bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação da percepção dos familiares de acadêmicos de medicina, em relação a necessidade e a importância da vacinação contra a COVID-19
Authors: Xavier Henrique Viana , Lopes Thiago Vaz , Gutzeit Ennely Mendonça , Campos Silvecler Cortijo de , Stubs Monique Brandalise , Miranda Gabriel Rubens Bernardo , Noleto Gustavo Lima , Veras João Victor , Lopes Iara Vaz , Silva Mariana Lais da , Mello Neto Nelson Puig de , Santos Tainá Cortêz dos , Tenório Vitória Giovana Cardoso
Published: May 2022

A pandemia de Coronavírus, causada pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2, trouxe à tona grandes discussões em relação ao atual sistema brasileiro e mundial, de sistemas integrados de saúde, como também a discussão de métodos preventivos de diversas patologias, desde níveis locais até o global, dentre os métodos preventivos mais discutidos, está a vacinação como um eficiente método preventivo e de controle de pandemias. Dentro desse contexto objetivou-se avaliar o perfil de familiares de acadêmicos de medicina em relação a necessidade e importância da vacinação contra a COVID-19. A metodologia foi estabelecida em formato de estudo transversal investigativo, tendo como universo populacional familiares de acadêmicos do curso de medicina, de uma instituição de ensino privado na cidade de Porto Velho-RO. Atendendo aos preceitos éticos de pesquisa e experimentação humana, tendo como critério de inclusão e exclusão, o aceite ao Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. Dos entrevistados 54,4% (49/90) foram do sexo feminino e 45,6% (41/90) do masculino, são solteiros 55,6% (50/90), casados 35,6% (32/90) e divorciados 5,6% (5/90). A cor de autodeclaração apresentada foi de 47,8% (43/90) para cor parda, 41,1% (37/90) para a branca, 3,3% (3/90) para a amarela, 4,4% (4/90) para a preta e 3,3% (3/90) não souberam declarar. Em se tratando do credo religioso, verificou-se 54,4% (49/90) evangélicas, 37,8% (34/90) católicas, 3,3% (3/90) ateu, 2,2% (2/90) espiritas e outras religiões 2,2% (2/90). Em um estudo realizado por Paula et al., (2016), foi demonstrado que 83,0% dos acadêmicos de medicina entrevistados, não apresentaram adesão total a protocolos vacinais, contra influenza em um período de pandemia e pós pandemia dessa mesma patologia, nos anos de 2010 a 2011. Conclui-se ao avaliar a percepção dos familiares de acadêmicos de medicina, em relação a necessidade e a importância da vacinação contra a COVID-19, foram observados diferentes posicionamentos em relação a eficácia, segurança.
Efeitos extrapiramidais e estado nutricional associado ao uso de antipsicóticos em pacientes internados em um hospital de referência psiquiátrica, Belém-Pará
Authors: Ataíde Bruno Rafael Batista de , Carvalho Giovana Alves , Guterres Aldair da Silva
Published: May 2022

A esquizofrenia é um transtorno mental grave/crônico, caracterizada por desordens do pensamento, emoções e sentimentos, na qual compromete a interação social em seus diversos âmbitos. Com a psicofarmacoterapia, nos anos 50 do século passado, houve verdadeira revolução na assistência daqueles com transtornos mentais. Este estudo teve como objetivo: avaliar a interferência dos efeitos extrapiramidais provocados por antipsicóticos na alteração motora e no estado nutricional de pacientes esquizofrênicos admitidos em um hospital de referencia psiquiátrica. O campo da pesquisa foi a Clínica Psiquiátrica da Fundação Pública Estadual Hospital de Clínicas Gaspar Vianna, sendo realizada com pacientes portadores de esquizofrenia, admitidos no Serviço de Internação Breve, no período de agosto de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019. Para avaliação dos efeitos extrapiramidais utilizou-se um formulário pré-adaptado, com base na escala de Simpson-Angus (Escala de efeitos extrapiramidais) e na escala de Barnes (Escala de acatisia de Barnes). Avaliação antropométrica consistiu do índice de massa corporal, prega cutânea tricipital e circunferência da cintura.  Para análise estatística foi aplicado o teste ANOVA e a correlação de Pearson, utilizando p<0.05. Participaram do estudo 81 pacientes. 45.7% faziam uso somente de antipsicóticos de primeira geração. Dentre esses 62.2% manifestaram acatisia, enquanto 40.5% apresentaram Parkinsonismo. Em relação ao estado nutricional 49.4% encontravam-se no estado de eutrofia. Conclui-se então que se faz necessária a identificação dos sintomas extrapiramidais nos pacientes, tendo conhecimentos que estes sintomas podem agravar a saúde dos mesmos e aumentar sua permanência no hospital.
Seed rain in two areas with different relief types in a tropical rainforest
Authors: Santos Priscila Silva dos , Silva Kleber Andrade da , Araújo Elcida de Lima , Ferraz Elba Maria Nogueira
Published: May 2022

Seed rain participates in species enrichment during the natural regeneration of terrestrial ecosystems, as this ecological process promotes gene flow and the maintenance of forest biodiversity. However, few studies assessed variations in seed rain related to environmental heterogeneity inside forests. We studied the influence of relief (flat or slope areas) on the seasonal and monthly variation in density, floristic composition, and richness of the seed rain in an urban fragment of Atlantic Forest. We carried out the present study in Rain Tropical Forest, Northeastern Brazil. We selected two areas within the fragment: one with flat relief and the other on a slope. In each relief type we set up 20 0.25-m2 seed collectors, in a total of 40 units, to quantify seed rain. After ten months of study, we counted 9,474 seeds: 8,061 in the flat area and 1,413 in the slope area. There were significant differences in dispersal syndromes and plants habit between relief types. The seed density in the flat area differed between seasons and the species richness varied seasonally in both areas. There were variations in floristic composition between seasons in the flat and slope areas. Seed density was higher in December and January in the flat area. Differences in seed rain suggest that it is influenced by spatial heterogeneity and climate seasonality, and that the areas with different kinds of relief are important for the biodiversity conservation.
Recursos terapêuticos para tratamento da hipersensibilidade dentinária cervical: revisão de literatura
Authors: Santos Flávia de Oliveira Lima , Santos Stefhane Canguçu , Vieira Ian Matos , Amaral Saryta Argolo Souza
Published: May 2022

Introdução: A Hipersensibilidade Dentinária Cervical (HDC) ocorre de maneira frequente na clínica odontológica, é identificada pela perda de esmalte e de cemento na região cervical dos dentes e ocorre a exposição dos túbulos dentinários que causam dor e desconforto para o paciente. Existem diversos tratamentos para a HDC, dentre elas terapias que cessam o retorno neural aos estímulos de dor. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão de literatura e abordar os fatores etiológicos, a prevalência e as diversas formas de tratamento da HDC bem como seus mecanismos de ação, suas indicações e aplicação clínica. Metodologia: Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura narrativa construída a partir de uma análise de revisões da literatura com caráter narrativo com o auxílio das bases de dados Pubmed; Lilacs; Scielo e Google Acadêmico. Os artigos selecionados foram nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol. Os descritores em saúde utilizados serão “hipersensibilidade” “estímulo” “sensibilidade”; "hypersensitivity" "stimulus" "sensitivity”; "hipersensibilidad" "estímulo" "sensibilidad" juntamente com operador booleano “and” e “or”. Conclusão: Há muitos tratamentos disponíveis para a HDC e podem ser usados em conjunto para dar melhor qualidade de vida ao paciente. Os tratamentos apresentados são funcionais embora alguns tenham efeito mais imediato do que outros.
Dispositivo de barras paralelas com estímulo vibratório controlado via Interface Homem Máquina (IHM) para reabilitação de neuropatologias
Authors: Morais Antonio Vinícius de , Boschi Silvia Regina Matos da Silva , Moura Luan de Almeida , Moniz Yasmim Fernandes , Martini Silvia Cristina , Scardovelli Terigi Augusto , Silva Alessandro Pereira da
Published: May 2022

A reabilitação neurológica é fundamental para manutenção e aumento da função motora de pacientes acometidos por neuropatologias. Alguns comprometimentos estão comumente relacionados à diminuição da força muscular, perda de equilíbrio e capacidade de deambulação. Nos últimos anos vem emergindo a utilização de vibrações mecânicas associadas ao tratamento convencional para potencializar os ganhos na reabilitação motora. Sugere-se que as vibrações aumentam a excitabilidade dos motoneurônios, contribuindo na execução da marcha, equilíbrio e propriocepção, além de diminuir a espasticidade. Os objetivos deste estudo foram implementar um retrofit de um dispositivo de barras paralelas com estímulo vibratório e validar o novo sistema. Esse aprimoramento visou o aumento da robustez, melhor distribuição de massa e o desenvolvimento de uma IHM. Para validação do sistema, foram realizados testes de engenharia que contemplaram a mensuração da frequência vibratória, intensidade de vibração, amplitude de oscilação e emissão sonora, além da mensuração da usabilidade do sistema por profissionais da saúde com a escala SUS. Os testes de engenharia revelaram que o dispositivo aprimorado propicia a execução de diversos protocolos, visto que as variáveis de controle se mantêm estáveis independente do ponto de aplicação de carga e que o ruído sonoro condiz com as normativas de segurança brasileira. O dispositivo foi avaliado pelos profissionais da saúde como o “Melhor Imaginável” na escala SUS. Por meio do retrofit realizado, o dispositivo tornou-se mais eficiente e seguro, otimizando essa ferramenta para prática clínica.
Assistência de enfermagem a família de recém-nascidos prematuros em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva
Authors: Soares Cicera Jamile dos Santos , Santos Aparecida Walbenia dos , Oliveira Geane Silva , Medeiros Renata Livia Silva Fonsêca Moreira de , Santos Ana Vilhena Araujo dos , Costa Kelli Costa , Silva Macerlane de Lira
Published: May 2022

Objetivos: É analisar a assistência de enfermagem a família de recém-nascidos prematuros na Unidade de terapia intensiva. Método: Revisão Integrativa da literatura na qual foram utilizados dados primários nas bases de dados do LILACS, MEDLINE e BDENF com critérios estabelecidos para busca de periódicos em português, inglês e espanhol através das modalidades de pesquisa e níveis de evidência no período de 5 anos (2010-2021). Resultados: São apresentadas informações a respeito dos 10 artigos contidos na discussão desta revisão de literatura. Foram interpretados e sintetizados todos os resultados, através de uma comparação dos dados evidenciados na análise dos artigos. Discussões: Percebe-se em alguns estudos que o nascimento de um prematuro traz para a família um confronto intenso entre o RN imaginário e o RN real. As representações sobre o RN construídas na gestação são desconstruídas gradualmente e lentamente sua imagem de recém-chegado é assimilada. Conclusão: O estudo revela que as famílias que vivenciam este momento da prematuridade na UTIN, tem reações e sentimentos que dificultam o enfrentamento dessa situação.  Embora que diversos sentimentos negativos, caraterizado como impotentes e amedrontados, os familiares demonstram expectativas positivas, uma vez que acreditam no tratamento e na recuperação da saúde do RN.
Relevância das medidas preventivas para o diagnóstico precoce de câncer de mama
Authors: Soares Cicera Jamile dos Santos , Santos Aparecida Walbenia dos , Oliveira Geane Silva , Medeiros Renata Livia Silva Fonsêca Moreira de , Santos Ana Vilhena Araujo dos , Souza Kelli Costa , Silva Macerlane de Lira
Published: May 2022

Objetivo: Compreender a relevância das medidas preventivas de saúde voltadas ao diagnóstico precoce do câncer de mama. Método: Revisão Integrativa da literatura na qual foram utilizados dados primários nas bases de dados do LILACS, MEDLINE e BDENF com critérios estabelecidos para busca de periódicos em português, inglês e espanhol através das modalidades de pesquisa e níveis de evidência no período de 5 anos (2017-2021). Resultados: São apresentadas informações a respeito dos 7 artigos contidos na discussão desta revisão de literatura. Foram interpretados e sintetizados todos os resultados, através de uma comparação dos dados evidenciados na análise dos artigos. Discussões: Percebe-se em alguns estudos as alterações que são suspeitas de câncer de mama, foram identificadas através do exame da mamografia de rotina ou de rastreamento e pelo exame clinico, fazendo-se necessário a investigação para saber o tipo da lesão se é benigna ou maligna. Conclusão: As medidas preventivas para o câncer de mama vêm sendo bastante utilizadas quantitativamente; entretanto, os dados apontam para limitações em relação à sua adequação. O nível socioeconômico parece ser o principal determinante do acesso à consulta ginecológica e, consequentemente, às demais condutas na prevenção do câncer de mama.
Enfrentamento ao negacionismo científico: atividades de extensão como ferramenta efetiva
Authors: Silva Juliana Silvestre , Bispo Mariana Baraúna Bacelar , Caires Taiara Aguiar
Published: May 2022

Os frequentes e intensos ataques que a Ciência vem sofrendo a desqualificam frente à sociedade e, sobretudo na pandemia do novo coronavírus, promove(ra)m o discurso negacionista e a (des)infodemia, intensificando a importância e urgência da divulgação científica, que pode ser realizada a partir da execução de projetos de extensão. Sob essa realidade, o presente trabalho objetiva avaliar o impacto de duas edições de um curso de extensão quanto à qualidade do conhecimento do público atendido e à sua competência no enfrentamento ao negacionismo científico. O curso ocorreu em 2020, em duas edições virtuais, e contou com um total de 29 palestrantes e 382 participantes inscritos, alcançando 53 cidades distribuídas em 17 estados de todas as regiões geográficas do Brasil. Dentre as temáticas abordadas estiveram a relação do vírus com o meio ambiente, os meios de contágio e métodos de prevenção, questões socioeconômicas, histórico-geográficas e educacionais. Aproximadamente 40% dos cursistas tiveram alguma crença desmistificada e 95% conversaram com alguém sobre o que estavam aprendendo no curso, tornando-se multiplicadores de informações científicas seguras, o que evidencia a importância da realização de ações extensionistas como ferramenta efetiva no combate ao negacionismo científico.
Desenvolvimento de jogo educativo sobre o câncer do colo uterino e suas formas de prevenção
Authors: Sousa Amanda Alcantara de , Cruz Rachel de Sá Barreto Luna Callou , Silva Lucilane Maria Sales da , Maia Evanira Rodrigues , Alves Maria Juscinaide Henrique
Published: May 2022

O presente estudo tem como objetivo desenvolver um jogo educativo sobre o câncer de colo uterino e suas formas de prevenção. Trata-se de uma pesquisa metodológica orientada pelo referencial de Pasquali (2010) composta pelos polos teórico, empírico (experimental) e analítico; no polo teórico foi realizado revisão integrativa da literatura; no empírico (experimental) foi estruturado a dinâmica e conteúdo da ferramenta educativa; no polo analítico o instrumento foi validado por especialistas e, pela estatística descritiva. O jogo foi intitulado “Desvendando o Câncer de Colo Uterino”, constituído por 32 cartas, 16 apresentam frases afirmativas e 16 imagens correspondentes a cada afirmativa. Nenhum especialista, avaliou os itens com “discordo”, conferindo um índice de validação de conteúdo de 1,0, sendo, portanto, validado com êxito. Os itens que tiveram avaliação de “concordo parcialmente” foram reformulados de acordo com as sugestões dos especialistas. Foi construído e validado ferramenta educativa que se mostrou adequada e viável para a orientação de mulheres sobre o câncer de colo uterino e suas formas de prevenção.
Manifestações orais em pacientes pediátricos com Leucemia Linfoide Aguda
Authors: Silveira Ana Clara Alves Santiago , Coutinho Luara Novaes , Correa Gefter Thiago Batista
Published: May 2022

Objetivo: Revisar a literatura sobre as principais alterações bucais encontradas em pacientes pediátricos com Leucemia Linfoide Aguda, sejam elas causadas pela doença ou pelo tratamento antineoplásico. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura integrativa que utilizou as bases de dados PubMed, Lilacs e Scielo por meio das palavras-chave cadastradas nos Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS), na qual, foram incluídos estudos que abordassem a temática proposta neste trabalho, disponíveis nas bases citadas, nas línguas inglesa e portuguesa, entre os anos de 2011 a 2021.  Resultados: Foram encontrados 514 artigos, destes 178 foram triados inicialmente a partir dos títulos e resumos e apenas 34 artigos atenderam os critérios de elegibilidade. Conclusão: A Leucemia Linfoide Aguda, na maioria dos casos, leva ao aparecimento de lesões orais decorrentes da doença, principalmente em regiões gengivais, mucosa jugal, assoalho de boca, palato duro e mole. A quimioterapia e a radioterapia para a Leucemia Linfoide Aguda são terapias antineoplásicas eficazes, porém, seus efeitos colaterais repercutem na cavidade bucal, sendo as complicações orais mais recorrentes: as mucosites, candidíase e cáries de radiação. É de grande valia que o cirurgião-dentista seja inserido no contexto multidisciplinar, em nível hospitalar e oncológico, como parte do sucesso do tratamento dessa leucemia, seja eles como uma abordagem preventiva ou terapêutica.
Coordination Between Partial Robotic Exoskeletons and Human Gait: A Comprehensive Review on Control Strategies
Authors: Lora-Millan Julio S. , Moreno Juan C. , Rocon E.
Published: May 2022

Lower-limb robotic exoskeletons have become powerful tools to assist or rehabilitate the gait of subjects with impaired walking, even when they are designed to act only partially over the locomotor system, as in the case of unilateral or single-joint exoskeletons. These partial exoskeletons require a proper method to synchronize their assistive actions and ensure correct inter-joint coordination with the user’s gait. This review analyzes the state of the art of control strategies to coordinate the assistance provided by these partial devices with the actual gait of the wearers. We have analyzed and classified the different approaches independently of the hardware implementation, describing their basis and principles. We have also reviewed the experimental validations of these devices for impaired and unimpaired walking subjects to provide the reader with a clear view of their technology readiness level. Eventually, the current state of the art and necessary future steps in the field are summarized and discussed.
Advances in Stem Cell Therapies for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Authors: Wang Hao-Nan , Rong Xiao , Yang Lu-Ming , Hua Wei-Zhong , Ni Guo-Xin
Published: May 2022

Rotator cuff injury is a common upper extremity musculoskeletal disease that may lead to persistent pain and functional impairment. Despite the clinical outcomes of the surgical procedures being satisfactory, the repair of the rotator cuff remains problematic, such as through failure of healing, adhesion formation, and fatty infiltration. Stem cells have high proliferation, strong paracrine action, and multiple differentiation potential, which promote tendon remodeling and fibrocartilage formation and increase biomechanical strength. Additionally, stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can increase collagen synthesis and inhibit inflammation and adhesion formation by carrying regulatory proteins and microRNAs. Therefore, stem cell-based therapy is a promising therapeutic strategy that has great potential for rotator cuff healing. In this review, we summarize the advances of stem cells and stem cell-derived EVs in rotator cuff repair and highlight the underlying mechanism of stem cells and stem cell-derived EVs and biomaterial delivery systems. Future studies need to explore stem cell therapy in combination with cellular factors, gene therapy, and novel biomaterial delivery systems.
Trained Immunity in Perivascular Adipose Tissue of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—A Novel Concept for a Still Elusive Disease
Authors: Piacentini Luca , Vavassori Chiara , Colombo Gualtiero I.
Published: May 2022

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic, life-threatening vascular disease whose only therapeutic option is a surgical repair to prevent vessel rupture. The lack of medical therapy results from an inadequate understanding of the etiopathogenesis of AAA. Many studies in animal and human models indicate a ‘short-circuiting’ of the regulation of the inflammatory-immune response as a major player in the AAA chronic process. In this regard, perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) has received increasing interest because its dysfunction affects large arteries primarily through immune cell infiltration. Consistently, we have recently produced evidence that innate and adaptive immune cells present in the PVAT of AAAs contribute to sustaining a damaging inflammatory loop. However, it is still unclear how the complex crosstalk between adaptive and innate immunity can be self-sustaining. From our perspective, trained immunity may play a role in this crosstalk. Trained immunity is defined as a form of innate immune memory resulting in enhanced responsiveness to repeated triggers. Specific innate stimuli and epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming events induce and shape trained immunity in myeloid progenitor cells improving host defense, but also contributing to the progression of immune-mediated and chronic inflammatory diseases. Here we present this hypothesis with data from the literature and our observations to support it.
Including Indigenous Peoples in Geospatial Services
Authors: Moore Thomas
Published: May 2022

This article addresses the benefits and challenges to including indigenous peoples and their organizations as partners in the geospatial services provided by SERVIR-Amazonia, a USAID and NASA initiative implemented in six Amazon Basin countries: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Surinam. It discusses who the Amazon indigenous peoples are, the significance and importance of their ancestral territories, and the benefits and importance to humanity of sharing and improving geospatial technology with them to help them defend and plan for the management and conservation of those territories. It also describes the challenges of engagement and communication with Amazon indigenous peoples, the need to work through the existing indigenous peoples' organizations (IPOs), and the importance of responding to their needs and priorities in a culturally sensitive manner with appropriate tools. Moreover, by identifying the issues involved and documenting the indigenous responses, the Program seeks to inform geospatial science and remote sensing technology with information that can help refocus their approaches to more effectively address the issues facing the indigenous peoples and their territories. The ultimate purpose is to help slow deforestation and biodiversity loss and diminish the impact of climate change, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Left Ventricular Pressure Estimation Using Machine Learning-Based Heart Sound Classification
Authors: Westphal Philip , Luo Hongxing , Shahmohammadi Mehrdad , Heckman Luuk I. B. , Kuiper Marion , Prinzen Frits W. , Delhaas Tammo , Cornelussen Richard N.
Published: May 2022

Objective

A method to estimate absolute left ventricular (LV) pressure and its maximum rate of rise (LV dP/dtmax) from epicardial accelerometer data and machine learning is proposed.

Methods

Five acute experiments were performed on pigs. Custom-made accelerometers were sutured epicardially onto the right ventricle, LV, and right atrium. Different pacing configurations and contractility modulations, using isoflurane and dobutamine infusions, were performed to create a wide variety of hemodynamic conditions. Automated beat-by-beat analysis was performed on the acceleration signals to evaluate amplitude, time, and energy-based features. For each sensing location, bootstrap aggregated classification tree ensembles were trained to estimate absolute maximum LV pressure (LVPmax) and LV dP/dtmax using amplitude, time, and energy-based features. After extraction of acceleration and pressure-based features, location specific, bootstrap aggregated classification ensembles were trained to estimate absolute values of LVPmax and its maximum rate of rise (LV dP/dtmax) from acceleration data.

Results

With a dataset of over 6,000 beats, the algorithm narrowed the selection of 17 predefined features to the most suitable 3 for each sensor location. Validation tests showed the minimal estimation accuracies to be 93% and 86% for LVPmax at estimation intervals of 20 and 10 mmHg, respectively. Models estimating LV dP/dtmax achieved an accuracy of minimal 93 and 87% at estimation intervals of 100 and 200 mmHg/s, respectively. Accuracies were similar for all sensor locations used.

Conclusion

Under pre-clinical conditions, the developed estimation method, employing epicardial accelerometers in conjunction with machine learning, can reliably estimate absolute LV pressure and its first derivative.
Evaluation of Right Ventricular Myocardial Mechanics by 2- and 3-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography in Patients With an Ischemic or Non-ischemic Etiology of End-Stage Heart Failure
Authors: Tian Fangyan , Gu Ying , Zhang Yanting , Zhang Bei , Xie Yuji , Yu Shaomei , Zhu Shuangshuang , Sun Wei , Cheng Shan , Qian Mingzu , Lin Yixia , Wu Wenqian , Yang Yali , Lv Qing , Wang Jing , Zhang Li , Li Yuman , Xie Mingxing
Published: May 2022

Background

The aims of our study were (1) to assess the right ventricular (RV) myocardial mechanics by two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) in patients with an ischemic or non-ischemic etiology of end-stage heart failure (HF) and (2) to explore which RV index evaluated by 2D- and 3D-STE was the most powerful indicator for identifying the ischemic and non-ischemic etiologies of end-stage HF.

Methods

A total of 96 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 30% were enrolled in our study: 42 patients (mean age, 52 ± 10 years; 9.5% female) with ischemic cardiomyopathy and 54 patients (mean age, 46 ± 14 years; 16.7% female) with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. A total of 45 healthy subjects (mean age, 46 ± 13 years; 24.4% female) served as controls. The longitudinal strain of the RV free wall (RVFWLS) was determined by both 2D- and 3D-STE.

Results

Compared to controls, patients with an ischemic or non-ischemic etiology of end-stage HF had lower 2D-RVFWLS, 3D-RVFWLS and RV ejection fraction (RVEF) values (P < 0.05). Patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathies (NICMs) had significantly lower 3D-RVFWLS and RVEF values than in those with ischemic cardiomyopathies (ICMs), whereas 2D-RVFWLS and conventional RV function parameters did not differ between the two subgroups. RVEF was highly related to 3D-RVFWLS (r = 0.72, P < 0.001), modestly related to 2D-RVFWLS (r = 0.51, P < 0.001), and weakly related to conventional RV function indices (r = –0.26 to 0.46, P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the optimal 3D-RVFWLS cut-off value to distinguish NICM from ICM patients was –14.78% (area under the curve: 0.73, P < 0.001), while 2D-RVFWLS and conventional RV echocardiographic parameters did not.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated the superiority of 3D-RVFWLS over 2D-RVFWLS and conventional RV function indices in identifying the ischemic and non-ischemic etiologies of end-stage HF. These findings support the idea that 3D-RVFWLS may be a promising non-invasive imaging marker for distinguishing NICM from ICM.
Prediction of Left Atrial Fibrosis and Success of Catheter Ablation by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Patients Imaged in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Marchandise Sébastien , Garnir Quentin , Scavée Christophe , Varnavas Varnavas , le Polain de Waroux Jean-Benoit , Wauters Aurélien , Beauloye Christophe , Roelants Véronique , Gerber Bernhard L.
Published: May 2022

Background

Non-invasive evaluation of left atrial structural and functional remodeling should be considered in all patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) to optimal management. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has been shown to predict AF recurrence after catheter ablation; however in most studies, patients had paroxysmal AF, and STE was performed while patients were in sinus rhythm.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of STE parameters acquired during persistent AF to assess atrial fibrosis measured by low voltage area, and to predict maintenance of sinus rhythm of catheter ablation.

Methods

A total of 94 patients (69 men, 65 ± 9 years) with persistent AF prospectively underwent measurement of Global Peak Atrial Longitudinal Strain (GPALS), indexed LA Volume (LAVI), E/e′ ratio, and LA stiffness index (the ratio of E/e′ to GPALS) by STE prior to catheter ablation, while in AF. Low-voltage area (LVA) was assessed by electro-anatomical mapping and categorized into absent, moderate (>0 to <15%), and high (≥15%) atrial extent. AF recurrence was evaluated after 3 months of blanking.

Results

Multivariable regression showed that LAVI, GPALS, and LA stiffness independently predicted LVA extent after correcting for age, glomerular filtration rate, and CHA2DS2-VASc score. Of all the parameters, LA stiffness index had the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.85), allowing using a cut-off value ≥0.7 to predict moderate or high LVA with 88% sensitivity and 47% specificity, respectively. In multivariable Cox analysis, both GPALS and LA stiffness were able to significantly improve the c statistic to predict AF recurrence (n = 40 over 9 months FU) over CHARGE-AF (p < 0.001 for GPALS and p = 0.01 for LA stiffness) or CHA2DS2-VASc score (p < 0.001 for GPALS and p = 0.02 for LA stiffness). GPALS and LA stiffness also improved the net reclassification index (NRI) over the CHARGE-AF index (NRI 0.67, 95% CI [0.33–1.13] for GPALS and NRI 0.73, 95% CI [0.12–0.91] for LA stiffness, respectively), and over the CHA2DS2-VASc score (NRI 0.43, 95% CI [−0.14 to 0.69] for GPALS and NRI 0.52, 95% CI [0.10–0.84], respectively) for LA stiffness to predict AF recurrence at 9 months.

Conclusion

STE parameters acquired during AF allow prediction of LVA extent and AF recurrence in patients with persistent AF undergoing catheter ablation. Therefore, STE could be a valuable approach to select candidates for catheter ablation.
Construction of Novel Gene Signature-Based Predictive Model for the Diagnosis of Acute Myocardial Infarction by Combining Random Forest With Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Wu Yanze , Chen Hui , Li Lei , Zhang Liuping , Dai Kai , Wen Tong , Peng Jingtian , Peng Xiaoping , Zheng Zeqi , Jiang Ting , Xiong Wenjun
Published: May 2022

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the most common causes of mortality around the world. Early diagnosis of AMI contributes to improving prognosis. In our study, we aimed to construct a novel predictive model for the diagnosis of AMI using an artificial neural network (ANN), and we verified its diagnostic value via constructing the receiver operating characteristic (ROC).

Methods

We downloaded three publicly available datasets (training sets GSE48060, GSE60993, and GSE66360) from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between 87 AMI and 78 control samples. We applied the random forest (RF) and ANN algorithms to further identify novel gene signatures and construct a model to predict the possibility of AMI. Besides, the diagnostic value of our model was further validated in the validation sets GSE61144 (7 AMI patients and 10 controls), GSE34198 (49 AMI patients and 48 controls), and GSE97320 (3 AMI patients and 3 controls).

Results

A total of 71 DEGs were identified, of which 68 were upregulated and 3 were downregulated. Firstly, 11 key genes in 71 DEGs were screened with RF classifier for the classification of AMI and control samples. Then, we calculated the weight of each key gene using ANN. Furthermore, the diagnostic model was constructed and named neuralAMI, with significant predictive power (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.980). Finally, our model was validated with the independent datasets GSE61144 (AUC = 0.900), GSE34198 (AUC = 0.882), and GSE97320 (AUC = 1.00).

Conclusion

Machine learning was used to develop a reliable predictive model for the diagnosis of AMI. The results of our study provide potential gene biomarkers for early disease screening.
Assessment of Diversity and Fidelity of Transmission of Streptococcus mutans Genotypes in American Indian and Southeast Iowa Mother-Child Dyads
Authors: Villhauer Alissa , Lynch David , Warren John , Drake David
Published: May 2022

Early childhood caries (ECC) is a common chronic infectious disease of childhood with a complex etiology and many contributing risk factors. Its prevalence is greater in certain racial and ethnic minority groups and populations with low socioeconomic status. Among the species of bacteria that contribute to the progression of dental caries, Streptococcus mutans (SM) has long been considered a primary etiological agent of the disease. We report here on the genotypic diversity, commonality, and fidelity of mother-child transmission of S. mutans in mother-child dyads in two high-risk populations.

Methods

Thirty-eight mother-child dyads from a Southeast Iowa population and 40 dyads from a Northern Plains American Indian Tribe were selected for a comparison of S. mutans genotype profiles within and between populations. S. mutans was isolated from whole mouth plaque samples collected from each subject. DNA was extracted and AP-PCR using OPA2 primer was performed. Amplified DNA was electrophoresed and images of the resulting patterns were compared via GelCompar®IIv6.5 software.

Results

Thirty unique S. mutans genotypes were identified from the 1,638 S. mutans isolates analyzed. Fifteen genotypes (50%) were seen in both cohorts, while 11 were unique to the American Indian (AI) cohort and 4 were unique to the Southeast Iowa (SEI) population. Within the AI cohort, 61.5% (16/26) of the S. mutans genotypes identified were seen in ≥2 individuals and 14 of the 26 (53.8%) were seen in ≥2 dyads. In the SEI cohort, 78.9% (15/19) of the S. mutans genotypes identified were seen in ≥2 individuals and 13 of the 19 (68.4%) were present in ≥2 dyads. Fifty-seven percent of AI children and 23% of SEI children displayed fidelity of mother-child transmission of ≥1 S. mutans genotype.

Conclusion

In comparing the populations, we observed large variation in genotypic diversity and fidelity of mother-child transmission, while the amount of commonality seen in both cohorts was similarly high in both groups. This study furthers our understanding of the genotypic diversity of S. mutans in both of these populations and provides a basis for further comparison to other populations at greater risk for developing ECC.
Geochemical Characteristics of the Jurassic Alkane Gas in the Muli Depression, South Qilian Basin: Implications for Potential of Light Oil and Condensate
Authors: Tan Furong , Li Yang , Xie Zhiqing , Bian Xiaowei , Du Fangpeng , Liu Shiming , Lu Ping , Wang Jingli
Published: May 2022

The discovery of gas hydrates in the Muli Depression has made the South Qilian Basin (SQB) a hotspot for oil and gas exploration. Although many studies have been carried out on the gas hydrates, the geochemical characteristics have rarely been reported, which can effectively indicate the genetic type, diffusion, biodegradation, and thermal maturity of natural gas. In this contribution, the molecular composition and carbon isotopes of alkane gases were collected from gas hydrates and free gases in drilled boreholes of the Muli Depression. The results show that the majority of natural gases are oil-type gases, with a little coal-type gases. The natural gases have undergone biodegradation, leading to a decrease in the propane content and an increase in the methane content, with a heavier carbon isotope of propane and a lighter carbon isotope of methane. Some of the natural gases have experienced diffusion, resulting in a decrease in the methane content and an increasing value of Δ(δ13C1-δ13C2). Furthermore, the wet gases from natural gases were derived from the cracking of kerogen and crude oil at the thermal maturity stage. The dry gases in small quantities were produced by biodegradation of the wet gases. We propose that the potential for light oil and condensate exists in the Jurassic Yaojie Formation. Our new findings on the geochemical characteristics of natural gases provide new constraints for the study of petroleum systems and deeply buried sediments in the SQB.
Origin of Dolomite in Lacustrine Organic-Rich Shale: A Case Study in the Shahejie Formation of the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin
Authors: Zhao Ziru , Dong Chunmei , Ma Pengjie , Lin Chengyan , Li Guiang , Du Xinyu , Luan Guoqiang , He Yinjun , Liu Weibin
Published: May 2022

In most organic-rich shale reservoirs, dolomite is widely distributed and has different types and crystal sizes. However, the characteristics and formation mechanism of the dolomites in organic-rich shale are still poorly understood. Petrographic and geochemical analyses were performed to interpret the formation of dolomite in the lacustrine organic-rich shale of the Shahejie Formation, Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin. Four types of dolomites, which represent episodic recrystallization, were classified based on crystal size and shape: 1) micritic dolomite (Dol-1), 2) sub-to euhedral (cloudy cores with clear rims) dolomite (planar-e) (Dol-2), 3) anhedral dolomite (coarse planar-s to nonplanar crystals) in phosphatic particles (Dol-3), and 4) fracture-filling anhedral dolomite (Dol-4). Dol-1 has nonplanar mosaic micritic crystals with irregular intercrystalline boundaries and dull cathodoluminescence (CL), suggesting dolomitization during the early burial stage. Dol-1 tends to occur under high paleosalinity and warm conditions. Furthermore, the syngenetic relationship, with abundant framboidal pyrite and gypsum, suggests that bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR) may influence the formation of Dol-1. The high content of Sr and low content of Mn/Sr also indicate less influence on burial. The Dol-2 crystals show cloudy cores with clear rims attributed to progressive dolomitization during burial. Dol-2 is always associated with the organic matter within the organic matter-rich lamina. The anhedral crystals and undulate (sweeping) extinction of Dol-3, which is usually encased by phosphatic particles in the organic-rich lamina, reflect the recrystallization affected by bacteria and the subsequent thermal evolution of organic matter. Dol-4 fulfills the abnormal pressure fractures crosscutting the earlier phases (Dol-1 and Dol-2) with undulate (sweeping) extinction and different rare earth element (REE) patterns. Dol-4 may be affected by hydrothermal fluids, which are influenced by the thermal evolution of organic matter. The 87Sr/86Sr values of the four types of dolomites similarly demonstrate the same dolomitizing fluids. Dol-1 to Dol-3 have similar REE patterns but are different from Dol-4, suggesting that Dol-4 likely resulted from circulation through basinal sediments instead of different fluids. Focusing on the origin of dolomite has been instrumental in understanding the diagenetic evolution, fluid flow, and organic-inorganic interactions in organic-rich shale and, hence, the reservoir formation of shale oil.
Linkage Between Preceding August Asian–Pacific Oscillation and September Precipitation Over Southeast China
Authors: Xia Changji , Hua Wei , Hu Qin , Yang Kaiqing , Ming Jing , Wu Xiaofei , Fan Guangzhou
Published: May 2022

Understanding the spatiotemporal variation of autumn precipitation and its relationship with the large-scale circulation is important for planning industrial and agricultural production, economic development, and ecological protection. This study investigated the relationship between the August Asian–Pacific Oscillation (APO) and September precipitation over Southeast China (SC) during the period 1961–2020. Results showed that the August APO can exert considerable control on September precipitation over SC and that a significant positive correlation exists between them. With a strong (weak) August APO, the anomalous southerly (northerly) winds are observed in the north (south) of SC at the upper level, and the deep trough over East Asia and ridge over North Pacific at 500hPa are both reinforced (weakened). This leads to anomalous northward (southward) lower-tropospheric winds over the East Asian coast, accompanied by enhanced convergence (divergence) of warm and cold air masses and anomalous ascent (descent) motion which results in more (less) precipitation over SC. The underlying mechanism can be explained as thermal anomalies induced by the APO that can persist from August to September, which modulates the atmospheric circulation anomalies in September and eventually causes more (less) precipitation over SC. Therefore, in addition to the role of sea surface temperature forcing on precipitation variations, our analyses suggest that the preceding temperature anomalies at the middle and upper troposphere also should be considered as an important precursory factor for the following precipitation over SC.
Supporting the Installation of Comprehensive, Integrated, Three-Tiered Models of Prevention: Educator Perspectives
Authors: Oakes Wendy Peia , Lane Kathleen Lynne , Royer David James , Buckman Mark Matthew , Common Eric Alan , Allen Grant Edmund , Cantwell Emily Dawn
Published: May 2022

We provide results from a district-wide survey of 253 certified educators to determine (a) the degree to which they reported implementing components of their school’s comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered (Ci3T) model of prevention in the current year and (b) the areas in which educators might benefit from continued professional learning. The purpose of this study was to develop a data informed professional learning plan to continue to support implementation at the conclusion of an Institute for Education Sciences (IES) -funded practitioner-researcher partnership grant. At least half of educators reported a high level of implementation for all Tier 1 features. Tier 2 and Tier 3 behavioral and social supports for students were reported as less fully implemented than academic interventions, yet still well-above the scale midpoint. For every component, elementary educators indicated statistically significantly higher levels of implementation relative to secondary educators. Over half of respondents indicated a high level of implementation of eight of 20 research-based practices and supports examined, with a statistically significant relation between ratings of currently implemented practices and the desire for support in four practices: small-group self-determination instruction, peer-mediated support strategies, check-in/check-out, and strategies for internalizing behaviors. In terms of preferred professional development avenues, educators rated in-district during-school workshops, courses for college credit (on-line), and brief “good practice” guides most favorably. We close with a discussion of implications, limitations, and future directions.
Burden of Prostate Cancer in China, 1990–2019: Findings From the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Wang Fuquan , Wang Chenchen , Xia Haifa , Lin Yun , Zhang Dingyu , Yin Peng , Yao Shanglong
Published: May 2022

Our study is the first to illustrate the age and geographic distribution differences in the epidemiology of prostate cancer from 1990 to 2019 in China. Prostate cancer (PC) is a malignant tumor derived from prostate epithelial cells and is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men. In recent years, the global incidence and the annual deaths number of PC showed a continuous increase, which has caused a huge disease burden on human health. In terms of the global average, the incidence and mortality of PC in China are relatively low. However, the age-standardized incidence rate of PC was 17.3/100,000 in 2019 in China, with a 95.2% rise compared to 1990, while the global growth rate of incidence rate over the same period is 13.2%. This showed that the development trend of PC in China is not optimistic. There are few precise studies on the epidemiology of PC in China. After the general analysis strategy used in the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019, we elaborated on the incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and the corresponding age-standardized rate of the Chinese PC population from 1990 to 2019 according to different ages and provinces. We used joinpoint regression analysis to estimate the incidence and mortality trends. Our analysis shows that elderly people over 80 are still the main focus of incidence and death. The epidemiology and disease burden of PC of different provinces in China show obvious regional differences, and some certain provinces such as HongKong, Macao, and Zhejiang should be paid more attention. More targeted and effective strategies should be developed to reduce the burden of PC in China.
Water Blooms—A Potential Threat to Male Reproduction: Clues From Aquatics and Rodents
Authors: Liu Shengdi , He Bin , Li Hua
Published: May 2022

Toxic cyanobacteria blooms are a potential threat to global aquatic ecosystems and human health. Microcystin-leucine-arginine (MC-LR) is the most toxic variant of microcystins (MCs), and exposure to MCs can damage the male reproductive system. Two electronic databases were searched for controlled studies of rodents and fishes published before September 2020. Effect sizes were calculated for eight main reproductive parameters, including sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology, serum testosterone, testis weight, serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), serum luteinising hormone (LH) and serum estradiol. Nine meta-analyses of individual parameters were conducted using R version 4.0.2. Fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. In the studies of rodents, exposure to MC-LR by intraperitoneal injection or intragastric administration yielded statistically significant effects on sperm count (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -1.7426 (95% CI: -2.2098 to -1.2754)), abnormal sperm rate (SMD = 1.6714 (95% CI: 0.9702 to 2.3726)), sper5% CI: -3.9811 to -1.7834)), testis weight (SMD = -2.8822 (95% CI: -3.9811 to -1.7834)) and serum FSH (SMD = 0.4707 (95% CI: 0.0659 to 0.8756) changes in serum testosterone (SMD = 0.5521 (95% CI: 0.1652; 0.9391)) and estradiol (SMD = 0.6398 (95% CI: 0.1896 to 1.0900)) concentrations are considered to be statistically significant. Dose–response analysis reflected the dynamic changes of male reproductive function caused by MC. Short-term exposure to MC-LR can affect the function of the male reproductive system in rodents and fish. Elevated dosage or extended exposure time may worsen the damage. Human-related research on MC-LR exposure is very necessary to protect health and the water environment.