bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired large numerosity estimation and intact subitizing in developmental dyscalculia
Authors: Decarli Gisella , Paris Emanuela , Tencati Chiara , Nardelli Chiara , Vescovi Massimo , Surian Luca , Piazza Manuela
Published: December 2020

It is believed that the approximate estimation of large sets and the exact quantification of small sets (subitizing) are supported by two different systems, the Approximate Number System (ANS) and Object Tracking System (OTS), respectively. It is a current matter of debate whether they are both impaired in developmental dyscalculia (DD), a specific learning disability in symbolic number processing and calculation. Here we tackled this question by asking 32 DD children and 32 controls to perform a series of tasks on visually presented sets, including exact enumeration of small sets as well as comparison of large, uncountable sets. In children with DD, we found poor sensitivity in processing large numerosities, but we failed to find impairments in the exact enumeration of sets within the subitizing range. We also observed deficits in visual short-term memory skills in children with dyscalculia that, however, did not account for their low ANS acuity. Taken together, these results point to a dissociation between quantification skills in dyscalculia, they highlight a link between DD and low ANS acuity and provide support for the notion that DD is a multifaceted disability that covers multiple cognitive skills.
Comparison study of the axial length measured using the new swept-source optical coherence tomography ANTERION and the partial coherence interferometry IOL Master
Authors: Kim Kook Young , Choi Gon Soo , Kang Min Seok , Kim Ungsoo Samuel
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To compare a biometer using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) with a partial coherence interferometry (PCI)-based biometer in measurements of two ocular biometry parameters, i.e., the axial length and anterior cornea curvature.

Methods

We compared the two biometers SS-OCT (ANTERION, Heidelberg Engineering Inc., Heidelberg, Germany) and PCI (IOL Master, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) in terms of the axial length (AL) and corneal curvature (K) measurements of 175 eyes. Paired t-tests were used to compare the two biometers. Agreement between the biometers was evaluated using the Bland–Altman method.

Results

The mean age was 36.0 ± 25.6 years (range: 5 to 85 years). The mean axial length was 24.42 ± 0.13 mm for SS-OCT and 24.45 ± 0.14 mm for PCI. The mean corneal curvature was significantly different between the two biometry in flat K (K1) but not in steep K (K2). The limit of agreement was -0.15 to 0.21 in the axial length, -1.18 to 0.83 in K1, and -1.06 to 0.95 in K2. All above ocular biometric measurements between SS-OCT and PCI correlated significantly (Pearson's correlation, p<0.001).

Conclusions

The axial length measured using SS-OCT is useful in clinical practice. It shows a good correlation and agreement with that measured using PCI. However, the axial length and corneal curvature measured using SS-OCT cannot be used interchangeably with that measured using PCI in clinical practice.
A longitudinal characterization of sex-specific somatosensory and spatial memory deficits in HIV Tg26 heterozygous mice
Authors: Barbe Mary F. , Loomis Regina , Lepkowsky Adam M. , Forman Steven , Zhao Huaqing , Gordon Jennifer
Published: December 2020

The pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus associated neurological disorders is still not well understood, yet is known to result in neurological declines despite combination anti-retroviral therapy. HIV-1 transgenic (Tg26) mice contain integrated non-infectious HIV-1 proviral DNA. We sought to assess the integrity of neurocognitive function and sensory systems in HIV-1 Tg26 mice using a longitudinal design, in both sexes, to examine both age- and sex-related disease progression. General neurological reflexive testing showed only acclimation to repeated testing by all groups. Yet, at 2.5 months of age, female Tg26 +/- mice showed hyposensitivity to noxious hot temperatures, compared to wild types (both sexes) and male Tg26 +/- mice, that worsened by 10 months of age. Female Tg26 +/- mice had short-term spatial memory losses in novel object location memory testing at 2.5 and 7 months, compared to female wild types; changes not observed in male counterparts. Female Tg26 +/- mice showed mild learning deficits and short- and long-term spatial memory deficits in olfactory and visually cued Barnes Maze testing at 3 months of age, yet greater learning and memory deficits by 8 months. In contrast, male Tg26 +/- mice displayed no learning deficits and fewer spatial memory deficits (mainly heading errors in nontarget holes). Thus, greater sex-specific temperature hyposensitivity and spatial memory declines were observed in female HIV Tg26 +/- mice, than in male Tg26 +/- mice, or their wild type littermates, that increased with aging. Additionally, tibial bones were examined using ex vivo micro-CT after tissue collection at 11 months. Sex-dependent increases in bone volume and trabecular number were seen in males, matching their greater weights at this age. These results indicate that HIV-1 Tg26 mice is a promising model in which to study neuropathic mechanisms underlying peripheral pathology as well as cognitive deficits seen with HIV.
Evaluation of a novel metric for personalized opioid prescribing after hospitalization
Authors: Iverson Nicholas R. , Lau Catherine Y. , Abe-Jones Yumiko , Fang Margaret C. , Kangelaris Kirsten N. , Prasad Priya , Shah Sachin J. , Najafi Nader
Published: December 2020

Background

The duration of an opioid prescribed at hospital discharge does not intrinsically account for opioid needs during a hospitalization. This discrepancy may lead to patients receiving much larger supplies of opioids on discharge than they truly require.

Objective

Assess a novel discharge opioid supply metric that adjusts for opioid use during hospitalization, compared to the conventional discharge prescription signature.

Design, setting, & participants

Retrospective study using electronic health record data from June 2012 to November 2018 of adults who received opioids while hospitalized and after discharge from a single academic medical center.

Measures & analysis

We ascertained inpatient opioids received and milligrams of opioids supplied after discharge, then determined days of opioids supplied after discharge by the conventional prescription signature opioid-days (“conventional days”) and novel hospital-adjusted opioid-days (“adjusted days”) metrics. We calculated descriptive statistics, within-subject difference between measurements, and fold difference between measures. We used multiple linear regression to determine patient-level predictors associated with high difference in days prescribed between measures.

Results

The adjusted days metric demonstrates a 2.4 day median increase in prescription duration as compared to the conventional days metric (9.4 vs. 7.0 days; P<0.001). 95% of all adjusted days measurements fall within a 0.19 to 6.90-fold difference as compared to conventional days measurements, with a maximum absolute difference of 640 days. Receiving a liquid opioid prescription accounted for an increased prescription duration of 135.6% by the adjusted days metric (95% CI 39.1–299.0%; P = 0.001). Of patients who were not on opioids prior to admission and required opioids during hospitalization but not in the last 24 hours, 325 (8.6%) were discharged with an opioid prescription.

Conclusions

The adjusted days metric, based on inpatient opioid use, demonstrates that patients are often prescribed a supply lasting longer than the prescription signature suggests, though with marked variability for some patients that suggests potential under-prescribing as well. Adjusted days is more patient-centered, reflecting the reality of how patients will take their prescription rather than providers’ intended prescription duration.
Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polysaccharides and triterpenoids from the medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum and evaluation of their in vitro antioxidant capacities
Authors: Zheng Shizhong , Zhang Weirui , Liu Shengrong
Published: December 2020

Ganoderma lucidum (Fr.) Krast, commonly known as “Lingzhi” in Chinese, is a medicinal mushroom that is rich in biologically active substances. Polysaccharides and triterpenoids are the two major components responsible for the bioactivity of this fungus. In the present study, the ultrasonic-assisted co-extraction (UACE) of polysaccharides and triterpenoids from G. lucidum was optimized using response surface methodology with a desirability function, with the equal importance for the two components. Following single factor experiments, the optimal conditions were determine as ultrasonic power of 210 W, extraction temperature of 80C, ratio of liquid to solid of 50 mL/g, and 100 min extraction time, using aqueous ethanol (50%, v/v) as the extracting solvent. Under the optimal conditions, the extraction yields of polysaccharides and triterpenoids reached 0.63% and 0.38%, respectively. On the basis of the scavenging capacity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and evaluation of reducing power, the antioxidant capacities of the polysaccharides obtained by optimal UACE process were higher than those of polysaccharides extracted using traditional hot water extraction, whereas the triterpenoid-rich extracts showed antioxidant activities similar to those obtained using the ethanol maceration method. The present study is the first report on the simultaneous extraction of polysaccharides and triterpenoids from G. lucidum. The developed UACE process could be useful in preparation of a polysaccharide- and triterpenoid-rich ingredient that holds great promise for application in the Ganoderma industry.
Psychosocial impact of skin diseases: A population-based study
Authors: Yew Yik Weng , Kuan Amanda Hui Yu , Ge Lixia , Yap Chun Wei , Heng Bee Hoon
Published: December 2020

Background

While it is well established that skin disease places significant psychosocial burden on a patient’s wellbeing, its effects have rarely been examined in Asian populations.

Objective

Evaluate the psychosocial burden of skin disease among community-dwelling adults in Singapore.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1510 participants interviewed on their history of thirteen skin diseases. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Lubben Social Network Scale-6 (LSNS-6), University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions- 5 Level (EQ-5D-5L) were used as measures for depressive symptoms, social isolation, loneliness and quality of life respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the association of skin diseases with each of the four measured outcomes.

Results

Participants with skin diseases reported significantly higher PHQ-9 and UCLA Loneliness scale scores, and lower LSNS-6 and EQ-5D-5L scores when compared to their healthy counterparts. The presence of skin disease was positively associated with depressive symptoms (B = 0.40, SE = 0.11), and negatively associated with quality of life (B = -0.03, SE = 0.01). As disease severity was not evaluated in this study, we were unable to ascertain the associations between disease severity and measured outcomes.

Conclusion

Participants with skin diseases were more likely to have depressive symptoms, social isolation, loneliness and lower quality of life. Unemployed, single and elderly patients were at higher risk of developing depressive symptoms. More emphasis should be placed on the psychosocial aspect of care to reduce the burden of skin disease. Some considerations include monitoring patients for mood-related changes and implementing early psychosocial interventions.
Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterases are involved in mutagenic events at a ribonucleotide embedded into DNA in human cells
Authors: Takeishi Ayuna , Kogashi Hiroyuki , Odagiri Mizuki , Sasanuma Hiroyuki , Takeda Shunichi , Yasui Manabu , Honma Masamitsu , Suzuki Tetsuya , Kamiya Hiroyuki , Sugasawa Kaoru , Ura Kiyoe , Sassa Akira
Published: December 2020

Ribonucleoside triphosphates are often incorporated into genomic DNA during DNA replication. The accumulation of unrepaired ribonucleotides is associated with genomic instability, which is mediated by DNA topoisomerase 1 (Top1) processing of embedded ribonucleotides. The cleavage initiated by Top1 at the site of a ribonucleotide leads to the formation of a Top1-DNA cleavage complex (Top1cc), occasionally resulting in a DNA double-strand break (DSB). In humans, tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterases (TDPs) are essential repair enzymes that resolve the trapped Top1cc followed by downstream repair factors. However, there is limited cellular evidence of the involvement of TDPs in the processing of incorporated ribonucleotides in mammals. We assessed the role of TDPs in mutagenesis induced by a single ribonucleotide embedded into DNA. AsupFshuttle vector site-specifically containing a single riboguanosine (rG) was introduced into the human lymphoblastoid TK6 cell line and itsTDP1-,TDP2-, andTDP1/TDP2-deficient derivatives.TDP1andTDP2insufficiency remarkably decreased the mutant frequency caused by an embedded rG. The ratio of large deletion mutations induced by rG was also substantially lower inTDP1/TDP2-deficient cells than wild-type cells. Furthermore, the disruption of TDPs reduced the length of rG-mediated large deletion mutations. The recovery ratio of the propagated plasmid was also increased inTDP1/TDP2-deficient cells after the transfection of the shuttle vector containing rG. The results suggest that TDPs-mediated ribonucleotide processing cascade leads to unfavorable consequences, whereas in the absence of these repair factors, a more error-free processing pathway might function to suppress the ribonucleotide-induced mutagenesis. Furthermore, base substitution mutations at sites outside the position of rG were detected in thesupFgene via a TDPs-independent mechanism. Overall, we provide new insights into the mechanism of mutagenesis induced by an embedded ribonucleotide in mammalian cells, which may lead to the fatal phenotype in the ribonucleotide excision repair deficiency.
Ganoderma microsporum immunomodulatory protein, GMI, promotes C2C12 myoblast differentiation in vitro via upregulation of Tid1 and STAT3 acetylation
Authors: Teo Wan-Huai , Lo Jeng-Fan , Fan Yu-Ning , Huang Chih-Yang , Huang Tung-Fu
Published: December 2020

Ageing and chronic diseases lead to muscle loss and impair the regeneration of skeletal muscle. Thus, it’s crucial to seek for effective intervention to improve the muscle regeneration. Tid1, a mitochondrial co-chaperone, is important to maintain mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP synthesis. Previously, we demonstrated that mice with skeletal muscular specific Tid1 deficiency displayed muscular dystrophy and postnatal lethality. Tid1 can interact with STAT3 protein, which also plays an important role during myogenesis. In this study, we used GMI, immunomodulatory protein ofGanoderma microsporum, as an inducer in C2C12 myoblast differentiation. We observed that GMI pretreatment promoted the myogenic differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts. We also showed that the upregulation of mitochondria protein Tid1 with the GMI pre-treatment promoted myogenic differentiation ability of C2C12 cells. Strikingly, we observed the concomitant elevation of STAT3 acetylation (Ac-STAT3) during C2C12 myogenesis. Our study suggests that GMI promotes the myogenic differentiation through the activation of Tid1 and Ac-STAT3.
Lack of elevated pre-ART elastase-ANCA levels in patients developing TB-IRIS
Authors: Goovaerts Odin , Massinga-Loembé Marguerite , Ondoa Pascale , Ceulemans Ann , Worodria William , Mayanja-Kizza Harriet , Colebunders Robert , Kestens Luc ,   the TB-IRIS Study Group
Published: December 2020

Background

Tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) in HIV-TB co-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been linked to neutrophil activation. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) are also associated with neutrophil activation. Since ANCAs are reportedly skewed in TB and HIV infections, we investigated plasma levels of 7 ANCAs in TB-IRIS patients.

Methods

We retrospectively compared 17 HIV-TB patients who developed TB-IRIS with controls of similar CD4 count, age and gender who did not (HIV+TB+ n = 17), HIV-infected patients without TB (HIV+TB-, n = 17) and 10 HIV-negative (HIV-TB-) controls. Frozen plasma was collected before ART, at 3 and 9 months of ART, and examined by ELISA for levels of 7 ANCAs directed against; Proteinase 3 (PR3), Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Permeability-increasing protein (BPI), Elastase, Cathepsin, Lysozyme, and Lactoferrin.

Results

Compared to HIV+TB+ controls, pre-ART anti-elastase levels were lower in TB-IRIS patients (p = 0.026) and HIV-TB- controls (p = 0.044), whereas other ANCAs did not show significant differences between groups at any time point. A significant decrease over time could be observed in TB-IRIS patients during ART for anti -PR3 (p = 0.027), -lysozyme (p = 0.011), and -lactoferrin (p = 0.019). Conversely, HIV+TB+ controls showed a significant decrease over time for anti -MPO (p = 0.002), -lyzosyme (p = 0.002) and -elastase (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The lack of elevated anti-elastase levels in TB-IRIS patients as opposed to HIV+TB+ controls correspond to previous findings of lowered immune capacity in patients that will develop TB-IRIS. This may suggest a specific role for anti-elastase, elastase or even matrix-metalloproteinases in TB-IRIS. The precise dynamics of neutrophil activation in HIV-TB merits further investigation and could provide more insight in the early mechanisms leading up to TB-IRIS.
Trypanosoma (Herpetosoma) diversity in rodents and lagomorphs of New Mexico with a focus on epizootological aspects of infection in Southern Plains woodrats (Neotoma micropus)
Authors: Goodrich Irina , McKee Clifton , Kosoy Michael
Published: December 2020

Protozoan parasites of the genus Trypanosoma infect a broad diversity of vertebrates and several species cause significant illness in humans. However, understanding of the phylogenetic diversity, host associations, and infection dynamics of Trypanosoma species in naturally infected animals is incomplete. This study investigated the presence of Trypanosoma spp. in wild rodents and lagomorphs in northern New Mexico, United States, as well as phylogenetic relationships among these parasites. A total of 458 samples from 13 rodent and one lagomorph species collected between November 2002 and July 2004 were tested by nested PCR targeting the 18S ribosomal RNA gene (18S rRNA). Trypanosoma DNA was detected in 25.1% of all samples, with the highest rates of 50% in Sylvilagus audubonii, 33.1% in Neotoma micropus, and 32% in Peromyscus leucopus. Phylogenetic analysis of Trypanosoma sequences revealed five haplotypes within the subgenus Herpetosoma (T. lewisi clade). Focused analysis on the large number of samples from N. micropus showed that Trypanosoma infection varied by age class and that the same Trypanosoma haplotype could be detected in recaptured individuals over multiple months. This is the first report of Trypanosoma infections in Dipodomys ordii and Otospermophilus variegatus, and the first detection of a haplotype phylogenetically related to T. nabiasi in North America in S. audubonii. This study lends important new insight into the diversity of Trypanosoma species, their geographic ranges and host associations, and the dynamics of infection in natural populations.
Objective Structured Assessment of Debriefing (OSAD) in simulation-based medical education: Translation and validation of the German version
Authors: Abegglen Sandra , Krieg Andrea , Eigenmann Helen , Greif Robert
Published: December 2020

Debriefing is essential for effective learning during simulation-based medical education. To assess the quality of debriefings, reliable and validated tools are necessary. One widely used validated tool is the Objective Structured Assessment of Debriefing (OSAD), which was originally developed in English. The aim of this study was to translate the OSAD into German, and to evaluate the reliability and validity of this German version (G-OSAD) according the ‘Standards of Educational and Psychological Measurement’. In Phase 1, the validity evidence based on content was established by a multistage cross-cultural adaptation translation of the original English OSAD. Additionally, we collected expert input on the adequacy of the content of the G-OSAD to measure debriefing quality. In Phase 2, three trained raters assessed 57 video recorded debriefings to gather validity evidence based on internal structure. Interrater reliability, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and composite reliability were examined. Finally, we assessed the internal structure by applying confirmatory factorial analysis. The expert input supported the adequacy of the content of the G-OSAD to measure debriefing quality. Interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient) was excellent for the average ratings (three raters: ICC = 0.848; two raters: ICC = 0.790), and good for the single rater (ICC = 0.650). Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.976), internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach’s α = 0.865), and composite reliability was excellent (ω = 0.93). Factor analyses supported the unidimensionality of the G-OSAD, which indicates that these G-OSAD ratings measure debriefing quality as intended. The G-OSAD shows good psychometric qualities to assess debriefing quality, which are comparable to the original OSAD. Thus, this G-OSAD is a tool that has the potential to optimise the quality of debriefings in German-speaking countries.
Whole-genome sequence analysis and comparisons between drug-resistance mutations and minimum inhibitory concentrations of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates causing M/XDR-TB
Authors: Nonghanphithak Ditthawat , Kaewprasert Orawee , Chaiyachat Pratchakan , Reechaipichitkul Wipa , Chaiprasert Angkana , Faksri Kiatichai
Published: December 2020

Drug resistance (DR) remains a major challenge for tuberculosis (TB) control. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) provides the highest genetic resolution for genotypic drug-susceptibility tests (DST). We compared DST profiles of 60 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates which were drug resistant according to agar proportion tests (one poly DR-TB, 34 multidrug-resistant TB and 25 extensively drug-resistant TB). We additionally performed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests using Sensititre MYCOTBI plates (MYCOTB) and a WGS-based DST. Agreement between WGS-based DST and MYCOTB was high for all drugs except ethambutol (65%) and ethionamide (62%). Isolates harboring the -15 c/t inhA promoter mutation had a significantly lower MIC for isoniazid than did isolates with the katG Ser315Thr mutation (p < 0.001). Similar patterns were seen for ethambutol (embB Gly406Asp vs. embB Met306Ile), streptomycin (gid Gly73Ala vs. rpsL Lys43Arg), moxifloxacin (gyrA Ala90Val vs. gyrA Asp94Gly) and rifabutin (rpoB Asp435Phe/Tyr/Val vs. rpoB Ser450Leu). For genotypic heteroresistance, isolates with lower proportion of mapped read tended to has lower MIC of anti-TB drugs than those with higher proportion. These results emphasize the high applicability of WGS for determination of DR-TB and the association of particular mutations with MIC levels.
Optimizing direct RT-LAMP to detect transmissible SARS-CoV-2 from primary nasopharyngeal swab samples
Authors: Dudley Dawn M. , Newman Christina M. , Weiler Andrea M. , Ramuta Mitchell D. , Shortreed Cecilia G. , Heffron Anna S. , Accola Molly A. , Rehrauer William M. , Friedrich Thomas C. , O’Connor David H.
Published: December 2020

SARS-CoV-2 testing is crucial to controlling the spread of this virus, yet shortages of nucleic acid extraction supplies and other key reagents have hindered the response to COVID-19 in the US. Several groups have described loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays for SARS-CoV-2, including testing directly from nasopharyngeal swabs and eliminating the need for reagents in short supply. Frequent surveillance of individuals attending work or school is currently unavailable to most people but will likely be necessary to reduce the ~50% of transmission that occurs when individuals are nonsymptomatic. Here we describe a fluorescence-based RT-LAMP test using direct nasopharyngeal swab samples and show consistent detection in clinically confirmed primary samples with a limit of detection (LOD) of ~625 copies/μl, approximately 100-fold lower sensitivity than qRT-PCR. While less sensitive than extraction-based molecular methods, RT-LAMP without RNA extraction is fast and inexpensive. Here we also demonstrate that adding a lysis buffer directly into the RT-LAMP reaction improves the sensitivity of some samples by approximately 10-fold. Furthermore, purified RNA in this assay achieves a similar LOD to qRT-PCR. These results indicate that high-throughput RT-LAMP testing could augment qRT-PCR in SARS-CoV-2 surveillance programs, especially while the availability of qRT-PCR testing and RNA extraction reagents is constrained.
Multiple blood feeding in mosquitoes shortens the Plasmodium falciparum incubation period and increases malaria transmission potential
Authors: Shaw W. Robert , Holmdahl Inga E. , Itoe Maurice A. , Werling Kristine , Marquette Meghan , Paton Douglas G. , Singh Naresh , Buckee Caroline O. , Childs Lauren M. , Catteruccia Flaminia
Published: December 2020

Many mosquito species, including the major malaria vector Anopheles gambiae, naturally undergo multiple reproductive cycles of blood feeding, egg development and egg laying in their lifespan. Such complex mosquito behavior is regularly overlooked when mosquitoes are experimentally infected with malaria parasites, limiting our ability to accurately describe potential effects on transmission. Here, we examine how Plasmodium falciparum development and transmission potential is impacted when infected mosquitoes feed an additional time. We measured P. falciparum oocyst size and performed sporozoite time course analyses to determine the parasite’s extrinsic incubation period (EIP), i.e. the time required by parasites to reach infectious sporozoite stages, in An. gambiae females blood fed either once or twice. An additional blood feed at 3 days post infection drastically accelerates oocyst growth rates, causing earlier sporozoite accumulation in the salivary glands, thereby shortening the EIP (reduction of 2.3 ± 0.4 days). Moreover, parasite growth is further accelerated in transgenic mosquitoes with reduced reproductive capacity, which mimic genetic modifications currently proposed in population suppression gene drives. We incorporate our shortened EIP values into a measure of transmission potential, the basic reproduction number R0, and find the average R0 is higher (range: 10.1%–12.1% increase) across sub-Saharan Africa than when using traditional EIP measurements. These data suggest that malaria elimination may be substantially more challenging and that younger mosquitoes or those with reduced reproductive ability may provide a larger contribution to infection than currently believed. Our findings have profound implications for current and future mosquito control interventions.
Como un pollo de golondrina: vejez y masculinidad en la antigua Roma
Authors: Casamayor Mancisidor Sara
Published: December 2020

Socialmente, la vejez es percibida como una etapa que resta valor a las personas. En el caso del género, acontece un proceso de androgenización que difumina los rasgos de lo masculino y femenino, por lo que los varones deben renegociar los términos desde los que se construye la masculinidad para adaptarla a sus capacidades. El artículo analiza este fenómeno en la Roma antigua. Describimos cómo el cuerpo del senex podía ser visto como no masculino, convirtiendo al viejo en un sujeto más cercano a las mujeres que a los viri. Desgranamos las características que debía tener una buena vejez para los romanos e ilustramos cómo los ancianos renegociaron su masculinidad, creando un modelo de senex sabio, moderado, autónomo y autoritario.
O ensino do Hebraico em Portugal e o seu lugar na humanitas universitária
Authors: Beato Sofia Cardetas
Published: December 2020

O estudo científico da Bíblia pelos demais católicos no século XVI começou a fazer-se à base das línguas de origem - o cultivo do hebraico, por se tornar indispensável à exegese, é um notável exemplo de como as Humanidades floresceram em Portugal.Pretendemos averiguar esse sucesso: se ele se deveu ao método histórico-filológico, de onde provinha a formação dos mestres de Hebraico e a relevância da sua produção científica. Ingressados nas ordens religiosas reformadas ou recém-criadas em Trento, elaboraram vários comentários com base na semântica hebraica. Alguns deles, nomeadamente Jerónimo de Azambuja, foram chamados a Trento para revisões da tradução do texto bíblico. O declínio do ensino do Hebraico (bem como outras disciplinas auxiliares da exegese) e a pobre existência de conhecedores do “idioma santo” no século seguinte fez descurar a investigação rigorosa do texto sagrado internacionalmente, não voltando Portugal e a alma mater conimbricensis àquele grande fenómeno educativo da modernidade.
Colóquio e Exposição: "Santos Rocha, Arqueologia e Territórios da Figueira da Foz".
Authors: Penajoia Marco
Published: December 2020

Esta notícia aborda o Colóquio e a Exposição denominado: “Santos Rocha, arqueologia e territórios da Figueira da Foz”. Este evento visou a sensibilização para a arqueologia e para o património arqueológico da Figueira da Foz.
Partidos políticos e opinião pública
Authors: Lucas Patrícia Gomes
Published: December 2020

Durante a segunda metade do século XIX o Partido Regenerador foi um elemento fundamental da política portuguesa, com intervenção governativa e parlamentar significativa. Neste artigo debruçamo-nos sobre o aparelho partidário e a imprensa afecta ao Partido Regenerador, elaborando um estudo de caso da relação dos Regeneradores com a opinião pública. Recorremos ainda aos sistemas de informação geográfica, obtendo uma representação gráfica da dispersão do partido no território nacional, que contribui para a sua análise espacial.

Procura-se, assim, perceber se existia uma rede de centros locais, e se estes tinham uma acção sólida na mobilização de apoios para o partido; e se os jornais oficiais do Partido Regenerador obedeciam a uma estratégia coerente da parte da liderança partidária. Argumentamos ainda, recorrendo a documentação inédita, que a relevância deste tipo de meios de comunicação com o eleitorado foi enfraquecida face ao uso recorrente e eficácia do caciquismo na política portuguesa.
La part du rite – um rito discursivo sobre a dança e a modernidade para exercício crítico na contemporaneidade
Authors: De Oliveira Cristiane Marques
Published: December 2020

O texto é uma resenha crítica sobre a obra “La part du rite” (2012), performance criada pelas artistas Latifa Lâabissi e Isabelle Launay. Apresenta-se uma análise sobre a estrutura da obra com base em conceitos das teorias Crítica e Pós-estruturalista, considerando as relações estabelecidas entre o corpo, o texto e o movimento como meio para produção de um discurso que saúda as provocações intelectuais que moveram a modernidade e a dança moderna ocidental, ao tempo em que critica a contemporaneidade e os contemporâneos.
PENGARUH KRIM EKSTRAK JINTAN HITAM (Nigella sativa) TERHADAP KADAR KOLAGEN DAN HIDRASI KULIT PADA TIKUS (Rattus norvegicus) GALUR WISTAR JANTAN YANG DIPAPAR SINAR ULTRAVIOLET-B
Authors: Sari Winda , Chiuman Linda , Ginting Sahna Ferdinand , Ginting Chrismis Novalinda
Published: December 2020

Photoaging is caused by exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation (UV-B) through the reactive oxygen species (ROS) molecules formation, resulting in decreased levels of collagen. It is characterized by wrinkles, sagging and rough surfaces. Black cumin has been used in medicine due to its high antioxidant potential. The aim of this study is to identify the effect of black cumin cream on collagen levels and hydration of the skin of Rattus norvegicus exposed to ultraviolet-B rays. This is experimental study in which 30 male Wistar strain rats were classified into 6 sub-groups, namely the KN group (without treatment), KP (getting Nivea cream moisturizer), P1 (basic cream ), P2 (black cumin seed extract cream 0.25%), P3 (cream 0.5%) and P4 (cream 0.75%). P4 rat collagen levels increased significantly before and after the intervention (24 ± 2.23 vs 42.6 ± 14.6, p <0.05).Cream with lower concentrations did not provide a significant increase (p> 0.05). P4 rats also showed increased skin hydration (38.6 ± 19.3 to 63.0 ± 4.47 (p <0.05)), and this was not found in other groups. The administration of topical black cumin seed extract 0.75% can inhibit decreased levels of collagen and increase skin tissue hydration.
EFEK SELENIUM OKSIKLORIDA TERHADAP AKTIVITAS IMUNOMODULATOR DARI EKSOPOLISAKARIDA Lactobacillus plantarum
Authors: Afiati Fifi , Agustina D. C. , Wiryowidagdo S. , Kusmiati Kusmiati , Kanti Atit
Published: December 2020

Lactobacillus plantarum (LAB) is a group of lactic acid bacteria that can produce exopolysaccharide (EPS). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of adding selenium chloride oxide (SeOCl2) to the increased immunomodulatory potential of EPS L. plantarum Y-1.2. The experiment was conducted in vivo using macrophage cells of peritoneal fluid of mice induced by Staphylococcus aureus. EPS was obtained by precipitation at 4 °C. Identification test using HPLC showed that crude EPS of L. plantarum Y-1.2 containing glucose monomers for value retention times 4.198 and 4.204, crude EPS approaches the retention time of glucose BP 4.234. Testing of immuno-modulatory divided into six treatment groups. Group 1-3 as the control group, a positive control (Stimuno), negative control (crude EPS 50 mg/kg BW in mice), normal control (distilled water). Group 4-6 as the test group was given crude EPS 50 mg/kg BW in mice and selenium oxide chloride doses of 0.13 µg; 0.26 µg; 0.52 µg. The test results showed a dosage of 0.52 µg selenium chloride oxide to crude EPS of 50 mg/kg BW in mice could increase the activity and phagocytic capacity amounted to 28.06% and 28.39%
EFEKTIVITAS DOSIS KARBON TETRAKLORIDA (CCl4) TERHADAP TIKUS (Rattus norvegicus L.) SEBAGAI HEWAN MODEL FIBROSIS HATI
Authors: Fahrudin Fahri , Ningsih Sri , Wardhana Hajar Indra , Haribowo Dinda Rama , Hamida Fathin
Published: December 2020

Liver damage can produce fibrosis condition both acute and chronic. Development of liver fibrosis in animal models is valuable information in order to gain new entities for treatment. The aim of this study is to get an optimal condition of CCl4 induction for achieving animal models of liver fibrosis. CCl4 diluted in coconut oil was administrated orally for 6 consecutive weeks. Total 25 male rats were divided into 5 treatment groups, namely, P1 was a normal group (without CCl4). P2 (CCl4 40%), 1 ml/kg bw 3 times a week. P3 (CCl4 40%), 0.5 ml/kg bw 3 times a week, P4 (CCl4 10%) 1 ml/kg bw 3 times a week, and P5 (CCl4 10%) 1 ml/kg bw twice a week. The analyzed parameters were the activity of liver enzymes, macro and microscopic liver damage, and the percentage of rat deaths. The results of this study indicated an increase in liver enzymes in all treatments which was higher than P1 (P<0.05). Analysis of liver histopathology exhibeted the same result. However, if viewed the percentage of rat deaths, P5 demonstrated the lowest compared to all treatment groups. It could be concluded  that the administration of CCl4 (10%) was able to create an animal model of liver fibrosis optimally.
Application of Petri Net Theory for Modelling and Validation of Menthol Biosynthesis
Authors: Dubey Swati , Joshi Sheela , Dwivedi Goshali , Prasad Rajendra
Published: December 2020

An essential step in network modelling is to validate the network model. Petri net theory provides algorithms and methods, which can be applied directly to metabolic network modelling and analysis in order to validate the model. This paper describes the thriving application of Petri net theory for model validation of biosynthesis of menthol using the well-established Petri net analysis technique of place and transition invariants. Because of the complexity of metabolic networks and their regulation, formal modelling is a useful method to improve the understanding of these systems. A petri net representation, its validation and simulation of biosynthesis of menthol from geranyl diphosphate (GPP) has been performed with the objective of understating new insights of the structure of this pathway affecting the synthesis of menthol. The model has been validated for its P-invariant and T-invariant. T-invariant analysis suggest absence of any loop in the net which restore the initial state suggesting all reactions to be only forward. The net is covered by positive P-invariants and bounded. The net is utilized to simulate the time (pt) with concentrations of GPP, (−)-limonene, (+)-pulegone, (−)-menthone and (−)-menthol. Dimethylallyl diphosphate and isopentenyl diphosphate were the main precursors for this biosynthesis. Biological data needed for simulation where obtained from extensive survey of literature. The results were shown graphically and the nature of graphs represent the variation of concentrations with time.
Natural Product Inspired Synthesis of Tryptanthrin Analogues as Potential Antimalarial Agents
Authors: Tripathi Vishwa Deepak
Published: December 2020

A new series of tryptanthrin analogues have been synthesized as
potential antimalarial molecules. Synthesis of tryptanthrin aminoalkyl
derivatives have been achieved via alkylation of oxime functionality
of tryptanthrin derivatives by various alkyl amino pharmacophoric
chains. 21-Membered small library of tryptanthrin aminoalkyl analogues
were synthesized with variation in both parent natural alkaloid
and in amino alkyl side chains. Synthesized compounds were fully
characterized with 1H & 13C NMR, IR spectroscopy. Further all the
members were screened for their antimalarial potential against Plasmoum
falciparum in both sensitive (3D7) and in resistant (k1) strains. Most
of the screened compounds were exhibited potent antimalarial activity
in both strains. Compounds (5m, 3c and 5l) having nitro group at the
8 position in tryptanthrin framework were most promising compounds
in series (IC50 = 10 nm) with IC50 value as low as 10 nm comparable to
chloroquine. These compounds were also tested for their toxic effect
and found to be highly safe with very high value of SI index.
Potential Fire Hazard and Safety In Hotel
Authors: Singh Amit , Mishra Dr Sandhya
Published: December 2020

Safety is a state in which hazards and conditions leading to physical, psychological or material harm are controlled in order to preserve the health and well-being of individuals and the community. Safety in the hotel industry means the prevention of injury that can occur accidently to employees as well as guest or any sort of damage to property, goods and equipment present in hotel.
Visitas monitoradas ao Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém-PA, Brasil
Authors: Mendes Fabricio Lemos de Siqueira , Barbosa Helena Doris de Almeida
Published: December 2020

Os caminhos para minimizar ou erradicar os problemas ambientais têm sido foco de discussões e fóruns desde, pelo menos, a Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre o Ambiente Humano, em 1972. Nas instituições de ensino superior, os projetos de extensão sobre a questão são uma ferramenta importante para a sensibilização da comunidade quanto ao uso racional do ambiente natural, como o projeto “Visitas monitoradas a parques urbanos da Grande Belém-PA”. Desenvolvido por docentes e discentes da Faculdade de Turismo da Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), em parceria com o Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, o projeto tem com o objetivo de planejar e implementar visitas guiadas – e seus desdobramentos – ao parque zoobotânico do Museu Goeldi, bem como preparar os alunos para atuar na instituição, a partir da articulação pesquisa, ensino e extensão. Os resultados evidenciaram participação expressiva de discentes do curso de turismo e visitantes, produção de trabalhos acadêmicos e publicação em revistas científicas. O projeto, pela vivência educativa proposta, pautada na interdisciplinaridade e na associação da teoria com a prática, de maneira formativa, proporciona aos frequentadores do museu maior suporte de informações durante a visita e, por conseguinte, a vivência de novas oportunidades de atuação profissional aos futuros turismólogos.
Atividades de extensão universitária no contexto do geoprocessamento e de recursos hídricos em uma escola pública de ensino médio no município de Bagé, Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Schäfer Alexandro Gularte
Published: December 2020

Este texto apresenta ações de extensão universitária desenvolvidas na Escola Estadual de Ensino Médio Dr. Karlos Kluwe, no município de Bagé-RS, no âmbito do projeto “Desenvolvimento de uma base de dados da bacia hidrográfica do Rio Negro-RS”, aprovado no edital do Programa de Iniciação em Ciências, Matemática, Engenharia, Tecnologias Criativas e Letras (PICMEL) da Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Rio Grande do Sul (Fapergs). O objetivo principal das ações de extensão foi capacitar os bolsistas do projeto (seis estudantes e dois professores de uma escola de ensino médio) para trabalhar com geoprocessamento nas áreas de recursos hídricos e gestão territorial. O método utilizado para o desenvolvimento do projeto constituiu-se de: a) definição de ações de extensão; b) planejamento das ações; c) realização das ações planejadas; e d) avaliação das ações realizadas. A partir da realização das ações programadas os estudantes foram capazes de elaborar as atividades propostas, auxiliando no desenvolvimento da base de dados da bacia hidrográfica.
Formação para o SUAS no trabalho social com famílias indígenas em Santa Catarina
Authors: Rodrigues Cíntia Régia , Gessele Cleide
Published: December 2020

Esse texto tem por objetivo realizar uma análise do projeto de extensão “Formação sobre a diversidade étnico cultural para o SUAS”, da Universidade Regional de Blumenau (FURB), desenvolvido no ano de 2019. O presente projeto ampliou a discussão em torno da diversidade étnico-cultural para o desenvolvimento de ações na Proteção Social Básica, normatizadas na Política Nacional de Assistência Social (PNAS, 2004) e nas Orientações Técnicas “Trabalho Social com as Famílias Indígenas na Proteção Social Básica” (2017). Na presente iniciativa de extensão, empreendemos a formação por meio de oficinas e rodas de conversa aos profissionais que atuam nos Centros de Referência de Assistência Social (CRAS) – assistentes sociais, psicólogos, educadores sociais e, ainda, a gestão do SUAS. O projeto foi realizado em parceria com os municípios de Ibirama, José Boiteux e Vitor Meireles, do estado de Santa Catarina, considerando que eles atuam na Terra Indígena Laklãnõ Xokleng. Conclui-se que a capacitação dos profissionais em torno do pluralismo étnico-cultural no Brasil e das políticas públicas, principalmente sobre a história indígena no Vale do Itajaí-SC, corrobora na prática profissional, ampliando as estratégias de intervenção com as famílias indígenas de forma coletiva, além de proporcionar a troca de experiências entre os participantes.
Apoio institucional para o fortalecimento de mulheres em contexto rural
Authors: Carvalho Maria Aparecida Alves Sobreira , Monteiro Maria Natália Bizerra Pimentel , Marcelo Carolina Marinho , Moreno Renata Silvestre , Ximenes Verônica Morais
Published: December 2020

Em uma cultura de resignação e submissão feminina, o contexto rural ainda contribui para a alienação, com escassez de espaços de reflexão sobre os mecanismos de opressão que atravessam a vida das mulheres. Este estudo objetiva investigar o potencial do apoio institucional como facilitador de processos de fortalecimento de mulheres em uma comunidade rural. Foram analisados 28 diários de campo, escritos no período de um ano e meio de atividades com um grupo de mulheres facilitado por extensionistas do Núcleo de Psicologia Comunitária (NUCOM) de uma universidade pública. Os diários foram analisados por meio do software Atlas ti 5.2 e organizados em dois temas: vida das mulheres e apoio institucional para o fortalecimento. As mulheres no contexto rural têm a vida marcada pela dificuldade de acesso às políticas públicas, desigualdade de gênero, longas jornadas de trabalho com pouca visibilidade e reconhecimento social, assumindo o protagonismo nos eventos religiosos e culturais da comunidade. O apoio institucional desenvolvido pelo NUCOM para facilitar o fortalecimento das mulheres esteve presente nas atividades participativas que integravam o pensamento, as sensações e a ação, favorecendo o encontro consigo, com o outro e com a comunidade, inaugurando novos espaços de fala, expressão das emoções e práticas.
Extensão e educação socioambiental
Authors: Mendonça Ygor de Siqueira Mendes , Campos Thalyta Brandão de , Silva Estela da Conceição Gonçalves da
Published: December 2020

O presente trabalho busca relatar as experiências do projeto de extensão em educação socioambiental, realizado pelo Grupo de Pesquisa “Convenção 169 e o Direito à Consulta Prévia, Livre e Informada” da Liga Acadêmica Verde Cabanagem em parceria com a Escola Superior de Advocacia do Pará. As atividades do grupo foram realizadas entre os anos de 2018 e 2020 e estiveram concentradas na promoção de debates, rodas de conversa e fóruns acadêmicos relacionados ao direito à consulta. A justificativa do projeto esteve relacionada com a necessidade de se promover conhecimento sobre o tema, especialmente em decorrência das recorrentes violações de direitos humanos e fundamentais de povos e comunidades tradicionais no Estado do Pará. Os encontros e os eventos realizados contribuíram significativamente para a construção de narrativas e bases teóricas de todos/as os/as participantes, encerrando suas atividades com o painel sobre direitos de povos e comunidades tradicionais no 41o Congresso Nacional da Advocacia Trabalhista.
Música, saúde mental e economia solidária
Authors: Raimundo Mahasiãh , Hinkel Jaison , Mór Renato
Published: December 2020

O presente artigo apresenta a experiência de um projeto de extensão universitária que desenvolve ações na interface entre música, saúde mental e economia solidária (ES). A discussão está direcionada para um grupo de camerata de violões desenvolvido pela Associação de Usuários, Familiares e Amigos dos Serviços de Saúde Mental de Indaial (AUFASAM), em parceria com a Incubadora Tecnológica de Cooperativas Populares da Fundação Universidade Regional de Blumenau (ITCP/FURB) e com o Centro de Atenção Psicossocial de Indaial. Metodologicamente, as ações foram propostas a partir das contribuições da Luta Antimanicomial e da ES. Como resultados, foram realizados 32 ensaios que alcançaram um repertório composto por 11 músicas e a realização de três apresentações musicais. Os benefícios advindos desta experiência fortaleceram o processo de reabilitação psicossocial dos seus integrantes e, ao mesmo tempo, afetaram o contexto universitário e a comunidade geral, possibilitando maior visibilidade para a AUFASAM, proporcionando acesso gratuito a bens culturais, incentivando o fortalecimento da extensão universitária e a transformação do imaginário social referente à loucura. É importante reconhecer a pluralidade cultural proporcionada pela camerata, ao apresentar elementos culturais eruditos e populares, ao se propor a circular por contextos de saúde, educação e economia solidária.