bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of hyaluronic acid on cytokines and immune cells change in patients of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Jin Lixia , Xu Kangli , Liang Yun , Du Peng , Wan Shengcheng , Jiang Chang
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the changes of cytokines and immune cells after Intra-articular hyaluronic acid(IAHA)injections in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Patients and Methods

Sixteen patients were included in the study, with a total of 65 IAHA injections. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Lysholm scores were evaluated at each visit. The immune cells and 14 cytokines of synovial fluid were analyzed at each visit. The association between immune cells and cytokines were examined.

Results

IL-6 and IL-8 were the most common cytokines in the synovial fluid of KOA patients. The synovial fluid was orchestrated by macrophages (69%) and Lymphocytes (18%). Neutrophils were less to count of the total cell population (< 2%). The cytokines decreased significantly after the first injection and then tended to be stable. Lymphocytes increased a lot, while Macrophages decreased in the early stage, then increased after multiple injections. The proposition of M1 decreased in the early stage, then increased after multiple injections, while M2 increased consistently. M1 and M2 were positively associated with IL-6 and IL-8.

Conclusion

The synovial fluid of KOA patients was orchestrated by macrophages (69%) and Lymphocytes (18%) and cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8. IAHA may play an anti-inflammatory functional role through the decreased production of IL-6 and IL-8 by macrophages through polarization. The results from this study partially revealed the effect of IAHA on cytokines and immune cells change in KOA patients, and therapies targeting pathogenic cytokines and immune cells might be used to attenuate the knee joint inflammation and release pain.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2100050133; date registered 17 August 2021.
A multicenter study on surgical procedure selection and risk factor analysis of postoperative complications after TIP and Duckett hypospadias repair
Authors: Fang YiWei , Sun Ning , Song HongCheng , Zhang WeiPing , Tang YunMan , Huang LuGang , Yang Yi , Chao Min , Ma Hong , Zhang JingTi , Zhang XuHui , Li ShouLin , Li Ning , Chen Chao , He DaWei , Wu WenBo , Xie Hua , Guan Yong
Published: August 2022

Background

Hypospadias is a common congenital malformation in pediatric urology with surgery being the only curative treatment. Although there are hundreds of surgical methods for hypospadias, no single method can treat all types, and there are still high rates of postoperative complications. We performed this study to investigate surgical procedure selection and perform risk factor analysis of postoperative complications in hypospadias repair.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed of complete clinical and follow-up data of children with hypospadias who were treated and followed up at 15 children’s clinical centers in Mainland China from December 2018 to December 2019. Children were divided into groups according to Barcat classification and surgical methods in order to analyze the surgical choice for different types of hypospadias and the influencing factors of different surgical methods for complications.

Results

In total, 1011 patients were followed up for 26 months. According to Barcat classification, there were 248 cases of distal type hypospadias, 214 of intermediate, and 549 of proximal type. Transverse preputial island flap urethroplasty (Duckett) and tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIP) were performed in 375 (37.1%) and 336 cases (33.2%), respectively. The postoperative complication rate of distal hypospadias was 23.4% (15.8–57.1%), mid shaft 29.0% (22.7–40.0%), and proximal 43.7% (30.2–52.9%). Among the 375 patients in Duckett group, 192 had complications. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the length of prepuce island flap (OR = 3.506, 95% CI: 2.258–5.442) was an independent risk factor for complications after Duckett operation (P < 0.001). In TIP group, there were 336 cases with 84 complications. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the width of urethral plate after longitudinal resection (OR = 0.836, 95% CI: 0.742–0.942) and glans width (OR = 0.851, 95% CI: 0.749–0.965) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications after TIP (P = 0.003, P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Several anatomical features play a role during the selection process among the different surgical approaches, including glans size, urethral plate width, and the meatal position. The width of the urethral plate and glans width were risk factors for postoperative complications after TIP. The length of prepuce island flap was a risk factor for complications after Duckett operation.
Stakeholder perceptions affecting the implementation of teleophthalmology
Authors: Snider Molly J. E. , Maa April Y. , Guyton Arthur C. , Park Hannah , Hunt Kelly J. , Pope Charlene
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Teleophthalmology has become the subject of heightened interest and scrutiny in the wake of the SARS-CoV-2 global pandemic. A streamlined implementation framework becomes increasingly important as demand grows. This study identified obstacles to teleophthalmology implementation through summative content analysis of key stakeholders’ perceptions.

Design

Summative content analysis of transcribed interviews with key stakeholders (including patients, technicians, ophthalmic readers, staff, nurses, and administrators at two teleophthalmology clinic sites).

Methods

Keyword Were counted and compared to examine underlying meaning. Two analysts coded text independently using MAXQDA for summative qualitative content analysis to derive themes and hierarchical relationships as a basis for future refinement of TECS implementation. xMind ZEN was used to map conceptual relationships and overarching themes that emerged to identify perceived facilitators and barriers to implementation

Results

Analysis revealed two themes common to perceptions: (1) benefits of care, and (2) ease of implementation. Perceived benefits included efficiency, accessibility, and earlier intervention in disease course. The quality and quantity of training was heavily weighted in its influence on stakeholders’ commitment to and confidence in the program, as were transparent organizational structure, clear bidirectional communication, and the availability of support staff.

Conclusion

Using a determinant framework of implementation science, this report highlighted potential hindrances to teleophthalmology implementation and offered solutions in order to increase access to screening, improve the quality of care provided, and facilitate sustainability of the innovation.
Cost analysis of lurasidone for the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents and adults within the United Kingdom
Authors: Dymond Amy , Afonso Daniela , Green Will
Published: August 2022

Background

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition characterised by distortions in thought processes, perception, mood, sense of self, and behaviour. Lurasidone, a second-generation atypical antipsychotic, represents an additional treatment option alongside existing antipsychotics for adolescents and adults with schizophrenia. An economic model was developed to evaluate the incremental costs of lurasidone as a first-line treatment option compared to existing antipsychotics.

Methods

A Markov model was developed to estimate the cost impact of lurasidone as a first-line treatment option for both adolescents and adults. The sequence-based model incorporated the following health states: stable (no relapse or discontinuation), discontinuation (due to adverse events or other reasons), and relapse. Data used to determine the movement of patients between health states were obtained from network meta-analyses (NMAs). The time horizon ranged from three to five years (depending on the patient population) and a six-weekly cycle length was used. Unit costs and resource use were reflective of the UK NHS and Personal Social Services and consisted of the following categories: outpatient, adverse events, primary and residential care. Extensive deterministic sensitivity analysis was undertaken to assess the level of uncertainty associated with the base case results.

Results

Lurasidone is demonstrated to be cost-saving as a first-line treatment within the adolescent and adult populations when compared to second-line and third-line respectively. Lurasidone is more expensive in terms of treatment costs, resource use (in the stable health state) and the treatment of adverse events. However, these costs are outweighed by the savings associated with the relapse health state. Lurasidone remains cost-saving when inputs are varied in sensitivity analysis and scenario analysis.

Conclusions

Lurasidone is a cost-saving first-line treatment for schizophrenia for both adolescents and adults.
A novel fatty acid metabolism-related signature identifies features of the tumor microenvironment and predicts clinical outcome in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhang Hai-Bin , Sun Zhuo-Kai , Zhong Fang-Min , Yao Fang-Yi , Liu Jing , Zhang Jing , Zhang Nan , Lin Jin , Li Shu-Qi , Li Mei-Yong , Jiang Jun-Yao , Cheng Ying , Xu Shuai , Cheng Xue-Xin , Huang Bo , Wang Xiao-Zhong
Published: August 2022

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common malignancy of the hematological system, and there are currently a number of studies regarding abnormal alterations in energy metabolism, but fewer reports related to fatty acid metabolism (FAM) in AML. We therefore analyze the association of FAM and AML tumor development to explore targets for clinical prognosis prediction and identify those with potential therapeutic value.

Methods

The identification of AML patients with different fatty acid metabolism characteristics was based on a consensus clustering algorithm. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to calculate the proportion of infiltrating immune cells. We used Cox regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis to construct a signature for predicting the prognosis of AML patients. The Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database was used to predict the sensitivity of patient samples in high- and low-risk score groups to different chemotherapy drugs.

Results

The consensus clustering approach identified three molecular subtypes of FAM that exhibited significant differences in genomic features such as immunity, metabolism, and inflammation, as well as patient prognosis. The risk-score model we constructed accurately predicted patient outcomes, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values of 0.870, 0.878, and 0.950 at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. The validation cohort also confirmed the prognostic evaluation performance of the risk score. In addition, higher risk scores were associated with stronger fatty acid metabolisms, significantly higher expression levels of immune checkpoints, and significantly increased infiltration of immunosuppressive cells. Immune functions, such as inflammation promotion, para-inflammation, and type I/II interferon responses, were also significantly activated. These results demonstrated that immunotherapy targeting immune checkpoints and immunosuppressive cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and M2 macrophages, are more suitable for patients with high-risk scores. Finally, the prediction results of chemotherapeutic drugs showed that samples in the high-risk score group had greater treatment sensitivity to four chemotherapy drugs in vitro.

Conclusions

The analysis of the molecular patterns of FAM effectively predicted patient prognosis and revealed various tumor microenvironment (TME) characteristics.
“They're causing more harm than good”: a qualitative study exploring racism in harm reduction through the experiences of racialized people who use drugs
Authors: Godkhindi Parnika , Nussey Lisa , O’Shea Tim
Published: August 2022

Background

Increased opioid-related morbidity and mortality in racialized communities has highlighted the intersectional nature of the drug policy crisis. Given the racist evolution of the war on drugs and the harm reduction (HR) movement, the aim of this study is to explore racism within harm reduction services through the perspectives of our participants.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative descriptive study to explore the perspectives of racialized service users and providers on racism in the HR movement in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). Four racialized service users and four racialized service providers participated in semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically.

Results

Five themes related to racism in HR were generated: (1) whiteness of harm reduction as a barrier to accessing services, (2) diversifying HR workers as a step towards overcoming distrust, (3) drop-in spaces specific to Black, Indigenous, and people of colour are facilitators to accessing harm reduction, (4) lack of representation in HR-related promotional and educational campaigns, and (5) HR as a frontier for policing.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that structural and institutional racism are prevalent in HR services within the GTHA, in the form of colour-blind policies and practices that fail to address the intersectional nature of the drug policy crisis. There is a need for local HR organizations to critically reflect and act on their practices and policies, working with communities to become more equitable, inclusive, and accessible spaces for all people who use drugs.
The Janus-faced role of TRPM2-S in retroperitoneal liposarcoma via increasing ROS levels
Authors: Li Xiangji , Bu Fanqin , Ma Shixiang , Cananzi Ferdinando , Zhao Yu , Xiao Mengmeng , Min Li , Luo Chenghua
Published: August 2022

Background

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RPLS) is a specific soft tissue sarcoma with a high recurrence rate. The short isoform of transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 2 (TRPM2-S) plays an important role in the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the association between TRPM2-S and RPLS and its underlying mechanisms remains unclear.

Methods

The expression of both TRPM2-S and TRPM2-L in RPLS tissues was verified by kimmunohistochemistry (IHC). The regulation on Ca2+ influx by TRPM2-S was evaluated by Fluo-4 AM staining. The effect of TRPM2-S on cell proliferation and apoptosis was tested by 5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining and Flow cytometry respectively. The level of cellular ROS was assessed by the DCFH-DA probe. Different concentrations of H2O2 were used to provide oxidative stress on RPLS cells. The underlying mechanisms were further explored by Western blotting.

Results

The IHC assays showed that TRPM2-S, but not TRPM2-L, was prognostic in RPLS. Low TRPM2-S level was associated with poor disease-free survival (DFS). Calcium influx signal intensity was significantly decreased under TRPM2-S overexpression, which resulted in a decrease in the levels of FOXO3a and PTEN. Correspondingly, the levels of pERK, pAKT, pP65, pGSK-3β, Bcl-2, and β-catenin were upregulated, and cellular ROS was gently increased under TRPM2-S overexpression. Moreover, TRPM2-S slightly promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of RPLS cell lines under normoxia, but largely increased apoptosis rates under oxidative stress. The cleaved caspase3 was significantly upregulated by TRPM2-S overexpression under oxidative stress. N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a small molecule antioxidant, could largely rescue RPLS cells from the apoptosis induced by H2O2.

Conclusion

TRPM2-S exerts Janus-faced effects in RPLS by increasing the ROS levels via inhibition on FOXO3a, which promotes cell proliferation under normoxia but induces apoptosis under oxidative stress.
What evidence exists on the effect of the main European lowland crop and grassland management practices on biodiversity indicator species groups? A systematic map protocol
Authors: Séchaud Robin , Van der Meer Markus , Fabian Yvonne , Jeanneret Philippe
Published: August 2022

Background

The intensification of the agricultural practices in Europe over the last decades has drastically transformed the agroecosystems. The simplification of the landscape, the loss of semi-natural habitats and the application of chemicals on crops are known to have led to biodiversity decline in agricultural landscapes, raising substantial concerns about the loss of essential ecosystem services, such as pollination or pest control. Depending on the location, the scale and the regional context, different indicator species groups (ISGs) are often surveyed to assess the state and trend of biodiversity changes in agroecosystems. Although the high diversity of these ISGs allows a broad overview of the biodiversity, it complicates the interpretation of the results and thus their application. In addition, species diversity metrics are various, from simple species counts to more complex measurements of diversity indices, sometimes with antagonistic responses. Here, to meet the pressing need for synthesis in this complex topic, we will follow a standardized systematic map protocol to collect and summarize the literature reporting the effects of the main European lowland agricultural management practices (AMPs) on a set of ISGs.

Methods

Following the systematic evidence synthesis standards, we developed the question to address in the systematic map using the PICO framework. We established a preliminary search string by combining search terms for the categories Population (ISGs), Intervention (AMPs) and Outcome (species diversity), as well as with two additional groups (Environment—to focus on lowland crop and grassland—and Location—to restrict the study area to Europe). We will conduct a comprehensive literature search of relevant peer-reviewed and grey literature using Web of Science and CABI platforms, Google Scholar, specialized websites and through our professional collaborator network. The comprehensiveness of the search will be assessed by comparing the literature collected to a test-list of ninety relevant articles. The repeatability of the literature screening process will be ensured by a list of inclusion/exclusion criteria and inter-reviewer consistency statistical tests. Data extraction will be organized in three complementary tables (article references, study characteristics, species diversity), on which we will perform queries to produce the tables, figures and maps that will compose the systematic map.
An investigation into oral fluency perceived by teachers and students—in a Vietnamese context of English education
Authors: Khau Anh Hoang , Huynh Van Thuy Mai
Published: August 2022

This study attempts to investigate how four groups of participants at Tra Vinh University perceive oral fluency. This study is conducted in the hope to obtain more perceptions of oral fluency so future rubrics can be developed based on such perceptions. The study used a set of items stating what oral fluency should be like, which was developed based on the Qualitative aspects of spoken language proposed by the Council of Europe (2019). To test if the items were accepted, the study invited 33 senior English-majored students, 20 English teachers with a BA, 22 English teachers with an MA, and 10 English teachers with a doctorate degree for the study. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire consisting of 18 closed-ended questions and an open-ended question was employed to collect the participants’ perceptions of oral fluency. The results showed that the participants with an MA and the participants with a doctorate degree tend to agree more with the items in the questionnaire while the other groups slightly agreed with most of the items. Furthermore, many of the participants provided the study with their own ideas about oral fluency, which were finally synthesized. Some limitations and recommendations of the study were also included.
Co-deposition of SOD1, TDP-43 and p62 proteinopathies in ALS: evidence for multifaceted pathways underlying neurodegeneration
Authors: Trist Benjamin G. , Fifita Jennifer A. , Hogan Alison , Grima Natalie , Smith Bradley , Troakes Claire , Vance Caroline , Shaw Christopher , Al-Sarraj Safa , Blair Ian P. , Double Kay L.
Published: August 2022

Multiple neurotoxic proteinopathies co-exist within vulnerable neuronal populations in all major neurodegenerative diseases. Interactions between these pathologies may modulate disease progression, suggesting they may constitute targets for disease-modifying treatments aiming to slow or halt neurodegeneration. Pairwise interactions between superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) and ubiquitin-binding protein 62/sequestosome 1 (p62) proteinopathies have been reported in multiple transgenic cellular and animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), however corresponding examination of these relationships in patient tissues is lacking. Further, the coalescence of all three proteinopathies has not been studied in vitro or in vivo to date. These data are essential to guide therapeutic development and enhance the translation of relevant therapies into the clinic. Our group recently profiled SOD1 proteinopathy in post-mortem spinal cord tissues from familial and sporadic ALS cases, demonstrating an abundance of structurally-disordered (dis)SOD1 conformers which become mislocalized within these vulnerable neurons compared with those of aged controls. To explore any relationships between this, and other, ALS-linked proteinopathies, we profiled TDP-43 and p62 within spinal cord motor neurons of the same post-mortem tissue cohort using multiplexed immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. We identified distinct patterns of SOD1, TDP43 and p62 co-deposition and subcellular mislocalization between motor neurons of familial and sporadic ALS cases, which we primarily attribute to SOD1 gene status. Our data demonstrate co-deposition of p62 with mutant and wild-type disSOD1 and phosphorylated TDP-43 in familial and sporadic ALS spinal cord motor neurons, consistent with attempts by p62 to mitigate SOD1 and TDP-43 deposition. Wild-type SOD1 and TDP-43 co-deposition was also frequently observed in ALS cases lacking SOD1 mutations. Finally, alterations to the subcellular localization of the three proteins were tightly correlated, suggesting close relationships between the regulatory mechanisms governing the subcellular compartmentalization of these proteins. Our study is the first to profile spatial relationships between SOD1, TDP-43 and p62 pathologies in post-mortem spinal cord motor neurons of ALS patients, previously only studied in vitro. Our findings suggest interactions between these three key ALS-linked proteins are likely to modulate the formation of their respective proteinopathies, and perhaps the rate of motor neuron degeneration, in ALS patients.
Barriers to Quality Perioperative Care Delivery in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Qualitative Rapid Appraisal Study
Authors: Bedwell Gillian J. , Dias Priyanthi , Hahnle Lina , Anaeli Amani , Baker Tim , Beane Abi , Biccard Bruce M. , Bulamba Fred , Delgado-Ramirez Martha B. , Dullewe Nilmini P. , Echeverri-Mallarino Veronica , Haniffa Rashan , Hewitt-Smith Adam , Hoyos Alejandra Sanin , Mboya Erick A. , Nanimambi Juliana , Pearse Rupert , Pratheepan Anton Premadas , Sunguya Bruno , Tolppa Timo , Uruthirakumar Powsiga , Vengadasalam Sutharshan , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia , Stephens Timothy J.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

Provision of timely, safe, and affordable surgical care is an essential component of any high-quality health system. Increasingly, it is recognized that poor quality of care in the perioperative period (before, during, and after surgery) may contribute to significant excess mortality and morbidity. Therefore, improving access to surgical procedures alone will not address the disparities in surgical outcomes globally until the quality of perioperative care is addressed. We aimed to identify key barriers to quality perioperative care delivery for 3 “Bellwether” procedures (cesarean delivery, emergency laparotomy, and long-bone fracture fixation) in 5 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

METHODS:

Ten hospitals representing secondary and tertiary facilities from 5 LMICs were purposefully selected: 2 upper-middle income (Colombia and South Africa); 2 lower-middle income (Sri Lanka and Tanzania); and 1 lower income (Uganda). We used a rapid appraisal design (pathway mapping, ethnography, and interviews) to map out and explore the complexities of the perioperative pathway and care delivery for the Bellwether procedures. The framework approach was used for data analysis, with triangulation across different data sources to identify barriers in the country and pattern matching to identify common barriers across the 5 LMICs.

RESULTS:

We developed 25 pathway maps, undertook >30 periods of observation, and held >40 interviews with patients and clinical staff. Although the extent and impact of the barriers varied across the LMIC settings, 4 key common barriers to safe and effective perioperative care were identified: (1) the fragmented nature of the care pathways, (2) the limited human and structural resources available for the provision of care, (3) the direct and indirect costs of care for patients (even in health systems for which care is ostensibly free of charge), and (4) patients’ low expectations of care.

CONCLUSIONS:

We identified key barriers to effective perioperative care in LMICs. Addressing these barriers is important if LMIC health systems are to provide safe, timely, and affordable provision of the Bellwether procedures.
Plasticity of salmonfly (Pteronarcys californica) respiratory phenotypes in response to changes in temperature and oxygen
Authors: Malison Rachel L. , Frakes James I. , Andreas Amanda L. , Keller Priya R. , Hamant Emily , Shah Alisha A. , Woods H. Arthur
Published: August 2022

Like all taxa, populations of aquatic insects may respond to climate change by evolving new physiologies or behaviors, shifting their range, exhibiting physiological and behavioral plasticity, or going extinct. We evaluated the importance of plasticity by measuring changes in growth, survival and respiratory phenotypes of salmonfly nymphs (the stonefly Pteronarcys californica) in response to experimental combinations of dissolved oxygen and temperature. Overall, smaller individuals grew more rapidly during the 6-week experimental period, and oxygen and temperature interacted to affect growth in complex ways. Survival was lower for the warm treatment, although only four mortalities occurred (91.6% versus 100%). Nymphs acclimated to warmer temperatures did not have higher critical thermal maxima (CTmax), but those acclimated to hypoxia had CTmax values (in normoxia) that were higher by approximately 1°C. These results suggest possible adaptive plasticity of systems for taking up or delivering oxygen. We examined these possibilities by measuring the oxygen sensitivity of metabolic rates and the morphologies of tracheal gill tufts located ventrally on thoracic segments. Mass-specific metabolic rates of individuals acclimated to warmer temperatures were higher in acute hypoxia but lower in normoxia, regardless of their recent history of oxygen exposure during acclimation. The morphology of gill filaments, however, changed in ways that appeared to depress rates of oxygen delivery in functional hypoxia. Our combined results from multiple performance metrics indicate that rising temperatures and hypoxia may interact to magnify the risks to aquatic insects, but that physiological plasticity in respiratory phenotypes may offset some of these risks.
Τι είναι το θέμα; Οι παραλλαγές της Θεματικής Ανάλυσης στην εκπαιδευτική έρευνα
Authors: Χριστοδούλου Μιχάλης
Published: August 2022

Στο άρθρο αυτό επιχειρείται να απαντηθεί στο ερώτημα «τί είναι το θέμα» όταν κάνουμε Θεματική Ανάλυση (ΘΑ). Το επιχείρημα έχει οργανωθεί σε τρία μέρη: Αρχικά αναλύεται κριτικά η αναστοχαστική ΘΑ την οποία προτείνουν οι Virginia Braun και η Victoria Clarke, θεωρία από την οποία αντλούν οι περισσότερες εκπαιδευτικές έρευνες. Στη συνέχεια αναπτύσσεται το κριτικό σχόλιο ότι για τους τους Braun – Clarke τα κριτήρια της συγκρότησης των θεμάτων επαφίενται στην αναστοχαστική ικανότητα του/της ερευνητή/τριας με αποτέλεσμα να χάνεται από την μεθοδολογική οπτική το πλαίσιο της δικαιολόγησης.Επίσης, κατά την αναλυτική διαδικασία υπάρχει αναντιστοιχία μεταξύ αναλυτικού επιπέδου και βαθμού αφαίρεσης. Στο άρθρο υποστηρίζεται μια εναλλακτική εκδοχή της ΘΑ, η οποία αφενός ξεπερνά τα παραπάνω προβλήματα και, αφετέρου, αντλεί από πιο ρεαλιστικές επιστημολογίες (Κριτικό Ρεαλισμό και Ανάλυση Κοινωνικών Δικτύων). Τέλος, στο άρθρο παρουσιάζεται μια παραγωγικού (deductive) τύπου ΘΑ, καθώς στο πλαίσιό της, ο βαθμός αφαίρεσης των θεμάτων εξαρτάται από το βιβλίο κωδίκων (codebook) που υιοθετείται.
Student perceptions towards online learning in medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Barche Apurv , Nayak Veena , Pandey Arvind , Bhandarkar Ajay , nayak Shalini G , Nayak Kirtana
Published: August 2022

Background: This mixed-methods study was undertaken to ascertain undergraduate medical students’ perceptions of remote learning following the COVID-19 restrictions. 545 students participated in this study. Methods: Data was collected using a validated questionnaire and four focus group discussions. Results: Regarding recorded lectures, the quantitative findings indicated that they were important during online learning and the qualitative findings explained that the recorded lectures enabled individual students to pace and customize their learning. The majority of the students agreed that recorded lectures were relevant to their learning, though they watched less than 50% of recorded lectures. Qualitative findings described procrastination as the rationale for not watching the videos. The online live lectures had a relatively higher percentage of contribution towards learning in comparison with instructor recorded video lectures. Students were more engaged with live lectures, and 63.3% of respondents agreed. Qualitative findings confirmed the opportunities for interacting with peers and better clarification of doubts by teachers during live lectures. Conclusions: Online learning with recorded and live lectures provided continuity in medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic. When compared to recorded video lectures, synchronous live lectures were regarded as superior by students largely due to the opportunity to directly communicate with the instructor and receive quick feedback.
The future of food and nutrition in ELIXIR
Authors: Balech Bachir , Brennan Lorraine , Carrillo de Santa Pau Enrique , Cavalieri Duccio , Coort Susan , D’Elia Domenica , Dragsted Lars Ove , Eftimov Tome , Evelo Chris T. , Ferk Polonca , Finglas Paul , Gori Agnese , Hancock John , Kalaš Matúš , Koroušić Seljak Barbara , Lachat Carl , Leskošek Brane , Pasolli Edoardo , Pesole Graziano , Presser Karl , Sandionigi Anna , Santamaria Monica , Şener Duygu Dede , Traka Maria , Vergères Guy , Zimmermann Karin L. , Bouwman Jildau
Published: August 2022

Non-communicable diseases are on the rise and are often related to food choices; nutrition affects infectious diseases too. Therefore, there is growing interest in research on public and personal health, as related to food, nutrition behaviour and well-being of consumers throughout the life cycle. These concepts and their relations are complex and only partially understood – more data is needed to improve our understanding. The required data include deep geno- and phenotyping data from human nutritional studies, covering metabolic and health, but also including behavioural and socio-economic data. The aim of this white paper is to provide a guiding framework for the future contributions of ELIXIR’s recently established Food & Nutrition (F&N) Community. This white paper is the direct result of a strategy meeting that took place in September 2019 in The Hague (NL) and involved representatives of 14 countries representing the ELIXIR Nodes. The meeting led to the definition of F&N related bioinformatics challenges, including the use of standards for data reuse and sharing, and for interoperability of data, tools and services, advocacy and training. Resolving these bioinformatics challenges makes it possible to address a wide range of F&N-related challenges, such as definition of an individual health status, individual dietary needs, and finding complex intake biomarkers (to replace questionnaires). Here, we provide suggestions on how to align these tasks within the ELIXIR Platforms, other ELIXIR Communities/Focus Groups and the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures.
Communicating Physical Activity with Adolescents: What works? A scoping review protocol
Authors: Grady Caera , Ng Kwok , Murtagh Elaine , Woods Catherine
Published: August 2022

Background: Worldwide, adolescents are not meeting the minimum recommended physical activity (PA) guidelines to achieve health benefits. Awareness of the guidelines among adolescents is low, only 3.6% can report them correctly. The school is an ideal PA promotion setting, no other institute has the same reach or influence on the adolescent population. There is a need for an effective communication strategy for PA messages for adolescents. The purpose of this review is to explore how, when, who, where and what i.e. the content, context and mode of delivery of PA messages to communicate with adolescents to improve their awareness and understanding of PA that will potentially lead to an increase in PA levels. Methods: A scoping review was selected as the most appropriate methodology due to the broad nature of the research question. The PCC mnemonic (Population, concept, context), recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute, was used to develop the search strategy and research question. This review will follow the scoping review framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) which was later updated by Levac et al (2010) to ensure the methods are systematic. It will also follow the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews checklist. Sources include databases (CINAHL, Education Source, Scopus, PubMED), grey literature from the World Health Organisation, Global Index Medicus and the reference lists of extracted articles will be checked from the year 1995 onwards. Results: A PRISMA flow diagram will demonstrate the final articles included and results will be presented and summarised as recurring themes. The results will be discussed in relation to existing literature and future implications for research, policy and practice. Conclusion: This will be the first review to explore the PA messaging context among adolescents and the findings will help inform a strategy for communicating PA to adolescents.
Why did he say that? Teaching physicians-in-training how to recognize hidden emotions in end-of-life prognosis conversations: an autoethnography
Authors: Stonestreet John
Published: August 2022

Background: This article begins with two unconscionable end-of-life prognosis-related quotes from best-selling physician-author, Atul Gawande, and an unnamed doctor, asking: “Why did he say that?” The article then proceeds to answer this question by showing how physicians’ most common end-of-life communication blunders are rooted in their unexplored emotions. Healthcare’s only widespread communication training focused on examining the role of hidden emotions in influencing the flow of conversation is found in Spiritual Care’s “Verbatim” education modules. While the need for physicians’ emotional self-awareness for improved end-of-life communication has been identified in the literature, no one has explored how this need might be met by custom-tailoring Spiritual Care’s “Verbatim” education modules for physicians-in-training.

Methods: This article utilizes the qualitative research method of autoethnography to grant physicians access to the content and power of Spiritual Care’s “Verbatim” education modules for identifying hidden emotions in clinical communication.

Results: Using a profound personal example from the author’s firsthand experience of the suggested training tool, the “Verbatim” module is shown to grant revelatory self-knowledge and invaluable emotional intelligence. The same model then illuminates the physician cases.

Conclusion: Spiritual Care’s “Verbatim” education modules address universal issues of clinical communication and emotional self-awareness that are applicable to physician-patient/family conversations surrounding end-of-life decision-making. Customizing these communication modules for physicians-in-training may help to address physicians’ emotionally-triggered conversational miscues in end-of-life prognosis communication. Existing programs for complementary end-of-life communication training are noted, and it is claimed that a combination of each of these models, together with the proposed module, may be ideal. It is also admitted that no form of education or training can ensure ethical communication. Therefore the ultimate solution is to supplement communication training with real-time, third-party support and accountability. This can be achieved by the "Doctor Body Cam" intervention protocol, introduced here: https://aquila.usm.edu/ojhe/vol17/iss1/7/.
Low-resistivity, high-resolution W-C electrical contacts fabricated by direct-write focused electron beam induced deposition
Authors: Orús Pablo , Sigloch Fabian , Sangiao Soraya , De Teresa José María
Published: August 2022

Background: The use of a focused ion beam to decompose a precursor gas and produce a metallic deposit is a widespread nanolithographic technique named focused ion beam induced deposition (FIBID). However, such an approach is unsuitable if the sample under study is sensitive to the somewhat aggressive exposure to the ion beam, which induces the effects of surface amorphization, local milling, and ion implantation, among others. An alternative strategy is that of focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID), which makes use of a focused electron beam

instead, and in general yields deposits with much lower metallic content than their FIBID counterparts.

Methods: In this work, we optimize the deposition of tungsten-carbon (W-C) nanowires by FEBID to be used as electrical contacts by assessing the impact of the deposition parameters during growth, evaluating their chemical composition, and investigating their electrical response.

Results: Under the optimized irradiation conditions, the samples exhibit a metallic content high enough for them to be utilized for this purpose, showing a room-temperature resistivity of 550 μΩ cm and maintaining their conducting properties down to 2 K. The lateral resolution of such FEBID W-C metallic nanowires is 45 nm.

Conclusions: The presented optimized procedure may prove a valuable tool for the fabrication of contacts on samples where the FIBID approach is not advised
The use of botulinum toxin (BoNT) in urology - review
Authors: Szwed Jakub , Szwed Monika , Szwed Weronika , Miga Nadia
Published: August 2022

Introduction and purpose

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) prevents the release of acetylcholine into the synaptic cleft of the neuromuscular junction, which causes flaccid muscle paralysis. A non-obvious specialization that uses botulinum toxin is urology. The aim of this article is to present a literature review regarding the use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of urological diseases.

Description of the state of knowledge

In the overactive bladder syndrome, with resistance to oral medications, an alternative is botox injections into the bladder wall, which reduce the intensity of urgency and pollakiuria.

Treatment of BPH with botulinum toxin injection may be an alternative to surgical and pharmacological treatment. Intra-articular botox injection causes smooth muscle relaxation and gland atrophy through prostate tissue apoptosis.

Clinical studies show promising therapeutic effects of using Botox injections in the treatment of intramural cystitis. It reduces the feeling of bladder pain and the worsening of other symptoms.

Panunzio et al. Presented a meta-analysis of prospective studies that showed a statistically significant improvement in pain perception after injection of botulinum toxin into the pelvic structures, compared with baseline values ​​for CPPS, in all cohorts evaluated.

Summary

Urology uses the entire spectrum of botox possibilities, from myocrelation in the bladder hyperresponsiveness syndrome, through neuromodulation and apoptosis induction in benign prostatic hyperplasia, ending with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties in bladder pain syndrome and chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
Multiple myeloma and kidney disease
Authors: Zarankiewicz Natalia , Kosz Katarzyna , Zielińska Martyna , Remjasz Klaudia , Kuchnicka Aleksandra , Kuchnicka Julia , Sapuła Klaudia , Aleksandrowicz Jakub , Siedlecki Wojciech
Published: August 2022

Abstract

 

Background: Multiple myeloma is a clonal plasma cell neoplasm which affects 1% of all malignancies. In this article we reviewed epidemiology, symptoms with particular attention to renal failure and its manifestation in multiple myeloma (MM).

Material and methods: This paper was based on medical articles collected in PubMed from 2001 to 2022, medical websites and books. The research has been done by looking through key words such as: „multiple myeloma”, „myeloma cast nephropathy”, „bortezomib”, „RANKL”

Results: Multiple myeloma has indolent course and many patients present renal disorders at the moment of diagnosis. The use of novel therapies can reverse renal failure.

Conclusions: Treatment of the patients with MM and kidney disease is challenging for health care professionals. Doctors have to adjust treatment to provide the best therapeutic effects.
Comparison of the impact of e-cigarettes and new tobacco heating devices on the human body and their potential in the fight against smoking
Authors: Pondel Kamil , Kawałko Kinga , Bielewicz Krzysztof , Skowrońska Katarzyna , Baciur Patrycja
Published: August 2022

Nicotine is one of the most common stimulants used by humans in the world. Its addictive potential is almost the same as that of cocaine. [1] The most popular way of delivering nicotine to the body, which is cigarette smoking, has many negative effects, including considerable carcinogenic potential. Cigarette smoke contains approx. 6,500 chemical compounds, of which around 150 are considered toxic. [2] With the advancement of technology, alternative ways of delivering nicotine to the body have been found. These include e-cigarettes and tobacco heaters. In the following study, we will compare the method and mechanism of operation of these devices and their possible effects on human health compared to smoking.
Implicações existenciais do deslocamento da cidade para o campo para a personagem Sonéá, de Odete Semedo
Authors: Rodrigues Ribeiro Giselle
Published: August 2022

Neste artigo, tratamos da experiência migratória de Sonéá, protagonista de um conto escrito por Odete Semedo, publicado em 2000, em uma coletânea de textos inspirados na literatura oral da Guiné-Bissau. Analisamos quatro subunidades temáticas do conto: a mudança da cidade para a zona rural, o casamento infantil, a falta de liberdade religiosa e o processo de formação do ser humano. Esclarecemos, por fim, que adotamos o método bibliográfico, procurando desenvolver uma análise que se coloca em sintonia com o fomento de uma hermenêutica do cotidiano.
O "Anhangabaú" de Mário de Andrade: um palimpsesto no coração da Pauliceia
Authors: Stein da Silva Agnaldo
Published: August 2022

O presente trabalho propõe uma leitura do poema Anhangabaú, que compõe a obra Pauliceia desvairada (1922), de Mário de Andrade. Esta leitura é feita a partir da imagem do palimpsesto, usada pelo autor na última estrofe do poema. Para isso, primeiramente é retomado um poema anterior de título homônimo, composto pelo autor para participação em um concurso literário promovido pela revista A cigarra. Posteriormente, contextualiza-se a obra Pauliceia desvairada e é feita a análise de seu poema Anhangabaú. Desdobra-se, por fim, uma investigação sobre o conceito de palimpsesto no poema, inserida em um percurso cujo aporte teórico conta com estudos de autores como Ricardo Souza de Carvalho, Alfredo Bosi, Antonio Candido, Gérard Genette e Julia Kristeva, bem como outros textos do próprio Mário de Andrade.
Mulheres professoras: campo, poder e resistência (1957-1970)
Authors: Teixeira Corrêa Rosa Lydia Lydia
Published: August 2022

O estudo tem objetivo em analisar aspectos da formação e atuação de mulheres, professoras primárias rurais, em escolas no município de Bocaiúva do Sul – PR. O propósito é trazer alguns elementos do percurso profissional dessas professoras entre os anos de 1957 e 1979. Reflete sobre modos de resistência que se dão por meio de práticas não usais ao campo de trabalho docente em relações de poder estabelecidas no meio onde atuaram. Para tanto foram usadas narrativas orais decorrentes de dados coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. São indicados elementos de trajetórias marcadas por desafios postos pela profissionalização e exercício docentes demandados pela natureza do trabalho, mas também pelo imperativo de conciliar o trabalho com questões domésticas e de maternidade; também a ocupação de lugar social de destaque e de poder local nos espaços nos quais estiveram responsáveis pela escolarização de crianças na escola primária rural. Os resultados apontam para diferentes modos de inserção social/local, onde aquelas mulheres desenvolveram ações diferenciadas daquelas destinadas exclusivamente ao campo educacional.
Loide Bonfim: retratos da trajetória de uma mulher na reserva indígena de Dourados-MT (1938- 1984)
Authors: Peres Cristiane Pereira , Furtado Alessandra Cristina
Published: August 2022

O artigo objetiva analisar a trajetória da professora Loide Bonfim e os seus desdobramentos no trabalho missionário e na área da saúde, na Reserva Indígena de Dourados (RID) no século XX. Para o desenvolvimento dessa análise, recorreu-se, principalmente, aos periódicos protestantes O Puritano (presbiteriano), O Estandarte (presbiteriano, presbiteriano independente) e Expositor Cristão (metodista), que divulgaram matérias sobre os trabalhos missionários desenvolvidos por Loide Bonfim na MEC e na Reserva Indígena. As fontes mobilizadas foram analisadas a partir dos pressupostos teóricos da Nova História Cultural. O estudo dessa trajetória permitiu compreender que Loide Bonfim atuando no campo da educação escolar e não escolar, no processo de evangelização e na área da saúde com os povos indígenas, ainda que em boa parte de suas ações estivesse permeada pela inserção da cultura não indígena entre os indígenas, essa mulher desempenhou um papel importante com os seus ensinamentos e, além disso, contribuiu para melhorias nas condições de vida dos Kaoiwá, Guarani e Terena. Constatamos, assim, que a trajetória de Loide Bonfim tem muito a revelar sobre a história dessas mulheres que atuaram com os indígenas, que não pode ser escrita sem levar em consideração o papel exercido por essas mulheres comuns, mas ativas, que foram resistentes em seu trabalho e aceitaram as adversidades cotidianas.
Ângelo Cretã e Jair de Oliveira: dois vereadores indígenas, a tutela do Estado e a emancipação
Authors: Da Silva Ascenso João Gabriel
Published: August 2022

Na década de 1970, em plena ditadura militar, o Brasil vivia um crescimento da mobilização indígena, que se integrava em nível nacional, bem como um aumento da repercussão dessas articulações na imprensa e na opinião pública. Ao mesmo tempo, as políticas oficiais referendavam concepções que atrelavam os indígenas a um estado de infância, que implicariam em uma tutela do Estado sobre esses povos. Entretanto, previa-se a possibilidade de término dessa tutela, com o recurso da emancipação: uma ferramenta legal controversa que pretendia que um indígena ou uma comunidade não fossem mais considerados indígenas. O presente artigo analisa essa problemática a partir da discussão da trajetória de dois indígenas que se elegeram vereadores nesse contexto: o Kaingang Ângelo Cretã, do Paraná, e o Terena Jair de Oliveira, de Mato Grosso.