bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SAGE1: a Potential Target Antigen for Lung Cancer T-Cell Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Yajing , Yu Xiaohong , Liu Qiuping , Gong Haiping , Chen An-an , Zheng Hongjun , Zhong Shi , Li Yi
Published: August 2021

A fundamental understanding of cancer-specific antigens is crucial for successful T-cell immunotherapy. Sarcoma antigen 1 (SAGE1) is a cancer/testis antigen that has not yet been verified for T-cell immunotherapy applications. Here, we examined SAGE1 RNA expression and carried out IHC analyses, revealing that SAGE1 is expressed in 50% of non–small cell lung-cancer samples (n = 40). To verify the immunogenicity of SAGE1, we discovered a novel HLA-A*24:02 (HLA-A24)–restricted SAGE1 epitope (SAGE1597–606, VFSTAPPAFI) using mass spectrometry and identified SAGE1597–606-specific T-cell clones and T-cell receptors (TCR) from peripheral bloods of HLA-A24+ donors. The highest affinity TCR VF3 (KD = 4.3 μM) demonstrated the highest antitumor potency. Moreover, VF3-transduced T cells mediated the efficient killing of HLA-A24+/SAGE1+ tumor cells in vitro and effectively inhibited the growth of lung cancer xenografts in mice. Together, our data suggest that SAGE1 could be a target for T-cell immunotherapies against lung cancer, while its specific TCRs could be candidates for developing reagents to treat SAGE1+ tumors.
Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Patients with Bronchiectasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Ya-nan , Xie Jia-qi , He Xiao-wen , Peng Bo , Wang Cong-cong , Zhang Guo-jun , Xu Jin-fu , Gao Yong-hua
Published: August 2021

Background: Although international bronchiectasis guidelines recommended screening of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) both at initial evaluation and prior to administration of macrolide treatment, data regarding NTM in bronchiectasis remain elusive. Objective: To establish the prevalence, species, and clinical features of NTM in adults with bronchiectasis. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published before April 2020 reporting the prevalence of NTM in adults with bronchiectasis. We only included studies with bronchiectasis confirmed by computed tomography and NTM identified by mycobacteria culture or molecular methods. Random-effects meta-analysis was employed. Results: Of the 2,229 citations identified, 21 studies, including 12,454 bronchiectasis patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of NTM isolation and pulmonary NTM disease were 7.7% (5.0%–11.7%) (n/N = 2,677/12,454) and 4.1% (1.4%–11.4%) (n/N = 30/559), respectively, with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 97.7%, p < 0.001 and I2 = 79.9%, p = 0.007; respectively). The prevalence of NTM isolation varied significantly among different geographical regions with the highest isolation at 50.0% (47.3%–52.7%) reported in the United States. Mycobacterium avium complex and Mycobacterium abscessus complex accounted for 66 and 16.6% of all species, respectively. Some clinical and radiological differences were noted between patients with and without the presence of NTM isolation although the results are inconsistent. Conclusions: Heterogeneity in prevalence estimates of NTM isolation indicated that both local surveys to inform development of clinical services tailored to patients with bronchiectasis and population-based studies are needed. The clinical features associated with NTM in bronchiectasis and their incremental utility in studying the association is unknown and merits further investigation.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology in the Diagnosis of Breast Paraffinoma
Authors: Kok Kenneth Y.Y. , Telisinghe Pemasiri Upali , Tripathi Sonal
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Paraffin injections for breast augmentation once a popular form of mammoplasty are now considered obsolete. It had been abandoned by clinicians because of its associated serious complications. The practice is however still available and is being practiced by nonmedically qualified people. Paraffin injection results in the formation of multiple foreign-body granulomas known as breast paraffinoma. The clinical features of breast paraffinoma can mimic and be mistaken for breast carcinoma or inflammatory breast carcinoma. The use of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the evaluation of patients with breast paraffinoma has not been fully evaluated. Methods: Retrospective review was performed on 30 patients who presented with breast paraffinoma between June 1, 2010, and June 30, 2020, who also had FNAC as part of their breast lump evaluation. Results: FNAC of 73.3% patients showed multinucleated giant cells and macrophages or histiocytes containing engulfed clear, empty intracytoplasmic vacuoles of varying sizes. In 13.3% of the patients, macrophages or histiocytes with engulfed clear intracytoplasmic vacuoles of varying sizes were seen. In 6.7% of patients, multinucleated giant cells containing engulfed vacuoles of varying sizes were seen, and in 6.7% of patients, hypocellular smears with large amount of clear spaces were seen. Oily droplets were seen in the background of all the smears, and there were no malignant cells seen. These features were compatible with breast paraffinoma. Conclusion: Most patients with breast paraffinoma can be managed conservatively and they do not require further treatment; FNAC with its characteristic features can provide the reliable diagnosis of breast paraffinoma and therefore sparing these patients from more invasive diagnostic procedures.
Interferon and Toll-Like Receptor 7 Response in COVID-19: Implications of Topical Imiquimod for Prophylaxis and Treatment
Authors: Szeto Mindy D. , Maghfour Jalal , Sivesind Torunn E. , Anderson Jarett , Olayinka Jadesola T. , Mamo Andrina , Runion Taylor M. , Dellavalle Robert P.
Published: August 2021

Background: The innate immune system is recognized as an essential aspect of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are important in inducing antiviral response, triggering downstream production of interferons (IFNs). Certain loss-of-function variants in TLR7 are associated with increased COVID-19 disease severity, and imiquimod (ImiQ) is known to have immunomodulating effects as an agonist of TLR7. Given that topical imiquimod (topImiQ) is indicated for various dermatologic conditions, it is necessary for dermatologists to understand the interplay between innate immunity mechanisms and the potential role of ImiQ in COVID-19, with a particular focus on TLR7. Summary: Our objective was to survey recent peer-reviewed scientific literature in the PubMed database, examine relevant evidence, and elucidate the relationships between IFNs, TLR7, the innate immune system, and topImiQ in the context of COVID-19. Despite limited studies on this topic, current evidence supports the critical role of TLRs in mounting a strong immune response against COVID-19. Of particular interest to dermatologists, topImiQ can result in systemic upregulation of the immune system via activation of TLR7. Key Message: Given the role of TLR7 in the systemic activation of the immune system, ImiQ, as a ligand of the TLR7 receptor, may have potential therapeutic benefit as a topical immunomodulatory treatment for COVID-19.
Updating on Roles of HIV Intrinsic Factors: A Review of Their Antiviral Mechanisms and Emerging Functions
Authors: Hadpech Sudarat , Moonmuang Sutpirat , Chupradit Koollawat , Yasamut Umpa , Tayapiwatana Chatchai
Published: August 2021

Background: Host restriction factors are cellular proteins that inhibit specific steps of the viral life cycle. Since the 1970s, several new factors have been identified, including human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) replication restriction. Evidence accumulated in the last decade has substantially broadened our understanding of the molecular mechanisms utilized to abrogate the HIV-1 life cycle. Summary: In this review, we focus on the interaction between host restriction factors participating in the early phase of HIV-1 infection, particularly CA-targeting proteins. Host factors involved in the late phase of the replication cycle, such as viral assembly and egress factors, are also described. Additionally, current reports on well-known antiviral intrinsic factors, as well as other viral restriction factors with their emerging roles, are included. Conclusion: A comprehensive understanding of the interactions between viruses and hosts is expected to provide insight into the design of novel HIV-1 therapeutic interventions.
Building a regional solidarity network of transnational activists: An African case study
Authors: McGregor Warren , Webster Edward
Published: August 2021

Drawing on a network of transnational activists, this paper argues that a new type of regional network internationalism has emerged in Sub-Saharan Africa. Initiated by the Global Labour University (GLU), through a short two-month residential course called Engage, it has been able over the last seven years to develop the skills for a new type of union organiser, one who understands the global context, but is rooted in their local community. This network works at forging links of solidarity across national borders and regional frontiers. Their solidarity work aims at sharing knowledge and experience between activists and worker organisations and the development of meetings and campaigns to strategize and put into action these new forms of transnational solidarity.
The globalization of Just Transition in the world of labour: politics of scale and scope
Authors: Stevis Dimitris
Published: August 2021

Just Transition has become the major expression of labour environmentalism at the global level and global union organizations have played a central role. My goal in this article is to provide an analytically informed account of this trajectory. The first part of this contribution, therefore, clarifies the analytical scheme. In the second and main part I will use this analytical scheme to trace the role of global unions in the globalization of just transition within global labour. In particular I will argue that the globalization of just transition within the world of labour remains a work in progress while it reflects both North-South and sectoral dynamics. I close by commenting on the causes behind these findings and the prospects and challenges of broadening just transition.
Pectoral-fin glands and delivery apparatus in the catfish genus Brachyrhamdia Myers, 1927 (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae)
Authors: Carvalho Thaís Isabela , Klaczko Julia , Slobodian Veronica
Published: August 2021

The Siluriformes, popularly known as catfishes, are probably the vertebrate group with the highest diversity of venomous animals, even though only approximately a hundred venomous catfishes are reported to date. Venomous catfishes might present a delivery system apparatus, formed by an unbranched ray at the leading edge of pectoral and dorsal fins (spine), which can be stiffened and pungent, while venom glands can be present at the surface of such spines and/or the axillary region. This work investigated the presence, morphology and distribution of glands and pectoral-fin delivery apparatus in the heptapterid Brachyrhamdia genus. Pectoral-fin spine external morphology was compared across all valid species in the genus, histological sections of the pectoral-fin spine and axillary regions of B. heteropleura and B. marthae were produced, and dissections of the pectoral girdle region of the mentioned species were analyzed. The histological sections confirmed the presence of pectoral-fin glands at the surface of the pectoral-fin spine of Brachyrhamdia species, and cellular morphology indicates these glands are probably venomous. Also, we found a piriform gland at the axillary region, whose cell morphology is like the reported for other catfishes. However, we cannot currently confirm or deny axillary gland participation in the venom delivery apparatus. This work constitutes the first report of venom glands in Brachyrhamdia, and the first description of Heptapteridae axillary glands.
"Invisible hands. Self-organization and the eighteenth century", de J. Sheehan & D. Wahrman
Authors: Müller Leonardo André Paes
Published: August 2021

Resenha do livro Invisible Hands. Self-Organization and the Eighteenth Century de autoria de Jonathan Sheehan e Dror Wahrman. Publicado pela Chicago University Press, em 2015.
interior do corpo político, os sentidos da resistência: a tessitura de Maquiavel
Authors: Alavina Fran de Oliveira
Published: August 2021

Ainda que Maquiavel não esteja no âmbito da tradição política dos pensadores que teorizaram sobre o direito de resistência, é possível se reportar à questão da resistência como elemento constituinte da vida política no pensamento do autor florentino. Tal pode ser realizado com base nos dois momentos em que o termo resistência, nas suas formas verbal e substantiva, ocorre no âmbito da argumentação do Príncipe. Aqui não se propõe um simples exercício de léxico político, satisfazendo-se com o reconhecimento e a localização do termo. É a própria concepção da escrita política em Maquiavel que possibilita pensar a pertinência do termo na reflexão política: questão justificada na primeira parte deste trabalho. Daí, fundamentando-se na natureza da escrita política, discorre-se sobre os dois momentos em que Maquiavel utiliza-se do termo resistência como meio de expressão e compreensão da relação entre virtù e fortuna, bem como da oposição entre os grandes e o povo.
Retour vers la culture. La sémiotique et ses virages anthropologiques
Authors: Chatenet Ludovic , Di Caterino Angelo
Published: August 2021

Cet article se propose d’examiner le projet d’une sémiotique de la culture en considérant les contacts entre la sémiotique greimassienne et l’anthropologie. Les différences entre Greimas et Lévi-Strauss dans les années 1960 ont conduit la sémiotique à abandonner l’idée d’approcher la culture. Ces dernières années, la sémiotique post-greimassienne, tournée vers les pratiques et l’expérience, a renoué le dialogue en s’inspirant des propositions de Latour et de Descola pour rediscuter la notion de culture du point de vue des collectifs et des ontologies. À contre-courant de la recherche actuelle, nous défendons ici l’idée que le projet d’une sémiotique de la culture est déjà incarné par l’anthropologie structurale. Du fait de son héritage des méthodes linguistiques, qu’elle applique au terrain, et de son ouverture aux modélisations formelles comme aux approches phénoménologiques ou cognitives, elle nous paraît constituer un cadre sûr et suffisant pour étudier les cultures. Au croisement des approches de Greimas, Lotman et Lévi-Strauss, la théorie structurale en anthropologie et sémiotique paraît toujours d’actualité et ouvre de nouvelles perspectives de recherches avec les « cultures numériques ».
Teorias da conspiração e populismo messiânico no Brasil contemporâneo: uma perspectiva semiótico-cultural
Authors: Demuru Paolo
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo analisa os elos entre populismo e teorias da conspiração no Brasil contemporâneo. Com base em uma abordagem semiótico-cultural que dialoga com os estudos sobre glocalização, investiga-se a relação entre dois temas recorrentes das teorias da conspiração que circulam atualmente ao redor do mundo: aquele do conflito entre a suposta dominação das elites sobre o povo e aquele do líder salvador da pátria – cujo papel é central no discurso de Bolsonaro. Defende-se a hipótese de que tal narrativa adquiriu, no caso do atual presidente do Brasil, formas e tons que são relacionados à semiosfera religiosa brasileira, em particular ao messianismo de matriz evangélica. Observa-se que, assim como aquele que tais figuras promovem, o discurso messiânico de Bolsonaro é caracterizado pelo uso frequente e constante de três estratégias discursivas específicas: o misticismo, a escatologia e a carga estésica.
Les formes de vie entre pratiques et cultures, styles et idéaux de vie
Authors: Fontanille Jacques , Perusset Alain
Published: August 2021

La notion de formes de vie a été introduite par Greimas il y a très exactement 30 ans dans le champ des études sémiotiques. Depuis, cette notion est devenue un concept intégré à l’organon sémiotique, mais sa signification est restée équivoque, et ce, bien que des propositions de définitions soient apparues au fil des décennies (Fontanille, 1993 ; 2008 ; 2015 ; Perusset, 2020). Cet article vise à offrir une synthèse générale de ces travaux d’explicitation avec comme ambition de rendre la notion la plus claire et opératoire possible pour des recherches sémiotiques renouvelées et ancrées dans les sciences de la culture. À cet égard, cette contribution vise aussi à confronter les formes de vie avec d’autres notions proches telles celles de sémiosphère (Lotman, 1966), de styles de vie (Landowski, 1997; 2004) et d’idéal de vie (Perusset, 2020).
Logique de l’information et sémiotique de la culture
Authors: Lorusso Anna Maria
Published: August 2021

Qu’est-ce que la post-vérité ? Qu’est-ce que les fake news ? S’agirait-il de simples pathologies de l’information ou plutôt d’un phénomène dévoilant une autre logique de la signification sociale ? En mettant à contribution les outils de la sémiotique de la culture (notamment les sémiotiques d’Umberto Eco et de Juri Lotman), le présent article entend analyser la façon dont s’est radicalement transformé le critère de la vérité des discours (leur « régime de vérité » comme le disait Foucault), de même que l’avènement d’un régime « confusionnel » se réclamant d’un critère d’authenticité fondé sur l’expérience en lieu et place d’un critère de vérité fondé sur la vérification.
Debates sobre os conceitos de direita e a pertinência de uma tipologia dual para classificação dos partidos políticos brasileiros
Authors: Ferri de Holanda Mariani
Published: August 2021

Esse trabalho se debruça sobre o debate dos fundamentos epistemológicos da ideologia de direita, de acordo com a literatura internacional e brasileira. Pretende-se a partir disso, analisar um fenômeno latente na realidade político-institucional do país, mas que ainda não se corporificou na bibliografia especializada e talvez nem tenha sido percebido pelos próprios agentes envolvidos nesse processo, que seria: a diferenciação programática dos partidos políticos de direita no Brasil. Com esse exame, procuramos avançar no estudo dos conceitos sobre a Direita e aprofundar o debate sobre esse espectro ideológico no país, indicando a existência de diferenças consideráveis entre os correligionários dessa ideologia; elucidadas pela validade de uma agrupação binomial: partidos do “neoliberalismo pragmático” e partidos de uma novíssima direita, que aqui chamamos de “conservadorismo não-elitizado”. Mobilizamos os seguintes partidos para ilustrar a validade dessa classificação: Partido da Social Democracia Brasileira (PSDB), Democratas (DEM), Partido Progressista (PP) como representantes do “neoliberalismo pragmático” e Partido Renovador Trabalhista Brasileiro (PRTB), Partido da República (PR) e Partido Social Cristão (PSC) como representantes do “conservadorismo não-elitizado”.
Dietary patterns in Mexican preschool children are associated with stunting and overweight
Authors: Flores Mario E. , Rivera-Pasquel Marta , Macías Nayeli , Sánchez-Zamorano Luisa María , Rodríguez-Ramírez Sonia , Contreras-Manzano Alejandra , Denova-Gutiérrez Edgar
Published: August 2021

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between dietary patterns, stunting, and overweight among Mexican preschoolers. METHODS This study was conducted with anthropometric (weight, height/length), sociodemographic (age, gender, education level of household head, socioeconomic status, country region and area, ethnicity, and beneficiary of social programs), and dietary data (Semiquantitative-food frequency questionnaire) on children aged from 1 to 4 years collected from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey-2012. Dietary patterns were derived by principal components analysis. The association between dietary patterns, stunting, and overweight was assessed by prevalence ratios (PR), estimated by Poisson regression. RESULTS In total, 1,112 preschoolers (mean age 3.06 years, SD = 1.08 years; 48.8% females) were included in the study; 11.9% of whom presented stunting, and 6.7% overweight. We identified four dietary patterns: Fruits and Vegetables [F&V], Western [W], Traditional [T], and Milk and Liquids [M&L]. Considering the lowest tertile of each dietary pattern as reference, the prevalence of stunting was 2.04 times higher [95%CI: 1.17–3.56] among children in the highest tertile of the “F&V” pattern. The prevalence of stunting was lower among children in the highest tertile of the “W” pattern [PR = 0.48; 95%CI: 0.27–0.85]. Overweight was negatively associated with the “F&V” dietary pattern [PR = 0.37; 95%CI: 0.16–0.85 for its highest tertile], and children whose consumption was mostly equivalent to the “T” pattern showed higher prevalence of stunting [PR = 1.74; 95%CI: 1.01–3.00]. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of stunting and overweight in a nationwide sample of Mexican preschoolers was associated with dietary patterns.
Questionário de frequência alimentar para adultos da região Nordeste: ênfase no nível de processamento dos alimentos
Authors: Motta Virginia Williane de Lima , Lima Severina Carla Vieira Cunha , Marchioni Dirce Maria Lobo , Lyra Clélia de Oliveira
Published: August 2021

OBJETIVO Desenvolver um Questionário de Frequência Alimentar (QFA) quantitativo para adultos da região Nordeste do Brasil, com o fim de identificar a frequência de consumo de alimentos considerados de proteção e risco para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), agrupando os itens alimentares por nível de processamento. MÉTODOS Para desenvolver o QFA foram utilizados dados de 7.516 adultos do Nordeste do Brasil, extraídos da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2008–2009. As listas de alimentos foram elaboradas segundo a metodologia da contribuição relativa do item, nas quais foram identificados os itens alimentares com maior contribuição relativa para macronutrientes, fibra, gordura saturada, gordura trans, sódio e potássio. Tais listas foram compostas de todos os alimentos cujo somatório de contribuição foi de até 90%. Na estrutura final do QFA, os itens alimentares foram organizados de modo a respeitar a imagem mental das refeições. RESULTADOS O QFA resultou em 83 itens alimentares, distribuídos em minimamente processados, processados e ultraprocessados. O ano anterior foi escolhido como tempo para estimar o consumo dos alimentos, e as opções de frequência variaram de “nunca” até “10 vezes”. O instrumento inclui orientações para preenchimento e colhe dados sobre o tamanho das porções (pequena, média, grande e extragrande), bem como informações complementares sobre as preparações culinárias. Registrou-se um percentual elevado de pessoas com excesso de peso (44,1%). CONCLUSÃO O estudo culminou em um QFA para identificar a frequência de consumo de alimentos considerados de proteção e risco para DCNT. O instrumento pode subsidiar estudos epidemiológicos que avaliem desfechos relacionados à dieta de adultos considerando o nível de processamento de alimentos, em consonância com o Guia alimentar para a população brasileira .
Evolução da assistência à gestação e ao parto no extremo sul do Brasil
Authors: Cesar Juraci A. , Mendoza-Sassi Raul A. , Marmitt Luana P.
Published: August 2021

OBJETIVO Descrever a evolução da assistência à gestação e ao parto entre puérperas residentes no município de Rio Grande (RS) utilizando dados de inquéritos realizados a cada três anos, entre 2007 e 2019. MÉTODOS Em até 48 horas após o parto foi aplicado questionário único, padronizado, a todas as mães que tiveram filhos nos hospitais locais e cumpriram os critérios de inclusão. Foram investigadas características demográficas e reprodutivas, hábitos de vida, nível socioeconômico da família e cuidados recebidos durante a gestação e o parto. Na análise, utilizou-se o teste qui-quadrado de tendência linear para avaliar a distribuição dos indicadores por inquérito. RESULTADOS Ao todo, 12.645 parturientes foram entrevistadas (98% do total de mulheres aptas a participar da pesquisa). No período avaliado, a proporção de partos caiu 35% entre adolescentes e aumentou 25% entre mulheres com 35 anos ou mais. As mães ganharam, em média, dois anos de escolaridade, e suas famílias tiveram importante melhora econômica, seguida, porém, de perda de renda no último inquérito. O tabagismo materno, antes e durante a gravidez, caiu à metade. Houve aumento na taxa de mães que iniciaram o pré-natal no primeiro trimestre, e aumentou também o número de consultas e de testes laboratoriais. Quase 60% das consultas de pré-natal e 80% dos partos ocorreram no Sistema Único de Saúde. Em 2019, o parto vaginal voltou a ser o mais comum. As taxas de baixo peso ao nascer (9%) e prematuridade (17%) praticamente não se modificaram. CONCLUSÕES Houve mudança importante no perfil reprodutivo e aumento da cobertura de diversos serviços de assistência pré-natal e parto. As crianças seguem nascendo bem, mas o baixo peso ao nascer e a prematuridade continuam endêmicos.
Gastos públicos com internações hospitalares para tratamento da covid-19 no Brasil em 2020
Authors: Santos Hebert Luan Pereira Campos dos , Maciel Fernanda Beatriz Melo , Junior Geovani Moreno Santos , Martins Poliana Cardoso , Prado Nília Maria de Brito Lima
Published: August 2021

OBJETIVO Descrever os gastos decorrentes das internações para tratamento clínico de usuários diagnosticados com Covid-19 no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) entre fevereiro e dezembro de 2020. MÉTODOS Estudo descritivo, elaborado a partir de dados do Sistema de Informações Hospitalares sobre gastos governamentais com internações hospitalares para tratamento clínico de usuários diagnosticados com Covid-19 e das causas incluídas nos capítulos do CID-10. Obteve-se o número de internações, tempo médio de permanência, taxa de letalidade e os gastos totais considerando serviços hospitalares, serviços profissionais e gasto médio por internação. RESULTADOS No período avaliado, ocorreram 462.149 internações hospitalares no SUS, sendo 4,9% delas para tratamento de usuários com coronavírus. O gasto total foi superior a 2,2 bilhões de reais, sendo 85% destinados a serviços hospitalares e 15% a serviços profissionais. Os gastos para o tratamento da covid-19 se distribuíram de forma distinta entre as regiões do país. A região Sudeste teve o maior número de internações, maior valor total gasto, maior média de permanência em dias e maior taxa de letalidade, enquanto a região Sul registrou maior porcentagem de gastos com hospitais sem fins lucrativos (58%) e hospitais empresariais (15%). CONCLUSÕES As internações para tratamento clínico da infecção pelo coronavírus foram mais onerosas se comparadas às internações para tratamento de insuficiências respiratórias agudas e pneumonias ou influenza. Os resultados demonstraram as disparidades frente aos gastos de internação para procedimentos similares entre as regiões do país, evidenciando a vulnerabilidade e a necessidade de estratégias para diminuir as diferenças no acesso, uso e distribuição de recursos do SUS, garantindo equanimidade, e considerando as injustas desigualdades entre as regiões do país.
An Empirically Grounded System of Supports for Improving the Quality of Mathematics Teaching on a Large Scale
Authors: Cobb Paul , Jackson Kara
Published: August 2021

Research on the teaching and learning of mathematics has made significant progress in recent years. However, this work has had only limited impact on classroom instruction in many countries. We report on an eight-year project in which we partnered with several large urban school districts in the US that were attempting to support mathematics teachers’ development of ambitious, inquiry-oriented instructional practices. These partnerships provided contexts in which we could iteratively test and revise conjectures about instructional improvement strategies intended to support teachers’ and others’ learning. The product of this work is a theory of action for instructional improvement at scale that spans from the classroom to school system instructional leadership. We present project findings as they relate to key elements of the theory including: teachers’ knowledge, perspective and practices; instructional materials and student assessments; participatory supports for teachers’ learning; and additional supports for currently struggling students.
Baskinta and Bqaatouta: Two new early Barremian fossiliferous amber outcrops from Central Lebanon
Authors: MAKSOUD SIBELLE , MAALOUF MOUNIR , MAALOUF RAMY , AZAR DANY
Published: August 2021

Two new fossiliferous amber outcrops in the heights of Baskinta and Bqaatouta (El-Maten and Kesserouan districts, Central Lebanon) are described. These new discoveries constitute respectively the 27th and 28th amber outcrops with biological inclusions in Lebanon, enrich and improve our knowledge about the palaeobiodiversity and palaeoenvironment of the North-Eastern coast of Gondwana during the early Barremian.
Is it time to describe new species without diagnoses?—A comment on Sharkey et al. (2021)
Authors: AHRENS DIRK , AHYONG SHANE T. , BALLERIO ALBERTO , BARCLAY MAXWELL V. L. , EBERLE JONAS , ESPELAND MARIANNE , HUBER BERNHARD A. , MENGUAL XIMO , PACHECO THAYNARA L. , PETERS RALPH S. , RULIK BJÖRN , VAZ-DE-MELLO FERNANDO , WESENER THOMAS , KRELL FRANK-THORSTEN
Published: August 2021

New methods in taxonomy and systematics can influence the overall practice of formally naming and describing biodiversity. DNA barcoding has been controversial since its emergence, but now, large scale species descriptions exclusively based on barcodes have created what can be called a ‘new quality of performance’. Its limitations are discussed from different perspectives: nomenclature, general pragmatism, and problems of DNA-based species delimitation in the light of the central aim of achieving a robust and stable nomenclature of organisms, essential for all applications of biodiversity research. This issue needs to be addressed to prevent restraining the progress of taxonomy and its ability to contribute to modern science.
Description of a remarkable new species of Isoperla (Plecoptera: Perlodidae), with supplements for Isoperla kozlovi Zhiltzova, 1972 from China
Authors: CHEN ZHI-TENG , DU SI-KAI , LI XIN-TONG
Published: August 2021

A remarkable new species of Isoperla Banks, 1906, Isoperla chongxui sp. nov. from Henan Province of China is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by the conspicuous abdominal tergal processes in males. Comparisons are made between the new species and its congeners. New descriptions and illustrations are provided for Isoperla kozlovi Zhiltzova, 1972 from northeastern China. Isoperla fengi Wu & Claassen, 1934 and Isoperla curvispina (Wu, 1938) are considered nomen dubia due to lost types and poor original descriptions.
A preliminary review of Nephelomys albigularis (Tomes, 1860) (Rodentia: Cricetidae), with the description of a new species from the Peruvian montane forests
Authors: RUELAS DENNISSE , PACHECO VÍCTOR , INCHE BETSY , TINOCO NICOLAS
Published: August 2021

Nephelomys albigularis is a sigmodontine rodent of the tribe Oryzomyini distributed in the Andean forests from central Ecuador to central Peru. Although several studies recognize this species as monotypic, significant morphological variation has been reported in Peruvian populations that were not properly assessed by direct comparisons with the type series from central Ecuador. We present a preliminary review of N. albigularis with an integrative approach and emphasis on Peruvian populations. We analyzed specimens using morphological and morphometric methods, complemented with phylogenetic analyses and species delimitation using sequence data from the cytochrome-b gene. Our results reveal that N. albigularis (sensu lato) comprises two taxa: N. albigularis s.s., from the montane forests in central and southern Ecuador and northwestern Peru, and Nephelomys sp. nov. from montane forest east of the Marañón River. These taxa are morphologically distinct and are separated by a genetic distance of 5.90 ± 1.01%. Nephelomys sp. nov. differs from N. albigularis s.s. by longer rump hairs, narrow hypothenar pads, faintly bicolor tail; absent interorbital ridges, low zygomatic plates, smoothly squared posterior margin of the hard palate or with a small median postpalatal process, smoothly edged ventral margin of the external auditory meatus, and slightly angular mandibular sigmoid notches. In this work, we present a diagnosis and description of the new species of Nephelomys and discuss the role of the Marañón River as a potential driver for speciation in the genus Nephelomys.
A new species of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Goa, India
Authors: KHANDEKAR AKSHAY , PARMAR DIKANSH S. , SAWANT NITIN , AGARWAL ISHAN
Published: August 2021

We describe a distinct new species of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus based on three specimens collected from semi-urban areas in Goa state of India. The new species can be easily distinguished from all peninsular Indian congeners by its small body size (SVL up to 32.4 mm), having 16–18 dorsal scales and 13 or 14 ventral scales at mid-body contained within one longitudinal eye diameter, nine or ten precloacal pores separated by 1–5 poreless scales from a series of 10–12 femoral pores on each thigh in males, lamellar formula of manus 2222 and of pes 2323 & 2333, as well as subtle colour pattern differences. Mitochondrial sequence divergence confirms the distinctiveness of the new species, which is not closely allied to either the South Indian or Eastern Ghats clades of Indian Hemiphyllodactylus and appears to be a member of a third Indian Hemiphyllodactylus clade. Hemiphyllodactylus goaensis sp. nov. is the first member of the genus to be described from the northern Western Ghats region as well as Goa state, and also only the second Indian Hemiphyllodactylus known from < 100 m asl. Hemiphyllodactylus goaensis sp. nov. extends the known distribution of the genus in western India ~ 560 km north in aerial distance and highlights that the genus is more widely distributed than previously thought and most likely contains numerous undescribed species. We also provide final museum numbers for type specimens of H. arakuensis and the holotype of H. kolliensis.
A new fossil species of the genus Parasinalda Heiss & Golub (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from Upper Eocene Rovno amber
Authors: GOLUB VIKTOR B. , PERKOVSKY EVGENY E. , VASILENKO DMITRY V.
Published: August 2021

Parasinalda sukachevae sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae: Tinginae: Phatnomini) is described based on one specimen from Eocene amber of the Rovno region (Ukraine). Similarities and differences to closely related species Parasinalda baltica (Drake, 1950), P. froeschneri (Golub & Popov, 1998), and P. groehni Heiss & Golub, 2013 are discussed, and a key to the four known species of the genus is provided.
Convolutional Neural Network Based Brain Tumor Classification Using Robust Background Saliency Detection
Authors: Uthra Devi K. , Gomathi R.
Published: August 2021

To perceive the tumors found in brain and their treatment, experts manually note and identify different Regions of Interest (ROI). To overcome the faults and divergences during this state, automated analysis is performed. A unique technique is used to classify the tumor section of the
brain from an MRI is proposed using saliency-focused image depiction and optimization in classification based on CNN. Primarily, the MRI images are pre-processed using the Canny Edge Finding algorithm and then those images are represented as saliency driven based on Robust Background Saliency
Detection (RBD). Followed by the abstraction of features then classifying the image is performed using CNN along with ADAM optimization. The implementation is accomplished, and the results are analyzed, showing that it outperforms previous techniques.
Effect of radiation on mechanical properties and molecular structure of rubbers for nuclear robots
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Sam Ge Shuzhi , Mo Kun , Liu Biao
Published: August 2021

As polymers, rubber materials are easily affected by radiation; therefore, their radiation resistance must be considered for their use in robots and automation equipment in high-radiation environments. In this study, the properties of several common rubber materials, ethylene propylene
diene monomer (EPDM), nitrile rubber (NBR), hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR), fluororubber (FKM), and acrylate rubber (ACM), were investigated under high-dose gamma-ray irradiation. The dose rate of gamma rays was 66.76 Gy/min, and the cumulative dose was 1214965.24 Gy. Oxidative decomposition
of the double bond of EPDM occurred, leading to slight decreases in the strength and elongation. NBR and HNBR were mainly subjected to crosslinking of the molecular structure, resulting in small increases in strength and significant decreases in elongation. The cyano decomposition reaction
occurred in ACM, and its crystallinity increased, leading to embrittlement and decreases in the strength and elongation. Oxidative decomposition and cross-linking simultaneously occurred in FKM, resulting in an increase in strength and decreases in elongation and the elastic modulus.
Structure and properties of nanocarbons-encapsulated WC synthesized by solution plasma process in palm oils
Authors: Islam Zahidul , Watthanaphanit Anyarat , Chae Sangwoo , Niitsu Kiichi , Saito Nagahiro
Published: August 2021

Palm oil is produced in the ASEAN region. The overhang of stocks, propellant fouling in the production process and used oils existed there. It is a crucial issue to make efficient use of such palm oils. Solution plasma process (SPP) is one step non-thermal plasma in the liquid phase.
Our laboratory has already synthesized the nanocarbons materials, graphene, hetero-graphene from organic molecules by SP. Organic ones engineer these material sources. When the functionalized nanocarbon can be synthesized from natural products and their dust, the functionalized carbon materials
are supplied by the green process and low price. We had already synthesized nanocarbons by SP from the palm oils. The nanocarbons were covered enhanced electrical conductivity of nanocarbons, which is referred to the nanocarbons-encapsulated WC (tungsten carbides). In this study, we aimed
to evaluate the structure and the properties of nanocarbons-encapsulated WC to provide the nanocarbons-encapsulated. The solution plasma was generated by the bipolar pulsed power supply through two tungsten electrodes using 2 μs pulse widths and frequencies (100, 150, and 180 kHz)
for 30 min. We found that the observed plasma types depended on the discharge conditions. Conversion percentage of the oil to WC-encapsulated nanocarbon (% yield) was increased with frequency. The obtained X-ray diffraction patterns are showed the crystalline structure. The morphology of nanocarbon
capsules WC are spherical shapes and less than 10 nm size. The electrochemical properties indicate that the ORR activity in an acidic medium under saturated O2 significantly disappears in the case of the nanocarbon-encapsulated WC synthesised in the high frequency (180 kHz). The
synthesized nanocarbons-encapsulated WC might be applied in data storage and energy applications.
Applied to anti-counterfeiting and flexible composite utilizing photoluminescence properties of CdSe/ZnS nanocrystal quantum dots via hot-injection
Authors: Yong Jung Jae , Soo Yi Soung
Published: August 2021

Quantum dots with excellent luminescence properties are being studied in a wide range of fields, such as displays, sunlight, and bio-imaging; although quantum dots are the same material, unlike bulk materials, as their size decreases their optical and electrical properties change due
to the quantum confinement effect. In this study, CdSe quantum dots were synthesized by a well-known hot-injection method and a ZnS shell layer was formed on the surface of the CdSe quantum dot core to enhance the properties, thereby synthesizing the CdSe/ZnS core/shell structure. At this
time, the quantum yield increased more than twice, and the emission line width decreased. When anti-counterfeiting ink was made using quantum dots with enhanced luminescence characteristics and applied to a bank note, it was impossible to check with the naked eye, but letters and emblems could
be confirmed under UV light. In addition, a composite made by mixing with a silicon-based polymer showed excellent flexibility; and, when applied on a blue LED chip, a single wavelength and bright light peculiar to quantum dots were realized.
Volvulus of the Transverse Colon
Authors: Huerta Sergio , Pickett Maryanne L. , Mottershaw Ann M. , Gupta Pramod , Pham Thai
Published: August 2021

Background

In the United States, the third leading cause of a large bowel obstruction (LBO) is colonic volvulus with torsion occurring most commonly in the sigmoid and the cecum. Transverse colonic volvulus (TCV) is exceedingly rare and specific involvement of the splenic flexure (SFV) is even less common. The present analysis was undertaken to interrogate current trends in presentation, management, and outcomes of TCV.

Methods

In the present report, the world literature was reviewed for the past 90 years (1932 to 2021). We conducted a systematic review to identify all cases of TCV following the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

We identified 317 cases of TCV. This included SFV (n = 75), TCV in pediatric patients (n = 63), TCV in pregnant patients (n = 8), and TCV associated with other pathology such as Chilaiditi’s syndrome (n = 11). Compared to sigmoid and cecal volvulus, TCV was rare (.94%). It affected slightly more women (54%) than men, commonly in their third decade of life (37.7 ± 23.8). The clinical presentation and diagnostic imaging were consistent with LBO. Compared to sigmoid volvulus, there was a limited role for conservative management and colonoscopic decompression was less effective. The most common operation was segmental resection (25%). Mortality was (20%) commonly because of cardiopulmonary complications and affected more women (63%). The average age of this cohort was 55.7±24.6 years old.

Discussion

Our review showed that TCV is an uncommon surgical entity. The diagnosis is likely to be made at laparotomy. Prompt recognition is paramount in preventing ischemia necrosis and perforation. Compared to sigmoid and cecal volvulus, the mortality for TCV remains high.
Biomarkers for the early prediction of contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Jing , Chen Jialong , Wu Dansen , Li Xiuhua , Guo Xiaolan , Shi Songjing , Lin Kaiyang
Published: August 2021

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a complication of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Promising biomarkers for the early prediction of CIN can significantly improve outcomes of these patients. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies. Trials reporting an area under the curve (AUC) for the utility of novel biomarkers in the early prediction of CIN in adults after PCI were included. In total, 42 studies comprising 11,984 adult patients undergoing PCI met the criteria. Four urinary biomarkers and four blood biomarkers were included. For urine biomarkers, the pooled AUCs for neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), interleukin-18 (IL-18), liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP), and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) were 0.91 (95% CI 0.89–0.94), 0.79 (0.75–0.82), 0.78 (0.74–0.82), and 0.79 (0.76–0.83), respectively. The blood biomarkers NGAL, cystatin C, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-reactive protein (CRP) had pooled AUCs of 0.93 (0.91–0.95), 0.92 (0.89–0.94), 0.78 (0.74–0.81), and 0.75 (0.71–0.79), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that blood NGAL in early CIN predictive time (<6 h) was more effective in predicting CIN. The efficiency of cystatin C in predicting CIN was reduced, whereas that of L-FABP was increased among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.
Lithium heparin interference in the Abbott enzymatic creatinine assay: the significance of under-filled tubes
Authors: Squires Maria , Wise Helen , Holmes Heather , Hadfield Katie
Published: August 2021

Background

Spuriously high results using the Abbott Architect enzymatic creatinine assay were noted to be particularly associated with very small sample volumes. This led us to query the effect of under-filling lithium heparin tubes on the measured enzymatic creatinine result.

Methods

Blood was provided by 5 laboratory personnel and then decanted into 5 x1.2 mL Sarstedt S-Monovette tubes, giving final blood volumes of 200, 400, 600, 800 and 1200  μL. Plasma was analysed using Abbott Architect Jaffe, enzymatic creatinine, Beckman Coulter (AU500) enzymatic creatinine and Roche (Cobas c702) enzymatic creatinine assays. Saline was also added to Sarstedt 1.2 mL and Teklab 2 mL tubes and analysed using the Abbott Jaffe and enzymatic creatinine methods.

Results

Increasing degrees of under-fill were associated with greater over-estimation of creatinine using the Abbott enzymatic assay, but no difference was noted using Jaffe methodology on the same platform or enzymatic assays provided by Roche or Beckman. On average, creatinine was 40.6% (+27.7  μmol/L) higher when only 200  μL of blood was present in the tube. Small volumes of saline added to lithium heparin tubes measured significant creatinine concentrations using the Abbott enzymatic method.

Conclusions

Lithium heparin directly interferes in the Abbott Architect enzymatic creatinine assay. Under-filling lithium heparin tubes can lead to clinically significant over-estimation of creatinine results by this assay. Users of this assay should be aware of the potential for spurious results in small sample volumes collected into lithium heparin tubes and implement robust procedures for identifying and reporting results on these samples.
Maximizing the Benefits of Participatory Design for Human–Robot Interaction Research With Older Adults
Authors: Rogers Wendy A. , Kadylak Travis , Bayles Megan A.
Published: August 2021

Objective

We reviewed human–robot interaction (HRI) participatory design (PD) research with older adults. The goal was to identify methods used, determine their value for design of robots with older adults, and provide guidance for best practices.

Background

Assistive robots may promote aging-in-place and quality of life for older adults. However, the robots must be designed to meet older adults’ specific needs and preferences. PD and other user-centered methods may be used to engage older adults in the robot development process to accommodate their needs and preferences and to assure usability of emergent assistive robots.

Method

This targeted review of HRI PD studies with older adults draws on a detailed review of 26 articles. Our assessment focused on the HRI methods and their utility for use with older adults who have a range of needs and capabilities.

Results

Our review highlighted the importance of using mixed methods and including multiple stakeholders throughout the design process. These approaches can encourage mutual learning (to improve design by developers and to increase acceptance by users). We identified key phases used in HRI PD workshops (e.g., initial interview phase, series of focus groups phase, and presentation phase). These approaches can provide inspiration for future efforts.

Conclusion

HRI PD strategies can support designers in developing assistive robots that meet older adults’ needs, capabilities, and preferences to promote acceptance. More HRI research is needed to understand potential implications for aging-in-place. PD methods provide a promising approach.