bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capturing a Tetratomic Nitrogen Ring cyclo-N4 inside an Aza[ 82 ]fullerene
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Hu Ziqi , Shen Wangqiang , Zhou Tonghui , Aoyagi Shinobu , Yang Yihao , Wang Zhiyong , Yu Pengwei , Su Jie , Coronado Eugenio , Lu Xing , Shi Zujin
Published: August 2021

Synthesis of polymeric nitrogen compounds is a formidable task due to the proneness of nitrogen to the formation of N ≡ N triple bond, one of the strongest chemical bonds known. Here, we report an arc-discharge approach to successfully stabilize the elusive four-membered nitrogen ring (cyclo-N4) in an unprecedented endohedral metallofullerene Dy2N4@C81N (Dy-I). Its molecular structure has been unambiguously determined by X-ray crystallography to show a covalently bonded cyclo-N4 plane bridging two dysprosium ions inside an aza[82]fullerene cage, highlighting the stabilization of cyclo-N4 as a concurrent result of fullerene encapsulation and metal coordination. Our computational results further reveal a six-center-one-electron (6c-1e) bond delocalized over the inverse-sandwich Dy-N4-Dy cluster. This chemical peculiarity stems from the diffuse radical character of the highly anionic cyclo-N43− ligand, which is confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum of Y2N4@C81N (Y-I).
Asparaginase Like 1 Predicts Unfavourable Prognosis and Facilitates Gastric Cancer Progression Through Inhibits GSK3-β
Authors: Yang Hao , Li Yiming , Zhang Yu , Zeng Zhijun , Fang Zhenhao , Yin Junda , Li Xi , Yang Zhiyou , Xiong Ying , Liu Guodong , Wu Wei
Published: August 2021

Background:ASRGL1 plays critical roles in various biological processes and pathologic conditions,including cancer. However, the prognostic importance and biologic functions of ASRGL1 in gastric cancer (GC) are still unclear.Methods:qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry analyses were used to determine ASRGL1 expression in GC samples and cell lines. The clinical significance of ASRGL1 was assessed in 100 patients with GC. A series of functional experiments were performed to explore the role and molecular mechanism of ASRGL1 on GC progression. Results:ASRGL1 was upregulated in GC tissues and cell lines. High ASRGL1 expression was closely correlated with aggressive clinicopathological features, poor clinical outcomes and recurrence of GC patients. Moreover, silencing ASRGL1 in AGS cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, whereas overexpression of ASRGL1 significantly enhanced the above abilities of BGC-823 cells. Further mechanism study indicated that these phenotypic changes were mediated by PI3K/AKT and WNT signaling. Finally, we proved that ASRGL1 exerted its tumor-promoting effect by interacting with GSK3-β.Conclusions:ASRGL1 is up regulated in gastric cancer, while it promotes the GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion via interacting with GSK3-β . At the same time it also serves as a potential prognostic factor in patients with GC. ASRGL1 can be used as a new target for diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer.
Evaluation of Women’s Empowerment in a Community-Based Human Papillomavirus Self-Sampling Social Entrepreneurship Program (Hope Project) in Peru: Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Shin Michelle B. , Garcia Patricia J. , Dotson Mary Elizabeth , Valderrama María , Chiappe Marina , Ramanujam Nimmi , Krieger Marlee , Ásbjörnsdóttir Kristjana , Barnabas Ruanne V. , Iribarren Sarah J. , Gimbel Sarah
Published: August 2021

Background: Understanding the community women’s sense of relational and financial empowerment in the social entrepreneurship context could be the key to developing a sustainable pathway to scale-up community-based human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling programs in low-resource settings. The Hope Project, social entrepreneurship from Peru, trains women (Hope Ladies) to promote HPV self-sampling among other women in their communities. This study aims to evaluate the Hope Ladies’ relational/financial empowerment after participating in the program. Methods: We used a parallel mixed-method design. The Hope Ladies participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews (n= 20) and an eight-questions five-point Likert scale survey that evaluated their relational (n=19)/financial (n=17) empowerment after participating in the social entrepreneurship. The interview and the survey questions were developed using validated empowerment frameworks, indicators, and theory: 1) Kabeer’s conceptual framework, 2) International Center for Research on Women (ICRW)’s economic empowerment indicators, and 3) the Relational Leadership Theory (RLT), respectively. Deductive content analysis was used to evaluate the interviews with pre-determined codes and categories of empowerment. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the survey results. Results: All Hope Ladies reported experiencing empowerment in the social entrepreneurship. Interviews: The women reported challenges and improvement in three categories of empowerment: 1) resources (balancing the roles between the household and working as a Hope Lady, camaraderie with other Hope Ladies, recognition from the community as a resource); 2) agency (improved ability to express themselves, increased knowledge about reproductive health, ability to speak out against male-dominant culture and fear of cervical cancer-related stigma); and 3) achievement (increased economic assets, improved ability to make financial decisions from increased supplemental income, widened social network and capital, and technology skills development). Survey: All (100%) agreed/totally agreed an increase in social contacts, increased unaccompanied visits to a healthcare provider (86%), improved confidence in discussing reproductive topics (100%), improved ability to make household decisions about money (57% pre-intervention vs. 92% post-intervention). Conclusions: The Hope Ladies’ reported improved relational/financial empowerment through participating in community-based social entrepreneurship. More studies are needed to elucidate the relationship between empowerment and worker retention/performance to inform the scale-up of HPV self-sampling social entrepreneurship.
Give and Take: Salmonella Enterica Alters Macrosteles Quadrilineatus Feeding Behaviors Resulting in Altered S. Enterica Populations and Distribution on Leaves
Authors: Harrod Victoria L. , Groves Russell , Guillemette Ellie , Barak Jeri
Published: August 2021

Hemipteran insects are ubiquitous inhabitants of the phyllosphere. Changes in microbial phyllosphere communities have recently been demonstrated following infestation by Macrosteles quadrilineatus (Aster Leafhopper). Although epiphytic Salmonella enterica populations naturally decline in the phyllosphere of plants, M. quadrilineatus infestation facilitated the growth of the bacterial pathogen populations. Here, we demonstrate that cellular damage by insect stylet penetration results in a localized beneficial niche on the leaf surface, leading to enhanced S. enterica populations. We measured S. enterica populations and colonization patterns on plants infested with Hemipterans with distinct feeding behaviors. M. quadrilineatus infestation resulted in higher solute leakage and significantly greater bacterial populations than plants absent of insects. Following immigration via contaminated irrigation water, the highest populations of S. enterica are naturally found on the tips of tomato leaflets. We discovered M. quadrilineatus feeding preference altered the natural distribution of S. enterica populations, and that the presence of S. enterica altered the distribution of probing attempts. These findings elucidate how cellular damage resulting from insect feeding drives changes in bacterial colonization of the phyllosphere.
Genomics of FOXP3 Enhance Treg and Maintain Immune-homeostasis
Authors: Choudhury Shouhartha
Published: August 2021

The immunologic theorem is a subject of self also non-self differentiation directly combat infections and maintains the energy of self-antigens. Immune privilege of T-cells is prevailing via crucial and superficial prospect. The T-cell promotes the function of immune replication and implant antigens. The regulatory T-cells (Treg) impart the progress of diseases also prevent immunity. X chromosome encoded FOXP3 is a regulator of segregation and immunosuppressive function. Nuclear factor FOXP3 regulated lineage-specific polarity of Treg crucially maintains immune-homeostasis. The functional inhibitions of helper T cells by FOXP3-inhibitory peptide constitute an imprint to enhance immunotherapy. The enlightenment of FOXP3 contributed to a novel concern in the experiment of suppressor T lymphocytes and mechanisms of immune homeostasis. In this exploration, I aimed to view FOXP3 functions from the FOX family in Homo sapiens and compare them with Mus musculus. Therefore, I performed a bioinformatics pipeline for the experimentation of the forkhead box P3 and their family. My finding data supported the FOX family of TF’s play a preventive strategy during the development. A ray of FOXP3 enhances Treg and maintains immunity against infections. The specific bioinformatics analysis epitomized FOXP3 as a T-cell dependent gene that can help to interpret the outcome in infection biology.
Factors associated with mothers’ health care-seeking behaviours for childhood fever in Burkina Faso: Findings from repeated cross-sectional household surveys
Authors: Badolo Hermann , Bado Aristide Romaric , Hien Hervé , Méda Nicolas , Susuman Appunni Sathiya
Published: August 2021

IntroductionFever is one of the most frequent reasons for paediatric consultations in Burkina Faso, but health care-seeking behaviours and the factors associated with health care-seeking in the event of childhood fever are poorly documented. This study aims to help fill this gap.MethodsThis study used the data from the baseline and endline surveys conducted to evaluate the impact of the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) program in Burkina Faso. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors associated with appropriate healthcare-seeking for childhood fever. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated to assess the strength of associations and used 95% confidence intervals for significance tests. Data were cleaned, coded and analysed using Stata software version 16.1.ResultsAmong the children under five who had a fever, 75.19% and 79.76 sought appropriate health care in 2013 and 2017, respectively. Being 24–59 months old (AOR: 0.344, 95% CI: 0.182–0.649 in 2013) and 79,2% (AOR: 0. 208, 95% CI: 0.115–0.376 in 2017), living in a very wealthy household households (AOR: 2.014, 95% CI: 1.149–3.531 in 2013 and AOR: 2.165, 95% CI: 1.223–3.834 in 2017), having a mother with a secondary or higher level of education or having made at least four antenatal care visits were significantly associated with seeking appropriate health care for childhood fever. Living in an area where the health facility is safe was also significantly associated with seeking appropriate care for childhood fevers.ConclusionThe findings underscore the need for interventions that would improve appropriate health care-seeking among mothers for their children. These interventions could include mothers’ sensitization to the benefits of modern health care use, increasing women’s education, improving household wealth status, improving the level of prenatal and postnatal care use and improving health care quality and safety in health facilities.
A Population-Based Threshold of Protection for COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Goldblatt David , Fioré-Gartland Andrew , Johnson Marina , Hunt Adam , Bengt Christopher , Zavadska Dace , BROWN JEREMY , Workman Lesley , Zar Heather , Montefiori David , Shen Xiaoying Shen , Dull Peter , Plotkin Stanley , Siber George , Ambrosino Donna
Published: August 2021

Correlates of protection for COVID-19 vaccines are urgently needed to license and deploy additional vaccines. We measured immune responses to four COVID-19 vaccines of proven efficacy using a single serological platform calibrated to the international standard. IgG anti-Spike antibodies correlated significantly with efficacies for original virus and alpha variant and were highly correlated with ID50 neutralization in a validated pseudoviral assay. The protective threshold for each vaccine was calculated for IgG anti-Spike antibody. The mean protective threshold for all vaccine studies was 154 BAU/ml (95%CI 42-559), and for the vaccine studies with antibody distributions that enabled precise estimation of thresholds (i.e. leaving out 2-dose mRNA studies) was 60 BAU/ml (95%CI 35-102). We propose that the proportion of individuals with responses above the appropriate protective threshold together with the geometric mean concentration can be used in comparative non-inferiority studies with licensed vaccines to ensure that new vaccines will be efficacious.
Analysis of Health and Ecological Risks Due Exposure to Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) and the Occurrence of Lung Disease Among School Children in Maros, Indonesia
Authors: Mallongi Anwar , Stang Stang , Rauf Annisa Utami , Dwi Ratna
Published: August 2021

Background: Assessments and evaluations of particle characteristics (PM) from various sources, become very important to protect humans and the environment. The purpose of this study was to assess the environmental and children health risks due to exposure to breathing air containing PM of 2.5 from the cement industry around the settlement. Research Methods: The method used in data analysis is linear regression statistical test to determine the relationship between PM2.5 air quality with outdoor activities by children and respiratory disorders experienced. Health risk analysis and environmental risk were calculated using the equations provided by the EPA and WHO. To determine the magnitude of risk received by the environment and children if exposed to PM2.5 within a certain period of time. Direct measurements in the field were carried out in the morning until noon, with 23 sample points measured level of PM 2.5 pollution during June 2021. Results: The measurement results showed that the highest level of PM 2.5 concentration at the time of measurement was at station 10 in Bungaeja Elementary School, station 17 in Tukamasea Village and station 18 at Miftahul Rahman Mosque, Tukamasea Village with values ​​of 0.490, 0.466 and 0.455 mg/m3 respectively. While the lowest is in the location; Salenrang Bontoa Village 1 with a value (0.060), Baruga Village, Near Factory Truck Parking (0.060), and in Salenrang Bontoa Village 2 (0.0905). The results of laboratory analysis for soil samples from 23 points in the research location showed that the highest points were respectively located at the station near the Jabal Rahmah Mosque, Maccini Baji Village, with a concentration of (2876), in the Mattoangin area (2358) and in Dusun Manarang, Tukamasea ( 2158). On the other hand, the lowest was in Pajjaiyang Hamlet (1083), Bungaeja Village, Tukamasea (1190), and Ammansangeng, Baruga (1263). The calculation of the Potential Hazard Quotient (HQ) for the highest inhalation route is 880.78, and 852.43 while the lowest is 82.88 and 92.83. Furthermore, for the HQ value via the dermal route, the highest values ​​were 0.012 and 0.011 while the lowest HQ values ​​were 0.003 and 0.004 all without units. The results of the calculation of ecological risk for ambient air show that the highest and most risky values ​​are 7.54 and 7.15 while the lowest are 0.92 and 1.46 units less. Furthermore, the highest ecological risk values ​​for soil intake were 287 and 235 while the lowest were 119 and 126 without units. Conclusion: Health risks through the inhalation route all exceed the standard >1 and the potential for pulmonary disorders in children can occur, while the risk from the dermal route is still <1 which means it is still safe. most of the children that frequently expose to dust of PM 2.5 have experienced to suffer from lung diseases and at risk.
What Fuels Suboptimal Care of Peripheral Intravenous Catheter-related Infections in Hospitals? – a Qualitative Study of Decision-making Among Spanish Nurses
Authors: Blanco-Mavillard Ian , Castro-Sánchez Enrique , Parra-García Gaizka , Rodríguez-Calero Miguel Ángel , Bennasar-Veny Miquel , Fernández-Fernández Ismael , Lorente-Neches Harri , De Pedro-Gómez Joan Ernest
Published: August 2021

Background: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVC) are commonly used in hospital worldwide. However, PIVC are not exempt from complications. Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) increase morbidity and mortality rates, and costs for the healthcare organization. PIVC care is shaped by the complex mix of professional and organizational culture, such as knowledge gaps, low perception of impact of PIVCs on patient safety, or lack of hospital guidelines.Aim: To explore determinants of decision-making about the prevention of PIVC-BSI among nurses in Spanish hospitals.Methods: We conducted a descriptive qualitative study with semi-structured interviews in three public hospitals, the Balearic Islands Health Care Service in Spain. We considered hospital ward nurses working routinely with inpatients at any of the three hospitals for enrolment in the study. We approached relevant informants to identify suitable participants who recruited other participants through a ‘snowball’ technique. Fourteen inpatient nurses from the hospital took part in this study between September and November 2018. We employed several triangulation strategies to underpin the methodological rigour of our analysis and conducted the member checking, showing the information and codes applied in the recording of the interviews to identify the coherence and any discrepancies of the discourse by participants. We used the COREQ checklist for this study.Findings: We identified four major themes in the analysis related to determinants of care: The fog of decision-making in PIVC; The taskification of PIVC care; PIVC care is accepted to be suboptimal, yet irrelevant; and PIVC care gaps may reflect behavioural shortcomings, yet solutions proposed to involve education and training. Conclusion: The clinical management of PIVCs appear ambiguous, unclear, and fragmented, with no clear professional responsibility and no nurse leadership, causing a gap in preventing infections. Furthermore, the perception of low risk on PIVC care impact can cause a relevant lack of adherence to the best evidence and patient safety. Implementing facilitation strategies could improve the fidelity of the best available evidence regarding PIVC care and raise awareness among nurses of impact that excellence of care.
Endplate Abnormalities in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy and Association with Pre- and Post-operative(Single-level ACDF with a Zero-P Implant)Sagittal Parameters and Clinical Outcomes.
Authors: Liu Zhen , Li Ruo-yu , Wang Zheng , Yang Da-Long , Ding Wenyuan
Published: August 2021

Background:Endplate abnormalities in cervical spine were closed related to pre- and post-operative symptoms, and might lead to a certain complication. However, the related researches are few, and the associations between endplate abnormalities and clinical outcomes need more evidence. Correlations between endplate abnormalities and pre- and post-operative cervical sagittal parameters also remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore endplate abnormalities in cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and to find potential associations of endplate abnormalities with preoperative cervical sagittal parameters, disc degeneration and symptoms, and clinical outcomes after ACDF.Method:We enrolled 65 patients (34 males, 31 females) who were diagnosed with CSM and were subjected to single-level ACDF with a Zero-P implant at our hospital from 2015 to 2018. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether the endplate was abnormal.We conducted a retrospective study to compare the clinical and radiological results among the two groups.Results:The average age in endplate abnormality group was higher than it in no abnormality group (P<0.001). T1S was significantly higher in abnormality group than in the normal group of preoperative (P<0.05) and kept significantly different from postoperative and 1 year follow up (P<0.05). No significantly different was found between the two groups as for CA, cSVA, intervertebral height and preventable soft-tissue thickness. The incidence rate of interbody cage subsidence was 25.9% in 2 years follow up, which was significantly higher than that in the normal group (P<0.05). The fusion rate in endplate abnormality group was 89%. No significantly difference was found between the two groups. The Miyazaki grade of the disc in endplate abnormality group was significantly higher than it in the normal group (P<0.01).Significant difference was detected on NDI between the two groups.Conclusions: Endplate abnormalities in cervical spondylotic myelopathy were associated with older age, disc degeneration, decrease of intervertebral height and increase of TS before cervical surgery. Patients in endplate abnormality group showed increase in NDI pre- and post-operation, and more phenomenon of subsidence.
Assessing Variability in Segmentation Algorithms for 3D Printing at the Point of Care
Authors: Fogarasi Magdalene , Coburn James C , Ripley Beth
Published: August 2021

Background: 3D Printing (3DP) has enabled medical professionals to create patient specific medical devices to assist in surgical planning. Anatomical models can be generated from patient scans using a wide array of software, but there are limited studies on the geometric variance that is introduced during the digital conversion of images to model. Final accuracy of the 3D printed model is a function of manufacturing hardware quality control and the variability introduced during the multiple digital steps that convert patient scans to a printable format. This study provides a brief summary of common algorithms used for segmentation and their principal features. We also identify critical parameters and steps in the workflow where geometric variation may be introduced. We then provide suggested methods to measure or reduce the variation and mitigate these risks. Methods: Using a clinical head CT scan of a mandible containing a tumor, we performed segmentations in four separate programs using workflows optimized for each. Differences in segmentation were calculated using several techniques.Results: Visual inspection of print-ready models showed distinct differences in the thickness of the medial wall of the mandible adjacent to the tumor. Residual volumes were calculated to generate pairwise agreement and disagreement percentages between each as program’s model. For the relevant ROIs, statistically significant differences were found globally in the volume and surface area comparisons between final bone and tumor models, as well locally between nerve centroid measurements – major variance introduced due to workflow is highlighted in difference heat maps. As with all clinical use cases, statistically significant results must be weighed against the clinical significance of any deviations found. Conclusions: Statistically significant geometric variations can be introduced to patient specific models from differences in software applications. The global and local variations should be evaluated for a full understanding of geometric variations. The clinical implications of these variations vary by anatomical location and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by certified clinicians. Understanding the basic functions of segmentation and 3D print preparation software is essential for users intending to adopt the use of patient specific models for clinical intervention or decision making.
Spinal Cord Microstructural Changes are Connected with the Aberrant Sensorimotor Cortical Oscillatory Activity in Adults with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Trevarrow Michael P. , Reelfs Anna , Baker Sarah E. , Hoffman Rashelle M. , Wilson Tony W. , Kurz Max J.
Published: August 2021

Previous animal models have illustrated that reduced cortical activity in the developing brain has cascading activity-dependent effects on the microstructural organization of the spinal cord. A limited number of studies have attempted to translate these findings to humans with cerebral palsy (CP). Essentially, the aberrations in sensorimotor cortical activity in those with CP could have an adverse effect on the spinal cord microstructure. To investigate this knowledge gap, we utilized magnetoencephalographic (MEG) brain imaging to quantify motor-related oscillatory activity in fourteen adults with CP and sixteen healthy controls. Participants also underwent cervical-thoracic spinal cord MRI. Our results showed that the strength of the peri-movement beta desynchronization and the post-movement beta rebound were each weaker in the adults with CP relative to the controls, and these weakened responses were associated with poorer task performance. Additionally, our results showed that the strength of the peri-movement beta response was associated with the total cross-sectional area of the spinal cord and the white matter cross-sectional area. Altogether these results suggest that the altered sensorimotor cortical activity seen in CP may result in activity-dependent plastic changes within the spinal cord microstructure, which could ultimately contribute to the sensorimotor deficits seen in this population.
Particle Generation to Minimize the Computing Time of the Discrete Element Method for Particle Packing Simulation
Authors: Nam Jinsu , Lyu Jaehee , Park Junyoung
Published: August 2021

There are computation time constraints caused by the number and size of particles in the powder packing simulation using DEM. In this paper, newly suggested packing model transforms a general packing sequence –particle generation, stack, and compression – into particle generation and packing by growing particles. To verify the new packing model, it was compared using three contact models widely used in DEM, in terms of Radial Distribution Function, porosity, and Coordination Number. As a result, contact between particles showed a similar trend, and the pore distribution was also similar. Using the new packing model can reduce simulation time by 400% compared to the normal packing model without any other coarse graining methods. This model has only been applied to particle packing simulations in this paper, but it can be expanded to other simulations with complex domain based on DEM.
Subclinical Abnormal Coagulation in Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Hao , Fu Jun , Chai Wei , Xu Chi , Hao Libo , Chen Jiying
Published: August 2021

Background：Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication of total joint arthroplasty and often indicate disastrous outcomes. However, the change of coagulation profile in PJI patients has not been explored up to now. Therefore, we performed a single-center retrospective cohort study to determine: 1) the coagulation profile in PJI patients 2) the diagnostic efficacy of coagulation profile for PJI diagnosis based on the MSIS criteria.Methods: Between 2016 January and 2018 December, a total of 371 patients receiving joint revisions were included in this cohort study. The corresponding medical records were scrutinized to establish the final diagnosis of PJI according to the 2014 MSIS criteria. The difference of coagulation profile between PJI and aseptic loosening patients was analyzed. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine the proper sensitivity and specificity of coagulation makers.Results: The levels of APTT, D-dimer, plasma fibrinogen, INR and Platelet Count in PJI group were significantly higher than that in non-PJI group(P<0.05). The AUCs of plasma APTT, plasma D-dimer, plasma fibrinogen and platelet count for PJI diagnosis were0.625(95%CI:(0.543,0.706)),0.731(95%CI:(0.656,0.806)),0.831(95%CI:(0.771,0.890)) and 0.733(95%CI:(0.660,0.805)), respectively. Moreover, the coagulation profile was combined by logistic model and the corresponding AUC was0.865(95%CI:(0.812,0.918)).Conclusions: Despite relatively normal coagulation profile, PJI patients suffer from subclinical abnormal coagulation compared to non-PJI patients. The coagulation profile (APTT, INR, plasma fibrinogen, platelet count, D-dimer) in PJI patients is different from that in non-PJI patients significantly. And the coagulation profile can play a role in PJI diagnosis.
Does Mechanical Threshold Inspiratory Muscle Training Promote Recovery and Improve Outcomes in Ventilator-Dependent ICU Patients? The IMPROVE Randomised Trial.
Authors: Bissett Bernie , Leditschke I Anne , Neeman Teresa , Green Margot , Marzano Vince , Erwin Katie , Haren Frank MP van , Boots Robert , Paratz Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Background: In ventilator-dependent ICU patients, inspiratory muscle training may improve inspiratory muscle strength and accelerate liberation from the ventilator, but optimal training parameters are yet to be established and little is known about the impact of inspiratory muscle training on quality of life or dyspnea. Thus we sough to ascertain whether inspiratory muscle training, commenced while ventilator-dependent, would improve outcomes for ICU patients invasively ventilated for 7 days or longer.Methods: In this randomized trial with assessor-blinding and intention-to-treat analysis, 70 participants (mechanically ventilated ≥7 days) were randomized to receive once- daily supervised high-intensity inspiratory muscle training with a mechanical threshold device in addition to usual care, or usual care (control). Primary outcomes were inspiratory muscle strength (maximum inspiratory pressure % predicted) and endurance (fatigue resistance index) at ventilator-liberation and 1 week later, and quality of life (SF-36v2, EQ-5D). Secondary outcomes included dyspnea, physical function, duration of ventilation and in-hospital mortality.Results: 33 participants were randomly allocated to the training group and 37 to control. There were no statistically significant differences in strength (maximum inspiratory pressure) (95% CI -7.4 to 14.0) or endurance (fatigue resistance index) (95% CI -0.003 to 0.436). Quality of life improved significantly more in the training group than control (EQ5D 17.2; 95% CI 1.3-33.0) (SF36-PCS 6.97; 96%CI 1.96-12.00). Only the training group demonstrated significant reductions in dyspnea (-1.5 at rest, -1.9 during exercise). There were no between-group differences in duration of ventilation or other measures. In-hospital mortality was higher in the control group than the training group (9 vs 4, 24% vs 12%, p=0.23).Conclusions: In ventilator-dependent patients, mechanical threshold loading inspiratory muscle training improves quality of life and dyspnea, even in the absence of strength improvements or acceleration of ventilator liberation. Trial registration: ACTRN12610001089022 https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12610001089022Trial protocol: http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/2/2/e000813.full
Gray wolf optimizer with bubble-net predation for modeling FCCU main fractionator
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Su Chengli , Wang Ning , Shi Huiyuan
Published: August 2021

FCCU main fractionator is a complex system with multivariable, nonlinear and uncertainty. Its modeling is a hard nut to crack. In this work, the gray wolf optimization with bubble-net predation (GWO_BP) is proposed for solving this complex optimization problem. In order to enhance the global search ability and accelerate the convergence speed, the bubble-net predation of whale search scheme is applied to update the head wolf position. And the improved Lé vy flight is used to update the positions of wolfpack for overcoming the disadvantage of easily falling into local optimum. The GWO_BP is compared with basic GWO, PSO with some typical test functions and the parameter estimation of FCCU main fractionation model. The experiment results show the effectiveness of the GWO_BP.
Carbon Monoxide-Neuroglobin Axis Targeting Metabolism Against Neuroinflammation
Authors: Dias-Pedroso Daniela , Ramalho José S. , Sardão Vilma A. , Jones John G. , Romão Carlos C. , Oliveira Paulo J. , Vieira Helena L.A.
Published: August 2021

Microglia are the immune competent cell of the central nervous system (CNS), promoting brain homeostasis and regulating inflammatory response against infection and injury. Chronic or exacerbated neuroinflammation is a cause of damage in several brain pathologies. Endogenous carbon monoxide (CO), produced from the degradation of heme, is described as anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory in several contexts, including in the CNS. Neuroglobin (Ngb) is a haemoglobin-homologous protein, which upregulation triggers antioxidant defence and prevents neuronal apoptosis. Thus, we hypothesized a crosstalk between CO and Ngb, in particular, that the anti-neuroinflammatory role of CO in microglia depends on Ngb. A novel CO-releasing molecule (ALF826) based on molybdenum was used for delivering CO in microglial culture.BV-2 mouse microglial cell line was challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for triggering inflammation, and after 6h ALF826 was added. CO exposure limited inflammation by decreasing inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and the production of nitric oxide (NO) and tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), and by increasing interleukine-10 (IL-10) release. CO-induced Ngb upregulation correlated in time with CO’s anti-inflammatory effect. Moreover, knocking down Ngb reversed the anti-inflammatory effect of CO, suggesting that dependents on Ngb expression. CO-induced Ngb upregulation was independent on ROS signalling, but partially dependent on the transcriptional factor SP1. Finally, microglial cell metabolism is also involved in the inflammatory response. In fact, LPS treatment decreased oxygen consumption in microglia, indicating a switch to glycolysis, which is associated with a proinflammatory. While CO treatment increased oxygen consumption, reverting LPS effect and indicating a metabolic shift into a more oxidative metabolism. Moreover, in the absence of Ngb this phenotype was no longer observed, indicating Ngb is needed for CO’s modulation of microglial metabolism. Finally, the metabolic shift induced by CO did not depend on alteration of mitochondrial population. In conclusion, neuroglobin emerges for the first time as a key player for CO signalling against exacerbated neuroinflammation in microglia.
The Use of SMART Goals to Create Attainable Health Actions at Community Health Screenings
Authors: Jensen Katherine , Canfield Jacob , Hernandez Lessly , Stone Melanie
Published: August 2021

Background

Frontera de Salud is a student-run, interprofessional health organization that delivers primary care to underserved populations in South Texas. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of, and longitudinal adherence to, SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time bound) goals created with clients during the Frontera counseling session.
Methods

Prior to a trip, Frontera personnel received training on developing SMART goals. During the counseling session of the health screening, after a client had undergone tests to measure blood sugar and lipids, a Frontera counselor would create a personalized SMART goal with the client. Several months after the initial health screening, the Frontera client was contacted via phone call to discuss adherence to their SMART goal.
Results

Of a sample of 150 client records, 58 (38.7%) of those clients were able to be reached via phone call. Of those 58 clients, 38 (65.5%) reported adherence to the SMART goal created during their Frontera counseling session. For those 38 clients, 18 had a diet-related goal (47.4%), 3 had an exercise-related goal (7.9%) and 13 (34.2%) had a goal that encompassed both diet and exercise.
Conclusions

Among clients contacted for follow-up, almost two-thirds reported adherence to their SMART goal. The most efficacious goals were diet-related. Of concern, only 38.7% of clients were able to be reached for follow-up.
Implementation of A Psychiatric Consultation for Healthcare Workers During First Wave of COVID-19 Outbreak: A Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis.
Authors: BENZAKOUR Lamyae , Langlois Gérard , Marini Verena , Groz Alexandra , Chiabotto Chiara , Apetrei Diana , Corneau Bruno , Bondolfi Guido
Published: August 2021

Background:Prevention and management strategies of mental suffering in healthcare workers appeared as important challenges during COVID-19 pandemic. This article aims to 1) Identify potential psychiatric disorders for healthcare workers during the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak; 2) Describe the implementation of a psychiatric consultation for healthcare workers; 3) Present the activity report of this consultation; 4) Analyze and learn from this experience.Methods: The authors identified specific risks for healthcare workers mental health to be anxiety, depression, burnout and traumatic symptoms. The authors performed a retrospective quantitative analysis of socio-demographic and clinical data, in addition to psychiatric scales scores for the main potential psychiatric risks (PDI, PDEQ, PCL-5, HADS, MBI-HSS) and post-hoc qualitative analysis of written interviews. Means and frequencies were calculated for all the variables collected. Results: 25 healthcare workers were consulted between 19 th March 2020 and 12 th June 2020, 18 who accepted to participate to the study. Authors found 78.57% presented high peritraumatic dissociation, 78.57%, high peritraumatic distress, 68.75%, severe anxiety symptoms, and 31.25%, severe depression symptoms. Concerning burnout, authors found 35.29% had a moderate,and 23.53% a high level of Emotional Exhaustion; 17.65%, a moderate, and 23.53%, a high level of Depersonalization; 11.76%, a low, and 35.29%, a moderate level of Personal Achievement. In the qualitative analysis of the written interview, authors found a direct link with COVID-19, primarily concerning traumatic stressors, and secondarily with work-related stress. Conclusions: This study confirms the psychiatric consequences during the first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic for healthcare workers. These results suggest that for healthcare workers, early detection of traumatic reactions, valorization of individual effort, and limitations on work overload, are potential key preventative measures.
Phytoremediation potentials of some wild plants around the chromium mine
Authors: Çeliktaş Veli , Türkmen Necattin
Published: August 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Comparison of Clinical Features in Hematologic-Malignancy Patients and Tumor Patients Developing Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Liu Simin , Wu Xiaowei , Zhang Yicheng , Yin Jin
Published: August 2021

Background: venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with cancer. Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a form of VTE that is common and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Patients with hematological malignancies (HM) constitute a particular subset of patients with significant differences that may require specific evidence for the management of pulmonary embolism (PE) prophylaxis and treatment. Methods: a single-center retrospective analysis was conducted on HM and tumor patients developing PE from January 2015 to September 2020. Results: in this study, 56% of the HM patients had malignancies derived from B-cells. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma(NHL), especially diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, had the highest incidence rates. Seventy-six percent of HM patients occurred PE within 50 days from the date of diagnosis. But the onset time of PE in tumor patients had two peaks. Several factors, including developing pneumonia especially in male patient with a smoking history, catheter history and ongoing chemotherapy were more valuable in predicting PE occurrence in HM patients compared with caner patients. The D-dimer level was elevated in 84% of HM cases and 97.5% in tumor patients.The D-Dimer values in HM patients were significantly lower than those in tumor patients. There was no significant difference in embolus location between two groups. Patients with acute leukemia had a higher incidence of peripheral PE, whereas patients with NHL had a higher incidence of central PE. No treatment-related modality and major bleeding were observed in HM patients. PE-related mortality rate was similar to that in tumor patients. Conclusions: this study identified several clinical differences between HM and tumor patients when PE occurred, which may be helpful for PE diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HM patients in the future.
Choque de potências e integração regional na região do oceano índico: dimensão estratégica e disputa de poder no pós-guerra fria
Authors: Thudium Guilherme
Published: August 2021

Este artigo oferece um exame das principais tendências que apontam para a intensificação das disputas de poder interestatal na Região do Oceano Índico (ROI), espaço de crescente interesse no concerto estratégico do século XXI. Neste prisma, buscar-se-á fazer uma análise da importância estratégica deste espaço, bem como das dinâmicas regionais de segurança, competição e integração regional existentes. UMAlevantada centralmente necessária que uma empresa adquirida seja adquirida pela região no cenário global deu origem a um “choque de potências ”, sendo Estados Unidos, Índia e China os principais atores envolvidos. A pesquisa também buscou contextualizaro interesse aumentado pela região com diretrizes oficiais adotadas recentemente por atores relativamente novos, como é o caso da Alemanha.
LABOR CAPACITY OF DEAF WORKERS ON THE WORKPLACE: QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE ATTITUDES OF DEAF WORKERS AND THEIR CO-WORKERS WITHOUT HEARING IMPAIRMENT
Authors:   Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation, University of Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Beha Admira , Hasanbegović Husnija ,   Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation, University of Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to determine the opinions of deaf workers on their labor capacity and the opinions of their hearing co-workers about the labor capacities of the deaf. The sample consisted of 247 respondents, of whom 127 were deaf and 120 were hearing workers. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were used in processing the results. Testing was performed by Wilks' Lambda, tested significance in discriminant analysis was done by F test, at the statistical significance of 0.01. It was found that the sub-sample of respondents had a statistically significant difference in views on claims regarding the exploitation of deaf workers by employers, the employment of deaf people in low-paid simple occupations, and the equally successful but insignificant productivity of deaf workers. The statistical differences found indicate that there are differences in the assessment of the labor capacity of deaf workers in the hearing work environment. Qualitative analysis found that hearing impairment and the subjective attitudes of colleagues without hearing impairment have the greatest impact on the assessment of the labor capacity of deaf workers.
LA UNIVERSIDAD: ENTRE EL SABER Y LA DIGNIFICACIÓN DEL TRABAJO PROFESIONAL ANTE LOS RETOS DEL MERCADO
Authors: Flores Rabasa Mariana
Published: August 2021

La universidad es un tipo de institución que, en su interacción con otras organizaciones sociales, conforma la sociedad civil. En tanto institución, posee un objetivo propio, a saber: la generación y transmisión de conocimiento en un contexto educativo, que permite distinguirla de otros agentes sociales. En tanto social, debe situar su vocación en relación y contraste con la finalidad de otras unidades de acción social, entre las que destaca preponderantemente el mercado.

El objetivo de esta reflexión es el de analizar los retos a los que se enfrenta la vocación de la universidad, ante las cada vez más demandantes necesidades del mercado que subrepticia o abiertamente se han introducido bajo un nuevo paradigma de generación de capital denominado «sociedad del conocimiento», así como una solución creativa para enfrentarlos, a través de la dignificación del trabajo profesional.
POLÍTICAS DE INTERNACIONALIZAÇÃO NA EDUCAÇÃO SUPERIOR: TRANSFERÊNCIA DE IDEIAS EDUCACIONAIS
Authors: Pinto Marialva Moog , Volpato Gildo
Published: August 2021

O estudo de abordagem qualitativa utiliza a análise documental para analisar as políticas sobre internacionalização da Educação Superior (ES) produzidas por organismos multilaterais e transferidas como políticas avaliativas para a ES no Brasil. Analisou-se a Conferência Mundial sobre ES para o Século XXI (UNESCO, 1998), o relatório do Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da ES (SINAES, 2004); o Plano Nacional de Educação (PNE, 2014); e o Instrumento de Avaliação Institucional ES (INEP, 2017), e confirmou-se que a Conferência (1998), alavancou as políticas avaliativas atuais para ES no país.
O MOVIMENTO FORMATIVO DO PACTO NACIONAL PELA ALFABETIZAÇÃO NA IDADE CERTA: REPERCUSSÕES À ALFABETIZAÇÃO MATEMÁTICA
Authors: Fontana Maria Iolanda , Guérios Ettiène , De Souza Vanda Maria
Published: August 2021

O artigo analisa o movimento formativo do PNAIC Matemática e suas repercussões à prática pedagógica de professores alfabetizadores. Discute dados qualitativos de entrevistas com professoras de escolas municipais de Curitiba e da revisão de literatura. A contribuição do programa é constatada, principalmente, pelo pacto entre entes federados e universidades públicas, a reflexão, o compartilhamento de experiências e a construção de saberes na perspectiva da alfabetização matemática. Aponta-se como contradição a descontinuidade da formação continuada de caráter nacional com políticas de governo.
ESCOLAS PAULISTAS OCUPADAS, POLÍTICAS E DEMOCRACIAS
Authors: Abdian Graziela Zambão , Carvalho Viviane Izaías de , Hojas Viviani Fernanda
Published: August 2021

O objetivo foi analisar as práticas discursivas construídas sobre política, gestão e democracia por diferentes integrantes de duas escolas públicas da rede estadual paulista ocupadas em 2015/2016 contra a política governamental de reorganização escolar. O material é resultante de entrevistas com integrantes de diferentes segmentos das duas escolas pesquisadas e o referencial teórico a Teoria do Discurso. A experiência nas ocupações teve grande importância na ressignificação da escola e das categorias em tela e a Teoria do Discurso pôde contribuir com o avanço no conhecimento da área.
POLÍTICA E GESTÃO EDUCACIONAL NA SECRETARIA MUNICIPAL DE EDUCAÇÃO DE SÃO PAULO (1989-1992)
Authors: Dias Vagno Emygdio Machado , Martins Tânia Barbosa
Published: August 2021

O objetivo do artigo é analisar a perspectiva de gestão e política educacional na Secretaria Municipal de Educação de São Paulo (1989-1992) durante a implementação da escola pública popular. O método de análise é um estudo teórico da legislação pertinente ao tema no Conselho Estadual de Educação (CEE) e um estudo teórico documental nos cadernos de formação, regimentos e demais fontes que compõem os materiais de formação docente, reorganização curricular e implementação dos ciclos de formação no ensino fundamental municipal. Conclui-se que se trata de uma experiência radical em gestão e política educacional.
POLÍTICA CURRICULAR NA SME SP NA GESTÃO DE PAULO FREIRE: UM DIÁLOGO COM ANA MARIA SAUL SOBRE A ESCOLA PÚBLICA DEMOCRÁTICA
Authors: Oliveira Inês Barbosa de
Published: August 2021

Este ensaio se tece a partir de conversa com a Profª Ana Maria Saul e de reflexões em torno dela. Objetiva apresentar a gestão freireana na SME/SP, conforme ela a percebe, hoje. Metodologicamente inscrito no campo da pesquisa narrativa, aborda, em três partes, os temas da educação democrática, dos diálogos universidade-escola e dos cotidianos e suas narrativas, presentes na gestão freireana, em diálogo com conceitos do autor como a humanização, o diálogo e o compromisso político do educador como formas de luta contra a dominação. No final, traz uma reflexão sobre a utopia freireana em oposição à distopia atual.