bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Good Tissue Practices (GTP) for the Cryopreservation of Reproductive Tissues in an Era of Pandemic-mania: What is the Best Practice Policy?
Authors: Schiewe Mitchel
Published: November 2022

The global COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 to date has altered all our lives and how clinical medicine is practiced. Faced with a highly infectious coronavirus, specifically known as Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), in our homes, clinical environment and laboratories, we have applied preventative measures to potentially control and contain this mysterious pathogen. Although the concepts of frequent handwashing/ disinfection, social distancing and face mask wearing were rigidly applied with regional variation of acceptance in the USA, clinics and reproductive biology/IVF laboratories adapted strict global policies for a safer workplace for our staff, patients, and the specimens we handled. We address the concerns that resurfaced with the COVID -19 pandemic, regarding potential disease transmission between hosts, reproductive tissue (sperm, oocytes and embryos), recipient uteri and the fetus. To what extent were preventative measures sufficient and is there a need for adopting “best practices” above and beyond established “good tissue practices”. In fear of future pandemic disease events (“pandemic-mania”) impacting fertility treatments, this paper addresses the rationale and benefits of adhering strictly to best practices, like the use of secure closed system biocontainment in cryostorage as an important preventative measure. Additionally, historical and current perspectives are discussed and the ability to change established practices under the guise of commercial influences.
The Critical Role of Personal Care Formulations in Infection Control: Sustaining Preventive Hygiene Practices for COVID-19 and Future Outbreaks
Authors: Mukherjee Sayandip , Jayasekera Harshinie , Vincent Carol , Hoptroff Michael , Yekhe Ashish , Tobery Timothy
Published: November 2022

The emergence and spread of a novel coronavirus designated as SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019 undeniably precipitated the greatest public health disaster of this new millennium. In absence of an available vaccine or virus-specific anti-viral drug, global health authorities issued several public advisories at the beginning of the pandemic and recommended mitigation measures based on the accumulating evidence and growing knowledge of the spread of this respiratory virus largely through airborne droplets and fomites. The recommended measures emphasized practicing respiratory, hand, and surface hygiene to break the chain of infection and reduce transmission of the virus. As a result of these recommendations, consumer products such as soap bars, liquid cleansers, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, oral rinses, and surface cleaners, in addition to masks (surgical, N95, etc) became the most sought-after commodities in markets across the globe. Beyond the public health recommendations, it was incumbent upon the manufacturers of such consumer products to substantiate their product efficacy against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and later variants as they emerged, to ensure that the public confidence in the effectiveness of these products was not misplaced. In this article we will review the standard test methodologies and their scientific robustness to determine virucidal efficacy, as well as their relevance to consumer usage; discuss the contributory ingredients in each class of personal care formulations and their mechanisms of virucidal action; and establish the importance of the fully formulated products to ensure they are efficacious under consumer habit-oriented usage. Additionally, we will highlight the impact of hand, body, and oral hygiene practices and compliance in infection control for COVID-19 and their relevance for future outbreaks. Last but not the least, we will provide an overview of the existing regulatory challenges for claiming virucidal benefits from personal care formulations and propose ways in which opportunities to disclose proven benefits of these formulations would be beneficial to the public at large in sustaining efforts towards personal hygiene practices for infection prevention.
The Nature and Functions of the Meaningfulness of Life
Authors: Kreitler Shulamith
Published: November 2022

The paper deals with the construct of the meaningfulness of life. After reviewing major theoretical and methodological approaches a new definition of meaningfulness of life is presented, grounded in the theory of meaning. Five different meaning-based assessment methods of meaningfulness of life are presented, each with a definition, major findings, advantages and disadvantages: the subject’s meaning profile, an open-ended examination of the meaning of the meaningfulness of life, overall rating scale of the meaning of the meaningfulness of life, a dimensional questionnaire of the meaningfulness of life, and the four anchors of the meaningfulness of life. The interrelations of the five measures and the manner in which they complement one another in exploring the meaningfulness of life are described. The relations of meaningfulness of life with the individual’s cognitive, emotional and personality tendencies are presented. A special section presents findings in a sample of cancer patients. The conclusions concern the nature and the psychological role of meaningfulness of life.
Physical Activity and Memory Function among Older Adults in Lebanon: Differences by Sex and Rural-Urban Living
Authors: Monique Sondos , Chaaya Monique , Bejjani Martine , Adib Salim , Asmar Khalil
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The increase in the population of 60 years and above has led to an increase in dementia. Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) has one of the highest prevalence of dementia. One of the factors revealing promising results in reducing the burden of dementia, yet not researched in MENA and in other parts of the world, is physical activity. Objective: We aimed to assess the association between subjective and objective physical activity, and memory recall of older adults with no dementia in Lebanon. We also investigated the moderating effect of sex and place of residence on this association. Methods: This is a secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional study conducted in 2013 on a community of 502 older adults 65 years of age and above, selected randomly from two areas, Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, and Mount Lebanon. After excluding those who had dementia diagnoses and who did not have data on physical activity, the eligible sample was 459 persons. Physical activity was assessed by three indicators: physical activity perception, walking half a kilometer, and 2-minute step test (2MST). Memory recall, defined as episodic memory, was measured using a 10-word list-learning test with two outcomes: immediate and delayed. Regression models were performed adjusting for cluster effect. Additionally, associations between main exposures and memory recall were stratified by sex and rural/urban residence at the univariate and multivariate levels. Results: The findings of this study revealed that the three measures of physical activity were significantly associated with higher memory function, at a significance level of 0.05. The data demonstrated that sex and place of residence did not modify the association between physical activity measures and immediate and delayed memory recall. Conclusion: Physical activity of older adults should be promoted for a variety of health reasons including improvement of memory recall. Further research is needed to determine the long-term impact on the relationship between physical activity and episodic memory.
Panhypopituitarism and Central Diabetes Insipidus Almost Three Decades After Russell's Viper Envenomation: A Remarkable Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ghosh Ritwik , León-Ruiz Moisés , Roy Dipayan , Sardar Sona , Bandyopadhyay Srijit , Bole Kunal , Dubey Souvik , Benito-León Julián
Published: November 2022

Background: Snakebite is a preventable yet often-neglected public health hazard with high chronic disability and mortality, mainly faced by rural communities in the tropics/subtropics. Endocrinological disorders following snakebite (especially Russell's viper in India) are notably underrecognized and can lead to remarkable morbidity, poor quality of life, and cardiovascular mortality. Anterior pituitary insufficiency has been the most common ailment following Russell's viper envenomation amid those endocrinological dysfunctions. On the contrary, the posterior pituitary and nearby hypothalamus mostly remain unharmed, so central diabetes insipidus is extremely rare following a viperid snakebite envenomation. Case Presentation: The authors present a patient developing panhypopituitarism with evident spontaneous central diabetes insipidus 29 years after Russell's viper envenomation. Relevant investigations ruled out other possible etiologies, and he responded well to hormonal replacement therapy. Conclusions: Panhypopituitarism with concurrent central diabetes insipidus may occur following snakebite (especially in Russell's viper envenomation). Early recognition and proper management of these complications are quintessential to preventing further misdiagnosis, under-recognition, morbidity, impaired quality of life, and mortality.
Peri-implantitis: A Review to Simplify a Mystifying Disease
Authors: Ismail Abdo , Shaddox Luciana , Santamaria Mauro , Sabbagh Mohanad
Published: November 2022

Dental implants have been recently used as a long-term treatment modality for replacing missing teeth. However, dental implants have been associated with complications such as peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. Peri-implant mucositis is an inflammation of the mucosa surrounding the implant and if left untreated, can lead to progressive bone loss or peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is a pathologic inflammatory pathologic condition that is caused by plaque accumulation on the peri-implant tissue. Several treatment approaches have been implemented to decrease the bacterial load within the peri-implant tissue, decontaminate the implant surface, or regenerating the lost tissue around dental implant. Treatment can be broadly divided into: Surgical and non-surgical treatment. Non-surgical treatment has a limited efficacy due to the restricted access to the implant surface. Whereas, surgical or flap surgery seem to improve the clinical outcome for the treatment of peri-implantitis either by utilizing a resective or regenerative approach. Preventive treatment is the best option to preclude advancement of peri-implant mucositis into peri-implantitis and therefore careful diagnosis of the peri-implant diseases are essential for successful treatment outcomes.
Neurotoxins Induced Toxicogenomic Patterns on Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell based Microphysiological System
Authors: Dasari Vasanthi , Bolimera Papa , Dokku Sivarama , Gorti Leela , Dravida Subhadra
Published: November 2022

The traditional testing requirements for both adult and developmental neurotoxicity evaluations are based on in vivo animal models while the neurotoxic risks associated with molecules or vaccines is mainly determined by neurobehavioral and neuropathological effects in the experimental model chosen. The poor correlation between preclinical in vitro or in vivo data (non-human) with the real time clinical effects leading to severe progressive adverse events is a major concern in general. The employed bioinformatics search tools helped us to short list the affected common genes in neurotoxicity induced by viral, bacterial infections and cytokine storms. Here, we used our group characterized human induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (hiPSC) system developed as an in vitro microphysiological model to record phenotype and genotype perturbations when treated with selected known representative neurotoxins like TEA, Tetanus toxin, MSG, Dopamine, Bungarotoxin etc. The objective was to assess the application qualification of the novel in vitro model that yields human relevant readouts. The recorded phenotype perturbations were barcoded with SOD, BAX, HDAC1, TNFalpha, MAPK14 like gene expressions in generating in vitro patterns to correlate the human functional toxicogenomics information. We showed hiPSC system to be phenotypically responsive and genotypically reactive when treated with neurotoxins. Out of 7 gene expression data sets generated, SOD and BAX were recorded to be downregulated at all the micro-conditions created in the hiPSC system while HDAC was consistently upregulated except in Dopamine treated system. The bioinformatics analysis performed on the selected genes gave insight into their roles in disease specific signalling pathways like JAK-STAT, TNF, Neurotrophin etc. We report configured hiPSC system suitability as an in vitro human surrogate platform/model in generating toxicogenomics signatures to support prediction on the test material in any assay system developed on this well characterized microphysiological base.
The Cardio Diabetology Era. A Concise and Illustrated Review: Four Phenotypes and Three New Evidence-Based and Practical Therapeutic Algorithms
Authors: Morales-Villegas Enrique
Published: November 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has undergone therapeutic approaches evolving from glucocentricity towards holism, in which it is currently considered a microvascular and macrovascular risk condition determined by multiple variables beyond glucose. These include visceral adiposity, metaflammation, insulin resistance with its hemodynamic (endothelial dysfunction and hypertension) and metabolic (mixed dyslipidemia) surrogates; together with other metabolic regulation system dysfunction such as the incretin system, sodium, and glucose cotransporters at the intestinal and renal level, and the intestinal microbiota, among the most studied. Therefore, the current treatment of this risk condition called T2DM, includes the control of all its determining factors: adiposity through a healthy diet, aerobic physical activity, and/or drugs such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) or bariatric surgical procedures. Inflammation remains a therapeutic target under investigation, although it has not yet been transferred to clinical practice guidelines. Insulin resistance and its hemodynamic and metabolic subrogates are the therapeutic targets of multiple pharmacological interventions, essentially insulin sensitizers, inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, facilitators of the transformation and elimination of lipoproteins with apo-B100 as omega-3 ultra-purified fatty acids, fibrates, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) against apoC3, ASO and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) anti-ANGPTL3, statins, ezetimibe, mAbs and small interfering RNA (siRNA) anti-PCSK9, among others. In the last 14 years, drugs such as the dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, GLP1-RA, and, more recently, the dual GIP-GLP-1 analogs, have been incorporated to correct the dysfunction of the incretin system, as well as many others that inhibit the intestinal and renal reabsorption of sodium and glucose as sodium–glucose co-transporter-2 and 1 (SGLT2/1) inhibitors. Surprisingly, new drugs have emerged between the GLP1-RA and the SGLT2/1 inhibitors that, beyond their essential therapeutic effect (glucose control), have shown brain, cardiac, and renal protection of variable magnitude. Finally, manipulating the intestinal microbiota is a strategy under extensive investigation and incipient clinical application. From this summary, it is clear that the current therapeutic landscape in T2DM has expanded dramatically, from a “gluco-panorama” focused on glucose control with insulin, sulfonylureas, metformin, and glitazones, to a “holo-panorama” incorporating five new therapeutic classes and at least eighteen new "anti-diabetic" drugs, in addition to a similar number of medications for hypertension and dyslipidemia control.
Interprofessional Team Diagnostics Consultation Improves Health Professions’ Practice Outcomes and Clinical Research
Authors: Leibach Elizabeth , Emerita Professor
Published: November 2022

Background: Communication gaps in health services delivery significantly compromise quality in clinical decision making. Information generated by diagnostics professionals’ accounts for much of the objective data in the clinical record and therefore is foundational in clinical decision support. This work describes the Diagnostics Consultation Model©, a diagnostics communications portal, which supports communications among interprofessional teams, providers, and institutions. Aims: Study aims were to develop and validate a workflow prediction index (the complexity index) to assign resolution of consultation requests to diagnostics practitioners with requisite competencies based on an algorithm comprised of characteristics available at the point of consultation initiation. The complexity index functions as the entry into a workflow process directing consultation requests, first, to diagnostics practitioners for investigation and then into communication processes for tracking medical history, patient/consumer clinical information, resolution logic, conclusions, and next step recommendations among all healthcare providers. Methods: Data to develop the complexity index (N = 325 consultation cases) were collected during daily activities in the clinical diagnostics laboratory and describe consultation characteristics important in clinical decision making and available at the point of consultation initiation. The complexity index was developed and validated by comparison of regression analyses using consultation characteristics, i.e., clinical outcomes, available at the point of consultation initiation (development) and after consultation completion (validation). Results: Diagnostics Consultation Model© methodology links communication processes among all providers in all care settings, i.e., community, institutional, and referral, involved in the care paths of individual patient/consumers. This methodology also provides the capability to follow individuals’ medical histories longitudinally and, through regular consultations and practice-based clinical research, to address issues of medical effectiveness, cost efficiency, access, equity, timeliness, safety, and compliance. Conclusion: Implementation of Diagnostics Consultation Model© methods and curriculum in health professions’ daily practice has the potential to change health services delivery by the redistribution of care through interprofessional teams coordinated by standardized communication processes. Employed as a systems approach to individualized patient/consumer care, the Diagnostics Consultation Model© could provide the communications technology and methodology structure for value-based healthcare continuously optimized to address the needs of individuals, populations, and health systems throughout the continuum of care.
Impact of Multimedia Campaigns on Recognition and Response to Stroke
Authors: Connell Elizabeth , Livingstone Vicki , McCarthy Geraldine , Hartigan Irene
Published: November 2022

Background: Timely recognition of stroke symptoms and appropriate emergency response offers those who experience stroke an increased chance of physical and psychosocial recovery. International research suggests there is a lack of knowledge amongst the general population of the signs and symptoms of stroke, this may impact on seeking treatment. Public awareness campaigns are designed to educate the public on how to recognise and respond to symptoms of stroke Aim: To investigate recognition and response to stroke and associated factors. Design: A cross-sectional study was designed, a researcher developed questionnaire sought information related to previous experience of stroke, knowledge of risk factors, recognition of stroke symptoms, awareness of treatment available and the ability to identify what the letters of the FAST acronym represent. The Stroke Action Test (STAT)41 was used to investigate how participants would respond to specific symptoms of stroke. Sample: A convenient sample (n=243) which included older people attending an outpatients’ clinic in a large teaching hospital were included. A mixed method of data collection of online and paper version was used. Findings: Results identified that 41% of participants recognised all six stroke symptoms as defined by the American Heart and Stroke Association. The symptom most frequently recognised by participants was numbness of the face, arm and leg (97%). The mean STAT score for participants was 9 which indicated that most participants would respond appropriately, by contacting the emerging services, to 9 out of a total of 21 items describing stroke in the STAT. Multivariate analysis identified that having previously had a stroke and knowledge of risk factors for stroke were significantly associated with recognition of stroke symptoms. Participants were most likely to respond to items which described classic stroke symptoms such as limb weakness and difficulty speaking. Conclusion Awareness of treatment available for stroke is a predictor of appropriate response to stroke. Future stroke awareness campaigns should include information on the availability, benefits and timelines for treatment of stroke to help individuals who experience stroke overcome delays in their response to the recognition of stroke symptoms.
Correlation of Lower Limb Muscle Strength with Functional Mobility and Quality of Life in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Fraga Alisson , Rodrigues Luciano , Catarino Bruna
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) generates physical deficits such as muscle weakness of the lower limbs and reduced functional mobility, thus presenting a decline in the patients' quality of life. Objective: Correlate the muscle strength of lower limbs with functional mobility and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methodology: Correlational, ex post facto retrospective study. Data from 49 patients with multiple sclerosis were used, chosen from an existing database of the Neurofunctional Physiotherapy Outpatient Clinic of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. The tests analyzed for the study were: The 5-repetition sit-to-stand (STS) test (5STS - lower limb muscle strength) and Timed up And Go (TUG - functional mobility), in addition to the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29 - quality of life) in individuals with MS. Results: The average time that patients performed the 5STS was 15.39 (± 8.65) seconds. In the TUG, the average was 11.50 (± 8.40) seconds. Regarding the MSIS-29 scale, the percentage in the physical domain was 37.83% (± 25.10%) and in the psychological domain 45.18% (± 28.92%). A positive correlation was found between the time to perform the 5STS test and the time to perform the TUG (r=,566 p<,000). A positive correlation was also found between 5STS and the physical domain of MSIS-29 (r=,351 p<,0014). Conclusion: The greater the muscular strength of the lower limbs, the greater the functional mobility and the quality of life in the physical environment of these patients.
Bipolar creativity – a short history of a concept
Authors: borg Marlies
Published: November 2022

This article traces ideas on the link between mood-swing and brilliance, from Greek/Roman to present times. From Plato, Aristotle, Seneca and the physician Aretaeus the story moves to the monasteries: Anthony, Cassian, Benedict, and Augustine ending with Luther who suffered recurrent depression. With his opponent Erasmus we enter the Renaissance. The physician Ficino picks up the Aristotelean concept of melancholy and outstanding achievement. Burton illustrates the two poles of melancholy in a poem. 19th century physicians in France, Pinel and Gachet develop this concept. The German physicians Kraepelin and Leonhard take us into the 20th century, and we end in the US, with DSM-5 in 2013. The terminology develops from melancholy, via acedia, cirkuläres Irresein, manic-depressive to bipolar disorder. Through these terminological and cultural differences a consensus appears that extremes of destructive mania and deep, suicidal depression must be avoided. To achieve this medication is advised. Creativity is located in the mood just under mania, light hypomania. The term ‘bipolar creativity’ is coined to shift attention from creative persons with a bipolar disorder to the process of creativity itself. It demands the enthusiasm, high self-esteem, and quick thinking, typical of hypomania. In this process light depression is also important. It’s critical stance can play a positive role in breaking the ground for new creations. It is not only the high mood but the alternation of opposite moods that gives scope to creativity. There is a fortunate ‘match’ between mild bipolar disorder and the bipolar creative process.
Is Post-less Hip Arthroscopy Here to Stay?
Authors: McCahon Joseph , Szukics Patrick , Baker William , Ford Elizabeth , McMillan Sean
Published: November 2022

Hip arthroscopy is one of the fastest growing procedures amongst orthopedic sports medicine surgeons. The procedure has recently entered its 4th decade of being performed and over this time many evolutions have occurred to the procedure to allow for improved efficiency and outcomes. In spite of these rapid evolving improvements, the risk of complication and untoward outcomes still exist due to the complexity of the procedure and the delicate anatomy of the surgical region. Perineal and sciatic nerve injuries related to the use of a perineal post for joint distraction are among the most devastating complications associated with hip arthroscopy. In order to combat these risks, a growing movement toward post-less arthroscopy has occurred. This technique allows for joint distraction without the need for a rigid post within the perineal region, thus decreasing the potential for nerve related complication. This manuscript aims to explore the arm of joint distraction in hip arthroscopy and examine the staying power of post-less hip arthroscopy.
Castration-Synchronized Upfront Docetaxel for metastatic Hormone Sensitive Prostate Cancer considering Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Aoyagi Teiichiro , Kuroda Isao
Published: November 2022

Upfront docetaxel therapy for metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) has been reported to be improved outcome, although the best timing to start decetaxel and/or the duration of chemotherapy have not been cleared. We consider epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) at the beginning of the hormonal therapy would be the mechanism to obtain apoptosis tolerance of prostatic cells. For localized prostate cancer, we used LH-RH antagonist (degarelix) twice and performed high-intensity focused ultrasound therapy (HIFU) after two weeks of the first degarelix, the timing of inducing EMT. This regimen apparently improved HIFU results. So for mHSPC, we started two to three courses of upfront docetaxel synchronously the beginning of the androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Of 38 mHSPC patients underwent upfront docetaxel with our protocol, 18 patients maintained low prostate specific antigen value less than 0.1 ng/ml for more than two years without adding new androgen axis targeted therapy agents (ARAT). Although recent study suggests all mHSPC patients should receive systemic triple therapy including ADT, docetaxel and ARAT, our study indicated that upfront docetaxel use considering EMT may select the patients requiring triple therapy, and reduce a burden both for the patients and medical economy.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Binds Toxins and Can Be Used to Treat Cancer
Authors: Pak Vladimir
Published: November 2022

The inefficiency of the immune system to kill cancer cells leads to the disease. Like in pregnancy, oncofetal proteins counteract the immune attack. Alpha-fetoprotein is an immunosuppressive protein generated by the embryo and in insignificant amounts by adults. It delivers nutrients to embryo cells and to the monocytes that suppress both innate and adaptive immunity during pregnancy and cancer. The small subpopulation of suppressor monocytes and cancer cells absorb the alpha-fetoprotein-nutrient complex through the specific receptor that is mostly absent in normal adult cells. It comes out that suppressor monocytes are the main targets in cancer prophylactic or treatment, not cancer cells. By delivering toxins instead of nutrients alpha-fetoprotein kills suppressor monocytes canceling immune suppression, as well as killing cancer cells directly. It is the perfect synergy of the most powerful cancer immunotherapy with targeted chemotherapy. Alpha-fetoprotein chemical conjugates, as well as the complexes of this oncofetal protein with binding toxins, have shown promising results in cancer treatments. Oral porcine alpha-fetoprotein complexes with toxins can prevent and/or treat cancer, although their immunotherapy mechanism of action is undiscovered.
Red Blood Cell Mechanical Fragility as a Potential Predictor of Long-Term Hemolysis from Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Tarasev M. , Chakraborty S. , Alfano K. , Pagani F.D.
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Recent improvement in design and performance of Left Ventricular Assist Devices facilitate their use for destination therapy. The shear stresses in such devices can damage patients’ red blood cells (RBC), leading to increased hemolysis, which has been associated with pump thrombosis and patient mortality. Here we report an investigation assessing RBC mechanical fragility as a potential metric of blood damage and its potential utility in monitoring LVAD performance. Methods: Twenty subjects were recruited from the Center for Circulatory Support at the University of Michigan. Thirteen were implanted with the HeartWare HVAD (Medtronic, Inc.) and 7 with HeartMate 3® LVAD (HM3; Abbott Labs). Blood samples were obtained before surgery and at 1 hour, 24 hours, 1 week and 4 weeks after. Hemolysis biomarkers, total lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and LDH isoenzymes, bilirubin, haptoglobin, and serum hemoglobin were determined through standard clinical tests. Mechanical fragility, as a metric of sub-hemolytic RBC damage, was determined using electromagnetically driven bead milling in a tube with a cylindrical bead, combined with non-invasive spectrophotometric analysis of induced hemolysis upon selected durations of the stress application. Certain variations of the stressing regime were employed for comparison. Results: RBC mechanical fragility, as assessed through some of the stress application regimes, was correlated with certain hemolysis metrics like bilirubin, LDH, and LDH1. Specifically, a subset of pre-surgery RBC mechanical fragility markers were strongly correlated with bilirubin levels measured 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month (though not immediately) after the surgery. While such correlation with unconjugated bilirubin declined in significance over time, the correlation to conjugated bilirubin reached significance at 1 month. Mechanical fragility values determined in albumin-supplemented medium at 1-day post-surgery, showed strong correlation to total LDH and LDH1 at 1-month post-surgery (p < 0.01, R2 up to 0.45), with the correlation with LDH1 stronger than with total LDH. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the potential for some RBC mechanical fragility metrics as predictive prognostic biomarkers for hemolysis induced by implantable circulatory support systems. With appropriate tailoring of testing parameters to best suit the application, mechanical fragility assays could help facilitate the transition to greater utilization of ventricular assist devices.
Post-Traumatic Cerebral Edema: Pathophysiology, Key Contributors, and Contemporary Management
Authors: Caffes Nicholas , Stokum Jesse , Zhao Richard , Jha Ruchira , Simard J.
Published: November 2022

The development of cerebral edema following traumatic brain injury is one of the most significant predictors of outcome and is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. A prominent focus of neurosurgical and neurocritical care is the evaluation and aggressive management of cerebral edema and subsequent intracranial hypertension. Despite numerous advances and capabilities in neurocritical care, treatments remain primarily reactive and are instituted only after secondary pathophysiological pathways have culminated in an intracranial pressure crisis. Recent reviews have focused on several key molecular contributors to post-traumatic cerebral edema and on several potential anti-edema therapeutic targets. The present article provides a contemporary overview of post-traumatic cerebral edema by reviewing important historical concepts, fundamental pathophysiological mechanisms, various causes and key contributors specific to traumatic brain injury, and established treatments of downstream intracranial hypertension.
Treatment and Long-term outcome of acute cerebral infarction in a patient with high CA125 and endometriosis.
Authors: Pérez-Malagón Carlos , Díaz-Romo Angélica , Campo Fernanda , Bonifacio-Delgadillo Dulce , Marquez-Romero Juan
Published: November 2022

Background: Cancer antigen 125 is a cell surface glycoprotein present in elevated serum levels with certain types of cancer, especially non-mucinous epithelial ovarian cancers. Still, such elevations can also be seen in benign gynecologic conditions such as severe adenomyosis, uterine myomas, and advanced endometriosis. Recently, high serum levels of cancer antigen 125 have also been associated with an increased risk of stroke. Case: This report describes the case of a 48 years-old woman that presented a novel association between ischemic stroke and endometriosis in a patient with extremely high serum levels of cancer antigen 125 and illustrates the long-term management strategy utilized for secondary prevention of ischemic stroke. Conclusion: The role of the cancer antigen 125 level on the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke is yet to be determined. High serum cancer antigen 125 can be seen in ischemic stroke in women of reproductive age. Cancer antigen 125 levels might have some implications on the election of the long-term secondary prevention of IS. Teaching Points: - Elevated serum levels of CA-125 are associated with an increased risk of stroke. - Raised serum levels of CA-125 can be seen in benign gynecologic conditions. - The finding of high CA-125 might have some implications on the election of the long-term management strategy for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke.
Τhe effect of task oriented approach on gait of hemiplegic patients: a case series study
Authors: Kesidou Myrto , Besios Thomas , Paras George , Chandolias Konstantinos , Kyriakatis Georgios M. , Kouvelioti Vasiliki , Stefas Eleftherios
Published: November 2022

The last few years, the main purpose of the treatment of the hemiplegic patient, is to regain his ability to execute functional activities of daily living independently. According to the latest studies, the effectiveness as well as the importance of task-oriented approach (TOA), is apparent and determining to reacquire the patient’s lost independency, through the practice of the specified functional activities. The aim of this study is to investigate a program of TOA on gait of hemiplegic patients. A sample of 5 post stroke patients was selected from according to the inclusion criteria. A TOA intervention was executed through the practice of 10 functional activities, related to gait, from Monday to Friday for 4 weeks. At the end of each week, gait and balance assessments were performed through the 10-meter walk test (10 MWT), the Berg balance scale (BBS), and the timed up and go test (TUG). The analysis indicates that TOA is extremely effective for stroke patients with mediocre and minor gait and balance deficits, as the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The statistically significant difference was from the first assessment T1 to the final assessment T5 and was proven through BBS, TUG and 10 MWT. In conclusion, TOA is a quite beneficial and a cost-effective intervention for the rehabilitation of gait and balance for stroke patients, while consequently improving the quality of their everyday life, independently from their original functional status.
Prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among bank employees in Chidambaram: a cross sectional study
Authors: S. Rajkumar , I. K. Annie , Felix A. John William
Published: November 2022

Background: The job nature of a bank employee is both sedentary and stressful. High level of mental stress places them at a higher risk of developing non communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among bank employees.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 265 bank employees using a semi structured questionnaire. Risk factors like extra salt intake, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, physical activity were taken into account.Results: The mean age of the participants was 36.93±8.657. The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 19.5% (52) out of which 5.2% (14) were known cases of hypertension. A significant association was found between extra salt intake, smoking, alcohol and hypertension.Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension among bank employees in Chidambaram is low compared to the studies among bank employees in other parts of the country. Extra salt intake, smoking, alcohol and stress levels were found to be the significant factors associated with hypertension.
Ensino de Ciências em uma perspectiva investigativa: aplicação de sequência didática sobre os estados físicos da matéria em uma escola da cidade de Cabedelo, Paraíba
Authors: Alves Ryan Vieira , Cândido Allan Cézar De Andrade , Albuquerque Anna Carolina Figueiredo de , Santos Thámara Mayni Da Silva , Ruffo Thiago Leite de Melo
Published: November 2022

Diante da pandemia de covid-19, foi estabelecido no Brasil o Ensino Remoto Emergencial (ERE), tornando o cenário da educação pública ainda mais desafiador e bastante dependente do uso de tecnologias, de internet e da participação dos alunos em salas de aula on-line. Considerando esse cenário, foi necessário trabalhar os conteúdos de Ciências de forma mais dinâmica e que despertasse nos alunos o interesse em estudar e aprender. A escolha metodológica foi o ensino de Ciências por investigação. Tendo isso em vista, este estudo teve como objetivo compreender os impactos e desafios do ensino por investigação em aulas de Ciências do 9º ano a partir da aplicação de Sequências de Ensino Investigativas (SEI) durante o Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) em uma escola pública do município de Cabedelo, Paraíba. Por meio dos dados obtidos nesse experimento, foi comprovado que a SEI contribui para a qualidade de ensino, ao desenvolver atitudes e valores como a responsabilidade, a organização e a criatividade e ao tornar os alunos ativos dentro do processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Foram identificados como fatores limitantes para a aplicação da SEI o tempo de duração das aulas e a falta de equipamentos e de acesso à internet pelos alunos. Apesar disso, pode-se concluir que os resultados do estudo foram positivos, considerando que os alunos que participaram da pesquisa mostraram-se engajados na SEI, bem como tiveram muitos dos seus valores e atitudes – como motivação, colaboração e integração com outros alunos – melhorados, mesmo diante dos desafios impostos pelo ensino remoto emergencial.
Belite Sludges from Coal-fired Power Plant Ash
Authors: Delitsyn L.M. , Kulumbegov R.V. , Popel O.S. , Borodina T.I. , Sulman M.G. , Kosivtsov Yu.Yu.
Published: November 2022

The results of experimental studies aimed at developing a technology for producing belite sludge from high-alumina ash of coal-fired power plants are presented. The influence of various technological parameters on the process of obtaining the target product has been studied. The possibility of obtaining two grades of belite sludge is shown by the example of the ashes of thermal power plants in the Ural region.
The Study of Clay with Waste from Khovu-Aksy Dump Samples Composition for the Production of Ceramic Products
Authors: Moldurushku M.O. , Tas-ool L.Kh.
Published: November 2022

The composition of samples based on krasno-yarsk clay with sludge and dearsenization cake of the Khovu-Aksy dump was considered. It was found that already at the stage of drying at room temperature there are changes in the structure and composition of the samples. There is a decrease in arsenic content in the materials of the samples, which further creates the prerequisites for their use in the production of ceramic products. Significant changes in the phase composition of the samples were found: they lack calcite, dolomite, a number of silicate and aluminosilicate structures, instead of them a new phase – albite – is formed. A significant amount of albite (up to 52 %) was observed in the samples fired at 850 °C.
Critérios de ética para pesquisas em ambiente virtual no Brasil
Authors: Mezejewski Liriel Weinert , Schmidt Beatriz , Durgante Helen Bedinoto
Published: November 2022

Objetivo: apresentar os novos critérios de ética estabelecidos e revisados para a condução de pesquisas online no Brasil. Método: revisão narrativa das diretrizes para uso de internet no Brasil, das normativas da Comissão Nacional de Ética em Pesquisa e do banco de dados da Scientific Electronic Library Online, realizada de maio a julho de 2021, considerando os descritores: ‘pesquisa’, ‘ética’, ‘Brasil’, 'on-line', OR ‘virtual’, incluindo termos e entretermos de busca, a partir de 2011. Resultados: Foram identificadas seis normativas da Comissão Nacional de Ética em Pesquisa e 233 estudos, sendo 11 selecionados para avaliação e maior detalhamento quanto aos critérios estabelecidos para ética em pesquisas em ambiente virtual (online). Os seguintes critérios foram estabelecidos e/ou adaptados: privacidade de dados; preservação de dados pessoais/prontuários; Termo de Compromisso Livre e Esclarecido; divulgação; coleta e armazenamento de dados; riscos da pesquisa; limitações; e descarte. Conclusão: apresentam-se potencialidades e desafios da pesquisa em ambiente virtual no que refere a critérios de ética.
Papéis ocupacionais de pessoas soropositivas e percepção sobre os preconceitos sofridos
Authors: Rocha Larissa Oliveira , Ruzzi-Pereira Andrea
Published: November 2022

Objetivo: descrever os papéis ocupacionais de pessoas que vivem com HIV, e sua percepção sobre preconceito sofrido e auto-preconceito. Método: estudo quanti-qualitativo, exploratório, descritivo e transversal, com pessoas que viviam com HIV há pelo menos seis meses, internados em uma unidade para tratamento de doenças infecto-parasitárias entre abril e junho/2018. Utilizou-se a Lista de Identificação de Papéis Ocupacionais e interpretou-se pela estatística descritiva e análise de conteúdo temática. Resultados: participaram cinco homens e duas mulheres, com média de idade de 40 anos; o tempo médio em que viviam com HIV de 13,14 anos; religião de base cristã ou acreditava em Deus; tendo profissão com trabalho remunerado; infectados ainda na juventude. Nos papéis ocupacionais, todos foram Estudantes no passado, e 43% ainda pretendiam retomar. O mesmo desempenho de papéis ocorreu em todos nos Serviço Doméstico no passado e, para Membro de Família, no presente e no geral, verificou-se redução dos papéis ocupacionais em relação ao passado. Elaborou-se três categorias temáticas: Preconceitos; Sentimentos Negativos; e Convívio com o HIV e apoio social. Conclusão: o HIV gerou preconceitos e impactos negativos nos papéis ocupacionais.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of E412 Catalytic Residue Mutation of GOx-IPBCC
Authors: FANANİ Asrul , KURNİATİN Popi Asri , WAHYUDİ Setyanto Tri , NURCHOLİS Waras , AMBARSARİ Laksmi
Published: November 2022

The enzyme glucose oxidase from Aspergillus niger has a homodimeric structure, consisting of two identical subunits with a molecular weight of 150,000 Daltons. In this study, we used the structure of the enzyme glucose oxidase from Aspergillus niger IPBCC.08.610 (GOx-IPBCC), this enzyme had a total activity of 92.87 U (μmol/min) and a Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) of 2.9 mM (millimolar). This study was conducted to predict the molecular dynamics of E412 (Glu412) residue catalytic mutation belonging to the GOx-IPBCC enzyme was determine the effect of changes in the catalytic residue on substrate binding (β-D-glucose). The results of molecular docking of 19 mutant structures, six E412 mutant homologous structures were selected (E412C, E412K, E412Q, E412T, E412, E412V, and E412W), which were evaluated using molecular dynamics simulation for 50 ns. The results showed a decrease in ∆G values in two mutant structures is E412C and E412T, and there is one mutant structure that increased ∆G values, namely E412W, these three mutant structures showed the best stability, bond interaction, and salt bridge profile according to molecular dynamics simulation.
Dye Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) Fabrication Using Methanol Extract of Onion Peel as a Natural Sensitizer
Authors: ADU Rısna Ernı Yatı
Published: November 2022

Methanol extracts of onion peel waste (Allium cepa) were applied as natural sensitizer in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) fabrication. This research investigated the dye characteristics of onion peel extract and its power conversion efficiency. Onion peel extraction was carried out using unacidified methanol extract (UME) and acidified methanol extract (AME). Dye absorption was characterized by UV-Vis Spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 200-800 nm and FT-IR at a wave number of 4000-500 cm-1. The power conversion efficiency of the fabricated DSSC was determined by calculating the voltage and current generated by the multimeter. The red onion peel extracts, both acidified and unacidified methanol, had maximum absorption at UV-Visible range (457, 659 and 662 nm). Onion peel extract has several functional groups such as –OH, C=O, C-O-C, C=C, and C-H aromatics- showing specific absorption corresponding to the anthocyanin structure. A solar energy conversion efficiency of η= 0.0413% was obtained from UME extract with a short circuit current of up to Jsc=0.6031 mAcm-2 and a fill factor of 0.2764.
​Use of Corn Dried Distillers Grains to Improve Feed Diets for Intensive Lamb Fattening
Authors: Raducuta Ion , Marin Monica , Stanciu Mirela
Published: November 2022

Background: The increasing price of raw materials used in lambs fattening diets imposes to look for cheaper feedstuff able to replace the traditional and more expensive ingredients. This study aimed to investigate the effect of including corn dried distillers grains as a feed ingredient in lambs fattening diet. Methods: The study was performed during the year 2021. Thirty lambs (aged 3 months) were divided randomly into two groups (15 lambs/group). The experiment lasted for 110 days divided in two fattening phases. The groups were fed with diets of compound feed, barley hay and corn silage differentiated by the inclusion level of corn dried distiller’s grain in compound feed. Diets were isoprotein and isoenergetic. Result: The results of this study showed that the inclusion of corn dried distillers grain in lamb’s diets improved feed consumption, feed cost, growth performance and carcass parameters. These results proved that it is an efficient and economical feed ingredient that can be used successfully by farmers in lambs fattening diets as a single source of protein and energy in the compound feed up to 30 kg live weight and as a substitute for sunflower meal, over this body weight.