bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação da qualidade de vida dos enfermeiros que atuam na emergência de um hospital em Recife - PE
Authors: Pontes Alice Fonseca , Estelita Rafaela Ribeiro de Oliveira , Alcantara Lais Fernanda de Lima , Paixão Talita Bianca Lima da , Santos Amanda Monteiro dos , Santos João Victor Barbosa dos , Araújo Sanmyra Lopes , Lima Maria Eduarda Ximenes do Rego , Rodrigues Natália Almeida , Andrade Ângela Roberta Lessa de
Published: July 2022

Qualidade de vida é uma noção eminentemente humana e abrange muitos significados que refletem conhecimentos, experiências e valores de indivíduos e coletividades, é tema de pesquisa imprescindível na área da saúde, visto que seus resultados contribuem para aprovar e definir tratamentos e avaliar custo/benefício do cuidado prestado. O presente artigo teve por objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida dos enfermeiros que atuam na emergência geral. Para trabalhar o objeto em questão, utilizou-se um estudo transversal de campo com abordagem quantitativa. Realizou-se em um hospital de emergência do Recife -PE. O estudo atendeu as determinações da Declaração de Helsinque e Resolução 196/96 da Comissão Nacional de Ética e Pesquisa em Seres Humanos e só foi iniciada após a aprovação do Comitê de Ética. A população pesquisada constou de 33 enfermeiros da emergência geral do hospital de emergência alvo, no período de junho a julho do ano de 2009. O instrumento utilizado para determinar a qualidade de vida foi o SF-36. A média geral de qualidade de vida foi de 62 %, a maior média foi 90 % e a menor 20 %, o maior domínio foi à capacidade funcional com 76 % e o menor à vitalidade com 53 %. A melhor medida de qualidade de vida não é o quão um serviço é oferecido, mas o quanto os resultados se aproximam dos objetivos fundamentais de prolongar a vida, aliviar a dor, restaurar a junção e prevenir a incapacidade, procurando diminuir o impacto da doença na vida do indivíduo.
A temática físico-natural no ensino da geografia: a percepção dos alunos da E.E.E.F.M Francisco Ernesto do Rêgo sobre a Lagoa da Serra, no município de Queimadas-PB
Authors: Fernandes Amanda Cristiane Gonçalves , Borges Igo Marinho Serafim , Silva Viviane Farias , Silva Emanuelly Cristovão Barbosa da , Martins Miriam Souza , Silva Jucianny Araújo da , Campos Guilherme Oliveira , Maciel Jasmyne Karla Vieira Souza , Campos Jean Oliveira , Cavalcante Wagner Sousa
Published: July 2022

Os desafios do ensino da geografia escolar não se limitam apenas nas situações recorrentes da falta de: estrutura nas escolas públicas, capacitação dos professores ou interesse dos alunos. Faz-se, necessário, um contraponto para selecionar os conteúdos certos e que atendam a realidade local, além disso, que evidenciem as raízes da comunidade, suas relações para como meio ambiente e a conservação dos recursos naturais. Possibilitar o ensino da geografia escolar através de uma observação espacial e obter uma formação cidadã dentro e fora da escola é imprescindível para que se evite a padronização de conteúdo e o baixo índice de aproveitamento da disciplina. O nosso trabalho tem como objetivo geral compreender a percepção dos alunos do ensino médio da E.E.E.F.M. Francisco Ernesto do Rêgo sobre a Lagoa da Serra, localizada no município na cidade de Queimadas-PB. Para o desenvolvimento deste estudo, utilizou-se como aspectos metodológicos os tipos de pesquisa bibliográfica, descritiva, exploratória e qualitativa acerca do tema acima descrito, considerando as temáticas de Geografia Escolar, Educação Ambiental e Conservação dos Recursos Naturais. Para avaliar o nível de percepção dos alunos aplicou-se um questionário qualitativo com os seguintes temas sobre: a historicidade, possíveis impactos ambientais, medidas de conservação, relação comunidade e o meio ambiente e os potenciais turísticos da bacia estudada. Junto a isso, buscou-se discutir partindo de vários autores, a realidade do ensino da geografia escolar, educação ambiental e os conflitos diários do conteúdo e didática e, além disso, os contrapontos da geografia acadêmica para com a geografia escolar. Após a aplicação dos questionários e a tabulação dos dados, os resultados comprovaram que a maior parte dos alunos entrevistados não conheciam a Lagoa da Serra e nem tão pouco sabiam a sua importância para o município.
HPLC analysis of β-caryophyllene in copaiba oleoresin: Development, validation and applicability
Authors: Oliveira Mariana Carla de , Dano Maria Eduarda Lima , Santos Rafaela Said dos , Villa Nova Mônica , Nakamura Celso Vataru , Caetano Wilker , Bruschi Marcos Luciano
Published: July 2022

Copaiba oil (CO) is an oleoresin containing resinous acids, comprising mainly of diterpenes, and volatile compounds, comprising of sesquiterpenes. CO has been used for many years as a therapeutic agent and cosmetic, being the β-caryophyllene (CAR) one of the main sesquiterpene markers found in CO samples. During the last years, some analytical methods have been developed for analysis of sesquiterpenes like CAR from CO. However, these methods are based on gas chromatography, and requiring additional steps, such as derivatization or extraction of the essential fraction of the CO for sesquiterpenes analysis. Liquid chromatography methodologies have been proposed only for analysis of diterpenes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay for CAR analysis in CO samples (Copaifera reticulata Ducke) and in emulsion systems containing CO. The HPLC system suitability was determined through the capacity factor, repeatability, relative retention, resolution, tailing factor, theoretical plate number and the height of the theoretical plate; where the method developed showed the efficiency for separation of CO compounds. The method was validated displaying specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, and robustness. Moreover, it showed to be of utmost importance to analyze CO in emulsion systems, displaying versatile and applicability.
O ensino médico de artes e o desenvolvimento do profissionalismo durante a graduação em Medicina
Authors: Ventura Ana Carolina , Ferreira Izabela Renata Argentati , Oliveira Nathalia Souza de , Manso Maria Elisa Gonzalez
Published: July 2022

Introdução: A graduação em medicina, por priorizar os conhecimentos técnicos em detrimentos dos humanísticos, propicia a formação de profissionais mais robotizados e com menores índices de profissionalismo. Diante disso, o ensino médico de artes surge como uma alternativa para a humanização da prática clínica. Objetivo: Realizar um levantamento integrativo da literatura a respeito da utilização da arte no desenvolvimento do profissionalismo médico durante a graduação. Métodos: Estudo em formato de revisão integrativa. Após utilizar-se os descritores e aplicar-se os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados e analisados dez estudos das bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS) e Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina dos Estados Unidos da América (PubMed) e da plataforma Google Acadêmico. Resultados: Competências importantes para a prática médica podem ser adquiridas pelo estudo de artes, tais como: observação, empatia, sensibilidade cultural, trabalho em equipe, comunicação, pensamento crítico, atenção, raciocínio clínico e escuta ativa. Conclusão: O ensino de artes durante a graduação de medicina mostrou-se benéfico para o aumento dos índices de profissionalismo.
The implications of home office adaptation during the COVID-19 pandemic: an experimental analysis on the Quality of Work Life
Authors: Matos Glaucia de Souza Albuquerque , Motta Ana Carolina de Gouvea , Menezes Aline Brêtas de
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainties to the social, economic and political scenario, leading to extraordinary challenges to firms. This paper sheds light on how the home office adaptation affects the Quality of Work Life (QWL). We conducted an experiment with 322 participants to understand the mechanism by which tests the effect of home office adaptation on the QWL. Our results point out that companies that adapted better to home office positively impact the participants' perception of QWL. We expect to contribute to the organizational theory and human resources field by providing empirical data about the adaptation to the home office and expectation of QWL. Furthermore, we provide evidence to practitioners who may get advantage of our experimental strategy to suit their firms better to this new scenario.
O tipo de suporte terapêutico recebido na fase aguda da COVID-19 influencia na capacidade funcional durante a fase pós-COVID-19? Um estudo transversal
Authors: Oliveira Karla Cybele Vieira de , Amorim Iris Fernanda Ivone Medeiros , Silva Jakson Henrique , Mastroianni Viviane Wanderley , Xavier Anderson Brasil , Costa Samara Talita Silva , Guerino Marcelo Renato , Lucena Larissa Coutinho de , Campos Shirley Lima , Araújo Maria das Graças Rodrigues de
Published: July 2022

Objetivo: Analisar se o tipo de suporte terapêutico ofertado aos indivíduos durante a fase aguda da COVID-19 influenciará no seu desempenho no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos durante a fase pós-COVID-19. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de caráter descritivo e abordagem quantitativa. Foi realizado no Laboratório de Cinesioterapia e Recursos Terapêuticos Manuais – LACIRTEM da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE). A coleta de dados foi realizada no período de setembro de 2020 a setembro de 2021. A avaliação foi dividida em 2 etapas, na primeira etapa foi realizada entrevista com os participantes para coleta dos dados pessoais, sociodemográficos, sinais vitais e informações sobre a história clínica da doença. Posteriormente foi realizada avaliação da capacidade funcional com o teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6M). Resultados: Foram avaliados 150 indivíduos pós-COVID-19, sendo 62% do sexo feminino, com idade média de 49,287+12,59. O índice de massa corporal (IMC) dos indivíduos ficou entre as categorias sobrepeso e obesidade grau I. Em relação ao tipo de suporte terapêutico observou-se que 58,7% dos indivíduos ficaram em recuperação domiciliar. O tipo de suporte terapêutico apresentou influência no desempenho do TC6M. Considerações Finais: Este estudo revelou o perfil epidemiológico dos indivíduos que fizeram parte do projeto pós-COVID-19 na UFPE, além da influência do suporte terapêutico na capacidade funcional pós-COVID-19. Os dados analisados no presente estudo são importantes para melhor prevenir e controlar as repercussões funcionais dos sobreviventes da COVID-19.
A fragilidade do conhecimento do dentista sobre o “Teste da Linguinha” na Atenção Básica
Authors: Bezerra Mariana Vieira de Melo , Bizerril Davi Oliveira , Jorge Maria Salete Bessa , Santos Germana Alves dos , Maia Eveline Lima
Published: July 2022

Este estudo objetivou descrever através da literatura o conhecimento do dentista em relação à Anquiloglossia e a importância do diagnóstico precoce através do Teste da Linguinha na Atenção Básica de todo o país. Realizou-se um “scoping review”, com a seleção de 08 artigos publicados de 2011 a 2019. Com o mapeamento dos resultados constituiu-se os eixos temáticos: teste da linguinha e sua relação com os profissionais; anquiloglossia; saúde bucal e rede materno infantil. Os dados mostraram que há pouco conhecimento por parte dos profissionais em relação ao teste da linguinha e anquiloglossia e que o dentista é pouco inserido na rede materno infantil no âmbito da Atenção Básica. Concluiu-se que não há uma correta abordagem quanto a integralidade e inserção da equipe de saúde bucal junto a equipe saúde da família quando se trata da rede materno infantil. Além disso, observou-se que o CD não possui conhecimento suficiente e não executa o Teste da Linguinha na Unidade Básica de Saúde.
Estudo da qualidade de mel comercializado na região de Barbacena - MG
Authors: Silva Anderson Antonio Neto da
Published: July 2022

Este estudo teve por objetivo verificar as características físico-químicas e a qualidade do mel produzido na região de Barbacena - MG. A qualidade das amostras de meles foi determinada pela avaliação dos parâmetros umidade, açúcares redutores, acidez total, hidroximetilfurfural, atividade diastásica, sólidos insolúveis em água e cinzas. Foram avaliadas quatro amostras de meles da região de Barbacena - MG, sendo adquiridas em feiras locais e de vendedores ambulantes. Os resultados das análises indicaram que as amostras apresentaram resultados concordantes com os padrões e qualidade preconizados pela Legislação para a maioria dos parâmetros, somente a acidez de de duas amostras ficaram com valores acima do limite estabelecido na legislação.
Characteristics and 10 key components of interpersonal caring: a narrative review
Authors: Kim Susie
Published: July 2022

This paper aims to help people understand better the lives of people who are mentally ill by describing the general concept of the Interpersonal Caring Theory (ICT) and deducing 10 key components of interpersonal caring. The literature review described the definition of interpersonal caring, and its assumptions and characteristics. Furthermore, the authors’ experience with patient care suggested the critical components of interpersonal caring, which is the compassion-based therapeutic actions/behaviors through the collaborative partnership developed between nurse and client. Essential characteristics of interpersonal caring include the following: person-to-person interaction between nurse and patient, genuine love and concern toward the person, conveying trust and hope, transcending space, time, and culture, holistic approach expressed through a comprehensive and dynamic mode of communication, helping the patient focus on their self-worth, and providing culturally relevant and sensitive nursing. Ten key components of interpersonal caring in ICT include noticing, participating, sharing, active listening, companioning, complimenting, comforting, hoping, forgiving, and accepting. Interpersonal caring results from the blended understanding of the empirical, aesthetic, ethical, and intuitive aspects of a given clinical situation, and a nexus of pre-conditions, content, feelings, and sense of self-worth/self-esteem.
Overlap syndrome variant: transformation of adults' Still's disease into rheumatoid arthritis (clinical case)
Authors: Babaeva A. R. , Kalinina E. V. , Zvonorenko D. S. , Emelianova A. L.
Published: July 2022

Specialists in rheumatology quite often have to deal with the so-called overlap syndromes, characterized by the phenomenon when the onset of the immune-inflammatory process corresponding to one rheumatic disease later turns to another clinical form or even process. It is well known about the possible transformation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) into systemic scleroderma, Sjögren's disease, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Along with this, of particular interest is the likelihood of developing an autoimmune process in the setting an autoinflammatory syndrome, which includes adult Still's disease (ASD). The article presents a clinical observation demonstrating the transformation of APS into spondyloarthritis, and then into RA. While there are many reports of the transition from systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) to seropositive RA, the development of seropositive RA in adults with autoinflammatory syndrome is a very rare clinical situation. The analyzed aspect is of particular importance since the approaches to the management of patients with ASD and RA differ significantly in the range of biological agents used in these diseases. So, if the use of IL-1 inhibitors is recommended for the treatment of APS, then with a confirmed diagnosis of RA, the prospect of using other anticytokine agents, preferably IL-6 inhibitors, opens up. Thus, the observed clinical case is interesting not only from the standpoint of the importance of the precise form of the immune mediated disease identification at the time of choosing the optimal treatment, but also the differentiated use of biological agents, including Russian-made IL-6 inhibitors.
PENERAPAN ALGORITMA GENETIKA PADA KNAPSACK PROBLEM Studi Kasus : Optimasi Pemilihan Buah Kemasan Kotak
Authors: SUNARWAN Bambang Sunarwan, Riyadi Juhana
Published: July 2022

AbstrakAlgoritma genetika adalah algoritma pencarian yang didasarkan atas mekanisme dari seleksi alam yang lebih dikenal dengan proses evolusi. Dalam proses evolusi, individu secara terusmenerus mengalami perubahan gen untuk menyesuaikan dengan lingkungan hidupnya. Hanya individu-individu yang kuat yang mampu bertahan. Proses seleksi alamiah ini melibatkan perubahan gen yang terjadi pada individu melalui proses perkembang-biakan. Dalam algoritma genetika, proses perkembang-biakan ini menjadi proses dasar yang menjadi perhatian utama, dengan dasar berpikir: Bagaimana mendapatkan keturunan yang lebih baik.Permasalahan yang akan diselesaikan pada Knapsack Problem ini adalah optimasi pemilihan buah kemasan kotak pada proses distribusi barang untuk menekan biaya pengiriman dan memaksimalkan keuntungan. Adapun parameterparameter yang digunakan adalah sebagai berikut: a. Hanya terdapat satu item paket buah kemasan kotak yang sejenis dan memiliki profit, tingkat kebutuhan pasar, berat, volume, dan masa awet buah yang akan dipilih b). Berat ataupun volume total dari item buah kemasan kotak yang dipilih tidak boleh melebihi kapasitas dari Knapsack. Parameter-parameter pada algoritma genetika dapat diubah-ubah sesuai keinginan user seperti: ukuran populasi, probabilitas mutasi, dan probabilitas crossover d. Sistem akan menampilkan solusi optimal dari hasil pencarian yang berupa terpilih atau tidaknya suatu item untuk bisa dimasukkan ke dalam Knapsack, nilai keuntungan total, berat total, dan volume total dari item yang terpilihDari pengembangan dan ujicoba yang telah dilakukan terkait dengan implementasi algoritma genetika pada knapsack problem, dapat disimpulkan beberapa hal, yaitu: 1). Algoritma genetika cukup baik digunakan pada knapsack problem. 2). Peningkatan jumlah populasi akan memberikan nilai fitness yang semakin tinggi, yang berarti bahwa solusi optimal yang ditemukan semakin baik. Karena dengan peningkatan jumlah populasi akan memberikan ruang solusi yang semakin banyak.Kata Kunci: Algoritma Genetika (AG), Knapsack
POTENSI GEOWISATA DAERAH JANGKAT DENGAN PENILAIAN KUANTITATIF GEOSITE DAN GEOMORPHOSITE
Authors: Dan HELMI SETIA RITMA PAMUNGKAS IIT ADHITIA
Published: July 2022

Jangkat merupakan kecamatan di Kabupaten Merangin yang terletak di bagian barat Provinsi Jambi. Sebagian daerah Jangkat merupakan bagian dari Pegunungan Barisan, secara morfologi berupa pegunungan kasar, kerucut gunung api, kuesta, dataran tinggi, dan dataran rendah, sehingga memiliki potensi geowisata yang unik dan menarik untuk diketahui. Daerah penelitian merupakan bagian dari Pegunungan Barisan, terletak di tinggian bagian barat Cekungan Sumatera Selatan. Berdasarkan peta geologi regional lembar Sungaipenuh dan Ketaun, Sumatra, maka urut-urutan batuan penyusun daerah penelitian dari muda ke tua (Kusnama, dkk., 1992) yaitu Satuan Batuan Breksi Gunungapi-Tuf, Satuan Batuan Gunungapi – Rio Andesit, dan Granodiorit Langkup. Penelitian dilakukan dengan menggunakan tiga tahapan penelitian, yaitu tahap studi pustaka, tahap penelitian lapangan, dan tahap analisa geosite dan geomorphosite dengan metode penilaian (assessment) kuantitatif menurut Kubalikova (2013). Terdapat 7 geosite dan geomorphosite yaitu Air Terjun Dukun Bertuah, Air Terjun Empenau, Air Terjun Aek Hitam, Puncak Desa Muara Madras, Danau Pauh, Danau Depati Empat, dan Geyser Grao Sakti. Hasil dari analisa kuantitatif berdasarkan parameter-parameter yang ada secara berurutan adalah 55.17%, 55.17%, 55.17%, 42.67%, 64.67%, 55.50%, 52.83%. Hasil tersebut menunjukkan bahwa Situs Danau Pauh layak untuk dijadikan tempat wisata, untuk situs Air Terjun Dukun Bertuah, Air Terjun Empenau, Air Terjun Aek Hitam, Danau Depati Empat, dan Geyser Grao Sakti perlu ditingkatkan lagi dari segi kelayakannya, sedangkan Puncak Desa Muara Madras belum layak untuk saat ini. Dukungan dari berbagai pihak disertai kelayakan pembangunan fasilitas infrastruktur dan fasilitas penunjang wisata pada obyek wisata, pemahaman masyarakat tentang peningkatan kawasan wisata, dan perencanaan promosi yang baik sangat diperlukan agar dapat meningkatkan sektor perekonomian daerah Jangkat. Kata Kunci : jangkat, geosite, geomorphosite, geowisata
ANALISA MULTI HOP ROUTING PADA WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORK DIGITAL
Authors: RODIAH MACHDI AGUSTINI
Published: July 2022

Perkembangan teknologi wireless sensor network digital saat ini sedemikian pesat, jaringan sensor ini semakin luas aplikasinya di berbagai bidang kehidupan, seperti di bidang lingkungan, kesehatan, otomotif, rumah, militer, dan lain sebagainya.Terlebih dengan semakin banyaknya aplikasi berbasis cloud dan pemanfaatan konsep Internet of Things (IoT) sehingga sensor digital ini mampu mentransfer data tanpa perlu terhubung dengan manusia, tetapi menggunakan internet sebagai medianya. Titik-titik sensor digital yang berbasis wireless ini saling berkomunikasi satu sama lainnya sehingga membentuk jaringan.Setiap titik sensor menggunakan protokol untuk dapat saling berkomunikasi, protokol tersebut terdiri dari lapisan aplikasi, lapisan transport, lapisan jaringan, lapisan data link, lapisan fisik dan protokol lintas-lapisan.Komunikasi wireless ini hanya terjadi apabila terdapat link antara sensor dengan access point atau base station. dalam konsep multi hop wireless ini ditempatkan satu atau lebih access point diantara sepanjang jalur link yang berfungsi untuk menerima dam meneruskan paket data melalui link wireless. Jaringan multi hop ini memiliki beberapa manfaat diantaranya dapat memperluas jangkauan jaringan dan meningkatkan konektivitas. Dalam penelitian ini akan dilakukan analisa mengenai aspek-aspek multi hop routing pada wireless sensor network digital sehingga dapat dibangun suatu jaringan wireless multi hop yang andal, efektif dan berkecepatan tinggi. Kata kunci : multi hop, routing, wireless sensor network, sensor digital, IoT, access point, base station
Design of Hydrogel Silk-Based Microarrays and Molecular Beacons for Reagentless Point-of-Care Diagnostics
Authors: Sampieri Alicia , Monroy-Contreras Ricardo , Asanov Alexander , Vaca Luis
Published: July 2022

We have developed a novel microarray system based on three technologies: 1) molecular beacons designed to interact with DNA targets at room temperature (25–27°C), 2) tridimensional silk-based microarrays containing the molecular beacons immersed in the silk hydrogel, and 3) shallow angle illumination, which uses separated optical pathways for excitation and emission. Unlike conventional microarrays that exhibit reduced signal-to-background ratio, require several stages of incubation, rinsing, and stringency control, and measure only end-point results, our microarray technology provides enhanced signal-to-background ratio (achieved by separating the optical pathways for excitation and emission, resulting in reduced stray light), performs analysis rapidly in one step without the need for labeling DNA targets, and measures the entire course of association kinetics between target DNA and the molecular beacons. To illustrate the benefits of our technology, we conducted microarray assays designed for the identification of influenza viruses. We show that in a single microarray slide, we can identify the virus subtype according to the molecular beacons designed for hemagglutinin (H1, H2, and H3) and neuraminidase (N1, N2). We also show the identification of human and swine influenza using sequence-specific molecular beacons. This microarray technology can be easily implemented for reagentless point-of-care diagnostics of several contagious diseases, including coronavirus variants responsible for the current pandemic.
Characterizing the respiratory-induced mechanical stimulation at the maxillary sinus floor following sinus augmentation by computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Li Qing , Wang Zhongyu , Wang Chao , Wang Hom-Lay
Published: July 2022

Background: The relationship between maxillary sinus pneumatization and respiratory-induced fluid mechanics remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to simulate and measure the respiratory-induced mechanical stimulation at the sinus floor under different respiratory conditions and to investigate its potential effect on the elevated sinus following sinus-lifting procedures.

Methods: The nasal airway together with the bilateral maxillary sinuses of the selected patient was segmented and digitally modeled from a computed tomographic image. The sinus floors of the models were elevated by simulated sinus augmentations using computer-aided design. The numerical simulations of sinus fluid motion under different respiratory conditions were performed using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) algorithm. Sinus wall shear stress and static pressure on the pre-surgical and altered sinus floors were examined and quantitatively compared.

Results: Streamlines with minimum airflow velocity were visualized in the sinus. The sinus floor pressure and the wall shear stress increased with the elevated inlet flow rate, but the magnitude of these mechanical stimulations remained at a negligible level. The surgical technique and elevated height had no significant influence on the wall pressure and the fluid mechanics.

Conclusion: This study shows that respiratory-induced mechanical stimulation in the sinus floor is negligible before and after sinus augmentation.
A three-dimensional culture system for generating cardiac spheroids composed of cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, smooth-muscle cells, and cardiac fibroblasts derived from human induced-pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Kahn-Krell Asher , Pretorius Danielle , Guragain Bijay , Lou Xi , Wei Yuhua , Zhang Jianhua , Qiao Aijun , Nakada Yuji , Kamp Timothy J. , Ye Lei , Zhang Jianyi
Published: July 2022

Cardiomyocytes (CMs), endothelial cells (ECs), smooth-muscle cells (SMCs), and cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) differentiated from human induced-pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are the fundamental components of cell-based regenerative myocardial therapy and can be used as in-vitro models for mechanistic studies and drug testing. However, newly differentiated hiPSC-CMs tend to more closely resemble fetal CMs than the mature CMs of adult hearts, and current techniques for improving CM maturation can be both complex and labor-intensive. Thus, the production of CMs for commercial and industrial applications will require more elementary methods for promoting CM maturity. CMs tend to develop a more mature phenotype when cultured as spheroids in a three-dimensional (3D) environment, rather than as two-dimensional monolayers, and the activity of ECs, SMCs, and CFs promote both CM maturation and electrical activity. Here, we introduce a simple and reproducible 3D-culture–based process for generating spheroids containing all four cardiac-cell types (i.e., cardiac spheroids) that is compatible with a wide range of applications and research equipment. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that the inclusion of vascular cells and CFs was associated with an increase in spheroid size, a decline in apoptosis, an improvement in sarcomere maturation and a change in CM bioenergetics.
Ednrb−/− mice with hirschsprung disease are missing Gad2-expressing enteric neurons in the ganglionated small intestine
Authors: Bhave Sukhada , Guyer Richard A. , Picard Nicole , Omer Meredith , Hotta Ryo , Goldstein Allan M.
Published: July 2022

Hirschsprung disease is most often characterized by aganglionosis limited to the distal colon and rectum, and mice lacking the Endothelin receptor type B (Ednrb) faithfully recapitulate this phenotype. However, despite the presence of enteric ganglia in the small intestine, both human patients and Ednrb−/− mice suffer from dysmotility and altered gastrointestinal function, thus raising the possibility of enteric nervous system (ENS) abnormalities proximal to the aganglionic region. We undertook the present study to determine whether abnormalities with the ENS in ganglionated regions may account for abnormal gastrointestinal function. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on ENS cells from the small intestine of Ednrb−/− mice and compared the results to a published single-cell dataset. Our results identified a missing population of neurons marked by the enzyme Gad2, which catalyzes the production of γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), in the small intestine of Ednrb−/− animals. This result was confirmed by immunostaining enteric ganglia from Ednrb−/− mice and their wild-type littermates. These data show for the first time that ganglionated regions of the Hirschsprung gut lack a neuronal subpopulation, which may explain the persistent gastrointestinal dysfunction after surgical correction of Hirschsprung disease.
Reconstitution of Phase-Separated Signaling Clusters and Actin Polymerization on Supported Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Cheng Xiaohang , Ullo Maria F. , Case Lindsay B.
Published: July 2022

Liquid–liquid phase separation driven by weak interactions between multivalent molecules contributes to the cellular organization by promoting the formation of biomolecular condensates. At membranes, phase separation can promote the assembly of transmembrane proteins with their cytoplasmic binding partners into micron-sized membrane-associated condensates. For example, phase separation promotes clustering of nephrin, a transmembrane adhesion molecule, resulting in increased Arp2/3 complex-dependent actin polymerization. In vitro reconstitution is a powerful approach to understand phase separation in biological systems. With a bottom-up approach, we can determine the molecules necessary and sufficient for phase separation, map the phase diagram by quantifying de-mixing over a range of molecular concentrations, assess the material properties of the condensed phase using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), and even determine how phase separation impacts downstream biochemical activity. Here, we describe a detailed protocol to reconstitute nephrin clusters on supported lipid bilayers with purified recombinant protein. We also describe how to measure Arp2/3 complex-dependent actin polymerization on bilayers using fluorescence microscopy. These different protocols can be performed independently or combined as needed. These general techniques can be applied to reconstitute and study phase-separated signaling clusters of many different receptors or to generally understand how actin polymerization is regulated at membranes.
Hybrid Graphenene Oxide/Cellulose Nanofillers to Enhance Mechanical and Barrier Properties of Chitosan-Based Composites
Authors: Santillo C. , Wang Yinglei , Buonocore G. G. , Gentile G. , Verdolotti L. , Kaciulis Saulius , Xia H. , Lavorgna M.
Published: July 2022

Chitosan-based hybrid nanocomposites, containing cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), graphene oxide (GO), and borate as crosslinking agents, were successfully prepared by solution-casting technique. The synergistic effect of the two fillers, and the role of the cross-linker, in enhancing the structural and functional properties of the chitosan polymer, was investigated. XPS results confirm the chemical interaction between borate ions and hydroxyl groups of chitosan, GO, and CNCs. The morphological characterization shows that the GO sheets are oriented along the casting surface, whereas the CNC particles are homogenously distributed in the sample. Results of tensile tests reveal that the presence of graphene oxide enhances the elastic modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break, and toughness of chitosan, while cellulose and borate induce an increase in the elastic modulus and stress at the yield point. In particular, the borate-crosslinked chitosan-based sample containing 0.5 wt% of GO and 0.5 wt% of CNCs shows an elongation at a break value of 30.2% and a toughness value of 988 J*m−3 which are improved by 124% and 216%, respectively, compared with the pristine chitosan. Moreover, the water permeability results show that the presence of graphene oxide slightly increases the water barrier properties, whereas the borate and cellulose nanocrystals significantly reduce the water vapor permeability of the polymer by about 50%. Thus, by modulating the content of the two reinforcing fillers, it is possible to obtain chitosan-based nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical and water barrier properties which can be potentially used in various applications such as food and electronic packaging.
Review of catalytic reforming of biomass pyrolysis oil for hydrogen production
Authors: Zhang Chengbing
Published: July 2022

After more than 20 years of development, biomass rapid pyrolysis technology has become technically mature. However, its main product biomass pyrolysis oil (bio-oil) has limited its application due to low energy density and poor thermal stability. Catalytic reforming is a workable way for bio-oil subsequent utilization to produce hydrogen. In this article, the research status and main research directions of bio-oil catalytic reforming for hydrogen production are summarized, with emphasis on CO2 adsorption-enhanced catalytic reforming for hydrogen production.
Streptococcus Mutans Membrane Vesicles Enhance Candida albicans Pathogenicity and Carbohydrate Metabolism
Authors: Wu Ruixue , Cui Guxin , Cao Yina , Zhao Wei , Lin Huancai
Published: July 2022

Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, as the most common bacterium and fungus in the oral cavity respectively, are considered microbiological risk markers of early childhood caries. S. mutans membrane vesicles (MVs) contain virulence proteins, which play roles in biofilm formation and disease progression. Our previous research found that S. mutans MVs harboring glucosyltransferases augment C. albicans biofilm formation by increasing exopolysaccharide production, but the specific impact of S. mutans MVs on C. albicans virulence and pathogenicity is still unknown. In the present study, we developed C. albicans biofilms on the surface of cover glass, hydroxyapatite discs and bovine dentin specimens. The results showed that C. albicans can better adhere to the tooth surface with the effect of S. mutans MVs. Meanwhile, we employed C. albicans biofilm-bovine dentin model to evaluate the influence of S. mutans MVs on C. albicans biofilm cariogenicity. In the S. mutans MV-treated group, the bovine dentin surface hardness loss was significantly increased and the surface morphology showed more dentin tubule exposure and broken dentin tubules. Subsequently, integrative proteomic and metabolomic approaches were used to identify the differentially expressed proteins and metabolites of C. albicans when cocultured with S. mutans MVs. The combination of proteomics and metabolomics analysis indicated that significantly regulated proteins and metabolites were involved in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism. In summary, the results of the present study proved that S. mutans MVs increase bovine dentin demineralization provoked by C. albicans biofilms and enhance the protein and metabolite expression of C. albicans related to carbohydrate metabolism.
Cardiac Function Assessment in Fetuses With Ductus Arteriosus Constriction: A Two-Dimensional Echocardiography and FetalHQ Study
Authors: Ma Jing , Cao Haiyan , Hong Liu , Liu Juanjuan , Song Xiaoyan , Shi Jiawei , Zhang Yi , Cui Li , Zhang Li , Xie Mingxing
Published: July 2022

Background

Fetal ductal constriction (DC) is associated with excessive polyphenol-rich food (PRF) consumption during pregnancy. However, the effect of this hemodynamic change on fetal cardiac function still needs to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the cardiac function of fetuses with PRF-related DC and to describe serial observations of cardiac function changes.

Methods

We compared the traditional echocardiographic indices, including morphological, hemodynamic, and functional parameters, between study fetuses and controls. For global and segmental deformation analysis of the left and right ventricles, fetalHQ with the speckle-tracking technique was used to calculate sphericity index (SI), global longitudinal strain (GLS), fractional shortening (FS), fractional area change (FAC), etc. In addition, follow-up data were compared with the generalized linear model.

Results

A total of 60 DC fetuses and 60 gestational-matched controls were enrolled in our study, with 20 DC fetuses undertaking a follow-up echocardiogram after 2–3 weeks. Compared with controls, there was a distinct decrease in right ventricular GLS (RVGLS) (−13.39 ± 3.77 vs. −21.59 ± 2.51, p < 0.001), RVFAC (22.20 ± 9.56 vs. 36.01 ± 4.84, p < 0.001), left ventricular GLS (LVGLS) (−19.52 ± 3.24 vs. −23.81 ± 2.01 p < 0.001), and LVFAC (39.64 ± 7.32 vs. 44.89 ± 4.91, p = 0.004). For 24-segment FS analysis, DC fetuses showed lower FS in left ventricular (LV) segments 18–24, with no difference in LV segments 1–17. Right ventricular (RV) FS in segments 4–23 was also reduced in the DC group. The 24-segment SI analysis indicated significantly lower SI in DC than those in controls for LV segments 1–14 and RV segments 19–24. We found that the pulsatility index (PI) of ductus arteriosus (DA) was an independent variable for RVGLS (β = −0.29, p = 0.04). In 20 DC fetuses with follow-up echocardiograms, no obvious difference in myocardial deformation was found between the initial examination and follow-up data.

Conclusion

Left and right ventricular performances were both impaired in DC fetuses, along with a series of morphological and hemodynamic changes. Although the state of DA constriction improved on second examinations, cardiac function was not completely restored.
The incidence and risk of venous thromboembolism associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters in hospitalized patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Puri Anju , Dai Haiyun , Giri Mohan , Wu Chengfei , Huang Huanhuan , Zhao Qinghua
Published: July 2022

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) can be fatal if not treated promptly, and individual studies have reported wide variability in rates of VTE associated with peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC). We thus conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the overall incidence and risk of developing PICC-related VTE in hospitalized patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception until January 26, 2022. In studies with a non-comparison arm, the pooled incidence of PICC-related VTE was calculated. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was calculated to assess the risk of VTE in the studies that compared PICC to the central venous catheter (CVC). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess methodological quality.

Results

A total of 75 articles (58 without a comparison arm and 17 with), including 109292 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled incidence of symptomatic VTE was 3.7% (95% CI: 3.1–4.4) in non-comparative studies. In the subgroup meta-analysis, the incidence of VTE was highest in patients who were in a critical care setting (10.6%; 95% CI: 5.0–17.7). Meta-analysis of comparative studies revealed that PICC was associated with a statistically significant increase in the odds of VTE events compared with CVC (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.83–3.37; P < 0.01). However, in subgroup analysis stratified by the study design, there was no significant difference in VTE events between the PICC and CVC in randomized controlled trials (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 0.77–6.74; P = 0.13).

Conclusion

Best practice standards such as PICC tip verification and VTE prophylaxis can help reduce the incidence and risk of PICC-related VTE. The risk-benefit of inserting PICC should be carefully weighed, especially in critically ill patients. Cautious interpretation of our results is important owing to substantial heterogeneity among the studies included in this study.
Clinical epidemiology of venous thromboembolic disease: An institutional registry
Authors: AlSheef Mohammed , Alshammari Fouad Taiwilaa , Alhawish Mashel khalid , Alghamdi Abduljabar Ghazi , Alqudhybi Abdullah Fahad , Abu-Shaheen Amani
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major health concern, with an annual incidence of ~1 in 1,000. The epidemiology of VTE in Saudi Arabia has not been adequately described yet. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics, risk factors, diagnostic methods, management, and clinical outcomes of patients with VTE.

Methods

This study was based on a VTE registry created over ten years at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All adult inpatients and outpatients referred to the thrombosis unit of the KFMC with clinically suspected VTE including pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were enrolled. Data were collected using a standardized case report form, which included demographic and clinical characteristics, risk factors, diagnostic methods, management, and outcomes.

Results

A total of 1,008 patients were recruited. Most patients were women (73.2%), and more than half of all patients had unprovoked VTE (58%). Among the provoked cases, the most frequent cause was surgery (29.8%), followed by hospitalization (24.2%). There was a significant statistical association between provoked status and sex, family history of VTE, smoking, recent hospitalization within 3 months for a medical condition, the site of VTE, and underlying peripheral vascular disease and varicose veins (all p < 0.05). The majority (88.3%) of patients with deep vein thrombosis was hospitalized for ≤3 days (n = 433, 79.9%), while fewer than half of the patients with PE needed hospitalization (45.3%). Thrombolytic therapy was administered to 14.1% (n = 142) of patients, and catheter-directed thrombolysis was performed in 1.0% (n = 10) of patients. The odds of mortality for provoked VTE were 3.20 times higher than those of unprovoked VTE [2.12–4.83; p-value < 0.001].

Conclusion

Unprovoked VTE was more common than provoked VTE in the Saudi Arabian cohort, implying hereditary predisposition. Furthermore, male sex, family history of VTE, prior history of VTE, type of VTE, underlying obesity, history of trauma, surgery, hospitalization, pregnancy, and 3–6 months of anticoagulation therapy were the most critical risk factors for VTE recurrence. The treatment patterns and clinical results were comparable to those reported in the literature.
First-Trimester Sequential Screening for Preeclampsia Using Angiogenic Factors: Study Protocol for a Prospective, Multicenter, Real Clinical Setting Study
Authors: Trilla Cristina , Luna Cristina , De León Socorro Silvia , Rodriguez Leire , Ruiz-Romero Aina , Mora Brugués Josefina , Benítez Delgado Taysa , Fabre Marta , Martin Martínez Alicia , Ruiz-Martinez Sara , Llurba Elisa , Oros Daniel
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The incidence of preeclampsia (PE) is about 2–8%, making it one of the leading causes of perinatal morbidity and maternal mortality in the world. Early prophylactic low dose administration (150 mg) of acetylsalicylic acid is associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of early-onset PE, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and neonatal mean stay in the intensive care unit (ICU). Universal implementation of a first-trimester screening system including angiogenic and antiangiogenic markers [the Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) and/or soluble fms-like Tyrosine Kinase-1 (sFlt-1)] has shown a prediction rate of 90% for early-onset PE but entails a high financial cost. The aim of this study is to determine the predictive and preventive capacity of a universal PE first-trimester two-step sequential screening model, determining the PlGF only in patients previously classified as intermediate risk by means of a multivariate model based on resources already used in the standard pregnancy control, in a real clinical setting. We hypothesize that this screening model will achieve similar diagnostic performance as the universal determination of PlGF but at a lower economic cost.

Methods and Analysis

This is a prospective, multicentric, cohort study in a real-world clinical setting. Every singleton pregnancy will be recruited at the routine first pregnancy visit. In a first step, the first-trimester risk of PE will be calculated using a multivariate Gaussian distribution model, based on medical history, mean blood pressure, Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A (PAPP-A), and Uterine Artery Doppler Pulsatility Index (UTPI). Patients will be classified into three risk groups for PE: (1) risk ≥ 1/50, high-risk with no further testing (blinded PlGF); (2) risk between 1/51 and 1/500, medium-risk requiring further testing; and (3) risk ≤ 1/501, low-risk with no further testing. In a second step, the PlGF will only be determined in those patients classified as intermediate risk after this first step, and then reclassified into high- or low-risk groups. Prophylactic administration of aspirin (150 mg/day) will be prescribed only in high risk patients. As a secondary objective, sFlt-1 values will be blindly determined in patients with high and intermediate risk to assess its potential performance in the screening for PE.

Ethics and Dissemination

The study will be conducted in accordance with the principles of Good Clinical Practice. This study is approved by the Aragon Research Ethics Committee (CEICA) on 3 July 2020 (15/2020).

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04767438.
School’s outdoor area as an educational and health-promoting resource for young teenagers
Authors: Mikalsen Hilde Kristin , Ninive Guro , Lagestad Pål
Published: July 2022

Regular physical activity (PA) is positive for the health of young people, but previous research has indicated that the proportion of the population attaining recommended levels of activity decreases with age. Several studies indicate that the PA pupils get during school hours represents an important part of their total PA. The purpose of this study was to examine the relation between the size of the school’s total outdoor area and pupils’ PA behavior during schooltime. ActiGraph GT1M accelerometers were used to measure objectively 12–13-year-old schoolchildren’s minutes of moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) during schooltime. The pupils (n = 300, 155 girls and 145 boys) came from 18 primary schools in two medium-sized municipalities in mid-Norway. Linear regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between the schools’ total outdoor area and outdoor area per pupil in relation to pupils’ weekly minutes of MVPA during schooltime. The results show no association with either the schools’ total outdoor area or the outdoor area per pupil, and the pupils’ weekly minutes of MVPA during schooltime. This finding indicates that there are probably factors in the school environment affecting young people’s level of activity during schooltime, other than the size of the schools’ outdoor area.