bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abordagem icnológica como ferramenta didática para avaliação ecológica
Authors: Souto Paulo Roberto Figueiredo , Silva David Neemias Netinins Almeida da , Neves Elivelton de Jesus
Published: January 2021

A relevância das práticas de laboratório no desenvolvimento de atitudes e competências científicas nas escolas levou à implementação de diferentes estratégias e ao desenvolvimento de novas abordagens didáticas. Experimentos icnológicos possibilitam analisar conjuntos diversificados de dados científicos inter-relacionados, tais como: estrutura morfológica do organismo, padrões de movimento, qualidade das vias produzidas e composição do substrato. A análise das impressões produzidas permite identificar de que maneira diferentes condições ambientais, como umidade e a compactação do solo, podem afetar a preservação e estrutura dos traços deixados por diferentes organismos no ambiente. A proposta busca incrementar a atividade prática pela realização de experimento que utiliza quatro artrópodes diferentes, com diferentes formas corporais no estágio adulto – centopéia (Scolopendra subspinipes), besouro (Hylobius abietis), aranha (Lycosa sp.) e lacraia (Jullus sp.), bem como evidenciar a relação entre aspectos biológicos e ambientais, possibilitando estimular o ensino-aprendizagem, enfatizando a relevância do solo na estruturação da biosfera.
Geociências e cenários futuros:
Authors: Lisboa Natália Santo , Santos Vânia Maria Nunes dos
Published: January 2021

Compreender as transformações espaciais e temporais no ambiente representa um desafio para o ensino de Geociências, especialmente, na Educação Básica. Este artigo apresenta processos e produtos resultantes de um estudo sobre a contribuição do uso de cenários futuros e, em particular, as distopias, como estratégia didático-pedagógica. Tendo por base o presente e as transformações futuras, foram realizadas atividades, a partir de metodologias participativas, para a análise crítica e reflexiva das mudanças socioambientais no entorno escolar. O estudo foi desenvolvido com duas turmas de terceiro ano do ensino médio em uma escola técnica estadual no município de São Paulo/SP. Considerando os pressupostos teóricos e metodológicos da Pedagogia Histórico-Crítica e associados à Pesquisa-Ensino os resultados indicaram que o uso de cenários é uma ferramenta profícua para analisar e transformar atitudes dos jovens cidadãos com relação às realidades socioambientais presentes e futuras.
Perspectivas atuais sobre tecidos moles não mineralizados em fósseis de dinossauros não avianos
Authors: Alves Everton Fernando , Machado Marcio Fraiberg
Published: January 2021

Dados a respeito da frequência de achados de tecidos moles não mineralizados ainda são escassos e os que já foram sistematizados estão dispersos na literatura, associando a ideia das descobertas a fenômenos isolados. Este artigo apresenta uma revisão da literatura, publicada nos últimos 50 anos, com o objetivo de compreender a frequência de tecidos moles não mineralizados em fósseis de dinossauros não avianos e os atuais limites temporais de sobrevivência esperada dessas biomoléculas. Os resultados identificaram 52 artigos que descrevem material orgânico preservado em fósseis de dinossauros não avianos, considerados geológica, geográfica e taxonomicamente abrangentes nas rochas mesozoicas. Ainda assim, acredita-se que a frequência é subnotificada devido à atual resistência em aceitar as descobertas como sendo de remanescentes orgânicos e à falta de recursos para esse tipo de detecção. A partir do desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias, pode-se prever que tais achados provavelmente serão a norma e não a exceção.
Percepção de estudantes de Engenharia Ambiental sobre a contribuição das atividades extraclasse em sua formação acadêmico-profissional
Authors: Zago Juliane Pereira , Borges Rocha Marcelo , Costa Pedro Miguel Marques da
Published: January 2021

As atividades extraclasse são importantes para agregar novas experiências, conhecimentos e oportunidades. Assim, o presente estudo analisou a percepção de estudantes de Engenharia Ambiental sobre as contribuições destas atividades em sua formação acadêmico-profissional. Foi aplicado um questionário a 100 estudantes, contendo perguntas abertas e fechadas, neste caso utilizou-se a Escala Likert de cinco pontos. A maioria dos alunos é do gênero masculino, possui de 17 a 22 anos e concorda plenamente com o fato de que as atividades extraclasse são importantes por ampliar as opções para a atuação profissional. Os estudantes que já haviam participado de palestras, saídas de campo e workshops, por exemplo, destacaram a relevância das atividades para sua formação. Os resultados do estudo sinalizam a necessidade de se aprofundar a discussão sobre a importância das atividades extraclasse, tendo em vista sua contribuição para a formação acadêmica e profissional dos estudantes.
Produção e aplicação de um jogo digital como ferramenta pedagógica para o ensino de Geologia
Authors: França Luciana Freitas de Oliveira , Alcântara Werica Karen de Souza , Silva Anderson David Almeida da , Lima Karollaine Fernandes de
Published: January 2021

Esta pesquisa descreve a experiência vivenciada por monitores da disciplina Geologia Geral com 23 alunos do primeiro período do curso de Geografia da Universidade de Pernambuco, campus Petrolina. O trabalho objetivou desenvolver e aplicar um jogo digital que contemplasse todo o conteúdo da disciplina, com a finalidade de facilitar o processo de ensino e aprendizagem dos discentes. O método de investigação desenvolvido foi descritivo explicativo, de caráter quantitativo e qualitativo. Um Quiz geológico foi produzido a partir de plataforma gratuita, de baixa complexidade, permitindo maior motivação dos alunos no processo de aprendizagem. O ambiente lúdico e divertido possibilitou abordar conteúdos complexos e abstratos da Geologia. No entanto, apesar de ser considerada uma ferramenta positiva e desafiadora para uso em sala de aula, o recurso ainda é pouco utilizado por professores de diversas áreas do conhecimento.
Treatment of patients with acute respiratory insufficiency due to COVID-19: invasive and non-invasive mechanical conditions
Authors: Nobre Kayo Matos Félix , Da Silva Flávia Neves , Pereyra Beatriz Benny Sungaila
Published: January 2021

O COVID-19 é uma doença infecciosa com uma condição multisistêmica, podendo ocorrer mudanças de acordo com as premissas já existentes nos indivíduos, ocasionando mudanças no sistema imunológico e respiratório, no estado mais grave pode ocorrer o aparecimento da insuficiência respiratória, que ocorre devido a falha na oxigenação adequada no indivíduo, podendo ser classificada do tipo I, II, III e IV. O estudo consiste em uma revisão integrativa da literatura realizada entre os meses de setembro a dezembro de 2020. A pesquisa foi nas bases de dados PubMed, MEDLINE e BVS, com a utilização dos descritores: Respiration, Artificial, Respiratory Insufficiency, Coronavirus Infections, que foram selecionados 6 artigos do ano de 2020 em ambos os periódicos. Como resultados, foram obtidos que a ventilação mecânica invasiva e não invasiva, juntamente com a cânula nasal de alto fluxo e a oxigenoterapia tem eficácia em pacientes com a insuficiência respiratória, mas os métodos não invasivos são grandes geradores de aerossóis, que proporciona um nível elevado de contagio na unidade de terapia, mas se aplicado deve-se realizar todos os cuidados, já na ventilação invasiva tem uma geração de aerossóis no momento da intubação orotraqueal, assim como o método anterior, a invasiva também existe precauções que pode ser tomadas. Portanto pode-se destacar que a pesquisa tem uma grande relevância, visto que proporciona contribuições significativas diante dos métodos ventilatórios para estes tipos de pacientes, mas, é preciso mais estudos diante da ventilação mecânica perante os modos e métodos utilizados.
Persamaan Gelombang Gravitasi untuk Teori Proca yang Digeneralisasi
Authors: Marliana Marliana , Widiyani Agustina , Sutiono Azwar , Suroso Agus , Zen Freddy P.
Published: January 2021

Abstract: The direct detection of gravitational waves from binary black holes and neutron stars have been taking a new oportunities to test teori of gravity.The gravitational wave is affected by the modification of a gravity theory during propagation at cosmological distances. By comparing general equation of gravtiational wave and modification of gravity theory, is obtained equation of gravitational wave for the generalized Proca theories. As a result, we find equation of gravitational wave for the generalized Proca theory. We conclude that the massive vector field affected propagation of gravitational wave.  we can use the result to test the generalized Proca theory.    

Abstrak: Dengan terdeteksinya gelombang gravitasi secara langsung dari biner lubang hitam dan bintang neutron menjadi kesempatan untuk dapat menguji teori gravitasi yang sedang dikembangkan.Gelombang gravitasi secara umum dipengaruhi oleh modifikasi teori gravitasi selama penjalarannya pada jarak kosmologi. Dengan membandingkan persamaan gelombang gravitasi dengan teori modifikasi yang dikembangkan, diperoleh persamaan umum gelombang gravitasi dari teori gravitasi yang dikembangkan. Pada artikel ini diperoleh persamaan gelombang gravitasi untuk teori Proca yang digeneralisasi. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa fungsi yang mengandung vektor medan masif dapat mempengaruhi gelombang gravitasi. Persamaan ini dapat digunakan untuk menguji teori Proca yang digeneralisasi.
Pemetaan Laju Dosis Radiasi-γ pada Pesawat Teleterapi 60Co
Authors: Choiriyah S , Sabrina N , Riyatun Riyatun , Suharyana Suharyana , Muhtarom Muhtarom , Arrozaqi M I M
Published: January 2021

Abstact: Radiotherapy 60Co is a method of therapy cancer by radiation γ.  Teletherapy 60Co at RSUD Dr. Moewardi, the collimator opening area can be adjusted to (10 x 10) cm and the distance between source and surface target (SSD) is 80 cm. γ- radiation emitted by the 60Co source will spread from the collimator to the target in a cone shape so that information about the dose rate receive by patient is needed to support the accuracy of the dose in radiotherapy. To support cancer radiotherapy at a certain depth, information is needed about the dose rate at various phantom depth, the average dose rate and the quality of the dose rate distribution. By using an ionization chamber detector placed at various phantom depth and positions, information can be recorded. PDD (percentage depth dose) of radiation with energy 1,3 MeV, the largest value is at a depth of 6,5 cm, at this depth the measured umbra area is (7,8 x 7,8)cm with an average dose rate of 0,6034 Gy/menit. As the depth of measuring instrument increases, the dose rate measured will decrease exponentially, while the umbra are at the phantom depth is relatively constant.

Abstrak: Radioterapi 60co merupakan salah satu metode pengobatan kanker dengan cara menembakkan radiasi γ pada sel kanker. Pesawat teleterapi 60Co di RSUD Dr. Moewardi, luas bukaan kolimator dapat diatur menjadi (10 x 10) cm dan jarak sumber dengan permukaan target (SSD) adalah 80 cm. Radiasi- γ yang dipancarkan oleh sumber 60Co akan menyebar dari kolimator ke target dengan berbentuk konus sehingga informasi tentang laju dosis yang diterima pasien sangat diperlukan untuk mendukung ketepatan dosis dalam radioterapi. Untuk mendukung radioterapi kanker pada kedalaman tertentu, diperlukan informasi tentang laju dosis pada variasi kedalaman phantom, laju dosis rata-rata dan kualitas sebaran laju dosis. Dengan menggunakan detektor ionization chamber yang diletakkan pada berbagai kedalaman dan posisi phantom, informasi dapat direkam. PDD (percentage depth dose) dari radiasi-γ berenergi 1,3 MeV terbesar nilainya  pada kedalaman 6,5 cm, pada kedalaman ini luas umbra yang terukur yaitu (7,8 x 7,8) cm dengan laju dosis rata-rata 0,6034 Gy/menit. Dengan bertambahnya posisi kedalaman letak alat ukur, laju dosis yang terukur akan menurun secara eksponensial, sedangkan luas umbra pada kedalaman fantom relatif tetap. 
Assessment of workforce systems preferences/skills based on employment domain
Authors: Jaradat Raed , Stirgus Erin , Goerger Simon , Buchanan Randy , Hossain Niamat Ullah Ibne , Ma Junfeng , Burch Reuben
Published: January 2021

Given the growing demand for a workforce with an understanding of system of systems, there is a need to assess an individual’s systems thinking skills. This research was undertaken to address this need by measuring an individual’s inclination to work on complex system problems based on their systems thinking score. This article investigates the correlation between employment domains and an individual’s systems thinking preferences/skills. Results of this research show that each employment domain is significantly different in their systems thinking preferences/skills profiles as well as significantly different in how the employment domains perceive change and their system’s worldview.
ANALISIS DAMPAK PENGGUNAAN PUPUK NPK LODRIN TERHADAP PRODUKSI DAN EFISIENSI USAHATANI KAKAO
Authors: Sumarno Jaka , Anasiru Rahmat Hanif
Published: January 2021

Cocoa has been developed in various regions in Indonesia. In developing cocoa farming, farmers still face the problem of low productivity, efficiency and quality of seeds. This is partly due to not using the right fertilizer. This study aims to analyze the effect of NPK Lodrin fertilizer use on the efficiency and income of cocoa farming in Gorontalo. The study was conducted in several Gorontalo cocoa production centers, namely in Gorontalo District and Pohuwato District in 2016. Data collection was conducted by survey method with questionnaires or structured questionnaires for 59 cocoa farmers. Respondents were farmers who used Lodrin NPK fertilizer and farmers who did not use Lodrin NPK fertilizer. The selection of respondents was carried out by stratified random sampling technique. The farming efficiency analysis method uses the Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier production function model. Financial farming analysis was carried out to determine the level of cocoa farming income with the use of Lodrin NPK fertilizer. The results showed that the use of Lodrin NPK fertilizer significantly affected the increase in production, efficiency and income of cocoa farming in Gorontalo. The average level of farm efficiency both technical, allocative and economic efficiency of cocoa farmers using Lodrin NPK fertilizer is higher when compared to farmers who do not use Lodrin NPK fertilizer. The factors that influence the inefficiency of cocoa farming are farmer education and institutional factors, namely the frequency of counseling, participation in farmer groups, access to credit and technology assistance. The use of Lodrin NPK fertilizer increases the income of cocoa farming, as evidenced by the value of the R / C ratio and the value of return for higher production factors of farmers who use Lodrin NPK fertilizer.
Evaluation of The Tumor Volume From Surgical Specimens After Radical Prostatectomy and Its Clinical Impact on The Prognosis of Patients With Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Yuk Hyeong Dong , Byun Seok-Soo , Hong Sung Kyu , Lee Hakmin
Published: January 2021

We evaluated the contribution of tumor volume (TV) to localized prostate cancer (PCa) patients’ prognosis. We retrospectively analyzed the data of 2,394 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) for localized PCa. The effect of TV volume on prostate cancer patients' prognosis was analyzed through Kaplan-Meier and Cox-proportional analysis. The mean prostate volume for all patients was 36.5 ± 15.4 cc, and the mean TV was 5.9 ± 8.3 cc. A significant positive relationship was observed between the classification by risk group in D’ Amico risk classification and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk group. (P < 0.001). The high TV showed significantly worse pathologic outcomes than the low TV in terms of high rates of extra-capsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion, and positive surgical margin (P < 0.05). The patients with high TV had significantly shorter biochemical recurrence-free survivals than those with low TV (P < 0.001). Finally, based on multivariate Cox-proportional analyses, TV was revealed to be an independent predictor of postoperative biochemical recurrence as both categorical (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–1.78, P = 0.003] and continuous variables (HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.04–1.05, P < 0.001). TV was revealed to be an independent prognostic factor in the postoperative biochemical recurrence. Patients with a high number of positive core and longer tumor length were significantly related to higher TV.
Consensus Analysis for the Panel Responses and the Psychometrics Properties in Script Concordance Testing
Authors: Ganesan Sivaraman , Bhandary Shital , Thulasingam Mahalakshmy , Chacko Thomas , Rajan Zayapragassa , Ravichandran Surya , Raja Kalaiarasi , Ramasamy Karthikeyan , Alexander Arun , Saxena Sunil Kumar
Published: January 2021

Background: Clinical reasoning is an essential attribute in the teaching, learning, and assessment part of medical education for undergraduates. In using the Script Concordance Test (SCT) to foster clinical reasoning, expert panel members’ responses are initially created. There is no agreement in optimizing the panel members’ responses. Our study aimed to develop and validate an SCT and test the utility of the consensus index and panel response pattern. Methods: The methodology was an evolving pattern of constructing SCTs, administering them to the panel members, optimizing the panel with response pattern and consensus index. The SCT’s final items were chosen to be administered to the students. Item-total correlation and Cronbach’s alpha were calculated from the students’ scores. Results: Our study developed an SCT with 98 items and was administered to 20-panel members. The mean score of the panel members for these 98 items was 79.5 (+/- 4.4 SD). On optimizing with the panel responses, 14 items had a uniform response pattern, and 2 had bimodal response patterns. The consensus index calculated for the 98 item SCT ranged from 25.81 to 100. When the 16 items of bimodal and uniform response pattern were eliminated, the consensus index ranged from 58.65 to 100. We administered this 82 items SCT to 30 undergraduate and ten postgraduate students. The mean score of undergraduate students was 61.1 (+/-7.5 SD), and that of postgraduate students was 67.7 (+/- 6.3 SD), which was statistically significant using an independent t-test. Cronbach’s alpha for this 82 item SCT was 0.74. On analysing the item-total correlation, 22 items had a correlation of less than 0.05. Excluding these 22 poor items, the final SCT instrument of 60 items had a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.82. Conclusion: The consensus index can also be used to optimize the items for panel responses in SCT. Our study revealed that a consensus index of above 60 had a good item-total correlation with good internal consistency. Our study also revealed that the panel response clustering pattern could also be used to categorize the items though bimodal and uniform distribution patterns need further differentiation.
Is Unilateral Transverse Process-Pedicle Percutaneous Kyphoplasty A Better Choice for Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Fractures in the Old Patients
Authors: Wu Tao , Qin Hu , Nicolas Yap , Xu Nuo , Huang Daoyu , Jin Zhen , Sun Jinpeng , Liu Jun
Published: January 2021

Background: A few reports have shown that unilateral transverse process-pedicle percutaneous kyphoplasty is a good choice for patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). However, this issue remains controversial and the related comprehensive research was lacked.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients receiving PKP surgery for OVCF. Patients were divided into three groups according to surgical approach. Symptom and radiographical evaluation were performed preoperatively, one-month postoperatively, one-year postoperatively and follow-ups. And follow-ups were repeated every year. Visual Analogue Scale Score (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, anterior vertebral height, coronal Cobb angle and sagittal Cobb angle was determined and compared among three groups.Results: Totally four hundred and forty-seven patients were included with an average age of 76.6±7.2 years old. UTP showed significantly shorter surgical duration (p<0.001), lower cement volume (p<0.001) but higher cement leakage proportion (p=0.044). No significant statistical difference was found in terms of improvement rates among three groups. Besides, it was notable that the a significantly higher coronal Cobb angle was observed in UTP group, and a about 4°coronal correction was found after UTP PKP.Conclusion: UTTP PKP could achieve similar symptoms relief and kyphosis correction as UTP and BTP PKP. However, it had shorter surgical time and less radio exposure than BTP PKP, lower risk of cement leakage and higher proportion of bilaterally cement distribution than UTP PKP. It seemed to be a better choice for patients with OVCF. In addition, we found that UTP PKP was especially fit for OVCF patients with asymmetrical vertebral compression.
Vitexin as a Potential Inhibitor for the Activation of Microglial Cells: Insights from Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics
Authors: YAHAYA MUHAMAD AFIQ FAISAL , BAKAR AMIRUL RIDZUAN ABU , STANSLAS JOHNSON , NORDIN NORSHARIZA , ZAINOL MURIZAL , MEHAT MUHAMMAD ZULFADLI
Published: January 2021

Background: Overly-activated microglia are known to be the culprit in chronic neuroinflammation in the presence of excessive lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Hence, abundance of pro-inflammatory cytokines are produced which later cause toxic and death to neurons. Tolllike receptor 4 (TLR4)/MD-2 complex found on the cell surface of microglia is responsible for the attachment of LPS and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) downstream signalling pathway. Albeit vitexin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory property, however, little is known on its ability to bind at the TLR4/MD-2 complex of microglia as well as to be an antagonist for LPS. Results: The molecular docking result shows that both vitexin and donepezil are able to bind at the close proximity of LPS binding site located at the TLR4/MD-2 complex with the binding energy of -4.35 and -9.14 kcal/mol, respectively. During molecular dynamic simulations, both vitexin and donepezil formed stable complex with TLR4/MD-2 throughout the 20 ns time length with the RMSD values of 1.9Å and 2.0Å, respectively. As for the RMSF, both compounds have the RMSF values of <1.2Å. Conclusions: Taken together, our results suggest that vitexin can be a potential antineuroinflammatory drug candidate by acting as an antagonist for LPS at the TLR4/MD-2 complex.
Identification of 4-Genes Model in Papillary Renal Cell Tumor Microenvironment Based on Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Luo Liang , Zhou Haiyi , Su Hao
Published: January 2021

Background: The tumor microenvironment acts a pivotal part in the occurrence and development of tumor. However, there are few studies on the microenvironment of papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC). Our study aims to explore prognostic genes related to tumor microenvironment in PRCC. Methods: PRCC expression profiles and clinical data were extracted from The Cancer Gene Atlas (TCGA) database. Immune/stromal scores were performed utilizing the ESTIMATE algorithm. 323 samples were split into two groups on the basis of median immune/stromal score, and comparison of gene expression were conducted. Cross genes were obtained by Venn diagrams. Hub genes were selected through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and relevant functional analysis was conducted by DAVID. We used Kaplan–Meier analysis to identify the correlations between genes and overall survival (OS). Finally, univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis were employed to construct survival model and predict prognosis. Results: We found immune/stromal score was correlated with T pathological grade and PRCC subtypes. 989 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 1169 DEGs were identified respectively on the basis of immune and stromal score. Venn diagrams indicated that 763 co-upregulated genes and 4 co-downregulated genes were identified. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that 120 genes were involved in tumor prognosis. Then PPI network analysis identified 22 hub genes, and four of which were significantly related to OS in patients with PRCC confirmed by cox regression analysis. Conclusions: Four tumor microenvironment-related genes (CD79A, CXCL13, IL6 and CCL19) were identified as biomarkers for PRCC prognosis.
The Place of 3D Printing Preoperative Planning in Upper Thoracic Fractures
Authors: Kaya Ismail , Cingoz Ilker , Sahin Meryem , Bozoglan Emirhan , Sayin Murat , Yuceer Nurullah
Published: January 2021

Background: This study aims to compare the clinical results of patients with upper thoracic vertebral fractures treated with pedicle screw and posterior spinal fusion with preoperative surgical planning and 3-dimensional (3D) modeling and patients treated with freehand screws.Methods: Thirty patients who underwent pedicle screw placement with a diagnosis of upper thoracic fracture between June 2018 and October 2020 were included in our study. Pedicle screws were used in 15 patients (group 1) after the planning was completed with the help of 3D preoperative printing and modeling. Pedicle screws were applied in 15 patients in the control group (group 2) using the freehand technique. Intraoperative bleeding amount, pedicle screw insertion time, and correct screw placement data in both groups were recorded. The time of insertion of each pedicle screw was recorded.Results: The operation time was 134 ± 22 minutes for group 1 and 152 ± 38 minutes for group 2. The difference in operation times was found to be statistically significant (p <0.05). Based on axial and sagittal reconstruction images, the accuracy rate of pedicle screw placement (grade 0 and 1) in group I was 96.5% compared to 84.2% in group II. Analyzing axial reconstruction images alone, the overall perforation rate was 10.3% in group I compared to 26.3% in group II. The minor perforation rate (Grade 1, <2 mm) was 7.0% in group I compared to 12.2% in group II. The moderate perforation rate (grade 2, 2-4 mm) was 3.4% in group I compared to 14% in group II. The severe perforation rate (grade 3, > 4 mm) was 1.7% in group II. The difference in overall accuracy rates between the two groups was significant (p<0.05).Conclusions: For 3D models of upper thoracic pedicle screw insertion, guide plates can be produced inexpensively and individually. It provides a new method for the accurate placement of upper thoracic pedicle screws with high accuracy and secure use in screw insertion.
Neuregulin-1 Promotes Myocardial Angiogenesis in Acute Myocardial Infarction Through Regulating PI3K-AKT-eNOS and VEGF/VEGFR2 Signal Pathways
Authors: Ma Xiao , Wu Chengqiang , Li Lang , Zeng Zhiyu , Gui Chun
Published: January 2021

Background: Myocardial angiogenesis is central to the recovery of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) plays a critical role in cardiac function, although its role in myocardial angiogenesis is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of NRG-1 in myocardial angiogenesis in a rat model of AMI, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: AMI was induced by a single ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery, followed by intravenous injection of recombinant human NRG-1 or normal saline for 8 consecutive days. The cardiac function indices were measured using the catheter MPA cardiac function analysis system. Histo-pathological changes were observed by HE. Microvessel density (MVD) was measured by CD31 and α-SMA immunostaining. The expression levels of other proteins were assessed by Western blotting. Results: NRG-1 improved cardiac function and alleviated myocardial damage induced by AMI. Compared to the sham-operated group, the capillary density and arteriole density increased after AMI (P<0.05), and were augmented by NRG-1 which also significantly increased the left ventricular function (P<0.05). Furthermore, Compared with sham group, PI3K-AKT-eNOS signaling was decreased significantly (P<0.05) whereas VEGF/ VEGFR2 signaling was significantly increased（P<0.05）in AMI group and both of therm were further upregulated by NRG-1 (P > 0.05).Conclusion: NRG-1 improved cardiac function and promoted myocardial angiogenesis post AMI by up-regulating VEGF and activating the PI3K-Akt-eNOS pathway.
The Myth of Diagnosis as Classification: Examining the Effect of Explanation on Patient Satisfaction and Trust in AI Diagnostic Systems
Authors: Alam Lamia , Mueller Shane
Published: January 2021

Background: Artificial Intelligence has the potential to revolutionize healthcare, and it is increasingly being deployed to support and assist medical diagnosis. One potential application of AI is as the first point of contact for patients, replacing initial diagnoses prior to sending a patient to a specialist, allowing health care professionals to focus on more challenging and critical aspects of treatment. But for AI systems to succeed in this role, it will not be enough for them to merely provide accurate diagnoses and predictions. In addition, it will need to provide explanations (both to physicians and patients) about why the diagnoses are made. Without this, accurate and correct diagnoses and treatments might otherwise be ignored or rejected. Method: It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of these explanations and understand the relative effectiveness of different kinds of explanations. In this paper, we examine this problem across two simulation experiments. For the first experiment, we tested a re-diagnosis scenario to understand the effect of local and global explanations. In a second simulation experiment, we implemented different forms of explanation in a similar diagnosis scenario. Results: Results show that explanation helps improve satisfaction measures during the critical re-diagnosis period but had little effect before re-diagnosis (when initial treatment was taking place) or after (when an alternate diagnosis resolved the case successfully). Furthermore, initial “global” explanations about the process had no impact on immediate satisfaction but improved later judgments of understanding about the AI. Results of the second experiment show that visual and example-based explanation integrated with rationales had a significantly better impact on patient satisfaction and trust than no explanations, or with text-based rationales alone. As in Experiment 1, these explanations had their effect primarily on immediate measures of satisfaction during the re-diagnosis crisis, with little advantage prior to re-diagnosis or once the diagnosis was successfully resolved. Conclusion: These two studies help us to draw several conclusions about how patient-facing explanatory diagnostic systems may succeed or fail. Based on these studies and the review of the literature, we will provide some design recommendations for the explanations offered for AI systems in the healthcare domain.
Metastatic Colorectal Carcinoma to the Right Atrium: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Sarfraz Humaira , Arain Abeer , Divatia Mukul K. , Schwartz Mary R. , Heyne Kirk E.
Published: January 2021

Background: Cardiac metastasis due to colon cancer is extraordinarily uncommon. Given the rarity of diagnosis, there is paucity of evidence and hence, no established guidelines for evaluation or clinical management strategy. Clinical presentation: We present the case of a 59 year old male with a previously treated colonic carcinoma who presented with new onset exertional dyspnea. He was noted to be having a right atrial mass on an echocardiogram performed at his cardiologist’s office. Further workup with CT angiogram of the chest confirmed a right atrial mass measuring 4.0 cm. Serum CEA was normal. Biopsies of the right atrial mass demonstrated metastatic moderately differentiated colonic adenocarcinoma. Mismatch repair protein expression analysis by immunohistochemistry showed no loss of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 or PMS2 expression. Next generation sequencing for RAS and BRAF mutations was negative. Patient received treatment with FOLFIRINOX/ bevacizumab with noted reduction in size of mass. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of next generation sequencing results available on a biopsy of metastatic colorectal cancer to the heart with the largest literature review of 31 reported cases of metastatic colorectal cancer to the heart. It will help direct clinical management and also adds evidence to the potential efficacy of treatment of this rare aggressive disease with chemotherapy in combination with VEGF inhibitors.
Lower Income Levels Correlate With Increased Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Qiong , Zhang Mengyuan , Wang Yongle , Zhang Jin , Zhang Yi , Han Minmin , Yang Jing , Liu Yunfeng
Published: January 2021

BackgroundIncome level is an important factor that influences the occurrence of gestational diabetes. Thus, this systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed at evaluating the correlation between income levels and the prevalence of gestational diabetes. MethodsRelevant published studies were searched in Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Ovid from the establishment time of database to January 3, 2020. Finally, 13 eligible clinical studies involving 1,817,801 women were selected from a total of 3776 studies and included in this study. The statistical softwares Revman5.3 and Stata14.0 were used to compare the prevalence of gestational diabetes in five different income levels; low, lower middle, medium, upper middle, and high. ResultsThe incidences of gestational diabetes in people with different economic income levels were: high income <middle income <upper middle income <lower middle income <low income. ConclusionThere is no linear correlation between income levels and incidences of gestational diabetes. However, the overall prevalence of gestational diabetes is inversely proportional to income level, that is, the higher the income level, the lower the prevalence of gestational diabetes.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Farmers on Pesticide Use and Their Impacts on the Environment and Human Health From Small Scale Vegetable Farming Along the Littoral of Lake Ziway, Ethiopia
Authors: Mergia Mekuria , Weldemariam Ermias Deribe , Eklo Ole Martin , Yimer Girma Tilahun
Published: January 2021

Background: The insecure utilization and misapplication of pesticides in Ethiopia are major fears to farmers' wellbeing and the ecosystem. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of the small-scale vegetable farmers towards the use of pesticides in Ethiopia along the littoral of Lake Ziway. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study involving a total of 210 farmers randomly selected during pesticide application from a purposively selected irrigation-using village located in the immediate vicinity of Lake Ziway. Data were generated through structured in-depth interviews and observations on-farms. A chi-square test was applied to evaluate whether the collected data and their probable association were significant. Results: The results show that WHO class II pesticides (moderately toxic) are the most frequently used pesticides in the study area. The use of WHO classes 1a and 1b and banned or restricted pesticides such as DDT and Endosulfan were not reported. A great portion (92%) of farmers indiscriminately disposed of empty containers in the field while 86.7% apply the leftover pesticides to other crops. More than 90% of small-scale farmers did not use any personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling pesticides. About 95% of farmers had poor knowledge regarding pesticides. A significant association (p < 0.001) was observed between the knowledge of the farmers and their practices related to the pesticide. Conclusion: Generally, the Knowledge of small-scale farmers on pesticides was poor. Moreover inappropriate disposal of pesticides and its container will damage the environment. The finding of the study underlines the need to train framers concerning the safe and proper use of pesticides to prevent health and environmental hazards.
Impact of Overexpression of Immune Suppressor Siglec-15 on The Prognosis of Clear Renal Cell Carcinoma and Fibrosis Level
Authors: Yang Wenbo , Qin Caipeng , Du Yiqing , Han Songchen , Bai Wenjun , Xu Tao
Published: January 2021

Background The expression of Siglec-15, as a critical immune suppressor, in renal clear cell carcinoma (ccRCC) was few evaluated and remains unclear, especially in protein level. As previous studies reported, tumor fibrosis plays an essential role in assessing the prognosis of ccRCC, but the exact mechanism is not precise. This study evaluated the expression of Siglec-15, its role in prognosis, and the association with tumor fibrosis in ccRCC.Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the Siglec-15 expression in one tissue microarray (cohort A, tumor: n=134, adjacent normal tissues: n=29). Subsequently, the mRNA expression of Siglec-15 and its clinical significance in ccRCC were analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA, cohort B, n = 534) and samples. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for correlation analysis of correlated expression genes of Siglec-15, and then functional annotation analysis was obtained with correlated expression genes. We detected the tumor fibrosis grade in cohort C (n=32) via second harmonic generation/two-photon excitation fluorescence. Results: Siglec-15 was overexpressed in tumor tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues in both cohort A (n=29, p<0.001) and cohort C (n=25, p<0.001). However, there was no significant difference in mRNA expression of Siglec-15 between tumor and adjacent normal tissues in cohort B (p>0.05). Moreover, over-expression of Siglec-15 is associated with higher Fuhrman grade in cohort A＆C (n=166, p=0.001, OR=3.132, 1.563-6.275), cohort B (n=534, p=0.008, OR=1.606, 1.138-2.267). Univariate Kaplan-Meir survival analysis showed that patients with high Siglec-15 mRNA expression had shorter survival periods without significance in cohort B (p=0.073). Multivariate analysis employing the Siglec-15 regression model revealed that AJCC and Fuhrman grade was the only significant independent prognostic indicators. Besides, an inverse correlation was found between Siglec-15 protein expression and the tumor's fibrosis level (p = 0.02).Conclusions: Siglec-15 expression increases in ccRCC compared with adjacent normal tissues. Siglec-15 was frequently expressed and positively associated with pathology grade in ccRCC. This study indicated a significant role of Siglec-15 in the prognosis and immunotherapy target of ccRCC. This study also found an inverse correlation between Siglec-15 protein expression and the fibrosis level of the tumor.
Actinomyces as a Cause of Unexplained Fever Diagnosed by Next-Generation Sequencing: Case Report and Review
Authors: Huang Xiu , Du Na , He jiaxue , Du yujun
Published: January 2021

Background: Actinomycosis is a rare cause of unexplained origin fever (FUO). The NGS, particularly in cases of FUO in conventional microbiology, is a promising and advantageous technology for earlier diagnosis and more success. It gives new insights in the management of FUO, especially in infectious diseases.Case presentation: We present a case of a 71-year-old woman who had FUO that the etiology was endobronchial actinomycosis eventually diagnosed by next-generation sequencing of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. She was admitted to the our department with intermittent fever up to 40.0℃, chills, cough with white sputum, chest distress and slightly dyspnea over one month. According to special clinical course and laboratory data of the patient, she was given intravenous sulbenicillin sodium for 11 days and oral amoxicillin at 500 mg every 8 h for another 1 month. When she returned for follow-up, she reported a notable improvement in her cough, dyspnea, sputum production and fever that was completely absent.Conclusion: In obscure causes of FUO, clinicians should consider the possibility of thoracic actinomycosis and actively use next-generation sequencing to help diagnose.
The Outcome of Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Patients’ Gingiva-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Wound Healing in a Mice Excisional Skin Model.
Authors: Li Mengyu , Yu Yejia , Wang Jiajia , Zhou Yuqiong , Shi Yueqi , Zhang Wenjie , Son Geehun , Ge Jing , Zhao Jun , Zhang Zhiyuan , Yang Chi , Wang Shaoyi
Published: January 2021

Background: Retarded gingival healing is the hallmark of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) and poses a great challenge to maxillofacial surgeons. Although previous studies have showed that bisphosphonates (BPs) are highly toxic to healthy gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) in vitro, there is overall lack of direct evidence demonstrating the regeneration capacity of oral mucosa in BRONJ patients. In present study, we aim to isolate GMSCs from BRONJ patients’ gingiva and assessed their phenotypes and functions in vitro, as well as their therapeutic effects for wound healing in a mice excisional skin model. Methods: BRONJ patients’ gingival samples were used for microarray analysis, histological detection and cell culture. The stem cells isolated from the central gingiva (center-BRONJ GMSCs) and the peripheral lesions (peri-BRONJ GMSCs) were analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), cell adhesion, scratch and flow cytometry. Luciferase/GFP (Green Fluorescent Proteins)-labeled GMSCs combined with Hydrogel were transplanted in a mice excisional skin model, and mice were divided into a hydrogel alone group, a hydrogel/control GMSCs group, a hydrogel/center-BRONJ GMSCs group and a hydrogel/peri-BRONJ GMSCs group. Bioluminescence imaging trace cell survival in vivo. Healing effects were evaluated by wound area measurement, histology, immunohistochemistry (IH) and immunofluorescence (IF). Results: Center-BRONJ GMSCs and peri-BRONJ GMSCs were all fibroblast-like cells, but they became slender and more wrinkled compared control GMSCs. Notably, they exhibited decreased proliferation, adhesion, migration capacities and underwent early apoptosis in vitro. In animal model, BRONJ GMSCs transplantation also displayed lower cell survival rate and poor healing effects than that of control group. Mechanistically, we found that the expression of TGF-β1 signaling pathway was suppressed not only in BRONJ patients’ gingival lesions but also in BRONJ GMSCs transplantation animal model. Conclusions: In BRONJ patients’ microenvironment, the regeneration ability of oral mucosa was dramatically decreased. Our mice skin model demonstrated for the first time that BRONJ GMSCs transplantation displayed poor effects on wound healing mainly via suppressing TGF-β1 signaling pathway. This study provides new insights into the prevention for BRONJ by improving the functions of GMSCs in accelerating gingival wound healing.
Upper/Lower Respiratory Tract Microbiome Changes in AECOPD and COPD
Authors: Xu Yanyan , Liu Nailiang , Yan Dailing , Zhou Shiyi , Tian Kun , Duan Xingqiu , Yang Xiaohui , Huang Zhenming , Cai Bo , Su Jianyuan , zhang Jingxin , Qin Jian , Yang Gang , Pan Quan , Yuan Bing , Zhang Yunhui
Published: January 2021

Background: Microbiome residing in the respiratory tract has emerged as an important player in the etiology and progression of COPD, but results are conflicting regarding the features of respiratory tract microbiome in COPD and at exacerbations and it is unknown whether these features differ by ethnicity and geography. Method: To address these questions, we enrolled healthy individuals and patients with COPD, including healthy-COPD pairs from same households, from four geographical regions of Yunan province, representative of different ethnicities and/or environmental exposures. Sputum and oropharyngeal swabs were collected from these healthy individuals and from COPD patients at stable state (COPD) or exacerbations (AECOPD) and subjected to 16S microbiome profiling. Results: Both COPD disease status and region had an impact on alpha-diversity of sputum and oropharyngeal microbiomes, with AECOPD having the lowest microbiome diversity. Shifts in the relative abundance (≥ 1.5 fold, adj. p < 0.05) of microbes at healthy, exacerbation and stable COPD. Microbes enriched at exacerbation COPD were primarily Proteobacteria and Firmicutes phylum in upper respiratory tract. In the lower respiratory tract, population-based study did not find any statistical differential abundance of microbe, however, paired-based study showed phylum of Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Bacteroidota, Acidobacteriota, Desulfobacterota, Firmicutes and Verrucomicrobiota enriched in exacerbation COPD. Conclusions: COPD is associated with specific changes in upper and lower respiratory tract microbiomes, whereas exacerbation events confer additional alterations in respiratory tract microbiome compositions. These specific microbiome changes may inform future study on the pathogenesis or management of COPD.
Alleviation of Disease Activity in Lupus mice by Blocking Secondary Pyroptosis of Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Luo Guihu , Yang Fangyuan , Zhai Zeqing , He Yi , Han Jiaochan , Zhuang Lili , Zhang Yanang , Li Yehao , Song Rui , Luo Xiaoqing , Liang Jianheng , Sun Erwei
Published: January 2021

Background:Increased apoptosis and/or defect in clearance apoptotic cells resulting in massive secondary necrosis have been recognized as the main causes of systemic lupus erythematosus. Recent findings have revealed that GSDME, a membrane pore protein downstream of caspase-3, is a key mediator of secondary pyroptosis and cellular membrane disruption. Here, we aim to investigate the effects of secondary pyroptosis on disease activity in lupus mice. Methods:In vivo, Pristane-induced lupus mice were treated with JNK inhibitor SP600125 or vehicle. The disease severity was evaluated and the expression of GSDME and cleaved-caspase-3 detected. In vitro, HK2 human tubular epithelial cells were pretreated with SP600125, followed by treatment with apoptosis inducer, TNF+CHX, or SLE sera. And then the secondary pyroptosis were examined. Results:In vivo, high levels of GSDME expression were revealed in renal tubules in PIL mice and SLE patients. In lupus mice, SP600125 administration effectively ameliorated lupus-like features and importantly, reduced the expression of GSDME and cleaved caspase-3 in renal tubules. In vitro, treatment with TNF+CHX or SLE sera induced HK2 cells to undergo secondary pyroptosis in a caspase-3-GSDME dependent manner. Likewise, SP600125 significantly reduced GSDME expression and decreased the secondary pyroptosis in HK2 cells. Conclusions:The GSDME-mediated pyroptosis may be one of the pathogenesis of SLE and targeting GSDME may be a potential strategy for treating SLE.