bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolução dos casos de HIV/AIDS em pessoas com 50 anos ou mais atendidos em um hospital universitário do nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Santos Linda Djeyme , Santos Amuzza Aylla Pereira dos , Comassetto Isabel , Oliveira Julio Cesar Silva , Santos Wanderlei Babosa dos , Santos José Augustinho Mendes
Published: April 2021

O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar a evolução dos indivíduos acima de 50 anos ou mais com diagnóstico de infeção pelo Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana/Síndrome de Imunodeficiência Adquirida (HIV/AIDS) atendidos em um Hospital universitário do Nordeste do Brasil, sendo um estudo epidemiológico descritivo, documental, com abordagem quantitativa, de uma série histórica no período de 2006 a 2016. Os dados foram coletados através da base de dados do núcleo de epidemiologia do hospital.  O estudo demonstrou um aumento progressivo para evolução dos indivíduos com 50 anos de idade ou mais que apresentam o diagnóstico de HIV/AIDS, sendo os mais acometidos são os homens na faixa etária entre 50 a 59 anos, heterossexuais. Conclui-se que assistir aos indivíduos que estão em processo de envelhecimento, que se apresentam sexualmente ativos e cercados por preconceitos, exige a atitude de profissionais cada vez mais preparados, abertos a novos paradigmas e com conhecimento das particularidades apresentadas por eles.
Correlations between the slip resistance and surface roughness of ceramic floor tiles
Authors: Lot Ana Virgínia , Menegazzo Ana Paula Margarido , Brasileiro Camila Tavares , Melchiades Fábio Gomes , Boschi Anselmo Ortega
Published: April 2021

The characteristics of the floor surface profile are one of the factors that can be responsible for slip and fall accidents. To reduce the incidence of these accidents, it is essential to identify the profile features necessary for floor covering materials to be suitable for slipping risk areas. The objective of the present work was to investigate correlations between the slip resistance and the surface roughness of ceramic floor tiles. The slip resistance and the surface roughness of commercial ceramic tiles, with a diversity of surface finishes, were characterized by the pendulum method and contact profilometry, respectively. It was concluded that the presence of a large number of sharp peaks per unit of length of the profile is required for high slip resistance ceramic tiles. It was also found that the presence of waviness contributes to increasing the floors slip resistance even more. Through regression analysis, a good correlation between the pendulum results and the roughness parameter Ra was found.
A monitoria como instrumento para o aprendizado em Anatomia e Ecofisiologia Vegetal nos cursos de Licenciatura em Ciências Agrárias e Bacharelado em Agroecologia
Authors: Ferreira Edlane Eusébio de Oliveira , Azerêdo Gilvaneide Alves de , Souza Vênia Camelo de , Silva João Henrique Constantino Sales , Silva Higor José da
Published: April 2021

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a experiência de monitoria vivenciada na disciplina de Anatomia e Ecofisiologia Vegetal oferecida nos cursos de graduação do CCHSA/UFPB, Licenciatura em Ciências Agrárias e Bacharelado em Agroecologia, bem como analisar a satisfação e a percepção dos discentes quanto à monitoria ofertada nesses dois cursos. Este trabalho foi dividido em duas partes: a primeira refere-se ao relato de experiência vivenciado pelos monitores e a segunda sobre a percepção que os discentes tiveram em relação à monitoria nessa disciplina, mediante a aplicação de um questionário. As atividades de monitoria na disciplina de Anatomia e Ecofisiologia Vegetal exerceram um papel extremamente importante na melhoria do aprendizado dentro de sala de aula, pois colaborou para um melhor entendimento dos conteúdos abordados, além de ter proporcionado o intercâmbio aluno-professor e o aprofundamento teórico por parte dos monitores. A monitoria ajudou-nos a firmar nossa vocação para a sala de aula, contribuindo para o aprendizado mútuo e de forma prazerosa com os nossos colegas de curso. A monitoria possibilitou ao aluno monitor um maior aprofundamento dos conteúdos da disciplina, além de colocá-lo próximo ao docente, permitindo compreender melhor as dimensões do ensino-aprendizagem, suas gratificações e dificuldades, além de nos permitir vivenciar a monitoria presencial e remota. Assim, a monitoria serviu para firmar ainda mais o desejo pela docência e das habilidades requeridas para tal exercício.
Perfil de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista
Authors: Magalhães Juliana Macêdo , Silva Thalita Monteiro da , Silva Fabiana da Conceição , Alencar Mariana de Fátima Barbosa de , Rêgo Neta Marly Marques , Alencar Delmo de Carvalho , Arisawa Emília Angela Lo Schiavo
Published: April 2021

Introdução: O Transtorno do Espectro Autista, também conhecido como autismo, é caracterizado como uma deficiência comunicativa, com comportamentos repetitivos e áreas restritas de interesse. Para isso, a identificação do perfil de crianças com a síndrome é de suma importância, o qual pode fornecer dados para efetivar políticas públicas. Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar o perfil de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista. Método: Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva e exploratória com abordagem quantitativa, realizada em uma Associação de Amigos dos Autistas, na cidade de Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Incluíram-se no estudo prontuários de crianças que estavam na faixa etária de zero a onze anos de idade atendidas em 2019. Resultados: Prevaleceu o sexo masculino (80,95%), com idade entre 8 a 9 anos (44,4%), Ensino fundamental (1° a 4° serie) (52,4%). 61 (96,82%) possuíam classificação para autismo infantil e utilizavam o tratamento medicamentoso com Risperidona (23/36,5%). A maioria (61/96,8%) realizava terapia individual e apresentava problemas associados à utilização do brinquedo, psicomotricidade, linguagem, socialização e limites. Conclusão: O estudo contribui para que profissionais sejam capazes de perceber as demandas dos autistas e colaborar com o seu melhor atendimento.
Influence of different obturation techniques in coronal bacterial infiltration: study in dogs
Authors: Dezan-Júnior Eloi , Bueno Carlos Roberto Emerenciano , Vasques Ana Maria Veiga , Souza Valdir de , Nery Mauro Juvenal , Otoboni Filho José Arlindo , Bernabé Pedro Felício Estrada , Gomes-Filho João Eduardo , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo , Jacinto Rogério de Castilho , Sivieri-Araújo Gustavo , Holland Roberto
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate, in vivo, coronal bacterial infiltration after endodontic treatment with different obturation technique. Forty-five dogs’ root canals, originated from incisors and premolars, were used. The animals were intubated after general anesthesia. After local antisepsis and placement of rubber dam isolation, teeth were opened and instrumented up to a Kerr handfile #40, followed by three obturation protocols with Endofill®: Lateral condensation, Lateral condensation with a coronal plug of set Endofill® and Tagger hybrid technique. Access openings were not sealed and root fillings remained exposed to oral environment for 90 days. After this period, animals were euthanized and specimens were histologically processed and stained with Brown and Brenn. Dentinal tubules were evaluated with presence or absence of bacteria descriptive analysis. Bacterial infiltration was identified on root canal walls in six out of 14 root canals filled with the lateral condensation technique (42,8%), two out of 15 canals filled with Lateral condensation with a plug of set Endofill® (13,3%) and in two out 13 root canals filled with the Tagger hybrid technique (15,3%). Although the use of a coronal plug or a thermomechanical compaction technique showed less bacterial infiltration than conventional lateral condensation, none of the obturation techniques prevented bacterial infiltration to periapical area, evidencing the importance of a proper coronal seal or final restoration.
Perspectivas da robótica como recurso pedagógico aplicada a educação 4.0: Uma análise bibliométrica sobre robótica educacional
Authors: Nunes Tamires Fernanda Barbosa , Viana Carol Correia , Viana Luiz Augusto Ferreira de Campos
Published: April 2021

A Quarta Revolução Industrial estendeu a transformação digital para o ambiente educacional, ao reconfigurar o mercado de trabalho e exigir novas habilidades e competências dos profissionais. Desse modo, a Educação 4.0 tem como proposta a inserção de novas tecnologias no ambiente educacional para que o processo de ensino-aprendizagem transcenda a educação tradicional ao impulsionar o ensino inovador e o aprender fazendo, abrindo espaço para uma aprendizagem baseada na experimentação, desenvolvimento de projetos e vivências. Nesse cenário, a robótica educacional se apresenta como um recurso pedagógico capaz de auxiliar a transição tecnológica-digital da educação. O objetivo dessa pesquisa é analisar a robótica educacional como recurso pedagógico capaz de atribuir ao ensino e aprendizagem recursos atuais rumo a Educação 4.0. Para isso, uma análise bibliométrica de coocorrência de palavras foi desenvolvida, visando realizar o levantamento dos principais termos referentes a robótica educacional presentes na literatura e compreender a expansão da robótica como recurso pedagógico ao longo dos anos. Os resultados demonstraram que a robótica como recurso pedagógico encontra-se em plena expansão promovendo a aprendizagem por experimentação, estando associada ao pensamento computacional, as teorias de aprendizagem construtivistas e construcionistas e promovendo o ensino baseado na resolução de problemas. Caracterizando-se como recurso pedagógico atual capaz de proporcionar um ambiente de aprendizagem multidisciplinar favorecendo a integração digital na vida cotidiana dos alunos e a incorporação de habilidades e atitudes capazes de prepará-los para o exercício pleno da cidadania em uma sociedade em constante evolução.
Alisamento capilar como temática para o ensino de proteína: Uma proposta utilizando a aprendizagem baseada em casos
Authors: Silva Lorena Garces , Cicuto Camila Aparecida Tolentino , Sudati Jéssie Haigert
Published: April 2021

Este trabalho teve como objetivo propor e aplicar um estudo de caso por meio da temática “alisamento capilar”. Para isso, utilizou-se a Aprendizagem Baseada em Casos (ABC) associada ao conteúdo programático de uma disciplina de Fundamentos do Metabolismo oferecida para acadêmicos do 5º semestre de um curso de Licenciatura. Como instrumento de coleta de dados utilizou-se um questionário em que os estudantes deveriam escolher as alternativas corretas e justificar suas respostas para solucionar o caso proposto. A análise dos dados contemplou uma abordagem qualitativa, a partir da categorização das respostas apresentadas no instrumento. Os resultados deste trabalho evidenciam que os alunos apresentaram dificuldade na resolução da atividade. Este achado pode ser decorrente da falta de experiência dos estudantes em desenvolverem atividades com esta abordagem, ou ainda por não terem compreendido que poderiam assinalar várias alternativas para a resolução do caso. Espera-se com essa pesquisa contribuir com os estudos sobre ABC, bem como auxiliar na compreensão dos conceitos Bioquímicos abordados neste estudo.
Desempenho agronômico de pimenta dedo de moça sob adubação orgânica e mineral
Authors: Santos Wanderson Moreira dos , Rocha Anderson Fabrício Messias , Silva Filipe Beserra da , Vale Luís Sérgio Rodrigues , Faria Layanny Robert , Marques Mônica Lau da Silva , Felix Marta Jubielle Dias , Santos Evaldo Alves dos
Published: April 2021

O cultivo de pimentas é realizado basicamente em todo território brasileiro, principalmente, pela agricultura familiar. O uso de alternativas para baratear o processo de produção, em particular no uso de insumos, é uma alternativa que pode proporcionar maior lucratividade para o agricultor. Dessa forma, objetivou-se com este experimento avaliar a qualidade agronômica da produção de pimenta dedo de moça sob diferentes doses de adubo orgânico e mineral. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram as doses de adubo orgânico: 0, 15, 30, 45 e 60 t ha-1 de esterco bovino e um tratamento com adubação mineral. Foi avaliado o desempenho agronômico da cultura. As doses de adubo orgânico não proporcionaram diferença significativa na produtividade e no número de frutos por planta de pimentas. Os resultados foram maiores que no tratamento controle. A doses de adubo orgânico de 45 e 60 t ha-1 proporcionaram maiores produtividades de pimentas que o controle. As doses de adubo orgânico e mineral não proporcionaram diferença significativa nas variáveis de produção, comprimento e diâmetro de frutos e espessura da polpa. O maior índice de eficiência agronômica quanto à produtividade foi obtido na dose de 45 t ha-1 de adubo orgânico em relação ao adubo mineral. O uso de esterco bovino pode ser indicado na produção de pimenta dedo de moça na região de Ceres, GO.
A importância da articulação família e escola na formação do aluno em uma perspectiva da Educação do Campo
Authors: Flores Sandra Nogueira , Cordeiro Rogério Soares
Published: April 2021

O objetivo geral da pesquisa foi analisar a articulação família e escola em uma perspectiva da Educação do Campo (EC) e suas implicações na formação do aluno. Para tanto, teve participação da diretora, docentes e comunidade escolar, representada por mães e pais de alunos, todos do município de Serra do Ramalho-BA, Brasil. A metodologia orientou-se pelos princípios da abordagem qualitativa com o estudo de caso, com informações coletadas por meio de dois questionários e análise do Projeto Político Pedagógico (PPP). Os resultados indicam relações positivas, apontadas, especialmente por respeito e harmonia. Mães e pais procuram participar da vida escolar dos filhos, informação endossada pelos docentes, que apontam para necessidade de maior investimento nesse processo, desde que sejam explicitados os papéis de cada. As evidências também indicam ganhos, por parte dos alunos, nas famílias cuja participação é mais incisiva no acompanhamento escolar e tomada de decisões da escola. Por fim, propõe-se uma efetiva relação dialógica, por meio de uma série de ações que atendam as singularidades da comunidade campesina, bem como sua história de luta e trajetória de conquistas.
A importância do exercício de fortalecimento em cadeia cinética fechada na condromalacia patelar
Authors: Nagamine Bruna Pereira , Dantas Rildo da Silva , Chaves Thiago Villagelin Penna , Chaves Camila Teixeira de Oliveira Penna
Published: April 2021

A condromalacia patelar é a degeneração da cartilagem patelar, podendo haver a perda ou a diminuição da rigidez tecidual. Apresentando dor na região anterior da patela ao realizar as atividades de vida diária (AVDs) e ao flexionar e extender a joelho. Os exercícios de fortalecimento muscular em cadeia cinética fechada oferecem um melhor resultado em virtude da funcionalidade e pela facilitação de aplicação e promove o alivio da dor. O objetivo deste artigo é verificar a importância de exercícios de fortalecimento em cadeia cinética fechada na condromalacia patelar, a partir de pesquisas encontradas nas plataformas digitais: Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO) e Google Acadêmico. Conclui-se que os exercícios de fortalecimento muscular em cadeia cinética fechada usadas na Condromalacia Patelar, demonstram em sua maioria, resultados eficazes para reduzir o quadro álgico, fortalecendo toda a musculatura envolvida e proporcionando a melhora da flexibilidade.
Comparative stress evaluation of different types of prosthetic abutment and crown with an internal connection implant
Authors: Fabris Rodrigo Rosso , Caldas Ricardo Armini , Miranda Milton Edson , Borba Poliana , Olivieri Karina Andréa Novaes , Brandt William Cunha , Vitti Rafael Pino
Published: April 2021

O objetivo neste estudo foi comparar, por meio do método de elementos finitos (MEF), a distribuição de tensões em dois diferentes tipos de coroas (zircônia e cerâmica feldspática) e três tipos diferentes de intermediários protéticos (PEEK, titânio e zircônia) em um incisivo central superior. Cinco grupos foram estabelecidos: P-Zr/SA (PEEK/zircônia - sem adesão), P-Zr/CA (PEEK/zircônia - com adesão), Ti-Zr (titânio/zircônia), Zr-Zr (zircônia/zircônia) e Zr-F (zircônia/feldspática). Em cada modelo foi simulada uma carga oblíqua de 100 N na face palatina. Todos os modelos foram exportados para um software de análise de elementos finitos (ANSYS Workbench 16), onde foram analisados os valores de tensão Máxima Principal (tração), Mínima Principal (compressão) e von Mises. Os resultados demonstraram que os grupos P-Zr/SA e P-Zr/CA tiveram os maiores valores de von Mises no implante, sendo que essas tensões se concentraram na plataforma do implante. Nos intermediários, em todos os grupos, a tensão Máxima Principal se concentrou na região da conexão sextavada, sendo que os grupos P-Zr/SA e P-Zr/CA apresentaram os menores valores. Os grupos P-Zr/CA e Zr-Zr apresentaram maior dissipação das tensões na coroa. Nos parafusos, a localização das tensões de von Mises foi similar em todos os grupos, sendo que os grupos P-Zr/SA e P-Zr/CA apresentaram os maiores valores. Concluiu-se neste estudo que o intermediário de PEEK não proporciona uma melhor distribuição de tensões nas coroas, implantes e parafusos.
A review of the diversity of aquatic avifauna in Mizoram, India
Authors: Lawlor Christopher John Zomuana
Published: April 2021

Aquatic avifauna are an important bio-indicator of an ecosystem changes. Mizoram, one of the north-eastern states of India, lies in one of the richest biodiversity hotspots of the world. Along its water bodies, it is home to several species of resident birds, and is also a temporary home for migrating birds in different seasons. These resident and migratory avifauna form an important component of most wetland ecosystems, as they are vital components of the food webs. While only the Tamdil and Palak Lake are recognized as wetlands, there are several rivers and smaller water bodies around which aquatic avifauna exist. However, official records comprise of about 14 species of waterbirds belonging to 6 orders and 8 families. Of these, Anatidae, Charadriidae, Scolopacidae, Anhingidae, and Podicipedidae are represented by one species each, while the Ardeidae are represented by four species. Among the 14 species reported so far, two species of the Order Pelicaniformes, namely Anhinga melanogaster (Family Anhingidae) and Ardea insignis (Family Ardeidae) are highly endangered. However, detailed studies are wanting and, while there are sporadic reports of sightings on social media, there is a need for a more comprehensive study of the diversity and seasonal variations of aquatic avifauna around the different water bodies of the state of Mizoram.
Perception of the difficulties of international postgraduate students writing research proposal
Authors: Oteng Acheampong Dorcas
Published: April 2021

International postgraduate candidates of Universities in Nanjing come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. These students face several problems especially in writing the research proposals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of postgraduate students in writing the research proposal. The quantitative research design was used which involved the use of online questionnaires. A sample of 320 international postgraduate students and 20 supervisors selected at random from Universities in Nanjing were used for the study. Study findings pinpoint towards the general problems to international postgraduate students research proposal writing skills. Grounded on the results, the researcher makes the conclusion that identifying research gaps, reviewing and criticising literature, and finding enough evidence to support the research proposal are major problems for most postgraduate students in writing the research proposal. The study further concludes that these problems are due to lack of research materials, time constraints, low level of engagement with supervisors and hostile attitude of some supervisors. Understanding the language and concept of research is not a reason for postgraduate difficulties in research proposal as identified by other literatures. In this regard, the solutions to these problems for postgraduate students are effective supervision, students cultivating the habit of reading sufficient literatures, supervisors giving equal attention to international postgraduate students, ample time for research, timely feedback and availability of supervisors.
GLOBAL ISSUES OF ENVIRONMENTAL LAW ENFORCEMENT IMPACTS ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: . Sopian , Pudjiastuti Sri Rahayu
Published: April 2021

The global environmental crisis is caused by wrong and failed policies, low political commitment, deviant behavior from state actors ranging from trans-national corporations, consumerism and individualism culture, which ultimately harms the environment. The purpose of this research is to analyze environmental law, the form and importance of law enforcement in realizing sustainable development. The method used in this paper is to use a normative juridical approach. The results of the research show that currently environmental law is still weak in overcoming various environmental problems that occur. The cause of not optimal environmental law is the lack of a firm and real form of law enforcement. Therefore, law enforcement must be enforced for the realization of sustainable development
Concerning the Question of the Terminological Dictionary of the “Intellectual” Directions of Rock Music
Authors:   State Institute for Art Studies, Savitskaya Elena A.
Published: April 2021

The article is devoted to the interaction and correlation of such concepts as art rock and progressive rock in the terminological vocabulary of rock music. They both describe a rather unordinary stylistic direction of rock music which both turns to academic “classical” music and at the same time expands the compositional expressive means of rock music aimed at synthesis and experiment. The terms “art rock” and “progressive rock” (just as the musical trend itself) appeared in the British and American press in the late 1960s, however the boundaries between them have remained rather vague. The author of the article examines the history of the emergence, existence and signification of the terms “art rock” and “progressive rock” in the musical literature of Russia and other countries, specifies their meanings, and also turns to the appropriate terminology, styles and genres. The conclusion is arrived at about a more universal and generalizing meaning of the concept of “progressive rock,” which may be comprehended as a “stylistic conglomerate,” the “sum” of numerous stylistic varieties, the general characteristic features of which is the directedness towards stylistic synthesis, a complexification of expressive means and musical form, as well as the overcoming of the customary boundaries of rock music.
Developing Professional Guidelines for Administrators and Heads of Research at Research Organisations
Authors: Koroleva Natalya , Shlyakhovaya Elena
Published: April 2021

Introduction. The development and deployment of professional guidelines for research organisation administrators and heads of research at research organisations are motivated by the ever-growing productivity requirements for research and scientific and technical activity. They are also motivated by the quality requirements for the results of research and their practical application, as well as the area of activity and qualification requirements for administrators and heads of research. The purpose of this study is to elaborate on the process of drafting professional guidelines for two job types: research organisation administrator and head of research at a research organisation. Methods. We develop the guidelines for research organisation administrators and heads of research at research organisations by using a systemic approach and relying on comparative and functional analysis. Other methods employed include expert surveys, expert assessments, content analysis of expert comments and a graphical method that clearly illustrates the stages in which the proposals received from experts are processed. The theoretical methods used in this study include abstraction and specification, induction and deduction, analysis and synthesis, classification and generalisation. We also employ the simulation of professional activity while developing models of professional guidelines and drafting the professional guidelines themselves. Results and Discussion. As a result of this study, we present the methods of drafting professional guidelines for two job types: Research Organisation Administrator and Head of Research at a Research Organisation, informed by analysing the literature on the subject. In addition, we study how professional guidelines are used abroad, the development of said guidelines, analyse the critiques and suggestions received from experts and interested parties during a public discussion in the professional community, and further adjust our guidelines. Conclusion. After summarising our analysis, we conclude that the development of administrator and head of research activity at research organisations has excellent potential, as these positions are the ones that shape a given research organisation's contribution to resolving the social and economic issues faced by the national government. Our draft guidelines for administrators and heads of research are aimed at introducing an effective HR policy and competent personnel management within research organisations. The structure and content of the draft guidelines are optimal for bridging the gap between professional education and the actual labour market requirements. They fully reflect all skill, knowledge and competence requirements.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Duodenal-Jejunal Bypass Surgery-Induced Improvement of Hepatic Steatosis in HFD-Fed Rats
Authors: Gao Yi , Zhang Jia , Xiao Xiao , Ren Yifan , Yan Xiaopeng , Yue Jing , Wang Tieyan , Wu Zheng , Lv Yi , Wu Rongqian
Published: April 2021

Bariatric surgery including duodenal-jejunal bypass surgery (DJB) improves insulin sensitivity and reduces obesity-associated inflammation. However, the underlying mechanism for such an improvement is still incompletely understood. Our objective was to investigate the role of the gut microbiota in DJB-associated improvement of hepatic steatosis in high fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. To study this, hepatic steatosis was induced in male adult Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding them with a 60% HFD. At 8 weeks after HFD feeding, the rats were subjected to either DJB or sham operation. HFD was resumed 1 week after the surgery for 3 more weeks. In additional groups of animals, feces were collected from HFD-DJB rats at 2 weeks after DJB. These feces were then transplanted to HFD-fed rats without DJB at 8 weeks after HFD feeding. Hepatic steatosis and fecal microbiota were analyzed at 4 weeks after surgery or fecal transplantation. Our results showed that DJB alleviated hepatic steatosis in HFD-fed rats. Fecal microbiota analysis showed that HFD-fed and standard diet-fed rats clustered differently. DJB induced substantial compositional changes in the gut microbiota. The fecal microbiota of HFD-fed rats received fecal transplant from DJB rats overlapped with that of HFD-DJB rats. Treatment of rats with HFD-induced liver lesions by fecal transplant from DJB-operated HFD-fed rats also attenuated hepatic steatosis. Thus, alterations in the gut microbiota after DJB surgery are sufficient to attenuate hepatic steatosis in HFD-fed rats. Targeting the gut microbiota could be a promising approach for preventing or treating human NAFLD.
Potential Roles of Oral Microbiota in the Pathogenesis of Immunoglobin A Nephropathy
Authors: He Jia-Wei , Zhou Xu-Jie , Hou Ping , Wang Yan-Na , Gan Ting , Li Yang , Liu Yang , Liu Li-Jun , Shi Su-Fang , Zhu Li , Lv Ji-Cheng , Zhang Hong
Published: April 2021

Disturbance in microbiota affects the mucosal immune response, and it is gradually recognized to be associated with the Immunoglobin A nephropathy (IgAN). This study aims to explore the potential roles of oral microbiota in disease pathogenesis. Saliva samples were collected from 31 patients with IgAN and 30 controls for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The evenness, diversity, and composition of oral microbiota were analyzed. Moreover, sub-phenotype association analysis was conducted. Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database was used to investigate microbiota functions. Compared to healthy controls, microbial diversity tended to decrease in IgAN, and the microbial profiles were remarkably distinguished. The relative abundance of Capnocytophaga and SR1_genera_incertae_sedis were enriched, whereas 17 genera, such as Rothia, were significantly reduced in IgAN. Variable importance in projection scores showed that 12 genera, including Capnocytophaga, Rothia, and Haemophilus, could discriminate between the two groups. In the sub-phenotype correlation analysis, the relative abundance of Capnocytophaga and Haemophilus was positively associated with levels of proteinuria and serum IgA, respectively. Further metabolic pathway analysis showed 7 predictive functional profiles, including glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and N-glycan biosynthesis were enriched in IgAN. In conclusion, disturbance in oral microbiota was observed to be associated with IgAN and its sub-phenotypes, which may shed novel insights into disease pathogenesis from a microbiome perspective.
Hydroxychloroquine Does Not Increase the Risk of Cardiac Arrhythmia in Common Rheumatic Diseases: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lo Chien-Hsien , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Wang Yu-Hsun , Tsai Chin-Feng , Chan Kuei-Chuan , Li Li-Ching , Lo Tse-Hsien , Su Chun-Hung
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is widely used to treat rheumatic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). Cardiac arrhythmia has been concerned as important safety issue for HCQ. The aim of this study was to investigate whether hydroxychloroquine increases new-onset arrhythmia among patients with RA, SLE or SS.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that conducted from the longitudinal health insurance database of Taiwan. Patients with newly diagnosed RA, SLE or SS with age ≥20 years old were selected from 2000 to 2012. Patients who received HCQ and without HCQ treatment groups were matched by propensity score to minimize the effect of selection bias and confounders. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the risk of arrhythmia between the two groups after controlling for related variables.

Results

A total of 15892 patients were selected to participate and finally 3575 patients were enrolled in each group after matching. There was no different risk of all arrhythmia in patients using HCQ than without HCQ (adjusted hazards ratio 0.81, 95% CI 0.61–1.07) and ventricular arrhythmia as well. The incidence of arrhythmia did not increase when HCQ co-administrated with macrolides. The arrhythmia risk was also not different regardless of daily HCQ dose <400mg or ≥400mg or follow-up duration of ≦4 months or >4 months.

Conclusion

The administration of HCQ did not increase the risk of all cardiac arrhythmia and ventricular arrhythmia regardless of different duration of treatment (≦4 months or >4 months) or cumulative dose (<400mg or ≥400mg) in patients with common autoimmune diseases such as RA, SLE and SS.
Tissue Nutrient Environments and Their Effect on Regulatory T Cell Biology
Authors: Blagih Julianna , Hennequart Marc , Zani Fabio
Published: April 2021

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for mitigating inflammation. Tregs are found in nearly every tissue and play either beneficial or harmful roles in the host. The availability of various nutrients can either enhance or impair Treg function. Mitochondrial oxidative metabolism plays a major role in supporting Treg differentiation and fitness. While Tregs rely heavily on oxidation of fatty acids to support mitochondrial activity, they have found ways to adapt to different tissue types, such as tumors, to survive in competitive environments. In addition, metabolic by-products from commensal organisms in the gut also have a profound impact on Treg differentiation. In this review, we will focus on the core metabolic pathways engaged in Tregs, especially in the context of tissue nutrient environments, and how they can affect Treg function, stability and differentiation.
Correlation of Vaccine Responses
Authors: Zimmermann Petra , Ritz Nicole , Perrett Kirsten P. , Messina Nicole L. , van der Klis Fiona R. M. , Curtis Nigel
Published: April 2021

Introduction

The humoral response to vaccinations varies widely between individuals. There is no data available on the correlation between responses to different vaccines. In this study, we investigated the correlation of antibody responses between routine vaccine antigens in infants.

Methods

One and seven months after the 6-month vaccinations and one month after the 12-month vaccinations, antibody concentrations to diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio (serotypes 1-3), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcus (13 serotypes), meningococcus C, measles, mumps and rubella were measured using fluorescent bead-based multiplex immune-assays. For the correlation of antibody responses, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients (ρ) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated between responses to each vaccine antigen.

Results

The correlation between concentrations of antibodies to the vaccinations ending at 6 months of age was higher one month compared to seven months after vaccination. The strongest correlations at both time points were observed between antibody responses to different polio serotypes, certain pneumococcal serotypes and between responses to diphtheria and pneumococcal (conjugated to a diphtheria toxoid) vaccine antigens. Correlation between responses to tetanus, Hib, pertussis, polio and other vaccine antigens were weak. The correlation between antibody responses to the 12-month vaccine antigens was weaker than to the 6-month vaccine antigens and there was a negative correlation between responses to measles, mumps, rubella vaccine and non-live vaccine antigens (meningococcus C, tetanus and Hib). There was only weak correlation between antibody responses to vaccines of the same type (e.g. conjugated polysaccharide or toxoid vaccines).

Conclusion

Correlation between antibody responses to similar antigens in the same vaccine (such as different serotypes of a bacteria or virus), as well as responses to antigens conjugated to similar carrier proteins, are strong. In contrast, correlation between responses to other vaccines are weak. Measuring antibody responses to one or a few vaccine antigens therefore does not offer a reliable surrogate marker of responses to unrelated vaccines.
Characterization of Immune Infiltration and Construction of a Prediction Model for Overall Survival in Melanoma Patients
Authors: Li Gang , Zhu Xuran , Liu Chao
Published: April 2021

Reports indicate that the use of anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and death ligand-1 (PD-L1) monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of patients diagnosed with melanoma has demonstrated promising efficacy. Nonetheless, this therapy is limited by the resistance induced by the tumor microenvironment (TME). As such, understanding the complexity of the TME is vital in enhancing the efficiency of immunotherapy. This study used four different methods to estimate the infiltrating level of immune cells. Besides, we analyzed their infiltration pattern in primary and metastatic melanoma obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. As a consequence, we discovered a significantly higher infiltration of immune cells in metastatic melanoma compared to primary tumor. Consensus clustering identified four clusters in melanoma with different immune infiltration and clusters with higher immune infiltration demonstrated a better overall survival. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of immune cell infiltration, the four clusters were subdivided into two subtypes denoted as hot and cold tumors based on immune infiltration and predicted immune response. Enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed different transcriptome alterations in two types of tumors. Additionally, we found tyrosinase-related protein1 (TYRP1) was negatively correlated with CD8A expression. In vitro experiments showed that knockdown TYRP1 promoted the expression of HLA-A, B, and C. Eventually, we constructed a prediction model which was validated in our external cohort. Notably, this model also performed effectively in predicting the survival of patients under immunotherapy. In summary, this work provides a deeper understanding of the state of immune infiltration in melanoma and a prediction model that might guide the clinical treatment of patients with melanoma.
Identification of Biomarkers Related to Immune Cell Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Gene Co-Expression Network
Authors: Zhou Wanbang , Chen Yiyang , Luo Ruixing , Li Zifan , Jiang Guanwei , Ou Xi
Published: April 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer with poor prognosis. Due to the lack of effective biomarkers and its complex immune microenvironment, the effects of current HCC therapies are not ideal. In this study, we used the GSE57957 microarray data from Gene Expression Omnibus database to construct a co-expression network. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis and CIBERSORT algorithm, which quantifies cellular composition of immune cells, were used to identify modules related to immune cells. Four hub genes (EFTUD2, GAPDH, NOP56, PA2G4) were identified by co-expression network and protein-protein interactions network analysis. We examined these genes in TCGA database, and found that the four hub genes were highly expressed in tumor tissues in multiple HCC groups, and the expression levels were significantly correlated with patient survival time, pathological stage and tumor progression. On the other hand, methylation analysis showed that the up-regulation of EFTUD2, GAPDH, NOP56 might be due to the hypomethylation status of their promoters. Next, we investigated the correlations between the expression levels of four hub genes and tumor immune infiltration using Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER). Gene set variation analysis suggested that the four hub genes were associated with numerous pathways that affect tumor progression or immune microenvironment. Overall, our results showed that the four hub genes were closely related to tumor prognosis, and may serve as targets for treatment and diagnosis of HCC. In addition, the associations between these genes and immune infiltration enhanced our understanding of tumor immune environment and provided new directions for the development of drugs and the monitoring of tumor immune status.
hTERT Transduction Extends the Lifespan of Primary Pediatric Low-Grade Glioma Cells While Preserving the Biological Response to NGF
Authors: Franzese Ornella , Di Francesco Angela M. , Meco Daniela , Graziani Grazia , Cusano Gabriella , Levati Lauretta , Riccardi Riccardo , Ruggiero Antonio
Published: April 2021

The neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) modulates the growth of human gliomas and is able to induce cell differentiation through the engagement of tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) receptor, although the role played in controlling glioma survival has proved controversial. Unfortunately, the slow growth rate of low-grade gliomas (LGG) has made it difficult to investigate NGF effects on these tumors in preclinical models. In fact, patient-derived low-grade human astrocytoma cells duplicate only a limited number of times in culture before undergoing senescence. Nevertheless, replicative senescence can be counteracted by overexpression of hTERT, the catalytic subunit of telomerase, which potentially increases the proliferative potential of human cells without inducing cancer-associated changes. We have extended, by hTERT transduction, the proliferative in vitro potential of a human LGG cell line derived from a pediatric pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) surgical sample. Remarkably, the hTERT-transduced LGG cells showed a behavior similar to that of the parental line in terms of biological responses to NGF treatment, including molecular events associated with induction of NGF-related differentiation. Therefore, transduction of LGG cells with hTERT can provide a valid approach to increase the in vitro life-span of patient-derived astrocytoma primary cultures, characterized by a finite proliferative potential.
Aerospace Best Paper Awards 2019
Authors:   Aerospace Editorial Office
Published: April 2021

Aerospace has launched annual awards to recognize outstanding papers published in the journal [...]
Assessment of the Welfare of Experimental Cattle and Pigs Using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid
Authors: Ryan Molly , Waters Ryan , Wolfensohn Sarah
Published: April 2021

The Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) is a method for assessing quality of life, originally designed for experimental primates. This study adapts the AWAG for use in cattle and pigs, by adapting the factors included for these species and including data which had been collected previously as the standard approach to monitoring these species in research. The intention is that the results presented here will allow the future data collected for experimental cattle and pigs to be optimised for inclusion in an AWAG. Data were collected from two vaccine assessment studies at the Pirbright Institute. Factors were scored for every recorded event using retrospective data and CCTV clips. There was a lack of behavioural data recorded in both studies, which limited the accuracy of assessing each animal’s welfare. This paper emphasises the importance of including behavioural information when assessing welfare and not simply relying on assessment of physical condition. Scores peaked following an exponential rise as animals reached set humane end points. This demonstrated the potential of using the AWAG to aid the decision-making of when euthanasia should be performed. Our study shows the AWAG to be a useful tool for assessing welfare, which can be used in harm:benefit assessment.
A Novel FACS-Based Workflow for Simultaneous Assessment of RedOx Status, Cellular Phenotype, and Mitochondrial Genome Stability
Authors: McTernan Patrick M. , Katz Paige S. , Porretta Constance , Welsh David A. , Siggins Robert W.
Published: April 2021

Intracellular reduction-oxidation (RedOx) status mediates a myriad of critical biological processes. Importantly, RedOx status regulates the differentiation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and maturation of CD8+ T Lymphocytes. In most cells, mitochondria are the greatest contributors of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excess ROS leads to mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage and protein depletion. We have developed a fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-based protocol to simultaneously analyze RedOx status and mtDNA integrity. This simultaneous analysis includes measurements of ROS (reduced glutathione (GSH)), ATP5H (nuclear encoded protein), MTCO1 (mitochondrial DNA encoded protein), and cell surface markers to allow discrimination of different cell populations. Using the ratio of MTCO1 to ATP5H median fluorescence intensity (MFI), we can gain an understanding of mtDNA genomic stability, since MTCO1 levels are decreased when mtDNA becomes significantly damaged. Furthermore, this workflow can be optimized for sorting cells, using any of the above parameters, allowing for downstream quantification of mtDNA genome copies/nucleus by quantitative PCR (qPCR). This unique methodology can be used to enhance analyses of the impacts of pharmacological interventions, as well as physiological and pathophysiological processes on RedOx status along with mitochondrial dynamics in most cell types.
Surgical Resection vs. Percutaneous Ablation for Single Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Exploring the Impact of Li-RADS Classification on Oncological Outcomes
Authors: Centonze Leonardo , Di Sandro Stefano , Lauterio Andrea , De Carlis Riccardo , Frassoni Samuele , Rampoldi Antonio , Tuscano Bruno , Bagnardi Vincenzo , Vanzulli Angelo , De Carlis Luciano
Published: April 2021

Background: Single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) benefits from surgical resection (SR) or US-guided percutaneous ablation (PA), although the best approach is still debated. We evaluated the impact of Li-RADS classification on the oncological outcomes of SR vs. PA as single HCC first-line treatment. Methods: We retrospectively and blindly classified treatment-naïve single HCC that underwent SR or PA between 2010 and 2016 according to Li-RADS protocol. Overall survival (OS), recurrence free survival (RFS) and local recurrence after SR and PA were compared for each Li-RADS subclass before and after propensity-score matching (PS-M). Results: Considering the general population, SR showed better 5-year OS (68.3% vs. 52.2%; p = 0.049) and RFS (42.5% vs. 29.8%; p = 0.002), with lower incidence of local recurrence (8.2% vs. 44.4%; p < 0.001), despite a significantly higher frequency of clinically-relevant complications (12.8% vs. 1.9%; p = 0.002) and a higher Comprehensive Complication Index (12.1 vs. 2.2; p < 0.001). Focusing on different Li-RADS subclasses, we highlighted better 5-year OS (67.1% vs. 46.2%; p = 0.035), RFS (45.0% vs. 27.0% RFS; p < 0.001) and lower incidence of local recurrence (9.7% vs. 48.6%; p < 0.001) after SR for Li-RADS-5 HCCs, while these outcomes did not differ for Li-RADS-3/4 subclasses; such results were confirmed after PS-M. Conclusions: Our analysis suggests a potential prognostic role of Li-RADS classification, supporting SR over PA especially for Li-RADS-5 single HCC.
CK2 Activity Mediates the Aggressive Molecular Signature of Glioblastoma Multiforme by Inducing Nerve/Glial Antigen (NG)2 Expression
Authors: Schmitt Beate M. , Boewe Anne S. , Götz Claudia , Philipp Stephan E. , Urbschat Steffi , Oertel Joachim , Menger Michael D. , Laschke Matthias W. , Ampofo Emmanuel
Published: April 2021

Nerve/glial antigen (NG)2 expression crucially determines the aggressiveness of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Recent evidence suggests that protein kinase CK2 regulates NG2 expression. Therefore, we investigated in the present study whether CK2 inhibition suppresses proliferation and migration of NG2-positive GBM cells. For this purpose, CK2 activity was suppressed in the NG2-positive cell lines A1207 and U87 by the pharmacological inhibitor CX-4945 and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of CK2α. As shown by quantitative real-time PCR, luciferase-reporter assays, flow cytometry and western blot, this significantly reduced NG2 gene and protein expression when compared to vehicle-treated and wild type controls. In addition, CK2 inhibition markedly reduced NG2-dependent A1207 and U87 cell proliferation and migration. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-based data further revealed not only a high expression of both NG2 and CK2 in GBM but also a positive correlation between the mRNA expression of the two proteins. Finally, we verified a decreased NG2 expression after CX-4945 treatment in patient-derived GBM cells. These findings indicate that the inhibition of CK2 represents a promising approach to suppress the aggressive molecular signature of NG2-positive GBM cells. Therefore, CX-4945 may be a suitable drug for the future treatment of NG2-positive GBM.