bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribuições de Enfermagem para o acesso à saúde da pessoa surda
Authors: Sousa Tânia Beatriz Gaspar de , Pinheiro Larissa Kerlly Costa , Galvão Ana Patricia Fonseca Coelho , Santos Nailde Melo , Melo Marenilde Alves de Souza , Martinelli Caroline Valicheli de Matos , Cunha Cláudia Regina Silva dos Santos , Milhomen Laruenne Sousa Moraes , Carvalho Wildilene Leite , Chaves Suelen Pacheco , Pereira Joelmara Furtado dos Santos , Sousa Clice Pimentel Cunha de , Aragão Francisca Bruna Arruda
Published: June 2022

A Língua Brasileira de Sinais – Libras, foi reconhecida nacionalmente como a segunda linguagem oficial do país, ainda assim, a pessoa com deficiência auditiva vivencia a frequente descaracterização identitária resultante da dificuldade de comunicação com a sociedade majoritariamente composta por ouvintes. Tais obstáculos expõem a pessoa surda às situações de vulnerabilidade e risco social, a destacar o acesso aos serviços de saúde, indispensáveis para a manutenção da integridade física, psíquica e social do ser humano.  Portanto, o presente trabalho objetiva entender como a equipe de enfermagem pode contribuir para o acesso à saúde da pessoa surda. Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura do tipo integrativa e de abordagem qualitativa, através da busca bibliográfica nas bases científicas LILACS, MEDLINE, BDENF e SciELO, e análise dos estudos publicadas na íntegra, de 2011 a 2021, no idioma português do Brasil, a fim de limitar as informações coletadas à realidade brasileira. As pesquisas utilizadas para elaboração deste artigo evidenciam a dificuldade de comunicação do surdo no momento das consultas de enfermagem, impactando negativamente no acolhimento e continuidade da assistência desse paciente. Conclui-se que o enfermeiro tem muito a contribuir para a garantia do direito social à saúde, comumente negado à pessoa surda. Entretanto, para que se possa ofertar um serviço integral e eficiente, o profissional de enfermagem deve capacitar-se para tal.
O mapeamento de processo como ferramenta técnica para reformulação do instrumento de visita pré-operatória de enfermagem do paciente adulto a ser submetido a cirurgia cardíaca
Authors: Nascimento Roberta Stochero , Guimarães Tereza Cristina Felippe , Vasconcellos Marilia de Moraes
Published: June 2022

Este estudo é um recorte de um estudo da estruturação do processo de visita pré-operatória de enfermagem ao paciente adulto que será submetido a cirurgia cardíaca. Tem como objetivo: aplicar a ferramenta de mapeamento de processo na reestruturação do instrumento da visita pré-operatório de enfermagem. Metodologia: Pesquisa-ação com aplicação da ferramenta de mapeamento de processo. Realizado em 2 etapas: Na primeira foi realizada a análise dos dados do instrumento de visita pré-operatória de adulto realizadas e teve como recorte o ano de 2018 (n=257). Na etapa seguinte, os enfermeiros assistenciais do centro cirúrgico participaram de uma reunião onde sugeriram as melhorias do processo e do instrumento através da técnica de brainstorming. Resultados: A análise das visitas pré-operatórias do paciente adulto, demostrou um cenário de variabilidade neste processo e a reunião com os enfermeiros culminou na reformulação do instrumento com a participação da equipe. Conclusão: Ratificada a intervenção cientifica na reformulação do instrumento alinhado contexto de recomendações globais de segurança do paciente no pré-operatório e com a participação dos sujeitos que realizam a tarefa.
Patologias em estruturas de madeira
Authors: Parra Diego Antônio Carvalho , Galvão Joao Paulo Palmeiras , Silva Julierme Siriano da
Published: June 2022

No Brasil, em consequência à grande quantidade de estruturas de madeira históricas, sejam elas coberturas de galpões, igrejas, pontes de madeira, ginásios entre outros, existem muitas estruturas com mais de 50 anos de idade ainda em uso. A vida útil em conjunto com a modificação de uso e o controle instável potencializaram o aparecimento de manifestações patológicas e o surgimento de algumas degradações podem afetar tanto estruturas novas como estruturas com certa idade de uso. Nesse contexto, torna-se necessário a função do tempo de vida útil destas estruturas e avaliar as principais manifestações patológicas além de indicar as possíveis intervenções, manutenções e substituições a fim de garantir a segurança dessas estruturas diante das eventuais condições de uso da atualidade. Contudo, o objetivo geral deste trabalho é realizar estudos baseados em pesquisas bibliográficas e em campo (UFT), identificando as causas e os efeitos das principais manifestações patológicas em elementos estruturais de madeira apresentados pela proposta de metodologia em inspeção.
Absenteísmo entre os profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia de COVID-19: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Barros Beatriz Alves , Silva Eliete Pereira da , Sandrin Paula Pires de Azevedo , Abreu Alcione Matos de , Freitas Vera Lucia
Published: June 2022

Objetivo: Conhecer por meio da literatura a produção científica sobre o absenteísmo dos profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia de COVID-19.  Métodos: Trata-se de uma Revisão Integrativa da Literatura, com abordagem qualitativa, realizada nas bases de dados do MEDLINE, LILACS e SciELO. Foram selecionados artigos de Janeiro de 2019 a Janeiro de 2022. Resultados: Dos seis artigos selecionados, foram criadas três categorias temáticas, sendo: Impactos da pandemia de COVID-19 aos serviços de saúde; O uso de EPIs e a relação com o absenteísmo pela COVID-19; Categoria de saúde com maior tendência ao absenteísmo. Os achados do estudo sinalizam o quão grave é o absenteísmo dos profissionais da saúde para as instituições e para o cuidado do paciente devido à grande exposição destes a COVID-19. Considerações finais: O planejamento de uma assistência adequada à saúde é a principal ferramenta para redução de danos aos profissionais, instituições e pacientes, sendo necessário uma melhor estratégia de gestão em saúde.
Utilização da Momordica charantia L. no tratamento de lesões de pele: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Lima Rafael da Silva , Silva Neto Irineu Ferreira da , Silva Renata Evaristo Rodrigues da
Published: June 2022

O uso de plantas medicinais é uma prática milenar, destacando-se a Momordica charantia L. que possui variadas aplicações, especialmente no que diz respeito ao tratamento de lesões de pele. Assim, objetivou-se fazer um levantamento na literatura sobre a utilização da Momordica charantia L. no tratamento de lesões de pele. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa onde realizou-se uma busca de estudos nas bases de dados: SciELO, PubMed e BVS, utilizando os DeCS: Momordica charantia, Ferimentos e Lesões “Wounds and Injuries”, e Pele “Skin”, sendo eles combinado por meio do operador booleano “AND. Incluiu-se estudos disponíveis na íntegra nos idiomas português e inglês, que apresentavam dois dos descritores, e que contemplassem o período temporal de dez anos. Estudos fora da temática, que não compreendessem o período delimitado e em outras línguas foram excluídos. A análise mostrou que o uso da Momordica charantia L. têm um grande potencial para ser aplicado nas lesões cutâneas em suas diversas formas farmacêuticas. Esse fato justifica-se devido à suas propriedades farmacológicas atribuídas à presença dos fitoquímicos já identificados e que demostraram eficácia para o tratamento de lesões de pele. Apesar de não haverem estudos na literatura desenvolvidos com seres humanos, as pesquisas realizadas em animais mostraram-se promissoras, sendo que o órgão mais utilizado nestas foram as folhas. Ainda é necessário novas investigações que envolvam técnicas experimentais mais avançadas, afim de elucidar minunciosamente seu mecanismo de ação, efeitos farmacológicos e toxicológicos, podendo torna-se um fármaco e ampliar o leque de opções terapêuticas no tratamento de feridas de pele.
Variabilidade da precipitação e relação com a produtividade de mandioca (Manihot Esculenta) na Cidade de Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre
Authors: Silva Jefferson Rodrigues dos Santos , Costa Charniele Freitas da , Serrano Rodrigo Otávio Peréa , Mesquita Anderson Azevedo , Moreira José Genivaldo do Vale
Published: June 2022

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a relação existente entre a variabilidade pluviométrica e a produtividade de mandioca no município de Cruzeiro do Sul-Acre, levando em consideração o regime pluviométrico como insumo essencial para a agricultura. Foram utilizados os dados de precipitação pluviométrica total mensal e anual, observados na cidade, no período de 1993 a 2018. No ano de 1993 tem-se o menor valor de produtividade, enquanto a precipitação pluviométrica registrada se aproxima do valor da precipitação média calculada para o período analisado. No ano de 1995, verificou-se que os valores registrados de precipitação pluviométrica se distanciam do valor médio. Em relação aos anos de produtividade de mandioca, é possível verificar que até o ano de 2012 não ocorreram variações significativas nos registros avaliados. No período 1993 a 20, o destaque é dado ao ano de 2010, cuja produtividade superou o valor de 20 t.ha-1. Verificou-se que a partir do ano de 2013 registrou-se os maiores valores de produtividade para a cultura da mandioca. Já no intervalo entre os anos de 2013 e 2018, o município registrou os mais altos valores de produtividade, durante o período analisado. O ano de 2015 destacou-se com uma produtividade que atingiu 32,3 t.ha-1. Verificou-se, também, tendência ascendente na produtividade da cultura mediante crescimento nos valores de precipitação pluviométrica. Por meio da análise de regressão linear simples, evidenciou um incremento crescente de 0,0043 t.ha-1 à produtividade de mandioca em função de 1 mm de chuva, na cidade de Cruzeiro do Sul.
Internet das Coisas na Odontologia: o futuro já chegou?
Authors: Freire Júlio César Guimarães , Alves Ana Beatriz de Lima , Almeida Ana Lidia Brasil de , Silva Bruno Rafael Soares da , Araújo Eduarda Gomes Onofre de , Farias Gabrieli Duarte , Beserra Letícia Regina Marques , Gondim Flávio Murilo Lemos , Piagge Carmem Silvia Laureano Dalle , Mélo Cláudia Batista
Published: June 2022

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma revisão de literatura ao analisar a aplicabilidade da Internet das Coisas na Odontologia hodierna, discorrendo sobre os avanços previstos para o futuro, além de expor os benefícios e os entraves do uso da IoT (Internet of Things) na área. Para isso, foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), PubMed e IEEE Xplore, se utilizando de descritores nos campos de busca, como “internet das coisas”, “odontologia” e “saúde bucal”. De forma majoritária, todos os artigos selecionados apontam vantagens do uso da Internet das Coisas na Odontologia sobre a qualidade do atendimento ao paciente, efetivação de procedimentos odontológicos e aprimoramento das técnicas e modalidades de ensino dentro do campo da Odontologia. Além disso, as buscas realizadas, sugerem a implementação da tecnologia IoT como fator importante no acompanhamento integral mais preciso dos pacientes. Conclui-se que a aplicabilidade da Internet das Coisas na Odontologia é ampla e necessária, pois representa um importante recurso na promoção integral da saúde bucal e na construção de sistemas inteligentes focados em desenvolver o ensino-aprendizagem do cirurgião-dentista em formação.
Bioconversion of agro-industrial by-products into microbial lipids and bioemulsifier by Absidia cylindrospora var. cylindrospora UCP 1301
Authors: Mendonça Rafael de Souza , Rodríguez Dayana Montero , Souza Adriana Ferreira de , Andrade Rosileide Fontenele da Silva , Campos-Takaki Galba Maria , Almeida Sérgio Mendonça de
Published: June 2022

Large amounts of agro-industrial by-products and wastes are generated in Brazil annually. Often, they are underutilized and improperly disposed, causing environmental pollution. In this context, reuse them as raw material to obtain high-added value products, becomes a promising strategy. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the biotechnological potential of the Mucoralean fungus Absidia cylindrospora UCP 1301 for production of oleaginous biomass and bioemulsifier (BE), using agro-industrial by-products as low-cost substrates. Firstly, the morphological identification of the strain was performed for confirmation. Then, fermentations were carried out, according to a 2³ full-factorial design (FFD) in order to evaluate the influence of substrates concentrations on production of biomass, total lipids and BE. The fungus was identified as Absidia cylindrospora var. cylindrospora and the results showed it as an oleaginous microorganism, since it accumulated lipids above 20 % of dry weight. The highest biomass production (11.38 g/L) was found in condition 3 of the FFD, while the highest lipid yield (32.22%) was reached in assay 6. Moreover, this strain was confirmed as a promising BE-producing microorganism, because of it achieved EI24 values above 50% in all conditions of the FFD. The highest EI24 with motor oil (93.3%) was obtained in condition 7 and this emulsion remained stable after 150 days of incubation. Statistical analysis showed that the three agro-industrial by-products had a significant influence on the production of biomass, lipids and BE, confirming the suitability of unconventional substrates for obtaining both microbial oil and emulsifier, which makes this bioprocess attractive for several industries.
Intoxication symptoms and health conditions of family farmers associated with the use of pesticides: a study conducted in Zona da Mata Mineira, Brazil
Authors: Miguel Elizangela da Silva , Carmo Davi Lopes do , Lopes Silvia Oliveira , Santos Ricardo Henrique Silva , Franceschini Sylvia do Carmo Castro , Castro Luiza Carla Vidigal , Costa Glauce Dias da , Priore Silvia Eloiza
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the association between the use of pesticides, symptoms of intoxication and health conditions of family farmers in the Mata Mineira area, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study with 48 family farmers from a municipality in the Zona da Mata, Minas Gerais. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to obtain demographic, socioeconomic information and characterization of the use of pesticides. Blood samples were collected from farmers for biochemical tests and evaluation of markers of exposure to pesticides. It was found that 75% of farmers used pesticides in food production, most of these products being extremely toxic. These farmers showed changes in plasma cholinesterase, erythrocyte cholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, markers of exposure to pesticides. There was an association between spraying for more than 4 hours/day and reporting of acute symptoms of intoxication, as well as between the use of pesticides and the presence of chronic non-communicable diseases. Multivariate analysis indicated that non-compliance with the period of re-entry into crops after the use of pesticides remained as an explanatory variable for lung disease. We infer that acute symptoms, as well as chronic non-communicable diseases reported by family farmers, may be associated with the use of pesticides.
Revisão integrativa da análise de exergia no corpo humano
Authors: Leite Ana Carolina Nóbrega , Sousa Glaucio de Meneses , Albuquerque Juliana Cruz , Catão Maria das Neves de Sá , Diniz Priscylla Palmeira , Carvalho Raniza de Oliveira , Oliveira Herbet Lima , Nascimento José Jefferson da Silva
Published: June 2022

A combinação das leis fundamentais da termodinâmica resulta na exergia, uma grandeza que representa quantitativamente a capacidade de realizar trabalho útil. Sempre que a energia é usada, nos processos em que a energia é convertida em trabalho útil, uma parte dela é perdida. A eficiência exergética é um fator útil de racionalidade para os consumos e desperdícios de sistemas. Diversos autores destacam a importância da análise exergética em diferentes aspectos da vida, podendo ela ser aplicada ao corpo humano para avaliação da qualidade dos processos de conversão de energia em sistemas biológicos, bem como nos processos bioquímicos do metabolismo. O objetivo do presente artigo é realizar uma revisão integrativa da literatura acerca da relação entre análise de exergia e os processos associados aos sistemas do corpo humano. As pesquisas desenvolvidas ao longo dos anos têm demonstrado um crescente interesse no tema e apresentam um importante aperfeiçoamento dos modelos matemáticos de análise exergética, contribuindo para uma melhor compreensão do rendimento do corpo humano e seus sistemas a partir das leis e conceitos da termodinâmica. Além disso, criam-se perspectivas futuras de utilização do desempenho exergético para auxílio no campo da medicina.
Vulnerabilidades e riscos associados ao trabalho dos Agentes de Combate à Endemias
Authors: Guarda Carin , Oliveira Ana Paula de , Schott Daniela Fernanda , Lutinski Junir Antônio , Busato Maria Assunta , Ferraz Lucimare
Published: June 2022

O estudo objetivou identificar vulnerabilidades e riscos em saúde, que os ACE (agentes de combate a endemias) estão expostos no exercício de suas atividades. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa, desenvolvida em três municípios da região oeste de Santa Catarina, através de um questionário semiestruturado composto por perguntas fechadas, com respostas de múltipla escolha e possibilidade de argumentação. Responderam ao questionário 87 ACE, nos meses de abril e maio de 2016. As respostas foram tabuladas no programa Microsoft Office Excel (2007) e as argumentações agrupadas em categorias. Os riscos em saúde mencionados com maior frequência foram os ambientais, ocupacionais e riscos sociais. Os ACE se reconhecem vulneráveis aos riscos decorrentes das condições climáticas, do uso inadequado de equipamentos de proteção individual, das condições de trabalho precárias e de uso de produtos químicos. Emerge a demanda pela implementação de práticas para o enfrentamento das vulnerabilidades que estão expostos.
Comportamento das características físicas e físico-química da polpa de bacuri submetidas ao processamento para obtenção de espuma e pó
Authors: Morais Antonio Valdenilson Costa , Pessoa Taciano , Teixeira Fátima Alves , Cavalcante José Maciel da Silva
Published: June 2022

O bacuri é um fruto amazônico com potenciais nutritivos e funcionais. Tais características conferem a alta perecibilidade aos frutos. A secagem de produtos alimentícios tem sido um princípio para aumentar a vida de prateleira, assim como uma alternativa ao binômio carência de mercado e elevado custo de armazenamento. Com isso, esse trabalho objetivou estudar as características físicas e físico-químicas da polpa de bacuri in natura e espuma elaborada, como também avaliar as características físicas e físico-químicas dos pós obtidos pela secagem em camada de espuma nas temperaturas de 50, 60 e 70 °C. A espuma foi elaborada a partir da polpa in natura diluída em 50% de água e adição de 2,5% de Emustab e 5,0% de Albumina ao tempo de 15 minutos de agitação em batedeira doméstica do tipo planetária, em seguida foram submetidas ao processo de secagem. Para caracterização dos produtos avaliou-se quanto à Teor de água, pH, Acidez, Lipídeos, Açúcares totais, Açúcares redutores e Açúcares não redutores. Para os parâmetros de cor L*, a* e b*, utilizou-se o aplicativo Colorímetro versão 5.5.1. O processo de conversão da polpa do bacuri em espuma ocasiona a diferença em alguns atributos físicos e físico-químicos, a secagem a 70 ºC melhor se adequa ao fenômeno, consolidando a técnica de secagem em camada de espuma como um método simples e efetivo para o desenvolvimento em escala industrial.
Production System, Herd Size and Productivity of Local Goats in Liquiçá Municipality, Timor-Leste
Authors: Soares Gomes Graciano , Alves Pereira Cândido
Published: June 2022

Abstract The goat is a species of small ruminants that has great potential in the development of its production. The aim of this study is to obtain basic data on the rearing system used by the breeders, herd size and productivity of goats kept only in a traditional subsistence production system. Data collection period starts on September 20 to December 20, 2018 or is carried out for three months. This study used the survey method and in the process of determining the research site used the intentional sampling. In determining the sample size, Slovin was used, and to determine the respondents, it used the simple random sampling method. The observed variables are herd size, herd structure, gestation period, litter size, weaning age, first giving birth, reproduction ratio and production system. The results of the research showed that all farmers who had been as the respondents generally still used the traditional extensive system, did not pay attention to the problem of feed quality and frequency of feeding; only using local feed as animal feed. alternative supplementary, does not handle the problem of reproduction ratio well, the gestational age of the goats is still normal, the litter size is low, mostly only 1-2 heads per birth, the mortality rate is low at 1%, the age at first calving is 12 months and the weaning age young goats are generally 3months - 6 months. It is recommended to improve the maintenance system with good management to increase the productivity of local goats.
Una visión de la fatiga por compasión en cuidados paliativos
Authors: Castillo-Cáceres Diana Jessica
Published: June 2022

Los cuidados paliativos (CP) mejoran la calidad de vida de los pacientes, cuidadores y de sus familias cuando afrontan problemas de orden físico, psicológico, social o espiritual inherentes a una enfermedad potencialmente mortal. El equipo de CP brinda manejo integral, procurando minimizar el sufrimiento en todas las dimensiones; lo cual conlleva una alta carga emocional; experimentando compasión de manera muy individual, sea como satisfacción por compasión (SC) o fatiga por compasión (FC). La FC es un proceso complejo, incluye el deterioro de los recursos personales, afectando las áreas profesional y personal. La FC debe abordarse de forma consciente, incrementar su reconocimiento y minimizar su impacto ya que ello mejora la toma de decisiones, la claridad de la comunicación y la satisfacción del paciente, familiar, cuidador y profesional de salud.
Structural Organization and Function of the Golgi Ribbon During Cell Division
Authors: Ayala Inmaculada , Colanzi Antonino
Published: June 2022

The Golgi complex has a central role in the secretory traffic. In vertebrate cells it is generally organized in polarized stacks of cisternae that are laterally connected by membranous tubules, forming a structure known as Golgi ribbon. The steady state ribbon arrangement results from a dynamic equilibrium between formation and cleavage of the membrane tubules connecting the stacks. This balance is of great physiological relevance as the unlinking of the ribbon during G2 is required for mitotic entry. A block of this process induces a potent G2 arrest of the cell cycle, indicating that a mitotic “Golgi checkpoint” controls the correct pre-mitotic segregation of the Golgi ribbon. Then, after mitosis onset, the Golgi stacks undergo an extensive disassembly, which is necessary for proper spindle formation. Notably, several Golgi-associated proteins acquire new roles in spindle formation and mitotic progression during mitosis. Here we summarize the current knowledge about the basic principle of the Golgi architecture and its functional relationship with cell division to highlight crucial aspects that need to be addressed to help us understand the physiological significance of the ribbon and the pathological implications of alterations of this organization.
Prognostic Role of M6A-Associated Immune Genes and Cluster-Related Tumor Microenvironment Analysis: A Multi-Omics Practice in Stomach Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Luo Na , Fu Min , Zhang Yiling , Li Xiaoyu , Zhu Wenjun , Yang Feng , Chen Ziqi , Mei Qi , Peng Xiaohong , Shen Lulu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Qianxia , Hu Guangyuan
Published: June 2022

N6-methylandrostenedione (m6A) methylation plays a very important role in the development of malignant tumors. The immune system is the key point in the progression of tumors, particularly in terms of tumor treatment and drug resistance. Tumor immunotherapy has now become a hot spot and a new approach for tumor treatment. However, as far as the stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) is concerned, the in-depth research is still a gap in the m6A-associated immune markers. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases is extremely important for our research, where we obtained gene mutation, gene expression data and relevant clinical information of STAD patients. Firstly, the samples from GEO were used as external validation groups, while the TCGA samples were divided into a training group and an internal validation group randomly. Using the way of Single factor COX-LASSO- and multi-factor Cox to construct the prognostic model. Then, all samples were subjected to cluster analysis to generate high and low expression groups of immune gene. Meanwhile, we also collected the correlation between these types and tumor microenvironment. On this basis, a web version of the dynamic nomogram APP was developed. In addition, we performed microenvironmental correlation, copy number variation and mutation analyses for model genes. The prognostic model for STAD developed here demonstrated a very strong predictive ability. The results of cluster analysis manifested that the immune gene low expression group had lower survival rate and higher degree of immune infiltration. Therefore, the immune gene low expression group was associated with lower survival rates and a higher degree of immune infiltration. Gene set enrichment analysis suggested that the potential mechanism might be related to the activation of immunosuppressive functions and multiple signaling pathways. Correspondingly, the web version of the dynamic nomogram APP produced by the DynNom package has successfully achieved rapid and accurate calculation of patient survival rates. Finally, the multi-omics analysis of model genes further enriched the research content. Interference of RAB19 was confirmed to facilitate migration of STAD cells in vitro, while its overexpression inhibited these features. The prognostic model for STAD constructed in this study is accurate and efficient based on multi-omics analysis and experimental validation. Additionally, the results of the correlation analysis between the tumor microenvironment and m6Ascore are the basics of further exploration of the pathophysiological mechanism in STAD.
Facilitating the Development of Intercultural Competence via Virtual Internationalization
Authors: Chen Sibo
Published: June 2022

This perspective article details a semester-long “internationalization at home” project that was piloted during Fall 2021 as part of emergency remote teaching and learning. By presenting the project's components and overall student feedback, I demonstrate how virtual international collaboration contributes to the development of students' intercultural competence. Additionally, I emphasize that one-off faculty initiatives focused on collaborative transcultural learning will not suffice to embed this model into the local institutional matrix. Accordingly, the article concludes by advocating for stronger institutional support to leverage the promise of virtual internationalization.
Plasma Angiotensin II Is Increased in Critical Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Camargo Rafael L. , Bombassaro Bruna , Monfort-Pires Milena , Mansour Eli , Palma Andre C. , Ribeiro Luciana C. , Ulaf Raisa G. , Bernardes Ana Flavia , Nunes Thyago A. , Agrela Marcus V. , Dertkigil Rachel P. , Dertkigil Sergio S. , Araujo Eliana P. , Nadruz Wilson , Moretti Maria Luiza , Velloso Licio A. , Sposito Andrei C.
Published: June 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) employs angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as its receptor for cell entrance, and studies have suggested that upon viral binding, ACE2 catalytic activity could be inhibited; therefore, impacting the regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). To date, only few studies have evaluated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the blood levels of the components of the RAAS. The objective of this study was to determine the blood levels of ACE, ACE2, angiotensin-II, angiotensin (1–7), and angiotensin (1–9) at hospital admission and discharge in a group of patients presenting with severe or critical evolution of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We showed that ACE, ACE2, angiotensin (1–7), and angiotensin (1–9) were similar in patients with critical and severe COVID-19. However, at admission, angiotensin-II levels were significantly higher in patients presenting as critical, compared to patients presenting with severe COVID-19. We conclude that blood levels of angiotensin-II are increased in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 presenting the critical outcome of the disease. We propose that early measurement of Ang-II could be a useful biomarker for identifying patients at higher risk for extremely severe progression of the disease.
Role of m6A Methylation in the Occurrence and Development of Heart Failure
Authors: Fan Shaowei , Hu Yuanhui
Published: June 2022

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is one of the most common epigenetic modifications in RNA nucleotides. It is known that m6A methylation is involved in regulation, including gene expression, homeostasis, mRNA stability and other biological processes, affecting metabolism and a variety of biochemical regulation processes, and affecting the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. Cardiovascular disease has high morbidity, disability rate and mortality in the world, of which heart failure is the final stage. Deeper understanding of the potential molecular mechanism of heart failure and exploring more effective treatment strategies will bring good news to the sick population. At present, m6A methylation is the latest research direction, which reveals some potential links between epigenetics and pathogenesis of heart failure. And m6A methylation will bring new directions and ideas for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart failure. The purpose of this paper is to review the physiological and pathological mechanisms of m6A methylation that may be involved in cardiac remodeling in heart failure, so as to explain the possible role of m6A methylation in the occurrence and development of heart failure. And we hope to help m6A methylation obtain more in-depth research in the occurrence and development of heart failure.
Crustal and Upper Mantle Imaging of Botswana Using Magnetotelluric Method
Authors: Akinremi Stephen , Fadel Islam , van der Meijde Mark
Published: June 2022

We used magnetotelluric data from 352 sites in Botswana to derive a country-wide electrical conductivity model of the crust and upper mantle structure. A robust methodological scheme and 3D inversion were used to derive a 3D electrical conductivity model with unprecedented spatial coverage. The model results show interesting features, including the major cratonic blocks and the mobile belts in Botswana. A distinctive resistive structure was imaged in southwest Botswana, which suggests the existence of the Maltahohe microcraton as a separate cratonic unit as proposed by other studies. Furthermore, the model gives new insight into the extension of the East African Rift System to Botswana and the incipient rifting in the Okavango Rift Zone. In northern Botswana, the electrical conductivity model shows a highly conductive structure beneath the Okavango Rift Zone, which connects with a deeper conductive structure that we attribute to the East African Rift System due to its vicinity to Lake Kariba, the last surface expression of the rift system. We suggest that ascending fluids or melt from the East African Rift System causes the weakening of the lithosphere and plays a significant role in the incipient continental rifting in the Okavango Rift Zone.
Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide for the Management of Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Heart Failure in Real-World Clinical Practice
Authors: Pérez-Belmonte Luis M. , Sanz-Cánovas Jaime , García de Lucas María D. , Ricci Michele , Avilés-Bueno Beatriz , Cobos-Palacios Lidia , Pérez-Velasco Miguel A. , López-Sampalo Almudena , Bernal-López M. Rosa , Jansen-Chaparro Sergio , Miramontes-González José P. , Gómez-Huelgas Ricardo
Published: June 2022

Background

The impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on patients with heart failure has not been fully described. Our main objective was to evaluate the safety and clinical and glycemic efficacy of once-weekly semaglutide in obese patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure.

Methods

In this observational, retrospective, real-world study, we enrolled outpatients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart failure who started semaglutide and were followed-up on at 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

A total of 136 patients were included. From baseline to 12 months, there was a significant improvement on the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire total symptom score (59.0 ± 24.1 vs 79.9 ± 28.4 points, p<0.01), a reduction in the proportion of patients with New York Heart Association functional class III (40.4% to 16.2%, p<0.01), and a reduction in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels (969.5 ± 653.5 vs 577.4 ± 322.1 pg/mL, p<0.01). Emergency department visits due to heart failure, hospitalizations due to heart failure, and all-cause hospitalizations also declined. Additionally, significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (-1.4%) and body weight (-12.7 kilograms) were observed as well as a de-intensification of antidiabetic therapy. Moreover, semaglutide was safe and well-tolerated.

Conclusion

In obese patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure, the use of once-weekly semaglutide was safe and clinically efficacious, improving health and functional status. Nevertheless, more strong evidence on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in heart failure is required.
Ramadan Fasting and Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Diabetes Mellitus: Literature Review
Authors: Kumar Shejil , Diamond Terrence
Published: June 2022

There is an emerging Muslim and diabetic population in the United States and other Western countries and majority of pregnant women and patients with diabetes mellitus choose to fast during Ramadan. Fasting during Ramadan in pregnant women with diabetes may represent a ‘perfect storm’ of metabolic disturbances including hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and ketosis. Recent continuous and flash glucose monitoring data suggests increased glycemic variability (fasting hypo- and post-Iftar hyperglycemia) in non-pregnant patients with diabetes during Ramadan. Only five small-scale studies, predominantly focused on women with gestational diabetes mellitus in Muslim-majority nations have explored maternal glycemic outcomes during Ramadan which is associated with lower mean blood glucose levels and higher frequency of fasting hypoglycemia. Data is limited however on important clinical outcomes such as symptomatic and serious hypoglycemia requiring hospitalization. Results have been conflicting regarding maternal Ramadan fasting and association with fetal outcomes in women without diabetes. Only one recently published study reported on perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with gestational diabetes which found no effect of Ramadan exposure on mean birthweight or macrosomia frequency but lower neonatal hypoglycemia prevalence, however a significant limitation was lack of documentation of maternal fasting status. At this stage, due to paucity of data, the current medical recommendation is against Ramadan fasting for pregnant Muslim women with diabetes. Large-scale population-based studies are warranted regarding maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant fasting women with diabetes and such studies should characterize maternal fasting status and have meaningful and consistent clinical outcomes. High-quality data derived from these studies can assist clinicians in providing more evidence-based advice to safely navigate both mother and fetus through a potentially challenging pregnancy.
Factors Associated With Persistent Urinary Incontinence Among Women Undergoing Female Genital Fistula Surgery in the Democratic Republic of Congo From 2017 to 2019
Authors: Nembunzu Dolores , Mayemba Naomie , Sidibé Sidikiba , Grovogui Fassou Mathias , Aussak Brian Tena Tena , Banze Kyongolwa Don Félicien , Camara Bienvenu Salim , Tripathi Vandana , Delamou Alexandre
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite high closure rates, residual urinary incontinence remains a common problem after successful closure of a vesico-vaginal fistula. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with residual urinary incontinence in women with successful fistula closure in sites supported by the Fistula Care Plus project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Material and Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study using routine data extracted from the medical records of women undergoing fistula surgery in three hospitals supported by the Fistula Care Plus project in DRC between 2017 and 2019. We analyzed factors associated with residual urinary incontinence among a subsample of women with closed fistula at discharge. We collected data on sociodemographic, clinical, gynecological-obstetrical characteristics, and case management. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with residual urinary incontinence.

Results

Overall, 31 of 718 women discharged with closed fistula after repair (4.3%; 95% CI: 3.1–6.1) had residual incontinence. The leading causes identified in these women with residual incontinence were urethral voiding (6 women), short urethra (6 women), severe fibrosis (3 women) and micro-bladder (2 women). The prevalence of residual incontinence was higher among women who received repair at the Heal Africa (6.6%) and St Joseph's (3.7%) sites compared with the Panzi site (1.7%). Factors associated with increased odds of persistent urinary incontinence were the Heal Africa repair site (aOR: 54.18; 95% CI: 5.33–550.89), any previous surgeries (aOR: 3.17; 95% CI: 1.10–9.14) and vaginal surgical route (aOR: 6.78; 95% CI: 1.02–45.21).

Conclusion

Prior surgery and repair sites were the main predictors of residual incontinence after fistula closure. Early detection and management of urinary incontinence and further research to understand site contribution to persistent incontinence are needed.
Case Report: Refractory Cytopenia With a Switch From a Transient Monosomy 7 to a Disease-Ameliorating del(20q) in a NHEJ1-Deficient Long-term Survivor
Authors: Poyer Fiona , Jimenez Heredia Raúl , Novak Wolfgang , Zeitlhofer Petra , Nebral Karin , Dworzak Michael N. , Haas Oskar A. , Boztug Kaan , Kager Leo
Published: June 2022

We report the case of a male Pakistani patient with a pathogenic homozygous loss of function variant in the non-homologous end-joining factor 1 (NHEJ1) gene. The growth retarded and microcephalic boy with clinodactyly of both hands and hyperpigmentation of the skin suffered from recurrent respiratory infections. He was five and a half years old when he came to our attention with refractory cytopenia and monosomy 7. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was considered but not feasible because there was no suitable donor available. Monosomy 7 was not detected anymore in subsequent bone marrow biopsies that were repeated in yearly intervals. Instead, seven and a half years later, a novel clone with a del(20q) appeared and steadily increased thereafter. In parallel, the patient’s blood count, which had remained stable for over 20 years without necessitating any specific therapeutic interventions, improved gradually and the erythropoiesis-associated dysplasia resolved.
Therapeutic Vaccines for Tuberculosis: An Overview
Authors: Bouzeyen Rania , Javid Babak
Published: June 2022

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the world’s deadliest bacterial infection, resulting in more than 1.4 million deaths annually. The emergence of drug-resistance to first-line antibiotic therapy poses a threat to successful treatment, and novel therapeutic options are required, particularly for drug-resistant tuberculosis. One modality emerging for TB treatment is therapeutic vaccination. As opposed to preventative vaccination – the aim of which is to prevent getting infected by M. tuberculosis or developing active tuberculosis, the purpose of therapeutic vaccination is as adjunctive treatment of TB or to prevent relapse following cure. Several candidate therapeutic vaccines, using killed whole-cell or live attenuated mycobacteria, mycobacterial fragments and viral vectored vaccines are in current clinical trials. Other modes of passive immunization, including monoclonal antibodies directed against M. tuberculosis antigens are in various pre-clinical stages of development. Here, we will discuss these various therapeutics and their proposed mechanisms of action. Although the full clinical utility of therapeutic vaccination for the treatment of tuberculosis is yet to be established, they hold potential as useful adjunct therapies.
Alternative B Cell Differentiation During Infection and Inflammation
Authors: Courey-Ghaouzi Alan-Dine , Kleberg Linn , Sundling Christopher
Published: June 2022

Long-term protective immunity to infectious disease depends on cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. Induction of a strong humoral response relies on efficient B cell activation and differentiation to long-lived plasma cells and memory B cells. For many viral or bacterial infections, a single encounter is sufficient to induce such responses. In malaria, the induction of long-term immunity can take years of pathogen exposure to develop, if it occurs at all. This repeated pathogen exposure and suboptimal immune response coincide with the expansion of a subset of B cells, often termed atypical memory B cells. This subset is present at low levels in healthy individuals as well but it is observed to expand in an inflammatory context during acute and chronic infection, autoimmune diseases or certain immunodeficiencies. Therefore, it has been proposed that this subset is exhausted, dysfunctional, or potentially autoreactive, but its actual role has remained elusive. Recent reports have provided new information regarding both heterogeneity and expansion of these cells, in addition to indications on their potential role during normal immune responses to infection or vaccination. These new insights encourage us to rethink how and why they are generated and better understand their role in our complex immune system. In this review, we will focus on recent advances in our understanding of these enigmatic cells and highlight the remaining gaps that need to be filled.
Galectin-3 Decreases 4-1BBL Bioactivity by Crosslinking Soluble and Membrane Expressed 4-1BB
Authors: Nielsen Morten Aagaard , Juul-Madsen Kristian , Stegmayr John , Gao Chao , Mehta Akul Y. , Greisen Stinne Ravn , Kragstrup Tue Wenzel , Hvid Malene , Vorup-Jensen Thomas , Cummings Richard D. , Leffler Hakon , Deleuran Bent Winding
Published: June 2022

4-1BB is a T cell costimulatory receptor and a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. Here, we show that Galectin-3 (Gal-3) decreases the cellular response to its ligand (4-1BBL). Gal-3 binds to both soluble 4-1BB (s4-1BB) and membrane-bound 4-1BB (mem4-1BB), without blocking co-binding of 4-1BBL. In plasma, we detected complexes composed of 4-1BB and Gal-3 larger than 100 nm in size; these complexes were reduced in synovial fluid from rheumatoid arthritis. Both activated 4-1BB+T cells and 4-1BB-transfected HEK293 cells depleted these complexes from plasma, followed by increased expression of 4-1BB and Gal-3 on the cell surface. The increase was accompanied by a 4-fold decrease in TNFα production by the 4-1BBhighGal-3+T cells, after exposure to 4-1BB/Gal-3 complexes. In RA patients, complexes containing 4-1BB/Gal-3 were dramatically reduced in both plasma and SF compared with healthy plasma. These results support that Gal-3 binds to 4-1BB without blocking the co-binding of 4-1BBL. Instead, Gal-3 leads to formation of large soluble 4-1BB/Gal-3 complexes that attach to mem4-1BB on the cell surfaces, resulting in suppression of 4-1BBL’s bioactivity.
Production and Characterization of Healing Polymeric Films for Diabetes Patients’ Wounds
Authors: Yakar Arzu , Dede Nur
Published: June 2022

Diabetes-related wounds are a significant problem with serious consequences for both patients and health care systems. The aim of this study is to produce healing films that will expedite the healing of diabetic wounds in order to minimize the negative effects experienced by diabetic patients. For this purpose, films were produced by combining chitosan, which possesses the ability to accelerate wound healing, silver nanoparticles, well-known for their superior properties such as preventing the occurrence of microbiological activity and providing thermal stability, and ascorbic acid, also referred to as vitamin C, which the body requires during the treatment process. The films were evaluated by applying a series of characterization analyzes (XRD, FTIR, Transmission Electron Microscopy, DSC-TGA) to the produced films. In addition, the films were subjected to microbiological tests. Following that, the films’ swelling and ascorbic acid release behaviors were investigated in deionized water and a phosphate buffered saline solution with pH 7.4, respectively.
Revisiting IgG Antibody Reactivity to Epstein-Barr Virus in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Its Potential Application to Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Sepúlveda Nuno , Malato João , Sotzny Franziska , Grabowska Anna D. , Fonseca André , Cordeiro Clara , Graça Luís , Biecek Przemyslaw , Behrends Uta , Mautner Josef , Westermeier Francisco , Lacerda Eliana M. , Scheibenbogen Carmen
Published: June 2022

Infections by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are often at the disease onset of patients suffering from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). However, serological analyses of these infections remain inconclusive when comparing patients with healthy controls (HCs). In particular, it is unclear if certain EBV-derived antigens eliciting antibody responses have a biomarker potential for disease diagnosis. With this purpose, we re-analyzed a previously published microarray data on the IgG antibody responses against 3,054 EBV-related antigens in 92 patients with ME/CFS and 50 HCs. This re-analysis consisted of constructing different regression models for binary outcomes with the ability to classify patients and HCs. In these models, we tested for a possible interaction of different antibodies with age and gender. When analyzing the whole data set, there were no antibody responses that could distinguish patients from healthy controls. A similar finding was obtained when comparing patients with non-infectious or unknown disease trigger with healthy controls. However, when data analysis was restricted to the comparison between HCs and patients with a putative infection at their disease onset, we could identify stronger antibody responses against two candidate antigens (EBNA4_0529 and EBNA6_0070). Using antibody responses to these two antigens together with age and gender, the final classification model had an estimated sensitivity and specificity of 0.833 and 0.720, respectively. This reliable case-control discrimination suggested the use of the antibody levels related to these candidate viral epitopes as biomarkers for disease diagnosis in this subgroup of patients. To confirm this finding, a follow-up study will be conducted in a separate cohort of patients.