bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of land use, habitat characteristics, and small mammal community composition on Leptospira prevalence in northeast Madagascar
Authors: Herrera James P. , Wickenkamp Natalie R. , Turpin Magali , Baudino Fiona , Tortosa Pablo , Goodman Steven M. , Soarimalala Voahangy , Ranaivoson Tamby Nasaina , Nunn Charles L.
Published: December 2020

Human activities can increase or decrease risks of acquiring a zoonotic disease, notably by affecting the composition and abundance of hosts. This study investigated the links between land use and infectious disease risk in northeast Madagascar, where human subsistence activities and population growth are encroaching on native habitats and the associated biota. We collected new data on pathogenicLeptospira, which are bacteria maintained in small mammal reservoirs. Transmission can occur through close contact, but most frequently through indirect contact with water contaminated by the urine of infected hosts. The probability of infection and prevalence was compared across a gradient of natural moist evergreen forest, nearby forest fragments, flooded rice and other types of agricultural fields, and in homes in a rural village. Using these data, we tested specific hypotheses for how land use alters ecological communities and influences disease transmission. The relative abundance and proportion of exotic species was highest in the anthropogenic habitats, while the relative abundance of native species was highest in the forested habitats. Prevalence ofLeptospirawas significantly higher in introduced compared to endemic species. Lastly, the probability of infection withLeptospirawas highest in introduced small mammal species, and lower in forest fragments compared to other habitat types. Our results highlight how human land use affects the small mammal community composition and in turn disease dynamics. Introduced species likely transmitLeptospirato native species where they co-occur, and may displace theLeptospiraspecies naturally occurring in Madagascar. The frequent spatial overlap of people and introduced species likely also has consequences for public health.
The impact of adjacent habitats on population dynamics of red cotton bugs and lint quality
Authors: Karar Haider , Bashir Muhammad Amjad , Khan Khalid Ali , Ghramh Hamed A. , Atta Sagheer , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Ahmad Zubair , Khan Farmanur Rahman
Published: December 2020

Red cotton bugs [Dysdercus spp. (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae] are among the most destructive pests of cotton and many other crops. Red cotton bugs (RCBs hereafter) damage cotton plants by sucking sap and deteriorate lint by staining. The incidence of RCBs causes boll injury along the field margins neighboring with various peripheral areas. The adjacent habitat/crops strongly mediate the population dynamics of RCBs. However, limited is known about the impact of adjacent habitat on population dynamics of RCBs and lint quality. This two-year field study evaluated the impact of adjacent habitat (okra, unpaved road, water channel and Eucalyptus trees) on population dynamics of RCBs and lint quality of cotton. The RCBs were sampled weekly from margins to 4 meter inside the cotton field. The RCBs’ populations were monitored and plucked cotton bolls were examined for internal damage. The highest incidence of RCBs was recorded for cotton field adjacent to okra and water channel. Similarly, the highest number of damaged bolls were observed for the field side neighboring with okra and water channel. Furthermore, the highest number of unopened bolls were recorded for okra and water channel sides with higher percentage of yellowish lint. Field sides bordering with Eucalyptus trees and unpaved road had lower RCBs incidence and lint staining. Nonetheless, RCBs incidence was higher at field margins compared to field center indicating that population was strongly affected by adjacent habitat. It is concluded that sowing okra and weedy water channels adjacent to cotton would support RCBs population and subsequent lint staining. Therefore, water channels must be kept weed-free and okra should not be sown adjacent to cotton. Nonetheless, detailed studies are needed to compute monetary damages caused by cotton pests to the crop. Furthermore, effective management strategies must be developed to manage RCBs in cotton to avoid lint-staining problem.
Pupil size variation as a response to stress in European catfish and its application for social stress detection in albino conspecifics
Authors: Slavík Ondřej , Horký Pavel , Velíšek Josef , Valchářová Tereza
Published: December 2020

Hormonal changes such as increased cortisol level in blood plasma in response to stress and social environmental stimuli are common among vertebrates including humans and typically accompanied by other physiological processes, such as changes in body pigmentation and/or pupil dilatation. The role of pupil size variation (PSV) as a response to stress have yet to be investigated in fish. We exposed albino and pigmented European catfish to short-term stress and measured changes in pupil size and cortisol level. Albinos showed lower pupil dilatation and higher cortisol levels than did pigmented conspecifics. A clear positive relationship between pupil dilatation and cortisol concentrations was observed for both pigmented and albino specimens, suggesting that PSV can be used as a stress indicator in fish, irrespective of albino’s inability to express social communication by coloring. During the follow-up, we investigated whether a penultimate contest between albino individuals would impact contestants’ social stress during subsequent contact. We observed PSV during the contact of unfamiliar albino catfish with different penultimate experiences (winner (W) and/or loser (L)). Then, the following treatment combinations were tested: WW, WL and LL. Twenty-four-hour contact of two unfamiliar catfish resulted in higher pupil dilatation among individuals with previous winner experience. Among treatment combinations, a WL contest displayed the highest pupil dilatation for winners. PSV reflected socially induced stress in individuals that was accompanied by the “winner” experience and dominancy in albinos. To conclude, the present study validates pupil dilatation as a non-invasive method to evaluate stress level in pigmented as well as albino fish in various contexts.
Effects of sponge-derived Ageladine A on the photosynthesis of different microalgal species and strains
Authors: Peter Carolin , Thoms Silke , Koch Florian , Sartoris Franz Josef , Bickmeyer Ulf
Published: December 2020

Fluorescent natural compounds have been identified in several marine hosts of microalgae. Their prevalence, and the energy the host is expending on their synthesis, suggests an important, yet poorly understood ecological role. It has been suggested that some of these natural products may enhance the photosynthesis of microbial symbionts. In this study, the effect of Ageladine A (Ag A), a pH-dependent fluorophore found in sponges of the genus Agelas, on the photosynthesis of nine microalgal species and strains was examined. The data showed that the variety of effects of Ag A additions differed between species, and even strains within a species. While in one strain of Synechococcus sp., the presence of Ag A increased gross photosynthesis under UV light exposure, it decreased in another. And while in the chlorophyte T. chuii overall metabolic activity was greatly reduced under all forms of lighting, photosynthesis in T. lutea was positively affected by the addition of Ag A. The variety of effects of Ag A on photosynthesis observed in this study indicate a complex interaction of Ag A with microalgal cells and suggests that a host may be able to shape its own symbiotic microbiome with self-produced natural products.
Long-term transcriptomic and proteomic effects in Sprague Dawley rat thyroid and plasma after internal low dose 131I exposure
Authors: Larsson Malin , Rudqvist Nils , Spetz Johan , Shubbar Emman , Parris Toshima Z. , Langen Britta , Helou Khalil , Forssell-Aronsson Eva
Published: December 2020

Background

Radioiodide (131I) is commonly used to treat thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidis.131I released during nuclear accidents, have resulted in increased incidence of thyroid cancer in children. Therefore, a better understanding of underlying cellular mechanisms behind 131I exposure is of great clinical and radiation protection interest. The aim of this work was to study the long-term dose-related effects of 131I exposure in thyroid tissue and plasma in young rats and identify potential biomarkers.

Materials and methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats (5-week-old) were i.v. injected with 0.5, 5.0, 50 or 500 kBq 131I (Dthyroid ca 1–1000 mGy), and killed after nine months at which time the thyroid and blood samples were collected. Gene expression microarray analysis (thyroid samples) and LC-MS/MS analysis (thyroid and plasma samples) were performed to assess differential gene and protein expression profiles in treated and corresponding untreated control samples. Bioinformatics analyses were performed using the DAVID functional annotation tool and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). The gene expression microarray data and LC-MS/MS data were validated using qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively.

Results

Nine 131I exposure-related candidate biomarkers (transcripts: Afp and RT1-Bb, and proteins: ARF3, DLD, IKBKB, NONO, RAB6A, RPN2, and SLC25A5) were identified in thyroid tissue. Two dose-related protein candidate biomarkers were identified in thyroid (APRT and LDHA) and two in plasma (DSG4 and TGM3). Candidate biomarkers for thyroid function included the ACADL and SORBS2 (all activities), TPO and TG proteins (low activities). 131I exposure was shown to have a profound effect on metabolism, immune system, apoptosis and cell death. Furthermore, several signalling pathways essential for normal cellular function (actin cytoskeleton signalling, HGF signalling, NRF2-mediated oxidative stress, integrin signalling, calcium signalling) were also significantly regulated.

Conclusion

Exposure-related and dose-related effects on gene and protein expression generated few expression patterns useful as biomarkers for thyroid function and cancer.
Perception of urban subdivisions in pedestrian movement simulation
Authors: Filomena Gabriele , Manley Ed , Verstegen Judith A.
Published: December 2020

The perception of urban subdivisions, deriving from regionalisation processes and the identification of separating elements (barriers), has proven to dynamically shape peoples’ cognitive representations of space and route choice behaviour in cities. However, existing Agent-Based Models (ABMs) for pedestrian simulation have not accounted for these particular cognitive mapping processes. The aim of this paper is to explore the behaviour of pedestrian agents endowed with knowledge about urban subdivisions. Drawing from literature in spatial cognition, we adapted a region-based route choice model, which contemplates a high- and a local planning level, and advanced a barrier-based route choice model, wherein the influence of separating elements is manipulated. Finally, we combined these two approaches in a region-barrier based model. The patterns emerging from the movement of agents employing such approaches were examined in the city centres of London and Paris. The introduction of regions in the routing mechanisms reduced the unbalanced concentration of agents across the street network brought up by the widely employed least cumulative angular change model (-.08 Gini coefficient). The inclusion of barriers further raised the dispersal of the agents through secondary roads, while leading agents to walk along waterfronts and across parks; it also yielded a more regular usage of pedestrian roads. Moreover, the region- and the region-barrier based routes showed deviation ratio values from the road distance shortest path (region-based: 1.18 London, 1.16 Paris, region-barrier based: 1.43 London, 1.33 Paris) consistent with empirical observations from pedestrian behaviour research. A further evaluation of the model with macro-level observational data may enhance the understanding of pedestrian dynamics and help tuning the interplay amongst urban salient elements at the agent level. Yet, we consider the movement flows arising from our current implementation insightful for assessing the distribution of pedestrians and testing possible interventions for the design of legible and walkable spaces.
The effect of diurnal variation on the performance of exhaustive continuous and alternated-intensity cycling exercises
Authors: Souissi Amine , Yousfi Narimen , Souissi Nizar , Haddad Monoem , Driss Tarak
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of time of day (TD) on two types of exercise protocols [continuous (CP) versus alternated (AP)]. Eleven physical education students (mean ± SD: age = 24.4 ± 1.2 years, aerobic peak power (APP) = 290 ± 31.9 W) underwent four sessions. These sessions were performed at 08:00 (AM) and 18:00 (PM) and consisted of cycling exercises until voluntary exhaustion at 90% APP (CP) or 70%-105% APP (AP) with the order of testing randomly assigned. Time to exhaustion (time limit = Tlim) was measured from the start of the test to when voluntary exhaustion occurred. Heart rate (HR) was recorded at baseline (HRbaseline) and throughout the protocols to determine HR at exhaustion (HRpeak). Blood lactate ([La]) was measured at rest, immediately after exhaustion and at 2min30 post-exercise to determine [La]peak. A significantly higher means of Tlim (334 ± 57 s; 272 ± 59 s; p< 0.05), HRbaseline (72 ± 5 beats/min; 67 ± 5 beats/min; p< 0.01), HRpeak (186 ± 8 beats/min; 178 ± 9 beats/min; p< 0.01) and [La]peak (16.2 ± 2.1 mmol/l; 13.9 ± 1.9 mmol/l; p< 0.05) were observed in CP at the PM compared to the AM. In addition, a significant higher means of Tlim (380 ± 54 s; 312 ± 82 s; p< 0.05), HRbaseline (73.1 ± 5.5 beats/min; 67 ± 5.4 beats/min; p< 0.01), HRpeak (186 ± 8 beats/min; 180 ± 9 beats/min; p< 0.05) and [La]peak (17.9 ± 1.8 mmol/l; 14.7 ± 2.1 mmol/l; p< 0.01) were observed in AP at the PM compared to the AM. It is concluded that AP and CP are more appropriate in the late afternoon than in the morning for performing long-lasting exercises. The AP could be a novel strategy for increasing the engagement in physical activity.
An avian dominance hierarchy at a supplemental water source in the Patagonian steppe
Authors: Rabinowicz Sophie , García Natalia , Herwood Tristan , Lazar Amanda , Hein Benjamin , Miller Eliot , Campagna Leonardo
Published: December 2020

Birds often compete and engage in interspecific agonistic interactions for access to resources such as food and breeding territories. Based on the observed outcomes from such interactions (i.e., patterns of displacements) dominance hierarchies can be established. Knowing which species can outcompete others for essential resources allows researchers to make predictions about the broader ecological impacts of interspecific interactions. We constructed an interspecific dominance hierarchy of twelve avian species which visited an artificial water source in an arid region of coastal Patagonia, Argentina. Displacements were categorized into four types, based on the behaviors involved in the interaction, and we tested if they could predict the difference in dominance between the interacting species (the difference between calculated dominance coefficients for the two focal species). Indirect displacements, involving only the arrival of the dominant species to the water source without direct aggression toward the subordinate bird, occurred more frequently between species with a large difference in dominance. The most dominant bird observed was the kelp gull (Larus dominicanus), which, due to an increasing population and expanding range, in part due to food supplementation from fisheries waste, is likely to outcompete terrestrial and marine avian species for other scarce resources.
Group B Streptococcus serotypes associated with different clinical syndromes: Asymptomatic carriage in pregnant women, intrauterine fetal death, and early onset disease in the newborn
Authors: Schindler Yulia , Rahav Galia , Nissan Israel , Madar-Shapiro Liora , Abtibol Julia , Ravid Moti , Maor Yasmin
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To study Group B Streptococcus (GBS) isolates associated with different clinical syndromes: asymptomatic carriage in pregnant women, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), and early onset disease (EOD) in the newborn.

Methods

GBS isolates were collected from asymptomatic pregnant women admitted for labor, IUFD cases, and neonates with EOD. Serotypes and antibiotic susceptibilities were determined. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was performed to assess genetic epidemiology.

Results

GBS carriage rate was 26.1% (280/1074). The dominant serotype among asymptomatic pregnant women was VI [98/240 women (40.8%)], followed by serotypes III, V and IV in 42/240 (17.5%), 30/240 (12.5%) and 28/240 (11.7%) women, respectively. The dominant serotype in IUFD cases was serotype VI [10/13 (76.9%)]. In contrast the prevalent serotype among EOD cases was III [16/19 (84.2%)]. ST-1 was associated with IUFD [7/13 (53.8%)], ST-17 was associated with serotype III and EOD in the newborn 14/19 (73.7%)]. Erythromycin and clindamycin resistance reached 36.8%, 7.7% and 20.0%among EOD, vaginal carriage and IUFD, respectively.

Conclusions

Serotypes VI and ST-1 were dominant among asymptomatic pregnant women and in IUFD cases while EOD was associated with serotype III and ST-17. Invasive mechanisms thus may differ between IUFD and EOD in the newborn and virulence may be related to capsule serotype. Resistance rates to erythromycin and clindamycin were high in EOD cases.
Diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of heart failure patients by general practitioners: A Delphi consensus statement
Authors: Verhestraeten Caroline , Weijers Gijs , Debleu Daphne , Ciarka Agnieszka , Goethals Marc , Droogmans Steven , Maris Michael
Published: December 2020

Aims

Creation of an algorithm that includes the most important parameters (history, clinical parameters, and anamnesis) that can be linked to heart failure, helping general practitioners in recognizing heart failure in an early stage and in a better follow-up of the patients.

Methods and results

The algorithm was created using a consensus-based Delphi panel technique with fifteen general practitioners and seven cardiologists from Belgium. The method comprises three iterations with general statements on diagnosis, referral and treatment, and follow-up. Consensus was obtained for the majority of statements related to diagnosis, referral, and follow-up, whereas a lack of consensus was seen for treatment statements. Based on the statements with good and perfect consensus, an algorithm for general practitioners was assembled, helping them in diagnoses and follow-up of heart failure patients. The diagnosis should be based on three essential pillars, i.e. medical history, anamnesis and clinical examination. In case of suspected heart failure, blood analysis, including the measurement of NT-proBNP levels, can already be performed by the general practitioner followed by referral to the cardiologist who is then responsible for proper diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Afterwards, a multidisciplinary health care process between the cardiologist and the general practitioner is crucial with an important role for the general practitioner who has a key role in the up-titration of heart failure medication, down-titration of the dose of diuretics and to assure drug compliance.

Conclusions

Based on the consensus levels of statements in a Delphi panel setting, an algorithm is created to help general practitioners in the diagnosis and follow-up of heart failure patients.
“I would really want to know that they had my back”: Transgender women’s perceptions of HIV cure-related research in the United States
Authors: Poteat Tonia , Aqil Anushka , Corbett Dana , Evans David , Dubé Karine
Published: December 2020

Forty-four percent of Black transgender women are living with HIV, and many face challenges with HIV care engagement. An HIV cure has much to offer this population, however little HIV cure-related research has included them. We conducted 19 face-to-face in-depth interviews with 10 Black transgender women living with HIV. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed using content analysis. Our interview guide contained three categories: 1) perceptions of HIV cure-related research and participation, 2) perceptions of HIV treatment and treatment interruptions, and 3) considerations for transgender women and HIV cure-related research. Salient themes included skepticism about HIV cure strategies and limited benefits compared with an undetectable viral load. Willingness to interrupt HIV treatment for research was low and linked to being able to go back on the same HIV treatment without consequence when the study ended. Concerns about being a test subject and perceptions of risks versus benefits of various strategies also affected willingness to take part in HIV cure-related research. Centering the dignity and autonomy of research participants as well as building upon and supporting existing social networks were identified as important facilitators for engaging Black transgender women in HIV cure-related research. Specific to Black transgender women, other concerns included the desire for gender-affirming research staff, community-building among transgender women, and safety issues associated with risk of transphobic violence when traveling to study visits. Participants stressed the importance of HIV cure-related researchers providing accessible and complete information and expressing genuine care and concern for transgender communities.
Genetic assessment reveals no population substructure and divergent regional and sex-specific histories in the Chachapoyas from northeast Peru
Authors: Guevara Evelyn K. , Palo Jukka U. , Översti Sanni , King Jonathan L. , Seidel Maria , Stoljarova Monika , Wendt Frank R. , Bus Magdalena M. , Guengerich Anna , Church Warren B. , Guillén Sonia , Roewer Lutz , Budowle Bruce , Sajantila Antti
Published: December 2020

Many native populations in South America have been severely impacted by two relatively recent historical events, the Inca and the Spanish conquest. However decisive these disruptive events may have been, the populations and their gene pools have been shaped markedly also by the history prior to the conquests. This study focuses mainly on the Chachapoya peoples that inhabit the montane forests on the eastern slopes of the northern Peruvian Andes, but also includes three distinct neighboring populations (the Jívaro, the Huancas and the Cajamarca). By assessing mitochondrial, Y-chromosomal and autosomal diversity in the region, we explore questions that have emerged from archaeological and historical studies of the regional culture (s). These studies have shown, among others, that Chachapoyas was a crossroads for Coast-Andes-Amazon interactions since very early times. In this study, we examine the following questions: 1) was there pre-Hispanic genetic population substructure in the Chachapoyas sample? 2) did the Spanish conquest cause a more severe population decline on Chachapoyan males than on females? 3) can we detect different patterns of European gene flow in the Chachapoyas region? and, 4) did the demographic history in the Chachapoyas resemble the one from the Andean area? Despite cultural differences within the Chachapoyas region as shown by archaeological and ethnohistorical research, genetic markers show no significant evidence for past or current population substructure, although an Amazonian gene flow dynamic in the northern part of this territory is suggested. The data also indicates a bottleneck c. 25 generations ago that was more severe among males than females, as well as divergent population histories for populations in the Andean and Amazonian regions. In line with previous studies, we observe high genetic diversity in the Chachapoyas, despite the documented dramatic population declines. The diverse topography and great biodiversity of the northeastern Peruvian montane forests are potential contributing agents in shaping and maintaining the high genetic diversity in the Chachapoyas region.
Mental health literacy at the public health level in low and middle income countries: An exploratory mixed methods study in Vietnam
Authors: Dang Hoang-Minh , Lam Trung T. , Dao Anh , Weiss Bahr
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Mental health literacy (MHL) is key for mental health development, particularly in low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC) where mental health resources are limited. MHL development can be thought of as occurring at two levels: the individual person level (via direct contact, with specifically-targeted individuals), and the public health level (via indirect contact through public media, targeting the general public). Each approach has advantages and disadvantages.

Methods

The present mixed methods study assessed the status of and best approaches for development of mental health literacy in the Southeast Asian LMIC Vietnam. Because there has been relatively little discussion of MHL development at the public health level, this assessment focused on the public health level, although not exclusively. Because mental health professionals generally have the most in-depth understanding of their mental health system, study participants were 82 Vietnamese mental health professionals who completed a quantitative survey, with 48 participating in focus groups.

Results

Most of the professionals viewed MHL in Vietnam as low or very low, and that it was difficult or very difficult for the general public to find effective mental health services. Main barriers underlying these problems and more generally for developing MHL in Vietnam identified in the focus groups were: (a) misinformation in the media regarding mental health and mental illness; (b) lack of licensure for non-medical mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists; social workers); (c) lack of interest in mental health from upper-level leadership.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study assessing professionals’ perceptions regarding mental health literacy at both the public health and individual-person levels. Although sampling was restricted to Vietnamese professionals, results may provide initial preliminary guidance for other LMIC considering mental health literacy development at multiple levels.
Usefulness of serial post-systolic shortening by speckle tracking echocardiography to predict major adverse cardiovascular events and segmental function improvement after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hsiao Ju-Feng , Pan Kuo-Li , Chu Chi-Ming , Chang Shih-Tai , Chung Chang-Min , Hsu Jen-Te
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The aim is to determine whether serial post-systolic shortening (PSS) using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) could predict major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), especially symptom-driven infarct-related artery (IRA) revascularization and improvement in segmental function in post-myocardial infarction patients.

Methods/Results

Ninety-four patients (average age 61.1 ± 12.5 y, 84 [84.9%] male) with new-onset acute myocardial infarction were enrolled. Serial echocardiography was performed during the initial presentation, and at 3, 6 and 12 months after admission. PSS, strain and systolic strain rate were calculated using STE. Improvement in segmental function was defined as a decrease of ≧1 grade in wall motion score. During the follow-up (29.4 ± 12.7months), 22 patients (23.4%) had MACE and 17 patients had symptom-driven IRA revascularization. In multivariate model, PSS at 3 months was independently predictive for symptom-driven IRA revascularization (Hazard ratio (HR) = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.26–0.97) and for MACE (HR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.24–0.67) (p < 0.05). Segmental function improvements were found in 255 segments (66.1%) and ROC curve analyses showed that AUC (95% CI) of the initial PSS was 0.7(0.65–0.77) (cut-off values = -1.08, sensitivity = 58%, specificity = 73% specificity).

Conclusions

Post-systolic shortening at 3 months is an independent predictor for symptom-driven IRA revascularization and MACE. Regional wall motion recovery also could be predicted by initial PSS. Serial assessment of two-dimensional STE should be investigated in post-myocardial infarction patients in the future.
Trends in clinical stage distribution and screening detection of cancer in Osaka, Japan: Stomach, colorectum, lung, breast and cervix
Authors: Toyoda Yasuhiro , Tabuchi Takahiro , Hama Hitomi , Morishima Toshitaka , Miyashiro Isao
Published: December 2020

We examined clinical stage distribution and proportion of screen-detected cases of stomach, colorectal, lung, female breast and cervical cancer by sex and age group using Osaka Cancer Registry data from 2000–2014. The proportion of local or in situ stage cancer had increased for all age groups in all sites, except stomach cancer in the 0–49 years group and female breast cancer in the 80 years and older group. The proportion of screen-detected cases had increased during the study period for all age groups in all cancer sites. While the proportion increased noticeably in the younger groups, there was only a slight increase in the older groups. Regarding stomach, colorectal and lung cancers, the proportion of local and in situ stage had similarly increased in the 65–79 years and 80 years and older age groups compared with younger groups, despite lower exposure to cancer screening. Regarding breast and cervical cancers, the increases in local and in situ cancer paralleled the increase in screen-detected cases. These findings suggest that the increases in early stage stomach, colorectal and lung cancers might be due not only to the expansion of screening programs but also the development of clinical diagnostic imaging or other reasons. The increases in local and in situ stage breast and cervical cancers seemed to be due to the expansion of screening. Continued monitoring of trends in cancer incidence by clinical stage may be helpful for estimating the effectiveness of screening.
Development of orally disintegrating tablets containing solid dispersion of a poorly soluble drug for enhanced dissolution: In-vitro optimization/in-vivo evaluation
Authors: Fouad Shahinaze A. , Malaak Fady A. , El-Nabarawi Mohamed A. , Abu Zeid Khalid
Published: December 2020

Diacerein (DCN), a potent anti-inflammatory API used to treat osteoarthritis yet, it suffers from poor water solubility which affects its oral absorption. Unabsorbed colonic DCN is converted into rhein, which is responsible for laxation as a main side effect of DCN treatment. Therefore, in this study orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) loaded with optimized DCN solid dispersion system were prepared using different co-processed excipients (Prosolv® ODT, Pharmaburst® 500 and F-melt®), aiming to achieve improved solubility, rapid absorption and consequently limited amount of rhein reaching the colon. Prepared ODTs were evaluated for physical characteristics, in-vitro drug release, disintegration and wetting times. Dissolution parameters; dissolution efficiency percent at 10 (DE (10 min)%) and 30 (DE (30 min)%) min and mean dissolution time (MDT) were determined. The optimized ODT showed 1.50 and 1.12 fold increase in DE (10 min)% and DE (30 min)%, respectively and 2 fold decrease in MDT, compared to Diacerein® capsules. In-vivo anti-inflammatory effect of optimized ODT, using rat paw edema revealed significant increase in edema inhibition (p < 0.0465) and promoted onset of action compared to Diacerein® capsules at 0.5 hr. It could be concluded that optimized ODT could be promising for enhanced dissolution and rapid absorption of DCN from the oral cavity.
Three new species of Levinsenia Mesnil, 1897 (Annelida: Paraonidae) from shallow and deep waters of Southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Ranauro Natália , Barroso Rômulo , Miguel de Matos Nogueira João
Published: December 2020

Three new species of Levinsenia were collected during a benthic survey, from 10–3,000 m deep, in Espírito Santo Basin, off the southeastern Brazilian coast. These species are L. paivai sp. nov., L. blakei sp. nov. and L. lesliae sp. nov. Members of L. paivai sp. nov. are recognized by the presence of nine pairs of well-developed and heavily ciliated branchiae, those of L. blakei sp. nov. are characterized by the presence of three pairs of small branchiae, and those of L. lesliae sp. nov., by the absence of branchiae and presence of notopodial transitional chaetae. These new species are described herein and compared to the most similar congeners. These are the first new species of Levinsenia described from off the Brazilian coast.
Discrimination of biofilm-producing Stenotrophomonas maltophilia clinical strains by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight
Authors: Montoya-Hinojosa Edeer , Bocanegra-Ibarias Paola , Garza-González Elvira , Alonso-Ambriz Óscar Manuel , Salazar-Mata Gabriela Aimee , Villarreal-Treviño Licet , Pérez-Alba Eduardo , Camacho-Ortiz Adrián , Morfín-Otero Rayo , Rodríguez-Noriega Eduardo , Flores-Treviño Samantha
Published: December 2020

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a Gram-negative drug-resistant pathogen responsible for healthcare-associated infections. The aim was to search for biomarker peaks that could rapidly detect biofilm production in S. maltophilia clinical isolates obtained from two tertiary care hospitals in Mexico. Isolates were screened for the presence of biofilm-associated genes, in which the fsnR gene was associated with biofilm production (p = 0.047), whereas the rmlA+ genotype was associated with the rpfF- genotype (p = 0.017). Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectra comparison yielded three potential biomarker peaks (4661, 6074, and 6102 m/z) of biofilm-producing rmlA+ and rpfF- genotypes with >90% sensitivity (p<0.001). MALDI-TOF MS analyses showed a correlation between the relative abundance of 50S ribosomal proteins (L30 and L33) and the presence of the fnsR, rmlA and rpfF-2 genes, suggested to play a role in biofilm formation. Isolates obtained in the intensive care unit showed low clonality, suggesting no transmission within the hospital ward. The detection of biomarkers peaks by MALDI-TOF MS could potentially be used to early recognize and discriminate biofilm-producing S. maltophilia strains and aid in establishing appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Sepsis recording in primary care electronic health records, linked hospital episodes and mortality records: Population-based cohort study in England
Authors: Rezel-Potts Emma , Gulliford Martin C. ,   the Safe AB Study Group
Published: December 2020

Background

Sepsis is a growing concern for health systems, but the epidemiology of sepsis is poorly characterised. We evaluated sepsis recording across primary care electronic records, hospital episodes and mortality registrations.

Methods and findings

Cohort study including 378 general practices in England from Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD database from 2002–2017 with 36,209,676 patient-years of follow-up with linked Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) and Office for National Statistics (ONS) mortality registrations. Incident sepsis episodes were identified for each source. Concurrent records from different sources were identified and age-standardised and age-specific incidence rates compared. Logistic regression analysis evaluated associations of gender, age-group, fifth of deprivation and period of diagnosis with concurrent sepsis recording.

There were 20,206 first episodes of sepsis from primary care, 20,278 from HES and 13,972 from ONS. There were 4,117 (20%) first HES sepsis events and 2,438 (17%) mortality records concurrent with incident primary care sepsis records within 30 days. Concurrent HES and primary care records of sepsis within 30 days before or after first diagnosis were higher at younger or older ages and for patients with the most recent period of diagnosis. Those diagnosed during 2007:2011 were less likely to have a concurrent HES record given CPRD compared to those diagnosed during 2012–2017 (odd ratio 0.65, 95% confidence interval 0.60–0.70). At age 85 and older, primary care incidence was 5.22 per 1,000 patient years (95% CI 1.75–11.97) in men and 3.55 (0.87–9.58) in women which increased to 10.09 (4.86–18.51) for men and 7.22 (2.96–14.72) for women after inclusion of all three sources.

Conclusion

Explicit recording of ‘sepsis’ is inconsistent across healthcare sectors with a high proportion of non-concurrent records. Incidence estimates are higher when linked data are analysed.
Severity of COVID-19 at elevated exposure to perfluorinated alkylates
Authors: Grandjean Philippe , Timmermann Clara Amalie Gade , Kruse Marie , Nielsen Flemming , Vinholt Pernille Just , Boding Lasse , Heilmann Carsten , Mølbak Kåre
Published: December 2020

Background

The course of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) seems to be aggravated by air pollution, and some industrial chemicals, such as the perfluorinated alkylate substances (PFASs), are immunotoxic and may contribute to an association with disease severity.

Methods

From Danish biobanks, we obtained plasma samples from 323 subjects aged 30–70 years with known SARS-CoV-2 infection. The PFAS concentrations measured at the background exposures included five PFASs known to be immunotoxic. Register data was obtained to classify disease status, other health information, and demographic variables. We used ordered logistic regression analyses to determine associations between PFAS concentrations and disease outcome.

Results

Plasma-PFAS concentrations were higher in males, in subjects with Western European background, and tended to increase with age, but were not associated with the presence of chronic disease. Of the study population, 108 (33%) had not been hospitalized, and of those hospitalized, 53 (16%) had been in intensive care or were deceased. Among the five PFASs considered, perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) showed an unadjusted odds ratio (OR) of 2.19 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.39–3.46) for increasing severities of the disease. Among those hospitalized, the fully adjusted OR for getting into intensive care or expiring was 5.18 (1.29, 20.72) when based on plasma samples obtained at the time of diagnosis or up to one week before.

Conclusions

Measures of individual exposures to immunotoxic PFASs included short-chain PFBA known to accumulate in the lungs. Elevated plasma-PFBA concentrations were associated with an increased risk of a more severe course of COVID-19. Given the low background exposure levels in this study, the role of exposure to PFASs in COVID-19 needs to be ascertained in populations with elevated exposures.
Intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wondmieneh Adam , Gedefaw Getnet , Alemnew Birhan , Getie Addisu , Bimerew Melaku , Demis Asmamaw
Published: December 2020

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections are major public health problems throughout the world, particularly in people living with HIV/AIDS. People living with HIV/AIDS are vulnerable groups for a variety of diseases, hence they are easily affected by opportunistic and non-opportunistic intestinal parasites due to the weakening of their immunity. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia.

Methods

Articles were identified through search engines in the online electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, HINARI, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and reference lists of previous studies following the PRISMA Protocol. Studies conducted between 2003 and 2020 with English language were included in this study. This review included papers with having high-quality NOS scores. Meta-analysis was computed using STATA version 11 software. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochrane Q-test and I2 test statistics. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis was employed with evidence of heterogeneity. Publication bias was determined using the funnel plot and Egger’s regression test statistic.

Results

This study included a total of twenty-two cross-sectional studies with 5,833 study participants. The mean age of the study participants was 35 years old. The pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia was 39.15% (95%CI: 32.34, 45.95). The pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among people living with HIV/AIDS who had taking ART and who had not to start ART was found to be 28.27% (95%CI 22.47, 34.06) and 41.63% (95%CI: 28.75, 54.52) respectively. Unavailability of latrine (AOR: 4.87, (95% CI: 2.39, 9.92)), CD4+ T cell count <200cells/μl ((AOR: 3.53, (95%CI: 1.98, 6.27)), and having a history of diarrhea (AOR: 4.79 (95%CI: 1.53, 14.99) were factors significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections.

Conclusion

In this study, the overall pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia was relatively high. CD4+ T-cell count <200cells/μl, unavailability of a latrine, and history of diarrhea were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Therefore, the policymakers and health care professionals could give special attention to the presence of latrines, early detection and treatment of intestinal parasitic infections, and early initiation of ART drugs.
Psychological responses during the COVID-19 outbreak among university students in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Saiful , Sujan Md. Safaet Hossain , Tasnim Rafia , Sikder Md. Tajuddin , Potenza Marc N. , van Os Jim
Published: December 2020

Mental health problems in students are considered a public health challenge. We assessed the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) with the DASS-21, as well as associated factors, among university students in Bangladesh early in the COVID-19 outbreak. We hypothesized high levels of DAS and their associations with previously reported factors (e.g., poor sleep, lack of exercise, heavy internet use) and those linked to disadvantage (e.g., low monthly family income). We also enquired about participants’ satisfaction with their pursuit of their academic studies while living under COVID-19 restrictions. An internet-based survey was conducted during the month of April 2020, involving 3,122 Bangladeshi university students aged 18 to 29 years (59.5% males; mean age 21.4±2 years). Prevalence estimates of depression, anxiety and stress were, respectively, 76.1%, 71.5% and 70.1% for at least mild symptoms, 62.9%, 63.6% and 58.6% for at least moderate symptoms, 35.2%, 40.3%, and 37.7% for at least severe symptoms and 19.7%, 27.5% and 16.5% for at least very severe symptoms. The present estimates of DAS were more prevalent than in previous pre-COVID-19 studies among Bangladeshi university students. Regression analyses with DASS-21-score as a dependent variable revealed associations with factors mostly as hypothesized. The largest effect size on DAS symptoms was related to students’ satisfaction with their academic studies during the pandemic. As this survey used cross-sectional and self-reported methods, causality cannot be inferred. Mental health monitoring of students attempting to cope with the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak may be useful and feasible.
O Rei, a Universidade e o “bom regimento dos regnos”
Authors: Rocha Rui Miguel
Published: December 2020

As preocupações com a conduta moral ocuparam um papel preponderante, direta e indiretamente, na produção legislativa e burocrática da idade média, muitas vezes associada ao processo de construção simbólica de uma imagem de virtuosidade e honra, na qual intervieram a Igreja Católica e a Coroa. Como tal, no âmbito desta relação entre poderes, a Coroa não abdicou de um protagonismo na tarefa de orientação moral dos súbditos do seu reino. O presente ensaio, com base nos estatutos manuelinos do Estudo Geral, visa assim estudar a intervenção régia na esfera universitária portuguesa no início do século XVI, em particular na normatização moral dos seus elementos. Mais concretamente, a partir de um regulamento universitário subscrito por D. Manuel I em 1503, pretende este trabalho detetar a produção de normativas estatutárias de competência moral que regulavam especificamente o trabalho e ação dos homens pertencentes ao grupo do oficialato da Universidade de Lisboa.
A Real Mesa Censória e o Colégio Real dos Nobres da Corte: revisão e censura de um projeto civil, literário e educativo
Authors: Araújo Ana Cristina
Published: December 2020

A Real Mesa Censória passou a tutelar e a administrar o Colégio Real dos Nobres e todas as escolas menores do reino e domínios ultramarinos, em 1771. O Colégio Real dos Nobres, apesar das dificuldades que enfrentou no início da década de setenta, iniciou um vasto e ambicioso programa de formação de jovens nascidos na aristocracia e nas melhores famílias da capital. Os estatutos do colégio (1761) contemplavam a instalação de uma “Livraria própria”. A acomodação da biblioteca, cujo espólio contava com livros de diversa proveniência, fora confiada a Nicolau Pagliarini. O modelo de ensino científico e experimental ensaiado no Colégio Real dos Nobres precedeu a reforma da Universidade de 1772 e a criação das Faculdade de Filosofia e Matemática. Sob a égide de Frei Manuel do Cenáculo, presidente da Real Mesa Censória, foram reformados três pilares organizativos do primitivo modelo colegial: a autonomia de gestão, o regime de clausura civil imposto a alunos, professores e a outros servidores e o alcance cultural e científico do currículo escolar oferecido pelo Colégio Real dos Nobres.
Moral and civism in higher education
Authors: Bertotti Rudimar Gomes , Bertotti Gisele Rietow
Published: December 2020

This article aimed to investigate the bibliography of the Study of Brazilian Problems (PBS) discipline at the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) between 1971 and 1984. It was used primary and secondary sources, which unveiled the theoretical corpus that supported BPS teaching at UFPR. Some methodological elements of Cultural History were mobilized based on the understanding that individuals and groups grasp the social world and share it in a particular way, producing strategies and practices (political, social and educational) (Chartier 2002). Finally, the analysis revealed that BPS’ teaching programs were based on a bibliographic diversity, marked by books that were aligned with the Doctrine of the National Security and Development (DNSD), but which appeared alongside the works of some anti-regime authors. And that bibliographic focused on national problems denoted adherence to a larger DNSD policy aimed at encouraging the participation of university youth in the national political and economic plan.

 

Keywords: Brazilian Problems Study. Dictatorship. Teaching programs. Bibliography. History of Education.
Candidatura da Universidade de Coimbra a Património Mundial
Authors: Capela de Campos Joana
Published: December 2020

Em 22 de junho de 2013, era acrescentado mais um episódio à história secular da Universidade de Coimbra (UC): a inscrição do bem Universidade de Coimbra – Alta e Sofia na Lista do Património Mundial da UNESCO.
O propósito deste artigo constitui-se em aprofundar alguns princípios que delinearam o processo da UC a Património Mundial, tendo em conta o contributo e influência de alguns dos seus protagonistas político-conceptuais, teóricos e decisores. Para tal, terá contribuído o pensamento e o trabalho desenvolvido por dois gabinetes, constituídos como Projetos Especiais da Reitoria, em março e em outubro de 2004, o Gabinete Paço das Escolas e o Gabinete de Candidatura à UNESCO, para desenvolver o processo de candidatura.
Recorrendo, sobretudo a pesquisa e revisão documental e bibliográfica, este trabalho articula os testemunhos desses protagonistas, pelo papel fundamental que tiveram ao longo do processo, sob várias perspetivas.
Congresso Internacional
Authors: Ribeiro Antonio Vitor
Published: December 2020

notícia sobre realização de congresso internacional.