bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long non-coding RNA H19 expression and functional polymorphism rs217727 are linked to increased ischemic stroke risk
Authors: Rezaei Mohadese , Mokhtari Mohammad Javad , Bayat Mahnaz , Safari Anahid , Dianatpuor Mehdi , Tabrizi Reza , Asadabadi Tahereh , Borhani-Haghighi Afshin
Published: February 2021

Background

Efforts to identify potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of ischemic stroke (IS) are valuable. The H19 gene plays a functional role in increasing the prevalence of IS risk factors. We evaluated the correlation between H19 rs217727 polymorphism and the expression level of H19 lncRNA with susceptibility to IS among the Iranian population.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from IS patients (n = 114) and controls (n = 114). We concentrated on the expression pattern of H19 at different time points (i.e., 0–24, 24–48, and 48–72 h after stroke). The tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) method was applied for DNA genotyping. We used the quantitative real-time PCR to evaluate H19 expression levels. We used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to evaluate the diagnosis and prognosis of IS.

Results

The rs217727polymorphism of H19 was related with IS susceptibility in the co-dominant (OR = 2.92, 95% CI = 0.91–10.92, P = 0.04) and recessive models (OR = 2.80, 95% CI = 0.96–8.15, P = 0.04). H19 expression was significantly upregulated in IS and remained high for 72 h after stroke. ROC curves showed that H19 expression within the first 24 h from stroke onset might serve as a biomarker for the early diagnosis of IS with 79.49% sensitivity and 80.00% specificity. H19 expression in small vessel occlusion (SVO) and large-artery atherosclerosis (LAA) patients were 3.74 and 3.34 times higher than the undetermined (UD) subtype, respectively [OR = 3.74 95% CL (1.14–12.27) P = 0.030 and OR = 3.34 95% CL (1.13–9.85) P = 0.029].

Conclusion

The rs217727 polymorphism of the H19 is correlated with IS susceptibility, and H19 expression levels were higher in SVO and LAA patients. The upregulation of H19 may be considered as a diagnostic biomarker in IS among the Iranian population, but it cannot serve as a useful prognostic marker.
Efficacy of extracranial stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) added to standard treatment in patients with solid tumors (breast, prostate and non-small cell lung cancer) with up to 3 bone-only metastases: study protocol for a randomised phase III trial (STEREO-OS)
Authors: Thureau Sébastien , Marchesi Vincent , Vieillard Marie-Hélène , Perrier Lionel , Lisbona Albert , Leheurteur Marianne , Tredaniel Jean , Culine Stéphane , Dubray Bernard , Bonnet Naïma , Asselain Bernard , Salleron Julia , Faivre Jean-Christophe
Published: February 2021

Background

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is an innovative modality based on high precision planning and delivery. Cancer with bone metastases and oligometastases are associated with an intermediate or good prognosis. We assume that prolonged survival rates would be achieved if both the primary tumor and metastases are controlled by local treatment. Our purpose is to demonstrate, via a multicenter randomized phase III trial, that local treatment of metastatic sites with curative intent with SBRT associated of systemic standard of care treatment would improve the progression-free survival in patients with solid tumor (breast, prostate and non-small cell lung cancer) with up to 3 bone-only metastases compared to patients who received systemic standard of care treatment alone.

Methods

This is an open-labeled randomized superiority multicenter phase III trial. Patients with up to 3 bone-only metastases will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio.between Arm A (Experimental group): Standard care of treatment & SBRT to all bone metastases, and Arm B (Control group): standard care of treatment.

For patients receiving SBRT, radiotherapy dose and fractionation depends on the site of the bone metastasis and the proximity to critical normal structures. This study aims to accrue a total of 196 patients within 4 years.

The primary endpoint is progression-free survival at 1 year, and secondary endpoints include Bone progression-free survival; Local control; Cancer-specific survival; Overall survival; Toxicity; Quality of life; Pain score analysis, Cost-utility analysis; Cost-effectiveness analysis and Budget impact analysis.

Discussion

The expected benefit for the patient in the experimental arm is a longer expectancy of life without skeletal recurrence and the discomfort, pain and drastic reduction of mobility and handicap that the lack of local control of bone metastases eventually inflicts.

Trials registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03143322 Registered on May 8th 2017. Ongoing study
Telehealth sounds a bit challenging, but it has potential: participant and physiotherapist experiences of gym-based exercise intervention for Achilles tendinopathy monitored via telehealth
Authors: Hasani F. , Malliaras P. , Haines T. , Munteanu S. E. , White J. , Ridgway J. , Nicklen P. , Moran A. , Jansons P.
Published: February 2021

Background

Although telehealth is becoming more popular for delivery of care for individuals with musculoskeletal pain, to our knowledge telehealth has not been used to manage Achilles tendinopathy. This research aimed to explore the experience of participants and physiotherapists with gym-based exercise interventions for Achilles tendinopathy monitored via videoconference.

Methods

A qualitative, interpretive description design was performed using semi-structured interviews (8 participants) and a focus group (7 physiotherapists). Participants and physiotherapists were interviewed about their experiences of the use of telehealth during a gym-based exercise intervention incorporating different calf load parameters for Achilles tendinopathy. We employed an inductive thematic analysis approach to analyse the data.

Results

Three themes identified from both participants and physiotherapists included i) acceptability of telehealth; ii) enablers to adherence with telehealth; and iii) barriers to adherence with telehealth. Two extra themes arose from participants regarding adherence with gym-based exercise, including enablers to adherence with the exercise intervention, and barriers to adherence with the exercise intervention. Both participants and physiotherapists expressed overall satisfaction and acceptability of telehealth monitoring of gym-based exercise.

Conclusion

Gym-based exercise intervention for Achilles tendinopathy involving weekly telehealth monitoring was acceptable to both participants and physiotherapists. Potential enablers and barriers were identified that may improve adherence to this type of intervention.
Transient light-activated gene expression in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Minami Shiaki A. , Shah Priya S.
Published: February 2021

Background

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are widely used for industrial production of biopharmaceuticals. Many genetic, chemical, and environmental approaches have been developed to modulate cellular pathways to improve titers. However, these methods are often irreversible or have off-target effects. Development of techniques which are precise, tunable, and reversible will facilitate temporal regulation of target pathways to maximize titers. In this study, we investigate the use of optogenetics in CHO cells. The light-activated CRISPR-dCas9 effector (LACE) system was first transiently transfected to express eGFP in a light-inducible manner. Then, a stable system was tested using lentiviral transduction.

Results

Transient transfections resulted in increasing eGFP expression as a function of LED intensity, and activation for 48 h yielded up to 4-fold increased eGFP expression compared to cells kept in the dark. Fluorescence decreased once the LACE system was deactivated, and a protein half-life of 14.9 h was calculated, which is in agreement with values reported in the literature. In cells stably expressing the LACE system, eGFP expression was confirmed, but there was no significant increase in expression following light activation.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggest that optogenetics can regulate CHO cell cultures, but development of stable cell lines requires optimized expression levels of the LACE components to maintain high dynamic range.
Quality and readability of web-based Arabic health information on periodontal disease
Authors: Al-Ak’hali Mohammed Sultan , Fageeh Hytham N. , Halboub Esam , Alhajj Mohammed Nasser , Ariffin Zaihan
Published: February 2021

Background

Currently, the Internet seems to be a helpful tool for obtaining information about everything that we think about, including diseases, their prevention and treatment approaches. However, doubts exist regarding the quality and readability of such information. This study sought to assess the quality and readability of web-based Arabic information on periodontal disease.

Methods

In this infodemiological study, the Google, Yahoo!, and Bing search engines were searched using specific Arabic terms on periodontal disease. The first 100 consecutive websites from each engine were obtained. The eligible websites were categorized as commercial, health/professional, journalism, and other. The following tools were applied to assess the quality of the information on the included websites: the Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode), the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and the DISCERN tool. The readability was assessed using an online readability tool.

Results

Of the 300 websites, 89 were eligible for quality and readability analyses. Only two websites (2.3%) were HONcode certified. Based on the DISCERN tool, 43 (48.3%) websites had low scores. The mean score of the JAMA benchmarks was 1.6 ± 1.0, but only 3 (3.4%) websites achieved “yes” responses for all four JAMA criteria. Based on the DISCERN tool, health/professional websites revealed the highest quality of information compared to other website categories. Most of the health/professional websites revealed moderate-quality information, while 55% of the commercial websites, 66% of journalism websites, and 43% of other websites showed poor quality information. Regarding readability, most of the analyzed websites presented simple and readable written content.

Conclusions

Aside from readable content, Arabic health information on the analyzed websites on periodontal disease is below the required level of quality.
Prognostic value of eight immune gene signatures in pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: Wang Wenting , Xu Zhijian , Wang Ning , Yao Ruyong , Qin Tao , Lin Hao , Yue Lu
Published: February 2021

Background

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract, and it has a poor prognosis. Traditional methods are not effective to accurately assess the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. Immunotherapy is a new promising approach for the treatment of pancreatic cancer; however, some patients do not respond well to immunotherapy, which may be related to tumor microenvironment regulation. In this study, we use gene expression database to mine important immune genes and establish a prognostic prediction model for pancreatic cancer patients. We hope to provide a feasible method to evaluate the prognosis of pancreatic cancer and provide valuable targets for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.

Results

We used univariate COX proportional hazard regression analysis, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and multivariate COX regression analysis to screen 8 genes related to prognosis from the 314 immune-related genes, and used them to construct a new clinical prediction model in the TCGA pancreatic cancer cohort. Subsequently, we evaluated the prognostic value of the model. The Kaplan–Meier cumulative curve showed that patients with low risk scores survived significantly longer than patients with high risk scores. The area under the ROC curve (AUC value) of the risk score was 0.755. The univariate COX analysis showed that the risk score was significantly related to overall survival (HR 1.406, 95% CI 1.237–1.598, P < 0.001), and multivariate analysis showed that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor (HR 1.400, 95% CI 1.287–1.522, P < 0.001). Correlation analysis found that immune genes are closely related to tumor immune microenvironment.

Conclusions

Based on the TCGA-PAAD cohort, we identified immune-related markers with independent prognostic significance, validated, and analyzed their biological functions, to provide a feasible method for the prognosis of pancreatic cancer and provide potentially valuable targets for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
Anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects elicited by short chain fatty acids produced by Escherichia coli isolated from healthy human gut microbiota
Authors: Nakkarach Atchareeya , Foo Hooi Ling , Song Adelene Ai-Lian , Mutalib Nur Elina Abdul , Nitisinprasert Sunee , Withayagiat Ulaiwan
Published: February 2021

Background

Extracellular metabolites of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) excreted by gut microbiota have been reported to play an important role in the regulation of intestinal homeostasis. Apart from supplying energy, SCFA also elicit immune stimulation in animal and human cells. Therefore, an attempt was conducted to isolate SCFA producing bacteria from healthy human microbiota. The anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects of extracellular metabolites and individual SFCA were further investigated by using breast, colon cancer and macrophage cells. Toxin, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine gene expressions were investigated by RT-qPCR analyses in this study.

Results

Escherichia coli KUB-36 was selected in this study since it has the capability to produce seven SCFA extracellularly. It produced acetic acid as the main SCFA. It is a non-exotoxin producer and hence, it is a safe gut microbiota. The IC50 values indicated that the E. coli KUB-36 metabolites treatment elicited more potent cytotoxicity effect on MCF7 breast cancer cell as compared to colon cancer and leukemia cancer cells but exhibited little cytotoxic effects on normal breast cell. Furthermore, E. coli KUB-36 metabolites and individual SCFA could affect inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide-induced THP-1 macrophage cells since they suppressed inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α well as compared to the control, whilst inducing anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 expression.

Conclusion

SCFA producing E. coli KUB-36 possessed vast potential as a beneficial gut microbe since it is a non-exotoxin producer that exhibited beneficial cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and elicited anti-inflammatory activity simultaneously. However, the probiotic characteristic of E. coli KUB-36 should be further elucidated using in vivo animal models.
Spatial and temporal village-level prevalence of Plasmodium infection and associated risk factors in two districts of Meghalaya, India
Authors: Kessler Anne , Shylla Badondor , Singh Upasana Shyamsunder , Lyngdoh Rilynti , Mawkhlieng Bandapkupar , van Eijk Anna Maria , Sullivan Steven A. , Das Aparup , Walton Catherine , Wilson Mark L. , Carlton Jane M. , Albert Sandra
Published: February 2021

Background

Despite declining incidence over the past decade, malaria remains an important health burden in India. This study aimed to assess the village-level temporal patterns ofPlasmodiuminfection in two districts of the north-eastern state of Meghalaya and evaluate risk factors that might explain these patterns.

Methods

Primary Health Centre passive malaria case data from 2014 to 2018 were analysed to characterize village-specific annual incidence and temporal trends. Active malaria case detection was undertaken in 2018 and 2019 to detectPlasmodiuminfections using PCR. A questionnaire collected socio-demographic, environmental, and behavioural data, and households were spatially mapped via GPS. Adult mosquitoes were sampled at a subset of subjects' houses, andAnopheleswere identified by PCR and sequencing. Risk factors forPlasmodiuminfection were evaluated using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, and spatial cluster analysis was undertaken.

Results

The annual malaria incidence from PHC-based passive surveillance datasets in 2014–2018 was heterogenous but declining across villages in both districts. Active surveillance in 2018 enrolled 1468 individuals from 468 households (West Jaintia Hills) and 1274 individuals from 359 households (West Khasi Hills).Plasmodium falciparumprevalence per 100 people varied from 0 to 4.1% in the nine villages of West Jaintia Hills, and from 0 to 10.6% in the 12 villages of West Khasi Hills.Significant clustering ofP. falciparuminfections [observed = 11, expected = 2.15, Relative Risk (RR) = 12.65;p < 0.001] was observed in West Khasi Hills. A total of 13Anophelesspecies were found at 53 houses in five villages, withAnopheles jeyporiensisbeing the most abundant. Risk of infection increased with presence of mosquitoes and electricity in the households [Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.19 and 1.11], respectively. Households with reported animals had reduced infection risk (OR = 0.91).

Conclusion

Malaria incidence during 2014–2018 declined in all study villages covered by the passive surveillance data, a period that includes the first widespread insecticide-treated net campaign. The survey data from 2018 revealed a significant association betweenPlasmodiuminfection and certain household characteristics. Since species ofPlasmodium-competent mosquito vectors continue to be abundant, malaria resurgence remains a threat, and control efforts should continue.
Remote data collection during COVID-19 restrictions: an example from a refugee and asylum-seeker participant group in the UK
Authors: Walker Lauren , Bailey Della , Churchill Rachel , Peckham Emily
Published: February 2021

This article describes how one trial site of the Refugee Emergency: Defining and Implementing Novel Evidence-based psychosocial interventions (RE-DEFINE) study, designed to evaluate a Self Help+ intervention with Arabic-speaking refugees and asylum seekers currently living in the UK and experiencing stress, was adapted to accommodate social distancing rules and working from home during the COVID-19 restrictions. Digital divide, risk and safety management, acceptability of remote data collection and practical considerations are described. The adaptions to methods have practical implications for researchers looking for more flexible approaches in response to continuing restrictions resulting from COVID-19, and the authors believe that others could adopt such an approach. The need for a further acceptability study focusing on human and economic costs and benefits of telephone and video as an alternative to face-to-face data collection is indicated.

Trials Registration

Refugee Emergency - Defining and Implementing Novel Evidence-based psychosocial interventions RE-DEFINE. (Trials registration numbers NCT03571347, NCT03587896) 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030259 (2019)
What discontinued trials teach us about trial registration?
Authors: Vellinga Akke , Lambe Kathryn , O’Connor Paul , O’Dea Angela
Published: February 2021

Objective

Trial registries were set up to improve transparency, remove duplication, improve awareness and avoid waste. Many trials never reach the point of patient enrolment due to a myriad of reasons. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons for and characteristics of discontinuation of trials.

Results

A total of 163 discontinued trials were identified and compared to completed trials. A Survey was designed to further explore the nature and conduct of the trial. No differences in registered and categorised information was observed between discontinued and completed trials. Most trials discontinue due to patient or participant recruitment issues, often related to funding. Substantial changes to procedures or the protocol or changes to recruitment strategy were also commonly cited reasons. Survey information was available for 21 discontinued and 28 completed trials and no obvious differences could be identified. Our findings highlight the underlying problem of lack of detail, suboptimal recording, dated information and incomplete reporting of trials within a trial registry which hampers sharing and learning. To date, important progress has been made by the implementation of standards and the requirement of trials to be registered. Our review identifies areas where further improvements can be made.
Bloodstream infection with Acinetobacter baumanii in a Plasmodium falciparum positive infant: a case report
Authors: Akenten Charity Wiafe , Boahen Kennedy Gyau , Marfo Kwadwo Sarfo , Sarpong Nimako , Dekker Denise , Struck Nicole Sunaina , Osei-Tutu Lawrence , May Juergen , Amuasi John Humphrey , Eibach Daniel
Published: February 2021

Background

The increasing incidence of multi-antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, coupled with the risk of co-infections in malaria-endemic regions, complicates accurate diagnosis and prolongs hospitalization, thereby increasing the total cost of illness. Further, there are challenges in making the correct choice of antibiotic treatment and duration, precipitated by a lack of access to microbial culture facilities in many hospitals in Ghana. The aim of this case report is to highlight the need for blood cultures or alternative rapid tests to be performed routinely in malaria patients, to diagnose co-infections with bacteria, especially when symptoms persist after antimalarial treatment.

Case presentation

A 6-month old black female child presented to the Agogo Presbyterian Hospital with fever, diarrhea, and a 3-day history of cough. A rapid diagnostic test for malaria and Malaria microscopy was positive for P. falciparum with a parasitemia of 224 parasites/μl. The patient was treated with Intravenous Artesunate, parental antibiotics (cefuroxime and gentamicin) and oral dispersible zinc tablets in addition to intravenous fluids. Blood culture yielded Acinetobacter baumanii, which was resistant to all of the third-generation antibiotics included in the susceptibility test conducted, but sensitive to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. After augmenting treatment with intravenous ciprofloxacin, all symptoms resolved.

Conclusion

Even though this study cannot confirm whether the bacterial infection was nosocomial or otherwise, the case highlights the necessity to test malaria patients for possible co-infections, especially when fever persists after parasites have been cleared from the bloodstream. Bacterial blood cultures and antimicrobial susceptibility testing should be routinely performed to guide treatment options for febril illnesses in Ghana in order to reduce inappropriate use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and limit the development of antimicrobial resistance.
Impact of targeted educational intervention towards public knowledge and perception of antibiotic use and resistance in the state of Perak, Malaysia
Authors: Thong Kah Shuen , Chang Chee Tao , Lee Ming , Lee Jason Choong Yin , Tan Hoo Seng , Shafie Asrul Akmal
Published: February 2021

Background

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern, accelerated by antibiotic overuse. Inadequate knowledge among the public has been associated with inappropriate use of antibiotics. This study determined the impact of a self-developed educational leaflet for addressing specific knowledge gaps in antibiotic use among the public.

Methods

This was an experimental study conducted at five hospitals and 20 primary health care clinics in the state of Perak. Adults over 18 years of age were recruited using sequential sampling. The first phase of data collection consisted of a pre-intervention assessment, an educational session, and an immediate post-intervention assessment. Each educational session was conducted by trained pharmacists and lasted approximately 15 min for each participant. A two-week post-intervention assessment was then conducted via a phone call to re-assess the participants using the same questionnaire.

Results

Out of 300 questionnaires distributed, 234 were completed for our study. The mean age of participants was 40.7 ± 14.6 years old. Most of the respondents were female (143, 61.1%), Malay (162, 69.2%), and had tertiary education (162, 69.2%). A mean score was generated for each domain, with knowledge towards antibiotic resistance: 2.83 ± 1.28 pre-intervention, 3.76 ± 0.62 immediate post-intervention, and 3.67 ± 0.78 two-weeks post-intervention (total score: 4.00); knowledge towards antibiotic use: 2.03 ± 1.56 pre-intervention, 4.56 ± 1.46 immediate post-intervention, and 4.32 ± 1.48 two-weeks post-intervention (total score: 6.00); perception towards antibiotic use: 2.83 ± 1.38 pre-intervention, 4.25 ± 1.06 immediate post-intervention, and 4.22 ± 1.02 two-weeks post-intervention (total score: 5.00). Significant improvement in the mean scores were found before and after intervention in all domains (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The educational leaflet was able to address salient knowledge gaps in the participants and remained sustainable over a two-week follow-up. Thus, its inclusion into future antibiotic awareness campaigns should be encouraged.
Investigating feedback implemented by instructors to support online competency-based learning (CBL): a multiple case study
Authors: Wang Huanhuan , Tlili Ahmed , Lehman James D. , Lu Hang , Huang Ronghuai
Published: February 2021

Instructional feedback has the power to enhance learning. However, learners do not always feel satisfied with their feedback experience. Simultaneously, little attention has been paid on investigating how feedback is implemented in online competency-based learning (CBL). CBL is an approach under which learning activities are organized in a non-linear manner to help learners achieve pre-defined competencies. This study applied a multiple case study method, and 17,266 pieces of the coded feedback text, given by instructors for three learning tasks from a blended undergraduate course, were analyzed. The results showed that instructors implemented 11 types of feedback. Feedback that was used to give praise was less effective, but was frequently used. Regulative feedback and emotional feedback can be very effective, but they were actually rarely used. Feedback for diagnosis, suggesting improvements, and praise was frequently and consistently used across tasks with different complexity. In contrast, feedback used for complementary teaching and time management, as well as emotional feedback were rarely used. Based on the obtained findings, the potential causes and suggestions for improving feedback implementation were discussed.
Stress-related physical and mental disorders: a new paradigm
Authors: Halbreich Uriel
Published: February 2021

Stress-related disorders are diverse and they may be mental and physical. Often, several body systems and organs are involved simultaneously. The pathophysiology of stress-related disorders involves many factors: an observable or perceived stressor, an individual dynamically evolving vulnerability and maladaptation leading to imbalance, as well as environmental, cultural, gender and life-cycle variables. There is a need to develop a comprehensive quantifiable stress assessment instrument. It would be based on the ‘stress factor’, a dimension that would integrate biological, psychological, social, economic and spiritual parameters and would allow for cultural sensitivity. It would contribute to clinical operational sophistication and would illuminate treatment options and multidimensional well-being interventions. Hopefully, it would facilitate development of culturally sensitive pharmaceutical or biophysiological adaptogens and homeostatic interventions.
Molecular Definition of Pseudohypoparathyroidism Variants
Authors: Jüppner Harald
Published: February 2021

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) and pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PPHP) are caused by mutations and/or epigenetic changes at the complex GNAS locus on chromosome 20q13.3 that undergoes parent-specific methylation changes at several differentially methylated regions (DMRs). GNAS encodes the alpha-subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gsα) and several splice variants thereof. PHP type Ia (PHP1A) is caused by heterozygous inactivating mutations involving the maternal exons 1-13. Heterozygosity of these maternal GNAS mutations cause PTH-resistant hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia because paternal Gsα expression is suppressed in certain organs thus leading to little or no Gsα protein in the proximal renal tubules and other tissues. Besides biochemical abnormalities, PHP1A patients show developmental abnormalities, referred to as Albright’s hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO). Some, but not all of these AHO features are encountered also in patients affected by PPHP, who carry paternal Gsα-specific mutations and typically show no laboratory abnormalities. Autosomal dominant PHP type Ib (AD-PHP1B) is caused by heterozygous maternal deletions within GNAS or STX16, which are associated with loss of methylation at the A/B DMR alone or at all maternally methylated GNAS exons. Loss of methylation of exon A/B and the resulting biallelic expression of A/B transcript reduces Gsα expression thus leading to hormonal resistance. Epigenetic changes at all differentially methylated GNAS regions are also observed in sporadic PHP1B, which is the most frequent PHP1B variant. However, this disease variant remains unresolved at the molecular level, except for rare cases with paternal uniparental isodisomy or heterodisomy of chromosome 20q (patUPD20q).
Potential Interaction Between SARS-CoV-2 and Thyroid: A Review
Authors: Chen Wenjie , Tian Yuang , Li Zhihui , Zhu Jingqiang , Wei Tao , Lei Jianyong
Published: February 2021

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) produced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is sweeping the world in a very short time. Although much has been learned about the clinical course, prognostic inflammatory markers, and disease complications of COVID-19, the potential interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and the thyroid is poorly understood. In contrast to SARS-CoV-1, limited available evidence indicates there is no pathological evidence of thyroid injury caused by SARS-CoV-2. However, subacute thyroiditis caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been reported for the first time. Thyroid dysfunction is common in patients with COVID-19 infection. By contrast, certain thyroid diseases may have a negative impact on the prevention and control of COVID-19. In addition, some anti–COVID-19 agents may cause thyroid injury or affect its metabolism. COVID-19 and thyroid disease may mutually aggravate the disease burden. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection should not ignore the effect on thyroid function, especially when there are obvious related symptoms. In addition, patients with thyroid diseases should follow specific management principles during the epidemic period.
Benevolens vastator mundi: κριτική αποτίμηση του επιχειρήματος του R. N. Smart και η παράμετρος του οικοφασισμού
Authors: Δημακόπουλος Σταύρος
Published: February 2021

Στόχος της εργασίας είναι η εξέταση του επιχειρήματος του R. N. Smart (1958), κατά το οποίο η εκούσια εξάλειψη της ανθρώπινης ζωής στο σύνολό της μπορεί να ταυτιστεί, θεωρητικά, με το μέσο για την εκμηδένιση της δυστυχίας. Το επιχείρημα αρχικά προσεγγίζεται στη βάση του αρνητικού ωφελιμισμού, ενώ στη συνέχεια αποπειράται η σύνδεσή του με σύγχρονες θεωρίες από το πεδίο της περιβαλλοντικής ηθικής και του οικοφασισμού. Σύμφωνα με μία εκδοχή, η μαζική εξάλειψη του ανθρώπινου είδους όχι μόνο θα ήταν μία ηθική πράξη που θα εκμηδένιζε τη δυστυχία αλλά θα επέφερε και μεγαλύτερα ποσοστά ευτυχίας για όλη την οικόσφαιρα, καθώς το συμφέρον αυτής ―εν συνόλω θεωρούμενο― έχει μεγαλύτερη προτεραιότητα ως προς το συμφέρον του ανθρώπινου είδους μεμονωμένα. Μέσα από την κριτική αποτίμηση του αρχικού επιχειρήματος, αξιολογείται η συνοχή του και προκύπτουν τα τελικά συμπεράσματα.
Stage 1 Registered Report: How responsibility attributions to self and others relate to outcome ownership in group decisions.
Authors: Jaquiery Matt , El Zein Marwa
Published: February 2021

Responsibility judgements have important consequences in human society. Previous research focused on how someone's responsibility determines the outcome they deserve, for example, whether they are rewarded or punished. Here, we investigate the opposite link: How outcome ownership influences responsibility attributions in a social context. Participants in a group of three perform a majority vote decision-making task between gambles that can lead to a reward or no reward. Only one group member receives the outcome and participants evaluate their and the other players' responsibility for the obtained outcome. Two hypotheses are tested: 1) Whether outcome ownership increases responsibility attributions even when the control over an outcome is similar. 2) Whether people's tendency to attribute higher responsibility for positive vs negative outcomes will be stronger for players who received the outcome. The findings of this study may help reveal how credit attributions can be biased toward particular individuals who receive outcomes as a result of collective work.
Artistic Genius versus the Hanse Canon from the Late Middle Ages to the Early Modern Age in Tallinn
Authors: Maiste Juhan
Published: February 2021

In the article, the author examines one of the most outstanding andproblematic periods in the art history of Tallinn as a Hanseatic city,which originated, on the one hand, in the Hanseatic tradition andthe medieval approach to Gothic transcendental realism, and onthe other, in the approach typical of the new art cities of Flanders,i.e. to see a reflection of the new illusory reality in the pictures. Acloser examination is made of two works of art imported to Tallinnin the late 15th century, i.e. the high altar in the Church of the HolySpirit by Bernt Notke and the altarpiece of Holy Mary, whichwas originally commissioned by the Brotherhood of Blackheadsfor the Dominican Monastery and is now in St Nicholas’ Church.Despite the differences in the iconography and style of the twoworks, their links to tradition and artistic geography, which in thisarticle are conditionally defined as the Hanse canon, are apparentin both of them.The methods and rules for classifying the transition from theMiddle Ages to the Modern Era were not critical nor exclusive.Rather they included a wide range of phenomena on the outskirtsof the major art centres starting from the clients and ending with

the semantic significance of the picture, and the attributes that wereemployed to the individual experiences of the different masters,who were working together in the large workshops of Lübeck, andsomewhat later, in Bruges and Brussels.When ‘reading’ the Blackheads’ altar, a question arises of threedifferent styles, all of them were united by tradition and the waythat altars were produced in the large workshops for the extensiveart market that stretched from one end of the continent to the other,and even further from Lima to Narva. Under the supervision ofthe leading master and entrepreneur (Hans Memling?) two othermasters were working side by side in Bruges – Michel Sittow, whowas born in Tallinn, and the Master of the Legend of Saint Lucywere responsible for executing the task.In this article, the author has highlighted new points of reference,which on the one hand explain the complex issues of attributionof the Tallinn Blackheads’ altar, and on the other hand, placethe greatest opus in the Baltics in a broader context, where, inaddition to aesthetic ambitions, both the client and the workshopthat completed the order, played an extensive role. In this way,identifying a specific artist from among the others would usuallyremain a matter of discussion. Tallinn was a port and a wealthycommercial city at the foregates of the East where it took decadesfor the spirit of the Renaissance to penetrate and be assimilated.Instead of an unobstructed view we are offered uncertain andoften mixed values based on what we perceive through the veil ofsemantic research.
Cinco décadas no son suficientes. Carta de una abuela a su querida nieta.
Authors: Valdivielso Gómez Sofía
Published: February 2021

The text is a letter from a grandmother born in 1964 to her granddaughter born in August 2020. Through this letter, the grandmother tries to explain what the education she received in the seventies was like, as well as the events that took place during the transition from an isolated and dictatorial Spain to a democratic and open country. She does so from a double perspective. On the one hand, by focusing on women and, on the other, on the laws that have requested the educational system to introduce subjects into the curriculum that would highlight equality between men and women. The text has been structured over the decades to follow the lifeline that would allow the grandmother to describe and analyze some facts about the complex reality of the country. Among these facts, it examines the impact of the new discourses on gender identity in the education system. The new discourses reflected in the new laws move the gender discourse towards gender identity discourse. All of this takes place within the context of a capitalist and narcissistic post-modernity that has displaced the plural towards the singular, the collective towards the individual, and the right to desire.
Participación del Alumnado en los Centros Educativos: Legislaciones, Voces y Claves para el Avance.
Authors: Esteban Tortajada Marta B. , Novella Cámara Ana María
Published: February 2021

Spanish legislation in the field of education over the last fifty years has been characterised by its volatile nature, not having achieved a National Agreement for Education ensuring stability and solidity. Despite this, significant progress has been made in terms of student participation. The representative dimension of democracy has been incorporated by setting up participation bodies in schools; the implementation of active and participative methodologies in the teaching-learning processes has been promoted; efforts have been made to introduce education for citizenship and democratic values in a cross-curricular manner or as an independent subject; and some schools have been developing a participative ethos acknowledging the voice and authority of the students. In this article we review the changes that have taken place in terms of student participation in educational legislation over the last fifty years. Also, what the students of Secondary Education and High School perceive about the participation in their schools through their voices and experiences is researched. Finally, some keys for the advance in transforming student participation in schools into an institutional component that contributes to the construction of student citizenship are provided.
Simplex Transformations and the Multiway Cut Problem
Authors: Buchbinder Niv , Schwartz Roy , Weizman Baruch
Published: February 2021

We consider multiway cut, a basic graph partitioning problem in which the goal is to find the minimum weight collection of edges disconnecting a given set of special vertices called terminals. Multiway cut admits a well-known simplex embedding relaxation, where rounding this embedding is equivalent to partitioning the simplex. Current best-known solutions to the problem are comprised of a mix of several different ingredients, resulting in intricate algorithms. Moreover, the best of these algorithms is too complex to fully analyze analytically, and a computer was partly used in verifying its approximation factor. We propose a new approach to simplex partitioning and the multiway cut problem based on general transformations of the simplex that allow dependencies between the different variables. Our approach admits much simpler algorithms and, in addition, yields an approximation guarantee for the multiway cut problem that (roughly) matches the current best computer-verified approximation factor.
CONCEPÇÕES DE INFORMÁTICA EDUCATIVA NA PERSPECTIVA DE EDUCADORES DA RME ANANINDEUA/PA
Authors: Lima Cinthya Maduro de , Hora Dinair Leal da
Published: February 2021

Este artigo é parte de uma dissertação de mestrado apresentada ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Currículo e Gestão da Escola Básica (PPEB/NEB), da Universidade Federal do Pará para a obtenção do título de Mestre. A pesquisa propôs analisar o trabalho pedagógico de professores de Informática Educativa (IE) no processo de aprendizagem mediado pelas Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TIC) na Rede Municipal de Educação (RME) de Ananindeua-PA. O estudo foi dividido em quatro categorias: 1-‘Concepções de Informática Educativa’, 2-‘Formação de Professores para o trabalho pedagógico com a IE no processo de aprendizagem’, 3-‘O papel do professor de IE no contexto da sociedade atual’ e 4-‘O Trabalho Pedagógico do Professor de IE com a utilização das TIC na aprendizagem’. Este texto, no entanto, apresenta o resultado da pesquisa no que diz respeito ao estudo da primeira categoria, em que se buscou compreender o que educadores da RME Ananindeua entendem sobre a IE na aprendizagem de alunos da educação básica. Os resultados apontam que a IE apresenta múltiplas concepções, dentre as quais a de que é plural e interdisciplinar, confirmada pela análise dos dados da entrevista ao mostrar que os educadores também relacionam a IE a vários princípios e teorias pedagógicas, indicando que são as escolhas metodológicas dos educadores que a fazem atender a um ou a outro paradigma educacional e social. Contudo, acredita-se que a IE melhor contribui com a aprendizagem dos alunos quando é utilizada na perspectiva da concepção construcionista.
RECURSOS EDUCACIONAIS ABERTOS E AS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS DE INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO: FORMAÇÃO E PRÁXIS EM ESCOLAS RIBEIRINHAS
Authors: Pesce Lucila , Pereira Ana Pâmela Guimarães , De Almeida Doriedon Alves
Published: February 2021

Este artigo trata do papel dos Recursos Educacionais Abertos (REA), um movimento que se empenha em promover acesso, uso e reuso de materiais educacionais no contexto da formação e práxis de escolas ribeirinhas da região do baixo Amazonas. Através das perspectivas de um grupo de profissionais de educação no campo da Amazônia paraense, este estudo objetivou examinar os limites e as possibilidades do uso dos REA como Tecnologias Digitais da Informação e Comunicação (TDIC) na promoção de práticas colaborativas, na formação e práxis em escolas ribeirinhas. O estudo parte da premissa de que os professores têm papel imprescindível na promoção de reflexões e atitudes praxiológicas apesar das estruturas e redes instituídas nas unidades federativas, pois não há rede de ensino sem atuação instituinte, colaboração, criação comum e compartilhamento. O artigo também adverte para o fato de que os conceitos e benefícios dos REA para a educação permanecem restritos a especialistas sobre o tema ou atrelados às diferentes tecnocracias. A metodologia deste trabalho valeu-se da produção de dados, ao longo de sessões de conversa, para um estudo descritivo e crítico da potencialidade didática dos REA. A análise dos dados revela desafios a serem enfrentados, dentre os quais a problemática de políticas públicas educacionais no que se refere à temporalidade e à continuidade dos programas e iniciativas de TDIC na região do baixo Amazonas. Os achados da pesquisa sugerem a existência de coletivos educacionais que possuem criatividade para lidar com insuficiências técnicas e entraves burocráticos, porém demandam políticas públicas voltadas para a melhoria e a instituição de outras práxis.
APRESENTAÇÃO - TECNOLOGIA E EDUCAÇÃO: INTEGRANDO EXPERIÊNCIAS E INVESTIGAÇÕES NO CONTEXTO AMAZÔNICO
Authors: Cordeiro Leonardo Zenha , Correa Juliane , Almeida Doriedson
Published: February 2021

Neste texto expomos o momento e o contexto a partir do qual elegemos a temática Tecnologia e Educação, considerando o desejo e a necessidade de dar maior visibilidade, neste formato de dossiê, aos trabalhos de ensino, pesquisa e extensão que abordam as maneiras de pensar, agir e aprender engajadas no contexto local e conectadas com as questões globais. Enfatizamos a necessidade, tendo em vista um processo de transformação, de se considerar o contexto, incluindo seus sujeitos e seus espaços de reprodução da vida, nos estudos e ações que envolvam tecnologias e educação. Em seguida, apresentamos um conjunto composto por treze artigos provenientes de investigações, relatos de experiências, entrevistas, resenhas de livro e dissertação que interpelam como as tecnologias de informação e comunicação influenciam as questões educacionais e sociais, assim como as formas de abordá-las num processo investigativo. Com isso, esperamos contribuir com essa realidade educacional, articulando experiências e investigações que possam promover debates, novos olhares e novas perspectivas sobre as tecnologias e a educação,  considerando, de fato, as especificidades do contexto Amazônico.
DANÇAR PARA APRENDER
Authors: Bispo Gláucia
Published: February 2021

Este relato de experiências é fruto de um desejo antigo. É uma partilha de vivências a respeito de corpos moventes e dançantes no período da Alfabetização. O presente texto apresenta o caminho percorrido por crianças e professora, do 2º ano do Ensino Fundamental I, que reconheceram a necessidade e o interesse pelo movimento dançante para aprender a aprender e aprender a ensinar. Dançar foi preciso para que as crianças aprendessem a ler, escrever e contar, assim como foi preciso para que a professora aprendesse a ensinar com uma das potências fundamentais da existência humana: o corpo (em movimento).
Quando debater virtualmente não é uma opção, é uma necessidade: uma experiência de educação decolonial e plural através de práticas extensionistas-remotas desde São Gonçalo - RJ.
Authors: Rodrigues Mariana Nogueira , Fernandes Alan Navarro , Sodré Haissa Dos Santos , Ferreira Arthur Vianna
Published: February 2021

Este artigo tem como objetivo compreender a relação entre o conflito, as perspectivas multiculturais e decolonias, e as práticas pedagógicas possíveis para a construção de uma educação plural e inclusiva. A partir dessa fundamentação teórica, realizamos um estudo de caso sobre o Oficine Debate, uma atividade extensionista organizada pelo Grupo de Pesquisa e Extensão Fora da Sala de Aula da Faculdade de Formação de Professores da UERJ. Primeiramente, este trabalho discutirá as formas pelas quais se entende o conceito de conflito e como ele pode se manifestar na prática pedagógica. Em seguida, apresentaremos a sua relação com a construção de uma educação decolonial e multicultural. Por fim, analisaremos os desdobramentos da ação extensionista, compreendendo suas potencialidades e seus limites.
NARRATIVAS NO ESTÁGIO DE DOCÊNCIA: OUTROS OLHARES PARA A PESQUISA NA EDUCAÇÃO QUÍMICA
Authors: Costa da Rosa Lais Francielle , Dorneles Aline Machado
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo apresenta o caminho inicial de uma pesquisa de mestrado em Educação em Ciências, por meio das narrativas vividas no estágio de docência da professora pesquisadora, a partir de uma perspectiva teórica e metodológica da investigação narrativa. Tem como objetivo compreender as experiências na sala de aula da formação inicial de professores de Química. Partindo das narrativas, busca o reconhecimento da experiência como um modo de fazer pesquisa com autoria, sentimentos e questionamentos visando a construção de conhecimento na formação de professores. Sendo assim a proposta do estágio de docência desenvolveu um estudo a respeito da pesquisa/investigação na área de Educação Química, com a intenção de relacionar a imagem estética com o encontro de uma temática de investigação.