the diagnosis of chronic disease anemia. OBJECTIVE: To assess body iron status indicators and inflammation indicators during the treatment of IBD, consisted of conventional or infliximab therapy in children and adolescents. METHODS: A case-control study of a sample of 116 individuals, of which 81 patients with IBD, 18 of them receiving conventional therapy, 20 infliximab therapy, and 43 who were in remission of the disease, and 35 healthy (control group) children and adolescents. Iron status and inflammation indicators were investigated at baseline, and 2 and 6 months of both therapies - conventional and infliximab. RESULTS: The mean age was 12.1±4.3 years. At baseline, both groups - conventional therapy and infliximab - presented significant differences in most markers studied compared to the control group. After 2 months of conventional therapy, hemoglobin and serum iron levels were lower than those of the control group; and red cells distribution width (RDW), total iron-binding capacity, transferrin receptor/ferritin ratio, and interleukin-6 were higher than the control group. After 2 months of infliximab treatment, hemoglobin and serum iron levels were lower than those of the control group; and RDW, soluble transferrin receptor, soluble transferrin receptor/ferritin ratio, and interleukin-6 were higher than the control group. After 6 months of conventional therapy, hemoglobin and serum iron levels were lower than those of the control group, and RDW and interleukin-6 were higher than those of the control group. After 6 months of infliximab treatment, the hemoglobin and serum iron levels were lower than the control group, and RDW, soluble transferrin receptor, soluble transferrin receptor/ferritin ratio, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and platelets were higher than the control group. Regarding patients under treatment for at least one year (remission group), all markers studied, except transferrin, were similar to the control group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, there were some contradictions among the different body iron status indicators and inflammation indicators at two and 6 months of treatment with conventional and infliximab therapy, however after one year of treatment, as shown by the remission group, all indicators studied, except transferrin, were similar to healthy children and adolescents.
RNAM EXPRESSION AND DNA METHYLATION OF DKK2 GENE IN COLORECTAL CÂNCER
Authors: MAMELLI Ronaldo Eliezer , FELIPE Aledson Vitor , SILVA Tiago Donizetti , HINZ Vanessa , FORONES Nora Manoukian
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is the third most common neoplasm in the world. Methylation of tumor related genes in CpG islands can cause gene silencing and been involved in the development of cancer. The potential role of DKK2 as a biomarker for early diagnosis of colorectal cancer remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the profile of methylation and RNAm expression of DKK2 as potential predictors of colorectal cancer diagnosis and prognosis. METHODS: Expression of mRNAs encoding DKK2 in 35 colorectal cancer tissues was quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The DNA methylation was studied by high resolution melting analysis. The general characteristics of the patients were collected. DKK2 methylation and expression were compared to clinical, pathological aspects and overall survival. RESULTS: Among the 35 patients studied, 18 were male, 10 were on right colon and 25 on left colon. Among the 20 patients with high hypermethylation, 15 of them had mRNA low expression of DKK2. There was no significant association between DKK2 promoter methylation and mRNA DKK2 expression and clinical or pathological features. DKK2 promoter methylation (P=0.154) and DKK2 RNA expression (P=0.345) did not show significant correlation with overall survival. CONCLUSION: DKK2 promoter methylation and DKK2 RNA status appear to be biomarkers of cancer diagnosis but not predictors of prognosis.
INDOCYANINE GREEN FLUORESCENCE IMAGING IN ROBOTIC SURGERY: STATE OF ART, TIPS AND TRICKS IN CURRENT APPLICATIONS
Authors: MORRELL Andre Luiz Gioia , MORRELL Alexander Charles , MORRELL-JUNIOR Alexander Charles , MENDES Jose Mauricio , TUSTUMI Francisco , MORRELL Allan Gioia
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Fluorescent imaging with indocyanine green is an emerging technology whose benefits are put in perspective. OBJECTIVE: This article reports essential principles and approaches of intraoperative fluorescence in general surgery bringing familiarity to its practical usage. Our group describes possible pitfalls and provides tips and tricks for training surgeons making their attempts easier and reproducible during practice. METHODS: This study overviews the most structured concepts, practical applications and its tricks in robotic fluorescence guided imaging surgery with indocyanine green. Possible pitfalls are emphasized and emerging fields of application are put in a perspective. RESULTS: Guided information and practical applications in several surgical fields are described for a safe and reproducible indocyanine green fluorescence imaging use. CONCLUSION: Robotic assisted surgery combined to fluorescence imaging technology represents a logical evolution in image guided surgery and technology familiarity with guided information may represent a wider and safer spectrum of use in surgeons’ hands.
LONG TERM MANAGEMENT OF GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE TYPE 1B: A BRAZILIAN TERTIARY CENTER EXPERIENCE
Authors: TAKAO Marina Mayumi Vendrame , SANDY Natascha Silva , RICCETTO Adriana Gut Lopes , TOMMASO Adriana Maria Alves DE
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Glycogen storage disease (GSD) type 1b is a multisystemic disease in which immune and infectious complications are present, in addition to the well-known metabolic manifestations of GSD. Treatment with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is often indicated in the management of neutropenia and inflammatory bowel disease. OBJECTIVE To report on the demographics, genotype, clinical presentation, management, and complications of pediatric patients with glycogen storage disease type 1b (GSD 1b), with special attention to immune-related complications. METHODS Retrospective case series of seven patients with GSD 1b diagnosed and followed at a tertiary university hospital in Brazil, from July/2000 until July/2016. RESULTS Mean age at referral was fourteen months. Diagnosis of GSD 1b was based on clinical and laboratory findings and supported by genetic studies in five cases. All patients presented suffered from neutropenia, managed with G-CSF - specifically Filgrastim. Hospitalizations for infections were frequent. Two patients developed inflammatory bowel disease. Six patients remained alive, one died at age 14 years and 9 months. The mean age at the end of the follow-up was 11.5 years. Compliance to treatment was suboptimal: poor compliance to medications, starch and dietetic management of GSD were documented, and outpatient appointments were frequently missed. CONCLUSION Managing GSD 1b is challenging not only for the chronic and multisystemic nature of this disease, but also for the additional demands related dietary restrictions, use of multiple medications and the need for frequent follow-up visits; furthermore in Brazil, the difficulties are increased in a scenario where we frequently care for patients with unfavorable socioeconomic status and with irregular supply of medications in the public health system.
INTERVENTIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME: A REVIEW OF COCHRANE SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS
Authors: SCACIOTA Ana Carolina Lemes , MATOS Delcio , ROSA Manuelle Mastrorocco Brand , COLOVATI Mileny Esbravatti Stephano , BELLOTTO Elisa Fatima Benavent Caldas , MARTIMBIANCO Ana Luiza Cabrera
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex gastrointestinal disorder, whose understanding is relatively uncertain, and the treatment guidance decision still represents a challenge. OBJECTIVE: To identify and critically appraise systematic reviews (SRs) published in the Cochrane Database of SRs (CDSR) on the effects of interventions (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) for the treatment of IBS. METHODS: The search was conducted at the Cochrane Library in May 2020. The methodological quality of the SRs was evaluated by the AMSTAR-2 tool. RESULTS: Eight SRs with moderate to high quality were included, which addressed the treatments: (a) pharmacological: volume agents, antispasmodics, antidepressants and tegaserod; and (b) non-pharmacological: homeopathy, acupuncture, phytotherapy, biofeedback, psychological interventions and hypnotherapy. The results were favorable to antispasmodic drugs and antidepressants regarding the improvement of clinical symptoms. There was no difference between volume agents or tegaserod when compared to placebo. Acupuncture and homeopathy showed a little improvement in symptoms compared to placebo, but the certainty of this evidence was considered low to very low. Psychological interventions seem to improve the overall assessment of the patient and relief symptoms such as abdominal pain. However, there was no long-term follow-up of these patients. The results of the other treatments were considered uncertain due to the high risk of bias. CONCLUSION: Considering the low quality of the studies included in the SRs, pharmacological treatment with antispasmodics and antidepressants seems to be beneficial for patients with IBS. Among non-pharmacological interventions, psychological interventions seem to be beneficial. However, further clinical trials are recommended with greater methodological rigor to prove these findings.
O debate sobre a democratização da educação pública e a tese da gestão democrática radical da escola
Authors: Moreira Carlos Felipe Nunes
Published: April 2021

Resumo Ante o extenso acúmulo de interpretações sobre gestão democrática da educação no Brasil, objetiva-se aqui apresentar uma proposta teórico-metodológica de gestão que garanta a indissociabilidade analítica entre política e economia, na qual a socialização do poder constitui mediação nuclear. Tomando por base a produção intelectual de onze principais autores de referência sobre gestão democrática no país – mais utilizados por pesquisadores que se debruçaram na temática nos últimos anos – identificaram-se tendências teórico-políticas que, do período de transição da Constituinte na década de 1980 aos dias atuais, vêm norteando as reflexões a respeito do objeto. Os resultados do estudo revelam na bibliografia pesquisada a necessidade de maior aprofundamento no que tange ao processo de solidificação de um projeto educacional antagônico, articulado com o movimento de superação da ordem capitalista. A emersão de um novo modo de produção e reprodução social que possibilite a formação intelecto-cultural integral do ser humano exige, imediatamente, o acirramento da luta pela socialização do poder político-econômico. Nesse sentido, ao tomar como partida o ponto máximo alcançado nas sínteses e antíteses anteriores e por meio da exploração de suas contradições, a tese da gestão democrática radial busca fornecer mediações indispensáveis aos processos que apontem para um projeto educacional alternativo de ruptura com o capitalismo e não limitado às ideias hegemônicas de democracia burguesa. Trata-se de uma gestão que se oriente por uma dimensão política inalcançável nesta sociedade, mas que valha de referência teleológica aos processos coletivos de crítica, dilatação e superação da gestão democrática atualmente possível na ordem do capital.
Formação de professores: a motivação como alavanca para o conhecimento e a autonomia
Authors: Carvalho Lurdes , Zamith-Cruz Judite
Published: April 2021

Analisamos o papel da motivação enquanto guia e suporte no desenvolvimento profissional de futuros professores. O estudo de caso, de caracter descritivo e interpretativo, apresenta a forma como estudantes se sentem na universidade e as representações face a um futuro próximo. Os dados de um questionário de perguntas abertas narrativas revelam que a estadia “hoje… na universidade” se rege pela socialização e pela formação pessoal, curiosidade e motivação para se seguir em frente. Quanto às expectativas face ao “amanhã… futuro antecipado”, as vozes dos estudantes centram-se em projetos de vida, sonhos e por questões relacionadas com a profissionalização e identidade profissional.
Aymoreana(Nelsonioideae, Acanthaceae), a New Genus Endemic to Brazil
Authors: Braz Denise Monte , Daniel Thomas F. , Kiel Carrie , Gao Anna , Jawadi Sagrika , Monteiro Reinaldo
Published: April 2021

Abstract—A species previously treated inStaurogyne(S. nitida) is elevated to the category of a new genus of Acanthaceae, subfamily Nelsonioideae, based on morphological and molecular data. The sole species,Aymoreana nitida, occurs in the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil, from southern Bahia to northern Espírito Santo.Aymoreanadiffers from other genera of Nelsonioideae by the combination of the calyx with subequal segments, the slightly zygomorphic corolla, the four didynamous stamens, and the asymmetric gynoecium. Morphological information is accompanied by a molecular phylogenetic tree, ecological data, a preliminary conservation assessment, and illustrations.
Modelling of alkali–silica reaction based on time-resolved micro-computed tomography imaging
Authors: Dyer Thomas
Published: April 2021

The progress of alkali–silica reaction (ASR) in specimens consisting of reactive glass aggregate in a cement matrix was monitored using X-ray micro-computed tomography. The technique was used to study the formation of cracks in both aggregate particles themselves and the matrix, as well as to measure expansion. A model, based on the progressive formation of cracks in concrete, is developed and used to further examine the process of ASR, and the manner by which approaches used to control ASR expansion function. It is concluded that ASR-controlling measures work by reducing available alkali ions, but also by weakening the cement matrix. This means that a similar number of cracks forms in both highly expansive instances of ASR and instances where expansion is limited by the use of controlling measures, with only crack width differing.
Laminin-521 is a Novel Target of Autoantibodies Associated with Lung Hemorrhage in Anti-GBM Disease
Authors: Shen Cong-rong , Jia Xiao-yu , Luo Wentian , Olaru Florina , Cui Zhao , Zhao Ming-hui , Borza Dorin-Bogdan
Published: April 2021

Significance Statement

Antiglomerular basement membrane (GBM) disease clinically presents as rapidly progressive GN, often accompanied by pulmonary hemorrhage. The autoantibodies that mediate the disease typically recognize cryptic epitopes within α345(IV) collagen in the glomerular and alveolar basement membranes. Laminin-521 is another major autoantigen that autoantibodies in anti-GBM disease target. These autoantibodies were detected in 51.5% of patients with both kidney and lung involvement of anti-GBM disease, compared with 23.5% of patients with isolated kidney disease. Seropositivity for antilaminin autoantibodies was significantly associated with lung hemorrhage, hemoptysis, and smoking. Antilaminin autoantibodies may contribute to lung injury in anti-GBM disease by increasing the amount of IgG bound to the alveolar basement membrane.

Background

Antiglomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease is characterized by GN and often pulmonary hemorrhage, mediated by autoantibodies that typically recognize cryptic epitopes within α345(IV) collagen—a major component of the glomerular and alveolar basement membranes. Laminin-521 is another major GBM component and a proven target of pathogenic antibodies mediating GN in animal models. Whether laminin-521 is a target of autoimmunity in human anti-GBM disease is not yet known.

Methods

A retrospective study of circulating autoantibodies from 101 patients with anti-GBM/Goodpasture’s disease and 85 controls used a solid-phase immunoassay to measure IgG binding to human recombinant laminin-521 with native-like structure and activity.

Results

Circulating IgG autoantibodies binding to laminin-521 were found in about one third of patients with anti-GBM antibody GN, but were not detected in healthy controls or in patients with other glomerular diseases. Autoreactivity toward laminin-521 was significantly more common in patients with anti-GBM GN and lung hemorrhage, compared with those with kidney-limited disease (51.5% versus 23.5%, P=0.005). Antilaminin-521 autoantibodies were predominantly of IgG1 and IgG4 subclasses and significantly associated with lung hemorrhage (P=0.005), hemoptysis (P=0.008), and smoking (P=0.01), although not with proteinuria or serum creatinine at diagnosis.

Conclusions

Besides α345(IV) collagen, laminin-521 is another major autoantigen targeted in anti-GBM disease. Autoantibodies to laminin-521 may have the potential to promote lung injury in anti-GBM disease by increasing the total amount of IgG bound to the alveolar basement membranes.
Early Mechanisms of Renal Injury in Hypercholesterolemic or Hypertriglyceridemic Rats
Authors: JOLES JAAP A. , KUNTER UTA , JANSSEN ULF , KRIZ WILHELM , RABELINK TON J. , KOOMANS HEIN A. , FLOEGE JÜRGEN
Published: April 2021

Hyperlipidemia in conjunction with uninephrectomy leads to renal injury in rats. It is unknown whether this is due to mesangial cell or podocyte injury and whether the injuries induced by hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia share a similar pathogenesis. Therefore, renal effects of hypercholesterolemia were studied in male rats with dietary hypercholesterolemia compared with rats on a regular diet. Renal effects of hypertriglyceriemia were studied in female Nagase analbuminemic rats (NAR). Hypertriglyceridemia was reduced in NAR by ovariectomy. Both models were studied after uninephrectomy or sham operation. Dietary hypercholesterolemia had little effect on plasma triglycerides, whereas ovariectomy in the NAR had no effect on plasma cholesterol. However, an increase in intermediate density lipoprotein cholesterol was common to both models. Dietary hypercholesterolemia and uninephrectomy separately induced a similar increase in proteinuria after 13 wk, which was additive when these interventions were combined. At this stage, only a minimal increase was present in glomerular α-smooth muscle actin staining, a marker of mesangial cell activation, or in mesangial matrix expansion. Moreover, platelet-derived growth factor-B chain, a marker of mesangial cell proliferation, was not increased. However, podocyte injury was prominent as evidenced by podocytic de novo expression of desmin and ultrastructural changes. Glomerular macrophage counts were increased by hypercholesterolemia but not by uninephrectomy, and were not related to the level of proteinuria. Hypertriglyceridemia and uninephrectomy in female NAR induced an increase in proteinuria after 24 wk, which was also associated with an increase in podocyte desmin expression without any mesangial activation and proliferation or matrix accumulation. Hypertriglyceridemia, proteinuria, and the increase in desmin staining were largely prevented by ovariectomy. Interstitial myofibroblast activation and tubulointerstitial injury accompanied proteinuria in both models. These findings indicate that both hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia aggravate renal injury primarily via podocyte rather than via mesangial cell damage. Such podocyte injury is accompanied by tubulointerstitial cell activation and injury.
Inhibition of Neutrophil Superoxide Production by Uremic Concentrations of Guanidino Compounds
Authors: HIRAYAMA AKI , NORONHA-DUTRA ALBERTO A. , GORDGE MICHAEL P. , NEILD GUY H. , HOTHERSALL JOHN S.
Published: April 2021

In uremia, diminished reactive oxygen intermediate production is an important consequence of impaired neutrophil function. The effects of guanidino compounds, which are known uremic toxins, on neutrophil reactive oxygen intermediate production in vitro were studied. Neutrophils from healthy volunteers were exposed for 3 h to individual guanidino compounds or mixed guanidino compounds (GCmix), at concentrations observed in uremic plasma. After removal of the guanidino compounds, the neutrophils were activated by adhesion, N-formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine, phorbol myristate acetate, or opsonized zymosan, and superoxide production was measured by monitoring lucigenin chemiluminescence. The direct effects of guanidino compounds on superoxide production in activated neutrophils were also measured. The energy status (ATP and creatine phosphate), antioxidant status (total glutathione), and glycolytic flux (lactate production) were measured. GCmix pretreatment decreased superoxide production in activated neutrophils (activated by N-formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine or zymosan) by 50% (P < 0.01), decreased ATP concentrations by 60% (P < 0.05), and inhibited glycolytic flux (lactate production) by 45% (P < 0.01) but did not alter glutathione concentrations. Simultaneous GCmix exposure and activation did not inhibit NADPH oxidase activity in cell lysates but inhibited superoxide formation in zymosan-activated intact neutrophils; this inhibition was reversed after removal of the guanidino compounds. Guanidinosuccinic acid, guanidinopropionic acid, and guanidinobutyric acid, when tested individually, were each as potent as GCmix. The inhibition of neutrophil superoxide generation by guanidino compounds results from decreased energy status. Micromolar concentrations of guanidino compounds significantly inhibit neutrophil metabolism, with serious implications for the functions of neutrophils in host defenses.
Vascular Proliferation and Enhanced Expression of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase in Human Peritoneum Exposed to Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: COMBET SOPHIE , MIYATA TOSHIO , MOULIN PIERRE , POUTHIER DOMINIQUE , GOFFIN ERIC , DEVUYST OLIVIER
Published: April 2021

Long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD) is associated with alterations in peritoneal permeability and loss of ultrafiltration. These changes originate from increased peritoneal surface area, but the morphologic and molecular mechanisms involved remain unknown. The hypothesis that modifications of activity and/or expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isozymes might play a role in these modifications, via enhanced local production of nitric oxide, was tested in this study. NOS activities were measured by the L-citrulline assay in peritoneal biopsies from seven control subjects, eight uremic patients immediately before the onset of PD, and 13 uremic patients on short-term (<18 mo, n = 6) or long-term (>18 mo, n = 7) PD. Peritoneal NOS activity is increased fivefold in long-term PD patients compared with control subjects. In uremic patients, NOS activity is positively correlated with the duration of PD. Increased NOS activity is mediated solely by Ca2+-dependent NOS and, as shown by immunoblotting, an upregulation of endothelial NOS. The biologic relevance of increased NOS in long-term PD was demonstrated by enhanced nitrotyrosine immunoreactivity and a significant increase in vascular density and endothelial area in the peritoneum. Immunoblotting and immunostaining studies demonstrated an upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mostly along the endothelium lining peritoneal blood vessels in long-term PD patients. In the latter, VEGF colocalized with the advanced glycation end product pentosidine deposits. These data provide a morphologic (angiogenesis and increased endothelial area) and molecular (enhanced NOS activity and endothelial NOS upregulation) basis for explaining the permeability changes observed in long-term PD. They also support the implication of local advanced glycation end product deposits and liberation of VEGF in that process.
Effect of Glucose Degradation Products on Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cell Function
Authors: WITOWSKI JANUSZ , KORYBALSKA KATARZYNA , WISNIEWSKA JUSTYNA , BREBOROWICZ ANDRZEJ , GAHL GERHARD M. , FREI ULRICH , PASSLICK-DEETJEN JUTTA , JÖRRES ACHIM
Published: April 2021

Bioincompatibility of conventional glucose-based peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDF) has been partially attributed to the presence of glucose degradation products (GDP) generated during heat sterilization of PDF. Most previous studies on GDP toxicity were performed on animal and/or transformed cell lines, and the impact of GDP on peritoneal cells remains obscure. The short-term effects of six identified GDP on human peritoneal mesothelial cell (HPMC) functions were examined in comparison to murine L929 fibroblasts. Exposure of HPMC to acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, glyoxal, methylglyoxal, furaldehyde, but not to 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural, resulted in dose-dependent inhibition of cell growth, viability, and interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β)-stimulated IL-6 release; for several GDP, this suppression was significantly greater compared with L929 cells. Although the addition of GDP to culture medium at concentrations found in PDF had no major impact on HPMC function, the exposure of HPMC to filter-sterilized PDF led to a significantly smaller suppression of HPMC proliferation compared to that induced by heat-sterilized PDF. The growth inhibition mediated by filter-sterilized PDF could be increased after the addition of clinically relevant doses of GDP. These effects were equally evident in L929 cells. In conclusion, GDP reveal a significant cytotoxic potential toward HPMC that may be underestimated in test systems using L929 cells. GDP-related toxicity appears to be particularly evident in experimental systems using proliferating cells and the milieu of dialysis fluids. Thus, these observations may bear biologic relevance in vivo where HPMC are repeatedly exposed to GDP-containing PDF for extended periods of time.
Cigarette Smoking in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: KASISKE BERTRAM L. , KLINGER DAGMAR
Published: April 2021

Cigarette smoking increases the risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease in the general population, but the effects of smoking in renal transplant recipients are unknown. The effects of smoking were investigated among patients transplanted at Hennepin County Medical Center between 1963 and 1997. Information on smoking was available in 1334 patients. The 24.7% prevalence of smoking at the time of transplantation was similar to that in the general population. After adjusting for multiple predictors of graft failure, smoking more than 25 pack-years at transplantation (compared to smoking less than 25 pack-years or never having smoked) was associated with a 30% higher risk of graft failure (relative risk 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 to 1.63; P = 0.021). Having quit smoking more than 5 yr before transplantation reduced the relative risk of graft failure by 34% (relative risk 0.66; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.85; P < 0.001). The increase in graft failure was due to an increase in deaths (adjusted relative risk 1.42; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.87; P = 0.012). The relative risk for major cardiovascular disease events with smoking 11 to 25 pack-years at transplant was 1.56 (95% CI, 1.06 to 2.31; P = 0.024), whereas that of smoking more than 25 pack-years was 2.14 (95% CI, 1.49 to 3.08; P < 0.001). The relative risk of invasive malignancies was 1.91 (95% CI, 1.05 to 3.48; P = 0.032). Smoking had no discernible effect on the rate of return to dialysis or on serum creatinine during the first year after transplantation. Thus, cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of death after renal transplantation. The effects of smoking appear to dissipate 5 yr after quitting. These results indirectly suggest that greater efforts to encourage patients to quit smoking before transplantation may decrease morbidity and mortality.
Proximal Tubular Cysts in Fetal Human Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: NAKANISHI KOICHI , SWEENEY WILLIAM E. , ZERRES KLAUS , GUAY-WOODFORD LISA M. , AVNER ELLIS D.
Published: April 2021

Standard texts describe human autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) as a cystic kidney disease in which lesions are localized to collecting tubules. Murine models of ARPKD consistently demonstrate an early phase of proximal tubular (PT) cystic involvement, which disappears shortly after birth. This is followed by a phase of collecting tubular (CT) cyst formation and progressive enlargement leading to compromise of renal function and death. Because the description of cystic lesions in human ARPKD has been largely based on postnatal specimens, PT cyst formation was hypothesized to be a characteristic feature of fetal human, as well as murine, ARPKD. This study examines nephron segment-specific cyst localization histochemically by lectin binding in 11 human ARPKD specimens obtained at different fetal and postnatal ages. PT cysts were found in human fetal specimens from gestational age 14 wk to 26 wk. The percentage of cysts involving PT segments ranged from 2 to 41%. The cystic index of PT cysts ranged from 2 to 5. In all specimens in which PT cysts were found, both the percentage of CT cysts and their cystic index were equal to or greater than the percentage of PT cysts and the associated PT cystic index. PT cysts were absent in all kidney specimens older than 34 wk gestational age. It is concluded that human ARPKD, like murine ARPKD, has a transient phase of PT cyst formation during early fetal development.
Freezing and Formalin Fixation of Tissue v3
Authors: Allen Jamie
Published: April 2021

Scope: To describe the procedure for freezing fresh tissue procured from the Cooperative Human Tissue Network. Expected Outcome: Frozen tissue should have minimal structural damage from freezing.
Foulage test v1
Authors: Yasuda Tomohisa
Published: April 2021

The Foulage test is a test in which the stepping is recorded with the eyes open and closed by the ground contact method for 60 seconds in accordance with the metronome BPM120 by counting the sway of the center of gravity. The enlargement of the area of the still-standing object on a stabilometer means unstable directly. However, the dynamic test must divide the unstable movement to the active. The stepping of Foulage test is regulated that 120bpm tempo, upright standing with both arms set on the body-side, foot closed, toes keep touching on the plate constantly, so object can change only height of heels to rise up alternatively. Foulage is a French word for "grape trampling" in which grapes are crushed barefoot in the process of winemaking. This is because the ground contact method is different from the conventional stepping method of a march that raises the sole of the foot. In a stable stepping of a healthy person, it is considered that the left and right folds and the front-back shift are constant to some extent, and 120 steps and 60 reciprocations are added to the same locus, and an inverted V-shaped locus with a certain width. Here, the inverted V-shaped locus is close to a rectangle bent at the center, and its long side can be considered as the average moving distance (L / 120) of one step. The outer peripheral area of the inverted V-shaped locus, that is, the area A of the bent rectangle can be estimated by multiplying the length of the long side and the short side (front-back width). We defined front-back width as FT value. Our results in normal subjects showed that the height of heels enlarges the total locus length. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that FT value of healthy object plateaued under stable condition (400<L<1400). Therefore, the test should be performed within the range of heel height where the footsteps are stable in healthy subjects. In addition, we proposed the new parameters; the variance of steps is more direct parameter of stability. The plotting figure of steps and the time-graph can show the movement of a subject visually.
Initial Rapid Pathology Assessment of Kidney Tissue v2
Authors: Allen Jamie , Romer Carrie , Neumann Elizabeth , Brewer Maya , Yang Haichun , Spraggins Jeff , Gutierrez Danielle
Published: April 2021

Scope: Prepare formalin fixed tissue with freezing fresh tissue protocol (dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.6wghfbw). This protocol provides the steps to prepare formalin fixed human kidney tissue and perform histology assessment for normalcy. Expected Outcome: Pathological assessment of kidney tissue for use in LC-MS/MS and imaging.
Automatic Deposition of DAN Matrix using a TM Sprayer for MALDI Analysis of Lipids v2
Authors: Neumann Elizabeth , Romer Carrie , Allen Jamie , Spraggins Jeff
Published: April 2021

Scope: To describe the procedure for spraying tissue sections with DAN for imaging lipids. Expected Outcome: Slides should be coated with DAN. Tissue sections should be imaged within 24 hours of matrix application.
Data Processing and Image Registration v2
Authors: Neumann Elizabeth , Heath Patterson Nathan , Migas Lukasz , Allen Jamie , Romer Carrie , Spraggins Jeff , Gutierrez Danielle
Published: April 2021

Scope: Annotate lipid species detected by MALDI IMS analysis, and register MALDI IMS images to different types of microscopy images. Expected Outcome: A list of lipid identifications with low mass errors (<5 ppm) that correlate to ion images produced by MALDI IMS analysis, and the ability to layer different images from different assays.
PAS Staining of Fresh Frozen or Paraffin Embedded Human Kidney Tissue v2
Authors: Neumann Elizabeth , Allen Jamie , Harvey Jennifer , Brewer Maya , Romer Carrie , De Caestecker Mark , Spraggins Jeff
Published: April 2021

Scope: The PAS stain is used to demonstrate polysaccharides such as glycogen, and mucosubstances such as glycoproteins, glycolipids and mucins in tissues. It is used as a replacement for the H&E in kidney pathology. Expected Outcome: Intermyofibrillar Network…………………………..Pink to Rose Glycogen………………………………………………….…..Pink to Rose Myofibrils……………………………………………………..Unstained Type I fibers………………………………………………….Lighter Type II fibers…………………………………………………Darker Blood Vessel walls & connective tissue…..Faintly Stained
A novel RT-qPCR assay for detection of SARS-CoV-2 variantsbased on RhAmp technology (IDT technologies) v1
Authors: Emmanuel Viana Geddes Victor , Moreira Filipe , Menezes Bonfim Diego , José Alves Hugo , Locke Ferreira de Araújo João , Costa Queiroz Daniel , Marques de Souza Rafael , Garcias Moreira Rennan , Zolini de Sá Camila , Alves Gomes Zauli Danielle , do Prado Silva Joice , Brito de Lima Aline , Scott Varella Malta Frederico , Clayton de Souza Ferreira Alessandro , Cavalcanti Pardini Victor , not provided atanuri , Pedra Souza Renan , Santana Aguiar Renato
Published: April 2021

Brazil was one of the most affected countries during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with more than 10 million cases and more than 300.000 deaths reported. Together with the increasing rate of cases, the emergence of new variants of concern (VOCs) possessing mutations that affect immunogenicity and transmissibility poses a concerning burden in the healthcare system. In Brazil, three such lineages are currently circulating: P.1, a lineage firstly described in Manaus, P.2, firstly described in Rio de Janeiro, both already reported in other cities in the country, and B.1.1.7, a lineage initially identified in England and recently associated to increasing mortality rates.In this scenario, it urges the necessity of a rapid assessment methodology for identification of variants that could contribute to a better epidemiological surveillance and public healthcare administration decisions in dealing with the pandemic. Here, we describe a PCR genotyping approach using RhAmp technology (IDT Technologies) to correctly assess the circulating emergent variants P.1, P.2 and B.1.1.7 in Brazil. Genotyping is a quicker methodology requiring only a real time PCR machine available in most of laboratories preforming COVID-19 molecular diagnosis.
Validity of Screening for Pre-Diabetes and Type2 DM in Patients Presenting with Oral Symptoms
Authors:   Senior Assistant Surgeon, Government Head Quarters Hospital, Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, India, MuthuVel Dr. T , Karthikeyan Dr. S. ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopedics, Sivagangai Medical College, Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Type 2 DM is a major health problem in the present world with its high micro andmacrovascular complications leading to increased mortality and morbidity. Our diagnosed T2DMrepresents the tip of the iceberg, where the hidden part places a vital challenge to the health caresystem. Objectives: Various risk factors are identified to screen the population for diabetes which isstill an incomplete list hence we aimed to identify the dental illness as a potent risk factor to screenT2DM and Prediabetes. Methodology: This is an observational study in which 92 patients attendingto dental clinic except for traumatic problems were screened for T2DM with random blood sugar andHbA1c. Results: In our study we observed 22.8% pre-diabetic and 8.8% with newly diagnosedT2DM among the study population. Chronic periodontitis was accounting for more than 60% of thesubjects presenting dental illness. Conclusion: In our study we conclude that dental illness to beaccounted as a potent risk factor for T2DM/Pre-Diabetes.
Estimation of lactation curves of Gyr cattle and some associated production parameters in the Colombian low tropic
Authors: Ferro Daniela , Gil Jhon , Jiménez Ariel , Manrique Carlos , Martínez Carlos A
Published: April 2021

Background: The Gyr breed is widely used in Colombian low tropic dairy production systems. During the last 10 years, the Asociación Colombiana de Criadores de Ganado Cebú† - ASOCEBU, has been leading a dairy milk control program which led to the creation of a dataset that permits to carry out the first analysis of milk yield in Gyr cattle in the country using records from several herds. Objectives: To study milk production dynamics of Gyr cattle in the Colombian low tropic through the estimation of lactation curves and four derived production parameters: total milk yield between 5 and 305 days (TMY305), peak milk yield (PMY), days at peak (DP) and persistency (P). Methods: 13,798 daily milk yield records from 1,510 cows performing in 103 herds were used; the total number of lactations was 2,480. Four models were considered: Wood, Wiltmink, Papajcsik & Bordero, and a second-degree polynomial. Mean square error, mean absolute error, mean square error of prediction, Akaike and Bayesian information criteria were used to select the model better describing each lactation using the majority rule, that is, the model selected by most criteria was the chosen one. The shape of each fitted lactation curve was checked using basic results from calculus which permitted the classification of the estimated curves into two groups: typical and atypical; only typical functions were used to compute the four aforementioned production parameters. Results: The second-order polynomial was the model most frequently selected, while the Papajcsik & Bordero model had the lowest frequency. Average TMY305, PMY, DP and P were 3,489.86 kg, 17.28 kg, 57.17 days, and 0.83, respectively, with coefficients of variation: 0.27, 0.21, 0.41, and 0.16. Conclusions: This study permitted to identify individuals with outstanding phenotypic performance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of this kind involving thousands of lactations from Gyr cows performing in several regions of Colombian low tropic.
Effects of irradiation doses <10 Gy and irradiated bone volume on the change in blood counts during and after pelvic irradiation
Authors: Kuntz Laure , Keller Audrey , Le Fèvre Clara , Menoux Inès , Pietta Gianandrea , Thiery Alicia , Schumacher Catherine , Voegelin Manon , Noel Georges
Published: April 2021

Background: Bone marrow is one of the organs at risk of complications during irradiation due to its radiosensitivity. Hematopoietic toxicity remains one of the main toxicities during irradiation of pelvis. Modern radiotherapy techniques, such as intensity modulation and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, allow for better dose compliance in target volumes while optimally sparing organs at risk. There is a lack of prospective studies and comparative trials specifying the dose constraints according to the presence or absence of chemotherapy and correlating with the patient’s bone marrow potential.

Methods: This monocentric and prospective study conducted by the Strasbourg Europe Cancerology Institute aims to evaluate the hematological toxicity in patients treated with pelvic irradiation for prostate, rectum, anal canal, endometrium, or cervix cancer. One hundred patients will be included. The primary objective is to quantify the relationship between acute hematological toxicity and delivered doses and irradiated volumes in pelvic bone marrow for pelvic cancers. The prescribed dose to the pelvis depends on the tumor location, from 25 Gy in 5 fractions for rectal cancer to 78 Gy in 39 fractions for low-risk prostate cancer. Hematological toxicity will be measured by weekly blood count during radiotherapy and at one month and three months after the end of radiotherapy.

Conclusions: The aim of this study is to improve and optimize radiotherapy if a dose limit or volume constraint is imposed by the results of the study. To our knowledge, this is the first study including several types of pelvic cancers and involving patients treated exclusively with radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy or radiohormonotherapy.

Trial Registration: Trial registration number is NCT04626466.
Is neutrophil lymphocyte ratio a prognostic marker of acute ST elevation myocardial infarction?
Authors: Sadashiva Sneha Barkur , S. Chenthil K.
Published: April 2021

Several inflammatory biomarkers have been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndromes. The present study aims to determine the prognostic value of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to predict the immediate outcomes in patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction and if any correlation exists between NLR and TIMI risk score. A review of articles published in Pubmed database on the prognostic importance of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio in determining major adverse cardiac events (MACE) such as arrhythmias, cardiogenic shock and in hospital mortality was done. NLR was found to be a reliable prognostic tool to assess the immediate outcome in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients.
Constructal Design Applied to the Geometric Evaluation of a T-Shaped Earth-Air Heat Exchanger
Authors: Rodrigues Gerusa C. , Lorenzini Giulio , Victoria Lucas C. , Vaz Igor S. , Rocha Luiz A.O. , dos Santos Elizaldo D. , Rodrigues Michel K. , Estrada Emanuel da S.D. , Isoldi Liércio A.
Published: April 2021

An Earth-Air Heat Exchanger (EAHE) is a device that consists of one or more buried ducts through which air is forced to flow. The surrounding soil is responsible for enabling thermal exchanges along with the installation, making the temperature at the outlet milder than the inlet. The objective of this work is to ally a numerical-analytical approach with the Constructal Design method and Exhaustive Search technique to minimize the soil volume occupation (V), minimize the air flow pressure drop (PD), and maximize the thermal potential (TP) of a T-shaped EAHE. Starting from a conventional EAHE composed of a straight duct, called Reference Installation (RI), two degrees of freedom (DOF) were considered: the ratio between the length of the bifurcated branch and the length of the main branch (L1/L0) and the ratio between the diameter of the bifurcated branch and the diameter of the main branch (D1/D0). Comparing with RI, different T-shaped EAHE geometries were identified to reduce V by 23% and PD by 62% and to increase TP by 21%; and when these three performance parameters were concomitantly considered another T-shaped EAHE geometric configuration allowed to reach an improvement of around 27% when compared with the RI.
Responsibility of Manufacturers in Waste Management of Plastic Packaged Drink Products Based on Law Number 18 of 2008 Regarding Waste Management (Case Study in Ambon City, Maluku Province)
Authors: Angga La Ode , Datie Dyah Ridhul Airin , Tuhulele Popi , Fataruba Sabri , Taufiq Iqbal
Published: April 2021

This article is motivated by the large number of irresponsible use of plastic waste in Ambon city, Maluku Province. This research is a normative legal research. The results obtained in this paper are Waste Management of plastic packaging beverage products carried out by Ambon city producers in accordance with Law Number 18 of 2008 concerning Waste. Management to reclaim packaging that has been consumed by consumers so that they can be recycled systematically, thoroughly and in a sustainable manner. and produce goods using materials that are environmentally friendly and reusable. Apart from doing this, producers are also responsible for waste management in collaboration with the Ambon City Government as stated in Article 44 paragraph (1) of Ambon City Regulation Number 11 of 2015 which includes the provision / construction of Temporary Shelters (TPS) or TPS 3R. (Reduce Reuse). , Recycling), Final Disposal Site (TPA) or Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST), as well as supporting facilities and infrastructure, in this case providing a vehicle for transporting waste from TPS or TPS 3R to TPA or TPST, TPA or TPST management and / or management other processed products. This cooperation takes the form of sorting, collecting, transporting, processing, and / or final processing of waste.
Land Use and Land Cover Change as an Indicator of Watershed Urban Development in the Kenyan Lake Victoria Basin
Authors: Onyango Dancan Otieno , Ikporukpo Christopher O. , Taiwo John O. , Opiyo Stephen B.
Published: April 2021

The socio-economic and ecological value of Lake Victoria is threatened by significant regional development and urbanization. This study analyzed spatial-temporal land use/land cover changes in the Kenyan Lake Victoria basin from 1978–2018 using Landsat 3, 4-5 and 8 imagery, with a view to identifying the extent and potential impacts of urbanization on the basin. Supervised image classification was undertaken following the Maximum Likelihood algorithm to generate land use/land cover maps at ten-year intervals. Results indicate that the basin is characterized by six main land use/land cover classes namely, agricultural land, water bodies, grasslands and vegetation, bare land, forests and built-up areas. Further, the results indicate that the basin has experienced net increases in built-up areas (+97.56%), forests (+17.30%) and agricultural land (+3.54%) over the last 40 years. During the same period, it experienced net losses in grassland and vegetation (-37.36%), bare land (-9.28%) and water bodies (-2.19%). Generally, the changing landscapes in the basin are characterized by conversion of natural environments to built-up environments and driven by human activities, urban populations and public policy decisions. The study therefore recommends the establishment of a land use system that creates a balance between the ecological realm and sustainable development.