bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gestão da Qualidade: conhecimento do enfermeiro que trabalha em hemodiálise
Authors: Martins Saturnina Alves da Silva , Costa Neto Pedro Luiz Oliveira
Published: December 2021

Na área da saúde, a gestão da qualidade relaciona-se à administração do projeto de sistemas, políticas e processos que reduzem, e até extingui danos que podem ocorrer ao paciente, aprimorando o atendimento. O Enfermeiro é um profissional essencial no gerenciamento e assistência prestada ao paciente, sua satisfação e a qualidade geral do atendimento deve envolver elementos que combinam cuidados eficazes e resultados com excelência neste atendimento. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar o conhecimento do enfermeiro que trabalha em hemodiálise sobre gestão da qualidade. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de campo, exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa, através de estudo de casos múltiplos. Participaram da pesquisa enfermeiros que trabalham em quatro clínicas de hemodiálise localizadas na zona leste da cidade de São Paulo. A análise dos dados coletados foi realizada através das transcrições das entrevistas e análise do discurso do sujeito, os resultados foram apresentados em quadros de síntese geral dos comentários. Foi possível perceber que os enfermeiros descrevem a gestão da qualidade em hemodiálise como uma estratégia importante que auxilia a assistência, otimiza os processos de trabalho envolvendo os vários profissionais que atuam neste segmento. Porém o conhecimento sobre gestão da qualidade é mencionado de forma fragmentada e não uniforme até mesmo para os enfermeiros que trabalham na mesma clínica de hemodiálise.
Atividades biológicas e perfil químico de Batis maritima (Bataceae), uma espécie halófita com potencial para bioprospecção
Authors: Scopel Bruno  Ricardo , Miranda Paulo Henrique Oliveira de , Silva Ricardo Sérgio da , Alves João Victor de Oliveira , Veras Bruno Oliveira de , Amorim Luciclaudio Cassimiro , Rosa Michelle Melgarejo da , Barbosa Jorge Irapuan de Souza , Melo Maria Rita Cabral Sales de , Bezerra Ranilson de Souza , Silva Márcia Vanusa da
Published: December 2021

Halófitas são plantas tolerantes a salinidade, ricas em metabolitos com aplicação em diversas indústrias. Batis maritima é uma halófita com ocorrência em zonas tropicais e subtropicais, o presente trabalho objetivou investigar o extrato das folhas de B. maritima em uma abordagem de bioprospecção e biotecnológica. O presente estudo avaliou o perfil fitoquímico, o potencial efeito sobre a enzima acetilcolinesterase, além de propriedades protetivas de B. maritima. A análise fitoquímica evidenciou a presença de compostos fenólicos, antracenos e saponinas. O conteúdo de metal revelou o Sódio (Na) como o sal mais abundante (1g/Kg), seguido pelo alumínio (Al;0,35 g/Kg), e diversos outros elementos em concentrações menores. As metodologias de DPPH e Capacidade Antioxidante Total indicou efeito antioxidante significativo (IC50 5,17 ± 0,05 μg/mL e 0,45 ± 0,08 mg.AAEm, respectivamente). A atividade quelante de metal também foi observada, com um IC50­ de 25,76 ± 0,3 μg/mL. Além disso, o extrato aquoso de B. maritima apresentou efeito inibitório sobre a acetilcolinesterase de forma dose-dependente com IC50 de 0,0023 mg/mL. O ensaio de hemólise não revelou efeitos tóxicos, por outro lado, o ensaio de citotoxicidade, utilizando células da linhagem NIH-3T3, evidenciou uma diminuição da viabilidade celular em concentrações elevadas do extrato.
Sistema de Drenagem Pluvial: um estudo de caso sobre a determinação de vazões para o dimensionamento dos dispositivos em uma obra de implantação de produção de ferro
Authors: Carneiro Barbara Marques , Fajardo Keven Costa Barbosa , Fonseca Michelle Marcuci , Freitas Paulo Mário Cruz de
Published: December 2021

O presente estudo considera a realidade de uma mineradora denominada MinerXYZ e a descrição da memória de cálculo para o dimensionamento do projeto do sistema de drenagem pluvial. Parte-se do projeto de drenagem da Mina chamada S-1 voltando-se ao adequado direcionamento do fluxo superficial ao longo dos platôs e dos acessos, com o uso de dispositivos de drenagem, de forma a direcioná-los para as bacias de decantação ou local de desague seguro. O objetivo desse estudo foi conhecer as principais etapas para se executar um projeto de drenagem pluvial com base no estudo de caso em uma mineradora. A metodologia é descritiva em que optou pelo estudo de caso em uma mineradora de minério de ferro. Como resultados pôde-se verificar que a eficiência do sistema de drenagem pluvial para a Mina SII mostrou-se com resultado conclusivo, respeitando o período de observação adequado, que fundamenta a construção dos elementos estruturantes do sistema de drenagem para esta unidade e avaliando a sua dinâmica no período de maior intensidade de precipitações. Concluiu-se pela a importância e a necessidade de se contar com um projeto de sistema de drenagem, considerando alguns ecursos necessários já existente na Mina SIII com um alinhamento para elaboração e adequação da atividade na rotina do empreendimento.
Porphyromonas gingivalis e Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans em sangue do cordão umbilical e periférico, saliva e colostro de mulheres com gengivite
Authors: Curi Marco Antonio Maluf , Borges Mariana Castro Loureiro , Geraldo-Martins Vinicius Rangel , Silva Camila Beatriz , Rodrigues Rafael Rocha , Rodrigues Denise Bertulucci Rocha , Pereira Sanivia Aparecida Lima , Nogueira Ruchele Dias
Published: December 2021

Este estudo investigou e comparou a presença de Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) e Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) em amostras biológicas de mulheres que tiveram parto a termo com diagnóstico de gengivite e sem doença periodontal. Exames clínicos orais foram realizados em 48 puérperas, incluindo 28 mulheres com periodonto saudável, 15 com gengivite e 5 com periodontite (que foram excluídas da análise). Sangue do cordão umbilical (CU), sangue periférico (SP), saliva (SA) e colostro (C) foram coletados de mulheres elegíveis após o parto. Foi realizada extração de DNA e em seguida a presença de bactérias foi detectada por PCR com primers específicos. Dados sobre gestações anteriores e atuais e fatores de risco conhecidos foram obtidos dos prontuários médicos dos pacientes. Os dados sociais, demográficos e de higiene bucal foram analisados por entrevista. Os resultados mostraram que todas as SA das participantes com gengivite apresentou Pg e Aa, enquanto a minoria das amostras com periodonto saudável apresentou tais bactérias (P <0,05 para cada uma). 60% das mulheres com gengivite apresentaram Pg nas amostras de sangue (CU e SP, p <0,05) e 46,6% apresentaram no C. Aa não apareceu nas amostras de sangue, mas 46,6% das mulheres com gengivite apresentaram Aa em C. Não houve associação entre dados socioeconômicos e de saúde bucal, detecção de microrganismos e presença da doença. Em conclusão, a gengivite esteve relacionada com a detecção positiva de ambas as bactérias em SA. Mulheres com gengivite apresentaram frequentemente Pg nas amostras sanguíneas. A presença de Pg e Aa em C ocorreu apenas em gestantes com gengivite.
Dentes supranumerários impactados em região de nervo mentoniano: relato de caso
Authors: Sampaio Thaisa Reis de Carvalho , Ferraz Danilo Barbosa , Silva Emilyn Kétilin Muniz , Arruda Giulianna de Fátima Silva de , Silva Gleicielly Lira da , Silva Maria Emanuela Letícia da , Andrade Emanuel Savio de Souza
Published: December 2021

Introdução: Durante o desenvolvimento dentário, distúrbios podem acometer o germe em desenvolvimento, provocando alterações em número, formato, tamanho, posição e estrutura. A ocorrência de dentes supranumerários representa uma anormalidade sendo mais predominante em dentição permanente. Essa ocorrência, quando relacionada a região de pré-molares, diferenciam-se das demais possuindo uma maior frequência, e este fato pode ser explicado por serem um dos últimos dentes a irromper na arcada dentária. Um bom exame clínico, associado a solicitação de exames complementares são fundamentais para um diagnóstico precoce e promissor. Os exames de imagens tornam-se indispensáveis para determinar a localização do elemento extranumerário, além de visualizar possíveis proximidades com estruturas nobres adjacentes. Objetivo: Relatar um caso clínico de exodontia de dentes supranumerários e impactados com finalidade ortodôntica assim como evidenciar a importância de uma anamnese bem detalhada. Relato de caso: Paciente buscou os serviços de uma clínica odontológica particular com indicação ortodôntica para remoção de dentes supranumerários. O tratamento indicado ao paciente foi a exodontia dos elementos extranumerários, para que ocorresse a movimentação ortodôntica de maneira correta. Conclusão: A remoção dos elementos hiperdônticos em sua grande maioria torna-se indispensável a fim de evitar maiores prejuízos ao paciente, e para que esse procedimento seja realizado de maneira segura, deve-se sempre realizar um exame clínico com riqueza de detalhes combinado com a solicitação dos exames complementares de imagem, com a finalidade de melhor avaliar as estruturas adjacentes ao elemento anômalo.
Influência da configuração de instalação dos trocadores de calor na operação de um secador assistido por bomba de calor
Authors: Jordan Rodrigo Aparecido , Quequeto Wellytton Darci , Motomia Anamari Viegas de Araujo , Siqueira Valdiney Cambuy , Martins Elton Aparecido Siqueira , Sanches Ítalo Sabião , Sanches Édipo Sabião , Antunes Bruno Machado
Published: December 2021

Foi desenvolvido e montado em laboratório, um protótipo de secador com bomba de calor de pequena capacidade, para secagem de produtos termossensíveis, com sistema de refrigeração acoplado a uma câmara com isolamento térmico, fixados em uma única estrutura. Foram testadas duas opções de montagem do sistema de troca de calor no interior da câmara de secagem. Na primeira opção (configuração 1), trabalhou-se numa configuração com um único trocador de calor, o qual alternava a função de evaporador e condensador, em ciclos de resfriamento e aquecimento, através do emprego de uma válvula de quatro vias. Na segunda opção (configuração 2), trabalhou-se numa configuração com dois trocadores de calor, onde o ar passava primeiramente pelo evaporador e, depois, pelo condensador. As configurações foram avaliadas segundo as condições psicrométricas de operação: temperatura, umidade relativa e umidade de equilíbrio do ar. A configuração 2 mostrou-se mais efetiva quanto ao condicionamento do ar de secagem, com condições psicrométricas mais favoráveis, resultando em menores valores médios de umidade de equilíbrio.
A importância da atividade física regular em grupos de sedentários pós pandemia por COVID-19: revisão de literatura
Authors: Silva Junior Elson Nobrega da , Santos Luiz Felipe Basilio dos , Ferrari Carlos Eduardo Rafael de Andrade , Mocarzel Rafael , Freitas Jeter Pereira de , Miranda Marcelo José Colonna de , Monteiro Estêvão Rios
Published: December 2021

O objetivo do presente estudo foi revisar os efeitos da pandemia por COVID-19 sobre o nível de atividade física e sedentarismo. Foi realizado um levantamento de artigos na base de dados do Google Acadêmico, sendo incluídos artigos publicados até setembro de 2021 e usando como descritores: “Sedentarismo”, “Atividade física e saúde”, “Manutenção da saúde”, e “COVID-19”. Foram encontrados um total de 16.200 artigos na base de dados do Google Acadêmico e, após passarem pelo critério de inclusão e exclusão, foram incluídos um total de 13 artigos. Majoritariamente, os artigos avaliados nesta revisão de literatura indicam efeitos negativos no nível de atividade física e grau de sedentarismo ao longo das restrições sanitárias no COVID-19. Assim, é possível concluir que houve piora na saúde da população e que está diretamente relacionada ao baixo nível de atividade física e aumento do comportamento sedentário. Desta forma, os autores reforçam a importância de se manter uma prática de atividade física regular.
Competências da equipe de enfermagem frente aos cuidados paliativos em pacientes com câncer de colo de útero
Authors: Marques Conceição Duque , Pinto Maiara Barbosa , Simões Marcia Maria de Souza , Lopes Graciana de Sousa
Published: December 2021

Realizar uma busca na literatura sobre as principais competências da equipe de enfermagem mediante aos cuidados paliativos em pacientes com câncer de colo de útero, abordando em conjunto suas principais condutas e suas dificuldades. Trata-se de um estudo de origem descritivo, exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, utilizando a Revisão Integrativa da Literatura (RIL) como técnica. Para coleta de dados, foram utilizadas as bases de dados disponíveis e indexadas dentro da Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde: SCIELO, LILACS, BDENF e MEDLINE, mediante a junção de três Descritores em Saúde, cruzados com o operador booleano “AND”: Cuidados Paliativos AND Neoplasias do Colo do Útero AND Cuidados de Enfermagem. Sendo encontrados 236 artigos na totalidade, após aplicações dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, 13 artigos foram selecionados. As pesquisas abordaram sobre a importância do enfermeiro mediante a orientação dos cuidados paliativos, onde enfatizam que a comunicação correta é primordial para que seja possível ensiná-las a lidar com as alterações, reforçando diálogos para amenizar o isolamento e o medo, reforçando a importância do apoio familiar. Mediante as diversas dificuldades apresentadas por esses profissionais, é importante uma autorreflexão sobre essa temática, contribuindo assim não somente para prática assistencial, mas também para melhor qualidade de vida da família e assistidos.
Violência sexual intrafamiliar: revelação, redução de danos e prevenção
Authors: Monge Aline Bitencourt , Silva Flávia Calanca da , Landi Carlos Alberto , Suzuki Denise Chrysostomo , Vitalle Maria Sylvia de Souza
Published: December 2021

Este artigo é parte de um projeto maior, realizado com a participação de adolescentes e jovens adultos alunos da graduação, de uma Universidade Federal. É uma pesquisa descritiva com orientação qualitativa, onde utilizamos a técnica de coleta de dados da História Oral, os relatos orais de vida, das participantes que confirmaram terem sofrido algum tipo de violência sexual intrafamiliar durante a infância e/ou a adolescência. Objetivamos conhecer as histórias e as características da violência sexual intrafamiliar, de forma a refletir sobre a revelação, a prevenção e a redução de danos. Os relatos apontam que as sobreviventes à violência sexual intrafamiliar temem a reação familiar à revelação, receiam serem desacreditadas e/ou responsabilizadas pela violência sexual, sentem-se culpadas mesmo sabendo que foram sujeitos vulneráveis em situações de violência. Neste estudo, parte das nossas participantes não revelaram a violência sexual imediatamente por não saberem ou terem certeza do significado da violência sexual na época. Outras temeram por seus familiares e a tristeza, raiva, descontrole emocional que a verdade poderia lhes causar, preocupando-se com a possibilidade de vivenciar mais violência. Consideramos fundamental que as crianças e adolescentes sejam prevenidos sobre a possibilidade de a violência sexual ocorrer, que sejam educadas sobre as formas de manifestação, inteirando a possibilidade do(a) violentador(a) ser alguém de sua confiança, um(a) familiar ou amigo(a) da família, orientando que toda violência deve ser revelada a um adulto quantas vezes forem necessárias, pois muitas vezes a revelação não é acolhida, nem a violência é interrompida.
Pengaruh Pembelajaran Daring Masa Pandemi Covid-19 terhadap Motivasi Belajar Peserta Didik pada Mata Pelajaran Pendidikan Agama Islam
Authors: Azizah Kholifatul , Haromaini Ahmad , Suryagalih Sugih
Published: December 2021

This research was conducted with the aim to be achieved, namely to find out how much influence online learning has on the learning motivation of 8th and 9th grade students in Islamic religious education subjects at SMP Plus Al-Ijtihad 2 Kutabaru, Pasar Kemis Subdistrict, Tangerang Regency. The research method used is a descriptive method with a quantitative approach. A method that describes a phenomenon in the field with a data analysis approach. The instrument in this study is to use a questionnaire (questionnaire) and interviews as a source of data. And the sample used in the study used systematic random sampling. Respondents of this study amounted to 54 students. Based on the results of data processing and discussion that the effect of online learning on the motivation of students in Islamic religious education subjects can be proven by calculating the Product Moment correlation, the result is 0.557. In variable X online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic and variable Y student learning motivation in the PAI folder, there is an influence between variables X and Y, the correlation is moderate/sufficient in the coefficient interval 0.40-0.599. So it can be concluded that the effect of online learning on students' learning motivation in PAI subjects is 31.0% and the remaining 69.0% is influenced by other factors which may be family environment factors, the environment between friends and so on.
HYDROSOL OF C70 FULLERENE: SYNTHESIS AND STABILITY IN ELECTROLYTIC SOLUTIONS
Authors: Mchedlov-Petrossyan Nikolay , Marfunin Mykyta , Klochkov Volodymyr , Radionov Petro
Published: December 2021

This article is devoted to the synthesis and characterization of the hydrosol of C70 of the son/nC70 type and to its coagulation by sodium chloride and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). At C70 concentration of 3.3×10–6 M, the electrokinetic potential is ζ= –40 ± 4 mV, the particle size expressed as Zeta-average is 97±3 nm; at higher C70 concentrations, 1.7×10–5 and 6.9×10–5 M, the size stays the same: 99 – 100 nm. The critical concentration of coagulation (CCC) values, were determined using the diameter increasing rate (DIR) on NaCl concentration. The CCCs are concentration-dependent: 250, 145, and 130 mM at C70 concentrations 3.3×10–6, 1.7×10–5, and 6.9×10–5 M, respectively. The CCC for the CTAB surfactant is much lower, about 5×10–3 mM. At 0.02 mM CTAB, however, the overcharging up to ζ = + 40 mV and stabilization of the colloidal particles take place. Interpretation of the hydrosol coagulation by NaCl using the Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek theory makes it possible to determine the Hamaker constant of the C70–C70 interaction in vacuum, if only electrostatic repulsion and molecular attraction are taking into account: AFF ≈ 7×10–20 J. On the other hand, if we use the value AFF = (16.0–16.6)×10–20 J, obtained earlier in the study of organosols, then the data for hydrosols can be explained only by the introduction of an additional type of interactions. Following the terms of Churaev and Derjaguin, one should take into account the structural contribution to the interaction energy, which stabilizes the hydrosol.
METHODS OF SYNTHESIS AND FEATURES OF USING SYSTEMS BASED ON MORIN-METAL COMPLEXES IN FLUORESCENT ANALYSIS METHODS
Authors: Asieieva Dasha
Published: December 2021

The review describes modern physicochemical systems based on complex compounds with organic ligands, which may have fluorescent properties when interacting with metal ions or proteins. Modern methods of synthesis of these compounds and their use in physical-chemical methods of analysis are given. Approaches to detecting the content of metals and proteins using the fluorescent properties of morin complex compounds are considered. Areas of use of the effects of amplification and quenching of fluorescence for the determination of organic compounds and metal ions, especially in the presence of DNA and RNA of different biological origin are described. The influence of surfactants on the fluorescence intensity of complexes with morin was analyzed separately.
Climate Change Action – What are the gaps in capacity building which is making implementation fail ?
Authors: Ugle Pimpalkhute Prachi
Published: December 2021

In the recently concluded Conference of Parties (COP26) Glasgow, UK Summit 2021 the key issues focused on the 1.5 degrees Paris Agreement implementation, NDCs updating by countries, adaptation, lack of financial machinery uniformly amidst countries, mitigation and loss and damage, science based targets and nature based targets. Another mentioning was on mobilization and capacity building, which is the main attribute for climate change action failing in implementation. As per the UNFCCC capacity building portal, priority areas by activities for capacity building to channelize for getting tangible and actionable implementation at base level and to forefront include the following pointers as notings to know, upscale, upgrade and implement
FEIRA LIVRE DO CRATO/CE: ENTRE PROTAGONISMO E DECADÊNCIA
Authors: Tavares Cícero
Published: December 2021

Este trabalho realiza uma abordagem sobre a feira livre do Crato/CE, no intuito de identificar os principais problemas enfrentados pelos feirantes que ocupam esse espaço. O ensejo da pesquisa surge em razão dessa feira livre ter sido considerada um importante fator econômico e cultural para o município, por atrair feirantes e consumidores de toda a região do Cariri cearense e estados adjacentes. Porém, é concebível entendê-la como um comércio em que se encontra em declínio, motivado por inúmeros fatores que serão descritos ao longo deste trabalho. Para alcançar os objetivos ora propostos, inicialmente fez-se o uso de levantamento bibliográfico, incluindo consultas a livros e artigos versando sobre outras feiras. Posteriormente, realizou-se um levantamento empírico, sendo aplicados questionários aos feirantes. Mediante a análise em estudo e de outras discutidas ao longo desta pesquisa, não restam dúvidas quanto ao fato dessa feira livre estar apresentando um processo decadente sob o viés econômico e cultural. Nesse sentido, surge a necessidade de uma reflexão a respeito.
Yellow-y Functions in Egg Melanization and Chorion Morphology of the Asian Tiger Mosquito, Aedes albopictus
Authors: Noh Mi Young , Mun Seulgi , Kramer Karl J. , Muthukrishnan Subbaratnam , Arakane Yasuyuki
Published: December 2021

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is one of the most serious public health pests, which can transmit various vector-borne diseases. Eggs from this mosquito species become dark black shortly after oviposition and exhibit high desiccation resistance. Some of the Yellow proteins that act as dopachrome conversion enzymes (DCEs) are involved in the tyrosine-mediated tanning (pigmentation and sclerotization) metabolic pathway that significantly accelerates melanization reactions in insects. In this research, we analyzed the function of one of the yellow genes, yellow-y (AalY-y), in eggshell/chorion melanization of Ae. albopictus eggs. Developmental and tissue-specific expression measured by real-time PCR showed that AalY-y transcripts were detected at all stages of development analyzed, with significantly higher levels in the ovaries from blood-fed adult females. Injection of double-stranded RNA for AalY-y (dsAalY-y) had no significant effect on fecundity. However, unlike dsEGFP-treated control eggs that become black by 2–3 h after oviposition (HAO), dsAalY-y eggs were yellow-brown at 2 HAO, and reddish-brown even at 48 HAO. dsEGFP eggs exhibited resistance to desiccation at 48 HAO, whereas approximately 50% of the dsAalY-y eggs collapsed when they were moved to a low humidity condition. In addition, TEM analysis revealed an abnormal morphology and ultrastructure of the outer-endochorion in the dsAalY-y eggs. These results support the hypothesis that AalY-y is involved in the tyrosine-induced melanin biosynthetic pathway, plays an important role in black melanization of the chorion and functions in conferring proper morphology of the outer-endochorion, a structure that is presumably required for egg desiccation resistance in Ae. albopictus.
Peripheral Blood Mitochondrial DNA Levels Were Modulated by SARS-CoV-2 Infection Severity and Its Lessening Was Associated With Mortality Among Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Valdés-Aguayo José J. , Garza-Veloz Idalia , Vargas-Rodríguez José R. , Martinez-Vazquez María C. , Avila-Carrasco Lorena , Bernal-Silva Sofia , González-Fuentes Carolina , Comas-García Andreu , Alvarado-Hernández Diana E. , Centeno-Ramirez Alba S. H. , Rodriguez-Sánchez Iram P. , Delgado-Enciso Ivan , Martinez-Fierro Margarita L.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

During severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, the virus hijacks the mitochondria causing damage of its membrane and release of mt-DNA into the circulation which can trigger innate immunity and generate an inflammatory state. In this study, we explored the importance of peripheral blood mt-DNA as an early predictor of evolution in patients with COVID-19 and to evaluate the association between the concentration of mt-DNA and the severity of the disease and the patient’s outcome.

Methods

A total 102 patients (51 COVID-19 cases and 51 controls) were included in the study. mt-DNA obtained from peripheral blood was quantified by qRT-PCR using the NADH mitochondrial gene.

Results

There were differences in peripheral blood mt-DNA between patients with COVID-19 (4.25 ng/μl ± 0.30) and controls (3.3 ng/μl ± 0.16) (p = 0.007). Lower mt-DNA concentrations were observed in patients with severe COVID-19 when compared with mild (p= 0.005) and moderate (p= 0.011) cases of COVID-19. In comparison with patients with severe COVID-19 who survived (3.74 ± 0.26 ng/μl) decreased levels of mt-DNA in patients with severe COVID-19 who died (2.4 ± 0.65 ng/μl) were also observed (p = 0.037).

Conclusion

High levels of mt-DNA were associated with COVID-19 and its decrease could be used as a potential biomarker to establish a prognosis of severity and mortality of patients with COVID-19.
Similar Trajectories in Current Alcohol Consumption and Tick-Borne Diseases: Only Parallel Changes in Time or Links Between?
Authors: Frątczak Martyna , Petko Branislav , Sliwowska Joanna H. , Szeptycki Jan , Tryjanowski Piotr
Published: December 2021

In a modern world, both tick-borne diseases and alcohol consumption are among major public health threats. In the present opinion article, we pose the question, whether these two health problems: alcohol consumption and tick-borne diseases prevalence can be related. We hypothesize that it is possible due to at least three factors: outdoor places chosen for alcohol consumption, behavioral changes induced by alcohol, and possible stronger attraction of human hosts after alcohol consumption to ticks. Many important clues are coming from social studies about people’s preference of places to consume alcohol and from studies regarding the attraction of people consuming alcohol to mosquitos. These data, however, cannot be directly transferred to the case of alcohol consumption and ticks. Therefore, we suggest that more detailed studies are needed to better understand the possible individual attractiveness of people to ticks and ways alcohol may influence it.
Driveline Features as Risk Factor for Infection in Left Ventricular Assist Devices: Meta-Analysis and Experimental Tests
Authors: Kranzl Melanie , Stoiber Martin , Schaefer Anne-Kristin , Riebandt Julia , Wiedemann Dominik , Marko Christiane , Laufer Günther , Zimpfer Daniel , Schima Heinrich , Schlöglhofer Thomas
Published: December 2021

Background: Risk factors for driveline infection (DLI) in patients with left ventricular assist devices are multifactorial. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between mechanical driveline features and DLI occurrence.

Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted that included studies reporting DLI rates at 6 months after implantation of any of three contemporary devices (HVAD with Pellethane or Carbothane driveline, HeartMate II, and HeartMate 3). Further, outer driveline diameter measurements and ex-vivo experimental three-point bending and torsion tests were performed to compare the stiffness of the four different driveline types.

Results: 21 studies with 5,393 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The mean weighted DLI rates ranged from 7.2% (HeartMate II) to 11.9% (HeartMate 3). The HeartMate II driveline had a significantly lower maximal bending force (Loadmax) (4.52 ± 0.19 N) compared to the Carbothane HVAD (8.50 ± 0.08 N), the HeartMate 3 (11.08 ± 0.3 N), and the Pellethane HVAD driveline (15.55 ± 0.14 N) (p < 0.001). The maximal torque (Torquemax) of the HeartMate II [41.44 (12.61) mNm] and the Carbothane HVAD driveline [46.06 (3.78) mNm] were significantly lower than Torquemax of the Pellethane HVAD [46.06 (3.78) mNm] and the HeartMate 3 [95.63 (26.60) mNm] driveline (p < 0.001). The driveline of the HeartMate 3 had the largest outer diameter [6.60 (0.58) mm]. A relationship between the mean weighted DLI rate and mechanical driveline features (Torquemax) was found, as the the HeartMate II driveline had the lowest Torquemax and lowest DLI rate, whereas the HeartMate 3 driveline had the highest Torquemax and highest DLI rate.

Conclusions: Device-specific mechanical driveline features are an additional modifiable risk factor for DLI and may influence clinical outcomes of LVAD patients.
Atherogenic Index of Plasma and Coronary Artery Disease in the Adult Population: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Jing , Zhou Qiang , Wei Zhouxia , Wei Jinying , Cui Meizi
Published: December 2021

Background: The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), which is the logarithm of the ratio between the triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) concentrations in molar units, is correlated with the burden of atherosclerosis. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the AIP and coronary artery disease (CAD) in the adult population by performing a meta-analysis.

Methods: Observational studies relevant for this meta-analysis were identified by searching the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Only studies using multivariate analysis were considered. A random-effects model, which incorporates potential intra-study heterogeneity, was applied to combine the results.

Results: Ten observational studies were included. In studies with the AIP analyzed as a continuous variable, a higher AIP was associated with a higher odds of CAD (adjusted risk ratio [RR] per 1-standard deviation [SD] increment of AIP: 2.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51–2.93, P < 0.001, I2 = 90%). Further analysis of studies with the AIP analyzed as a categorical variable showed a higher odds of CAD (adjusted RR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.88–2.93, P < 0.001, I2 = 37%) in the participants with the highest versus the lowest AIP value. Subgroup analyses demonstrated consistent results in asymptomatic and symptomatic populations as well as in male and female participants (all between-group P values > 0.05).

Discussion: Current evidence, mostly from cross-sectional studies, suggests that a higher AIP value may be independently associated with CAD in the adult population.
Examining the Validity of Adaptive Comparative Judgment for Peer Evaluation in a Design Thinking Course
Authors: Mentzer Nathan , Lee Wonki , Bartholomew Scott Ronald
Published: December 2021

Adaptive comparative judgment (ACJ) is a holistic judgment approach used to evaluate the quality of something (e.g., student work) in which individuals are presented with pairs of work and select the better item from each pair. This approach has demonstrated high levels of reliability with less bias than other approaches, hence providing accurate values in summative and formative assessment in educational settings. Though ACJ itself has demonstrated significantly high reliability levels, relatively few studies have investigated the validity of peer-evaluated ACJ in the context of design thinking. This study explored peer-evaluation, facilitated through ACJ, in terms of construct validity and criterion validity (concurrent validity and predictive validity) in the context of a design thinking course. Using ACJ, undergraduate students (n= 597) who took a design thinking course during Spring 2019 were invited to evaluate design point-of-view (POV) statements written by their peers. As a result of this ACJ exercise, each POV statement attained a specific parameter value, which reflects the quality of POV statements. In order to examine the construct validity, researchers conducted a content analysis, comparing the contents of the 10 POV statements with highest scores (parameter values) and the 10 POV statements with the lowest scores (parameter values)—as derived from the ACJ session. For the criterion validity, we studied the relationship between peer-evaluated ACJ and grader’s rubric-based grading. To study the concurrent validity, we investigated the correlation between peer-evaluated ACJ parameter values and grades assigned by course instructors for the same POV writing task. Then, predictive validity was studied by exploring if peer-evaluated ACJ of POV statements were predictive of students’ grades on the final project. Results showed that the contents of the statements with the highest parameter values were of better quality compared to the statements with the lowest parameter values. Therefore, peer-evaluated ACJ showed construct validity. Also, though peer-evaluated ACJ did not show concurrent validity, it did show moderate predictive validity.
Oncocytic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and Oncocytic Poorly Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma: Clinical Features, Uptake, and Response to Radioactive Iodine Therapy, and Outcome
Authors: Lukovic Jelena , Petrovic Irina , Liu Zijin , Armstrong Susan M. , Brierley James D. , Tsang Richard , Pasternak Jesse D. , Gomez-Hernandez Karen , Liu Amy , Asa Sylvia L. , Mete Ozgur
Published: December 2021

Objective

The main objective of this study was to review the clinicopathologic characteristics and outcome of patients with oncocytic papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and oncocytic poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC). The secondary objective was to evaluate the prevalence and outcomes of RAI use in this population.

Methods

Patients with oncocytic PTC and PDTC who were treated at a quaternary cancer centre between 2002 and 2017 were retrospectively identified from an institutional database. All patients had an expert pathology review to ensure consistent reporting and definition. The cumulative incidence function was used to analyse locoregional failure (LRF) and distant metastasis (DM) rates. Univariable analysis (UVA) was used to assess clinical predictors of outcome.

Results

In total, 263 patients were included (PTC [n=218], PDTC [n=45]) with a median follow up of 4.4 years (range: 0 = 26.7 years). Patients with oncocytic PTC had a 5/10-year incidence of LRF and DM, respectively, of 2.7%/5.6% and 3.4%/4.5%. On UVA, there was an increased risk of DM in PTC tumors with widely invasive growth (HR 17.1; p<0.001), extra-thyroidal extension (HR 24.95; p<0.001), angioinvasion (HR 32.58; p=0.002), focal dedifferentiation (HR 19.57, p<0.001), and focal hobnail cell change (HR 8.67, p=0.042). There was additionally an increased risk of DM seen in male PTC patients (HR 5.5, p=0.03).The use of RAI was more common in patients with larger tumors, angioinvasion, and widely invasive disease. RAI was also used in the management of DM and 43% of patients with oncocytic PTC had RAI-avid metastatic disease. Patients with oncocytic PDTC had a higher rate of 5/10-year incidence of LRF and DM (21.4%/45.4%; 11.4%/40.4%, respectively). Patients with extra-thyroidal extension had an increased risk of DM (HR 5.52, p=0.023) as did those with angioinvasion. Of the patients with oncocytic PDTC who received RAI for the treatment of DM, 40% had RAI-avid disease.

Conclusion

We present a large homogenous cohort of patients with oncocytic PTC and PDTC, with consistent pathologic reporting and definition. Patients with oncocytic PTC have excellent clinical outcomes and similar risk factors for recurrence as their non-oncocytic counterparts (angioinvasion, large tumor size, extra-thyroidal extension, and focal dedifferentiation). Compared with oncocytic PTCs, the adverse biology of oncocytic PDTCs is supported with increased frequency of DM and lower uptake of RAI.
K+ Nutrition Exchange in the Serendipita-Arabidopsis Symbiosis: Study of the Fungal K+ Transporters Involved
Authors: Conchillo Lorena B. , Haro Rosario , Benito Begoña
Published: December 2021

There is mounting evidence that the root-colonizing endosymbiotic fungus Serendipita indica improves plant growth. The beneficial effects have been observed when plants are growing in optimal conditions or under nutritionally deficient soils (e.g., phosphate poor soil) or exposed to stressful environmental conditions such as drought or salinity. However, until now its role in the nutrition of other plant essential macronutrient, such as K+, has not been fully clarified. Here, we study the role of the fungus in the K+ nutrition of Arabidopsis thaliana plants, during growth under K+ limiting conditions. As a first step, we studied the high-affinity K+ uptake of the plant and fungus when growing separately and in symbiosis. In the search for putative fungal actors involved in K+ nutrition, we also have cloned and functionally characterized the K+ transporters of S. indica SiHAK1, SiTRK1, SiTRK2, and SiTOK1, among which it has been shown that SiHAK1 is the main transporter involved in the K+ uptake in the high affinity range of concentrations. In addition, a gene expression study of these transporters and other candidates that could participate in the K+ homeostasis of the fungus has been carried out. The results indicated that, contrary to what happens with P nutrition, S. indica seems not to improve neither the growth nor the plant K+ reserves during K+ starvation. Instead, this nutritionally restrictive condition favored fungal colonization, suggesting that the fungus obtains the greatest benefit in K+ supply during symbiosis.
Variation of Stem Radius in Response to Defoliation in Boreal Conifers
Authors: Balducci Lorena , Rozenberg Philippe , Deslauriers Annie
Published: December 2021

In the long term, defoliation strongly decreases tree growth and survival. Insect outbreaks are a typical cause of severe defoliation. Eastern spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clem.) outbreaks are one of the most significant disturbances of Picea and Abies boreal forests. Nevertheless, in boreal conifers, a 2-year defoliation has been shown to quickly improve tree water status, protect the foliage and decrease growth loss. It suggests that defoliation effects are time-dependent and could switch from favorable in the short term to unfavorable when defoliation duration exceeds 5–10 years. A better understanding of the effect of defoliation on stem radius variation during the needle flushing time-window could help to elucidate the relationships between water use and tree growth during an outbreak in the medium term. This study aims to assess the effects of eastern spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clem.) defoliation and bud phenology on stem radius variation in black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.] and balsam fir [Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.] in a natural stand in Quebec, Canada. We monitored host and insect phenology, new shoot defoliation, seasonal stem radius variation and daytime radius phases (contraction and expansion) from 2016 to 2019. We found that defoliation significantly increased stem growth at the beginning of needle flushing. Needles flushing influenced the amplitude and duration of daily stem expansion and contraction, except the amplitude of stem contraction. Over the whole growing season, defoliation increased the duration of stem contraction, which in turn decreased the duration of stem expansion. However, the change (increase/decrease) of the duration of contraction/expansion reflects a reduced ability of the potential recovery from defoliation. Black spruce showed significantly larger 24-h cycles of stem amplitude compared to balsam fir. However, both species showed similar physiological adjustments during mild stress, preventing water loss from stem storage zones to support the remaining needles’ transpiration. Finally, conifers react to defoliation during a 4-year period, modulating stem radius variation phases according to the severity of the defoliation.
Identification and Mechanism of the PD-1/PD-L1 Genomic Signature SORL1 as Protective Factor in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Xu Yajing , Chen Didi , Shen Lanxiao , Huang Xiaowei , Chen Yi , Su Huafang
Published: December 2021

Background: Immunotherapy has recently shown remarkable efficacy for advanced bladder cancer patients. Accordingly, identifying a biomarker associated with the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/its ligand (PD-L1) genomic signature to predict patient prognosis is necessary.

Methods: In this study, we used mutation data and RNA-seq data of bladder cancer samples acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to combine PD-1/PD-L1-associated mutational signatures with PD-1/PD-L1-associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Then, we performed a Kaplan-Meier analysis on the corresponding clinical data of the TCGA bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) cohort to identify prognostic genes, and the results were validated using the GSE48075 cohort. The online platform UCSC Xena was used to analyze the relationship between the candidate genes and clinical parameters. We utilized the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database to validate the protein expression levels. Then, correlation analysis, cell-type identification by estimating relative subsets of RNA transcripts (CIBERSORT) analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to clarify the mechanism.

Results: We identified one prognostic gene, sortilin related receptor 1 (SORL1), whose downregulation was associated with a comparatively advanced BLCA stage. While further exploring this finding, we found that SORL1 expression was negatively correlated with PD-1/PD-L1 expression and M2 macrophage levels. Furthermore, we found that the downregulation of SORL1 expression was significantly associated with a higher epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) score.

Conclusion: We described a novel PD-1/PD-L1-associated signature, SORL1, that predicts favorable outcomes in bladder cancer. SORL1 might reduce immune suppression and inhibit the M2 macrophage-induced EMT phenotype of tumor cells.
The Latest Treatment Interventions Improving Mental Health Outcomes for Women, Following Gender-Based Violence in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries: A Mini Review
Authors: St. John Lily , Walmsley Rebecca
Published: December 2021

Gender-based violence (GBV), specifically violence against women, is a worldwide pandemic. Prevalence is further escalated in low-and-middle-income countries and in humanitarian crises. Survivors are left with a combination of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. These mental health disorders lead to further morbidity and mortality. Despite its high prevalence and co-morbidities, gender disparities and mental health stigma globally lead to few interventions developed for this population. The aim of this review is to highlight the mental health interventions developed in the past 5 years, for women following GBV in low-and-middle-income countries. It aims to discuss their efficacy and controversies when implemented into healthcare systems, understand the gaps that remain in the field and suggest future research developments. A thorough literature search revealed 16 new interventions available for improving mental health outcomes for women following GBV in low-and-middle-income countries. Following an in-depth evaluation of the papers, one intervention was successful in effectively implementing treatment into healthcare systems—“PM+.” However, it proved only to be effective in the short term. Further research must be done for improving long-term mental health outcomes. Results demonstrated poor follow-up for women engaging in group therapy. The review also highlights community workers were used in service delivery to reduce barriers accessing care. No interventions proved effective in humanitarian crises, despite GBV escalated in these settings. There are very few interventions available in comparison to the prevalence of this global health issue. Therefore, this review encourages further research and improvements in mental healthcare interventions following GBV.
Nonclassical Monocytes Are Prone to Migrate Into Tumor in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Le Gallou Simon , Lhomme Faustine , Irish Jonathan M. , Mingam Anna , Pangault Celine , Monvoisin Celine , Ferrant Juliette , Azzaoui Imane , Rossille Delphine , Bouabdallah Krimo , Damaj Gandhi , Cartron Guillaume , Godmer Pascal , Le Gouill Steven , Casasnovas René-Olivier , Molina Thierry Jo , Houot Roch , Lamy Thierry , Tarte Karin , Fest Thierry , Roussel Mikael
Published: December 2021

Absolute count of circulating monocytes has been proposed as an independent prognostic factor in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, monocyte nomenclature includes various subsets with pro-, anti-inflammatory, or suppressive functions, and their clinical relevance in DLBCL has been poorly explored. Herein, we broadly assessed circulating monocyte heterogeneity in 91 DLBCL patients. Classical- (cMO, CD14pos CD16neg) and intermediate- (iMO, CD14pos CD16pos) monocytes accumulated in DLBCL peripheral blood and exhibited an inflammatory phenotype. On the opposite, nonclassical monocytes (ncMOSlanpos, CD14low CD16pos Slanneg and ncMOSlanneg, CD14low CD16pos, Slanneg) were decreased in peripheral blood. Tumor-conditioned monocytes presented similarities with ncMO phenotype from DLBCL and were prone to migrate in response to CCL5 and CXCL12, and presented similarities with DLBCL-infiltrated myeloid cells, as defined by mass cytometry. Finally, we demonstrated the adverse value of an accumulation of nonclassical monocytes in 2 independent cohorts of DLBCL.
The Impact of Rubella Virus Infection on a Secondary Inflammatory Response in Polarized Human Macrophages
Authors: Schilling Erik , Grahnert Anja , Pfeiffer Lukas , Koehl Ulrike , Claus Claudia , Hauschildt Sunna
Published: December 2021

Macrophages (MΦ) are known to exhibit distinct responses to viral and bacterial infection, but how they react when exposed to the pathogens in succession is less well understood. Accordingly, we determined the effect of a rubella virus (RV)-induced infection followed by an LPS-induced challenge on cytokine production, signal transduction and metabolic pathways in human GM (M1-like)- and M (M2-like)-MΦ. We found that infection of both subsets with RV resulted in a low TNF-α and a high interferon (IFN, type I and type III) release whereby M-MΦ produced far more IFNs than GM-MΦ. Thus, TNF-α production in contrast to IFN production is not a dominant feature of RV infection in these cells. Upon addition of LPS to RV-infected MΦ compared to the addition of LPS to the uninfected cells the TNF-α response only slightly increased, whereas the IFN-response of both subtypes was greatly enhanced. The subset specific cytokine expression pattern remained unchanged under these assay conditions. The priming effect of RV was also observed when replacing RV by IFN-β one putative priming stimulus induced by RV. Small amounts of IFN-β were sufficient for phosphorylation of Stat1 and to induce IFN-production in response to LPS. Analysis of signal transduction pathways activated by successive exposure of MΦ to RV and LPS revealed an increased phosphorylation of NFκB (M-MΦ), but different to uninfected MΦ a reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (both subtypes). Furthermore, metabolic pathways were affected; the LPS-induced increase in glycolysis was dampened in both subtypes after RV infection. In conclusion, we show that RV infection and exogenously added IFN-β can prime MΦ to produce high amounts of IFNs in response to LPS and that changes in glycolysis and signal transduction are associated with the priming effect. These findings will help to understand to what extent MΦ defense to viral infection is modulated by a following exposure to a bacterial infection.